Reading settings
Chapter 575: A Man's Combat (Part 4)
What does "making the best use of something" mean?
Making the best use of something means fully utilizing the value of an item, just like drinking a bottle of water completely without wasting any, or finishing all the food in your bowl. It's a praiseworthy behavior.
Therefore, since Rex couldn't destroy the `Gravity Bind` that was restricting his `Super Conductor Tyranno` and `Ultimate Conductor Tyranno` on the Field, it was perfectly reasonable to Tribute `Ultimate Conductor Tyranno` to inflict damage on Valon, so as not to waste its power.
Hmm, Rex had completely convinced himself.
[Valon: 4000→3000 LP]
Under `Super Conductor Tyranno`'s effect, `Ultimate Conductor Tyranno` was Tributed and transformed into a beam of lightning that struck Valon, finally decreasing his Life Points by 1000 points.
However, what was rather unfair was that this Duel wasn't a Dark Game yet. Although Valon's Armor Deck had the rather underhanded ability to damage the opponent's vitality, Rex couldn't benefit from this characteristic when attacking Valon. Thus, after taking 1000 points of effect damage, Valon merely felt nothing.
Just as Valon was about to complain, "Do you guys really like Tributing your own monsters that much?", he heard Rex, after sending `Ultimate Conductor Tyranno`'s card to the Graveyard, declare again: "It's not over yet! I'll continue to activate the effect of `Soul-Eating Oviraptor` on my Field!"
"You can activate this effect by targeting one Level 4 or lower Dinosaur-Type monster on the Field, except this card. Destroy that monster. Then, Special Summon one Dinosaur-Type monster from my Graveyard in Defense Position." Rex pointed towards the remaining `Jurra Egg Token` on Valon's Field. "What I'm going to destroy is the `Jurra Egg Token` on your Field."
"If you destroy the last Token on my Field, the restriction preventing me from targeting monsters on the Field other than Tokens with effects will be lifted. No, I bet you're going to activate `Lost World`'s effect again, right?"
`Lost World` has an ability that can be used once per turn when a Normal Monster is destroyed, allowing you to destroy a Dinosaur-Type monster from your Hand or Deck as a substitute. Rex had already used it once before when facing `Big Bang Knuckle Armor`'s Field-clearing effect, so Valon naturally wouldn't forget its effect so quickly.
Rex nodded. "That's right, `Lost World`'s effect activates. I'll destroy `Baby Pteranodon` from my Deck as a substitute."
The soul fire in `Soul-Eating Oviraptor`'s hand flickered, and a ball of fire flew out towards the `Jurra Egg Token` on Valon's Field. But immediately after, a figure also flew out from Rex's Deck, blocking the `Jurra Egg Token`.
It was a `Baby Pteranodon` whose name and art style were similar to `Babycerasaurus`, and whose ATK and DEF were exactly the same. It had a small piece of eggshell on its head.
However, this baby Dinosaur that was supposed to soar through the skies in the future no longer had the chance. In an instant, it was consumed by `Soul-Eating Oviraptor`'s flames. And from the firelight, the `Babycerasaurus` that had appeared before jumped out.
This was the destroyed `Babycerasaurus` that Rex revived from his Graveyard. However, Valon didn't think that the `Baby Pteranodon` Rex specifically chose wouldn't have an effect that could be resolved.
As expected, Rex searched another card from his Deck. "When `Baby Pteranodon` is destroyed and sent to the Graveyard, I activate its effect. I Special Summon one Level 4 or higher Dinosaur-Type monster from my Deck. The monster Special Summoned by this effect cannot attack this turn, but since my Battle Phase is already over, it doesn't matter."
"I Special Summon a second `Super Conductor Tyranno` from my Deck! Then, I activate its effect again! I Tribute `Soul-Eating Oviraptor` on my Field to inflict a second 1000 points of damage!"
The giant Dinosaur, covered in signs of modification, spat out lightning, sending the mischievous `Soul-Eating Oviraptor` directly to the Graveyard. The lightning rushed towards Valon again, shaving off another 1000 Life Points.
[Valon: 3000→2000 LP]
Even after losing 2000 Life Points, Valon still maintained a relaxed posture. Looking at the second `Super Conductor Tyranno` that appeared on Rex's Field, he clapped and praised, "Amazing adaptability! You thought of a method to break free the moment your attack was sealed?"
"`Super Conductor Tyranno` is only restricted by `Gravity Bind` in its ability to attack. Its inherent great power and effect can still be used." Rex looked at Valon and said in a deep voice, "Once per turn, I can Tribute one monster to inflict 1000 points of damage. This effect can be activated twice more during my turn."
"By Tributing both `Super Conductor Tyranno` on my Field, I can clear your Life Points even without attacking. Now, it's your turn to think about how to destroy the monsters on my Field."
Glancing at the remaining `Miracle Dig` in his Hand, Rex employed the bluff strategy of Setting Polymerization he learned from someone. He Set this Normal Spell Card, which couldn't be used during the opponent's turn. "I Set one card. My turn ends."
"Next turn, I will end this Duel!"
[Rex: 1000 LP, Hand 0]
[Super Conductor Tyranno] [ATK 3300]
[Super Conductor Tyranno] [ATK 3300]
[Set Card] [Set Card (Miracle Dig)]
Field: [Lost World]
Even though his attack was restricted by the shameless `Gravity Bind` card, Rex proved himself worthy of becoming one of the top figures among professional Duelists. He quickly transformed his aggro strategy Dinosaurs into burn strategy Dinosaurs developed to counter certain stall Decks, transferring the pressure onto Valon.
If Valon couldn't deal with the `Super Conductor Tyranno` on Rex's Field this turn, next turn he would face another 2000 points of effect damage that couldn't be blocked by Summoning monsters. But how easy was it to defeat a `Super Conductor Tyranno` with an ATK 300 points higher than `Blue-Eyes White Dragon` on a Field that was empty except for one `Jurra Egg Token`?
Especially since Rex's `Lost World` granted his Dinosaurs the noble 'cannot be targeted' resistance.
He can't win. How can he fight this?
"My turn, draw a card." It was Valon's turn. He drew a card and showed a cold smile.
"What a pity, Rex. I didn't expect the Duel to end so quickly, just as you said. However, it won't end on your next turn, but on my turn!" Valon said, showing the card in his Hand. "The Armor Deck is good at charging forward with attacks! This is the strongest card I have to clear obstructions!"
"I've endured this Duel long enough. After I deal with you, I'm going back for a good rest. Right now, I've reached my limit! I'm playing this!"
"Magic Card, `Dark Hole`! Destroy all monsters on both players' Fields! They cannot be targeted!!"
As Valon activated the card he drew, a distorted singularity appeared on his Field. Its pitch-black color should have been inconspicuous, but the portal that manifested at that moment forcefully pulled everything towards it with its immense quality.
"My monsters!"
Rex was powerless to stop `Dark Hole` from taking effect. He could only watch as his two `Super Conductor Tyranno` on the Field were absorbed into the `Dark Hole` and crushed!
Once the distortion subsided, Valon's voice entered Rex's ears. "Looks like I easily broke your combo, 'Dinosaur' Rex."
"`Dark Hole` destroys all monsters on the Field, and they cannot be targeted. That includes the `Jurra Egg Token` you Special Summoned onto my Field. But you'll activate `Lost World`'s effect for it, right?"
"Ah, I'll use `Baby Pteranodon` from my Deck to substitute for the `Jurra Egg Token`'s destruction." Rex raised his head to look at Valon, his eyes still full of fighting spirit, not discouraged by the complete destruction of the monsters on his Field. "And because of `Baby Pteranodon`'s effect, I will Special Summon this monster from my Deck."
"I originally planned to save this for my next Duel against Kujaku Mai, to turn the tables on her. But it seems I have to use it now!"
Seeing Rex search a card from his Deck, Valon suddenly became interested. "A card prepared for Miss Mai? Heh heh, in that case, even I'm starting to get a little excited."
"Hurry up and bring it out! I can't wait to see it!"
Valon treating his monsters like dishes made Rex quite annoyed. "Tsk, then let me show you the Dinosaur Warriors filled with fighting spirit! Bodies evolved to the limit and techniques honed to the peak! Come forth, King of Combat!"
"`Dinowrestler Pankratops`!"
The destroyed `Baby Pteranodon` that was substituted for radiated the light of evolution, its body rapidly growing larger. When the radiance faded, a gray-skinned Triceratops stood upright, wearing green boxer-style clothing. It struck a wrestler's pose. From its exaggerated muscles, it was clear that an ordinary person absolutely couldn't withstand one of its punches.
[`Dinowrestler Pankratops`] [Level 7/EARTH]
[Dinosaur-Type/Effect]
[2600/0]
"Dinosaur? Wrestler? Which genius came up with this perfect combination?" Valon's mouth still held a dismissive attitude, but from his suddenly straightened figure, it was clear that Valon had become much more serious because of `Dinowrestler Pankratops`'s appearance.
Just looking at the stats, Valon could only tell that this monster in front of him likely had a charging combat style. Its ATK was 2600, but its DEF was surprisingly 0. A Level 7 monster couldn't possibly only have this much power. So, the confidence Rex had in considering this monster his hidden card must lie in the effect this monster hadn't shown yet.
As Valon thought, he saw the second `Jurra Egg Token` appear on his Field due to `Lost World`'s effect, and he frowned.
As Valon said before, his Armor Deck consisted of low-Level monsters that weren't affected by `Gravity Bind`. However, the relative drawback was that he didn't have a boss monster strong enough for field suppression, requiring all his monsters to cooperate in battle.
In that case, he had a great need for his Monster Zones on the Field. But now, because of Rex's `Lost World`, two Zones on his Field were already occupied, meaning he could only Summon a maximum of three Armor monsters onto the Field.
Although `Jurra Egg Token` didn't have restrictions like "cannot be used for Tribute Summon" and could be Tributed freely, Valon's Deck simply didn't have any higher-Level monsters.
However, it wasn't really a significant influence, because Valon had been confident of achieving victory within this turn from the start, and that was still the case even after Rex repeatedly showed his great strength.
"Activate the Magic Card, `Inheritance of Power`! I send the `Jurra Egg Token` on my Field to the Graveyard to increase the ATK of another `Jurra Egg Token`. However, since they are both Tokens with 0 ATK, nothing is increased."
Activating a card from his Hand, Valon said helplessly. This `Inheritance of Power` card was one he had drawn last turn. Using it to deal with a Token was indeed like using a cannon to shoot a fly, but there was no other way. This was paving the way for the card he was about to activate.
"Next, I will activate this card, Magic Card `Phoenix Gravity`! Like `Armor Gravitation` before, this is a card specifically for Armor monsters to perform mass Special Summons." Valon explained as he inserted the card into the Spell & Trap Zone of his Duel Disk, a confident smile on his face.
"However, unlike `Armor Gravitation` which Special Summons from the Deck, `Phoenix Gravity` is the undying fire that rises from the Graveyard." Looking at the vigorous flames on the `Phoenix Gravity` manifesting on his Field, Valon couldn't help but recall the great fire that had engulfed the Church he lived in at that time, and those who were sacrificed in the great fire...
Shaking his head to refocus on the Duel, Valon took out four cards from his Graveyard. "Because of `Phoenix Gravity`'s effect, I Special Summon the four Armor monsters from before from my Graveyard! They will also be destroyed again during the End Phase!"
"However, there won't be an End Phase anymore! Come forth, Big Bang Shot, Overboost, Active Guard, Trap Burst!"
"Hen~Shin!"
Valon, whose Hand was now empty, suddenly raised his arm and struck an impressive transformation pose. The symbol of a soaring phoenix appeared behind him. The Armor monsters that were sent to the Graveyard before reappeared on his Field one by one and equipped onto Valon's body!
For a moment, Rex had the illusion that the Valon in front of him had actually run over from the set of 'Saint Seiya' next door.
"Entering my Battle Phase! Here I come, 'Dinosaur' Rex! The `Dinowrestler Pankratops` you Summoned with 2600 ATK will be the final puzzle piece to crush you!" Valon raised the `Big Bang Knuckle Armor` on his right arm. "You haven't forgotten the power of my `Big Bang Knuckle Armor`, have you? Don't blink! This is the last monster you'll see!"
"Tak!"
With a loud shout, Valon charged towards the `Dinowrestler Pankratops` on Rex's Field and swung his iron fist!
What does "making the best use of something" mean?
Making the best use of something means fully utilizing the value of an item, just like drinking a bottle of water completely without wasting any, or finishing all the food in your bowl. It's a praiseworthy behavior.
Therefore, since Rex couldn't destroy the `Gravity Bind` that was restricting his `Super Conductor Tyranno` and `Ultimate Conductor Tyranno` on the Field, it was perfectly reasonable to Tribute `Ultimate Conductor Tyranno` to inflict damage on Valon, so as not to waste its power.
Hmm, Rex had completely convinced himself.
[Valon: 4000→3000 LP]
Under `Super Conductor Tyranno`'s effect, `Ultimate Conductor Tyranno` was Tributed and transformed into a beam of lightning that struck Valon, finally decreasing his Life Points by 1000 points.
However, what was rather unfair was that this Duel wasn't a Dark Game yet. Although Valon's Armor Deck had the rather underhanded ability to damage the opponent's vitality, Rex couldn't benefit from this characteristic when attacking Valon. Thus, after taking 1000 points of effect damage, Valon merely felt nothing.
Just as Valon was about to complain, "Do you guys really like Tributing your own monsters that much?", he heard Rex, after sending `Ultimate Conductor Tyranno`'s card to the Graveyard, declare again: "It's not over yet! I'll continue to activate the effect of `Soul-Eating Oviraptor` on my Field!"
"You can activate this effect by targeting one Level 4 or lower Dinosaur-Type monster on the Field, except this card. Destroy that monster. Then, Special Summon one Dinosaur-Type monster from my Graveyard in Defense Position." Rex pointed towards the remaining `Jurra Egg Token` on Valon's Field. "What I'm going to destroy is the `Jurra Egg Token` on your Field."
"If you destroy the last Token on my Field, the restriction preventing me from targeting monsters on the Field other than Tokens with effects will be lifted. No, I bet you're going to activate `Lost World`'s effect again, right?"
`Lost World` has an ability that can be used once per turn when a Normal Monster is destroyed, allowing you to destroy a Dinosaur-Type monster from your Hand or Deck as a substitute. Rex had already used it once before when facing `Big Bang Knuckle Armor`'s Field-clearing effect, so Valon naturally wouldn't forget its effect so quickly.
Rex nodded. "That's right, `Lost World`'s effect activates. I'll destroy `Baby Pteranodon` from my Deck as a substitute."
The soul fire in `Soul-Eating Oviraptor`'s hand flickered, and a ball of fire flew out towards the `Jurra Egg Token` on Valon's Field. But immediately after, a figure also flew out from Rex's Deck, blocking the `Jurra Egg Token`.
It was a `Baby Pteranodon` whose name and art style were similar to `Babycerasaurus`, and whose ATK and DEF were exactly the same. It had a small piece of eggshell on its head.
However, this baby Dinosaur that was supposed to soar through the skies in the future no longer had the chance. In an instant, it was consumed by `Soul-Eating Oviraptor`'s flames. And from the firelight, the `Babycerasaurus` that had appeared before jumped out.
This was the destroyed `Babycerasaurus` that Rex revived from his Graveyard. However, Valon didn't think that the `Baby Pteranodon` Rex specifically chose wouldn't have an effect that could be resolved.
As expected, Rex searched another card from his Deck. "When `Baby Pteranodon` is destroyed and sent to the Graveyard, I activate its effect. I Special Summon one Level 4 or higher Dinosaur-Type monster from my Deck. The monster Special Summoned by this effect cannot attack this turn, but since my Battle Phase is already over, it doesn't matter."
"I Special Summon a second `Super Conductor Tyranno` from my Deck! Then, I activate its effect again! I Tribute `Soul-Eating Oviraptor` on my Field to inflict a second 1000 points of damage!"
The giant Dinosaur, covered in signs of modification, spat out lightning, sending the mischievous `Soul-Eating Oviraptor` directly to the Graveyard. The lightning rushed towards Valon again, shaving off another 1000 Life Points.
[Valon: 3000→2000 LP]
Even after losing 2000 Life Points, Valon still maintained a relaxed posture. Looking at the second `Super Conductor Tyranno` that appeared on Rex's Field, he clapped and praised, "Amazing adaptability! You thought of a method to break free the moment your attack was sealed?"
"`Super Conductor Tyranno` is only restricted by `Gravity Bind` in its ability to attack. Its inherent great power and effect can still be used." Rex looked at Valon and said in a deep voice, "Once per turn, I can Tribute one monster to inflict 1000 points of damage. This effect can be activated twice more during my turn."
"By Tributing both `Super Conductor Tyranno` on my Field, I can clear your Life Points even without attacking. Now, it's your turn to think about how to destroy the monsters on my Field."
Glancing at the remaining `Miracle Dig` in his Hand, Rex employed the bluff strategy of Setting Polymerization he learned from someone. He Set this Normal Spell Card, which couldn't be used during the opponent's turn. "I Set one card. My turn ends."
"Next turn, I will end this Duel!"
[Rex: 1000 LP, Hand 0]
[Super Conductor Tyranno] [ATK 3300]
[Super Conductor Tyranno] [ATK 3300]
[Set Card] [Set Card (Miracle Dig)]
Field: [Lost World]
Even though his attack was restricted by the shameless `Gravity Bind` card, Rex proved himself worthy of becoming one of the top figures among professional Duelists. He quickly transformed his aggro strategy Dinosaurs into burn strategy Dinosaurs developed to counter certain stall Decks, transferring the pressure onto Valon.
If Valon couldn't deal with the `Super Conductor Tyranno` on Rex's Field this turn, next turn he would face another 2000 points of effect damage that couldn't be blocked by Summoning monsters. But how easy was it to defeat a `Super Conductor Tyranno` with an ATK 300 points higher than `Blue-Eyes White Dragon` on a Field that was empty except for one `Jurra Egg Token`?
Especially since Rex's `Lost World` granted his Dinosaurs the noble 'cannot be targeted' resistance.
He can't win. How can he fight this?
"My turn, draw a card." It was Valon's turn. He drew a card and showed a cold smile.
"What a pity, Rex. I didn't expect the Duel to end so quickly, just as you said. However, it won't end on your next turn, but on my turn!" Valon said, showing the card in his Hand. "The Armor Deck is good at charging forward with attacks! This is the strongest card I have to clear obstructions!"
"I've endured this Duel long enough. After I deal with you, I'm going back for a good rest. Right now, I've reached my limit! I'm playing this!"
"Magic Card, `Dark Hole`! Destroy all monsters on both players' Fields! They cannot be targeted!!"
As Valon activated the card he drew, a distorted singularity appeared on his Field. Its pitch-black color should have been inconspicuous, but the portal that manifested at that moment forcefully pulled everything towards it with its immense quality.
"My monsters!"
Rex was powerless to stop `Dark Hole` from taking effect. He could only watch as his two `Super Conductor Tyranno` on the Field were absorbed into the `Dark Hole` and crushed!
Once the distortion subsided, Valon's voice entered Rex's ears. "Looks like I easily broke your combo, 'Dinosaur' Rex."
"`Dark Hole` destroys all monsters on the Field, and they cannot be targeted. That includes the `Jurra Egg Token` you Special Summoned onto my Field. But you'll activate `Lost World`'s effect for it, right?"
"Ah, I'll use `Baby Pteranodon` from my Deck to substitute for the `Jurra Egg Token`'s destruction." Rex raised his head to look at Valon, his eyes still full of fighting spirit, not discouraged by the complete destruction of the monsters on his Field. "And because of `Baby Pteranodon`'s effect, I will Special Summon this monster from my Deck."
"I originally planned to save this for my next Duel against Kujaku Mai, to turn the tables on her. But it seems I have to use it now!"
Seeing Rex search a card from his Deck, Valon suddenly became interested. "A card prepared for Miss Mai? Heh heh, in that case, even I'm starting to get a little excited."
"Hurry up and bring it out! I can't wait to see it!"
Valon treating his monsters like dishes made Rex quite annoyed. "Tsk, then let me show you the Dinosaur Warriors filled with fighting spirit! Bodies evolved to the limit and techniques honed to the peak! Come forth, King of Combat!"
"`Dinowrestler Pankratops`!"
The destroyed `Baby Pteranodon` that was substituted for radiated the light of evolution, its body rapidly growing larger. When the radiance faded, a gray-skinned Triceratops stood upright, wearing green boxer-style clothing. It struck a wrestler's pose. From its exaggerated muscles, it was clear that an ordinary person absolutely couldn't withstand one of its punches.
[`Dinowrestler Pankratops`] [Level 7/EARTH]
[Dinosaur-Type/Effect]
[2600/0]
"Dinosaur? Wrestler? Which genius came up with this perfect combination?" Valon's mouth still held a dismissive attitude, but from his suddenly straightened figure, it was clear that Valon had become much more serious because of `Dinowrestler Pankratops`'s appearance.
Just looking at the stats, Valon could only tell that this monster in front of him likely had a charging combat style. Its ATK was 2600, but its DEF was surprisingly 0. A Level 7 monster couldn't possibly only have this much power. So, the confidence Rex had in considering this monster his hidden card must lie in the effect this monster hadn't shown yet.
As Valon thought, he saw the second `Jurra Egg Token` appear on his Field due to `Lost World`'s effect, and he frowned.
As Valon said before, his Armor Deck consisted of low-Level monsters that weren't affected by `Gravity Bind`. However, the relative drawback was that he didn't have a boss monster strong enough for field suppression, requiring all his monsters to cooperate in battle.
In that case, he had a great need for his Monster Zones on the Field. But now, because of Rex's `Lost World`, two Zones on his Field were already occupied, meaning he could only Summon a maximum of three Armor monsters onto the Field.
Although `Jurra Egg Token` didn't have restrictions like "cannot be used for Tribute Summon" and could be Tributed freely, Valon's Deck simply didn't have any higher-Level monsters.
However, it wasn't really a significant influence, because Valon had been confident of achieving victory within this turn from the start, and that was still the case even after Rex repeatedly showed his great strength.
"Activate the Magic Card, `Inheritance of Power`! I send the `Jurra Egg Token` on my Field to the Graveyard to increase the ATK of another `Jurra Egg Token`. However, since they are both Tokens with 0 ATK, nothing is increased."
Activating a card from his Hand, Valon said helplessly. This `Inheritance of Power` card was one he had drawn last turn. Using it to deal with a Token was indeed like using a cannon to shoot a fly, but there was no other way. This was paving the way for the card he was about to activate.
"Next, I will activate this card, Magic Card `Phoenix Gravity`! Like `Armor Gravitation` before, this is a card specifically for Armor monsters to perform mass Special Summons." Valon explained as he inserted the card into the Spell & Trap Zone of his Duel Disk, a confident smile on his face.
"However, unlike `Armor Gravitation` which Special Summons from the Deck, `Phoenix Gravity` is the undying fire that rises from the Graveyard." Looking at the vigorous flames on the `Phoenix Gravity` manifesting on his Field, Valon couldn't help but recall the great fire that had engulfed the Church he lived in at that time, and those who were sacrificed in the great fire...
Shaking his head to refocus on the Duel, Valon took out four cards from his Graveyard. "Because of `Phoenix Gravity`'s effect, I Special Summon the four Armor monsters from before from my Graveyard! They will also be destroyed again during the End Phase!"
"However, there won't be an End Phase anymore! Come forth, Big Bang Shot, Overboost, Active Guard, Trap Burst!"
"Hen~Shin!"
Valon, whose Hand was now empty, suddenly raised his arm and struck an impressive transformation pose. The symbol of a soaring phoenix appeared behind him. The Armor monsters that were sent to the Graveyard before reappeared on his Field one by one and equipped onto Valon's body!
For a moment, Rex had the illusion that the Valon in front of him had actually run over from the set of 'Saint Seiya' next door.
"Entering my Battle Phase! Here I come, 'Dinosaur' Rex! The `Dinowrestler Pankratops` you Summoned with 2600 ATK will be the final puzzle piece to crush you!" Valon raised the `Big Bang Knuckle Armor` on his right arm. "You haven't forgotten the power of my `Big Bang Knuckle Armor`, have you? Don't blink! This is the last monster you'll see!"
"Tak!"
With a loud shout, Valon charged towards the `Dinowrestler Pankratops` on Rex's Field and swung his iron fist!
