Disclaimer: I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh or anything to do with the franchise. This fan fiction is merely for entertainment purposes and not my own profit.

Author's Note: Hello again! Mag-san here with a new chapter. I know updating has been horrible on my part, I can't apologize enough for that. I am so grateful you guys have stuck with me through it though. It has helped me more than you all know. I wouldn't say I have depression, more anxiety than anything. It may not sound serious but it has kept me from really moving forward in life. I've taken steps to improve, but just when I think I'm getting somewhere, I hit a wall. The recent one has come in the form of the current president and his decision to remove DACA. For those of you aware, I am able to go to school and work because of DACA. Just as I was feeling some sense of normalcy, I feel like I'm being pushed back several steps. I won't get too much into it because I know there are people out there with rather strong opinions about the matter. It's just very disheartening. Okay, just had to vent that out. All I, and others like myself, can do is hope for the best.

One the plus side, my birthday is coming up! Oct. 27, turning 28! Holy shit, times flies, doesn't it?

Chapter 12: Reality Check

Ruka fumbled her fingers as she waited outside of Rutherford's office. After returning to the school, she immediately spoken with Aki about her suspicions. Aki was surprised hadn't sensed anything amiss about those stone many of the girls at school were wearing. Then again, she had kept herself pretty isolated in the last week or so. Ruka was a level-headed girl. She didn't make assumptions out of nowhere. Which was why Aki knew something was indeed wrong. The fact Jack himself had also sensed it once in close proximity to the stones added validity to the matter. Before Jack could go around telling the school what was up, Aki convinced him not to before they spoke with Rutherford about it. They had to be sure. Now Ruka stood outside, Lumina nuzzling her head to the girl's cheek. Aki was inside explaining everything to Rutherford. Jack was in his dorm with Yusei and Crow, not having the best time keeping quiet about the problem. Yusei had shared with Crow what was going on, and the latter was also quite concerned with what effect the stones could have on people.

Ruka was in her own little world when the door open, Aki stepping to the side, "Come on in, Ruka."

The girl nodded, walking inside with her dragon behind her. Besides the Chancellor, Shun and Raphael were waiting by. The nervous girl took her seat, Lumina landing on cushion nearby with Rosetta.

"How are you doing today, Ruka?" Rutherford asked, offering her a soda.

"Okay I guess," she responded, taking a small sip from her can. "I'm mostly worried about those stones."

"We know," Rutherford said in a fatherly tone. "We all share in that sentiment. I would like you to know that I personally am grateful you came forward with this. It is troubling that the Dark Signers could have something to do with this, but we can't ignore any warnings."

"Thank you," Ruka looked down at her lap.

"Ruka," Shun stepped forward. "Aki told us what you shared with her. But we would like to hear from you exactly what you felt. I know it isn't a pleasant thing to remember, but Aki has not sensed this, and Jack is still learning about his powers."

Ruka shook her head with a small smile, "It's fine. Um, the way it felt…it was like there was this feeling that came over me. My heart started pounded, and there was this cold that hit me. And then there was this sound, almost like a voice…no, a roar, but really faint."

"That was when you believed it was the Crimson Dragon reaching out to you?" Shun stated.

"Yes, that was when I knew those stones were bad news."

Aki placed her hands on her student's shoulders, pulling her into a warm hug. Shun shared a looked with Rutherford and Raphael, both wearing grave expressions.

"It must be the Dark Signers," Raphael said, not happy to reveal what he had found out. "After hearing about what Ruka and Jack sensed from those stones, I did my own digging around. It seems that though this jewelry is sold worldwide. They gained popularity when this Misty Lola was seen wearing them during Fashion Week in Paris a couple of weeks ago. She's high in demand in the fashion industry, garnering a lot of sympathy after the death of her brother and her subsequent car accident. She could be an ally of the Dark Signers. Would be smart to look into her."

"Yes," Rutherford nodded. "Ms. Lola has great influence among the youth. It makes sense that the Dark Signers would use her misfortunes as a way to manipulate her into doing their bidding."

"There's something else," Raphael continued. "Though the jewelry is sold in other places, the highest sales appear to be in and around the areas of Neo Domino. That can't be a coincidence."

"Meaning they're already here," Rutherford finished for him.

Ruka looked up in shock, Lumina and Rosetta hissing.

"Then that means they're already in the Satellite?!" Aki practically shouted.

Yusei and the others coming to her mind.

"We have to do something! The people of the Satellite are in danger!"

"Carly had the same reaction," Rutherford noted.

"Can't blame her," Raphael grunted, annoyed by the situation. "None of us have ever been on board with this travel ban on the Satellite. Godwin's paranoia has caused the suffering they had endured. Xander, you can't tell us there is nothing we can do for them. We've abided by Godwin's orders long enough. The time for action is now!"

Rutherford couldn't hide his frustration at the man he had once called friend, "You're right, you all are. For a time, Rex's actions were justified and understood. Now, he's willing to let innocent lives be lost to hide the mistakes of his family. Not anymore. But we must be cautious. He has no power here at the academy, though it won't stop him from hindering our plans."

"What are our plans?" Raphael inquired.

Shun cleared his throat, oh so smug, "Oh you are going to love this."

Raphael was intrigued. If it meant ruining Godwin's day, he was all in.

"But first, we need to assess our new students' progress," Shun smirked.

"Again?" Aki said flabbergasted. "Don't you think they've had enough of those 'tests'?"

"There is a purpose for the madness," Shun smiled with a wave of his arms.

"There is?" she didn't believe him.

"Anyway!" Raphael snapped. "What do you have in mind?"

As Shun explained the "test", Aki led her head drop in embarrassment. Shun was out of his mind! Rutherford merely sipped his coffee as though were amiss. Ruka tried to ignore them, thinking it was better not to question the adults in the room. Now she was starting to hope this "test" wouldn't seriously hurt her friends, let alone kill them.

"You doing alright there, buddy?" Crow asked Jack as they walked to class.

Since returning to school, Jack had noticed how many of the female students had bought that jewelry. It was crazy how popular it was. And now, that cautionary sensation bothered him all day. It was started to give him a migraine. Jack rubbed his temple to ease the pain.

"I've been better," the blond replied. "Let's just keep going. It'll go away once we're far enough from the crowd."

Crow and Yusei followed as Jack hurried through the mass of students. They had special lesson with Raphael, meaning he was going to put their lives in danger. It was per the norm with him. Yusei knew that Jack was looking forward to it as it would allow him to let out some steam. They were to the edge of the crowd when Yusei noticed a group of girls giggling loudly. They chattered excitedly with amongst themselves, pointing to the jewelry they had gotten. They seemed happy with their new accessories. Yusei just wanted for Jack to be as far from those stones as possible. The stones didn't seem to bother Ruka as much. Maybe it had to do with the fact Ruka had awaken as a Signer at an earlier age than Jack. Her mental fortitude could have increased with time. Yusei hoped the same would happen for his foster brother.

"Grr," Jack shuffled away in a hurry, holding his head.

Yusei and Crow ran after him. Jack stumbled into the park, no one around. He leaned against a tree, his head throbbing. Why did it hurt so much? It hadn't been this bad before in the city. Punching his fist into the trunk of the tree, Jack slipped down, leaves falling around him.

"I must be a miserable sight."

"I've seen worse," he looked up, a bit flustered as Carly walked up. "What is it?"

"Nothing," Jack lied.

"You could at least try to lie better than that," Carly teased, crouching beside him. "It's those stones."

Jack didn't say anything.

"I'm a Guardian, plus my student is the fraternal twin of a Signer, and my best friend is also a Signer. Don't be too surprised. Now, how bad is it?"

"I don't need help," Jack scoffed.

"Too bad, you're getting it," Carly said with a stern look. "You're training to be a Guardian and are also a Signer. That means we're comrades-at-arms. Besides, you think you're the first person I've seen have such a negative reaction to their powers awakening? You should have seen how Aki was. She had it worse. Now, stay still."

Jack stiffened as she drew closed, placing her hands on either side of his head, "What are you…"

"Its fine," she closed her eyes, concentrating.

Jack wondered what she was up to when he felt a warm energy flow from her palms onto the sides of his head. The warmth spread out, washing away the pain. He closed his eyes as he managed to relax for the first time in weeks.

"Jack," Crow called out when he and Yusei found him.

They stayed quiet while they watched Carly work her magic. Glowing grass-green markings appeared around Jack's face, swirling in pattern. Crow was about to walk over when Yusei put his arm up. When he looked at Yusei for an answer, the young man looked back at their brother.

"This is the first time I've seen Jack this peaceful before," Yusei explained. "Whatever Carly's doing, it's working."

The young woman kept her magic going until she was done. The glowing subsided. She moved back, the markings gone. Jack opened his eyes, curious as to what she had done.

"What was that?" Crow asked.

"A little something to help ease Jack into his new powers," Carly said with whirl of her fingers. "The change is not easy. Aki and Ruka went through something similar, though it is a tad different for each Signer. It could be that Jack's is a more physical pain due to his lack of mental defenses. I would say Ruka is the best in that department."

"What do you mean?" Jack inquired, still sitting down.

"From what I saw during our last class together, your offensive power is immense. And your mastery of it is commendable. However, you rely too much on that raw power. As a result, you haven't developed much or any defensive magic."

Yusei thought it over, and she was right, "Jack has always been more about brawn."

"I can see that," Carly twirled around, her hands locked behind her. "But brawn alone can get you so far. Jack, I don't mean any disrespect, but as you are now…you would be easy pickings for the Dark Signers."

He glowered at her, but did not argue. Jack knew she was right. He had always trained hard, focusing on growing stronger than anyone else. As a result, he had gained a reputation in the Satellite as the one of the guys you did not want to make mad. When angered, Jack would go on a tear. Yet, there were times his ego had blinded him to the obvious dangers around him. This was especially true when they had faced off against the other duel gangs of Satellite. Though his power was great, there were others smarter than him who would use that against him. He had to be prepared for that.

"So, what do you suggest I do?" Jack said as he stood up.

"The obvious, train in defensive magic," Carly said sarcastically.

"Hmph, easy enough."

"HA! You're funny!" Carly burst out laughing. "Oh, you were serious."

"What is it now?" Jack leered at her. "It can't be that hard. It's only defensive."

"Only defensive?" she wondered if she had heard him right.

Turning to Yusei and Crow, their apologetic expressions confirmed it. Glancing back at Jack, taking in his smug smile, a thought popped into her mind. Suddenly, the cheerful air that followed her was gone. Carly adjusted her glasses, her composure different. Yusei sensed the change in her. Jack had done it again. Before Yusei could excuse his brother, Carly started to walk away. She stopped before rounding a tree, only turning slightly to them.

Her voice was cold, "You are in for a rude awakening."

She stepped away. The hardness in her tone surprised them. Yusei was the first to react, jogging after her.

"Where are you going?" Crow yelled before losing sight of Yusei.

"To apologize!" Yusei responded, giving Jack a disapproving glare.

Yusei ran as fast as he could to catch up to the girl. He ran for a bit until he finally caught sight of her scarf. She had gotten far fast.

"CARLY!"

She stopped when she recognized the voice. Yusei caught up to her, slightly breathless.

"You know you have to work on your cardio," Carly joked.

"Yeah, I know," Yusei huffed. "I wanted to apologize on Jack's behalf. He shouldn't have acted that way. He didn't even thank you for helping him with his pain. It isn't right. I'm sorry."

Yusei bowed, genuinely ashamed of Jack's actions.

"You don't need," Carly said. "Besides, as admirable it is for you to speak on Jack's part, I would actually accept that apology if it were coming from Jack himself. I understand you are all still trying to understand what is going on and what happened all those years ago, but…I get it. You are from Satellite and have dealt with so much suffering and hardship. However, it could have been worse. And that is what Jack is not realizing."

"What do you mean?" Yusei was confused.

"That way Satellite has been treated these past six years, there's no excuse for it. Yet, your lives could have turned so much worse. Satellite isn't the only place where people have had to fight to survive, where there is little food, little help. There are places…places where people aren't even treated like people, something less than human."

Carly turned away, Yusei catching a glimpse of her eyes. He saw the pain in them, the sadness.

"Once you become Guardians, you will venture into these places," Carly continued. "You will see things you can never un-see. You will feel helpless."

He took it in. She was warning him, explaining how this position was not about the glory or fame or power.

"Sorry," Carly gave him a small smile. "I didn't mean to come off 'Beware or be doomed' on you."

"No, it's fine," Yusei waved. "I get it. This isn't a pretty job. I, no we, have to understand that."

Carly nodded, glad he understood.

"Well, I better get going," she motioned behind her with her thumb. "I have training with Rua and he gets impatient if I'm late."

"Right, I'll see you later," Yusei said, running back to his brothers.

As Carly stood there, alone with her thoughts, a warm thought came to mind. They would fine. Yes, they would endure many hardships, but that was part of the job. The wind blew up behind her. Her hair and scarf flowing. It was coming. She could feel it.

Libera was deep into her textbook, Toxicity of Flora, in their regular training ground while Javier was going on about his recent date with a pretty girl he had met in the city. Renard was listening, but didn't seem to care. Bruno was an unwilling audience member. He wondered when the class would start. He rather deal with one of Raphael's crazy lessons than hear more about how this girl was the "one" for Javier.

"Funny fact," Renard whispered to Bruno, Javier too into his story to notice, "this is the tenth the 'one' he's met since coming here."

"Really?" Bruno sweat-dropped. "Why am I not surprised?"

That made too much sense. Libera stifled a snort, having heard it. She was right in pegging Javier a playboy. Though he didn't seem cruel toward his conquests. He had been raised to be a gentleman. Her train of thought was interrupted by the crunching footsteps of the last students to arrive. Looking up, Libera put away her book and waited for the guys to take their place. Yusei sat by Bruno, who was thankful he had someone else to talk to. Jack sat a little ways from them, obviously in a sour mood. Crow slouched beside Libera, groaning in annoyance.

"Hey, Crow. Is everything okay?"

"Ugh! I wish," he whined loudly, earning a look from Jack.

"What happened?" Libera asked, the rest of the class tuning in to their conversation.

"Well, a lot," Crow answered. "Recently…well, Jack wasn't feeling too good. Yusei and I were trying to figure out what we could do to help him when along came Carly and magically healed him. So, instead of THANKING HER LIKE A DECENT PERSON!"

Jack scowled, pretending not to care.

"What do you think he did?"

"What?" Libera somehow knew it wasn't good.

"He acts like he's so superior and needs no training in defensive magic, his worst class mind you," Crow went on. "He ends up insulting Carly and she left pretty miffed. The asshole didn't even thank her!"

"Is that true?" Libera snapped angry. "JACK!"

He ignored her.

"What a dick," Libera muttered, shifting in her seat.

"I know," Crow grumbled.

"Oh, my poor little raven," Javier gasped dramatically. "You've wounded her! That is no way to speak to a lady. No worries. It is nothing I can't fix."

He winked, everyone blanching at his pun.

"You are a role model for us all," Renard said deadpan.

"Thank you!" Javier roared with laughter.

Libera got up, shouldering her messenger bag, "I'm going to go look for Carly. Could you guys cover for me?"

"Sure," Crow nodded.

"Thanks," Liberia smiled as she walked off, giving Jack a dirty look before leaving.

He didn't seem to care. Yusei could feel the irritation emanate off Jack. There was more going on than he was letting on.

"Jack," the blond didn't respond, but Yusei kept going. "What is going on? The way you acted earlier, you didn't even thank Carly. I thought you were on good terms with her since the memorial."

"It's none of your concern," Jack finally spoke.

"Maybe, but you've been negative towards Carly ever since we met her," Yusei brought up, the others listening. "You don't think I don't notice how you observe her? I know when you're analyzing someone. I could tell from your behavior that you didn't think much of her, and it looks like you still don't."

"And if I don't?" Jack wasn't denying it.

It troubled Yusei how Jack misjudged Carly, "You don't know anything about her. Just because she doesn't look the part of a powerful warrior…And she's the only one you've singled out. You've haven't scrutinized any of the others. Why?"

"Is that true?" Bruno pondered, their eyes on Jack.

"Like I said, it's none of your concern," Jack snapped, his temper getting the better of him.

"Don't pull that with us," Crow chimed in, hopping from his seat. "Yusei's right. Why are you being so rude to Carly? She's one the sweetest people I've ever met. Martha would love her!"

Jack twitched at the mention of their foster mother's name. Meanwhile, Renard shared a look with Javier, the latter's brows arching in amusement.

"Ho ho ho!" Javier surprised them. "It's so obvious, and somewhat adorable!"

"What is?" Crow said, not liking the Spanish man's tone.

"Oh, I suppose being from Satellite, this sort of matter is not quite so obvious."

"What does that mean?" Jack felt he was not going to like the answer.

"Well, it happens more so with children," Renard began, Javier nodding vigorously. "It isn't seen as much in teens. Though it is not rare."

"What is it?!" Crow yelled, getting frustrated with their vagueness.

"OH!" Bruno got it. "Oh."

He looked away sheepishly. This was going to be embarrassing.

"Will someone tell us what is going on?!" Crow had it.

"Let me," Javier stood tall, oh-so-proud. "My friends, it seems our dear Jack has developed an attraction for the sweet and beautiful Carly Nagisa."

3…2…1…

"WHAT?!"

"Seriously?" Crow couldn't believe it, and looking back at Yusei told him he didn't either. "How can you be sure about that?"

"Considering that he singled out Carly out of all the girls at the academy, and the fact he isn't outright challenging her," Renard pointed out. "You've chosen well. Carly will make a fine bride."

"Oh boy," Yusei sighed, unsure if he should laugh or keep quiet.

Jack stomped his feet as he stood over them, "What the hell are you saying? I am not attracted to her! I don't even know her! Maybe I did underestimate her when I first met her, but only because I wanted to see what her power was like for myself."

"Then why you are blushing so hard?" Jack spun around, Libera standing there with a big, smug grin.

He stuttered, at a loss for words. Point to Libera for rendering Jack speechless.

"So, this is why you've been such a jerk," she skipped over. "It makes sense. You're such a tsundere."

"A what?"

"It's a term from anime and manga for someone who acts like they don't like a person when they do," Libera explained. "Said tsundere is usually mean towards their love interest and highly protective of them. I'm guessing you guys didn't get much anime over in Satellite."

"Not really," Yusei confirmed. "We have started since arriving here. Though Crow here is the one who's become the main fan of it."

"Jack is such a tsundere!" Crow fell back in his seat as he laughed.

"I am not," Jack muttered, close to beating the lights out of his brother. "And I do not have feelings for Carly."

"Exhibit A of a classic tsundere is the denial of their true feelings," Libera waved over to Jack, the others her captive audience.

"And why are you here? I thought you were going to look for…Carly," Jack hesitated when he spoke the girl's name, bothered that he had reacted that way.

Libera saw it, but said nothing about it, "I was, when I saw Raphael on his way here. There's no way I can sneak by him. I came back. I'll talk with Carly later. And don't worry, I won't tell her about this. Neither will any of the others, will they?"

"Nope," Renard said, Bruno nodding.

"My lips are sealed," Javier zipped up his lips.

"Considering how personal this is, we won't say a word," Yusei gave Jack a smile that told not to worry.

"Ditto," Crow raised his arm. "As funny as this has been, I know I wouldn't appreciate you guys ratting out my feelings. I wouldn't do it to you either."

"But I don't have feelings for her!" Jack insisted.

They didn't believe him.

"Feelings for who?"

Everyone jerked at the sound of Raphael's strong voice. They were statues, baffled on what to do next.

"Uh, it's uh, uh," for once Libera didn't know what to say.

She couldn't tell Raphael Jack's "secret".

"Jack," Raphael approached him. "You have feelings for someone?"

"No," Jack looked away, hoping he wasn't blushing.

Raphael took a good look at the young man, noting how he averted eye contact. It was then that the teacher caught him completely off guard.

"It's perfectly normal to become attracted to another at your age. Whoever they are, you need to make your feelings clear to them to avoid any misunderstandings. And if you take your relationship further, use protection. You're not ready for parenthood."

The air was stiff, everyone totally shocked. Jack lost his voice.

"Anyway, let's get on with your lesson today," Raphael went on like nothing was wrong. "Today will be a tad different. You will be sparring today. We will see how far along you have truly come. Do not hold back, your opponents will not."

"Uh, will this be against other students?" Bruno was the first to speak up.

"You could say that."

Bruno gulped.

"The order of your matches has already been set. First up, Libera."

Libera stood up quick, Crow wishing her good luck. She jumped down onto the field. As soon as her feet touched the ground, a brief light covered her. She was suddenly dressed in a black and yellow sports bra and leggings, her hair pulled into a ponytail. She now wore sneakers and had protective pads on her elbows and knees, as well as gloves with the same padding.

"Your opponent," Raphael motioned to the opposite end of the field, the doors opening with a boom. Libera could hear their hard footsteps echoing from the entrance. Her eyes widened none other than Vaughn walked out, dressed in a tight, black tank top and sports tights.

"Well, isn't this dandy?" he smirked, satisfied.

"Libera vs Vaughn," Raphael announced, raising his arms up.

A glasslike barrier formed around the field, leaving the pair on the field nowhere else to go.

"I did say no holding back."

"Uh, right," Libera said, starting to get nervous.

"Don't worry, hun, I won't hurt you," Vaughn radiated power, Libera taking a step back, "not much anyway."

"Strange, I would have thought her opponent would be her brother," Renard observed.

"We thought it best not to pit them against one another, mainly due to Beauregard going easy on Libera, which would defeat the purpose of the test," Raphael explained.

"Ready when you are," Vaughn said.

"Right," Libera breathed, steadying herself. "Here we go."

It was quiet, everyone's attention glued to the field. This would be different than fighting a Shadow creature. This was someone seasoned, years of experience. Libera wasted no time, summoning her power.

"Cobra Dust!" she yelled as she shot the sand at Vaughn.

He jumped out of the way, hands in pocket. Libera wasn't going to let him get away. She manipulated the sand into the shape of a giant snake. She pulled at it like a puppet, directing it after Vaughn. He kept dodging, not once removing his hands from his pockets. He was lithe, avoiding each attack with ease.

"It isn't working!" Crow said as he watched.

"Don't worry, she's got this," Yusei assured him.

Libera let her sand snakes keep Vaughn distracted, changing her strategy. Her skin was enveloped by a gleaming shin, green and blue.

"Her Arrow Frog Skin!" Bruno exclaimed.

She wasted no time, jumping right at him. As Vaughn jumped away from another snake, Libera burst forth. She made to punch him, her fist connecting with his jaw.

"AH YEAH!" Crow cheered.

Libera smirked, sure she had done severe damage. Her smile dropped when she realized something was amiss. Before she could assess her situation, a punch hit her right in gut. She cried out as she lost air, feeling weightless until she hit the ground, hard. She tumbled for bit until coming to a stop. She gasped, trying to breath right. What had just happened?

"What the hell?" Crow said.

"But she made direct contact!" Bruno yelled.

They waited for Vaughn to step forth. Vaughn stood tall, one hand in his pocket, the other in a fist by his side. Libera stared with wide eyes as she saw the spot where she had hit him. Where skin once was, now replaced by dark red scales. His fist was now claws.

"Holy shit, he's a Dragon Lord," Javier muttered.

They heard him, though Yusei, Crow, and Jack were confused.

"We have dragons," Crow added.

"Yes, but there is a difference between being partners with a dragon and being a Dragon Lord," Renard explained. "When you are partners, though you have a mental connection, it is nothing like a Dragon Lord. Said beings become dragons. They take on all the powers and characteristics of a dragon. One cannot become a Dragon Lord, they are born one."

Yusei was flustered by the revelation. To become a dragon?

"They are said to be among the most powerful of warriors," Raphael chimed in. "They are few, very rare. The only others I know personally are Seto Kaiba and his daughter, Serene. And the power passes on only to the first born of their bloodlines."

"No way…" Bruno breathed, going from amazed to worry. "Ah, how can Libera beat a Dragon Lord?"

Though the others wanted to argue that she could beat Vaughn, it was hard to say anything to the contrary. Dragon Lords were immensely powerful. And no doubt Vaughn had years of experience.

"That was a good punch," Vaughn scratched at the spot where his scales emerged. "If I were a regular duelist, it would have caused some serious damage. Fortunately for me, I get to keep my face pretty. How's that hand doing?"

Libera held her fist to her chest, sore and possibly broken, "Damn, that's what I get for going for hand-to-hand. I should have asked Beau about your powers."

"Hmm, you live and learn," Vaughn shrugged. "You done for now?"

She bowed her head, a mischievous smile spreading along her lips, "Not yet."

Vaughn quirked his brow, curious what she meant. He felt the large shadow fall on him. Vaughn turned around as the wave of red sand descended on him.

"Red Viper Sea!"

"SHIIIIT!"

There was quake that shook the entire area, the sand crashing like water onto Vaughn. The trembling stopped as the sand settled into a dune. Vaughn had not realized that Libera had intentionally punched him in order to deter from her second attack. His guard was down. And like a snake, she knew when to strike. Libera panted as stood up, still holding to hand. At best, her hand would only be sprained.

"WHOO!" Crow and Javier cheered.

Even Jack was impressed, however…

"This isn't over," he caught the others by surprise.

Yusei narrowed his eyes, waiting for what was coming. He took a brief look at Raphael, whose expression seemed to agree. Without warning, an explosion blew out of the sand. It was massive, sending the sand everywhere. Those in the seat flinched as the red sediment headed their way. It hit the barrier, dripping down. They had forgotten about the barrier. Bruno chuckled awkwardly while the rest pretended that hadn't just happened. Libera closed her eyes, her good arm up to block the sand. It would have no effect on her, but the sheer force of the explosion nearly knocked her off feet. She was barely staying in place. She opened her eyes a bit, seeing the blurred figure beyond her.

"You're clever, I'll give you that," she could hear him clearly through the violent winds.

Suddenly, it died down. Everything quiet.

"But not strong enough," he was right behind her.

Libera hadn't even seen him move. She could barely breath, time slowing down as she turned. Vaughn gently placed a hand on her shoulder.

"That's enough," it was an order.

The way his eyes pierced into her warned her not push her luck. Her face fell, unsure of what to do.

"That's the match!" Raphael announced.

Vaughn nodded, guiding Libera back to the seats. She was quiet the entire time, her stare blank. Her classmates were worried about her, but were unable to do anything as Raphael called out the second match.

"Jack, you're up."

They looked to him as he stood up, making his way to the field. He decided the issue with Carly could wait. For the time, he had keep his cool. He stepped forth, his clothes changing as they had Libera's. His outfit was the same as Vaughn's, only the color was dark blue and the tights had two white lines going down the side of the legs. He adjusted the pads on his arms as he waited for his opponent. It didn't take long. He looked over as none other than Shun walked up. The only difference in his clothing was the maroon color and his shirt was long-sleeved.

"Let's see how you do, Jack," Shun joked.

Jack's muscles tensed. He had to think about his first move. He knew Shun could use spatial magic, was that his specialty? Then again, as a Guardian, he could have other magic. Jack powered up, going for a big hit to begin with. Shun stood still, watching his movements.

"I thought Carly would be his opponent," Crow said.

"It's…a good thing…she isn't," Libera gasped as Javier went to work on her wounds. "Trust me…it's better this way."

Yusei felt the knot in his stomach tighten. Was Carly really that strong? Not that he underestimated her like Jack did, but Yusei had yet to see her power for himself.

Raphael's stoic gaze remained on the field, his ears picking up their conversation. So it was Carly…that explains the cloud over her when they had crossed paths earlier. She was usually a ball of sunshine. To see her so angry…what did Jack say to her?

Jack conjured a ball of red fire, instantly throwing it at Shun, "Firecracker!"

As it neared him, Shun merely moved his head, the ball of fire just missing him. It exploded when hitting the wall behind him. Jack wasn't done. He conjured more balls, throwing each one without hesitation. All Shun did was move slightly, the fire barely missing. He was so agile, Crow's shoulders dropped as it dawned on him he was no longer the fastest or most agile of the group anymore. Jack stopped, the dust settling behind Shun.

"That's impressive," the young teacher said as he strode about, keeping his distance. "I should expect no less from what I saw the day of your evaluation. That have that much raw power and still maintain such skill."

Jack frowned. Shun could sense something was amiss.

"Not much for a conversation today, are we, Jack?"

"No," Jack said, suddenly conjuring another ball, this one yellow.

"You already tried that," Shun chuckled.

Jack aimed the ball at him. Shun moved to the side, about to remind Jack of how that had been pointless…BOOM! Shun was engulfed in flame and smoke.

"What just happened?" Bruno jumped from his seat, his hands on the wall.

"That was Jack's Yellowjacket," Yusei answered. "It's a fire technique where the attack locks on the enemy and won't stop until it hits its target. Afterwards, the enemy is hit with a barrage of explosions similar to a wasp attack. Hence the name."

They watched as Shun was lost behind the multiple explosions. After a while, it died down. The sound of crumbling stone and sizzling dirt the only sounds. They waited with bated breath, even Libera perking up to see the end result. Jack kept his guard up. One of Libera's mistakes was assuming it was over before it actually was. He couldn't sense whether he had done any damage towards Shun. Jack gritted his teeth as the smoke cleared. As it dissipated, Jack started to see Shun's figure. His voice failed him as he looked on Shun, wondering how it was possible. Not a single scratch on him.

"Wha…wha…" Bruno mumbled incoherent.

Everyone else's reactions were the same. Even Renard, the most monotone of them, sat there in disbelief.

"Oh, young ones," Shun smiled, a glint in his eyes, "you have so much to learn."

Jack prepared another Yellowjacket. Shun raised his arm. When the ball neared him, it came in contact with the same barrier as the one Raphael created. It encased Shun in a sphere of protection.

"So, Jack," Shun started with a confident smirk, "I heard that you don't think much of defensive magic. Now, as a Guardian and my student, that won't do. Here is what I'm going to do. I will fight you, using only defensive magic, and win."

Jack's anger begun to boil. Only one name came to mind. Why would Carly tell Shun about this? Was this some form of payback? He'd only shared his opinion. What was wrong with that? Why was he being made the bad guy here?

"Fine," Jack scoffed.

It didn't matter. He was going to show how strong he really was. He summoned his magic. His hands glowed fire red. He poured his power into his palms. The glow then spread along his arms, marking like veins.

"He's using Potentia," Yusei muttered, his eyes glued to the action on the field. "Jack's getting serious."

"Potentia?" Bruno repeated.

"It's a power boost, more or less," Javier said, finished healing Libera. "But it isn't as easy as it sounds to use, let alone master. It increases your strength, both magically and physically. However, to have that much power all at once can prove difficult to maneuver. Your attacks can become uncontrollable, not to mention the toll on the body afterwards is not so pleasant, if not handled correctly."

"What do you mean?" Bruno asked wearily.

"You have the spell of Potentia," Shun observed with an impressed expression. "Now that is a difficult magic to wield. Not just anyone can master it, let alone learn how to use it. I wonder how you came upon it, in the Satellite, of all places."

"If you beat me, I'll tell you," Jack smirked confidently.

"Well, then, all the more reason to win," Shun chuckled.

Let's see how far your little boy has come, Stella.

Ms. Bartlet was having a relatively good day. The paperwork had been manageable, her classes had gone well (no disasters to speak of so far), overall good. Though the deaths of Scott and his team had weighed on her, Ms. Bartlett knew dwelling on the "what if's" would do her no good. They died doing their duty as Guardians. She would honor them by using the intel they had send and fight on. She was in the one of the underground vaults of the academy. They used mostly for storage of certain special "items" and the like. She was overseeing the monthly security check. As she walked into the control room, greeting the guards, she walked over to one of the techs. He was going over the system, showing her the results of their primary analysis. Everything seemed to be working and prime condition. Still, they had to be thorough. There was a lot dangerous stuff down here.

Ms. Bartlet was reading one of the reading when her phone rang, "Hello, Miriam Bartlett speaking."

"Hello, Miriam," the voice was soft and gentle. "How have you been?"

Ms. Bartlet felt the big smile spread on her face.

"Oh! Milady! It has been so long!" Ms. Bartlett gushed, the guards and techs baffled by her behavior. "I've been great. School life keeps me busy."

"Wonderful," the woman giggled. "And it hasn't been that long. Seto and I visited the academy a few months ago."

"I know," Ms. Bartlet blushed. "It feels like a long time though."

"Time does that," Kisara said, staring out onto her impressive garden. "I was calling to see how things are at the school. Xander sends us his usual reports, but I do like to hear directly from you all every now and again."

Ms. Bartlet placed her tablet down as she walked to the overview of the big containers strewn through the vault, each made of a special metal and covered in runes, "I understand. For the most part, everyone is doing well. Obviously, the deaths of their fellow classmates was a big hit, but from what I can tell…they're not letting it keep them down. One of the lessons Xander likes to instill in the students is how dangerous this life can be. He wants them to truly understand is what it means to join the academy. Those who can't handle it leave. Xander isn't about to waste his time training people who don't realize they will have to put their lives on the line."

"And that is why Seto chose him as Chancellor. Anything else of interest to report?"

"Well," Ms. Bartlet pondered it over. "I'm sure Xander already briefed you on Ruka's suspicions."

"Yes, that is troubling," Kisara took a sip of her tea, gently setting the cup down. "I know she's a strong kid, and very smart too. She gave us a great lead into the Dark Signers' plans. Seto and Yugi are analyzing the stones as we speak. Judai and Ryou have gone to the Spirit Realm in hopes of learning more there. What about Aki and the new Signer, Jack? How are they?"

"They appear to be doing fine," her gaze fell as Aki came to her mind. "However…Scott's passing was particularly hard on Aki. They were close. Aki has always been such a guarded individual, so letting Scott in was not easy. I think she blames herself, to some extent."

Kisara's eyes grew somber, "Oh, Aki. I wish I could have been there for her. Scott used to boast to me how he was going to win her over one day. He was so in love with her. Sadly, it wasn't meant to be. I hope she does find her special someone. Though, after having lost Scott, she might not be so inclined to pursue a relationship anytime soon."

"I was afraid of that," Ms. Bartlet sighed sadly, her back to the overview.

While in immersed in her call with Kisara, Ms. Bartlet failed to see the figures below. One of the guards did. He nudged his partner and the two headed down. The remaining guard warned one of the techs that someone had snuck in. He pulled up the video and saw a couple of people running between the containers.

"Ms. Bartlet!" the tech yelled panicked.

She turned away from her phone, walking over to the tech, "What's wrong?"

"We have a security breach, ma'am," the tech informed her, showing the footage.

"Oh no," she breathed out concerned. "Milady, I have to go. I have a situation to deal with."

"Nothing you can't handle, I'm sure," Kisara said, confident in the woman's abilities. "I'll leave you to it then. I would like to hear more of the new Signer."

"Thank you, milady. And I will call you back as soon as possible," Ms. Bartlet said before hanging up. "Okay, have you pinpointed their location?"

"Yes, ma'am," the tech nodded as he pulled up the screen with the trespassers. "They are on Level B, Section 4. Security is already in pursuit."

"Good," Ms. Bartlet pushed the comms button. "Have you found them?"

"We're closing in," the first guard spoke. "They're pretty skiddish. Most likely got in by accident and have no idea where they are."

"Looks like there's five of them," the second guard stated. "HALT!"

The culprits in question instantly froze. The guards raised their guns, shining their lights on them and were slightly surprised to see five students, looking to be 13-14 years of age. There were two girls and three boys. Their faces were painted in terror.

"Please don't shoot!" one boy yelled, putting his hands up, the others emulating him.

"How did you get down here?" the first guard questioned. "This is a restricted area."

"We don't know!" one of the girls cried, eyes tear-brimmed. "We were in our dorm, playing a game, when there was a light and we ended up here!"

"What do you mean?" the second guard inquired, more sympathetic than his partner.

"We heard about it online. You can use the stones to ask questions and get answers," the other girl answered. "Like an Ouija board, except it doesn't open doors for the dead or devils."

"Stones?" the second guard said, looking to his partner.

Why did send a chill down their spines?

"Wait, did she say something about stones?" Ms. Bartlet asked, the fear inside her growing as it dawned on her. "Oh my god…GET THOSE KIDS OUT OF THERE!"

Suddenly, a bright light emitted from the bracelet the first girl was wearing. Her eyes were like saucers as she freaked out, trying to pull off the bracelet.

"HELP!" she screamed.

Her friends tried to pull it off, but it was like it was glued to her skin. Her eyes begged for any aid. The guards ran up, the first pulling at the bracelet. The other held the kids back, trying to get to away. The stones burnt brighter. The guards knew it meant bad news. The kids shouted in fear for the girl. One of the boy pushed the second guard back, dashing to her. He held her from behind, hoping it would help the first guard pull off the dangerous jewelry.

"Shit! This thing isn't coming off!" the guard said as he pulled harder.

"What?" Ms. Bartlet gasped.

If this was the same jewelry Ruka had warned them about…then that meant once you had it on, it wouldn't come off. She had think of something. She could see the light from where they stood in the control room. Who knew what would happen? There had to be a way to get it off, and fast.

"Wait!" she clapped as the thought popped into her head. "Do either of you have any fairy dust?"

"I do," the second guard said, pulling out a small vial.

"Pour it onto the stones, then fused your magic with it and command it off her," Ms. Bartlet instructed, hoping it would work. "The fairy dust should give you enough of a boost to break whatever binding the stones have to the girl."

"Right," the second guard nodded, doing as he was told. "Hold on, hun."

The girl nodded while the boy held her close. The guard poured the glittering dust onto the stones. It trickled down, the stones sizzling as it made contact. The girl squirmed, her lip quivering. The guard then placed his hand over the stones, summoning his own magic. He focused on one thought. Let go, let go, let go, let go, LET GO!

"Saji, now!" he turned to his partner.

The bracelet came off cleanly. Its light was now intense. Saji knew it was going to blow. He chucked it as far into the air. He immediately turned around, running back as he pushed the two kids down, the other guard protecting the other kids. They all hit the floor as the stones exploded. The whole vault shook. Ms. Bartlet and the techs ducked down, the third guard jumping behind a wall as the force shattered the glass overview. The explosion was enough the shake the campus slightly like a minor earthquake. Everyone wondered what had caused it. However, it being Duel Academia, it was normal due to the kind of training done in the school.

"Everyone okay?" Saji asked as the trembling subsided.

Everyone grunted or moaned in confirmation.

"Okay, let's get you all out of here," Saji said, helping the two kids beside him to their feet. "The Chancellor is going to have some questions for you."

"Yes, sir," the kids gloomed as they were escorted away. "It's a good thing you had that vial, Tyler."

"I had gotten it on a whim from the armory," Tyler said while the group walked back to the main elevator.

Saji nodded in agreement. As they guided the kids away, something stirred in one of the containers. Saji felt it. He turned around seeing one container move. Everyone else stopped, following his wary gaze. The container started to move more, erratic. Something wanted out. The kids huddled together, inching away ever so slowly. Tyler stayed in front of them, gun in hand.

"Keep moving," Saji whispered, his gun pointed at the container. "Quiet, slow."

Tyler looked to the kids, who nodded with wide eyes. They shuffled bit by bit to the elevator.

Saji remained on guard, his voice low, "Ms. Bartlet, we have a breach."

"I see it," she said, the techs still as statues. "Barton."

The third guard strode to her side, "I've already alerted security. They are on the way, along with the Chancellor. They've already evacuated the rest of the building and set a perimeter outside."

"Good," she said under her breath. "Let's leave, very, very carefully."

Barton understood, tapping the techs shoulders to move. They stood up slowly, their eyes on the container as something inside banged loudly. It was desperate to get out. Meanwhile, the group on the floor made their way to elevator. Once they reached it, it opened for them. They crammed in, Saji and Tyler keeping their eyes on the containers. They stayed at the ready even as the doors closed and ascended. Ms. Bartlet and the others took a separate elevator. They were right at the doors when the sound of something heavy opening and hitting the ground made them freeze. Oh no…

The elevator opened, Ms. Bartlet grabbing one of the tech's arms, "MOVE!"

A bone-chilling roar filled the air as they jumped into the elevator. They could hear the pounding footsteps that rapidly made their way to them. The doors closed and the elevator rose. There was a crash as something impacted the bottom of the elevator. Everyone held onto whatever they could.

"Not good!" Barton cocked his gun. "It's trying to bring us back down!"

"Ms. Bartlet!" one of the techs helped her up. "What do we do?"

The young teacher looked around, trying to think of what to do. They were halfway up, but they were being pulled down by what had escaped the container. Looking at the numbered floors they were passing, she realized there was only one thing they could do. Powering herself, she slammed her hand onto the floor, a flash passing the space. There was a shriek of pain as the creature let go, falling down the shaft. The elevator came to a screeching stop. They were between two floors. Ms. Bartlet hurried to the doors, looking over to Barton.

"Help me get these open."

He nodded, holstering his gun. The two pulled at either door, the metal groaning as it was forced to move. They managed to get it opened enough where they could fit through. Barton motioned for Ms. Bartlet to go first. She crawled onto the top floor, keeping her eyes peeled for anything. Once she was through, she helped the techs through. Barton was last. And just in time as soon as he step onto the floor, the emergency brakes gave out and the elevator crashed to the bottom. They decided to close the elevators, just to be safe.

"Barton, check on the others," Ms. Bartlet ordered as they walked down the brightly lit hall.

"Ma'am," Barton touched his comms earpiece. "Saji, Tyler…you guys there?"

"Phew! Good to hear from you, man," Tyler answered, sounding out of breath. "Yeah, we're all good and in one piece. The Shadow creature seemed more interested in you guys than us. Don't know why. The important thing is the kids are safe. We managed to get out in time. Where are you guys?"

"Still inside," Barton said, pulling out his gun again. "It attacked our elevator. Ms. Bartlet managed to fend it off, but it'll be back."

"Shit," Tyler swore as he looked on from outside. "The whole area has been fenced off. That thing ain't getting out, but that makes you guys prime targets for it."

"We'll be fine," Ms. Bartlet cut in, taking Barton's comms. "We're on floor U5, just one floor from the surface. We'll find a way out. If not, we'll hold up somewhere safe. But no matter what, do not let that thing out. Understand?"

"Uh, yes ma'am," Tyler agreed begrudgingly.

"We'll be in touch," she said, ending the transmission.

Tyler turned over to the building, ignoring the people running around, shouting commands here and there. A small sob caught his attention. The kids were being looked over by the medics. The girl whose stone had blown up was being comforted by the boy who had held her. There was something there, that was obvious. He smiled, glad at they were safe. He taken aback when a sudden quake hit, stronger than the previous one. His face drained of color as he saw the massive hole on the side of the building. There was a deep, guttural growl. All he saw was black.

"Oh dear god," he gasped.

"What was that?" Libera asked, Jack and Shun's match forgotten.

Both Shun and Raphael shared a look. They spoke no words, knowing what they had to do.

"Lesson is over," Raphael announced. "Head back straight back to your dorms, no questions."

"What?" Jack wondered what was wrong.

"Our apologies, but none of you are ready for something like this," Shun said kindly. "Please, do as you are told. Let us handle this."

"But!" Yusei barely said when both teachers instantly vanished. "What is going on?"

"I don't know," Libera said as looked to the sky. "But something is horribly wrong."

She gripped her arm, a shiver running down her spine.

Put a fork in this because it is done! Dear lord, I thought I was never going to finish. Again, I really appreciate you guys still keeping up with this and my other stories. It has been a difficult couple of months. The whole DACA thing just really hit me. Whatever happens, I will have to save money, whether I get deported, or move somewhere new. If nothing else, one of my options is moving to Canada. Kind of hoping it doesn't come to that, but if I end up back at Mexico, at least I have family down there who can help me. Not everyone can say. Fingers crossed everything works out for the best.

Please review, thank you!

Preview: A Shadow creature out of containment shows the new students how powerful, and deadly, Carly really is. Appearances can be deceiving.