Last time, if you recalled, after the long hard journey, The Gang reunites together in Egypt. After hardship and hardship, through every Jewel Women, Spirit Caller, and Stand User, the journey has led them to their final destination.
Now, with 20 days left, before the Power Core implanted in Mizuki's body succumbs to her, The Gang is ready, as they are closer to stopping the evil vampire, MIO.
But… they're about to encounter their biggest challenge to date! But what is it?

The Gang reunites in Egypt, as they meet together in the field. Steven, Farra, Asahi, Mundy, Scarlet, & Cassandra appear, as Steven C smiled, "Hey."

Michelle cheered, "Lads! You made it!"

After thirty long days, The Gang has reunited, and then some. Their next stop: Cairo, Egypt.

Episode XXXIII – Chapter 1: The Gauntlet is Thrown Down!
Steven Nevins's Challenge to The Gang!

Asahi hugged Chazz, "OH! Chazz, I missed you!"

He growled, "Will you let go of me, you bitch?"

Asahi moaned, "I can't. I've been through hell…"

Michelle smiled, "Good to see you lads."

Scarlet said, "Well, we didn't want to leave you guys hanging, right?"

Michelle chuckled, "I should say not. But who's watching Mizuki, while you're here?"

"Oh, Percival has it. He came to our aide, after a run-in with the High Priestess."

"That's nice. Still, what a hard journey for you guys."

Mundy said, "It's fine. Sorry that Rook took a nasty shot… But he somehow managed to return to Egypt."

Rook tipped his hat and said, "It's fine. I'm not even dead. Her Ty Ko Ky doesn't affect me."

Michelle replied, "Yeah. I kept it from them, since I learned that he was only grazed. Only Yamabuki had no idea."

Peter sighed, "Give me a break…"

He asked, "How's Mizuki?"

Farra shook her head and said, "She's badly losing the battle. Big Guy, we still have time."

Heather nodded, "Great~! We can do this!"

They all cheered, "YAY!", except for Chazz, Cassandra, and Steven.

Chazz asked, "So! Who's the girl in glasses?"

Scarlet smiled, "Oh, her? She's a newest hire."

Cassandra bowed, "Hola, Señor Princeton. I am Cassandra Juliet Martinez."

Michelle asked, "An android? Oh, my god!"

Chazz huffed, "Good grief… Another robot?"

Farra said, "She is our new ally from Spain. During a mission in New York, she helped saved her late mother's department store from tragedy."

Asahi smiled, "But with Sena's help, we made the place safe and ghost-free~!"

Michelle giggled, "Ohhhh! Interesting! Sena Aoi is a Ty Ko Ky agent, like me, but I'm glad she's safe and sound."

Michelle thought, as she was happy, "Sena Aoi… … …Thank you, friend."

Farra & Asahi pouted, as Asahi whispered, "We can't tell her about Sena's current situation…"

Farra whimpered, "I know… She'll kill us, I bet, if Sena is a mannequin, back in Luther's shop."

Steven said, "Now, about this bitch…"

He pointed at Yamabuki. She said, "Ah, you're the famous A-Fist. It's an honor, Steven Cooke. My name is Yamabuki Suou, and I'm these nice people's valet and partner in crime~!"

She winked, "Call me Bookie for short~!"

Steven huffed, "No."

Yamabuki sobbed, "YOU'RE COLD!"

She pouted, as Michelle smiled, "Well, now that everyone's here, what is the status on Mizuki Takase?"

Scarlet explained, "Well, she has now 20 days to live. Percival chose to stay in New York, to watch over her. For now, he chose to maintain radio silence… and to not be disturbed, at all. A lot has happened, and we had such horrific battles, across the ocean."

Steven replied, "In short, we're on our own."

Peter replied, "Obviously."

Scarlet concluded, "So… While Percival, your buddy in FBI, is busy watching Cyborg Mizuki, I'll be joining the fight with you guys. I don't know why… but suddenly, if it'll make me have the courage to fight, I will!"

She then thought, "And closer to that asshole, Broken Matt Hardy!"

Michelle smiled, "Well, we've been through hell, throughout our trek to Egypt. And now that we're here, we can begin the hunt to find MIO."

Heather nodded, "And for that, Steven Cooke regains leadership role."

Steven winked, "Thanks for holding back on your emotions."

Heather smiled, "I have faith in me. I know he's okay."

He then said, as they nodded together, "Alright… The time has come! MIO, for everything that you caused, since our return, we shall end you, once and for all! BY THE POWER OF FRIENDSHIP, MIO AKIYAMA, EVIL DEMON VAMPIRE, YOUR DAY IS OVER!"

He boomed out, "GANG! LET'S GO!"

"NOT SO FAST!"

A booming voice called, as the sky grew dark, and wind blew around the area. The others held back from the winds, as Michelle growled, "No… I know that voice…"

Heather gasped in fright, "No… It's…"

Scarlet growled, "No…"

Yamabuki cried, "He's finally shown himself! The bastard!"

Chazz growled, as Cassandra was quietly standing straight.

Up in the dark cloudy sky, Steven Nevins's face appeared from the clouds, as he was in an intimidating glare.

"So… Dear Sister… You and your friends finally made it… and with twenty days left to spare." He bellowed.

Michelle gasped, "STEVEN!"

Chazz asked, "So… This is Steven Nevins?"

Cassandra whispered, "The Choujin Tiger King."

Asahi whimpered, "He's scary…"

Yamabuki added, "Not only he's so righteous, but he's ten times more menacing, then I last met him!"

Mr. Nevins smirked, "I welcome you all to Egypt. My master is gracious to meet you all, at once. And yes, I read all of your powers… I am communicating with you, via my ESP Perk, and only to call you out… ALL of you!"

They all gasped, as he continued, "And yes, you are blessed with many powers, including my own wife. Your powers of friendship, Stone Power, Spirit Power, and Stand Power will be no match for me! Like my master, MIO, I am of a potent power that I hold in my grasp!
Let me guess of all of you and your powers…
Steven Cooke – A-Fist, the Divine Moon…
Farra Stevens – The Firebird of The Gang, the Phoenix Sun…
Peter Giese – my sworn hated rival, the Darkness Devil…
Asahi Sakurai – Mech-Asahi, the Gynoid of Idol Justice…
Heather Dunn – my lovely wife, Ice Mistress…
Oscar Gooden – Sniper Mundy, the Hierophant Sniper…
Reggie Hadigan the 3rd – the Humming Magician…
Yamabuki Suou – MIO's former henchmen, the Ninja Chariot…
Cassandra Martinez – the Android Fool…
Scarlet Riley – Broken High Priestess…
Michelle Nevins – my dear little sister, my equal, the Hermit Ghost…
and yes… even YOU, Chazz Princeton – Ojama Star. You all played in America and Asia, during your world tour to save your cyborg friend… but now, the gloves are off. Steven Nevins will end you, one way or another!"

Michelle roared, "DAMN YOU! Brother, MIO speaks in lies!"

Rook cried, "It can't be helped! He's turned, and we can't save him!"

Mr. Nevins smiled, "In turn, he's right. Besides, I know ALL your moves, on your travels, and learned of everything that you have been given, including my own wrath of justice!"

He explained, "In two weeks, everything will be done, as Mizuki Takase will be one of us… But now, you face ALL OF US! MIO, my master, has sided with nine other slaves and followers, including me."

Michelle gasped, "NINE OTHERS?!"

Mr. Nevins explained, "Time's running out! In order to fight the evil MIO and myself, you're going to go after these nine slaves, empowered by MIO's evil Jewel Power, and are fused with your worst nightmare – THE NINE EGYPTIAN GODS!"

They all gasped, as Steven whispered, "What? The nine people… are… Egyptian Gods?"

Heather dropped to her knees, and whimpered, "Say it isn't so, Steven… My love…"

She bawled, as Michelle roared, "MIOOOOOOOOOOO!"

Yamabuki roared, "BASTARD! HE KNEW HE WOULD MEET ALL OF US HERE, JUST FOR MIO TO KILL US, AT ONCE!"

Cassandra added, "A very hostile threat, mi amiga."

Chazz huffed, "Good grief… You're worse than your old hag of a sister, old man…"

Mr. Nevins smirked, "Play games and say names, all you want, you foolish freaks. You cannot stop MY powers! My Precious Stone is of the ESP Perk… and my card… IS THE WORLD!"

They all gasped in horror, as he explained, "Yes… MIO and I share this power together. Unlike Parker and Lewis Andrews, who share the card, Temperance, we share dual powers, in separate forms… The World's true power, as its name suggests, is to reign supreme over the entire world!"

Michelle snarled, "Damn! I knew there was one tarot we left out!"

Rook cried, "It's… It's uncanny! All of us felt the powers of the tarot and the users that unleash it. I sensed that Steven Cooke's team met with only Temperance, Judgment, and the Wheel of Fortune!"

Heather whispered, "And Death…"

Farra growled, "How I hated Temperance… And also The Lovers…"

Asahi replied, "And you?"

Peter said, "Let's see… Moon, Strength, Emperor, Empress… another Temperance…"

Yamabuki replied, "…the Hanged Man and her mother, Justice… the Devil, and even the Sun."

Scarlet concluded, "Not to mention the High Priestess."

Farra cried, "WHAT?! You guys got the most?"

Mr. Nevins smirked, "Hmph! Say that you bested them all… USELESS! You all are going to die in the sands of time, starting now! Gaze upon my face, and view how righteous I am! Steven Nevins will bring THE WORLD to its knees! And the best part is… THERE'S NOT A GODDAMN THING ANY OF YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT!"

He waved his hand high and called, "And just so I am not bluffing, or showing any punches, allow me to show you the full force of my powers. You see, likewise The World, I, Steven Nevins, have a brand-new Precious Stone! Learning what became of my former master, Black Dynamite, I have mastered his power!"

His fists balled up completely, as Michelle whispered, "No… It's… It can't be…"

SLAM!
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH, SUEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEY!"
He slammed his giant fist down to the ground, causing a huge earthquake. Steven Nevins' second Precious Stone is his first master's ability, which was stolen from him, after he died in West Greenwich – the Tremor Quake!

Everyone was struggling, as they dropped to the ground, feeling the aftereffects of Mr. Nevins's evil tremors. He cackled, "BWAH, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA! YOU SEE, YOUR POWER OF FRIENDSHIP WILL NEVER BEST A CHOUJIN! I was careless, last time we met, Michelle, but know this… This time, the true battle begins! Surpass my nine Egyptian Gods, and face me and MIO, in final combat! Twenty days left, and your fate is already sealed! YOUR RECKLESS DAYS OF HEROISM ARE OVER! AHHH, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HA, HAAAAA!"

Yamabuki growled, "Son of a bitch!"

Mr. Nevins called, "You all thought I went soft, went to stay on the side of light, after MIO is destroyed… then you all thought wrong! Steven Nevins is alive and kicking, and I promise you… NO MERCY FOR THE GANG! When I fell victim to Michelle's Ty Ko Ky, burning a hole inside me, you all thought I was dead! But now, Steven Nevins is alive, powered by the gems that I am imbued by, and you will all be the opposite of me – dead!"

The Gang started to struggle up, as the tremors subsided. Mr. Nevins's evil cackles echoed in the dark skies, as his image vanished from the sky. He concluded, as he was fading away, "COME FIND ME! Defeat my nine Egyptian Gods, and I will appear…"

His voice faded away, as the sky regained blue sky. Chazz moaned, "Ah, good grief…"

Yamabuki growled, "I hate that guy, so much…"

Casssandra said, "So, he's Steven Nevins… I wish we knew who MIO was…"

Heather sniffled, as Farra held her, "There, there… He's alright. We know that he's alive and well."

Rook barked, "And under MIO's influence! I know it is risky, but we have no alternative choice… We kill MIO, even if we have to kill Mr. Nevins, first."

Farra asked, "Any idea what his tarot card is?"

Mundy stated, "Yeah, I'm curious."

Scarlet replied, "He said that his card is… The World. You don't think…"

Michelle replied, "I think so. We've met ALL the Tarots that wield its power… but only one tarot card is left… The World."

Asahi asked, "Isn't that like the First/Last card in the tarot deck?"

Rook replied, "The World is Card 21 in the tarot. Cassandra's card, The Fool, is the First/Last Card in the tarot, Card #0. And if what Mr. Nevins says is true… if we do not stop MIO, and then save Mizuki, within those remaining twenty days, she's already dead… and we have failed…"

They grew upset, as Cassandra replied, "Well, not that I want to butt in, but I think since we're all together now, there are nueve dioses egipcios contra doce de nosotros."

Cassandra means that it's 12-on-9, in The Gang's favor.

Mundy said, "That may be so, but we cannot possibly best all the Egyptian Gods, within three weeks. However, our main focus is to find MIO, and slay her."

Rook said, "Even so, knowing how strong they are, like the Spirit, Stand, and Jewel Users we've met… They'll act like our past enemies were jobbers. Plus, we have no time to exploit their weaknesses."

Heather added, "We're running out of time…"

Michelle said, "That will be too easy… but a death mission… Our first objective: We do as me brother says… We defeat those with the powers of Nine Egyptian Gods, whoever they are, and we meet with this villainous dynamic duo – MIO and Steven Nevins. All of us… We take one, even if we have to separate."

Peter said, "In that case, I'll go alone…"

Cassandra said, "I'll go with you."

He asked, "Seriously? You, an android, following me?"

"I have heard much about you, from Farra." She said, "It's an honor, Gran Chico…"

Farra smirked, "She just called you Big Guy, in Spanish~!"

Peter sighed, "Oh, gimme a break…" and grumbled.

Michelle barked, "Even if you would separate, be on your toes!"

Scarlet said, "She's right. Fighting Nine Egyptian Gods, that's quite a challenge."

Steven said, "Well, we better traverse on, heading to Cairo. Personally, I want to know more of these guys…"

Scarlet cleared her throat and said, "Well, first things first… I do believe we need to know more of the newcomers in our group, namely Cassandroid and Yamabuki."

Cassandra barked, "Please QUIT calling me Cassandroid!"

Yamabuki said, "Oh, lighten up. It's a silly nickname."

She smiled and said, "Hi, Yamabuki Suou, as in the Mountain Breeze. Call me Bookie, if you'd like; better than Cassandroid, eh? No offence. Nice to meet you. I am a Stand User, and my card is the Chariot. But you already know that."

Cassandra smiled, "Gracias, Yamabuki. Yo soy Cassandra Juliet Martinez. Soy un androide, con la tarjeta The Fool. And I say that, because you know that I am a Precious Stone User, and my abilities are called Android Fool."

"WOW!" Yamabuki smiled, "I've seen a cute little girl android, but you're a full-on total package of busty and thicc beauty!"

She looked at her and said, "And you're so tall, too. My friend is tiny, and she, too, is an android. You two should meet, some time!"

Cassandra blushed, "Uh, gracias…"

Yamabuki glared, "Also, you can drop the Spanish. I can't make head to tails on it."

Cassandra replied, "Sorry. But I am fluent in both English and Spanish…"

Team A-Fist introduced themselves to Yamabuki, starting with Steven, "Steven Cooke, A-Squad. I'm called A-Fist, because I use my fists. Powers are Divine Moon."

Farra smiled, "Farra Stevens, Phoenix Sun. Stone User and Spirit Caller."

Asahi bowed, "Uh, As-Asahi Sakurai, Mech-Asahi is my powers, and also my Stand, when used for Idol Justice."

Mundy smiled, as he shook Yamabuki's hand, "Oi, love. Oscar Gooden, but mate's call me Mundy. As you guessed, I'm a Hierophant Sniper."

Scarlet tugged his ear, and said, "Do me a favor and not drool all over her."

Mundy pleaded, "Sorry, babe, but she's got huge boobs."

Scarlet said to Yamabuki, "I'll ignore that. Scarlet Riley, head of AAW-New York. I'm actually these idiots' boss."

Yamabuki smiled, "Good to meet you guys~! It's an honor to work with you."

Team Nevins now introduced themselves to Cassandra, starting with Michelle, "Well, as you may know, Steven Nevins is my brother. I'm his sister, Michelle."

Heather said to Cassandra, "It's an honor to side with an android like you, Cassie. I'm Heather Dunn, Steven Nevins's wife. I'm the Ice Empress. And thank you for being by Farra's side, while I was gone…"

Cassandra smiled, "Well, it's a very long story… but we'll talk at it, later."

Peter introduced himself, "Name's Peter Giese. I'm the Darkness Devil."

He turned away, as Rook bowed to Cassandra, "Ah yes, a beautiful robot girl, with such curves and beauty. What an honor it is to fulfill our duty. I am Reginald Hadigan the 3rd, the Humming Magician. And a clever and witty man, for a battle tactician."

Cassandra turned to Chazz, as he stared at her. Cassandra said, "Oh… And you are…"

Chazz huffed, "Stay away from me, you robo-bitch. I don't trust you."

He walked off, as Asahi said, "That's Chazz Princeton, my boyfriend."

Cassandra smiled, "Ah, si. He's your lover. You got such a catch, Señora Sakurai~!"

Asahi blushed, "Oh, you think so? Eh, hah, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha…" and nervously laughed.

Chazz huffed, as he sighed from Asahi's giddy laughter, "Oh, good grief…"

Scarlet said, "Well, introductions aside, we should trek on to Cairo, now."

Suddenly, a helicopter flew by, as Michelle called, "Hey, look! I recognize that chopper!"

They all looked on, as the pilot waved to them, "Hey! Miss Nevins, you have a minute?"

Michelle said, "Everyone, stand down. These men are from the Speedwagon Foundation."

Peter asked, "Speedwagon Foundation? Correct me if I'm wrong, but are they the same men that watched over Mizuki, back in New York?"

Michelle said, "Yes, that's them, alright."

They walked to the men, as his helicopter touched down on the sands. Scarlet asked, "These men, are they Spirit Users or Stand Users?"

Michelle said, "Neither. These men are normal."

Heather asked, "Don't tell me we're going on a helicopter ride to Cairo!"

Michelle said, "No. If we fly there, we would be a risk, putting these blokes in harm's way, if we hitch a ride."

Farra asked, "So, why are they here, all of a sudden?"

Michelle said, "Well, during our arrival in the Egyptian Shore, I brought along some backup."

Yamabuki asked, "Backup?" and everyone was stunned.

Michelle replied, "As a matter of fact, the option of going 12-to-9 with me brother's Egyptian Gods is now OUT. It'll be now 13-to-9. He's our new ally. I have to warn you that he has a few personality issues, but he'll get used to us, eventually. And besides, with this guy in our ranks, winning this battle will be a cakewalk."

She explained, "However, he is neither a Stand nor a Spirit User. He's a Jewel Person, like MIO, but not a vampire."

Rook complained, "That is most absurd! Hiring him, a Jewel Person, would be too risky for this mission! It is inconceivable! His presence here would hold us back."

Heather asked, "You know of him, Rook? He might actually harm us?"

Rook replied, "Yes. Quite well. So, be careful."

Peter asked, "Hold on. This new ally… You say that he's a Jewel Person? That means…"

Michelle said, "Do not worry. He's NOT our enemy. But he is going to aide us, during our battle against MIO, since he was once her slave. His gemstone is that of the most beautiful gemstone of all – the diamond."

Peter asked, "The diamond?"

Yamabuki said, "The diamond, eh? With a clear gem like that, it's no kidding that this guy is stupid enough to use a transparent gem in his arsenal."

Rook replied, "Even if he is our enemy, you would lose to him. Count your blessings that he's on our side, for a change."

Yamabuki roared, "I suggest watching your mouth, if you know what's good for you, Rookie! Are you saying I don't stand a chance with him? He's a Jewel Person, and I can lick this asshole, clean!"

Rook stated, "It's true, Yamabuki. Now move your hand! It's hurting me."

Farra stated, "I don't think you would, either. Besides, he's on our side now."

Yamabuki yelled, "WHO DIED AND MADE YOU BOSS?"

Heather barked, "Enough, you three! The helicopter's here."

They waited, as the two men stepped out of the helicopter. They greeted to Michelle, as the first man said, "Ah, Miss Nevins, I see you made it safely."

Michelle bowed and said, "I have. Thank you for flying here. Must be rough."

Steven glared at the men, "So…"

He called out, "Which one of you is the Jewel Man?"

The men glared back at him. Farra replied, "We'd like to know… We're curious."

Scarlet smiled, "We all are, but pay no attention to my leading agent, sir… eh, heh, heh…"

Steven barked, "Are you gonna answer me, or not? Most of us are rather cautious here… Is it you?"

The man said, "It's neither of us, Agent Cooke. Neither of us is the User. The Jewel Person is actually in the back."

Mundy asked, "The back seat?"

Peter said, "There's nobody in here. I don't see anyone."

The second man said, "Nah, she is here."

Peter asked, "Huh? She?"

They viewed the seat on the copter, and saw only a black blazer in the seat. Yamabuki went closer and said, "Oh, don't worry. I'm sure it's nothing that bad. So, I wonder if he's tiny. Is he a midget?"

She called out, "Hey! Come on out! Don't be so shy! Quit kidding around!"

She slammed her hand on the seat, as the first man called, "Hey, be careful, kid!"

Yamabuki smiled, "Relax! I know what I'm doing."

She felt a gooey substance on the seat, and then gagged, "Ew! What the hell is this stuff? It's icky! Glue?"

Farra sniffed it and said, "Gross…"

Cassandra asked, "Yamabuki, would it be alright if I analyze it?"

Yamabuki stated, "No need, Cassandra."

The first man pleaded, "Please be careful of her, Miss! She's had a rough copter ride here, on the helicopter! She's in a foul mood!"

Michelle barked, "Yamabuki, step away! I told you that this guy is trouble!"

Farra asked, "Wait… Her?"

Rook said, "But don't come crying to us, if he injures you."

Yamabuki laughed, "Oh, please. I want to know who and where he is. It's no big deal."

But suddenly, it lunged out at Yamabuki, and roared onto her face. She shrieked, as the creature hissed at her. It was… a cat? The brown and white calico cat scratched at Yamabuki, as she cried out, "A CAT?!"

Heather gasped, "A kitty cat?!"

Chazz asked, "Old Hag, don't tell me that this furball is-!"

Michelle nodded and said, "I'm afraid so. This cat is a Jewel Woman!"

"WHAT?" The others, except Yamabuki, cried out.

Asahi cried, "But you said it's a he!"

Michelle snickered, "I, uh, didn't look closely at her… Her name is Yoko. Her spare time, before being turned, is to tear at human's hair; still does, apparently. Oh, yeah… I almost forgot… Nowadays, whenever she's in a happy mood, or when she finishes clawing, she-."

FRRRRRT!
Yoko farted on Yamabuki's face, as she gagged in horror. Michelle said, "Oh, yes… She passes gas on a person's face, after she plays with the hair. It's a disgusting habit."

Yamabuki fainted, as Rook said, "She may look like a boy, but she's 100% girl cat, and a Jewel Creature. She also has magical powers, too, unlike another cat we know."

Heather smugly joked, "Now I wonder if Yoko talks."

Asahi asked, "So, how did you find her? She looks cute."

Michelle said, "Julie and Steffi, back in New York, found her astray in the back alley, near their diner, and Steffi was nursing her to health. However, she's only a stray kitten, and with no home. Rook and I agreed to take the cat under our care, until the adventure is over. Afterwards, we can find her a new home."

Yamabuki got up and hollered, "That damned feline! I hate you so much, you fucking pussy! DAMN YOU!"

She called out, "GO, CHARIOT!" and unleashed her Ninja Chariot towards Yoko. Yoko, however, unleashed a powerful aura, surrounding her. The white Power Core, on her red collar, started to shine, and produce a huge demonic white lion with silver fangs and red demon eyes.

Chazz gasped, "That's… What the hell is that?"

Peter cried, "It's a Spirit Caller!"

Farra cried, "No way! This small cat is able to produce Spirit Callers?"

Heather said, "Animals can unleash Spirit Callers and Stands. Back when we were heading to Singapore, we met Strength, and its Stand User was an orangutan."

Farra gagged, "What? A monkey?!"

Rook replied, "You're gonna have a LOT of paperwork, about all this, Scarlet."

Scarlet sighed, "Now I've seen everything…"

Yamabuki yelled, "I DON'T CARE IF THIS STUPID CAT IS A STAND USER OR NOT! LION OR NO LION, YOU WILL BE SLAIN BY THE TRUE ASSASSIN OF THE JUNGLE – THE NINJA! DON'T MAKE ME TURN YOU INTO CAT GUTS! BASTARD!"

Mundy corrected her, "Actually, lions are considered kings of the jungle."

Heather added, "But this lion has a furry mane, and Yoko is female."

SLASH!
Yamabuki sliced the lion in half, turning its body into sand. Yamabuki gasped, as she cried, "HUH? THAT'S NOT SUPPOSED TO HAPPEN! I can't cut her! She's turned into sand!"

The sands surround the Ninja, and wrapped its entire sandy body around the blade. Yamabuki cried, "AAAAAAGH! THAT SPIRIT CALLER'S TURNED SOLID, AND GRABBED HOLD OF MY KATANA!"

Cassandra gasped, "Amazing… That cat just stopped Yamabuki Suou's offense."

Peter asked, "But still, what is that supposed to be?"

Rook stated, "It's a Spirit Caller, simply put, made of sand."

Chazz huffed, "And the simpler they are, the design is flawless. Not sure if I could land a punch."

Yoko landed on Yamabuki's face, again, and pinned her down, scratching and clawing on her hair and face. Yamabuki was pleading with her life, "YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE! GET HER OFF OF ME! GET HER OFF! GET HER OFF!"

Heather brushed her hair and said, "Sorry, Yamabuki. I'm not the one that is mauling your hair off. I'd rather keep mine, since I was growing mine long, anyways."

Yamabuki shrieked, "YOU UNCARING MONSTERS!"

Michelle smiled, as she said, "Yoko is useful for our team."

Scarlet barked, "That's all well and good, but will you get the fucking cat off of Suou?! You're gonna kill her, at this rate!"

Rook said, as he stepped forward, "Leave it to me, Ma'am."

Michelle asked, "Did you get her treat?"

Rook replied, "Yes, I do. Well, sir, I need them, right now."

The second man said to him, reaching into his pocket, "We got the treats you asked for, par request. She wouldn't have come with us, otherwise."

He pulled out the treats, as Yoko stopped, with her ears pointing up, sensing the treats. Yoko ran to Rook, as Cassandra stated, "Her sense of smell is uncanny…"

Heather asked, "Rook, what is that you got?"

Rook held up a stick of gum and said, "It's Yoko's treats – chewing gum. And it's her favorite flavor: tuna and shrimp."

Heather said, "That makes sense. Cats usually never eat gum."

Rook stated, "This one is an exception. Yoko will do anything for this tasty morsel."

Cassandra replied, "What I want to know is what they'd make such a product like that."

The man cried, "Uh, wait, Agent Hadigan, hide the packet befo-!"

SNATCH!
Yoko snatched the box with her teeth, as Rook gasped, "BLAST IT! SHE TOOK THE WHOLE BOX?!"

Yoko started to maul away at the box of gum, as Michelle said, "She can't get enough of this tuna and shrimp chewing gum, as you can see. However, she won't let down her guard for anything. People, on the other hand, that's different, unfortunately."

Scarlet sighed, "At least take the wrapping off of it, first."

Cassandra approached Yoko, as Heather said, "I am not sure. How's a rabid feral cat going to aide us in the battle?"

Chazz sighed, "Good grief…" and Yamabuki straightened her hair, "Damn that little menace! My hair's ruined… Ungh… DAMN THAT CAT!"

Cassandra held Yoko up, and petted her gently. She said, "It's alright. I believe you are worthy of being a supportive ally."

Michelle said, "Well, I see you like the cat, do you, Martinez?"

Cassandra said, "Oh, yes. I do love kittens."

Scarlet stated, "Well, while this pussy is preoccupied with Cassandroid, it's safe for now. The rest of us will gather the supplies from here…"

The first man said, "Sure, Miss Riley. We'll need more muscle for this, while Agent Martinez has the cat distracted. Please come this way."

XXXXX

The Gang brought the supplies out, as Michelle was treated to her injuries. Scarlet was mended from her left arm, after it was severed by Yolei. However, she is wearing metal chrome plating in her left hand and wrist, and started to move her fingers. She said, "So, this is what a prosthetic hand looks like."

The second man said, "Make sure you leave this on, at all times, for six weeks, before your hand fully heals. It's waterproof and heatproof. We're lucky that you managed to sew your hand back on, but leave the limbs to pros."

Scarlet barked, "Yeah, yeah, whatever."

The first man brought supplies, and said, "Here, Miss Nevins, the food and water you need for your trip. There's also a change of clothes for each of you, and medical supplies, as well."

Michelle said, "Ah, thank you very much."

He gave her a digital camera, "And here, we also took the liberty of buying a new disposable camera, for your Spirit Caller."

Michelle said, "Yeah, thanks… Tellys don't work for my Hermit Ghost, too much… I guess a camera will do, since it'll be a lot easier."

Scarlet boomed, "WASTE A CAMERA, WITH YOUR SPIRIT POWER?! THAT'S A WASTE OF FILM! You destroy ONE camera, for ONE photo, you'd ruin a perfectly good camera!"

Asahi takes the camera and said, "OH, WAIT! I got an idea!"

She called out, "HEY, EVERYONE!"

The others heard over Asahi, as she held up a camera. She said, "Michelle's got a new camera for her Spirit Caller. But first, let's use it, for something fun~!"

Scarlet nodded, "Sounds right. Photos of our trip will be nice."

Michelle grinned, as she said, "Wait! I have a better idea! My powers can instantly produce photos. So…"

She called out, "LOOK SHARP, MEN!"

XXXXX

CLICK! BSSSSSSSSH!
The Gang took a group photo, using Michelle's Hermit Ghost, and everyone in the shot. Steven, Peter, Farra, & Chazz were sitting in the front, with Asahi hugging Chazz, and from behind, Scarlet holding Mundy, next to Rook, Heather, Cassandra, who is holding Yoko, and Yamabuki. Michelle was kneeling next to Asahi and Yamabuki, holding her arm up. All thirteen people were in the shot, as a photo for their recent accomplishment.

Heather smiled, "I see. It'll make a nice memento."

Chazz held the photo and smiled, "Hm."

"YAAAAAAAAAAAAGH!" Yamabuki shrieked, as she was running from Yoko, who was chasing her, "ROOKIE, YOU BETTER HAVE MORE OF THAT STUPID CAT'S GUM READY! HURRY!"

Rook called, "Now why in the world would I do that? You two were becoming such good friends, already, Yamabuki!"

Chazz chuckled, as he was seeing it.

XXXXX

The helicopter was warming up, as the men were about to leave. The first man said to Michelle, "Well, if that is everything, I think we should be heading back, Miss Nevins."

Michelle said, "Answer this, before you leave. Agent Mizuki Takase of AAW-New York… and regarding her condition… And I want you to be straight to me… How is she?"

The man sighed, and explained, "Well, we got the call from Agent Gaynes of Feral Beauty. However, things are not looking good for her. She's rapidly losing strength, and nothing seems to help her condition. Our doctors at the Speedwagon Foundation say that… she has two weeks… best…"

Peter, hearing the news, is completely upset, as does the others. Cassandra bowed her head and said, "Two weeks…"

Heather sobbed, "We're all out of time…"

Yamabuki growled, "This is BS!"

The man added, "I also have more information to share to all of you… if that is okay."

He then explained the information, "Our investigators say that, two days ago, nine unidentified men and women gathered in a building, believed to be MIO's hideout. Apparently, they came and left together."

The Gang gasped, as Michelle cried, "MIO has rounded up nine men and women?!"

Scarlet whispered, "The Nine Egyptian Gods…"

The man said, "We have no clue of who they are. We had a spy examining the identities of these nine people, but was killed, shortly after. And the mansion that they all met was vacated. We had no luck, locating these nine vigilantes. We thought about tailing them, but since our spies are NOT Spirit Callers or Stand Users, we decided it'd be too dangerous."

Yamabuki complained, "SO! You're saying… These people are Stand Users?"

Heather corrected, "Hold on, Yamabuki. Think about it for a minute! That would be impossible. Other than Birch Small's tarot card, The Emperor, we have ALL the tarot users that we've met and/or hold within our powers… All, but one – The World… As mentioned from my husband's proclamation, I suspect that this belongs to him and MIO, but now I am not sure. Rook?"

Rook replied, "I don't know… We know that two people can hold the same tarot, like a few of us, but I cannot wrap my head on this one. Nine more users?"

Michelle said, "From what I gather, it seems that MIO's head hasn't used to controlling her new body. But that monster's too clever. She's concealed herself to drop the ball on us. She's far too conceited to do something like that. I bet Steven Nevins hired them all… He'll do everything within his power to keep us out of Cairo."

Chazz huffed, "Good fucking grief… We have to take out nine more Spirit and Stand Users in two weeks? This will be a whirlwind tour…"

The man concluded, "Safe journeys, Miss Nevins… and good luck, for we wish you a safe return."

Michelle nodded, "Thank you. Look after Mizuki!"

The helicopter leaves, as The Gang was troubled. Yoko suddenly sensed something. She spotted an abandoned ruin, from far up. From far up the cliffs, a girl in reddish brown hair, wearing a light blue school uniform, was sitting in the dirt, sensing the others. She held her neck and said, "Hmph… Stupid cat… So it sniffed out the great Rena from that far away, huh?"

Rena stood up and grabbed her cleaver on her left hand, and a cane on her right hand. She tapped the cane and walked off, tapping the ground. A fly buzzed around her, and nearly buzzed in her ear. Rena grabbed the fly, but slipped out of her fingers.

"So close…" Rena whispered, "All this time, and I almost had it. The Aswan Tse Tse Fly, the very same fly that brought The Gang here to Egypt, and found out about MIO's location. All this time, the very same bug is the reason why they are closer to my master. If that fly wasn't involved, The Gang would never find Master MIO and Lord Nevins in Egypt."

She jabbed the ground with her cane, and a lone pebble killed the Tse Tse Fly, with sheer force. She smirked, as her transparent blue eyes were shown. She smirked, as she said, "Well, now… Let's begin… Time to start the job… Soon, I will kill The Gang, and when they are gone forever, Master MIO will give me my revenge on Keiichi, for what he did to me."

The reason Rena has both a cane and a cleaver is because she's blind.

[Rena Ryugu – One of the Egyptian Gods – Card: ?]

And so begins the new arc, as The Gang's next battle is underway… and already, we meet Egyptian God #1. Who is Rena Ryugu, and what does she want with The Gang? Also, why is she blind?

To be continued…