Twilight Menagerie

Twilight Menagerie

Mally-chan and hato chiisai

Disclaimer: We own nothing. Nothing at all

YAOI WARNING!!!

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Chapter 27

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The next day Ryou woke slowly wincing. "Marik...?” He mewled softly, sitting up and gasping slightly, his back stinging sharply. He looked around, hoping to find his mate. He was glad however to see it hadn't been a delusion. He was away from Dartz. "Marik?” He mewled once more, flicking his ears, listening for his lover.

"Ryou?" Dr. Inogawa walked in, and quickly moved over to the bunny. "Shhh... Lay down, little guy. Let me see your wound...” He began to gently unwind the bandages. "How do you feel?"

Ryou winced. "Like road kill...” He mumbled, ears drooping. "My legs are heavy too...” He mumbled lifting one. "Where's Marik?"

"He's in the other room, Ryou. That wound in his side nearly bled him to death. But he'll be fine. He's resting. I just checked on him." And he gave Ryou a smile. But all comfort flew OUT the window when he suddenly slipped a thermometer under Ryou's tail!!!

Ryou squeaked and wailed loudly. "NO! STOP THAT!!! GET IT OUT!” He shouted squirming. "STOP!” He whined and his ears twitched in irritation. He was still quite sore and that cold cold thermometer was not making his insides all too happy. "Horrid thing!"

"Shhhhh...” Dr. Inogawa soothed Ryou, petting him and holding him still. He stuck a peach slice into Ryou's mouth. "Be good... You're hurt and might have a fever."

Ryou twitched irritably but chewed the bit of peach. He swallowed and clicked at Dr. Inogawa. "I hate this.” He grumbled. "You're a horrible horrible sneaky man."

The man laughed and continued to pet Ryou. "Come on now... am I really all that horrible? I only saved your mate's life.” He said, and then pulled out the thermometer. "Hmmm... You’re a bit warm, but I think you'll be just fine. And you'll be happy to know that your feet are not broken. They'll be a bit sore for a while, but...”

Ryou smiled slightly and nodded. "That's good, I don’t think I could stand being carried about everywhere a moment longer...” He winced slightly. "Ahh... but my back stings badly. Marik's ok though... right? H-he didn't kill him did he?"

"Dartz nearly killed Marik and Marik nearly killed Dartz." Dr. Inogawa said, and sighed. "I'm afraid that there is... bad news...” He said, and looked down, worried.

Ryou's ears tilted back. "Tell me...” He whimpered biting his lip. "What's the bad news?"

"Marik may not live much longer.” He said softly. "Despite what I have done for him."

Ryou shook his head horrified. "Why not?!” He said beginning to tug his own ears. "H-he didn't kill him! H-he didn't kill anyone!"

"No." Dr. Inogawa said. "But he tried to. And for that, he is going to the dangerous pets’ trial. Many of the police officers fear that he is a danger to the public. And if the judge agrees... well... he could order Marik's owner, whoever that is right now, to register Marik as a potentially dangerous pet. And that would require Marik to be kept locked up, and when outside, he must be on a leashed and muzzled at all times. That's if he's lucky. Otherwise... he could be put down for trying to kill Dartz AND Rafel...”

Ryou shook his head horrified. "I want my mate!” He said fearfully. "I want him! P-please! I need my mate!” He said beginning to whimper and mewl, calling for his mate.

"Ryou... the reason that Marik is not in here with you, is because the judge has ordered him... muzzled and locked up in isolation. Only Rem and I are permitted in the same room as Marik... I'm sorry... but I cannot allow you to see him. Doing so would get my license revoked and I would be placed under arrest.”

Ryou glared and bared his teeth. "If you don’t let me see him I'll become a dangerous pet too!” He said furiously. "He's my mate! I NEED my mate!"

"I'm sorry Ryou. There is nothing I can do." Dr. Inogawa said, and turned away, scribbling on Ryou's chart.

Ryou whimpered and his ears drooped. "Please... let me see him! He's my mate... you can’t possibly keep him from me after I've been separated from him for so long!"

Dr. Inogawa looked at Ryou, genuinely upset. "I'm sorry. There's nothing I can do.” He said again, and then left the room, leaving Ryou all by himself...

Ryou sniffled and shook his head, slowly getting up and walking to the door. His feet still hurt, but he didn't feel half the pain, thank goodness for painkillers. He peered out the door and once the coast was clear he began looking for Marik, desperate to find his mate.

He soon came across a door that had a large red sign on it. 'BEWARE OF DOG' only with DOG scratched out with a sharpie and a post-it note took its place saying LION in large bold letters, followed by a piece of printer paper that had been scribbled on. 'No admittance aside from Inogawa'. Ryou's heart pounded as he tried the knob. But the door was locked.

Ryou's ears tilted back and he noticed a small grate, screwed to the door for air circulation. He stooped and began unscrewing them with his claws. Once he'd successfully unscrewed it, he crawled in and propped the grate up, so it looked as though nothing had occurred. "M-Marik...” He mewled softly. "Marik where are you?"

There was no answer. The room was dark, Ryou could not see. But the room was thick with Marik's scent. He was in here; there was no doubt in Ryou's mind. After a moment, he picked up the sound of Marik's deep breathing, coming from across the room.

Ryou inched forwards and once he'd reached the place where Marik's scent was strongest he tapped on the small kennel. "Marik...” He mewled nuzzling the bars. "Marik it's me...” He cooed lovingly. "Oh Marik are you ok?” He asked softly squinting and trying to see inside the kennel.

A soft moan from the sleeping lion was all that was heard. But then, Ryou became aware of another sound... talking. He heard Inogawa, Rem and Pegasus, all talking and coming down the hall. They passed the door and moved on. But a moment later, Inogawa yelped something, and footsteps came right back. Ryou hear the key being fit into the lock of the door.

Ryou squeaked and squirmed around the kennel and hid behind it completely out of sight. If Inogawa found him he'd be furious! He hunched down and remained hidden, glad to discover above him and Marik was a shelf, so no one could see him from above, and he had squirmed in well enough that it wasn’t noticeable at all. He held his breath and remained silent, hoping no one would find him...

The door opened, and the light flicked on.

"Where the devil is he?!" Inogawa cried, exasperated. "Well... as long as we're here, Miss Rem... here's Marik. I'm sorry Mr. Pegasus, but you are required to wait outside." The man grumbled but complied. The door closed, and Rem and Inogawa converged on Marik's kennel. "He's still sleeping off the blood loss trauma." Inogawa explained to Rem, opening the kennel door. "Poor thing... I don’t know if he has a chance, Rem... Judge Ketsu is a tough one... and I've heard that he finds hybrids to be abominations... Rumors are... he wants to see them all destroyed... We're trying to get another judge appointed to the case, but...” He sighed. "Let's face it... Marik needs a miracle now... if not... his temper's gotten him killed...”

Ryou's ears flattened against his skull, and he fought to not sob. He continued to breathe very silently while Rem and Inogawa scratched Marik's ears.

Rem sighed. "Poor Marik... it'll be ok. I'm sure we can get a different Judge... Ketsu said he was busy that day... we might be able to get Judge Haru. She's Ketsu's usual replacement... she's not much better... but at least she's fair...” She said hopefully. I'll try to talk to Ketsu...”

"I hope Ketsu hands it over to Haru... if not... Marik's living out his last days...” Inogawa said. "God... I remember the first time you brought him in... Just a scraggly cub, nothing but skin and bones... he's really grown up. It would kill me to see him put down."

Rem nodded. "It wouldn't be just you... Ryou would die as well... Marik and Ryou are like a couple from a fairytale... they're so in love...” She said sighing and scratching Marik’s ears once more. "He's not a bad lion... he's just got some anger issues... if given the chance he'd overcome them." She added sighing.

"Yes, but after that Constantine got hold of him... he may have more mental issues than just anger management... if he does live, Rem... He’s going to need therapy." Inogawa said. "I would recommend my wife, Rem... she studied human psychology but then changed to animal psychology and once hybrids emerged she moved to that field. She's the leading pioneer specialist in the new field of hybrid psychology. If Marik is acquitted, I'd suggest taking him to her."

Rem nodded. "Of course. Ryou would go with him every time... he's so dedicated to Marik. It's amazing what those two accomplished together... I'd hate to see it all ruined." She said closing the kennel. "We should go find Ryou before Pegasus has a conniption."

"Or before he gets in here." Inogawa said. "Then we'd BOTH be in trouble. We'd be arrested, loose our licenses... and who knows WHAT would be done to Ryou...” the lights were turned off, and the door was closed and locked.

Ryou crept out from behind the kennel and nuzzled the door. “I'll come back Marik...” He cooed smiling. "I'll protect you no matter what...” He whispered crawling back to the door and raising an ear. Once he was sure no one was near, he crawled out, and replaced the grate once more. He hurried back to his room and lay down painfully. No more field trips for him... that hurt!

"Have a nice trip?" Came a voice from the corner.

Ryou squeaked and his ears shot up eyes darting to the source of the voice.

"Food!"

"Hush, Spunky." Bakura said to the bunny on the counter. He turned back to Ryou. "Hey, Thumper."

Ryou looked relieved slightly and exhaled. "Hey Bakura...” He said softly. "It's good to see you...” He said calming down; ears drooping back to lie against his hair.

"You aren't allowed near Marik, Ryou." Bakura said, sternly. "You'll get in trouble."

Ryou flicked his ears and looked away. "You would have done the same thing.” He scolded back. "Don’t preach to the choir."

Bakura chuckled. "True.” He said, walking over. "Nod and babies are doing well. They nursed until they were little more than water balloons... only furry and filled with milk."

Ryou laughed and plucked Spunky from Bakura's shoulder and rubbed noses with him. "You've gotten so big! Last time I saw you were so tiny... cute little thing, I bet Bakura spoils you rotten.” He said tickling Spunky. 'Isn’t that true?' He asked grinning knowing Bakura didn't speak rabbit at all.

'Daddy loves me!' Spunky giggled. 'The man with one eye yelled at Daddy and Malik last night.' He told Ryou, twitching his tail.

Ryou giggled. 'Oh? What for?' He said scratching Spunky's ears and petting his tail slightly, curious. 'You’ve got a soft tail... your daddy must be proud.'

'He is. But they got in trouble because of me, I think. Because I said a word.' Spunky explained. Bakura watched all of this, confused.

Ryou shook his head, holding in more laughter. 'Oh I see, then you should say it as often as possible. That'll teach your daddy not to say bad words like that.' he explained smiling. 'He could get in big trouble if he said the word you say around people.'

Spunky squealed with glee and looked at Bakura. "Fuck!"

"Hey!!" Bakura yelped. "No! Daddy got in trouble about that last night! Stick to food, eh?"

"Fuck food!" Spunky announced, and Bakura sweat-dropped, then smacked his forehead and dragged his hand down his face.

"Fuck me...” He grumbled.

"Fuck Daddy!" Spunky responded.

Ryou laughed, nuzzling Spunky. 'You tell him!' He cheered grinning at Bakura. "You see? You taught him such bad words you should be ashamed!” He scolded laughing slightly.

"Fuck me, fuck daddy, fuck Malik, FUCK YOU!!!" Bakura shouted, taking Spunky from Ryou.

"BAKURA!!!" Scolded Rem from the doorway, and the skunk's ears shot up, and then drooped. He gulped, and slowly turned around to face Rem, Pegasus, Inogawa, and Malik, all glaring.

"Uh oh...”

Ryou smirked. 'Say it really loud Spunky! That'll teach your daddy not to be a bad daddy in public!' He cheered once more, grinning mischievously.

"MALIK FUCK DADDY!!!" Spunky declared loudly.

Rem grabbed Bakura by the ear and began walking from the room. "You and I are going to have a talk about that mouth of yours Bakura, in the bathroom... I think you need to wash that mouth out with liquid hand soap." She declared firmly.

"But Reeeeemmm...” Bakura whined. "I didn't MEAN for Spunky to learn that!!!" Pegasus sighed and shook his head, but then ran to Ryou and hugged him tightly, being careful of the wounds.

"Ryou...” He gasped. "My Ryou... My precious baby bunny... Oh Ryou...”

Ryou hugged Pegasus and nuzzled him. "Master... I... I want Marik...” He mumbled sniffling. "I'm scared for him...” He said softly. "What am I going to do if they... they...” He choked back a sob, unable to say how that sentence ended.

"Shhhh... You know we'll all fight to keep you and Marik together, Ryou... together and happy... We will fight for Marik's life." The man murmured, rocking Ryou back and forth.

Ryou sniffled. "But I stopped him! Tuc, Nod and I! He didn't kill... I'd never let him...” He said sighing and looking down. "I can’t even see my mate... I'm lonely...”

"I'm so sorry baby... but I think you DID get to see your mate, hmmmm?" And he gave Ryou a knowing look. "Little imp...”

Ryou blushed. "Nuh uh.” He blurted looking away. "I did not see him."

"Liar...” Pegasus chuckled, hugging Ryou. "I won’t tell." And he kissed his bunny's forehead. "Nod is so happy to have her babies back."

Ryou nuzzled Pegasus. "How’d you know?” He asked softly, blushing darkly. "You're cheating aren't you?!"

"Of course." Pegasus chuckled. "My poor baby bunny... Are you ready to come home? Dr. Inogawa says you can come home."

Ryou shook his head. "Master... I can’t leave Marik here alone... w-what if they try to kill him!?"

"Hush now... there will be a hearing to decide his fate. If you like, you may speak for him at the hearing." Pegasus told Ryou. "It's in three days.”

Ryou nodded. "Of course! He’s my mate! I can’t let that horrible man Dartz have him killed!” He said sniffling. "I'm just scared... what if he or Rafel tries t-to hurt me...” He mumbled worriedly. "W-what if they try to take me away again? I... I don’t think I'd survive another round with him... he's far worse than you ever were...” He cooed, licking Pegasus' cheek.

"They won't be there Ryou. It's the city against Marik. The law. The police. But there ARE some on our side. It's all up to the judge." Pegasus explained.

Ryou nodded. "You... you're sure Dartz won’t be there?” He asked fearfully. "It was so horrible... I just wanted you and Marik to save me... I was so scared.” He mewled nuzzling into Pegasus' arms. "He tied up my feet a-and I couldn't use my hands. I was so humiliated and scared...”

"Shhhh... Its okay now, Ryou. And soon, all will be well. You and Marik will go home, and he will make love to you like you've NEVER made love before!!!" The man crowed.

Ryou turned red. "MASTER PEGASUS!” He wailed blushing darkly. "That's NOT what I really needed to hear at THAT volume!” He squeaked wrinkling his nose.

"Neither did we...” Dr. Inogawa called as he walked by the room.

Ryou whined loudly. "Oh god how humiliating...” He whined sniffling. "Master that was so mean!"

The man laughed. "SOME one has to embarrass you!" Pegasus said, picking Ryou up. "You're so cute when you’re naked." And he carried Ryou out of the room.

Ryou squeaked noticing finally he was naked. "Oh gooooood!” He whined trying to burrow into Pegasus' jacket. "I'm going to DIE!"

"Nice ass, Ryou." Kheti said as she walked by, looking for Malik.

Ryou sobbed loudly. "MASTER!” He wailed burrowing into Pegasus jacket and pulling it closed in front of him, so there were two heads peeping out of the neck hole and Pegasus looked like he had a child hidden in his jacket.

Of course, Ryou's little tuft of a tail was also poking out, and this made for an amusing sight for all who walked by. Seto even made a double take and covered his mouth to hide his smile and giggles, and Yami hid behind a wing. Pegasus carried Ryou outside and to the limo.

Ryou whined loudly. "This isn't fair...” He whimpered buttoning Pegasus' jacket closed and pulling his head inside, sniffling against his master's chest. "Everyone was laughing at me...”

"You're just so cute Ryou! It makes everyone happy to see you.” He closed the door. "Come out before certain rabbits come in after you."

"I'm not moving until I get clothes!” He mewled from inside Pegasus' jacket. "Everyone was laughing!"

"Ryou, Tuc and Nod and Precious and the babies are here to see you." Pegasus said with a smile, taking off his jacket.

Ryou nipped Pegasus harshly and snatched the jacket wrapping it around himself as a makeshift shirt, which was far too large. "Meanie...”

"Ouch...” Pegasus whimpered, examining the little nip. Tuc and Nod came running over to Ryou, and Precious went to Pegasus.

Ryou hugged his friends and winced slightly. "My back hurts...” He mumbled ears drooping, as he began grooming his friends.

Precious nuzzled Pegasus and licked his little wound. 'Poor daddy... '

Pegasus sighed and looked down at the nest of babies on the floor. "Look Ryou.” He said with a smile. The little lion bunny had managed to crawl to the edge of the nest, and Ryou turned and looked in time to see him topple out. The baby mewled, sounding like Marik on a lot of helium.

Ryou squeaked and picked him up, licking him. "Oh you're darling!” He cooed rubbing noses with him. "Marik's favorite little friend.” He cooed beginning to groom the little lion.

The lion gave a feisty mew and bit the tip of Ryou's nose, but his lack of teeth made Ryou laugh. The bunny pawed at Ryou's face, then started sniffing him.

Ryou smiled and cooed at the lion. "You're so cute... Marik would just love to see you healthy...” his ears drooped. "Marik...”

Tuc cuddled up to Ryou while Nod cuddled around her babies in the pet nest. She sighed and rolled over to let the panda nurse. Pegasus chuckled.

"That one is always eating... drains poor Nod dry.” He told Ryou.

Ryou smiled. "After our experience at Dartz's place... I'm sure she's grateful.” He cooed teasing the little lion bunny with his finger, watching as he pawed at it eagerly.

Pegasus sighed and wrapped his arms around Ryou, pulling him close and letting the boy lay his head on his shoulder. "I love you." Pegasus whispered softly. "And on my life... I will fight with everything I have to keep Marik alive... to keep you happy...”

Ryou smiled and nuzzled Pegasus. "I know...” He cooed, tickling the little lion bunny. "I'm just... so worried."

Pegasus smiled. "Of course you are...” He said softly. "You love him."

Ryou nuzzled Pegasus. "I love you too...” He said softly. "But you both want me to yourselves... I hate that, if you both got along well enough, like I've been trying to talk Marik into... we could all be a happy ... um... couple?"

Pegasus chuckled. "I want you and Marik to be happy together baby. And as long as you are, I'm happy."

Ryou smiled and nuzzled Pegasus. "Master... you're too selfless for your own good...”

"I love my precious baby bunny." Pegasus said with a smile. "Unconditionally.” He stroked Ryou's hair. "Are you hungry?"

Ryou sighed and shook his head. "I'm alright... just a bit tired and sore... I'm too worried to eat right now...” He said ears drooping. "My mate's life is on the line... It's my fault...”

"No it isn't. He was doing his duty; protecting you. He saved you." Pegasus said, hugging Ryou.

Ryou sniffled. "But it's my fault I was in that danger... master if I had just stayed away from that police station...” He mumbled sighing. "If I had done more...”

"No, dear... it's not your fault. None of this was your fault. Shhhh...” He rocked Ryou, and smiled as the little fruit bat sat up and stretched out her tiny wings, flapping them a few times before settling down again.

Ryou sniffled and tickled the little bat with a toe. "They're so cute...” He mumbled nuzzling into Pegasus. "Thank you for saving me master...” He mumbled after a few moments. "You risked your life for me...”

"Risked my life?” He repeated. "How?"

Ryou laughed softly. "He had a knife!"

Pegasus blinked. "You don't think I would sit back and watch him murder you, do you?!” He cried. "Of course I stopped him!!!"

Ryou nodded. "But he could have easily turned and killed you... you risked your life to make sure I didn't die. It was very kind...” He cooed.

"It was a thing worth dying for." Pegasus said with a smile as they pulled up in front of the house. "Come on now... let's get the babies inside...”

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Marik sighed as he lay curled up in his kennel. He had been unable to sleep all night, terrified of the hearing that was scheduled. He whimpered when he heard a key in the door, and a moment later it swung open to admit Inogawa, Rem and Zaine. The lion whined and backed up against the far wall of his kennel, shaking and mewling in his terror.

Rem sighed and stooped, unlocking the kennel and scooping Marik up. "Come on sweetie... it's time to go.” she cooed softly. "Ryou will be there... all your friends are coming to fight for you. You have to be brave...” she said scratching his ears. "Everything will be ok... you'll see. We got the judge switch... Miss Haru is your judge... she's very firm... but also very fair." She added. "Don’t worry... things will be ok."

"Maooooo!!!" Marik cried, shaking violently and clinging to Rem. "I don't wanna go!!! Please!!!” He mewed, and Zaine sighed and scratched his ears. "She'll have me put down! I just know it!!! People ALWAYS want me put down!"

"That's not true, Marik." Inogawa said.

"Maoooo!!!"

Rem hugged him close. "Now Marik… you have to be brave. Ryou's frightened enough for you. If he saw you acting like this he'd just break down... you have to be strong and brave like the lion you are... so he can be strong too. Understand?" She cooed rubbing his back. "Come on."

"I can't!!!" Marik howled. "I'm scared!!! M-Mamaaaa!!!” He hid his face in her shoulder as the men tried to pry him off and load him into a kennel to transport him in. With a lot of yowling and crying, Marik was loaded in. "I want my bunny!!!” He cried.

Rem smiled and reached into her pocket, handing Marik the small tattered bunny. "Marik you promise me to calm down... Ryou will fight for you... We all will." She said smiling. "You just have to be brave and convince that judge with us, that you're not dangerous. Understand? If she believes us no one will want to put you down.”

Marik whimpered and nodded, trying to fight back the big tears welling in his eyes. He clutched his bunny plushy tightly and curled up into the smallest ball possible, whimpering. Inogawa loaded Marik's crate into the back of his truck, and he, Rem and Zaine squashed themselves into the cab.

"You know... him acting like that may work to his advantage." Zaine said.

"He's not ACTING." Inogawa pointed out.

"Yeah, I know. But seriously... curled up like that, shaking and crying and cuddling a BUNNY doll? Who would ever look at him and think he could be dangerous?" Zaine pointed out, and Inogawa frowned a moment, then nodded.

"True... he looks like nothing but a frightened kitten... If only he still sucked on the tip of his tail or something...” The doctor mused.

Rem nodded. "Once we're there, Zaine would you mind too much watching the petshop for me?" She asked after a moment. "The hybrids all need to be fed and I wont have time this morning with Marik..." she said looking to the back of the truck and frowning. "Poor thing..."

"What do you think his chances are, Rem?" Zaine asked, glancing at the woman.

Rem sighed. "The only problem with miss Haru, is she's a wildcard. She's fair with her decisions, but she's unpredictable...she might let him off, she might not..." she said softly. "I wont know...until the verdict is in."

"Well, how can she convict him?" Zaine said. "I mean, he looks... well... he looks PATHETIC!!!"

"I know...but she's fair. It doesn't matter what he looks like now...what matters most is what he looked like then, and he looked deadly. So...we have to try to convince her he was provoked into attack." She explained. "All animals look pathetic when they go to these kind of courts...they can sense things."

Zaine sighed and nodded as he pulled up in front of the courthouse. Inogawa got out and moved to the back of the truck, opening Marik's kennel and muzzling him, then unloading the kennel.

"Good luck..." Zaine said, and kissed Rem. "I'll be praying."

Rem blushed. She kissed Zaine back quickly and smiled at him. "Thanks..." And she got out of the car and joined Inogawa before Marik’s kennel. Rem nudged Dr. Inogawa. "... let’s let him and Ryou have a few moments before we go in ok?" She said giving Marik a soft smile. "He deserves it, no matter what the verdict ends up." She added softly.

Dr. Inogawa nodded sighing. "He's already inside waiting for us, poor thing. His stitches have been bothering him." He said shaking his head. "He's walking again though. Which is good." He added chuckling. "Try to be nice to him. Since his stitches were bothering him, Pegasus went out and bought him a onesey...he...well..." Dr. Inogawa snickered slightly. "He looks adorable in the worst ways."

Zaine drove off as four guards emerged from the building then, and walked down the stairs.

"We'll take the beast from here." One said, and they lifted up the kennel and carried it into the building. Once inside, the group waiting turned, and Ryou's eyes widened when he saw his mate curled up in the kennel, muzzled and scared out of his mind. He moved towards him, but a guard moved into his path.

"You'll need to keep your distance, little guy. This thing is potentially dangerous." the guard said to the bunny. Marik whined.

Ryou growled at him, baring his teeth. "He's my mate!" he said, ears bristling. Though he wasn't ANY bit intimidating in his fuzzy one-piece bunny pajamas, complete with little pawsies for his hands and feet. So intimidating that the two children who'd been petting him all morning only giggled and pulled his ears.

Yami covered his mouth slightly, to hide a snicker. "Ryou's wardrobe...is...well..he lives in hell doesn't he?" he whispered to Seto hiding behind a wing once more.

Rem had to bite her lip and cough, looking at her watch to prevent herself from either laughing or beginning to fawn over the ADORABLE little bunny. Dr. Inogawa took a more mature approach, deciding a trip to the bathroom was better than trying to HIDE his amusement at the situation.

The guard eyed Ryou. "I'm sorry, but I cannot permit you near him. Move along." and they carried Marik towards a thick door. Marik stared at Ryou through the slats in the side of the kennel and whined, prancing in place in his anxiety. The kennel disappeared into another room and the door was closed and locked; even Rem was left behind.

"That poor lion is scared to death..." Pegasus breathed, shaking his head.

Ryou whined softly stomping a furry cloth covered foot. "It's not fair! He's scared! I'm his mate! I deserve to see him just as much as any stupid judge!" he said sniffling, his ears drooping.

Rem hugged Ryou, scratching his ears. "It's ok, I'm sure you can sit up front with me. He'll see you easily." She cooed. Ryou grumbled, ears drooping. "I miss my mate, I look like a giant stuffed toy, and I am not having a good da--aiee! Dont pull my tail you awful little creatures!" he howled swatting at the two children who had been poking his tail to watch it twitch in annoyance.

A few minutes later, a guard emerged from a courtroom.

"City of Domino versus Lion Hybrid Marik!" He called, and the group approached. "You may come in now." They all walked in and took seats. And to their dismay, so did at least a dozen people from the newspapers. After things settled down, the guard who had called them in moved to the middle of the room.

"The City of Domino versus Lion Hybrid, Marik, Judge Haru presiding. Please rise." They all stood when the woman entered the room. She moved to her chair.

"You may be seated." She said, and they all sat. "Prosecution, please bring me the written accusation." It was passed to her and she read it over.

"Lion hybrid Marik, accused of brutal and vicious attacks meant to kill... property damage... mm-hmm... I see... Who is the legal owner of the hybrid?"

"Uh... I think that would be me." Seto said, standing. "But Dr. Hideo Inogawa and Miss Remniel Mahime will be defending Marik. I took him in as a favor, but Rem raised him and Dr. Inogawa is his vet." The judge looked at Rem and Inogawa.

They both stood and nodded. "Yes, I raised him…" She said calmly bowing and sitting back down.

Dr. Inogawa bowed as well. "I'm his vet." he said, sitting as well.

Ryou looked at Pegasus worriedly. "Master..." he mumbled sniffling and nuzzling into his arm. "Please don’t let him die..." Ryou whimpered softly, trembling slightly.

The judge read over the case carefully. "Bring in the accused, please." She said. A door off to the side opened, and four guards entered. Marik was between them all, padding in on all fours, head down. He was still muzzled, and the two front guards held heavy chain leashes clipped to the muzzle. His front paws were shackled, as were his back, and there were rubber booties on both front and back paws to keep his claws safely tucked away. The back guards carried heavy chains attacked to Marik's harness. The bunny plushy dangled from his mouth by the ear, the only thing that would fit through the small wire frame of the muzzle. The guards all stopped, and the lion dropped to the floor, shaking and mewling in fear, cuddling his bunny and hiding his face. The judge eyed the lion carefully.

Ryou mewled and sniffled. "Marik..." he whimpered, his ears drooping at the sight of his terrified and utterly pathetic looking lover. He tugged his own ears. "He's terrified... my poor mate..." he mewled shaking his head and mewling louder. It hurt him to not be there to comfort his precious lover in his desperate time of need.

Malik's ears tilted back and he frowned. "Ra... Marik's a wreck... gods Bakura..." he whispered clutching his lover's hand tightly. "Lets hope the gods favor him..." he added shaking his head. "because somehow I doubt these people will... those stupid newscasters would love nothing more than for Marik to die..." he growled softly

Marik was wincing and whining at all the camera flashes going off.

"Alright that's enough!" The judge called. "This is a potentially dangerous animal, I won’t have the cameras upsetting him. The next camera that goes off will have their film confiscated and the operator thrown from the room!" the flashing stopped. "Prosecution, present your case." A woman stood.

"The City of Domino is concerned about the violent nature of this beast." the woman said, looking at Marik. "We have records of his danger going back months. In the fall of last year he caused a scene at a park downtown, injuring several animal control officers and police. He was violent, and was going to be put down on site but was tranquilized and rescued by Miss Remniel Mahime and Dr. Hideo Inogawa."

Rem shook her head and stood once more. "He wasn't being violent. He was looking for his mate… he got lost and frightened. If he had intent on being dangerous, he would have killed any innocent bystander along his way!" She said firmly. "He was just trying to find his way home, his mate...and when they provoked him at the park, he just wanted to get back his precious plush rabbit he's holding in his mouth. The whole thing was a misunderstanding. He was separated from his mate when Mr. Pegasus purchased him months before. It was the first time he'd seen Ryou in months!" she said quickly. "If you'd been seperated from your husband for months and got him back one day, just to have him yanked away in that same day once more, you'd go out to look for him too."

The judge frowned, and looked at the prosecutor.

"We also have a case in which he attempted to attack YOU, Miss Mahime." She said. "And nearly killed a... skunk hybrid named Bakura, who was defending you?"

"I can explain that." Bakura said, standing. "Our Master, Malik," Malik raised his hand. "Had been kidnapped, and Marik thought Rem was a part of that. He was under a lot of pressure and was worried and scared and... Look, once he knew the truth, he stopped!!!"

"But that doesn't excuse the fact that he attacked." The prosecutor said, glaring at Marik who whimpered.

Malik flicked his ears. "You'd be pretty pissed if I kidnapped your mother and made her a hybrid too wouldn'tcha?" he grumbled. "Something tells me you'd lash out at me if you thought I was involved too."

Rem glared at Malik. "Hush yourself this is a court, you don’t say stupid things in court, you'll get in trouble." She scolded.

"Miss Mahime..." The judge said. "You are ALREADY in trouble." She looked at the prosecutor. "Proceed."

"This lion also attacked the skunk again, three thousand dollars worth of damage. And thousands of dollars worth of medical care were issued to the bird and skunk hybrid according to Dr. Inogawa's files." And the files were sent to the judge. She surveyed the photos of Bakura's wounds in both incidents, and Yami's in the second incident, and cringed. "The attacks were obviously very violent and brutal." The prosecutor said.

"Indeed they are..." the judge agreed, frowning.

Yami growled, puffing up slightly. "This is why I hate courts…" he whispered to Seto. "They always make it look so one sided! No one even mentioned I provoked him into attacking me." he said crossing his arms. "Or that Ryou had gone missing, or that Bakura had also provoked him." he grumbled beginning to preen, glaring at the judge.

Ryou shook his head. "Master..." he whispered sniffling. "They're making him seem like a monster!"

Seto glared at Yami. "We have to stand up and speak for Marik!!!!" He stood. "Your honor... That attack was not without reason. Marik is very much in love with Ryou, here." He laid a hand on Ryou's head. "Ryou had received a forced loyalty enhancement that made him loyal to his master. He had told Marik that he couldn't be with him and wasn't coming back to him. That broke his heart and he was in a horrible greif. He attacked a pair of rabbits and Bakura attacked Marik to stop him. Marik fought back, and then to help Bakura escape, Yami provoked Marik into chasing HIM!"

Yami groaned. "You're gonna get us all kicked out if we keep interrupting things..." he grumbled and nodded. "I provoked him. Did that prosecutor happen to present you a picture of MARIK'S wounds that day? Something like claw marks all down his back, pulled hair and bites from both Bakura AND myself." he said standing as well, looking thoroughly irritated.

The prosecutor frowned, but Dr. Inogawa was happy to provide the photos of Marik's injuries. The judge looked them over, then looked at the lion, then back at the injuries.

"We also have reports of him loosing his temper at his place of work, a club called The Jungle, costing a couple hundred dollars and resulted in his termination." The Prosecutor said with a smug smile, and Marik mewled sadly as all those horrible memories were being brought up.

Yami coughed. "Uh... yeah that was kinda my fault too." He said after a moment. "A guy from the petshop wanted a job, and he was telling me what a RUNT Marik had been." he shuffled. "I didn't tease him, but he knew the guy immediatly and knew what he'd said to me. So yeah... kinda my fault." he gave Marik an apologetic look.

"And there was hardly any damage. he knocked a door off it's hinges, among other minor things. That's overquoted just a bit." He added. "I'm for all terms and purposes the maintenance there."

The judge looked at the prosecutor. "Anything else?" She asked.

"Yes. Just a few days ago. Marik attacked two men with intent to kill." and she handed over the photos and reports of Dartz and Rafel's wounds, and then the most incriminating evidence of all... a photo of Marik with Dartz's neck in his jaws.

"This is very severe." The judge said coldly. She looked up. "Explain this."

Ryou couldn't hold in his complaints anymore. "They kidnapped me!" He shouted, standing furiously, ears bristling. "That horrible man kidnapped me! He was torturing me and trying to brainwash me! He raped me, he humiliated me and bound my feet!" He said shaking his head.

"That horrible man had it coming! Twice now he's tried to turn Marik and me against each other, just because he decided he wanted me!" he said crossing his arms. Though despite his shouting...he was just too cute and a few of the onlookers cooed at the cute little bunny in the fuzzy pajamas.

Ryou gave them a flat look. "Stop that! I'm not that cute! I just want my mate back!"

The judge frowned. "I see. Tell me about this lion's character, Miss Mahime... please describe the accused's character."

Rem nodded standing as Pegasus pulled Ryou into his lap to calm his precious baby bunny.

"Marik's a kitten your honor. He's always been curious and loving and very protective of the ones he loves. He hardly ever lashes out at someone, and when he does, it's always been provoked by something." She said smiling. "I raised him since he was just a little thing, skin and bones hardly tall or built." She added. "He's always been obedient and loving to me, and when he met Ryou... and I eventually discovered how hybrids were created, he gave up a life of being a pet, never having to do a thing for himself... to stand on two legs, work a job, buy a home and furnish it for his lover. He's devoted, kind and every bit a little hero. He waited patiently nearly a year before Pegasus saw just how deeply in love this lion and this rabbit are... and gave up his pet just to see Ryou happy."

Rem sighed softly. "He overcame SO many hurdles, boundaries and obstacles to get to the love of his life. A rabbit. How could any monstrous vicious beast ever hold a loving relationship with something as cute and gentle as a rabbit?" She said motioning to Ryou, which elicited more 'aww's and cooing. Ryou huffed and tried to burrow into Pegasus' jacket to escape the barrage of 'you're so cute!' noises, only eliciting more.

The judge sighed and looked at Inogawa, who stood.

"I've been working with Marik since the beginning as well." He said to the judge. "When he was first brought in to me, he was skin and bones, horribly malnourished and underweight... he was emaciated. But I've watched him grow and nearly triple his weight and put on nearly two feet in height. He's always been gentle and co-operative with me, he's one of the most docile creatures I've ever treated in my office!!! In fact, I'm in more danger of being bitten by the rabbit than Marik. All his violence has been in response to himself or someone he loves being threatened. Any person would." He finished, smiling at Marik.

Ryou huffed slightly. "Well if you'd stop sticking things where they don’t need to be stuck I'd stop biting you!" he huffed crossing his arms.

Rem snickered slightly. "He's had that plushie since he met Ryou practically, he carried it with him everywhere when Ryou was still with Pegasus. It was his symbol of hope. Ryou comforts him when he's scared or angry... this little rabbit is the love of his life, the hope that keeps him going each day." She said calmly.

Ryou sniffled. "I want my mate back..."

The judge frowned. "That has nothing to do with the threat that this lion presents, and yes, I do see him as a threat. If you can't keep him under control, then I'm afraid I must step in..."

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

Zaine sighed as he finished feeding the hybrids in the pet shop. The front door opened, and he blinked as a cloaked figure walked in. Whoever it was was very short, barely coming to Zaine's chest as he approached. He held out a peice of paper to Zaine, who blinked and opened it. He read it over and his eyes widened.

"Oh my God..."

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

Everyone stared at judge Haru who was staring down at Marik. "There are several things I can do." She said. "I can have him declawed, I can order him kept either locked up or leashed and muzzled at all times... and I am most definitely inclined to say that he is to be kept from all other hybrids at all times." she looked at Ryou, whose ears shot up. "Yes, that includes you. Separate him from ALL hybrids, permanently..."

"That's not fair!" Ryou said shaking his head. "He'd be miserable! I'd be miserable!" he said tugging his own ears. "Please! You cant just lock him up like that! That's inhuman!" he blurted sniffling. "I want my mate back! He's not a threat unless someone provokes him! That man and his lackey were warned multiple times by my master, the police and US that they needed to leave us alone!" He whimpered looking at Marik worriedly.

"Yet he still kidnapped me! That man was far more cruel than Marik! Isn't beastiality like...I dont know...ILLEGAL somewhere?!" he added grumbling. "Because he was pretty beastly, and I was not thrilled or willing." he mumbled.

The judge eyed Ryou over the rim of her glasses. "Now, I never said I was going to do that. But after looking at the evidence, I really have no choice. I do not think he deserves this, but at this point in time, there is little I can do. We have no laws in regards to hybrids, as of now, I must follow the laws that pertain to animals. And by those laws I must make a decision. He has not killed anyone, but he has tried to, and if I release him, he may one day go through with it. I'm sorry, but I must order him to be put down."

Almost as if on cue Zaine burst through the doors. "Stop! Don’t do anything! I've got something important for this case!" he shouted shaking his head, shoving the small cloaked figure, the only bit of him visable was a large puffy raccoon tail sticking out from underneath the cloak.

"This little raccoon has something very VERY important that will turn this case completly around!" he said quickly. "You have to listen to him!"

The judge blinked, and Marik looked like he would pass out from stress. Zaine shoved the raccoon up to the stand, and the creature handed the judge the paper. She unfolded it and read it over. Her eyes widened and her glasses slipped down her nose. Then, slowly, she began to smile.

"Indeed it does." She looked up at the raccoon and pet him. "Would you like to read that to the room please?"

The little cloaked figure grinned and nodded, turning to face everyone. He cleared his throat. "On the date of March third, of the year two thousand and six, at the time 10:56:42 am, after a meeting of nations, a vote was cast. The results of this vote are effective immediatly and are as follows. Among the 192 members of the international board, the votes fell 122 over 70, in the favor of hybrid rights, As of the afformentioned time, hybrids are to be considered human and are granted all rights and privledges that are granted any other being." He said calmly.

"Hybrids with identifiable fingerprints will be issued special liscenses and be asked to wear collars at their own persuasion. Hybrids who have owners may choose if they so desire, to remain with their owners as humans, but are not to be considered pets, slaves, or concubines. Furthermore, all hybrids with unidentifiable prints are asked to present if existant: Family, or personal records to be checked thoroughly by the government and the issues will be resolved. All hybrids are to elect either a parent, a guardian or a caretaker of the human persusasion, should the need arise for emergency care."

With that, the cloaked figure pulled down his hood and grinned, his violet eyes twinkling. "As of the afformentioned time, I am the first legally created hybrid. I was sent to find my friends and present this paper to the city hall... but I got a bit sidetracked, saving a friend."

Yami flipped. " YUGI!" he squawked launching himself forward and tackling his brother against the stand, despite the formal court. "Oh Ra don’t you EVER run off and not tell me again!" Yami cooed, grinning.

Ryou however was ecstatic. "Thank GOD!" he said wiping his eyes. "You can’t put a human down! You can’t kill him!"

Malik hugged Bakura and gave a trembling sigh. "Finally..." he breathed wiping tears of joy from his eyes. "Just in time to save his life too... it looks like the gods DO favor him."

The judge stood. "ORDER!!!! ORDER!! There will be order here, we are still at a trial!!!" Everyone calmed down. "Now then... I have sentenced the beast Marik to be put down. This cannot be changed." Everyone stared. "However, apparently, the beast Marik no longer exists in the eyes of the law." She smiled down at Marik. "I declare a mistrial. Case is dismissed." She looked at the guards. "Release him."

Ryou squealed in delight and after dislodgeing himself from Pegasus, also launched over the barrier and tackled Marik in a hug. "Marik!" he mewled nuzzling him. "Oh Marik you're safe! See! I knew you'd be ok if I just prayed hard enough!" he said sniffling and sobbing into his lover's shoulder while the guards unshackled him, and removed the muzzle. Ryou rewarded Marik with a big kiss.

Yami grinned hugging Yugi tightly and looking him over. "Ra my little brother's all grown up and saving lives!" he said hefting him up and grinning at him. "You little scamp! That's why you just disappeared!" Yugi laughed and hugged Yami, flicking his ears.

"Yeah, I couldn't stand to see you so upset. I'm the reason those debates started so soon...because I'd elected to become a hybrid...it put the government in a frenzy! But they couldn't say no, because it was my right as a HUMAN to do what I wanted..." he said yawning.

Yami looked him over slowly. "You've got a little smudge." he said chuckling at the darkened strip of skin around Yugi's eyes, that was his little Raccoon mask. Yugi laughed. "It makes me look mysterious! Besides...I think it's cool." He added crossing his arms and yawning again. "Now...I really should get that certificate to city hall..." he mumbled yawning again. "Before I fall asleep again. I'm not much of a 'before two' person." he said chuckling.

Rem ran over to Zaine and gave him the most passionate kiss she'd ever given anyone. "Zaine...I absolutely love you." She whispered. "You saved lives today..." she said blushing and smiling at him.

Zaine blushed as well. "Uh yeah...about that...well...I suppose now's as good a time as any...since you're so happy an all..." he said looking around nervously, before pulling out a small velvet box. "If you can find time between your love of animals, and your love of your work...would you mind loving me too? Forever?"

Ryou's ears perked. "Marik!" He said pointing to Rem and Zaine. "He just proposed... well… I think that was a proposal.."

Marik stared, then grinned. "That's awesome!!! You know, I've been thinking that they should get married after having to watch them make out on the sofa when they thought I was asleep! But gods... we... we're humans!!! We have our rights back!!!! We're not animals!!!" He kissed Ryou and Malik turned and nearly knocked his sister over with a hug.

"This is so cool!!!"

"Umm... Mistress Ishizu?" Bakura asked. "We have to name a guardian or caretaker for some reason, and so you're that for Malik, obviously but... would... would you be my... legal caretaker?" He asked, blushing.

Ishizu grinned and hugged Bakura. "I don’t mind, you just keep those awful grubs out of my gardens." She said scratching Bakura's ears and kissing his cheek. "What are you going to do now?" She asked them both smiling.

"Daddy fuck Malik!!!" Bakura exclaimed, grabbing Malik and swinging him around before kissing him.

Ryou nuzzled Marik. "I can... go back to school..." he said softly. "I... I can finish my education... we can travel..." he said breathlessly, clinging to his lover. "I've never been... so happy."

Yami carried a sleeping Yugi back to Seto. "He tuckered himself out...poor thing." He said smiling at Seto. "I'm so kicking your ass at the next tournament." he added grinning. "I've been dying for a good tournament for ages..."

Rem and Zaine had managed to disappear among the camera flashes and cheering.

Ryou smiled at Marik and nuzzled him once more. "Marik... we need to have a little talk about my master Pegasus..." he cooed grinning.

"Forget talking about Master Pegasus, get him to call his limo!!! Let's pick up the bunnies and... Oh, Ryou, let's go home...." The lion gasped, hugging him tightly. "I just wanna go home..."

Ryou hugged Marik and laughed softly. "Master wanted to know if you wanted to... travel on a honeymoon with me and him." He whispered. "Just the three of us." he added. "Anywhere in the whole wide world..." He added hopefully. Ryou licked Marik's ears and began grooming him. "I was...hoping you and Pegasus could surprise me..." he said while working. "Tuc and Nod could stay with Malik and Bakura." he cooed lovingly.

Ryou grinned at Pegasus. "Master, I think Marik wants to go home..." he cooed. "Can we go to your home and see the babies first?" he added quickly. The crowd was dispersing slowly, and it'd give him time to groom Marik over.

Pegasus smiled and nodded, walking over. He smiled at Marik, then moved over and wrapped his arms around the lion. "We're so glad to have everyone back and safe." He said and Marik blinked wide eyes. Pegasus moved back and scratched Marik's ears, and the lion was immediately purring.

Ryou grinned and licked Marik's cheeks. "Marik and you can pick where we go master Pegasus." he beamed. "I'd like to be surprised. I bet you two thinking together are near deadly." he said blushing. "don’t stun me too badly though!" he stood, and dusted off his cute bunny pajamas, rushing over to Yami and Seto, hugging them both on their way out. "Thank you guys..." he said smiling. "If it werent for your help...Marik and I wouldn't have gotten together...and now we're finally human again...for good." he cooed giving Seto a nuzzle.

Yami squawked. "hey! Hands off! He's my millionaire, you've got your own!" he teased laughing.

Marik ran out of the room looking around and sniffing, still clutching his bunny plushy. "Murrr!!!" He whined, obviously a bit distressed. He ran out the front of the courthouse and looked around. And then, he spotted Zaine's car. And next to it, Zaine and Rem.

"Murrrrumph!!" He called, dropping to all fours and running over to the necking pair. He leapt up into the pickup truck bed. "Murrrumph!" He exclaimed excitedly in Rem's ear and licked her cheek, making the pair break apart.

"I think we have an intruder." Zaine chuckled.

"Mama!" Marik exclaimed, and flung his arms around Rem, purring loudly and nuzzling her, his tail swinging about wildly.

Rem laughed. "Alright alright calm down. I thought you'd be more eager to see Ryou than me!" she said kissing Marik's cheek. "What's wrong?" she asked hugging the loveable lion tightly and kissing his cheek. "Do you need anything?"

Zaine chuckled as well, scratching Marik's ear. "Yeah, what's up tough guy?"

Marik purred loudly. "You... you're my caretaker... right?" He asked Rem with a hopeful smile.

Rem nodded. "Yes of course, I'll be your caretaker." She said grinning. "Though, I thought you'd want the same caretaker as Ryou..." she said curiously. "oh well...you're my little kitten and I could never say no to you." She said kissing his other cheek. "Did you see what Ryou was wearing? He's so adorable." she cooed laughing.

Zaine chuckled. "He looked like a stuffed toy!"

Marik snickered. "Don't let him hear you say that or he'll go all Monty Python on your ass..." He snickered, still purring and nuzzling Rem. "I love you, Mama..."

Rem nodded and scratched his ears. "Why don’t you let me take that bunny of yours and sew him up again Marik… in your worrying you've ripped it again." She said gently tugging the stuffed toy from his hands. "I'll bring it to you once I finish gettin him all cleaned up." She added smiling. "Why don’t you play with that BIG stuffed bunny hopping around in fuzzy pajamas...it's a onesie...he cant escape...the zipper's in the back, I bet you could think of fun evil things to do to him." she teased.

Marik blinked. "REM!!!" He howled. "That's AWFUL!!! Coming from YOU!! Now him," He gestured to Zaine. "That's okay..."

Rem laughed. "Oh hush and go molest the rabbit like I know you've been doing since you two got together. " She said shooing him slightly.

Zaine chuckled. "Better listen to your mother kiddo, or you'll witness something that'll burn your innocent eyes." he added winking.

Marik's "innocent" eyes widened and he bolted from the pick up truck bed and raced over to the group leaving the court house.

"Murrrumph!!!" He exclaimed, and tackled Bakura. The pair rolled down the stairs and began darting all over the place, seeminlgy playing tag around the parking lot.

Malik laughed. "GUYS! Don’t play in traffic! TRAFFIC BAD!" he shouted rushing after them. "BAKURA! Stop that! Come on! I want to go home!" he said chasing them.

"MARIK COME ON!" Ryou called giggling and getting in the limo with Pegasus. "Tuc and Nod are waiting! Don’t you want to see the lion bunny?!"

Marik skidded to a stop, then went charging at the limo, running Seto down on his way, "GOD DAMMIT MARIK!!!" and took a flying leap into the limo, tackling Ryou. Pegasus chuckled and shut the door, the car driving away.

Ryou giggled delightedly, littering Marik with kisses the entire drive back to Pegasus' mansion. "My mate..." he cooed finally calming down and nuzzling him. "How's your side? Does it still hurt?" he cooed, nuzzling his lover.

"A bit..." Marik said. "It was really deep. But I'm okay now..." He purred and began grooming Ryou. "I love you... and I've missed you..." He nuzzled Ryou. Pegasus just smiled and watched.

Ryou nuzzled him. "My poor mate...that man was absolutely awful...he's more a beast than any hybrid. Oh I hope they do something really horrid to him!" he said huffing. "He was an absolute brute!"

Marik blinked. "Huh? Who?" He asked, stupidly.

Ryou flicked an ear. "That horrible Dartz!" he said crossing his arms. "He's the one who started this whole stupid mess!" he added nuzzling Marik. "And I'm glad it's FINALLY over."

"Oh..." Marik said softly, looking down and closing his eyes with a shudder. "I... I guess he was... bad.... I mean, he was, but I was never really around him, you know...?"

Ryou nodded. "He was mental... at first I thought he was like master Pegasus..." he said nuzzling his master. "But... he's not. He's an evil man... a horrible horrible creature selfish and cruel." he said kissing Marik. "I'm sorry I ever thought he could have been like master." he added firmly.

But Marik didn't respond. He still was staring at the floor with eyes wide and a look of fear and sadness on his face. He was shaking slightly. Pegasus blinked.

Ryou blinked and hugged Marik tightly. "what's wrong..." he asked softly. "I...I didn't upset you did I?" he asked fearfully. "I'm sorry, please dont be upset..."

"Shhhh...." Pegasus said, raising a finger to his lips. "Ryou, I think we need to get him to a therapist. He's having a flash back..." He sighed. "He may be suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome... he's reliving a very... unpleasant moment."

Ryou's eyes widened. "My poor Marik..." he said ears tilting back. "Master..." he said nuzzling Marik more, gently nibbling his ear, hoping to snap him out of it before he relived too much unpleasantness. "Marik...you're ok...you're home..." he cooed over and over, loving on his mate comfortingly.

"Ryou, be careful... He's reliving a... Constantine moment... I'd hate for him to suddenly lash out at you. Come on now... Sit with me until he comes out of this." Pegasus said, lifting Ryou into his lap. "He'll get better."

Ryou whimpered clinging to Pegasus worriedly. "What if he lashes out at YOU?" he said fearfully. "Master...w-what if he's really hurting inside? H-how is he going to get better? My mate..."

"It's okay. With time and therapy, he'll be fine, Ryou. And he's already much better than when he was first brought back you know." He rocked Ryou gently. "Dr. Inogawa knows a hybrid therapist we can take Marik to... uh... his wife, apparently. I'll gladly pay for the treatment."

Ryou smiled and nuzzled him. "Master...you do too much...maybe I should work for you for a while...so you're getting something for all that you put into me." he cooed lovingly. "You give and give and give..."

"I like to give if it makes you happy, Ryou." Pegasus said with a smile. "My precious baby bunny and my adorable lion... I think he's coming back..."

Ryou squeaked and launched himself from Pegasus arms into Marik's. "Marik!" he said lovingly, giving him a great big kiss. "My poor mate...you're in pain." he cooed. "I love you."

The limo pulled up to Pegasus' mansion and Ryou grinned tugging Marik. "Come see! The babies are all so darling!"

Marik smiled weakly at Ryou, still shaking a bit, but the idea of seeing the babies was too much for him. He took off running, Ryou hopping by his side.