Chereads / Yu-gi-oh 5D's-V / Chapter 11 - chapter 11

Chapter 11 - chapter 11

The sun shined high in the sky above Paradise City, bringing another day to its people with many possibilities. At the Sakaki household, Yusei was sleeping on the living room couch, but eventually he began to awaken. Yusei yawned as he got off the couch and stood up on his feet. He was wearing his casual outfit, but had taken his jacket and boots off last night to rest. The Shooting Star of Satellite put his jacket and boots back on, getting ready for the day.

A week has passed since he and the arrived in the Standard Dimension, met Yuya and Yoko and where he took the tomato haired boy as his student, not to mention met Ray's Standard Piece, Zuzu Boyle. Yusei chuckled as he thought back to that day and how Zuzu reacted when she met him, Lulu and Rin.

(Flashback)

"WHO ARE YOU TWO AND HOW DO YOU HAVE MY FACE!?" Zuzu shouted out as she pointed at the nervously smiling Lulu and Rin with her right hand's index finger. At the side, Yusei, Yuya and Yoko watched the three girls, with the Shooting Star of Satellite having an amused look on his face. "I-I know that this is a surprise, but…" Lulu began as she held her hands up in peace to the pink haired girl.

"Just… Just calm down already, there's no need to freak out". Rin finished for her 'sister', also holding her hands up in peace. "Don't tell me to calm down! Explain how I can calm down when I'm looking at two random girls with my face!?" Zuzu replied to her counterparts with anime white eyes, making Lulu and Rin sweat drop as they dropped their hands.

Having had enough, Yusei walked up in front of Lulu and Rin and stood in front of them, facing Zuzu. "Listen, I know that this may seem unbelievable, but it's real". Yusei told the pink haired girl, getting Zuzu to shift her attention from Lulu and Rin to him. "Who're you?" Zuzu questioned the Shooting Star of Satellite with narrowed eyes, having never met him before in her life.

"I'm Yusei, Yusei Fudo…" Yusei began as he introduced himself to Zuzu, before he gestured to Lulu and Rin with his left hand. "This is Lulu and her sister Rin". The Shooting Star of Satellite finished the introductions, getting the purple haired girl and green haired girl to smile nervously as they waved at Zuzu.

"Hi there, I'm Rin". Rin greeted her counterpart with a nervous smile as she waved her left hand. "And I'm Lulu". Lulu greeted Zuzu with a nervous smile, before she gave a short bow. "It's nice to meet you". The purple haired girl added as she looked at Zuzu, who had a confused look on her face. "It's… nice to meet you too". Zuzu greeted the three, honestly having no idea how she should feel about this.

Yuya walked up next to Yusei and gave Zuzu a smile. "It's okay Zuzu; they're actually friends with my dad". Yuya told the pink haired girl, getting her to look at him with wide eyes at what he said. Yuya then went and grabbed Lulus right hand with his left hand, before he brought her up to Zuzu, who glared down at their connected hands. "Lulu here is actually a student of my dad. Tell her Lulu". Yuya said to Lulu, turning to face the purple haired girl who still had a nervous look.

"I-I'm a student of Yusho Sakaki, I met him through my friend Saya". Lulu explained to the pink haired girl, who looked at her with narrowed eyes. "Yusei came and delivered two letters to me and mum from dad. After I finished reading the letter, I challenged Yusei to a Duel and got my butt kicked". Yuya said with a embarrassed smile and his eyes closed, getting Zuzu to look back at him.

"You should have seen Yusei. He was in control of the Duel the whole time, especially when he Synchro Summoned!" The tomato haired boy continued with an excited look, making Zuzu widen her eyes in surprise. "Synchro Summon?" Zuzu asked in surprise, before she gave Yusei a suspicious look, making him lightly frown at her. "Yeah, he Synchro Summoned two Synchro Monsters". Yuya revealed with a wide smile, getting Zuzu to look back at him, no longer frowning.

"Yuya was so impressed that he asked Yusei to be his new teacher". Yoko revealed as she walked up to the group with a smile on her face, getting Zuzu to look at her in surprise. "He did what!?" Zuzu exclaimed in surprise to hear that her childhood friend just asked a stranger to be his teacher. "Yeah, and it's thanks to him that I've found my true self". Yuya said with a smile, getting Zuzu to look at him in confusion.

"What do you mean your 'true self?" The pink haired girl asked in confusion, having no idea what the tomato haired boy meant. Deciding to explain himself, Yusei walked up to her, getting Zuzu's attention. "Yusho told me that Yuya was imitating him in dueling, so he asked me to help Yuya Duel as himself. In our duel, I figured out what Yusho was talking about and helped Yuya". The Shooting Star of Satellite explained to the pink haired girl what Yuya meant, getting the pink haired girl to frown at him.

"What are you talking about? Yuya was never imitating Mr. Sakaki, he was being himself". Zuzu replied to Yusei with a frown on her face, getting the Shooting Star of Satellite to narrow his eyes at her. Seeing the tension between them, Yuya walked in front of Zuzu, blocking her view of Yusei. "Zuzu, Yusei is telling the truth. I didn't know it, but I was imitating dad when I dueled. But thanks to Yusei, I've become the Duelist I'm meant to be". Yuya defended his new teacher as he explained to his childhood friend, getting her attention although she kept her frown on her face.

"How can you even be sure that we can trust this guy and what he's saying is true? For all we know, he could be just a liar". The pink haired girl said, making Yuya, Rin and Lulu narrow their eyes at her. "Yusei is not a liar!" Rin exclaimed as she marched up to Zuzu, stopping right in front of the pink haired girl, who flinched at her loud voice. "Yusei is the bravest person I've ever met and the kindest one as well! He would never lie or trick someone! I don't know what your problem is, pinky, but stop acting like this is a bad thing!" Rin snapped at the standard piece of Ray, who flinched in fear as she took a few steps back from her.

Yuya and Lulu chuckled at seeing this, while Yusei smiled in appreciation at Rin defending him. "In fact, you should be happy for Yuya, and his mother. They finally have proof that Yusho didn't abandon them or ran away from his Duel against The Sledgehammer. So quit being suspicious of Yusei, Lulu and I and just be happy for your friend and his mother!" The green haired girl finished scolding her standard counterpart, before she took a deep sigh.

Zuzu like she was in disbelief of how Rin scolded her. Yoko walked up behind Rin and pat her on the head, getting the green haired girl to look at her with curious eyes. "I must say, you're really good at scolding people when it's needed. Consider me impressed Rin". The wife of Yusho Sakaki complimented the green haired, who blushed a bit in embarrassment. "T-thank you. I kinda always scolded my friend Yugo when he did something stupid without thinking". Rin thanked Yoko with a nervous smile, making the blond haired woman chuckle as she lifted her hand off the teenage girl's head.

Zuzu watched Yoko and Rin for a moment, before she turned around to look at Lulu and Yuya, before she noticed that the two were still holding each other's hands. Zuzu glared at their hands, getting both Yuya and Lulu curious as they looked down at what she was glaring at. They saw their hands still connected, getting them to look at each, before they blushed a bit as they let go of each other's hands.

Yuya and Lulu looked away from each other, both with their cheeks lightly red. Zuzu stewed in jealously at the sight, before she turned her attention to Yusei and gave him a suspicious glare. Yusei narrowed his eyes at the pink haired girl, not intimidated one bit by her or bothered by her untrusting gaze.

(Flashback end)

Yusei narrowed his eyes at remembering the suspicion in Zuzu's eyes and how it was directed at him. He was no fool, he knew why Zuzu distrusted him, Lulu and Rin, well more him and Lulu than Rin. It was because of him that Yuya had started to change, for the better, but in her opinion, she considered his change for the worse. And she distrusted Lulu because it was clear that she and Yuya were beginning to like each other.

Yuya then took him, Rin and Lulu to the You Show School of the Standard Dimension to meet his friends and Zuzu's father, who was the current principal ever since Yusho left Standard all those years ago. Zuzu went with them, though the Shooting Star of Satellite had a feeling it was because she wanted to keep an eye on Yuya and Lulu.

Later that day, they met Yuya's friends and Zuzu's father, Skip Boyle, Allie, Frederick and Yuya's best friend, Gong Strong. Thankfully, they welcomed Yusei, Lulu and Rin with open arms, especially after hearing their connection to Yusho. Although when they first saw Lulu and Rin, their reactions were what they were expecting.

(Flashback)

"WWWWWHHHHHAAAAATTTTT!" Four different voices yelled out in complete shock and disbelief, surprising passing by people. After Rin finished scolding Zuzu for her behavior, Yuya proposed that he'd take Yusei, Lulu and Rin to the You Show School to meet his friends and see what kind of Duel School it's like.

Interested, Yusei, Lulu and Rin accepted Yuya's proposal, all three of them wanting to see the school Yusho created in the Standard Dimension. Yuya lead the way, once again taking Lulu's hand in his, much to her surprise, Yusei, Rin and Yoko's amusement and Zuzu's jealously. Zuzu quickly ran up to them and separated their arms, saying she's coming with them to supervise. And for good measures, she took Yuya's right hand with her left with an extremely tight grip and led the way to the You Show Duel School.

Seeing how Zuzu's tight grip was affecting Yuya, Yusei forced her to let go of him and suggested letting Yuya lead the group. At first, Zuzu was gonna refuse, but then Yusei gave her a small glare, but it was enough to break her jealous resolve and agree to his suggestion. Yuya lead them all to the You Show Duel School. It had a simple design, but was a fun looking place.

Yuya lead them all inside to an elevator that took them all to the conference room. And when the door opened, Yuya was the first one out, before everyone else followed him. There, Yusei, Lulu and Rin officially met Allie, Frederick, Gong and Skip.

Skip Boyle had dark blue eyes and brown/orange hair. He wore a red/orange jumpsuit with a green trim and red fire design. Underneath, Skip wore a dark blue shirt with another fire design. He also had a white whistle around his neck. Lulu and Rin were surprised at seeing Skip's appearance and saw no similarities to Zuzu at all.

Allie was a little girl, even younger than Yusei's friends Leo and Luna. She was a red-headed girl with fair skin, golden eyes and a large multi-colored headband. She wore a short cream t-shirt with a striped pink and red long t-shirt. Allie also had a red skirt and long black tights. She had brown shoes and a blue bracelet around her left hand.

Frederick was around Allie's age, but was a bit chubby. Frederick wore oversized orange shorts and a yellow-green top with a hood. The shorts were held in place by straps over Frederick's shoulders. His blue and yellow shoes had three protrusions each, making them resemble reptilian feet.

Finally there was Gong, and boy, were Yusei, Lulu and Rin surprised. Gong may have been around Yuya, Lulu, Rin and Zuzu's age, but he was very tall, almost to Yusei's height and he looked like he could break somebody's bones easily. Gong had black hair styled into a large pompadour, restrained by a red band, and his nose was somewhat redder than the rest of his face. There was a constant blush on his cheeks for some reason. Gong wore a jacket, though it was more of a vest over a buttoned white coat that had golden trims, as well as white pants. Gong had a white sash crossed over his back, tied at the left shoulder. Finally, he wore heavy sandals rather than shoes.

The first thing all four did when they saw Lulu and Rin was stare at them in shock and disbelief for a few seconds, before they all screamed out in shock. "How… why… who?" Skip said in disbelief as he raised his shakily right hand and pointed his index finger at Lulu and Rin, who were nervously smiling at how everyone was reacting to seeing them. Yusei was behind the two females, having an amused smile, while Yuya and Zuzu were at the side, watching.

Like Skip, Gong, Allie and Frederick were staring at Lulu and Rin in disbelief, though Allie seemed to be staring at Lulu's hair for some strange reason. "N-now I know that this may seem strange…" Rin began with her eyes closed and a nervous smile, holding her hands up in peace. "But there's nothing to overreact about. We know we have the same face as Zuzu, but please calm down". Lulu finished for her 'sister', holding her hands up just like Rin.

Skip, Gong, Allie and Frederick kept silent for a few more seconds, before Allie walked up to Lulu, getting the purple haired girl to look down at the younger girl. Allie was quiet as she stared at Lulu for a few seconds, before she smiled with her cheeks red. "You're really pretty". Allie told the Lyrilusc Duelist, surprising Lulu, while Yusei, Rin and Yuya just smiled.

Eventually, Lulu gave a sweet smile to the young girl. "Thank you". Lulu thanked Allie for her kind words as she knelt down and picked the young girl up in her arms. Allie smiled even more as she touched Lulu's hair, loving how long, soft and beautiful it was. "Your hair's pretty and so long. How'd it get like this?" Allie asked Lulu in awe, who continue to give a sweet smile to the red haired girl. "Believe it or not, it's actually bigger than you think". Lulu told the young girl, who grew more excited at hearing that Lulu's hair was bigger than it looked.

Rin watched Lulu and Allie interact with a smile, before her attention shifted when she saw Frederick walk up to her. Rin leaned down as she gave the chubby boy a soft smile. "Hi there, what's your name?" Rin greeted Frederick with a smile, who returned it. "My name is Frederick, what's your name pretty lady". Frederick answered with a smile, making Rin giggle as she rubbed the chubby boy's hair with her right hand.

Gong walked up to Yuya, who was watching Lulu and Rin. "Yuya, who are these guys?" Gong questioned his best friend, who turned to face him with a smile. "Don't worry Gong, they're friends. They helped me, especially Lulu". Yuya told his best friend, before he went back to watching Lulu with a soft smile. Gong blinked at Yuya's words, before he noticed his best friend staring at Lulu, confusing him as he's never seen his best friend look at a girl like that.

Yusei walked past Lulu and Rin and up to Skip, before he held his right hand out for a handshake. "I'm Yusei Fudo; it's an honor to meet you". The Shooting Star of Satellite greeted the principal of the You Show Duel School with respect, who blinked in surprise. Skip then smiled as he accepted Yusei's handshake. "I'm Skip Boyle, nice to meet you". Skip greeted Yusei back with respect as well.

"What brings you and your…" Skip began as he and Yusei let go of each other's hands, before he stopped when he didn't know what Yusei's relationship was with Lulu and Rin. "Uhhh… pardon me for asking, but what is your relationship with those two girls?" The principle questioned the Shooting Star of Satellite, wanting to know what his relationship with Lulu and Rin is.

Yusei was about to answer, but Allie spoke before he could answer. "Is he your daddy?" The little red hair girl asked Lulu, making her and Rin widen their eyes in completely surprise, while Yusei was just slightly surprised. "No, Lulu and Rin aren't my biological daughters". Yusei answered for Lulu as he turned around to look at Allie. Allie looked at Yusei, missing the slightly disappointed looks on Lulu and Rin's faces.

"They're my wards". The Shooting Star of Satellite said as he turned back to look at Skip. "We came here to look at the duel school that Yusho created". Yusei told Zuzu's father, making Skip and Gong widen their eyes in surprise at his words. "You know Yusho?" Skip questioned in surprise, which Yusei gave him a nod. "I'm friends with him". Yusei answered Skip, before he gestured to Lulu with his right hand. "Lulu's even a student of his". The Shooting Star of Satellite added; further surprising Skip and Gong as they looked at the purple haired girl, who gave them a smile.

"Aren't you forgetting something, Yusei?" Lulu asked the Shooting Star of Satellite, getting him curious as he turned around to look at her. "Like what?" Yusei answered with his own question, wondering what it was that he 'forgot'. Instead of answering Yusei, Lulu turned to look at Yuya, whose face light up as he realized what Lulu meant.

"That's right!" Yuya exclaimed as he walked up next to Yusei and looked up at Skip. "Yusei came to deliver two messages to me and mum from my dad". Yuya told Skip as he brought out his letter from his dad and handed it over to Zuzu's father, who looked at the hand writing and saw that it was indeed from Yusho. "Also, Yusei's my new teacher". The tomato haired boy added, making Skip, Gong, Allie and Frederick widen their eyes in surprise, while Yusei just smiled at his new student.

(Flashback end)

After Yuya revealed that Yusei was his new teacher, Skip requested to hear everything on how Yuya met Yusei, Lulu and Rin and how he became the Shooting Star of Satellite's student. Yusei and Lulu had no problem and explained everything, but not completely. They kept the four dimensions a secret for the time being.

Lulu first explained how she met Yuya, and how he was being bullied by Grizzlepike. Gong became enraged at hearing his former peer bullying his best friend, before he listened in interest and in gratitude at how Lulu defended both Yuya and Yusho. Skip and Gong were both grateful to Lulu for defending Yuya and Yusho, before they listened as Lulu told them how Grizzlepike challenged her.

Of course everyone got made at how Grizzlepike wanted Lulu to go on a date with him if he should win, but thankfully he was defeated. Skip, Gong, Allie, Frederick and Zuzu were surprised and impressed to hear that Lulu Xyz Summoned and defeated Grizzlepike in one turn. Then they heard how Grizzlepike was about to attack them, till Yuya told them how Yusei came in, saved them and even scared Grizzlepike off.

Lulu and Yusei had to stop temporarily as Skip and Gong thanked the two for defending Yuya and Yusho, with Gong bowing in gratitude. Eventually, the story continued as Yusei took over and explained how Yuya brought him, Lulu and Rin to his house, where he delivered the two letters.

Yuya joined in when they reached his Duel against Yusei. He did exaggerate a bit, amusing Yusei a bit before he told the truth of what happened. Once he finished, Skip, Allie, Gong and Frederick were in awe that he was a Synchro user and that he defeated Yuya in a special way. Things skyrocketed as Skip, Gong, Allie and Frederick trusted Yusei, Lulu and Rin straight away.

Skip even offered Yusei a position as a teacher for the You Show School, much to the Shooting Star of Satellite's slight surprise, but he accepted the offer. It has been a week since then, and Yusei has been teaching not only Yuya, but Allie, Frederick and Gong, who wanted to learn from Yusei. The only one that didn't seem happy was Zuzu, as she spent as less time with either Yusei or Lulu as possible.

During their stay in the Standard Dimension, Yusei, Lulu and Rin have been staying with Yuya and Yoko, much to Zuzu's jealously. Yusei decided to sleep on the couch and let Lulu and Rin share the guess room, though there were a few nights where the three would sleep together.

Lulu and Rin have become close friends with Yoko, Skip, Allie, Frederick, Yuya and Gong, with Lulu and Yuya getting along the most. Yusei became close to everyone as well, and would occasionally give the kids advice. The only one that didn't get along with Yusei, Rin and Lulu was Zuzu, who tried to keep Lulu and Yuya from spending as much time together as possible.

Despite their short time in the Standard Dimension, Yusei, Lulu and Rin have become well known in Paradise City. As it turned out, Grizzlepike wasn't the only bully that bullied Yuya as there were much more. Lulu, Rin and Yusei would defend Yuya from all the bullies, and would even Duel a few, where Rin revealed that she was a Synchro user like Yusei, much to the Shooting Star of Satellite's interest as he watched how she dueled and how her deck worked.

Lulu gained the title of 'Mistress of Birds', while Rin became known as 'Witch of the Wind'. Yusei hasn't gained a title yet, but that was because he hasn't dueled as much as Lulu and Rin. When the three would defeat their opponents, they would tell their opponents that Yusho wasn't a coward and never ran away from the Sledgehammer. Of course Skip and Gong did ask where Yusho was. Yusei just told them that Yusho was trying to stop an old friend of his from making people suffer, doing his best to keep the four dimensions a secret.

Yusei has been teaching Yuya for the past week. So far he's been helping Yuya organize his deck with a few cards from his briefcase, much to everyone's surprise at seeing the cards inside of the briefcase. Skip questioned Yusei where he got so many rare cards, who just answered that a friend gave them to him. Yuya has been showing good progress so far, and Yusei was considering to begin teaching Yuya how to Synchro Summon, already having just the right cards for the young tomato haired boy.

Yusei smiled at remembering all that's happened to him, Lulu and Rin during their time here in Standard. But then he looked down in sadness as he thought about his friends back home. 'Akiza, Jack, Crow, Leo, Luna, everyone…' The Shooting Star of Satellite thought to himself in sadness as he missed his friends back in his home world.

"Yusei?" A familiar voice said in concern, getting the Shooting Star of Satellite to turn around to see Lulu walking into the casual living room, wearing a purple nightgown and was barefooted. Lulu's long hair that was usually tied up was now free, revealing just how long it was. It was really long, reaching even the ground with a bit of it lying down. Everyone was surprised when they first saw how long Lulu's hair really was, but Allie seemed more in awe.

Yusei gave Lulu a fake smile, who saw right through it as she could see the sadness in his eyes. "Good morning Lulu…" The Shooting Star of Satellite greeted the Xyz user, who just continued to gaze at him in concern. "You miss your home, don't you?" Lulu questioned the 19-year-old, who lost his fake smile as he looked down at the ground in sadness.

"…Yeah… I miss my world and friends". Yusei answered the purple haired girl, the sadness leaking out of his voice. Lulu continued to look at Yusei with sad eyes, before she decided to do something about it. Lulu walked up to Yusei and wrapped her arms around him in a hug, much to Yusei's slight surprise, but he eventually returned the hug.

Lulu had her face buried in Yusei's chest, feeling soft comfort in his arms. "I know you'll return to your home someday, because no matter what obstacle stands in your face, you make the impossible, possible". Lulu told the Shooting Star of Satellite, believing that Yusei will return to his home someday. Yusei smiled at hearing Lulu's words, before he began to stroke her hair. "Thank you Lulu". Yusei thanked the purple haired girl, appreciating her words very much.

Lulu pulled away to look at Yusei in the face with a curious look. "When you do go home someday, could Rin and I come with you?" The Mistress of Birds asked the Shooting Star of Satellite, who rubbed her head with a smile on his face. "If that's what you and Rin want, then you guys are more than welcome". Yusei answered the teenage female, getting her to smile happily.

"I better go get breakfast ready". Lulu said as she left Yusei's embrace and went to the kitchen, with Yusei watching her. Another thing that Yusei learned about Lulu was that she cooks, and was actually a really good cook, though she wasn't as good as Yoko just yet. "Let me help you out". Yusei said as he followed after Lulu, getting her to smile in appreciation at him wanting to help her cook breakfast.

Later on that morning, Yusei, Rin, Lulu, Yuya and Yoko were gathered around the table, sitting down on separate chairs and enjoying their breakfast. Rin was wearing a nightgown like Lulu's, only it was pink and was barefooted. Yoko had bought the two nightgowns for Lulu and Rin for the two girls to sleep in, which the two appreciated what she did for them.

Yuya was wearing a dark silver pajama shirt and pajama pants. Yoko was already dressed for the day, much to the three teenager's surprise at how fast she was. Right now everyone was eating the breakfast that Lulu and Yusei had made, well more Lulu than Yusei since he wasn't exactly an experienced cook. The two had made fluffy flourless pancakes and tea for everyone.

"Sooo good". Rin moaned out in happiness from eating her breakfast, her eyes closed in pleasure from the delicious taste in her mouth. "Did you really make all of this, Yusei, Lulu?" Yuya questioned with a wide smile, enjoying the breakfast that the two cooked. Yusei smiled at Yuya as he gestured to Lulu with his right hand, who was taking a sip of her tea.

"Lulu did most of the work. She's more experienced than I am when it comes to cooking". Yusei told his student, making Lulu slightly blush from his words as she held her cup of tea in front of her face. "I'm… nowhere good as Yoko". The purple haired girl nervously said, feeling a bit embarrassed at how everyone was enjoying the food she made.

"Nonsense Lulu, you really have a talent for cooking". Yoko told the purple haired girl, getting Lulu to look at her as she put her cup of tea down. "You really think so Mrs. Sakaki?" The Mistress of Birds asked the wife of her teacher, who gave her a smile. "Of course, I know talent when I see it. Besides, this was the last thing I needed to know". The blond haired youthful looking mother answered to the purple haired girl, who tilted her head in confusion.

"Last thing for what?" Lulu questioned in confusion as Yuya began to drink from his cup of tea. Yoko gave Lulu a happy smile with her eyes closed. "It was the last thing I needed to see before I gave you my blessings to marry my son". The female adult answered, making both Yuya and Lulu blush bright red with the purple haired girl having anime white eyes, while the tomato haired boy spat his tea out. Rin began laughing, while Yusei just chuckled in amusement as he took a sip of his tea.

During their time here, Yoko has been playing matchmaker ever since she saw her son show a strong interest in Lulu. She'd randomly appear out of nowhere when the two thought they were alone and would say embarrassing things to embarrass the two. Yoko laughed at the sight, before she placed her right hand on top of her son's head and rubbed it.

"She's helpful, caring, well mannered, beautiful and a good cook. I'm so happy that you found such a lovely girl that'll take good care of you". Yoko teased her son with a teasing grin on her face as steam came out of Yuya's ears. "I-I told you it's not like that!" Yuya exclaimed in embarrassment at his mother's words, while Lulu tried to cover her face with her cup of tea.

"Ahahaha! You guys are so fun to tease. It's pretty clear you two have the fuzzies for each other!" Rin laughed out as Yuya and Lulu's faces turned even more red than before. Yusei chuckled with his eyes closed as he placed his cup of tea down on the table. "All right Yoko and Rin, that's enough teasing Yuya and Lulu. You've had your fun, let's just enjoy our breakfast". Yusei told Yoko and Rin, though he still looked amused by their teasing.

"Aww, you're such a killjoy Yusei". Rin moaned in childish sadness, but still did what she was told and went back to her breakfast. Yoko did the same, while Yuya and Lulu sighed in relief that their teasing was done, before the two gave the Shooting Star of Satellite grateful looks. "So, what are your plans today?" Yoko asked the four, wondering what they'll do in the You Show School since it was the last week of school holidays.

Yusei looked at Yoko, while Yuya finished his toast. "Today, I was thinking of starting a Synchro Class to teach everyone how to Synchro Summon". The Shooting Star of Satellite told the wife of his friend, getting everyone to look at him in surprise. "Really? I knew that you and the principal were thinking of creating a class to teach Synchro Summoning, but I thought that wouldn't be for a while". Yuya said in excitement that the You Show School was really gonna get a new class.

Yusei smiled and nodded to his student. "We finished organizing it yesterday, so it should be ready for today. First I'm gonna teach you guys how Synchro Summoning works, then I'll give you guys a few test duels to see how much you've learned". The Shooting Star of Satellite explained to his young apprentice, telling him about the Synchro Class that the You Show School will now have.

"Plus if you succeed your test Duel, I'll give you your own Tuner and Synchro Monster". Yusei added with a smile, exciting Yuya even more. "Whoa, really?" The tomato haired boy asked in excitement, which the Shooting Star of Satellite nodded to his eager student "Yeah, I even have a few cards in mind for you". The 19-year-old male told his student, knowing the perfect cards that'll go well with Yuya's deck.

Rin and Lulu watched the two with smiles on their faces, glad to see both Yusei and Yuya getting along so well. However, that was when Rin thought of an idea, getting her to look at her 'sister'. "Maybe you should learn how to Synchro Summon, Lulu". Rin suggested to the purple haired girl, getting everyone to look at her.

"Huh?" Lulu said in confusion at hearing Rin's words. "Learning how to Synchro Summon might be good for you. It doesn't hurt to have another Summoning method". Rin explained to her 'sister' for her to get a better understanding of her idea. Lulu now understood, but she didn't look certain. "Well… I don't really know…" Lulu stuttered, honestly having never thought of learning a different Summon than Xyz Summoning.

Feeling someone place their hand on her head, Lulu turned to see that it was Yusei, who gave her a smile. "It's your choice to learn howto Synchro Summon or not. You either learn how to Synchro Summon, or just stick to Xyz Summoning, the choice is yours. I honestly think learning how to Synchro Summon is a good idea for you". Yusei told the Xyz user, thinking it would be a great idea for her to learn how to Synchro Summon.

Lulu smiled at Yusei, before she looked back at her 'sister'. "I'll consider it". The purple haired female said to her 'sister', who just smiled as she went back to her breakfast. "You know? That gives me an idea". Yoko said out of nowhere, getting everyone's attention as they looked at her, who was looking at Lulu with a smile, confusing the female teenager. "Couldn't you teach everyone how to Xyz Summon, Lulu?" The blond haired mother questioned the purple haired girl, much to hers and everyone else's surprise.

"What do you mean by that?" Lulu questioned the wife of her teacher, wondering where Yoko is going with this. "You're an Xyz user, right? So doesn't that mean you can teach Xyz Summoning to everyone else, like teach it to your sister?" Yoko explained for Lulu to better understand what she meant.

Lulu lost her confusion as she now knew what Yoko meant. "Y-yeah, I guess I could do that, but if anyone wanted to learn how to Xyz Summon, they'd need their own Xyz Monsters". Lulu said to Yoko, knowing that without Xyz Monster cards, she couldn't teach anyone how to Xyz Summon.

Yuya frowned as he looked down in thought for a few seconds, before he looked at his teacher. "Hey Yusei, does your briefcase have any Xyz Monsters?" The tomato haired boy asked his teacher, getting Yusei's attention as he looked at his student. "I'll go check". The Shooting Star of Satellite said as he got up from his chair and left the table, heading towards the garage where his Duel Runner is.

2 minutes later, Yusei walked back to the table, only carrying his briefcase with his right hand with everyone watching him. Yusei retook his seat before he gently placed his briefcase on the table. Yusei opened his briefcase, revealing the thousands of cards still inside. Even after giving a few cards to Yuya and the others, Yusei's briefcase still contained many inside.

Yusei picked up five cards with his left hand from the briefcase, before he flipped his hand over to reveal that the cards he was holding were the Xyz Monsters 'Blade Armor Ninja', 'Wind-Up Zenmaister', 'Castel, the Skyblaster Musketeer', 'Adreus, Keeper of Armageddon' and 'Red-Eyes Flare Metal Dragon'. "Turns out, I've got Xyz Monsters as well". Yusei revealed as he placed the five Xyz Monsters back in his briefcase.

"All right! That's awesome!" Yuya exclaimed in excitement, before he turned to look at Lulu. "So do you think you can teach us how to Xyz Summon?" The tomato hairstyle boy asked the purple haired girl, who looked down in thought for a few seconds, before she gave Yuya a sweet smile. "Sure, if you really want me to". The female teenager told the son of her teacher, who grew more excited at hearing her response. "All right!" The 14-year-old boy exclaimed in excitement, making Rin giggle.

"You're acting like a kid on Christmas, Yuya". Rin said in amusement at seeing Yuya acting like an excited child, making the 14-year-old boy blush a bit in embarrassment. "There's nothing wrong with him getting excited. It's natural for someone to be excited to learn something new". Lulu told her 'sister' with a gentle smile, getting Rin to look at her with a sly look on her face.

"I think you're just saying that so that your boyfriend won't get even more embarrassed". Rin teased her 'sister' with a wink, making Yuya and Lulu's faces immediately turn bright red with steam coming out of their ears, while Yusei and Yoko were amused at seeing this. "W-We're not a couple!" Lulu and Yuya exclaimed in embarrassment and in sync, making everyone laugh in amusement as the two blushed even more.

Soon everyone finished their breakfast, but they kept sitting down around the table. "Man, now that was good". Yuya said wide a smile on his face as he rubbed his stomach, feeling satisfied from eating the fluffy flourless pancakes. "You can say that again, Yuya". Yoko said in agreement to what her son said, before she looked at Lulu, who had just finished her tea, but she looked a bit embarrassed as her cheeks were a bit red.

"Umm… thank you Yuya, Yoko". Lulu thanked the two for their kind words, feeling a bit embarrassed by their words. "Come on guys; let's go get ready to head to You Show!" Rin said with a smile as she shot out of her seat, getting Yuya and Lulu's attention. "I'm right behind ya". Yuya said with an eager smile, making Rin giggle as she and the tomato hairstyle boy ran upstairs to get ready.

Yuya stopped for a moment as he looked back at Lulu, who smiled as she began walking after her 'sister'. Lulu gave the son of her teacher a smile, one that Yuya returned as the two of them walked side by side back to their rooms to get ready for the day.

Both Yusei and Yoko watched the three teenagers head upstairs with the two smiling, especially Yoko at seeing her son with Lulu. Once the three were out of sight, Yoko turned her attention to Yusei. "So, have you found a house to live in yet?" Yoko questioned the Shooting Star of Satellite, getting Yusei to look at her.

During the past week, Yusei has been looking around Paradise City for a house for him, Lulu and Rin to live in, but so far has come up short. Yusei was grateful to Yoko for allowing him, Lulu and Rin to stay in her house with her and Yuya, but the Shooting Star of Satellite knew that it was tough for her with five people living under the same roof. Yusei had been going around to other people's house to repair stuff for them, just like he did back in his world to earn money and repay Yoko for her kindness. He's done a few repair jobs, but it wasn't a huge amount just yet.

"Not yet so far, but hopefully I'll find one soon". Yusei replied to the blond haired woman as he looked down, making Yoko frown in concern. "You're still welcome to stay here for as long as possible. You don't need to live in another house". Yoko reminded the Shooting Star of Satellite, fine with him, Lulu and Rin staying with her and Yuya. However, Yusei shook his head as he gave Yoko a small smile. "I really appreciate that, but I know how much trouble it is with all of us here. That's why I want to find a house for the girls and I to live in, so you won't have to work too hard to support all of us". Yusei told the blond haired woman, grateful for what she's done, but doesn't want her to push herself too hard.

Yoko sighed, before she gave the 19-year-old a smile. "Okay, I understand. But just know that you, Lulu and Rin will always be welcomed here". The wife of Yusho Sakaki told the Shooting Star of Satellite, who nodded to her. "I know Yoko, and I really appreciate that". The 19-year-old boy said with smile, really grateful for her kindness.

Later that morning, Lulu, Yuya and Rin came back downstairs, wearing their casual outfits. During their stay, Lulu and Rin haven't bought any new clothes yet, so they were still stuck with the same clothes they had when Yusei rescued them. "You two really need some new clothes". Yoko stated with her arms crossed, getting Lulu and Rin to look down at their clothes.

"She actually has a point. New clothes wouldn't hurt". Rin said with a small frown, now wishing she had some new clothes to change into. Lulu looked at Rin and nodded in agreement. "How about later today we go shopping for some new clothes". Yusei offered to the two young girls with a small smile, getting the two girls to look at him.

"Really?" Rin asked in excitement, which Yusei nodded to her with a smile. "Sure, it'll be no problem". The Shooting Star of Satellite replied to the green haired girl, getting Rin and Lulu to smile in excitement, before the two ran over and hugged Yusei, making him lightly chuckle. "Thank you Yusei!" Lulu thanked the 19-year-old with a smile, who just pat her on the head with a smile.

Yoko and Yuya watched the three with soft smiles on their faces. "You three really look like a real family, you know that". Yoko said with a smile on her face, getting Yusei, Rin and Lulu to look at her. "Mom's right, you guys really look like a happy family. Yusei's the dad and you two are his daughters". Yuya said in agreement to what his mom said, thinking that Yusei, Lulu and Rin did look like a family with how close they were.

Lulu and Rin blushed a bit, while Yusei just gave a small smile. "As nice as that sounds, we're not really a real family. We aren't even related". Yusei reminded Yoko and Yuya that he, Lulu and Rin weren't related, so they're not really a real family. Lulu and Rin's faces fell at hearing those words, but they knew Yusei was right.

"So what". Yuya suddenly said, getting Yusei, Lulu and Rin to look at him with the girls letting go of the Shooting Star of Satellite. "Just because you aren't related doesn't mean you guys can't be a family. I've known you guys for just a week, but I've seen how you all care for each other like a family. It doesn't matter if you're not related, you're a family and nothing can change that". The 14-year-old boy told the three, who all had wide eyes at hearing his words.

Lulu then gave Yuya a sweet smile, touched by his words. "Thank you for saying that Yuya". The 14-year-old female thanked the son of her teacher, making him blush at seeing her smile. "N-no problem". The tomato haired boy replied to Lulu as he rubbed the back of his head. Yusei, Yoko and Rin smiled at seeing this, before Rin decided to have some fun.

"You know? Maybe we could stay here a bit longer to watch you two love birds, or we could head over to You Show". The green haired girl said with a cheeky grin on her face, making Yuya and Lulu blush bright red again. "Rin!" Lulu exclaimed with her face bright red, making Rin burst out laughing with her hands wrapped around her stomach. "Hahahaha!" The green haired female laughed out as Lulu and Yuya avoided eye contact with each other.

"Joking aside, we really should be heading over to You Show. Skip and the others are probably over there right now". Yusei said as he got off his chair, getting the three teenagers to look at him with Rin calming down from her laughing from teasing Yuya and Lulu. "Yeah, you're right. Principal and the others are probably gonna be a bit mad if we keep them waiting". Yuya said in agreement to what his teacher said, thinking that they shouldn't keep the others waiting at the You Show Duel School.

"You guys go on ahead. I'll catch up with you later". Yusei told the three teenagers, who didn't argue since unlike them, he had a faster means of transportation, namely his Duel Runner. "We'll see you later, Yusei!" Lulu bid farewell to her savior, waving to Yusei as she, Rin and Yuya left the house and ran off to the You Show Duel School, leaving Yusei and Yoko alone in the house.

"You're in no rush". Yoko stated with a smile, getting Yusei to look at her. "Patience is a virtue". The Shooting Star of Satellite told the mother of his student, making Yoko chuckle. "That and you have a motorcycle". The blond haired woman added with a chuckle, making Yusei chuckle as well as he went to get ready himself. Yusei took a quick shower, before he got redressed in his outfit and was now ready for the day.

Yusei walked into the garage with his briefcase in his right hand, where his Duel Runner was parked next to Yoko's blue car. The 19-year-old male walked up to his Duel Runner and pulled the right handlebar up, before he opened the extra compartment. He placed his briefcase in, where his laptop, spare helmet, wires and the photo of his parents were.

Yusei looked down at his photo of his parents and him, before he took it into his left hand and held it close to him. 'Do Lulu and Rin… really see me as their dad? And do I see them as my daughters? I really can't understand this. I wish one of you were here to help me understand'. The Shooting Star of Satellite thought to himself as he gazed at his parents' image on the picture.

After spending a minute of staring at the picture, Yusei returned it to the extra compartment, before he closed it. The Shooting Star of Satellite walked over to the garage door and lifted it open, revealing the streets of Paradise City. Yusei walked back to his Duel Runner. He mounted his Duel Runner, before he placed his helmet on and pulled the handlebar down.

The Shooting Star of Satellite took hold of both handlebars and twisted them, starting up his Duel Runner's engine, which roared to life. Yusei smiled at hearing his Duel Runner, before he pressed the accelerator, causing the wheels of the Duel Runner to start spinning. Yusei slowly drove out of the garage and onto the road, going left to head to the You Show Duel School building.

Yusei enjoyed the soft breeze as he drove his Duel Runner, enjoying his moment of peace in the Standard Dimension without anything to interrupt it. Eventually, his peaceful ride came to an end as he arrived at the You Show Duel School. Yusei parked his Duel Runner outside the building, before he dismounted it. The Shooting Star of Satellite detached his Duel Disk from his Duel Runner and attached it to his wrist dealer, before he opened the extra compartment and picked his briefcase up.

Yusei held the briefcase with his left hand, while he closed the extra compartment, before he walked into the duel school. He walked down the hallway of the building, before he reached the elevator. The 19-year-old pressed the up button, causing the elevator door to open, allowing Yusei to walk in. Yusei pressed the conference room button, which lit up after he pulled his finger back.

The elevator's doors closed, before it began going up to the conference room, with Yusei silently waiting in patience. Eventually after 10 seconds, the elevator stopped and opened its doors, allowing Yusei to walk out into the conference room, where everyone else currently was.

Skip was sitting down on a sofa chair; Lulu and Allie were sitting down on one of the couches, where the 14-year-old girl was brushing the little red haired girl's hair with a yellow hairbrush. Sitting across from Lulu and Allie was Rin and Frederick, where the green haired girl was giving the chubby boy a light scolding, telling him to eat lots of vegetables to stay healthy. Nearby, Yuya and Gong were having a conversation with Zuzu about her behavior around Lulu, Rin and Yusei.

Skip was the first to notice Yusei's arrival, getting the older male to smile. "Ahh, Yusei. I was wondering what was taking you so long". Zuzu's father said with a smile, getting everyone's attention as they noticed Yusei, who gave them all a smile. "Sorry I'm a bit late, but I wanted to enjoy the nice breeze this morning". Yusei said with a small smile as walked over to the couch that Lulu and Allie were sitting down and sat down himself.

"All right students, gather around!" Skip called out eagerly, getting everyone a bit confused at why he seemed so excited, but Yuya, Lulu and Rin had a good guess why he was excited. Yuya, Gong and Zuzu walked over and stood by the couch that Rin and Frederick were sitting on. "What's up principal? What's got you so excited?" Allie questioned Skip in confusion, wondering why he seemed so excited.

The adult male grinned even more as he shot out of his seat and pumped his hands up. "I'm proud to announce our school's new… Synchro Class!" Skip cried out in excitement, making Gong, Zuzu, Allie and Frederick widen their eyes in surprise, while Yusei, Yuya, Lulu and Rin chuckled at Skip's excitement.

"Synchro Class?!" Frederick questioned in surprise that they were gonna have a new class. Skip nodded eagerly as he sat back down on the sofa chair. "Indeed. Yusei and I have been discussing about this for 5 days now! With this class, anyone of you can learn how to Synchro Summon now! Of course Yusei will be teaching the class!" The principal of the You Show School explained to his students as he gestured over to Yusei with both his hands, who placed his briefcase down on the table in the middle of them.

"I have the cards needed to teach you. All you need to do is take the class". The Shooting Star of Satellite told the students of the You Show School, getting excited looks from both Allie and Frederick. "Really? You're really gonna teach us how to Synchro Summon?" The little red haired girl asked in excitement, not noticing Lulu finish brushing her hair.

Yusei looked at the little girl and gave her a nod, increasing hers and Frederick's excitement as they cheered. The Shooting Star of Satellite looked at Gong, who was watching the two happy children. "I could also teach you how to Synchro Summon if you want, Gong". Yusei offered to the tall 14-year-old, who blinked in surprise. "Well Gong appreciates that, but Gong's Heavy Strong style is alright just the way it is". Gong replied to the 19-year-old man, who just smiled at him.

During his stay in the Standard Dimension, Yusei had visited Gong's school, the Strong Dojo. Gong had interested the Shooting Star of Satellite after seeing the 14-year-old's all monsters deck. Yusei was amazed after seeing Gong's deck, how it works without Spells or Traps and how his monsters could attack in DEF Mode and use their DEF Points as ATK Points. Yusei requested to see the school where Gong learned how to Duel, who granted his request and took him to the Strong Dojo.

The Shooting Star of Satellite met Gong's father, Mr. Strong, who was an honorable and wise man. The two got along well with Yusei learning a bit about the Heavy Strong style from both Gong and Mr. Strong. He greatly respected their style, but believed that it could evolve further into something more.

"Just because the Heavy Strong style is strong, doesn't mean it can't improve. Just think about it, okay?" Yusei told the 14-year-old boy, who looked down in thought, before he gave the Shooting Star of Satellite a nod, deciding to give it some thought. "I'm so excited for our first Synchro lesson!" Frederick exclaimed in excitement as he was bouncing in his seat, making Rin giggle.

Frederick wasn't the only one excited, everyone else was excited at hearing they'll be able to learn Synchro Summoning. The only one that didn't seem excited or happy was Zuzu, who had a frown on her face as she frowned at Yusei. Lulu and Rin took noticing of Zuzu frowning at their savior, getting the purple haired female to look displeased, while the green haired girl was frowning at the pink haired female.

It was at that moment that the room's door opened and someone came in. It was a skinny man wearing a pink, yellow, and black jacket and a ribbon tie. He had straight black hair and pink and orange glasses. He resembled a clown in a way and had two rings on his hands. Finally he had a mustache under his nose and above his mouth. "Afternoon all, I hope I'm not intruding". The man greeted everyone as he walked into the room, getting everyone's attention as they looked at him.

"Who're you?" Skip questioned the man, who turned to face him as he rubbed his hands together. "I'm Nico Smiley, Dueling manager and promoter! Currently I represent the great reigning Action Duel Champion, The Sledgehammer". The man known as Nico Smiley introduced himself, surprising everyone at learning his identity. "Not The Sledgehammer". Yuya said in disbelief that this man was The Sledgehammer's manager.

"I do so apologize for interrupting the opening of your new class, but I've come here upon the Sledgehammer's request". Nico said with a smile on his face, but Yusei, Lulu and Rin kept their guard up. After all they've went through, they've learned to always keep their guard up, even when it seemed like it was unneeded.

A minute later, Nico Smiley was sitting down on the couch after Yusei, Lulu and Allie moved over to the one that Rin and Frederick were seated. Yuya, Zuzu and Gong were standing behind them, while Skip was still sitting down on the sofa chair. "So what brings you to our neck of the woods?" Skip questioned the manager of the 'champion' of Paradise City. "I came here on the behalf of The Sledgehammer. You see, he wishes to Duel your new teacher, Yusei Fudo". Nico Smiley revealed his reason for coming, much to the surprise of everyone, while Yusei just narrowed his eyes.

"And why does The Sledgehammer want to Duel me?" The Shooting Star of Satellite questioned the manager of the Sledgehammer, wondering why the 'champion' wanted to duel him. "Well you see, you and your daughters have made quite the name for yourselves since you three arrived here in Paradise City". Nico began to explain, getting Yusei to raise an eyebrow at how he thought Lulu and Rin were his daughters, just like everyone else.

"The three of you have become known for being able to Synchro and Xyz Summon, not to mention spreading the word that Yusho Sakaki never ran away from his duel against the Sledgehammer 3 years ago". The manager continued to explain, missing the frown on Yuya's face at hearing that. "But The Sledgehammer is interested in you the most". Nico said as he pointed at Yusei, who narrowed his eyes at him.

"And why is that?" The 19-year-old questioned the manager of the champion Duelist of Paradise City. "He's heard about how you're friends with Yusho Sakaki, and maybe even knows his whereabouts. The Sledgehammer feels that he isn't really the champion until he duels and defeats Yusho Sakaki, so that's why he wants to duel you and if he wins, you must tell him where Yusho Sakaki is". Nico explained to the Duelists of the You Show School, much to their surprise with the exception of Yusei.

"Is that it?" Yusei questioned once more, getting Nico to shake his head. "No, there's more. You see, The Sledgehammer has heard about how skilled of a Duelist you are, but didn't care at first. However, that changed after he heard how some people are saying you're a better Duelist than he is and that you should be champion". The manager explained to the Shooting Star of Satellite, who slightly widened his eyes in surprise, before he narrowed them.

"I'm not interested in becoming the champion Duelist of Paradise City". The 19-year-old male told the manger of The Sledgehammer, getting him to nod in understanding. "I understand that. Rest assured that even if you defeat The Sledgehammer, you won't become the new champion". Nico reassured the Shooting Star of Satellite, before he brought out a poster and placed it on the table.

Everyone looked down at the poster and saw pictures of The Sledgehammer and Yusei, with the article saying 'The Duel between The Sledgehammer and the mysterious Duelist, Yusei Fudo'. "The preparations are already complete". Nico said as Yusei continued to look down at the poster and saw that it said he'll duel The Sledgehammer today. "Of course if you accept, we'll give you something in return". The manager of The Sledgehammer added, getting everyone to look at him again.

"And what would that be?" Lulu questioned Nico for Yusei, which the manager of The Sledgehammer brought out a holographic chart from his pocket with his right hand and held it out towards Yusei. Yusei took the holographic chart from Nico and held it in front of him. The holographic chart showed a three story house that had a infinity wrap around pool around it. "We're aware of your living quarters and how you're staying with Yusho Sakaki's family. That is why if you accept the challenge, this house is all yours". Nico answer Lulu's question, getting everyone to widen their eyes in surprise at what he was offering.

"All of that, just for accepting The Sledgehammer's challenge?" Yuya questioned in disbelief, which Nico nodded to the young 14-year-old boy. "Indeed. It is pretty important for The Sledgehammer to offer this much just for the chance to duel you". Nico told Yusei, who continued to stare at the holographic chart as it showed more of the house.

'If I accept this challenge, I'll be able to get a house for Lulu, Rin and I to live in and will be able to duel The Sledgehammer for Yusho. There's really no choice here'. Yusei thought to himself with narrowed eyes as he looked up at Nico. "Tell The Sledgehammer that he's got himself a duel". Yusei told the manager of the Sledgehammer, who looked pleased.

"I'm sure he'll be pleased to hear that. The duel will take place in an hour, so please make your way to the Dueling arena". Nico said in a pleased tone at hearing Yusei accepting the challenge, which the Shooting Star of Satellite nodded to him. "I'll be there". The Shooting Star of Satellite told the manager of The Sledgehammer. Nico nodded to Yusei with a grin on his face, before he took his leave, taking the poster as hr left the You Show Duel School.

"Yusei, are you sure about this?" Skip questioned the Shooting Star of Satellite, who nodded to him with eyes full of determination. "I'm sure about it. Besides, this isn't just for me, Lulu and Rin. It's for Yusho, Yuya and Yoko". Yusei answered his friend as he stood up from the couch, before he gave the holographic chart to Lulu.

"You guys stay here, I'll handle this". The 19-year-old told his friends as he began walking to the elevator. "Are you sure about this?" Yuya questioned his teacher in concern, who just looked at his student and gave him a smirk. "I've got this; you just stay here and enjoy the show". Yusei reassured his student, who smiled at seeing the confident look in his teacher's eyes. Yusei then continued on his way, entering the elevator and hit the down button.

As the elevator went down, Yusei had determined eyes as he was prepared to duel The Sledgehammer. 'Get ready Sledgehammer, because here I come'. The Shooting Star of Satellite thought to himself, ready to duel for his friend's honor.