He Among Us Without Sin

He Among Us Without Sin

Mally-chan & hatochiisai

YAOI WARNING

Disclaimer: We do not own Yugioh. Hato does own Mikado and Ahmose, though.

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Chapter 13

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Marik sighed and trotted outside into the crisp air, taking a deep breath. Ryou was napping, so he was looking for Malik. He found the elf at the archery range with several young Apprentice Agents, upstarts who were dumb enough to pit their skills with a bow against those of an elf.

Malik out shot them every time, but was glad to be doing SOMETHING other than sitting around.

He blinked when he caught sight of Marik. "Oh hey scruffy, what's goin on?"

"Scruffy?!" Marik cried indignantly, laying his ears back. The Apprentices all stared nervously at the werewolf.

Malik chuckled. "Yes, scruffy.” He trotted away from the range, bored with shooting anyway. "So... you look upset... something on your mind?"

"Oh, it's Ryou again.” He sighed. "He absolutely refuses to even acknowledge being part elf. He won't talk about his elven heritage at all, and doesn't seem to want to know anything about elves!"

Malik shrugged. "So? Let him.” He said shrugging and stretching. "It's not like you can force him to give a shit."

Marik rolled his eyes. "Sometimes, I wonder if you're still being affected by that book."

"Pfft." Malik said sighing. "Look, I'm just still not very fond of the kid.” He said crossing his arms. "I'd just as soon not have him part of my race anyway. He's frilly and girly and... annoying."

"And you're cocky and rude and annoying." Marik shot back.

"And you get fleas in the summer." Malik retorted. "Look... I just don’t like him ok. You can love him all you want, but when we're released, I'm going home, and you can go off to your fairytale happy ending with priesty."

Marik's eyes widened and he stared at Malik. "What?!” He gasped. He and Malik had been friends for years. PARTNERS for years!

"I'm going home." Malik said once more. "What'd you think was gonna happen? I'm not gonna follow you around like a lost dog.”

"But Malik... Ryou and me... we AREN'T gonna have any fairytale endings...” Marik mumbled, drooping. "We... we can't."

"Why not?" Malik said blinking.

"Because. He's a priest. And we're both men. We can't. As much as we love each other, we can't. The most we can be is friends." Marik sighed, looking down at the ground.

Malik blinked. "So kidnap his ass.” He said shrugging. "Kidnap him and take him away. Then he's not a priest, he's a prisoner. Prisoners can fuck who they want."

Marik glared. "NO!!!” He cried. "Don't be ridiculous! I'll have Stalkers after me for the rest of my life!"

"Not if no one finds out." Malik said shrugging.

Marik scowled. "No. If Ryou wants to run away with me, then fine. We will. But if he wants to go home... I'm going to take him home."

"So you'll just let your happy ending just walk away?" Malik said a bit surprised.

"I want HIM to be happy." Marik said, ears drooping a bit.

"That's no way for a thief to talk." Malik said calmly, running a hand through his hair. "Take what you want... leave nothing behind."

"He is NOT a... a THING, Malik!" Marik cried.

"Sure looks like one.” He snorted chuckling.

Marik glared. "I'm not amused, Malik."

Malik rolled his eyes. "Marik... the kid was born, and raised to be a priest. He'd never choose you over what he was BRED to do.” He said shrugging.

Marik sighed and nodded. "So be it, then."

"So you will just let him walk away." Malik snorted. "You just can’t seize the oppertunity... the kid would love you forever, and you'll let him walk away."

"Whatever he wants." Marik said. "But wherever he goes, I'll follow."

"I bet you haven’t even kissed him." Malik said snickering. "That's probably why you can so easily say that you'll let him go."

Marik glared. "Well... we'll see how everything plays out... you... you know that Yami is... dead, right?"

"I knew.” He said calmly. "I'm not deaf like that little half elf and the humans.” He said calmly. "The wind already told me the demon died.” He said calmly. "But they're gonna resurrect him."

Marik blinked. "They... they are?! HOW?!"

"Some recipe." Malik said calmly. "For making an Incubus.” He stretched. "No biggie."

"Hmmm...” Marik mused. "How's Bakura takin it, hanging around the Vatican with all those Slayers breathing down his neck?"

"One day at a time." Malik chuckled. "You know him."

Marik smiled and nodded. When night fell and Bakura began roaming, he was a bit annoyed to find Mikado gone. The vampire wanted a snack and he knew that the boy would give him one (if only for the crush he had on the vampire).

Bakura grumbled and closed his eyes in annoyance. Great... no food tonight...

"He'd better be back tomorrow night or I may lose my temper.” He growled.

So Bakura settled for hanging out in the library. Several Apprentices were there studying late, but left quickly when the vampire came in.

As morning neared, the vampire slunk back to his room to sleep away the rays of the sun and dream on a good meal. He was getting hungry.

As the vampire was laying down to sleep, a young priest was rising to greet the day.

He was amused to find a young wolf sleeping on the foot of his bed on his back, legs in the air.

Ryou smiled and reached out, gently rubbing that exposed tummy. "Marik?"

Marik's back leg started kicking and his tongue rolled out as he began to wake to lovely rubbing.

Ryou's smile broadened. "Good morning sleepyhead.” He cooed kissing Marik's muzzle. "Sleep well?"

Marik wagged his tail and licked Ryou's chin, changing to his half form. "Ryou?” He asked, cocking an ear.

Ryou blinked. "Yes?"

"Do you... love me?"

Ryou blushed lightly. "Yes...”

"How much?"

Ryou blinked. "What sort of question is that? How can you measure love?"

Marik laid his ears back a bit. "Would you... come with me, if I asked?"

Ryou looked confused. "Where? Is there somewhere you wanted to go?"

"Anywhere." Marik said softly. "Just... so that we can be together...”

Ryou blinked. "Y-you mean... run away together?"

Marik smiled and nodded. "With me and Malik...? Maybe Ahmose and Yami can come, too...?”

Ryou frowned softly. "Marik... I...”

Marik looked down. "It... it's okay. I understand.” He said.

Ryou looked away, standing. "I... should go...” He said softly. "I'm supposed to be assessed today..” He mumbled hurrying away.

“Good luck!” Marik called softly, after him.

Ryou nodded slowly. "Thank you...” And he hurried out the door.

"I love you!" Came another little call.

Ryou smiled sadly, wanting to reply but he was in the hall where many agents were. A priest professing love to another male wouldn't go over well... especially since the male was a werewolf.

Ryou made his way to the Council Chamber, but it was empty.

Ryou sighed and bit his lip. He thought for a moment, before deciding to seek out one of the councilmen hoping to find out where he would be assessed.

It took about fifteen minutes of wandering, but he finally found a man wearing two shoulder knots, one black and blue, showing him as a Mariner, and one all white, showing him as a Councilman.

Ryou smiled and hurried up to them. "P-pardon me... b-but I'm supposed to be assessed today.” He squeaked nervously. "And... w-well I can’t seem to find anyone... am I to meet them somewhere?"

The Mariner blinked. "Oh, yes. You are supposed to meet with the Healers.” He said with a smile and a little bow of greeting.

Ryou nodded slowly. "Wh-where can I find them?"

"The healers are on the fourth floor. Go up those stairs, take a left and follow the hall until it divides again, go right, and then it's all the way down, last door on the left." The Mariner said.

Ryou bowed and hurried off after a quick thank you.

When he arrived at the room he had been directed to, he found many young Recruits (ages 5-9) in their black and white shoulder knots, and Third and Second Class Apprentices working with Masters, GrandMasters and Elite Healers. Then, over the corner, was the Councilman Healer, working with several GrandMasters who were working towards becoming an Elite Healer.

Ryou's eyes widened. So much for not being nervous or intimidated. These people had dedicated their LIVES to healing! "U-um... excuse me...” He squeaked as he approached the councilman healer. "I... I'm supposed t-to be assessed?"

The man blinked up at Ryou, then smiled. "Indeed you are.” He said. "Welcome!" The Grandmasters looked Ryou over, curiously, and several young Apprentices and Recruits were watching, too. "I'm very glad you made it. We were quite worried when you didn't arrive a couple of weeks ago."

Ryou nodded looking down. "I… I am terribly sorry for that.” He said softly. "S-so what am I to do?"

"Well, I wish to start by hearing about the injuries you healed several times on Journeyman Mikado.” He said. "The first time after his failed rescue attempt, and then when he was attacked at the Outlaw's Village? Describe his wounds, please, their severity and how you healed them.” He said, guiding Ryou to his study.

Ryou blinked. "O-oh... well... the entire village beat him." Ryou said softly. "I'm sure he had a broken rib or two... I think his wrist was broken...” Ryou continued down the list of injuries Mikado had recieved. "He was in horrible shape...”

"And... about how long did it take you to heal him?" The Healer asked.

Ryou blinked. "I... I wasn't being timed... perhaps… half of an hour?"

The Healer nodded. "And when he tried to rescue you?” He asked. The man listened as Ryou listed off Mikado's wounds; the three arrows in his shoulders, the two in his sides, the wrist snapped by the werewolf's jaws, the claws in his back...

Ryou nodded. "About a quarter of an hour...” He replied softly.

The Healer looked shocked that A) Mikado had taken so much damage and lived, and B) that Ryou had been able to heal him well enough and fast enough to save his life.

Ryou blinked. "Oh... um... did I do something wrong?"

"No, not at all... I'm very impressed, Ryou." The Healer said. "With both you and Journeyman Mikado... I will have to speak to the Council about reconsidering his demotion. He showed much courage and determination in his mission that he didn't tell us about. As for you... come with me. Let's SEE what you can do."

Ryou blinked and nodded. "Alright...” He said standing and following the healer.

To his surprise, the Healer led him to Ahmose's room. Ahmose blinked and looked up, scowling, but his scowl faded and he relaxed at the sight of Ryou.

"Remove your pants, please." the Healer said. "Ryou is going to heal your wound."

Ryou turned red. "WHAT?!” He squeaked. "B-b-but that's Ahmose!” He said covering his eyes. "Oh I can’t do that."

The Healer blinked and Ahmose raised his eyebrow. "It's on my thigh, Ryou.” He said. "Calm down."

Ryou calmed down a bit and gave him a sheepish look. "O-oh... because I was wondering what could have...” He paused. "Yami...” He admitted sheepishly.

Ahmose blinked and raised an eyebrow again. "Um... No, Ryou. No."

Ryou gave a relieved sigh. "Alright... good. S-so what happened?"

Ahmose sighed and removed his pants, flopping down onto the bed. "Arrow. Trying to protect Yami."

Ryou frowned and sat next to Ahmose, unwrapping the bandages. "Oh goodness!” He squeaked. "My it's horrid looking!"

Ahmose blinked. "Um... okay...”

"Heal it, Ryou." the Healer said, bending over to watch closely.

Ryou nodded and bit his lip. He gently placed his hands on the wound. They glowed a soft blue and not more than five moments later he pulled them away. The wound was healed completely, no mark remaining.

"Oh, thank you...” Ahmose sighed, relaxing. "It's been throbbing for days...”

"That was well done, Ryou." The Healer said. "You managed your energy very well. Not too much, not too little not to fast or slow... very good."

Ryou nodded slowly. "Ah... thank you.” He said smiling slightly. "And you're welcome Ahmose... I wish I'd have known sooner...”

"Come Ryou. Let's try something a bit more... severe." the Healer said.

Ryou blinked and nodded. "More? where?” He said surprised.

"In the stable." The Healer said. "Do you heal animals?"

Ryou blinked. "I... I've never tried.” He admitted. "But... I imagine I can."

The man nodded. "Come then.” He said with a smile. "This should be a real treat for you.” He said, and guided Ryou down to the stable. Inside, Ryou saw several Rangers (Elite Agents specializing in dealings with natural creatures) and Scouts (who specialized in supernatural creatures), along with GrandMasters working to be either Scouts or Rangers, gathered around a stall. The horses in the stable also seemed quite interested, though Nakhti seemed to be entertaining himself by annoying Strigoi.

Ryou blinked and peered over the shoulder of one man, trying to see what the commotion was about.

"Move aside please." The Healer Councilman said, leading Ryou into the stall. There, on the floor surrounded by several more Scouts, Rangers and Healers, was a pegasus. It's shoulder was torn open horribly, it's leg and wing broken. The Healers had set the breaks, but the animal was still horribly mangled.

"Attacked by a dragonet." The Healer Councilman said. "Can you save her?"

Ryou stared awed. "O-oh my... I've... never seen a pegasus before.” He squeaked patting the poor thing on it's head. "Oh you poor thing...” He gave the healer a look. "I… I can try...”

The animal squealed in pain and thrashed. The Agents all moved in to hold her down so she wouldn't hurt herself anymore. A Scout blindfolded her and cradled her head, whispering to her and stroking her softly.

"Go ahead then." The Councilman said.

Ryou nodded and slowly placed his hands on the wing. He healed the pegasus carefully and it took about half an hour, but soon the thing's wing, side and leg were healed to perfection. He smiled tiredly. "There... all better.” He cooed to the beautiful creature.

The Scouts and Rangers and Healers all murmured to each other, and some of them even cheered softly. The Scouts looked especially delighted. The Councilman grinned.

"VERY well done. With a few weeks of care she'll be strong enough to be released!” He said, watching as the Scouts helped the animal to her feet for the first time since she had been brought in, three days ago. She flared her wings, beating them a few times to stretch out the kinks. Everyone left the stall and watched her prance a bit on stiff limbs, looking around in curiosity. She pawed at the ground as she sniffed about, whinnying. There was an answering squeal a few stalls away.

"Thank you so much!" One of the Scouts said, nearly crying in joy. "We didn't think she was going to make it!!!” He turned, grinning, and Ryou saw another scout leading a foal out of another stall, it's little tail flicking rapidly. It spread it's own wings, nervously. The little creature was released into the female's stall and it rushed over to her. She greeted it with happy noises, licking and nuzzling it as it buried it's nose beneath her belly and began to nurse from her, tail flicking a mile a minute.

Ryou grinned broadly. "Oh they're so beautiful...” He cooed watching. "I'm glad I could help...”

"So are we." The Councilman said with a grin, watching the Scouts and Rangers fawn over the mother and her foal. He chuckled and led Ryou from the stable. "They are enamored with that pair...” He said, leading Ryou back into the Agent Headquarters.

"So... how did I do?" Ryou asked after a moment. "Did I pass?"

The man laughed. "It wasn't a test to pass or fail! It was an assessment of what you can do. And you are phenomenal. I will be reporting your results to the Council this evening."

Ryou smiled and bowed. "I should go then... there is a werewolf in my room eager to know how I did.” He cooed.

The Healer laughed. "You had better go then.” He said, bowing to Ryou. "I will see you soon."

Ryou bowed and bade his goodbye before hurrying back to his room. "Marik!” He called eagerly. "Marik Marik!"

Marik looked up from where he was laying by the fire, chewing on one of his old boots.

Ryou grinned. "I got to see a pegasus!” He said eagerly. "Oh they're so beautiful!"

Marik cocked his head. "Hurr?” He asked, wagging his tail.

Ryou blinked. "Pegasus. They're beautiful white horses with wings!” He said dreamily. "Oh I bet to ride one would be amazing...” He flopped back on the bed. "But Pegasi are so hard to get these days... because they nest high on mountains and no one wants to go that far for a steed."

Marik shook his head, rolling his tongue out in silent laughter. He hopped onto the bed and stuck his nose in Ryou's ear, sniffling. He had learned that THAT got quite a reaction; shrieking, squealing, thrashing laughter.

And that's just what he got as Ryou jerked away giggling and squealing about the cold nose. He threw the pillow at Marik and covered his head with the other.

Marik barked and leapt up, wagging his tail and tugging at the pillow Ryou was hiding under.

Ryou giggled and held it down so Marik couldn't get to him. "Noooo!"

Marik whined and pawed at the pillow.

Ryou smiled and peeped out kissing his nose. "Did you miss me?"

Marik let out an excited bark, shoving his nose under the pillow and licking Ryou's face.

Ryou giggled and tossed the pillow aside, hugging Marik close and burying his face into Marik's dog-shoulder. "mmmm...”

Marik lay down and closed his eyes, panting happily. He slowly changed to his half form. "Let's go get Malik and have a snow ball fight!” He announced, suddenly.

Ryou blinked. "I dunno Marik... I'm kinda tired...” He said softly. "How about we take him shopping tonight? He could probably use some nice winter clothes and new shoes too...”

Marik blinked and cocked his head. "He would like that. He LOVES to go shopping... with a five finger discount...”

Ryou nodded. "Then we can do that after I've rested...” He cooed nuzzling Marik once more. "You're nice and warm."

Marik smiled. "Yup!"

That afternoon, they dragged Malik into Rome to go shopping. He put up a fuss, but stopped quite soon. As evening approached, so did a large snow storm. Ryou, Malik and Marik hurried back to Vatican City and to the Agent HQ. Bakura awoke soon after they arrived and the first thing he did was seek out Mikado. But the Agent wasn't back yet. So he stormed around the place, setting the Agents on edge before finally settling in the library again. Up in Dartz's study, Pegasus had joined his colleague for hot cider as the wind screamed outside.

"Mikado should have been back by now." Dartz mumbled. "I hope it's just the weather that's holding him up...” He said, staring out the window towards the gates of the Vatican, lit by lanterns.

Pegasus nodded slowly. "But if he did elect to bring a live imp back... he will travel slowly to protect it's life.” He said calmly. "Imps are fragile soul-less creatures that are merely alive due to strange circumstance… the slightest thing can kill them."

Dartz frowned. "Perhaps...” He mumbled. He lifted his mug to his lips, but paused and narrowed his eyes. "Pegasus...” The other man stood and joined Dartz at the window. Through the snow, in the light of the lanterns, they could barely make out the figures of a horse and rider entering the Holy City. "Please tell me that's not him... if he's travelling in this storm...” He shook his head and turned, putting his cider down and hurrying out of the room, Pegasus at his heels.

As they hurried to the stables Pegasus ordered a room prepared for whomever it was, as well as a hot bath and meal. "He's completely reckless...” He snorted as Mikado neared, it was apparent now that it was the raven haired youth.

Dartz and the stable boy rushed out and guided the horse into the stable. Mikado was hunched over in his cloak. He lifted his head and looked at Pegasus and Dartz, pale and shivering.

"What are you doing out in this storm!?" Dartz scolded. Mikado winced.

"Had t-t-t-to k-keep m-m-moving... C-Couldn't build a fire t-to stay warm...” He chattered. "M-My arm...” He pulled his cloak aside, revealing a twisted arm, broken in several places and dislocated at the shoulder.

Pegasus frowned, helping Mikado from the horse. "Go to see Ryou.” He said softly. "He will heal you. His assessment was amazing, I can think of no other more qualified to heal you."

Mikado turned and looked back at the horse. There, slung over the saddle, was an imp. Dartz's eyes widened.

"It's alive!!!” He gasped.

"B-Brownies... took my knife while I was resting...” Mikado said. "They untied it while I... chased them... when I c-came back... he c-c-caught me by surprise...” Mikado said.

Dartz looked at Mikado. "You subdued him and got him onto your horse with THAT arm?!" Mikado shivered and nodded.

Pegasus sighed. "Cage it in one of the empty carrier pidgeon stalls.” He said sternly. "Now… to Ryou's room with you.” He said softly. "I will send up blankets. Bathe and a hot meal will greet the three of you.” He said giving Mikado a push. "Go."

Mikado winced and nodded, hurrying across the stable and into the Agent Headquarters. Dartz looked at Pegasus with raised eyebrows.

"Well... he IS determined...”

Pegasus nodded. "I spoke with the demon.” He said as they carried the imp to the carrier pidgeon stall. "He was...” He looked thoughtful. "impish... but not evil. Just a troublemaker. Much like a Brownie."

Dartz nodded. "I see.” He said.

"He showed a mild interest in religion as well.” He said calmly. "He seemed eager to learn about humans. Apparently Ahmose, our sorcerer, was trying to teach him the meaning of love."

Dartz blinked and his eyes widened. "Say what? Love? Hmmm... how interesting...”

Pegasus nodded chuckling. "He's in love with the demon.” He said calmly. "That's why he protected it. The demon was so intrigued with this love, that he desired to understand it.” He explained. "He's got quite a bit of character. Dare I say like a faithful hound. Which reminds me, what was the outcome of the observance of the puppies?"

Dartz sighed. "According to the Scout... they're puppies.” He said with a shrug. "And the sorcerer's horse, while natural, does seem to be under the influence of some magic. Probably boosting his intelligence and making him easier to train. Quite a personality, too. He won't let anyone handle him, though. Not the Rangers, not the Scouts... no one."

Pegasus chuckled. "Then return the puppies to Ahmose.” He said calmly. "He's been calling for them."

"He's also been calling for his weapons...” Dartz snorted.

Pegasus groaned. "Well he'll settle for the pups.” He said walking with Dartz to the small stall where the puppies were being kept. They were huddled together, sleeping soundly. He picked up the ghostly looking phantom hound and the hellhound and smiled as they yawned cutely. "C'mon then. To the sorcerer."

Dartz nodded, following Pegasus. Ahmose was curled up on the sofa by the fire with a book when they walked in. He glared, but seemed to lighten up when he saw the puppies.

The hellhound perked up and squirmed eagerly, tumbling from Pegasus' arms and skittering across the floor to it's master, the ribbon still adorning her neck, with Yami's card.

"They are not evil, after lengthy observation, so we return them to you." Pegasus said calmly.

Ahmose blinked and gave them a look. "Do you think everything is evil?!

"Better to err on the side of caution." Pegasus retorted. "Be grateful."

Ahmose snorted and looked back at the fire, petting the puppies.

"Your brother is back." Dartz said.

"... Where did he go?"

"Pegasus sent him on a mission."

"Oh." Ahmose said. Dartz looked at Pegasus.

"He seems to have brought back a live imp." Pegasus said after a moment. "Sounds to me as though he agrees to your plan."

Ahmose's eyes widened. "You know about that?!"

"Yes." Pegasus said calmly. "I heard.” He said chuckling. "You spoke loud enough the door did nothing to hide it, I have also spoken to your demon friend."

Ahmose's eyes widened. "GIVE HIM BACK!!!"

Pegasus gave Ahmose a firm look. "Your brother and I are going before the high council tomorrow. You will come, and you shall will that he be seen by all... so that they can see themselves what I have seen. That he's just an overgrown Brownie."

Ahmose blinked at THAT comment. "... Overgrown brownie.” He repeated blandly, then cocked his head. "I guess he is, a bit...”

"He's told me a lot of you, and of himself." Pegasus continued. "You've been trying to teach him the meaning of love.” He smiled slightly. "He shows interest in all things. Curiousity of the human customs."

Ahmose blinked again. "He's always been curious.” He said.

"Will you agree to my terms? I will have no resurrections of demons in God's house... but perhaps if you convince the council, and we add things such as holy water, and the blood of our resident unicorn... then the council will allow it.” He said calmly. "Otherwise the chances of the demon coming back are nill."

Ahmose blinked. "... excuse me?!"

"That is what I and the general consensus says is the holiest things in the Vatican." Pegasus said calmly. "We will not resurrect a demon. However he can be resurrected as something more human."

"NO!!! I don't want him to be changed!" Ahmose shouted, leaping up.

"It's either physically changed, or dead forever. Which is worse?" Pegasus said slowly.

Ahmose glared, a purple glow swirling into his eyes. Dartz began to back away. "You are NOT changing him...” Ahmose hissed, holding an open hand out by his side, a vague mist beginning to form in it.

Pegasus shrugged. "Then you will have to live with the fact that he will never hug you, kiss you, or be able to touch you for the remainder of your breathing days.” He said calmly. “He'll be nothing but a shade while you grow old.”

Ahmose growled. "Like HELL!!! GIVE HIM BACK!!!" And he charged Dartz and Pegasus, tackling them both to the floor in the hall.

That's when the little hellhound perked and suddenly charged, biting Ahmose on the ass. HARD.

"YEOWCH!!! Hey!" Ahmose yelped, turning and detaching the puppy from the seat of his pants.

The little dog’s eyes were glowing red and he looked at Ahmose calmly, just hanging from the youth's grip on him.

Ahmose sighed and calmly shut the puppy into his room, then turned and tackled Pegasus and Dartz again as they started to get up.

The dog however yowled loudly and suddenly there was a loud crash, and the door burst into flame behind Ahmose, nearly catching HIM on fire as well.

"JESUS FUCKING CHRIST!!!" Ahmose howled, stumbling away from the door.

The fire spread no farther than the hinges as the hound calmly stepped out and nosed through Pegasus' robes. A moment later it pulled out the amulet and gave Ahmose a calm look.

Ahmose blinked and stared down at the Hellhound. He slowly knelt. "Hey... how did you...?”

It snorted slightly, smoke rising from it's nostrils before turning and slipping the amulet around it's neck, trotting off.

"Hey! Come back with that!" Ahmose cried, going after it.

The dog merely continued calmly walking, giving Ahmose a look over it's shoulder. It snorted once more, rolling it's glowing red eyes.

Ahmose frowned and pounced.

The dog merely stepped aside, sending Ahmose to his face on the floor. It let out a laugh before walking over his back, wiping it's paws on him before catching sight of a young female agent... it's ears perked and it rushed after her.

Moments later Ahmose caught sight of the dog walking between the girl's legs, looking up, instead of where it was going.

Ahmose blinked, and then his eyes widened. "YAMI!!!” He roared, charging.

The dog's ears perked again and it let out another laughing bark sound before scuttling off just as Ahmose tried to tackle him, leaving him sprawled under the now SCREAMING female who kicked him in the shoulder screaming things such as 'PERVERT!"

"OW! Sorry! My mistake! YAMI GET BACK HERE!!!" And he chased after the Hellhound.

Yami let out another barky laugh traveling down the hall (and convienantly under every skirt he passed) turning a corner and vanishing before Ahmose caught up and turned down the empty hall.

Ahmose skidded to a stop and looked around. "Yami? Yami, this isn't funny!!! I do NOT like running around this place half naked, it's COLD!!!"

There was a soft bark from inside a room. The dog was perched quite contently on a sleeping youth and panting harshly.

Ahmose's eyes widened. "Yami!!!” He hissed from the doorway. He held out his hand and his eyes glowed, and the puppy flew across the room and into his arms. "That's enough!!! Maybe I SHOULD let them change the recipe to ressurect you...”

Yami licked Ahmose's hands and nuzzled into him. He gave Ahmose a calm look once more and scratched an ear, pawing at the amulet with his front paw.

Ahmose sighed and removed the amulet, placing it around his own neck.

The puppy blinked, its eyes returning to normal and it yipped eagerly absolutely thrilled to be in Ahmose's arms.

"You need to stop attacking people." Yami cooed in Ahmose's ear.

Ahmose automatically relaxed and smiled. "THERE you are...” He said softly, and smiled at Yami. "Where did you go? I got lonely...”

"Your friend Pegasus took me on a grand tour of the place.” He said giving Ahmose a soft look. "Gave me free reign of the place.” He stretched boredly. "So I've been wandering around most of the time. I'd always stop in to see you though.'

Ahmose blinked. "And... you never said anything...?”

"Sure I did." Yami said calmly. "But you couldn't hear me. It got boring."

Ahmose smiled. "Well... in that case, show me to the armory! I want my stuff back!"

Yami frowned but nodded. "Alright...” and he trotted down the hall, down the stairs at the end and down another corridor. Finally they reached the armory. "It's in that trunk there.” He said pointing to the familiar golden trunk.

Ahmose nodded and walked over to the thing, reaching for the lid. "... it's not trapped, is it?"

"I dunno, I can’t open it... I kinda lack, you know... a body." Yami said calmly. "I just know that that's the one."

Ahmose sighed and grabbed the lid of the trunk, flinging it back.

There was no trap. Just his clothes within.

Ahmose pulled everything out and put them on. "Finally... now where are my weapons...”

Yami pointed to a nearby shelf, the kris sitting there. "That's them."

"Ah." Ahmose said, grabbing them and the other weapons he found with them and sticking them into his belt.

Yami flicked his tail. "Why do you need all those extra weapons?"

Ahmose snorted. "Because."

Yami raised an eyebrow. "You... know I can’t leave right?” He said after a moment.

Ahmose blinked. "Huh?"

"I can’t leave." Yami repeated. "That Pegasus guy did something to your amulet. If you leave this place...” He shook his head. "I can’t leave."

Ahmose's eyes widened. "WHAT?!"

Yami frowned. "I'll show you..” He said walking out and towards the main hall. Once there he motioned to the door. "You can leave... but I can’t.” He nodded to Ahmose, who cautiously opened the door. Yami sighed and stepped towards it... the instant his foot crossed the threshold several ghostly silver chains sprouted up from the floor and siezed him, tugging him roughly back from the door and hold him captive in the center of the room.

He growled and snapped at them annoyedly. "See?"

Ahmose stared in anger and despair. "That... bastard! He has no RIGHT!!!"

Yami groaned struggling. "Think you could shut that door?” He said after a moment. "I'd like to get down now.” He struggled more.

Ahmose closed the door, watching Yami.

"Now put me down, I won’t leave." Yami grumbled sourly. Slowly, each chain disappeared lowering Yami to the ground as they did. He dusted himself off and growled. "So I'm stuck here.” He said once more. "I can wander around the building all I want... but I can’t go outside.” He sighed. "Trust me I've tried a thousand times. Pegasus gets a good laugh sometimes, because if no one shuts the door, or window or whatever, I'm just stuck there until someone does."

Ahmose growled. "I think I'll use HIS blood to resurrect you...” He snarled, heading for the stairs. Dartz in the meantime had called out the Hunters. Technically, Ahmose was still a prisoner, so having him running amok was not allowed.
"Ahmose... he's the one who sent Mikado to get the imp." Yami said after a moment.

Ahmose blinked. "What?"

"He sent Mikado to get the imp. It's outside somewhere... probably in the stable." he said once more. "Mikado got back tonight. He's in Ryou's room. He's the one who sent him to get it." Yami gave Ahmose a soft look. "He was a little bit hurt, but Ryou healed him up. They're probably eating now."

"Hurt? What happened?!" Ahmose asked, eyes wide and worried.

"Something about Brownies taking his knife... and when he chased them they untied the imp." Yami explained. "It was just a hurt arm. He's fine."

Ahmose sighed and nodded. "You KNOW why Pegasus is keeping you here, right?"

Yami nodded slowly. "I do."

"You know he wants to... change you?!"

Yami nodded once more. "I... know.” He sighed. "Ahmose... it's either let him have his way... or I'll spend the rest of eternity trapped here...”

Ahmose scowled, shaking in his fury. "Damn him...” He hissed. "I don't WANT you to be different!!!” He shouted. "I'll KILL HIM!!!"

Yami frowned. "That'd just get you killed!" Yami howled. "Then we'll REALLY be separated! You'll pass on and I'll be trapped in this place for eternity!"

Ahmose snarled, then turned and stormed up the stairs, looking for Pegasus.

"Ahmose stop!" Yami yelped, hurrying after him. "Ahmose if you try to kill him he could banish me!” He said worriedly. "Not to mention have you executed or something crazy! These Christian people are nuts! They kill their own God! Don’t think they won’t kill you too!” He squeaked.

"Shut up!" Ahmose snapped, more angry than Yami had EVER seen him.

Yami blinked clamping his mouth shut and looking worried. He followed worriedly.

Several Master Agents rounded the corner, but with one wave of his arm, Ahmose had plastered them all to the walls, and they were stuck there.

Yami bit his lip as he followed, and was almost too nervous to look when Ahmose found Pegasus.

Ahmose broke into a flat out run the moment he saw Pegasus, eyes glowing brightly. Dartz yelped, eyes wide. "WHERE ARE THOSE HUNTERS?!” He cried, drawing his sword.

"He's a powerful sorcerer." Pegasus said calmly. "He probably took them down easily." He gave Ahmose a warning look. "Make a move against me, and the demon will suffer!” He called warningly.

"Ahmooose...” Yami said worriedly. "I REALLY think you should listen to him...”

With a flash of his eyes, Dartz and Pegasus yelped and found themselves pinned against the wall and unable to move, Ahmose holding a knife to Pegasus' throat, glaring him in the eyes.

"Alright you God damned cock sucking son of a bitch...” Ahmose growled. Dartz stared at him, appalled at his language. The Hunters ran in then and skidded to a stop, staring. "I'll resurrect him YOUR way... but if there are significant physical changes... or ANY personality changes... you will pay for it in BLOOD!!!"

"Ahmoooose!" Yami whined from behind him. The chains were back and were seemingly trying to tear him in two. "Put him down, GODS put him down! Ahh ahh! OW!” He forced out trying feebly to struggle.

Ahmose growled again, fingers twitching towards his blades, but a moment later, Pegasus and Dartz were released and fell to the floor.

Yami was released in similar action, falling to the floor panting softly. "Ow...” He whimpered. "I can’t feel my wings...” He groaned panting softly.

Ahmose glared at Pegasus, his eyes, the amulet around his neck and Kris at his sides glowing.

Pegasus glared back. "I warned you." Was all he said.

"And I have warned you." Ahmose hissed as the Hunters moved in on Dartz's orders. He quickly turned and glared at them, daring to lay a hand on him.

Pegasus nodded. "Then I will have the materials gathered.” He said calmly. "If all goes well… tomorrow night.” He stood, leaving without more words on the topic as the Hunters lead Ahmose away carefully.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Mikado clenched his teeth, trying not to cry out as Healers set his broken bones for Ryou heal.

Ryou looked at Mikado worriedly and stroked his hair as the healers worked. "Shh it'll be ok...” He whispered. Once the bones were set, he went to work trying his hardest to dull the pain.

Mikado began to relax as Ryou healed the breaks. Finally, with one Healer holding Mikado and the other his arm, they popped it back into his shoulder.

"HNNG!!!" Mikado exclaimed through clenched teeth, then relaxed, panting as Ryou eased the pain and healed him. "God... That hurt...”

Ryou smiled once his work was complete. "It's good to see you back... Bakura's been looking for you.” He said softly. "He's hungry."

Mikado blinked and raised an eyebrow, then rolled his eyes. "Figures... Well, he can wait. I'm gonna go take a bath...” Mikado grumbled, shivering as he stood and headed both the baths.

Ryou smiled and nodded standing. "Thank you.” He cooed to the healers, going to his bed as they left his room. He pat Marik's head. "You look cold...” He grinned and flipped the blanket onto him.

Marik smiled, changing to his human form once the Healers left. "I am."

Ryou smiled and snuggled under the blankets as well. "mmm warm."

In the baths, Mikado was having the exact same reaction. But then he realized that he wasn't alone. He blinked.

"Oh. Malik."

Malik smirked, sitting in one of the large in ground tubs. "Luxurious baths here.” He said calmly smirking.

Mikado blinked. "Um. Yes. They are.” He said, sinking down to his chin to get warm.

Malik began washing. He wasn't any bit of shy and didn't seem to care at all that Mikado was there.

Mikado didn't really mind bathing with other people, hell, he did it all the time. But THIS person happened to be an elf who had shot him five times and thrown him to a group of hungry vampires... Mikado wished he had at least his knife near at hand.

"I was cursed." Malik said suddenly.

Mikado jumped. "What?!"

"I said I was cursed.” He looked over his shoulder. "Large ears pick up soft whispers in the wind.” He said calmly. "And yours says you are uneasy. I'm not an asshole. I was cursed. I'm actually quite nice."

Mikado blinked. "Ummm...” He mumbled, flushing a bit.

Malik sighed standing from the tub after rinsing off and walking over to the towels. "Consider it.” He said trotting out in only the towel.

Mikado blinked a few times, then submerged his head. He sat there under the water for a quite a while, before finally popping up again to breath. He sighed and leaned back, opening his eyes.

"Hello." Said Bakura, hanging over him.

"GYAAAH!!" Mikado shouted, thrashing and splashing as he went under again.

Bakura smirked. "You've been a VERY bad little mortal…” He hissed, shedding his coat calmly, followed by the dress shirt.

Mikado's eyes widened as he pushed his sopping wet hair out of his face. "W-W-What?! Bakura, God, don't scare me like that!!!"

Bakura merely folded his coat, stepping out of his shoes as well. "I should think after your massive absence that I can scare you however I see fit.” Then went the pants.

Mikado's eyes only got wider. Once he realized he was staring, he shook his head and backed away. "I was sent out on assignment, Bakura. I'm an Agent. It's what I do. Now... what are YOU doing?!"

"Taking a bath." Bakura said stepping into the water calmly. "Same as you."

Mikado eyed Bakura suspiciously. "Uh... right...” He said, scooting over a bit.

Bakura rolled his eyes and picked up the soap, beginning to wash.

Mikado slowly grabbed another bar of soap, following Bakura's example.

"Assignment or not it is rude to walk out on a guest, after ferverently begging said guest to stay." Bakura said after a moment, washing his arms.

Mikado blinked. "Um... when I left you were technically still a prisoner, I think...” He mumbled.

"And your guest." Bakura snorted. "Your hospitality is atrocious."

Mikado snorted. "I didn't have a CHOICE, Bakura."

Bakura gave Mikado a short look. "And then you leave without telling me. I had no time to prepare for a fast."

Mikado gave Bakura a look. "My ASS!!! At your age, you can easily go a week with out feeding!” He cried.

Bakura smirked. "At MY age?” He turned a fierce gaze on Mikado, staring him straight in the eye. "What do you know of MY age?"

Mikado blinked, then smirked. "You are currently nine hundred ninety seven years of age.” He said, surprising Bakura. "You were originally born in Egypt and were given the name Kurah-Akeifa. You were a slave, but escaped and became known as Touzoku-ou, the Theif King. But you were taken by Itemri, the Timeless of the South, one of the Four First Vampires, who sired you. He gave you a crash course on what you were and how to survive, and then abandoned you, all in one night. You left Egypt and began to travel. You headed east to an island that calls itself the Land of the Rising Sun. There, you abandoned your Egyptian name and took on the name Bakura before returning to Europe. After traveling around for a while you finally settled down in the house you now live in, and that's where you have been for the past three hundred years." Mikado prattled off, giving Bakura his life story in a nut shell... and quite honestly, scaring him a bit.

Bakura smirked once more. "So you study your schoolboy crushes do you?” He said chuckling.

Mikado's face turned a bright red and his eyes widened. "E-Excuse me?!” He yelped, staring at Bakura in horror. "I am an AGENT!!! You are not only one of my informants, but a VAMPIRE!! It's my JOB to know everything about you!!!"

Bakura smirked, inching closer to Mikado. "Oh is that your cover story?” He hissed. "And what of wandering eyes?"

Mikado's "wandering"eyes grew wider. "W-What?” He squeaked, backing away.

Bakura grinned, eyes never moving from Mikado’s. "You want me to love you... don’t you?” He asked seductively. "Don’t you?"

Mikado's eyes threatened to pop out of his head as he hit the far wall of the bath. "W-Whah?!"

"Do you dare deny your admiration? Your sinful lust for a vampire...” Bakura hissed.

Mikado just squeaked, leaning away from Bakura.

"I am not hearing a no." Bakura said after a moment. "A lie by omission is still a lie.” He warned. "And you are in God's house."

Mikado trembled a bit and gave his head a little shake.

Bakura raised an eyebrow, eyes still locked with Mikado. 900 years had taught him the art of hidden hypnosis... and he had Mikado trapped. "Admit it... be honest...”

Mikado whimpered slightly and his eyes seemed to dull a bit. His lip trembled. "... Yes."

Bakura chuckled. "You're a naughty little human... hiding under the wing of God in the guise of a holy man... and lusting for a vampire...” He said calmly. "Your eyes wander my body and you think I do not notice... you crave what all creatures crave... the most carnal desires... don’t you?"

Mikado whimpered again, nodding shamefully, the cross around his neck glittering at the movement.

Bakura smirked. "How badly?"

Mikado squirmed a bit and whined, staring at Bakura pitifully.

Bakura's eyes flashed. "Answer me mortal."

The boy's eyes widened again. "V-Very... very much...” He panted, squirming again. "So... very much...”

Bakura chuckled running a hand through Mikado's hair and cupping his cheek. "You desire to be fulfilled... you are hormonal... young, needy and new.” He hissed wickedly amused. "Your body calls for it, screams for it and your eyes caught me...” He trailed the hand lower, tracing the scars of his fang marks. "It's why you allow me to feed isn't it? Because you crave I want more than just blood...”

Mikado blinked. "P-Partially...?”

Bakura chuckled. "You're a horribly naughty little mortal... feigning innocence in a church... is lusting for another man not a sin in itself? Let alone a male vampire...”

"L-Lusting... in itself... is a sin...” Mikado gasped.

"Yet you still do it...” Bakura pulled Mikado by the chin, ever closer. "You lust for me."

"I... I can't help it...” Mikado whimpered.

Bakura chuckled gazing deeply into Mikado's eyes, his own flashing once more. "What is it you lust for?” He hissed, lowering his head to feed, while Mikado described his fantasies.

Mikado gulped loudly, tilting his head to the side and panting slightly. "I... I want...” He shuddered and moaned when he felt Bakura's fangs pierce the skin of his neck. His head fell back and he wrapped his arms around Bakura's shoulders, digging his fingernails into the vampire's back. "Oh God...”

Bakura fed calmly, chuckling darkly. "Continue...” He purred around Mikado's neck, continuing his feast.

Behind Bakura, the door opened silently and a Second Class Master walked in with a towel. He took one look at what was going on in the tub, then whirled and ran. He burst out into the corridors. "SLAYERS!!!” He screamed. "SLAYERS!!! VAMPIRE!!! IN THE BATHS!!!"

And as Mikado, under Bakura's hypnosis, revealed his fantasies to the feeding vampire, the Slayers were hurrying to the baths, led by Pegasus, who knew Mikado was there.

Bakura smirked, licking the wound closed when he'd had his fill and stood, raising Mikado's chin. "Naughty little mortal... but your fun has been cut short by your comrades... perhaps those fantasies shall meet fruition one day... but not this day...” He whispered, leaving but a kiss on Mikado's parted lips before striding away and seeming to blend with the shadows, before the Slayers arrived.

"Spread out!!!" The Slayer Councilman ordered, and the Slayers scattered throughout the area. The Slayer Councilman ran across the room after Pegasus, who had caught Mikado before the boy had slipped under the water. He helped him haul the Journeyman out of the tub. He checked him over, then looked at Pegasus. "He's been drained and weakened, but he'll live. Give him a couple of days to recover.” He said. "What do you want me to do about the vampire?"

Pegasus frowned. "I'm not sure... he did not kill the boy... and he hasn't fed on anyone but this one. We should wait until Mikado's aware and ask him what he thinks.” He said after a moment. "We don’t know how long it's been since the vampire ate."

"True...” The Slayer grumbled, obviously hoping that Pegasus would instruct him to kill the vampire. "Do you need help getting him to his room?"

"I can manage." Pegasus said calmly. "The vampire will not leave the Vatican. Not without his horse.” He chuckled. "Guard the horse."

The Slayer raised an eyebrow, but chuckled. "Okay.” He said, leaving the baths. Mikado turned his head and blinked up at Pegasus, dully.

Pegasus chuckled and gently patted Mikado's cheek. "Wake up from your hypnosis Mikado... The vampire has gone.” He said calmly.

Mikado blinked and shook his head a bit, and his eyes widened when he saw Pegasus. "S-Sir!!!” He bolted upright, but groaned and nearly went cross-eyed, slumping back down again. "Oh fuck...” He groaned. "My head...”

"Calm down. Your Vampire friend fed on you." Pegasus explained calmly. "Are you alright?"

Mikado rubbed his head. "Y-Yeah, I think so... Sir, I would like to at this point in time lay before you the argument that I don't go looking for trouble, trouble just happens to find me."

Pegasus laughed. "The Slayers wanted to know what you wanted done to Bakura for feeding on you?” He offered amused.

"What? Slayers? WAIT!!! NO NO NO, DON'T HURT HIM!!!"

"I thought you'd say that...” He said smirking. "I told them to guard his horse. You would do well, to warn your vampire not to feed in the bathing chambers."

Mikado blinked, then flushed bright red, suddenly very conscious of his nudity. "Uh... y-yes sir...” He mumbled.

Pegasus offered Mikado a towel and rolled his eyes. "Goodnight Mikado."

Mikado wrapped it around himself. "Yessir... thank you sir...” He mumbled, slowly getting to his feet and hurrying to dress. From there, he went straight to the Confessional. He entered and made the Sign of the Cross over himself. "Bless me, Father, for I have sinned...” He mumbled, glancing at the screen that hid the priest from view. "It's been... two... three weeks, I think... since my last confession.” He winced when the priest sighed. The man knew Mikado quite well through the confessional... he always had some of the more... entertaining things to confess, and like clockwork, the first confession was always the same... cursing...