Yu-Gi-Oh! Fan Fiction ❯ Redemption ❯ The Devil's Games ( Chapter 12 )

AN:

Okay guys, I must apologise for this being late by a week, but I did put that warning up a chapter or two ago… Anyways, looks like I am back on track and normal service can resume!

 

Okay I have some funky things going on in this chapter. Most notably a joint flashback with Marik and Malik. Said flashback is not solely my work but on the contrary only half mine. My dearest darling Beta Nell and I got to RPing and the results… well let me tell you that what is included here is an edited fraction of said RP. So if you didn't get that half the flashback belongs to Nell - thanks sweetie. It is in split point of view so to make things a little less confusing

Malik's POV in flashback

Marik's POV in flashback

 

Somehow I get the feeling it is going to be confusing anyway but hey, those are the breaks. So on to the hectic chapter!

 

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Akeifa looked up cautiously. He had been expecting Marik's explosion of temper and hurled himself to his knees in time to feel the heat of the fire pass overhead and remain unscathed. As he looked up at Marik he saw his Lord at the angriest he had seen him in a while. Black wings spread in the expanse of the hall, Marik had reverted for his full daemonic form. Black shaggy fur covered his bottom half, the cloven hooves, scraping against the floor as he paced in his agitation. Hi aura pulsed around him, wreathing him in a roiling black flame. Light appeared in the darkness that surrounded him as his hands dripped with the remnants of the Hellfire he had just unleashed, his eyes burning red through the black fire of his aura.

 

Yep he was pissed.

 

Akeifa chose to remain on one knee. It was a times like that that Marik truly acted as a ruler, and when he was this angry, it was better to be humble before him. He remained silent, giving time to let the initial anger wane and give way to the more controlled, constant rage that would follow. So he waited patiently and wondered just how long it would take Yami to arrive, after all Marik's fury would not have gone unnoticed. That and he was wondering how long it would take them to get the scorch marks of the wall on this occasion. He didn't have long to wait before the scorched double doors behind him opened. Marik's back was to the figures behind him and for the moment didn't notice the entrance of his Right Hand.

 

Yami on the other hand took in the situation quickly, wrinkling his nose in disgust at the scent of brimstone, and crossed to Akeifa's side. He had not seen Marik quite so angry for a long count of years and knew this was serious. He knelt beside his friend as quietly as he could not wishing to attract Marik's attention just yet.

 

“What happened?” He whispered to Akeifa.

 

“Bad news, Heaven has made their move.”

 

“Ah.” Yami muttered.

 

“Seto's been sent to earth to keep an eye on the contact you and Marik have with the humans.”

 

“Damn! That's going to be a pain.”

 

“It gets worse. He's got to stay for as long as this situation plays out, and currently, he's staying with Bakura.”

 

“Holy shit!” Yami swore quietly. “No wonder he lost it.”

 

Akeifa nodded. “Only a matter of time until…”

 

“How dare he!” Marik roared, smashing his fist into a wall.

 

“The ranting starts.” Yami finished Akeifa's sentence with a groan.

 

“How dare Heaven's Left Hand interfere in such a way?” He spun to face his companions, vaguely aware that Yami had turned up at some point. “What I have done with Bakura has been meticulously above board.” He growled dangerously.

 

“I believe he is not on orders to be confronting Bakura, merely going to him as the only angel who has ever lived on earth at all. He doesn't know how long he will be staying.” Akeifa put in diplomatically. Marik was known for not seeing the facts at times like this.

 

“The pious bastard could have managed perfectly well on his own and we all know it.” Marik snapped. “The asshole takes help from no-one unless he has to.”

 

Both Yami and Akeifa breathed a sigh of relief to see Marik's aura start to settle. He was now past the moment of apoplectic rage and was now merely angry. This they had had handled before and would do so again. In a shimmer his legs returned to their human form, though his fingers still crackled with potential fire, the stench of brimstone permeating Marik's form.

 

“I am willing to bet the self-righteous shit went to Bakura to piss me off as much as to get any help he needs.” He snarled.

 

Cautiously the two Fallen got to their feet, knowing the worst was past, but they would have to tread carefully. It wouldn't take much to spark Marik off again when he was like this.

 

“It will be Seto's way of drawing a line in the sand.” Yami grumbled. “Its so like him to be melodramatic about everything.”

 

“He's an arrogant shit. How dare he get involved with Bakura. He knows full well the Lord approves.”

 

“Will the Lord not step in?” Akeifa asked.

 

Marik and Yami laughed bitterly. “Stop his little favourite?” Yami retorted. “There's more chance of him giving us all a place in Heaven again.”

 

“Damn the son of a bitch and his little display. I'd like to give him a taste of his own bloody righteousness, take that sword of his and ram it up his ass! See how fucking straight he walks then.”

 

Akeifa winced at the venom that laced Marik's words. The Avenger and Adversary had not gone head to head for a very long time, and it seemed that they might well be doing so again soon. He wasn't sure if he was ready for chaos that would ensue if that was what Marik got into his head.

 

“Easy.” Yami said approaching Marik carefully. “Now is not the time for rash decisions. We need to consider things carefully before we make our move.”

 

Akeifa nodded. “Bakura's not liking this any more than you. He plans to kick Seto out as fast as he can.”

 

Marik sniggered. “I bet he is. If I am reading it right Bakura is at a stage with Ryou that having him around would severely cramp his style. Oh he is going to go through some serious shit trying to offload Seto.”

 

“Poor bastard.” Yami muttered.

 

“The real bitch of it is we cannot do anything to help him or we will be accused of overstepping our boundaries.” Marik snarled. “He's got us pinned and he knows it, there is no faulting the asshole's logic.”

 

While angry he had settled some now and his companions recognised it. The cold reality of what was going on had forced Marik to put the sizable portion of his anger to one side and think about the situation. A fact that was not lost on Akeifa.

 

“So what are we going to do?” He asked softly, almost afraid of the answer.

 

“Do not worry my friend, this challenge will not go unanswered.” He smiled softly, thoughtful for a moment before turning to his companions. “Well they say two hands are better than one.” Marik grinned darkly. “And what is the Left Hand without the Right?”

 

Akeifa shuddered as Yami picked up on the point and grinned.

 

“Let the games begin.” Yami chuckled.

 

Akeifa groaned inwardly and immediately began to worry for Bakura. It was going to be bloody chaos.

 

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Yugi was nervous as he made his way over to Ryou's apartment. None of them had heard from Ryou since he had stormed out of his place yesterday afternoon. They had tried calling his cell phone to find it switched off, and calling him at home only met with no answer. The three friends were starting to get distinctly worried. Had they really upset him that badly? He entered Ryou's apartment block and was up at the second floor before he realised it, strangely nervous. He hadn't seen Ryou angry in so long that he feared how he would react to his visit. He took a deep breath and knocked on the door. He didn't have to wait long before Ryou answered the door.

 

“Ryou! Oh its good to see you, I was hoping that you would be in. We were getting worried about you, you haven't been answering your phone and…”

 

“Whoa, slow down!” Ryou chuckled smiling at his friend. “Damn Yugi you don't half rant when you are nervous.” He smiled gently at his friend, Yugi's nerves evaporating when he saw his friend was in a good mood, rather than being angry at him as he had feared. “Come on in, I have a bit of time before work, I was about to have a coffee if you want to join me.”

 

“Thanks, that would be great.”

 

With that Yugi stepped inside, though was a little confused. Having seen how angry Ryou had been the previous afternoon and since there had been no way of raising him yesterday they had all presumed he was sill angry at them and ignoring them. The smile on his face and the warm greeting said other wise and was somewhat… puzzling. He followed Ryou into the kitchen where the white haired one poured water from the kettle into mugs.

 

“Thanks.” Yugi smiled as he was handed his drink. “I was worried you were still angry with me. What with your cell being switched off and not answering the house phone.”

 

“My cell?” Ryou asked puzzled but then it dawned on him that he had turned it off when he had stormed out of Yugi's apartment. “Oh I'm so sorry! I got distracted and clean forgot. Its still probably switched off now!” He rolled his eyes at his own stupidity. “I wasn't ignoring you guys, I just didn't get home till late is all.”

 

“Really?” Now Yugi was puzzled again, but didn't have time to think on it.

 

“Look about yesterday.” Ryou began softly. “I know I went a bit overboard and I shouldn't have. I'm sorry for being so bratty.” He said sheepishly.

 

“You're apologising?” Yugi chuckled. “Don't you had just cause and on my part, I'm sorry I let them talk me into being such a fool.”

 

“Doesn't excuse me being a total jerk though. You know I'm not usually like that.”

 

Yugi chuckled. “It was a little out of character yeah, but hey, it was kinda funny to see you scare Malik. He's actually very worried about how much he has upset you.”

 

Ryou smirked a little. “Serves him right. Might teach him to back off when he should. As much as I love him, he is a little overeager at times.”

 

“And overbearing.” Yugi chuckled.

 

They shifted locations to the living area settling on the sofa, Ryou having retrieved his cell phone on the way. He switched it on to see a large backlog of missed calls, most of which were from Malik's home number.

 

“Ouch.” He cringed when he saw the list. “Malik really must have been worried.”

 

“You know he hates screwing up. He seemed pretty determined to patch things up if he could.”

 

“Hmm I had best swing by his place and see him.” He glanced at his watch. “Though it will have to wait till after work, I'll be late if I try and drop by before hand.”

 

Yugi nodded. “But one thing you haven't explained is what you were doing all evening if you weren't ignoring our calls.”

 

Ryou smiled to himself shyly. “Ah, well I guess I ought to be thanking you guys. If I hadn't of stormed out, I wouldn't have found myself standing next to Bakura in the park. And then we wouldn't have been talking things through over sushi.”

 

Yugi grinned. “Distracted eh? So that's why you are in such a good mood today.”

 

Ryou chuckled. “Okay I admit it, I had a good time, though I felt awful for losing my temper with you guys like that. I don't know what got into me.”

 

“Well you gave us all a good dose of reality, I doubt Malik or Joey will be quite so eager to butt in after that display.”

 

“Oh I don't know.” Ryou mused. “When I tell Malik I was on a date I doubt he will be able to refrain from asking from the gory details.”

 

Yugi laughed. “No, that would be like him suddenly stopping flirting with all of Domino.” The two laughed knowing that was highly unlikely. “Speaking of the gory details, anything I should know?” Yugi asked sweetly.

 

Ryou smiled. “Oh, just dinner, talking, a walk in the park to gaze at the stars. And a goodnight kiss.”

 

“Really?” Yugi asked eyes wide and eager.

 

Ryou couldn't help but laugh. “Oh Yugi you are too funny. Yes we kissed, and I am going to call him this time, no more random meetings, even if they have been good so far. Well apart from getting winded in the bathroom that is.”

 

“So that's it, you are really dating.”

 

Ryou nodded. “Yeah, didn't think that was going to happen for a while.”

 

Yugi smiled at him. “Good, I'm glad, you've definitely been happier since you met him. Now all we need to do is pair the rest of us off and we are laughing.”

 

Ryou chuckled. “Oh well, time will tell.” He looked at his watch. “I'm sorry to cut and run, but I had best get off to work before I am late. I'll call by Malik's later and probably phone Joey on my break.”

 

Yugi nodded. “I'm just glad we are not fighting.”

 

“We all acted like idiots, so let's just wipe the slate clean and forget it. It's not actually important.”

 

The two rose, Ryou putting their empty mugs in the sink to soak before grabbing his jacket and accompanying Yugi out the door. Once they reached the main entrance the two had different directions to head.

 

“I guess I'll catch you later.”

 

“You can bet on it.” Ryou smiled. “Malik will be dragging us all together for a night in or out soon enough.”

 

Yugi smiled. “See you then.”

 

Ryou nodded before turning and heading to work. He felt guilty about having worried Malik, but hey, he would make it up to him. He knew Malik would be happy to hear about his impromptu date, so with that in mind chose not to let it bother him. There would be plenty of time to spill the beans later.

 

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Yami was pacing heatedly cursing to himself. Akeifa sat by watching and sighed, if Yami kept this up he was going to cut a trench in the floor. They were both worried. In his angry state Marik had disappeared last night and hadn't been seen since. It seemed that planning their counter move against Seto's little gesture had not been enough for him and he still needed to work off some steam. But that usually meant trouble, the temptation of a soul, seduction, unexplained natural disaster, all of the above on occasion. Hence the pacing and the two worried friends waiting for his return, wondering what kind of mess they were going to have to clean up. They turned at the sound of wings in the corridor.

 

Marik strode in stretching, a satisfied smile on his face. Okay, so in one way that was a good sign, in another way it was infinitely worrying.

 

“Where on earth have you been?” Yami exploded, temporarily forgetting his rank in deference for their friendship.

 

Marik chuckled. Well he had been anticipating this. “On earth of course.” He smirked. “Domino to be exact.”

 

Yami raised a hand to his forehead. “Please tell me you haven't gone and done anything stupid.”

 

“Well, not stupid, but highly pleasurable.” He grinned.

 

Akeifa groaned. “Oh, what in Heaven have you been doing all night?” He was almost afraid to know the answer.

 

“What, I am surprised you weren't watching.” Marik sniggered.

 

Akeifa sighed. “You are the Master of Hell, the watching pool won't tune into you when you don't want it to.”

 

“Good job really.” Marik grinned. “I doubt you would have really wanted to watch.”

 

“That's enough.” Yami barked. “Out with it. Just what do we have to expect?”

 

“Well…”

 

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Ryou sighed. He had begun clock watching some time ago, waiting for when he could close up. He had tried calling Joey at the repair shop where he worked earlier, but his boss had said the blonde was out on a call somewhere. He had hung up regretfully and chosen to wait. He really did want to touch base with Joey and apologise for yesterday, but he guessed he would have to do it later. For now he just wanted to get to Malik's and smooth things out with him. He didn't like the fact that his friend seemed so worried. He was currently sorting out some things out under the desk to pass the time. While the library stayed open to 19:00 for students and the like, it was always quiet in the last half hour or so.

 

“So what's a guy gotta do to get some service round here?”

 

Ryou shot out from under the desk at the familiar Brooklyn accent, to find his blond friend leaning on the counter and grinning.

 

“Joey!” He exclaimed happily. “I tried to call you, but your boss said you were out on a job.”

 

“Yeah he told me.” The blonde shrugged. “So I figured I'd swing by. I knew you couldn't still be mad at us if you were trying to ring me at work.”

 

Ryou smiled sheepishly. “Look about yesterday…”

 

“Forget about it.” Joey interrupted. “As long as we are still friends that's all that matters. Though I'm sorry for being a jerk and all.”

 

“You weren't the only one, and I'm sorry too. My temper seems to be a little frayed of late.”

 

“Its okay. We kinda forget that `cause you're quiet that doesn't mean that you can't get scary. Perhaps that why it was so scary.” The two chuckled. “What I wanna know is were you like that with Duke when you left him?”

 

Ryou looked at his smiling friend, looking at him so eagerly. He wasn't particularly proud of the temper tantrum he had thrown that day, despite having just cause. But he knew telling him would make the blonde smile.

 

“Worse.” He admitted sheepishly. “If I recall correctly I think I called him every name under the sun I could think of, swore like a trooper, and threw something extremely expensive and very heavy at him. I missed.”

 

Joey whistled in awe. “Damn! I wish I had been there to see it. Must have been quite some sight.”

 

Ryou chuckled nervously. “I guess.”

 

“Well remind me never to get you angry at me. I've seen enough to know that I don't wanna be the one on the receiving end.”

 

“Look Joey, can we leave the subject of my temper. I'm embarrassed about it enough as it is.” He grumbled.

 

“Okay, I'm sorry, I'm just too curious I guess.”

 

“You're not the only one. Speaking of which, I was going to drop by Malik's on the way home. I missed a lot of calls from him yesterday I didn't mean to, and I want to make sure things are okay between us.”

 

“No sweat, I'm sure he'll just be glad that you aren't mad at him. You know you mean a lot to him.” He smiled reassuringly.

 

“Yeah, I just don't want him thinking I was ignoring him, and I wanted to talk, not something I wanted to do over the phone. Do you want to come with me?”

 

“Sure.” Joey grinned. “I aint got no other plans.”

 

“Good, I already saw Yugi this morning, that's when I realised like an idiot that I had forgotten to turn my cell phone back on.” Joey laughed with him, before he looked up at the clock and with a certain amount of relief saw that it was time to close up. “Right give me five minutes and we will head over, I just have to shut down everything here.

 

He made quick work of closing up, the routine firmly in his brain and he wanted to get away quickly tonight. He and Joey were on their way, chatting as they always had done as they made their way over to Malik's. Soon enough they were stood outside the door, waiting for an answer. When the door opened they were shocked to see a very tired looking Malik, dressed in only a pair of jeans, in the now open doorway.

 

“Hey guys.” He said tiredly.

 

“ Man, did we just get you out of bed?” Joey asked wide-eyed.

 

“Well actually.” Malik yawned. “You did.”

 

“At this time of day?” Joey questioned. “Man you look wiped.”

 

“I'm just tired. And Ryou, am I glad to see you. Look I'm really sorry, I know I've been an ass and…”

 

“Look forget about it. I'm more worried about you right this moment.”

 

Malik chuckled. “I've never been better, I just need to catch up on some sleep is all. Come on in guys, I want to know all about your evening with Bakura.” He grinned turning and walking away knowing Ryou would be flummoxed. “Oh and you can shut the door behind you.”

 

“Now wait a minute, Malik.” Ryou was astonished.

 

He and Joey looked at each other stunned before following their friend indoors, who had collapsed on the sofa. Ishizu obviously was out.

 

“So just how did you know about me being out with Bakura?” Ryou eyed him suspiciously as he sat at the other end of the sofa. This was distinctly odd.

 

“I have my sources.” He grinned. “And no, I wasn't following you, and neither was anyone else by the way.” He smirked.

 

“Okay, I'm sorry about getting angry yesterday.” Ryou chuckled. But he was distinctly put out about Malik knowing. “But really, what the hell is going on?”

 

“Ah, well that would be your fault, to which I must say thank you. And sorry for being such an ass.”

 

Joey who had been sat uncharacteristically quiet during this couldn't contain it any longer. “Right that's it, you two are gonna tell what you are going on about and right now!” He pouted.

 

Malik and Ryou blinked at him for a moment before bursting out laughing.

 

“Well?” Malik winked at Ryou.

 

“Oh no, I am not saying anything until I figure out just how you knew, just why you are so tired and why the Hell it is supposed to be my fault. That and why you are thanking me for it.” He eyed Malik warily, not sure he liked where this was going.

 

“Spoilsport, I just want to know if your evening was as good as mine.”

 

“Malik!” Joey snapped.

 

“Alright, Ra Joey, chill out.” He chuckled at his irritated friend. “Well…”

 

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Malik was sat on his bed deep in thought. Recent events, along with Ryou being absolutely pissed with him, Joey and Yugi, really didn't seem to be making sense. Not only did Yugi and Ryou have doubles, but it seemed as though he had one as well now! Not only that, but the guy had held his chin and said he was a cute kid. Of course, it had taken a lot of calming down from Joey for Malik to get over the kid bit associated with the cute, but nevertheless, he couldn't get over how damn sexy his own double had been. Sure, Bakura was the shit for Ryou and Yami seemed to be the shit from a distance too, but his guy? He had to top all of them.

 

Hang on - his guy? The argument between Ryou before must have made his head enter the realms of Ra, which wasn't perhaps a good thing. Since when had the other…blonde become his guy? It didn't matter much anyway, but still. Malik sighed, raking a hand through his ten-times preened over locks, tugging at a few strands irritably. Sometimes, in all of his insecurity, he had considered chopping his hair off and seeing what he looked like bald. His sister would murder him, naturally, and he didn't particularly want to die young.

 

Sitting around moping wasn't going to do him any favours, and he decided that he might as well go look for Ryou, if he wasn't already too late. It had been a few hours since the argument, and he had lost count of the number of times he had tried calling him, but Malik figured that the white-haired youth needed some time to calm down. But it still didn't change the fact they had all been mollycoddling him, only because they cared, but still. Ryou was right to say what he did, but Malik, to whom friends meant everything, needed to put his mind at rest, and that meant apologizing right this instant. He was compulsive at times, and this was definitely one of those moments.

 

He was out of the door, wrapped in a jacket before anyone figured out he was leaving the house, and he was walking along the well-trodden pavement slabs towards the centre of town. Maybe Ryou had gone to get a drink or something? It was possible at any rate, though he didn't hold out much hope of finding the kid, though he was determined to at least try.

 

Marik was still seething. Despite Akeifa and Yami trying to calm him down over the whole Seto situation, he was still basically in a foul mood and when he was like this he got reckless. He knew Seto's appearance at Bakura's was a battle cry and one he intended to answer. He made his way to earth quickly, But this time he did a little more than just hide his wings. This time he went to his fully human form. He and a few others had the ability to do this, Seto and Gabriel had the power, Yami when he chose. He had the ability because of his role. It was ironic that his responsibility was not only to help souls achieve heaven, but to also tempt them from the straight and narrow.

 

He stretched out his back as it always took a few moments to get used to the feeling of being wingless and wondered how Bakura had stood it for millennia. Though the human body had its very distinct advantages. The pleasures of the flesh were an easy method for temptation, the upside for him being that it was always a good way to let off steam. It worked for humans and it sure as Hell worked for him. Though whether that was what he would do tonight he wasn't sure.

 

He mused about what exactly to do, going to Bakura's and pounding on the door was not a good option and would only cause more trouble. Movement in the corner of his eye made him turn. He grinned predatorily as he spotted the perfect opportunity. His little counterpart walking down the street. Oh yes, a way to piss off Seto, after all his and Yami's interactions with their counterparts were the reason for his appearance. This seemed a perfect way to state that he was not going to put up with Seto's shit. With a smirk he watched Malik pass him on the other side if the street and head into a bar. The kid was easy prey, he just didn't know it yet.

 

He crossed the street quickly heading into the crowded and smoky environment. Strangely enough he felt at home in places like this, but perhaps it was because it was the setting for many a temptation. He'd bought a few souls in places like this and it was all part of the job. He spotted Malik a little way away, seemingly looking for someone. Well he was about to find someone, even if it wasn't who he intended.

 

Malik huffed in annoyance. No hint of Ryou in the crowded place, though in all honesty, had he expected the chaste, 'innocent' Ryou to willingly enter a place like this? Perhaps not, though he was going to check everywhere before the night was up, and if that failed, he was going to march up to Ryou's front door and wait there all night until he opened the door. Well, perhaps not that long, but it depended on his mood.

 

In fact, what sort of mood was he in anyway? He felt that if he didn't fix things then they wouldn't ever get fixed - it was a bad habit of his to interfere in things that weren't going well, and most of the time he only made them worse. But not this time, no, he was determined to fix this, even if he had to spend all night looking for the particular white-haired youth. Of course, it would have been better should Joey have been with him, at least then he'd have had some company, or at most someone to blame the whole thing on should it go disastrously wrong. No, he wouldn't really blame Joey for everything; they were guilty in equal measures, though that didn't really make him feel too much better about the situation.

 

The smoke wasn't irritating to his lungs any more as it had once been, and nor did the smell of sweat churn his stomach. He was used to the pub and club scene, he enjoyed it in a way, it let him use his 'ulterior personality', the confident face he put on for the masses. Yeah, it never worked with Yugi and the rest, but it worked with everyone else. He was so preoccupied that he never noticed the figure that sidled up beside him.

 

“Lose someone kid?”

 

That voice! He turned, looking left before finally looking right to where his double stood. What the...well, talk about unexpected. The question had thrown him and he stood gaping for a few moments before he tried to dismiss the shocked expression on his face.

 

"Yeah. One of my friends. White hair, you seen him?"

 

Tonight was going to be interesting. Not only had he NOT found Ryou, but he'd found the guy he'd been thinking about, and imagining about, not so long ago for fucks sake.

 

"You mean the one a friend of mine is seeing?” He said almost bored, he didn't want to seem too interested in the pair. “Yeah I saw them earlier. He's fine if that's what you want to know, well as long as sushi doesn't disagree with him."

 

Okay so perhaps spilling the details on what was happening between Bakura and Ryou was a little underhand, but he wanted to grab the kid's attention. Once he had that then the evening really could get interesting.

 

"So for now that leaves you and me, or do you really intend to spend the whole night looking for someone who is doing just fine?" He asked harshly.

 

Okay perhaps he was being a bit mean, the anger from Seto was obviously still with him and he would need to reign that in a touch if he didn't want to scare the kid off entirely.

 

Good Ra, how the hell did this guy know all this? I mean, yeah, Bakura said that they knew each other...but this was taking the mick. Mind, his interest had been peaked, that went without saying, and the fact that he was attracted to the other blond pretty much sealed the fact he was going to pay attention to him.

 

"I was just a bit...well, you know what arguments with friends are like, but damn it to Ra if I'm going to let it fester, but if you're sure he's..."

 

Well, the guy wasn't going to lie to him about Ryou's safety, was he? Of course, Malik was always a little wary of strangers, or perhaps not seeing as how he flirted with nearly the entire population of Domino, but still. He just wanted to know that Ryou was okay, and he knew now...right?

 

"I suppose." Was his reply to the last statement, though he found himself trying to figure the other out a little too much and paying less attention to the words he was speaking than he should have been. Why the hell did they look so alike?

 

"Why do you look like me?" He turned around fully to face Marik, arms crossed over his chest, a quizzical expression on his face.

 

Marik blinked at the strange question before bursting out laughing.

 

"How the Hell should I know, I could ask you the same damn thing. One of those freak of nature things I guess. They do say everyone in this world has their double. We are just lucky to look this good." He smirked.

 

He chuckled to himself, his lavender eyes shining with mirth. Okay, he was feeling better, the kid had a knack for making him laugh, even if he didn't know him yet, he was starting to get why Bakura and Ryou got on so well, the two balanced each other out. Perhaps it was the same with him and Malik.

 

"So kid, just what do you plan to do with your night? We can stay here and shoot the shit over a few beers or you could decide on something else to do."

 

That laugh sent electricity right to the pit of his stomach and it was as though his senses were exploding. What the fuck was this shit? Okay, sexy guy had a sexy laugh, and damn right they were lucky they looked so good. Ha. He'd struck gold, hadn't he? Who knew a night out at where Bakura worked could have turned into such a goldmine?

 

"Luck has nothing to do with it; I call it good genes."

 

And with that, he attempted to pose in his jeans, winking at...the hell! What was the guy's name again? Marik? Funny how their names only differed in one letter. Well, whatever this guy was, he was certainly doing things for Malik's libido, that was pretty evident, as he was pretty much doing his flirting routine again. Hell, despite all the flirting, his bed hadn't seen any action in quite a while, which was pretty damn depressing when he thought about it.

 

"Why pay for beer when I have some at home?" A shrug. Well, it was true, why pay for alcohol when he already had supplies? And like hell he was going to pass up an opportunity like this! Ryou was playing it safe with Bakura, Malik understood that, but since when did Malik ever play things safe himself? Rarely, if at all.

 

Marik raised an eyebrow, Hell this kid was moving fast. He caught the wink and there was very little innocent about it, and that pose... He let his eyes take all of Malik in appreciatively. Okay, he had been messing when he had called the kid cute that night but now he thought about it the kid was more than a little cute. The offer of a beer at Malik's place seemed forward but Hell he was in the mood to cause trouble, and this promised to be more than a little fun, especially if Malik was willing to follow up on the signals he was putting out right now. He smiled at his prey, running through the possibilities, oh yes, this was going to be a very interesting evening. But it wouldn't do well to come across too eager.

 

"Sure, why not." He shrugged. It also saved the issue of him having to procure cash. "Your place it is then.”

 

The fact that he hadn't scared Marik off with his eagerness was a feat in itself to say the least, though he sure as hell wasn't complaining. Usually when he was this forward the people he was trying to charm took the next taxi home, or ran for the hills if it were at all possible. Yeah, he definitely liked this guy already, and damn was he good looking! And plus, its not like you ever forget how to ride a bike, is it? Mind, that was a bad way of phrasing things, though as long as his bad phrases stayed in his head, then nobody was going to be able to call him stupid now, were they? It took a while for the other blonde to answer, though he stopped himself, or more like forced himself, not to get impatient. The night was still young…ish after all right?

 

He sounded pretty casual about it, but casual would do for now; he was eager enough for the both of them it seemed, though he wasn't sure if his confidence would see the night through or not. It was pretty damn strong, his insecurities being held at bay by adrenaline, and he just hoped he'd be able to last the night without starting to wallow in the 'I hate myself' scene.

 

"Well, we'd better get going then?"

 

Marik saw the unease flicker in the human's aura, despite the confident front he was putting on he was an insecure guy. No matter, he could handle it. He stretched his arm round Malik's shoulders, allowing his aura to mingle with Malik's slightly, allowing the feeling of confidence he always felt flow to the other. That should keep the kid on an even keel. He wasn't in the mood for heart to heart kind of shit he'd done that with Bakura recently enough and once in a week was more than enough for him.

 

“Sure thing, you lead the way.”

 

He was fairly propelling Malik forward through the crowd, using his skills to make the going easier for them, and soon they were out of the smoke and sweat and into the fresh night air.

 

"So I guess since I am accompanying you home we had better do a bit of this get to know each other shit huh?"

 

The guy exuded confidence, along with a fair amount of heat as he discovered when Marik's arm went around his shoulders. It wasn't an uneasy feeling, though it did send a few more sparks and jolts up and down his spine. It was strange, that electricity, but he could test that further later on.

 

"It's not far, maybe five minutes. Everyone else should be off doing their own thing too by now" Well, hopefully, anyway, or else the loud music would have to go on, and Ishizu always got a bit pissy with him the next day. It seemed as though they were out of the place quicker than he managed to get in it in the first place, but he supposed it was because...well, he didn't know why it was, nor did he really care. "Thank Ra for people moving out of your way, hey?" He smirked a bit at his own comment.

 

"And yeah, I suppose. So. Bakura said your name's Marik, mine's Malik. Whereabouts do you come from? How old are you? The usual stuff." He could ask more interesting questions later.

 

"Hmm, lets see, nowhere you know and older than you, for now that's all you need to know. But since we are at this I don't care what star sign I was supposedly born under and I'm a workaholic"

 

Okay, lets see if that did the trick and got him out of the awkward questions, he never should have opened up that line of conversation. He didn't particularly like lying; he was still angel enough for that to stick in his craw as did blaspheming. Cursing on the other hand he would do freely and had done in his tirade against Seto earlier. Damn why did it always feel so good to badmouth the Left Hand of God so? Okay distraction tactics, time to point the kid's attention away from the awkward shit and in a direction easier to handle. He leaned in close to Malik's ear with a grin.

 

"What about you? Are you the kind for all work and no play? I'm kinda hoping you're not." He purred suppressing a snigger as he felt the youth tense slightly.

 

Well, the guy sure was a smooth talker, he'd give him that, though he was right; he perhaps didn't need to, or want to know any more than the fact he was older than him. He knew his name at least, beggars can't be choosers, right?

 

"So, you're older than I am, you're a workaholic, and you weren't born here. Neither was I. I was born in Egypt, hence the colouring, though my hair has always had my sis mystified."

 

He smirked, and looked at Marik again, his tongue playing with his own lower lip in a teasing manner. Why the hell shouldn't he tease? And by Ra that question had him weak-kneed, the innuendo so heavy that he damn near ravaged Marik then and there in the middle of the street, not two minutes away from the safe confines of his bedroom. But he didn't.

 

"I play like I live; hard." He purred right back, all tension gone, and a smirk that could rival the Devil's on his face.

 

He grinned, damn that smirk was attractive on his counterpart. Though the confidence was very up, had he gone too far? Nah, it was fucking hot on this kid. Oh and that teasing with his tongue, damn the kid seemed to be stealing his moves. He had seduced a few in his time, he was the Devil after all, but he was starting to wonder who the fuck was seducing who here. No matter, it was turning out to be a bloody excellent night. He could only hope they had the place to themselves when they got there because the things he planned to do to Malik really did require some privacy.

 

He was feeling that prickling he got at the back of his neck whenever he got excited about something, damn the perks of the job. There was the satisfaction of helping souls achieve heaven, but then there was the temptation, and seduction, and he would be doing plenty of the latter tonight. He felt shivers down his spine as Malik purred right back at him. Hmm the distraction had worked, and the results were absolutely delicious.

 

“Hmm, I bet you do kid, I bet you do” He replied. “It better not be fucking far cause you are in for a wild ride tonight. You better hold on tight.”

 

Hell, he knew he was too far gone to even think about stopping the game now; he'd follow through, more than likely, if he had it his way and if everyone was out. If not, there was a lock on his door and plenty of music to start blasting out on the stereo to drown out any...noises that would come out from the evening, though complete privacy was always best. God, was he already planning it out? Or, who was doing the planning? It had been Marik who came up to him, after all, there had to be intention on the part of the other blonde However, Malik really couldn't have cared less. He was, after all, more than game for anything the other had planned, and perhaps more. Hell, at least he was going to be able to brag to Joey about it at some point tomorrow.

 

And fuck it. He wanted a taste of that mouth before they got through the door, which was probably only a few feet away now, and his eyes darted towards the familiar house, but he still grabbed a fistful of Marik's hair and dragged his mouth to his own. It was brutal, anything but sweet, and he ended it before it led to anything else, smirking from ear to ear like the cat that got the cream.

 

"We're here. And don't worry, I'll hold on tight alright." He tested the door, realizing it was locked. That meant his sister was out, also meaning that the house was theirs. He pulled his keys out of his pocket and opened the door, stepping inside.

 

"Come in, make yourself...comfortable." Another devilish smirk.

 

He had been a little surprised by the sudden kiss, but he wasn't complaining, damn this was too easy. He felt the tension, the need rise in him and had to hold himself back for a moment as he watched Malik test the door. A good sign but he couldn't care less right now. All he cared about was getting another taste of that mouth and then so much more besides. He couldn't get through the door after Malik quick enough, slamming it behind them before grabbing him and pinning him to the wall with his body, grinding his hips against his smaller counterpart.

 

“Oh I'll make myself comfortable alright.” He growled huskily in the blonde's ear.

 

This time he was the one to grab a fistful of platinum hair, crushing his lips to the humans in a heated kiss, his tongue delving into the other's mouth with a will. He dominated the kiss, nipping hungrily at Malik's lips, only realizing now just how much he needed this. Damn he hadn't felt this hot in a very long time. He pulled away suddenly, gasping for air almost drunk on the chemistry between them. He grinned eyeing the human lustily.

 

“I plan to make myself very comfortable.”

 

***************************************************************** *************

 

“Right stop right there!” Joey barked. “We get it, you got laid.”

 

“Damn right.” Malik grinned.

 

Ryou on the other hand was shaking his head. “But Malik, you don't even know him.”

 

“When has that ever stopped him?” Joey put in.

 

Malik on the other hand refused to rise to the comments and just sat grinning like the Cheshire cat. “So yeah, he left some time this morning, and I've been sleeping it off ever since. So thanks Ryou. If I hadn't been trying to track you down, it never would have happened.”

 

Ryou smiled puzzled. “You're welcome… I think.” He added confused. “So will you ever see him again?”

 

“I'd better, but he's said he will so, I guess I shall have to wait and see. Either way it was the best fuck I've ever had.”

 

“Way too much detail man!” Joey howled, and even Ryou turned red.

 

Malik just sniggered at his friends. “So how was the sushi?” He asked Ryou with a smirk.

 

Ryou looked at Malik sheepishly, all too aware that Joey was glaring at him for not saying anything about this earlier. “Okay, when I stormed out on you guys I ended up on the park. Bakura saw me and came over. We got talking, we went for dinner. Things kind of turned into a date from there I guess.” He shrugged, but a soft smile crept over his features as he thought about what followed. “We walked for ages, until we ended up in the park looking up at the stars.” He said wistfully.

 

Malik rolled his eyes at the way his friend was seriously becoming loved up. “Ra Ryou, you have got it bad. You haven't even bedded him but you have it bad.”

 

“Alright.” Ryou snapped. “So I haven't leapt into bed with him at the first opportunity like some people. I happen to prefer being careful after the Duke fiasco. I happen to think he is funny, and sweet, and intelligent and a good kisser and…”

 

“Aha!” Malik yelled in triumph. “So who kissed who first?”

 

Ryou blinked, totally thrown by Malik's comment, mentally slapping himself when he realised what he'd actually said. He flushed bright red only making Malik laugh, so he threw a cushion at him, if only to make himself feel slightly better. Even Joey was laughing now. It had been so easy to tell Yugi, but these two… Oh never mind.

 

“Okay, I guess I made the first move, but only because he seemed to be frightened of scaring me off. I think he's a bit new to dating.”

 

“Oh, so you two are dating now?” Joey asked with a grin.

 

Ryou rolled his eyes. This was going to take a while.

 

***************************************************************** *************

 

Yami was seriously holding back the urge to bash his head in against something. “Marik, you do realise that when Seto finds out things are going to get seriously ugly.” He ground out between clenched teeth.

 

“And?” The Master of Hell asked nonchalantly.

 

“He's been sent to earth to prevent you getting too involved.” Akeifa breathed, the worry etched on his face. “When he finds out…”

 

“What the fuck were you thinking?” Yami yelled, losing his temper. “Seto if going to fucking crucify you, and that's if he doesn't bring the Heavens down on us for this little stunt.”

 

Marik on the other hand grinned darkly. “I for one can't wait to face the bastard, and give him a taste of his own righteousness.” He chuckled. “But I don't think that things will get too bad, after all, Bakura is in the middle of all this and making progress, the Lord will not want to jeopardise that. And there are Malik's feelings to consider. Before you ask, he was a willing partner in things, I will be surprised if he has any regrets.”

 

He thought on the events of the previous night, how it had been between them. Yes there had been passion, but there had been heart wrenching moments too, and a connection… how could he explain how the youth had made him feel? There was something between them, something beneath the desire and lust, something that had him missing the presence of his lover even now.

 

Yami on the other hand did not care for Marik's thoughtfulness at this point. “Hell fire Marik, you really have done it this time, this is a fucking mess.”

 

“Be that as it may.” Marik turned to his friend, losing patience now. “I do believe that we will carry on as agreed. If Seto is to be Heaven's repetitive on earth, you shall be ours.”

 

Yami stilled a little, realising they still had a task in hand. “And what of you and your new plaything?” He spat.

 

Marik narrowed his eyes dangerously at Yami's description of Malik, feeling a rush of unfamiliar protectiveness. “That is my business not yours. You know your task, get to it.” He snarled, he would brook no argument on the matter.

 

Yami growled before turning and stalking away angrily. Akeifa had been sat quiet, knowing it was better to let the two vent what they needed to and stay out of this. But right now he was worried, so very worried. He watched in silence as Marik too left the hall to attend to other matters. Seto and Marik would clash at some point and this was not going to be pretty. He closed his eyes and prayed that no-one would get caught in the middle, and that the young men that were unwittingly involved would not get hurt. Chaos had been unleashed.

 

***************************************************************** *************

 

AN:

Whee! My biggest chapter so far. Nell darling, thanks for all your help my lovely. Now, as for the encounter between Malik and Marik, I am contemplating making this available as a side story, but it is not appropriate here and way too long. This is a BakuraxRyou pairing.

 

So yes, our Devil has been stretching his Devil side. While I want to make clear in this story that the Devil is not evil, he is still the Devil and needs to stretch his wings in that respect, which I think he has done quite well. I love the different sides in a character. I was supposed to be doing some Seto and Bakura interaction in this chapter but guys, look how long this is already, you'll have to wait till next time. Speaking of which I must dash so R&R peoples - I am curious as to whether you can spot who was who in our RP session XD.

 

Okay, so perhaps I am not quite done with this note yet. For those of you that care I have a couple of new pieces of fanart.

Firstly a little doodle (I mean it, it is only a doodle) of Akeifa:

http://www.deviantart.com/deviation/56824385/