The Thief and his Willow

The Thief and his Willow

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Chapter Nine: The Golden Laced Wedding Dress

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As delicate as ever, Ryou eats his dinner neatly. He cuts his apple with a small knife, slicing it perfectly before inserting the small piece into his mouth, and onto his awaiting tongue. Whenever juice would spill over his lips, he’d take his napkin, and gently dab at his mouth and chin.

Across from Ryou, Bakura would watch with eager eyes as he, too, ate. However, he did not eat as fair. He did not have to, he concludes, for he is a man and Ryou is a woman. He takes a chunk out of his full apple, ignoring the juice that spills down his own chin. Watching Ryou, Bakura couldn’t help but think of his encounter with Jalal the night before.

Smirking, Bakura wipes at his chin using the back of his hand. He takes a quick sip of wine before saying, “Last night, I heard something rather interesting.”

In between chewing, Ryou looks over at his master with wonder.

“I have this friend,” Bakura smiles. “He has been invited to a large party for the fancy folks. And he invited me, but only if I could find myself a date.” Bakura stands to his feet, and as he walks over to kneel before Ryou, Ryou understood where the conversation was flowing. “Ryou, I would really love for you to be that date.”

“Me?” Ryou looks down. “B--but Bakura…”

“Master!”

“Sorry,” Ryou squeaks. “But Master, what if something goes wrong?”

“Nothing will go wrong,” Bakura says. He stands again, quickly going around his bed. He kneels down, and begins to move boxes. Ryou sits, watching in curiosity as Bakura takes out a heavy-looking box. Setting the box on his bed, Bakura opens it, taking out a broken watch and some old books. “I -- have the perfect solution.”

And he pulls it out, the dress that once belonged to his mother.

Ryou stared in awe at it. It, laced with delicate white patterns and golden-laced ribbon at the ends of its sleeves and long, dashing skirt. Placing a part of apple to his chin, Ryou smiles unwillingly. He couldn’t help but find the dress mesmerizing, and Bakura took notice.

Shyly, Ryou whispers, “It’s beautiful.”

“I would very much love to see you in it,” Bakura says, Ryou hinting the truth in the thief’s words. Though, Ryou could hardly muster what the thief had just spoken. He drops the piece of apple, never focusing his attention away from the dress’s dazzling texture.

“You’re kidding,” Ryou shakes his head. “Right?”

Smirking, Bakura carries the dress over to Ryou. He holds it out, just demanding that Ryou touch the smooth fabric by facial confidence, alone. “Do I look like I’m joking?”

No.

Eyeing the dress one final time, Ryou begins to remove the robe he always wore.

“No,” Bakura stops him. “Don’t change out here. Change in the washing room. I want to be surprised.”

Those words sliced through Ryou like ice, filling him with slight fear. Was Bakura serious? It would seem so. Only able to nod in discomfort, Ryou gently takes the dress. It was more soft at touch than what he’d expected. He prayed he would not accidentally cause a shred or tare. Backing away from Bakura, Ryou turns around and disappears into the washing area. And Bakura sits, eager to see how his slave looks in the finest dress of all.

Minutes passed. Bakura began to grow anxious, obviously understanding the kid was having trouble putting the dress on. But shortly, Bakura hears a soft creak. He stands, watching the door leading to the washing area open leisurely.

Only seconds later, Bakura watches with bedazzlement as Ryou steps out.

Perfection! That was the only thought Bakura could muster. Ryou stood, the dress fitting tightly, yet perfectly over his fragile body. The turtle-necked dress laced around Ryou’s throat, coming down over his flat chest and over his arms, those golden ends matching perfectly around the kid’s small wrists. And the dress flowed smoothly down him, over his abdomen, it ended just at his ankles, leaving his bare feet visible.

Bakura paced a few steps forward, admiring every curve. And his wicked, traveling gaze left Ryou feeling nervous, and almost afraid. He did not even wish to think of what Bakura’s mind was pondering. He saw that same hunger in the man’s eyes when the daring thief had first removed Ryou’s clothes just two nights ago.

Just inches from Ryou, Bakura softly whispers, “Beautiful.” He hadn’t even realized what had escaped him before it was too late, and he saw panic written over Ryou’s face. Shaking his head, Bakura brushes his hair back. “I mean, you look good. Perfect for a party.” Turning around, Bakura goes back over to the box, digging until he pulls out two golden slippers. They were not high-heels, and he was sure they’d fit Ryou’s medium-sized feet. He drops the slippers in front of Ryou, ordering that he try them on. Ryou does. He was rather shocked, for the shoes fit just right, plus they were beyond comfy. If he were forced to dance at the ball, he’d definitely withstand blisters. “Great. You will go with me, and be on your best behavior. The party is a week away.”

Only one week away…

--

Bakura lead Ryou through a grand hallway, one as such never seen by either of their eyes. The place was gigantic, monstrous, yet so breathtaking. Made of marble, it shined clear, blue colors. The floor was slippery, and Ryou did his best to keep from slipping in the golden slippers. The night was young, and he had just arrived at the place of the party with Bakura’s wrapped around his waist. He was a bit uncomfortable, demanded by Bakura to wear a corset, and fake breasts to make it appear as if he had some chest on him. Both made it difficult to breath, but he was thankful Bakura wasn’t too hard on him when the thief used his strong arms to tie the corset.

They stood in line with hundreds of people, all dressed to perfection. Ryou was quite amazed at the fact that Bakura had put on a nice black robe with matching sashes and polished, black padded shoes. He looked handsome, though Ryou not dare admit that out loud.

And he, himself, looked marvelous in the dress. Bakura also had demanded Ryou put on a dab of fine make-up, but not enough to cover his natural angelic features. His hair had also been tied back. He disliked it, for it itched and felt tight, but he knew it made him appear more feminine and dashing. Yes, many men have already pierced his way, eyeing him with such lust. At that occurrence, Ryou found himself stepping closer to Bakura, knowing that, even though he hated the thief, Bakura would keep him well protected.

Looking forward, Ryou saw them closing in on a large group of marble steps. At the very top, Ryou took notice of the Lord of the enchanting palace. He was another, Ryou knew, of the High Lords that rule the land. All couples were to first introduce their selves to the Lord before they could enter the party. Ryou had already witnessed two stowaways get carried away. He prayed that he and Bakura would make it past.

Sensing Ryou’s stress, Bakura gently squeezes his willow’s hand as they descend up the steps. Their turn soon comes.

A slave, with his head held high, speaks: “Please present yourself to Lord Muddo!” Bakura bows, Ryou following, but before he could Ryou just had to take in Lord Muddo’s wobbly appearance. The man literally jiggled like jelly, his skin the color of mustard. He had warts on his round, fat face. He had a small, circular nose, green eyes, and a rather large mouth. He wore a single green kilt, which Ryou was thankful for, since his witnessing Lord Zorc’s nasty nude form.

“High Lord Muddo,” Bakura said. “I am Sir Bakura, granted invite to make your acquaintance by Jalal Hashem.”

“Bakura?” Lord Muddo asks. He wipes at his wobbly chin. “Are you, if I might ask, the Bakura who so stupidly snuck into the lair of the Lord known as Zorc?”

A bit satisfied he was popular, Bakura nods his bowed head. “I am, Lord.”

“What you’ve done is quite fascinating,” Muddo laughs, forcing his entire body to bob. Ryou tried hard not to laugh, as well. He liked this Lord. “So tell me, Bakura, how is that shallow scumbag doing these days?”

“He’s quite happy,” Bakura answers. “He sits on his ass all day, and he gets entertained by different, beautiful women each week.”

Again, Muddo laughs. He scratches forcefully at his jelly belly. “That Lord Zorc has not changed. Not at all! So, you say you were invited by Jalal, were you? How is it that you know that man?”

“He sells slaves over to Lord Zorc,” Bakura answers.

“I see, I see,” Muddo nods. His attention, then, falls onto Ryou. Ryou’s entire face flushes over, knowing the Lord’s eyes were luring him over. “And who, might I ask, is this enchanting beauty?”

“This is Rye,” Bakura smiles. “She is my fiancée. We are to be wedded quite soon.”

“Ahh,” Muddo nods. “Splendid! Splendid! And what a lovely, indeed.”

Ryou was surprised by Bakura’s words. They were to be wed? Ryou tried relaxing, trying to understand that Bakura only spoke false to the fact that Ryou was nothing more but a slave.

Muddo rubs at his belly again. “Indeed! Well, I allow you and your lovely fiancée to enter my domain. Enjoy the party, Sir Bakura.”

Bakura bows a final time as Muddo demands his slave to introduce them. Ryou had to admit, he rather liked Lord Muddo. He had heard from his father that most Lords were of kind nature, and he could see that Muddo was one of those many. Ryou even noticed that Muddo had male slaves, unlike Zorc, the demander of women.

As Ryou stands next to Bakura, the announcer shouts, “Please welcome Sir Bakura, and the lovely Miss Rye!” As crowds of dancing and drinking guests turn heads their way.

--

Jalal, dressed in fine blue and green, sipped at his red drink. He stood near a small buffet table, watching fellow acquaintances and strangers dance. Standing beside Jalal was his date, the fiery woman whom Jalal told his secret plan to. She wore a lovely long red dress that covered over with sparkles and lace.

“So Jalal,” she smiles. “Is whom you’ve told me about really going to show his self?”

“Oh, he’ll come.” Jalal grins, taking another sip.

“Well I do hope so,” Jalal’s date giggles. She places her hand on his shoulder. “I really want to meet him.”

‘Please welcome Sir Bakura, and the lovely Miss Rye!’

Jalal’s ears perk. He turns, as does his date and many other heads. Bakura stood there, his arm wrapped perfectly around Ryou’s waist. They resembled a ‘perfect couple.’ But the moment Jalal’s eyes spotted them, his eyes could not help but gaze over Ryou’s fineness.

His own date, her eyes wondering over the couple, notices a spark in his eyes. “Is that him, Jalal?” She receives no answer. Jalal’s eyes never left the couple, watching as they walk down the stairs to join the partiers. Again, she tries, “Jalal?”

Snapping from Bakura’s view, Jalal turns to his date. “What?”

“I asked if that was him,” she says, rather aggravated.

“Indeed, it is,” Jalal says. He is a bout to go greet them, but they were already walking in his direction. Bakura had spotted Jalal first.

Grinning, Bakura pulls Rye closer as they step in front of Jalal and his date. Bakura nods his head. “Jalal.”

“Bakura,” Jalal nods back. “Well, I’m a bit surprised. I didn’t think you would come.”

“I never lie,” Bakura smirks. “If I say, “I’ll be there,” I’ll be there.” Bakura turns to Ryou. “May I introduce my beautiful date, Rye.”

“Of course,” Jalal takes Rye’s hand. “I remember Rye. Bakura tells me you’ve been treating him right. Tell me, what is you secret?”

Yes, Ryou remember this scumbag. The man had taken her form her father, had made a deal with her father to keep her protected. He was rude, yet devilishly handsome and kind. Besides, Ryou had to thank Jalal, in a way. Ryou ended up with Bakura, and he assumed the thief wasn’t too terrible.

‘What am I thinking? Ryou shakes his head, and he puts on his best fake smile. “I remember you, Sir Jalal. Hello again.” Ryou bows.

Glad to be remembered, Jalal places a kiss on Ryou’s hand. “Pleasure.”

At that second, Bakura tensed with rage. How dare Jalal? The bastard! But watching Ryou pull his hand back, Bakura saw a look of anger in the kid’s eyes. He hated the kiss, so it would seem. Perhaps Jalal had rough lips?

“And allow me to introduce my date for this evening,” Jalal turns to her, she thankful he had not forgotten. “This is Cleo.”

Bakura takes her hand, kissing it as well. Cleo smiles, her eyeing Bakura like a wild tigress. “It’s nice to finally meet you. Jalal has told me so much. Have you really met with Lord Zorc?”

“I have,” Bakura nods. “And I am his attendant.”

“Mm,” Cleo nearly moans. She takes a bite out of a cherry. “Fascinating.”

Ryou may have had the body of a man, but just watching Cleo’s eyes told him all. She seemed far too interested in Bakura, and Ryou was rather worried. He clutches tightly to Bakura’s hand, Bakura noticing. He smiles. “Well, it was nice meeting you.” Bakura turns to Ryou. “Would you like to dance?”

Dancing sounded fun. Smiling, Ryou nods, allowing Bakura to lead him on the dance floor. The ball continued playing soft music, and this made Ryou a bit nervous. He never got into slow dancing, and only did it a few times with his mother in their living room. He never imagined doing so in a huge mansion, being led by another man, a terrible thief! ‘Let the sweat roll.’

He faces Bakura, his arms forced to entwine with Bakura’s body. As his right hand meets Bakura’s shoulder, the thief takes his left hand in Ryou’s as his other takes the boy by the waist. Smirking Bakura asks, “Have you ever done this before?”

“Only a few times,” Ryou whispers, “With my mother.”

“Don’t worry,” Bakura takes lead. “It’s not as hard as it looks. Just try following me.”

Minutes fly, the music flowing throughout the room as many couples danced in rhythm. Ryou understood swiftly, and he found himself quite enjoying the dancing. He even smiles, Bakura taking notice. “You’re quite good.”

“Thank you,” Ryou smiles brighter. That smile -- Bakura found himself melting. As the music grew faster, so did the couple. Ryou found himself twirling. On occasion, he accidentally bump into Bakura, only to end of laughing with entertainment. He was having a blast, and Bakura allowed him, not wanting that laughter, nor that bright face to disappear.

As they dance, a thief and his willow, both felt carefree, powerful. At that moment, Bakura was no attendant to Zorc, and Ryou was no slave. At that moment, they were a sparkling couple, fully complete and invisible to those around them.

But they were being watched.

Jalal glares, his eyes burning with rage. He knew he was evil for thinking of such things, but he felt disappointed knowing he could not have Ryou. To him, the slave was innocent Rye, a young, female slave full of attraction and beauty: an angel. And yet he could not have her!

Cleo also stood, feeling slight attraction as she watched the couple dance. Only, her eyes were roaming elsewhere. She watches Bakura, sucking lustfully on a cherry’s stem as her dark eyes drift to between the thief’s legs. Ooh, did she crave to think what lie beneath. The man was so handsome, much more than Jalal. And being the sluttish little devil she was, Cleo knew she wanted him.

Soon, the dazzling couple grew exhausted. Leaving the dance floor, they head for the buffet. Ryou nearly drooled at the sight of delicious desserts, eyeing things he has not eaten in years. From custard cups to chocolaty rolls, Ryou looked over at Bakura, asking his master if he could possibly have just one using the puppy eyes of a lifetime. Just one?

“Help yourself,” Bakura whispers to his pet. “But remember, you are an etiquette lady. Don’t stuff yourself.”

Nodding, Ryou grabs a tiny plate, and piles it with two cakes: a chocolate and vanilla, and a custard cup. Bakura looks around for the drinks. When he spots the table, not a few steps away, he tells Ryou he’ll be right back. Ryou nods, delicately taking a bite of his cake as Bakura makes way for the drinks.

Chance came to Cleo perfectly. Slowly, she prowled her way towards Bakura. He was filling two glasses with red wine. She reaches him, and touches his shoulder.

From where he stood, Ryou noticed Cleo walk over to Bakura. He watches Bakura turn, and the two began to talk. Suddenly, Bakura looked angry. Ryou pondered why, and watched with sudden shock as Bakura allowed Cleo to lead him away. Curious, Ryou began to follow.

Jalal saw the whole thing. He could not believe how much of a slut Cleo was, but he wanted to know what would happen. He smirks, drinking at his glass. He allows Cleo her fun, for soon he would be boasting in his own glory.

--

“What the fuck do you know?” Bakura demands, having been led to an empty room, complete with bed. “What has Jalal told you?”

“Plenty,” Cleo brushes her hair back. She smirks, hers just as evil as Jalal’s. “He really enjoys talking about you and your life. I know he’s jealous, but he can be so annoying.”

“Don’t tell me shit about Jalal I already know,” Bakura glares. “You come to me, telling me shit about Jalal threatening to hurt Rye. What the fuck do you know?”

“I rather get something out of telling you,” Cleo smirks, un-tightening the straps to her dress. “You see, Jalal told me of this devious plan he has. I promised him I wouldn’t tell, but it’s difficult for me keeping secrets.”

Smirking, Bakura said, “I bet!”

Cleo pouts. “Anyway, if you really wish to know Jalal’s plans, you’ll have to force it out of me.”

--

Ryou stands outside the room, it slightly opened. He peers in.

--

“You know, you’re a real…” Bakura is interrupted, startled as Cleo’s lips trespass onto his own. She moans flirtatiously, trying to allow her tongue entrance, but Bakura would not have it. He pushes her away, making her fall to the floor. He shrieks, rubbing at her behind. She glares up at him evilly.

“How dare you,” she yells. “No man turns me down!”

“Well then,” Bakura rubs his lips, trying to get her scent off. “I guess I’ll be the first! Good day, Miss Cleo.”

Bakura begins to walk, but Cleo’s scratchy yell interrupts his step. “You’ll never discover Jalal’s plan until it happens!”

“That’s fine,” Bakura turns, smirking. “I love surprises.” And he exits, making his way to find Ryou.

Little did he know, Ryou had witnessed the kiss. He peered in, just as Cleo’s lips locked onto Bakura’s. Immediately, Ryou backed away, feeling rather heart-achy. He did not understand why, but he felt as if he needed to get away!

So he decided this was his chance to run away.

He makes his way through the crowd, trying to get to the exit as he tries hard not to burst into tears. A sudden hand stops him.

“Leaving so soon?”

Ryou turns, facing Jalal. “Sir Jalal. I -- I was just…”

“Come have a drink with me,” Jalal leads Ryou to the buffet. “You look as if you’ve just seen a ghost.”

‘No,’ Ryou shudders, thinking to his self. ‘Something far worse.’

--

Bakura reenters the party, his eyes hunting for Ryou. He did not see the boy. “Ryou! Ryou!” He makes his way through the crowd. Finally, his eyes focus, and he catches glimpse of Ryou’s white hair. The kid stood, talking with Jalal. Angry, Bakura makes his way over.

--

Ryou accepts the drink, taking a small sip. Jalal sips at his own drink. “It is delicious. What a very fine wine.”

“Yes,” Ryou coughs. He sets his glass down. “But it’s a big strong. I thank you for the drink, but I -- I really must go.”

“Go?” Jalal grins. “Go where? You have nowhere to go, Rye. You belong to Bakura, but soon -- soon you shall belong to…” Jalal pauses, staring hungrily at Ryou. Ryou grew afraid, and as he feels a hand latch onto his, he immediately panics. But he turns to find that it is Bakura’s hand in his.

“Come Rye,” Bakura shouts. “We’re leaving!”

“No,” Ryou yells! He tries to run, he tries getting out of Bakura’s strong gasp. “I don’t want to leave with you!”

Where was this coming from? Bakura would deal with it later. Growing more furious, he yells, “You come with me now! Or else!”

Bakura pulls on Ryou’s arm harshly. Ryou shrieks, and he stares with terror. He could only nod. Bakura, keeping his eyes off Jalal, leads Ryou from the party.

Jalal takes another sip. He watches as a Cleo comes back towards him. She looked awful. Jalal knew that Bakura had turned her down. The thief was too much in love with his little slave, Jalal could tell. And he knew fighting for the slave would be a challenge. But with his devious plan set in motion, he knew he’d achieve his goal, and get all that he desires.

--

As he is dragged back to Bakura’s chambers, Ryou tried hard not to cry. But Bakura was so filled with anger, he hardly took notice of the red mark forming around Ryou’s right wrist.

Once they enter Bakura’s chamber, he release Ryou. Ryou stumbles back, falling onto his bed. He rubs at his wrist, turning his attention away from Bakura’s icy glare.

“Do you mind telling me what the fuck was wrong with you in there?” Bakura asks. “What did Jalal say to you?”

“Nothing!” Ryou cries. “He did nothing! It was you!”

“What the fuck are you talking about?” Bakura demands, stepping over Ryou. Ryou shields himself, hoping Bakura wouldn’t kick him. “Answer me, damn it!”

“You’re disgusting, that’s what!” Ryou shouts. “You kissed Cleo!”

“I…” Bakura pauses. He raises a brow. “What?”

“I saw you kissing her,” Ryou said as he wipes a tear. “I followed the two of you, and I saw you kissing her!”

Bakura understood, but he was rather angry that Ryou assumed something had happened. “First of all, that bitch kissed me! And second of all, I pushed her the fuck off! We did nothing!” Both men gasped for breath. Ryou stared, his eyes searching for truth. Bakura soon found himself chuckling. “Oh, I get it now. You’re jealous!”

“I am not!” Ryou screams. “You are!”

Bakura, slightly shocked, points at himself. “Me?”

“Yes!” Ryou stands to his feet, feeling brave. “You were the one who came over and dragged me away from Jalal. You thought I wanted to be with him instead of you!”

They both freeze, both heaving heavily. Bakura takes a step towards Ryou. “I was not jealous!”

Ryou crosses his arms. “Well, neither was I!”

Agitated, Bakura turns away, rubbing at his head with frustration. “You know, you are a real pain in the ass! I don’t even know why I thought I wanted you.”

Suddenly crying like a baby, Ryou hugs himself close. “I hate you!”

Turning to face Ryou again, Bakura moves closer, watching more tears fall from Ryou’s eyes. He does not stop walking until he is right in front of his crying slave. “Say that again…”

“I hate you!” Ryou shouts. “I hate you! I hate you!” Growing more courage, Ryou pounds at Bakura’s chest, never stopping his tears. The pounds weren’t enough to cause Bakura pain, but he grabs Ryou’s arms, forcing him against the wall. “I hate you Bakura!”

Leaning his head in, Bakura seductively whispers. “You will call me Master…”

And whispering back, Ryou counters with, “Make me…”

Their lips smash together, Bakura forcing the willow into a kiss. Holding the willow’s arms against the walls, he does not care that the willow struggles as he pulls and licks at his willow’s lips. Soon, he pulls away, releasing Ryou as he takes a step back.

Slowly, Ryou places two fingers to his lips. He stares up at Bakura, the thief pondering what Ryou was thinking. He soon gets his answer.

Without a thought of hesitation, Ryou took control as he kisses the thief, sensually tasting and teasing. With their lips locked, with their tongues playfully rolling along the other, both the thief and the willow once again found themselves invisible to the world as they fall onto the awaiting blankets below.

-Chapter Nine End-

Holy crap! I turned twenty on November 16th. I am now twenty! Holy CRAP! And I hope you enjoyed this hot, fun chapter. Please stayed tuned for Chapter 10! WOOT!