Chapter 4:
Into the hornet’s nest

The team of Ashton Motto, Naruto Wheeler, May Gardner, and Kiba Taylor were at the bow of the ship watching as their target was slowly approaching them. “We’re here, but man, Duelist Kingdom is a pretty big place, Ashton. Finding your grandpa is not going to be easy.” Naruto said to his old friend, stating what they all already knew.

“Well, we got to start somewhere.” Ash said back to him, trying to put a positive spin on their current problem. By this time the large white boat had slowly pulled into port, and when it got to the port there was already several people readying the moveable stairwell and to make sure everyone arrived safely.

“Whoa! Check out the suits.” The blonde man stated as he and the others were at the stairwell that led to the island. As soon as his fighting partner said that remark Kiba grew nervous.

“Attention all Duelists, please disembark in an orderly fashion.” One of the workers said through the PA system. The word ‘duelist’ made the brown haired youth a bit more nervous, so nervous that he decided to tell the female of their team his plan to avoid this.

“Hey, May, what if one of those security dorks find out we’re both stowaways. We ought to cut our losses and swim back.” He said to her. In that instant the young woman recalled how cold she was on deck, and she had a feeling that the ocean was just as cold if not colder, so she decided to cut him off right there.

“We’re in the middle of nowhere, moron. If you can try and act NORMAL for once we’ll be okay.” She said back to him while emphasizing ‘normal’ since she knew that he had a lousy time trying to play anything low-key. The four politely followed the path, and didn’t interrupt the flow.

‘I can do this.’ The canine enthusiast thought when it was his turn to walk down the path. ‘Just act cool. Act cool. Joe Cool, that’s me.’ Kiba thought as he walked down in a military marching style, and at first he thought that he was going to make it until a voice from behind stopped him.

“Hey, you.” It was one of Maxwell’s workers that spoke to him. In that instant the gray coated teen stopped dead in his tracks. When the others didn’t hear any footsteps behind May they too stopped and glanced around. “Don’t be so nervous. You guys are our guest here.” The same worker said to him, and that caused the teen to mentally sigh in relief.

“That’s right.” Kiba said before turning on his heel to face the speaker and added, “I’m your guest.” He gave a bow and then fled to the other three.

‘Must be first tournament jitters.’ The man thought before returning to his duty. The four huddled together after getting some distance from the people that were still getting off.

“I think I just had a heart attack.” Kiba informed the others after catching his breath over the ‘keep it cool’ act he tried.

“Way to play it cool, Kiba. That wasn’t suspicious at all.” May said back to him while slyly looking back at the guard that almost busted his cover. Naruto was so excited that they had made it that he just had to shout about it.

“ALL RIGHT! Every single one of us made it safe and----achoooo.” The blonde said while making a big sneeze; the female was grateful that she got out of the way of the spray. As soon as he stood straight up after the sneeze the young Motto knew that it was his fault.

“You would never have caught that cold if it wasn’t for Bugsy.” Ash said to his pal and then recalled the incident that happened a few hours ago.

“Say good bye to Exodia!” Bugsy said in the flashback while throwing them overboard.

“My cards.” The few hours younger Ashton shouted while looking at the brown backs fall to the sea. “Those were the Exodia cards that my grandpa gave me.” He added while gripping the railing.

“I’ll get `em.” The orange jacketed teen leapt in without a second thought.

“Naruto, don’t.” Ashton of old said as he watched the sneakers of his comrade go into the sea.

“Speaking of our wormy friend.” The savior of two out of three cards started to say while rubbing his nose added, “Looks like he just slithered his way off of the boat, and is already looking to start some trouble.” The group saw the purple haired sneak over behind them staring at them. “That sleazebag, I would love to wipe that smirk off his face.” The blonde added and the others nodded in agreement; all but one.

‘I hate Bugsy for what he had done, and as much as I would love to follow Naruto’s advice, but we don’t have time for Bugsy right now.’ Ash thought as he kept a steady gaze on the deceiver.

‘Let’s get this over with.’ Tabitha thought as he looked at the kids before him. “Welcome, all duelists. Please, follow the stairs to meet your host.” The head guard said to them while gesturing to the castle behind him, and the long line of stairs.

“That castle has to belong to Butler.” Ash said to the others as he looked at the rather large stone structure.

“Then what are we waiten for?” Wheeler questioned to the rest of their group. The four and several others walked up the stairs, but as they did May spotted something familiar in the thick woods around the stairs.

“Huh? What’s that?” Gardner questioned aloud at a figure by some trees. When she said that statement her friends stopped around her.

“Huh? What is it, May? What do you see?” Ash questioned, worried about this friend, as he does with all of his friends.

“It looked like - Gary?” She answered him while pointing. She knew that the last word came out as a question she was certain over what she had seen.

“Gary? From school?” The heir to the game shop questioned. He did not want it to sound insulting, but as far as he knew Gary wasn’t into Duel Monsters like they were. Still interested if what was said was true he followed where she was pointing, and saw nothing.

“Again with Gary, May.” Kiba said to her since she said the same thing back on the boat in the dead of night.

“Where is he, May?” Naruto questioned to her since as far as he could tell there was nothing out there, but bushes and trees. She did not know what her friend meant, so she looked back at the spot, but just as they did saw no one down there.

“That’s two times that I’ve seen him now, but he’s not there anymore.” She said to them, confessing to the two others that she saw him before now. “Maybe it’s all in my head?” She questioned to them even though this was not the time nor the place to doubt her eyes.

“Come on, we’re on a rescue mission, remember?” The canine kid said to her before walking on the beaten path. As she followed his lead the person that she pointed out came from behind a tree that he was using as cover to watch the others walk up to the castle.

‘Rescue mission?’ The mystery man thought after hearing what Kiba had to say. Eventually the whole lot of Duelists made it around the front entrance. There were those that they had meat such as Sakura Valentine, Bugsy Underbrush, and Zaku Saurus.

“Hey check it out it’s Bugsy and Zaku along with Haku Tsunami the third-ranked duelist.” One of the participants said as he spotted three big guns in the crowd. “I mean these are some of the best duelists in the world! But where’s the world champion, Edward Kaiba?” The kid added to his boat buddy.

“From what I heard on the boat it seems he was beaten on his own turf, by some kid.” The boat buddy said which the person that was listening to them could not believe what he had just heard.

“NO WAY! I thought Kaiba was the best.” The eavesdropper said to the two.

“Not anymore.” The one that heard it through the grapevine said back to him. This conversation was over heard by the friend of the victor of that battle. When he looked at Ash and saw that he was staring at the second floor balcony with so much focus he was blocking everything else out, he decided to nudge him so he heard the last part of the conversation.

“Then in that case the one that we have to beat is a kid that calls himself Ashton.” A fourth one said since he heard the same rumor as well. The three others looked at the source of their friendship who was blushing at the sudden attention.

“Attention, please gather around.” The head of the guards said after going into the castle and making his way to the second floor balcony while the contestants were conversing. “Your benevolent host is anxious to greet you all.” He said to them and then glanced behind him to see the man in the white suit coming at the stone balcony.

“Boy, what I wouldn’t give to get just five minutes alone with that guy.” Naruto said once the man that they were going after stood above them with an over confident smirk on his face. While he stood there the group could only remember what had happened earlier.

“When next we duel we shall play for far higher stakes.” The previous encountered faded haired man said to the one he was after. “You see, I have found - given the proper incentive: ANYONE can be made to play my game.” He added after revealing a golden eye. Just then a beam came out of the television and absorbed the elder’s soul.

“Ashton.” Sarutobi said after realizing that his own soul had been pulled out of his body and was being dragged to some place foreign.

“Grandpa!” The grandson shouted out to the snowing in screen. With that thought ending the current Ashton only had a constant thought running through his head.

‘I’m not leaving this island until I rescue my grandpa’s soul, no matter what Butler throws at me.’ Ounce that that was done he decided to listen to the faded in hair color man.

“Greetings Duelists. I am Maxwell Butler. It is my great honor and privilege to welcome you all to the Duelist Kingdom. You stand before me the world’s greatest duelists, but come tournament’s end only one shall be crowned King of Games. I implore you all to assemble your dueling decks with care, with creativity, and with cunning for this tournament will test your skills like never before.” He said to them, almost throwing them off their game before the match had even begun.

‘I just hope my deck is strong enough.’ Ashton along with several others thought as they stared at the decks that they had made on the boat ride here. Not missing a beat Butler continued to speak to them.

“I shall now explain the rules of this contest.” He said to them forcing everyone’s eyes back to him. “All duels will be played with Duel Monsters cards. Life points will begin 2000, and direct attacks against the players are forbidden.” He informed them and everyone seemed to be okay with those rules so he went on. “To track your progress in the tournament you each have been given a dueling glove. You’ve also been given two precious Star Chips. You must wager these Star Chips in each duel you compete in to advance to the final level of competition for a chance at the three million dollar prize you must win ten Star Chips. Ten Star Chips will admit you into my castle where you will face me in one final duel.” The graying haired man said while showing the two items to them.

‘If grandpa’s here I bet dueling glove that he’s hidden away in that castle, but I’ll never be able to get in with all the guards around. We’re just going to have to win enough Star Chips to get inside.’ Ashton thought while another part of his mind was thinking of something else, ‘Since Naruto and I each have one Star Chip that means our first duel is also our last duel if we’re not careful.’ The raven haired youth knew that the blonde brawler was all for it when he clutched his only Star Chip into his fist.

“This will be a tournament unlike anything that you have ever experienced. State-of-the-art dueling arena’s cover this entire island, and intriguing new dueling rules will be in effect. I could tell you what these new rules are, but what fun would that be. You’ll discover them as you compete, or you won’t last very long. Remember: play boldly, think strategically, and duel mercilessly. You have one full hour to prepare both your cards and yourselves. When the sky lights up with fireworks the duels will begin.” He said to them, once again trying to upset some that seem to be beginners.

“Now that’s what I like to hear, unknown rules that will work on my favor.” One of the contests said aloud not noticing that one of them had a ‘know it all’ expression behind a pair of glasses. At first Butler was going to leave, but he decided to add one other thing.

“Before you all leave to find the perfect spot to duel I am going to tell you one thing.” He said to the contestants, and those that were starting to leave turned around at the host. “This tournament will be fought battle-royal style, and end in 48 hours. At that time any duelist with less then ten Star Chips will be considered a loser and deported from the island. So, best of luck.” He then turned back into the castle now knowing that most of them were starting to feel the pressure. ‘The duelists have arrived. Ashton has taken the bait, and the games are about to begin. Everything goes according to plan.’ He thought to himself and then added, ‘If Ashton REALLY wants to duel me, he’ll have to fight his way through all those others.’ Outside his mind, and the castle the hero was thinking of something similar.

‘I gotta win my way into that castle, I just gotta, so hang in there grandpa soon I’ll break Butler’s strange Shadow Powers.’ After that thought the four, along with everyone else leaves the castle and goes exploring the landscape. As they did that a thought was eating away at the orange clothed boy.

“Ashton, I don’t know if I can win this thing. I mean I already put you at a disadvantage, so maybe you should have your Star Chip back.” The teen said to his friend and was about to hand it back until the classmate took a firm grasp on his wrist.

“Naw, you keep it. You’re little sister is counting on you to win the tournament’s prize money for her.” Ash explained to his friend before releasing Naruto’s wrist, and in truth the young Wheeler was touched that his friend had such a big heart.

“Thanks man.” He said back to the Motto, and this transaction as seen by the other half which allowed May to say something encouraging as well.

“You can do it. You just got to steer clear of the more experienced duelists first.” May said and the fourth one saw where this was going and decided to help his buddy out too.

“Yeah. It’s just a matter of working your way up.” Kiba said to Naruto, and prayed that he did not take it as an insult on the low level of skills that he has learned from his teacher.

“Thanks, you guys.” Naruto said to the both of them. He was truly glad to have friends that always had his back. “Well, Ashton, between your grandpa and my sister we don’t have any room for mistakes.” The bold one said after he and the other two looked to the founder of their friendship.

“Right.” The grandson said to the brother. A little after their team meeting they all heard several explosions skyward.

“The fireworks! It’s starting.” May exclaimed when she saw the puffs of smoke.

“Let’s do it!” Ashton exclaimed after hearing what his female friend just said to him. The four of them began walking around with no particular direction in mind.

“So, what`cha plan Ashton?” Naruto questioned thirty minutes into their walk. He knew that by now all of the duelists were in deeper, or harder to reach locations to challenge them from where they were, but he knew that the leader had a plan.

“Well I might as well stick with Bugsy.” He answered the other contestant, and added, “After all we do have a score to settle.” The others knew what he meant and the other tournament member was happy that he said that.

“I was hoping you’d say that.” Wheeler exclaimed with a big grin on his face. The other two knew had a feeling that would be the first one to fall after that stunt he pulled.

“Isn’t that him?” Gardner questioned while looking at the end of the path that they were on. The three males of her group saw that it really was him.

“Bugsy!” Ash shouted to the deceiver, but instead of sticking around for them he chose the right lane of the fork in the road. The team did nothing but watch him run off.

“Hey, wait up you little geek.” Kiba shouted to him but had a feeling that his comment didn’t reach the creeps ears due to his strange laugh.

I can’t believe it - Bugsy’s running away.” Naruto shouted to the others. The teen did not understand it due to the fact that they all, he especially, knew that the secret weapon was gone. Not bothered by the cowardly move Ashton ran after him, taking the path to the right as well. “Hey, wait up, Ash.” Wheeler said when he saw that the former Exodia holder had taken off into the forest path.

“Ugh! Where the shell are all these moths coming from?” Kiba questioned as what felt like an army of tan tinted flying insects flew into their line of sight.

“Gross! They are disgusting.” May added to her friend’s remark. Unlike a fellow classmate who can’t handle ANY bug being around her she was okay with them, but these were to many to fast in her opinion.

“He’s fast for a small guy.” The young Taylor said after he realized that Bugsy was still a ways away from them.

“Maybe your just slow for a big guy.” May criticized to him, but even with her eyes closed and her hands on her head she had a feeling that all of them were running a little slower then normal. She chalked it up to the standing around they did at the ship’s bow.

“We’re never gonna catch `im.” Naruto said, changing the subject of speed to their target. “As long as the whole island’s in balance he’ll keep running all day.” He added to his first statement. The others knew that their friend meant the path that they were on since the exposed path didn’t seem to have a pebble out of place let alone a man made pothole.

‘What’s Underbrush up to? He’s wanted a duel with me ever since we met on the boat, so what’s he running for?’ Ash thought to himself and then when he saw the insects sill in the sky and the fact that they were chasing a man the specializes in insect cards it all clicked. ‘Wait a minute.’ He thought to himself and questioned aloud to the others, “What did he say on the boat?” With that question said he recalled his encounter with those two while his novice friend was gaining cards.

“Everyone will soon learn that there are new rules on the island that require more strategy.” Bugsy’s past self said to the past Ashton, and after that his mind came back to the present while still running.

‘It must have something to do with the new rules.’ Motto thought after recalling that sentence. ‘So, I better figure it out, and fast.’ He thought with determination as he and the others finally left the forest path and wound up in a large clearing.

“There he is.” Naruto said when they were just at the border of entering the meadow area.

“Welcome, said the spider to the fly. You flew right into my trap, and because of that I challenge you to a duel.” Bugsy said while pointing an accusing finger at the leader of the four. He was proud over what he had done before this match.

“It’s time you answer for what you did on the boat Bugsy.” Ash demanded since he too remembered that moment. Just like with Kaiba and Butler an unknown power came over him.

“All right, Bugsy it’s time to find out if your as good at dueling as you are at running away.” The new voice said to the deceiver. The bug brawler, not noticing the severe change in demeanor, still believed that he was going to crush the new guy.

“Was I simply running away? Or cleverly weaving you into my web.” Bugsy said with that same nearly psychotic smirk on his face.

“It’s time to duel.” ’Ashton’ said back to him, accepting his invitation. This caused the other to start cackling about what he just said.

“As you wish!” The insect inspector shouted out and just like that the ground began to tremble.

“It’s an earthquake!” Kiba shouted out before moving his feet into a stance he prayed would keep him up. The four of them heard the opponent laughing at their antics during the shaking.

“What have you done?” The accepter questioned to the challenger since he wondered what was so funny this time. After a while Kiba saw that a section of the meadow was beginning to open by steel.

“Whoa! Check it out guys the whole island is transforming.” He shouted while pointing to that spot. He knew that he didn’t know that the island itself was changing, but he had a feeling the if this sort of thing was happening before a duel then a lot of places were doing this very thing too.

“It’s gigantic!” The female exclaimed after she and the others saw a large mechanical platform stand behind Bugsy.

“Man! These aren’t going to be like the duels back home.” Naruto added after seeing that the machine sprouted out four columns one on each corner of the mechanical platform.

“You’ve just stepped into a hornet’s nest, AND THERE’S NO WAY OUT!” The annoying insect shouted out to them, practically proclaiming his victory already.

“What is that?” ’Ash’ questioned after seeing the device and realizing that it was similar to Edward’s holo-device.

“These giant arenas must be set up all over the island.” Naruto said and was slowly getting why they were transported to this large island.

“I’ll just meet you on the field.” Bugsy said calmly and raced to the red platform which went up as soon as he set his bag down. Their friend followed the same style, but chose the blue one.

“I don’t like this. Bugsy’s a little too cocky.” Naruto said while both platforms were at the top of the towers. The two of them shuffled their own decks and placed them on the lower right hand corner of the electronic mat before them, but while that was going on Bugsy noticed something that would work in his favor.

“I noticed that you have just one Star Chip, Ashton. I guess that means I’ll have the pleasure of eliminating you from the tournament.” He said proudly and then moved his glove to show that he had two Star Chips before adding, “Once your gone everyone else’s Chip’s will be easy pickings.” The man in Ashton’s skin saw the overconfidence in his opponents, and knew how to use that to his advantage.

“Not if I take your two first.” He shouted out to the green clad man. He did not want this particular duelist on this island any more than he already had been.

“What?!” Bugsy shouted back wondering if he had heard right.

“This’ll be an all or nothing match for the both of us.” The hero clarified to the cheat.

“HA! Why should I risk BOTH my Star Chips when you only have ONE.” The insectoid questioned, not knowing that there was a tiny part of him that was already starting not to like where this was going until ‘Ashton’ added.

“Because I have something else I think you want.” The blue jacketed one started to say before picking up his deck and presented it to the cheat while adding, “My whole Duel Monsters deck.” After hearing that the tiny part within was fine for challenging the upstart.

“So, you’d risk your grandpa’s deck, fine with me. Winning all your cards will be an easy way to exterminate you once and for all.” He said to that offer while thinking, ‘Since I’m gonna get those cards I shouldn’t have thrown Exodia any in the first place.’ The heroes friends were a little worried over what was said.

“Exterminate?” May questioned and did not want their journey to end this early, and especially by this weirdo.

“Swat that little twerp like a mosquito.” Naruto shouted out to his friend, not phased one bit over what they said since he knew his pal was going to win. Unknown to the five that were in the meadow several other duelists, who decided to go looking around the forest, saw a dueling arena, and decided to get a closer look.

“Whoa! Sounds like a duel is about to start over there.” One of the duelists said to two others. The trio got to the edge to get a better look at what was going on.

“That’s Bugsy Underbrush, but who’s the other guy?” A purple shirted duelist questioned. Fortunately for them the another participant heard them, and with a smile decided to fill them in.

“That guy is Ashton Motto. He beat Kaiba, and I happen to be his best friend - Naruto Wheeler. These two over here, well, at first they were trespassers, but Ashton and I now call them our funny sidekicks.” The bold entry said while turning to face the spectators. After hearing that they were considered sidekicks Kiba and May practically fell over.

“I thought I wouldn’t be seeing a Bugsy-Ashton match-up till the finals.” One of the onlookers said while looking at the two in question.

“Bugsy’s a regional champ, no need guy’s got a chance against him.” Another person said since he adored the regional champ, and believed that his idol could never fall. The words that were said were heard fell to the two brawlers which only served to fuel that big ego of Underbrush.

“Well, Ashton, my adoring public is waiting, so we should begin.” Bugsy said to the other as the field in between them was starting to show them their battle field.

“DUEL!” They both shouted and just like that the match begun.

“Let’s see how you like my Killer Needle.” The champion of the region said after drawing one card and placing an insect that seemed to be bee creature. ‘Ashton’ drew a card and then looked on the screen before him and saw that the creatures points were: 1200 attack power and 1000 defense power, so he knew what to do.

“You’ll have to get through my Mammoth Graveyard first.” The raven haired man said before placing his card on the board, and just like with the insect a hologram of the skeleton appeared. “This massive monster will match your annoying insect point for point.” He said when the hologram was whole, and he knew he was right even though his defense was only 800 his attack power was equal with Bugsy’s beast 1200. “Attack!” The mammoth man said and just like that the skeletal structure charged straight ahead.

“Killer Needle let’s show the mammoth your stinger - ATTACK!” The insect class did as it was told and went in tail first, but before the tusk could land a blow the stinger nailed the elephant like frame’s face first.

“NO!” The second card player shouted in disbelief as he watched Mammoth Graveyard disappear after the confrontation.

“Gone after one sting, he must be allergic.” Bugsy said in praise as he saw that his insect came out on top.

‘I don’t get it. Both creatures were evenly matched, It should have been a stalemate.’ Ashton thought and thought about placing his defeated card into the graveyard pile, but he decided to wait a while. The insect lover saw the surprised look on his enemy’s face, but the regional champ didn’t mind explaining the secret to his success.

“Have you begun to figure out yet why I led you all the way to this forest area?” He started to say and quickly added, “If you just look around then you will see that this area is an exact replica of our surrounding environment. One part Wasteland and one part Forest, and who thrives in the forest - bugs. The strongest, most powerful insects rule the forests, so as long as I play my bugs in the forest area I get a field power bonus.” He explained to them in a long winded style which caused the three to think of one thing.

‘Enough with your love story. We need more action.’ The three of them knew that if Ashton could stomach this guy then they should at least try.

“I guess you just weren’t listening when Butler that this tournament would have exciting new surprises in store for us. Maybe if you were smart enough to steal the tournament secret new rules like I did you’ll be getting a field power bonus instead of me.” He said in a grand standing style. ‘Ashton’ looked at the gauge and saw that the score went from 1200 to 1560.

“He cheated! He led us here because he knew he’d have an unfair advantage.” Naruto said since the one thing that got under his skin was a cheat, of any kind.

‘If only these fools knew the truth. That Butler told me of this rule.’ Bugsy thought it himself, ignoring the peanut gallery. ‘Despite the 80% forest and 20% Wasteland all of my insects will continue to gain a 30% increase for their attack and defense.’ He added to his earlier thought, he only used the word stole to impress his fans, and he decided to please the masses even more. “Go ahead call me a cheater. You’re all just angry that you didn’t swipe the rules yourselves, and because you didn’t little Ashton is about to get stung.” He said aloud and pointed a finger at who he thought was the loser, but to his surprise the ‘victim’ was laughing. “What?! How could you be laughing?” He demanded with a drooping finger.

“Because take a look at your ferocious Killer Needle now.” He challenged after his small laughing fit.

“What!” Bugsy shouted as he watched his insect glow bright white and then blowup. “Oh-no, my monster! What have you done with my monster!” He shouted in anger before looking at the board. To his left was the score of his fallen Killer Needle: 1560 attack power and 1300 defense power, but what startled him was what it said for Mammoth Graveyard: 1560 attack power and 1040 defense power. ‘This makes no sense. My creature was super charged by the field power bonus, but according to this Ashton’s creature somehow became just as powerful.’ He thought as he stared at the score in anger.

“Looks like my mammoth got a field power bonus from the Wasteland just like your bugs do from the Forest.” ‘Ashton’ announced in victory with a finger at Bugsy after putting his dinosaur class creature to the graveyard pile.

“The field point advantage was supposed to me mine alone.” Underbrush shouted after a growl of anger for his friend. The millennium medallion man knew that it was his turn to explain himself.

“I kept wondering about something on the boat ride here Bugsy. Why were we traveling to some remote island just to duel, but as soon as I saw this holographic display grid it all came together. Every monster has a type of field is does best on; kind of like a home field advantage, and what makes this island so special is that it contains every type of field imaginable. So when you deliberately led us to this spot you were clearly hoping to get some kind of field advantage.” The ex-Exodia holder said to Bugsy.

“You’re awfully clever to put it all together like that, Ashton, but figuring out one rule won’t be enough. There are surprises hiding behind every rock, and I know them all.” Underbrush said to Ashton after giving him a sickening laugh.

“You can beat him, Ashton.” May said to her friend out of encouragement.

“Don’t let that flea scare ya - he’s bluffin.” The blonde haired youth said also encouraging his friend to fight on.

“Really?” Bugsy said, overhearing Naruto’s statement as he drew his new card. “Then let’s just see how you handle this bluff.” He added while showing the card he was about to use, and after it appeared finished with, “My Hercules Beetle will find a way to crawl under your skin.” Ashton saw the purple colored insect on the field then saw on his screen his stats changed from 1500 attack and 2000 defense to 1950 attack and 2600 defense.

‘Even though I know about the field power bonus it’s too late to rebuild my deck now. I guess a combo attack will be my best bet.’ Ashton thought after a mental sigh. He then took a fiend based card from his hand and set it on the board.

“I play Feral Imp.” The confident man said, but quickly added this once the monster was on the virtual board, “And now I’ll add this Horn of the Unicorn so its magic will raise my attack points.” The group of five, and several lookers, watched at the hologram of the imp’s horn on its head changed from a small red/pink on to a grand white horn. Bugsy saw that Feral Imp’s attack power went from 1300 to 2000.

“You’ll have to do a lot better than that.” Bugsy said with a big smile even after seeing the power boost of the winged fiend. “Hercules Beetle - ATTACK!” The purple bug rose up and sent white disks from its underside to its enemy. Not sure if he knew if the regional champion saw the power up Ashton attacked as well.

“Feral Imp - magic lightning attack.” Blue lightning came from the new horn and onto the beetle, but after both attacks hit their targets only the Feral Imp was gone.

“Ashton’s attack didn’t even phase that thing.” May said as she watched the electrical attack hit the insect, but nothing happened.

“Somethins screwy.” Naruto added to his friend’s comment. Letting her know that she was not the only one to think that something was wrong with that.

“My imp’s magic lightning should have destroyed your beetle is this another trick Bugsy?” ‘Ashton’ said to his opponent knowing that this cheat knew why his move had little to no effect.

“No, Ashton.” Underbrush started to say while watching his insect land on the field, just fine before going on. “I just thought you knew that all monsters that a field power bonus are also resistant to any type of magic attack, and since my Hercules Beetle easily deflected your lightning bolts he has more than enough power left to destroy your puny Feral Imp, and continue to eat away at your life points.” Bugsy said proudly while pointing at the stunned opponent.

“Even that four-eyed ticks weakest bugs will be tough to beat so long as he’s got that field power bonus.” Naruto said in anger while watching the fight.

“Yeah, we get that Naruto, but it’s not like it can be turned off.” Kiba countered to his friend while looking away from the fight long enough to tell his fellow fighter that much.

“That Bugsy’s a no good cheat.” May said aloud and then looked up at her friend. ‘Keep going Ashton; I know you know how to take him down.’ She thought since she always felt that he knew how to best any foe.

“It’s your turn, make your move.” Underbrush said while looking beyond the three others and saw that there were more duelists coming to watch as he was about to beat another poor soul.

‘This whole invulnerable rule is a load. I beat Butler made up that rule.’ Ashton thought, breaking off from his current problem for a bit before going back to Bugsy. ‘Maybe I should use my next monster in defend. By putting my card in defense mode my monster will take a hit, but my life points will be spared.’ He thought as he set his new card in horizontal style facedown after looking that his score went from 2000 to 1350.

“So, we’re defending now, are we?” Bugsy questioned with overconfidence in his voice. “Very clever. Since I can’t see your monster’s defense points I can’t be sure I can beat it, but even your strongest monster can stand against my Basic Insect.” He said and presented the same green insect that won him the regional competition. “Not only does he get a field power bonus, but I’m upgrading him with a level 3 laser cannon, and a level 2 power boost.” He said forcing Ashton to stare into the bad end of a gun.

‘NO! This is the same move that Bugsy used on Zaku to win the regional tournament.’ Ashton thought as he stared at the gun totting insect.

“Now, Ashton, for all the innocent bugs you squashed, stomped, crushed, or fumigated - it’s PAYBACK TIME!” Bugsy said and just like that the beam was sent at the downed monster which caused it to be flipped allowing the insect king to see what he hit. ‘A Griffore? That’s weak.’ He thought to himself as the beast class disappeared. “You’ll have to do better than that if you hope to survive my bug’s laser powered arsenal.” He bragged since he knew that this upstart would deck out before he did.

“Then I play this card.” The blue towered duelist said while placing a new defense card and also looking at the screen. Two insects on the board, two magic cards on one creature, and one insect in the graveyard.

‘Hmm? Another defense card no doubt, and I’ll make sure defending is all he can do.’ Bugsy thought to himself and the decided to torture the new guy. “I’m going to keep you on the defensive. Attack now with any monster and you will instantly activate this trap card.” He said to the opponent, and the trio on the sidelines were starting to get nervous.

“That Bugsy got Ashton cornered.” Kiba said to the others, starting to get a little angry of how this fight is going.

“Yeah. He can’t even counter attack.” Naruto added while watching the events unfold before him.

“As long as my Trap Card remains in play you are powerless to make a move against me.” Bugsy proclaimed while thinking, ‘I bet I have him too scared by my Parasite Worm trap card to think straight.’ “So, does my tightening web make you squirm.” He said to Ashton, showing off for the crowd; not afraid of the man that defeated Edward Kaiba.

‘He’s so busy bragging he’s not paying any attention to my moves. Maybe I can set a little trap of my own.’ Ashton thought as he sent a card from his hand to the row closest to him.

“I’ll set a defense card myself.” ‘Ashton’ said after he placed the card down.

“Ashton must have set a magic card is desperation.” Bugsy said as he saw the new card, but could care less about it and concentrated about toying with him. “Face it Ashton, I’ve got you pinned down, and while your are totally unable to attack me. I can attack you anytime I want. Each turn you cower I create a new monster.” Underbrush said to him and summoned one known as Gokibore, but his target simply drew a card. Bugsy then summoned Big Insect, and still Ash drew a new card. “Keep drawing Ashton my army of insects just keeps getting bigger I’m going to wipe out all your monsters in one bug blitzkrieg.” Bugsy boasted as he summoned a mantis like insect that went by the name - Kamakiriman.

‘That’s right Bugsy put all your monsters on the field. That’s exactly what I’m counting on.’ Ashton thought to himself, and was a little surprised that the insect duelist was doing everything he was counting on.

“Just look at our Ashton. He’s so confident up there.” May said to the others, surprised that he wasn’t the least bit nervous of facing those five on the field.

“I know when he duels it’s like he becomes a totally different guy.” Naruto said, telling her that she was not the only one that thinks he is so confident on the battlefield. The three of them watched as Underbrush drew his latest card from his dueling deck.

“Well, what do you know, I’m down to my last monstrous insect, and you know what that means Ashton. You’re about to be exterminated!” Bugsy shouted out to Ashton.

“We’ll see what my cards have to say about that.” The other duelist said after drawing his card, and saw that it was his old friend.

‘Yes, the Dark Magician - my last resort. With all those powered up bugs I can’t attack, but I know that there is no way Bugsy can resist this as a target.’ Ashton thought after looking at the purple clothed man.

“All right Bugsy. I defend with the Dark Magician.” The blue towered duelist said and placed the said creature facedown on the field.

“Excellent, I’ll destroy you’re very favorite card first.” The insectoid said with a happy smile. “Now, my pet, power up your laser cannon.” He ordered to the equipped creature, and once he saw the target defense card glow red he added, “ATTACK!!!” Energy began to come to the cannon, and Underbrush that this was going to be smooth until he heard Ashton laughing. “Wh--Why are you laughing?” He questioned since the last time his opponent laughed he ended up loosing his Killer Needle.

“Bugsy, your not the only one who can set a trap card.” The grandfather guardian said with a pointed finger to the bug brawler.

“WHAT?!” He responded not getting what he meant.

“You were so busy grandstanding you paid no attention to the cards I put into play.” The opponent explained for his laughter.

“But I thought that they were all monster ca-cards.” Bugsy said back, knowing that he was right because of the card beside the Dark Magician.

“Not all. While you loaded the field with your bug monsters I prepared a special surprise. The power of my Mirror Force trap card.” ’Ashton’ explained while taking the card from earlier and showing it to Bugsy.

“HOLD YOUR FIRE!!!” Underbrush shouted back since he knew the hidden new rule for that card.

“Too late, Bugsy. You’ve already ordered on my Dark Magician, and Mirror Force will deflect it right back at you.” The magician holder said to the insect duelist. While that was being said Dark Magician was forced to reveal himself, but a small rectangular barrier came up with him forcing the bugs to be blown away with attackers own attack.

My life points are devastated.” The red tower duelist said as he watched all of his insects be blown apart right before his eyes.

“Yes.” ‘Ashton’ said as he watched the score of his opponent go from 2000 down to 555.

‘I know that the Mirror Force life points must be a Butler rule, but it’s one I like.’ Ashton thought before listening to his friends.

“Way to go, Ashton!” The three of them shouted to him in one voice. Underbrush could only stare at his bare field in disbelief.

‘He obliterated my army of beautiful bugs. How dare he!’ Bugsy thought as he was getting angry at this novice.

“You’re a liar, and a cheat Bugsy, but it was your overconfidence that allowed be to get the best of you. Your insects are decimated. Your life points are low, and as you yourself said before - you have used up all of your monsters.” ‘Motto’ said with a confident smirk knowing that now that the Dark Magician was on the field there was not a monster Bugsy had that could defy him.

Copy Rights:
Yu-Gi-Oh!, and the others, are owned by TV Tokyo.
Pokemon, and the others, are owned by Gamefreak/Nintendo and Cartoon Network.
Full Metal Alchemist, and the others, are owned by Funimation.
Naruto, and the others, are owned by Viz Media.