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Chapter Text

The night in Fusion Dimension at the Academia was unnervingly quiet. The usual hum of activity, the rustling of Duel Soldiers preparing for a conquest to begin there assigned mission, and the commanding voice of Leo Akaba, also known as the Professor and headmaster of this militaristic institution, had all faded into a tense stillness. But for the 11 year old girl named Serena, who is currently locked within the confines of her lavish yet suffocating room, the silence was a burden rather than a respite. 

She sat on her bed, her green eyes staring blankly at the polished floor. Her duel disk and deck box containing her Lunalight deck, resting on the nightstand, its glow dim in the darkened room. The events of the day replayed in her mind like a broken record, each memory disturbing her for sometime now.

Hours ago, when she attempted to escape the island as she wanted to leave to grasp her future causing her to be chased through the halls of the school by several professors which led her into a corner and started a Battle Royale Duel, then during the middle of the duel, a boy named Reiji Akaba appeared with him summoning his monster to defend her and also offer her a chance to escape, which caused her to accept as she takes his hand as he pulled her up over the wall she was cornered in and with that both of them fled to the harbor and from there Serena realized Reiji wasn't from Duel Academy, causing her to ask him how he was able to get there without a boat.

But before he can answer her question, Leo Akaba appeared with several Obelisk Force members, with Leo telling her that her future was to be here in the Academia which caused her to asked why The Professor was keeping her trapped at Duel Academy despite understanding her abilities, to which he merely responded that the time was not right to use them. Which she argued that now should be the time to add her to the vanguard squad, as the invasion of the Xyz Dimension was about to start soon and then in the near future the Synchro Dimension will be next, which surprised Reiji and also asked his father why he is doing all of this and why did the Professor abandoned the company him and his mother are now trying to manage due to his disappearance.

Then suddenly more Obelisk Force members appeared and then grabbed there arms with Serena trying to break free but failed as she asked to be let go, with The Professor telling her that he would definitely find her and bring her back, no matter where she would run. With the Obelisk Force carrying Celina away as she struggled to free herself as she is being taken away back to her room.

And that was the last time she saw that boy and what led her to the situation she is in now. 

Then suddenly the room grew colder as the night deepened. Then, amidst the stillness, a voice broke through her thoughts. It was old and resonant, each word laced with a wisdom that felt both foreign and familiar.

'Serena'.

As the voice called her softly, yet it reverberated in her mind. She looked around and then she spoke in a shaky but firm voice.

Serena: Who’s there?!.

'Do not fear me, child. I am here to help you. To show you the truth that lies hidden within these walls and set you free from this place.'.

Her eyes darted around the room, searching for the source of the voice, but there was no one.

'We still had some time, take your duel disk and your deck. You must leave this place now.'.

She hesitated. The idea of defying Leo Akaba was terrifying as he can find her, but the voice carried an undeniable authority and is somehow familiar, a pull she couldn’t ignore. With that slowly, she grabbed her duel disk and attached it into her left arm and then grabbed her deck box and then attached it into her waist.

But as she headed to the door of her room she then remembered something.

Serena: But… the door is locked, and the guards—.

Before she could finish her sentence, a soft click echoed through the room. The door swung open, its lock undone. Outside, the guards who had been stationed to keep her inside now lay unconscious on the floor. Causing her heart to race and was about to ask how did this happened until the voice spoke again.

'There is no time for questions. Follow my voice, Serena.'.

Swallowing her fear, she stepped over the guards and into the dimly lit hallway. The air felt heavy, as though the building itself was holding its breath. The voice guided her with unwavering clarity, leading her through twists and turns, down staircases and past patrols. Strangely, no one noticed her. It was as if a veil had been cast over her presence.

After what felt like an eternity, she arrived at a heavily secured room that is owned by the Professor. The door was marked with intricate signs, warning all who approached it are not allowed to enter.

'This is the place, inside that room lies the truth you seek on why your Professor can't let you join the frontlines.'.

The door creaked open at her touch despite it's security measures. Inside, a vast array of monitors and documents filled the room, and with that she began to explore some of the monitors and the files to find the answers she need.

However as her eyes scanned the information, her mind struggling to comprehend the horrors she was reading as she found the plan related onto why they needed to invade the other dimensions is was the same however some of the details in it contain things the Professor didn't mention to everyone including her.

The Arc Project was no noble endeavor—it was a scheme to merge dimensions, to force unity at the cost of countless lives. With the project being only a part of the goal to initiate Revival Zero initiative, a detailed plan for the resurrection of a girl named Ray Akaba, The Professor's daughter that he had lost, by using her and 3 other people that just looked like her. But the methods… they were monstrous. Innocent people would be sacrificed, their lives, including hers will be reduced to mere fuel for Leo’s ambitions.

Her knees buckled, and she collapsed to the floor.

Serena: No… this can’t be… *Her voice cracked, the weight of betrayal crashing down on her* he lied to us… he lied to me…

Tears streamed down her face as anger and despair battled for dominance in her heart. She slammed her fist against the cold floor, her frustration boiling over.

Serena: How could he do this? How could I and everyone have been so blind?!

Suddenly the voice spoke in gentle tone.

'Do not despair, Serena, I have chosen you to correct these wrongs to ensure my original master's wish didn't go in vain. But first, you must trust me. Speak my name, and I shall protect you.'.

She hesitated for awhile, but after that she made up her mind and with her voice trembling she spoke.

Serena: Your name… what is it?

'They call me many names, Kur, Prometheus, The Beginning of the Ouroboros, and many more, but I would like you to call me ████'.

Serena: ████?, I-I see, then please ████. . . take me away from this place.

Suddenly her deck box shined with a purple light and with that Serena covered her eyes as it shined so brightly and then the voice spoke again.

'A contract has been established at long last. . . thank you Serena, I'll ensure that you'll be in a safe place away from here'.

After the voice said that she suddenly blacked out.

At the Academia it was indeed a peaceful night then suddenly a huge earthquake occurred causing everyone to wake up including The Professor.

After a few minutes it stopped and from there the Professor began giving orders along with some checking Serena.

But before anyone can do anything, a massive, horned dragon emerged below from the depths of the building. Its bat-like wings unfurled as it flew into the sky after it damaged the center of the Academia. 

This caused everyone to be alarmed and prepare there duel disc and monsters to handle the dragon as it seemingly flew back to attack them.

However there efforts were useless as all the monster they sent were destroyed with the dragon using it's body to crash into the other buildings and breath out fire to burn them.

After 10 minutes most of the Academia is destroyed with many in critical condition and as the Dragon was satisfied with this, it flew away from the place with a portal appearing after the dragon roared for the final time and as it entered it closed leaving the burning and almost destroyed Academia.

And as the dragon left the Fusion Dimension to travel into another Dimension, it caused the ripples of fate of certain people to change 

Elsewhere

At the Standard Dimension 

Nighttime

In the Hiragi Household 

At a room owned by Yuzu Hiragi, the owner of room is currently and failing to fall asleep

Why?, She doesn't know, however what she knows is that something big is about to happen due to her bracelet glowing out of nowhere just when she's about to fall asleep earlier,

Then suddenly the whole house trembled as huge wind gusts seemingly hit the house causing her to yelp and also waking up her father Syuzo Hiragi who checked if she's alright and hugs her due to the event that just occurred.

After awhile the wind gusts died down and with that both father and daughter go outside the the house to see the damage that wind had caused, along with the other neighboring houses opening there lights and exiting there homes to see what's going on.

However they found none, but what they found in front of the Hiragi household is a girl with indigo hair that also features two light blue bangs, with the indigo part of her hair tied into a ponytail by a large yellow ribbon, and is wearing a magenta short-sleeved shirt with purple lining and pointed shoulders over a peach shirt with three yellow stars in the middle and a white collar, white shorts with black shorts underneath and white boots with peach soles, magenta toes and yellow stars on the toes. With her right wrist having a thin, metal bracelet which seems to have a slightly larger circumference than the girls wrist, with it consisting of two rings, with the smaller ring locked into the larger one by two metal loops on either side. A single purple, star-shaped gem sits on the bottom of the smaller ring in the center of a metal platform that allows the gem to rotate back and forth inside of the smaller ring.

But the last thing that everyone noticed and was shocked at is that she exactly looks like Yuzu.

After Serena wished for ████ to take her away from the Academia which caused a bright light shining in her deck that now dies down, Serena noticed that she was now in a forest where the moon is up high with the stars joining and as she looked around and was wondering where she is, a female voice called her.

'Welcome to your consciousness, Ms. Serena'.

As she looks at the source of the voice, she saw a woman making her presence known and is heading towards her, with her noticing that the woman has grey eyes and has shoulder-length, pale gray or silver hair with a slightly tousled, somewhat messy appearance, with several strands being longer in the front than others with her skin tone light, almost porcelain-like. With the woman wearing a white beige, sleeveless top with a low, modest neckline, with the top featuring intricate detailing, suggesting a layered or textured fabric with a slightly transparent quality. Over this, she wears a long, flowing light-colored robe or shawl draped over her shoulders. It seems loose and ethereal. The clothing is accented with brown straps and belts at the waist and hips, suggesting practicality. Subtle hints of gold are visible in some of the clothing embellishments. With the woman's wearing several accessories that seem to be part of her outfit rather than strictly decorative. These include what appears to be a choker necklace, a long pendant necklace with a light-colored stone, and several bracelets on her wrists. Most significantly, she holds a long staff or wand with a golden, ornate top that emits a luminous glow.

Serena: W-Who are you?

Milla: My Name is Milla, and I'm one of ████'s friends.

Serena: Oh I see, where is he now?

Milla: He is currently talking to some of his friends that he's now visiting as years ago due to. . . unfortunate circumstance we all have to part ways for good reasons.

Serena: Oh.

Milla: But with that aside you're wondering when I said when we're in your consciousness right?

Serena: *Nods* What do you mean by that exactly?

Milla: Because you made a contract with ████ it made your body exhausted as it tries to stabilized itself so you can have the ability to talk to us Duel Monsters or Duel Spirits as some call us.

Serena: Duel Monsters, Spirits?

Milla: Yes, we are the ones that duelists like you summoned whenever you guys duel someone, take your Lunalight's for example.

Serena: So I can-

Milla: Yes, you can communicate with them now, it's cool isn't?

Serena: Yeah.

Milla: Oh by the way since you made a contract with ████ you can use him and me whenever you duel someone.

Serena:  But if I add new cards, won’t it disrupt my strategy? What if it makes me lose?

Milla: Hmm. . . That's true, however every card that you'll draw can help you in any situation you're in despite it being different than the cards you always use. So you always have to believe in your cards no matter the odds you're in okay?

Serena: Okay. . .

Milla: What's wrong Serena

Serena: Nothing, it's just. . . I'm wondering why ████ choose me to make a contract with, after all he seems to trust me that much despite my situation back in the Academia.

Milla's soft eyes regarded Serena with a mixture of sympathy and resolve. She knelt beside the girl and gently placed a hand on her shoulder and then spoke.

Milla: Is that so. . . do you want to know why, Serena?

Serena: Y-You know why ████ offers to help me?

Milla: I do, and the reason for why he trusts you is because you look exactly like our original owner, Ray Akaba

Serena: She's your original owner?!

Milla: *Chuckles* Yes, we're given as a birthday present from the person she cares the most and despite us having different effects, with the others needing specific summoning methods to summon them, Ray used us very efficiently and because of that she managed to win most of the tournaments she's in and whenever she lost from an opponent, she congratulates them as she knew the both of them gave there all, it was fun times indeed.

Serena: Having fun huh. . . but what happened to her?

But before Milla can answer with a solemn look that Serena luckily failed to notice, Serena's bracelet suddenly glowed, causing Milla to smile and spoke.

Milla: We can discuss that for another time, Serena, but for now it's time for you to wake up in the real world, after all you'll be surprised on who you'll find there when you wake.

Serena: I see, see you later then Milla.

With that Serena disappears after her bracelet glowed brightly and dies down, with Milla smiling as she retreated back in the forest.

To be continued

Chapter Text

At the Hiragi Household

In the living room

As the sun begins to rise with the sunlight's rays passing by the glass of the household, the light reached to the couch where Serena is currently resting.

When it reached her face it caused her to wake up to which after a few minutes she noticed that she's in someone's house and was seemingly sleeping in a couch and infront of her was a man with brown/orange hair sleeping in a chair.

At the same time she noticed the man, the latter also woke up after rubbing his eyes and after doing that he noticed Serena awake and from there an intense atmosphere filled the room as neither both of them know how to react.

After all she is placed in the couch by Syuzo himself with him sleeping in a chair close to where Serena is sleeping so that incase she woke up and was confuse as to where she is. But now seeing the girl staring at him with a hostile look, which meant that her see him as a threat to her own safety, Syuzo immediately spoke.

Syuzo: Now, now little lady no need to be hostile, I'm not going to hurt you?

When he said that Serena looked at him for a few more seconds to see if there is hint of deception in his looks and to what he said and she found none, causing her to calm down a little with her guard still up and with that she spoke.

Serena: W-Where am I?

Syuzo: You're currently in my house, we've found you unconscious outside,

Serena: Is that so?

Syuzo: Yep, My name is Syuzo Hiragi, what's your name little lady?

Serena: Serena,

Syuzo: You don't have a last name?

Serena: I'm. . .I was raised in a orphanage,

Syuzo: I see, do you remembered what happened so we can help you find the orphanage you're in, you may have some friends that missed you there?

This caused Serena to flinch a little does he know how wrong he is.

However before she can say anything someone enters the living room and as she looked at who it was, her eyes widen in shock as she saw someone who exactly looked like her but has has blue eyes and dark pink midback-length hair, which she wears two blue flower hair clips to tie her pigtails, with her hair also featuring two lighter pink bangs that fall to the side of her face and is wearing a bracelet in her right wrist that has just like Serena's but is double-banded bracelet and has two pink stones set on either side of the bracelet where the bands intersect, framed by a simple rose design.

As Serena finished analyzing, the girl who looked like her suddenly goes near her and spoke.

Yuzu: So I'm not really tired that night you really looked like me, my name's Yuzu, what yours, why do you look like me, where do you come from, how did you-.

Syuzo: Alright calm down Yuzu your going to overwhelm Serena from asking too much questions at this rate.

Yuzu: Oh so that's your name, then-.

Before Yuzu can say anything Syuzo stopped her as he pinched her daughter's cheeks which caused Yuzu to pull out a harisen out of nowhere and smacked it in her fathers head, causing a small bump to form at the area where Yuzu's paper fan hit, which amused Serena as the two bicker for awhile.

'Ufufu they're interesting aren't they Serena'.

Serena's eyes then widen as she looked at her left and saw Milla floating beside her with her giggling at her reaction.

Serena: How-.

'Now, now before you get those two's attention I'll give you the short version, since you made that contract with ████ you also have the ability to talk to use while you're also awake and we can talk telepathically so you can avoid being suspected of talking to nobody, and so I'm her to teach you how to talk to me in a telepathic way so here's how it works-'.

With that Serena was told by Milla to focus on what she wanted to say to her without speaking and after a few seconds Serena managed to speak to Milla telepathically.

"Like this?".

'Yes, now that's better, with that of the way and after watching you interact with Mr. Hiragi and her daughter, I'm assuming that you some sort of alibi so no one can suspect you're from a different dimension, right?'.

"Y-Yeah It'll really make them freak out if I said something insane to them, after all I don't know which dimension I'm in".

'I see, too give you some context you're currently in the Standard Dimension, where Ritual and Tribute Summoning are the only summoning methods used, however this is also where Reiji, the boy you met lived, so to say if what ████ said is correct, summoning methods from other dimensions including yours will appear soon'.

"I see. . .".

'But back to our topic, it'll be best if you lie to them that you can't remember anything for now'.

"O-Okay".

'*Looks at Serena as she notices the hesitation while communicating telepathically* Are you alright?'.

"Y-Yeah, it's just. . .they seem to be nice people and-".

'I understand, however since only you and that Reiji boy knew what is currently happening, this is the best decision you can say to them until we can find a way to them without worrying them, will that be okay for you?'.

". . .*sighs*  Fine that seems to best course of action for now-".

Yuzu: Hey Serena are you alright?

Serena's eyes then started at Yuzu and Syuzo as there faces looked she got them worried to which she tells them that she's trying to remember what happened that led her here and sadly she can't remember which disappoints Syuzo a bit as it'll be difficult to find which orphanage Serena lives, but seeing she looks like Yuzu, he might need his friend's help to solve his dilemma.

After that Syuzo cooked them breakfast as it was now 7 AM with Serena surprised at the food Syuzo is cooking, as back at the academia they are only given food that is needed for them to go through the day.

This caused Syuzo to chuckle as he can see Serena's mouth watering seemingly because of how the food smells and looks, which causes the latter to blush in embarrassment with Yuzu giggling also at her expression.

And just as Serena thought, the food Syuzo cooked is really delicious, which caused her to thank Syuzo for the food which made him and Yuzu glad that she's enjoying it.

While eating breakfast Syuzo asked Serena if she knows how to duel as he noticed she has a deck when they found her, to which she responds yes and took whole pride with her deck as it's really strong, causing Yuzu to be interested on what cards Serena has in her deck since both of the Hiragi's never looked at it as a sign of respect to a fellow  duelist, which caused Serena to thank them and also realize and ask where did her duel disk go.

It was from there Syuzo told Serena that her duel disk is being repaired as they also found it destroyed while she unconscious and they'll be picking it up later when they headed to the duel school Syuzo is managing named You Show Duel School, which caused Serena to ask what did they do at the Duel School.

This made Yuzu and Syuzo explain all about the Real Solid Vision System that lead to the creation of action duels which gives way for people to become a Entertainment Duelist, also known as Dueltainer's, Duelists that are prepared to entertain the public with their Action Duels which involves a flashy presentation, death-defying acrobatics with the help of their monsters and a bit of humor. 

However Syuzo tells Serena that according to a friend of his impressing the audience is not the essence of the Dueltainer's Duel, but rather the ability to reach the audience's hearts and make those waver, which amazed Serena as there are duelists like that and wanted to see how they perform. Which caused Yuzu to whisper something to her father, with the latter agreeing to what his daughter said.

After that they finished eating breakfast and then after all of them take a bath, with Yuzu lending Serena some of her clothes, causing her to now wear a red short-sleeved shirt, and black shorts. They headed to a duel disk repair shop where her newly repaired duel disk is, with the blade of the duel disk instead of being a blue sword, it now becomes a blue rectangular model with angular blade.

While Serena was amazed at her newly repaired duel disk, the one that repaired it also apologized that they had to replaced most of the parts of her duel disk with new parts as almost of it was destroyed, to which Serena understands and was also grateful now that she feels confident that the Professor won't find her here anytime soon.

With that the three headed to You Show Duel School and as they head there, Serena was deep in her thoughts as she thinks of the situation she is now currently in.

It's true that she still wants to battle strong opponents to prove her strength, however after learning about the Professor's plans for her, she felt her determination to prove her strength waned and is beginning to fade away which might affect her future duels if she ever dueled.

And so she began to ask herself what' she's going to do here on out? And sadly she can't find an answer to her question which frustrates her.

But before she can dive deeper into her thoughts were disturbed when Yuzu informed her that they are now infront of You Show Duel School, with the duel school a different but unique appearance which surprised her.

When they entered You Show, Yuzu began to tour Serena around the school with Serena impressed on how clean and tidy the school is. It is also there where she saw an poster ad of a man with black hair with inky-green shading and wears a purple top hat with green goggles on the bottom side. With the man being fair skinned and has golden eyes, and a slight mustache and goatee, and was wearing a red jacket with a purple lining and red pants over an orange waistcoat with a blue collar and lined with yellow, with a handkerchief around his neck. 

As Serena looked at the ad Yuzu tells her that is one of the founder of You Show Duel School alongside her father, Yusho Sakaki, with Yuzu telling her that he's one of the best dueltainer's in the world and is currently about to duel someone named 'The Sledgehammer' soon but might arrive here, after his duel with him, sparking Serena's curiosity to meet him later.

Minutes later they arrived at the place where students can action duel and as Yuzu distanced herself from Serena, she turned around and spoke.

Yuzu: Hey Serena *raised her right hand and pointed a finger at Serena and smiled* I challenge you to a duel!

Serena: Eh?!

Yuzu: I've been noticing you've been down a lot lately, especially when your looking at you deck box and duel disk. Regardless I want to help you smile and show you the capabilities of a dueltainer. Can you duel me Serena?

Serena: I would like to but. . . I don't know *looks at her deck box* I've felt my entire life that I had to duel to prove my strength someone.

Yuzu: Eh, you remembered something about your past?

Serena: A little but my memories are a still fuzzy, but I felt that I discovered something that I can't remember and it make me felt everything I'm doing back then is worthless.

Yuzu: I-I see, I don’t know what happened to you, but if you’re feeling like what you’ve done doesn’t matter, then maybe you just need a new reason to duel. Something beyond just proving your strength.

Serena: A new reason?

Yuzu: Yeah! Dueling isn't just about power or strength. It’s about connecting with people. Sharing your feelings, your passion—your heart—with them through the cards. That’s what a Dueltainer does! *She then spreads her arms wide, grinning*

Serena: *Tilts her head* Sharing... my heart? Now that you mentioned it when you told me about dueltaining it sounds... silly to me for a moment.

Yuzu: *Laughs softly* Maybe it sounds silly, but it's true! My dad always said that duels are like conversations. You can tell your opponent what you’re feeling through your moves, your strategies. Sometimes words aren't enough, but in a duel, you can truly understand someone.

Serena: Understand someone... through a duel?"

Yuzu: *Nods enthusiastically* Exactly! And if you let me, I want to understand you too, Serena. Through our duel. So, how about it? One duel, just for fun?

Serena: *Looks at her and then opens her deck box containing her deck and then she puts her deck in her duel disk and then smiles a little* Okay then, I'll duel you but I won't go easy on okay.

Yuzu: I know you won't! *Prepares her deck and duel disk as well*.

As they both did that a automatic voice spoke. 

'Action Field: Plain Plane's Activated'.

Suddenly there surroundings changed and from there Serena noticed that she and Yuzu are now standing in a yellow circular like platform with a small river surrounding it, with a large grassy plain with trees also appearing in the distance along with a clear sky with some clouds floating above them.

As the Action Field is about to finish manifesting Milla appeared beside her once again and then speak to her telepathically.

'I forgot to mention Serena, can you try not to fusion summon during this duel since you know'.

"Oh. . .I can try but-".

'Don't worry about that, one of my old friends shall also help you in this duel and he agreed to you temporary ace monster for awhile'.

"He?".

'You'll find out soon enough, good luck'.

As the Action Field Fully manifested Yuzu spoke

Yuzu: I hope you remember what dueltainer's like me say in this kind of duel.

Serena: I got it ma'am *clears their throat and then spoke* Duelists locked in battle!

Yuzu: Kicking the earth and dancing in the air alongside their monsters! 

Serena: They storm through this field! Behold!

Yuzu: This is the newest and greatest evolution of Dueling! ACTION- *snaps her right hand's fingers*

Serena and Yuzu: DUEL!!!

With that the screen of there duel disk showed they have 4000 lifepoints and then they draw 4 cards on the top of there deck after it shuffled earlier while they said that with an AI voice saying the action cards have been dispersed.

And as Serena looked at her opening hand, with it consisting of:.

-Lunalight Blue Cat, Lunalight Black Sheep, Magic Cylinder and Lunalight Reincarnation Dance.

As Serena looked at her hand she picks up Lunalight Black Sheep, Lunalight Reincarnation Dance and Magic Cylinder and then spoke.

Serena: I'll go first, I set one monster face down and then I'll set two cards with that I end my turn.

After she does that with a card remaining on her hand, Yuzu spoke.

Yuzu: Alright then, it's my turn I draw *Draws 1 card and adds it to her hand*

For Yuzu, her opening hand consists of:.

-Melodious Illusion, Solo the Melodious Songstress, Canon the Melodious Diva, Aria the Melodious Diva and the card she added into her hand, Changing Destiny.

With that Yuzu spoke as she choose how she'll play this turn.

Yuzu: Alright, If my opponent controls a monster and I control none, I can special summon Solo the Melodious Songstress from your hand, and I special summon her in attack position.

As she said that Solo the Melodious Songstress(LV4/ATK:1600) appeared in Attack position.

Yuzu: Next since I control a Melodious monster, I can special summon Canon the Melodious Diva, and with that I special summon her in attack position aswell.

Canon the Melodious Diva(LV4/ATK:1400) then appeared beside's Solo the Melodious Songstress.

Yuzu: Then I activate Canon the Melodious Diva's effect. Once per turn I can target 1 Melodious monster, then I change its battle position. I choose to change Canon the Melodious Diva's position into defense

Canon the Melodious Diva(LV4/DEF:2000) then goes into a defensive stance.

Yuzu: Now let's Battle, Solo the Melodious Songstress attack the monster Serena set!

With that the monster card that Serena set is revealed to be Lunalight Black Sheep, with it being destroyed as Solo the Melodious Songstress attacks it. 

It was there that Serena spoke.

Serena: Thanks for doing that Yuzu.

Yuzu: Eh?

Serena: Since you destroyed a monster I control, I can active my Trap Card, Lunalight Reincarnation Dance. This allows me to add 2 "Lunalight" monsters from my deck to my hand.

With that Serena looks at her duel disk and choose two Lunalight monsters from her deck, with her choosing Lunalight Purple Butterfly and Lunalight Emerald Bird, with her getting those card from her deck and adding it into her hand.

After she does this Yuzu then spoke.

Yuzu: I set 2 cards facedown *Sets Melodious Illusion and Changing Destiny* and with that, I end my turn.

With that Yuzu then looked at Canon the Melodious Diva and with the latter nodding, Yuzu was picked up and then they left the platform with Solo the Melodious Songstress following both of them, which confused Serena for awhile, until she remembered the purpose of action fields and with that she immediately spoke.

Serena: I summon Lunalight Blue Cat in attack position!

As Lunalight Blue Cat(LV4/ATK:1600) appeared Serena climbs at Lunalight Blue Cat's back and with that both of them followed Yuzu and her monster and as that happened, Serena spoke.

Serena: I activate Lunalight Purple Butterfly’s effect from my hand! By sending her to the Graveyard, I can boost a ‘Lunalight’ monster on my field by 1000 ATK until the end of the turn. I choose Lunalight Blue Cat!

A vivid purple aura enveloped Lunalight Blue Cat, its ATK soaring from 1600 to 2600 as it bounded forward toward Canon the Melodious Diva, determination blazing in its eyes.

When this happened both girls noticed two action cards in a tree and with that Serena spoke.  

Serena: Battle! I attack Canon the Melodious Diva with Lunalight Blue Cat!

After she said that, Lunalight Blue tossed Serena towards the tree to get one of the action cards, to which she managed to get and after landing safely and quick reading it she plays it and said.

Serena: Action Magic: Flame Surge! This makes me target 1 monster in my field, then they gain an additional 400 attack point's, also each time the monster I chose destroys a Defense Position monster by battle, I can Inflict damage to you equal to the destroyed monster's DEF. I target Blue Cat to use this card's effect!

With that Lunalight Blue Cat(ATK: 2600-3000) gains additional and as it was about to strike Canon the Melodious Diva, the Latter passed Yuzu to Solo the Melodious Songstress as she's getting close to the tree, with Solo then tossing Yuzu towards the remaining Action card in the tree and manages to grab, read it's effect and then she plays it saying.

Yuzu: Action Magic: Acceleration, When a card or effect is activated that would inflict damage to me, I can make the effect damage that I'll take go to 0. 

As this happened Lunalight Blue Cat destroys Canon the Melodious Diva, however due the effect of Yuzu's Action Card, Yuzu receives no damage.

Seeing this Serena sighs in relief to see Yuzu wouldn't go down that easily and with that she says.

Serena: I end my turn, at this moment, Lunalight Blue Cat's attack points return to normal (Lunalight Blue Cat(ATK:3000-2600-1600)

Yuzu: Alright, my turn, I draw *Draws the Spell card, Cards From the Sky and then plays it saying* I play the spell card, Cards From the Sky. I'll discard a Light Fairy-Type monster in my hand and then I draw 2 cards, however I can't Special Summon or conduct my Battle Phase this turn. I discard Aria the Melodious Diva so I can draw 2 cards.

With that Yuzu then drew 2 new cards with those being:.

-Shopina the Melodious Maestra and Serenade the Melodious Diva.

Satisfied, Yuzu announces that she ends her turn.

Serena, noticing that Yuzu is playing cautiously, smirks and then she draws a card as it now her turn, with the card she draw being Lunalight Fusion, which caused her to frown a little as she remembers Milla's warning. 

However since she has Emerald Bird then-.

Serena: I summon Lunalight Emerald Bird in attack position. *Lunalight Emerald Bird(LV4/ATK:1200) appeared beside Lunalight Blue Cat, then Serena continued* I activate Emerald Bird's effect, If I normal or special summon her, I can send 1 Lunalight card from my hand to the graveyard, and if I do that, I can draw 1 card. *Picks up Lunalight Fusion* I discard Lunalight Fusion to draw 1 card from Emerald Bird's effect!

With that Serena draws 1 card, with the card she drew being the Spell card, Black Hole.

Seeing it, she sets it and put Emerald Bird in Defense Position(DEF:1000) then ends her turn.

After that Yuzu draws a card as it's her turn now, with it being a Quick Play Spell named, Mystical Space Typhoon. As she add to her hand, Yuzu takes Serenade the Melodious Diva from her hand and then spoke.

Yuzu: I summon Serenade the Melodious Diva in Attack Position *Serenade the Melodious Dive(LV4/ATK:400) then appeared beside Solo the Melodious Songstress* However she won't stay for long as I activate her effect, I can use her as 2 Tributes for the Tribute Summon of a Fairy-Type monster, and so I tribute summon her to summon Shopina the Melodious Maestra!

Serenade the Melodious Dive then disappeared in a flash of light as Shopina the Melodious Maestra(LV7/ATK:2300) replaced her.

Yuzu: Next I activate Shopina the Melodious Maestra's effect! I can target 1 Light Fairy monster in my Graveyard and then I can add it to my hand. I add Aria the Melodious Diva back to my hand. *Adds Aria the Melodious Diva back to her hand* Now let's battle, I attack your Lunalight Blue Cat using Shopina the Melodious Maestra

As Shopina is about to attack Serena then spoke.

Serena: I activate my Trap Card, Magic Cylinder, When my opponent's monster declares an attack, I can target the attacking monster, then negate the attack, and if I do, I can inflict damage to my opponent equal to its Attack Points.

Yuzu: Then I chain it by activating my Trap Card, Melodious Illusion. By activating Melodious Illusion, I choose 1 Melodious Monster I control, for the rest of this turn it's unaffected by your Spell or Trap card effects, and it can make a second attack during each Battle Phase!

After that a replay occurs, but because of Melodious Illusion, Magic Cylinder can't activate it's effect on Shopina and with that Serena recieves 700 Damage(Serena: 4000-3300).

Seeing this, Serena then says Lunalight Blue Cat's effect.

Serena: I activate Lunalight Blue Cats effect, when she's destroyed by battle or card effect, I can special summon a Lunalight monster from my deck, and I summon a second Lunalight Purple Butterfly from my deck in Defense Position!

Lunalight Purple Butterfly then appeared in a defensive stance(LV3/DEF:1000)

Yuzu: But despite that Shopina can still attack for a second time and so I attack your Emerald Bird, with Shopina!

With that Shopina attacked Emerald Bird, sending her to the graveyard and there Yuzu then attacks Purple Butterfly by using Solo the Melodious Songstress leaving Serena no monsters in her field as Yuzu ends her turn after setting Mystical Space Typhoon facedown.

Despite the situation Serena is in, she prepares to draw a card as it was now her turn and as she draws, her eyes widen and with that she also spots a Action card that was in a bush close to the tree they are in, which she picks it up, and in turn it surprised Yuzu as she didn't noticed an action card was there before.

Then Serena sets the card beside the left side of the center drew face down and ended her turn.

After Serena does that, Yuzu draws a card, with it being the trap card, Counter Gate.

As Yuzu suspects Serena had something in her Spell/Trap Zone that could help her change the tide she then spoke.

Yuzu: I activate my quick play spell, Mystical Typhoon, with this I can target 1 Spell or Trap on the field, and then I can destroy it, I choose the one in the middle!

Unfortunately that is where Serena placed her Black Hole, But as Yuzu does this, Serena spoke

Serena: Counter Trap Activate, Judgement of Anubis! By discarding one card from my hand, I can negate the activation of your spell card, then I choose I monster in your field and destroy it, after that I can inflict damage to you equal to the destroyed monster's attack points! I discard the action card I have in my hand to destroy Shopina and with that you'll receive 2300 damage!

With that Serena discarded the action card she got and with that Shopina was destroyed, making Yuzu receive the damage from Shopina's attack points(Yuzu:4000-1700), which sends the latter to drop into the grassy ground as the wind blew her away.

But as this happened a Action Card flew to Yuzu and she immediately grabbed it after after recognizing the picture and then plays it.

Yuzu: Action Spell, Energy Biscuits! This let me gain 500 Life points!(Yuzu: 1700-2200)

After she says that Yuzu stands up with Serena being concerned as she might've overdone the damage Yuzu took, but Yuzu gave her a reassuring smile which relaxed Serena and with that she sets Counter Gate besides Changing Destiny facedown as she knows whatever that she's about to target earlier is seemingly important and she needs to prepare for it as she begins to look for an action card with the help of Solo the Melodious Songstress

With that Serena draw a card to begin her turn and as she looks at the card she then immediately plays it while following Yuzu but keeping a considerable distance as they are dueling.

Serena: I activate the spell card, Pot of Desires! By Banishing 10 cards from the top of my deck face down, I can draw 2 cards.

This made Yuzu shocked as Serena is making a gamble, a gamble Serena is seemingly ready to take.

With that Serena banishes 10 of her cards and draws two cards, and she looked at them it surprised her at first but then she smiled and then spoke.

Serena: I summon Milla the Temporal Magician in Attack Position!

As she said that Milla(LV4/ATK:1800) appeared beside Serena, with Yuzu looking at the Spellcaster in awe due to her beauty, with Milla smiling as she finally got to be summoned in a duel after so long.

Serena: Then I activate her special ability, If I normal summon her, I can target a set card that my opponent controls, and then I can take a look at, my opponent cannot activate Spell or Trap Cards in response to this ability! I chose the set card that you set a few turns ago

With that Milla's staff glowed as she pointed it at the set card, flipping it face up and revealing it to be Changing Destiny which surprised Serena for awhile, but as it was flipped face down again she looked at her last card and played it as she began running to look for another action card.

Serena: I activate my spell card, Galaxy Cyclone, I can target 1 Spell or Trap card that was set on this field and then destroy it, I target the one that I didn't use Milla's ability on.

After Yuzu saw her Counter Gate was destroyed she quickens the pace of looking for an action card and is hoping to use her last set card later to make there duel longer and increase her chances of winning.

However Serena managed to find another Action Card on top of tree's branch and with that she spoke.

Serena: Battle, Milla the Temporal Magician, attack Solo the Melodious Songstress, then I activate the Action spell, Double Attack, this let me choose a monster I control, with it's attack point being doubled until the end of this turn(Milla the Temporal Magician(LV4/ATK:1800-3600). Now attack Milla, Ethereal Blast!

Milla then pointed her staff to Solo the Melodious Songstress with end of her staff gathering a a lot of energy that glowing that it almost lightens up the action field and then she lets it go so it can his Yuzu's monster.

With no other choice Yuzu quickly played her remaining set card.

Yuzu: I activate my trap card, Changing Destiny, I can negate a monster's attack and put that monster in Defense Position

Milla then goes into a defensive stance(Milla the Temporal Magician(LV4/DEF:1000), after that Yuzu continued to speak

Yuzu: And then you have to choose one of the two options, You can either gave me life points equal to half the monster's attack points or you take damage equal to half the monster's attack points!

This caused Serena to think for a second and then after awhile she choose the second option, causing her to receive 1800 damage(Serena: 3700-1900) and since Serena has no more cards to play she ends her turn with Milla's original attack points returning to normal(Milla the Temporal Magician(LV4/ATK:3600-1800)).

After that Yuzu draws a card, but she frowns as she can't use it for the moment and so she summons in attack position, Aria the Melodious Diva(LV4/ATK:1600) and then enters her battle phase where she ordered Solo the Melodious Songstress to attack Milla and then make Aria attack Serena directly making her point go down to only 300 left and then she ends her turn while Aria the Melodious Diva gave her an action card, to which she thanked Arai as it'll help her incase Serena declared an attack.

Even thou Serena knows she's almost close into loosing, she can feel her adrenaline being all time high as she knows that Yuzu got a good hand and almost ended the duel earlier had she not draw Judgement of Anubis and found the action card almost being hidden perfectly.

But during this duel albeit short but intense, Serena felt a surge of exhilaration mixed with an undercurrent of anxiety. With each card drawn, each monster summoned, and every move made, her heart raced faster. She could sense something shifting within herself, a mix of hope and trepidation as she engaged in this intense duel.

She couldn’t help but feel the weight of expectation bearing down on her. The pressure to perform, to prove her worth as a duelist, gnawed at her from within. Yet, amidst the tension, there lingered a flicker of something new—an excitement that came from the joy of the duel itself. It was as if she had begun to see the world through Yuzu’s eyes, where dueling wasn't solely about strength but about connection, expressing emotions, and forging bonds with others.

In this moment, Serena decided she wouldn’t let her anxieties dictate her destiny. The duel was a dance, a rhythm that thrummed through her veins, pushing her toward something greater. Even if she faltered, she knew she could take pride in her efforts, in the heart she put into this battle.

Serena's focus sharpened as she braced herself for her next turn. She felt the pulse of the duel field beneath her, the vibrant colors and sounds enveloping her like a warm embrace. She was part of something significant—a true duel, a heartfelt exchange. It was time to harness that energy, to hold onto the fleeting but beautiful connection she was forming with Yuzu. Every card she played from now on would not just represent her strength but the strength of their bond, the heart she was willing to share.

Serena: Thank you Yuzu.

Yuzu: Thank you?

Serena: *Chuckles* For helping me to reignite my passion and reason to duel.

Yuzu: *Smiles* I know you can do it, now make your last turn count and let's see how this will go!

Serena: Alright then, I draw!

As she drew her card her eyes were filled with confusion for a second, but as she reads it with interest, she looks at Yuzu and then spoke

Serena: It seems I'll be the one winning this duel Yuzu

Yuzu: Oh, how so?

Serena: I activate Lord of the Heavenly Prison from my hand to activate it's effect, then I flip up my spell card I set, Black Hole, which will destroy all monsters on the field!

This made Yuzu's eyes widen as her monsters were destroyed, but Serena wasn't done yet.

Serena: Now I activate Lord of the Heavenly Prison's other effect from my hand, If a Spell or Trap card that I set is activated, I can Special Summon him from my hand into the field, then if I activated this effect while this card was revealed, I can reveal and set 1 Spell or Trap card directly from my Deck, but banish it during the End Phase of my next turn. However that hardly matters now, so come forth, Lord of the Heavenly Prison!

As she summoned him, Yuzu's eyes widen with mix of awe and fear as the Lord of the Heavenly Prison(LV10/ATK:3000) take the appearance of a colossal, and monstrous creature that almost occupies the whole action field that it might break if it continued to grow, with creature having a chaotic blend of organic and mechanical elements. Its body is a dark, metallic grey, punctuated by crimson accents and jagged, bone-like protrusions. It also possesses multiple limbs, some resembling clawed arms, others appearing more serpentine or wing-like. These limbs are intricately detailed, suggesting both strength and a grotesque, unsettling design. The creature's head is partially obscured but features prominent, menacing features. But lastly there's a sense of overwhelming power and destructive force emanating from it, which made Yuzu accidentally conclude that this is Serena's Ace Monster.

Serena: Battle, Lord of the Heavenly Prison, Attack Yuzu directly *speaks in lower voice so Yuzu can't hear her* and please don't hurt her.

With that Lord of the Heavenly Prison uses one of it's arms to attack Yuzu, however Yuzu activate her action card.

Yuzu: Action Spell, Evasion! When A monster from my opponents side is about to attack, I can-

Suddenly the tail of the Lord of the Heavenly Prison throws an action card in Serena's way which she catches it in time and then she plays it after taking a look at it.

Serena: Then I play the Action Spell, No Action!, I can negate the activation and the effect of an Action Spell Card, and if I do, I destroy it.

With that Yuzu's Action Card was destroyed and as the monsters hand gets close to Yuzu's face, closes it's eyes waiting for the attack to hit.

However instead of being hit, she instead-.

*Boop*

. . .Got poked in the nose by the monster's finger, with that said finger patting the Yuzu's head with her life points going down to 0 with the Action field disappearing along Serena's monster.

As that left Yuzu dumbstruck, Serena goes near her with a bit of worry and spoke.

Serena: A-Are you alright Yuzu?

Yuzu: *Gets startled as she realized Serena is looking at her with concern* I-I'm fine, I wasn't expecting your monster to attack me like that.

Serena: Y-Yeah, I noticed he's too huge to fit in the action field here in the Duel School, so he was forced to adjust his size but it's still wasn't enough as he might've hurt somebody so I ask him if he can minimize the damage he'll inflict against you.

Yuzu: I see. . .wait you talked to your monster?!

Serena: I'm not sure if it understood me, but seems to understand what it I want him to do.

Yuzu: Oh, that's nice of him.

Serena: Yeah, but your good at working together with your monster, you really almost got me there, let's duel again in the near future.

Yuzu: Sure, Serena I'll be waiting for it.

Serena: And thank you again.

Yuzu: For what?

Serena: I'm starting to get how a duel can make everyone smile, so I hope you and your father can teach me more.

Yuzu: You wanted to join us here?!

Serena: Yep.

Yuzu: But how we'll handle the issue about your past since you can only remember a little.

Serena: Oh right, I almost forgot about that.

"Actually I may have a solution for that, Young Serena".

As both of them heard that, they both turned around and saw Syuzo with the person Serena saw in the poster awhile ago walking beside him.

Yusho: I believe this the first time we've met so let me introduce myself, my name is Yusho Sakaki. It's nice to meet you for the first Young Serena.

To be continued

Chapter Text

As Yusho greeted Serena, Yuzu was surprised as she noticed the time in her duel disk.

Yuzu: Uncle Yusho aren't you supposed to have a duel with 'The Sledgehammer'?!

Yusho: You're correct Yuzu, however he got into an accident while driving after training in preparation for our duel, but due to the huge wind gust that occurred last night, he was needed to be taken to the hospital and from what I've heard his leg was severely damaged, with that it'll take sometime before he can challenge me for the title of being the Champion of the Pro League.

Yuzu: Oh I see, but how did you know he was training for your upcoming fight?

Syuzo: Well, 'The Sledgehammer's' manager, Nico Smiley called me and Yusho for that.

Yuzu: I see

Yusho: Now were are we at earlier. . . oh! *looks at Serena with a smile on his face* Once again, nice to meet you Serena.

Serena: Nice to meet you sir *bows at Yusho, which surprised the latter*

Yusho: Now, now, no need to do that, Yusho-san or Mr. Sakaki is fine.

Serena: H-Hai, I apologize.

Yusho: No need, but as I said earlier, your solution can be easily solved?

Serena: Yeah, I heard but how?

Yusho: Well I was one who helped Leo Akaba to make and develop the ARC System for Action Duel, and so I can ask a favor from his wife, since Leo owns me for completing a discovery that changed dueling and also since he's missing.

As Serena heard the Professor's name, her heart almost stopped beating from hearing that name.

Yuzu somehow, sensing Serena's discomfort speaks up.

Yuzu: Are you alright Serena?

Serena: Y-Yeah I'm fine, I'm just feeling a little bit dizzy after our duel

Yuzu: You sure?

Serena: I'm sure, thanks for the concern.

Syuzo: However with that, it'll be best to head there with the van that's in the back of the school, however I had to check it in the car shed to make sure it's still functional, so it'll take awhile, but with Yusho and Yuzu's help it'll be done quickly.

Yuzu: Huh, why I'm also involved dad!?

Syuzo: Well, I forgot where we put our repair tool box and the last time we used it is to check our Arc system and also to your duel disk as it slightly broke that we managed to fix a week ago.

Yuzu: Oh right, I forgot to return it to it's original place, sorry dad.

Syuzo: I'm not mad Yuzu don't worry, but it'll be helpful to help us find it so we can go.

Yuzu: Okay, but what about Serena?

Serena: I'll wait outside while your father checks the van.

Syuzo: You sure, kid?

Serena: Yes, I can take care of myself and besides it'll be quick with them helping right Mr. Hiragi?

Syuzo: Yeah, but incase your in trouble, just scream okay?

Serena: Okay.

With that Serena goes outside You Show Duel School and leans on the wall as she waits for them, from there she spoke after checking her surroundings.

Serena: Milla, can you tell me the truth in full honesty?

Milla then appeared beside Serena with a hesitant look on her face and then she spoke.

Milla: I'm sorry Serena I can't tell you everything without ████'s permission, however he agreed to give you a short version of it and until the time is right, he and a friend of mine will tell you the full story.

Serena: I see. . . fine by me then, what's the Professor doing in this dimension?

Milla: *Sighs lightly* Something happened in the past and our owner Ray takes action that she should've done a long time ago, and because of her actions, the world is split into 4 dimensions which are-.

Serena: Standard, Xyz, Synchro, and with the dimension where I lived being called Fusion since everyone there only uses Fusion summoning.

Milla: Correct, Ray's Father was placed here with his memories erased so he can live normal life, however he somehow manages to remember, which caused him to head to your dimension and began planning to revive her daughter.

Serena: But why me, Zuzu, and the other 2 that looked like her is what he needed.

Milla: . . .There's something in your soul that he also needed while reviving his daughter, so he can ensure the one Ray faced will be defeated incase he comes back.

Serena: He?

Milla: That's all I can say, Serena. Until then you'll have to wait for ████ to tell you everything.

Serena: But-

Suddenly Serena heard shouting in the distance and with that she decides to check what it was.

And as she arrived to the source of the sound, her eyes widen as she saw 3 people bullying a boy on the ground, with the boy having dual-colored green and crimson hair of average length sticking out in downwards pointing spikes all around his head. With the boy wearing a black zip-up jacket with orange accents on the sleeves and near the zipper pockets, with a round, gold-colored object visible on their chest, near the jacket's zipper, seeming to be a circular badge or pin, with their pants being olive green or khaki-colored shorts. With the boy also wearing a buckled choker, a pair of golden goggles with orange lenses on his forehead with a blue star obscuring the right lens, and lastly the boy is also wearing a ornate pendant hanging from a thin chain, with having a teardrop-shaped, with a clear, icy-blue crystal as its core. With the crystal encased in a silver, winged frame as it curl elegantly around the crystal, ending in pointed tips. The top of the pendant features a small, crown-like embellishment surrounding what appears to be a smaller, darker blue gemstone.

The moment she saw the boy's face, she felt her heart being tugged tightly, causing her to gasp a little in pain and then someone whispered to her ear saying:.

"Please save him, don't let him suffer again."

Serena shook her head, trying to clear her thoughts. Her eyes locked on the bullies surrounding the boy, their mocking laughter grating against her ears. She didn’t know who the boy was or why she felt this strange connection, but something inside her compelled her to act.

But then one of the bullies, who has appears as a tall muscular teenager with thulian pink hair at the front, with him wearing a pair of blue pants and what appears to be a red sash on his abdomen, with a white shirt with thick pauldrons along a blue jacket, and lastly the man was wearing a pair of steel bracers and sandals spoke.

"Your Father is a magician right, so he might've done something with that wind so that 'The Sledgehammer' will be an accident, so tell me Yuya what did that cheater of your father do!?"

The boy who's struggling to stand up, named Yuya spoke.

Yuya: Y-You're insane, my father can't do that Grizzlepike, the news said that the wind that occurred that night was an unexpected phenomena.

Grizzlepike: Bullshit!

Grizzlepike then kicked Yuya's stomach, causing him to gasp in pain, while the two boys beside Grizzlepike cracked there knuckles as he continued to speak.

Grizzlepike: If you won't tell us the truth, then I'll make sure to force your father.

With that he was about to punch Yuya.

Until Serena immediately activated her duel disk and summoned Lunalight Blue Cat, with the latter immediately heading to Yuya, then picking him up at such speed that the bullies only managed to punch the ground.

As Lunalight Blue Cat returned beside Serena while carrying Yuya, Serena noticed the boy has bruises in his arms and face, filling her with anger.

And with that she spoke.

Serena: Hey you bastards!!!!

Grizzlepike's face twisted into a sneer as he and his lackeys turned to face Serena. He cracked his knuckles, clearly unimpressed by the sudden interference.

Grizzlepike: Well, well, looks like we’ve got a hero here. And what’s this? A duel monster? Did you think summoning a monster would scare us off, little girl?

Serena narrowed her eyes, her duel disk still glowing faintly. She placed a protective hand on Yuya’s shoulder as Lunalight Blue Cat set him gently on the ground behind her, with Yuya fainting due to the injuries he got.

Serena: It’s more than enough to deal with scum like you. Leave now, or I’ll show you just how dangerous a 'little girl' can be.

Grizzlepike and his gang exchanged glances before bursting into laughter. The bully leaned forward, pointing a thick finger at Serena.

Grizzlepike: You’ve got guts, I’ll give you that. But this isn’t the arena, sweetheart. Out here, we don’t settle things with fancy holograms.

Serena smirked, unfazed. She gestured to her duel disk.

Serena: Oh, I wasn’t planning to duel you. But if you’re too much of a coward to face me in a duel, I’m more than happy to let my hands and Blue Cat handle this.

As if on cue, Lunalight Blue Cat stepped forward, its lithe, feline form glinting in the sunlight. The cat let out a low growl, its claws gleaming ominously. Grizzlepike hesitated, his bravado faltering for just a moment, but then he scowled and raised his fists.

Grizzlepike: You think a hologram’s gonna scare me? Get her!

As his lackeys lunged towards her, she sighs in relief as she know that her duel disk can summon monsters with mass without Action Field.

With that Blue Cat catch both of Grizzlepike's lackeys hands that was about to touch her owner and then she tossed them away with the both them screaming as they are sent flying away, then Blue Cat quickly picks Serena up and then tosses her towards Grizzlepike, with Serena using her right foot to hit his face while he was caught off guard, sending him back falling in the ground, with Serena backing up after kicking the bully and then removing Lunalight Blue Cat's card from her duel disk as she deactivate it.

After that Syuzo, Yuzu, and Yusho arrived due to scream that they heard from the bullies that Blue Cat tossed into the air earlier, with them shocked as they try to analyze the situation they are seeing.

Syuzo: Serena what happened here and what happened to Yuya!?

Serena then turned to face Syuzo, Yuzu, and Yusho, her expression shifted from anger to calm resolve. Then she spoke.

Serena: I found him being attacked by these bullies. I couldn't just stand by and let them hurt him.

Yusho's gaze moved from Serena to Yuya, his face darkening with concern as he rushed forward to check on his son. Yuzu followed closely, her hands trembling slightly as she knelt beside Yuya and as she checked his condition, she spoke as well.

Yuzu: Dad, he's bruised all over. We need to get him inside!

Syuzo quickly assessed the situation, his sharp eyes locking onto the groaning figures of Grizzlepike who's sprawling on the ground. His jaw tightened as he turned back to Serena and was about to ask why is Yuya being bullied until Serena spoke to continue what she's about to say.

Serena: They are blaming, Yusho-san for the accident that 'The Sledgehammer' got into because of the gusts of wind that occurred last night, but he defended Yusho-san and was hurt as a result. *Looks sad a little as she felt somehow responsible for what happened to Yuya*.

Syuzo: Serena.

As Syuzo was to speak as he noticed her expression, until Grizzlepike stands up and spoke as he pointed his hand at Yusho.

Gizzlepike: You! Your the reason why 'The Sledgehammer' can't duel!

Yusho looked at Grizzlepike calmly, his expression unyielding but kind. Then he spoke.

Yusho: I understand you're upset, but blaming others without proof only spreads unnecessary pain. The accident was a natural phenomenon—no one caused it.

Grizzlepike clenched his fists, his face reddening with anger as he staggered to his feet.

Grizzlepike: Don’t give me that nonsense! The timing was too perfect! Admit it you’re just scared because you'll be defeated by him!

Syuzo stepped forward, his voice firm but measured, as he motioned for Grizzlepike to back down.

Syuzo: That’s enough. Whatever frustration you have doesn’t give you the right to hurt others—especially my student. If you have a problem, take it to the proper authorities. Now leave before I call the police.

Grizzlepike glared at Syuzo, but the sharp tone in the older man’s voice made him hesitate. He looked back at his lackeys, who had just returned and were groaning in pain after they picking themselves up from where they had landed.

Lackey 1: B-Boss let's get out here!

Lackey 2: Yeah she might summoned that Cat of hers again and we'll be in big trouble!

Grizzlepike with no other choice decided to spat on the ground in defiance before turning to leave.

Grizzlepike: You'll regret this little girl, I'll be back!

Grizzlepike and his lackeys then staggered away, Syuzo let out a heavy sigh, turning his attention back to Serena and the unconscious Yuya. With Yusho carrying his son into his arms while Yuzu fussed over his injuries, gently brushing dirt off his jacket.

Syuzo: Serena, I’m proud of you for stepping in to help, but next time, call for an adult instead of handling it yourself. This could’ve ended badly.

Serena: Hai, sorry Mr. Hiragi. It's just I couldn’t stand there and do nothing.

Syuzo: I understand, and I can see you meant well. But safety comes first. *pauses, then smiles gently* Still, you did a brave thing today.

Yuzu stood, her expression a mixture of concern and gratitude as she addressed Serena.

Yuzu: Thank you for protecting Yuya. If you hadn’t shown up, who knows what could’ve happened to him?

Serena: *Nods* It was the right thing to do. I just… couldn’t let them hurt him any more than they already had.

Yusho, carrying Yuya carefully, approached Serena and offered her a warm, appreciative smile.

Yusho: Serena, I owe you my thanks as well. Yuya’s lucky to have had you there. And… it seems you’ve got quite the skill with using duel monsters.

Serena: I-It’s nothing, really. I just summoned Lunalight Blue Cat to keep them away.

Yusho: *chuckling softly* Still, it’s impressive. Not many people have the courage or quick thinking to act like that in a tense situation.

Yuzu: *looks at Serena with curiosity* By the way, how did you manage to summon Blue Cat with mass? Isn’t that only available in action duels?

Yusho: Correct, this is the first time I heard of this.

Serena tensed slightly, realizing she may have revealed more than she intended. She tried to compose herself quickly, looking to the side.

Serena: Oh, um… well my duel disk seems to have some modifications despite it being repaired.

Syuzo: *narrowing his eyes slightly, then relaxing* Well, whatever it is, it came in handy today. But let’s focus on getting Yuya inside and taking care of him.

Yusho: Agreed. Let’s get him cleaned up and resting. We can figure out what to do about this incident later.

As they all headed back toward the school, Serena walked a few steps behind, her mind racing. The strange tugging feeling she’d experienced when she first saw Yuya lingered, and the whispered voice from earlier replayed in her mind.

Serena: *thinking to herself* Who is he? And why do I feel like I’ve met him before?

As they reached the school’s entrance, Serena stole one last glance at Yuya. His peaceful expression, even in his fainted state, stirred something deep within her. She clenched her fists, determination shining in her eyes.

Serena: *whispering under her breath as she sighs quietly as she can* Whatever is going on with me and how your involved in it, I’ll protect you. No matter what it takes.

Unbeknownst to her, Yusho caught the faintest murmur of her words and looked at her thoughtfully. He didn’t say anything, but a knowing glint sparkled in his eyes as he helped carry Yuya inside.

As the doors closed behind them, the wind picked up, carrying with it the faint echo of a familiar voice:

“Please… don’t let him suffer again.”

To be continued

Chapter Text

In You Show Duel School

At the Infirmary Room

While Yuya was being treated by Yusho with Yuzu helping him to speed up the process of treating his bruises, Serena was outside leaning on the wall close to the door where the infirmary is and was deep into her thoughts until someone handed her a bottle of water, revealing it to be Syuzo, startling her.

Serena: Syuzo-san.

Syuzo: Take it you seem you have a lot in mind.

Serena: Thanks *takes the water bottle, opens it, and takes a drink*.

As she drinks, Syuzo leans on the wall beside her and after she drank some water, Syuzo spoke.

Syuzo: So. . . correct if I'm wrong, but are you blaming yourself for what happened to Yuya?

Serena: I. . . yes, I feel somehow responsible to what happened to him.

Syuzo: Then don't be.

Serena: Eh?

Syuzo: *Sighs* Serena, nobody including yourself knows why that wind occurred that night, besides you can't remember how you got here like you said to us back at the house, so don't hold yourself responsible for things you haven't done that are out of your control okay.

Serena: . . .I'll try Syuzo-san.

As there short conversation ended Yuzu suddenly called the both of them as she said Yuya woke up, causing the two of them to enter the infirmary to greet him.

When they entered Syuzo asked if Yuya was alright to which the latter said he already was and thanked him, and his father for saving him.

However Yuzu cuts in and said it was Serena who saved him, and from there Syuzo stepped aside as Yuya asked who was Serena.

From there Serena's Green Eyes met with Yuya's Crimson one's as Serena spoke.

Serena: I'm Serena *extends her hand to him* nice to meet you Yuya.

Yuya: N-Nice to meet you too Serena *Accepts her hand to handshake* thanks for saving me back there.

Serena: It's no problem, it's not fair for those bully's to accuse your father like that.

Yuya: Y-Yeah. . .

Serena: *tilts her head a little on the right* What's wrong.

Yuya: You really looked like Yuzu and your really pretty like her.

*SLAM*

Yuya then yelped in pain as Yuzu pulls out her harisen out of nowhere uses it to hit his forehead with her face being red while Serena was a little bit confused while there was a small tint of red in her cheeks.

Yuzu: You can't just call someone like that out the blue, Yuya!

Yuya: I know, but I can't help it, also aren't you over-

Yuzu: Over what Yuya? *Stares at him menacingly*

Yuya: N-Nothing

Serena chuckled at the there interaction, causing the atmosphere in the infirmary to lighten. Yusho smiled at the interaction between the three young duelists, feeling a sense of relief after the earlier commotion.

After that they decided to wait for while for Yuya's bruises to heal to the point he can move his body without feeling pain before they head to Leo Corporation with Yuya apologizing for slowing them down, causing Serena to tell him that she doesn't mind and can wait for as long as it takes.

With that as they wait, Serena, Yuya, and Yuzu decided to talk about there decks and played in a duel mat that Yuzu had with her as there are times that Yuya and she duel in the school by using it instead of using there duel disks as it wasn't allowed in school.

From there they shared suggestions to improve there decks. With Serena asking to Yuya if there are other cards related to his ace monster, Odd-Eyes Dragon as it's out of the ordinary with his Performapal Deck along with Timegazer and Stargazer Magician, causing to Yuzu to ponder as well to which Yuya answered that he felt they should be in his deck but now that they mentioned it, he was beginning to ponder about it now.

This caused Yusho to step in as he remembered that he heard that Leo Corporation has made some support cards for his ace dragon and since they are going there aswell he might aswell ask another favor for where to get them, causing Yuya to filled with joy that his ace dragon won't be lonely anymore.

While this happening, Serena also makes sure to hide her Fusion monsters to avoid them questioning her while they are discussing it. 

About 2 hours later Yuya was fine to move and with that they headed to the Leo Corporation with Yuya joining them.

Minutes later

Close to the entrance of Leo Corporation

Upon parking the van close to where the building is, they left the van and headed to the building with Yusho leading them.

However as they are almost to the entrance of the building are greeted by Reiji Akaba with a few bodyguards behind him, with Declan seemingly surprised upon seeing Serena with them but quickly composes himself that only Serena noticed on what he did as the others failed to notice it.

When Yusho and Reiji finished greeted each other and talked a few things related to Reiji's mother, Reiji welcomes them in Leo Corporation and from there Reiji helped Syuzo about Serena's situation after Yusho tells him why he is here for. Causing Reiji to remember that his father told him about it and within a few minutes Serena was officially adopted by Hiragi family with fabricated information made about where orphanage she is that was fool proof to everyone aside them incase her information is needed in the near future.

As for the support cards for Yuya's ace monster, Reiji gave them to Yusho for free which caught everyone off guard.

But despite accepting it, in exchange Reiji decided to talk to Yusho and Serena privately on his office, with Yusho and reluctantly Serena agreeing to it, causing the both of them make an excuse for following Reiji into the highest floor where his office is.

Upon arriving in Reiji's office, Yusho asked why Serena has to be with them for this talk and from there Reiji revealed about where his father went along with the other dimensions and his father's goal that Serena told her, causing Serena to admit about where she truly came from upon Yusho looking at her.

After that Reiji tells them his plan of stopping his father's plan and his plans on implementing the new summoning methods in this universe to ensure the dimension they are in will survive should his father attack it, but it was from there Reiji asked Serena how she managed too escape.

It was from there that Milla spoke to Serena telepathically.

'Activate you duel disk and summon me Serena, I'll handle it from here'

Serena: 'Are you sure, Milla-san?'

'I'm sure, trust me in this one ████ gave his permission so he can discuss it to them as well.'

With that Serena spoke to Reiji.

Serena: Reiji.

Reiji: Yes?

Serena: Will it be alright If I activate my duel disk, and summon someone, it'll be best if she'll explain everything to you.

Yusho: She?

Serena then activated her duel disk and summoned Milla and as she appeared, her staff glowed so bright, all of them covered there eyes as light engulfed them.

As the light diminishes, Serena and the others open there eyes and noticed they are in wide plain grass field.

Reiji: . . .Where did you take us Serena.

From there Milla spoke, which surprised Yusho and Reiji.

Milla: The one that sent Serena here will be the one who'll talk to you.

When Reiji is about to ask what she meant, a dragon's roar was heard from the distance and from there a massive dragon with many horns in it's head and body and was bat-like wings emerged from the skies and landed beside Serena and Milla as the dragon moves it's head so that it's crimson eyes can look at Reiji and Yusho.

From there the dragon spoke.

"I welcome you both, Reiji Akaba and Yusho Sakaki to my domain."

Reiji and Yusho both tensed, unsure of how to react to the massive dragon's sudden appearance. Its crimson eyes glowed with an aura of wisdom and power, far beyond anything they'd never seen before.

"Do not be afraid as I'm not going to hurt you, I'm just here to tell you about what happened currently to the Fusion Dimension after Young Serena make's a contract with me."

Yusho: What do you mean by contract?

"Young Serena wanted to be free and find her own path and destiny and so when Reiji arrived in the Fusion Dimension it awakened me due to the energy used by the machine he used to get there disturbing the pathway to the 4 dimensions due to it's instability. However that was enough to awaken me and aid her on finding the truth as to why she was being prisoned in that island."

"When she found out, I offered her a way out and with that I destroyed most to the place where Serena lives in, I destroyed so much that it'll take your father Reiji Akaba a long time to rebuild everything he'd work hard on along with his planned invasion in the other dimensions meaning.-"

Reiji: We have more time to prepare and prevent my father's plan from being fulfilled.

"Correct, Young Akaba."

Yusho: While that's good news, I would like to ask, forgive me if I'm going to overstep Serena, as to what my friend is planning to do to you?

As Serena heard that she tensed and struggled to speak for awhile until Milla reassured her that everything will be alright and with that Serena tells them The Professor's plan to revive his dead daughter by using her and 4 other people that exactly looked like her do ensure Ray Akaba's revival. With Milla giving the same thing she told Serena on who Ray Akaba is and what happened to her.

After that Reiji and Yusho exchanged grave looks, trying to process the enormity of what Serena had just revealed.

Yusho took a deep breath, his calm demeanor barely masking his concern as he spoke.

Yusho: To think my friend would go to such lengths. . . Serena, thank you for trusting us with this information. I can only imagine how difficult it was to carry this alone.

Serena nodded, though her hands trembled slightly at her sides, she spoke.

Serena: I. . . didn't want to hide it anymore. If there's any way to stop him, I want to help.

"Your resolve is admirable, Young Serena, however I would like you to enjoy the peace we had for now."

Serena: But-.

"You have endured much pain and confusion, but your resolve to uncover the truth and forge your path is deserving of praise, however this dimension offers you the peace you've sought for so long. Take this time to grow stronger, to form bonds, and to understand what you truly desire. The battles to come will require not only your strength but also your spirit."

Serena: Hai.

Reiji: May I ask sir?

"Hmm *looks at Reiji* what is it that you want to ask young Akaba?"

Reiji: How can I be so sure that you don't have any malicious intent on everything your giving us?

This shocked everyone, except for the Dragon who laughed at Reiji's assumption.

"You may doubt me if you will, after all in the past I done many bad things, one of those including the killing of 'that magician's' mother and almost sending her child to another world only for three guardians of the world to save the 'boy' and send me to where I came from, then making someone free me from my prison and by coincidence using that mother's child as that child sacrifices himself to save a girl that's about to be used to summon me only for that boy to fight back and sent me back to where I came from by destroying the physical form given to me by using him as a sacrifice. But know this young Akaba, your older sister who knows this story of mine used me to duel other people not to hurt but to have fun and make others enjoy dueling and eversince she used me in her duels I've changed but how much I changed is much to be seen in the future, after all I'm doing my best to ensure her sacrifice to stop 'that man' from destroying the world won't be in vain. Does that satisfy your question young Akaba?"

Reiji: *Adjusted his glasses* Yes, thank you for answering my question.

"Good, as for how will I inform you about your father continuing his plans in the near future, I'll immediately inform you, Mr. Sakaki and Serena immediately, I have some friends who are willing to help us monitor the other dimensions."

Reiji: I see. . .I'll make my own preparations then.

"Very Well, *looks at Milla* return them Milla, we are done here for now *looks at Serena* I know you have more questions but until Reiji's father makes a move I won't tell them to you so you can enjoy your life here Young Serena, can you wait until that time comes?"

Serena: . . .I will

"Very Well"

With that Milla's staff shone with the dragon flying towards the sky as it let out a roar as they are taken back in Reiji's office.

To be continued

Chapter Text

After Milla returns them into Reiji's office, Yusho and Reiji discussed on how to prepare there dimension for Leo's invasion incase he decided to invade here first because of Yuzu and possibly Serena and how will they prepare to make allies with other dimensions should he make a move to invade one of them.

And after reaching into an agreement on what will happen in the near future, Yusho and Serena left the room with one of Reiji's Bodyguards escorting them out to meet up with Syuzo and the others. With Yusho and Serena managing to make a cover story as to why Reiji called them to which they are glad the others didn't suspect them.

When they went home Serena slept at Yuzu's Bedroom upon returning to the Hiragi Household, with everyone asleep except for Serena, who was looking at her bracelet and at the moon that she can see in Yuzu's bedroom window as Serena is thinking about what ████ said to her and now she's asking to herself.

'What do I truly desire now that I can live my life?'

That along with the threat of The Professor's plans that none of them will not know when it'll happen until ████ warns them in the near future.

However because of this Serena slowly fell asleep as he brain need to rest after pondering it too much.

3 Months later

As Serena became Serena Hiragi, she was enrolled into Miami Elementary School were Yuzu and Yuya are after Syuzo tests Serena on different subjects 2 months ago to which Serena managed to answer all of them because despite the Academia being a military school, it still teaches basic education.

Despite being enrolled late as it was now the 2nd semester, Serena managed to catch up quickly and passed with flying colors, impressing many teachers and students, causing some of the students to try and befriend her.

But Serena decided to stick around with Yuzu and Yuya as she like their company, and with that she met another friend of Yuzu and Yuya named Noboru Gongenzaka who apologized for what Grizzlepike did, with the latter leaving the Gongenzaka Dojo Dueling School after he was scolded by his father, to which Serena didn't mind as it wasn't Noboru's fault.

From there she spent time with them and helps them in studies, dueling strategies in You Show which helped them and her win many duels whenever they are challenged.

However after all of that, Serena still can't find the answer she's been looking for.

"Hey Serena!".

Suddenly Serena train of thought was cut off when she looked and saw Yuya and Yuzu heading towards her as they just left school as classes ended early before 3PM.

Serena: Oh Yuya, Yuzu, is there something you need?

Yuzu: Nothing for the moment Serena, but-.

Yuya: You seem to be frustrated about something.

Serena: Oh. . .is that so?

Yuzu: *Sighs* Look sis despite you smiling at times, your bad at covering up your true expression.

Serena: Ah.

Yuzu: You know you can talk to us right?

Serena: Yeah, but I don't want to bother you both.

Yuya: You won't bother us Serena.

Serena: Eh?

Yuya: We all have problems but it's best if we have friends that can help us if we can't solve it on our own.

Yuzu: Yeah Yuya's right, and it's a friends duty to help each other out and it's also my responsibility as your older sister.

Serena: *Raises and an eyebrow in amusement and scoffs* You being an older sister? *Raises her right arm and puts it on Yuzu's head as she rubs and messes the latter's hair causing Yuzu to yelp in surprise* Shouldn't be I'm the older sister and your the younger one?

Yuzu: Mou that not fair how did Dad and you come to an agreement to that anyway!?

Serena: Well it might be because I take most responsibility when he's not around and. . .it's seemingly fit for me to take the role as your older sister despite we have the same age for some reason.

Yuzu: Hmph Just you wait one of these days when I defeat you in a duel I'll be the older sister.

Serena: Ah right we made a deal about that, welp you may try, little sis.

With that Yuzu pouted causing her and Yuya to laugh.

But then Yuya spoke after Serena removed her hand as Yuzu fixed her hair.

Yuya: But in all seriousness Serena, what are you frustrated about?

Serena: Well. . . I've been wondering on what I desire.

Yuya: What do you mean?

Serena: Well since I still can't remember where I'm and now I'm Yuzu's older sister, I seem to can't grasp what I really want to do, sure I want to become a good duelist, but I felt something is still missing that can fuel my desire to do more than just that.

Yuya: I see. . . then how about you duel me?

Serena: Huh?

Yuya: Well since your duel with Yuzu helped you, maybe I can help you as well, besides this will be the first time I'm going to duel you since we've been doing homework after homework and I can get to use the Ritual Version of my Odd-Eyes.

Serena: Is that so, if that's the case let's duel in the park since we're passing by it now. This can help me use the new cards I buy in the card shop a few days ago

Yuya: Sure, but won't you like it to be an action duel?

Serena: Nope, we can't always rely on Action Cards Yuya, there might be a time that out opponents can exploit that to defeat us, especially you since you've been relying on them in practice duels or when in tournaments from what as I heard from Yuzu. It'll benefit you in the long run as it can help you add some cards that can help you when you duel someone without being in a action duel with a example of that being Noboru since his style helped him a lot right?

Yuya: *Looks at her and sighs lightly* Right, Well it's your choice, and if that'll help me entertain other people even more, might worth to try.

With that the three of them headed to the park, specifically in a part where they can duel without being disturbed.

As they draw 5 cards, Yuzu tosses a coin in the air after Yuya and Serena makes there call, with Yuya being first and Serena being second.

And from there they-.

Yuya/Serena: DUEL (LP:4000/4000).

Since Yuya is first, his opening hand consists of:.

-Performapal Bowhopper, Odd-Eyes Advent, Performapal Stamp Turtle, Performapal Recasting and Performapal Spikeagle.

Seeing his options Yuya spoke.

Yuya: I activate the Spell Card, Performapal Recasting. By doing this I can reveal any number of "Performapal" monsters from my hand and then shuffle them into my Deck, then I draw cards equal to the number of cards you shuffled into the Deck along with an additional card *Reveals Performapal Bowhopper, Stamp Turtle, and Spikeagle in his hand and then shuffles them and draws 4 cards with those being Performapal Whip Snake, Skeeter Skimmer, Hip Hippo, and Last Minute Cancel*. Then I summon Performapal Whip Snake in attack position(LV: 4/ATK: 1700) then I set one card and end my turn!.

After he said that Serena then draws a card, with her opening hand now being:.

-Lunalight Emerald Bird, Lunalight Fusion, Lunalight Crimson Fox, Reload, Lunalight Black Sheep, and Lunalight White Rabbit.

Serena: Well what a coincidence, I activate the Quick Play Spell, Reload. This allows me to shuffle all the cards I had in hand and then draw the same amount of cards I had previously. 

With that she draw new 5 cards, with her new opening hand being:.

-Lunalight Yellow Marten, Caninetaur, Magical Cylinders, Back to the Front, and Recall. 

From there Serena spoke.

Serena: I throw down three cards face down, set a monster facedown and end my turn.

As this happened Yuya was caught off guard by Serena's move but he then draws a card with that being the quick play spell 'Draw Muscle'.

When he saw it, he frowned a little and quickly recomposed himself as he picked up Performapal Hip Hippo and then spoke.

Yuya: I summon Performapal Hip Hippo(LV:3/ATK: 800) in attack position, and then I moved into the battle phase and Attack your face down using Performapal Whip Snake!

With that Whip Snake attack Serena's Face down with it being Lunalight Yellow Marten(LV:4/DEF:2000)

Upon seeing Yellow Marten's Defense points Yuya spoke Whip Snake's effect.

Yuya: I activate Whip Snake's effect! Once per turn I can target 1 face-up monster my opponent controls, then I switch its current ATK and DEF until the End Phase. Confusion Venom!

However before Whip Snake can complete it's effect on Lunalight Marten, Serena spoke.

Serena: I activate my Counter Trap, Recall! When my opponent activates a monster effect. I let them draw 1 card, by doing that I can negate the activation of there monsters effect and if I do, I destroy that monster! 

As she said this Whip Snake was turned into golden dust due to the card's effect, with Yuya drawing a card from his deck and then he sets it face down and ends his turn as he can't attack.

After that, Serena draws a card with her eyes widening on what that card is, but then she spoke to hide her shock.

Serena: I summon Caninetaur in attack position(LV:3/ATK:1500) and then I go to the battle phase to attack your Hip Hippo to activate Caninetaur's effect! Before Damage calculation, I can send 1Beast, Beast-Warrior, or Winged Beast-Type monster from my hand or Deck to the Graveyard, and if I do, Caninetaur gains attack points equal to the sent monster's Level x 100, until the end of the Battle Phase. I sent Emerald Bird from my Deck to the Graveyard so that Caninetaur get an additional 400 attack points!

Caninetaur(ATK:1500-1900).

With that Caninetaur attacked Hip Hippo, destroying the hippo and making Yuya lose 1100 Life points(Yuya LP: 4000-2900). Then Yuya spoke as he activated one of his trap cards, specifically the one that he got from Serena's Counter Trap earlier.

Yuya: I activated my Trap Card, Performapal Revival! If a monster I control is destroyed by battle or card effect, I can Special Summon 1 "Performapal" monster from your hand or Graveyard. And the one I chose to summon Performapal Whip Snake back to the field in Attack Position!

After that Serena ends her turn with Caninetaur's attack points returning to normal and with that Yuya begins his turn after drawing a card which made him smile as he then spoke.

Yuya: First I activate Whip Snake's Effect, I can switch the Attack and Defense points of one of your monster's, and I choose you Caninetaur!

This caused Caninetaur to weaken as it's attack points are switch with it's defense points.

Caninetaur(ATK:1500-200).

Yuya: Then I activate my ritual spell card, Odd-Eyes Advent! I can Ritual Summon any Dragon Ritual Monster from your hand or GY. To do that I must Tribute monsters whose total Levels are equal or exceed the Level of the Ritual Monster I'll Ritual Summon. I Tribute Whip Snake in the field and Skeeter Skimmer from my hand to Ritual Summon Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon!

As this happed Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon appeared while it's floating in the air.

Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon(LV:7/ATK:2800).

Yuya: Then when Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon was special summoned, I can return all Spells and Traps cards you controls to your hand and you cannot activate cards or effects in response to this effect's activation!

This caused Magical Cylinders and Back to the Front to return to her hand.

Yuya: Next I activate one of my set cards, with it being the Spell Card, Magical Star Illusion! If my opponent control multiple monsters and I control as many or fewer monsters on the field, both of our monsters gain attack points equal to the combined Levels of all monsters we currently control x 100, until the end of this turn. Since my Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon is a level 7, while your Lunalight Yellow Martin and Caninetaur are Levels 4 and 3 Respectively and so our monsters gain 1400 attack points!

After he said that Serena and Yuya's monsters attack points increased.

Yellow Marten(ATK:800-2400/DEF:2000).

Caninetaur(ATK:200-1600).

Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon(ATK:2800-4200).

Yuya: Now Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon attack Caninetaur, Spiral Pressure Strike!

Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon then floats higher and then released a energy beam that caused Caninetaur to stay in place with it's body being stuck there, causing the latter to roar in pain as it turned into golden particles.

Serena winced a little as the wind from the blast hits her, causing her to use her arms to protect and to prevent herself from flying away from the area they are in.

(Serena LP: 4000-1400)

After Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon's attack finished, Yuya got concerned and was about to ask if Serena is alright, but Serena beat him to it and said she was fine and with the Yuya ends his turn.

Seeing the odds against her, Serena draws her next card, hoping whatever she drew can give her more time to prepare.

As she did that she sighed in relief and with that she sets a monster facedown in defense position.

Yuya then now draws a card which is his ace monster, Odd-Eyes Dragon and since he doesn't have enough monsters to summon it he used Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon to attack Yellow Marten, with it also being destroyed. Then he ends his turn.

After that Serena draws another card to which she sets it and then ends her turn.

It was from there that Yuya realized Serena has a bricked hand and so was he as what he draw is a monster that needed one Tribute to summon which only caused him to use Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon to attack her previous monster that she set after her destroyed Canintaur, with that said monster in defense position being Obnoxious Celtic Guardian, causing Yuya's eyes to widen in surprise as Obnoxious Celtic Guardian is one of the most rarest cards to find in card shops due to how limited it was produced by Leo Corporation due to it's effect being that if a monster with 1900 or more attack points hit it, it can't be destroyed by those monsters that had that designated attack points.

Seeing he can't do anything in the moment, he ended his turn and with that Serena drew her next card to which she smiles as she ends her turn.

This lasted for another 5 turns(3 turns for Yuya and 2 for Serena to which none of them made a move due to bricked there hand is which worried Yuzu a little).

That was until it was Serena's turn to which she paled a little upon seeing what she draw, and it was there that Yuzu spoke.

Yuzu: Serena

Serena: H-Huh, Yes?

Yuzu: Are you alright?

Serena: Oh, Yes I'm fine it's just for some reason the card I drew seems familiar.

Yuya: Do you want to pause the duel.

Serena: No! Just give me a moment.

Serena then takes a deep breath as she looked at the card she just drew.

'Ancient Gear Soldier'.

It was one of the original cards given to her by Mr. Crowler before his deck was mass produced to be used by the Obelisk Force with new ancient gear cards added to it so the Obelisk Force can be unstoppable. 

He was cruel, bitter, and arrogant, sure but his reason as to why he did that is make the students he teach to learn how to become a better duelist as he can see a lot of potential in them to become a better person that'll benefit them in the near future.

But he's also one of the people who saw her potential when others can't seemingly appreciate it, causing him to get into fights with the other staff members keeping a watch on Serena and one time the Professor managed to get involved but Dr. Crowler managed to avoid being punished for it.

And now by seeing this card for the first time, she remembered the reason why Mr. Crowler gave her this one along with another copy of it and one copy of each Ancient Gear monster Dr. Crowler had for safe keeping as she still remembered there last conversation before he aided her attempt to escape the Academia the next day after that in secret.

'Madam Celina I can see a lot of potential in you for being a great duelist, and I hate to see it being wasted by staying here in the Academia and prepared to be a soldier of war. With this decision I decided that it would be best it you can have a small set of my Original Ancient Gear Deck so when if your able to escape this place and somehow find a way to head to other dimensions, I want you to use my cards to redeem them.'

'Serena: Redeem them?'

'Ah right, you see I've been having. . . dreams about a Slifer Student that I'm sure didn't exist but that student is somehow real in my dreams and in that dream he's a pain in the ass, but he has a good heart and despite the odd being against him he overcomes them. I don't know what happened to him but I'm sure that if he see's what happened to this school, if he ever existed, he'll be sad and might foolishly attempt to save this school by defeating everyone who agrees with the Professor's plans on invading other dimensions. But seeing you now I can see a resemblance from him even your both not the same.'

'Serena: That's a interesting story, but what does it have to do with redeeming your cards?'

'I'm getting there Madam Serena, as for the redeeming part, you do realize by now what the Professor is planning is basically wrong right?'

'I. . .don't know'

'I see, you don't need to answer that question for now, but eversince The Professor became the Principal in the Academia, every student I taught only now think of glory and became arrogant to the point they lost sight of there true goals and now with them using copies of my Ancient Gears they continued to be even more arrogant, along with the staff members and because of that, I felt responsible for what the other dimensions are about to feel in the near future. Somehow I can feel my cards being saddened by this development and they wanted to take action, but since I'm already in the sights of the Professor I can't do much. That's the reason why I'm giving them to you for the meantime, no matter how seemingly small your chances of escaping is, I believe you can escape this place and find your own destiny and I hope you can show the people from other dimensions that my Ancient Gears aren't weapons of war, but are used to have fun with other people in dueling can you do that for me Madam Serena'

'*Sighs heavily* I'll do best Doctor Crowler'

'I know you will, I have a feeling it'll happen tomorrow so get some rest Madam Serena, tomorrow is another day but unlike the previous one's, it'll be a special one'

After reminiscing there conversation she takes a deep breath and then spoke one of the lines that Yuya used.

Serena: Ladies and Gentleman!

This caused some people to look at them, which caught some of the people who've been observing them for sometime now, along with Yuya and Yuzu off guard, with Serena continuing what she's saying

Serena: Now as you notice my life points are lower to the point that I'm going to lose, however the card that I draw along with the cards I set while I was bricked had now led to this moment and I'll execute my grand strategy to end this duel. *Points at Yuya* So prepare yourself Yuya, I'll bring your floating dragon that almost led to my defeat down but first I activate one of my set cards, which is the spell card, Dian Keto the Cure Master! This let's me gain 1000 life points.

Chapter Text

Days turned into months since Yuya and Serena's duel. Life had settled into a peaceful rhythm, and Serena found herself genuinely enjoying her time with Yuzu, Syuzo, and the others. The group successfully passed their exams, marking the end of their elementary school years. They were now ready to start their journey as first-year junior high school students.

Before the new semester began, they had a one-month break. During this time, Serena dedicated herself to helping at You Show Duel School. She assisted Yuzu and Syuzo with daily tasks, often working alongside Yuya and his family. While Serena still struggled to call Syuzo “Father,” she had settled on calling him "Syuzo-san" or "Old Man" ("Jiji") depending on her mood. When she was in an especially cheerful mood, she would teasingly call him “Old Man,” much to Syuzo’s occasional annoyance, though he ultimately saw it as a sign of her gradual acceptance of him as her parental figure.

The group continued refining their strategies, ensuring they remained formidable in their duels. Their hard work paid off, as they claimed many victories in challenges, competitions, and tournaments. While they did experience occasional losses—due to having a bad hand or being caught off guard by an opponent’s strategy—these setbacks only fueled their determination. For Serena, these moments strengthened her bond with her new family and deepened her sense of belonging.

However, the release of Fusion Summoning sparked curiosity among the group. Fusion Summoning required activating a card or effect to fuse monsters and summon a Fusion Monster from the Extra Deck. Typically, this was done using a card like Polymerization. Yet, Serena surprised everyone by revealing she could Fusion Summon using a card exclusive to her Lunalight deck: Lunalight Fusion.

While Yusho understood the origin of the card and its connection to Serena’s past, the others were puzzled. They questioned how she had come to possess such a specific card, especially since Fusion Summoning had only just been introduced. Feeling cornered, Serena quickly brainstormed with her monsters and devised an excuse. She claimed she couldn’t remember where the card had come from, citing her supposed amnesia. She also added that she had only recently discovered the Extra Deck compartment in her duel disk, which contained her Fusion Monster Versions of her Lunalight Monsters(After rechecking her Extra Deck she found 3 new Lunalight Fusion Monsters and ████'s card in it and was impressed at there card effects which would come in handy in the future.)

Her explanation was enough to satisfy their curiosity, and they believed her story. Internally, Serena felt relieved, knowing she had deflected their questions successfully. But she couldn’t shake the feeling that the truth about her past would surface someday, but just as what ████ said, she must enjoy the present life she's living in and let ████ handle the situation.

That aside, with the release of Fusion Summon Monsters, Which boosted Yuya and Yuzu's decks as there archetypes have a Fusion Monster(s) of them(With Gongenzaka who decided not to use Fusion Summoning due to the Gongenzaka Style his Father and Dojo are following which many accepted) they developed new strategies which made them a very formidable duelists.

With that everything went as usual. . . that was until a month has passed when they all became as first-year junior high school students in Miami High School.

Lunch Break – Rooftop of Miami High School

It had been a month since they began their first year at Miami High School, and the group had settled into their new routine. During lunch break, they found themselves on the rooftop, enjoying the fresh air and each other’s company.

Serena: Are you sure someone isn't following us?

Yuya, Yuzu, and Gongenzaka exchanged puzzled looks, with Yuzu speaking up first.

Yuzu: There's no one following us, Serena nee-san. What are you talking about?

Serena: It's just... *sighs* Ever since the start of the school year, someone has been following me. At first, I thought it was nothing, but as time passes, I’m certain someone is watching me.

Yuya: Well, now that you mention it... looks around It seems like we’re safe here for now.

Gongenzaka: Gongenzaka agrees. Even if they try, the moment we hear their stomach grumbling, we can catch them. But it seems like they’re waiting until they’re sure they won’t be caught.

Serena: That’s reasonable, but still...

Yuzu: Don’t overthink it for now, Serena nee-san. Maybe you’ll catch them later.

Serena: I'm not trying to catch them. I just want to know why they're following me.

With that, they decided to drop the topic for the time being and continue eating, though Serena's unease lingered.

After there lunch break ended Serena and Yuzu headed to their assigned classroom with Yuya and Gongenzaka heading to their own. Then classes resumed to normal, however Serena is now certain that someone is watching or staring at her as she felt it now in the classroom and after asking Milla to check that person telepathically, she decided to confront that person.

And so she did, as the last class ended all of the students Serena grabbed into a hand of a girl with dark skin tone, shoulder-length black hair and red eyes.

'H-Hey, What are you!?'.

Serena: Follow me.

As Serena dragged the girl outside the school, causing Yuzu to be confused as to where Serena went.

Afternoon

At the back of the School

As Serena dragged the girl behind the school, she turned around to face her and spoke as she manage to look at her properly to address her name.

Serena: So. . . care to explain to me why are you following me, Masumi?

The girl flinched at the mention of her name. Serena had heard of Kotsu Masumi, a bold and straightforward duelist with a reputation for her Gem-Knight deck. Known for its versatility, Gem-Knights boasted powerful Fusion Monsters with effects ranging from battle support to card destruction and burn damage.

Serena also recalled hearing that Masumi used to duel with her adopted older brother’s Crystal Beasts deck. Though she now had her own deck, she occasionally returned to the Crystal Beasts to honor a promise she made to her brother before his injury a year ago that he's currently recovering from.

Now, standing before her, Masumi seemed hesitant and out of character, almost like she had been caught stealing. Serena raised an eyebrow, wondering if she had done something to make the girl so nervous.

Serena: Masumi, that’s your name, right?

Masumi: Y-Yes, that’s my name!

Serena: *sighs* Okay, did I do something to you, or—

Masumi: *blurts out* Your luster is so bright! When I saw you duel Yuya a few months ago, I wanted to challenge you in a duel!

Serena blinked, taken aback by Masumi’s sudden outburst.

Ah… so that’s why.

Now that she think about it, there are some students from the school watching her and Yuya's duel that day and also having the additional knowledge that she is seemingly capable of detecting talent and hesitation within people, due to her father's job and witnessing and appraising the value of jewels. She can see why she wanted to challenge her.

But-.

Serena: May I ask why you're... embarrassed when asking me?

Masumi: Ah well... I heard you're very busy and if someone interrupted you, you might get angry.

Right. . . The rumors about her temper were not entirely untrue, especially since her Lunalight deck was infamous for its FTK potential, but in her defense she does that if she wanted to end the battle or she wanted to beat the crap out of people who dared to messed with her friends.

Serena: I see, well yeah between school work and attending small duel tournaments kept me busy so yeah, maybe we can duel in a later date but I hope you won't stalk me again okay?

As Serena walked away Masumi hesitated, then spoke with sudden determination.

Masumi: Even if your deck is formidable and end the duel at the your turn, I’ll have a way to beat it!

Serena froze, her expression shifting to one of disbelief. Her sharp gaze bore into Masumi.

Serena: You did not just say that.

Masumi gulped but stood her ground. To her, it was worth it as this might be her only chance to duel her now that she got her attention.

Seeing this, Serena let's out a heavy sigh and then spoke.

Serena: Fine you brought your duel disk?

Masumi: Yes.

Serena: Good let's move a few more inches from here then we can duel.

Masumi: Eh, were still in school grounds?

Serena: Correct, however behind the school building we'll be out of school grounds, which many failed to noticed because the school forgot to allocate a budget to make a wall to separate it from the school grounds.

Masumi: H-How do you know all of that!?

Serena: When you walk around the school you'll tend to listen to a lot of rumors about it, and when I heard about them I ask 'Jiji' or Yusho-san if they are true to which after careful investigation, was proven to be correct and so they sent the concern to the school to which it seems they never read it... yet.

Masumi: I see...

Serena: I'll give some time to prepare your disk and deck before our duel see you.

With that Serena headed to the place where school ground rules won't disturb there duel and after awhile Masumi followed suit 

And with that they-

Serena/Masumi: DUEL!!!!

Minute's Later

Serena's Hand: 3 Cards(Lunalight Fusion, Ancient Gear Golem, Lunalight Emerald Bird), LP: 800, Field: Lunalight Panther Dancer(Attack position), Lunalight Blue Cat(Attack position), Lunalight Crimson Fox(Attack Position), and Continuous Trap Card, Lunalight Serenade Dance, and 1 face down in the Spell/Trap Zone.

Masumi's Hand: 2 Cards, LP: 2500, Field: Gem-Knight Lady Lapis Lazuli(Attack Position), Gem-Knight Lady Brilliant Diamond(Attack Position), Gem-Knight Master Diamond(Attack Position), and 3 Face downs in the Spell/Trap Zone.

Current Turn: Masumi, Ending the Battle Phase

As Masumi ended her turn, Serena sighs in relief on managing to use a quick play spell to negate Master Diamond's effect and increase the attack points of her monster trough the use of Lunalight Serenade Dance to send a Lunalight Token in Masumi's field in defense position to which Masumi responded by using a quick play spell to remove it after though the effect still takes effect due to the Continuous Trap Card's effect, with Masumi following it with a spell card so she can see the face down she made before her turn, which turns out to be Doble Passe, causing Masumi to end her turn as she know she'll loose if she attacked. 

But Serena got to give Masumi some credit she managed to avoid her one turn kill when she goes 2nd by using Lunalight Leo Dancer, with her plan failing as Masumi anticipated it, which made Serena interested on how much Masumi had prepared to face her.

Now it was Serena's turn she draws a card to which she draws the classic Polymerization. With that she spoke.

Serena: I activate the spell card, Polymerization. With this I can Fusion Summon 1 Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck, using monsters I control of in my hand as Fusion Materials. I use Lunalight Black Panther, Blue Cat and Crimson Fox to create a new Lunar Legend!

This caught Masumi off guard as she know the main 3 Lunalight Monsters Serena used in her duels after hearing and watching them either from afar or on social media.

Serena: *puts her hands together and spoke* O beast that dances beneath the moon, ready your blades and face my foes with your beauty and strength, appear Lunalight Sabre Dancer!

With that Lunalight Sabre Dancer(LV: 9/ATK: 3000) appeared showing it's elegance and readiness in battle.

Serena: Then her continuous effect activates, she gains 200 attack points for each Beast-Warrior type monster that is banished or in the both graveyards. Then my opponent cannot target this card with card effects. since I have 8 Beast-Warrior type monsters in my graveyard, she gains an additional 1600 attack points!

Lunalight Sabre Dancer(ATK: 3000-4600).

Serena: Then with the effect Lunalight Serenade Dance to special summon a Lunalight token in your field and with that the monster I fusion summon gains 500 attack points for each monster in your field and since you had 4, Sabre Dancer gains 2000 Attack points!

Lunalight Sabre Dancer(ATK: 4600-6600).

Serena: Then I activate Lunalight the effects of Lunalight Blue Cat and Crimson Fox simultaneously! When they are both sent to the graveyard I can special summon a Lunalight Monster in my deck then as for Crimson Fox's effect when it's sent to the graveyard by a card effect I can choose one of your monsters and there attack point go to zero. I special summon Lunalight White Rabbit in defense position from Blue Cat's effect and choose your Master Diamond to have 0 attack points by Crimson Fox's effect!

With that White Rabbit(LV: 2 /DEF: 800) was summoned while Master Diamond's attack points go to 0 weakening Masumi's Monster.

Serena: Then I activate White Rabbit's effect! I can target 1 "Lunalight" monster in my Graveyard,  and special summon it in Defense Position. I choose to special summon Crimson Fox from the Graveyard. But in return Sabre Dance loses 200 Attack points due to a Beast Warrior Type Monster is taken out in the graveyard!

Sabre Dancer(ATK: 6600-6400)

As Crimson Fox(LV: 4/DEF: 600) reappeared in defense position Serena continued to speak.

Serena: Then I activate another effect of White Rabbit, once per turn I can target Spell/Trap Cards your opponent controls, up to the number of other "Lunalight" cards I control and return them to your hand. Since I have two Lunalight Monsters I send 2 of your set card back to your hand!

After that 2 of Masumi's set cards are returned and from there Serena continued to speak.

Serena: Next I activate the spell card Lunalight Fusion! With this I can Fusion Summon 1 Lunalight Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck, using monsters from your hand or field as Fusion Material, and if my opponent controls a monster that was Special Summoned from the Extra Deck, I can also use 1 Lunalight monster in your Deck or Extra Deck as Fusion Material. However I won't be needing that as I'll use the monsters in my field and hand, I Fusion Summon Lunalight Crimson Fox from the field, and Lunalight Emerald Bird and Ancient Gear Golem from my hand to create another Lunar Legend!

Masumi: Another one?!

Serena: *Clasp both of her hand again and spoke* O formidable one who works in the night to make things that'll help many with your creations appear and show the beauty of your works, Lunalight Brown Owl Gearworks!

As she said that a woman resembling Emerald Bird appeared, however her skin is brown and her wings are light metal plates resembling feathers with her mask resembling a face of and owl and surrounding it's body are numerous gears and cogs, as well as metal body parts for a few Ancient Gear monsters are placed in it's small bag pockets and tied to its wings respectively with the new Lunalight Monster having a brown top hat and a Monocle in her left eye and wearing a brown and white top with a belted leather bodice, short brown pants with a coat back, and brown thigh-high boots and was also gloves, with the right glove having metal tips or claws to the fingers.

--------

Lunalight Brown Owl Gearworks

Level: 8/Attribute: Dark

ATK:2900/DEF:2400

2 Lunalight Monsters in the complementary color scale(Example: Blue and Orange, Violet and Yellow, Green and Red, etc.) + 1 Ancient Gear Monster

Beast Warrior/Fusion/Effect:

This card can be also treated as an Ancient Gear monster and Machine Type Monster on the field, graveyard or banished zone. When Fusion Summoned it gains 100 x the level of the Ancient Gear Monster used for it's Fusion Summon. Then apply the following effects if this monster is summoned using the following Lunalight Monsters:.

• Red (Crimson) and Green (Emerald): If a spell/trap card will be activated during the battle phase and after damage calculation, if the activated spell/trap card has the same property as you had in the field either face up or down, it cannot be used until damage calculation. However this card can't attack the moment it's effect activates.
• Orange and Blue: (To be revealed in the near future).
• Yellow and Blue: (To be revealed in the near future).

(More Effects to be revealed in the near future)

--------

As this happened Sabre Dancer's attack points increased to 400 when Emerald Bird and Crimson Fox are sent to the graveyard.

Sabre Dancer(ATK: 6400-6800)

Serena: Lunalight Brown Owl Gearworks can be also treated as an Ancient Gear monster and Machine Type Monster on the field, graveyard or banished zone. Next I activate Brown Owl Clockworks effect when it's fusion summoned. it gains 100 attack points times the lever of the Ancient Gear monster I used to fusion summon it. Since the Ancient Gear Monster I used is Ancient Gear Golem, it gains 800 attack points.

With that the upper body of Ancient Gear Golem appeared behind Brown Owl Gearworks, with the latter flying close to it as it pulls out some mechanical devices to connect it to small remote with gears and cogs making it movex.

Brown Owl Clockworks(ATK: 2900-3700)

Serena: Now I activate Crimson Fox's effect once again since it was sent to graveyard by a card effect and I choose your Gem-Knight Lady Brilliant Diamond to have 0 attack points.

With that Gem-Knight Lady Brilliant Diamond weakened as it's attack points went to 0.

Serena: Battle, Sabre Dancer end this duel by attacking Gem-Knight Lady Lapis Lazuli!

Hearing this, Sabre Dancer launched herself forward and landed an X slash on Gem-Knight Lady Lapis Lazuli destroying her.

Masumi: Trap Card activate, Brilliant Spark! If a face-up "Gem-Knight" monster I control is destroyed by my opponent's attack or card effect, I can target that destroyed monsters and then inflict damage to my opponent equal to its original attack points-

Serena: While I commend your strategy to end this in a draw I'm afraid I can't let you activate that, I activate Brown Owl Gearworks other effect! If I special summoned this by using Crimson Fox and Emerald Bird and if the property of spell or trap card used is the same property I had on the field either face up of face down, it cannot be used until damage calculation. However this card can't attack the moment I activate it's effect. Quick Sabotage!

Then Brown Owl Clockworks threw a bomb like device made up of small gears and cogs at Masumi's trap card, with the letting out some steam and electricity cancelling it's activation.

Masumi: Ah... so I lost

Serena: Yep and that's game.

With that since Gem-Knight Lady Lapis Lazuli have 2400 Attack points while Sabre Dancer has 6800, Masumi took 4200 damage and reducing her life points to 0 ending the duel. 

Masumi: I lost... you really are amazing, Serena.

Serena: And you're a tough one too, Masumi. You almost beat me.

Serena approached Masumi, who had collapsed to her knees after the intense duel. She extended a hand with a kind smile.

Serena: Here, let me help you up. That was a great duel—thanks for giving me your best shot.

Masumi hesitated for a moment, then took Serena's hand and stood up.

Masumi: The pleasure is mine, but I should thank you for giving me the opportunity to duel, I'll remember this so I can improve myself.

Serena: That's good but. . . I have a proposition for you.

This caused the latter to tilt her head and with catching her attention she continued, hoping this decision she'll make won't bite her back in the near future.

Serena: I can see also potential in you and now that I dueled you, I've noticed weak points in your deck that could be exploited if observed by other duelist properly and so I propose to you to join You Show Duel School, we just opened a class for Fusion Summoning and the fee for the duel school is not expensive as the others.

Masumi: You want me to join a duel school for dueltaining.

Serena: Well you don't need to be a Dueltainer, you can just be you and amaze the crowd in your own way. The other reason is well... I wanted to help old man to get and enroll some new students but, I'm bad at interactions except from interacting with my friends or in dueling so I can't help much. But if you really don't want my help, it's fine so no pressure okay?

Hearing this Masumi stayed silent for awhile which made Serena almost spoke in concern to ask her if she's alright if it wasn't for Masumi to speak again.

Masumi: I was planning to enroll at LDS because of it's fusion course... But after weighting my options... I've decided that I'll join You Show.

Serena: Oh, I see *eyes widen* you'll enroll at You Show?!

Masumi: Y-Yeah beside's I might learn more from you instead since teaching someone how to fusion summon seems easy.

Serena: Right, great now you'll become my 3rd apprentice.

Masumi: 3rd apprentice?

Serena: Well, I've been teaching my Sister and his friend on how to fusion summon easily and because of my advice and teachings they became more formidable and it makes me proud of them. You can say I prided myself when it comes to teaching someone with my efforts not being wasted so.

Masumi: I think I get the gist if, but uhh... Sure I'll become your 3rd apprentice.

Serena: Wait no need to call yourself that-

Masumi: It's fine Serena... My older brother said that one day there will be a time I need to learn more in order to become a very formidable duelist so this can help a lot.

Serena: Well if you say so-

"What are you two doing here?!"

Both of them turned around and saw the School's security guard and then they noticed the sun's is setting now and it'll be night time, 

Seeing this,  Serena spoke

Serena: ... Well shi-

To be continued 

Chapter Text

So, you'll who been reading for sometime notice the change in the summary. Good I have reason for it.

My first thought on making this is to make Serena very violent in the near future(more worse than Yuri) halfway of Act 1 for plot purposes. However as time passed, while I'm studying for this upcoming midterms, while taking a break and looking at YouTube, I stumbled across a Yu-Gi-Oh Master Duel short that has a interesting choice of music(due to a player there giving the one who posted the shorts the Maxx c challenge(along with adding the effect Mulcharmy Fuwalos in hand) against the one who posted having a 'HERO' deck... Yeah you can see how that went out) and after contemplating, I decided to change a few things that'll impact this story's ending in the near future, and it's a good thing that this story is starting so you'll see the changes soon.

Anyways that's all for now see you guys after I finished my Midterms good luck to me. Have a Great Day/Afternoon/Night!!!!.

Chapter Text

After her duel with Masumi, they almost got punished by the school if it wasn't for the fact that they are out of boundaries from the school grounds with Yusho and Syuzo supporting her claims.

And so instead of the school punishing them, they closed for three days to build barriers around the school grounds in order to ensure this won't happen again, it was only pure luck that the school isn't robbed at that point when the staff neglected to notice it.

With that Serena had enough time to tour Masumi in You Show and help her get along with everyone there as best as she can.

For the next few days, Masumi slowly integrated into You Show Duel School under Serena’s guidance. At first, the transition was rocky—Masumi had an undeniable talent for Fusion Summoning, but her overconfidence made it difficult for some students to warm up to her. Her sharp, almost dismissive remarks toward those she considered weaker often rubbed them the wrong way. However, with Serena acting as a bridge between Masumi and the rest of the school, the tension began to ease.

Serena wasn't just teaching Masumi how to duel—she was also teaching her how to connect with others, something that Masumi, despite her confidence, struggled with. Through duels, casual conversations, and moments of shared frustration when lessons didn’t go smoothly, Masumi slowly began to understand that dueling wasn’t just about power—it was about adaptability, creativity, and the bonds that strengthened a duelist’s resolve.

She even started expanding her playstyle, incorporating her brother’s Crystal Beast deck alongside her Gem-Knights. It was a risky move, one that could lead to brick hands if not managed properly, but Serena encouraged her to take calculated risks. They spent hours fine-tuning a strategy that balanced both archetypes, ensuring Masumi had a backup plan if her opponent countered her initial fusion-heavy approach.

Masumi, much to her surprise, found herself enjoying her time at You Show. The school was nothing like her old one. It encouraged creativity, improvisation, and pushing personal limits in a way that felt natural rather than forced. More than once, she found herself surprised at how much she laughed during dueling exercises. Even outside of training, she caught herself lingering longer at the school, watching with Serena Yuya’s flashy performances or discussing tactics with Gongenzaka and the others.

But not everyone was thrilled with the shift.

Yuzu was struggling to ignore the uneasy feeling growing in her chest.

At first, she dismissed it. She wanted to be happy for Serena—her sister had grown so much since arriving at You Show, and now she was guiding someone else to be better, just like she had once guided Serena.

But that was exactly the problem.

Serena was her rival. Her sister. The one who constantly pushed her forward, challenged her to be stronger, and helped her break past her limits. It was through her duels with Serena that she had learned to fight with everything she had, to stand on equal ground with Yuya and the others. She had taken pride in being the person who helped Serena adjust to life at You Show, who kept her from getting into trouble, who reminded her of what it meant to be a part of their school.

Now, it felt like Serena was giving that same attention to Masumi.

It was irrational—Yuzu knew that. She wasn’t losing Serena just because she took in a new student. But every time she saw them huddled together over a duel disk, every time she heard Serena’s voice filled with excitement while discussing Fusion strategies with Masumi, that tightness in her chest returned.

And the worst part?

Masumi knew.

The Gem-Knight duelist wasn’t oblivious. She noticed the sharp glances Yuzu occasionally threw her way, the way Yuzu’s usual enthusiasm seemed slightly dimmer whenever Serena praised her. Masumi didn’t outright call her out on it, but there was a smugness in the way she acted around Serena, as if she was silently declaring: I’m her student now. What are you going to do about it?

Yuzu hated that she was letting it get to her.

So she did what she always did when her emotions got too overwhelming.

She trained.

Every night, long after most of the students had gone home, Yuzu stayed behind in the school’s training area, running through simulations on her duel disk, practicing Action Duel maneuvers, and refining her deck strategies. If Masumi thought she could just step in and replace her as Serena’s rival—her equal—then Yuzu was going to prove just how wrong she was.

She wasn’t the same duelist she was when Serena first arrived.

She had grown too.

And she would make sure Masumi knew that.

At the afternoon

In the action duel room at You Show 

Masumi was minding her own business and just finished stretching a little after another practice duel with Serena as she wanted to test something in her deck to which almost made her defeat the latter if she didn't misplayed causing her to be defeated.

As she waits for awhile as Serena gets water so she can hear some advice, the door to the room opened and instead of it being Serena it was Yuzu, who's eyes are filled with determination as she approached her.

Masumi: Oh, Yuzu. If you’re looking for Serena, she went to get some water—.

Yuzu: Masumi. I challenge you to a duel.

The demand caught Masumi off guard after she cut her off. She hadn’t dueled Yuzu directly since coming to You Show, but she had observed her duels plenty of times. Yuzu was strong—undeniably so—but the way she was standing, the way her fingers curled slightly at her sides, it was clear that this was about more than just a casual match.

Masumi: Well I'll duel you, but why the sudden challenge? You’ve never been that eager to fight me before.

Yuzu: You’re getting stronger, Masumi. And that’s because of my sister’s help. If I want to still be the one to stand as her equal—her rival—I need to know where I stand.

Masumi tilted her head, eyeing Yuzu carefully. There was something more to this challenge, something unspoken behind Yuzu’s words. The glances, the distant looks, the way Yuzu’s energy dimmed whenever she was with Serena—Masumi had assumed it was just mild annoyance or maybe even a bit of rivalry. But now, standing before her, Yuzu’s fierce expression told a different story.

She thinks I’m trying to take Serena away from her.

The realization hit Masumi like a sudden bolt of lightning. That was why Yuzu had been acting so strangely. She didn’t hate Masumi, she felt that she was being replaced by her.

For a brief moment, Masumi considered clearing up the misunderstanding. It wasn’t like she was trying to steal Serena from her. Sure, she had enjoyed her time with Serena, and there was a certain excitement in learning from someone so strong, but Serena and Yuzu were practically family. Yuzu should know that Serena wouldn't abandon her just because of me.

But then another thought crossed her mind.

How bright and lustrous can Yuzu be when she’s serious?

Serena was radiant in battle, her passion for dueling shining through every move she made. And now, standing before her, Masumi saw the same fire in Yuzu’s eyes—the same drive, the same intensity. It was captivating in its own way, different from Serena yet equally dazzling.

Her smirk widened.

Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad to test this side of her.

Masumi activated her duel disk. Then there surroundings changed as a field spell was chosen for there action duel, with them standing on a Bridge with other bridges surrounding them from above and below albeit it seemed that the field should've been more wider but because how limited the space is in the room it had to adjust.

Masumi: Not a bad choice Yuzu, let's see who's worthy then?

With that they both began to chant as they began to duel. With the both of them neither of them planning to hold back.

Meanwhile at the control room where the settings to activate the action field is.

Serena: . . .Should I stop them?

She sighed, rubbing her temples.

She'd just returned after getting some water but due to the room to the action field being locked in order to prevent accidents during duels from occurring, she headed to the control room and was surprised too see Masumi dueling Yuzu.

To be honest Serena felt something was wrong with Yuzu a few days ago and decided to confront her tonight about but it seems Masumi was involved.

Serena: Was it perhaps my sister is- no that's impossible, but it could be-

Suddenly a familiar voice spoke in her head.

'Serena'.

Serena: 'Oh Milla it's been awhile'.

'Indeed, I'm going to have you pull you consciousness away from the real world for awhile'

Serena: 'Eh why is that?'.

'████ wanted to give show you too someone it involves about something you need to summon him so you use him on a duel'

Serena: 'Oh right, I forgot about that one'.

Around a week ago Serena rechecked ████'s card and discovers that she needed 2 Normal Monster to summon it however she finds it difficult to find the perfect normal monster to add into her deck, so she asked ████ during her sleep in the real world to which the letter replied he'll figure something out.

And so Serena let's her consciousness being taken away and with that she appeared in the forest where she first met Milla and from there she followed the latter into a wooden cabin on a open field with a large pond beside it.

As they both arrived there ████ made his presence known as he greets them and after they greeted the latter back, Serena spoke.

Serena: Is there something I can do now to summon you in a duel ████?

████: Yes and no. It'll be best if you can meet them.

Suddenly the door to the wooden cabin opened revealing a man wearing predominantly blue, with gold accents on his armor and boots which suggest a metallic or energy-based material as if he's a superhero and was holding a brown sphere that was a size of a basketball.

But as they left the cabin he puts the ball down with it beginning to take shape of a large, imposing robotic figure made of dark gray and light beige materials. The robot has a round central body with a smaller, red, circular feature near the top, which could be interpreted as a head or energy source. Its limbs are stout and blocky, and its hands are clenched into fists.

As they presented themselves to Serena, ████ spoke

████: These two belonged to a duelist from the original dimension before the split... but he was slain by Leo Akaba. Most of his cards were burned, but through sheer luck, some survived. These are two of them. The rest are inside.

Serena: I see. . .

Serena’s fists clenched from what ████ said. Leo killed them? Why?

Serena: I don’t know what happened to you, but I’m Serena Hiragi. I hope to know you well.

As she said that the figure hesitated for awhile but then the heroic figure spoke.

'I like to know you well madam Serena, however we'll like to have more time for ourselves as we're still mourning for our master's death. I hope you understand that'.

Serena: I do, but may I know your name incase you decided for us and your. . .brothers and sisters to get to know each other.

'Thank you madam Serena, I won't tell you our whole name yet as we're still contemplating if we should deserve that title but you may call me Sparkman, while the other one beside me is Clayman'.

Serena: I see Nice to meet you Sparkman, Clayman

"Serena, Serena!"

Suddenly she heard Yuya's voice causing her to see that she'd came back from the real world and noticed Yuya and Syuzo looking at her with worry.

Yuya: Serena are you alright!?

Serena: Ah, y-yeah, sorry about that, my mind just got occupied on something.

Syuzo: Are you sure Serena?

Serena: Yes, thanks for the concern jiji

Syuzo: Good, but it seems you'll be able to see your sister's and Masumi's Hot-Blooded Climactic Duel.

Serena: Huh *looks at the action field where Yuzu and Masumi are dueling, eyes widening* What the f-.

Syuzo: Serena language!

Serena: *Groaned and rubbed her temples* I was busy with my thoughts for awhile and now my sister is going full melodrama over something so dumb due to Masumi in a duel. Seriously I really had to talk to her about misunderstanding someone?

Yuya: Eh, Yuzu is dueling Masumi because of jealousy?

Serena: Yeah, I know that Yuzu can see people's intention by noting how there face looked when they interact of do something, however there are time she got it wrong and I have to save her that one time she accidentally called a tired worker a pervert despite the latter being seriously tired.

At the Action Duel Room Yuzu can be seen having 3 cards in her hand, Bloom Diva the Melodious Choir(LV: 6/ATK: 1000), Schuberta the Melodious Maestra(LV: 6/ATK: (Original: 2400) 3000), and Bacha the Melodious Maestra(LV: 7/ATK: 2500) on the field with one set card in her spell/trap zone and has 1500 life points. While Masumi has 2 cards in her hand, Rainbow Dragon(LV: 10/ATK:4000), and Gem-Knight Master Diamond(LV: 9/ATK:2900), Gem-Knight Lady Brilliant Diamond(LV: 10/ATK:3400) on the field with two set cards in her spell/trap zone and has life 1000 points with the turn being Masumi's and both of them are seemingly tired. 

Seeing Schuberta's attack points different than it's original Serena deducted that her sister must've used it's quick effect during her and Masumi's Turn with Masumi seemingly struggling on what to do as it seems that her original plan to defeat Yuzu is to use the evolved version of Rainbow Dragon which can return any amount of cards in the field, however due to Schuberta's effect and it was Masumi's turn which meant Yuzu can use it's effect again, she must've banished 3 Crystal Beasts with different names in the banished zone, meaning that Masumi can't summon the evolved version of her monster.

In the Action Duel Room, Masumi is gritted her teeth, gripping the last two cards in her hand tightly. This duel had pushed her to her limits as Yuzu’s relentless pressure, the way she had perfectly countered her Rainbow Dragon strategy, infuriates her. And yet, deep down, Masumi couldn’t help but feel exhilarated as she can see how Yuzu really is in this duel.

Masumi: You put me in the corner Yuzu, you really got me here.

Yuzu: I could say the same for you as well. 

Despite them using a lot of action cards to ensure they can't loose they both know that there no more action cards available due to the Action Field Spell used and so Masumi can do only one thing she can do beat Yuzu.

Masumi: Let's see if you can still keep up then, I activate the effect of Gem-Knight Lady Brilliant Diamond, I send one face-up "Gem-Knight" monster I control to the Graveyard, then I can Special Summon 1 Gem-Knight Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck, ignoring its Summoning conditions. I sent Gem-Knight Master Diamond to the grave yard to summon Gem-Knight Lady Lapis Lazuli-

Yuzu: Then I activate my trap card, Necro Fusion! By banishing cards from my Graveyard face down, I can special summon a Fusion Monster, I banish Shopina the Melodious Maestra, Aria the Melodious Diva and Sonata the Melodious Diva to Fusion summon my new Melodious Monster!

Masumi: New Melodious Monster?!

Yuya: Huh aren't there supposed to be only 3 Melodious Fusion Monsters?

Serena: No *Checks something on the internet using her duel disk* there was an announcement a few days ago saying that the Leo Corporation released a new set of cards in order to even the odds against specific cards that can end the game immediately, and unfortunately they made a card that can go head to head with Ultimate Crystal Rainbow Dragon Overdrive, which was giving duelists a hard time to deal it due to it's ability, which is the card my sister is using now.

Yuya: Eh then what's the name of the Melodious Monster?

Serena: It's name is-.

Yuzu: *Clasps her hands together and spoke* O dazzling diva of harmony, let your radiant aria bloom! With the crescendo of stars and the melody of fate, take center stage! Descend now, Flowering Étoile the Melodious Magnificat!

As she said that a monster who looks like Yuzu appeared and was wearing a beautiful dress decorated with the flowers of the yuzu plant.(LV: 8/ATK: 2800)

Serena/Syuzo/Yuya: . . . . .

Serena: Okay *Takes a deep breath* we should definitely sue Leo Crop. for this.

Syuzo: I'll file the complaint.

Yuya: Aren't you guys taking this too well and are not freaking out!?

Serena: Look Yuya *puts a hand in Yuya's left shoulder* I'm freaking out seeing Yuzu's new monster and my expression should be surprised, if it wasn't the fact Leo Corp pull something like this. Let's hope the Leo Corp. didn't mass print that card and that the only one or else they'll be in trouble.

Back at the Action Duel Room, Masumi is surprised at the new monster Yuzu had and needless to say her monster look a like is very beautiful. However before she can contemplate on it she had to finish this duel first.

As Yuzu's trap card effect ended with Gem-Knight Lady Lapis Lazuli appearing in Masumi's field, Masumi then spoke.

Masumi: Then I active Gem-Knight Lady Lapis Lazuli's effect-

Yuzu: I won't let you do that, I activate the effect Flowering Étoile the Melodious Magnificat! I can banish a number of Melodious Monster in my field, then I can return up to that many face-up cards my opponent controls to the hand. I banish Bloom Diva the Melodious Choir, Schuberta the Melodious Maestra, and Bacha the Melodious Maestra to return your 3 monsters back to your hand.

However since Masumi's Fusion monster are from the extra deck they returned there, however Masumi then now activate's her trap card.

Masumi: Then I activate my Continuous Trap Card, Call of the Haunted! By targeting 1 monster in my graveyard; I can Special Summon that monster in Attack Position. Appear Gem-Knight Master Diamond!

When Gem-Knight Master Diamond appeared on Masumi's field, Masumi continued to speak.

Masumi: Battle! Gem-Knight Master Diamond attack Flowering Étoile the Melodious Magnificat!

As she does this however, she noticed that Yuzu seemingly smiling as if this was according to plan, however she might foil that as her last set card is the card she forgot to take out which was one of the reasons she lost during her duel with Serena earlier.

Masumi: I might destroy your monster Yuzu, but if you think you'll win on your turn then I'll have to disappoint you, I then activate my final trap card, Final Fusion!

Yuzu: Final Fusion!?

Masumi: During either player's Battle Step, when a Fusion Monster I control battles an opponent's Fusion Monster. I can target both those Fusion Monsters, negate the attack, and if I do, both of us takes damage equal to the combined ATK of both those Fusion Monsters. Since my Master Diamond has 2900 attack points, while Flowering Étoile has 2800, we'll both take 5700 damage!

Yuya: That means!

Syuzo: This duel is a draw.

With that a glowing light appeared between Master Diamond and Flowering Étoile with it exploding between them causing both of them to use there arms to block the light blinding them.

Then as it exploded the shockwave caused both duelists to be pushed away as both of there life points went 0, however Yuzu and her monster we're pushed to far causing them to fall on the bridge they are in with Masumi and her monster.

As Yuzu braced for impact of the, the sensation of falling was suddenly replaced by firm arms catching her mid-air. She gasped as she found herself securely held by Masumi, who had leaped from a nearby bridge just in time to save her from falling. Below them, Flowering Étoile had been similarly caught by Master Diamond.

With a swift, practiced motion, Masumi landed gracefully on another bridge, still holding Yuzu in her arms. Yuzu blinked, her heart racing from both the fall and the unexpected proximity. 

Masumi: Are you alright? *Looks at Yuzu for any signs of injury".

Yuzu opened her mouth to respond but quickly realized just how close Masumi was. Their faces were mere inches apart, the warmth of Masumi’s body pressing against hers as her arms remained securely wrapped around her. She could feel her own heartbeat pounding in her chest, her cheeks burning.

Yuzu: *Stammers* Y-Yeah… I-I’m fine *Averting her gaze slightly, though she made no immediate move to pull away*.

Down below another bridge, a similar predicament unfolded between their monsters. Flowering Étoile, now resting in Master Diamond arms, blinked in confusion as she looked up at her crystalline rescuer. The two remained locked in an awkward silence, mirroring their duelists’ situation.

At the Duel Room, as Serena see's this spoke.

Serena: Oh my. . . oh my, oh my, oh my.

Yuya: Serena?

Serena: Yes?

Yuya: Are you alright?

Serena: Oh yes, *pulls out her phone and begins picturing Masumi and Yuzu* I'm alright, oh boy this is good material, very good material!

Syuzo: She's fine Yuya, no need to worry.

Yuya: If you say so.

As the action field spell ended Serena entered and scolded her sister for misunderstanding Masumi with Masumi being scolded as well due to not clearing it up. With Serena also showing the picture she got causing her to be chased across the duel school with Yuzu being a blushing mess gripping her Harisen tight ready to hit Serena in the head.

To be continued

Chapter Text

After that, everything gradually returned to normal well, almost. There was the brief incident where Syuzo actually filed a copyright claim against Leo Corporation for the monster card that resembles Yuzu. Reiji, upon reviewing the issue, personally apologized, admitting that he had overlooked the card’s design. To resolve the matter, he halted the mass production of Flowering Étoile the Melodious Magnificat and declared it an exclusive card for Yuzu only. The whole situation left Yuzu flustered, especially when she only just realized how much the monster actually looked like her. 

With that matter settled, Serena felt satisfied with her current life, free from any major worries, aside from one particular source of entertainment: teasing Yuzu about Masumi. On more than one occasion, Serena, Yuya, and Gongenzaka intentionally left Yuzu alone with Masumi, only to spy on them from a distance. However, their fun was short-lived when Yuzu eventually caught on. Masumi, despite genuinely enjoying getting to know Yuzu better, decided to expose Serena’s antics. As a result, Yuzu turned her harisen-wielding wrath on Serena more than Yuya, much to the latter’s relief. Seeing Yuya silently thanking Masumi for diverting Yuzu’s aggression, Serena shot him a glare, cursing under her breath while pouting at him.

However that interrupted once again on the fateful weekend.

It was Saturday, 12:00 PM. With no school, the trio decided to spend time at the mall. Yuzu wanted to check out something in one of the stores, so Serena and Yuya accompanied her. As much as Masumi wanted to join them, she had to take care of her older brother, who had somehow gotten into a small accident again. While Gongenzaka was also busy assisting his father at the dojo.

Serena had opted for casual wear: a plain unbuttoned red jacket with two pockets, worn over a gray vest that was half-zipped over a white shirt. She paired it with black biker shorts and brown boots, keeping her look both practical and stylish.

Yuya, on the other hand, sported a red and white short-sleeved hoodie layered over a black t-shirt, paired with dark green cargo shorts and red sneakers. His ever-present goggles rested atop his head.

Meanwhile, Yuzu wore a short-sleeved pink hoodie with a white tank top underneath, matched with denim shorts and white sneakers with pink laces.

As they wandered through the mall after eating lunch there, and are enjoying the casual outing, Serena and Yuya began a conversation as Yuzu headed off somewhere meaning that she managed to find whatever she's been looking for.

Yuya: So how is everything going so far with Yuzu and Masumi?

Serena: There are times that they argued, but so far so good they managed to get along now.

Yuya: That’s great. Yuzu only really had me and Gongenzaka as her friends, but when you came into her—no, into our lives—everything got even better. So… thanks for everything, Serena.

Serena: *Smiles at him* The pleasure is mine Yuya.

Yuya blinked, momentarily caught off guard by Serena’s smile. It wasn’t often that she openly smiled like that—usually, it was a smirk, a grin, or some confident expression that fit her personality. But this? This was different. It was genuine and warm. He felt something stir inside him, but before he could process it, his playful side kicked in.

Yuya: Heh, I didn’t know you could smile like that. You should do it more often. *Grins teasingly* It’s kinda cute.

Serena raised an eyebrow, not realizing the teasing tone behind his words.

Serena: Hah, if I’m cute, then what does that make you? Adorable? *Smirks slightly* Or do you prefer handsome?

Yuya stiffened. His brain short-circuited for a second.

His heart skipped a beat.

His face warmed up.

Wait. What?

That… wasn’t the reaction he was expecting.

Yuya: W-Wha—?!

Before either of them could make sense of what just happened, a sudden, sharp scream tore through the mall which belonged to Yuzu's.

Serena and Yuya’s eyes widened, their lighthearted banter forgotten as instinct took over.

Serena: That was Yuzu!

Yuya: Come on, we have to find her!

Without hesitation, the two bolted toward the source of the scream, their hearts pounding—not from flustered emotions anymore, but from pure, urgent concern.

But by the time they arrived at bookstore chain they saw security guards carrying a wallet that belonged to Yuzu along with other belongings and as they approached and introduced themselves, they are given a letter which says:

"To Serena Hiragi and Yuya Sakaki

   If you want to save your sister from me surrender your most powerful cards to me or else I'll make sure your sister won't get too see another day living in piece. Perhaps as a friend of mine suggests we'll sell her to prostitution since we're supposed to take her cards as well, however she doesn't brought her deck. You're free to judge if I'm joking or not that I'm going to do it to her, but that all depends on the both of you. See the both of you at 5:30 AM sharp at the pier. And If I see you brought more people with you I'll be taking her away from you both forever.

From, Weevil Underwood"

Serena’s grip on the letter tightened, her entire body trembling with rage. No one, NO ONE gets away with kidnapping Yuzu. Not on her watch.

Yuya, despite his own rising fury, took a deep breath, trying to calm himself. He was more worried about what Serena would do.

When the sun begins to set, Serena and Yuya sat on a bench at the park, tension thick in the air.

They had done their research. Weevil Underwood was one of the best duelists in Japan, a very good one. But with the rise of Fusion Summoning, his outdated strategies led him to desperation. Caught cheating at Duelist Kingdom and Battle City, two of the most famous dueling tournaments in Domino city, he was banned from official tournaments after it was proven he indeed cheated. Leading the latter to now sink even lower.

Yuya: We can’t just rush in without thinking… but we also can’t let anything bad happen to Yuzu.

Serena: No kidding. If I get my hands on that bastard, I’ll— *She stopped herself, exhaling sharply* Forget it. We need to act smart if we want to save my sister.

They had agreed not to alert the authorities, at least, not yet. If Haga was serious about taking Yuzu away the moment they involved others, they couldn’t risk it. But they'd informed there parents about the predicament and after talking to them they told Serena and Yuya to follow Haga's instructions and try to stall him and his lackey if possible as they are currently talking to Reiji about how to handle the situation.

Serena: One thing's for sure is that we had to duel them for whatever our parents and Reiji are planning to save Yuzu and arrest him and whoever his lackey is.

Yuya: That's the problem, if they found out were stalling what should we do?

As Serena ponders on what to do, a female voice spoke.

"I’d like to apologize for eavesdropping, but I couldn’t help but overhear that Haga is here in Miami city and scheming again?"

After she said that, Serena and Yuya looked at female voice that spoke and they saw a girl a year older than them with flowing auburn (brown/red) hair, and gentle dull greenish brown eyes. She wore a light blue t-shirt layered under a dark purple, open short-sleeved jacket, with a black leather belt around her waist securing her slightly baggy short. Completing the look were her white sneakers with black accents.

Serena: Yes and you are?

Serenity: Ah sorry, my name is Serenity Wheeler, but you can call me Serenity.

Serena: Oh nice to meet you, Serenity.

Yuya: Wait, Serenity Wheeler, aren't you-

Serenity: Yes, I'm Joey Wheeler's younger sister.

After a moment of stunned silence, Serena recalled what she had read during her free time. Joey Wheeler, a legendary duelist, known for his incredible luck. Yet, that luck hadn’t saved him the night Kame Game exploded two and a half years ago, taking him, Solomon Muto, Yugi Muto, and Yugi’s mother with it. The cause of the explosion was still a mystery to this day.

Could it be that-.

Serena: Do you need something from him?

Serenity’s gaze darkened for awhile but then she spoke.

Serenity: . . .You can say yes, I need something no- I need to talk to him about what happened before the explosion takes place, and I've been tracking him down when I had the chance. Which led me here, but I need to know the whole story first on what does he want.

And with that they told her what happened and when they are done, Serenity spoke.

Serenity: Both of you can't go there alone.

Yuya: What, why?!

Serenity: When you mentioned that someone suggested for Yuzu to be sold to prostitution, there's only one person who could be with him then.

Serena: Who?

Serenity: Bandit Keith.

This caused Serena to groan in frustration as that guy is a former U.S. Duelist Champion, until it was discovered how he reached it through cheating, blackmailing, bribery and etc., causing his downfall.

Yuya: Your joking right?

Serenity: I wish but whenever Weevil is involved Keith follows him as well. 

Serena: So what do you suggest?

Serenity: We'll follow your parent's plan to stall them while the handle the rest, but It'll be best to be prepared when we had to duel them, they'll be play dirty.

Serena: That's for sure.

Serenity: Let's meet back here at 4:50 AM to discuss it more.

Yuya: You'll join us?

Serenity: To make things even, face them with only you two, Keith will use Serena as hostage so you can both surrender your cards to them.

Hearing Keith using Serena as hostage if only the both of them confront them made something inside Yuya be filled with anger and the will to not let that happen. But he calmed himself as he must remain composed for Yuzu and Serena's sake.

And with that they parted ways to prepare their decks.

4:40 AM

In a hotel, close to the park

At a specific hotel room

We can see Serenity preparing her deck by checking the cards she'll be using and is currently looking at Red-Eyes Black Dragon and Dark Magician, the ace card owned by her brother and his best friend.

After the fire was put out in the Kame Game shop it was discovered that most of her brother's deck and some of Yugi Muto's cards survived and the moment she heard what will happen to them due to no one will use them anymore now that there users are dead, she decided to take them and learn how to play Duel Monsters as she wanted to find the truth about what happened and why.

Her Brother is kind and he does his best to correct his mistakes by being a better person and by meeting Yugi on one occasion, she can tell that he's a good person who helped changed her brother a lot.

Which led her to investigate about Weevil Underwood as word said he was near the Kame Game shop before it exploded. The reason why her brother was there is because of an assignment he and Yugi agreed to finish and was about to return at midnight to which it never happened.

Serenity: Brother, Yugi-san. . .wherever you're both now, please lend me your strength on what's about to happen.

With that she finalized her deck and then left the hotel room. 

She was glad that her parents agreed to led her be here after making something up to convince them.

When she arrived at the time they decided to meet up, she can see them prepared as she saw there duel disks and with that they began to talk on what they should do to stall them while heading to the pier.

To be continued

Chapter Text

This story will be put into indefinite hiatus. For how long I can't confirm at the moment.

Reason for this is to focus on making up for my grades for my final trimester while only focusing on updating one story before and during my last trimester and sadly I can't continue this as it'll keep me to occupied due to duels. I really tried to making the duel for the next chapter and I kept struggling which caused me to focus on it that I forgot other things.

And so Tomorrow or the next day I'll do my planned Girls' Frontline fic that I planned to make.

See you there for awhile and once again I'll put this fic on Indefinite hiatus until further notice.

Have a good day/afternoon/evening.