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 18

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It was nearing dinner when the Agents arrived, Mikado (in pajamas and a cloak, tied up) in tow.

Yami flicked his tail and once more sought out Ahmose. "Your brother's back.” He said peering in. "They should be getting him inside in a few moments...”

Ahmose nodded and he and Yami rushed down. The Council was out on the steps, waiting, though their confusion upon seeing the Journeyman bound and in his pajamas was... obvious to say the least. The lead Slayer pulled Mikado off of the horse and slung him over his shoulder.

"Jerk." Mikado grumbled as the Slayer that Bakura had slashed up went to the Healer Hall. The leader of the group carried Mikado to the High Council, giving them irritated looks.

Pegasus was the first to speak. "Why is he bound and in pajamas?” He asked after a moment.

The Slayer snorted. "Are you sure he was kidnapped from HERE? Cuz I sure feel like we just kidnapped him from THERE!!!” He snorted and dropped Mikado down at Pegasus' feet, the boy landing on his butt REALLY hard. "He did NOT come quietly."

Pegasus blinked. "Mikado... what's going on?” He asked giving the youth a stern look.

Mikado blinked. "They scared me to death!!!" Mikado whined, squirming.

It was about then that Yami and Ahmose made it down to the steps, and they circled around until they found a good place to stand.

"Do you mind explaining what happened?"

Mikado scowled. "I was asleep and the next thing I know they grab me with their hands over my mouth!!!" The leader rolled his eyes.

"I covered your mouth to keep you quiet while waking you. But then HE went and shouted at the vampire, waking him up!"

"I didn't want you to kill him!!!" Mikado howled. "My butt is cold!!!"

And that's when a startled yelp came from Yami, and he toppled back in the snow, staring at Mikado wide-eyed. Slowly... oh so slowly… a wicked grin spread across his face.

Everyone blinked at Yami. Ahmose looked down at him. "What, did Dartz pray at you again?” He asked, smirking.

Yami shook his head, grin broadening. "No... I saw something... very interesting.” He said, eyes locked on Mikado.

Mikado blinked, then his eyes widened. He looked down. "What?! These pajamas aren't see-through, are they?! Oh God!!!"

Yami's tail curled in interest. "Nooo... they're not...” He snickered. This was rich!

Ahmose glared. "Yami, stop being an ass, or I will pray at you and leave you here in the snow."

"Only if your brother stands out here too." Yami purred. "He's a masochist... oh I adore masochists...” He said smirking at Mikado wickedly.

Mikado blinked and raised an eyebrow. "Excuse me? Masochist?"

Yami nodded. "Oh yeah... your aura SCREAMS 'spank me'.” He said smirking at Mikado. "Know what ELSE it says to me?"

Mikado blinked. "My aura? What?"

"Yami, don't be an ass." Ahmose said again.

"I'm not.” He flicked his tail. "You should be more concerned with HIS ass anyway.” He smirked at Dartz. "He's got something in common with you."

Dartz blinked, kneeling and untying Mikado, helping him up. Mikado still didn't look happy, since he was barefooted in the snow.

Yami slowly stood as well, dusting his back end off. "Oh I can’t wait to tell Ryou! He's the only one left!” He laughed hugging himself with his wings.

Ahmose turned and glared, and made the Sign of the Cross. "In nomine Patris, et Filii, et Spiritus Sancti."

Yami toppled over and growled. "Oh that's it." and he disappeared in a puff of smoke.

Ahmose blinked and rolled his eyes kicking the invisible demon slightly. "You're annoying the hell out of everyone, Yami. If you're gonna say it, say it."

Yami growled at Ahmose. "Mikado got fucked.” He snorted tail lashing.

Silence met THAT announcement. Ahmose blinked a look of confusion crossing his face. Mikado's eyes widened significantly and a look of horror washed over his face, along with a dark blush.

Pegasus gave Mikado a harsh look. "Is this true?"

Mikado turned and stared at Pegasus, looking more scared of the man than Pegasus had ever seen him.

Pegasus eyed him down before glaring slightly. "Get him cleaned and to confession and penance.” He said sternly after a moment.

Mikado blinked several times, but looked extremely releived as Dartz sighed and dragged him off.

Pegasus glared after. "Do not think that is all you'll be getting, Mikado...” Pegasus called after him. "There is much to be considered about an Agent who willingly gives himself to a vampire."

Mikado winced and looked down. "Y-Yessir...” He mumbled. Solomon looked at Pegasus.

"And how did this all happen, Pegasus?” He asked, smirking slightly. "The boy IS under your care and authority... YOU were the one who found him in his village and brought him here to the Vatican. YOU were his Master when he was an Apprentice."

Pegasus gave Solomon a look. "Oh Solomon? And what happened to Nikolas? He was YOUR apprentice.” He snorted back. "Now quiet yourself. This whole ordeal has me reeling."

Solomon chuckled. "Nikolas was a victim of our lack of information. We're lucky he was not killed. As a vampire has he not contributed much to our organization over the past decade? Our knowledge of the vampires increased exponentially thanks to him. And he IS one of our best Slayers now."

Pegasus narrowed his eyes. "Perhaps Mikado is just a victim of bad blood and rash temperment.” He grumbled. "I'm not his caretaker any longer. What he does after he leaves my care is NOT my concern."

Ahmose whirled, eyes glowing. "Bad blood?!” He hissed, glaring at the man. "Rash temperament?! He's a teenage boy!!!"

"And look what he has for a brother." Pegasus snorted. "A sorcerer who freely gives himself to a DEMON."

Yami snickered slightly.

Ahmose growled, walked right over to Pegasus, and backhanded him.

Which resulted in him being pulled back roughly by several Hunters. "If I were you sorcerer... I would watch where I tread." Pegasus hissed. "We ALL know who your weakest link is...”

Ahmose growled, struggling with the Hunter's. "Do NOT treat my brother like a bad seed!!!” He snapped.

"We can treat him how we see fit." Pegasus growled. "And when he acts like a bad seed, he will be TREATED accordingly.” He rolled his eyes. "Take him and that demon back to his room."

"DAMN YOU!!!" Ahmose shouted. His eyes glowed and snow began to swirl in the courtyard. "I won't let you treat my brother like a delinquent!!!" And a moment later, the snow took on the shape of a large dragon, flaring open massive wings of snow and baring teeth of ice. The Agents stared, eyes wide; this was new...

Just as it looked like the dragon would attack, Pegasus uttered a few words, and there was a loud yelp as the snow where Yami had been sitting suddenly flared up as though something had been dragged roughly through it. Yami appeared, as he was dragged towards the church by familiar silver chains.

He howled and fought viciously. "PUT ME DOWN! OW!” He yowled, digging his claws into the frozen ground before yelping as he was ripped from his grip and sent flying backwards. He flared his wings and tried to fly against the pulling, but soon the chains siezed his wings and he became the victim of the Vatican's very own 'rack'.

Pegasus gave Ahmose a look. "Put away your toy or I take away your boy.” He smirked.
Ahmose's eyes widened in fury and the wind swirled up around him, the snow coming with it. When it died away, the Hunters were encased in ice and Ahmose pounced Pegasus. The pair yelped as they fell down the stairs, struggling.

Pegasus seized the amulet as they fell, smashing it against the stairs, successfully destroying it and thankfully landed on top, pinning Ahmose and glaring down at him as Yami let out a pained scream.

"Ahmose knock it off!” He howled in absolute agony.

Ahmose's eyes widened and stared down at the peices of the smashed necklace, then turned back to Pegasus. He snarled. "Now you die...” He hissed. He reached out and picked up the largest peice of the purple stone. It glowed and grew into a large knife like shard, and this Ahmose lunged for Pegasus's throat with it.

"Kill me and the demon dies too... you'll never break the spell fast enough...” Pegasus hissed grabbing Ahmose's wrist and twisting harshly.

"AHHH!!!!" Yami howled, and a sickeningly loud -crack- was heard.

Ahmose glared up at Pegasus, breathing harshly in his fury. "I swear... you WILL pay for this...” He hissed, dropping the shard.

Another loud crack and a near-sobbing howl of pain. "Keep pressing your luck." Pegasus growled. "I'm already disinclined to let him down. But keep pressing me... and I'll see just how long he can take it before he is ripped in half.” He warned.

"What kind of a holy man are you?!" Ahmose hissed, glaring at the man in pure loathing.

"The kind that doesn't take crap from any lowlife sorcerer. There is no sin in using any implements necessessary to do the job.” He snorted. Another crack and scream.

"STOP IT!!! YOU'RE HURTING HIM!!!" Ahmose shouted, punching Pegasus across the jaw.

As soon as Ahmose's fist connected there was another crack and Yami could only let out a sobbing hoarse howl of pain.

Solomon frowned. "PEGASUS!!! Enough! That demon has done nothing wrong! We do NOT hurt the innocent!"

Pegasus shoved Ahmose away and glared warningly. "Watch your step...” he hissed. The chains disappeared and Yami fell harshly to the ground, unmoving.

Ahmose glared, getting up. "And you watch your THROAT... or I just might cut it...” He growled, turning and running for Yami.

The snow around Yami's wrists and ankles were stained red with blood. The stretching had torn his skin in various places, and he was panting harshly, tears falling down his cheeks. "I hate this realm...” he sobbed. "I HATE IT!"

Ahmose dropped to his knees beside Yami, holding him. "We're leaving.” He said softly. "As soon as we can."

Yami whimpered and squirmed trying to get away, but too weakened and pained to move. "I want to go home...”

Ahmose inhaled, held it a moment, then let it out. "... Okay...” He said softly.

Yami sniffled again. "He broke my necklace for you...” He choked out and winced. "And I can’t feel ANYTHING...”

"Shhh...” Ahmose said softly. "If I take you out of the Vatican, can you get home?"

Yami sniffled and nodded. "Come with?” He whimpered.

Ahmose sighed, standing with Yami in his arms and turning towards the door. "Not now. Go home. Heal. I want to make sure my brother will be okay. Come back for me tomorrow? Then I will go with you. We can rest for a week or two... Is there any way for me to give my brother the ability to contact me in your world?"

Yami nodded and closed his eyes. "Mom's gonna give me such a lecture...” He mumbled irritably. "I'm not sure if I can come tomorrow... I'm pretty sure I have a broken bone or two... if I can’t I'll send a friend.” He cooed. "So... try not to attack anything that's 'evil'."

Ahmose blinked then smiled and nodded. "Okay...” He said, walking out of the Vatican. He frowned at the Agents still standing outside, talking; they were in his way. He glared around and began to push his way through them, eyes flashing when he saw Pegasus.

Pegasus glared back but neither made a move as they were both tending to their wounded.

Yami whimpered again. "My poor wings...” he grumbled softly. "I can hear her lecture now...” He groaned.

"Shhh... it'll be okay." Ahmose said, moving across the snowy courtyard. The large ice dragon watched, silently. Ahmose carried Yami out of the gates of the holy city and out into the field.

Yami let out a sigh of contentment. "That place is stuffy...” He mumbled closing his eyes. "Thank you Ahmose... I promise I'll get you a new necklace...” He gave Ahmose an adoring look. "Once I can move."

"Take your time." Ahmose said with a smile, and gave him a gentle kiss.

Yami chuckled and nodded slowly. "It hardly takes any time at all to be healed in my world..." he mumbled before closing his eyes. He disappeared in Ahmose's hands, leaving the raven-haired teen's hands tingling as small fires disappeared from them. No pain at all, just a very tingly sensation.

Ahmose sighed deeply, already missing him. He turned and headed back to the Vatican. The Agents were all still outside, watching the ice dragon. Ahmose waved a hand, and the beast disappeared in a snow flurry.

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

Ryou saw Mikado on his way down the hall, headed to penance and he offered a kind smile. It was late in the evening, but he didn't exactly feel like seeing Marik...

He sighed and went to his room, pulling on a cloak and hurrying out to the stables. Maybe he could spend some time in the city...

A Ranger and a couple of Scouts were in the stable, a few caring for the pegasus and her foal, another for a unicorn, and the Ranger caring for the horses.

Ryou smiled at the pegasus and looked over to the Ranger. "Can I borrow a horse for the evening?” He asked softly. "I... was hoping to go for a ride."

The man smiled. "Of course.” He said. "Do you have any preferences? Mare? Stallion? Gelding?"

Ryou gave him a dumb look. "Um... the one that won’t be mean?"

The Ranger laughed. "Hold on.” He said, and moved away to another row of stalls.

Ryou blinked and waited patiently, looking around curiously.

A Scout smiled at him from where he was tending to the pegasus and waved. "Thank you so much for your help! She's doing wonderfully!"

Ryou grinned. "You're welcome! She's so pretty...”

The Scout nodded. "Yeah... she is magnifiscent. We'll be able to release her and her colt in about a week."

"It'll be sad to see her go." Ryou said softly. "And so rare to see them as mounts... I will miss looking at their pretty wings." Ryou grinned.

"Oh, we have a treat for you, then. Look what came in yesterday." The Scout said. "Hey! Timothy!" Another Scout appeared from another stall, holding a bundle in one arm, and a bottle in the other. He smiled as soon as he saw Ryou and walked over.

Ryou blinked confused and tilted his head to the side, curious to see what Timothy was holding.

He moved to show Ryou. In the bundle was a tiny fluffy mass with a very human face, but large paws clinging to the bottle.

Ryou blinked. "What's that?"

"An orphaned Maticore cub." The Scout said, and moved the blankets to show Ryou the scorpion tail and tiny pin feather wings.

Ryou blinked and eeped backing up. "Aren't those a bit dangerous?"

The Scout chuckled. "Wild Manticore are. But they can be tamed and trained. They're the dragons' only natural predator. We have a couple here, the Knights take them with them when they have to slay dragons."

Ryou wrinkled his nose. "Not nearly as pretty as a Pegasus!"

The man laughed. "True. But they're incredible creatures. Noble and loyal…"

Ryou shook his head. "I like the pegasus better.” He giggled. "She's beautiful!"

The man laughed. "Have you met the unicorn?"

Ryou blinked and shook his head. "No...”

He smiled and turned. "Go on down. I gotta take care of this little girl."

Ryou blinked and walked further down the stable, looking for the unicorn.

The unicorn was almost all the way down. He was prancing a bit, a female Scout caring for him. She smiled at Ryou.

"Hello." She said, stroking the animal's neck.

Ryou squeaked. "Oh he's pretty!” He gasped. "So gorgeous!"

She nodded. "He is magnifiscent... He has an injured hip... you can't tell by looking at him, but he can't be released... he'd die...” She said, kissing the animal's forehead.

Ryou inched closer and looked over the unicorn. "Oh he's so pretty... can I pet him?"

She smiled. "Since you're a priest, and almost still a child, I think he'll let you... usually unicorn stallions will only let young female virgins and children near them. But he should sense your Holiness." She explained. "And he isn't glaring at you, so...”

Ryou blinked and smiled reaching out to touch the unicorn. He gently stroked it's muzzle. "You're so beautiful...”

The unicorn perked up and turned, sniffing at Ryou and lashing his long this tail, the silky hair at the tip flicking over the Scout's cheek, making her giggle. "Ooh... he LIKES you!" She exclaimed. "Wow! I've never seen him take such a shine to a boy before."

"It's his Elven blood." Said Aiden, getting a horse a few stalls away. He looked over at them and smiled. "He senses Ryou's Elven blood, so he trusts him."

Ryou narrowed his eyes. "Don’t start. I've had QUITE enough talk of that subject to last me well past death.” He snorted pulling his hand from the unicorn.

"I'm merely stating a fact." Aiden said. He sighed and walked over. "I'm leaving tonight. I read that book. And now we know what has happened to Seto.
We sent him to collect a talisman of evil power. We didn't know that only half elves could handle it, like your book. So Seto has been consumed by the evil power. I'm being sent to get the talisman and bring Seto home.” He smiled. "Thank you for bringing us the book. We may have never known what to do if it weren't for you."

Ryou glared slightly. "It is only a physical fact. And good luck to you then.” He said turning back to the unicorn.

The Scout sighed. "Good luck, Aiden." She called, and the Agent left.

"Ryou!" The Ranger called. He was holding the reins of a young chestnut filly, prancing a bit. "Cinnamon here is a real sweetheart."

Ryou smiled and nodded. "Hurray! I can go out!” He cheered proudly, and took her reigns. "Thank you so much. I'll be back soon.” He led her out and smiled. "You're a nice horse aren't you?” He asked rubbing her muzzle.

She nickered and snuffled him over in interest, and pranced eagerly, happy to be outside in the snow.

Ryou smiled and mounted her once they were out the main gates of the holy city. "Lets go.” He cooed urging her forward to ride through the snow.

The filly pranced off, seeming to be in very high spirits. Rome was beautiful. The windows were lit, and decorations were starting to be seen for Christmas; the Vatican would be decorating the next day.

Ryou sighed in contentment, just looking at the sights. "Do you know any good places?” He asked, despite knowing the horse couldn't respond.

She perked and watched a man on a bay stallion pass by on the other side of the street.

Ryou laughed and gave her a playful swat. "Noooo."

She gave a little squeal and went on her way, tossing her head a bit.

Ryou smiled and continued riding the mare until the sun had set. He finally went back to the Vatican after dark and helped put the mare away. He walked to his room yawning.

Marik was on the bed in his wolf form, asleep. He was whimpering and barking a bit, and twitching; probably chasing something in his sleep.

Ryou sighed and undressed, climbing into bed.

Marik yipped and lifted his head, blinking at Ryou. He wagged his tail and laid his head down again, happy that Ryou was there.

Ryou gave Marik a look. "I'm still sore at you.” He mumbled shaking his head. "But at least Aiden is gone."

Marik's tail stopped wagging, and he whined sadly, ears drooping.

Ryou sighed and reached over, pulling Marik into a hug. "Good night Marik...” He cooed softly, kissing his forehead just the same.

But to Ryou's shock, Marik changed right under his lips, and the next thing he knew, he was being held and kissed by the werewolf.

Ryou squeaked and blinked shaking his head and nuzzling Marik. "I love you...” he cooed.

"I love you too...” Marik breathed, kissing Ryou again.

Ryou giggled and closed his eyes quite happy to be recieving the kisses he'd always imagined.

Marik sighed and ran a hand up and down Ryou's side, and it took Ryou quite a while to finally realize that Marik was naked... AND in plain sight... AND aroused!

Ryou's eyes widened and he blushed a dark crimson. "M-Marik... ummm...” He squeaked shocked.

"Hmmm?" Marik asked, kissing Ryou's cheeks and stroking his hair.

"You're um... naked." Ryou squeaked pulling the blanket over his head. "And um...”

"And? You've seen me naked before." Marik said.

"You're... um... um...” Ryou whined. "You need a cold bath."

"Or you...”

Ryou blinked. "Me?! Oh no it's most definatly you!"

"No... I don't need a cold bath. I need YOU."

Ryou blushed under the blankets. "You can’t be serious!"

"Oh, I am VERY serious...” Marik chuckled. "Oh Ryouuuuu... I'm coooold... can I come under the blankets?"

Ryou squeaked and scooted away. "No!"

"Awwww... Why noooot?"

"Because you're naughty!" Ryou squeaked. "And you're bad!"

"Why?" Marik asked, sniggering.

"I'm not going into this!" Ryou whined. "Cold bath!"

"But Ryouuuuuu...” Marik whined. "Pleeeeease?"

"Oh fine...” Ryou mumbled. "But you stay on YOUR half of the bed."

Marik quickly wriggled under, and ended up RIGHT next to Ryou. "So... which is my side?” He asked, smooching the boy.

"That side!" Ryou pointed, squirming away and nearly falling off in his embarrassment.

"Awwww...” Marik whined, wrapping an arm around Ryou. "Don't fall off, dear...”

Ryou whimpered. "Mariiiik on your side...” He sniffled.

Marik whined and retreated to his side, but stared at Ryou.

Ryou squirmed back onto his pillow and pouted. "No." he said softly. "We can’t."

"Whyyyyyyyyy?"

"Because... it's still a sin...” Ryou said looking away. He sighed. "Besides... We're in the Vatican."

Marik pouted. "Awwww... come on... Mikado had sex!!!"

"Do I look like Mikado?" Ryou asked giving Marik a look. "Just because he jumps off a cliff doesn't mean I will too."

Marik frowned. "But Ryouuuuu...” He whined again.

Ryou pouted at Marik. "Marik... I... I just...” He looked down. "A sin is a sin...”

"God will forgive!!!" Marik wailed.

"Do you want my first time with you to be because you begged me?" Ryou reasoned.

Marik whined even louder.

Ryou whined back.

"Hmph...” Marik grumbled. "Fine." And he started jerking off.

Ryou squeaked. "MARIK!” He howled covering his head with the pillow. "In the bathroom!"

"But it's COLD in the bathroom!" Marik whined, holding back a laugh.

"Go!!" Ryou whined louder. "Stop that or I'll use the magic on you!"

"WHAT?!"

"I'll do it!" Ryou warned. "Go do THAT in the bathroom!"

"You'll do WHAT?!" Marik demanded to know.

"Use the spell that sends you flying." Ryou warned.

"But that HURTS!!!" Marik whined.

"Then don’t do THAT in my bed!"

"Fine, fine...” Marik snorted, getting up and running naked to the privy.

Ryou sighed and shook his head, settling down to go to sleep.

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

"My Lord?" Lillith asked, walking into Bakura's room, where the vampire had been all day after she had run out with a blanket and saved him from the sun. "Will... Will you be... bringing Master Mikado home?"

Bakura growled. "Of course.” He said furiously. He'd been fuming since they'd taken him. "Have Strigoi readied."

She curtsied. "Immediately, my lord. You... don't think he's hurt, do you?"

"He's fine." he snorted. "The church wouldn't hurt their own pet."

"... Of course... I will have Strigoi readied... should I... have Geist readied as well? He seems to like Master Mikado, and Master Mikado likes Geist...”

"Yes, be sure they're both fed and ready for a long and fast ride."

She nodded. "Right away." And she left the room. And within half an hour, she returned. "They are ready, Master."

Bakura nodded. "Pack onto Geist a warm cloak and blanket.” He added. "I will be down momentarily.” He was readying his own cloak. It would snow again that night, giving him extra time to arrive safely back.

In ten minutes, Bakura headed down the stairs. The servants were all gathered to see him off.

"I will be returning at dawn more than likely. Ready MY bed, as well as Mikado's. I want breakfast on the table ready if he is hungry. The glass to repair the window will arrive today, see that it is installed properly, without waking Mikado.” He said firmly. "I expect a hot bath for him as well as a warm bed, the heating iron already beneath his sheets.” He mounted Strigoi. "Geist!" he called, the other horse trotting forward. He tied his reins to Strigoi. "Once your duties are finished, you can do as you please." Bakura said calmly to the servants. "Watch my home."

They all bowed and curtsied, and waved as Bakura turned the horses and galloped off into the night.

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

Ryou woke early in the morning, as the sun rose. One of the first things he noticed, was that the naked werewolf had NOT stayed on HIS side of the bed!!!

Marik awoke shortly after to a LOUD girly scream and several swats. "MARIK!"

"OW!!! OW OW OW!!!" Marik yelped, jumping and jerking away. Of course, this only resulted in Ryou getting an eyeful of Marik's morning wood.

Another girly scream. followed by the inexplicable spell of 'throw Marik's naked ass out into the hallway'. Ryou scrambled out in his night robes and down the hall in absolute mortification.

"Owwww... Ryouuuu...” Marik whined, wincing. "What was THAT for?!" Malik and Ahmose walked into the halls in their own robes, investigating.

"Good grief...” Ahmose grumbled upon seeing Marik's naked ass.

Malik however snickered slightly. "You were having a wet dream and he caught you didn't he?” He said crossing his arms.

"Owwie...” Marik whined.

"And now he's so humiliated that he ran off for penance again, leaving you to pout and sit naked in the hallway, in magic induced pain." Malik added smirking.

"Shut up...” Marik groaned, dragging himself back into the bedroom. Ahmose snorted and returned to his own room, rolling his eyes.

Malik sighed and shook his head, doing likewise.

Ahmose however had a surprise in his room. There, standing next to his bed was what most would call 'death'… A skeleton, shrouded in a black cloak, holding a scythe.

Ahmose froze, eyes wide and startled. "What the hell?!"

The creature merely stared Ahmose down for a moment, before stepping closer, it's eyes glowing. "You are Ahmose?"

"That depends on who is asking." Ahmose said, narrowing his eyes.

"You will answer...” the creature hissed. "Or I will take the other dark haired human."

Ahmose growled. "I am Ahmose."

"Then you will come with me." The creature said calmly, holding out a boney hand.

"May I ask why?" Ahmose asked, eyeing the hand.

"Atemu sent for you." The thing said as if it were common knowledge. "Are you going to come or not?"

"... who?" Ahmose asked, cocking his head.

"Atemu." The thing said again. "Just come and stop wasting my time."

Ahmose stared at him. "... can I at least dress first?"

"Oh fine." The thing said rather annoyed. "Hurry it up."

Ahmose did so, dressing quickly and then poking his head out the door. "MALIK!!! Will you take care of the puppies? I gotta go!!!"

"Yeah whatever!" Malik called back, in a groggy voice, obviously not up for waking too early today.

Ahmose turned back to the cloaked figure. "... where are we going?” He asked, walking over.

However the creature merely took Ahmose's hand and the world flashed brightly, before darkening. Ahmose stood in a familiar dark street, lined with familiar shops. "Come then...”

Ahmose blinked and looked around. "Oh. Yami sent you?"

The thing groaned. "His name is Atemu.” He said after a moment. "And yes. The incubus sent me."

"He never said anything about his name being Atemu...” Ahmose said.

The demon chuckled. "It's his given name.” He explained as they walked. "He hates it."

Ahmose blinked. "... why?"

"Because it's his name? Don’t ask me I'm not him." the thing laughed at that. "And thank the gods I'm not...” He lead Ahmose down the path and towards a large stronghold. "He's been in such a steaming pile with his mother that you could not pay me to take his place."

"Wait... you're taking me to meet his MOTHER?" Ahmose yelped. "Yami said he NEVER wanted his mother to even SEE me!!!"

"The only way to see him is through her." The demon explained. "He said you'd handle yourself."

Ahmose sighed but muttered, "That can be taken so many ways with him...”

Once they reached the stronghold, the gate was opened and they entered. Within was a vast walled complex was a large stable and a palace. "Try not to get lost...” the skeleton said as they walked. "I won’t go looking for you if you get mistaken for a servant."

Ahmose blinked. "Huh?"

"Don’t play idiot human, surely he's told you about himself. His whole family has always kept servants." The creature said looking at Ahmose incredulously.

Ahmose blinked. "No, he just talks about how much he hates his mother."

The demon chuckled. "If I were you, I wouldn't repeat that where she can hear you.” He said as he led Ahmose into the mansion. It was... in all forms, more lavish than even the Vatican! More exquisite than Buckingham! There were maids, and servants scurrying about, doing their duties. Dusting, cleaning, watering plants... All of them looking quite happy.

"Oh good... she seems to have left him to his studies...” the demon said leading Ahmose down the hall. "I can’t hear her screeching.” He led Ahmose into a large room up the staircase from the foyer. Lavishly decorated. There, sitting in her chair and looking like a pissed cat, was a succubus. "I brought Atemu's human he wanted." The skeleton said turning and ditching Ahmose without a further word.

Ahmose's eyes widened at that, but he quickly regained his composure and looked at the succubus, figuring that this was Yami's mother. He didn't say a word.

"So... you must be the famous Ahmose." She said standing. She was definitely beautiful. Though she looked very little like her 'son'. Her hair was raven with red highlights, and she wore what could only be described as a glorified pirate wench outfit. "Atemu's latest distraction from his studies and duties."

Ahmose blinked a couple of times, but other than that gave her no response.

She snorted and walked forward looking Ahmose over with an irritated look. Her wings were smaller than Yami's, but her tail was longer and much thicker. "Are you mute human?" she asked after a moment.

"No." Ahmose said after a moment, glad he was wearing his long cloak that completely hid his body; he didn't like the way she was looking at him.

"So... you can speak." She snorted and flicked her tail. "Stay away from my son." she said after a moment. "He doesn't need distractions like you."

Ahmose narrowed his eyes. "I think he's old enough to make his own decisions.” He said.

"He's a fledgling." She snorted. "Hardly old enough, or wise enough to be making decisions like that. It was following you that got him killed in the first place. You are LUCKY that he was able to keep himself from death's claws by binding his soul to that amulet he gave you... or there would be a very ugly war being raged against humanity as we speak." she snorted turning away and walking back to her throne.

Ahmose just snorted. "His death was neither his fault, nor mine."

She looked over her shoulder. "I don’t care WHOSE fault it was." She growled. "If he had been taken out, the hells would be in uproar. EVERY creature of the night would have descended upon humanity and devoured it whole in compensation." She flicked her tail. "He can NOT die."

"I fail to see how the life of one demon is worth destroying an entire race." Ahmose grumbled, folding his arms.

She looked at Ahmose shocked and appalled. "He's the PRINCE! The SOLE heir to the demon kingdom!" She screeched. "If he were to die, the entire realm would be in furious uproar!"

Ahmose's eyes widened. "... WHAT?!"

She growled. "Atemu is my SON. MY replacement!" She said furiously. "I am growing old, and soon HE will be king and I will step down!" she said turning to glare at Ahmose. "The entire realm is eagerly awaiting their new prince, their new KING to take his place." She said running a hand through her hair. "And HE is doing everything he can to make my life MISERABLE!" she howled. "He skips his studies, plays hooky on his duties and THEN this little excursion with a human and dance with death?!"

"... He failed to mention all of this to me while giving me a breif autobiography...” Ahmose mumbled, looking baffled, shocked and annoyed.

"Of course! He's delinquent of ALL his duties!" She said furiously. "His lessons in self defense especially suffer! He refuses to fight!"

"... Yeah. I've noticed." Ahmose said.

"And now his excuse is furthered from being hungry to having a reason to STAY in your realm!" she said accusingly. "You're the reason he refuses to come back!"

"He came back yesterday, didn't he?" Ahmose asked.

"Oh yes...” She hissed. "He came back indeed. Half dead and with SEVERAL broken bones!" She growled. "It took our healers 8 hours to finally get him fully healed!"

Ahmose snorted.

"So, I am ordering you to leave my son alone." The succubus turned back to Ahmose. "For his own good."

"Very well. If that is HIS wish, too." Ahmose said, folding his arms.

"It's not his wish, but if you are a constant distraction, he will NEVER be ready to take his place, and I will not last forever." She said sighing. "And this IS the demon realm. If he is unfit, he will be slaughtered by someone who thinks themselves more fit."

"Over my dead body." Ahmose snorted.

She turned and smirked. "Oh really? And how would you stop them? You cannot even travel to this realm without assistance."

"Don't underestimate me." The sorcerer growled.

The succubus merely laughed. "I hardly need to. You humans die so quickly that your protection is practically worthless."

Ahmose snorted again. "Where is he?"

"Studying." She said calmly. "But I've told you already. You're forbidden to see him."

"And I don't give a damn what you say. You have no authority over me."

She smirked. "I have authority over him." She said calmly. "And that's the only authority I need when it comes to you." she sat down on her throne calmly. "I see no reason whatsoever to let a puny little sniveling human near him. He's royalty. What are you?"

"I am the one he has chosen." Ahmose said, and an eerie wind rippled through the room.

She raised an eyebrow. "He's very young yet, to choose someone, let alone a human." She said after a moment. "You do not have the longevity that he requires." She said but smirked. "But at least he's paid some attention to me and picked a male."

Ahmose blinked at that, but snorted. "I will strive to acheive the longevity he requires."

"How do you intend to do that?" The queen leaned forward interestedly.

"I fail to see why that's any of your business." Ahmose said, annoyed with the woman.

"I'm looking out for my son, and my kingdom. Chosen or not, if you're unfit you are unfit."

"I fail to see why that is your decision." Ahmose said.

"Because of all the creatures he could have chosen, he picked the one creature that is most harmful towards things it 'fails to understand'." She countered. "If you can prove your worth as a Chosen to me, then I will not stop you from seeing him. But so far you seem like an imbecillic human, just like the rest of your kind."

Ahmose snorted, but smirked. "I do not deny your accusations towards my race.” He said. "I admit that when I first met him, I tried to kill him. But of course, this was after he tackled me off of my horse."

The succubus groaned and buried her face in a hand. "ugh...”

Ahmose raised an eyebrow and closed his eyes breifly, trying to reach out with his sixth sense and find out where Yami was.

The succubus sighed. "You, human." She said glaring slightly. "Assuming I allow this... to proceed. Will you gain your longevity and protect him?"

"... With everything I have. With my life. I would sell my soul to Satan to protect him." Ahmose said, nodding.

She looked Ahmose over calmly. "Then swear your allegiance to him. He's a prince." She said flicking her tail. "Swear right now, that you will always protect him no matter what from, or what the cost may be."

"I swear it." Ahmose said. "I will protect him." And to her surprise, he pulled a knife from the folds of his cloak and drew the blade across his palm until blood dripped from the hand. "I swear on my body, blood and soul."

She looked him over before smiling and flicking her tail. "He chose well." She said looking quite pleased. "You're more than adequate... as long as you get your longevity." She stood. "I give you my blessing." She added walking past. "I entrust you with my son's care... and hopefully he'll learn something about being a king from you... you look like you have some lessons to teach." she said chuckling softly.

Ahmose smirked. "I think the question is, will he listen?"

"I'm sure you can get his attention." She said smiling. "alright then... come with me. I'm sure he's trying to sneak out of his lessons about now."

Sure enough just as they peered out the door, Yami was creeping by, trying to be as quiet as possible.

Ahmose smirked. He flicked his fingers and gold energy sprang out of the floor and trapped him in a large birdcage like structure.

Yami yelped and toppled back onto his butt and looked confused. "DAMMIT!” He howled furiously. "MOOOOM THIS ISN'T FAIR!” He whined loudly.

"Going somewhere?" Ahmose chuckled, leaning against the door frame.

Yami blinked and flicked his tail looking at Ahmose. "I was trying to get OUT of here.” He snorted. "C'mon lets go! This place is a pain!"

"Aren't you supposed to be studying?" Ahmose asked.

"... no?" Yami offered.

"Your mother says otherwise." Ahmose said.

Yami winced. "Don’t tell me...” He groaned wings drooping. "MOOOM! THIS ISN'T FAIR!” He whined even louder.

"Oh hush." she snorted. "You know better than to whine."

"That won't stop him." Ahmose snorted. "Yami. What are you supposed to be studying?"

Yami grumbled. "Nuthin."

"He's supposed to be studying military strategies and self defense." the succubus said glaring at her son.

"That's definitely something you need to learn." Ahmose chuckled. "BADLY."

Yami gave Ahmose an upset look. "I don’t want to!"

"Come on, Yami. I'll tutor you.” He said with a grin. "And if you're a good co-operative little fledgling, I'll let you fuck me any way you like."

Yami gave Ahmose a wide-eyed look. "I AM NOT A FLEDGLING!” He wailed looking furious. "MOOOOOOOOM!!!!"

Ahmose snickered, lifting a hand and covering his mouth so hide his amused grin.

The succubus sighed and shook her head. "Take him out of here before he gives me another headache." She said rubbing her temples. "And go to the scrollery to get the spell of teleportation here...”

"What?" Ahmose asked, looking at her.

"Have the owner teach you the spell so you can come here as you please." She repeated. "You can’t perform your duties to my son if you can’t freely travel between worlds."

Ahmose nodded. "Sure thing." And he dropped the cage around Yami, but grabbed his tail. "C'mon, kid...” He said with a grin. "Let's go find the scrollery."

Yami tugged his tail. "Hey don’t!” He growled trying to tug it away. "Stop that!"

The succubus chuckled softly and shook her head, returning to her throne.

"Ahmoooose, stop it! I'm not a kid!"

As soon as Yami's mother was out of sight, Ahmose turned and shoved Yami up against the wall, kissing him passionately. "... I'm glad you're okay...” He breathed, nuzzling Yami's ear.

Yami's tail curled around Ahmose's waist and he calmed immediately. "Ahmose...” He purred nuzzling him and looking pleased. "I like those kinds of kisses." he said grinning. "You're getting good at it.” He chuckled kissing him again.

Ahmose chuckled, pulling away. "Nice to know. Now... let's find the scrollery and get that spell."

Yami grinned. "Don’t forget... I promised you a new amulet...” He cooed wrapping his wings around Ahmose in a hug. "I guess the reaper didn't scare you too badly. I tried to find someone less frightening... but you wouldn't believe how hard it is to find a demon willing to go to the Vatican."

Ahmose chuckled. "I only got upset when I thought he was threatening my brother."

Yami kissed Ahmose again. "So... why are you getting along with mom?"

"Oh... no reason...” Ahmose said off handedly.

Yami snorted. "What'd you two talk about?"

"Stuff."

Yami gave Ahmose a look. "What 'stuff'?"

"Stuff." Ahmose said again, grinning.

Yami growled and looked upset. "Ahmose...”

"What?" Ahmose asked. "She forbade me to ever go near you again and I convinced her otherwise."

Yami blinked tilting his head to the side. "How in the seven hells did you manage that?!"

Ahmose looked down, and held out his hand, which was still oozing blood from the deep cut.

Yami blinked and looked surprised. "You're bleeding...”

"I cut myself and swore a Blood Oath to protect you."

Yami blinked and blushed slightly. "Ahmose...” He gave him a surprised look.

"What?" Ahmose blinked.

"You don’t have to protect me...” Yami said after a moment. "I couldn't ask you to do that...”

"The Oath has been made. It cannot be undone. If I break it, my life is forfeit." Ahmose said calmly.

Yami blinked and looked a bit upset. "But I'm not your problem!"

"You are now." Ahmose said with a smile.

Yami looked worried, but merely hugged Ahmose. "Don’t let it change things...” He mumbled looking a bit upset. "I chose you to... to be MY human... not to be my protector."

"I chose to be your protector." Ahmose said with a smile. "Now come on. Show me to the scrollery."

Yami nodded and gave Ahmose a worried look before leading him back to the market. They passed the groups of passing demons and entered the scrollery. "HEY!" Yami howled. "Witch Aeya! HEY! Ahmose's supposed to learn the teleportation spell!” He shouted loudly.

"Alright alright Yami calm down!" Moments later an elderly woman came out of the back and looked at Yami. "A human? Ohh... here's a rarity...” She said surprised.

Ahmose cleared his throat slightly and just looked around.

"So... the queen approves?" Aeya asked eying Ahmose and cackling.

"yes... mom approves." Yami grumbled. "She's the one who sent me with him to get it."

Ahmose raised an eyebrow at this... Aeya, and folded his arms over his chest.

She laughed softly and shook her head pulling a dusty box from under the register. "Alright... here." She said, giving him a scroll. "I'm not sure Humans are able to use it... but you are free to keep it."

Ahmose took it and unrolled it, looking over the thing.

The spell was simple enough... and easily memorable.

"I do have to warn you... humans have never learned this spell... I highly advise against casting it unless it's an emergency." Aeya said slowly. "As I have no clue how it will perform for a human."

Ahmose nodded. "Okay then.” He said, and tucked it into his robes.

Yami smiled. "Thanks Aeya.” He purred. "You wouldn't happen to have another amulet would you? The one I got last time got broken...” He mumbled looking upset. The witch laughed and smiled. "I have one left...” She said stooping once more and getting a stool and scooting it to a nearby shelf. Moments later she pulled down an exact duplicate of the amulet Ahmose had. "Here."

Ahmose immediately perked up and his eyes sparkled in excitement. He looked extremely happy to see the thing.

Yami took it and paid her. "Thank you so much.” He turned and placed the amulet back around Ahmose's neck. "There...” He purred. "Perfect again."

Ahmose smiled and nodded, reaching down and gently rubbing his thumb over the purple stone. "Thanks...” He said softly.

Yami smiled. "It was my gift.” He said softly. "It's special."

"Yes it is... now... care to tell me why you never saw fit to inform me of your rank in this world?" Ahmose asked, giving Yami a bit of a look.

Yami winced and sighed. "You... uh... never asked?"

Ahmose folded his arms and GLARED.

Yami's wings drooped and he sighed. "Fine...” He mumbled. "I don’t want to be."

"You don't?" Ahmose asked as they left the shop.

Yami sighed and nodded. "Yeah... I dont.” He looked upset. "It's too much to do alone. I mean... an entire REALM!” He tugged his own hair. "And mom's such a... hardass!"

Ahmose smiled and chuckled. "Maybe a little bit... but it seems like you go out of your way to give her a hard time."

Yami sighed. "It's so boring... all she wants me to do is learn and fight. I don’t like fighting, and learning's pretty boring after a hundred years."

"You do need to learn to fight." Ahmose said.

Yami sighed. "But I really don’t enjoy fighting at all...”

"And that's why you were killed." Ahmose said.

Yami sighed. "Aside from the fact I was paralyzed and in the VATICAN."

Ahmose snorted. "My baby brother almost killed you.” He said.

Yami's wings drooped. "Ahmose... he almost killed YOU too."

Ahmose chuckled. "That was different.” He said. "I recognized him. And I hesitated. That's when he stabbed me. It took me a few minutes to actually accept that it really WAS Mikado."

Yami nuzzled Ahmose. "He still almost killed you.” He purred and sighed contently. "It's good to have you around... I was alone."

"It's only been ten hours!!!" Ahmose laughed.

Yami kissed him. "Ten hours of agony without you." Yami said lovingly.

Ahmose smiled. "Horny demon...” He cooed.

"Horny for you." Yami replied smiling. "Only you."

"Really?" Ahmose asked, hopefully.

Yami nodded. "Really."

Ahmose smiled happily and hugged Yami. "I love you...” He said softly.

Yami grinned "I love you too."

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

Mikado stood silently in front of the High Council. The Slayers had just finished telling everything that had happened, in detail, from spotting Bakura's house to riding away, leaving Bakura in the shadow of a tree. They didn't leave out anything, including their finding Mikado asleep in the same bed as Bakura. Now, the Council was staring at him as they absorbed the story.

It took a long time before a high councilman spoke. "Mikado... explain yourself.” He said in a very cold, harsh tone. "Why did you willingly give yourself to a vampire?"

Mikado gulped and fidgeted. "I... well... it wasn't exactly... expected... it just kind of... happened?"

"That is not an explanation, that is an excuse!" the man roared. "Now EXPLAIN yourself!"

Mikado squeaked. "... I love him...” He finally mumbled.

The entire council gasped, as well as the Slayers. "You WHAT?!"

Mikado flinched. "I love him...” He said again, absently rubbing the ring on his finger.

"That's blasphemy!" one of the elders shouted. "How DARE you claim to be a man of the church when you commit such a SIN!” He howled in fury.

Mikado recoiled at that, bumping into one of the Slayers standing around him. Solomon leaned back and stared at Mikado, silently, glancing at Pegasus every now and then.

Pegasus snorted. "Just like I thought... bad blood.” He said crossing his arms.

"There is no repenting from a foul sinful love of a vampire! The very example of EVIL!" Another council member shouted glaring at Mikado.

Mikado wrapped his arms around himself, biting his lower lip to keep it from trembling. "WHY IS HE EVIL?!" Mikado shouted. "If it was Nikolas I loved you all wouldn't care! Because he's one of us!!! If Bakura was an Agent, you. Wouldn't. CARE!!!"

"But he's not! He detests the church and all it stands for, he terrorizes villages and feeds from the innocent without care!" One councilman shouted back.

"He attacked YOU in the bathroom to feed! And you gave the foul creature your virginity! You're no better than him!" another shouted.

"He does NOT terrorize villages!!" Mikado shouted. "And he did NOT attack me in the bathroom! I LET him feed from me!!!"

Another round of gasps and they all stared at Mikado with harsh looks.

"Oh, come on! It was either let him feed from me, or he WOULD have gone off to feed from the innocent without care, as you put it. Are you saying that you all would have done differently?" Mikado asked.

"Mikado... we wouldn't have befriended an evil vampire to start with... let alone allow him to feed from us in exchange for information." Pegasus said slowly.

The council murmured amongst themselves in shock.

Mikado sighed. "It's not like I just walked up to him the moment I saw him and asked him to be my friend with everything all happy and we go skipping through a field of daises or something."

"Apparently it was happy enough for you to have sex with him, and fall in love." Pegasus snorted.

The council glared. "There is no penance for your sin... you could never be fit to serve God." One man said solemnly. Another nodded.

"You are unfit to serve in God's name in the Vatican."

"WHY?!" Mikado shouted, looking furious. "Did Christ Himself not surround Himself with scum of society that no one else would want to touch?! With criminals and prostitutes?! He loved them and forgave them all!!! And they became Holy because they beleived in Him!!! And who are YOU to judge me?! No one but God Himself has the right to judge ANYONE!!! Or were all those lessons you taught me as a child lies?!" Solomon smiled.

"He learned his lessons well, gentlemen...” He chuckled. "Let he among us without sin cast the first stone... He has not harmed anyone. And one cannot choose who one falls in love with. Isn't that right, Jeremiah?"

The man flushed bright red and Solomon chuckled, thinking of the Mariner's lover... The Mariner's merman lover...

Pegasus snorted. "I do however think he should be relieved of his duty." Pegasus said after a moment. "He obviously has no discipline whatsoever in the ways of avoiding sin. He jumps into situations far over his head and never requests help... and let’s not forget that he fought against the Slayers bringing him back. He OBVIOUSLY doesn't want to be here.” He gave Mikado a look. "I cast my vote that he be dismissed."

"I was distracting them so they wouldn't hurt Bakura!" Mikado wailed. "I didn't HURT them! Hell, I probably saved THEIR hides! Bakura was PISSED--ah... um... hopping mad?"

Another council member snorted. "His foul mouth that can’t ever seem to stay shut... I also vote his dismissal."

One by one, the other Councilmen voiced their agreement that Mikado should be dismissed. The only men who stayed silent were Solomon, Dartz, and the Mariner. Solomon sighed.

"The Council has spoken.” He said, sounding none too happy. "Mikado, turn in your rank knots and uniform. You are hereby dismissed from duty until a time when we sit fit to reinstate you as an Agent of the Vatican." Mikado stared down at the table in front of him, looking crushed and devastated. He lowered his head and closed his eyes, fighting a losing battle to hold back his tears of shame.

"... Yes sir...”

Pegasus nodded. "You can rejoin when you have matured and had time to find yourself.” He said after a moment. "Until then, you can’t be an Agent. You're far too rash and make too many damning mistakes. Consider yourself lucky that you're not dead."

Most of the council nodded, though some murmured about whether or not Mikado would be 'seriously' considered for reinstatement.

Mikado nodded again, sniffling and trying to swallow the lump in his throat. "Yessir...”

At that moment Otogi burst through the doors looking upset. "Mikado!” He shook his head. His eyes widened as he gathered the scene and pieced it together... his childhood friend had been suspended. He gave Mikado a shocked look. "Oh Mikado...” He breathed. He'd come to try and defend his friend... but he'd come too late.

Mikado didn't answer, or even acknowledge Otogi. He couldn't even bare to look at him. First his demotion, and now this... There were only two things that could be worse; being expelled, or excommunicated...

"Go turn in your things Mikado." A councilman spoke up. "I will arrange a room for you outside of the Agent’s quarters."

Then, there was a thundering crash as a familiar vampire stormed into the room, literally TOSSING Otogi into the Slayers as he passed. He was pissed. "How DARE you...” he hissed. "HOW DARE YOU!” He grabbed the massive councilmen's table and flipped it with massive unearthly strength, fuming. "How DARE YOU invade MY home... take MY lover from me and then DAMN him to the point of tears!” He picked up the high elder by the collar and hissed. "I should slaughter the lot of you damned 'Christians'. You thankless fuckers... Kissing the ass of God and then turning and forcing someone smaller than you to kiss your OWN tainted asses.” He hurled the man into the others and went to Mikado's side, hugging him. "Mikado...”

Mikado's eyes were wide and shocked, tears still flowing, and his jaw had DROPPED. He stared at the councilmen, who had rushed to the elderly Solomon to see if he was okay, and were now all staring at Mikado and Bakura. The Slayers had drawn their weapons and poor Otogi had plastered himself to the wall in shock.

Bakura picked Mikado up and glared them down. "I am leaving...” He growled. "And anyone who DARES try to stop me will be killed with their own crucifix jammed down their throat.” He warned eyes flashing. "You will not follow me, or bother me. Let he who is without sin indeed...” Bakura snorted. "Your church is a sham. Your teachings false and bent to your OWN selfish and sightless ends. THIS is why I damn churches and priests... you have lost SIGHT of the true teachings of a God most forgiving." Bakura walked towards the door, just daring anyone near to TRY attacking him at this moment… This moment when he was so furious he could raze a village in fury.

Mikado blinked several times, still wide eyed and confused, but after a moment, he curled his arms around Bakura's neck and hid his face in the vampire's shoulder, almost trying to sink into him in his grief. Otogi watched Bakura head for the door with his best friend.

"Mikado...” he whimpered.

Bakura hugged Mikado strongly, rubbing his back. "It'll be ok Mikado...” He breathed softly. "Come home with me... I brought Geist for you...” He kissed the youth's cheek. "Come stay... if you want the church... then I will see that you can serve a church near my home... away from these jerks and their corruption."

Mikado silently nodded into Bakura's shoulder, but once they reached the main hall, he squirmed a bit, forcing Bakura to put him down. "I... I have to... get my things... turn in my... things...” He mumbled absently, still sounding a bit confused.

Bakura snorted and ripped the knot from Mikado's shoulder with ease and tossed it on the floor. "Problem solved.” He snorted. "Let them pick up their own filthy knots.” He kicked it aside and pulled Mikado close, giving him a steamy kiss. "You don’t deserve this... I wanted you to stay with me... away from this place.” He whispered pulling away and brushing some bangs from Mikado's eyes. "And look what they've done... there are tears in your eyes...”

Mikado wouldn't even raise his eyes to look into Bakura's so great was his pain and humiliation. "I... want to get my... my cross...” He said softly, glancing up sadly at the Agents who were moving around, decorating for Christmas. This brought a fresh wave of tears. Mikado looked completely broken hearted.

Bakura picked him up once more. "Then we will get your cross.” He cooed lovingly, wiping Mikado's tears away. "Shh... don’t cry. We can celebrate your Christmas at my home. I'm sure the servants would love to exchange gifts. They've never done it before.” He said softly, walking to Mikado's room.

Mikado shook his head, still hiding his face in Bakura's shoulder. "It... won't be the same!” He sobbed.

Bakura nodded slowly. "It won’t be the same... it will be better.” He whispered. "Because you'll be surrounded by the ones who love you most.” He walked into Mikado's room and stooped, picking up the cross despite the burn it caused. "Here...”

Mikado quickly took it. "Bakura...” He mumbled, stroking the vampire's hand around the burn. "Don't...” He hung the thing around his neck and visibly relaxed at its presence. He turned and moved over to the little wardrobe and pulled out his last set of civilian clothing. He stripped himself of the uniform, reverently folding it and placing it neatly on the bed, then dressing. The door creaked, and Otogi peered in, nervously. Mikado glanced at him, but quickly turned away.

"Mikado...” Otogi said after a moment. "I'm sad that... you have to go.” He said after a moment. "But... I couldn't be happier that you found someone special.” He said softly. "No matter what it is... love is something beautiful and pure... and no evil... could love."

Bakura snorted and rubbed his hand calmly.

"I... don't know if I'll ever be coming back...” Mikado said softly, gathering his few belongings. "... I'll miss you...”

"I'll miss you too." Otogi said softly. "But... something tells me that Bakura will take good care of you.” He said smiling slightly. "He loves you."

Mikado nodded, still unable to look Otogi in the eye. "... I should... go see my brother...” He said softly.

Otogi frowned. "No one's seen him...” He said after a moment. "He disappeared this morning... Probably went looking for his own demon."

Mikado blinked, then sighed and looked down. "... demon... I should... go get the... the phantom hound... Yami... got her for me...”

Bakura nodded. "I'll get it.” He said exiting quickly.

Otogi came in slowly. "Mikado... are... you mad at me?"

Mikado slowly shook his head. "No...”

Otogi sighed and hugged Mikado. "I'll wait for you.” He said softly. "Go on a journey or something... I'm not going to the next rank without you.” He said softly. "We started this together, and I'm not going to continue without you."

Mikado snorted. "You're already a rank above me, remember?” He said, bitterly. "I was demoted, remember?"

"But you were up a rank before me." Otogi offered softly. "And besides... we were both this rank."

Mikado shook his head. "No. Don't wait for me. I don't want you to.” He said. "I want you to be the best you can be... Work your way up whether or not I'm here. Otherwise, you may find yourself stuck as a 2nd Class Journeyman for the rest of your life. And you know that won't happen. They'll promote you when they think you're ready, whether I'm here or not. Otogi, don't hold back on my account. I won't ever forgive you if you do...”

Otogi sighed and nodded. "I'll come visit you then.” He said smiling. "ok?"

Mikado nodded. "Sure...” He finally turned around at looked at Otogi, then hugged him. "And if I don't see you... Merry Christmas...”

"You too...”

Bakura cleared his throat from the doorway. "I've got your puppy Mikado... lets go before the Agents realize I'm still wandering around in here."

Mikado sighed and nodded, letting go of Otogi. "... Good luck...” He said with a smile. "And... if you ever need a good informant... Bakura always knows what's going on...”

Bakura chuckled. "Like he'd ask me while you were there.” He handed the puppy to Mikado and smiled. "Come on then...” He cooed kissing him. "Lets go home."

Mikado sighed and nodded, cuddling the puppy. He hugged Otogi one last time, then followed Bakura to the doors. By this time, the High Council had filed down all in a tizzy. Mikado quickly pressed closer to Bakura, knowing that they would not be too keen on allowing him to leave… Especially with a vampire.

Bakura wrapped an arm around Mikado and held him close comfortingly. He glared at the council, daring them once more to even TRY to take Mikado from him a second time. "You've dismissed him... you have NO say in what he chooses to do with his life now.” He growled. "So step aside."

Mikado stared at the Council with wide eyes, seeing their anger and determination.

"We will not allow you to take him and taint him further!!!" The Slayer shouted, and Pegasus had drawn his sword. A flash of movement caught Mikado's eye; a Slayer on a balcony had taken aim at Bakura with a silver tipped arrow. Mikado's eyes widened and the Slayer pulled the trigger.

"NO!!!” He gripped Bakura and tried to force the vampire to the ground. But he wasn't strong enough and only managed to spin them around; he gasped when he felt the shaft pierce his back and sink in deep.

That was all it took to drive Bakura over the edge. He let out a yowl of fury and grabbed the slayer by his sword (cutting himself, but not badly as he'd wisely gripped it from the side) and THREW the slayer up into the balcony, breaking the wooden railing and knocking both over. He pulled the arrow from Mikado as carefully as he could and threw it at Pegasus, piercing the man's leg as if he'd been shot.

Bakura picked up Mikado and the puppy in one arm and with the other grabbed Pegasus by the hair and bent his neck at an awkward angle. "You will let us leave, or I will kill him.” He hissed to the Agents. "And I am NOT beyond taking the life of a sick fuck."
Pegasus glared up at Bakura with one eye, his other being revealed as white and blank, a horrible scar over it. He showed no fear. Mikado gasped.

"Bakura! No!!!"

Bakura however turned Pegasus' face away in caution and growled as he calmly made his way to the door. Once he'd kicked the thing open (leaving a rather large dent in the heavy wooden door) he stepped out and shoved Pegasus forward into the Agents, toppling them. He slammed the doors shut and jammed them together as best he could, buying them time. "I wouldn't have.” He snorted and whistled. "Strigoi! Geist!"

The horses lifted their heads from the snow where they'd been nosing for some grass to nibble. They bounded over and Bakura placed Mikado atop Geist and handed him the puppy. "You can ride. Now go!" Bakura gave Geist a slap on the hindquarters and the horse whinnied and shot off at a speed unthinkable by the Vatican horses. Bakura mounted Strigoi and was quick behind Mikado.

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

Read and review everyone! I'm going away for a month to a weight loss resort! WISH ME LUCK!!! I hope to return to many reviews!!!