Chereads / Yugioh A hell of a journey / Chapter 16 - path to victory 3

Chapter 16 - path to victory 3

Last Time on Yu-Gi-Oh: One Hell of a Journey: Marcus secured a thrilling victory in a tense duel, but the tournament is far from finished. Now, he faces off against Cedar, with a spot in the finals on the line. Who will emerge victorious and advance to the ultimate stage? The excitement continues in the latest chapter of Yugioh one Hell of a Journey !!!

Noa: (grinning) Marcus! You did it! That duel was insane!

We pick up where we last left off celebrating and preparing for the next duel.

After the celebration, Marcus finds a quiet corner in the arena, preparing for his next duel against Cedar. He's studying his deck, focused when Noa and Rebecca join him.

Noa: (curious) Marcus, you're already prepping for the next duel don't you need a break?

Marcus: (not looking up from his deck) Cedar's not just any opponent. If I want to make it to the finals I have to be ready. He's tough.

Rebecca: (smirking, leaning over his shoulder) Pfft Cedar's good, but you don't need to overthink it. Just hit him hard right out of the gate, and he won't know what hit him.

Marcus: (glancing at her) Easy for you to say, Miss 'I could've won faster. Cedar's not the kind of guy you rush. He's got strategy. I can't just overpower him I need to outsmart him.

Rebecca: (folding her arms, still smug) Oh, please. Strategy's great and all but sometimes you just need to throw a little chaos into the mix. Keep him guessing.

Noa: (laughing) She's got a point, Marcus. You've been super careful lately, but maybe a bit of unpredictability wouldn't hurt.

Marcus: (thoughtful, nodding) Yeah, you're both right. Cedar's expecting me to play cautious, but if I mix things up I could catch him off guard.

Rebecca: (grinning, clearly satisfied with herself) Exactly! See You should listen to me more often.

Marcus: (smirking) Don't get too comfortable. You're next after Cedar.

Rebecca: (playfully rolling her eyes) Yeah, yeah, just focus on winning this one first.

Noa: (cheerfully) You've got this, Marcus. We'll be cheering for you from the stands!

Marcus: (determined, with a final glance at his deck) Thanks, guys. Time to show Cedar what I'm really made of.

The scene fades as Marcus returns to his deck preparation, a newfound confidence in his strategy thanks to his friends.

Derek: (grinning widely, his voice booming through the arena) Alright, ladies and gentlemen, ARE YOU READY?!

The crowd roars in response

Derek: That's what I like to hear! We've seen some incredible duels so far, but trust me, you haven't seen anything yet! The action is about to hit a whole new level!

The crowd cheers louder as the screen behind him flashes images of Marcus and Cedar.

Derek: In this corner, we've got the rising star, the underdog who's clawed his way through every challenge MARCUS! He's got heart, skill, and a never give-up attitude! Can he push through one more time and earn his spot in the finals?

The crowd chanting Marcus's name

Derek: But hold up! On the other side, we have the cool, calculating strategist CEDAR! Known for his precision and cold-blooded tactics, he's here to prove that raw talent alone won't be enough to take him down!

The crowd splits, some chanting for Cedar, as the tension rises.

Derek: (grinning, pacing with excitement) "This is the one, folks! Two dueling titans, one spot in the finals! Will it be Marcus, the underdog with everything to prove, or Cedar, the tactician with a plan for every move?

Derek: Get ready for some high-octane dueling action! This isn't just a match it's a battle for glory! So buckle up, grab your seats, and let's get this started! ARE YOU WITH ME?!

Derek: (raising his fist in the air) Then let the duel BEGIN!

In a private VIP viewing box overlooking the arena, Seto Kaiba and Maximillion Pegasus sit, watching the crowd go wild as Marcus and Cedar prepare for their duel. Kaiba, arms crossed, looks unimpressed, while Pegasus leans back with a smug grin, enjoying the spectacle.

Pegasus: (chuckling) Oh my, Kaiba boy, look at the excitement down there! It's so heartwarming to see these young duelists giving it their all, isn't it? Do you have a favorite, or are you too busy brooding as usual?

Seto Kaiba: (scoffing) Please, Pegasus. Cedar's the only one with a real chance in this duel. Marcus is just another kid who's gotten lucky, riding on adrenaline and hype. Strategy wins duels, not blind luck.

Pegasus: (smiling coyly) Oh, but luck does have a funny way of changing the tides, doesn't it? You should know that better than anyone, Kaiba-boy. After all, you've had a few surprises in your time, hmm?

Seto Kaiba: (glaring) Spare me the history lesson. If you're betting on Marcus, it's only because you enjoy watching underdogs fail. Cedar's playing at a different level he doesn't make mistakes. He'll crush Marcus before he even knows what hit him.

Pegasus: (feigning surprise) Oh my, so confident! But I must say, I've always had a soft spot for the unexpected. Marcus may not have the experience, but he's got heart. Sometimes, that's all you need to turn the tables.

Seto Kaiba: (smirking coldly) Heart won't save him from Cedar's deck. I'll give him credit for making it this far, but this is where his little journey ends.

Pegasus: (laughing softly) Ah, Kaiba-boy, always so sure of yourself. That's what makes watching you so entertaining. But perhaps you're right after all, you are the expert in crushing dreams, aren't you?

Seto Kaiba: (narrowing his eyes) I don't have time for games, Pegasus. I'm here for the real competition. Watching amateurs like Marcus and Cedar is just a warm-up for when it really matters.

Pegasus: (playfully waving a hand) Well, I for one am enjoying the show. You never know, Kaiba boy this Marcus might surprise you yet. And when he does, I'll be right here to say, I told you so.

Seto Kaiba: (with a dismissive tone) Don't hold your breath.

A brief pause as both men focus on the arena below.

Pegasus: (leaning back with a grin, suddenly whimsical) You know, Kaiba-boy, all this talk of dueling reminds me of some words of wisdom from the Spice Girls.

Seto Kaiba: (genuinely confused, turning to Pegasus) The Spice Girls? What could they possibly have to do with dueling?

Pegasus: (with a mischievous chuckle) Oh, come now, don't be so stiff! If you wanna be my lover, you gotta get with my friends You see, success isn't always about pure power, Kaiba.It's about connections, teamwork, and spirit! Sometimes, it's the little things that make or break a duelist."

Seto Kaiba: (deadpan) That is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard. Friendship and teamwork won't help you when your life points hit zero.

Pegasus: (sighing theatrically) Ah, always so cynical. But the Spice Girls had it right sometimes, it's about more than just winning. It's about who's in your corner, and how far you're willing to go to support them. Just like Marcus he's got his friends cheering him on. That might give him the edge Cedar isn't expecting.

Seto Kaiba: (rolling his eyes) If you're trying to tell me Marcus is going to win because of a pop song, you've officially lost it, Pegasus.

Pegasus: (laughing softly) Oh, Kaiba-boy, don't underestimate the power of heart and friendship. You never know, Marcus might just surprise us both. And if he does, I'll be right here to remind you that the Spice Girls were onto something.

Seto Kaiba: (smirking) When Marcus loses, I'll make sure you keep your 'girl power' speeches to yourself.

Pegasus: (grinning) Oh, don't be so sure, Kaiba-boy. After all, 'friendship never ends!

Seto shakes his head in disbelief, turning his attention back to the duel as Pegasus hums a Spice Girls tune to himself, clearly enjoying his own little game as Marcus and Cedar step into the arena to begin their match.

Marcus steps forward from the left side, his expression serious but determined, his deck clutched tightly in his hand. His friends, Noa and Rebecca, shout encouragement from the stands.

Marcus: (inwardly determined) This is it. I've come this far, and I'm not backing down now. Cedar may be tough, but I've got something he can't plan for.

On the opposite side, Cedar approaches with a calm, almost cold demeanor. He walks with the confidence of a seasoned duelist, his eyes never leaving Marcus.

Cedar: (to himself, smirking) Another opponent who doesn't know what's coming. This'll be over before it even starts.

As the two duelists reach the center of the arena, the massive holographic projectors hum to life, creating the familiar duel field. Marcus takes a deep breath, and Cedar gives a slight nod of acknowledgment.

Cedar: (with a cool smile) You've made it this far, Marcus. Impressive. But your little streak ends here.

Marcus: (clenching his fists, standing tall) We'll see about that, Cedar. You're not the only one with tricks up your sleeve.

Derek: LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, THIS IS IT! The penultimate match of the tournament! On one side, we have Marcus, the rising star with a heart full of fire! And on the other, Cedar, the calculating duelist known for his ruthless precision! Who will take the next step toward the finals?!

Derek: (raising his hand) Let the duel… BEGIN!

Marcus : 2000lp

Cedar:2000lp

Cedar: (voice steady) "I'll go first. Let's see how you handle this!

He gestures dramatically, and the holographic projection of his first monster appears.

Cedar: I summon Giant Flea in attack mode!

Giant flea 1500Atk/1200Def

The holographic image of Giant Flea bounces into position, its large form eliciting cheers from nostalgic fans.

Cedar: And I'll set two cards facedown. Your move, Marcus.

The crowd murmurs, excitement palpable as Marcus readies himself.

Marcus: (taking a deep breath) Alright, my turn!

He draws a card, eyeing his options carefully.

Marcus: I summon Swordstalker in attack mode!

Sword stalker 2000Atk/1600Def

The holographic image of Swordstalker appears, brandishing its sword confidently.

Marcus: Now, I attack your Giant Flea!

Swordstalker charges forward, ready to strike. The crowd erupts in cheers, excitement building for the first clash.

Cedar: (smirking) Not so fast! I activate my trap card Waboku! Your Swordstalker won't deal any damage this turn!

The trap card activates, creating a protective barrier around Cedar's monster. The crowd gasps as the attack is thwarted.

Marcus: (gritting his teeth) Fine! I'll end my turn! and set 2 cards face down.

Cedar: (grinning, clearly enjoying the duel) Looks like I've got you on the ropes already, Marcus. Let's see how you respond!

The tension in the arena escalates as both duelists prepare for their next moves, each fully aware of the stakes at hand.

Cedar: (leaning forward, a confident smirk on his face) You're playing well, Marcus, but let's be real. My Giant Flea isn't going down that easily. Your Swordstalker is just a stepping stone on my path to victory.

Marcus: (gritting his teeth, determination burning in his eyes) You underestimate me, Cedar. Swordstalker may be just a monster, but it stands for everything I've fought for. You won't crush my spirit!

Cedar: (with a dark chuckle) Spirit won't win this duel. Strategy does. You're in way over your head. I've already seen your moves before you even make them.

Marcus: (glaring defiantly) You think you've got me figured out? I'm just getting started.

Cedar: Spare me the melodramatic. I've faced better duelists than you. You're just another obstacle in my way.

Marcus: (eyes narrowing, fists clenched) I'm not just an obstacle I'm your greatest challenge! You'll regret underestimating me when your Giant Flea is lying in ruins!

Cedar: (smirking, undeterred) That's cute. But when I wipe that look off your face, remember this moment. You thought you could rise to the top, but this is where your journey ends.

Marcus: (drawing a deep breath, channeling his energy) Not if I can help it! My Swordstalker will take down your Giant Flea, and then I'll turn the tide in my favor!

Cedar: (crossing his arms, a sinister grin spreading) You really believe that? You're in for a rude awakening. I'll make sure you understand just how outmatched you really are.

The arena echoes with their banter, each duelists' resolve clashing like their monsters. Both are determined to prove they are the one who will emerge victorious.

Marcus: (with fierce intensity) Let's finish this! I'll show you that heart and courage can outmatch any strategy you think you have!

Cedar: (with cold confidence) "Bring it on, Marcus. I thrive on your desperation. Let's see how long you can hold on before you fall.

Cedar: (calmly) Let's see how you handle this. I draw!

He pulls a card from his deck, eyeing Marcus with a predatory gleam.

Cedar: I summon Empress Mantis in attack mode!

The holographic image of Gigantic Mantis rises to the duel feild.

Empress Mantis 2200Atk/1400Def

Cedar: Now, I activate the spell card Insect Armor with Laser Cannon! This boosts Giant Flea's attack by 700 points, bringing its total to 2,200!"

A holographic armor envelops Giant Flea, and a laser cannon materializes on its back, enhancing its power significantly.

Cedar: "Now, Giant Flea will attack your Swordstalker!"

The crowd gasps as Giant Flea charges forward, the laser cannon primed to fire, creating explosive tension in the arena.

Marcus: (eyes narrowing, determination rising) I won't let you take my monster! I activate my trap card Sakuretsu Armor! This will destroy your Giant Flea before it can attack!"

Cedar: (grinning, raising a hand) "Oh, you forgot about my facedown card, Marcus. I activate Seven Tools of the Bandit! This negates your trap card and lets me keep my Giant Flea!"

[The trap card activates, nullifying Marcus's attempt to destroy Giant Flea. The crowd erupts in surprise.]

Marcus: (eyes widening in shock) "What?! No!"

Marcus:2000lp

Cedar:1000lp

Cedar: (smirking triumphantly) "Now, with no obstacles in my way, Giant Flea attacks your Swordstalker!"

[The crowd cheers as Giant Flea lunges forward, the laser cannon ready to fire. The arena shakes with anticipation.]

Marcus: (gritting his teeth, frustration mounting) "This isn't over yet, Cedar. I'm turn this duel around!

Marcus:1800lp

Cedar:1000lp

Cedar: (leaning back, confident) I hope so, because I'm just getting started! Now Empress Mantis attack!!

Marcus : like I said I wasn't done I activate drain shield to absorb your attack so I gain life points.

Marcus:4000lp

Cedar:1000lp

The camera shifts to Derek, who stands at the edge of the arena, microphone in hand, clearly excited as he observes the intense duel.

Derek: (animatedly) "Oh my gosh, everyone! Can you feel the tension in the air? Cedar just summoned Giant Flea, and with that Insect Armor with Laser Cannon, he's boosted its attack power to a staggering 2,200!"

The crowd cheers as Cedar prepares to attack.

Derek: "And now he's going for the kill! Giant Flea is charging straight for Marcus's Swordstalker! But wait Marcus activates Sakuretsu Armor! He's trying to destroy Giant Flea before it can hit!"

The camera zooms in on Marcus's confident expression, then back to Cedar's smirk.

Derek: But Cedar's not having it! He reveals his facedown Seven Tools of the Bandit! Oh, that's a game-changer! He negates Marcus's trap card, keeping Giant Flea safe!

The crowd gasps, excitement palpable.

Derek: And now, marcus use drain sheild what a turn of events !! But there's nothing standing in Cedar's way! Giant Flea is set to attack! On his Next turn and Cedar mighty Empress Mantis too This could be a critical blow for Marcus! Even though he has the life point lead.

Derek: What a play! This duel is heating up, and it's anyone's game! How will Marcus respond? He's got to think fast!

The camera cuts to Marcus, determination etched on his face.

Derek: Stay tuned, folks! This is a duel you won't want to miss!

Scene: The duel action briefly pauses as Derek steps forward, microphone in hand, smiling as he addresses the viewers.

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Narrator (Deep, confident voice):

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[Cut to close-ups of duelist faces, showing intense focus as their duel disks project lifelike holograms onto the field. The technology is cutting-edge, with sharp, crystal-clear projections of monsters clashing in battle.

Narrator:

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The camera pans over the KaibaCorp tower, gleaming in the skyline, with Seto Kaiba himself standing at the top, arms crossed, overseeing the legacy he's built.

Seto Kaiba (voiceover):

KaibaCorp isn't just a company it's the future. Only the best deserve to stand at the top. If you want to rise to the challenge, then you need KaibaCorp.

Cut to a series of intense duels in KaibaCorp sponsored tournaments, the holographic monsters larger and more imposing than ever, as players push their strategies to the limit.

Narrator:

KaibaCorp: Redefining the limits of Duel Monsters, and empowering duelists to reach their full potential. Because in this game, second place isn't an option.

[The KaibaCorp logo flashes on the screen, shining with a metallic glow.]

Narrator:

KaibaCorp The future of dueling starts here

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Cut back to Derek, still grinning, as the action resumes.

Derek: (laughing) There you have it, folks! KaibaCorp—paving the way for duelists everywhere! Now, back to the action!

The crowd roars in anticipation, fully engaged in the unfolding drama.

The camera pans to the stands where Noa and Rebecca are watching intently.

Noa: (leaning forward) Come on, Marcus! You've got this!

Rebecca: (nodding) Just trust yourself. You know what to do.

Noa: (pointing) Show Cedar what you're made of!

The camera shifts to Marcus, determination building in his expression as he prepares for his next move.

Cedar: (smirking) I set a card facedown, and I end my turn. This duel is as good as over. Next turn, you won't stand a chance!

The crowd reacts with a mix of anticipation and disbelief, wondering how Marcus will respond.

The camera shifts to Marcus, determination etched on his face as he prepares for his next move, refusing to back down.

Marcus: I draw! First, I activate the spell card Tribute to Doom, destroying your Giant Flea!

A wave of energy sweeps across the arena as Giant Flea is obliterated, and the crowd erupts in cheers.

Marcus: Now, I summon Mechanical Chaser in attack mode!

Mechanical Chaser 1850Atk/800Def

Marcus: With my Mechanical Chaser on the field, I'll finally turn the tide of this duel!but I'm not finsh the I activate my trap card compulsory evacuation device to send your Empress Mantis back to your hand.

The crowd roars in excitement as the duel intensifies, the balance shifting in Marcus's favor.

Marcus: I'm not done far from it I then equip my 7 complete to increase its attack by 700 the activate limter removal to dubble its attack!!! Now Attack him directly!!

Mechanical Chaser:5100Atk/800Def

The mechanical creature lunges forward, ready to deal damage to Cedar.

Cedar: chuckling, a confident smirk on his face) I told you this duel was over. I activate Dimension Wall! Instead of taking the damage, you will!

A shimmering barrier appears, redirecting the attack back at Marcus. The crowd gasps in shock.

Marcus: (eyes widening, realizing the twist) What?! No!

The damage hits Marcus, leaving him momentarily stunned as the crowd reacts to the unexpected turn of events.

The arena falls silent as the impact of Cedar's trap card hits Marcus hard. The display shows Marcus's life points hitting zero.

Marcus0000lp

Cedar:1000lp

Derek: (voice booming, excitement palpable) And that's it! With that move, Cedar has emerged victorious! He advances to the finals of the tournament!

The crowd erupts into a mix of cheers and gasps, the intensity of the duel .

Derek: What an incredible match! Marcus fought bravely, but Cedar's strategy proved to be too much this time. Stay tuned for the finals, folks! You won't want to miss what happens next!

The camera pans to Cedar, who revels in his victory, while Marcus looks determined despite the defeat, vowing to come back stronger.

Derek stands at the center of the arena, microphone in hand, the excitement from the previous duel still in the air. The crowd buzzes in anticipation.

Derek: (with dramatic flair) Ladies and gentlemen, what a thrilling semi-final we just witnessed! But the excitement doesn't stop here! The final duel is set, and it's going to be one for the ages Noa versus Cedar!

The crowd roars, but Derek holds up a hand to quiet them down.

Derek: However, this high stakes match will be a private event, reserved for an exclusive audience! For those at home, you'll be able to watch this epic showdown live on pay-per view! Don't miss your chance to see Noa and Cedar face off in the ultimate battle!

As the crowd cheers, the camera shifts to Seto Kaiba and Maximillion Pegasus, who step forward to address the audience.

Seto: (with a confident smirk) And there's more at stake here. The winner of this final match will not only claim the tournament local championship title but also earn the chance to go to Duelist Kingdom!

The crowd gasps, excitement building as they realize the significance of the announcement.

Pegasus: (grinning widely) But that's not all! I will personally duel the finalist, and if they manage to win against me, a grand prize awaits them, provided by yours truly!

The audience erupts in cheers and excitement, the stakes raised even higher.

Derek: This is the duel of the century! Who will walk away as the champion? Tune in to find out!

The arena buzzes with energy as the stage is set for an unforgettable showdown.

Next Time on Yu-Gi-Oh: One Hell of a Journey...

The stage is set for an epic showdown as Noa, the underdog who's relied on a mix of luck and heart, faces off against the calculating Cedar in the tournament finals! Noa has made it this far, but can his beginner's luck stand up to Cedar's precise and relentless bug swarm deck?

With the stakes higher than ever, the line between luck and skill becomes dangerously thin. Can Noa's unpredictable moves push him to victory, or will Cedar's well-honed strategies crush him before he even has a chance to fight back?

And just what does Pegasus have up his sleeve for the winner? Could this duel be more than just a fight for the finals could it be a test of something even more dangerous?

One duel, two contenders, and a chance to face Pegasus with the prize of a lifetime on the line. The journey is far from over don't miss the next gripping chapter of Yu-Gi-Oh: One Hell of a Journey!