The Wild

Hatochiisai & Mally-chan

YAOI WARNING

Disclaimer: We do not own Yugioh. If we did, it would not be for public television.

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

Chapter 23

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

Ryou sighed, sniffling and lowering his own eyes to the floor, and petting Spunky and Angel as they cooed in happy marital bliss. He forced a smile to his face. "I'm glad... that you two found each other." He cooed softly.

Tuc and Nod looked at each other, worried.

"Ryou..." Pegasus said, placing his hand on the boy's shoulder. "This gentleman has agreed to let you take Angel home. But has asks if you would be interested in continuing to let Angel compete. He has offered his services as her manager."

Ryou nodded. "Of course he can, and if Spunky wants, they can spend weekends with him, so he isn't so lonely." He said softly. "I saw how he looked when I said she was mine... and I couldn't separate him from her when she means so much..."

The man smiled and shook his head, speaking in French. Pegasus listened carefully.

"He says it's quite alright. He will be happy with just managing her. He'll be spending lots of time with her that way." The man spoke again, and Pegasus laughed. "He also says that he'll be glad to manage YOU when they form the Hybrid Rabbit competition starting next season!"

Ryou blushed softly. "Well, I'm not so sure about that." he giggled softly. "But I might give it a try... just to amuse my family..." he said tapping Tuc's nose, knowing he'd say something smart to that.

Tuc just gave an amused chuckle, and everyone turned when it was announced that the judges had made their final decision...

The judges began announcing winners for each category. It didn't take them long however to reach Best in Show. Which was awarded to 'Belle'. Angel squeaked in glee. 'I'm the prettiest!' she cheered proudly. 'I'm the prettiest bunny in the show!'

Spunky cheered loudly. "Angel best!!" He cried, hopping in joy. "Angel best!!!" Tuc and Nod swarmed Angel, nuzzling and licking her, squeaking out how proud they were. Pegasus grinned, watching as Ryou scooped them all up and hugged them, then, while he was distracted, turned to Rem and Zaine.

"What is Marik going to do?" He asked in a whisper.

Rem sighed. "He's... going back to the pride... to the lions." She said shaking her head. "To the only thing he has left."

Pegasus' eyes widened. "Are you sure?!" He gasped.

Rem nodded. "He wanted to go back..."

Pegasus frowned, and shook his head. "He would... leave Ryou? Just like that?"

Rem nodded slowly. "Why not?"

Pegasus frowned and shook his head. "Because he loves Ryou." He said softly, then looked back at Ryou. "Does Ryou know? That Marik intends to leave?"

Rem shook her head. "Let him do what he wants Pegasus. I told Marik I would support his decision... if he will be happier with the lions, then let him. We can always visit him." she said sighing. "He's my kitten, my son... I want his happiness, just as much as I want Ryou’s."

Pegasus sighed and nodded. "As do I... but are they sure this is what will make them happy?" He asked, watching Ryou. He put on a smile when Ryou turned to face him.

"Do you want to go celebrate?" Pegasus asked. "Lunch, my treat?"

Ryou nodded. "I think that this is a celebratory event." He said softly, hugging his family. "It's Angel's big day, mated and best in show in the same day." He cooed proudly.

Rem nodded silently. "Things will be fine Pegasus." She said, taking Zaine's arm, and leading him from the room.

The man nodded and watched them go, then put on a brave face to hide his worry as he turned back to Ryou.

"Then let's go." He said, placing an arm around Ryou, who was clutching four rabbits and a big blue ribbing. "Need some help?"

Ryou nodded, offering Pegasus Tuc and Nod. "Too many bunnies!" he said smiling softly, despite how he was feeling inside. "I'm so proud..."

Pegasus grinned. "You should be! Congratulations, Spunky! And DOUBLE congratulations to you, Angel." Spunky looked up.

'Why didn't the lunkhead congratulate Angel?' He asked. 'Why did he leave?'

Ryou sighed softly, patting Spunky's head. "He had to leave... he's got thinking to do... I'm sure he'll congratulate Angel when he's ready..." he said softly.

Spunky sighed and nodded, then turned and nuzzled Angel. 'Wait til you see the den! It has moss carpet, and a rug, and decorations, and I even got us a bed and lights so it won't be dark! AND I dug drainage tunnels so the den won't flood when it rains!!!' He listed off eagerly.

Angel's ears perked slightly. 'Light? How'd you manage that? Are there flowers?'

'No. No flowers.' Spunky said. 'I thought I'd let you choose what flowers you wanted in there. But I have stocked the store room with all sorts of yummy foods!'

Angel squeaked approvingly. 'Wow, sounds nice....' she said smiling. 'I can’t wait to see.'

Spunky grinned proudly, tapping his paws alternately on Ryou's arm as they got into the limo.

"So. Where do you want to go eat?" Pegasus asked Ryou.

Ryou shrugged. "I don’t care. How about Panera Bread? There's some delicious vegetable soups there."

Pegasus smiled and nodded. "Then Panera Bread it is." He said, and soon enough, they were enjoying a fine lunch on the patio. But then, as they were leaving, Pegasus' cell phone wrang.

"Hello? Rem? What is it.... what? We'll be right there!!!" He gasped, and shoved Ryou into the limo. "Rem wants us to get to your house as soon as possible." He said.

Ryou blinked and hugged Tuc and Nod to him. "What's wrong? What's going on?" He asked as they drove.

"I don't know." Pegasus said. "Rem just told me to bring you home."

Ryou nodded slowly. "Alright..." he mumbled worriedly.

They drove in a tense and worried silence, and finally turned onto Ryou's street. Pegasus frowned, and looked up ahead. "What is that?" He mumbled, and Ryou looked. As they pulled up to the house, they identified Marik's kitty house, and a large paper shopping bag sitting on the curb. Pegasus blinked, and he and Ryou walked over to the bag and peered in. It was filled with all of Marik's toys, his treat ball, and on top of all of it, his favorite squeaky...

Ryou blinked, and bit his lip. He walked into the house. "Marik?" he called softly. "Marik? Are you here?"

In the kitchen was Rem and Zaine, sitting at the table and looking... not quite sure what to think. A freshly made salad was sitting on the counter, and all the bunnies were munching their own on the floor.

"Where... is Marik?" Ryou asked softly, looking around.

Zaine sighed. "He's here..." He said softly. "Go on..." Ryou turned and made his way through the quiet house. The living room looked empty without Marik's kitty house and toys scattered about, but Ryou headed for the hall. The light was on in the bathroom, and Ryou peered in. Sitting on the counter was a nail file, and powdery shavings. Ryou turned, and made his way to the bedroom. And there was Marik curled up on the window seat and staring out into the backyard. He turned when Ryou walked in, and slowly forced a weak smile onto his face.

Ryou frowned. "Marik... why... did you do this?" he asked, ears drooping.

Marik just smiled. "For you." He said softly, rubbing his fingertips, claws filed away.

Ryou frowned. "Marik... I didn't mean to do this..." he said softly. "I meant... for you to... to know the balance..." he mumbled softly. "You didn't have to do THIS..."

"It's the only thing I KNEW to do!" Marik cried, getting up. Ryou noticed that the claws on his feet had also been filed down. "I'm doing this for you!"

Ryou shook his head more. "Marik, I never asked you to give up being lion completely!"

Marik smiled weakly. "Well... that's impossible... isn't it? The DNA is still in me... I still have my tail... I'm still part lion."

"But all your toys... the squeaky... your treat ball..." Ryou said, frowning. "The things you love... you will be miserable with me."

"I would be more miserable without you." He said, his smile beginning to fade. "I... I did this for you. I'm going to be human for you... no matter what it takes. Until the day you say you do not... want me..."

Ryou shook his head. "Marik... I don’t want you to be like this... I want you to be happy!" He mumbled sniffling. "You'll never be happy loving me, if you can’t be the lion you love so much... Marik... this isn't better..."

Marik laid his paws on Ryou's shoulders. "Why don't you let ME decide what makes me happy, hmm?" He said softly, and this time his smile was genuine. "And you know what makes me happy?" He kissed Ryou, gently. "You."

Ryou sighed. "Marik... you cant fool me...you LOVE your squeaky...." he mumbled shaking his head. "You threw Hunter off your cat tree for it!"

Marik frowned. "And if that's what that squeaky makes me do then I am better off without it!" He cried, shaking his head.

Ryou sighed. "Marik... I didn't want you to give up part of yourself to make ME happy... I just wanted you to balance the two.... I didn't want this..."

Marik smiled. "Well, maybe this will HELP me find the right balance. I was leaning too far on one side... maybe if I lean to the other side a while, it will help me see the mid-point." He said, then hugged Ryou, and nuzzled him. "I love you... just love me back... and I'll be fine, I'm sure."

Ryou sighed softly. "Alright..." he mumbled sniffling. "But... you didn't eat any of that salad."

Marik smiled. "I was waiting for you. Because human or not... that lion in me won't let me eat it unless you MAKE me!" He giggled.

Ryou nuzzled him. "Come on now... let’s go eat..." he cooed offering Marik a slight smile.

Marik grinned. "Sure thing Ry--" He stopped mid word, and stared at Ryou, his eyes getting wider and wider. Then, he slowly began backing away.

Ryou blinked, ears tilting back. "Marik... is something wrong?" he asked softly, looking and sounding worried. "A-are you ok?"

"MAO!!" Marik yelped, leaping onto the window seat to get away from Ryou. And it was then that Ryou realized he was glowing, and then, suddenly, there was a horrible pain throughout his entire being.

Ryou shrieked in pain, as his body slowly grew to it's appropriate age. He flopped to the floor once it was all over, panting harshly and sniffling. "Ow...." he mumbled weakly, deciding that now was a FINE time to pass out.

But Marik ran to him and pulled Ryou into his chest, whimpering and petting his face. "Ryou! Ryou... oh... are you okay?! Answer me Ryou..."

Ryou whimpered softly in his passed out state, his breathing still harsh from the pain he'd just endured. Though it was obvious he was back to normal in age. His clothes were tighter, and he had his boyish good looks back.

"Ryou!!" Marik whined. "Mama!!!" He turned, calling over his shoulder. "MAMA!!!" Then he turned back to petting Ryou's face and rocking him, before standing, gathering Ryou up into his arms and laying him on the bed.

Rem hurried in and blinked shocked. "Oh thank goodness...." She said in a relieved tone. “Ahmose got him back to his normal age..." She said proudly. "It's ok Marik... he's just tired is all."

Marik turned and looked at Rem. "He started glowing and the screaming and then he passed out and and and... and now he's TALLER THAN ME!!!" He wailed. "That is SO not FAIR!"

Rem laughed softly. "He's back to normal Marik..."

Marik pouted. "I'm a lion, and my RABBIT MATE is bigger than I am! How humiliating!" He snorted, but lay down by his mate and sighed, smiling and running his fingers through Ryou's hair.

"Tachi's bigger too, and Yami and the other birds." Rem explained. "Then Malik then Bakura and Ivy...then you."

“And Kumani?" Marik asked.

"She's being grown with Malik." Rem explained calmly.

"I'm LAST?!?" Marik howled.

"I'm afraid so sweetie... you're the oldest."

"Aw, that's beaver shit..." Marik grumbled,

Rem gave Marik a swift smack across the behind. "Watch your mouth!" she scolded tapping her foot.

"Awww..." Marik whined, rubbing his bottom. He sighed and stared at Ryou for a while. "Mama?"

"Yes Marik?" Rem asked, scratching his ears lightly.

The lion sighed. "Do I... disappoint you?"

"Of course not sweetheart, I don’t have any expectations of you." She said patting his head. "I just want you to be happy."

Marik sighed and frowned. "Why don't you have... expectations for me?"

"Because, why should I?" She asked softly. "You're like a son to me, the only thing I expect, is for you to be happy."

Marik sighed. "Well... usually parents have hopes for their kids... but I guess there's not much to hope for with a hybrid." He mumbled, but smiled at Rem. "You're the best mama anyone could ever have..." And he purred loudly, but then abruptly stopped and smacked a hand over his mouth. "Oops." He mumbled, then smiled sheepishly. "This trying to be human is gonna take some getting used to!"

"It's okay to purr sweetheart... it's even okay to play with your toys... I think Ryou just wants you to... be the man of the house." she said softly. “You know… big and brave and the master of the castle... you always cower away from bad things... you should face them like the big tough lion you are."

Marik sighed and looked down. "I... I guess so..." He said, then smiled at Rem. "I'll do it. I will!" But he didn't look very sure of himself.

Rem chuckled. "Zaine brought your toys back in with Pegasus... you can still play with them sweetheart... but you have to help Ryou. Do house chores with him... take CARE of him. He's always cooking and cleaning and caring for you... what have you done to take care of him recently?"

Marik sighed and looked down. "Not much..." He mumbled, then suddenly leapt up from the bed and hopped around the room, pulling on his shoes. "I'm going out! Tell Ryou I won't be gone all night this time, huh?"

Rem pulled Marik over by his tail carefully. "Where are you going?"

"MAO!!" Marik yelped, and clutched his hind end, then looked back at Rem. "To go talk to someone who might be able to help!" He said, and wiggled his ears.

"Who?" She said giving him a firm look.

Marik smiled. "Someone who HAS found a balance between the cat and the man!" Then he made a face. "Someone freakishly huge..." and he snickered. "Can ya guess?" He asked, playfully tugging his tail in Rem's hands.

Rem laughed. "Alright alright." She said. "He lives over on Bordeaux avenue." She said giggling. "It's the big blue and white house."

Marik blinked. "Oh, he's not at work yet? Okay!" And he scampered out of the room, and out of the house.

Meanwhile, Spunky had eagerly led Angel to Malik and Bakura's side of the duplex.

'We have to tell them! They are my Daddy and… umm... Malik, after all. THEN I'll show you our new home!' Spunky squeaked eagerly.

Angel sighed. 'But I wanna see the house now!' she whined pawing eagerly at the dirt and hopping slightly. 'C’mon! you can tell them later, they're probably too busy humping tail to even care!'

Spunky whimpered. 'Please? Just five minutes?' He asked.

'Spuuunkkkky!' Angel whined softly. 'Pleeeease?'

Spunky smirked. 'What, you THAT eager to hop in bed with me?' He teased.

'Uh, no. I wanted to see the house, not your ass.'

Spunky blinked, then pouted and sighed. 'Fine fine fine...' He giggled, and gave Angel a quick kiss before leading her to the back yard.

Angel eagerly hopped behind him. 'So, where is the hole you dug?' she asked, looking around eagerly, ears up.

Spunky scampered over to the sakura tree with several small shrubs around it. 'Come on!' He called to Angel, and darted into the shrubs, ending up in a small hollow. And there, surrounded by moss and small flowers that Spunky had decorated with, was the entrance to a burrow.

Angel squeaked delightedly and peered in. 'It's safe right?' she asked beginning to hop down to explore.

'Of course.' Spunky said, and followed. After two and a half feet, they came to three tunnels, one going up slightly, and two going down. 'The down tunnels are for water to flow.' The skunk bunny exclaimed. 'To keep water out of our home.' And he hopped up the slight hill and came into a large chamber. He hopped across the room, reared back and brought his front paws down on the push light and it turned on, illuminating the room. He turned and smiled. 'Nice to have a mate with genetic intelligence enhancements, eh?'

Angel giggled softly. 'I suppose, now if only he doesn’t develop an ego.' she said calmly, looking around eagerly. 'pretty.'

Spunky smiled and admired his own work; soft moss carpeting, the placemat rug, little objects dangling from the roots in the cieling and sparkling in the glow of the little push light... and on the far wall, propped up against the wall, was the picture of Angel that Spunky had chewed out of Malik's morning paper.

Angel squeaked softly as she looked around. 'It's very nice.' She said sniffing at the dangling earrings. 'You stole these from Malik didn't you?' she said pawing at one. 'They're pretty. I like them.' She said proudly. 'So far... this is a great home.'

Spunky smiled proudly. 'The store room is back there.' He said, pointing with his nose. 'And the bedroom is in here.' And he led Angel in, once again bouncing on a push light. The moss extended into the bedroom, and on the far side was a small pet bed, the perfect size for two loving bunnies, and hanging from the roots on the cieling once again were colorful strips of cloth and stuff.

Angel sniffed around curiously. She smiled. 'needs pillows and blankets.' she said turning and licking his ear. 'but other than that...I like this den.' she said proudly. 'you've out done Secret.'

Spunky squeaked proudly. 'I'll get the blankets and pillows!' He sang. 'And if you need anything else... another room even, I'll dig one out for you! OH!!! And the emergency exit is off to the side of the store room.'

Angel nodded and hopped onto the bed and flopped onto her side and stretched. 'mmm...you know what else? you should ask daddy Ryou for one of his sweet smelling candles. we could sit it in here and never need to light it. it'd just smell yummy.' she said thoughtfully. 'Poor Skitter goes nuts when she smells them.'

Spunky giggled. 'I know. I'll ask him. What scent do you want?' He asked, hopping into the bed and cuddling up to Angel, beginning to groom her.

'cucumber.' Angel giggled. 'of course.'

Spunky chittered, amused, and kissed her nose, nuzzling her and cuddling up. 'I love you...'

Angel smiled and licked Spunky's ears calmly. 'I love you too, you big dope.'

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

Marik sighed and stared at the front door of the house. It didn't look like something a tiger hybrid would live in, with the well kept lawn and flower filled window boxes, but... He sighed, and knocked on the door.

Khan was quick to answer. "Oh hello little one..." He said stepping aside. "Come in."

Marik gulped, still intimidated by the massive tiger, but nodded and walked in, looking around.

Khan chuckled shutting the door. "What brings you here? Aren't you usually glued to my little bunny friend?"

Marik sighed. "I guess..." He mumbled, feeling... extremely small. "I... was hoping you could help me with something."

Khan smiled and sat down at his small table in the den, the tatami mat flooring betraying the modern looking outside of the house. "How can I help you?"

Marik blinked and looked around, then wandered into the room. "I... I want to find... balance." He said after a while, flicking his tail and sniffing the air, curiously.

Khan blinked. "Balance in what?" he said chuckling a deep purr.

Marik gulped. "B-Between... the man and the beast..." He said softly, staring at the floor and playing with his tail in his paws.

Khan laughed at that. "You've always had balance... cats naturally have balance... it is you who has been unwilling to accept it." Khan said softly.

Marik blinked and looked up at Khan. "What do you mean?" He asked. "And if you're talking about literal, balance, well... I've always been a bit clumsy..."

Khan smiled. "Have you considered taking Martial arts? It's something that helps ease the temper."

Marik blinked and looked at Khan. "Martial arts? Yeah, Ryou would LOVE it if I learned a NEW way to attack people..." He snorted, his voice thick with sarcasm. "Although... it might help me protect my mate..."

Khan shook his head. "Martial Arts is about learning to control temper... to attack only if you are attacked... it's about self control and discipline." Khan explained. "If you decided to pursue Martial arts it would help with your anger... you would have the rough housing you need. It's in your blood... the urge to fight... to be the best." Khan said flicking his tail.

Marik looked at Khan in wonder. This guy was hitting the nail on the head. He smiled, and walked over to the table and sat down across from Khan, finally deciding to trust this... gentle giant. "Is that what you did?"

Khan nodded. "It is. At first I had rage... uncontrollable rage. But I already had martial arts when I was changed... so I knew how to handle it... sparring with other hybrids, or defending myself." He said calmly. "It eases the flames of anger and hate."

"How did you become a hybrid?" Marik asked, cocking his head and flicking an ear, before sniffing at the bonsai tree in the center of the table.

"I was kidnapped far from here. Japan was not my home." He said calmly. "But it is now, and I accept it as a place I wish to live, near my friends, and my little rabbit, who needs protecting."

Marik sighed and nodded. "Thank you for... watching out for him while I was... gone." He said, bowing his head to Khan. "I'm glad he has such good friends."

Khan nodded. "He's too adorable not to protect. He has the world in his fingers... and he has ambition..."

Marik smiled and nodded. "Yes. He does... sometimes, I think he wishes that I had ambition to match..." He said softly, staring down at his filed claws.

Khan smiled. "Then get some. Didn't you dream of traveling and providing for him? A duplex is a fine start...but don’t you wish for more? Your own little house? Travel? Surely you'd love to see the homeland of the lions..."

Marik looked at Khan. "You mean... Africa?" He asked. "I dunno... I'm nervous enough around lion HYBIDS... I don’t know how I'd handle actual LIONS..."

"You'd be surprised." Khan said flicking his tail. "I saw the white tigers... it was amazing..."

"Really?" Marik gasped, ears perking. "What was it like?"

"Absolutely amazing..." Khan said softly. "I can’t think of any words to... describe the feeling..."

Marik sighed, his mind drifting. But he soon blinked and shook his head with a "muurph!" and looked at Khan. "Do you really think that martial arts would help me?"

Khan nodded. "Yes. I do." He said ruffling Marik's hair. "Or perhaps, the tribe you left behind... your pride..."

"Mao!" Marik exclaimed, pawing at his mane, trying to groom if back to it's... usual messy way... "I can't go back to my pride... I can't leave Ryou!" He said.

"Take Ryou with you." Khan said calmly. "Take him, and your family... make a home there." Khan said slowly. "You can be the man Ryou wants, the lion he wants, all at once in your pride... you can be both... and one."

Marik blinked. "But... Ryou would be away from his friends... Pegasus... and I would be away from Mama!!!" He cried, shaking his head. "I... I don't know..."

"You can always come back to visit, and they can visit you... plus, I've got an idea of which island you went to... it's large... lots of island to explore... the travel Ryou wants..."

Marik blinked. "R-Really?" He gasped. Little did he know that elsewhere, Pegasus and Seto were both in a meeting regarding that very island, and what was to be done once the woman on it was arrested for soliciting kidnappers and illegally keeping hybrids. And Pegasus and Seto were arguing the issue of what was to become of the island and the hybrids on it...

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

Ryou had woken up and was eating his salad, waiting for Marik to return when Rem's cell phone went off. When she answered, she was surprised to hear Seto and Pegasus arguing over the phone, but eventaully, Pegasus triumphed.

"Hello, Miss Rem!" He called happily. "Are you enjoying your... early retirement, or are you ready to go back to work?" He asked cheerfully, knowing very well that Rem had been going nuts without her work since the pet shop was closed.

Rem nodded slowly. "Yes...?" she said confusedly. "What do you have in mind?"

Seto started shouting in the background that HE wanted to tell her, but Pegasus shushed him. "Well, the woman on that island, who had Marik and Ryou kidnapped... she's been arrested, and they need someone to go to the island and manage it and the hundred plus hybrids living on it. We have told them of our... ideas, and the government officials have decided to go along with it. The island is being made into a protected Hybrid Reserve and Rehabilitation Facility! And they have decided that you are the most qualified person to run it!!! You're gonna be a paid employee of the government! And paid a lot! And all the BENEFITS!!! You even get dental!" Pegasus exclaimed. “AND a retirement plan!!!”

Rem blinked and nodded slowly. "... okay." She said, a bit weirded out by Pegasus' ... chipperness.

Ryou yanked away the phone. "MASTER!" he cooed giggling. "I'm back to normal!"

"Ryou?" Pegasus blinked. "Hi baby! What now?"

"I'm back to normal!" Ryou chirped once more. "Let’s go do naughty things!" he added giggling at that.

Zaine choked on his soda and stared at Ryou, and Pegasus just... paused for a long time.

"RYOU!!!" He finally howled. "Naughty bunny!"

"Do I wanna know?" Seto asked from across the table at the small cafe.

Ryou giggled and grinned impishly. "I'm coming over tonight!" he chirped.

"Ryou..." Pegasus chuckled, throwing a wadded up napkin at Seto. "What about your mate?"

"He's still little, it'd be child molestation." Ryou said calmly.

Pegasus laughed. "You're only... what, three years older than him now? And originally he was at LEAST five years older than you! You were sixteen and he was twenty three, so... he's seven years older than you! And I'm old enough to be your father, Ryou!"

Ryou giggled. "But you're not, so let’s do something fun." he cooed flicking his ears. "Bunny has needs!"

Pegasus sighed and shook his head. "You be loyal to your mate, baby." He said. "I'll talk to you later, okay? Would you like me to bring by dinner for you and Marik?"

Ryou grinned. "Yes." He cooed softly, though he looked near giggles.

Pegasus chuckled. "Okay baby. Give Miss Rem her phone back." He said.

Ryou giggled and gave the phone back to Rem, who finished the conversation and said goodbye. She smiled. "Well… I've got some preparations to do... I'll go ahead and go. Marik will be home soon I imagine... so you can hold down the fort." She said smiling, eagerly dragging Zaine out.

And sure enough, Marik was home a few minutes after that. And he looked oddly calm and happy. Until he looked at Ryou. Then, he pouted. "This is SO not fair..." He grumbled, looking UP at his mate.

Ryou blinked and grinned. "I'm TALLER for once!" He chirped giggling.

Marik crossed his arms and pouted. "That is SO not cool!!!" He snorted.

"Heh... it's funny." Bakura said from the back door, walking in. "Ryou... this means YOU are the seme and Marik is the uke."

"WHAT?!" Marik yowled, poofing up.

"Have either of you seen Spunky?" Bakura asked, laughing at Marik.

Ryou smiled. "He and Angel are busy.... I'm sure they'll come out of their den eventually." he said giggling slightly. "She finally agreed to mate him."

Bakura's eyes widened. "She... she did?! They're in their DEN?!? AWESOME!!" And he whirled and ran out. "MALIK!!! MALIK!!! GUESS WHAT!?!?" Marik snickered.

"That made his day..." He said.

Ryou smiled. "It's good to see everyone so happy..." he said softly. "Though I wont be happy again until you're big..." he pouted. "You're too little to do anything with now, unless I want child molestation and sodomy charges..."

Marik blinked, then grinned and wiggled his ears. "I won't report you!" He giggled. "Come on! Let's go screw in the closet!"

Ryou giggled. "I can’t! You're too little!"

Marik grumbled and glared, but turned when there was a knock on the door. He opened it, and suddenly, there was a loud "MAO!" >THUMP< followed by a high pitched "RYOUUUUUU!!!" Ryou's ears shot up and he turned in time to see... Tachi. The black rabbit streaked into the kitchen, and in a flying leap brought Ryou crashing to the ground, kissing him.

Ryou gave Tachi a shocked look, before breaking the kiss and scrambling out from under him and shooting out the back door and into his garden, as fast as he could.

"HI RYOUUUU!!!" Tachi sang, and bolted after him. Marik was still steamrolled to the floor and dizzy, and that's where Emily, Kumani and Ivy found him.

Kumani licked Marik's cheek. "What are you doin on the floor?" She asked helping Marik up.

Ivy giggled softly. "I'm sure Tachi had something to do with that...."

Marik groaned and slowly sat up, then blinked and looked around. "Whah...? TACHI!!!" He roared, leaping to his feet and running for the kitchen.

Ryou whimpered loudly scampering around the back yard trying to escape the horny Tachi. "MARIK!"

Marik howled and chased Tachi. Secret, who had been coming to see if Angel was home, hopped through the fence in time to get mowed down by Ryou, Tachi AND Marik!!! The poor black rabbit tumbled into the vegetable patch.

Ryou squeaked, speeding up as Tachi was gaining on him. "MARIK!" he wailed. "He's going to molest me!" he wailed, hopping quickly on top of the garbage cans, and over the fence.

And Tachi was after Ryou in an instant. But poor Marik leapt onto the garbage can, only to have it flip over. Emily, Kumani, Ivy, Malik and Bakura all ran out in time to see Marik go flying back and smash a squash open with his head, and nearly squish Secret.

"MARIK!!" Malik howled.

"Ivy..." Bakura gasped, and blushed.

Ryou wailed loudly when he turned back to only find Tachi. "Oh god!" He yipped, speeding up. "I'm TAKEN! Stop chasing me!" he called back as he zipped down the street, Tachi in hot pursuit.

"Oh, come ON Ryou!!! He's like...Five years younger than you!!! WE are the SAME AGE!!! COME ON!!! Let's fuck!" Tachi squeaked excitedly.

"Tachiiii!" Ryou whined loudly. "I still have master Pegasus!" he blurted quickly. "I'm STILL taken!"

"So?! Rabbits fuck anyone! And I wanna fuck YOU!!!" Tachi called, speeding up. "It'll be fun!"

"Then you wont mind it I only fuck my mate!" Ryou called back making a sharp right.

Tachi skittered after Ryou, who was heading for the Jungle, which was open at this hour. "We're gonna have SO much fun! We'll be best fuck buddies!"

Ryou whined, darting into the Jungle. "SAVE ME!" he howled loudly. "HE'S GOING TO MOLEST ME! ASSISTANCE PLEASE!"

"ALL RIGHT!!! LET'S FUCK IN THE CAGE!!!!" Tachi hollered, darting between a startled Khan's legs.

Ryou whined trying to stay at a fair speed, despite all the legs walking around and startled gasps. "HEEEELLLLP!

"C'mon, c'mon, c'mon...." Tachi panted to himself, gaining on Ryou. After all... he was MUCH more practiced at moving around on all fours than Ryou was, so he was more agile. He darted around poor Otogi, tripping him, and tackled Ryou to the floor. "GOTCHA!!" And he went for Ryou's pants.

Ryou squeaked and kicked Tachi off, darting off once more, seeking shelter in the storage closet. He whimpered, hiding behind some boxes. "Don’t find me don’t find me..."

"Why?" Tachi asked, peering over the boxes.

Ryou squeaked. "I'm TAKEN!" he yelped, squirming further back into his little 'box' haven.

But Tachi just followed. "You don't SMELL like you are..." He giggled, cuddling up to Ryou and nuzzling him.

Ryou shivered, the familiar smell of male rabbit... he'd smelt the alluring scent only once before, and despite what had happened, he still longed for that scent. "Don’t..." Ryou whimpered, ears back. "I-I am taken...please..."

"Awww... come on..." Tachi cooed, grooming Ryou's ears. "You know you want to..."

"I don’t..." Ryou whimpered ears quivering. "Marik...." he pouted. "He's my mate..."

"Awww... come on, Ryou..." Tachi giggled, fondling Ryou. "He's just a lion... can't be as good as a rabbit... have you ever... been with a rabbit?"

Ryou whimpered, squirming. "N-no... please..." he said softly, trembling and shivering at Tachi's touches. "I... I have my mate... please..."

"Shhhh...." Tachi hissed and kissed Ryou, groping his tail and... other stuff in that area.

Ryou gasped into the kiss, squirming. "N-no... s-stop..." he groaned, pulling away, his ears quivering from arousal. "Marik..."

"Nu-uh!" Tachi giggled, and tackled Ryou to the floor of the cardboard box. But both rabbits froze, eyes wide and ears up when the closet opened and Khan peered down at them, Tachi with his naughty little paws down Ryou's pants.

Ryou whimpered loudly.

Khan coughed. "Excuse me ladies... but one of you seems to have... an issue keeping one's hands to oneself." He said grabbing Tachi's ears. "Drop him."

Tachi squeaked and removed his paws from Ryou, curling up and staring at Khan as he dangled by his ears from his paw.

Khan put Tachi down, outside of the box. "Now scat." he growled, flicking his tail. "This is one bunny that you may NOT mate with. Now move on."

Ryou sniffled from the box softly.

Tachi let out a little 'eep!' and was gone.

"What's going on here?" Seto asked, walking over.

"That Tachi was trying to get some tail in your storage closet." Khan chuckled. "And I think poor Ryou is traumatized..."

"Oh good grief. Hey Ryou... Tachi was after you again?" Seto asked.

Ryou nodded when Khan picked him up and hugged him. "Poor thing. He's lucky I got here when I did... that black rabbit is horny, had his hands on the merchandise and everything."

Ryou blushed and buried his face in Khan's chest.

"Oh good grief..." Seto sighed, shaking his head. "Come on, Ryou. You want me to take you home?" He asked.

"RYOU!!!" Marik called, stumbling over, panting. "Ryou! You... okay?" Seto blinked.

"Marik. Calm down and breathe...." He said. "Sit down. Are you even supposed to be outside?"

Ryou smiled softly. "I... I'm ok." he said after a moment, still blushing. "H-he just frightened me is all. I'm fine." he cooed offering Marik a reassuring smile. "Khan saved me."

Marik smiled and hugged Ryou, then looked up at Khan. "Thanks... That Tachi has been a thorn in my side since I met him." Seto chuckled, remembering well their first encounter with Tachi. He took one look at Ryou, and the chase hadn't stopped since.

Ryou sighed softly. "You should be more kind towards him... I'm sure he MEANS no harm..."

Seto raised his eyebrows. "Other than wanting to screw you?"

"Yeah!!!" Marik agreed, nodding.

Ryou flicked his ears and gave Seto a flat look. "You stay out of this."

Marik whined. "Ryou! I do NOT want his grubby little paws on you!!!" He exclaimed, then grabbed Ryou by the shoulders and made him look him in the eyes. "I am the only one allowed to touch you!" He took a deep breath and looked like he was slightly warring with himself. "Me... and Pegasus." Seto's eyebrows shot up at that one; he had NEVER expected Marik to say THAT.

Ryou grinned and nuzzled Marik, hugging onto him tightly. "Oh Marik..." he cooed proudly. "Let’s... let’s go out and do something you want to do tonight." he said smiling. "Anything at all."

Marik smiled and leaned down, kissing Ryou softly. "I want you to be happy." He said, grinning broadly. "And just seeing that smile on your face made. My. Day!" Seto snickered, and nudged Khan.

"Shall we leave the love birds alone?" He asked.

Khan chuckled and nodded. "Yes, I believe they're fine now." he said calmly exiting with the CEO.

Ryou giggled softly and cuddled Marik. "Tachi won’t get me. I'm faster than him." he cooed beginning to groom Marik's ears.

Marik snorted. "He caught you, didn't he?" He asked, grinning and pulling Ryou over to an empty table and plopping down.

Ryou wrinkled his nose. "Only because I ran into the storeroom!" he protested.

"Let's get a dessert!" Marik said, and leaned over the back of his booth seat and tugged Kheti's tail.

"Hey gorgeous!!!"


Kheti flicked an ear and chuckled. "Well if it isn't the little lovers. You two want some ice cream?" she asked smiling.

Marik grinned and wiggled his ears. "We'd like a menu!" He announed, pointing at the stack of menus sitting in the hostess stand that she was working.

Kheit laughed and nodded, handing them each a menu. "Alright, but nothing alcoholic."

"Awwww..." Marik pouted teasingly. "Thanks!" And he turned around and opened the menu to the dessert page.

"Leave poor Kheti alone!" Mikado laughed, walking over to their table, tail wagging. "You don't need a menu, Marik. I heard that you MADE the menu!" Marik looked up at Mikado, then slowly raised a finger to his lips.

"Shhhhhhhh...."

Ryou giggled softly. "He did." Ryou said yawning and beginning to groom his own ears. "He's being a brat."

"I dont mind." Kheti added laughing. "Just so long as he doesn't try to get alcohol."

Mikado laughed. "Right. No alcohol." Marik snorted.

"I'll bet Khilek would let me..." He challenged Kheti, playfully.

"I'm sure he would. But if you get alcohol, Khan will have to kick you out." She said calmly, pointing to the imtimidating tiger.

"Awww..." Marik whined, but grinned and looked over the dessert menu. "Ryou... ya want dessert, or a full blow meal! Appetizer, entre AND dessert?!"

Ryou looked thoughtful. "Just desert... I'm not that hungry." he said after a moment. "Is that alright with you?"

Marik smiled. "Whatever you want." He said. "Soooo... The ButterCream Chocolate Cake? The Hot Apple Crisp? Oohhh... Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake?" Kheti giggled. Marik was listing the desserts, but was drooling over the steaks two pages away.

"Why don’t you get what you want ?" Ryou said laughing. "I'll just watch. I know you want those steaks..." he added shaking his head amusedly. "You don’t fool me.'

Marik blinked, then grinned and blushed. "Yeahhhh..." He said, snagging Mikado by the tail.

"YIPE!!! Oh, hey, ya ready to order?" Mikado asked, rubbing his backside.

"Yeah! I want the Steak and Shrimp, rare, with a salad on the side," He grinned at Ryou, "And the Supreme Mashed potatoes. And I'll have water, and get Ryou the Island Fruit Smoothie!" Mikado nodded, scribbling it all down.

"Gotcha! Rare steak and shrimp with Supreme Mashed potatoes, water, Island Smoothie, and a salad on the side. What kind of dressing?"

"Whatcha want, Ryou?" Marik asked.

Ryou smiled. "Italian please." He cooed continuing his grooming. "You have to share some potatoes Marik... they sound good." he giggled as Mikado left.

Marik grinned. "I'll share! Of course! You can even have some of the steak from the outside of the meat where it's more cooked if you want." He offered, grinning when Mikado set down their drinks, with extra pieces of fruit in Ryou’s, and the salad.

Ryou blushed. "You'll spoil me." he cooed at Mikado. "Thank you." and he popped a cherry that was delicately placed atop his smoothie into his mouth. Despite the innocent act, it was still hot. Thus, the reason Ryou had everyone around his finger. He was too cute not to.

Mikado giggled. "Ryou, you are evil, you know that?" He teased, then ran off when someone yelled about their order being wrong. Marik snickered and snagged a tomato from Ryou's salad and popped it into his mouth. Then made a face.

"Ew."

Ryou giggled softly. "Yeah..." he mumbled, pulling the stem from the cherry out of his mouth. The stem was neatly tied in a love knot.

Marik's eyes widened. "Holy shit!" He squeaked. "Now you're making me think of all the NAUGHTY things you can do with that mouth there..."

Ryou laughed. "Sorry?" he giggled, passing the little knot to Marik.

Marik stared at the thing, amazed. "I think all I could do was chew the hell out of this thing..." He laughed, then looked up at Ryou. "I, uh... Tomorrow morning, I'm going to Khan's house. To umm... start with this martial arts and meditation thing." He said. "And then, I have an appointment with Dr. Hinaru."

Ryou nodded slowly, grinning and popping another cherry in his mouth, this time however, he was purposely making pleased faces and suggestive sounds.

Marik's eyes widened. "Oh, Ryou! That is NOT fair! Do NOT tease me unless you're gonna put out!!!" Several heads turned at THAT.

Ryou giggled around the cherry. "Shh!"

Marik snorted and grabbed a cracker, and pouted. "You said yourself that I wasn't gettin' any until I'm older than you again..." He pointed out.

Ryou giggled. "Well I'll just go pester Pegasus at night." he said flicking his ears. "He doesn't get any normally!"

Marik winced, and looked ready to growl, but he took a few deep breaths, then relaxed and looked at Ryou, with a smile and a nod. "I guess. If you wanna go see him... I'll walk you over."

Ryou laughed. "I'm only teasing. Honestly Marik." he cooed smiling. "I know the idea of me with Pegasus upsets you... I wouldn't go over there unless it was life or death sex-emergency... and you were unavailable."

Marik sighed. "But you WANT to go... and if you want to... I won't stop you." He said, then grinned when Mikado set the plate down.

"Rare steak and spicy shrimp with supreme mashed potatoes!" He sang, and Marik drooled over the steak, while Ryou drooled over the large serving of mashed potatoes covered in butter, chives, bacon bits, cheese and sour cream. "Enjoyyyy!" Mikado sang, and trotted off.

Ryou immediately picked up his fork, and snatched some of Marik's potatoes. "Mmm." he giggled teasingly. "I got some of your food!" he sang, before taking a bite of his ill-begotten spuds.

Marik chuckled and began cutting his steak, finding a nice little peice that was more medium than rare, and offered the piece on the fork to Ryou.

Ryou smiled and eagerly took it. "Thank you." he said smiling and popping the piece in his mouth. He offered Marik a piece of celery in exchange.

Marik sniffed it, and made a face. "Uh... no thanks, baby...." He said. "I think I'll stick to my meat..."

Ryou sighed softly. "You have to have a few veggies.." he said softly. "You're part human, you need the vitamins."

Marik whined, but finally accepted the celery and ate it, making comical faces the entire time.

Ryou smiled once more and sipped his smoothie. "That's the Marik I know and love." he cooed proudly. "Veggies AND meat. You have to set an example for Hunter."

Marik sighed. "HUNTER is part RABBIT!!! He LOVES his meat AND veggies! Hell, HE sets a good example for ME!!!" He exclaimed, waving his fork around carelessly.

Ryou sighed. "Marik be careful with that." he advised calmly. "You'll hurt someone waving that fork around like that."

Marik blinked. "Oh. Sorry." He said, spearing another chunk of dripping meat and stuffing it into his mouth. Then he smiled. "So... I heard Angel won the show today."

Ryou nodded smiling. "She agreed to mate Spunky too."

Marik's eyes widened. "She... she DID?!" He gasped, then grinned. "Oh my GOD!!! Seriously?!"

Ryou grinned broadly. "Yup."

Marik looked delighted. "That is AWESOME!! Oh, my little princess!!! I... I hafta get them a... a wedding gift or something!!!"

Ryou laughed. "Bunnies don’t get married!" he giggled. "Honestly, your approval will be more than enough." he said softly beginning to nibble his salad.

Marik smiled. "Awww... but I wanna get them something! A gift! A housewarming gift! But... they don't have a house..."

"Spunky dug them a den in the back yard." Ryou corrected. "It has lights and a bed, and carpet and a drainage system. Spunky's so smart!"

Marik stared. "REALLY!? Well then... I guess I will get them a housewarming gift..." He mused, thinking.

Ryou laughed. "Spunky even hung some earrings of Malik's in there, to make it cozy." he cooed as he ate. "Angel was thrilled."

Marik laughed. "He stole Malik's earrings?!"

Ryou giggled. "I think he did at first, but he ended up getting permission."

Marik chuckled. "That rabbit... he's Bakura's baby, through and through."

Ryou nodded. "Just like Angel is yours." he cooed smiling. "I cant wait until you're back to normal... I've been itching for a game of hunter and prey..." he shivered just saying it.

Marik blinked and stopped chewing, then slowly looked up at Ryou, and grinned. "Sounds good to me... why do we have to wait?"

"Because you're underage." Ryou said giggling slightly. "That's why."

Marik frowned and pouted. "Awwww..." He whined.

Ryou sighed softly, finishing his meal, before laying down some money for the meal. "Is it alright if I meet you at home? I want to pick up some things at the store...." Ryou said softly.

Marik blinked. "I'd rather you didn't run around alone at night..." He said. "What do you need?"

Ryou smiled. "Marik, at your age currently, I'd rather YOU didn't run around at night. I'll be fine." he said smiling. "I'm just going to the store."

Marik frowned and shook his head. "Nu-uh! I'M the one with sharp teeth and claws!" He whined. But then, he blinked and looked down at his... filed off claws, and his ears and tail drooped. "Well... sharp teeth at least..."

Ryou smiled and leaned across the table, licking Marik's cheek. "I will meet you at home."

Marik frowned. "Noooo! I'm coming with you! I have to protect you!!" He cried, scrambling out of the booth after Ryou after cramming the last bite of steak into his mouth.

Ryou shook his head. "Marik I insist." he said firmly. "I want you home to take care of the bunnies while I grab what I need. Please? I'm a big bunny I can take care of myself."

Marik frowned. "Why do I feel like you're trying to get rid of me?" He asked.

Ryou gave him a flat look. "Marik, when have I ever tried to get rid of you? I'm just going to run a few errands. I'm just depending on you to herd the bunnies back into the house while I'm gone. You know those dogs next door are eager for a snack all the time..."

Marik frowned. "But I feel like you're trying to get rid of me... what do you need from the store at this time of night?" He asked. "Ryou... seriously... if you wanna go see Pegasus, just tell me! Keeping it a secret will hurt me more than being honest with me..."

Ryou rolled his eyes. "Toothpaste and toilet paper if you MUST know."

Marik blinked. "Toothpaste and toilet paper? That's it? Why can't I come with you for that?! Ryou... you're not gonna TP someone's house are you?!" He teased. "Cuz I wanna go with you!!!"

"Home!" Ryou said firmly, though he looked amused. "I'm getting surprises! Now c'mon! Go home!"

Marik blinked. "Umm... okay." He said, flicking an ear. He sighed and kissed Ryou's cheek. "But maybe I'll follow you, just in case there's a Tachi lurking in the bushes." He chuckled, walking out of the club with Ryou, calling "see you tomorrow morning!" to Khan.

Ryou chuckled and kissed Marik once they hit the fork between home and store. "I'll be ten minutes at most." he cooed softly. "I'll run. Why don’t you warm our bed after getting the bunnies inside… I suppose a little fun wouldn't hurt..." he giggled softly blushing. "But don’t TELL anyone! I'm not a cradle robber..." he grumbled.

Marik grinned and his ears perked up and his tail lashed. "You GOT it!" And he kissed Ryou strongly, then turned and ran down the street, not on all fours for once... and quite honestly, he STILL looked like he was about to loose his balance from tile to time, his tail swinging about like a rudder to KEEP him in balance.

Ryou smiled and shook his head, beginning his walk to the grocery store. He'd been planning on buying Angel a victory and wedding breakfast. Since Marik was trying so hard, he deserved his own rewards... Maybe a nice big salmon...

"Yeah... Marik likes fish too." he said brightly. "I'll get him a large fish and make it a wonderful lunch for him... he'll love it!"

Marik in the mean time, made it home and began herding the bunnies inside for the night, and once he had them all in, he grabbed Trigger. "Hey kid... where's this den that Spunky made for Angel?" He asked.

Trigger growled softly. 'You've got a nose sniff it out yourself.' he grumbled yawning and squirming.

Marik frowned. "Aw, c'mon, Trigger. Help me out here! Is it even in the yard?" He asked, not letting go of the frilled lizard.

Trigger flicked his ears. 'It's under the tree. Put me down!'

Marik chuckled and gave Trigger an unwanted lick up the cheek, then set him down and headed out to the backyard, heading towards the sakura tree and sniffing around.

"Angel?" He called. "Angeeeellll... Princess? Where are you!" He knocked on the ground with a paw, since there was no door to knock on.

Angel peeped out yawning softly. 'Hi daddy.' She squeaked, scratching an ear. 'What're you doin out here?'

Marik grinned and swept her up with a startled squeak, and hugged her. "Oh princess, I heard the good news! You and Spunky, oh it's WONDERFUL!!!" And he plastered a great big kiss onto the top of her head. Spunky poked his head out of the hole.

'Hey! No kissing my woman!' He chittered, then yelped as Marik scooped him up and kissed him as well. "NOOO!!! NO NO NO NO NO!!!" Spunky wailed, squirming in Marik's hand.

Angel chittered out her giggling. 'Spunky, stop giving daddy a hard time, he's just congratulating you.' She said flicking her ears. 'You're messing up your fur.'

Spunky slowly stopped squirming. "I'm so happy for you two!" Marik squealed like a schoolgirl. "Oh, this is just great! I... I'm gonna get you a present! Something nice, something real nice! What do you need down there to make it more like home?!" Spunky blinked and looked at Angel, a bit bewildered.

'It already is home, daddy. It doesn't need anything, Spunky thought of everything from carpeting to blankets to lights.' she squeaked. 'It’s the best home I've ever seen.'

Marik smiled. "Nothing special? No... decorations? No--"

'Angel wants a scented candle!' Spunky exclaimed.

"A scented candle? What for, you can't use matches!" Marik laughed.

'No, but it will still make our room spell good.' Spunky said.

"Ah... You want some scented candles and maybe... potpourri?"

Angel squeaked eagerly. 'Oh yes! Yes!' she said eagerly. 'Sweet smelling things!'

Marik smiled and nuzzle her. "Anything for my little princess. AND her little prince!" And he turned and nuzzled Spunky, who rolled his eyes.

'Oh jeeze...' He groaned.

Angel giggled and licked Spunky's cheek 'Be nice.'

Spunky sighed and nuzzled her, happily. Marik smiled and put them both down. "Well, I just wanted to offer you my congratulations! I'm so happy and proud!" And he gave them each another kiss before nudging them towards their burrow. "Go on now! Have fun, newly weds!!!"

'My gosh he's embarrassing...' Spunky said.

Angel giggled once more. 'He's just eager. Both daddies are. You should know, you've been around them longer than I have.' she said smartly.

Spunky sighed. 'I guess.' He said, and he and Angel returned to their den while Marik went back into the house. He ran around gathering Ryou's scented candles and set them around their bedroom and the bathroom, running a hot bath. He ran out back and picked a few roses, sprinkling their petals over the sheets of their bed and in the bathwater, then began lighting the candles and telling the bunnies to steer clear of the bedroom and bathroom that night.

Then, he found some strawberry sherbert in the freezer and scooped some into a bowl with fresh strawberries and drizzled a bit of chocolate syrup over it, and set it on the kitchen table, lighting the candles that sat on the table top. Then, he went to the closet and pulled out a long flat box and shoved it under his pillow, then stripped and ran to the front door, awaiting his mate's return.

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

Ryou yawned as he walked home, carrying his bags of treats. He knew Marik would be eager to play the role of dominant mate once more. He giggled softly to himself. "Poor Marik...”

Marik grinned when Ryou walked up the front walk, and when he reached for the doorknob, Marik flung the door open and stood there in all his naked teenage glory, smirking.

"Hi honey." He purred, lashing his tail. "Welcome home...”

Ryou blushed darkly and hurried in closing the door. "Honestly... cant you wait to flash the neighbors until it's not a crime?!” He giggled going to the kitchen to put away his gifts.

Marik smiled and followed Ryou, waiting for him to spot the yummy little dessert.

Ryou flicked his ears as he put away the treats and smiled. "I smell something fruity...” He cooed finishing up and going to the table, sitting and taking a nibble of the sweet treat.

Marik smiled and sat down next to Ryou, pulling the dessert over. "Just for you...” He purred, and kissed Ryou's cheek lovingly, wrapping his tail around the bunny's waist.

Ryou blushed and nuzzled Marik. "Well thank you...” He cooed softly, taking another few nibbles, before offering Marik a bite as well. "It's delicious...”

Marik smiled and accepted the offered bit, and soon, the small dessert was gone. Marik stood and grabbed Ryou's hands, pulling him out of the chair, and blew out the candles. Then, he pulled Ryou into the candle lit bathroom, where the warm bath sat waiting, rose petals floating on the surface.

Ryou blushed darker. "Goodness, I go to the grocery store and you turn our home into a love scene.” He giggled softly, nuzzling Marik and slowly beginning to strip, putting on a slight show for his lover before stepping into the tub, snatching a rose petal up to nibble.

Marik grinned and lashed his tail. "Well why not?” He asked. "You're more than worth it." And he knelt by the tub and nuzzled Ryou softly, purring the entire time.

Ryou smiled and licked Marik's cheek, his ears drooping into a relaxed position. "Mmm... I love baths...” he murmured beginning to groom. For a brief moment, it was like that first night at the petshop... Ryou grooming beneathe the water dispenser.

Marik grinned and watched, tail wagging happily. "Well you know... I HAD to get Tachi's scent off of you SOME how...” He snickered.

Ryou giggled and lifted a hand from the water, and flicked it at him, flicking water on Marik's face. "Be nice."

Marik chuckled. "You know I don't like other males' scents on you.” He said. "I'll make an exception for Pegasus."

"You hardly make an exception for master Pegasus." Ryou corrected. "You're such a domineering thing... I never would have imagined how demanding you can be.” He giggled as he bathed. "But I'm happy you love me so much you hardly want to share."

Marik sighed. "HARDLY want to share?! I DON'T want to share! Most people wouldn't HAVE to share! But... I understand that Pegasus is... Master to you. And... it's not right for me to keep you from him when you still love him so much. And I want to see you happy. And because of that, I am willing to fight back my possessive side and let you be with him to. Because it makes you happy. But if I smell someone OTHER than Pegasus on you...” He threatened. "The lion will become a man-eater!"

He blinked and glanced to the side. "Or at least a Tachi-eater...”

Ryou laughed softly. "Honestly. I don’t think he intends to rape me.” He cooed shaking his head. "He's just eager... much like you are."

Marik snorted. "He KNOWS I'm your mate!!” He protested, trickling water over Ryou's back. "He can bloody find ANOTHER rabbit if he's that desperate!"

"Would YOU find another rabbit?" Ryou asked flicking his ears. "He's a lot like you... he doesn't take no for an answer well... believe me, Pegasus tried to tell you no several times.” He giggled softly.

Marik smiled. "Yeah... but no, I wouldn't find another rabbit! Tachi just wants to get under your tail!"

Ryou gave Marik a look. "Oh? And you don’t?” He giggled.

Marik grinned. "Sure I do! But that's NOT the only thing I want from you!” He smiled and stroked Ryou's cheek. "I wanna be with you. Forever. I want you to be my life long friend and companion. Tachi just wants a one-night stand, followed by the inevitable booty calls."

Ryou giggled and nipped at Marik's fingers. "I know... and I adore you.” He whispered smiling. "But you can’t blame Tachi... he's a rabbit too. Besides you PROMISED me that you would never eat rabbits.”

Marik frowned. "Tachi isn't a rabbit. He's a hopping penis."

"Then you're a prowling penis." Ryou grumbled. "Because both of you are simply insatiable!"

Marik snorted. "I do NOT go after someone else's mate!” He protested. "I do NOT go prowling for ass!!! TACHI DOES!!! And he has NO respect for the fact that you have me AND Pegasus! He STILL tries to screw you! And you hate it when he does! And you're DEFENDING HIM!!!" Marik laughed. "YOU are such a puzzle sometimes!!!"

Ryou blushed. "Well before, his argument was we weren't mates. After all we hadn't... done anything. So I smelled single...”

Marik blinked, then gave Ryou a look. "And whose fault is that?” He asked, grinning the poking Ryou in the ribs, where he KNEW his bunny was ticklish.

Ryou squeaked, giggling loudly. "It's not my fault!"

Marik grinned and purred, nuzzling Ryou again. "Done with your bath, baby?"

Ryou nuzzled and rinsed himself off once more. "I suppose so.” He giggled flicking more water on Marik.

Marik made a face and pawed at the water, but then grabbed a towel and swung Ryou up into his arms, quite impressive since he was still smaller than Ryou. He blew out the candles, and carried Ryou to the bedroom. "Ah... stage three.” He said, and lay his mate down on the petal covered bed; once again the room was lit with candles.

"Let me guess, your favorite part?" Ryou giggled squirming slightly.

Marik chuckled. "Maaaaaybe.” He said, stroking Ryou's belly with his fingertips, his filed down claws tickling Ryou.

Ryou squirmed. "Stop tickling me!” He squeaked, shoving Marik slightly.

Marik chuckled. "Fine fine...” He said, and leaned over Ryou, kissing him. "I love you...”

Ryou kissed him back and nuzzled him, beginning to groom his lover. "I love you too...”

Marik smiled and wrapped his arms around Ryou, pulling him into his chest and moaned slightly, kissing Ryou again, and then beginning to lick down his mate's neck and chest with his rough tongue.

Ryou moaned softly, already slightly turned on by the preparations Marik had made. "What would I do without you?” He cooed, running his hands through Marik's hair, kissing him whenever he could.

Marik sighed. "Lead a boring stress free life?” He mumbled, stroking Ryou's sides gently, and continuing to lick over Ryou's body, purring softly and tickling his inner thighs with the tuft on his tail.

Ryou squeaked and swatted at the tail. "Stop tickling me!” He giggled squirming. "I'll have to run away, if you keep it up."

Marik chuckled. "Ahhh... so you want to play Mighty Hunter tonight? And here I thought you would enjoy the romantic atmosphere...” He chuckled, and began stroking Ryou's thighs with a paw instead, kissing him and slipping him some tongue.

Ryou shivered and kissed him back eagerly, ears quivering. Marik had all the right moves sometimes...

Marik purred loudly, holding Ryou to his chest, then slowly slid down his body and dragged his rough pleasing tongue up Ryou's length, which was slowly waking up.

Ryou yipped softly, squirming. "Marik!” He squeaked in surprise, before giggling and shoving him slightly. "No eating the bunny... you didn't catch me.” He cooed, knowing Marik loved that game as much as he did.

Marik chuckled. "Of course I did... I just LURED him in with charm rather than hunting him down and taking him by force into my den...” He chuckled, and began giving Ryou's erection long delicious licks.

Ryou moaned loudly at that. "Horrid!” He giggled squirming more. "Lions don’t lure rabbits!"

Marik smiled. "Who says? Constantine? Would you rather I was like him and just TOOK what I wanted instead of...” He chuckled. "LURING you into my clutches... ?"

Ryou wrinkled his nose. "Constantine can go... 'get bent' as Bakura says." Ryou countered. "I love you whether you play hunter or not.” He cooed, moaning softly.

Marik smiled. "That's just because I'm making you feel good right now...” He teased, then slowly began to suckle the head of Ryou's arousal, then slowly slid down, taking more into his mouth, his purring sending the most incredible vibrations through Ryou.

Ryou moaned loudly, arching off the bed slightly at that and panting harshly. "M-mmmarik!” He mewled running his fingers through Marik's hair and urging him to further the attention.

Marik purred louder, making Ryou jerk, then slowly withdrew, scraping his teeth gently over Ryou's length, then gave it a long lick before smirking at his mate.

Ryou whined softly. "More...” He mewled to his mate, pulling him up for deep lustful kisses. "Please... please more!"

Marik purred and reached for the lotion, panting into the kiss as he coated his own erection with it. He paused, then whined and slowly looked down. "Gods, I wish I was back to age 24...”

Ryou burst into giggles. "Will you just fuck me already?!” He giggled kissing him again. "Right now I could care less what age you are!"

Marik snorted. "I'm not hung like a horse any more!!!” He wailed. "I'm hung like a hamster!!!"

"Mariiiik!" Ryou whined loudly. "If you don’t do something soon, then I'm taking a cold shower!"

Marik's ear shot up. "Okay!" And he thrust in. "Ohhh... godddssss...” He groaned, and let his head drop to lick feverishly at Ryou's chest.

Ryou whined loudly thrusting against Marik. He wasn't as big, but he was still pleasing. He moaned loudly as he bucked against Marik, who was beginning a slow pace. "God Marik... mmm so good...” Ryou whimpered, ears quivering more.

Marik groaned and nuzzled Ryou's neck, nipping at his shoulders as he began to slowly move within his mate, digging his blunt claws into the bed sheets on either side of Ryou's head.

Ryou groaned, shivering in ecstacy. "Oh Marik...” He moaned moving against him. It was good to be back to normal, but now Marik couldn't reach his prostate so easily... so Marik was having FAR more fun than he was, but he'd let him think they were having equal fun. Marik deserved it for the effort alone!

Marik continued to groan and pant, beginning to bite at Ryou's shoulder, thrusting harder and faster, before curling his fingers around Ryou's erection and stroking it.

Ryou squeaked and kissed Marik lustfully moaning loudly. It didn't take the horny little bunny long to reach his climax, spraying his lust over them both.

Marik whimpered and mewled, bucking into Ryou and biting down on his shoulder, reaching his own orgasm moments later. Then, he dropped onto Ryou's chest and lay still, panting.

Ryou curled up around Marik and panted softly, beginning to groom his lover.

Marik smiled and purred softly, nuzzling Ryou and licking his chin, his tail thumping the sheets softly.

Ryou sighed softly, continuing to groom his lover. "Sometimes you surprise me...” He giggled softly. "I fall in love with you all over again...”

Marik smiled and looked up at Ryou, then reached under the pillow and pulled out the long thin box. "I... I got you something...” He whispered. "I saved up for it from my job at The Jungle... every cent I could spare...”

Ryou blinked and tilted his head to the side, taking the box. "You... saved?” He blinked blushing slightly and opening the box.

Marik smiled and nodded, creeping closer and peering down into the box. "It's custom made... it took months for it to come in...”

Inside was a black leather choker-collar studded with two rings of flat silver disks and with a silver plate on it, bearing Ryou's name, and a little heart tag. Marik reached out and flipped up the name plate, showing it to be a type of locket; inside, the information such as his caretaker's name and number was engraved. And then, he opened the little heart tag, which literally was a locket, and two pictures were inside. One was Marik, and the other was Pegasus. Marik nuzzled Ryou.

"Okay, I'll admit... I DID get a BIT of help from Pegasus but... I paid for half of it...” And he smiled, then began to flip up each flat stud peice, and Ryou was amazed. Each stud was another locket. There were fourteen in all. And in each, was a tiny picture of each individual bunny.

Ryou blushed and nuzzled Marik, licking his cheek and covering his face in kisses. "I love it!” He said proudly. "And I couldn't be more proud of you.” He said smiling and hugging him tightly.

Marik grinned. "I worked... extra hours before I was fired to make the money to buy it for you...” Marik said, and removed it from the box, and fastened it around Ryou's neck. He smiled. "It looks beautiful on you...” He whispered. "Elegant...”

Ryou blushed darkly and smiled. "You're so romantic sometimes... At least now Tachi will stay away." he cooed smiling. "With this collar, there's no mistaking it."

Marik grinned. "Oh good!" He said happily. Then, he blinked at a creaking. Marik sat straight up and looked at the bedroom door, then chuckled. "Well well well...” In the doorway, were a good dozen pairs of eyes and perky ears, including a dreamy looking Angel.

Ryou blushed. "You nosey bunnies! Go to your beds!" he said sternly. "Honestly!"

Marik chuckled. "Looking for pointers, Spunky?" He asked. Spunky snorted.

'As if. I'm far ahead of you. I got Angel a special collar a LONG time ago! Come to me if you need any tips.' He said, then flipped his tail and followed the rest of the family away.

"Served." Ryou giggled flopping back against the pillow. "You'd better watch out, bunnies have all the moves."

Marik rolled his eyes. "Riiiight... stupid rodents...” He grumbled. "They are SO mean to me!"

Ryou laughed and swatted him. "I'm one of those rodents!"

Marik smiled. "Yeah... but you're my mate." And he curled an arm around Ryou and pulling him closer. Marik tossed the empty collar box over his shoulder, and pulled the blankets over them. "And I love you...”

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