Tower Under Construction: Days Later, Night…

Kari walked into the building to see the Sentai Ranger waiting for her.

"So, the time has finally come for you to reveal your identity." Kari simply stated.

Indeed." Lance nodded. "I applaud those who have kept my identity hidden, but there is something important comics have taught me. It's easier for one's identity to get out the more people who know it."

"Then take off the helmet already." Kari stated.

"Just a minute Ms. Tsukumo." The Ranger pulled out his deck. "You should ensure I have the Sentai Ranger's deck because I fear you may not entirely believe who I am under this helmet without solid proof."

Kari raised an eyebrow but walked forward taking the deck. She looked through it finding every card ever used by the Sentai Ranger since his debut.

She handed the deck back to him. "That's your deck alright. Right down to the extra deck. Now, will you please remove your helmet?" Lance put his deck away before reaching for his helmet and removing it shocking Kari. "What!?"

Outside the Tower, Some Time Later…

"I still can't believe you're the Sentai Ranger, but it makes sense. You come from a line of Pro-Duelist, you've trained for years to duel yourself, and your father is the captain of the police. That explains how you're always in the right place and the Sentai's dueling skills."

Lance nodded. "I was in the perfect position to take on the role of the Sentai Ranger."

"Not to mention carrying on what your grandfather once did when this was Domino City. Just in a different way. There are still two questions I need to ask." Kari stated. "What do you plan to do now that you've revealed your identity? Why was now the right time?"

Lance knew he'd run the risk of challenging another Number user, and as much as he loved his Quantum Layer deck, his Heroic deck was by far his best deck.

Of course, Lance had the perfect, substitute answer. "You can still expect me to fight crime as the Sentai Ranger just without the helmet. Honestly, with the way my life is advancing, it felt like the best time to reveal myself."

Kari nodded. "I am the first reporter you've gone to, right?"

Lance said, "I'm fulfilling that promise I made. If you get home and start working on it now, you'll have your story before any other news outlet."

Kari smiled. "You've just given me a big scoop Lance. Thank you."

Lance put his helmet back on before walking away. "You're welcome."

Hogan Residence

Lance walked in the front door and removed his helmet. "I'm home!"

Zeera walked into the main room. "How did it go?"

"After the initial shock, Kari took it well. Given that tomorrow is Sunday, I'll expect my identity to have circulated by the time I get to school on Monday." Lance informed.

Zeera walked forward and hugged her son. "Don't let the fame make you more overconfident than you are. You're head's already too big."

Lance hugged her back. "No promises."

She pulled back. "Anyways, Yuma arrived for your sleepover while you were gone and is in your room. I'll leave a snack on the table for you boys before turning in."

"Thanks mom." Lance ran to the stairs. "You're the best."

"Hey, no running in the house!" Zeera yelled sternly.

Lance didn't stop only shouting back, "Sorry!"

Zeera smiled and shook her head before walking back into the kitchen.

Lance's Room

Lance entered his room only to see Astral talking to Yuma who had been sleeping.

"Did you know there is a boy called the Sparrow, and that he is from a different world like me?" Astral questioned.

"Yeah, he's from the planet Vortexia or something." Yuma stated.

Astral asked, "Where is that?"

It was at this moment that Lance decided to interject. "Astral, that show you were watching, The Sparrow, is made up. He's not real. None of it is."

Astral looked at him. "What do you mean?"

"Hm, how do I put this?" Lance questioned. "Ah, okay imagine I told you the story of how Mr. Kay defeated me in a duel."

Astral tilted his head in confusion. "But you defeated Mr. Kay."

"Exactly." Lance nodded. "The Sparrow, every episode, is a made-up story portrayed by people acting out the events to entertain people. Clearly it worked because you were greatly entertained."

Astral put a hand on his chin. "Fascinating. Observation number 5: Humans create many things to entertain one another."

"Can't we just go to bed already?" Yuma whined. "I'm tired."

Lance smiled. "Yuma, my mom has likely prepared a snack in the kitchen."

Yuma bolted to a sitting position. "A snack!?"

Lance nodded. "I could smell cookies when I entered."

"Cookies!" Yuma cheered as he ran from the room seemingly wide awake now.

Lance chuckled to himself confident Yuma would bring the plate up to the room, so he sat at his desk flipping the T.V. back on for Astral. Despite knowing the truth, the otherworldly duelist sat on the ground to watch the next show.

Heartland Academy: Monday, End of the Day…

Lance was currently being chased by a group of fan girls. Ever since he arrived with Yuma, he's been running to his next classes. Besides the occasional 'Don't run in the halls' the teachers hadn't done anything for him.

Except for Mr. Kay who let him hide out in his office during free period and lunch. That had been nice. Eventually he got a good enough gap that he could leap into a tree which concealed him well enough.

Lance watched as the stampede of girls ran by before jumping down to the ground. "Okay, I think I lost them."

"Your fan girls?" Lance jumped clear to the right as he didn't recognize Tori's voice at first, but he breathed a sigh of relief when he saw it was her. "Wow, I didn't realize they made you this jumpy."

Lance frantically looked around. "You have no idea Tori. I know they'll calm down eventually from the recent news, so all I need to do is stay one step ahead."

"Well, there is a reason I came looking for you." Tori stated getting his attention. "I told Yuma about The Sparrow being down by the seaport. After some convincing…" She meant dragging and ordering. "…Yuma agreed to go."

"I'm in." Lance started running for the gate just to get off school grounds before the girls found him. "In fact, we should go now."

Studio

Tori, Yuma, and Lance stood at the back of a group of screaming fan girls. Tori turned out to be just as big of a fan girl as them.

"Are we the only guys here?" Yuma asked.

Lance breathed a sigh of relief. "I'm just glad no one here is fan girling over me." He put a hand on his best friend's shoulder. "Please, let me enjoy this."

A tall figure in a dark red cloak recognized the voice and approached the group.

The figure put a hand on Lance's shoulder and spoke with a joyful tone. "You've really grown up since the last time I saw you, Short Lance."

Lance looked back in shock as he recognized the medium length, spiky silver hair within the cowl. "Lloyd?" He smiled and hugged him. "Lloyd!"

Tori and Yuma looked at Lance uncertain what was happening.

"Do you know this person Lance?" Tori asked concerned.

Lloyd smiled as he parted from Lance. "We shouldn't talk in the open. Bring your friends, and I'll get us inside the studio."

Lance nodded before turning to his friends. "It's okay Tori. Lloyd here is cool. Yuma and I both know and can trust him."

Yuma was confused while Tori nodded. In the end, the group followed the older male.

Back Entrance

Lloyd led the way to the back entrance before removing his cowl, so the security officer could get a good look at his silver hair and lime-green eyes.

"Mr. Andrews, you've returned." The officer looked at the middle schoolers. "Who are they?"

"These three are my guest." Lloyd smiled. "I plan on giving them a studio tour."

"Right, sir." The guard nodded. "Go on in."

Inside

Lloyd ditched his cloak revealing a Slifer style, Obelisk Blue uniform from duel Academy. While the hype around institutions like it had died down over the years, there were still a respectable number of students who attended the academies each year.

Tori was fan girling over the studio, so the others choose to ignore her as Yuma turned to his other friend. "Alright Lance, who is this guy?"

Lloyd smiled. "You mean you don't recognize me Yuma? After all, I'm quite certain you were around whenever I came to visit."

Yuma punched his open left hand. "Oh, Lloyd Andrews! You were Zach's friend."

Lloyd smiled. "Exactly."

Lance smiled. "Man, it's so good to see you again. I honestly didn't think you'd be here."

Lloyd chuckled. "That's understandable. I meant to contact you; however, I often found myself hyper focused on the goal. Upon returning to my family, things have been rather hectic." He sighed. "Lance, I'm sorry. I couldn't find a single clue on your older siblings' whereabouts."

"I'm not surprised." Lance frowned. "The cops couldn't turn anything up either." He looked up at Lloyd. "Do you know about…"

"…the graves?" Lloyd nodded. "I've seen them. Been to visit them twice now, but it doesn't mean I think they're dead."

Lance nodded solemnly. "Agreed, but I do visit them…"

He trailed off.

Lloyd decided to change topics. "Anyways, my travels weren't all bad. I competed in a few duel tournaments to make some money, and it's been decent around mother and my brother. I was going to visit you soon, but you showed up here to my surprise."

"It was Tori's idea." Yuma stated. "She's a huge fan of your little brother."

Lance nodded. "Oh yeah, your little brother. You never brought him when you visited. You'd only tell stories. What's he really like?"

Just then, they heard the Sparrow from a room up ahead. "You lowly minions think you can defeat me? Think again."

"Why don't you find out for yourself." Lloyd stated. "Only you Lance." The three middle schoolers looked at him. "Trust me, it's better if he only comes into contact with one of you for now." Lloyd looked at Yuma and Tori. "Don't worry, I'll continue the tour with you two."

Yuma nodded. "If Lloyd thinks it's a good idea, you should go Lance."

Tori sadly nodded. "I guess."

With no further prompting, the Heroic user walked into the room as Lloyd led his friends away, but Astral decided to stick with Lance for the time being.

Inside the Room

Lance entered the room and spotted the Sparrow who had his silver hair styled upwards and green eyes. His attire consists of a white spandex body suit and matching boots with different shades of blue and yellow trimming.

Lance walked up to him. "Hello."

Nelson looked at him. "Who's there?" His voice wasn't deep as it had been seconds ago until he cleared his throat. "I mean… Halt, who goes there?"

Lance held up his hand. "Name's Lance. I got a tour from your older brother. He's an old friend of my older siblings. He wanted me to meet you."

The Sparrow looked at Lance before jumping and landing before him. "Your siblings were friends of my brother?" He looked at Lance. "Were your siblings Zach and Talia Hogan?"

Lance nodded. "Yep. I'm the youngest in the family."

The Sparrow smiled. "Me to!" He realized his mistake again and cleared his throat once more. "You wouldn't happen to be a duelist?"

"Best at my school." Lance replied.

The Sparrow nodded. "Then I would like to challenge you to a lavish duel."

"You're speaking my language." Lance smiled. "Let's duel now."

"You mean it!?" The Sparrow questioned in his normal voice.

He went to clear his throat, but Lance put a hand on his shoulder. "Come on man, we aren't on camera. Just be yourself."

The sparrow nervously chuckled and rubbed the back of his head as he spoke normally. "That's easy for you to say. You're this big hero around Heartland while I'm just a normal kid from the suburbs. I like video games, comics, and pizza.

I'm not some monster busting freedom fighter." He removed his mask and fixed his hair. "I can't even talk to girls without getting nervous." He sadly looked at the ground. "It's not like anyone would be interested in knowing the real me."

"Hey, I like who you really are far better than some T.V. personality, and I know there would be others who'd love to know the real you. This you." Lance stated firmly.

The Sparrow looked up hopefully before walking over and clasping the Heroic duelist's hand. "You're the first person who's ever said that to me. Hold on, there's something I wish to try." He cleared his throat but spoke normally after. "It is nice to meet you, I am Nelson."

Lance laughed good naturedly. "That was good. It is nice to meet you as well Nelson. As I said, name's Lance, and I'd like to get to know you more through a duel."

Nelson nodded.

"Observation number 6: Lance displays overconfidence, heroism, and great kindness as his main traits. These three things shouldn't go together, yet he is surrounded by people that seem to care greatly for him." Astral thought.

Suddenly, the door to the room opened and a woman with long, violet hair and lime-green eyes entered. Her attire consisted of a blue suit with a skirt.

"There you are." The woman looked at Lance. "Who's this boy Nelson and where's Lloyd? Your brother was supposed to get you for your next appointment. You're not to speak to anyone except for authorized personnel."

Astral stared at her. "It's the Galaxy Queen!"

Nelson looked at her. "I know mom, but…"

"But nothing." She interrupted. "If the people found out what kind of kid you really were, the illusion of The Sparrow would be shattered, and it's not just about you. Think about how many people depend on you being the Sparrow.

You're part of something much bigger than yourself. You need to remember that." She then began pushing Lance towards the door. "I'm going to need you to leave. If you tell anyone you met Nelson, I'll make certain you never duel in this town again."

Lance struggled without putting up a true fight because he did not want to hurt Nelson's mother "Come on, you don't have to do this. I won't say anything."

Nelson ran forward until he was behind his mother. "I'm sorry Lance."

Lance looked back at him with a smile. "You have nothing to apologize for Nelson. We'll have a duel someday, but you must stop letting others tell you who you should be. Start being who you want to be."

"I can't." Nelson looked at the ground sadly. "The Sparrow is more important that I. Nelson Andrews doesn't matter."

Ms. Andrews closed the door, but Lance yelled. "Nelson, you matter to me! You matter to me because you became my friend! Not the Sparrow, but you!" He sighed. "I'm starting to make friends that are out of my reach. I haven't even heard from Lulu since the day we met, and now it looks like Nelson's in his own situation." He looked to Astral. "Return to Yuma and tell him I went for a walk."

Lance didn't wait for a reply as he walked off. Astral watched him go before floating off towards Yuma locating him through the pendent around his neck.

Apartment Balcony, Night…

Nelson now wore a blue, short-sleeved shirt, brown pants with two straps on the side of his hips, and matching shoes. He stared out over the city.

Lloyd walked out onto the balcony holding two cups. "Mom said no more soda." He winked at his brother. "So, let's not tell her. A little secret between brothers." He gave Nelson a glass, and the T.V. star accepted with a nod. "You know, mom loves us, right?"

"I know." Nelson replied.

Lloyd sighed. "Look, Nelson. You don't have to be The Sparrow. You can be that normal kid you want to be. I mean, you've made more than enough money for mom to see you through normal schooling and beyond.

At this point, mom makes you do this because she thinks it makes you happy. As such, she uses justifications she thinks you have for doing this to motivate you. Those thoughts blind her to what you really want."

Nelson didn't look at him as he put a fake smile on his face. "I-I don't know what you're talking about. Who wants to be some normal kid? I'm perfectly happy being The Sparrow."

Lloyd sighed before drinking down his soda and ruffling Nelson's hair "I won't force you to give this up." He walked back inside deciding to head into the city. "Just give it some thought." He looked back at Nelson, but his brother hadn't turned to him.

"I just want my brother to be happy. I guess… if this makes him happy, maybe I should support him. Stop fighting mother. I don't know." He walked through the apartment and out the door into the hall. "I don't know…"

Some Time Later…

Nelson had finished his glass of soda and was about to walk back in when he noticed a card on the ground.

The star set the glass down, walked over, and picked it up before being cloaked in dark energy as a deep voice spoke to him. "Nelson, let the Number take hold."

A green 83 appeared on the back of his left hand.

With Lloyd

Lloyd had his hands in the pockets of his blazer as he walked along the sidewalk. He suddenly stopped when he noticed a card that seemed to be abandoned.

The pro-duelist picked it up before being cloaked in dark energy as a voice spoke to him. "Let the number take hold, Lloyd."

A red 57 appeared on the back of his right hand.

Heartland Academy, Next Day…

Tori, Yuma, and Lance were all gathered around watching the news. "Multiple eyewitnesses report that the assailant was none other than The Sparrow. The hero of the popular T.V series. We now…"

Lance switched the thing off.

"This is awful. Someone out there is trying to make The Sparrow look bad." Tori stated.

Streets of Heartland, Night…

The three friends walked along with flashlights.

"What are we doing out here Tori?" Yuma questioned.

"We're out here to prove The Sparrow's innocence. Tying random people up and flipping over cars? The Sparrow would never do anything like that." Tori stated.

"She is right that this is something Nelson wouldn't do. The only explanation I can think of is a Number." Lance deduced. "Nelson's mind was on being The Sparrow, and a Number would amplify that."

The group heard a man scream. "Help!"

The middle schoolers instantly rushed off towards the voice where they found a civilian tied up.

"Are you okay sir?" Tori asked.

"Some odd ball wearing a cape came out of nowhere." The civilian explained as Tori started to free him.

Astral pointed out a figure dressed in The Sparrow's clothing. "Over there."

Yuma and Lance ran after him. "Hey you! Stop!"

Nelson jumped up to a higher level as the pair ran into the alley.

"Nelson, just stop man!" Lance shouted.

Nelson looked back at them. "Lance… just stay away from me."

The Sparrow started to jump away, so Lance turned to Yuma. "I'm going after him. It's likely he's returning to the studio so meet me there."

Yuma nodded as Lance went after The Sparrow.

Tori ran into the alley to find only Yuma. "Where is he? Where's Lance?"

"Lance has given chase." Yuma walked past Tori. "Come on, we need to hurry."

"Right." Tori stated.

Lloyd stepped out from around the corner. "Lance may have gotten away, but you two will remain here. I'll make sure of that. No one else will interrupt what my brother wants. He will be happy."

Yuma was about to speak until Astral appeared next to him. "Yuma, these brothers both have Numbers. Don't worry about Lance. He should be fine. You should focus on getting this Number from Lloyd to free him."

"Alright Astral, but I'm planning on taking this guy down fast." Yuma declared.

Tori looked at the Syllable duelist. "Yuma?"

"Tori, I'm going to take this guy on." Yuma looked at her. "If you want to go after Lance, wait until the duel's started."

Tori looked from Lloyd to Yuma to the street. "I think Lance will be okay. He's the Sentai Ranger after all."

Yuma nodded before turning to Lloyd. "Since you're determined to stand in our way, I'll take you down and restore your state of mind because I'm feeling the flow."

"All you will feel is defeat at the hands of a graduated Obelisk." Lloyd declared.

D-pad go

Duel Gazer on

Augmented vision link established

(Yuma 4000/Lloyd 4000)

"Alright Yuma. we cannot allow for any mistakes." Astral decided attempting to try what Lance said. "That is why I am asking that we work together to best this duelist."

Yuma narrowed his eyes before sighing. "Fine." He looked at Lloyd. "Since you challenged me, I'll take the first move."

"Yuma think before you play. Look at your hand, and plan for the future." Astral stated.

Yuma took a deep breath and looked over his hand. "I summon Achacha Archer(LV 3/1200/600)." A warrior decked out in archer armor and wielding a bow appeared. "When he is normal summoned, you take 500 life points (Yuma 4000/Lloyd 3500). I then set one card."

"Alright Yuma!" Tori cheered "That's a great first move!"

"I've seen better." Lloyd stated. "Allow me to show you how a real duelist takes his first turn. Since I control no monsters, I can special summon Super Quantum Red Layer(LV 5/2000/800)." A warrior in red armor appeared.

"He just summoned a Quantum monster!" Yuma shouted in shock.

"This isn't good." Astral stated. "From what I understand, given what I know of Lance's Super Quantum deck, this could spell trouble."

I then normal summon Star Drawing(LV 4/1600/1000)." A child with a star wand appeared. "Since I normal summoned a level 4 monster, I can special summon Kagetokage(LV 4/1100/1500)." A shadow lizard in the ground appeared. Red Layer will attack Achacha Archer."

"Yuma activate your trap." Astral stated. "We cannot lose so many life points in one turn." Astral stated.

"I activate Bye Bye Damage." Yuma countered. "My monster can't be destroyed by this battle and any damage I take gets dealt double to you as effect damage (Yuma 3200/Lloyd 2400)."

"Very well." Lloyd stated. "My Star Drawing will destroy your Archer (Yuma 2800/Lloyd 2400). Then, my Kagetokage will attack you directly (Yuma 1700/Lloyd 2400)."

"Lloyd is certainly skilled." Astral thought. "He hasn't deployed any of the Xyz monster's that deck is known for, yet he's already dealt so much damage to our life points." Astral stated.

Yuma smiled. "It doesn't matter how many life points he takes because I am feeling the flow!"

He drew and Astral said, "Go with a combo that gets two monsters on the field. The sooner we can get a Number out, the safer we'll be against his Number."

"Got it Astral." Yuma looked at his hand. "I summon Zubaba Knight(LV 3/1600/900)." A warrior decked out in yellow armor appeared. "I then activate Monster Slots. Here's how it works. I target a monster on my field and in the grave.

Then by banishing the monster in the grave, I can draw a card. If it's the same level as the monster chosen, I can summon it. So, I banish Achacha Archer and target Zubaba Knight. Now I draw." The Syllable duelist smiled at what he drew.

"I drew Rai Rider(LV 3/1200/1400) who I can now special summon." A biker atop a blue motorcycle appeared. "With Rai Rider and Zubaba Knight, I construct the overlay network. Xyz Summon Number 17: Leviathan Dragon(R 3/O 2/2000/0)."

The large, blue serpent like dragon appeared. "I then detach one of his overlay units which grants Number 17 500 more ATK." Number 17:Leviathan Dragon(R 3/O 1/2500/0). "I'll have my dragon destroy your Red Layer (Yuma 2800/Lloyd 1900). I end my turn."

Lloyd drew. "I normal summon a second Star Drawing(LV 4/1600/1000) and special summon another Kagetokage(LV 4/1100/1500) through his effect." A red number 57 appeared on his right hand. "I now construct the overlay network with two Star Drawings and Kagetokage.

Xyz summon Number 57:Tri-Head Dust Dragon(R 4/O 3/100/2600)." A three headed Dragon made of dust appeared. When he is summoned in this way, Number 57 gains ATK equal to the ATK of a monster on your field.

Since Leviathan Dragon is your only monster, my monster gains ATK equal to his." Number 57:Tri-Head Dust Dragon(R 4/O 3/2600/2600 effect). "My dragon will destroy your dragon (Yuma 1600/Lloyd 2400). Kagetokage will attack you directly (Yuma 500/Lloyd 2400)."

Yuma was knocked down by the attack as Astral began to fade in and out.

"Yuma get up!" Tori shouted.

Yuma sprang to his feet before looking at Astral. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine." Astral stabilized before looking to the Syllable duelist. "Yuma, this next turn is important. If you don't draw something that can win this duel, or buy one more turn, we will lose. Those two monsters in your hands won't hold up."

Yuma nodded. "Don't worry Astral because I got this." He drew. "I'm seriously feeling the flow!" He smiled. "Just what I needed. I summon Goblindbergh(LV 4/1400/0)." A goblin in a red plane appeared.

"Goblindbergh's ability allows me to special summon a level four or lower monster from my hand provided I switch him to defense mode. So, welcome to the field Gagaga Magician(LV 4/1500/1000)." A spellcaster in blue and brown robes appeared.

"Now I build the overlay network with my Level 4 Goblindbergh and Gaga Magician to Xyz summon Number39:Utopia(R 4/O 2/2500/2000)." The white and gold Number appeared on the field.

"That monster isn't strong enough to surpass 57, and even attacking Kagetokage won't win you this duel." Lloyd declared.

"I know, but I have just the combo to end this duel. It starts with an attack on number 57 only for me to activate Utopia's ability. At the cost of one overlay unit, I can negate any attack." Yuma declared.

Lloyd was confused. "Why would you do that?"

Yuma smiled. "It's because the last card in my hand is Double or Nothing. Since Utopia's attack was stopped, he can attack once more; however, his ATK is doubled." Number 39:Utopia(R 4/O 1/5000/2000 effect). "Go Rising Sun Slash!"

Lloyd stared up at Utopia in shock. "I'm sorry Nelson."

Utopia struck Number 57 down to its core destroying it (Yuma 500/Lloyd 0).

"He did it." Tori sighed relieved. "He won."

Astral held out his hand and claimed number 57 from Lloyd's body. He then saw the memory of his own birth.

The other worldly duelist decided to internalize this information as he turned to Yuma. "This duel. The Number. His desire. Yuma, it seemed as if Lloyd condoned what Nelson's doing. That he wanted to protect him. Why is that?"

Yuma looked at Astral. "That's the power of familial love Astral."

"Familial love?" Astral questioned.

Yuma nodded. "Well, yeah." He looked at Lloyd's body. "Lloyd loves his brother and is really worried about him. Based on what Lance said, Nelson is unhappy as The Sparrow. He just doesn't want to admit it. I bet that made his true desire for Nelson confusing."

"Interesting." Astral thought. "Observation Number 7: Familial connections are strange, yet humans seem to greatly value them."

"My head." Lloyd stat up. "What happened?" He noticed Yuma. "Yuma?" He looked around. "What am I doing here?"

Yuma ran over. "That's a long story and doesn't really matter. What does matter is that your brother needs you."

"Needs…" Lloyd suddenly remembered. "Nelson!" He jumped to his feet. "What was I thinking when I encouraged this? I must have been out of my mind!"

Tori ran over. "Is Lloyd okay?"

"He's fine Tori." Yuma looked at Lloyd. "Lance seems to think Nelson was heading back to the studio and gave chase."

"We must hurry." Lloyd ran out of the alleyway. "Something is wrong with my little brother."

Yuma and Tori followed.

Studio, Earlier…

Someone, likely his mother, made sure Nelson was physically fit because he'd kept the same distance between himself and Lance the entire time. Lance was in no way lazy or a slouch. Eventually, he followed Nelson onto the set of the show.

Nelson turned on the lights before facing Lance and speaking as The Sparrow. "I told you to stay away, yet you insisted on following me."

"Of course, I followed you. One of my buds was running around dressed in costume and harassing citizens." Lance stated. "Any good friend would be concerned."

"I see now. You are here to impede my promise to the Galaxy Queen. The Dark Emperor, Furious Max, has recruited the warrior of justice, Sentai Ranger. Do not worry, for The Sparrow shall free you." Nelson stated.

Lance firmly stood his ground. "You are wrong Nelson because I shall be the one to free you. I challenge you to a duel."

Nelson smiled. "I accept your challenge."

D-pad go

Duel Gazer on

Augmented vision link established

(Lance 4000/Nelson 4000)

"Alright, let's do this." Nelson declared. "I summon Beast-Warrior Puma(LV 4/1600/1000)." A puma on two legs and with a sword appeared. "I end my turn with a face down."

Lance drew. "Since you control a monster, and I do not, I can special summon Heroic Challenger-Assault Halberd(LV 4/1800/200)." A strong warrior in dark purple and blue armor appeared. "I'll then normal summon Heroic Challenger-Ambush Soldier(0/0) in defense mode." A hero wearing light armor and a green trench coat appeared. "Halberd will attack Puma."

"You walked right into my trap." Nelson declared activating his trap card. "Since I have three copies of Triple Star Trion(LV 1/100/100) in my hand, I can activate Trion Barrier forcing your Halberd to defense mode. Then, I can summon my three Trion to the field."

Three warriors with a blue, green, and red clothing appeared. On their robes, were 1, 2, and 3 stars respectively.

"Three level one monsters at once." Lance looked at Nelson. "I set one card."

"My turn!" Nelson drew. "I release two Trions to tribute summon D.D. Esper Star Sparrow(LV 10/3000/1500)." A black as night version of Nelson in an altered Sparrow costume appeared.

"Nice try, but I'm not allowing you to keep that monster." Lance interjected. "I activate Karma Cut. By discarding one card, I can target a monster on your field, and banish it. Say goodbye to Star Sparrow."

Nelson was shocked. "No, Star Sparrow isn't protected by his own effect and banishing him makes his second effect useless. In just one turn you have dispatched a key component of my deck. Clearly, Furious Max has been training you well, but I refuse to give up.

Now, I activate my Trion's special ability. Since they were used for a tribute summon, I'm allowed to return the two used giving me three LV 1 monsters. With all three, I build the overlay network to Xyz summon Number 83:Galaxy Queen(R 1/O 3/500/500) in defense mode."

A tall woman with a blue outfit and finery appeared. "By removing an overlay unit, every monster on my field is immune to destruction until my next Stand-By Phase, and all monsters deal damage to even your defense monsters. Puma destroy Ambush (Lance 2400/Nelson 4000)."

Number 83:Galaxy Queen(R 1/O 2/500/500)

Lance drew. "I summon a second Heroic Challenger-Assault Halberd(LV 4/1800/300)." Now I overlay my two Assault Halberds to Xyz summon Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon(R 4/O 2/2500/2000)." A mighty black and purple dragon appeared.

"By removing one overlay unit, my dragon can cut Puma's ATK in half and gains the lost ATK for himself. Why stop at one when I can do it twice?"

Beast-Warrior Puma(LV 4/1600/1000)

Beast-Warrior Puma(LV 4/800/1000 effect)

Beast-Warrior Puma(LV 4/400/1000 effect)

Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon(R 4/O 2/2500/2000)

Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon(R 4/O 1/3300/2000 effect)

Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon(R 4/O 2/3700/2000 effect)

"Now, my dragon will attack Puma with Lightning Revolt Disobey!" Lance declared. "Even though he can't be destroyed, it doesn't prevent you from taking damage (Lance 2400/Nelson 700). I then set one card."

It was at this moment that Ms. Andrews appeared. "What is going on? Why are you…" She had at first fixated on Lance, but quickly noticed her son. "Nelson, is that you? What are you doing here? It's past your bedtime. How did you get past the guards? Explain yourself young man."

Nelson looked at her. "Are you speaking to me?"

"I think that is hardly the tone one should use when addressing their mother." Ms. Andrews firmly stated.

"I think you are mistaken as my mother is right behind me." Nelson stated referring to the Number.

Before Ms. Andrews could speak again, Lance interrupted her. "Ms. Andrews, your son can't determine his own life from that of the fictional Sparrow. You pressured him to suppress who he really wanted to be, so he thinks he's the Sparrow. Only the Sparrow."

Ms. Andrews was shocked. "This can't be." She looked to her son. "Nelson! You are in big trouble young man."

Lance tightly clenched his fist. "Look at your son. Do you even know what he wants to be? He wants to be a normal kid. He wants to eat pizza, play games, and read comics. He wants to have friends. He doesn't even want to be The Sparrow anymore. It only brings him sadness."

"Enough! We are going to continue this duel." Nelson drew. "I activate Star Sparrow Connection. This spell returns our monsters to their original ATK if any change has occurred; however, if my opponent controls an Xyz monster, the monster I control loses 500 ATK."

Beast-Warrior Puma(LV 4/1100/1000 effect)

Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon(R 4/O 2/2500/2000)

Nelson continued. "I'm then able to equip any monster on my field with a D.D. Esper Star Sparrow if it comes from my deck. I do always carry a second, so I'll equip it to Beast Warrior Puma(LV 4/4100/2500 effect) granting him a boost in ATK/Def equal to Star Sparrow's."

Lance was genuinely amazed at such a move. "That is something else."

"Puma will destroy your Xyz Dragon (Lance 800/Nelson 700)." Nelson declared. "Now, I activate my Queen's ability once more. Removing one unit to prevent you from destroying either monster through battle or card effect. Take your last move, for you shall not get another."

Number 83:Galaxy Queen(R 1/O 1/500/500)

Ms. Andrews was genuinely worried. "Nelson, I don't like this. You never wanted to use the Sparrow's deck. You always wanted to use your real deck in a genuine duel. Listen to me. We're going back to the room and we'll get some ice cream."

"That's enough." Nelson held out his arm. "I must be The Sparrow. Do you have any idea how many people are depending on me?"

Ms. Andrews sighed sadly. "Nelson…"

Lance drew. "It's time to end this." He looked right at Nelson. "I activate Xyz Reborn. This trap revives an Xyz monster from my grave and becomes an overlay unit for that monster. So, welcome back Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon(R 4/O 1/2500/2000). Then, I shall activate his ability targeting your Puma."

Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon(R 4/O 0/4550/2000 effect)

Beast Warrior Puma(LV 4/2050/2500 effects).

"My dragon shall attack Puma with Lightning Revolt Disobey (Lance 800/Nelson 0)!" Lance declared.

Nelson was blown back onto the ground causing Ms. Andrew to worriedly shout, "Nelson, No!"

The Number rose from Nelson and entered Lance's pendent. Ms. Andrews walked up to her son's body as Yuma, Lloyd, and Tori finally made it to the studio. Lloyd saw his brother down and ran to join his mother.

"Mom!" Lloyd looked from her to Nelson.

Ms. Andrew looked at the Super Quant user before lightly touching Nelson's face waking him up. "Mom… Lloyd…." He sat up. "I don't know what happened."

"Don't worry. It's over now." Ms. Andrews sadly looked away from him. "Nelson, I'm sorry I've been pushing you. I just wanted you to be happy, but my vision of what that was got clouded. I should have realized you'd want to be normal."

Nelson quietly said, "It's okay."

"I want you to be yourself. I really do. So, what would make you genuinely happy? Tell me, and I will do it." Ms. Andrews stated.

"I want… I want to end The Sparrow before moving to attend school in with my new friend Lance and all his friends." Nelson stated. "I want you, me, and Lloyd to live in a normal home. To be together as a family again."

Ms. Andrews nodded. "You got it Nelson. Leave it to your mother."

Nelson smiled. "Thank you, mom."

Lloyd crouched down on his other side placing a hand on his shoulder. "Don't worry about us being together." He shook his head. "I don't have any plans to leave on another extended trip."

Yuma pictured his mom while Lance saw his own siblings. It started to bring tears to their eyes, so they wiped away the tears.

"Ah, I'm getting all teary eyed." Yuma stated.

"I know what you mean." Lance stated.

Tori stepped in between them and put a hand on their backs. "You two…" She patted them. "Come on, they should be left to their moment, so I'll buy dinner for your guys."

Yuma smiled. "Sounds good Tori."

Lance nodded in agreement. "Best to let them have this time to themselves."

"Observation number 8: Familial bonds are strong. Very strong." Astral looked at the roof of the building. "That memory after obtaining 57… I am entrusted with my world's future."

The otherworldly duelist closed his eyes before floating after the middle schoolers.