JanimeLee: Yes! We're back! With a new fic to start off a brand New Year! After so many demands for a sequel... we couldn't resist. Enjoy!

"Arise from Darkness"

By Heikou and Janime

Chapter One

"I'm Dreaming Again"

            Seto knew where he was, watching the sands blow across the steps of the temple where the duels were held. He had this dream before over the last few weeks, only brushed it off as being related to stress. Graduation was coming up in less than two months, along with one other matter that was more important to him than his company or his dueling techniques.

            But there was something different in this dream he had repeated for so many nights. Seto wasn't dressed in the robes from his past life as the High Priest Seth, but rather his usual clothing that he wore in this lifetime. The Millennium Rod, which had always been in his hands when this dream began, was not with him. The Dueling temple itself seemed darker and neglected.

             This, was something incredible new. Looking around he slowly began walking towards the temple. The skies were dark, the wind was cold, and all the life seemed to be sucked out of the area. He didn't want to admit it but this was a bit unnerving.

            "The stress must really be getting to me," he said to himself. He looked up when the doors of the temple creaked ever so lightly in a sudden breeze. Frowning he made his way towards the building, nearly stumbling on the crumbling stone steps. Upon closer inspection he noticed that the once proud structure looked like it was ready to fall over with a strong wind. Lifting a hand he lightly traced one of the thick pillars only to feel the stone rough and ragged instead of sanded smooth. Part of him didn't want to enter but pulling the doors open he stepped inside.

            The entire temple was void of any and all light, the once silken drapes that hung along the walls and pillars were nothing more than tattered cloth that resembled ghosts swaying in the wind. The area looked to be in ruins with the floor cracked heavily, dried lamp oil leaving dark stains on the floor next to broken statues. As if they had a mind of their own his feet took him closer to the platform where duels were often held.

            "She will die."

            Seto spun around at the voice. It sounded like a woman, wise and tired. "What did you say?"

            "She will die," the voice repeated, "the three Sisters will die."

            "Cheri..." Seto whispered then yelled, "Who are you? Show yourself!"

            "I am ancient, older than the Sacred Seven. I am the mother of all who have held back the power of the Shadow Realm. The Sisters of the Moon followed my teachings, though much was lost between my time and theirs. It is starting again... and they will die."

            "... Then you were the very first... Be as it may I am not letting Cheri be taken away from me!"

            The woman seemed to laugh but it melted into a heavy and weary sounding sigh. "Believe what you will, High Priest... but those who do not learn from the past are doomed to repeat it."

            "How do you... Show yourself already! I want to see who is speaking to me in riddles!" he demanded as he looked around yet he was alone. Sapphire blue eyes darted back and forth as he backed up but stopped when he ran into something... soft? Slowly turning he gasped as he realized he had run into a rather tall being enshrouded in a dark and tattered cloak.  The hood was pulled low over the face but the being seemed to grow taller with every passing second.

            "The Sisters of the Moon will die... Before it's too late." Spreading her arms to her sides she embraced him tightly. Seto didn't have time to stop her or move away as he was plunged into a world of darkness, falling endlessly in the empty void.

            Light and Dark shall divide...

            Save their souls...

            Chosen of Anubis...

            Merge her favorite...

            Seto bolted upright in bed with a short scream. He placed his hand over his heart, feeling it beat frantically in his chest and took a few deep breaths to calm himself. Wiping the sweat away from his brow, the young millionaire turned his head to the right and looked at the sleeping form next to him. Seto let out a long quiet sigh, grateful that he didn't wake Cheri. The last thing he wanted was for her to worry about him when she was focusing on studying for her finals.

            Moaning slightly, the young girl shifted in her sleep, turning onto her right side so that her back was now towards him. Seto moved closer to her, so that Cheri's back was now against his chest. He slid his left arm around her waist and gently hugged her.

            It's been over a year, Seto thought, I am not going to lose you now.

            Students chatted back and forth excitedly as they stood before their lockers, placing their street shoes inside and pulled on the slippers for indoors. Boys laughed and playfully hit one another as girls gossiped about this and that.  It was another typical day at Domino High School with the skies clear and sun shining high overhead.

            Yugi closed his locker before making his way to class.  He couldn't wait to see his girlfriend in class today along with his friends.  It had been a year since two very special girls arrived in Japan but it felt much longer than that.  They had unearthed a legend older than the Millennium Items, defeat a dark god, and saved the world from chaos; such an event only brought everyone closer together than ever before.  He and the others had gone through many changes but definitely for the better.

            Young Mr. Motou had once been the shortest teenage boy in his entire school that many thought he was one of the elementary students but over the year he had grown several more inches.  He was still shorter than your average teenage boy but at least people didn't mistake him for being a little kid.  Despite growing up, so to speak, he still retained that childlike innocence.  Entering the classroom he smiled.

            Tea Gardner was seated at her desk, quietly reading a book of hers as she waited for the others to come and class to start.  Yugi and Tea had been going steady for a year but had been friends for much longer than that.  Smiling Yugi went over, being as quiet as he could and kissed her cheek. She blinked then smiled as she looked over at her boyfriend.

            "Morning Yugi," she said softly.

            "Good morning Tea." He returned the smile as he set his satchel on his desk and pulled his chair closer to her desk.

            She closed her book and placed it her bag. "So which order do you think they'll arrive today?"

            "Hmm..." Yugi looked towards the ceiling. "Keriam, Ryou... I think Malik and Joey will arrive at the same time."

            "Knowing Marik, yes," the brunette girl said quietly and giggled. "I still can't believe that those two still have that rival episode going between them."

            "Seto still has his with Bakura."

            "At least you don't have one with Yami," Tea lightly tapped the Millennium Puzzle that hung from the long chain around her boyfriend's neck.

            ~I have always believed that a woman would enjoy two men fighting over her,~ said the ancient Pharaoh.

            "Oh, that does have a certain appeal, Yami, but you two share the same body--it would be just a tiny bit difficult."

            Yugi laughed and looked at the clock. "Almost time," he said and went back to his seat.

            Keriam walked into the classroom. A couple other students arrived, and then Ryou entered. Yugi turned to Tea and held up three fingers, silent counting down on them. Three... Two... One...

            Joey and Marik raced into the room as the bell rang. The two teens stopped by the chalkboard, catching their breaths and the teacher walked in.

            "Wheeler and Ishtar," said Mr. Hames. "Take your seats, please."

            "Yes, sir," the boys said and went to their desks. Joey plopped into his chair behind Yugi, which was also next to Keriam. Marik sat down behind Ryou and Malik took over.

            ~Marik, why do have to be so competitive with Joey?~ Malik asked.

            ~Call it a test of manhood," said his darker half.

            Malik rolled his eyes.

            As the teacher began to call roll two late students entered the classroom. Seto and Cheri came in hand in hand, the young CEO still as emotionless as ever but Cheri was smiling softly. Taking their seats without a word they got their books ready. The teacher nodded and finished the roll call.

            "Since the end of the school year is fast approaching I have decided to look over your overall grades so far," he said as he took out a sheaf of paper form his desk. "I am pleased that some of you will have no trouble passing your final year and with honors no yet!"

            "Three to one it's Kaiba," Joey whispered to Keriam with a grin.

            "Mr. Wheeler, would you care to enlighten the rest of the class?"

            "No sir."

            "Good. Now as I was saying, some of you are doing far above my expectations, but few of you could try a bit harder unless you wish to repeat your final year again. What I am handing out is your progress report so look it over and in a moment I'll explain what can be done to pick up your grades." As he talked he walked around the classroom, placing the reports face down on the student's desks so it would be for their eyes only.

            ~Well, looks like Marik will be keeping Keriam company next year.~

            ~Bakura, don't start,~ said Ryou. ~He's done very well this year and his grades have improved since the merge.~

            ~There's one way to find out.~ Bakura left Ryou's body and started over to Joey's desk.

            ~Get back here!~ Ryou yelled mentally as he tried to look as though he was nervous about his progress report.

            The former thief stood in front of Joey, smirking at the sitting blonde who still hadn't turned over his paper. Joey looked at him, not letting himself be intimidated. Moments later, Marik appeared next to Bakura wearing almost the same grin. Joey turned his head slightly and saw the apologetic looks from Ryou and Malik. Narrowing his eyes at the translucent specters, Joey picked up his paper. His eyes widened as he read the report; grinning at the two spirits in front of him, Joey set down the progress report so that they could read it.

            ~I don't believe it...~ Marik blinked.

            ~You're passing...~ Bakura raised his eyes to Joey, who then flipped his paper back over.

            The two spirits returned in shock to their grinning hikaris, listening to a few of the other students either groan or sigh.

            Yugi suppressed a laugh as he heard Yami laugh at the defeated looks on the other two spirits. ~Maybe now they'll leave him alone,~ the violet eyed teen said.

            ~Until they can find something else to tease him about,~ Yami added but he was happy for the young man.

            Joey looked over at Keriam and gave her a thumb's up. All the studying had paid off and as much as he hated it, it was worth it in the end. Mr. Hames began talking about extra credit as he wrote several assignments on the board. he explained that anyone in class could do them if they chose but it was mainly for those who were doing poorly in class. Several of the students were already writing the information down and asking question.

            Tea sighed softly to herself. She was passing and couldn't wait for the end of the year. She was looking forward to studying dance in new York and nearly had all the money saved up but thinking about it she decided to take some basic classes here at Domino University then slowly work her way up. Catching the others girls' eyes she gave nodded her head, saying that she was passing so far.

            Keriam looked over at Cheri and they smiled. So far, so good. They would have to wait for Tristen's report later as he wasn't in this class.

            Well, Aunt Terry and Uncle Zack are going to be happy with both of us, Keriam thought as she placed her progress report in her binder. As Mr. Hames went on about the extra credit assignments, Keriam felt a strange pressure inside. Come on, it's not even nine o'clock, she thought, today's lunch can't be that bad. The pressure increased and went throughout her body, changing into pain. Keriam grabbed the edge of her desk and shut her eyes.

            Knowing that something was wrong, Joey turned to Keriam. His eyes widened seeing her with a pained expression and a flickering golden glow enveloped her. Those whose eyes could see beyond what the rest of the classroom did, felt the strange energy and turned to look at Keriam. All six plus three spirits stared in shock, but one of them felt dread build in his stomach as well.

            The Sisters of the Moon will die...

            Before it's too late...

            Merge her with the favorite...

            "Favorite..." Seto whispered, and blinked as the golden glow faded from Keriam.

            The pain subsided and Keriam released her death grip on her desk, taking a few shallow breaths. Joey reached over and placed his hand on Keriam's. She looked at him; seeing the worry in his eyes, Keriam nodded at her boyfriend. Giving a quick squeeze, Joey released her hand and turned back to the teacher.

            Cheri looked at her best friend worriedly before quickly writing a short note. 'Keriam, you okay? You want to go to the nurse or something?' Tearing the bit of paper she folded it as tight as she could. With a flick she let it go only to bounce off her shoulder and land before her.

            Malik had been worried as well and looked over as Keriam unfolded a small note. ~Marik, just right now that power... what was it?~ he asked.

            ~I have no idea...~ his darker half said, keeping his eyes on Keriam as she wrote a response and flicked it back to Cheri. ~It looked like her power was... leaving.~

            Cheri unfolded the note. 'No, I'm okay, now. Let's talk after school's over.' Looking at her best friend, Cheri nodded and put away the piece of paper.

            ~Her power leaving?~ The disbelief lined his tone but what if it was true? ~What could possible do that?~

            ~I... I don't know... But I do intent to find out!~ Unfortunately it didn't make his host feel any better.

            The bell rang and the students stood up, gathering their books and headed out for their next class. "Keriam, how ya holding up?" Joey asked as they went into the hallway.

            "Alright. Hey don't worry, I'm a tough girl," she smiled at him.

            "I worry 'cuz I care."

            "You and several others."

            "I could do without two certain see-throughs," the blonde grinned.

            "Joey," Keriam looked at him.

            "Okay, I'll stop," Joey took her hand and they walked to their next class.

            Unfortunately, they didn't share the same classroom for this period. They were however right across the hall from each other. Joey wasn't too thrilled since Malik was in the same class with Keriam. Not that Joey had anything against Malik--it was the darker half that Joey was concerned about. Tristen was also in the class as Malik and Keriam. Even though Tristen couldn't see Marik, he kept on eye on Keriam's and Malik's actions, which let him know what the spirit was up to.

            "See ya after class." Giving her hand a squeezed they parted for their classrooms.

            Tristen smiled and waved to Keriam as she came in. "Hey Keriam, did ya get your progress report?" he asked.

            "Sure did. How do your grades look?"

            "So far so good. But tell me, is Joey gonna be repeating class or is he actually gonna graduate with the rest of us?"

            Keriam sat at her desk, two rows away from the other brunette. "He didn't practice 'Na-na-na-nah hey, hey, goodbye' for nothing," she smiled.

            "Alright, Joey!" Tristen grinned.

            ~So it's true,~ Marik perched himself on his Keriam's desk, ~an old dog can learn new tricks.~

            "Get off my desk," Keriam said quietly through her teeth, so that the other students wouldn't hear her. As much as she cared for both Malik and Marik, the darker one tended to get on her nerves--especially when he made remarks about her boyfriend.

            Tristen didn't need to ask if Marik appeared; he could tell just by looking at Keriam's face and right now, she didn't seem very pleased. "Hey Malik, how're your grades doing?"

            "Pretty good," he nodded to him then sighed. "Marik, will you please get back inside?"

            ~Bakura gets to stay out of his ring,~ he said, not moving off Keriam's desk.

            "Only because no one else in class can see him," he countered, making it look like he was still speaking with Tristen.

            ~I'm not doing any harm. Right Keriam?~

            "I said get off!" Growling softly she pushed the spirit off but to anyone else it just looked like she was stretching her arms over her desk. It took everything the Egyptian blonde had not to break out laughing as he watched his darker half fall to the floor with a surprising yelp.

            Marik stood up and frowned at Keriam, who returned it with a slight glare. Snorting, the spirit walked over to his light and merged inside. ~Women,~ he grumbled. Malik couldn't help chuckling.

            "So what do you think happened with Keriam?" Cheri asked quietly.

            Seto shook his head. "I don't know." The couple was sitting in the back of the classroom, far away enough to talk as the other students mingled about while their teacher had been summoned to the principal's office. Oh, but you did have somewhat of a warning last night, Seto reminded himself. As much as I don't want to, I'll have to tell Yami about what that woman said to me.

            Cheri noticed the distant look in his cerulean eyes. "Seto?" He jumped at his name. "Are you okay?" his girlfriend asked. "You've been like this all morning."

            "I'm fine. I just have a lot on my mind," he explained.

            "If you say so..." I don't blame him. We're gonna be graduating soon and after that, well who knows where we'll end up, she thought to herself.

            Reaching over he covered her hand with his own, squeezing it. "Now you're starting to worry too much."

            "You know me. Oh I just remembered, I have an early birthday present for you. I just need to add some finishing touches so if you wanna come over later tonight and see it."

            "Actually, can we save it for Friday night?" Seto asked. "There's something I have to take care of."

            Cheri nodded. "No problem; it'll give me some extra time to finish."

            The teacher came back into the classroom, apologizing for taking so long. "Alright class settle down and open your books to page 487. I know the year is almost over but we still have one more chapter to cover and then finals." Some of the students groaned at this but began to take notes.

            Seto listened as he took notes, already knowing most of the material but it was better than worrying about the dream from last night. What exactly did she mean by it? Will even Yami know anything about her? Looking over at Cheri he grimaced as he pictured his life without her. No... I nearly lost her once but never again.

            Cheri could feel Seto looking at her but she didn't look at him. She was worried about what kind of look was on his face and the last thing she wanted was to see him upset in class. Its okay, Seto, she thought, everything will be alright. Cheri grimaced as a knot began to form in her stomach, the pressure just a bit uncomfortable. A few more weeks and I won't have to worry about this anymore.

            The pressure started to build, becoming painful. Cheri wrapped her arm around her stomach. Seto's eyes widened as the sapphire color representing Cheri's energy surrounded her.

            No... Seto pleaded silently. Not again!

            Cheri forced herself to stand up and almost collapsed to the floor. Seto quickly sprang from his chair and caught her. The slight commotion caught everyone's attention.

            "I'm taking her to the nurse," said Seto as he helped Cheri out of the classroom.

            Bakura was out wondering the halls, entirely bored with Ryou's class. This was two of the three where Ryou was the only one who could see him. Tristen was in the other two classes but he didn't count. Bakura found it odd that after merging with Osiris, Tristen still was unable to see or hear the three spirits.

            Oh well, Bakura thought with a grin, maybe in a way it's good--I can still make all those remarks and gestures without him ever knowing.

            He stopped short when he saw a blue glow down the hall, slowly fading and he made out the two people who were walking towards him. ~Cheri?~ Bakura blinked at the energy around her. ~Kaiba, what-~

            "Tell the others," was all the CEO said as they walked by the spirit.

            Not liking what was going on with Cheri, Bakura quickly went back to Ryou's classroom. He leaned close to his light's ear. ~Remember what happened to Keriam last class?~

            ~Yes,~ answered Ryou. ~Someone figure out why?~

            ~No, but it's happening to Cheri.~

            Ryou's pen stopped mid-writing.

            ~I saw Kaiba helping her down the hallway,~ said Bakura.

            Ryou felt his heart beat quicker in his chest. ~Did you tell the others?~

            ~Going now.~ Bakura quickly left the classroom.

            The teenager tried to continue writing but his mind wouldn't focus. First Keriam now Cheri? What was going on? He looked down at his hand only to realize it was shaking ever so lightly.

            "Ryou? Are you alright?" the teacher asked, realizing he wasn't paying attention.

            "Yes... yes I am. I was just thinking," he half-lied. He was thinking but it wasn't on his studies.

            "Alright. Now as I was saying..." but the teacher's voice was ignored as Ryou reached out to his darker self. ~Bakura?~

            ~I let everyone know. They can't leave class now but afterwards they're gonna meet at the nurse's office. I'm going there now to see what I can find out. You gonna be okay?~

            ~Yes. Just please don't upset Seto anymore.~

            ~Hey it's not my fault he doesn't appreciate my jokes!~

            If those are jokes, I hate to see your insults, Ryou thought.

            "Well, Cheri, you seem to be okay to me," said the nurse. "Maybe that pressure you felt was..." she didn't continue as Seto was in the room.

            "I don't think so," Cheri answered, knowing full well what Nurse Jarren was suggesting.

            Seto frowned at the older woman, having caught the meaning. The glow around Cheri had faded just as they reached the nurse's office. Even though, Cheri said she was alright, Seto made her go in anyways just to be safe.

            "Alright... but if you say you're alright I don't see why you can't go back to class."

            "Is it alright if I stay here a bit longer? Just to get my bearings straight."

            "Fine with me. Let me go write you a hall pass." Heading to her office she let the two be alone for a bit.

            "Are you sure you're alright?" Seto asked her. "You had me worried."

            "I'm fine now but... it felt like the energy inside me was being sucked out. One second I'm full of energy and the next I felt kinda weak," she explained as she played with her rings. "To be honest it scared me."

            "Scared me, too," Seto sat down in the chair next to Cheri. "I saw it leaving you, like Keriam's energy did." He put his arm around her and she leaned against his chest.

            ~Yuck, you two are so mushy with each other.~

            "Bakura, will you please buzz off?" Cheri asked sweetly.

            The spirit leaned around her, smiling. ~I came in here because everyone wants to make sure your alright--that includes me.~

            Placing her hand on Bakura's forehead, Cheri slowly pushed him away. "I'm fine. Tell everyone we'll talk after school."

            ~At least you don't have that blue glow anymore,~ Bakura started walking out, ~or any other glow.~ He went through the door.

            Cheri sighed. "What is it with people always suggesting that I might be pregnant?"

            "Because it's me," said Seto.

            "Aren't we modest," she looked at him. "True, though."

            "I never heard you complain."

            "You never heard mom."

            "What did she say?"

            " 'When do I get to see my grandchildren?' I thought my face would never stop turning red. It's not funny!" She lightly hit him in the chest when she heard him chuckle.

            "It's a good thing your mother likes me then," Seto laughed as he caught her hand in his own. "But now I know you're better."

            "You are such a jerk at times; but I still love you." Smiling the couple kissed but parted when the nurse cleared her throat.

            "Here a Hall Pass for both of you to return to class," she handed them both a slip of paper and watched them leave before sighing to herself. "Young love."

            "Cheri, you okay?" Keriam asked when the two came out of the nurse's office.

            "I'm fine," she reassured her best friend, "a little tired but I'm fine."

            "Bakura said that what happened to Keriam also happened to Cheri," Yugi spoke up.

            Cheri looked at Keriam. "Did it hurt really bad?"

            "Oh yeah," Keriam nodded then leaned closer to Cheri, cupping her hands around her mouth and whispered in Cheri's ear, "Worse than cramps."

            "I'll say."

            "This is weird, what could possible do something like that?" Yugi asked out loud.

            "No idea but don't worry if we can defeat a dark god we can take on anything," Cheri grinned.

            "Oh you are defiantly better now!" Keriam laughed then looked up when the bell rang. "Well let's meet at our usual table after class, we can talk then."

            Biding good bye Yugi and Seto had class together and the girls had classes next to one another but before going inside Seto stopped the young duelist. "Yugi, I need to speak with Yami. Alone and after school."

            Yami stirred from his soul room as he separated. ~Something on your mind?~ he asked.

            "Its been on my mind too long," Seto looked at the translucent Pharaoh. "And last night it got worse." He turned and walked to his next class, leaving both Yami and Yugi standing in the hallway completely stunned.

            ~Yami... the look on his face...~

            ~I saw, Yugi,~ Yami returned to his soul room.

            Yugi started walking towards the gymnasium. ~He actually looked scared,~ he said, ~last time I saw him like that was when he went against Pegasus to get Mokuba's soul back.~

            ~It can only mean that something terrible is going to happen... after school let's meet him. I'll take over just for the time being.~

            ~Alright Yami, I trust you.~ He entered the classroom.

            Third class period seemed to pass by slowly to most of the students as their teachers rambled on about finals coming up but to a selected group of friends, it felt longer than that. Something was amidst and affecting the girls. Maybe it was nothing or maybe it was the beginning stage of something greater to come. Whatever it was it seemed that Seto's dreams may hold the answer to it but would it be enough?

            The bell rang and the students who had lunch his time were more than happy to escape their classroom prisons. It was a mad rush as they tried to make it to their lockers, put their books away, and be the first ones in line but also try not to trip over one another on the mad rush.

            ~Well, at least we have one more class to go before lunch,~ Yugi smiled as Yami hmphed. ~Yami, do you want to take over in gym class?~

            ~Why not?~ his darker half said. ~Haven't had much of a chance to play basketball.~

            Grinning, Yugi entered the locker room. Once changed into his gym outfit, Yami took over and walked out into the gym. He saw Malik, Ryou, Joey, and Tristen gathered near the padded section of the wall. Seto didn't have gym until the second to last class. And as for Marik and Bakura, the two spirits knew better than to show themselves during gym.

            Keriam, Tea, and Cheri were also in gym with the boys.

            "Yami," said Malik as he walked over to them.

            ~What brings you out?~ Marik asked.

            "Nothing wrong with a bit of exercise now and then," said the Pharaoh, crossing his arms and smirked. "And you two forbidden to leave your lights' bodies now."

            ~It's not our fault the girls' shorts are made that way,~ said Bakura.

            "I thought the girls were going to kill us!" Ryou exclaimed as he remembered the last time they were let loose.

            ~Hey what's the use of being a spirit when you can't use it to your advantage?~ Bakura countered.

            "Not when three of the girls know you're in there and can actually hurt you," Malik reminded.

            Sure enough one fateful day while the boys were getting ready for class Marik and Bakura decided to have a look around. Sure enough they wandered into the girls' locker room. For the moment they just stared as many of the girls were undressing from their school uniforms that when Tea, Cheri, and Keriam came in... well it wasn't really a lie when the three girls screamed 'peeping tom' but once they were alone all three of them chased the spirits out and promised if they ever tried that again they wouldn't live to see another day.

            ~Hey if they could phase through walls like this they would be in the locker rooms themselves!~ Marik spoke up.

            "Fortunately, we have morals," Keriam said as she, Tea and Cheri walked up to the boys.

            "And class," said Cheri.

            Bakura snorted. ~And are you positive that your wonderful Seto Kaiba wouldn't go peaking into the girls' locker room even if you weren't in there?"

            "Luckily for Seto," Tea spoke, "he takes Cheri's threats seriously." She looked at Tristen and Joey. "Unlike two boys that I know."

            "You're not going to let us live that down are you?" Tristen pointed at her.

            Joey smiled guiltily at Keriam, who looked at him with narrowed eyes.

            "Why should she?" Cheri asked. "See you guys outside." The three girls walked back over to the other side of the gym.

            Ryou and Malik looked at each other, and then to Tristen and Joey. "What was Tea talking about?" asked Ryou.

            "Don't ask," Joey said as he covered his face and shook his head.

            ~In Duelists Kingdom, Tea went to go use the outside shower,~ Yugi began.

            "Yugi," Tristen looked at the ceiling, "you promised."

            "I didn't," Yami said. "Tristen and Joey tried to sneak a peek and were taught a lesson." He smirked at the two. "By Tea and Mai."

            ~And that's putting it mildly!~ Yugi laughed.

            Malik and Ryou began to snicker as their darker halves burst out laughing.

            "Who would've thought those two knew how to hit like that," Tristen grumbled.

            "How is Mai?" Ryou asked when he calmed his giggle fit.

            "She moved out of Domino shortly after Battle City ended," Joey said as he raised his head.

            "Heard from her lately?"

            "Not really, only a postcard every so often she sends to Serenity."

            "I really thought that you two would hook up after Battle City was over," said Tristen.

            Joey shrugged. "Wasn't meant to be," he said and turned his eyes to Keriam, "but right now, this is."

            "You know Mai, all she cares about is how to make her life easier without working hard," the brunette sighed. "C'mon let's grab a basketball and have a game."

            While many of the guys played a game of basketball some of the girls set up the volleyball net and had a game themselves. With so many young ladies running around the gym in hot shorts and loose shirts it didn't take long before most of the guys were watching them. The girls didn't care as they continued their game.

            "Here it comes!" Tea said as she made her serve but it was a bit off and bounced out of lines.  "Oh shoot!"

            "Drop something?" one of the guys asked. Yoshi was just like any other teenage boy in the school and was hitting puberty late so he thought he was the heaven's gift to women. "How about we have a little game of boys against girls?"

            "And what does the winner get in such a game?" Keriam asked with a slight glare.

            "Just a date… from any girl I choose," he smirked.

            "Excuse me but some of us already have boyfriends!" Cheri snapped at him.

            "Well after one date with me you may never go back to your so-called 'boyfriends'," he smirked. Tea turned red in the face and went up to him.

            "Bug off!" Snatching their ball from his grasp she turned and was about to turn back and continue the game but suddenly froze. Without another word she whirled and slammed her fist right into Yoshi's cheek, sending him to trip over his own feet and fall flat on his back. "Don't you ever touch me ever again!"

            "You bitch!" Yoshi jumped to his feet only to face Yugi, who had taken back control when Yoshi touched Tea. "Problem, Mutou?"

            "Try being more considerate," Yugi said with malice in his voice, "and keep your hands off my girlfriend!"

            Tea had to smile. As children, Tea had always defended Yugi. Now that the two had grown up, their roles had reversed, and Tea enjoyed seeing Yugi standing up to those who thought themselves better than the average person. No doubt thanks to Yami.

            Yoshi glared at the slightly shorter boy. "Listen, Yugi, I find Duel Monsters a pretty stupid game. There's a huge difference between cards and fists."

            Keriam took the basketball from Tea and walked over to the two boys. "Now, now, boys, you really shouldn't fight in school. Despite teachers and hall monitors, you can still get hurt." She looked at Yugi and winked; he stepped back.

            Yoshi grinned and stood in front of Keriam. "Well, nice to see that someone is concerned about me."

            "Actually, I do need your help with a demonstration."

            "What kind?"

            "How easily people can get hurt with the simplest thing."

            "Like what?" Yoshi crossed his arms.

            "This." Keriam slammed the basketball against the floor so hard that when it bounced, the ball struck Yoshi right in his face and sent the egotistical boy flat on his back, hands flying to his nose and screaming.

            "Damnit you broke my nose!!" he yelled from behind his hands.

            "Nice demonstration!" one of the girls commented as some of them laughed.

            "Alright what's going on here?!" the coach asked before taking one look at Yoshi and the basketball. "Someone care to fill me in?"

            Not wanting to see any of her friends get in trouble Cheri spoke up. "Yoshi asked if some of us wanted to play basketball so we said sure but then the ball was thrown and Yoshi wasn't paying attention so it hit him in the nose." It wasn't a complete lie but when one of the other boys tried to speak up she glared at them angrily. If they tried to defend Yoshi for being a pervert they would get the ball in an area much lower than their nose.

            The teacher looked carefully at he students then turned to Yugi. "Is this true Motou?"

            Yugi nodded his head. "Yes ma'am. It was an accident."

            "... You boys, take Yoshi to the nurse then come back to class. Everyone, go back to what you were doing but keep an eye open for unexpected throws!"

            ~Especially if Keriam does the throwing,~ Bakura snickered.

            "Indeed," said Ryou as he watched two students take Yoshi out of the gym.

            ~Serves him right,~ Marik said.

            Malik snorted. "This from the spirit who said-"

            ~Quiet!~

            ~Oh, do tell, Malik!~ Bakura was ready to bounce out of Ryou, but he knew better then to show himself with the Sisters nearby.

            The blonde smiled secretly. "You know I should tell Bakura what you said..." The former thief's face broke into a wicked grin. "But then again the last thing I want is to hear you moping around."

            Ryou laughed softly behind his hand. "Looks like you're out of luck Bakura."

            As the girls set up their game of volleyball once more some of the girls decided to join some of the more gentlemanly boys in a game of basketball. At least these boys didn't keep their eyes glued on their chests or butt but then again, they didn't want to end up with a bloody nose as Yoshi.

            The rest of the class went smoothly and later on, the students were informed that Yoshi was sent home. That made several people happy.

            Fifteen minutes before the bell rang, the students went back to the locker rooms and changed.

            "What do you think they're serving for lunch?" Cheri asked.

            "Ra knows," said Keriam. "I hope it's not that crap they tried to pass off as Green Bean Casserole."

            "Ugh, please," Tea almost gagged, "I still can't believe Tristen actually tried eating it--even after Joey refused to."

            "What that happens, you know it's bad," Cheri said as she closed her locker.

            "No kidding. I'm starting to think he's part wolf or something. Or he knows not to eat stuff that could hazardous to his health," Keriam smiled lightly.

            Cheri laughed some. "Only you can get away with calling Joey that!"

            Laughing the girls headed out of the locker rooms and waited at the doors for the guys.

            "Cheri, I heard what happen today. Are you and Keriam alright?" the blue-eyed brunette asked.

            "For now yeah but it was so weird."

            "And painful."

            Joey, Yugi, Tristen, Malik, Ryou and the three spirits met with the girls and headed to the cafeteria. Seto was already there, sitting by himself at one of the empty tables near the windows. Cheri happily bounced over to her boyfriend, dropping in the chair next to him. Smiling, he gave her a quick kiss and pulled a couple sandwiches from his lunch bag. Cheri smiled and thanked him; she was the only one that knew that Seto had literally lost his lunch after eating the "French Surprise" just before Christmas Break.

            "Okay," Tristen poked at the white, blue-tinged mass that sat on his tray with the plastic fork. "I give up. What is it supposed to be?"

            "I don't think it's blue cheese dressing," Ryou placed his napkin over it.

            Malik wrinkled his nose and pushed the tray away slightly. "Thank you, Marik, for suggesting to put that box of Wheat Thins in my locker."

            ~Why do they serve this toxic waste they call food?~ Marik grunted as he appeared and leaned closer to the tray.

            Joey stuck his fork in the center of the so called lunch special, raising an eyebrow as the fork stood straight up. "No, thank you."

            "I agree," Tea pushed her tray away after saving her milk carton from it.

            "And my aunt wonders why we eat the moment we get home," said Keriam.

            Bakura separated and looked at he supposed edible with a frown. ~Okay I may be out of touch for the past millennia but I know blue food is not good for you. Unless you have a death wish.~

            Ryou shook his head. "I don't want to think how they could let it get that way."

            Tristen stared at it before sighing in defeat and pushed his tray away as well. "I'm hungry but not that hungry."

            Joey grinned as he pulled a brown paper bag that he had gotten from his locker. "I was expecting this so I brought lunch for everyone." He pulled out several sandwiches and a large assortment of candy. "Fried baloney and chocolate bars!"

            "Thank you Joey!!" Tristen said with a grin as he grabbed one of the sandwiches.

            "Wow when did you make this?" Yugi asked.

            "Last night. I was craving baloney and then I just made these." Snagging one he handed it to his girlfriend. "Enjoy."

            "When was the last time I told you I loved you?" Keriam asked.

            "At your locker this morning," Joey grinned.

            Bakura started to make gagging noises at the scene before him, only to receive a slight jolt from the Millennium Ring courtesy of Ryou.

            Everyone chuckled at the spirit's reaction. Tea put her sandwich down, feeling a slight pressure inside her stomach. I guess that today's lunch is just as sickening to look at let alone eat, she thought. But the pressure inside only increased, becoming more painful. Tea wrapped her arms around her middle and hunched over slightly. "Yugi... Keriam..."

            "Tea!" Yugi exclaimed and everyone at the table saw the red glow surround her.

            Cheri and Seto looked over from their table; their eyes widened in shock. "Oh no," Cheri whispered.

            Getting up from the table she nearly fell but made her way to the girl's side. Reaching out to touch her shoulder she pulled her hand back. "I-I can't touch her, it's like she's on fire."

            Yami separated and looked at eh glow began to slowly fade away but it showed his worse fear. ~She's losing her power and we can't stop it.~

            "Tea just hold on," Tristen said, worry on his face as he could only watch.

            Like with other Sisters the glow did die down after a while and the young lady slowly sat up. She blinked and took a  deep breathe. "I think I'm gonna be okay..." she said softly.

            "You sure?" Yugi asked worriedly.

            She nodded her head. "Keriam, Cheri, you were right. The pain is worse than cramps."

            "Thank you for sharing that with us," Malik stuck his tongue in disgust.

            "Feel lucky, guys," Keriam said as she and Cheri helped Tea stand, "you don't have to go through half of what we do in life."

            "I remember reading in a magazine a long time ago that it said women are the better of the human race," Tea said as she sat down. "Men wouldn't be able to survive with what the women have to put up with in their lifetime." She took a deep breath, and then became serious. "We definitely half to talk after school."

            "Right," said Cheri. "We'll meet you guys at the gates." She turned and went back to Seto.

            "Is Tea alright?" he asked.

            Cheri nodded. "For now. We're meeting at the gate after school. Yami said that her power was leaving her. Is that happening to all three of us?"

            "Quite possibly."

            The Sisters of the Moon will die...

            Cheri blinked as her boyfriend shuddered. "What's wrong?"

Seto looked at her with frightened eyes. "I'll explain after school."

            "Seto, please tell me, you haven't been acting like yourself and it's scaring me." Reaching over she covered one of his hands with her own, holding it tightly. "Please, you know you can trust me."

            He couldn't tell her now; he wanted to protect her but was this right? Lifting her hand he kissed it softly even as he squeezed it tightly. "Cheri, I love you and I would do everything in my power to keep you safe. But this is something everyone needs to hear. So please trust me on this."

            She wanted to argue but sighed and nodded to him. "You know I trust you but... alright. But I'm going to hold you to you word."

            The rest of school went by without anymore incidents. When the last bell rang, everyone bolted to their lockers, grabbing what they needed and putting away what they could leave for tomorrow.

            "So what do you think Kaiba wants to talk about?" Malik asked as he hopped on his right foot to pull on his sneaker on his left.

            Yugi shrugged. "Beats me, but he did look upset."

            ~After what happened with Cheri, no surprise,~ said Marik.

            "I know," Malik sighed and shut his locker, spinning the combo dial around a couple times.

            "This is just too weird though. What could cause something like?"

            ~Somehow I think Seto might know,~ Yami said with a slight frown.

            ~What does that mean?~ Marik asked.

            "Seto said he wanted to talk to Yami after school and he sounded really worried. Maybe this ties in with what's going on," the tri-colored boy said.

            "Hmm. Ready?" Nodding the two of them headed to the gates where everyone else would either be waiting or heading there right now.

            Once they were all gathered, Yami looked at Seto. ~What is it?~

            The young millionaire remained quiet for some time, his arms around Cheri's waist. Finally, he looked at the others. "You know I don't dwell on the subject of dreams," Seto began, "but this time I have to. For a few weeks now, I was dreaming that I was Seth again, standing outside the Dueling Temple. But last night, I was myself in this lifetime, and the temple was falling apart. I went inside and it was demolished."

            Cheri felt his arms tighten slightly around, afraid that she would be ripped from his embraced.

            ~So what has that got to do with the girls?~ Marik asked.

            "Inside, I heard a woman's voice telling me that the Sisters of the Moon would die. She didn't saw who she was but I believe she was the very first. That from her time to the girls much of her lessons had been lost and then history would be repeating itself. I think I saw her but she looked so much like that Reaper of Cards in duel monsters."

            ~... Did she say anything that would help us?~ Yami asked, feeling dredge fill his heart.

            "Light and Dark shall divide... Save their souls... Chosen of Anubis... Merge her favorite..."

            "Seto..." Cheri looked up at him as he hid his face in her shoulder, rubbing his arms in hopes of calming him down.

            Joey's hand found Keriam's and he held it tightly, feeling her tremble. "So it's already started," said Keriam. "Our powers are disappearing."

            "But how do we stop it?" Tea asked.

            "What did she mean by 'Merge her favorite'?" Ryou asked.

            "I don't know," Seto lifted his head up from his girlfriend's shoulder. "I still don't understand that dream. Freaks me out, though."

            "We haven't dreamt it but it's freaking us out too," said Joey.

            "What about Ishizu?" Tea looked at Malik. "Did she translate all the scrolls?"

            "Ishizu and Rashid are arriving tomorrow," he said. "I can ask her after she settles in for a bit."

            ~Do it,~ said Yami. ~We have to find out what's happening.~

            ~After all this,~ Bakura said, ~you'd think we would've caught a break by now.~

            "So much for relaxing and worrying about mundane things," said Yugi.

            "To bad we can't ask Mother Isis for help," Cheri sighed, "but w can do this if we work together."

            "Cheri's right. We'll just have to watch one another's back and learn as much as we can," Tea said with a determined look in her eyes.

            "And on top of that we have to worry about the finals at the end of the year," Ryou sighed.

            "The joys of being a teenager." Keriam rolled her eyes up and nodded to the group. "Hey, let's worry about this dream thing later. right now, let's go get something more to eat."

            "No argument here," said Tristen.

            On top of the school building, a man dressed in white with three golden objects, watched the group leave the grounds. Around his neck was a key-like ankh, a scale, and a small sphere with the Eye of Horus. Closing his eyes, he sighed.

            "The merge must take place first before I can give these to the Sisters of the Moon," he said and opened his eyes. "All seven Millennium Items will be reunited again. But why can they not take them now?"

            Because they are not ready, a tired woman's voice whispered to him. Their powers are fading, which only means that the barrier holding back the Shadow Realm is weakening. Light and Dark shall divide, and the Sisters will merge with their favorites. They must figure it out themselves, Shadi. You cannot help them this time.

            "I understand."

Author's Note-

Heikou: hey all, whacha think so far? Hee just to let everyone know, since this is our fic we gave Shadi the Millennium Eye back. See in the anime Bakura had it but they never said what he did with it. In the comic he gave it to Yugi but J-Lee and I think it should go back to the nitwit who gave it away in the first place. What I like Shadi but I think he is a utter moron. You'll all find out later trust me.