Yu-Gi-Oh! Friendship is Magic

Chapters

The Reunion
The Tournament Participants
Second Round - Pinkie Pie vs Danny Eclipse
Third Round - Rainbow Dash vs Twilight Sparkle
The Date
Semi-Finals Round One - Charming Thunder vs Danny Eclipse
Semi-Finals Round Two - Shining Armor vs Twilight Sparkle
The Bet
Before the Finals
Final Round - Twilight Sparkle vs Charming Thunder
Twilight's New School - Charming Thunder vs Chancellor Neighsay
The Umbrum Return
An Old Rivalry - Rainbow Dash vs Lightning Dust (Umbrum)
First Round - Charming Thunder vs Scootaloo
The Mark of the Dragon - Charming Thunder vs Princess Cadence

The Reunion

Twilight was going through her deck she made a few days back. She then placed a card in her deck and then used her magic to place her deck back into a box when Spike suddenly entered the room with a scroll in hand. "Hey, Spike," she said.

"Hey, Twilight," Spike replied. "I got a letter from Cadence."

"Cadence? Let me see, Spike." Twilight levitated the scroll and unrolled it and started to read what it says out loud. "Dear Princess Twilight, I am pleased to announce that you and your friends are invited to a tournament that is being held at at the Crystal Empire. The participants for the tournament will be announced tomorrow. I hope to see you and your friends soon." Twilight looked at Spike. "Spike, let my friends know about the tournament that is coming up."

"Right away, princess." Spike saluted and rushed out of the room while Twilight began to pack some books and her duel disk in her bags.

A unicorn stallion was dueling a random pegasus stallion at Canterlot as the crowd watched them. The unicorn's field was two Blue-Eyes White Dragon and Luster Dragon. He had four cards in his hoof. The pegasus' field was Ancient Gear Golem. He had two cards in his hoof.

???: LP 2000. ???: LP 700.

"My turn," the unicorn said. "Draw!" He then grinned and looked at the pegasus. "I activate Polymerization and fuse my two Blue-Eyes and one in my hand to call forth Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon." The three dragons fused together to form a three headed dragon. [ATK: 4500. Lv. 12] "This duel is over for you. Blue-Eyes, obliterate that Ancient Gear and wipe out his life points!!!" The three dragons opened their mouths and fired a beam at the Golem and destroyed it. The pegasus screamed as his life points were lowered to zero. The crowd cheered for the winner of the duel as the unicorn walked up to the pegasus. They then shook hooves as thanks for the match. "Good game, sir."

"Good game. If I may ask, who are you?"

"Charming Thunder, nephew of Princess Celestia and Princess Luna and brother of Princess Cadence."

The pegasus gasped and said with his head lowered in a bow, "It is an honor to meet you!"

"The honor is all mine. I should get going. I don't want to keep my aunts waiting." The pegasus nodded and flew away as Charming Thunder walked to the direction towards the castle. A pegasus royal guard flew down and walked towards him with a scroll in hoof. "Guard, what a surprise. I was just about to head back to the castle. What news do you bring?"

"A message from your sister," the guard replied as he gave Charming Thunder the scroll. He then used his magic to unroll it and read it to himself. He then looked at the guard.

"Thank you." The guard then flew back to the castle as Charming Thunder continued his stroll through town back to the castle.

At the castle, Charming Thunder packed his duel disk and his box containing his deck. He then levitated his bag and placed it on his back. He then noticed Luna walking with a black pegasus. He then approached them and greeted, "Hello, Aunt Luna. Hello, Danny. I take it that you got the invitation to the tournament being held at the Crystal Empire?"

"We did, Charming," Luna said.

"Not to mention that participants will be announced tomorrow morning," Danny added. "If I were in the tournament, I would beat all of my opponents and claim my prize, whatever it is."

"Beats me," Charming Thunder said. "I wonder what the prize is."

"Shall we be off then?" Luna asked. "We don't want to miss our ride to the Crystal Empire."

"Agreed." Charming Thunder then walked with Luna and Danny through the halls of the castle.

Twilight and her friends waited at the train station for their ride to go to the Crystal Empire. "Lets see..." Twilight said as she went through her list in her head. "Duel Disk? Check. Deck? Check. Books on Duel Monsters? Check." Twilight then nodded and saw the train about to arrive.

"OOOOH!!!" Pinkie said. "The train is here!!!" The train pulled in and came to a stop. The doors at each car opened letting the passengers disembark. Once everyone disembarked Twilight and the others showed their tickets and boarded the train. They took their seats and waited for others to board.

"This tournament is going to be awesome!!!" Rainbow said.

"You said it, Rainbow," Applejack said. The train's horn sounded as the doors at each car closed. The train then took its leave from Ponyville.

"This is going to be a long trip," Fluttershy said as she sat back and relaxed on her seat.

That night at the Crystal Empire castle, Cadence went through the preparations for the next day as the crystal ponies set up tables and chairs at each table. She then noticed Charming Thunder entered the room and smiled. "Charming!!!" she said as she rushed over to him to give him a tight hug. "How are you, brother? It's been awhile."

"I am doing well, sis," Charming Thunder said. "How are the preparations?"

"Going well. They are just setting up tables now."

"It is great to see you, Cadence."

"You should get some rest after that long trip you had to get here. In the meantime, I have to see Twilight and the others."

"Twilight? She's invited too?"

"Yes. Along with her friends."

"It has been a while since I have seen Twilight. Will she be arriving soon?"

"If you want to see her, I can let her know that you want to meet her."

"Keep my name a surprise?"

"Of course, brother."

Flash entered the room and said, "Princess Twilight and her friends have arrived, your highness."

"Good." Cadence then turned to Charming Thunder. "I must go. I was nice to see you again." Cadence took her leave from the room leaving Charming Thunder to help with the preparations.

Twilight was reading her book on Duel Monsters when a knock was heard. She bookmarked her book and closed it then walked towards the door. She then used her magic to open the door and there was Charming Thunder standing at the other side. She gasped and tears began to fall out of her eyes. Twilight then hugged Charming Thunder relieved to see him again from all those years since she was a filly. She then broke the hug and looked at him in the eyes with a smile and wiped off her tears.

Twilight Sparkle

I should have known that you'd be here
I should have known it all along
You were invited for this occasion as well
It has been far too long, my friend
I am relieved to see you now
I am relieved that you are here

Charming Thunder

Oh, Twilight, my dear friend
In that time when I thought you were gone
My dear friend, on that day a few days before you left
Ah, Twilight, you came and found where I hid
Don't you deny that you did
That long ago night

Twilight Sparkle

That night before I left

Charming Thunder nodded and placed a hoof on her shoulder.

Charming Thunder

Once there was a night beneath a moonless sky
Too dark to see a thing, too dark to see each other

Twilight Sparkle

I stole to your side to tell you how I feel
I couldn't see your face but sensed you even so
And I touched you

Charming Thunder

And I felt you

Charming Thunder/Twilight Sparkle

And I heard those ravishing refrains

Twilight Sparkle

Those days when we were kids

Charming Thunder

Those fun times we had

Twilight Sparkle

And I held you

Charming Thunder

And I touched you

Twilight Sparkle

And embraced you

Charming Thunder

And I felt you

Charming Thunder/Twilight Sparkle

And with every breath and every sigh

Twilight Sparkle

I was brave like you

Charming Thunder

I felt no longer shy

Charming Thunder/Twilight Sparkle

At last our feelings bared
Beneath a moonless sky

Charming Thunder and Twilight sat on the bed together.

Twilight Sparkle

And blind in the dark, as soul gazed into soul
I looked into your heart and saw you pure and whole

Charming Thunder

Cloaked under the night with nothing to suppress
A mare and a stallion, no more and yet no less
And I kissed you

Twilight Sparkle

And caressed you

Charming Thunder/Twilight Sparkle

And the world around us fell away
We said things in the dark
We never dared to say

Charming Thunder

And I caught you

Twilight Sparkle

And I kissed you

Charming Thunder

And I took you

Twilight Sparkle

And I was brave

Charming Thunder/Twilight Sparkle

With a need too urgent to deny
And nothing mattered then
Except for you and I
Again and then again
Beneath a moonless sky

Charming Thunder looked away then got up to walk to the window.

Charming Thunder

And when the day finally came with the sun risen in the sky
Ashamed with the news given to me, afraid to see your eyes
I stood while you left and whispered a goodbye
And slipped into the dark beneath a moonless sky

Twilight got up and rushed to Charming Thunder’s side.

Twilight Sparkle

And I loved you
Yes, I loved you
I'd have followed anywhere you led
I tried to swear my love
But found you gone instead

Charming Thunder

And I loved you

Twilight Sparkle

How I loved you

Charming Thunder

And you left me

Twilight Sparkle

And I still loved you

Charming Thunder

And you had to both of us know why

Twilight Sparkle

We both knew why

Charming Thunder/Twilight Sparkle

And yet I won't regret
From now until I die
The night I can't forget
Beneath a moonless sky

Charming Thunder and Twilight’s foreheads touched as they held hooves. “And now,” Charming Thunder said. “Here we are. Together again. You must tell me all about your adventures with your friends. And this student you once had.”

“I’ll introduce you to them tomorrow morning,” Twilight said before she yawned. “For now I am exhausted from the ride to the Crystal Empire.”

“Of course, your highness.” Charming Thunder bowed and began to take his leave.

“Charming.” Charming Thunder stopped at the sound of Twilight’s voice and turned to look at her. “It is good to see you again.” Charming Thunder smiled and left the room as he closed the door behind him with his magic.

The Tournament Participants

The next morning finally came as ponies were in the party room to partake in the announcement of the participants for the tournament. Charming Thunder stood at the punch stand while he waited for Twilight. She and her friends arrived to meet Charming Thunder as he approached Twilight and the others. "So these must be your friends I always hear about," he said.

"Indeed they are," Twilight said. "Let me introduce you to them." She then pointed at her friends one by one. "This is Applejack."

"Howdy, partner," Applejack greeted.

"Rarity."

"Hello, darling," Rarity said as she fixed her mane.

"Rainbow Dash."

"Aww yeah!" Rainbow said. "It is a pleasure to meet you."

"Pinkie Pie."

"Hey there!" Pinkie said.

"And Fluttershy."

"Oh um...hello," Fluttershy said; nervously. Charming Thunder smiled and nodded.

"They helped me stop many foes. Including Nightmare Moon."

"I'm impressed," Charming Thunder said. Rainbow then approached him.

"You don't happen to know Danny, don't you?"

"I do as a matter of fact. Why?"

"He's my boyfriend. I heard that he is here too."

"I saw him talking to his mother and my aunt; Luna over there next to the stage." Charming Thunder then pointed to where Danny is for Rainbow. She then flew away in a hurry to that direction as Charming Thunder followed. "Excuse me, Twilight." Twilight nodded as Charming Thunder continued to follow Rainbow.

"He is a nice friend to have, Twilight," Fluttershy said.

"And handsome if I do say so," Rarity added. Danny was talking to Luna about something important when Rainbow came and gave him a tight hug.

"Danny!!!" Rainbow said as Danny hugged back.

"Rainbow, how are you?" Danny said. "I missed you!"

"I missed you too. I am fine, my love." Rainbow then kissed Danny's cheek as Charming Thunder arrived.

When Charming Thunder was about to say something, Scootaloo arrived and said, "Rainbow! I've brought my deck with me to show you."

"Hey, Scoots. I was just talking to my boyfriend here. Can it wait?" The three princesses took the stage as Cadence stood in front of the two.

"Mares and gentlecolts, may I have your attention please?" Cadence said as the crowd took their seats at their tables. Charming Thunder and Danny only stood at the side of the stage only to listen. "It is time to announce the contenders for the upcoming tournament. The winner will be crowned King or Queen of Games. And now for the participants. When I call your name, please come up to the stage." A raffle drum rolled up next to Cadence as she used her magic to spin it. When it stopped spinning, she levitated out a piece of paper with a name on it. "Our first contender is; Rainbow Dash."

"Aww yeah!" Rainbow said as she flew to the stage. The raffle drum spins again and Cadence pulled out the next name.

"Charming Thunder." Charming Thunder walked up the stairs to the stage and stood next to Rainbow. The drum spins again and Cadence pulled out the next one. "Pinkie Pie."

"Sweet," Pinkie said. "I'm in the tournament." Pinkie bounced her way to the stage and stood next to Charming Thunder. The drum once again spins and Cadence pulled out the next name.

"Danny Eclipse." Danny Eclipse walked up the stairs to the stage and stood next to Pinkie as the drum spins again and Cadence pulls out another name. "Scootaloo."

"Really?" Scootaloo asked herself; excited.

"Go Scootaloo!!!" Sweetie Belle and Applebloom said in unison as Scootaloo walked up the stairs to the stage and stands next Danny. The next name was then pulled.

"Shining Armor," Cadence announced. Shining Armor approached the stage and stood next to Scootaloo as the next name was being pulled. "And finally; Twilight Sparkle." Twilight stood up from her seat and slowly walked up to the stage and stood next to her brother. "That's it. These seven will compete in the fight for the title." The crowd applauded for the competitors as they left the stage to continue their festivities. Charming Thunder stepped outside for a brief moment while Danny followed.

Charming Thunder paced around in the throne room nervously until Danny entered the room. "I just can't believe that my childhood friend is participating," he said.

"It's nothing to get nervous about," Danny reassured.

"I'm not that nervous. Not to mention that you are participating as well. We dueled many times. I have never beaten you before."

"Well this is your chance."

"What do you mean?"

"If one of us reaches the top, one of us will become the firs King of Games."

"You're right, Danny. Thanks for the encouragement."

"It's my pleasure." Rainbow suddenly entered the room.

"Am I interrupting?" Rainbow asked as she approached Danny.

"No. We were just talking about the tournament."

"Oh. I just can't believe that I made it into the tournament. I heard that tomorrow is the first round."

"Who's in the first round?" Charming Thunder asked.

"You and Scootaloo, Charming." Charming Thunder was surprised to hear who he will be facing in the first round. "Then, Danny will be taking on Pinkie Pie. And I will be taking on Twilight."

"What of Shining Armor?" Danny asked.

"He will take on either me or Twilight."

"Interesting," Charming Thunder said. "I am amazed to hear that."

"I will be aiming for the top with my Blackwings."

"Hopefully my Blue-Eyes White Dragons can survive this tournament 'til the very end."

"As for my Vampire Genesis," Danny added.

"To the end then?" Rainbow asked.

"To the end," Charming Thunder agreed.

"To the end," Danny said. They both shook hooves one by one and decided to go back to the party.

Charming Thunder and Twilight together to the room where Twilight is staying while they talked and laughed. "You had many adventures during your stay in Ponyville," Charming Thunder said. "I mean who would've known that Changelings had a good side by learning to share love. I am very proud of Starlight. Speaking of Starlight, why wasn't she here? You did say that she was with you and your friends, right?"

"Ah, yes," Twilight said. "She was with her friend Sunburst during the party."

"Ah. I have heard of him. He helped you defeat the Pony of Shadows and bring back the legendary Starswirl the Bearded."

"You are right. Celestia may have told you a lot of things since I was away from Canterlot. Although, many times I never see you whenever I visit." Twilight nervously chuckled as the two arrived at the room. "Well it was fun while at lasted. I better get some shut eye." Charming Thunder placed a hoof on Twilight's and lifted it up then kissed it.

"Good night, princess." Charming Thunder then took his leave after Twilight entered her room to get some sleep as well.

Second Round - Pinkie Pie vs Danny Eclipse

Charming Thunder walked in the hall of the stadium and encountered Danny and Twilight waiting for him. Twilight rushed to him and gave him a tight hug as Charming Thunder hugged back. Danny had his duel disk on his arm as he approached them with a smile. "That was an awesome duel!!!" Twilight said; excitedly. "I didn't know that you hade one of the legendary dragons in your deck."

"Make that three," Charming Thunder said.

"Then that means...."

"He has Ultimate Dragon as well," Danny finished.

"Then I better watch out if we ever duel." Charming Thunder nodded then looked at Danny.

"Off to your match, Danny?" Charming Thunder asked.

"Yup," Danny replied. "Against Pinkie."

"I wish you luck then." Charming Thunder then hoof bumped with Danny before he took his leave to the field. Charming Thunder followed Twilight out of the hallway so that he could take his seat with the audience.

Danny walked through the hallway and walked through the entryway to the field as he heard the crowd cheering. He saw Pinkie standing at the other side of the field as she waved at the crowd with a smile. She then turned to see Danny standing at the other side and took her place on the field. "If I win this duel, I am throwing a party!" Pinkie said. "Hope you are prepared. I am not going down without a fight." She then activated her duel disk.

"This duel will be over quick and painless," Danny said. "Let's go." He activated his duel disk.

"Duel!"

Danny Eclipse: LP 4000. Pinkie Pie: LP 4000.

"I'll go first," Danny said. "Draw! I set a monster face down and I set a card face down to end my turn."

"My turn!" Pinkie said. "I draw! I pay 1000 life points to activate Toon World from my hand." [Pinkie Pie: LP 4000 -> 3000] "Next I special summon Toon Mermaid in defense mode." A clam appeared and opened to reveal a cartoon mermaid holding a bow. [DEF 1500. LV 4]

"Yet you can't attack on the turn you summon that toon monster."

"Man you are catching on. I end my turn."

"My turn! Draw! I summon Vampire Lady in attack position." A humanoid monster with bat like wings hanging under her arms appeared on the field with a sword in hand. [ATK 1550. LV 4] "Vampire Lady, attack her Toon Mermaid!" The lady flew towards the mermaid and slashed at her. "I end my turn."

"It's my turn! Draw! I special summon Toon Gemini Elf in attack position." Two cartoon humanoid elf twins appeared on the field. [ATK 1900. LV 4] "Next I summon Krebons in attack position." A jester like robot appeared next to the elves on the field. [ATK 1200. LV 2] "Then, I tune my Toon Gemini Elf with my Krebons. Behold, this is the power of authority! Synchro Summon! A surprise encounter, Goyo Guardian." A humanoid guardian appeared on the field twirling his weapon. [ATK 2800. LV 6] "Now when he is on the field and destroys one of your monsters, I can special summon the monster on my side of the field in defense mode. Now Goyo Guardian, attack his Vampire Lady!" The warrior twirled his weapon and threw it at the vampire then pulled the monster to his side of the field.

"Grrr." [Danny Eclipse: LP 4000 -> 2750] Charming Thunder sat next to Rarity and the others as they watched the duel and he was surprised to see the move made by Pinkie.

"Danny is in trouble there," Charming Thunder said. "With the Goyo Guardian on the field, she will take every single monster she destroys."

"I end my turn with a card face down."

"That was a cheap shot, Pinkie!" Danny said. "My turn! I draw! I tribute my face down monster to summon Vampire Lord in attack position." A male humanoid vampire appeared on the field after he twirled his cape. [ATK 2000. LV 5]

"I reveal my face down; Toon Briefcase. Your monster gets shuffled back to your deck." A briefcase appeared and chomped its way towards the vampire.

"I was hoping you would do that. I reveal my counter trap card; Tutan Mask. Since you are targeting a Zombie type monster on my field, your trap card is negated." The briefcase stopped and exploded in front of the vampire.

"Shoot! That was a good card too."

"Next, I activate Brain Control from my hand. By paying 800 life points, I take control one of your monsters 'til the end of the turn. Or should I say my monster. Come forth, Vampire Lady." [Danny Eclipse: LP 2750 -> 1950] The vampire came to Danny's side of the field next to the other vampire. "Then I activate another spell; Book of Life. I target one of my Zombie type monsters in my graveyard and special summon it then I banish one of my monsters. I choose to banish my Vampire Lady in order to bring back my Pyramid Turtle in defense mode." A turtle took the vampire's place as she vanished in an instant. [DEF 1400. LV 4] "I then set a card face down and end my turn."

"It's my turn! Draw! Goyo Guardian, attack his turtle!" The guardian twirled his weapon and released it towards the turtle and reeled it to her side of the field.

"Since you destroyed my Pyramid Turtle before you claim it for yourself, its effect activates. I special summon a Zombie monster with 2000 defense points or less to the field. And I choose Vampire Lord!" A soul flew out of the turtle's shell and revealed another lord of vampires next to its twin. [ATK 2000. LV 5]

"Two Vampire Lords?" Charming Thunder said to himself. "What is he up to?"

"Very well then," Pinkie said. "I set two cards face down and end my turn."

"My turn! Draw!" Danny grinned and looked at Pinkie. "I summon my tuner monster; Dark Resonator." A dark fiendish monster holding a resonator appeared on the field. "But that's not all. I tune my Vampire Lord with my Dark Resonator. I call upon the Great Dark Being to bring the End! Synchro Summon! Bring the Darkest End, Dark End Dragon!" A black demonic looking dragon appeared as it spreads its wings with a roar. Pinkie wasn't even scared of the dragon when it appeared. "I activate its ability. I destroy one monster on your side of the field and it then loses 500 attack and defense points after that. I choose your Goyo Guardian." The dragon fired a dark fire breath at the warrior and destroyed it in the process. [ATK 2100. DEF 1600]

"No fair!"

"Dark End Dragon, attack the Pyramid Turtle!" The dragon charged up dark fire in its mouth and breathed it at the turtle. "And now Vampire Lord, attack her directly!" The vampire flew beside Pinkie and bit the side of her neck.

"Ah!" [Pinkie Pie: LP 3000 -> 1000]

"I end my turn."

"That almost felt real. My turn! Draw! I activate my face down trap card; Call of the Haunted. I special summon a monster from my graveyard as long as this card is in play. Come on back, Goyo Guardian!" A tombstone erupted from the ground and the guardian popped out of the ground. [ATK 2800. LV 6] "Next, I summon Mist Valley Soldier in attack mode!" A winged warrior holding two blades appeared on the field next to the guardian. [ATK 1700. LV 4] "And now I have a special treat for you! I tribute the two monsters on my field to special summon something you should be familiar with. I call on Blue-Eyes Toon Dragon!" A white cartoon dragon popped out of the toon book and landed in front of Pinkie. [ATK 3000. LV 8]

"A card similar to mine?" Charming Thunder said. "Thank Celestia I wasn't facing her. It would be evenly matched with my Blue-Eyes."

"I set a card and end my turn."

"You are lucky to have that monster on your field," Danny said. "My turn! Draw! I activate Pot of Avarice from my hand. This allows me to choose five monsters in my graveyard and shuffle them in my deck. Then, I draw two cards." Danny's deck shuffled on his duel disk and he drew two cards from it. He then grinned. "And I just drew the card I need to beat that Blue-Eyes."

"Whatever do you mean?"

"It means I banish my Vampire Lord to special summon something for you. With the dark gentleman's passing the contract is fulfilled. Now the shadows reform as one in the unholy room. Awaken now! Advance summon the Un-dead King, Vampire Genesis!" A black orb appeared and six claws grabbed it. The claws squeezed the orb and ripped it open to reveal a giant vampire monster with its eyes glowing red. [ATK 3000. LV 8]

"Uh-oh," Charming Thunder said. "Pinkie is in trouble."

"But your monster's attack points are equal to my monster's," Pinkie said; worried. "There's no way your vampire can stay on the field."

"That is why I am activating my face down quick play spell; Shrink. This halves the attack of your Blue-Eyes on the field, but there won't be an end of the turn for that this duel is over."

"Uh-oh!" The cartoon white dragon shrunk down to size until it was tiny. [ATK 1500]

"Now, attack and end this duel with Crimson Storm!" The giant vampire charged up an attack and fired a dark attack at the tiny dragon.

"GAAAAAAH!" [Pinkie Pie: LP 1000 -> 0] The crowd cheered as the duel ended.

"The winner is; Danny Eclipse!" Cadence announced. The crowd cheered louder as Pinkie giggled.

"That was fun, Danny! Thanks for the duel! Let's do this again sometime!"

"I'll take that under consideration, Pinkie," Danny said with a smile on his face.

Author's Note

I know these duels are short, but it is the best I can do.

Third Round - Rainbow Dash vs Twilight Sparkle

Charming Thunder sat in his seat as Danny came to sit next to him. "That was a close match, Danny," Charming Thunder said. "My guess is that Twilight and Rainbow are next, right?"

"Yup," Danny replied. "I'm glad to hear that you were rooting for me."

"Indeed. I'm sure that Aunt Luna was too." Charming Thunder then turned his attention to the duel area and sees Twilight and Rainbow enter. "Oh, here comes the next round contenders." Danny looked to see them take the stage as the crowd cheered. "My bits are on Twilight."

"Mine are on my girlfriend." Twilight and Rainbow took each end of the duel ring as they had their duel disks on their arms.

"Let's have a fair match, Rainbow," Twilight said as she activated her duel disk.

"And have fun," Rainbow added as she also activated her duel disk.

"Duel!"

Twilight Sparkle: LP 4000. Rainbow Dash: LP 4000.

"I'll go first," Twilight said. "Draw! I summon Skilled Dark Magician." A black robed magician appeared in front of Twilight on the field. [ATK 1900. LV 4] "Now, every time a spell card is activated, this monster gains a spell counter. I now set a card and end my turn."

"My turn!" Rainbow said. "I draw! I summon Blackwing - Shura the Blue Flame!" A blue humanoid bird with black wings appeared on the field. [ATK 1800. LV 4] "Next I special summon Blackwing - Gale the Whirlwind in defense mode since I control a Blackwing monster on the field." A bird holding with a green head and yellow beak appeared on the field. [DEF 400. LV 3]

"A tuner monster already?"

"I guess you know what comes next. I tune my Blackwing - Shura the Blue Flame with my Blackwing - Gale the Whirlwind to Synchro summon. Darkened gales, become the wings which will soar to the heavens! Synchro Summon! Blackwing Armor Master!!!" A whirlwind of black feathers appeared and when it faded an armored red eyed humanoid bird appeared on the field. [ATK 2500. LV 7]

"A Synchro monster in one turn?" Charming Thunder said. "Impressive."

"And now I---"

"Not so fast, Rainbow," Twilight said. "I activate my face down card; Threatening Roar! You cannot attack during your battle phase."

"Dang it! I set a card face down to end my turn then."

"My turn! Draw! I activate a spell from my hand; Mystical Space Typhoon! I destroy that face down card. And not only that, my Skilled Dark Magician gains a spell counter. Next, I summon Defender, the Magical Knight in defense mode!" A blue armored knight with a big shield and small sword appeared on the field. [DEF 2000. LV 4] "When he is normal summoned on the field, this monster gains a spell counter. I then set a card face down and switch my Skilled Dark Magician into defense mode. I end my turn."

"Those Spellcasters won't save you from what's coming. My turn! Draw! I activate a spell from my hand; Black Whirlwind! When I summon a Blackwing monster, I can search my deck for a Blackwing monster with less attack points of the monster I summon.

"You do realize that my Skilled Dark Magician gains a spell counter thanks to that."

"Yeah, whatever. Now Armor Master, attack her Defender, the Magical Knight!"

"You fell for it! Since you were attacking a Spellcaster type monster, I remove a spell counter on him instead of him being destroyed." The blue knight puts up its shield to block the attack.

"I end my turn!"

"My turn! I draw! I tribute my Defender to summon one of my companions; Dark Magician Girl!" A spell circle appeared and a woman popped out of it as she twirled her wand. She then posed while making a peace sign with her hand. [ATK 2000. LV 5] "Next I activate an equip spell from my hand; Mage Power! This allows my monster to gain 500 attack and defense points for each spell and trap card on my side of the field." [ATK 3000. DEF 2700] "Of course this gives my Skilled Dark Magician another spell counter reaching its limit of three."

"I think I know what happens next," Charming Thunder said.

"I tribute my magician to special my other companion; Dark Magician!" A spell circle appeared and a staff flew out of it as a figure appeared out of the circle. The magician then catches his staff and poses. [ATK 2400. LV 7]

"Looks like Rainbow Dash is a goner in this match."

"Yup," Danny said. "Looks like you win the bet."

"I set a card and end my turn," Twilight said.

"My turn," Rainbow said. "Draw! I summon Blackwing - Bora the Spear!" A humanoid bird with a spear appeared on the field. [ATK 1700. LV 4] "My continuous spell activates so I search my deck for a Blackwing monster with less attack than Bora." Rainbow searched her deck and took out a card from it and added it to her hoof. "Blackwing Armor Master, attack Dark Magician!" The armored bird flew towards the magician and readied a punch strike.

"You fell for it again, Rainbow. I activate my face down trap card; Mirror Force. Since you declared an attack, all of your monsters are destroyed. Especially your Armor Master." An explosion emitted as it destroyed all of Rainbow's monsters in the blast.

"Darn it!!! That means I am wide open. I end my turn."

"My turn. Draw! Dark Magician Girl, attack her directly! Dark Burning Attack!" The magician girl twirled her wand and fired a magical blast at Rainbow.

"Gah!!!" [Rainbow: LP 4000 -> 1000]

"Now Dark Magician, finish this duel! Dark Magic Attack!" The magician aimed his staff and fired a dark magical strike towards his opponent.

"AHHHH!!!" [Rainbow: LP 1000 -> 0] The crowd cheered as the duel came to an end. Charming Thunder stood up from the crowd and cheered for the winner. Twilight walked up to Rainbow and shook her hoof.

"At least we had fun, right?"

"Yeah. I guess you are right. There is no need to complain about the loss of the match."

"The winner is Twilight Sparkle!" Cadence announced as the crown began to cheer louder.

"What a flawless victory," Danny said; his eyes widened. "I am impressed."

"That's a princess for ya," Charming Thunder said before he continued to cheer for Twilight.

The Date

With the quarter finals done, Charming Thunder and Danny walked in the hall of the castle and talked. Soon Danny arrived to his room and entered as Charming Thunder walked past him and went to the room Twilight is staying. He knocked on the door and it opened to reveal Spike who answered it. "So you must be Spike?" he said.

"Yeah that's me," Spike replied. "And the hero of the Crystal Empire."

"So I've heard. I can tell because of the statue outside that looks like you."

"So you saw, huh?"

"Anyways, is Twilight in the room?" Twilight then walked up to the door.

"Yes I'm here," Twilight said. "Mind if I be with him alone, Spike?" Spike nodded and left the room as Charming Thunder entered and closed the door. "What brings you here?"

"I was hoping if you were not busy."

"No. Not really."

"I was wondering if you would like to...oh I don't know." Charming Thunder began to blush a little.

"A date?"

"Yeah. It's been a while and I could show you more of the Crystal Empire."

"I would love to." Twilight was so excited she flew around the room. She then landed on the ground and walked up to Charming Thunder with a smile. "We should go out and celebrate my win in the first round of the tournament."

"How's Rainbow taking it?"

"She's fine. All that matters is that we had fun. Shall we be off?"

"Of course, Twilight." Charming Thunder opened the door for Twilight and let her leave the room first along with Charming Thunder.

Outside the castle, Charming Thunder and Twilight around the town as Charming Thunder pointed out things Twilight never knew about the kingdom. She then pointed towards the library and grabbed his hoof and dragged him along inside. They then later came back out with a stack of books being levitated by Twilight's magic. Charming Thunder then pointed to a card shop and entered the building with Twilight to buy some packs. They then walked out of the store and walked to the Crystal Heart. They then sat down on a bench and began to open their packs. Twilight opened hers first and got some spell cards and some random monsters she doesn't need. Charming Thunder then opened his and got some random monsters. When he went through the cards, he came across a very rare card titled; Slifer the Sky Dragon. His eyes widened and showed Twilight which got her excited. "NO WAY!!!" she shouted. "You got one of the ultra rare cards of the two."

"Other two?" Charming Thunder asked.

"The Egyptian God cards. You have one of them. The other two I do not know who has them. That card's ability is the best one of all."

"I never heard of these Egyptian God cards til now. Who are the other two?"

"Obelisk the Tormentor and the Winged Dragon of Ra."

"Those cards must be ancient then."

"Like I said before, I don't know who has the other ones." Charming Thunder then stood up from the bench and walked towards the Crystal Heart.

"Look Twilight, I didn't come out here with you just for a date. I wanted to...apologize."

"Apologize? For what?"

"For not saying goodbye on that day you left." Twilight got up and then walked up to Charming Thunder and placed a hoof on his shoulder.

"It's okay. You didn't have to come all the way to me to say goodbye on that day. You took the news from Princess Celestia." Charming Thunder looked at Twilight with a smile.

"I'm glad you forgive me."

"I bet there is more to this, is there?" Charming Thunder nodded.

Charming Thunder

I have brought you
To scene of sweet love’s throne
To this kingdom where all must pay homage to love
Love

You have come here
For one purpose and one alone
Ever since the moment I first saw you duel
I wished that I would learn from you, teach me
Of your tactics
Your tactics

Charming Thunder walked to the side as he looked at Twilight.

Day time falls, heightens each sensation
The light stirs and wakes imagination
Silently the senses
Abandon your defenses

Charming Thunder offered his hoof to Twilight and Twilight slowly grabbed it and they walked together.

Slowly, gently, this day unfurls its splendor
Grasp it, sense it, tremulous and tender
Turn your face away from the garish dark of night
Turn your thoughts away from cold, unfeeling light
And listen to my music of the night

Close your eyes and let me cure you of your darkest dreams
Purge your thoughts of the life we knew before
Spread your wings, let your feelings come to life
And you'll live as you've never lived before

Twilight smiled as Charming Thunder and her continued to walk.

Softly, deftly, let the light surround you
Feel it, hear it, closing in around you
Open up your mind let your fantasies unwind
In this darkness which you know you can fight
The bright light of my music of the night

Let your mind start a new journey to a whole new world
Leave all thoughts of the past you knew before
Let your soul take you where you should be
Only then can you find your true destiny

Twilight suddenly felt a little tired and placed her head on Charming Thunder’s shoulder as he smiled and laid his head on hers. They then entered the castle as he escorted Twilight to her room.

Floating, falling, sweet intoxication
Hold me, love me, savor each sensation
Let our dream begin, let the bright light inside your heart
To the power of the song I am singing now
The power of my music of the night

Twilight then yawned as she opened her door. “You are the sweetest pony I have ever met, Charming,” Twilight said. “Oh, how much I love you.”

“I love you too, Twilight,” Charming Thunder said. The two then pressed their lips together for a passionate kiss. They then released their kiss and pressed their foreheads together. Twilight then entered her room and slowly closed it as Charming Thunder walked to his room.

You alone can make our love take flight
Help me make my music of the night

Charming Thunder entered his room and stared out of his window to the sun beginning to set then went to bed to get some shut eye for tomorrow. For that he faces Danny Eclipse in the semi-finals.

Semi-Finals Round One - Charming Thunder vs Danny Eclipse

The next day, Charming Thunder sat in the waiting room waiting for his cue to enter the arena. He was nervous at first about dueling against Danny and is not afraid to lose to him again. With the new card he got added to his deck, he will not back down from the upcoming duel. A security pony entered the room and gestured him that it is time. He nodded and left the locker room and walked through the hallway to the arena. He stepped outside and walked up the stairs to his side the duel field. He then saw Danny approach his side of the field and looked at Charming Thunder. The trumpets began to sound as their duel disks on their arms activate. "I will make this quick and painless," Danny said.

"Danny, this time I will defeat you!" Charming Thunder said.

"Duel!"

Charming Thunder: LP 4000. Danny Eclipse: LP 4000

"I'll go first," Danny said. "Draw! I summon Red Moon Baby in defense mode!" A small baby vampire appeared on the field. [DEF 1000. LV 3] "I then activate a continuous spell; Call of the Mummy. I can special summon one Zombie type monster on the field if I have no monsters on the field. I then end my turn with setting a card face down."

"My turn! Draw! I summon Alexandrite Dragon!" A dragon with scales as shiny as jewels appeared on the field. [ATK 2000. LV 4] "Next I activate Mystical Space Typhoon from my hand and destroy that face down card." A typhoon appeared and destroys Danny's face down card on the field. "Now Alexandrite Dragon, attack Red Moon Baby!" The dragon flew towards the baby vampire and slashed at it with its claws. "I then set a card face down and end my turn."

"Very clever destroying my face down card. My turn! I draw! I activate Call of the Mummy and special summon Vampire Lord!" A humanoid figure with a demonic cape appeared on the field. [ATK 2000. LV 5] "Next, I summon Zombie Master." A human figure appeared on the field with a book in hand. [ATK 1800. LV 4] "Next I use his ability. I discard a monster card form my hand and special summon a level four or lower Zombie type monster to the field. And I choose my Red Moon Baby!" The master chanted a spell and fired magic from his hand and made the baby zombie appear. [DEF 1000] "I then activate Shrink from my hand on your dragon!" The dragon began to shrink down to size. [ATK 1000] "Vampire Lord, squish his dragon!" The vampire flew towards the now tiny dragon and slashed at it.

"Argh!" [Charming Thunder: LP 4000 -> 3000]

"Next, I activate his ability. I declare a type of card and you send that card to the graveyard. I choose monster." Charming Thunder discarded a card to his graveyard slot of his duel disk. "Zombie Master, attack him directly!"

"Not so fast. I activate my face down; Defense Draw! I take no damage and draw a card." Charming Thunder draws a card.

"Very well. I end my turn."

"My turn! Draw! I summon my helpful friend; Kaibaman!" A human with a white dragon head appeared.

"And how is that helpful? He only has lower attack points than my other monsters."

"Because I activate his special ability. I tribute him and special summon my fateful dragon. I call on Blue-Eyes White Dragon!" A ray of light appeared and a white dragon appeared on the field. [ATK 3000. LV 8] "Now Blue-Eyes, lay waste to Vampire Lord! White lightning!" The white dragon charged up a strike and fired a blast from its mouth towards the vampire causing the vampire to explode.

"Gah!" [Danny Eclipse: LP 4000 -> 3000] "Guess that means we are even now."

"I set a card and end my turn."

"My turn. Draw!" Danny grinned at the card he just drew and looked back at Charming Thunder. "I would suggest giving up while you have a chance! First, I activate a spell from my hand; Book of Life! I select a Zombie type from my graveyard and a monster in your graveyard and banish your monster as I summon my Zombie monster. And I choose to banish your Kaibaman and summon my Vampire Lord!" The lord of vampires appeared on the field as a monster from Charming Thunder's graveyard was banished.

'What is he up to?' Charming Thunder thought.

"Next, I tribute my three monsters."

"THREE MONSTERS!!! Then that means..."

"It means I summon The Winged Dragon of Ra - Sphere Mode!" A golden sphere above Danny. [ATK ????. LV 10] "Next I tribute it to special summon something just for you! Almighty protector of the sun and sky, I beg of thee, please heed my cry. Transform thyself from orb of light and bring me victory in this fight. I beseech thee, grace our humble game. But first I shall...call out thy name, The Winged Dragon of Ra!" The sphere began to transform into a golden dragon as the crowd began to cheer. [ATK ????. LV 10] Charming Thunder was shocked to see one of the Egyptian God cards including Twilight who was watching next to the princesses.

"Where did you get that card!?"

"My mother gave these cards to me during my time at the Griffon kingdom. Did I forget to mention since I used Sphere Mode's ability to get it on the field, it gains 4000 attack and defense points?"

"4000?"

"Yes. This duel will soon be over once I destroy you! Now Winged Dragon of Ra, show Charming Thunder your true power by destroying his Blue-Eyes! Blaze Cannon!"

"That won't stop me! I activate my face down; Defense Draw! You know what this card does already so I have no need to explain." The white dragon got destroyed as Charming Thunder drew a card.

"I end my turn."

"Such power from that Egyptian God. My turn! Draw!" Charming Thunder drew a card that might save him from the Egyptian God, but can't summon it yet. "I summon Maiden with Eyes of Blue!" A young maiden with blue eyes appeared on the field. [ATK 0. LV 1] "I then activate a spell; Monster Reborn. It allows me to special summon a monster from my graveyard. And I choose to summon Blue-Eyes White Dragon from my graveyard in defense mode!" A white dragon appeared on the field. [DEF 2500. LV 8] "I end my turn."

"Ha! That monster with zero attack will not save you. My turn! Draw! Winged Dragon of Ra, attack his maiden!"

"You fell for it! I activate her special ability. By changing her battle position, I negate the attack and special summon a Blue-Eyes White Dragon from my deck, graveyard, or hand."

"Why didn't I see this coming?"

"Come forth, Blue-Eyes!" The maiden used her magic to open a portal and a white dragon flew out and roared. [ATK 3000. LV 8]

"I end my turn."

"At least I am surviving your Egyptian God's wrath. It's my turn! Draw! I summon Lord of D in defense mode!" The lord wearing a dragon like head appeared on the field. [DEF 1100. LV 4] "Now when he is on the field, Dragon type monsters cannot be targeted by card effects. I then activate the spell from my hand; Flute of Summoning Dragon." A flute appeared in the spellcaster's hand and started to play it. "This will allow me to special summon two Dragon monsters to the field. I special summon from my hand Alexandrite Dragon and Luster Dragon." The two dragons appeared next to the player of the flute. "I end my turn with a card face down."

"My turn! I draw! I activate the effect of Winged Dragon of Ra. By paying 1000 life points, I can destroy one monster on your field. And I choose to destroy your maiden." The beast then fired a fiery blast at the maiden causing her to burn to crisp. [Danny Eclipse: LP 3000 -> 2000] "Now Winged Dragon of Ra, attack his Lord of D! Blaze Cannon!" The golden dragon charged a fire blast and fired at the lord of dragons.

"GAH!!!" [Charming Thunder: LP 3000 -> 200]

"I end my turn. Make your turn the last, Charming Thunder."

"I won't give up! My turn! Draw!" Charming Thunder smiled and looked at Danny. "No. It is you that will lose, Danny."

"Oh. And what makes you say that?"

"Is he going to do what I think he is going to do?" Twilight asked herself.

"I tribute my two Blue-Eyes and Alexandrite Dragon to summon something that will turn this duel around!"

"NO!" Danny shouted in shock. "You mean..."

"Oh legendary guardian of the sky, I beg of thee please answer my cry. All shall tremble before you and your ultimate power. Use your thunder and lightning with the power of unity to defeat my foe. Appear when I call your name, Slifer the Sky Dragon!" Thunder began to appear as a red dragon with two mouths flew around and looked at Danny then roared at him. "Thought I hide this from you and not tell you that I got this card yesterday."

"I-Impossible! Another Egyptian God here?"

"Now his ability states that Slifer will gain attack and defense points by a 1000 for each card in my hand. So since I have six cards in my hand, it gains 6000 attack and defense points."

"6000?" [ATK 6000. DEF 6000]

"This duel is over for you! Slifer, end this duel and destroy Winged Dragon of Ra! Thunderforce Attack!" The red dragon's top mouth opened and charged a thunder blast and fired it at the golden dragon.

"AHHHHHH!!!" [Danny Eclipse: LP 2000 -> 0] The crowd cheered very loudly as Charming Thunder walked up to Danny who was sitting on the ground. Charming Thunder then looked at him with a smile and offered him his hoof.

"Congratulations, Charming. You win." Danny smiled back and grabbed Charming Thunder's hoof and got helped up off of the ground.

"What an epic duel!" Cadence said. "Charming Thunder is our winner of this round!" Twilight got up and cheered very loudly as Charming Thunder turned to the crowd and raised his hoof as the crowd grew wild.

Semi-Finals Round Two - Shining Armor vs Twilight Sparkle

Twilight paced around worried as she waited for Charming Thunder to come. Charming Thunder then entered the room and she rushed on over to him with a tight hug. "I was worried about you during your duel," Twilight said; relieved. "I thought you would never lose."

"Thank Celestia I had Slifer in my deck," Charming Thunder said. "Otherwise, I would lose against Danny again."

"You dueled him before?"

"Before he had that Winged Dragon. The question is; are you ready to face your brother?"

"I am nervous at first, but I know I am ready for whatever comes at my way!" Twilight had the look of confidence and had bravery in her. "I will win this duel for sure."

"Then I wish you luck, Twilight."

"Thanks." Twilight walked past Charming Thunder as he walked the other direction to his seat where the audience watches.

Twilight walked up the steps to the duel field as she saw her brother standing at the other side waiting for his opponent. The crowd cheered as Twilight took her position. "I hope you are prepared, little sis," Shining Armor said as he activated his duel disk.

"I know I am, BBBFF," Twilight said as she activated her duel disk as well.

"Duel!"

Twilight Sparkle: LP 4000. Shining Armor: LP 4000

"I'll go first," Twilight said. "Draw! I summon Breaker, the Magical Knight!" A red knight appeared on the field. [ATK 1600. LV 4] "Now since I summoned it, it gains a spell counter and has 300 more attack points for each counter on it." [ATK 1900] "I then set a card and end my turn."

"My turn! Draw! I summon Trident Warrior in defense mode!" A bearded human with a trident appeared on the field. [DEF 1200. LV 4] "Next, I activate his special ability. You see, since he was normal summoned to the field, I can special summon a level three Warrior type monster. And I choose to special summon Marauding Captain in defense mode." A lone armored captain appeared on the field in a guarding pose. [DEF 400. LV 3] "I set two cards and end my turn. Your move."

"My turn! Draw! I remove a counter on my magical warrior to destroy a face down spell or trap card!" The warrior charged at the face down card and slashed at it. "With the counter gone, it loses its gained attack points." [ATK 1600] "I then tribute it to summon one of my companions; Dark Magician Girl!" A magician woman popped out of a spell circle and twirled her wand. She then winked and posed. [ATK 2000. LV 5] "Dark Magician Girl, attack his Marauding Captain! Dark Burning Attack!" The girl twirled her wand and aimed it at the captain to fire a blast of magic at it. "I end my turn."

"It's my turn! I draw! I activate a spell from my hand; Swords of Revealing Light!" Three glowing swords appeared over Shining Armor. "You cannot attack for three turns. I set a monster and end my turn."

"My turn! Draw! I summon Skilled Dark Magician!" A human in black robes holding a staff appeared on the field. [ATK 1900. LV 4] "I then activate a spell; Mystical Space Typhoon! I destroy your Swords of Revealing Light!" A typhoon appeared and destroyed the three glowing swords. "Since I activated a spell, my Skilled Dark Magician gains a spell counter. Next, I activate another spell; Monster Reborn! I bring back one monster from the graveyard. I choose to bring back Breaker, the Magical Knight." A red knight appeared on the field. "This also lets my Skilled Dark Magician to gain another Spell counter. Dark Magician Girl, attack his face down monster! Dark Burning Attack!"

"Not so fast, little sis. I activate my face down; Waboku! I take no damage and my monsters cannot be destroyed by battle." The magician's attack stopped as the trap activated.

"I end my turn."

"It's my turn! Draw! I summon Marauding Captain in defense mode!" An armored captain appeared on the field. [DEF 400. LV 3] "I activate his effect. I can special summon a level four or lower Warrior type monster to the field from my hand. Come on out, King's Knight!" An armored king with a sword and shield appeared on the field. [ATK 1600. LV 4] "I end my turn."

"My turn! I draw! I activate a spell; Swords of Revealing Light! Three glowing swords appeared over Twilight. "This also lets my Skilled Dark Magician gain his final spell counter. So, I tribute my magician to special summon Dark Magician! A spell circle appeared and a staff flew out as a magician popped out. The magician caught his staff and twirled it. [ATK 2500. LV 7] "Dark Magician, attack his Marauding Captain! Dark Magic Attack!" The magician aimed his staff and fired a dark attack at the captain. "I set a card and end my turn."

"It's my turn! Draw! Let's see if you can survive this card. I tribute three monsters to summon something for you."

"Three monsters!? Then that means..."

"Legendary gods of Egypt, please hear my call! In the name of every Pharaoh that came before, I now beseech thee! Awaken, mighty Obelisk, and rid the sacred palace of this darkness. I summon Obelisk the Tormentor!" A giant blue monster appeared on the field. [ATK 4000. LV 10]

"Where on earth did you get that card?"

"A certain griffon gave it me. She said that I was worthy to use it. Since your swords is in play, I end my turn." One of the glowing swords disappeared.

"I need to find a way to destroy him or I'm done for. My turn! Draw! I summon Defender, the Magical Knight in defense mode!" A blue knight appeared on the field. [DEF 2000. LV 4] "Since it was summoned, it gains a spell counter. I end my turn."

"It's my turn. I draw! I set a card and end my turn." The second sword disappeared in an instant.

"My turn! Draw! I activate an equip spell; Magic Formula! I equip it on my Dark Magician and it gains 700 attack points." [ATK 3200] "It may not be enough to stop your Obelisk, but it will have to do for now. I end my turn."

"My turn! Draw! I set a card and end my turn!" The final sword disappeared completely leaving Twilight's monsters wide open for an attack.

"My turn! Draw! I summon Magician's Valkyria!" A blue magician holding a staff appeared on the field. [ATK 1600. LV 4] "When I have it on the field, you can only target her for an attack instead of my other Spellcaster type monsters. I end my turn."

"That won't save you from the Egyptian God's wrath. My turn. Draw! Obelisk, attack her Valkyria! Fist of Fury!" The giant blue monster punched the blue magician causing it to explode.

"AHHH!" [Twilight Sparkle: LP 4000 -> 1600]

"I end my turn. Make it your last."

"I will not lose! My turn! D-Draw! Yes! First, I activate a spell card; The Eye of Timaeus! I target my Dark Magician Girl and use it to fusion summon Dark Magician Girl the Dragon Knight!" The magician's outfit changed to armor and a dragon appeared for her to mount on. [ATK 2600. LV 7] "I then activate its special ability! I send one card from my hand to the graveyard to target your Obelisk on the field and destroy it!"

"NO!" The giant blue monster got destroyed by the dragon's fire breath.

"Now Dark Magician, attack him directly! Dark Magic Attack!" The magician aimed its staff at Shining Armor and fired a blast at him.

"AHHH!" [Shining Armor: LP 4000 -> 800]

"Now end this duel Dragon Knight with an attack directly." The dragon breathed some fire towards Shining Armor.

"GAAAAAHHHH!" [Shining Armor: LP 800 -> 0] The crowd cheered to the victor as Twilight approached Shining Armor. "How is this possible!? I was worthy of using Obelisk the Tormentor. Maybe I just got too cocky."

"At least you had fun, right BBBFF?"

"Yeah. I guess you can say that." Twilight turned to the crowd and saw Charming Thunder cheering for her so she waved to the crowd.

The Bet

Charming Thunder strolled through the town of the Crystal Empire when he noticed Twilight and he decided to go to her. Twilight noticed him coming and smiled as he approached. "Guess it's you and me in the finals, huh?" Twilight said.

"Yup," Charming Thunder said. "Thank Celestia you survived the wrath of Obelisk the Tormentor."

"My brother said that he got that card from a griffon before the match ever started. I don't know who though." Charming Thunder turned to see Scootaloo and her two friends approaching. "Hey, Scootaloo. What's up?"

"We just wanted to wish you two luck in the finals tomorrow," Scootaloo said.

"Thanks," Charming Thunder said. "Who are your friends here?"

"I'm Sweetie Belle," Sweetie Belle said. "Rarity's sister."

"And I'm Applebloom," Applebloom said. "Applejack's sister."

"It is an honor to meet you, Charming."

"The honor is all mine," Charming Thunder said.

"Have you seen Rainbow Dash anywhere?" Scootaloo asked.

"I haven't," Twilight said. "She hasn't been herself ever since my duel with my brother."

"I'll find her for you guys," Charming Thunder said before he used his magic to teleport away from the group.

Later that night, Charming Thunder began his search in the bar. Quiet music was being played for the bar as he looked around for Rainbow. He then noticed that Rainbow Dash was hanging out at a bar with Applejack with a jealous look on her face. She took a sip of her drink and placed the empty cup on the counter. "Don't you think you had enough, Rainbow?" Applejack asked; worried. All Applejack ever had was one cup of apple cider that was on the menu of the bar.

"I just don't get why Charming, Danny, and Shining have the most rarest cards in all of Equestria," Rainbow said. "This makes me jealous of them."

"Doesn't give you a reason to come to the bar and have a few drinks. Look, I need to head back to go see Twilight. You just cool off about somepony like Charming." Applejack got up from her seat and walked out of the door. Rainbow walked to the door as Applejack took her leave.

“Applejack, he’s not like the princesses, you know,” Rainbow slammed the door and flew back to the counter. “When it comes down to it, he’s just an admirer to Twilight. I’m not afraid of him.” She tapped her hoof on the counter which made Charming Thunder enter the room with his teleportation magic. She then took a step back in fear. “No. It can’t be.”

“Not afraid of me, you say?” Charming Thunder asked.

“Stay back or I’ll take you down, I promise you!”

“Insolent mare! You think you owe more of a soul than I do?”

“She is the princess of friendship. You may have the right to speak to her, but I know she will win.”

“You think so? You really think so? Win? With all of her powerful...cards?”

Charming Thunder

Look at you, always loyal
Stinking drunk, so uncouth
Shall we two make a bet?
Devil take the hindmost

Rainbow Dash

Look at you, foul as sin
Handsome, but horrible
Call the stakes, deal me in
Devil take the hindmost

Charming Thunder/(Rainbow Dash)

Twilight will choose on that day
(Let her choose)
Will she win or lose
(Draw the line!)
If she loses, you lose as well
(I never lose)

Charming Thunder

You leave me be

Rainbow Dash

Fine!

Charming Thunder

Forever

Rainbow Dash

Fine!
And if she won’t?
If I win?

Charming Thunder

A copy of my Blue-Eyes

Charming Thunder offered his hoof to Rainbow Dash as she grinned about the offer. She then grabbed his hoof and shook it.

Rainbow Dash

Very well, let’s begin

Charming Thunder/Rainbow Dash

Devil take the hindmost

Charming Thunder/(Rainbow Dash)

(You think you have the odds)
Our old game
(You think you're in control)
It’s been changed
(You think you've fixed the dice)
Every throw
(Well, I will gladly roll)
Riskier

(I’ll bet against all odds)
All the rules
(I'll even double down)
Rearranged
Fate has redesigned most

(Fortune's on my side, I may have lost that match)
Cut the deck
(I lost against you)
Let us play

(I'll beat you even now)
You and I
(I’ll win that card)
Once again

In the end
(And when the game is done)
Either way

Charming Thunder/Rainbow Dash

Devil take the hindmost
Now Twilight will choose at last
Will she win or lose?

Rainbow Dash

Scootaloo will help me root for her

Charming Thunder

Are you sure?

Rainbow Dash

What?

Charming Thunder

Are you so sure?

Rainbow Dash

What are you talking about?

Charming Thunder

Such a child, strange to see
Talented, brave
Does she admire you or me?
Which one do you find most?

Rainbow Dash

You lie!

Charming Thunder/(Rainbow Dash)

And yet you doubt
(She would never)
Doubt your friends
(Or ever could)
Doubt Scootaloo
(Admire someone like you)
Everything
(You’re crazy)

So now we play
(So now I play)
For your life
(For my life)

Charming Thunder/Rainbow Dash

Devil take the hindmost

Charming Thunder/(Rainbow Dash)

Deal the cards!
(I call your bluff)
Let them fall
(The game is on)

Choose your hand
(And we will see)
Try your best
(Who wins out)

He or she who wins
(Once and for all)

Charming Thunder/Rainbow Dash

Wins it all
Devil take the hindmost

Charming Thunder’s horn glowed and used his magic to pin Rainbow Dash to the counter as he stepped closer to her face. “She wins, you will have a copy of my Blue-Eyes White Dragon,” Charming Thunder said. “She loses, you leave my business alone.”

Charming Thunder

Devil take the hindmost

Charming Thunder then released Rainbow and began to take his leave. Rainbow sat on the floor and placed a hoof on her forehead. “Dear Celestia,” Rainbow whispered. “What have I done? What would Danny think? The final round is tomorrow morning!” She then got up from the ground and rushed out of the bar with worry in her eyes.

Before the Finals

The next morning before the tournament finals begins, Charming Thunder came out of the card shop with a new card in a box he levitated. He then noticed Twilight talking to a brilliant gamboge coat stallion pegasus wearing royal guard armor with a blue mane and tail and decided to walk up to them. He then stopped as he heard something from the two. “I think that Charming Thunder’s new card is too powerful for him, Flash,” Twilight said. “Ever since he got it, he has beaten Danny against his Egyptian God card.”

“I don’t see the problem,” Flash said. “It is fair that he got the card from that pack.”

“It sounds like somepony is jealous of the new card I got two days ago,” Charming Thunder said stepping into the conversation.

“Oh, Charming!” Twilight said; surprised. “I didn’t notice that you were here. How much did you hear?”

“Long enough. If you are jealous of me wielding an Egyptian God card, you could’ve just told me! First Rainbow and now you. Who’s next? The princesses?”

“Charming…”

“No. Say no more, Twilight. You know what, I am going to use my Blue-Eyes cards in my deck and pulverize you in the finals with them!” Charming Thunder then used his magic to teleport away from Twilight and Flash.

“Charming, wait!”

Charming Thunder teleports to the room in the castle he is staying in and sat down on the ground with his back to the door. Tears began to fall a little as he wept. He then wiped his tears and got up then looked up at the ceiling.

Charming Thunder

I know her love is not enough
I know it isn’t what I need now
I know I am made of finer stuff
I think on that I will agree

It's time to leave her in the dust
It's time to be who I should be
It's time to do now as I must
And set the duelist in me free

Charming Thunder sighed and looked at his box containing his card.

In moments, mere moments
Drums will roll
There we'll stand, just like before
The crowd will hush
And then in one sweet rush
I will finally become king of games

Charming Thunder then opened the box and looked at his card.

And then, she will
Realize what she has done
Like two strands of melody
At last entwined
Fulfill her, complete her
Make her whole
Seal our bond forevermore
Today, for her, embrace my destiny
And become the king of games

A knock was then heard at the door and Cadence’s voice was then heard from the other side. “It’s time, brother,” she said. Charming Thunder then puts his new card in his deck box and grabbed his duel disk as he prepared for the finals of the tournament.

Rainbow Dash sat in her seat next to Danny a little worried. Danny looked at her and wrapped wing around her comforting her. She smiled a little and then looked at the duel field that is still empty. Other ponies were grabbing their seats as Rainbow wanted to confess something to Danny. “Danny?” she asked.

“Yes?” Danny said.

“I...I made a bet with Charming Thunder about the finals.”

“You did what?” Danny was shocked to hear what Rainbow heard.

“I know, but he offered one of his Blue-Eyes White Dragon as a reward if Twilight wins.”

“But what if she loses?”

“I leave his business alone with Twilight.” Now Rainbow got a little nervous about Twilight.

Rainbow Dash

Will she win?
Will she lose?
What is she thinking now?
Is it him?
Is it the duel?
Devil take the hindmost

Meanwhile, Charming Thunder was in the waiting room waiting for his time to enter.

Rainbow Dash/(Charming Thunder)

Will she stay?
(Obey your heart)
Will she go?
(And duel me)
Does she know?
(You know you want to)
Even now?
(Stay and duel me)
Please, Twilight
(Face me)
End the duel

Rainbow Dash/Charming Thunder

Devil take the hindmost
Now it's time
So make your choice
Do it for our lives

Charming Thunder

Use your head

Rainbow Dash

No time to lose

Rainbow Dash/Charming Thunder

Hesitate
We're all undone

Danny also became worried about the bet as well as Rainbow.

Danny Eclipse/(Rainbow Dash)/[Charming Thunder]

Perhaps they won't go on
(Will she stay?)
[Obey your heart]
Perhaps it’ll be a draw
(Will she go?)
[And duel me]
Perhaps their decks won’t serve them
(Does she know)
[And duel me]
And he will fail her
(Even now?)
[You, me, against all odds]
And then Rainbow Dash
(Please, Twilight)
[Face me]
Will get what she deserves
(End the duel)

Danny Eclipse/Rainbow Dash/Charming Thunder

Devil take the hindmost

Charming Thunder looked at his new card; Dragon Knight Draco-Equiste, then puts it in his deck box. Twilight was at the other side in the other waiting room as she paced around worried about what she has done to Charming Thunder and how he is feeling.

Danny Eclipse/(Rainbow Dash)/[Charming Thunder]

Danny Eclipse/Rainbow Dash/Charming Thunder

Devil take the hindmost
Now it's time
No turning back
All is on the line
Here it is
The final dance
One last chance
To get what's mine

Cadence stepped up with a megaphone levitated and she announced, “It is time for the final round of the tournament. Who will become the King or Queen of Games? Once the competitors come out, the round begins!” Twilight was at the doorway to the field with a nervous look on her face as she felt sorry for what she said about Charming Thunder.

Twilight Sparkle

Devil take the hindmost

Final Round - Twilight Sparkle vs Charming Thunder

Charming Thunder and Twilight took their places as they placed their decks in their duel disk slot. Charming Thunder had an angry look on his face as Twilight had a look of worry. "Charming, please listen to me," Twilight said as she tried to say sorry.

"Save it, Twilight," Charming Thunder said. "It's time to duel!"

"Duel!"

Charming Thunder: LP 4000. Twilight Sparkle: LP 4000

"I'll make the first move," Charming Thunder said. "Draw! I set a monster and end my turn."

"My turn! Draw! I summon Breaker, the Magical Warrior!" A red knight appeared battle ready. [ATK 1600. LV 4] "Since it was normal summoned to the field, it gains a spell counter and gains 300 attack points." [ATK 1900] "Now, attack his face down!" The red knight charged and slashed attack he card and revealed it to be a fiery dragon. [DEF 2000] "Ah! What?" [LP 4000 -> 3900]

"You attacked my Flamvell Guard! It has higher defense points than your Breaker."

"I set a card and end my turn."

"It's my turn! Draw! I summon Lord of D!" A dragon lord appeared on the field. [ATK 1200. LV 4] "Next, I activate a spell card; The Flute of Summoning Dragons!" A flute appeared in the dragon lord's hand and started to play it. "I can special summon two Dragon type monsters to the field from my hand. I special summon Alexandrite Dragon and Luster Dragon!" The two dragons appeared next to the dragon lord. "Then, I tune my Flamvell Guard with my Alexandrite Dragon and Luster Dragon to Synchro summon! Avatar of the ancients! Let their rage power this new form! With your first breath and last hope, take flight and roar to the heavens! Synchro Summon! Azure Eyes Silver Dragon!" A silver with azure colored eyes roared at its opponent and appeared on the field. [DEF 3000. LV 9] "Now since it was special summoned, neither of us can target Dragon type monsters I control with card effects and cannot be destroyed by card effects until the end of the next turn. I set a card face down and end my turn."

"Charming, you need to listen to me. I was not jealous of you. I just fear that you couldn't handle the Egyptian God's power."

"That still doesn't change anything. Make your move."

"I won't give up on you, Charming. My turn! Draw! I activate Mystical Space Typhoon from my hand to destroy that face down!" A typhoon appeared and destroyed Charming Thunder's face down card. "Next, I tribute Breaker to summon my faithful companion; Dark Magician Girl!" A magician woman popped out of a spell circle and twirled her wand. She then winked and posed. [ATK 2000. LV 5] "Then, I activate an equip spell to my Dark Magician Girl; Magic Formula!" A magical book appeared in the magician's hand and held it in its arms. "This allows my Dark Magician Girl to gain 700 attack points." [ATK 2700.] "Dark Magician Girl, attack his Lord of D! Dark Burning Attack!" The girl twirled her wand and aimed it at the dragon lord to fire a strike.

"Gah!" [Charming Thunder: LP 4000 -> 2500] "That was a cheap shot!"

"I set a card and end my turn."

"Grrr. My turn! Draw! During my standby phase, I activate Azure-Eyes' ability and target a normal monster in my graveyard and I special summon it. Come on out Luster Dragon!" A blue dragon appeared on the field. [ATK 1900. LV 4] "Then, I summon Tune Warrior to the field!" A warrior with antennas on its head appeared on the field. [ATK 1600. LV 3]

"Please tell me that you are going to Synchro summon!"

"Not this time, Twilight. Because I activate Polymerization!"

"You don't mean---"

"Brace yourself as I fuse my Azure-Eyes and my Tune Warrior. The dragon and the knight will merge to a powerful being! Fusion Summon! Appear on my side, Dragon Knight Draco-Equiste!" A dragon knight holding a giant lance appeared on the field. [ATK 3200. LV 10]

"I activate my face down; Threatening Roar! You cannot conduct your battle phase during your turn."

"Very well. I set a card and end my turn."

"It's my turn! I draw! I activate Sage's Stone! I can special summon a Dark Magician from my hand or deck since I control a Dark Magician Girl." A stone appeared and it glowed as it broke apart. A male magician then appeared on the field. [ATK 2500. LV 7] "Next, I activate another Magic Formula and equip it to my Dark Magician." A book appeared in the magician's arms. [ATK 3200] "Dark Magician, attack his Luster Dragon! Dark Magic Attack!"

"I activate my face down; Defense Draw! I draw a card instead of taking damage." The male magician twirled its staff and fired a dark magic strike at the blue dragon destroying it in the process. Charming Thunder draws a card after the monster was destroyed.

"I end my turn with a face down card."

"My turn! I draw!" Charming Thunder grinned. "I activate another Polymerization from my hand!"

"Another one?"

"Here it comes..." Danny said as he knew what was coming.

"I fuse my three Blue-Eyes White Dragon from my hand to Fusion summon something special for you," Charming Thunder said. "The light of the world powers your soul! Let the wrath of the king of dragons rain upon my enemies! Come! King of dragons, Blue Eyes Ultimate Dragon!" A bright light came down and a white three headed dragon appeared on the field with a roar. [ATK 4500. LV 12] The crowd cheered as the dragon floated on the field.

"Charming, before you win this duel, I just want you to know something."

"Make it quick. 'Cause this will be your last."

"I...I love you." Charming Thunder's eyes widened.

"What?"

"I always loved you. Ever since I left Canterlot, I couldn't stop thinking about you. When I became a princess, I was hoping to make you proud of all the achievements I have accomplished to earn the title and my wings." Charming Thunder closed his eyes and looked down at the ground. "It scares me that you would not see me again. So please. Don't win for Equestria. Win for me. Your childhood friend."

"That...was the greatest speech I have ever heard, Twilight. Maybe you weren't jealous of me after all." Charming Thunder looked up at Twilight and smiled at her with a nod with agreement. "You know. I wasn't going to attack you just yet."

"What do you mean?"

"I tribute my Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon to special summon something that might win this duel once and for all. My shining dragon, decimator of all, which can only be summoned through my ultimate monster! Appear before me! Blue-Eyes Shining Dragon!" The ultimate dragon began to crack then explode with pure light. A dragon then flew around and spreads its wings as the lines on it glowed blue. The light then faded to reveal a shiny metal white dragon as it roared. [ATK 3000. LV 10]

"A card I have never seen before in my life!" Rainbow said; shocked.

"I told you I was going to win with a Blue-Eyes and I will. With Dragon type monsters in my graveyard, it gains 300 attack points for each one. And it gives my dragon a massive boost of 1800 attack points!" [ATK 4800]

"That's a total of 4800 attack points!!!" Pinkie said; shocked.

"Before I attack I activate Lightning Vortex! It allows me to destroy all monsters you control on the field!" Lightning appeared and destroyed the two magicians.

"I forgot to mention something about my equip cards," Twilight said. "I gain 1000 life points if it is removed from the field. So since two are sent to the graveyard, I gain 2000 life points. [Twilight Sparkle: 3900 -> 5900]

"This duel is still over though. Dragon Knight Draco-Equiste, attack her directly! Jousting Javelin Blast!" The dragon knight twirled his javelin and threw it at Twilight.

"GAH!!!" [Twilight Sparkle: 5900 -> 2700]

"Now finish her off my shining dragon! Shining Neutron Blast!" The dragon fired a blue beam at Twilight.

"GAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!" [Twilight Sparkle: LP 2700 -> 0] The crow began to cheer loudly as Charming Thunder walked up to Twilight to help her up from the ground. Confetti began to fall as the crowd chanted his name.

"The winner and the first ever King of Games is Charming Thunder!" Cadence announced.

"That was actually fun, Twilight," Charming Thunder said.

"Yeah. It was. I'm glad that we are still friends in the end." Charming Thunder then hugged Twilight as the crowd continued to cheer.

Outside of the castle of the Crystal Empire, a crowd stood in front of the stage where the four princesses stood. Their was also a stand on the stage where a trophy stood waiting for the winner of the tournament. Cadence then took a step closer to the mic and announced, "Presenting the King of Games; Charming Thunder!" Charming Thunder then made his way to the stage as the crowd clapped their hooves for him. Once he stood on the stage, he looked at the trophy and then at Twilight who smiled and nodded. He then used his magic to levitate the trophy and raised it in the air. The crowd then cheered as confetti began to come out of Pinkie's party cannon as Charming Thunder held the trophy in his hoof and smiled.

Author's Note

Stick around as more of the series will come soon.

Twilight's New School - Charming Thunder vs Chancellor Neighsay

A few days have passed since the tournament held at the Crystal Empire. Charming Thunder moved in with Twilight and her friends at Ponyville. Twilight along with her friends have opened a school to teach ponies and other species of Equestria about friendship. Charming Thunder returned from the card shop to get some new cards and decided to check on Twilight's new school. When he got there, he noticed that the entrance to the school has been magically sealed by someone. He tried to use his magic to destroy it, but had no luck breaking it. "Let me try," Twilight said as she and her friends along with six different students came to the scene. She was about to use her magic, but Celestia arrived to the scene with six leaders of other species.

"Twilight!" Celestia said. "I was so relieved to get your letter!"

"As was Queen Novo," the hippogriff said. "Oh, we're just glad you're alright, Silverstream!"

"Don't expect a welcome party from me, sonny!" the old griffon said. "It's time you got home!" The griffon then grabbed the other griffon's ear with his beak.

The light blue griffon shooed the beak off of his ear and said, "I'm not leaving."

"What?"

"None of us are," the changeling said. "Sorry, Thorax."

"Yak not understand," the big yak said. "This pony joke?"

"No," the dragon said. "We're going back to school."

The dragon leader walked up to the little dragon and said, "How? You can't even get inside!"

"Leave that to Twilight," Charming Thunder said.

"Woah," the changeling said. "Is that the King of Games?"

"It is," the dragon said. "It is an honor to meet you."

"I can give autographs later," Charming Thunder said. "Twilight?" Twilight nodded and used her powerful magic to break the seal.

"School is back in session!" Twilight announced before the students started to cheer. A portal then opened at the front of the school and a unicorn with a goatee and wearing a uniform stepped out of the portal.

"Who dared remove my seal?" the stallion asked.

"I did, Chancellor Neighsay! And I respectfully ask you to step aside, or classes will start late."

"Better do what she says, chancellor," Charming Thunder said.

"Classes won't start at all!" Neighsay said. "The EEA has spoken, and none shall pass!" He then stomped his hoof.

"Yak pass if yak say!" the little yak said. The stallion next to her held her to stop her from doing anything.

"This is for the greater good. The school was disorganized, the teachers unqualified! And those dangerous and unpredictable 'students' put ponies' lives in danger!"

"I'll show you unpredictable!" the dragon leader said. The six species then started to march up the chancellor, but was stopped by Celestia.

"Hold on, please!" Celestia said.

"Perhaps we could settle this in a duel, Chancellor," Charming Thunder said as he stood in front of Twilight and the others. "If I win, you leave peacefully and never return to this school. If I lose, you will close it down." He turned his head at Twilight and winked at her then looked back at Neighsay.

"Very well, King of Games," Neighsay agreed. "But be warned, I won't be taken down that easily."

"We shall see about that." Charming Thunder then took out his duel disk from his saddle bag and puts it on his arm as Neighsay used his magic to make his duel disk appear on his arm. Charming Thunder then teleports a few meters away from Neighsay as everyone got out of the duel field and watched. "Now you will know why I am called the King of Games!"

"Duel!"

Charming Thunder: LP 4000. Chancellor Neighsay: LP 4000

"I'll go first," Neighsay said. "Draw! I activate a field spell, Magical Citadel of Endymion!" The field changed to a magical citadel. "Each time a spell card is activated, I place a spell counter on it. Not to mention if any of my monster's with spell counters on them are destroyed, I place those counters on it as well. Next, I summon Summoner Monk!" A monk wearing a robe and hat appeared on the field. [ATK 800. LV 4] "I then activate its ability. Since it was normal summoned, I change its battle position to defense mode." [DEF 1600] "I then activate a continuous spell card; Field Barrier!" A barrier appeared around the field. "My field spell cannot be destroyed any way you try to destroy it. Let's not forget that I gain a spell counter for my field spell. I set a card and end my turn."

"Very impressive, Chancellor," Charming Thunder said. "It's my turn! Draw! I summon Lord of D!" The dragon lord appeared on the field. "Next, I activate a spell; The Flute of Summoning Dragons!" A flute appeared in the dragon lord's hand and started to play it. "I special summon two Dragon type monsters to the field. I special summon Mirage Dragon and Alexandrite Dragon!" The two dragons appeared on the field next to the dragon lord. [ATK 1600. LV 4] [ATK 2000. LV 4] "When my Mirage Dragon is on the field during the battle phase, you cannot activate trap cards. And a spell counter is gained on your field spell. Now Alexandrite Dragon, attack his monk!" The dragon attacked with a tail swipe on the monk. "Mirage Dragon and Lord of D, attack him directly!" The dragon lord fired magic as the dragon disappeared and appeared behind Neighsay and swiped him with its scythe like tail.

"Ahhh!" [Chancellor Neighsay: LP 4000 -> 1200]

"Go, Charming!!!" Twilight cheered.

"I set a card and end my turn. Your move, Chancellor."

"That was a cheap move, Charming Thunder!" Neighsay said. "My turn! Draw! I activate my face down; Pitch-Black Power Stone! I place three spell counters on this trap card and I can remove one spell counter during each of my turns to place it on a face up card card. I then activate Fissure! Say goodbye to your Lord of D since it has the lowest attack points." The dragon lord then got destroyed after the activation. "I then summon Defender, the Magical Knight in defense mode!" A blue knight with a big shield appeared on the field. "When it is summoned, I place a spell counter on it. I then activate Swords of Revealing Light!" Three glowing swords appeared over Neighsay. "You cannot attack for three turns and my field spell gains a spell counter. I end my turn."

"It's my turn! I draw!" Charming Thunder smiled as Twilight knew what was going to happen next. "I activate a spell card; Polymerization! This may let your field spell gain a spell counter, but this allows me to fusion summon a monster. I send my three Blue-Eyes from my hand to fusion summon my powerful ally. The light of the world powers your soul! Let the wrath of the king of dragons rain upon my enemies! Come! King of dragons, Blue Eyes Ultimate Dragon!" A bright light came down and a white three headed dragon appeared on the field with a roar. [ATK 4500. LV 12] "Next, I activate Mystical Space Typhoon to destroy your Swords of Revealing Light."

"What?" A typhoon appeared and destroyed the three glowing swords.

"But there's more. I activate Lightning Vortex! By discarding a card from my hand, your monster on your side of the field are destroyed." Lightning appeared and destroyed the blue knight.

"No!"

"Oh yes! Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon, lay waste to your enemy and finish this duel! Neutron Blast!" The three headed dragon charged an attack and fired a powerful strike towards Neighsay.

"GAAAAAAHHH!!!!" [Chancellor Neighsay: LP 1200 -> 0] Twilight and the others cheered as the six leaders were flabbergasted with the duel.

"That was a quick duel," Thorax said.

"He didn't even lose a single life point," the blue dragon said.

"That's a King of Games for ya," Twilight said. She then turned her gaze towards Neighsay. "It's true that my School of Friendship is EEA-unaccredited."

"Then it is not a school!" Neighsay said.

"It's not an EEA school. It's a friendship school with its own rules. I should know. I wrote the book! These students reminded me that every friendship is special, so the way we teach it has to be just as unique. My school is going to do things differently."

"Allowing all of these creatures to attend your school, changing the rules for them. It simply won't work!"

"I seem to recall something about Earth ponies, unicorns, and Pegasi doing something similar, don't you?" Celestia asked.

"I promise you, Chancellor. My school will help protect Equestria."

"Or destroy it!" Neighsay said; angrily before he jumped into his portal. The students cheered as Charming Thunder stood next to Twilight.

"How is this school going to be any different from last time?" the old griffon asked.

"Last time?" Charming Thunder asked Twilight.

"It's a long story. As long they follow follow the rules, it will be fine."

"Alright," the blue dragon said. "Smolder can stay." Smolder cheered as he flew around.

"Uh, if dragon stay, yak stay," the big yak said.

"I know you will make the changelings proud, Ocellus," Thorax said.

"You belong here," the hippogriff said. "Now, can you show me those stair things you mentioned?" The young hippogriff got excited.

"What?" the old griffon asked as he stared at the other griffon. "You belong at home! You think I care if you've made friends?"

"Please, Grandpa Gruff?" the griffon asked as he made a whimpered face.

"Alright, alright! Stop doing that!" The students went inside as Starlight stepped up to Twilight.

"Guess I make a pretty good guidance counselor, huh?" Starlight asked.

"Yes!" Twilight said. "Writing the rule book was the most fun ever! I can't wait to start working on the new lesson plans!" Applejack cleared her throat which caught Twilight's attention. "With some help from my friends." Twilight then turned to see Charming Thunder giving autographs to the students of the newly opened school of friendship and started to giggle.

The Umbrum Return

A red crystal was protected by a large fence to be sure nothing comes in and out in the Frozen North. Guards were standing outside of the fence as some other guards stood guard at the crystal. The crystal suddenly began to glow and the guards turned to investigate. One of them were about to step up, but stopped when an Umbrum popped out of the crystal and sent the guard flying. Many more popped out and attacked the other guards. One of the guards survived and flew away from the chaos. One more Umbrum popped out and looked at the remaining cowering guards and then to the other Umbrum. One of the Umbrum approached and reported, "One escaped, Rabia. Shall we pursue?"

"No," Rabia said. "Let the princesses know that we have finally returned. The Umbrum only nodded. "Besides, things have changed since our second banishment. Perhaps the Crystal Empire can wait. Besides, I sense a new presence in Equestria."

Cadence was reading an important letter until the doors opened and Flash Sentry ran in. "What seems to be the problem?" Cadence asked.

"There's been an attack at the portal to the Umbrum land," Flash reported. "They have returned." Cadence gasped.

"Inform the other princesses and try to find Sombra and Radiant. They must know about this as well." Flash saluted and ran out of the throne room while Cadence levitated a quill and a piece of paper and began to write a letter. "My brother Charming Thunder, you must come to the Crystal Empire right away..."

Charming Thunder was looking over his deck after buying some cards from the shop in Ponyville. Spike entered the room out of breath carrying a letter. "Charming, letter from your sister," he said. "Sounded urgent." Charming Thunder levitated the letter out of Spike's hands and unrolled it to read it. His eyes widened after reading it and dropped the letter.

"They're back," Charming Thunder said; quietly. "The Umbrum have returned." He then turned to look at Spike. "Does Twilight know about this?"

"Yes. She got a letter as well saying the same thing before yours came."

"Then we must go to the Crystal Empire at once." Charming Thunder got up and walked past Spike and left the room followed by Spike. The two then arrived in the room where Twilight and her friends were looking at the map. He then looked at the map with them and gazed at the Crystal Empire. "I'm surprised that the Crystal Empire hasn't been attacked yet. What's changed?"

"I am not sure," Twilight said. "They mainly attack the Crystal Empire as their main goal. What if they are after Sombra?"

"Sombra? He's back too?"

"In a good way actually," Applejack explained. "He was saved by his friend; Radiant Hope." Charming Thunder looked away from the group.

"What's wrong, Charming?" Twilight asked.

"It's nothing," Charming Thunder replied. "We should head to the Crystal Empire."

"Agreed." The group then left the castle to the train station to travel to the Crystal Empire.

Arriving at the Crystal empire castle, Charming Thunder entered the throne room with his friends when he sees a stallion talking to the three princesses. It was Sombra along with Radiant Hope. Charming Thunder had an angry look on his face as he approached Sombra. The group noticed him as Sombra attempted to greet him, but was stopped by a slap in the face by Charming Thunder. "You have some nerve coming back, Sombra," Charming Thunder said; angrily. "Is the Umbrum's return your doing?"

"Charming, please allow Sombra to explain," Cadence said. Sombra brushed off the pain on his face and cleared his throat as Twilight and the others approached.

"I believe that some of the Umbrum along with Rabia devised a way to enter the physical world instead of the Crystal Empire," Sombra explained. "I am not sure how, but it probably is the same way when they...made me a pony."

"So you are one of them once?" Charming Thunder asked.

"A childhood friend of mine ever since we were young," Radiant said. "He was once teased by other foals before we met. I saved his life with my healing magic. There is...also a matter we need to discuss without your friends." Charming Thunder turned to look at his friends.

"Would you mind, girls?"

"Of course," Twilight said as she and the others took their leave.

"Give us a holler if you need anything," Rainbow said. Once the doors were shut, Celestia then placed a hoof on Charming Thunder's shoulder.

"What's going on here?" Charming Thunder asked.

"There is something I should've told you a long time ago," Celestia said. "About your father."

"My father? You told me that he died a long time ago."

"That was a lie," Luna said. "We have told Cadence about this before she raised you as her brother. Sombra...is your father." Charming Thunder was shocked that his father was standing right in front of him.

"You mean he---"

"Yes, Charming," Sombra confessed. "I am your father. And Radiant here is your mother."

"Wha--?"

"I know it sounds crazy, but please hear us out," Radiant said. "A long time ago, your father and I were married before he found out that he was an Umbrum. I was pregnant with you after Sombra became a dark pony you remembered."

"Then why did you send me away to the princesses?"

"I feared that you would be an Umbrum like your father. They would go after you if you have their blood." Charming Thunder looked away at the thought. Radiant approached him and placed a hoof on his chin and turned his gaze to her. "I know it's hard to believe, but it's the truth. Have you been feeling like you are about to crumble to pieces?"

"No." Radiant sighed with relief.

"That's good to hear."

"It's been a thousand years, my son," Sombra said as he came up to Charming Thunder. Charming Thunder then started to cry and hugged Radiant. Sombra joined in on the hug as the princesses took their leave to give them some privacy on Charming thunder's reunion.

A gathering was held at the throne room of the castle of the Crystal Empire. Charming Thunder stood next to Sombra as he explained everything. He told Twilight and the others about the reason why the Umbrum really returned. "So let me get this straight," Applejack said. "You are Sombra and Radiant's son and the Umbrum would probably come after you?"

"That's correct," Charming Thunder said. "If they come here again for me, who knows what will they do to me."

"We won't let them take you," Rainbow said with confidence. "Not without a fight." The ground began to shake as the ghostly figure of Rabia appeared before the group.

"Not without a fight?" Rabia asked. "What a bout this so called a game of Duel Monsters?" Charming Thunder stepped up to his enemy as Rabia gazed at him. "So...this is my so called grandson. I expected him to be like his father."

"The father I once knew in the past is gone," Charming Thunder said. "He is now redeemed thanks to my mother."

"Now that is not how you speak to your grandmother."

"What do you want, mother?" Sombra demanded.

"Revenge. On your puny friends and hopefully turn your son into one of us in the end." Rabia chuckled as Radiant stood in front of Charming Thunder.

"He would never join you," Radiant said.

"Oh. And how do you plan to stop us?"

"Us?" Charming Thunder asked. Six more Umbrum figures appeared next to Rabia.

"Seven of us versus seven of you. Seven of you should face us in a Shadow Duel."

"Shadow Duel?"

"I've heard of this," Twilight said. "It causes the players to suffer real damage from the effects of any card played during the duel."

"Well learned, Twilight Sparkle," Rabia said. "Perhaps six of the Element of Harmony bearers should face us in a Shadow Duel."

"If you can find us," one of the Umbrum said. The seven then vanished into thin air while the group gasped.

"What did they mean by if we can find them?" Fluttershy asked. Suddenly, Twilight and her friend's cutie marks began to glow as they turned to look at them.

"Guess we are about to find out," Twilight said.

At Twilight's castle, Charming Thunder and the others looked at the map in the center of the room which had his friend's cutie marks on separate locations. Charming Thunder turned his attention to Twilight and asked, "Has this ever happened before?"

"Only for friendship problems and one time when we had to search for the Pony of Shadows," Twilight said. She then pointed to each location familiar to her on the map. "Canterlot, Cloudsdale, Castle of the Two Sisters, the Changeling Lands, Basalt Beach, and Las Pegasus. Those are the locations marked on the map."

"We can't just go to one location at a time," Applejack said. "It would take forever to face them all at once."

"We need to split up then," Charming Thunder said. "I'll go back to the Crystal Empire to make sure anything happens."

"Then I'll go to Canterlot," Twilight said.

"I'll go to Cloudsdale," Rainbow said.

"I'll go to the Castle of the Two Sisters," Rarity said.

"I will go to Basalt Beach," Applejack said.

"I shall go to Las Pegasus," Fluttershy said.

"Ooooh!" Pinkie said. "Guess that means I am going the Changeling Lands!" The group looked at each other and nodded.

"Alright," Charming Thunder said. "Let's go save Equestria!"

An Old Rivalry - Rainbow Dash vs Lightning Dust (Umbrum)

Arriving at night time in Cloudsdale, Rainbow flew around the town looking for anything suspicious in the town. She then noticed some fillies hiding in a house and decided to approach them. "What's going on, little ones?" she asked. The fillies only closed the curtains in fear as Rainbow's eyes widened. She then continued her investigation until she came across smoke from the weather factory in the sky. She flew towards the factory to investigate. When she got there, she saw a familiar turquoise pegasus with a strange yellow aura surrounding her. She turned to see Rainbow and grinned.

"So you came after all, Rainbow Dash," the pegasus said.

"What is this, Umbrum? Another one of your tricks? Nobody tricks Rainbow Dash and gets away with it."

"As usual, puny pegasus. You are gratefully mistaken. You recognize this pony after all, don't you?"

"I remember Lightning Dust as my rival. She tried to make Scootaloo to do some dangerous stunt."

"And that you let her get caught by the rocket scooter and making her your lifelong rival."

"Lightning would never join the Umbrum like how she worked with Radiant one time."

"Come then. Let us settle this once and for all!" A wall of purple flames appeared and surrounded them making a shape of a monkey as Lightning activated her duel disk while Rainbow did the same.

"Let's Duel!!"

Rainbow Dash: LP 4000. Lightning Dust: LP 4000

"I'll go first," Rainbow said. "Draw! I activate a continuous spell; Black Whirlwind! Whenever I normal summon a Blackwing monster, I can add another one to my hand with less attack. I then summon Blackwing - Shura the Blue Flame!" A blue feathered bird appeared on the field. [ATK 1800. LV 4] "My spell then goes off as I add a monster with less attack to my hand. I then special summon Blackwing - Gale the Whirlwind." A purple and green bird appeared. [ATK 1300. LV 3] "I then tune my Blackwings to Synchro summon. Darkened gales, become the wings which will soar to the heavens! Synchro Summon! Blackwing Armor Master!" A black armored humanoid bird appeared. [ATK 2500. LV 7] "I set two cards and end my turn."

"A Synchro summon on the first turn, eh?" Lightning said. "Clever. My turn! Draw! I summon Berserk Gorilla." A rampaging gorilla appeared. [ATK 2000. LV 4] "I activate Terraforming. It allows me to search the deck for a field spell and add it to my hand. I then activate the field spell; Mausoleum of the Emperor." The field then began to change into a mausoleum. "Next, I activate Burden of the Mighty! Every single one of your monster's attack points are lost by its level times hundred." [ATK 1800]

"Aww man."

"Now, my gorilla. Attack her Blackwing!" The gorilla leaps in the air and slams at the armored bird.

"You forget that my monster cannot be destroyed by battle and I take no battle damage involving this card."

"Darn! I'll set a card and end my turn then. Consider yourself lucky."

"My turn! I draw! I activate Mystical Space Typhoon to destroy your face up continuous spell." A typhoon destroys Lightning's spell card. "Blackwing Armor Master, attack her gorilla! Black Hurricane!" The armored humanoid flies towards the gorilla and punches it to destroy it.

"Grr!" [Lightning Dust: 4000 -> 3500] "Lucky shot."

"I'll end my turn."

"My turn! Draw!" Lightning grinned as she gazed at Rainbow. "I activate my field spell's effect. By paying 2000 life points, I can normal summon a monster that requires two monsters for a tribute summon." [Lightning Dust: 3500 -> 1500]

"Say what now?"

"Get ready to meet my ace card!" A giant heart appears in the sky as some pure darkness and souls from the air were absorbed into it. Rainbow was shocked to see what was coming. "I sacrifice the souls of these spirits! Advent, Earthbound Immortal Cusillu!" A burst of purple flame erupted and a giant monkey with yellow pattern lines rose from the purple flames on the field. [ATK 2800. LV 10]

"I've never seen a monster this giant!" Lightning laughed maniacally.

"Like it?"

"No. Whose souls did you take?"

"The souls of the innocent of this town of Cloudsdale." Rainbow gasped as Lightning continued her explanation. "You see, every Earthbound Immortal requires a sacrifice or two."

"I am going to make you pay for taking those souls!"

"Try and stop me! Cause you will now feel the power of this monster! Cusillu, attack her directly!" The giant monkey raises its clenched hand and slams down at Rainbow.

"GAHHH!!!" [Rainbow: 4000 -> 1200] Rainbow Dash was down on the ground and she then slowly got up after she felt that aggressive attack.

"I will end my turn with just that. Make your move. Cause it will be your last." Rainbow felt pain on her arm as she got up to look at it. She then lets go of her arm to reveal a glowing mark on it. "What the hey?!" Rainbow was surprised as well and then looked at Lightning.

"You will return those souls back to Cloudsdale! My turn! Draw! I activate Mystical Space Typhoon to destroy your field spell!"

"What?!" A typhoon appeared to destroy the field spell and the Earthbound Immortal got destroyed in the process.

"I then summon Blackwing - Jin the Rain Shadow!" A lone ninja bird appeared. [ATK 600. LV 1] "Then, I tune my two Blackwings to Synchro summon a monster just for you. The black whirlwind turns into wings to fly to the sky! Synchro Summon! Soar to power, Black-Winged Dragon!" A whirlwind of black feathers appeared and then disappeared to reveal a black feathered dragon. [ATK 2800. LV 8]

"This can't be!"

"Now, Black-Winged Dragon! Attack her and end this duel! Shadow Squall Blast!" The feathered dragon's wings glowed red as it charges its fire breath and then fires a blast at Lightning.

"NOOOOOO!!!!!" [Lightning Dust: 1500 -> 0] The Umbrum in the form of Lightning Dust vanished into thin air as the duel ended. Rainbow sat down and took a breather before she heard a crowd cheering at the town of Cloudsdale. She sighed and smiled as she got up and limped back to town to check on the pegasi of Cloudsdale to see if they are alright.

"It's up to the others now." Rainbow then looked at her arm with the mark. "What was that about?"

Author's Note

This may have been a quick duel I wrote in case you guess were wondering. I will try to make the other duels longer like last time. Promise. :twilightsheepish:

First Round - Charming Thunder vs Scootaloo

Charming Thunder was fast asleep as the sun rose and shone in his eyes, causing him to wake up. He yawned and got up from his bed to stretch his hind legs. He then looked in a mirror and noticed that his mane is a mess. He used his hoof to fix his hair. His eyes then widened and said, "What time is it?" He then rushed to the window and looked outside to see ponies going to the stadium where the Equestria Games was held. "Oh damn. I am late!" He then levitated his saddlebag with his duel disk and deck box and rushed out of his room.

Arriving at the waiting room in the stadium, Charming Thunder sat on a bench with his duel disk on his arm waiting for his time to step up to the field and duel Scootaloo. A security pony then entered and then gestured him to follow him. Charming Thunder got up and followed the security pony through the hallway to the field. He arrived at the entrance to the field and as he stepped out, the crowd was cheering for him as he made his way to the duel field and took his place where he needed to stand. He then looked around to look at the crowd. He then saw Twilight sitting with the other princesses waving at him. He waved back as the cheering grew louder and louder. He then turned his gaze to see Scootaloo coming to take her place on the duel field with her duel disk on her arm. Trumpets then began to sound as Cadence stood up from her throne and announced, "And now, the first round of the tournament begins."

"I may not know you, stranger, but I know we will have a fun duel," Scootaloo said as she activated her duel disk.

Charming Thunder only smiled and replied, "Let's have a good duel!" He then activated his duel disk.

"Duel!"

Scootaloo: LP 4000. Charming Thunder: LP 4000

"I'll go first," Scootaloo said. "Draw! I summon Elemental Hero Woodsman in defense mode!" A humanoid wooden hero appeared with his arms on his chest defending himself. [DEF 2000. LV 4] "I then activate a field spell; Skyscraper!" The environment changed into a metropolitan city. "With this on the field if I control an Elemental Hero monster and it attacks with its attack points lower than the opposing monster, that Elemental Hero gains 1000 attack points. And with that I end my turn."

"Impressive," Charming Thunder said. "A field spell in the first turn. My turn! Draw! I summon Mirage Dragon!" A yellow dragon appears on the field. [ATK 1600. LV 4] "When I have this dragon on the field, your trap cards cannot be activated during anyone's battle phase."

"Aww man. Too bad that I don't have any trap cards. Not to mention that your monster's attack points are lower than my defending monster."

"That is why I am setting a card face down and ending my turn."

"My turn! Draw! Aww yeah! First things first, my monster's effect activates! When he is on the field during the standby phase, I can add a Polymerization card to my hand. Then I activate Polymerization to fuse my Elemental Hero Avian and Elemental Hero Burstinatrix from my hand to summon Elemental Hero Flame Wingman!" A humanoid hero with wings on his back and a dragon's head on his right arm. [ATK 2100. LV 6] "It's time to battle! Elemental Hero Flame Wingman attack his Mirage Dragon!" The hero's dragon arm fired a fire blast at the dragon destroying it.

"Not so fast! I activate my face down; Defense Draw. I take no damage and draw a card."

"That won't save you. My monster's effect activates. You inflict damage by the same attack points as the destroyed monster." [Charming Thunder: LP 4000 -> 3400] "I set a card and end my turn."

"My turn then! Draw! I summon Lord of D." A man with a dragon like attire appeared on the field. "Next, I activate a spell; The Flute of Summoning Dragon! With this I can special summon two Dragon type monsters from my hand. I special summon Alexandrite Dragon and Mirage Dragon!" The two dragons appeared after the flute was played by the spellcaster. [ATK 2000. LV 4] [ATK 1600. LV 4] "Before I attack, I activate Mystical Space Typhoon to destroy your field spell." A typhoon wiped out the field spell and caused the environment to change back to normal. "And then I activate an equip spell; Dragon Treasure allowing my Dragon type monster to gain 300 attack and defense points to my Alexandrite Dragon." A jewel appeared on the dragon. [ATK 2300. DEF 400] "Now, my dragon. Attack the Elemental Hero Flame Wingman!" The dragon flew towards the hero and did a tail strike at him.

"Gah!" [Scootaloo: LP 4000 -> 3800]

"I then set one card face down and end my turn."

"It's my turn! I draw! Woodsman's effect activates and I add another Polymerization to my hand. Then I activate Polymerization from my hand and fuse Elemental Hero Ocean from my hand and Elemental Hero Woodsman from the field to summon Elemental Hero Terra Firma!" A white humanoid hero appeared on the field on its knees then stood up. "Then I activate a spell from my hand; Monster Reborn, to bring back Elemental Hero Ocean from the graveyard." A aquamarine hero with a trident appeared next to the giant hero. "Elemental Hero Ocean, attack his Lord of D." The hero spun his trident and threw it at the spellcaster.

"Not so fast! I activate my face down trap card; Sakuretsu Armor. Your monster is now destroyed." Sharp armor appeared on the spellcaster and automatically destroyed the blue hero.

"Terra Firma, attack his Lord of D. Earth Impact!" The white hero flew high in the air and flew down fast towards the dragon lord. He impacts on him and destroyed the monster.

"Gah!" [Charming Thunder: LP 3400 -> 2100]

"Go Scootaloo!!!" Applebloom said in the crowd holding a sign with a picture of Scootaloo.

"I end my turn."

"You got a lot of skill with that deck," Charming Thunder said. "No wonder why you wanted to show Rainbow Dash your deck. My turn! Draw! And I think your Terra Firma is about to go soon enough. I summon Tune Warrior!" A warrior with antennas on its head appeared on the field. [ATK 1600. LV 3]

"A tuner monster? Then that means you--"

"Yes. I tune my Alexandrite Dragon to synchro summon. The ruler's shouts echo throughout! Hammer of victory, shatter the very earth! Synchro Summon! Flap your wings, Exploder Dragonwing!" An explosion emitted and a dragon appeared when the smoke cleared. [ATK 2400. LV 7] "Now when he attacks a monster, it is automatically destroyed and when it is, you take damage equal to the monster's attack points."

"But it's not enough to destroy Terra Firma."

"That is why I activate another Dragon Treasure and equip it to that dragon." [ATK 2700. DEF 1900] "Now obliterate Terra Firma with King's Storm Attack!" The dragon breathed fire at the hero and obliterated the monster completely. "Of course my dragon's effect activates as well."

"GAH!!!" [Scootaloo: LP 3800 -> 1300] "I can't take another hit like that!"

"I end my turn." Twilight was impressed with the move made by Charming Thunder and got curious.

"What are you up to, Charming?" Twilight thought.

"I won't give up!!! M-my turn! Draw! This is my last chance at this. I set a monster face down and end my turn."

"It's my turn. I draw! Your luck just ran out. I tribute my Alexandrite Dragon and my Exploder Dragonwing to summon something special for you. My pride and my soul, my Blue-Eyes White Dragon!!!" A flash of light appeared and a white dragon flew down from the sky. [ATK 3000. LV 8] The crowd was amazed to see a legendary card being played on the field. "I then activate a spell card from my hand; Burst Stream of Destruction! This allows me to destroy all of your monsters on your side of the field, but will not attack this turn." The Blue-Eyes charged a strike and fired at Scootaloo's side of the field.

"NO! Then that means you--"

"I will now end this duel with a bang. Mirage Dragon, attack my opponent directly!!!" The dragon used its scythe tail to strike at Scootaloo.

"AAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!" [Scootaloo: LP 1300 -> 0] The crowd cheered for the victor as Charming Thunder approached Scootaloo. "You were right."

"About what?"

"This duel. It was fun."

"The winner is Charming Thunder!!!" Cadence announced.

"That was awesome!!!" Scootaloo said. "That was one of the legendary cards I have ever seen in the history of Duel Monsters." Charming Thunder only smiled as he turned to the crowd and waved at them.

The Mark of the Dragon - Charming Thunder vs Princess Cadence

Charming Thunder arrived at the Crystal Empire castle and checked in with Princess Cadence about the situation with splitting up to every location in Equestria. She then realized that it was excellent thinking and then said, "I think that it is time." Charming Thunder had a look of confusion.

"Time for what, sis?"

"For your Crystal Trial. Since you are part Crystal Pony, you must be put to the test to see if you are capable of protecting the kingdom." Cadence got up from sitting on her throne and walked past Charming Thunder.

"My mother talked you into this did she?"

"Yes, she did. Now please follow me." Charming Thunder then followed Cadence outside and towards the location of the Crystal Heart. She then magically made a duel disk appear on her arm and placed her deck into the slot. Charming thunder was shocked to see what is going on. He then did the same thing and readied himself for anything. "Shall we begin?"

"Duel!"

Charming Thunder: LP 4000. Princess Cadence: LP 4000

"I will go first," Cadence said. "Draw! I discard a card from my hand to special summon Quickdraw Synchron in defense mode." A lone shady metal cowboy with a gun in his hand appeared. [DEF 1400. LV 5] "Now since I have him on the field, he is treated as any kind of Synchron tuner monster. I then activate the effect of Quillbolt Hedgehog in my graveyard. Since I control a tuner monster, I can special summon it from the graveyard. Come on out, little guy!" A little orange hedgehog appeared next to the cowboy. "I then tune my Quickdraw Synchron and my Quilbolt Hedgehog to Synchro Summon! The spirits merge to form the arrow that pierces the sky! Synchro Summon! Ready your bow, Junk Archer!" An orange warrior with a bow appeared. [ATK 2300. LV 7]

"A Synchro Summon in one turn?" Charming Thunder asked.

"I then end my turn. Make your first move, bro."

"You haven't changed one bit, sis. My turn! Draw! I summon Maiden with Eyes of Blue." A young maiden with blue eyes appeared. [ATK 0. LV 1] "I then set a card and end my turn."

"My turn! Draw! I activate the effect of Junk Archer. I select one monster on your side of the field and banish it until the End Phase of my turn."

"I also activate the effect of my Maiden with Eyes of Blue. Since she is targeted by an effect, I can special summon a Blue-Eyes White Dragon to the field from my deck." A portal opened and a white dragon flew out of it with a roar. [ATK 3000. LV 8] The warrior still fires an arrow and makes the young maiden disappear in an instant.

"Aww drat. I end my turn with two face downs." The maiden reappears next to the dragon

"My turn! Draw! Blue-Eyes, lay waste to your enemy! Attack Junk Archer with White Lightning!"

"Not so fast! I activate my face down; Scrap-Iron Scarecrow! It negates your attack and goes back down." A scarecrow appeared and the dragon's attack hits it instead of the warrior.

"Clever girl. I then tune my Maiden with Eyes of Blue and my Blue-Eyes White Dragon to Synchro summon. Avatar of the ancients! Let their rage power this new form! With your first breath and last hope, take flight and roar to the heavens! Synchro Summon! Azure Eyes Silver Dragon!" A silver with azure colored eyes roared at its opponent and appeared on the field. [DEF 3000. LV 9] "Now since it was special summoned, neither of us can target Dragon type monsters I control with card effects and cannot be destroyed by card effects until the end of the next turn. I then end my turn with a face down."

"My turn! Draw!" Cadence then looked at the card she drew and then at Charming Thunder. "I was never honest with you, brother." A mark began to glow on her arm as Charming Thunder barely covered his eyes.

"What is this?"

"I summon Unknown Synchron!" An orb with a red eye appeared. [ATK 0. LV 1] "I then tune it and my Junk Archer to Synchro summon something special for you. The hopes of the world coalesce into a single star! Synchro Summon! Take flight, Stardust Dragon!" A lone white dragon flew out of a portal and roared as tiny stars sparkled. [ATK 2500. LV 8] "I end my turn."

"Just like that, huh? My turn! Draw! I activate my face down; Dragon's Rage. If you have monsters with defense points less than my dragon type monsters, you take battle damage as well as long as this is face up. I then set a card and end my turn."

"Impressive, but not enough. My turn! Draw! I activate my face down card; Shooting Star! Since I control a Stardust monster, I can target one card on the field and destroy it. Say goodbye to your Azure-Eyes."

"What?" The dragon spreads its wings and flapped a gust of stars towards the azure dragon and destroys it.

"Now, Stardust Dragon! Attack! Cosmic Flare!" The dragon fires some cosmic breath at Charming Thunder.

"I activate my face down; Defense Draw. I take no battle damage and draw a card instead." Charming Thunder draws a card from his deck.

"Very well. I end my turn."

"My turn! Draw! I summon Alexandrite Dragon." A dragon made of jewels roars and appears on the field. [ATK 2000. LV 4] "I then activate Lightning Vortex. By discarding a card in my hand, I destroy all monsters on your side of the field."

"I was hoping you would pull that trick. I activate the effect of Stardust Dragon. By tributing it, I can negate the card that destroys cards on the field." The dragon vanished as Charming Thunder's card was negated.

"Nice, but not enough for what is coming."

"What?"

"I activate Monster Reborn to bring back a monster from the graveyard. And I choose the card I discarded; Tune Warrior." A red warrior with antennas on its head appeared. [ATK 1600. LV 3] "I then tune my warrior and dragon for something special. The ruler's shouts echo throughout! Hammer of victory, shatter the very earth! Synchro Summon! Flap your wings, Exploder Dragonwing!" The ground began to crack and then explode when a dragon flew out with a roar. [ATK 2400. LV 7] "Now, my dragon. While there is an opening, attack!" The dragon charged its breath and blew fire out of its mouth.

"You forget about my face down; Scrap-Iron Scarecrow!" A scarecrow appeared and the fire blast hits the scarecrow.

"Damn. I forgot about that! I will activate an equip spell then; Dragon's Treasure. I equip it on my dragon and it gains 300 attack and defense points." [ATK 2700. DEF 1900] "I will end my turn."

"Since you ended your turn, I activate the effect of Stardust Dragon from my graveyard. I special summon it back to the field since I used its effect earlier." The dragon magically appears in front of Cadence. "My turn now! Draw! I set a card to end my turn."

"Just like that? My turn! Draw! I summon Kaibaman." A human male with a dragon helmet appeared. "I then use his ability to tribute him and special summon a Blue-Eyes from my hand." A white dragon flew down from the sky and roared at Cadence's dragon. "I then activate a spell from my hand; Mystical Space Typhoon. And I choose your Scrap-Iron Scarecrow that is face down."

"You forget about the effect of my Stardust. I tribute it and negate that card." The dragon vanishes and negates Charming Thunder's card.

"Which leaves you defenseless for one attack! Blue-Eyes! White Lightning!" The white dragon charges up an attack and fires.

"My face down Scrap-Iron Scarecrow activates!" The dragon's attack hits the scarecrow in front of Cadence instead.

"Now, Exploder Dragonwing! Attack directly!" The volcano like dragon charges up its fire breath and fires at Cadence.

"Gah!" [Cadence: LP 4000 -> 1300]

"I then activate Monster Reincarnation. By discarding a card, I can select a monster in my graveyard and add it to my hand. And I choose my Kaibaman. I end my turn."

"Very clever getting me to tribute my Stardust, but it still comes back." The dragon appears in front of Cadence. "My turn! Draw! I end my turn with a facedown." The top of Charming Thunder's deck began to glow as he felt pain on his arm. A mark then appears on his arm. Cadence was shocked to see what was happening.

"It's my turn! Draw!" Charming Thunder smiled as he thought of a way to end this duel. "I summon Red Nova!" A tiny fairy with pinkish red wings appeared. [ATK 0. LV 1]

"A tuner monster?!"

"Oh yes! I tune my Exploder and Nova! The pulse of the ruler roars through the heavens and earth! Synchro Summon! My friend's very soul! Red Dragon Archfiend!" A black dragon flew out of the ground and roared at Cadence's dragon. [ATK 3000. LV 8] "Blue-Eyes, attack. White Lightning!"

"I activate Scrap-Iron Scarecrow and negate that attack." A scarecrow stopped the white dragon's attack one last time as Cadence knew that this duel was about to end.

"It's not enough! Red Dragon Archfiend, attack Stardust Dragon! Scorching Crimson Flare!" The black dragon's hand charged up for an attack and scratched the white dragon in its face. "I then activate Call of the Haunted to bring back my Exploder Dragonwing." A tombstone appeared and a dragon emerged from it. [ATK 2400. LV 7] "Now, end this duel, Exploder!" The dragon fired its breath at Cadence.

"AHHH!!!!" [Cadence: LP 1300 -> 0] Charming Thunder walked up to his sister and helped her up off the ground. "Perhaps an explanation is needed after all." Charming Thunder's arm was grabbed by Cadence and she began to explain everything to him. "This mark we bare is the Mark of the Dragon."

"Mark of the Dragon?"

"Yes. You were tested to prove yourself to bare it. There are six marks. The other four who bare it are unknown to us. They could be anywhere around Equestria."

"It could be anyone in Equestria. Even my friends?"

"Your friends have a destiny of their own; to face the six Umbrums around Equestria and find Rabia. When that time comes, you must face their leader."

"Me? But why hold this information from me?"

"I had to be sure if you were ready." Charming Thunder looked down towards the ground then looked at the Crystal Heart.

"So I have been destined to save the world after all." Charming Thunder took a step closer to look at his reflection on the Crystal Heart. He then nodded and turned to face his sister. "Count me in."