Yu-Gi-Oh! Fan Fiction ❯ Gin no Umi o Wataru ❯ Chapter 5

SATURDAY

Joey rolled over in that huge bed. Opening one bronze eye, he scanned the room for a clock. With a grunt he pushed himself up, stretching his arms until he could hear his back pop. Moaning and moving to the edge of the bed, he looked around blearily. Getting shakily to his feet, he shuffled over to the bathroom door and opened it. Using the toilet quickly, he turned towards the mirror and stared at himself. His hair stood up in three major spikes, his eyes looked as if they could have used a little more sleep. Dark folds lay under his eyes. Yawning again, he rubbed at his eyes and shuffled back into the bedroom. Lying on the bed, he drowsed. He pulled the sheet over his stomach and thighs so he wouldn't get too cool or too hot.

A sharp knock sounded at the door.

"Comphin." Joey cleared his throat, not opening his eyes. "Come in."

The door opened and Seto stepped in. Seto froze as he saw Joey lying on the bed. Joey's eyes were closed, his pale chest, lightly dusted with near invisible blond hairs, rose and fell softly, gently breaths blew across the sheets. Seto took a step in, licking his lips wondering how those pale café-colored nipples would taste, his eyes widened He watched as Joey's chest rose, those titillating nipples hardening and relaxing. Joey slowed rolled his head to face the door and opened his eyes. Seto stared at those wonderfully enticing eyes, those shimmering bronze coins. He watched as Joey understood he was seeing Seto; he watched as Joey bit his lip and sat up, pulling the sheet up, before dropping it to pool in his lap. Seto shook himself and stepped forward, the clothes he was holding almost falling from his hands.

"I brought you some of my old clothes, I outgrew them before I had a chance to really wear them." Seto held them out.

Joey took them, his fingers brushing against Seto's, "Thanks. I guess I should go home and get some clothes."

"I'll pick them up when I go over there this morning."

"What time are we going?"

"Who said `we', mutt? I'm going. You can stay here, visit friends, whatever but you aren't going back to that place." Seto sat carefully on the bed, crossing his legs.

"He's my father!" Joey twisted the sheet.

"No, he's your sperm donor. A father doesn't abandon his son, he doesn't hit his son, and he doesn't let his son go hungry." Seto stated, his voice flat. "Now, I'm about to leave. You can wear this and if anything is salvageable from your apartment, I'll bring it back."

"You're stubborn." Joey smirked.

"To deal with my pup, I have to be." Seto replied smiling.

Joey leaned forward, whispering; "Your pup I see. I'm not giving that thing back to you. If my dad is unhealthy for me, then that little... hammer is unhealthy for you. Besides, I get the feeling that I know what your dreams are like. Maybe one day you'll show me." Joey leaned back.

Seto jumped up, "Breakfast is on the table in the dining room, it will be there until ten o'clock."

Joey surged up and grabbed Seto's hand and pulled Seto down. Licking Seto's lips, he kissed him, slowly savoring the taste. Joey placed one hand on the back on Seto's neck and held him close, his lips and tongue tasting the unique spice and tang, of burnt sand and sweet apples, of Seto Kaiba. Releasing Seto, he lowered his head a blush flushing his skin, mantling his cheeks and throat. Smiling, he moved to get out of bed. Seto jumped back and headed to the door.

"See you later." Joey called out.

* * *

Mokuba watched his brother walk out the house. For some reason, his Nii-sama was upset about something. He could see it in the way Seto's shoulder were tense and, Mokuba sighed, he was snapping at people on the phone. Getting comfortable, he decided to wait and ask Joey what was going on.

* * *

11:17 a.m.

Yami sat on the bed waiting for Yugi to finish getting dressed. He shook his head, wondering how Yugi had gotten him to agree to go to the movies with Ryou and Bakura.

Aibou, do you think we should tell Ryou and Bakura about Joey and Seto?

Yugi's laugh bubbled out of the closet. That would mean you would have to tell him that you and he are related, right?

Yes. Yami smirked as he thought of how Bakura would respond.

Bad Yami. Yugi stepped out of the closet. He wore a shirt the same color of his eyes and black bell-bottom jeans. Around his wrists were wrapped red and black leather straps. Yami?

Yami sat, staring at his other half. Aibou, you look... "beautiful." Yami walked over and brushed one finger down Yugi's cheek.

Yugi blushed and leaned in. Yami's hands, translucent yet firm, smooth yet strong felt so right on him. Come on, I want to meet there early, so Ryou and I can do some things before the movie.

Yes, Aibou. Yami hugged him tight then moved to open the door.

Suddenly a piercing ring from Yugi's phone sounded. Yugi walked over and picked up the phone. "Moshi moshi?

"Good day to you, Yugi." A dry voice said over the line.

"Shadi! Masa el khir?"

"I am fine and you?"

"We're okay." Yugi walked over to his bed. "What's up?"

"I did as Yami asked, searching our records and history for the name of the one who killed Seferet and Jahi."

"Ahh ok, wait a moment?" Yugi held the phone lightly as Yami took over.

"Shadi, thank you."

"It was my pleasure, Yami. I have found little about the person except that he is a man, he was buried in an unknown tomb, and that he was about your age. There has been some speculation that he was a member of the royal family."

Yami closed his eyes in pain, a grimace crossed his face. "Another one of the children my father threw aside?"

"Perhaps... we will continue looking. Also, soon I will be in Domino... with the scales."

"I see... well I'm going to visit Seto tomorrow. Joey was supposed to stay over there for a few days. It's time I checked on them."

Shadi's voice held the faint trace of a smile as it floated over the connection. "If I remember rightly, they had a very interesting relationship."

Yami laughed, after a few minutes he hung up. Noticing the time, he ran out of the room and down the steps. Calling a goodbye to Jii-chan, they headed for the movie theater.

* * *

10:13 a.m.

Bakura opened his eyes to see Ryou walking past, the soft blue and white stripes of Ryou's sleep shirt brushed his arm. Smirking, the silver haired demon slipped one hand from beneath the cover and tugged Ryou into his arms. Opening his ice pale eyes fully, Bakura snuggled into Ryou's side.

"It's too early, why are you up?" he murmured sleepily.

"Well, I was going to fix breakfast. We're supposed to meet Yugi and Yami at the theater at noon, Bakura." Ryou whispered.

"That's almost two hours from now and... I... am cold. I hate being cold." Bakura slipped his arm around Ryou's waist, fingers playing over the soft skin.

Ryou's skin flushed, the pink giving his skin a healthy glow. "But what about eating breakfast?"

Bakura sat up, shrugging off the covers, "I am." Bakura slid his hand under Ryou's shirt and crept slowly up his back. "Off...or I'll take it off for you."

Ryou hissed and pushed Bakura way, his flush deepened, his skin turning brilliant crimson as he slowly raised his slim, creamy hands to his button. He lowered his head, letting his silken strands fall upon his face, and with resignation started to unbutton his shirt.

Bakura placed his hand over Ryou's as he fumbled with the second button, "Hikari... If you..." Bakura pushed Ryou's soft shimmering hair back, leaning forward, he whispered softly. "I meant it. Nothing you don't want, my Hikari."

Ryou looked up as he felt the bed shift; Bakura was lying back down, his arms wide open. Ryou looked at him and biting his lip, whispering a question he didn't know if he wanted answered, "Do you want me?"

"Always. We may look alike but you a... softer, gentler side. Not weak so much as if you've never been hungry, as if you've never had to fend for yourself... and I want to make sure you never have to. You look at an artifact and see it's beauty and wonder what it can tell you. I see it and wonder how much food it will bring. I always have. Perhaps if I had a family..." Bakura shrugged and stared at Ryou, his eyes softening.

"Bakura..."

Bakura placed one finger on Ryou's lips, staring into Ryou's eyes. "I love you as you will know."

Ryou looked at his, eyes brimming with tears as he leaned down to kiss Bakura gently, his lips fluttering like wings.

And if you ever tell anyonethat I was this sappy...

You'll kill me, except you won't and I won't, Koibito. Ryou closed his eyes, leaning down he kissed Bakura, placing his hands against Bakura's shoulders. Shaking he broke the kiss, whispering beseechingly, "Love me."

"Forever, Meryt." Bakura reached up slowly, unbuttoning Ryou's shirt as he laid kisses on his Ryou's lips, chin, silky neck, licked his throat, and pressed a chaste in the hollow of his collarbone. Sliding the well-worn shirt off Ryou's slim shoulders, he laid on kiss on the delicate milk pale skin. Gentle forever, by Mother Mut.

Ryou shiveredat the warm touches and licks. Carefully he slid one hand down over Bakura's and tugged at Bakura's pants. The mate to Ryou's shirt, he played with the waistband. Ba-Baku-chan, may I... I...

Do as you wish.

Ryou's hand slipped under the band into the soft pants, blushing furiously he fingers flickered over the tip of Bakura's erection. Bakura cried out and jumped at the feel of the fingers dancing over his head. Trying not to scare Ryou, he slammed his hands to the bed, his hands fisting the sheets. Ryou stared at Bakura's closed eyes, his jaw clenched tight, the utter raw expression on his face. Smiling, he wrapped his hand around Bakura and using a firm grip, stroked faster. Stunned at the idea that he was making Bakura feel this way, he laid his head on Bakura's shoulder and watched as the small trembles shook his frame. He watched as tears leaked from Bakura's tightly closed lids and Ryou stroked him faster. Bakura arched up, shuddering, almost throwing Ryou off him. Suddenly Ryou felt Bakura's cock jump and warmth poured out. As the warmth spread slowly his over his hand, Ryou moaned and buried his face into Bakura's neck, biting hard. Bakura moaned, growls slipping out. After a couple of moments, Bakura turned and nuzzled Ryou's hair.

Thank you, now let me pleasure you. Bakura felt the rush of heat that meant that Ryou was once again blushing. You know... red isn't your best color.

Ryou sat up, mouth open with amazement. Smirking he raised up his soaked hand and slammed it towards Bakura's chest. Chuckling, Bakura caught Ryou's wrist and pulled Ryou closer. A strange look passed over his face. Staring up at Ryou, he reached down between them to rub his hand in Ryou's seed. Lifting that hand up, he twined their two soaked hands. Staring into Ryou's expressive eyes, he brought both hands to his lips and licked them.

Bakura! Ryou cried out, shocked.

I am yours now.

Ryou rolled closer to Bakura and licked their joined hands before kissing him. And I am yours.

Bakura smiled. Rest, Meryt. The theater is only 15 minutes away.

Ryou snuggled close and slowly drifted off, safe for once.

Bakura turned toward the clock. 11:20. Wake UP! Ryou grunted and buried his head in the pillows. Wake up, Ryou. You have 25 minutes to shower and dress.

Ryou poked his head out, blinking owlishly, and carefully detached himself from the sheet. Ouch, are you going to shower with me?

If I do, we'll be late and I don't want to hear that hyper genki brat whine all day.

Be good, Koi.

I thought I was. Bakura stared at Ryou.

Ryou blushed, the light pink covering most of his body as he ran into the bathroom. Soon enough the shower started. Letting the hot drops strike at his shoulder, he leaned his forehead against the wall. Tears prickle at his eyes as he thinks of what just happened.

Bakura looked at the clothes he had picked for Ryou. We have to take you shopping. You have too many pastels. Don't want people to think you're a pansy. Straightening up the black pants that he knew would mold itself to Ryou's pert ass, he smirked. Heading into the kitchen, he made some toast and buttered it. Taking it back into the room, he waited.

Ryou came out, drying himself. A pale robin egg blue towel wrapped double arond his slim waist. His ribs showed under his translucent skin. He stopped and looked at Bakura. Bakura who was covered in... the results of their morning romp. Aren't you going to shower?

Why? I have a faster way to clean up. Now eat the toast, you're too thin! And wipe your hands before you put on the shirt.

I forgot I had that. Ryou noticed as he ate the toast.

You would... you and pastels. But it'll make you look tasty... and it's silk. Bakura stood up, taking the plate. Go change.

When Bakura came back, Ryou was wiggling his way into the tight black denim pants. Smiling, Bakura came up behind him and pressed close. Feels good. Bakura chuckled and then disappeared, leaving a faint cloud of flaky white to drift to the carpet.

Ryou laughed and ran out the house. Halfway there, he saw a very depressed Tristan.

"Ryou?! You look... wonderful."

"Hey Tristan. Thank you! What's wrong?" Ryou asked, gently taking Tristan's arm and leading him towards the theater.

"Nothing much, just can't find Joey." Tristan muttered, following Ryou.

"Well, since you can't find Joey, how about spending time at the movies with me, Bakura, Yami and Yugi?" Ryou looked up at him, his brown eyes staring through silver lashes.

"Sure, whatever you want." Tristan smiled indulgently.

* * *

Seto pushed open the limo's door and looked up. The building he was at was a rather small four floor building. The side facing the street was... simply grey. It looked as if the last time the front had been cleaned was before he was born.

"Mudaro, this place is depressing."

"Yes, Master Kaiba. According to our file on Mr. Wheeler, he could to afford an apartment in a better part of town." Ms. Mudaro stated as she waited.

"Let's hurry this up." Seto's lips curled in a sneer, "Are the people from Tanaka Maeda, here?"

"Yes, sir." She pointed to the men in the medical green as they stood waiting. Beckoning them over, she waited. Three men stood silently as Seto stared at them. The stiff breeze whipped his coat around his body. Ignoring the growing amount of curious people looking out their windows and watching him. Pitching his voice to be heard over the wind, he began.

"Upstairs there is a man, a vile and disgusting vermin of a man. A man who has utterly, without remorse failed in his duty as a parent. A male human who doesn't deserve to be called a man. A thing that is so frustrated at his own life that he beats his child. A thing so consumed in drink that his smell will likely disgust you. When we go up there, your job... take him down. He's going to Tanaka Maeda. You don't need to be gentle." Seto turned swiftly and strode inside. Stopping before an elevator he waited. Soon enough, the door opened and the three men stepped inside covering the entire back of the elevator. Stepping aside for Mudaro to enter, Seto turned and backed in. Slowly the elevator rose to the third floor.

Soon enough the doors opened on the third floor. Seto stepped out and walked over to 301. Ahead of him he could see several young men and women wearing coveralls from a cleaning company. Catching Mudaro's eyes, he nodded, pleased. As he got closer to the door, he took Joey's keys out of his pocket and handed them to Mudaro. Nodding, she opened the door and stepped back as the stench of a man who hasn't washed, moved, or done anything in a week. Eyes wide, she stepped aside for the three men of the detox center to go in. A few seconds later, they in the hall could hear falling glass and breaking bottles. Soon the three men came out with a fourth man struggling and trying to kick at them. He cursed and bucked, screaming. Seto stared at him for a moment before walking over to him.

"The only reason I'm giving you this chance is because Joey, for some obscure and strange reason, still loves you. However, once you get out, do not think that Joey is going to come home. Oh no... he's mine for as long as I wish to keep him and you are going to sign his guardianship over to me." Seto raised one eyebrow and turned back to apartment. Stiffly standing in the room, he cleared his throat and started to speak. He ignored the ranting and screaming of the drunk. "Ladies and Gentlemen, this apartment must be emptied, cleaned, refurbished, and look better than new. Change the tiles, the paint, the wallpaper, and the furniture. Everything. The stuff in the young man's room will be boxed up and delivered to my house. Open a window and air this place out. It's rancid."

Seto leaned against the wall, opening his briefcase and pulling out the green file folder on top. Flipping it open, he started to read. Thirty minutes later, he closed the file. I did this. It's my fault. Dammit, Joey is going to kill me. Seto walked into the apartment to see Mudaro open a door on the far side.

"This is young Joey's room, sir." Mudaro stepped to the side. "I've allowed them to take the bed and the dresser, but the clothes are over there in the gray box, it's marked. I also had them pack Joey's books, manga, and pictures in the light blue box. In the rose box is everything else, sir. I have a design team coming up in about an hour, they are going to pull up all the tile and carpet, repaint the walls, and totally replace all furnishing, fixtures, and appliances."

"Good. Now, I'm going to be in here for a while, go do the rest of this dump." Seto walked over to the light blue box and opened it. He didn't pay attention as Mudaro left, instead deciding to look through the box. On the very top was a large artist sketchbook. Flipping it open, he looked at the drawings one by one. Fantastic animals from gryphons to manticores covered some pages, other seemed to be studies of people. One surprised him, it showed a rather series looking young boy who was playing a chess game. The background was an oversize black chess piece, the bishop. The date on the bottom was January 11, 1992. The day after he kil- inherited KaibaCorp. Stunned, Seto slammed the book shut and tossed it on top of the other things in the box. Dusting his pants off, he stuck one slim hand out the doorway and waved. When his summons was answered, he pointed to the box. "Bring it."

Seto swiveled and stalked towards the door. A couple minutes later he was in his limo heading home. A light blue box beside him and his eyes closed. 300,000 yen of materials! Damn Wheeler, if that ass hadn't been so greedy, Joey wouldn't have had to live in that hellhole. Asshole

* * *

Marik snarled as a piercing shriek sounded in the room. Moaning, he dragged the dark plum silk sheet down from over his face. A wiggle and Rashid, behind him, pulled him closer and buried his nose in Marik's pale hair. Marik felt a warmth spread from inside and he scowled at himself. I'm growing soft.

The shriek sounded again and Marik moaned before reaching down to the floor by the bed and picking up the seriously life-like hawk phone.

"If this is someone I don't want to talk to, I will kill you." Marik rapped out.

"Marik, dear friend, behave. I just wanted to ask if you had a spare room?" Shadi chuckled warmly.

"So you are coming over. And are you bringing them?" Marik asked, moving to sit up. Rashid muttered and nuzzled into Marik's ribs. Marik smiled at him, rubbing his hand over Rashid's head. Rashid nuzzled closer, his warm breath crept tickling over Marik's ribs.

"Yes, something has happened. I can no longer see who has the Eye. Tell me do you or your Hikari remember any legends about a priest who had a lover or mate being killed?"

"Not of the top of my head but I'll ask Isis. Is it important?" Marik purred as Rashid licked him. Marik jumped and looked down at him. Rashid smiled and slipped his velvety red tongue out, flickering it against Marik pale skin. "Never mind, I'm busy so I'm going to hang up on you now."

Shadi laughed at his friend's impatience. "Fine, I'll get into the airport around 10 tonight. See you then."

Marik pulled the cord out of the phone and dropped them to the floor. Smirking he faced Rashid, "Want to play?"

"Always, Master Marik." Rashid whispered huskily, lifting his head up to kiss Marik's chest.

Marik laughed, pushing Rashid onto his back and straddling him. The sensuous silk sheets pooled around his hips. Pushing his knees out a bit, he pinned Rashid's arms. "Don't move."

"As you wish, Master Marik." Rashid relaxed, tilting his head slightly upwards to show his slim, tanned neck off, all the more ready to be bitten.

Marik sat there, smirking. Carefully he reached up and traced a finger down Rashid's face, his fingers stroking the carvings carefully. "You would do anything I want, wouldn't you?"

"Of course, Master Marik." Rashid shivered, impatient.

"Why?"

"Because I love you, Master Marik. I love Malik as well. I'm in love with both of you. I would anything to make you happy." Rashid opened his legs a bit and wiggled his hips.

Marik eyes opened wide and he jumped when Rashid suddenly flipped him over and licked his neck. Marik bucked as that warm tongue caressing him. He shook as Rashid nuzzled his shoulder. Rashid whined and bit him, sucking as if he couldn't fill his mouth enough with the taste of Marik's dusky flesh. Marik felt that same inexplicable burning warmth rising in him again. What in the name of all the gods?!

It's love, Marik. Rashid loves you, and me. I love you and Rashid. You are in love with me and Rashid.

NO! I-

Rashid smiled at his distracted wide-eyed lover. Slowly he raised one hand to Marik's lips and slipped a finger in. Marik started to lick and suck and moan, wrapping his long pink tongue around that thick finger.

Accept it, beloved. Me and Rashid have... though I can't wait until...

Until what, Hikari? Marik pressed his hips up towards Rashid, desperately trying to rub up against his lover..

Untilmeandrashidmakelove.

Rashid chuckled and moved his lips up, sucking gently as he went.

Marik laughed silently. You are not a virgin, Hikari.

You aren't. Malik sounded exasperated.I've never...

And you want Rashid to be your first? Marik tried to hide his jealousy.

Him... or you.

Oh...

Rashid slid his hand down Marik's thigh. Carefully lifting Marik's legs, he pressed one well sucked finger against Marik's tight circle Smiling in anticipation ,he pressed in softly curling his finger. Seeking, searching, until he found that small but so very delicious spot. Brushing his finger over it, he sealed his lips over Marik's as Marik screamed. Rashid felt the several warm spots landing on his back.

See, Marik.

Rashid fell to the side and pulled a shocked and silent Marik close. "I love you, Marik, Malik." Resting his chin on top of Marik's head, he stroked his back until Marik's breathing deepened. Feeling happy, Rashid allowed himself to drift slowly to sleep.

* * *

A knock on the window caused Seto to come abruptly out his reverie. Lowering the window, he turned to face whoever it was that disturbed him. "What?"

The chauffeur stood quietly before speaking, "We are at the theater Master Kaiba and your brother is waiting."

Seto nodded and stepped out. Deliver the box to the house. Tell Mudaro that Joey needs new clothes. Also see about suspending Mr. Wheeler's license. Does Joey have one? What movies are being shown?"

"I believe it is `The Strange' and `Aldebaran 2: The Second Chance', sir. The first is a paranormal thriller and the second is a science fiction movie. Young Master Mokuba is waiting inside with Mr. Joseph." He closed the door behind Seto.

Seto's head snapped up and nodded curtly. Without another word, he headed over to the theater, his pale blue leather coat snapping. Opening the door, he noticed his younger brother over at the popcorn counter. A smile softened his face, "Mokuba."

"Nii-sama!!" Mokuba turned and ran over to Seto, hugging him tight. "Did you get all you needed to do done?"

"Yep, now it's me and you... and a puppy?" Seto raised one eyebrow. Seto hugged his brother closer.

Mokuba giggled, happily, and pulled Seto down. Whispering, "But if I left him then the JSPCA would have come after us for neglect. Besides he's going to be around for a while, right?"

Seto stared at his brother for a moment before hugging him tight. "You don't mind?"

"Of course not, I want you happy. He's gonna make you happy right?"

"I think so, I hope so." Seto whispered as he played with the ends of his brother's hair.

"Good. I sent Joey inside already." Mokuba stepped back and took Seto's hand. "We already got the candy, popcorn, and drinks."

Seto grinned as Mokuba led him to the largest theater, even opening the door for him. Seto walked in and headed for the middle of the theater where he could see a shock of golden hair spread out over the back of a sleek maroon chair. Seto walked up to him and stared, Joey looked bad. His skin had become translucent, the blue veins standing out in stark release while it looked like a luggage store had held a clearance sale of all navy and black bags under his eyes. Mokuba came up behind him and tugged on his shirt.

"He couldn't even stay up to watch cartoons with me today, kept falling asleep. Are the dreams really that bad?" Mokuba asked quietly.

"Mine haven't been, when we get home, he and I need to talk." Seto reached over, his hand hovering above Joey's head before he moved it to Joey's shoulder and shook him awake.

"Wha' oh Seto." Joey opened his eyes and yawned. "What time is it?"

"Almost noon. I've moved you out of your apartment and your father is..." Seto cut his eyes to Mokuba then back to Joey, "being taken care of."

"Good." Joey brushed his hair back with his hand. "So it's movie time?"

"Yes." Seto sat down next to Joey and pulled his little brother into his lap. As the lights dimmed, Seto turned to look at Joey, "Oh and don't worry, pup, I'm here to protect you."

Joey growled and flicked his ear before settling in to watch the movie.

* * *

He kicked out, trying again to get loose. The two men grinning over him, laughed as they leaned down and forced his hands down. Growling, he let his head slam back on the headrest. He couldn't believe it. Here he was strapped down to a five-point restraint bed, arms and legs spread out. And that damned brat was relaxing with his fucking butt buddy. He glared at the two men as they finished strapping him down. One of them walked over to a table and picked up a syringe.

"You know, bums like you aren't our usual clientele. We usually deal with important people. However, Mr. Kaiba asked us to take you in. Probably so he could have all the fun he wants with your son, without you interfering. He probably takes after his mother," The guard looked at him, "Well, we hope for Kaiba's sake he does."

The other guard laughed as he stroked one hand leisurely down Mr. Wheeler's chest. "He's not that bad, later he may even be fun."

The first guard shook his head and firmly inserted the needle into a vein. "Wait until the drugs take effect, no need to fight him." Smiling at the restrained man, he patted his cheek. "This is just a relaxant, we don't want you to hurt yourself bucking and straining when the tremens set in."

Laughing, both guards left the room. Wheeler lay back, his vision fogging. The drug was so good he didn't even flinch when his door opened later that night.

* * *

Malik stared at the phone, sighing. This would have been so much easier if his other half hadn't been up to his tricks again. Taking a deep breath, he picked up the phone and dialed it.

"Moshi moshi! Kame Game Shop!" Yugi's voice came over the line.

"Ummm... Yugi?"

"Malik! Hey.What's up?"

Malik blushed, "Ummm, I hope you don't mind me calling. Ah..."'

"Of course I don't. Is everthing ok with you and Marik?"

"Oh! Not a problem, he's a lot... he's changed." Malik whispered. "It's been easier lately and... Yugi? Do you love your Yami?"

"Yes, but you mean am I in love with Yami?"

"Yeah."

"Yes, it's hard not to be in love with someone who knows every thing there is to you and still loves you."

Malik made a small regretful noise. "Wish Ryou's and my Yami knew that."

"They do. I know your Yami hurt you. And I can't say I understand why. I think it has to do with what happened to you. I think he loved you so much, he shielded you when you got... when it happened and took all the pain. Sometimes too much pain can make us act weird but it was still done for love. For you." Yugi insisted.

Malik closed his eyes. "Maybe, but that's not why I called. Shadi called this morning. He's coming into Domino tonight. Could... I mean would you mind calling the others, asking them to meet somewhere? I'd call but..."

"They don't hold what Marik did against you." Yugi replied. Shadi's coming, Yami.

Ask Malik if he's bringing the scales. Yami replied distractedly.

"Mali-kun? Did Shadi mention bringing anything?"

Malik nodded, forgetting Yugi couldn't see him, "Yes, the Scales." Malik lifted his head as the door opened and Rashid walked in. Rashid smiled as he walked across the room and slid behind Malik. "Those are for Kaiba, right?"

"Yeah, he's also remembering ancient Egypt. For some reason it really bothers Yami."

"Yes, it would. That means all the objects are in play. The final game is ready. It will Yami against Seto, I believe. Hopefully it will turn out better than before." Malik shivered and pressed back against Rashid. Rashid ran his fingers through Malik's hair, wrapping his other arm around Malik's waist. His lip pressed a soft kiss against Malik's neck. "That means someone can die... or worse."

"We... won't let anything happen to them. I promise, Mali-kun." Yugi whispered. "I'll call Seto, Ryou, and Tristan tonight, ok?"

"Ok, and thank you, Yugi." Malik replied softly.

"See you tomorrow." Yugi hung up the phone.

Malik placed one hand on top of Rashid's and tilted his face up. Rashid took the phone from him and hung it up before he kissed those pale carnation lips.

* * *

Seto grunted and lifted Mokuba up a bit more securely. Sighing, wen Joey finally got the door opened, he strode through the door and headed towards his brother's room. "I'll be right back."

Joey nodded and, toeing off his shoes, walked into the living room. He stared at the place, all blue ice and white snow. Ya know, this scheme is getting outta control. Shaking his head, Joey sat on the thick ice blue carpet. It was so thick and soft. Yawning, he tilted his head back and rubbed it on the couch. Who needs a bed, this is wonderful. Com-fy

Seto walked back out a few moments later. Seeing Joey, leaning and asleep against the couch, he sighed. Walking over, he shook Joey. After a few second he leaned down and ruffled Joey's hair. "Good puppy."

Joey stirred, hearing the last word, he growled and poke Kaiba in the side. Stretching he pushed himself up and collapsed onto the couch, next to Seto. "What'd I tell you about calling me a `puppy'."

"What did I say about animals on the couch?"

"Ya know, I would be angry at you if I didn't know this was Kaiba's fault. So I'll forgive you. Are you still having dreams?" Joey leaned back and closed his eyes.

"Do not fall asleep. What is wrong with you?"

"What do ya mean what's wrong with me? Nothing's wrong with me!" Joey snarled.

"Mokuba said you couldn't stay up at all today. When I got to the theater, you were asleep. I left you here alone for just a few minutes and you feel asleep again! What is wrong with you?"

"N-nothing's wrong."

"Do not lie to me, Joey! I need to know what's wrong with you! Whatever it is, may be hurting you and I can't afford that." Seto leaned forward, his voice cold. His eyes hard and stony.

Joey head jerked up, "Why? What am I to you?"

"Y-y... For some perverse reason, what ever is coming, what ever I may have to face; I'm getting that knowledge through you. If you are out of commission then I'm in danger and I can't afford that. Mokuba is too young to be left alone, I have to live just a while longer."

"So, I'm just a... tool, something for you to use, right? I don't believe that. You almost flipped when I asked I asked if that red headed fox would go out with me." Joey leaned closer, staring into Seto navy eyes. His voice lowered, "I know, I'm more to you than a tool. I always was."

Seto hissed, pushing Joey back, "That was the past and we know how that ended... both of us dead. And it doesn't matter what I want... or don't. Mokuba must be provided for, I have to take care of him."

"And I know he wants you to be happy. How can something happening between you and me, hurt him?" Joey whispered, moving closer.

Seto moved back, his voice trembling, "Because last time we got together, I died. I can't risk that."

"That was then Seto... it was the past. What happens now, happens because we want it to. Not because it happened before. We aren't them, we are us." Joey placed his hands on either side of Seto.

"Joey... give me time. I- I must admit that I am not... used to this." Seto whispered, his shadowed eyes flicking downward.

"Ok, Seto." Joey leaned forward, kissing him lightly, a small teasing kiss. "I can wait."

Seto watched as Joey sat back up and leaned his head against the back of the couch. His pale lids closed over his sparking eyes. Seto stared at him and marveled, at how the lamp light bounced off different hairs, making Joey seem to glow. A sudden loud ring broke Seto's concentration. Without moving his eyes, he picked up the phone. "Hello?"

"Kaiba, it's Yami..."

* * *

Pegasus looked at the box on his desk. Even in the dim light of his office he could see it in sharp relief. It was rather small, only 4 by 6 by 3 inches, barely bigger than an index card. It was made of dark wood with an inlaid pattern of several light woods. They appeared to be random but you could barely discern the pattern of the millennium eye. Staring at the box, he stroked the dark wine leather of his chair. Across the hunter green deep pile carpet, a door opened. The light from the rest of the house halo a young man.

"Come in." Pegasus' voice reaches across.

The young man walked across the carpet silently, stopping before desk. Silently he raised one slim pale green eyebrow. "Did you need something, Pegasus?"

"No, I have a gift for you." Pegasus spun the box around and opened it. The eye gleamed avariciously. Smiling slightly he looked up at the young man who so resembled that arrogant ass Kaiba yet didn't. This young man had light green hair with clear ice blue eyes, more fitting for the Blue Eyes White Dragon that Kaiba harped on. "But you need to take it of your own free will. It's called the Millennium Eye and such wonders it can give you. Such wonders..."