I thought about it for a long time and after discussing with Citrus, I decided to skip the February chapter and jump straight back into the remaining episodes of the anime. I've been looking very much forward to continue working on the final part.

Estelle has a new outfit for the barbeque party, and you can find the artwork on my DeviantArt account like always.

Special thanks to CitrusUnshiu who is my beta-reader!

The chapter begins in Estelle's point of view.

Disclaimer: I do not own any Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's characters! I only own my OCs!

Chapter 12: An Advancing Future

A lot happened after the university exams. Goodwin and Lazar were busy finishing reforming Sector Security into a new city hall and an ordinary police department. With the threats of Iliaster now gone, it was time to abolish the public security maintenance bureau. The city was almost done constructing new green power plants as part of a plan of preventing the Ener-D Reactor from ever going out of control.

I continued going to the courses in the art school to develop my artistic skills and got the silent treatment by many students after they learned I failed the entrance exam. I didn't care much about that since I didn't socialize much in the art school in the first place. I was only there to learn and get better in drawing and painting.

The girls and I came together to make chocolate for Valentine's Day. I made dark chocolate with peppermint filling for Yusei, basically my own version of After Eight. He helped me reviewing the errors I made during the math part of the exam to figure out what I did wrong. He was very patient with me and gave me pointers whenever I miscalculated an equation.

When Yusei wasn't busy tutoring me, he reviewed notes he got from Misaki after she learned he was becoming a student in the same university. That way, he could prepare himself for his first year, although I had a strong feeling he would quickly catch up to lectures meant for second-years.

Aki, Leo and Luna were finishing up their final exams in Duel Academy before the graduation day, so we barely saw them. Crow returned home as he was one of the few cadets who got to temporarily work for the soon renewed police department. It was mainly so they could get a taste of what was about to come when they graduate the police academy.

Changes for the future were slowly coming along just like the flower bud that was about to blossom after dwelling underground throughout the winter, ready to color the world with vibrant colors to welcome the birth of spring.

XXXXXXXXXX

There was quite a large crowd in front of the new city hall. Citizens and reporters had gathered around the fountain outside of the building, their cameras and equipment ready for action. I was there in the background surveying the area with other officers to make sure nothing would disturb the press conference. My hair had grown a little for the last couple of months so I had it tied in a low ponytail resting on my shoulder. I spotted Carly and Angela among the crowd in a separate corner. I hoped they wouldn't bump into each other and cause a scene. Rumors said the blonde reporter was still very bitter after Carly got a better position at her new job. Lazar's wife and son were also there, standing at the very front row. Even Ish had flown from Lima to participate and support the former director.

Everyone became silent as Goodwin and Lazar walked out of the building, dressed up for the occasion. They walked up the portable stairs to a platform that had been temporarily set up for this press conference. Hologram screens were projected and showed Goodwin's face so everyone could properly see him.

"Greetings, people of New Domino City", Goodwin said, which prompted the press to start taking his picture. "We have all gathered here for a historic moment. As of today, we are disbanding Sector Security and inaugurating a new mayoral organization. Allow me to formally introduce myself. I am Rex Goodwin, the man you have elected as New Domino City's first mayor."

He bowed to the crowd who applauded and congratulated him for becoming the city's first mayor. My colleagues and I also joined in and clapped for him. I was proud of Goodwin. He had changed so much ever since I was brought to this world. His personality was almost unrecognizable, but he did have his moments when he became serious and wanted things to be done his way.

"Thank you for your kindhearted applauds", Goodwin said before he changed his tone. "I have the dream of New Domino City becoming a beacon of hope for the future of mankind! I strive to create a city where there is no discrimination and everyone can be proud of whom they are no matter their background. I hope our children, grandchildren and their children can live in peace and harmony without fearing for their lives being put in danger. That is why I have appointed Lazar Yeager as the director of New Domino City's new police department."

The crowd applauded to Lazar who took the stage after Goodwin stepped aside so he could hold a speech. He swiftly cleared his throat before he paid attention to the people. "Thank you. As the director of the police department, I swear my men and I will protect everyone, children and adults, from any threats that dare step foot into our city!"

Anabel looked so proud seeing her husband be so passionate to protect the city and create a utopia alongside Goodwin. She wiped a stray tear off her cheek with a napkin while Fabian cheered with a huge toothy smile and clapped his hands and waved to his father. Lazar lightly waved to the crowd, but his eyes were definitely locked on his family. He stepped back and allowed Goodwin to continue his speech for the press conference.

XXXXXXXXXX – Aki's POV

I rolled my shoulders with a sigh after my last class of the day was done. The exams were finally over, so I could have some time to relax before graduation which was coming next week. There was a bubbling sensation in my belly just thinking about it. I was soon about to become an adult and had to face the difficulties tied to it.

Mei, Sakura and I stood by the windows where we had a good view of the academy's Duel field. There was an ongoing Duel between two middle schoolers who probably wanted to get some steam out.

"I'm going to miss the Duel Academy", Sakura commented softly. "We've had so much fun."

"Yeah, but it's time for us to start our new lives and chase our dreams", Mei said with a melancholy expression.

"But we'll still stay in touch even when we go in separate ways, right?" I asked.

"Of course, Aki!" Sakura nodded with her hands clenched. "We're best friends forever!"

I thought back at the memories of me and the girls. If it wasn't for Sakura approaching me first, I might have had different memories of my time in the Duel Academy. It could have been a repeat of my first time with no friends. Now, I had two very close friends from school and I've learned a lot from them in many ways.

"Hey, Aki, are you really going to study abroad?" Sakura wondered.

"Yes, I am", I nodded. "I've selected a few medical universities in Germany that have good reputation. I'm going to ask around during the remaining days before graduation and then I'll make a decision."

"So you don't want to become a professional Duelist at all? You're the number 1 Duelist in the academy, so I thought you might've changed your mind."

"Well…", I scratched my cheek sheepishly.

"Aki can decide what she wants to become", Mei intervened, her lips curled into a smirk. "Besides, we know she wants to be a doctor so she can treat a certain someone."

"W-What?" I flushed and nearly choked on my saliva. "I'm not becoming a doctor just to treat Sherry's injuries! I want to save people with my power!"

Mei and Sakura grinned at each other. I instantly realized I had exclaimed my deepest thoughts. I turned away and hid my red face that reflected on the glass in front of me. Good thing the corridor was empty so nobody else heard my confession.

"You don't have to be ashamed, Aki", Mei spoke and patted my shoulder. "We support you."

Sakura grinned at me. "We had a feeling there was something more going on between you two, especially the way you both glanced at each other when the other wasn't looking."

"Really?" I said, surprised and happy that Sherry had actually paid attention to me while I was distracted with something.

The girls nodded and hummed simultaneously. "If you two end up becoming a couple, let's go on double dates when you come back to Japan during vacation", the pinkette suggested.

"Dates…", I mumbled, feeling a little excited about going out with Sherry and have a great time with her. Romantic dinners, long evening walks and more… I giggled as I thought of how far our relationship might go if we did end up together in the future. "I would love that."

"Great! I can't already wait for it!" Sakura smiled in delight.

"Hold your horse, Sakura", Mei told her girlfriend. "We still don't know when we're going to have long vacations and we can meet up around the same time we are all free."

"Yeah, the planning might be a little difficult", I nodded. "You're going to the police academy, right, Mei?"

"That's right", the blackette replied. "I'm following my family's footsteps to protect the city."

"What about you, Sakura?" I asked. "Have you decided what you want to do?"

"I did after I consulted with my mother", Sakura nodded. "I'm going to become a nurse."

"So you will study in the medical field too?" I smiled, happy to hear I wasn't the only one heading in that direction.

"Yes, I want to treat and take good care of everyone. Of course, the best part is I can treat Mei when she comes home after a long shift and treat her bruises."

"That's sweet of you, Sakura", Mei smiled and gently took her hand. "I promise I'll always come back intact."

"You better or else!" Sakura glared at her girlfriend before they started laughing heartedly.

"You two are unbelievable adorable", I giggled, hoping to one day experience such intimate moments with my lover.

XXXXXXXXXX

I watched a rerun of the huge press conference of Goodwin and Lazar earlier today while I rode the bus to the hospital where little Haruka was staying. I met her during the Diablo incident and rescued her after she almost had a terrible accident. Since then, I occasionally visited her after I promised I would buy new cards after she lost hers in the middle of the chaos. We had grown sort of a bond between us. She stated she was a fan of mine after she watched my team participating in the Grand Prix.

I hurried to the ward where Haruka was staying. I knocked on the door to her room before I stepped inside. "Excuse me."

Haruka's eyes lit up in joy. "Ms. Aki!"

"Good afternoon", I bowed to the doctor and the nurse who must have done a checkup just before I showed up. "I'm sorry I haven't visited you lately, Haruka. How have you been?"

"A lot better!" Haruka smiled and adjusted her glasses. "I'm going to be discharged soon!"

"That's true", the doctor confirmed. "She'll be able to leave earlier than scheduled."

"Really? Congratulations", I returned the smile, relieved to hear she was doing much better.

"It's because you're always cheering me on, Ms. Aki", Haruka nodded.

I shook my head. "You should thank the doctor instead of me. He did everything to make sure you'll get better."

"You're right", Haruka turned to the adults. "Thank you, Doctor!"

"You worked hard too, Haruka", the doctor replied with a proud smile. "You should be proud of yourself for being such a courageous girl."

Now that I had found what I wanted to do, I held huge respect for every doctor in the world that treated people and rescued them from diseases. Someday I was going to be the one wearing a white coat and save people with my two hands.

XXXXXXXXXX – Crow's POV

I was relieved to see how much the city had changed in just a short amount of time. Almost two years ago, I was still living in Satellite that only consisted of ruins and garbage barely surviving on scraps and stealing food and cards for myself and my nest. And now I was paying my debts by working as a police officer and dealing with thugs in the prestige city.

I was in the middle of patrol driving around New Domino City listening to the press conference when I stumbled upon Dobocle who was causing problems with an improper Duel Runner. He must have thought he could get away, so he challenged me to a Turbo Duel. It just turned out to be his downfall after Black-Winged Dragon took out the last of his Life Points. He came to a screeching halt with his Runner releasing steam to cool the engine down. He was not pleased to say the least by the outcome.

"You can't drive that Duel Runner!" I scolded him after I stopped next to him. "It's illegally modded!" All I got was a nasty grimace from the criminal. I could have him arrested and tow his Runner, but I decided to be a good cop. "Well, today is the inauguration of the new mayor. So I'll let you off with a warning."

Dobocle's face paled by the sudden kindness I was giving him. Guess he thought it was some sort of manipulation because he took off with a girlish shriek as soon as his Runner had cooled down. I chuckled at his reaction before I switched my eyes to the dashboard of my Runner seeing the press conference was still ongoing with Goodwin holding one of his glorious speeches.

"It doesn't surprise me that Goodwin became the mayor", I spoke to myself. "But what does surprise me is that I'm a cadet working on becoming a police officer."

"Should Crow Hogan, the conqueror of the World Racing Grand Prix, be living in obscurity?"

I held back a grimace while my eyebrow twitched at the sound of the familiar voice. I looked to my left just as a Duel Runner parked next to me. I recognized the driver by his outfit and Runner. "You again."

"Yep", the driver replied amusingly. "I will follow you to the depths of hell."

I sighed tiredly. Ever since I came back to the city for this temporary work, I've been followed and harassed by different scouts from Duel Leagues who wanted to recruit me. This dude was no different. "What do you want?"

"The same as always", the scout replied.

"I already told you I don't want to join any Duel Leagues. Besides, I'm on duty, so I can't have a private discussion right now."

"Then we can continue this after you're off duty. You have my number, so call me when you're ready to consider our offer."

He left as soon as he said that, leaving me alone on the Duel lane. I sighed for the second time in less than a minute. I had no idea it was so tiring getting stalked by strangers. It was clearly the backside of being a popular Duelist.

"I need a change of pace…", I mumbled while I took off to return to patrolling. "Maybe a barbeque or something…"

XXXXXXXXXX – Yusei's POV

I was visiting the newly constructed laboratory where various professors like Zigzix were working on a safe system for the Ener-D Reactor. While I wasn't a professor yet, I wanted to contribute with the notes my late father had written that Goodwin managed to find after Zero Reverse. I made copies of those notes and stored them at home so I could study them whenever I had some spare time during the coming years as a university student. There were some parts I didn't fully understand, which showed that my current knowledge was nothing compared to my father's. He was a fully graduate with a high degree and a proper education. I had to catch up to his level so I could create a program to protect our future.

We were taking a break when Goodwin stopped by to see how the professors were faring and if the laboratory needed more material for the research. When he was done talking to them, he asked me for a private talk, so we went to the cafeteria and sat in the farthest corner hiding behind a screen.

"What do you think of this laboratory, Yusei?" Goodwin questioned.

"It's got everything it needs for the research team", I replied. "I'm looking forward to work here once I graduate university."

"I have a certain feeling you will surpass your father in the near future", Goodwin smiled proudly before his eyes got a lament glance. "Ikuto was determined to complete the first Reactor with a safe system when it started acting up because of the Earthbound Immortals. Alas, he never got to finish what he started, so it is up to you and your generation to pick up the pieces and continue working on his research."

"Yeah", I nodded and sighed softly at the mention of my father. "I know now the future was lost because my other self was ignorant of the danger, just focusing on following his selfish path to become a legendary Duelist. But now… I want to reassure we won't head toward destruction for the sake of us, our children and the next generation. I'm still young, so I can always follow my own ideal future once the world is safe."

"A very noble thought of you", Goodwin chuckled after he took a sip of his coffee. "But whatever you wish to do once you're done here, I want you to stay in New Domino City."

I arched an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"

Goodwin instantly put up his poker face. "Forgive me, I have spoken too much." He finished his cup of coffee and stood up from the booth. "I'll take my leave now. I wish you a good day."

I was left alone with a cup of lukewarm coffee. I stared at my reflection on the beverage pondering about Goodwin's words. Was he afraid I would one day leave New Domino City and settle down somewhere else if I were to choose to join a Duel League in the future? I drummed my fingers on the table. I couldn't exactly predict my future. I wanted to focus on one thing at the time. I could always make a decision later if I still wanted to become a professional Duelist once I was done here.

My smartphone rang for an incoming call. I picked it up from my jacket and answered it in facetime, seeing it was Crow. "Hey, Yusei! Are you busy in the lab?"

"No, I'm pretty much done for today", I replied. "I'm about to go home. How are things with you? You look a little stressed."

"You're right about that!" Crow snorted. "Trudge is the supervisor for us newbies and he works us hard every day. Never knew it was that much work, so I've got a whole lot more respect for officers now. It's still surreal that someone with a marker like me can become a police officer. The city has completely changed."

"No, we changed it. We're going to create the future."

"You're right. We're going to create the future with a bond called Team 5D's."

I noticed his mood dropped a little like he had a lot on his shoulders. "What's wrong, Crow?"

He immediately recovered and hid his burden with a fake smile. "It's nothing!"

I didn't really buy it, but I didn't want to pressure him into talking if he didn't feel ready to share his thoughts. "Didn't you call me because you needed something?"

"Well… We haven't met the others in a while, so I thought maybe we can have a barbecue at the garage. We haven't seen Aki and the twins much because their graduation is coming up, so I thought we could have a pre-party for them as well as a reunion."

"That sounds like a great idea. Let's have the barbecue this Saturday."

"Alright! I'll call the others and ask them, and you can call your girlfriend", Crow teased with a wink.

My cheeks flushed lightly at the teasing. "I'll do that."

Crow's eyes narrowed when he thought of something. "But there's one person who's going to be a problem contacting."

I knew immediately who he meant. "You still can't get in touch with Jack too?"

"Nope. He hasn't answered my emails lately, so I have no idea where on Earth he could be."

"We know he's still alive, so we don't have to worry about that. Estelle said she heard from Carly that he writes to her sometimes."

"What?!" Crow's eyes widened in shock. "He writes to his girlfriend but not to his brothers?! What the heck?!"

"I'm sure he has his reasons."

Crow sighed in defeat. "I'll send him an email. But does he even understand our bond?"

Jack has always been a little difficult to understand even back when we were young. He rarely showed any emotions and concerns for others, but when somebody important to him was in danger he never hesitated to step in and protect them. He went on his own way and wasn't afraid showing it.

"I'll send him an email too and then we just have to wait and see if he shows up."

"Guess so. Well, I've gotta go and write some reports. I'll be back in the evening. See you later, Yusei!"

"See you, Crow."

The call ended so I scrolled down the list of numbers and found Estelle's name. She didn't like facetiming so I called her normally.

"Hello?"

"Hi, Estelle. It's me."

"Hi, Yusei", Estelle's voice chirped up. "I didn't expect you calling me. Aren't you supposed to be in the laboratory today?"

"Yes, but I'm done now. Where are you?"

"I'm still in the police department, but I'm about to leave and go home. Why the question?"

"Crow called me and suggested we should have a reunion barbecue with everyone."

Estelle became silent, but I heard her mumble something very quietly. "So it's time…"

"Huh?"

"Nothing, just talking to myself." It started feeling like some of my friends were hiding things from me today. "The barbecue sounds great. What date and time will we have the barbecue?"

"This Saturday. As for the time, I have to ask Crow that, but I think it's going to be between 6:30 pm and 7:00 pm."

"Gotcha." She got quiet and made noises like she was hesitating asking me something. "Umm… If it isn't too much trouble, do you mind if I show up earlier so I can help you with the preps?"

"I'd be more than delighted", I chuckled. "Knowing Crow's schedule, he'll only be able to come home around 6:00 pm that day, so I'm going to have to buy the food first."

"I'll come over and help you with the shopping too. It's just… I want to spend a little more time with you before you start going to university and become extremely busy."

"Me too", I confessed. "My life is about to become hectic with my studies, and I fear the only times we can go out together is during vacations."

"Maybe, but we can discuss that matter another time. Go home and take it easy and I'll see you on Saturday, Yusei."

"I'll see you then", I nodded. "Bye, Estelle."

"Bye, Yusei. Love you."

"Love you too."

XXXXXXXXXX – Sherry's POV

I had just lost a Turbo Duel against somebody I least expected on my home turf. It didn't come as a sudden request by him. He wrote an email before about his reasons of challenging me as it was part of his personal quest.

"Impressive", I said earnestly. "You had no weaknesses to exploit. I completely lost."

He turned his Runner around so he stood next to me. "You weren't bad yourself, Sherry. You've become stronger since the Grand Prix, but still not strong enough to defeat me."

"Thank you for the acknowledgment", I replied with a slight sarcastic tone.

Mizoguchi drove up to us and parked next to my other side. "Milady, we should return home and prepare for the flight."

"Right", I nodded and turned back to the male blonde. "You got the email from Crow too, Jack? You better show up at the party this Saturday."

Jack responded with a frown before he drove off, leaving us behind in his dust. I held back the urge to roll my eyes at the antisocial man. "Aloof as always."

"He is a man on a mission to regain the throne he lost", Mizoguchi commented.

"True", I replied with a nod. "Well, now that our Duel is done, we can go home and pack."

Our original flight was supposed to be this weekend so I could surprise Aki on her graduation next week, but the plans got changed when Crow invited every Signer to that barbecue. I decided to take an earlier flight, so I rearranged my schedule with my manager of the Duel League I was affiliated with. They were very understanding and said I could take a little longer vacation since I had worked hard lately to build up my career as a professional Turbo Duelist.

Mizoguchi and I went back to our apartment and packed our suitcases with clothes enough to last for two weeks. I was looking forward to see everyone in person again, especially the girl who had a special place in my heart.

"I'm looking forward to see you again, Aki…"

XXXXXXXXXX – Jack's POV

I was almost done with my worldwide tour challenging various Duelists. I flew back to Japan, but not back to New Domino City. I contacted Kalin before and requested a Duel, which he gladly accepted. He was currently away in Rebirth Town, so I drove all the way through the wasteland to get there. We decided on a Ground Duel in the square so we could entertain the villagers. Kids of all ages were thrilled to watch the Duel and cheered for both of us, including those siblings Kalin had grown close to after what happened before.

Kalin's handless strategy didn't work on me this time. My Duel Monsters scorched his to ashes and his Life Points to zero. He collapsed on his knees as the exhaustion ran through him. "You've become strong", he admitted with a light grin. "But by the look on your face, you're not satisfied."

He was damn right about that. "No, not yet", I replied. "There is still someone I must battle."

My training was now officially done. I had challenged countless of Duelists and honed my skills for the last several months. All for the very final person I had to settle the score with after our very first Turbo Duel in New Domino City got interrupted by the Crimson Dragon when it chose us to become its Signers on that fateful day.

"Yusei… I'm coming for you!"

XXXXXXXXXX – Normal POV

It was time for the barbecue party. Leo had finished changing clothes and waited outside of his twin sister's room. He was excited to go and see his idols again after weeks of intense studying with his sister and their friends and just have a good relaxing time with delicious food. The boy's patience grew shorter as seconds ticked by and Luna showed no signs of coming out of her room. "Luna, hurry up and get ready! We're going to be late!"

"Geez, wait a minute, Leo!" Luna called from the other side of the door. "Since we all haven't met in a while, I want to dress nicely!"

"Well, you're right about that…", the twin brother retorted and checked his clothes. He didn't want to wear his usual stuff like a little kid. He was about to graduate sixth grade and literally become a teenager together with his sister in just a few short months. He wanted to be a cool boy like Yusei.

Luna stepped out of her room when she was finally done. Leo's breath got stuck in his throat by the sight of her. She had dressed up nicely with new clothes she had recently bought and even had her hair tucked in a pink hat. Leo had rarely seen his sister dress up, but now he barely recognized her. She almost looked like a different girl.

"N-Not bad!" Leo stuttered.

"Really?" Luna smiled sweetly, pleased to hear her brother's compliment.

"Y-Yeah!" Leo turned away to hide his flushed cheeks. This was getting dangerous. Any boy their age would certainly notice his sister now. His embarrassment quickly switched to protectiveness when he imagined different scenarios of boys hitting on Luna and perhaps tricking her into something unforgivable. Oh no, he wasn't going to let that happen! Nobody will ever take advantage of his baby sister for as long as he shall live.

The twin boy snapped out of his thoughts and shook his head to cool his cheeks down. "We better hurry now!"

"Okay!" Luna followed her brother down to the ground floor. They checked everything before they hurried to the door. They stopped in their tracks when they noticed a light coming from the main monitor.

"We have mail", Leo decided to check it out before they had to leave. He opened the email with a smile when he saw who had sent it. "It's from mom and dad!"

"Really?" Luna pushed herself next to her brother. "What does it say?"

While twins silently read the content of the letter, their smiles slowly dropped into confused expressions. "What's this?" Leo gaped.

"What should we do, Leo?" Luna wondered.

Leo's confusion switched to irritation. "Good lord! They're sending something this important via email? I thought they had changed when they showed up for Christmas, but this proves they are still the same. I'm calling them. What are they thinking?"

Luna checked the wall clock and grimaced at the time. The clock was little over 6 pm. They had time to go to the garage for the party, but she had a feeling the call was going to last for a while, especially concerning the topic their parents had written to them.

XXXXXXXXXX

The twins weren't the only ones getting distracted before the gathering. Aki had spent most of her day calling different universities across Germany asking them for further information. She was currently on her last call with an administration worker from the Medical Faculty of the University of Heidelberg, one of the top candidates she had selected. She had changed her clothes for the barbecue before the call so she could leave straight after she was done.

"Yes, I see", Aki replied, writing down some notes while on the phone. "So I can start studying there on April first this year? That's great!"

"So you will choose to come to our institution, Ms. Izayoi?"

The psychic Duelist pondered for a few seconds. She glanced on an open atlas next to her books. She pointed the tip of her pencil at Heidelberg and moved it down to a certain town in France where Sherry was living. Among the universities Aki had checked out, this one was the closest to the blonde's place.

"Yes", she replied, making a final decision.

"In that case, I need to tell you a couple of important things before I'll register you."

"You mean, right now?" Aki gasped lightly. She checked the clock in her room, seeing it was over 6 pm. She still had some time before the barbecue, but this call had to go fast. "I understand."

XXXXXXXXXX

Crow was supposed to go home and help Yusei and Estelle prepare the barbeque, but he had called his foster brother saying he had something else to do first. And that something was to speak with the unnamed scout. He had waited outside of the police station for the Signer after his shift was done.

They had driven to a secluded area by the harbor with the sun going down the horizon, its strong light coloring the sky and the water in warm orange tones. Crow felt the warm ray on his back while he sat on the railing feeling very conflicted with himself.

"So, have you thought about our offer, Hogan?" the scout wondered.

Crow sighed softly. "A little bit. I enjoy Dueling, but I feel like I should stay here in the city and pay my dues by becoming an officer."

"So you're saying you feel obligated to pay back for your past crimes by staying here and not spread your wings and fly to higher heights? You'd rather clip not just yours but also your Blackbirds' wings to stay grounded?"

Crow bit back an irritated grimace by the way the scout spoke about his precious Duel Monsters, but he inwardly admitted he was right. This was part of his personal punishment to stay chained to obligations he felt like he must fulfill before he could be truly released.

"Let me ask you a different question", the unnamed man spoke up. "Why did you start Turbo Dueling?"

"Why I started…?" Nobody had asked Crow that before, so it came as a surprise to him. He stared down on his lap as he remembered the first time he properly drove Pearson's Blackbird and Turbo Dueled with his Blackwings. "I started Turbo Dueling to keep the cops away from me while I was scavenging for food and other necessaries for the kids. And… I guess I started enjoying teasing the cops as I always got away with the help of my Runner. There was always…a sensation of freedom and I just wanted to continue driving and Dueling to fly and escape reality."

"You just wanted to disappear into the world of Turbo Dueling and discover a whole another world to survive", the scout nodded. "And at that time, did you enjoy Dueling?"

"Of course I did!" Crow got agitated by the question. "I still do to this day! I want to challenge myself with all kinds of Duelists and see how far my Blackwings and I can go with our skills and strength!"

The Signer gasped when he realized he had just poured the truth out of his chest. The deepest secret and desire he had locked away in his heart and he had just spilled it out to a random stranger.

"I see you have your answer of your deepest desire", the scout said with a soft voice, seeing Crow's conflicted expression. "It always feels better to stay true to yourself, doesn't it?"

Crow sighed and sat down on the railing again, rubbing his forehead to get rid of a tiny headache. "But I… I don't know what I want to do."

The scout placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Hogan, if you ever change your mind, know that the Shingon League will always welcome you with open arms. I suggest you speak about your concerns with people close to you so you can ease the pressure in your heart and find your honest answer."

Crow silently nodded in response. He didn't have any words to reply with.

"I will stop following you now and give you some privacy to consider our offer", the scout promised him. "Call us when you have your answer."

Crow just stared forward with hazy eyes while the scout climbed onto his Runner and drove off, leaving him alone with the chilly breeze of the ocean. The young man sighed deeply and scratched his head. "What should I do…?"

XXXXXXXXXX – Yusei's POV

Estelle and I were on our way back to the garage after buying supplies for the barbeque. We each carried a bag of groceries and held hands with our fingers weaved together, both of us already dressed up for the party. We were swiftly done with the shopping so we had lots of time preparing. The Fountain Plaza had turned dark now that the sun was almost gone, the sky shifting from orange and pink to purple and dark blue, giving the area a mysterious atmosphere. I had informed Zora about the party so she shouldn't show up and complain about loud noises.

"We might have overdone it with the food", Estelle commented as we walked up to the locked doors of the garage. "We have enough to feed an army."

"I guess I was a little enthusiastic for the party", I chuckled and opened the twin doors. "And knowing Crow and Leo, they always have a big appetite."

Estelle stepped inside and turned the lights on, the garage coming to life. "That's true."

We went up to the kitchen where we put down the grocery bags. Estelle pulled up the sleeves of her cardigan and put on an apron. "I'll start preparing the food while you wash yourself up and prepare the grill downstairs."

"Alright", I nodded, leaving the food preps in her hands.

I walked to my room to change jackets. Before we left for shopping, I had grabbed some mail that came for me. I dumped the letters on my desk after I saw the printed logos on the envelopes. Some Duel Leagues kept sending me invitations even though I had rejected them numerous times and gave a proper excuse as of why I wasn't interested.

My eyes shifted to the framed picture of our team winning the Grand Prix taken moments before the Ark Cradle threatened to destroy the city. I was holding the trophy while the others popped champagne bottles and sprayed the foam around us, each and every one of us smiling and laughing from the bottom of our hearts, thinking the danger was long gone after Jack, Crow and I defeated Aporia.

The good old days suddenly felt like distant memories as I walked down to set up the grill. This place was once full of life with my friends gathered around with our Duel Runners in the center. I missed the simple greetings from the twins and Aki whenever they came by to just hang out or asked me for help with their homework and the tinkering noise of Crow, Jack and Bruno maintaining the Runners in the early mornings before I woke up after a good night's sleep. I even missed Sherry's unannounced appearances when she dropped by to exchange information about Iliaster and asked for advice about different programs for Runners.

A pair of arms wrapped around me from behind with the sweet scent of onions lingering in the air. "You feel lonely, don't you?" Estelle asked while she rested her chin on top of my shoulder.

"I do", I confessed and put my hands on top of hers that rested on my stomach. "The garage is so quiet without everyone here. I miss the old days with them."

"It's natural to feel this way", Estelle replied, her breath tickling my ear. "This just means you have lots of precious memories about our friends and how much we hung out here. We played together, worked together and shared our endeavors together knowing we had each other's backs and support when we were in our lowest."

"Yeah", I nodded, a soft sigh escaping my lips.

The doors were thrown open when Aki and the twins barged in. Each one of them had a bag of groceries and a box from a pastry shop. "Yusei!" Leo and Luna called out eagerly.

"Sorry we're late", Aki apologized.

"Hi, guys", Estelle greeted back and stood next to me so she could see them.

"It's been a while", I smiled, the empty void in my heart getting filled up by the reunion.

"Were we interrupting something?" Aki asked with a mischievous grin.

"No, not at all", Estelle replied while we walked down to the bottom floor. "We were just reminiscing the good old days."

The twins rushed to us with their stuff. "Yusei, we got some stuff and a cake for dessert", Luna explained.

"Thanks, guys", I nodded and took the bag from Leo. I immediately noticed how much he and his twin sister had grown since last time I saw them. "Did you two grow?"

"We sure did!" Leo grinned brightly. "Soon we're going to be as tall as you!"

"It's hard to believe you were this small not long ago", Estelle chuckled and used her hand to show how short the twins were when we first got to know them almost two years ago.

"I said the exact same thing when I met up with them on our way here", Aki giggled.

The shutter behind us was pulled up by Crow. "Dang, I'm late."

"Yeah, you sure are!" Leo decided to scold him like an adult scolding a child after pulling a mischievous trick. "You thought you could leave the preps in Yusei's hands?"

"Sorry sorry!" Crow chuckled with a small grin.

"We're joking", Aki giggled. "We just got here ourselves."

"Yeah, we haven't started yet", Luna nodded.

"Then let's prepare the barbecue together", Estelle clasped her hands. "Aki and Luna help me in the kitchen while you boys prepare the grill and seats."

"Alright, I'll be with the big boys!" Leo grinned widely.

"You're not a big boy yet, Leo", Luna remarked with a soft giggle.

Crow, Leo and I started the grill outside and set up a large table and some stools so we could sit and eat comfortably. The girls came back down with the plates of cut food and bare skewers so everyone could make the skewers their own way. Aki whipped together her secret family barbecue sauce that I brushed on the skewers before I grilled them. The scent emitting from the cooked food and the sauce stirred up my appetite.

"Hmm! This is so good!" Crow hummed in delight after he took his first bite of his skewer. "The sauce is the crown of the food!"

"Thank you, Crow", Aki replied over her shoulder while she prepared another skewer.

"No wonder the sauce is a secret family recipe", Leo commented with his mouth full. "It's delish!"

"Leo, speak after you swallow the food", Estelle scolded him.

"Sorry", the boy replied sheepishly.

"Too bad Jack and Sherry aren't here", Luna spoke up. "They're missing a good time and good food."

"I miss them too…", Aki trailed off with a soft sigh.

Estelle walked out to the grill with a plate so I could put the cooked food on it. I grabbed one of them to eat before she brought them inside. "I've been meaning to ask you, Crow…", Estelle said while I grilled new skewers.

"Yeah?" he looked up from his half-finished skewer.

"Have you gotten used to the work in the police department yet?"

"Well, kinda", Crow confessed. "Our work is needed for the people of New Domino City and for Duelists. The job is worth doing."

"But do you enjoy it?" Estelle wondered.

Crow hesitated to answer the question. "Well… It has its ups and downs. However…"

"However what?" I asked.

"Well…"

There was that gleam again. The same one he showed when he called me the other day and suggested the barbeque. Something was holding him back and I had a good feeling what it was.

Crow decided to dodge the topic and switched the attention over to Aki. "So, Aki, have you decided where you will study to become a doctor?"

"I actually have", Aki replied.

"Really? Where?" Leo wondered curiously.

The burgundy girl looked away for a second like she didn't want to reveal the location of her university. "It's…in Germany."

"Germany?" Luna blinked in surprise.

"Germany…as in Europe, right?" Leo questioned.

Aki answered with a nod. "I'll start studying there in April, shortly after the graduation."

"So… You're leaving New Domino City?" the female twin spoke quietly.

"Yes."

There was an awkward silence as everyone processed the revelation of Aki leaving the country. Leo swallowed loudly before he opened his mouth. "We received an email today from mom and dad."

"What did they say?" Estelle asked.

"They said that we should live together", Luna responded while glancing to the side.

"That's good, isn't it?" Crow smiled happily for the twins. "A family has to be together."

"But we'll have to leave New Domino City", Luna added.

Crow's smile dropped. "Oh… I see."

"We haven't decided yet, but we're wondering what we should do", Leo's voice shook a little as he tried holding back his emotions.

"Because we want to stay together with everyone", Luna continued talking in her brother's place, tears leaking from her eyes. "We don't want to leave New Domino City. B-But we don't know…"

Estelle walked around the table and placed her hands on the twins' shoulders. The children instantly brought their faces to her abdomen and hid their sadness. "You two feel sad because you're afraid our bond will break up if you leave, is that it?" my girlfriend asked softly.

The twins simultaneously nodded and grabbed onto her clothes, like they were afraid she was going to disappear if they let go of her.

It was now clear what everyone was feeling, and so did I. We were afraid we would lose our bond if we walk in separate ways even if it meant leaving the city. The burned smell brought me back to reality, so I quickly removed the skewers from the grill. "Crow, you are wondering what you want to do, don't you?"

"Huh?" my foster brother gaped.

"I know you received an offer from an overseas pro league."

Crow flinched when he learned I had found out his secret. "H-How do you know about it?"

"I may have been busy preparing for university, but I haven't been blind seeing the invitation letters on your desk", I replied. "That and a scout came over not long ago discussing with me about your career."

Crow nervously chewed on his bottom lip and looked away. "I…still don't know what I should do. I feel very confused."

"So do we", Leo confessed. Luna agreed with a humming nod.

"Well, if I were you, I would seize the opportunity and take the chance while it's still available", a familiar voice spoke up.

We turned our attention to the front door where Sherry stood by the threshold. It was unusual to see her by herself since she always had Mizoguchi by her side. I guess now that Iliaster was gone, he didn't have to watch over her twenty-four hours a day.

"Sherry", Estelle greeted her.

Aki's eyes lit up at the sight of her former teammate. "Sherry! It's been a while."

"It certain has been a long time, Aki", Sherry smiled softly before her eyes shifted back to her stoic face. "Crow, if you are passionate about Dueling, I'd suggest you take the opportunity and pursue doing what you love the most, even if it means you have to sever the bond you have with everyone here."

"Sherry! How can you say that?!" Crow exclaimed angrily. "It's thanks to the bond of Team 5D's I've managed to come this far!"

"But she is right!" a dominant voice called out.

Sherry walked toward us and let the second visitor step inside. Well, it wasn't exactly a visitor, more like somebody who had come home after his long journey.

"Jack!" the twins exclaimed in surprise.

"Welcome home, Jack", Estelle called softly, like she had expected him to show up.

"Man, where have you been?" Crow asked.

"Traveling and training", Jack responded like it was obvious.

"Traveling and training?!" Crow glared, but his expression dropped when Jack threw a card past him, nearly cutting his cheek.

"I've decided to leave New Domino City", Jack revealed with a confident voice.

"What?!" the twins, Aki and Crow gasped in shock. I was surprised by the revelation myself. Sherry and Estelle had neutral expression like they knew about his plans.

"I've received an invitation from Ride Ace, the world's greatest Duel League", Jack explained. "I will become King of the World!"

"King?!" Crow gasped and went to grab Jack by his collar. "You're still talking about that? What about our bond?!"

"You're still relying on our bond?" Jack glared back at the redhead and slapped off his hands. "Don't you want to test your skills against the world?" Crow couldn't give him an answer so he remained silent. Jack turned his attention to me with a knowing glance. "Yusei, you must have also received invitations from various leagues."

"Yeah", I replied, not hiding the truth.

"O-Of course you did", Crow said sheepishly. "Since even I get an invitation, Yusei would be invited by every league."

"But Yusei is going to the university and study to become a professor", Aki intervened. "Right?"

"Right", I nodded. "I want to make sure the mainframe of the Ener-D Reactor is safe first before I can decide what I will do next. I want to make our world a safer place so everyone can have a chance fulfilling their dreams."

"So, no matter what, you are staying in New Domino City", Sherry said with her arms crossed.

"I…", Jack started before he corrected himself. "We have accomplished everything we could do as a team. So what I should do next is create my own future by myself! I want to test my power against the world! I will eliminate anything that stands in my way, even if it's Team 5D's bond!"

"But, Jack…", Crow mumbled. "We're confused because we can't just sever the bond we have."

Estelle stared down before she looked up with a serious face. "It's true we made it this far with the bond we've built upon ever since the Crimson Dragon brought us together. Each and every one of us was still young and hadn't molded our future yet. But now… We've learned from our experience and gained courage to follow our own path, and we got that strength thanks to the bond we have. Because…deep inside, we know we will support each other no matter how far the distance is between us."

"Estelle is right", Sherry nodded. "While I joined your group late, I gained a lot from the short time we were fighting Iliaster together. You taught me how to become human again and find peace with myself. That is how I got the strength to return to my home country and start a new life as a professional Turbo Duelist and make my old dreams come true."

"So… Even if we leave the city, our bond and memories will always be there with us?" Leo wondered.

"The memories will become a power source and a reminder of what you accomplished together with us and motivate you to go forward to your dream", Estelle nodded.

"I see…", Crow mumbled. "When you put it in that way, it doesn't feel so scary."

"Mm", Luna nodded.

"When are you leaving, Jack?" I asked.

"Shortly after Aki and the twins' graduation", my foster brother replied. "I did promise I'll come home for them."

"I appreciate the thought, Jack", Aki smiled lightly.

"So we still have some time spending together as a team before we split up", Crow said.

"However!" Jack spoke out determinedly. "Before I leave for Ride Ace, I have one more person I have to Duel. Yusei, we have a Turbo Duel we weren't able to finish."

My lips curled in the corner as I knew which Duel he was talking about. "The one in Kaiba Dome before the Crimson Dragon showed up, right? We never finished that."

"Exactly", Jack smirked. "I want to leave without any regrets of defeating you."

"I think a Duel will also help everyone to clear their mind", I added. "Dueling has always guided us through our hardships. Since many of you feel confused, we should find the answer by Dueling."

"I look forward to it because I must defeat you before I take on the world!" Jack declared. "We will have our Duel tomorrow morning!"

"In that case, you two are going to need every bit of strength for it", Estelle said. "You two sit down and eat while we grill the rest of the food."

Jack entertained us with stories of his journey while the others grilled the food. After the party, I went to my bedroom to modify my Deck for tomorrow's Turbo Duel. I hadn't had a match with Jack for a long time, so I had a feeling he had become a lot stronger. I had to bring my best cards against him and help everyone guide their way.