Lance's Room

Lance walked into the room dressed in forest green cargo pants and tank top with ocean blue trim. A white towel was around his neck and his blue, spiky hair was still damp from the shower he took. At least he was no longer lying in bed.

After seeing what Kite was capable of, he hadn't left his bed for three days straight except to use the bathroom. He could tell his parents and grandfather were worried, but he didn't feel up to talking about what rattled him. Not with them. What a hero, right?

He sat at his desk and sighed before bringing his screen up to check his emails. "Three emails. WDC, Museum, and Nistro!"

He decided to save his teacher's message for last and started at the top with the one labeled WDC. Immediately, the hologram of a young woman, seemingly around Shay's age, appeared. She seemed a little pale, had back length black hair, and dark purple irises.

Her attire consisted of a dark purple suit meant for a woman. If Lance were one of those guys to obsess over looks, he'd certainly say she looked pretty. Even if Lance were one of those guys, he certainly wouldn't be in that sort of mood.

The woman bowed formally before standing. "Good day Lance Hogan; also known as Sentai Ranger. Your time as the Hero of Heartland has not gone unnoticed. In just two months, from the day you received this, Mr. Heartland will be hosting the World Duel Carnival.

This tournament is open to all who wish to participate, but your deeds as a hero have earned you a spot in this tournament. We hope to hear back from you soon with your acceptance. Mr. Heartland is looking forward to seeing you in action."

The screen then displayed, "Do you accept?"

At the bottom there was a green and red button with Yes and No imprinted within them. respectively.

Lance sighed. "Kite and Shay will likely attend. No doubt mother will be invited. She'll most certainly go tournament deck for it. Would Grampa come out of retirement just to duel in this?" Lance's hand instantly moved to the red button. "I should just refuse."

No matter how hard he tried, his hand would not touch the button. He sighed and lowered his hand before closing the message. He then moved to the next message which caused another person to appear.

This one was an old man with a kind smile. Despite his age, he seemed rather spry even is he did use a cane. He of course had wrinkles, but also a full head of short silver hair, dull red eyes, and spectacles. His attire was a beige suit.

The man happily said, "Good day Lance Hogan. My name is Joseph Tanner, and I am the director of Heartland Museum. I am sending this message in hopes that we can arrange a meeting.

Over lunch or dinner perhaps. I have a proposal I wish to put forth concerning the Sentai Ranger that I hope will inspire generations of duelist to come. Please, get in contact with me as soon as possible."

Lance backed out of the message and found the number it was sent from. He called the guy.

After two rings, Joseph appeared. "Mr. Hogan, it is a pleasure to hear from you so soon. Truly it is."

Lance simply nodded. "I get that a lot."

The fan girls certainly said something along those lines often enough.

"Sorry, I'm simply happy you contacted me. Now, I know you must be curious what I have in mind. Unfortunately, I am busy this afternoon, so how about we meet at Heartland Café around 5 tonight?" Joseph asked.

Lance shrugged. "Works for me."

Joseph smiled. "Excellent. Simply excellent. I will see you then. Now, if you will excuse me, I have some matters which must be attended to. I'll see you this evening, and don't worry about the bill. I will pay for everything weather or not you accept my request."

The screen went black indicating that Joseph had ended the call. Finally, Lance looked at the message from Nistro for a full minute before opening it. Nistro appeared on screen exactly how Lance remembered him.

He had dark red hair with a lighter red fringe and purple eyes. His attire now consisted of a grey and black colored coat with orange ruffles as well as two belts and leather pants with white and brown cowboy boots.

He looked rather furious and immediately addressed Lance. "Lance Hogan, your family told me how you've been, and it is disgraceful to my teachings. A Heroic duelist does not wallow in self-pity. Get down to the park on the double.

I'll be informed when you've opened this message, and a timer has already started. If you aren't here soon, the first thing you'll do is run laps. I want you down here yesterday. Don't you dare forget your dueling equipment."

This got Lance moving as he ran around his room gathering his decks, duel gazer, and D-pad. He then ran out the room and down the stairs.

"Mom!" Lance yelled as he ran in place at the bottom of the stairs. "I have to go. Nitro's at the park, and I can't keep him waiting."

She walked into the living room. "You best get going."

"Also, the director of the museum wishes to discuss the Sentai Ranger with me." Lance informed.

Zeera nodded. "That sounds quite important."

Lance ran outside, jumped on his bike, and pedaled off.

Zeera watched him go from the front doorway. "He at least seems full of life. Now it's up to Nistro to help him stay that way."

Tori walked up to the front door while looking at Lance's receding figure. "Where's Lance off to?"

She was shocked because for the past three days neither him nor Yuma left their homes except to attend school. This genuinely worried the girl but nothing she did seemed to work.

Zeera smiled. "I think it's sweet that you worry about him Tori. That's a good attitude to retain after you two get together." She put a hand on her cheek. "Lance needs someone one with such a level head by his side."

Tori blushed from embarrassment. "Mrs. Hogan do you have to keep saying these things every time I come over to train?"

She looked at Tori. "Are you and Lance together yet?"

"No!" Tori shouted.

"Then I do." She walked back inside. "Now come along, you still have much to learn on Synchro summoning, and a shorter period of time to learn than I thought."

Tori looked at Zeera confused. "Why is that."

"A World Duel Carnival is being organized, and you're going to enter." Zeera stated. "On that note, I hope you're ready to work because I'm going to push you harder than before. If you want to back out, now is the time. So, Ms. Meadows are you prepared to work hard?"

Tori nodded with determination. "I don't care how hard I have to work. I want to keep up with Lance."

Zeera smirked. "Oh, is it possible you are starting to develop feelings for my son? After all, I didn't hear you mention Yuma."

Tori simply said. "Mrs. Henderson, Yuma has his own work cut out for him if he wants to keep up with Lance. That's why I didn't mention him."

Zeera chuckled. "Right."

Tori sighed and shook her head as she followed her teacher.

Yuma's Room

Yuma sat on his bed thinking while Astral did the same from a higher position.

"Even with that new Shining Evolution thing, I lost." Yuma opened his eyes. "Kite's in a whole other league. If Lance's reaction to him is any indication, this Shay guy is right up there with him."

Astral opened his eyes. "It is my fault we almost lost to that Number Hunter. If the duel had not been stopped, then I… I would have vanished from existence." He looked at his hand. "Whatever my mission is, would have gone unfinished."

Yuma grit his teeth and stood up. "You know, something seriously needs to change here Astral. You've just been staring at walls all this time and making bummer comments." He turned to Astral. "Listen, avoiding these Number Hunters isn't an option.

Not for me, you, or Lance. They'll come for us and we need to be ready. The problem is, I can't seem to reach you or Lance. Come on, you're supposed to be the guy giving speeches when we need them."

The door to his room opened as Caswell and Shane entered.

"Sorry Mr. Tsukumo if we're interrupting something." Shane stated sincerely.

"Hey, what are you guys doing here?" Yuma asked.

"Tori asked if we'd come check on you." Caswell stated.

Shane nodded. "We also come bearing news."

Shane showed him the WDC promotion on his D-Pad.

"Would Duel Carnival?" Yuma asked.

Caswell nodded. "It's a huge tournament that'll be held in two months here in Heartland. Rumor has it that duelist from around the world are being invited while anyone is welcome to enter themselves."

Yuma looked at the promotion completely serious. "I bet Kite will be there."

"Mr. Tsukumo… are you okay?" Shane asked.

Caswell nodded. "Yeah, where's all your 'Feeling the Flow' and 'High Five the Sky' stuff at?"

Before he could answer, Haru stepped into the room. "Yuma." She plopped down a big bag of food. "I need you to take these to an old friend of mine who lives out of town. There's a note in there to."

Yuma, Caswell, and Shane were shocked by the large, full bag while Haru smiled at the other two boys. "I've already talked with your parents/guardian boys. They think it's a wonderful idea for you to accompany Yuma."

Yuma knew there was no use in arguing. "Might as well just get this over with fellas."

Park

Lance ran to the duel field where he found Nistro waiting. "I'm here sir."

Nistro glared at him. "Activate you D-pad and Duel Gazer."

Lance stepped back. "What!?"

"I'm not messing around Lance. Do as your former teacher says. If not, you can start running laps around Heartland until you drop."

Lance knew his teacher meant it. "I'll duel"

D-pad go

Duel Gazer on

Augmented vision link established

(Lance 4000/Nistro 4000)

"You're going first Lance." Nistro declared.

Lance gulped and looked at his hand. "I set one monster and a card."

"Pathetic." Nistro drew. "Since you control a monster, and I do not, I can special summon Heroic Challenger-Halberd(LV 4/1800/300)." The warrior decked out in purple armor and wielding a halberd appeared.

"I activate Heroic Chance and use it on Halberd. This doubles his ATK, but he cannot attack you directly. Not a problem when you have a monster, and mine has piercing. I'm also betting that face down isn't anything special.

Now Halberd destroy that monster (Lance 700/Nistro 4000)." Nistro destroyed Lance's own Halberd knocking him off his feet. "That's not all. When Halberd inflicts damage, I can add a Heroic monster from my deck to my hand. It's your turn."

Lance got up panting. "I-I…"

Nistro stomped his foot. "Don't you dare say you can't Lance. I made you swear never to say those words the day I became your teacher." He was furious. "What happened to you? Where has your confidence gone?"

Lance gripped his head out of frustration with himself and this situation. "…"

"Answer me. Where is your confidence?" Nistro demanded.

"…"

"Lance!" Nistro shouted.

"I never had any!" Lance shouted. "The simple fact is that I'm just a scared boy pretending to be a confident duelist. All of it was bravado. My deeds as the Sentai Ranger were stunts to stroke my own ego. I'm not a true duelist. Not like my mother or grandfather.

I'm not confident like my father. I'm still that kid who couldn't even stand up to a girl that was bullying him. That same kid that was too afraid to climb down a tree well after she left. That same kid you had to rescue." Lance collapsed to his knees panting.

"Everything's been an act." Tears cascaded down his cheek. "I'm week and pathetic. Always have been. I couldn't make friends until I put on a front. The person I fooled most was myself. I believed I changed. What a joke. I'm no hero and certainly no duelist.

My siblings were always better than me in every way. That isn't jealousy. It's fact. Zach was the better duelist. He was always calm, cool, and collected. Talia was outgoing and confident. I believed I could be like them. What a fool I was."

Nistro crossed his arms. "Is that what you think?" He sighed. "Whether or not the bravado was fake, it's not anymore." Lance looked at his teacher. "You've been overconfident, but that doesn't mean every ounce of confidence was fake. You got me to accept you as my student.

You learned all I had to teach. You became a hero to many and continued past the point a coward would have stopped. You've inspired countless. You overcame your fear of heights. I don't even know everything you've accomplished, but you do.

Don't compare yourselves to others because no one expects you to be anything but yourself. Now push past your fear, as any true man should, to the thoughts of the past. Rethink what you've done. Then look deep inside yourself and declare what your dream is."

Lance went wide eyed as he looked at the ground. Images of everything he achieved came to mind. Getting Nistro as a teacher. Becoming friends with Yuma and Tori. All the duels he won. The criminals he put away. The Numbers he obtained. Helping Shark, Nelson, and Shane.

Yeah, he lost to Shay and lost his way. No longer. The fact remains that he still has his soul and can try again. What would giving up accomplish? Nothing. Shay and Kite would still come after him. He couldn't run forever. He wouldn't.

Lance stood up as his inner fire had been lit. "My dream is to become a World Dueling Champion!" He placed his hand over his deck. "This duel is a sorry display, so I concede victory in hopes of having a true duel later."

(Lance 0/Nistro 4000)

Nistro nodded approvingly. "Don't you ever forget this day." He walked up to Lance. "I'll be expecting you to accept that invitation Mr. Heartland sent because if anyone's going to take your Numbers…" He walked past Lance. "… it'll be me from a fair and honest duel."

"You…" Lance stated shocked.

Nistro chucked a package of cards to him. "Those are to keep our duel fair when the time comes because I will beat you at your absolute best."

"Wait! You're a Number Hunter to? Do you work with Shay and Kite?" Lance questioned.

Nistro stopped. "In a way, I do. Imagine my surprise when you turned out be a hunter yourself."

Lance looked down at the package of cards before turning his attention to his teacher. "Nistro, thank you for everything, but don't think for a second I'll hold back. I'm winning the World Duel Carnival and keeping my Numbers."

Nistro smiled. "That's the spirit kid. Keep that fire lit no matter the outcome."

Nistro walked off leaving Lance with more determination than ever before. Once he could no longer see him, The Heroic duelist decided to head home and rework his deck with the new cards.

Hogan Residence: Backyard, Same Time as Lance and Nistro…

Zeera led Tori into the backyard and stood before her with her arms crossed. "Alright, now to confirm that you have the knowledge down. What components are required for a Synchro Summon?"

"At least one Tuner and one or more non-tuner monsters. Tuner monsters are the key component in the equation, and usually more than one can't be used for a Synchro summon unless the monster you intend to summon specifies as such." Tori recited.

"Good." Zeera stated. "How does Synchro differ from Xyz summoning?"

"Xyz monsters require two monsters of the same level to be summoned while Synchro summoning is all about combining a Tuner with a non-tuner to equate the level of the monster you wish to summon." Tori stated.

Zeera nodded. "Finally, what are the two types of Synchro monsters and describe them."

"Synchro and Synchro/Tuner. Synchro monsters are usually the combination of a Tuner and more than one non-Tuners. Synchro/Tuner is a monster that acts as both Synchro and Tuner meaning it can be used to obtain higher leveled Synchro monsters."

Zeera smiled. "Very good Tori." She walked back. "Now, have you made the alterations to your deck that I suggested."

Tori nodded. "The cards you gave me were helpful when I reconstructed my deck."

Zeera nodded. "It's time for a practical exam." She walked back before turning to face Tori. "Perform well enough, and we'll take your training to the next level."

"I'm ready ma'am." Tori stated.

D-pad go

Duel Gazer on

Augmented vision link established

(Tori 4000/Zeera 4000)

"You go first Tori." Zeera declared.

"Alright." Tori stated. "I activate Foolish Burial allowing me to send one monster from my deck to the graveyard. "Then, I activate Card Destruction which forces us both to discard our entire hands and draw a new one. I finally set one monster and two cards."

"I summon Marauding Captain(LV 3/1200/400)." A man with blond hair, silver armor, and twin blades appeared. "His ability allows me to special summon a level 4 or lower warrior from my hand. I choose Rose Warrior of Revenge(LV 4/1600/600)."

A female warrior in a black body suit and with rose colored hair appeared. "Now I tune my LV 3 Marauding Captain with LV 4 Rose Warrior of Revenge for 7. Synchro summon Legendary Knight Critias(LV 7/2800/1800)."

An Atlantean warrior decked out in dark purple armor appeared. "I then activate The Claw of Hermos allowing me to use it and my Junk Warrior to special summon Rocket Hermos Canon(LV 4/1500/1300)." A large canon appeared.

"Since it was special summoned, I can equip it to Critias granting him both a second ATK and the ability to deal piercing damage to any face down monsters. That's good because my monster will use their first attack on your face down monster."

"You've flipped Kamui, Hope of Gusto(LV 2/200/100). Even though she is destroyed (Tori 2200/Zeera 4000), I get to activate her ability allowing me to special summon a Gusto Tuner from my deck. I choose Gusto Squirro(LV 2/0/1800) in defense mode."

"My knight will use his second ATK to destroy Squirro (Tori 1200/Zeera 4000)." Zeera declared. "Now, I set two cards."

Tori drew. "I activate my face down Psychic Overload. I target three Psychic monsters in my grave, shuffle them back into my deck, and draw two cards. I then activate Dust Storm of Gusto. This trap prevents you from activating any traps when I attack with a Gusto."

Zeera crossed her arms. "I activate Synchro Back which returns Critias to the extra deck and destroys Rocket Hermos Canon in the process. My monster will return during my next Stand-By Phase."

Tori continued her turn. "With those traps out of the way, I'll summon Pilica, Descendent of Gusto(LV 3/1000/1500)." The girl with green hair in a ponytail and red at the end appeared. "When she is summoned, I'm allowed to special summon a Wind monster from my grave.

I choose Gusto Squirro(LV 2/0/1800). Now I tune Pilica with Squirro to Synchro for 5. Synchro summon Daigusto Guldos(LV 5/2200/800)." A larger Guldo with a female rider appeared. "I activate Ego Boost granting Guldos 1000 ATK. Daigusto Guldos(LV 5/3200/800 effect). She'll ATK directly (Tori 1200/Zeera 800)."

"That was good Tori." Zeera drew. "Unfortunately, it's not enough to win. Now, Legendary Knight Critias(LV 7/2800/1800) returns. I activate my face down Speed Dragster(LV 1/0/1800) which becomes a LV 1 Tuner."

A monster/car fusion appeared. "Now, I tune my LV 7 Critias with my LV 1 Dragster to summon Crystal Wing Synchro Dragon(LV 8/3000/2500)." A blue and brown dragon with white armor appeared.

"I activate Guldos' effect allowing me to shuffle two Gusto monsters from my grave back into the deck. When I do, I can destroy a monster on your field like your dragon." Tori declared.

"Not happened." Zeera declared. "You have triggered my own dragon's ability. When a monster on your field activates their effect, I can destroy it, and then my dragon gains ATK equal to the destroyed monsters ATK." Crystal Wing Synchro Dragon(LB 8/5200/2500 effect)."

"This isn't good." Tori declared.

"No, it is not." Zeera agreed. "Crystal Wing attack Tori directly (Tori 0/Zeera 800)."

Tori was knocked to her back by the resulting attack before sitting up and sighing.

Zeera walked over. "Why are you down Tori?"

"Zeera do you think I have what it takes to be a duelist?" Tori asked.

Zeera was shocked. "Where's this coming from?"

Tori looked at the ground. "I look to Yuma, Lance, and even Shark. I see their love and passion for dueling, yet I begin to think there's no way I can keep up. That's all I want. I don't care if I ever beat them."

She sighed once more as everyone of their duels came to mind. "Lance and Shark have always been in a whole other league while Yuma has recently moved to join them; meanwhile, I feel like I'm not moving at all. I just…. I don't want to be left behind."

Zeera crouched beside Tori and put a hand on her shoulder. "Tori listen to me. In a short amount of time, you went from not taking any life points, to getting me below a thousand. That takes talent. You're progressing faster than I ever imagined."

Tori looked at her teacher. "Are you certain of that?"

"Don't doubt your teacher." Zeera nodded. "You're progressing well, and from here on out your training will be put towards completely mastering your deck. I believe in your Tori. The question is, do you believe in yourself?"

Tori looked her teacher in the eyes and nodded. "You believe in me, so I believe in myself Master Zeera."

Zeera patted her shoulder. "That's exactly the confidence I want in a girl that will date my son."

Tori groaned. "Mrs. Hogan, I keep telling you that I view Lance as a friend."

She got up and walked into the Hogan residence.

Zeera followed. "I keep telling you that I think both of you would make an adorable couple. Just think about it."

Tori knew she had a long road ahead of her, but she would not turn back. No matter how hard the training, or how awkward her master was, Tori wouldn't trade Zeera for anyone. This was the master she needed to advance her skills.

Lance's Room, Around Evening…

Lance looked at his improved Heroic Challenger deck. "Those cards Nistro gave me really brought my deck up." He smiled. "Shay and Kite will unquestionably be the toughest duelist I've ever faced, but I'll be ready." He looked at his clock. "I got to get to the café."

The Heroic user gathered his things and booked it out the room.

Stairs

Yuma, Caswell, and Shane had been climbing up a large set of stairs for a good while now and were certainly tired. Especially Yuma who had to carry the large bag of food on his back. Astral sat atop his bag, with his eyes closed, contemplating.

"Why did my parents agree to let me do this?" Caswell was panting. "I knew I should have turned Tori down."

Yuma stopped climbing and fell to his knees. "Every time I think we're at the top, there's just more stairs. It never ends."

"Think of it this way Mr. Tsukumo. If we turn around now, you'll have to carry that bag back." Shane stated.

Yuma jumped to his feet. "You are totally right. I just have to feel the flow."

The Syllable duelist booked it up the stairs.

"Damn it, I'm not going to be left behind!" Caswell shouted as he ran after Yuma.

Shane followed.

Top of the Stairs

The three boys made it to the top only to find themselves staring at a sanctuary and an old man who was short and had a full head of distinctively spiky white hair. His attire consisted of black gi, pants, and matching sleeveless blue jacket.

He looked right at the Syllable duelist. "Ah, you must be Haru's grandson. You've arrived earlier than anticipated." He smiled. "That's good." The man turned to his sanctuary. "Bring that bag inside and I'll make dinner. At which point, we can discuss the reason Haru sent you to me."

Without another word, the old man walked inside leaving the three boys to look at each other.

Dining Room

The three boys sat in a circle with the old man as they ate the meal he prepared.

"This isn't half bad." Caswell stated.

Shane nodded. "This old man can really cook."

The old man laughed. "Sorry. I suppose I didn't properly introduce myself. My name is Roku."

Yuma nodded. "Okay Roku how is it that you know my grandmother and why did she send me here?"

"Haru and I go way back." Roku stated. "I'm talking back to my days as a pro duelist."

"You were a pro duelist?" Shane asked.

Roku nodded. "I'm retired now, but I haven't left the game. I've been here training duelist, and I have trained many." He looked to Yuma. "That is why you are here Yuma Tsukumo. Your grandmother tells me you haven't been yourself and asked me to train you."

Yuma was surprised. "Really!? Did you agree or was I merely used to deliver food?"

"I'll put it this way." Roku stood. "Starting now, you three can call me Master Roku."

"You're going to train Shane and I as well?" Caswell asked.

"You and Shane require different training from Yuma. My advice is to take what I give you in stride and think over the tasks I'll be assigning the three of you." Roku walked away. "In fact, training begins now. You three are to clean this room."

Yuma, Shane, and Caswell looked from each other to the dusty and cluttered room. "What!?"

Tsukumo Residence

Kari was furious. "You sent Yuma to the duel sanctuary? Grandma, the more Yuma gets involved in all this duel stuff, the more danger he'll be in. Think about mom and dad."

Haru took a drink of her tea. "I'd love nothing more than to keep Yuma safe forever, but dueling is in his blood. We can't and won't be able to stop him. Holding him back will only keep him from being prepared for what lies ahead."

Kari put her hand on her chin. "I can't believe this grandma."

"You know, dueling may be dangerous, but it has brought more into Yuma's life than you think." Haru stated. "Rather than fighting him on this, maybe you could be open to dueling yourself. If not for yourself, then to be closer to Yuma and keep an eye on him."

Kari had heard her grandmother, but she sighed before looking out the window.

Café

Lance made it to the café where Joseph was waiting for him. "Sorry I'm late." He took a seat while remembering the spirit of his dragon. "I was busy rearranging one of my decks and lost track of time."

Joseph smiled. "It is quiet alright Mr. Hogan. I can fully understand how one loses track of time perfecting a deck. As I understand it, a huge competition, the World Duel Carnival, will be here before we know it. Given your impressive record, it's natural that you'd participate."

"I am." Lance nodded. "There are duelists I know will be there, and I wish to duel them."

He was talking about duelist other than Kite and Shay. Thanks to Nistro, his eyes were open to all the talent that could be attending. Yuma was getting better every day and Shark had forced him into a tie situation. It was certain to be an amazing tournament.

A waiter sat various baked goods and tea on the table before Joseph next spoke, "I will cut to the point." He produced a deck and slid it over to Lance. "The Sentai Ranger identity is known all over Heartland. Especially with your recent take down of The Pack.

With their defeat, your father's been arresting gangs left and right. I have no doubt Heartland is entering a new age. That is why I'd like you to donate the complete Sentai Ranger costume, equipment, and deck to Heartland Museum."

Lance was looking through the deck. "This deck is meant to be the replacement for my Heroes?"

Joseph nodded. "I know losing your Hero deck would be a serious blow, so I took it upon myself to put together a replacement deck. I know, no duelist would want to give up their deck, but my hope is that this exhibit will go onto inspire future duelist."

"So, that is your intention." Lance looked at the deck before looking at the director. "Mr. Tanner, you've put together a good deck. Do you know how to duel?"

"I dueled a bit in the minor leagues." Joseph replied.

Lance placed the deck on the table. "I will agree to your request on one condition." He produced his hero deck and slid it over to the director. "We duel. I use this deck and you use my Hero deck. If I win, I will give my full support to your exhibit."

Joseph picked up the Hero deck with a smile. "That sounds like a fair deal Mr. Hogan. Come to the museum around noon tomorrow. We'll have our duel then."

Lance took the deck Joseph gave him and tucked it away before eating a few sweets. "Agreed." He took a drink of the tea before standing up. "I'll see you tomorrow sir."

Joseph nodded. "I'll look forward to it."

Sanctuary

Shane was moving along the ground with a towel, Caswell was sweeping with a broom, and Yuma was carrying several boxes around to tidy things up.

"What kind of duel training is this?" Yuma complained.

"I have to agree." Caswell confirmed. "I do not see what cleaning has to do with training."

Shane continued to sweep. "Maybe Master Roku is giving us hard work to calm our minds."

Yuma set his boxes down and sighed before noticing a slightly open door. "Huh, I wonder what the old man has in there?" He walked up to the door and pushed it open only to see a room that shocked him. "No way!"

He ran in and looked at the statues of various monsters once used by powerful duelist of the past. There was Blue-Eyes White Dragon, Red-Eyes B. Dragon, Dark Magician, and Dark Magician Girl. Elemental Hero Flame Wingman, Neos, Cyber Dragon, and Legendary Knight Naruto.

"Wow, all the legendary monsters in one place." Yuma declared.

Shane and Caswell walked up to the door.

"Yuma, we may not like the menial work, but we still have a room to…" Caswell began until he noticed the statues.

Shane smiled. "This is so cool!"

They both walked in as Roku walked out from behind a statue smiling. "I'm glad you like them." He came to stand before the three boys. "I poured my heart and soul into making these statues. One for every student that eventually flies the nest."

He chuckled. "Now that you have seen this room of your own free will, it is time to begin your next lesson Yuma. You and I are going to duel, but not in the traditional sense." He saw the confusion on their faces. "Just trust me. You shall learn much from what we are about to do."

After the Wooden Statue Duel…

"You felt it, correct Yuma?" Roku asked as he walked over to the downed Yuma. "That was the fear a monster feels every time they enter a duel." He smiled. "Of course, they understand this fear better than we ever could. There is one thing that separates understanding from ignorance.

The honoring of sacrifice. Cards are meant to be played, but one must also understand them. Bring out their full power. Once you come that far, truly playing your spells and traps will be easy. As if it's second nature." Roku explained.

Yuma, Caswell, and Shane looked at the statues around them in a new light.

Hogan Residence

Lance sat at the desk in his room with the deck given to him by Joseph. "Phantom Knights. They seem amazing and adding Rebellion and Requiem makes this deck stronger. Still, I feel it's missing something. Something that will drive this deck to new heights.

Something that can put it on par with my Challengers as they stand now. That's honestly something I've never been able to say about my Sentai Ranger deck. No matter how much I believe in it. The only question is, what am I missing?"

Just then, there was a knock at his open door, and he turned to find Zack standing there. "Oh, grandfather. Please come in." Zack walked in and looked at the cards on the desk with intrigue but choose to address those later. "How may I help you?"

Zack said, "I merely wanted to check on how you are doing? Did Nistro help?"

"Yeah, I could tell you were all worried, but I'm back on track now." Lance smiled. "Better in fact. My mind and heart are set on my path to the future. I'll head for the top because it's what I want."

Zack nodded. "I wanted to apologize." Lance looked at his grandfather in shock. "There was a time I went through something similar. Now, we're different, and that's not a bad thing. I don't expect you or your mother to be me.

I've only ever hoped you'd be yourselves. What I'm saying is, this situation… I handled it how I was brought out of my melancholy. Friends and mentors helping you recover. It occurred to me that may not have been the right course of action. I…"

Lance had gotten up and hugged Zack. "Grandpa, it's okay. I'm better now, and I won't easily fall again. Especially because I'm starting to realize just how many people are behind, beside, or ahead of me. Pushing me to move forward and to greater heights."

Zack patted his grandson's head. "Lance, you're an amazing kid. Zach and Talia would be proud of their younger brother and grandma would be happy to see you've come this far." They pulled apart.

"You father, mother, and I will be the ones believing in you." Zack once more glanced at the deck before getting an idea. "Lance, there is something I think belongs to you." He patted his grandson on the back. "Come with me."

Lance followed his grandfather into his room which seemed rather basic with forest green, ocean blue, and a calming white everywhere except for the dresser and bed. Zack walked to a wall with a small hole and removed a necklace from around his neck.

It had a key which matched the hole. He inserted the key and turned it causing a panel to fall revealing a white and forest green box. Zack removed the box and took out a deck wrapped with ocean blue cloth. He tossed it to Lance.

"That deck was once used by one of the toughest duelists I've met. She caused myself, my friends, and my family great suffering." Zack explained. "All this time, I've held onto this deck. Now, after seeing the deck you have, I believe the cards within can only enhance it."

Lance had unwrapped the deck and looked at it. "This deck…" He nodded to Zack. "Thank you, grandfather. This is exactly what I felt that deck was missing. With these cards, I'll have two perfect decks to take the WDC by storm."

"It'll be a tough battle Lance, but I believe now more than ever that you'll reach the top." Zack patted his shoulder. "Remember, believing in your deck, a duelist pride, and preparation are the three pillars that make a great duelist."

Lance nodded. "I have a new deck to make."

He walked out of the room leaving his grandfather smiling. "This generation of duelist is shaping up to be something else."

Duel Sanctuary, Morning…

Yuma, Shane, and Caswell worked to clean every statue in the room while Astral floated above them still contemplating things. Roku observed the boys with a nod. Yuma stopped before the Dark Magician as he noticed that it'd been cut clean in half and put back together.

"Hey, I didn't notice this yesterday. Who would go around cutting such an important statue like this?" Yuma questioned.

Roku turned away with a sad look in his eyes before walking out.

Outside

Roku looked up at the clear sky before sighing. "That boy reminds me so much of how Kaze once was. He was filled with life and a passion for dueling. That statue is a constant reminder of my failure."

He then heard someone walking up the stairs and looked on in shock as a tall, young man with black, light blue hair and yellow eyes stood before him. His attire consisted of a purple and black gi and wrapping around his arms. On his back he carried a bladed staff.

"It's you… Kaze…" Roku stated in shock.

Kaze firmly said, "I bet you never imagined I'd return, right grandfather?"

"I always hoped you'd return one day Kaze. That your travels would shed light upon the corrupted darkness you let overtake your heart; however, it seems to have only grown." Roku stated. "That is my failure because I was not the grandpa my own grandpa was for me."

"Save your words old man." Kaze stated. "My darkness isn't all that's grown. My skills and deck fair surpass yours." He activated his D-pad. "Talk is cheap."

Roku put his gazer on. "If you wish to do this, we shall."

"Let's duel!"

D-pad go

Duel Gazer on

Augmented vision link established

(Roku 4000/Kaze 4000)

"I shall start." Roku declared. "I set one monster before activating Card Destruction. This forces us to discard our hands and draw a new hand equal to what we discarded. Finally, I will set one card."

Kaze drew. "I just drew Palladium Oracle Mahad(LV 7/2500/2100)." A spellcaster in white robes under red armor appeared on the field. "Since I drew it, I can reveal it to you, and special summon it to the field.

I then activate Illusion Magic. By tributing Mahad, I can add two copies of Dark Magician to my hand. That's not all, whenever Mahad is sent to the grave, I can special summon a Dark Magician(LV 7/2500/2100) from anywhere.

I choose my hand." A green robed magician appeared. "With a Dark Magician on the field, I can activate Thousand Knives to destroy one monster on your field." There went Marshmallon. "Now, my magician shall attack you directly."

"You always were hasty my boy." Roku declared. "I activate Magical Cylinder to redirect that damage back at you (Roku 4000/Kaze 1500)."

Kaze grit his teeth "You are only delaying the inevitable old man. You are well past your prime and your skills aren't what they used to be. Today, I shall prevail, and this sanctuary will fall. I set three cards."

Roku drew. "I activate Monster Reborn. This spell allows me to return a monster from either of our graves, and I choose Palladium Oracle Mahad(LV 7/2500/2100)."

"You're an old fool. I activate Dark Renewal. Whenever you normal or special summon, I can target it and a spellcaster on my side. Both are sent to the grave, and I'm allowed to bring a Dark spellcaster from my deck to the field.

I'll choose Magician's Robe(LV 2/700/2000) in defense mode." Purple robes with red trim appeared on the field. "Since it is your turn, I can activate his effect. By sending a spell to the grave, I can special summon the third Dark Magician(LV 7/2500/2100) in my deck."

This time, the magician was all too familiar as he had purple hair and was wearing the set of robes leaving Roku speechless. "What's wrong grandfather? Saddened to see a monster you're so familiar with turned against you?"

Roku grit his teeth. "Kaze, I didn't see it till now, but your monsters are suffering under you. They are screaming in pain. How? How could you do this to the deck you once treasured?"

"You already know the answer so continue the duel." Kaze demanded.

Roku sighed. "I activate Level Modulation. This spell allows me to return a LV monster from my grave to the field on the condition that it can't attack or activate its effects this turn, and you draw two cards. The monster I choose is Silent Swordsman LV 5(LV 5/2300/100)."

A young man in blue robes and wielding a mighty sword appeared. "Its faults are quickly remedied thanks to Level Up! which brings my monster to his ultimate potential. Come forth Silent Swordsman LV 7(LV 7/2800/1000)."

An older swordsman with a more refined sword appeared. "His appearance renders all spells ineffective. Now, I activate Silent Sword Slash granting my Silent Swordsman LV 7(LV 7/4300/1000 effect) 1500 more ATK and DEF. He shall attack your Magician ending this duel."

"This duel won't end this turn old man. I activate Magician's Defense. Since I controled a Spellcaster during that attack, any damage I take is halved (Roku 4000/Kaze 600)." Kaze countered.

Roku grit his teeth. "I end my turn."

Kaze drew. "Now, it is time to introduce you to the new age of dueling. I activate my last face down Eternal Soul. This trap lets me add Dark Magic Attack or Thousand Knives from my deck to my hand or special summon a Dark Magician from my hand or grave.

I'm choosing to return the purple robbed Dark Magician(LV 7/2500/2100) back from the grave. I then summon Gagaga Magician(LV 4/1500/1000)." The navy blue and brown robbed magician appeared. "His ability allows me to declare a level from 1 to 8.

His level will remain as such until the end of the turn. I choose Level 7 allowing me to construct the overlay network with my level 7 Magicians. Xyz summon Ebon Illusion Magician(R 7/O 2/2500/2100)." A charcoal skinned magician with blond hair and navy-blue robes appeared.

Roku took a step back. "An Xyz Magician!"

"This is but one powerful spellcaster. It's ATK and DEF may be nothing special, but its effect is more than worth it. I detach one overlay unit to summon the Dark Magician(LV 7/2500/2100) in my hand." The white-haired magician appeared wearing red robes with white trim. "Now, I will attack your Silent Swordsman with my Dark Magician."

"What is the point of that? My swordsman is stronger. Unless… No." Roku thought.

Kaze laughed. "I see you've realized it grandfather. My Ebon has a unique ability that activates once per turn. When a normal spellcaster declares an attack, he can banish the intended target. This can only be used once per turn, but that's all I need when your swordsman is the only target. With your field cleared, my Magicians can end this (Roku 0/Kaze 600)."

Roku was blown onto his back while Kaze proceeded to walk past him entering the sanctuary.