"Arise from Darkness"

By Heikou and Janime

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Fallen Children

Bakura walked down the halls of the palace, his eyes wandering over the images painted on the pillars or on some artifact that he was just itching to grab. But his mind was a whirlwind of thoughts. When he had gone to Meanae's chambers Cliff was comforting her. Even as her brother he didn't care for the Trap Remover very much and the feeling was returned but why was his princess on the verge of crying?

The one time I open my big mouth and the first time I regret it, he thought to himself. When the Scorpion left he asked her what was wrong. She was hesitant but just said that Lord Necrophedious had left but he knew that wasn't the true answer so he pestered her. She had retaliated almost violently, her hand going for her whip but he quickly grabbed her, halting her movements. Oh how he wanted to kiss her but when he lowered his head she jerked her face away.

He stopped and looked out a window, watching as the different species of scorpions patrolled the area, clicking their pinchers together in reply as they passed one another. When she turned away from him he left and had been walking around ever since. He loved her like he had loved no other but how could he help her when she refuse to say what was wrong? Am I pushing her? he asked himself. No, no that can't be it. I bet he had something to do with it but what?

"He did what?!" Chick's voice echoed through the corridor, and was immediately followed by a loud slap.

"Quiet, you idiot!" Cliff hissed.

Bakura crept closer to the slightly open door that was at his left. Carefully pushing it open just a tiny bit more, he was able to see Cliff's back and Chick's side; the younger Scorpion rubbing his cheek.

"You should tell his majesty of what he did to Meanae," said Gorg.

Cliff shook his head. "She doesn't want him to know."

"But Necrophedious was forcing himself upon her!" Don growled.

Bakura gritted his teeth. That bastard! How dare he! The thief stormed off, not caring if the other Scorpions heard him or not.

Cliff looked up when he thought he heard something.

"I don't understand, Meanae would never let anyone get close to her," Gorg replied.

"I know that but she's... not acting like herself."

"Then tell the king!" Chick exclaimed.

"That's the last thing I want to do after he struck at her like that. He's not the same man who saved us from the streets of Egypt."

The master thief headed straight for where Necrophedious's chamber was located but when he slammed the doors open the room was empty. "Damnit!" he cursed.

"You just missed him," Don said from behind him. He had heard something as well but left the others to seek it out. It was by chance that he saw the newest Scorpion in an angry mood.

"I don't have time for you, Zaloog."

"You had better make time. I know something's wrong and despite her having chose you over me, I'm worried about the princess."

He suppressed the growl as he turned to look at him. "Why don't you take it up with your king?"

"Because he's not acting like the king we once knew."

Bakura snorted. "And this should concern me?"

"You are a Scorpion as well."

"My loyalties are to Meanae."

"Are they?" the older man tilted his head. "Or do you still pine after the woman who married the high priest?"

Bakura clenched his fists, fighting the temptation to punch Don Zaloog in that cocky expression he wore.

"Struck a nerve I see. Tell me something, Bakura; would you do anything to make sure Meanae always stays with you?" he asked.

"What do you think?" the thief snapped angrily.

"Answer me this. Who do you love more: our Scorpion princess… or the Daughter of Anubis?"

"… Why the hell should I tell you that?"

Don said nothing as he walked away from him, heading down the hall with unhurried steps. "I hope you truly love Meanae since that other girl is probably dead by now." He wasn't expecting an attack but it came hard and fast.

The former King of Thieves pinned him against the wall with his arm on his throat, slowly choking him as he snarled angrily. "What did you just say? Answer me, Zaloog! What do you know about Cheri?!"

The leader tried breaking away but he stopped as his windpipe was slowly getting crushed. "I… I heard our king… talking to Lord Necrophedious…" The arm was released but now a blade was pressed against his bruised throat.

"You had better tell me everything or the Scorpions will be looking for a new leader," Bakura warned.

"… Necrophedious was saying that even though we have Meanae back that the soul of this life may try to interfere and we would lose her again. Our king said not to worry because he handled her personally. I don't know what he meant by that only that he seemed very sure of himself," he explained and watched as the thief ran towards Meanae's room.

Meanae was just sitting at the foot of the bed, elbows on her knees and head in her hands. Everything was just so confusing right now she didn't know what to think. She looked up when Bakura entered her room. Before she could say anything he pulled her up on her feet.

"Bakura-"

"Meanae, I need to know. Do you remember anything about your past?" he asked quickly.

"My past? My father saved us from living on the streets and trained us to be assassins."

"Not that life, this life!"

"This is my life!"

"No! No… it isn't. Don't you remember anything? Your paintings, your mom… your husband?"

"… I'm not married."

He released her and reached into his shirt, pulling out a gold wedding band. "The day you left… I found this on the floor where you had been standing... In a way I'm glad I found it but this is your wedding ring... Read the inscription," he said softly, holding it out to her.

The female assassin slowly took it and held it closer. " 'To the one who opened my heart.' Seto…"

Once the vows passed their lips Seto reached out, gently lifting the veil and gently brushed the tear away. Cheri smiled, leaning into his hand as she leaned up so their lips touched. Ishizu and Rashid couldn't be happier for them as the priest smiled on. Rose was crying silently yet happily and Mokuba was smiling brightly. His big brother was happy as before their parents died and not only that, he gained a big sister.

As the kiss broke apart they just stared into one another's eyes deeply. This surely was the most joyous day in their lives. They were officially Mr. and Mrs. Seto Kaiba and nothing was going to tear them apart.

Bakura watched as she held the ring tightly but she didn't slip it on. Cupping her face with both his hands he made her look up at him but there was no sign of recognition in her eyes. Something's not right… But he sighed and kissed her softly, feeling her quickly respond but instead of taking more he pulled back. "Are you sure you're alright?" he asked softly.

She nodded mutely, closing her eyes as his thumbs brushed over her cheeks. "I'm sorry…" she whispered.

"So right, princess. I'll be back but stay away for the king until I return, okay?"

"Alright." She watched as he left but she was aching for his touch. Instead she sat back on the bed and looked at the ring. Thinking about it she slowly slipped it onto her right ring finger. It fit but she didn't feel anything.

"… Why can't I remember anything?" she asked herself softly but her heart twisted even more. Was her heart breaking?

Bakura slowly walked down the hallway. He stopped by a window and looked out at the barren land. She doesn't remember, he thought sadly. Is Zaloog actually right? Is Cheri really gone? Am I just chasing a memory?

His thoughts were interrupted by the moment he saw just at the edge of the horizon. A huge mass was moving towards the palace, and as it came closer, Bakura could see the hundreds of Duel Monsters walking.

Wait a minute… he frowned. What's wrong with them?

The thief's eyes widened as the Duel Monsters became clearer. They were deformed somewhat, with the mark of the Black Scorpion on their face, arm, or leg.

"Ah, they're finally here," Chick appeared next to Bakura, smirking.

"What happened to them?" Bakura asked.

"Before the merge, we set up a few bombs containing a special dust that would turn the Duel Monsters that breathed in enough into our slaves."

"Building an army."

Chick nodded. "Best way to do it." He paused and looked at Bakura. "How's Meanae?"

The taller man remained quiet as he stared at the gathering outside. "She's fine," he answered and walked away.

Making sure that no one would find him, Bakura hid in a small dark room that he had never entered. And from the looks of it, no else had either. He sat down in the corner and closed his eyes.

--

Ryou sat in the room where Malik was still sleeping. He had entered the room roughly ten minutes ago to relieve Rashid from his self-appointed post. He shifted on the window seat and gazed out at the darkened streets of Domino City. The moon was not in the sky, and Ryou found the lack of presence unsettling. He sighed, leaning his head against the cool glass.

--What is her name?--

Ryou gasped and nearly fell off the seat. --Bakura?!--

--Answer me, Ryou. What is your sister's name?--

He paused, confused as to why the thief would want to know the name of his baby sister that he hadn't seen since he was five-years-old. --Amane.--

--Very pretty.--

--Bakura, why are you asking me this? You cut off our link and all the sudden you connect again just to ask me what my sister's name is?-- Ryou stared at his reflection in the window. It wavered and then he was looking at Bakura, wearing the outfit of the Scorpion assassins.

--I had a sister and a brother,-- Bakura answered. --They were younger than me. Along with my parents and everyone in my village… they were killed.--

--Bakura…-- Ryou looked at him.

The thief became serious. --The Scorpions had set some kind of dust to spread over the area after the Shadow Realm merged here. If a Duel Monster breathed it in, then they become slaves to the Black Scorpion. His mark will appear on them.--

Ryou couldn't believe what he was hearing.

--If you know anyone who became a Duel Monster and was outside, you better figure out a way to check them for the infection.--

--Why are you telling me this?-- Ryou asked.

Bakura put his hand against the glass. Hesitating for a moment, Ryou placed his hand where Bakura's had his.

--Because I'm looking out for my brother,-- Bakura gently smiled.

Ryou blinked in shock, and Bakura disappeared, leaving Ryou looking at his own reflection.

A soft groan was heard and the young Ishtar sibling sat up, rubbing the rest of sleep from his eyes. "Uh Ryou? What's going on?" he asked softly, his voice a bit rough.

Ryou looked at him and went to his side. "Malik... you're been in a kind of coma for a while," he began to explain. "Do you remember what happened before you passed out?"

"I think so... a kind of power struck Marik but then it came at me... it didn't hurt but it felt really weird-" He finally noticed the markings on his arms. Pushing the blankets off he looked at his legs. "... Why do I look like a zebra?"

"That's one way of putting it... Malik, you remember the Heart of the Shadow Realm?" the young boy nodded. "Turns out... you're the host. You're the most innocent out of all of us and have no thoughts of darkness in you."

"Oh. So how did Marik take it?" he asked.

"... Marik left a while ago without telling anyone. We tried calling him but he was gone. Katsuya said, he left because he didn't want to risk anyone including you, Keriam, and Ishizu's baby."

Malik stared with wide eyes. He shook his head, not wanting to believe that Marik had left, and finally burst into tears.

Ryou hugged the sobbing boy, his own heart aching. He knew what it was like to have your other half just leave. It had to be worse for Malik since now that they learned he and Marik were twins.

A hand touched his shoulder, and Ryou looked up at Ishizu. She sat down next to Malik and took her brother into her arms, comforting him like she had Marik when they were children.

"I can't feel him…" Malik said when his tears slowed. "I can't feel him or hear him…"

"We tried everything to call him back but we weren't sure if he heard us or not," she said sadly, gently rocking them. "He left to protect us."

"But he didn't have to! The monsters we have now can protect us!"

"Malik, I know this is hard but he thought by leaving no one would get hurt. Since he still has a connection with Necrophedious he thought it was for the best," Ryou explained.

"But…"

"I'm sure it hurt him to leave us but he did it to protect his friends and family. Kinda similar to what Bakura did."

"… But he came back and attacked you."

"Malik, please."

"No Ishizu, it's alright. Yes he did attack me but I'm glad it was him and not the other Scorpions or I might not have made it. Marik cares a lot for everyone and if he could keep any of us from getting hurt, he would do it." Ryou reached out and gently wiped the tears away. "Do you understand what I'm trying to say?"

The young boy slowly nodded his head. "It still hurts… I just wish he was here with us, with me," he whispered.

The young woman hugged him tightly, tenderly stroking his hair. "Wherever he is, I know Marik wishes he was here with you," she said softly.

The young ring bearer didn't want to disturb such a sweet moment but he had to tell them what Bakura said. "Ishizu, the Scorpion King is building an army out of the people who survived the change into Duel Monster. Anyone who has been outside may have been affected."

Her eyes widen. Our friends downstairs could have been affected and not realize it… she thought to herself. "How can we tell if they are now our enemy?"

"They'll have the mark of a scorpion on their body."

"How did you find out?" Malik asked.

"Bakura just told me."

Both Ishtars stared at him. "He contacted you?" Malik asked.

Ryou nodded. "Briefly, just before you woke up."

"And he warned you to check the Duel Monsters here," Ishizu frowned.

"What's wrong?" asked Ryou.

"They won't be very happy when they hear that Bakura has talked to you," the woman explained with a sigh. "Especially not Kaiba."

"Forgot about that."

"Wait, Ishizu, do you still have visions from the Millennium Necklace?" Malik looked at his sister.

"Not for awhile now," she admitted, "they've been less frequent since the end of my first trimester."

"Probably not to do anything to the baby," said Ryou.

"What if we tell everyone you did have a vision," Malik suggested. "This way they'll take it better."

"And make it look like the Necklace will show only the most important events," Ishizu had to smile. "It should work."

"Let's just hope they believe us."

Once they entered the living room everyone was glad Malik was alright. Even Keriam hugged him tightly but just looking at the dried tears said that he knew about Marik. Ryou looked at Ishizu and gave a very slight nod. She didn't do anything but turned to the group.

"Everyone, I just had a vision right now," she explained, one hand going up to touch the necklace as the other rested on her belly.

Yami blinked in surprise. "But I thought you couldn't get visions since your pregnancy?"

"This vision was very important. It showed that the Scorpion King is creating an army from the people who have just turned into Duel Monsters. Apparently, the Scorpions let a dust drift in the air and those that survived the transformation, would turn into a mindless slave to their king."

"What?! You mean we gotta fight all these people who don't know what's going on?!" Joey yelped. "They're nothing but cowards!!"

"Not so much cowards as they are strategists," Shadi added. "There are only 8 of them and what better way to bring your enemy down then by making them fight against your army; when you are at your weakest then send in your best and most reliable warriors."

"Wait a minute, what about the Duel Monsters here?" Duke asked, turning to Mina.

"Serenity," Tristen looked at her and his face paled in horror. "Oh no… my parents…"

Thomas looked at Maude and Sampson. "Are you two feeling okay?"

"I feel fine," the Witch answered as Sampson nodded.

"How about you three?" Tea asked Katsuya and the two chibi-sized Dark magicians sitting on the floor.

"I don't feel any different than before," answered the wolf. Kenji and Arcaida looked at each other and shrugged.

"Is there a way to check?" Yugi asked.

"If they have an image of a black scorpion on their body then they are under their control," Ryou answered. "Ishizu told Malik and me the vision before we came down."

Rose looked at two mages as she slowly stood. "I don't suppose you two know a spell to see past clothes. That or you're going to have to strip."

Kenji blushed.

Arcaida grinned.

"What if Tea used the Millennium Eye to check?" Keriam suggested. "If anyone did inhale the dust then I can heal them, and Rose can make some kind of vaccine."

"It could work but they could have inhaled it without knowing. This dust could have been color and odorless."

"And if they're infected? What's to stop any of us to get infected as well?" Seto asked.

"Remember I'm a nurse and with Keriam's help we should keep it from spreading. But on top of that I'm a mother and no one messed with my family and gets away with it."

Tea couldn't help but smile but holding her hand out the eye materialized in the palm of her hand. Holding it to the golden end of her specter it was drawn within. Taking a deep breathe she held her staff above her head and closed her eyes. Show me what they're thinking, she asked of the item.

The item glowed and slowly the female spellcaster pointed it at everyone, one at a time. When she was done she lowered her arm at her side and opened her eyes. "Rose was right. There isn't anyway of knowing who's infected. Especially since we just found out about this."

"Wait, what if someone is infected? Why haven't they left to join the Scorpions?" Yugi asked.

"Delayed reaction? Who's to know." Rose sighed deeply and ran her hands over her face. "Looks like we'll have to do this the other way. One by one I'll check who was outside the mansion when it happened so Mokuba, Keriam, Tea, you three should be safe but I would like to check everyone just to be safe."

Serenity looked worried but stood up, voicing her concerns. "What will happen, if one of us has the mark of a scorpion?"

"… Then we do our best to make a cure." The older woman smiled and rested her hands on her shoulders. "Joan of Arc was just a young girl when she was called into battle a very long time ago. But what made her so great was the strength she had in her army, in herself, and in her faith. We will find a cure."

The young girl smiled and rapidly blinked the tears away. Rose led her to one of the large bathrooms downstairs to check for any signs of the mark. She was still a nurse and strongly believed in a person's privacy no matter the situation.

"Duke, would you come with me please?" Mina asked.

"What's up?"

"Since Rose will be checking the others, maybe we can cut it short if those who have someone they can trust to check."

Her boyfriend nodded and looked at Seto. "How many bathrooms do you have here?"

"Use the fifth guestroom on your left," answered the CEO.

Duke and Mina nodded and left.

"Excuse us," said Tea as she and Yugi also went to find another bathroom.

"Ditto," Joey took Keriam's hand and left.

Seto took his brother's arm. "Come on, Mokuba."

"What?!" the dragon-boy cried.

"We have to be sure that you don't have the mark."

"I can wait for Rose! Hey!" Mokuba yelped as his brother picked him up and slung him over his shoulder.

"There's nothing to be embarrassed about," said Seto as he walked out of the room. "I used to change your diapers."

"Do the math!" Mokuba yelled. "How many years ago was that?!"

That only left Tristen, Thomas, six Duel Monsters, the Taylors, and the Ishtars. It wasn't long before Rose returned with Serenity and doing a quick count, asked what happened to the others.

"They went to check each other for the scorpion's mark," Katsuya said from where he was lying next to the couch.

"I can already guess. Teenage hormones at work," she muttered and rubbed at her forehead. "Okay next up."

Serenity sat next to Tristen and smiled as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. "Rose couldn't find a trace on me. I guess it's a good thing I ran to my room instead of outside when I changed," she explained.

"That makes two of us."

Thomas looked at the couple on the couch and frowned slightly. "I'm going to get something to eat," he said. "Where's the kitchen?"

"Take a right, go past the front door, third hallway on your right," Yami said.

Nodding, Thomas stood up and walked rather quickly out of the living room. Everyone blinked at his hasty departure.

"What was that about?" Tristen asked.

"There is a reason," Maude started.

Sampson growled at her. "It is not our place to say."

Katsuya growled in warning himself but said nothing. Yami decided to let the matter drop. Seto and Mokuba returned, the younger not looking very happy but none the less he didn't have a scorpion on him. Rose returned with Mr. and Mrs. Taylor, explained that she didn't find a single mark on either of them. She then checked Maude and afterwards inspected both wolf and tiger, ignoring any protests and ran her fingers through their fur.

"Well, I can't really tell if either of you have the mark but I can't see anything," she said as she stood. "So far we're doing good. And since I haven't heard any screams of terror I'm guessing the others are in the clear."

"Seems they're making up for lost time," Yami joked and didn't dare contact Yugi. He was cursed with bad timing.

"Okay, Kenji and Arcaida, which one of you is next?" the healer asked, turning to the mages.

"After you," said Arcaida.

"Wha…?" Kenji blushed.

"Oh for heaven's sake," Rose groaned and took the purple Dark Magician from the coffee table. Poor Kenji babbling as they left the room.

Arcaida burst out laughing while the others chuckled.

The former pharaoh couldn't help it but he had never seen the mage act that way before. "I almost feel sorry for him," he managed to choke out.

"I didn't know he was so shy around girls!" Mokuba added as she struggled to keep his laughter in check.

Ishizu was giggling softly. "Kenji is not going to be very pleased with you, Arcaida."

The crimson mage shrugged. "What's the worse he can do?"

He yelped when a large hand took hold of him.

"I'll let you guess," said Kenji now full height.

"Well, that was fast," Arcaida mused and the next instant, he was full-sized with Kenji gripping his sleeve. "If you'll excuse me," he removed the other dark magician's hand, "it's time for my check-up."

"I'm warning you, Arcaida…" Kenji said through his teeth.

Arcaida waved his hand in dismissal as he left. Kenji groaned as he sat on the couch.

"That wasn't so bad was it?" Seto asked, not able to contain himself. When could one tease a powerful spellcaster?

Kenji glared at him but leaned his head back. "Now I know why mortals don't like to see the doctor."

"Rose is a kind woman," Rashid said.

"She's very nice I just felt very uncomfortable when she had to check to see if I had the mark of a scorpion."

"Try having your older brother check you when the last time he saw you naked when was you were a baby," Mokuba added with a slight glare at Seto.

--

"We should play doctor more often," said Duke, buckling his belt.

Mina sighed as she put her vest back on. "Can't you wait till everything is back to normal? Beside," she hooked her fingers into the belt loops on his pants and pulled him closer, "I am going to give you the examination."

"Oh, doctor, I have no idea what's wrong with me," Duke grinned. "I don't know why but I've noticed that my heartbeat increases and I got very flushed. What could it be?"

"I have an idea," she smiled. They shared a kiss before pulling apart and left the bathroom, hand in hand. As they walked towards the living room they passed one of the bathrooms only to hear voices.

"You two could almost pass for twins but now I can see that you're both very different."

"Wait, is that Mrs. Dante?" Mina asked.

Duke tilted his head to the side but listened in. "Yeah it does sound like her."

"I should take that as a compliment." They could hear the smirk in the male voice.

"Arcaida?" They knew they shouldn't be listening but they couldn't help themselves. Quietly, they leaned against the closed bathroom door.

Rose: I am impressed.

Arcaida: Forgive me if I sound like I'm bragging, but I am a better magician.

Rose: How's that? Both of you have the same sized staffs.

Arcaida: Mine's sturdier.

Duke and Mina's eyes widened.

Rose: Oh really? Maybe you can prove it to me sometime. (sigh)

Arcaida: Are you all right?

Rose: Just a little sore.

Arcaida: Allow me.

Rose: Thank you, feels very nice.

Arcaida: I have excellent talents with my hands.

Rose: Indeed.

Oh my GOD!! Duke thought. he couldn't believe what he was hearing! This would also be the moment that the door fell open, causing Duke and Mina to crash onto the floor. Both red-faced they looked up to see both Rose and Arcaida, fully clothed with the Dark Magician massaging the nurse's left hand.

For a moment no one said anything but Duke was the first to stand, his face as red as his clothes.

"Are you two alright?" Rose asked.

"Fine! I-I couldn't find the scorpion's mark on Mina," the young man managed to say without his voice breaking.

"What were you two doing listening outside the door?" Arcaida asked, still holding the nurse's hand in his own.

"Nothing! Just, passing on through!" Mina said quickly as she stood. "Um w-we'll let you two be alone. I mean we'll tell everyone that you're busy--I mean that we're done!" The poor girl was still blushing she pushed her boyfriend out of the bathroom and closed the door a bit loudly.

"Good lord!" Duke exhaled.

"Find anything?"

Duke and Mina yelped and quickly turned around, facing Yugi and Tea.

"You guys okay?" Tea asked, looking at them with concern.

Rose opened the bathroom door. "For heaven's sake," she said as she walked out with Arcaida, "what is wrong with you two?"

"Nothing!" they both said at the same time.

"Why are you two blushing so brightly then?" Yugi asked.

Arcaida looked at them, silently replaying what happened a few minutes ago when it dawned on him. He just smiled in a not-so-innocent manner.

Rose shook her head. "So far no one has been infected but then again I'm not taking any chances. There's still that army of changed people who are being controlled."

"There has to be a way to free them," said Yugi. "And we'll find it."

--

Marik watched the infected Duel Monsters from the top of a shorter building walk to Domino City Park. The center of the park had a large concentrated mass of power; it was so thick it blocked anything visual beyond it in a dark purple haze.

Most likely that leads to the Scorpion King's place, Marik thought.

'And you figured that out all by yourself? I'm actually impressed.'

Marik jumped slightly at the intruding voice, but quickly regained his nerve. 'So, are you going to stop me from going in?'

'Why would I do that?' Necrophedious asked.

'Because I'll be going after your king.'

'He's not my king, boy, I bow to no one. I could care less what happens to him or his little insect tribe. However it would be such a waste to see the girl perish.'

Marik didn't like the way his voice went at that line. 'What did you do to her?'

'Me? I did nothing to her. But you might want a word with her father.'

Marik rolled his eyes. 'You're making less sense than the Daughter of Isis.'

'Should I take that as a compliment?' he smirked.

'What happened to Cheri, you bastard?'

'Already you've stooped to name-calling? Maybe I shouldn't tell you.'

Marik growled deeply, his fists tightening to the point where he could feel his nails piercing the skin.

Necrophedious laughed but told him what he knew. 'According to that king, he said that he dealt with the girl personally. Something about only needing the portion that was loyal to him. Can you figure that out, my dear brother?'

'I will figure it out,' Marik answered. 'Also, I am not your "brother".'

'Temper, temper, Marik,' Necrophedious scolded. 'It seems to run on the male side of the Ishtar family. Oh well, nothing more I can do. Pity that Meanae rejected me. But the Daughter of Ra is also rather attractive. Wouldn't you agree?'

Marik felt his blood turn to ice, and then the rage flared. 'You so much as even look at her, I swear to all the gods-'

Laugher cut off his threat and it faded, leaving Marik standing quietly where he was. Raising his hands to his face, Marik took several deep breaths to calm himself.

"Keriam…" he whispered. Lowering his hands, he looked towards Kaiba Mansion. "You're safe. As long as I stay away, you and the others will be safe."

--

"Bad idea. Very bad idea."

"Will you shut up!?" Malik hissed. "If it was Seto, you'd be doing this."

Mokuba sighed. He's got me there… "But we don't even know where to start."

Smiling, Malik held up Milus Radiant. In a flash the dog-like creature appeared. "I need you to track my brother. Here." Holding out the pillow Marik had used, Milus sniffed it for a few moments then nodded.

"I should be able to find him," said Milus.

"Good," Malik smiled.

"Okay, first part of your plan has succeeded," Mokuba said. "Now how are we getting out of the house?"

"This is where you come in."

"Why am I not surprised?"

"You're gonna fly us out the window."

"What?!"

Malik quickly looked at the door. When he heard no footsteps he slowly removed his hands from Mokuba's mouth. "Keep your voice down."

"Malik you're nuts! I had these wings for nearly a day and you expect me to fly? Carrying you and Milus?"

"It can't be that hard!" the blonde boy protested.

"Wanna trade then?" But he sighed and went to the window. Pushing it open he looked down. It looked like a long way down and there were no trees near enough so they could climb down. Looking over his shoulders he flexed his wings. Nodding to Malik they stood out on the window sill, Milus being held in Malik's arms. Mokuba wrapped his own arms around him and took a deep breathe.

"You better not blame this on me if we get hurt or caught," the raven haired boy said one last time. Praying to whoever was listening he spread his wings and jumped from the sill.

Mokuba wavered at first, but soon he caught the air curves and used them to sail right over the wall surrounding his home.

"See you can do it," Malik smiled.

"And you guys aren't as heavy as I thought," said Mokuba. "Might be because of Blue Eyes."

"Wouldn't doubt it," Malik agreed.

Circling for a little bit, Mokuba found a spot to land. He stumbled a little bit but managed to stay on his feet. "That wasn't so bad."

"That was pretty fun. You still wanna trade?" Malik asked.

"No way! I'm starting to like my new wings!" Mokuba laughed.

Milus sniffed at the arm before leaping to the ground, testing the arm for the scent. "Follow me." She ran off.

"Hey wait up!" Both boys chased after the little creature.

--

"Mokuba?" Seto called as he walked through the mansion. "Mokuba, where are you?"

"What's the matter?" Yami asked, walking down the stairs.

"Either my brother has learned to turn invisible, or he's playing hide-and-seek."

Ryou, Joey and Keriam walked towards them. "What's going on?" Joey asked.

"Have any of you seen Mokuba?" asked Seto.

"Not me."

"Now that you've mention it," Ryou said, "I haven't seen Malik for a while, either."

"Maybe they're sleeping," Keriam added.

Seto shook his head. "I checked Mokuba's room and neither are there."

"What about outside?" Joey asked.

"With all the dangers going around? They wouldn't dare."

They looked at each other and ran for the backdoor. They called out for the boys but they received no answer. It wasn't until Keriam looked up.

"Seto! Please don't tell me that window leads to Mokuba's room," she said pointing to it.

The CEO looked at the window with wide eyes. "... He wouldn't! Jumping from that height could kill him!"

"Not unless he had wings," Ryou whispered.

The CEO paled.

"Blue Eyes White Dragon…" Joey said nervously.

"I'll get Kenji and Arcaida," Yami ran back into the mansion.

--

Marik had found a decent empty shop to spend the night. He just finished fixing a spot to lie down when he heard something fall over in the other room.

"He's in there," a rough female voice growled.

Marik quietly moved behind a shelving unit, taking out his switchblade and flipped it open. His eyes stayed on the door as it slowly pushed open, gripping the knife tightly.

Two familiar faces peeked into the room. "Marik?"

"Malik?" the taller blonde put away his knife and stepped out of hiding. His brother ran to him and threw his arms around Marik's waist. "What are you doing here?"

"Milus tracked your scent here. I don't care what you say but I'm not leaving you alone and you are not gonna leave me!" he said, tightening his arms around him.

Marik just hugged him back, running his hand through his hair. Then he looked at the younger Kaiba. "Why did you come?"

"Because I know what it's like to have an older brother," he said simply.

The young man said nothing but held his arm open and hugged the raven haired youth tightly as he hugged him as well. Milus Radiant hopped onto a dust covered counter and watched them with glowing eyes.

"Come on," Marik said, separating the two boys from him. "Let's go home."

Suddenly Milus growled. The trio turned to the Duel Monster who was looking out the largest window. Her hair was standing up on her back and she looked ready to kill.

Marik swallowed hard and turned his eyes to where Milus had hers. The shadows outside the window were moving in a strange wave-like ripple. Grabbing both younger boys' arms, Marik quickly raced out the backdoor with Milus following. As soon as they were outside, the building exploded, sending all four skidding across the pavement.

Grunting from the pain, Marik brought himself up to his knees. He looked at Malik and Mokuba as they tried to sit up. Milus was facing towards where the building had been, standing as if she were defending them.

The three boys looked at the smoke. Within the dusty cloud, a figure slowly walked towards until he finally came into view. He looked at all of them, his gaze settling on the tallest member who had pushed the younger two behind him.

Necrophedious smiled. "Hello, Marik."

"Necrophedious..." he snarled angrily. "What do you want?"

He smirked. "You know what I want, Marik."

"Since you cut me off last time let me repeat myself: come near Malik or Keriam and I will personality see to it that you are fed to Ammit. A trial is too good for you."

"Oh really? Then you might as well be sentencing Malik to his death as well. Whether you like it or not, we are connected."

Milus hissed angrily as he stepped closer. "Stay back!"

"Milus Radiant. A loyal monster but still so weak." His eyes glowed eerily and with a simple wave of his hand batted the small animal to the side as it she was a fly.

Marik quickly reached into his pocket and pulled out his deck.

"Hoping for a duel?" the dark sorcerer chuckled.

"Not exactly," said Marik and he tossed the cards into the air. All of the Duel Monsters within his deck came to life, and proceeded to attack Necrophedious.

Hoping that they could buy the trio some time, Marik took hold of Malik and Mokuba's wrists and they started running as fast as they could.

--

"What the hell was that?!" Tristen exclaimed.

"Over there!" Ryou pointed to the smoke rising from the northeast section.

Keriam looked at Joey and he nodded. Their wings appeared and the couple took to the air.

"Look!" Joey cried, pointing at the people near the smoke.

Keriam sighed in relief when she saw the three boys. It was short lived when she saw who else had arrived. "Sweet Isis…" she whispered. Taking hold of the Millennium Key, the Daughter of Ra reached out to the other Item bearers. --NECROPHEDIOUS!--

"Joey, we have to keep him distracted to let them get away."

"Looks like Marik's already got that covered!" said Joey as the Duel Monsters rushed at the sorcerer.

Sure enough the monsters looked ready to spill blood but Necrophedious didn't seem the least bit scared. As they all surrounded him he lifted his hands to the air. A ring of dark power surrounded him, appearing out of thin air before expanding rapidly. As it struck it threw most of the monsters to the ground but the ones with wings flew and tried to take him down by air. The ones that had been knocked down jumped up again, not giving up without a fight.

Marik didn't even look back, trying to get the boys to run faster but his legs were longer. When Malik tripped he stopped and picked him up. "Mokuba, can you keep up with me if you fly?" he asked.

"I can try. Don't worry about me Kisara said she would help me," he nodded and jumping into the air was soon airborne.

"Whatever you do, little brother; don't let go for a second." Making sure he was secure on his back he continued running.

Joey watched them and frowned. "Keriam, we need to help them out. You think you can carry Malik while I get Marik?" he asked her.

"No problem," she winked.

They caught up with the running man.

"Marik! Malik!"

The young boy turned his head. "Joey! Keriam!" he cried happily.

"Marik," said Keriam. "I'll take Malik. Joey will carry you."

Not about to argue, the Egyptian nodded and allowed Keriam to relieve him of his brother.

"Here we go," said Joey.

"Indeed!" Necrophedious jumped down on the two Guardians, knocking them down and standing on Joey's back. "Well, what do we have here? The Wings of Isis!" He grabbed the wings near Joey's back and started to pull causing Joey to scream.

Marik turned his head and watched in horror. "Stop it!!"

"NO!" Keriam shouted as the wings were finally ripped from Joey's back.

Necrophedious laughed as the blood spurted and tossed the wings off to the side. "The Chosen of Ra," he chuckled and kicked the unconscious boy off of Marik.

Keriam gave Malik to Mokuba and removed the Key from her neck. She flew down and, catching the demon man off guard, punched him square in his jaw hard enough that he went down. The Daughter of Ra landed between Marik and Necrophedious, her anger-filled eyes on the sorcerer.

"That," said Necrophedious as he got to his feet, "was a brave yet foolish thing to do, my dear."

"Oh really?" Keriam snapped.

"One would think you're out of your mind."

"Why don't we see what's in yours!"

"Keriam! No, don't!" Marik cried but it was too late.

She plunged the Key into the sorcerer's forehead.

Pain

Bright

Screaming

Children

Blood

Hot

Boiling

Laughter

Gold

Anger

"Run, Doboro!"

Marik watched the expression on Keriam's face--horror, disbelief, sorrow, and pain. She screamed and a surge of power emitted from her. The Millennium Key flew from her hand and landed a few feet away from Marik. Keriam started to collapse, and Necrophedious caught her.

"Oh no!" Malik cried.

Suddenly, thorny vines wrapped around the two boys and dragged them closer to the ground. Darkworld Thorns looked at them and then carried its captives to its master.

"A Blue Eyes White Dragon, the Heart of the Shadow Realm," Necrophedious lightly stroked Keriam's cheek, "and the Daughter of Ra." He glance over at Joey, still bleeding and then looked at Marik. "It seems that the gods do favor me."

"…No…" Marik whispered, getting up.

Necrophedious's eyes flashed and Marik's body slammed back to the asphalt, which cracked around him and he coughed up blood.

"MOKUBA!!"

Necrophedious snarled as more unwanted guests came into view. His eyes went to the Millennium Key seconds before an arrow landed in the center of the loop.

"Oh well," he sighed, gathering Keriam into his arms more securely, smirking at the gasps. "I'll just have to take a consolation prize."

Summoning his magic, Necrophedious and his captives disappeared.

"Malik…Keriam…" Marik barely whispered and he lost conscious.

Authors' Notes:

Janime: Am I sadistic?

Heikou: Do you want me to be honest?

Janime: Please.

Heikou: Then yes.

Janime: I did ask for honestly.

Heikou: Better believe it. I know what's gonna happen but I'm still in suspense!

Janime: You're in suspense? Imagine our readers!

Heikou: I am predicting reviews with "Oh my god!" and "Holy shizamoly!"

Janime: Oh Thomas! We have big idea for you next chapter!

Heikou: Yes, indeedy! And we have to ask you something privately.

Janime: I will be emailing you the details. Until next chapter everyone!

Heikou: And one again, please!

Both: Happy Holidays!