Chapter 351

"Mr. Yugi, as a strong Duelist who has defeated Seto Kaiba in the Battle City, what do you think of his public duel challenge this time? Do you think his actions are overly arrogant?"

"Ms. Chiyuki Hoshino, Duel King, a video of your duel against Seto Kaiba recently went viral on YouTube, showing that the match ended in a draw. Is this challenge an opportunity to prove your strength as the King of Duelists and claim a victory?"

"Regarding the final battle of Battle City that never happened, there are rumors that you, Ms. Hoshino, avoided facing Yugi Muto head-on because you were afraid. Is that true?"

"Ms. Hoshino, your skin seems to have tanned quite a bit. Did you take the prize money from the Duelist Kingdom and spend a month indulging in a lavish lifestyle?"

These reporters were, in a way, truly professionals. Setting aside the fact that they were nearly shoving microphones into their faces, the questions they posed were sharp, aggressive, and incredibly tricky to answer.

"Uh... well... how should I put it..."

Both Hoshino and Yugi were caught off guard, completely unaccustomed to this kind of situation.

At times like this, it was up to the experienced Seto Kaiba's younger brother, Mokuba, to step in.

"Enough! This may be the grand opening of Kaiba Land, but these two are special guests of Kaiba Corporation. If you keep blocking them from even entering the venue, how are we supposed to proceed with the event?! Where is the security staff?! Do you all want to lose your jobs?!"

With Mokuba's sudden outburst, the staff—who had been watching the scene unfold—didn't dare remain idle any longer. They quickly moved to disperse the reporters, finally clearing a path to the entrance.

"Wow... I never expected my first experience of being chased by reporters to be like this~" Hoshino exhaled deeply, finally feeling relieved as the crowd dispersed.

Yugi nodded in admiration. "Their presence is truly overwhelming, almost as intense as the strongest duelists."

Wait a second... Did someone just mention the prize money from Duelist Kingdom and a 'lavish lifestyle'? Looking back on her original goals upon arriving in this world, Hoshino couldn't help but sigh at the stark contrast between dreams and reality.

Kaiba Land

Matching its grand and luxurious exterior, the inside of Kaiba Land did not disappoint. State-of-the-art amusement rides and high-tech entertainment facilities were everywhere.

According to Mokuba, all the attractions here were completely free for children.

This amusement park was built by Seto Kaiba as a way to atone for his stepfather Gozaburo's past crimes of selling weapons, making it practically a charitable endeavor.

However, adults with children—or students like Hoshino—still had to pay to play. After all, even if Kaiba wanted to do charity work, his employees still needed to make a living.

Most importantly, the largest section of entertainment here was dedicated to Duel Monsters. Not only were duel arenas set up, but even the latest Duel Disks were available for rent. The spacious, high-tech dueling area practically begged people to step in and start a match.

And now, standing alone in this grand arena, arms crossed and eyes closed, was the man who had been waiting for them: Seto Kaiba.

"Hmph. You finally showed up."

Despite having his eyes shut, he somehow noticed Yugi and Hoshino's arrival. Either Kaiba possessed Observation Haki, or he had secretly been peeking. The latter seemed more likely.

Yugi got straight to the point.

"Kaiba, ever since I arrived, I've been sensing a strange energy. What is your real reason for hosting this duel?"

"Save your supernatural nonsense! I won't be swayed by your words!"

Kaiba finally opened his eyes, dramatically flinging back his coat as he activated his Duel Disk with overwhelming presence.

"There is only one purpose for this duel—to reclaim what is rightfully mine! My pride as the strongest duelist, and the title of Duel King!"

"So that's how it is, Kaiba. I can see how much this victory means to you. If this duel is inevitable, then...!"

Standing in the center of the arena, facing Kaiba head-on, Yugi activated his Duel Disk in response.

"Then let's communicate through the language of duelists' souls—and let me bring you back to your senses!"

As per their prior agreement, Yugi was up first to duel Kaiba, while Hoshino tactfully stepped aside, joining her companions in the spectator area.

The vast interior of Kaiba Land contrasted sharply with the chaotic crowds outside. Since the park hadn't officially opened yet, only Hoshino's group and a few staff members were present, making the scene eerily quiet.

Meanwhile, the anxious reporters could only watch from outside, glued to the giant screens broadcasting the battle within.

"Hahaha! You think you can 'bring me back to my senses'? Don't make me laugh! I've never been as clear-headed as I am now, Yugi! Today, we will put an end to our fated duel once and for all!"

Honestly, Hoshino had wanted to say this for a long time—every time Kaiba lost to Yugi and challenged him again, he always said that. As if winning one duel would somehow wrap everything up nicely.

Even if you win this round, Kaiba, Yugi has already beaten you so many times. Acting like you can declare the duel over after a single victory? That's some little kid energy right there.

"Let's end this fated duel, Kaiba!"

Wait... Yugi, even you are saying this now?! Do you guys just like throwing around dramatic one-liners or what?!

[Seto Kaiba VS Yugi Muto]

"Duel!"

This time, Kaiba didn't rush to take the first turn. Instead, he asked, "Yugi, I need to confirm—your deck contains the three Egyptian God Cards, correct? If I don't defeat both you and them, I won't be satisfied with this victory."

"Of course, Kaiba! I told you, I'm going to bring you back to your senses. No matter what, I will fight with all my strength!"

Kaiba was well aware that after the Battle City semifinals, Hoshino had given the Egyptian God Cards to Yugi. But what he never understood was—why had she chosen to entrust them to Yugi? That question had lingered in his mind ever since, leaving a mark he couldn't shake.

"Good. Then I'll use this duel to prove—the one truly worthy of wielding the Egyptian Gods is me! Keep your eyes wide open, Hoshino!"

Hoshino frowned, deep in thought. "Mokuba was right... something about Kaiba really does feel off..."

(*****)

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