The Jungle

The Jungle

Mally-chan and Hato Chiisai

Disclaimer: We own nothing within this fic.

YAOI WARNING

Pegasus/Ryou, Marik/Ryou, Bakura/Malik, Seto/Yami

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Chapter 40

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Bakura sighed as he nuzzled Marik, who was curled up in his cave in his cage, crying. Malik was on his other side, and Bakura had wrapped his tail around all three of them. He glanced up at the group of people in the middle of the shop, discussing what to do, then turned and went back to crooning gently and grooming Marik's ears.

Malik sighed. "C'mon Marik... don’t cry...” He said softly, hugging him close. "He can’t keep him forever... it's only a matter of time before Ryou's back in your arms. You have to keep your chin up."

Yami frowned and sighed. "This is miserable.” He mumbled, wings drooping. "Poor Marik... he's had to endure more than any of us... and Ryou just keeps slipping through his fingers, it's a wonder he's kept his sanity...”

Seto sighed, and then shook his head.

"That's it... this is the last straw...” He started digging through his pockets. "Where's my phone? Dammit! I'm calling my lawyer! I'm gonna sue his ass for Ryou!!!" Otogi flicked an ear and quirked an eyebrow, and Yugi and Mokuba turned and glanced at each other.

Yami rolled his eyes. "Seto calm down, you can’t sue him for Ryou. Be reasonable, what grounds would you sue him for? Right now, as things stand the only people who know about hybrids being humans, are the people in this room.” He said calmly. "Until things get out, trying to sue him for Ryou would get you laughed out of the court."

Seto glared at Yami. "I'll think of something! How about... animal cruelty for Malik? He beat him! I'll sue him over that! Where's my phone?!" Mokuba groaned and rolled his eyes, and Yugi giggled.

"Oh for the love of Ra...” Yami grumbled. "I'm not giving you that damned phone until you gather yourself.” He said calmly. "You're not suing him over anything. Be reasonable."

Seto blinked, and then glared at Yami. "YOU have my phone?" Mokuba and Yugi sighed and put Tuc and Nod down, and went to watch the squirrels play, while Tuc and Nod ran to Marik's open cage and cuddled up with the lion, skunk and fennec. Marik opened his arms and cuddled the bunnies close, along with his plushy, and continued to sob his heart out into the sand.

"Yes I have your phone, and no I'm not giving it to you until you calm down." Yami said crossing his arms. "You can’t go trying to sue people without a reasonable RATIONAL reason.” He said stubbornly. "Besides, there aren't any hybrid cruelty laws yet either."

Seto sighed and shook his head. "This sucks.” He grumbled, and dropped into a chair, pouting like a child. Otogi snickered.

"Hey, Yami... wanna duel?” He challenged, pulling out his deck.

Yami grinned. "You're on.” He said eagerly, pulling his own deck out.

Grandpa Mouto laughed. "Heh heh... looks like he's a handful for you too Seto.” He said shaking his head. "That's Yami... but you know he means well.” He chuckled.

Seto sighed and closed his eyes, rubbing his forehead.

"Seto?" Bakura called, and the man grunted to let the skunk know he was listening. "I don't know if Marik is... up to working the opening night of the club tonight...”

"I... I'm up to it...” Marik said, lifting his head and wiping his eyes. "I wouldn't miss it... I just... wish Ryou could be there...”

Malik smiled and gave Marik a soft lick to the cheek. "I'll have Ishizu bring a camera... we'll take pictures. Ryou will be so proud of you...” He said softly, gently running a hand through Marik's hair. "Look your best, even though he's not there... you know his spirit is right there next to you, and so is his heart.” He said gently.

Yami smiled from his duel. "He'll be there in many ways Marik... we all will be.” He said calmly, before playing his next card, and all but decimating Otogi's forces. "Your move."

Otogi blinked down at what Yami had just done, then tilted his ears back, narrowed his eyes, and hissed at the bird.

Yami snickered slightly. "Sour puss."

Seto chuckled. "Don't taunt the fanged one, Yami.” He advised.

Yami snickered. "Well he shouldn't be such a sour puss. I won fair and square.” He said chuckling slightly. "Maybe next time Otogi.” He said offering a smile.

Otogi growled at Yami.

"Otogi, don't encourage him." Seto said, rolling his eyes. "Now... why don't you all get dressed... we have to head to the club to prepare for opening... Rem... You will be there, right?"

Rem nodded. "Of course. I'll be bringing some extra help." She said smiling. "A few of our hybrids here have already been practicing. I've got a coyote, a wolf and two Siamese cats who want to work for you." She said smiling. "They've been walking for a while now, and are ready to help wherever they can."

Seto blinked. "Coyote? Not the one Marik tried to kill?"

Rem nodded. "The same one. He's sorry for what he did to upset Marik and it's only fair to give him a chance." She said calmly. "And Marik won’t bother him."

Seto smirked. "Are you sure?” He asked.

Rem smiled and nodded. "Yes, or I will pile drive them both until they are no more." She replied, as calmly and seriously as ever.

Seto quirked an eyebrow, then laughed. "Okay!” He said. "He can come help! Does he have some decent clothes?"

Rem nodded once more. "Yes, they all have clothes to wear. I bought them myself." She added. "I thought they'd like the gift, and I'm sure they'll probably return the favor someday."

Yami smiled slightly, seeming relieved in his own way. "It's good to hear we'll have that extra help."

"No shit!" Otogi said, and then yelped when Grandpa Mouto whacked him over the head. "Oww!!!! Jeeze! Okay, I'm sorry! No kidding! Is that better?!"

Yami laughed. "Ha ha!” He said pointing and laughing. "You got smacked!"

Otogi growled.

"Go get dressed, boys." Seto drawled, rolling his eyes, and Malik and Bakura began dragging Marik to his feet so they could get dressed as well.

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

Yami worked quickly, teaching Otogi the things he thought he needed to know. "I'll need you to take care of these things for me.” He said calmly. "I know it's a lot to remember, but you're one of the smartest we've got here... so I'm counting on you to remember."

Otogi blinked. "Did you just admit that I'm smart?"

"Don't let it go to your head." Bakura snickered, walking by with a crate of Vodka.

"Yeah. He doesn't mean it." Marik added, following with a crate of Margarita mix.

Yami chuckled. "They're just jealous.” He said calmly. "Besides, if I thought for one second anyone but you would be fit for the job...” He looked thoughtful. "Ahh anyway. Just remember to get all that done.” He said calmly, moving to the new recruits, smiling. "Well... Rem says you're ready...” He said calmly. "No fights please... We want to keep this place... civil.” He said to Rex calmly.

"You two cats can help Malik...” He said grinning at the twin girls, who smirked ferally and padded over to meet with Malik. "I've heard that wolves have the best taste of the animal kingdom.” He added smiling to the wolf. "Why don’t you help our cook, Caine? Once you're trained enough, you can take over for him."

The wolf grinned and walked off, pumping his arm in victory, obviously loving the idea of being where the food was.

"Yami!" Seto called. Yami turned, and stared. There stood Seto, with the pink female cockatoo... the one that had been the bane of Seto's existence... "You already know Kira.” He said, and she smiled and winked at Yami, adjusting her pink bikini top and mini skirt. "She's going to be our hostess. Mrs. Miyoko purchased her this morning."

Yami grinned stupidly. "I love you...” He cooed, before shaking his head. "Ra dammit I need glasses!” He howled raising a wing in front of his eyes. "How am I going to work?!"

Kira blinked, and then burst out laughing. "The same way I will with such a pretty birdie like you working around me...” She cooed. "Maybe after a stressful night, we can preen each other...”

"Let's keep our preening to ourselves, please...” Seto said in a tense tone.

Yami chuckled uneasily. "Oh Ra...” He croaked. "Seto... I can’t work with my wing in front of me all night... and you know what happens when I see her.” He said shaking his head, the tips of his hair seen over his wing, showing the motion of his head. "What the hell am I supposed to do?!"

Seto chuckled. "Don't you think that the lights in here will help? It will be dark, with a lot of colored lights pulsing and spinning around...”

Yami rolled his eyes. "Black lights.” He grumbled. "Besides, nightclubs are MADE to make people look hotter than they'll appear the next morning. It's some Ra-forsaken law."

Seto rolled his eyes. "Maybe you'll get used to it, Yami. But I'll ask Dr. Inogawa...” and he went over to the bar to check on Bakura and Marik.

Yami whined, now stranded with Kira, the cockatoo. "Dammit...” He grumbled. He sighed. "N-now you look here... I... I don’t do well with uh... relationships.” He said after an awkward moment. "You REALLY don’t want me anyway. I assure you I'm horrible in bed.” He said quickly.

Kira blinked, and then laughed. "Calm down, cutie...” She cooed, trailing a finger down the side of Yami's cheek and winking. "You're a mated bird. I can tell. Don't take my teasing seriously... but don't think I'll stop teasing, either...” And she turned and walked off, swinging her hips and fanning out her tail feathers as she went.

Yami watched intently, laughing stupidly, once again falling into his little 'birdie trance'. Oh she was trouble... trouble with a capital T. Ra if it weren't for his undying LOVE of trouble...

Yami stumbled after her, cooing contently.

Malik laughed slightly. "Poor Yami...” He said amusedly, before turning back to Bakura, grinning. "Those colors he sees must be beautiful, to turn him into a pile of mush like that.” He chuckled. "I bet that could be his only weakness...”

Bakura snorted. "Don't remind me. I was once the object of his affections, and I do NOT envy that woman. She's welcome to it!" Marik snickered.

"I am SO putting that shit on you again."

"DON'T you dare!!!" Bakura snapped.

Malik laughed. "Aww c'mon Bakura, I didn't get to see!” He said, giving his lover his best pout imaginable. "I'll give you sex anytime and any way you want for a week.” He said in a teasing sing-song voice.

Bakura snorted and grumbled, continuing to finish stocking the bar. Marik grinned.

"That's his way of giving you a very reluctant 'yes', Malik.” He said, and ruffled Malik's hair, then gave his ears a little tender grooming before going off to help Seto move something large.

Malik grinned. "First thing I'll do then...” He said in a happy voice. "Is sneak behind this counter... duck low where no one can see...” He cooed seductively, letting the sentence hang just for Bakura and his imagination.

Bakura's eyes widened and he turned red. "Malik... Stop right there or Seto will be screaming us deaf...”

Malik snuck behind the counter and smirked. "He won’t be the only one screaming...” He said running his hands over Bakura's sides, one hand sliding around front to grope him. "I can promise it...”

"MALIK, STOP THAT!!!!" Seto's voice carried across the club. "I SEE THAT LOOK ON BAKURA'S FACE, AND YOUR EARS!!! NOW GET UP AND LEAVE HIM ALONE!!!" Marik, Otogi and Rex howled with laughter.

Malik chuckled softly. "You need to work on your poker face...” He whispered in Bakura's ear. "We'll try again later...” He added in a seductive tone, stepping back. "Maybe next time... you'll be able to keep a cool look on your face... while I blow your brains out."

"Sure...” Bakura squeaked in a high pitched tone. "You're saying this to a guy who has been with someone TWICE in the last TWO YEARS!!!"

"Did you just say that you've only had sex twice in the last TWO YEARS?!" Otogi shouted, and there was a lot of shouting and laughter from the kitchen. The entire club officially knew...

Malik snickered. "Yeah... that took your badass reputation down to nothing.” He said amusedly. "You REALLY need to work on that poker face and not saying things you don’t want people to know."

Bakura glared. "I WAS LOCKED IN A FUCKIN' CAGE FOR THE LAST TWO YEARS OF MY LIFE!!!” He howled. "MARIK'S ONLY BEEN LAID TWICE IN THE LAST THREE YEARS!!!"

"HEY!!!" Marik roared.

Yami burst into laughter at this point, even his 'birdie trance' couldn't keep him from laughing at THAT little comment.

Malik snickered. "Work on that poker face.” He said walking away, laughing. "And maybe a little work on keeping your secrets to yourself... using Marik as a shield won’t work forever.” He said snickering.

Bakura snorted and opened his mouth to respond, but was cut off by Marik.

"AT LEAST I WAS STRONG ENOUGH TO HOLD OUT AND NOT GET DESPERATE ENOUGH TO FUCK AN OVERGROWN PLUSH TOY NAMED MR. FLUFFLES!!!" Bakura's eyes widened and his ears and tail drooped.

Yami howled with laughter. "Mr. Fluffles?!” He nearly fell over laughing, grabbing onto the nearest person, which happened to be Kira, and leaned into her, laughing so hard tears were sliding down his face.

Malik groaned and slapped his forehead. "MARIK HUSH!"

Bakura growled. "Oh, shut up, Marik! I was used to fucking something! Were you?! NO!!! I'll bet you were a virgin when you fucked Ryou!" Everyone looked at Marik, who suddenly turned red. But he folded his arms over his chest and looked Bakura square in the eye.

"And what's wrong with waiting for the one I want to spend the rest of my life with? It's better than going around banging every hooker I could find." The lion shot back.

"Boys...” Seto said warningly, NOT wanting this to get out of hand.

Malik grumbled. "Marik, Bakura, knock it off or I'll tell Ishizu what you're fighting over.” He warned as well. "And you wouldn't want to make 'Mistress Ishizu' angry."

Yami calmed down, snickering before shaking his head and suddenly realizing who he was so closely clinging to. His eyes widened slightly. "uh... hi...” He blurted stupidly, turning a dark red.

"Hi." She giggled, and winked. Bakura poked his head over Malik's shoulder. He wasn't finished with Marik yet.

"At least I got the experience needed to please MY lover!” He shouted.

"HA!" Marik barked, and rolled his eyes. "In case you were snoring too loud to hear... I didn't NEED experience to make Ryou scream...”

"Ooooooooooohhhh...” Everyone chorused, and looked to see how Bakura would respond to THAT.

"That's it Marik! I'm telling Ishizu!" Malik shouted. "AND REM!"

Both hybrids froze, eyes wide. And the next thing Malik knew, both were all over him, begging and pleading him to NOT tell Rem. Seto burst out laughing this time.

Malik laughed. "Then knock it off and get back to work."

Both scuttled away. "Okay, we're opening in one hour people!" Seto shouted. "Let's get this show on the road! Yami, let's test the lights and sound! Otogi, make sure the kitchen staff is ready! Bakura, do a final check of the bar! Malik, you're head waiter, make sure the others all know what they're doing! Marik, secure the club, make sure no one can sneak in! Kira, familiarize yourself with the seating arrangements and make sure you have all the menus in place! Rex, help Yami check to make sure all the lights are working properly!"

Yami peeped slightly, snapping out of his Kira-daze and cooing, having found her hands in his feathers. He coughed and flapped them, flying up to the ceiling and shaking his head, blushing darkly. "Ra help me...” He grumbled, beginning to check the wiring once more, before giving Rex the ok to turn them on.

After they were turned on he checked the timing and synching of the lights and patterns, adjusting them as he saw fit. After the hour was nearly up he landed next to Seto and groaned. "She was touching my wings...” He said, glaring at a wall. "I'm about sick of turning into a stupid mud-pile every time I see her.” He added puffing up slightly.

Seto chuckled. "Imagine what would happen if we decided to add an "Ultraviolet Night" to the club calendar.” He teased.

Yami growled. "You do that, and I'm dumping you for the next hot thing to walk past me.” He said crossing his arms, not at all amused.

Seto snickered. "And what if that hot thing happens to be me?” He asked, backing Yami into the wall and trapping him there with his hands and body.

Yami glared up at him, but swallowed hard and remained silent for a moment. "I doubt it."

Seto smirked. "Really now...” He snickered, then slowly pulled out the bottle of blue ultraviolet solution and waved it in Yami’s face, before turning and running for the bathroom.

Yami blinked slightly before rushing after him. "You do it and I'll rip your eyes out you sneaky bastard!” He howled in hot pursuit. "I swear to Ra I'll make you pay!"

"If you're gonna be staring at anyone all night, it's gonna be me!!!" Seto shouted back. But then... he tripped. And while he didn't drop the bottle, it was open. A splash of the liquid went flying through the air... and landed all over, of all places, the crotch of Bakura's pants... Marik blinked, and then fell over howling, while the skunk just stood rigid in horror.

"Uh oh...” Seto mumbled, quickly capping the bottle.

Yami slapped a hand over his eyes. "Oh hell no, I refuse to find out where that landed." He said growling. "I'm going to make you piss yourself in the morning with my screeching. I just KNOW that landed somewhere humiliating, and I WON’T look.” He huffed and stood there, hand over his eyes. "I'm not looking at ANYONE until it's cleaned up."

"Ummm...” Was all Seto could say.

"Don't worry Yami!" Otogi laughed. "Bakura will be behind the bar all night!"

"Yeah... That's where I'm going." Bakura said, turning. "Right now."

Yami growled. "Seto... I'm going to kill you... VERY slowly...”

"Sorry!" Seto snickered. "I didn't mean to get it on Bakura's groin...”

Yami growled louder. "Oh that's it. I'm going to take Kira up on that preening offer.” He huffed, crossing his arms, but keeping his eyes closed, and doing an about-face, though he made no movement to leave. After all, his eyes WERE closed. He'd run into a wall if he moved.

Seto laughed. "You are so up tight, Yami."

"You need to loosen him up, Seto." Marik snickered.

"Marik. Back to work. We're opening in... TEN MINUTES, PEOPLE!!! TEN MINUTES!!!! EVERONE TO THEIR STATIONS!!! NOW!! GO!!!" And the leader in Seto took over.

Yami smiled slightly, deciding now was as good a time as any... his work was done for the evening. He sighed slightly and opened his eyes, heading to the backroom, where lockers and other such things were.

Malik smiled and gave Bakura a kiss. "Good luck...” He whispered lovingly. "Don’t overdo it... if you get overwhelmed or scared... just call me.” He said softly. "I'll always be here to help you."

Bakura nodded and smiled. "I'll be fine. Wait til you see my moves...” And he winked and gave his tail a sassy twitch before sending Malik off with the other waiters and waitresses. Marik moved over to the door, and at a nod from Seto... they opened. The Jungle was open for business...

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

Pegasus sighed as he fixed his coat, looking himself over in the mirror. He glanced at the small wrapped gift on the bed, then turned and walked down the hall towards the Bunny Room. He opened the door and walked in, finding Ryou running in his wheel. He smiled.

"Ryou, baby... come on out. I'm taking you somewhere special...”

Ryou blinked and flicked his ears. "Going somewhere?” He asked softly, slowing and hopping out of his wheel and over to his master. "Will we have fun?” He asked grinning. "I... would like to have fun."

Pegasus smiled and knelt opening his arms to his bunny. "I'm sure you will have fun, baby...” He said, softly.

Ryou blinked and hopped into Pegasus' arms, nuzzling him. "I hope so! I love to have fun with you.” He cooed softly, feeling much better since Pegasus seemed to have calmed his demeanor down. "Where are we going? What are we going to do?” He asked eagerly, littering Pegasus' face with kisses and licks.

"It... It's a surprise, baby...” The man said in a soft, melancholy tone. "Now... I want you to put this on... Just for me?” He asked, holding up the little light blue Playboy Bunny outfit.

Ryou blinked and nodded, tilting his head to the side, ears drooping slightly. "A-are... are you angry with me? O-or sad? You seem upset...” He said softly, beginning to look upset himself. "Is something wrong?"

Pegasus sighed and smiled. "I just have a lot on my mind... Put it on for Master, baby...” He said, standing. "Then come down to the car. I'll be waiting for you there...” And he turned and left the room.

Ryou blinked and put on the clothing his master had requested and hopped out of the cage. He whimpered softly, and stood up, taking a few shaking practice steps. These clothes were too nice to hop around in, and his master had requested he walk the night before.

He walked slowly, but with growing confidence to the car before grinning at Pegasus, blushing slightly. "I... I walked.” He said smiling, the blush bright against his pale cheeks. "A-are you sure I should wear this?” He asked sheepishly. "It... Is very revealing...”

Pegasus turned, and his eyes widened a bit, then he smiled. "You look lovely baby...” He said, walking over. "I'm so proud of you. My precious baby bunny...” He wrapped his arms around Ryou and hugged him, then pulled him into the car and into his lap. There, he cradled Ryou, nuzzling and kissing his face, while stroking him lovingly.

"I love you baby... you are my precious baby bunny, and I'll love you forever and ever...” He whispered.

Ryou nuzzled into him and sighed happily. "I love you too...” He whispered, giving Pegasus a kiss. "You're my wonderful mate... I'll love you, as long as you will love me too.” He cooed blushing.

Pegasus smiled and closed his eyes and just held Ryou, lovingly. And they remained as such for about twenty minutes. Then, the car pulled up outside of a busy building. Ryou blinked and glanced out. There were people lined up outside, and media trucks around.

"Come on, Ryou." Pegasus said, and got out of the car.

Ryou whimpered slightly and gave Pegasus a frightened look. "B-but... there are so many people...” He said softly. "I... what if...” He backed up slightly, his ears back fearfully. "I don’t like so many people... what if someone steals me?"

"Shhhh... It's okay, baby." Pegasus said, and led Ryou towards the entrance, where Seto was speaking with reporters. Rem was by his side.

"-- support the rights of hybrids." Seto was saying. "The hybrids you see working inside are actual paid employees. They each have a story of how they were kidnapped and made into the creatures that they are now. It is now my mission to bring the truth of how hybrids are made to light and get hybrids the rights that they lost when they became hybrids."

Ryou squeaked when he caught sight of Seto. "Y-you're not going t-to fight with him are you?” He asked whimpering. "L-lets go somewhere else...”

He wanted to see what was going on inside, especially with all his friends working there... but he didn't want a repeat of the earlier confrontation in the pet shop. "Please... I... I don’t like to see everyone so angry...”

"Shhh... It's okay Ryou." Pegasus said softly, pulling Ryou towards the door. "I am not here to fight." And he continued on his way to the door. Seto stopped mid sentence when he saw Pegasus and Ryou.

Ryou gave Pegasus and Seto a desperate look. "Please don’t fight...” He said softly, looking at Seto pathetically. "He... he said he didn't want to fight Seto please...”

"What are you doing here?" Seto said in a low tone.

"That is my business."

"I own this club." Seto said.

"Will you be denying Ryou access?" Pegasus asked, laying his hands on Ryou's shoulders. "Because he does not enter without me."

"... Fine." Seto growled. "Go." Pegasus nodded and turned, heading into the club with Ryou, and Seto followed. They got to the door, and stepped in. And there, leaning against the wall and watching everything, was Marik. Bakura looked up from the bar where he was mixing a drink as he smelled the new guests. He froze and his eyes widened. He placed his fingers in his mouth and let out a shrill whistle, getting Malik's attention. He pointed to the door, and the fennec turned. Bakura planted a hand on the bar and hurtled it with a hasty "Be right back!" to the people waiting for their drinks. He and Malik ran over to the door, as did Yami who had left Otogi to watch over his post.

Ryou's ears tilted back slightly and he backed up, hiding behind Pegasus. The music was loud, there were people everywhere... Seto was glaring and everyone was running towards them. It must be the rabbit in him, but he hated when people rushed at him like that, especially since he used to love Yugi's tackle-hugs.

"SO loud...” He said softly, peering out from behind Pegasus at all the people, and his gathering of friends, each glaring once more at Pegasus. "Please... He said he didn't want to fight... W-we just came to see...” He pleaded softly. "B-be nice to us...”

"I have been thinking." Pegasus said, looking around at all of them, noting Marik's bared teeth. "I love Ryou. I really and truly do love him. But... you were right. I forced him to love me back, and... I don't want that.” He sighed and looked at Marik. "He loves you. And he will never be happy if we're fighting over him. I... I surrender." Marik stared and his eyes widen. "Ryou was yours. And I stole him. And now, I'm returning him." Bakura's jaw dropped.

Ryou blinked slightly and looked at Pegasus confusedly. Part of him was overjoyed that he'd see Marik again... and the other half wanted to break down and cry. "Y-you'll come visit...?” He asked softly in his master's ear. "I... don’t want to live without you. You're still my mate...” He said, starting to sniffle, unable to tide back the tears.

Pegasus shook his head. "No I'm not.” He said, then smiled and ran his fingers through Ryou's hair. "The lio-- I mean... Marik is. Marik is your mate, Ryou.” He said, then hugged Ryou tightly. "But you'll always be my precious baby bunny... forever. I will never stop loving you, Ryou.” He looked at Marik, who was stunned. "I trust that you will take care of him?” He asked, and Marik slowly nodded. Pegasus moved over and gave Ryou a gentle kiss on the lips, then nudged him to Marik. "He is yours."

Ryou backed up once more, looking at Pegasus, hurt. "B-but...” He said, whimpering. He sniffled more, shaking his head. "Y-you can’t...”

Yami blinked slightly and frowned. "Marik...” He whispered in the lion's ear. "I think now would be a good time to distract Ryou... keep him happy.” He said frowning. "Pegasus can’t leave him here, if he's trying to follow him out."

Marik blinked and quickly wrapped his arms around Ryou and pulled him into his chest with a deep purr, and kissed him. Pegasus' eye briefly flashed with an angry sadness, but soon faded and was replaced with a slight smile.

Malik smiled slightly, nudging Bakura and nuzzling him. "It's good to have him back...” He said smiling.

Rem nodded. "You did the right thing Pegasus." She said bowing slightly. "He'll be happy with Marik, he's worked so hard to be able to offer Ryou a good life... he went from a bum off the streets... to a pet... to a man of his own." She said smiling at Marik. "I do think that you should all work something out... it would hurt Ryou as much as it did when Pegasus kept him from Marik, if Marik kept him from Pegasus." She said calmly. "I think it would be best, if you worked out a visiting date each week. Nothing fancy, maybe just a meet and greet." She explained.

Ryou sniffled, struggling slightly with Marik, not wanting Pegasus to leave him. "Y-you can’t leave...” He said, big sad tears rolling down his cheeks.

Pegasus smiled. "Now Ryou... You know where I live. You can visit anytime... And I'll come see you, too. I'll come here. I suspect you will be working here, too?"

Ryou sniffled and nodded, ears drooping. He looked so pathetic and sad... it was a heartbreaking sight.

Yami sighed. "Don’t cry Ryou, he'll come visit, he just said so. You'll get to see all the surprises Marik got for you, and you can visit him anytime you want.” He said gently running a hand through Ryou's hair.

Rem smiled. "Marik, is it ok with you for Ryou to visit Pegasus, would you go to visit him too?" She asked smiling. "It would be good for you two to get along... I think Ryou's had enough fighting for one lifetime."

Marik looked down at Ryou and purred, then licked his cheek. "Of course...” He said softly, and smiled at Ryou. "Don't you want this?” He asked. "You can't have two mates, Ryou."

"That's right." Pegasus said. "I'm giving you to Marik, because I know you will be happier this way...” He pet Ryou, gently. "And I'll always be there for you, baby... always... You're my precious baby bunny.” He smiled and tweaked Ryou's tail. "And I want you to be happy.

Ryou sniffled and looked at Marik sadly. "I... I don’t want him to be gone forever... mate or not... I'll still love you both.” He said sniffling. "Because that's how things happened.” He hiccupped slightly.

Rem smiled and began dabbing at Ryou's tears. "Now sweetie... if Marik agrees to go visit Pegasus and Pegasus agrees that he can visit as often as you want, then he won’t be... you should be happy. Pegasus will still be here for you. I bet you could even sneak him little kisses and hugs without Marik minding." She said smiling.

Yami nodded slightly. "I never thought I'd say this, but there's nothing wrong with Pegasus being a friend... with benefits.” He rolled his eyes. "Now... I need to go wash that filth out of my mouth so I'll never say it again."

Bakura snickered at that. "Ryou... Come on...” Marik said. "Of... of course I'll let you visit Pegasus... I want you to be happy, too."

"Must you be upset?" Pegasus asked, walking closer and laying a hand on Ryou's cheek. "We're trying to make you happy."

"That's all we want...” Marik said, and then both men moved in and hugged Ryou, sandwiching him between them, and he felt two gentle kisses on his cheeks.

Ryou sniffled once more and nuzzled both of them. "A-alright...” He said sniffling. "I... I'll stay... b-but you have to visit! You promise you will visit me!” He said quickly. "You made me this way, now you have to keep me happy.” He said wiping his eyes and giving Pegasus the cutest little determined look. "I-if I'm going to work here you have to come visit as often as you can!"

Pegasus smiled. "How about this. I'll come once a week to have dinner and see my baby bunny, so I can be proud of him.” He offered, petting Ryou's hair.

Ryou sniffled and nodded. "Ok...” He said softly nuzzling him and looking at Marik, offering an uneasy smile to his mate.

Marik blinked and cocked his head. "Are... aren't you happy, Ryou?" Marik asked, looking worried.

Ryou sniffled once more and hugged Marik tightly nuzzling into his chest. "Are you working?” He asked softly, wiping his tears into Marik's shirt, slowly recovering from his sadness.

Marik blinked. "Ryou...” He murmured, and hugged him tightly. "Ryou...” And Ryou felt a warm drop fall onto one of his ears.

Ryou nuzzled into him more. "Don’t cry...” He whispered offering a smile. "You'll make me cry again... and I just now stopped!” He said, offering a smile.

Marik shook his head and hugged Ryou tighter. "I... I can't!” He wailed, making Bakura's ears stand up in surprise. "This... this is what I've been dreaming of for the past few months! I can hardly believe I'm holding you!!!" Pegasus quirked an eyebrow and glanced at Seto, who shrugged.

Ryou nuzzled into him and smiled. "Marik please don’t cry...” He said now grinning. "I'm hungry...” He whispered, hoping to distract Marik from his crying. "Why... why don’t you show me around?" he added softly, giving Marik a soft kiss. "I want to see what you spent those months doing...”

Marik smiled and looked down at Ryou. "You want to know what I've spent the past several months doing?” He asked. "I have spent the past several months dreaming of the moment when I could do this...” And he suddenly swept Ryou back and gave him the most fiery, passionate, hot STEAMY kiss that anyone in the club had ever seen. All eyes turned and stared as Marik tightened his arms around Ryou, sliding his tongue into his mouth and moaning loudly. Bakura and Malik' jaws dropped. The Siamese cats mewed and purred, and Kira nearly swooned. Otogi purred loudly as he could nearly TASTE the sense of red hot lust that filled the club. People began cheering Marik on and cat calling, and Rex threw his head back and gave Marik a howl of approval at the style he put into THAT move! Seto looked stunned and slowly turned red, and Pegasus' single eye threatened to pop out of his skull. Even Yami let out an amazed peep.

Ryou squeaked, blushing darkly. Well THAT had been unexpected. Unexpected, but pleasant. He however buried his face into Marik's chest, having invented a new shade of red. "Marrriiikkk!” He whined cutely. "That's not FAIR! Everyone's LOOKING!” He said biting down on one of Marik's nipples in protest.

Marik grit his teeth and groaned, lashing his tail. "Then stop that unless you want me to bang you on the dance floor...” He panted, and Pegasus looked mortified. Marik finally turned and looked at the man. "Thank you...” He said softly. "I... I can never make this up to you...”

"Just keep him happy, and let me visit him." Pegasus said, and Marik nodded.

"I will.” He said, then looked down at Ryou, and smiled.

"I think they could use some time alone...” Bakura said, looking at Seto.

"My office." Seto said to Marik. "Go." Marik nodded and hugged Ryou, then took his hand and pulled him across the club, grinning like a love struck fool at everyone cheering and whistling and congratulating him. He pulled Ryou into the office, and closed the door.

Ryou giggled once they were alone and hugged onto him tightly. "Marik...” He cooed blushing. "You're so...” He flicked his ears, taking in Marik slowly. "Handsome! I never thought you'd clean up THIS nicely!” He cooed, pressing close to him. "You were handsome before... but seeing you like this... knowing you went through so much... just for me...” Ryou breathed, blushing. "You're the most amazing person on the planet!” He said nuzzling into him and nipping at Marik's nipples again. "And I can’t think of a reason NOT to make this office more interesting...”

Marik purred loudly and crushed Ryou in his embrace. "Ryou...” He moaned softly into the bunny's ear. "Ryou... Ryou... My Ryou...” He sniffled and nuzzled Ryou. "You're mine... my mate... I finally have you... I'll never, EVER let you be taken from me again, Ryou... Never... Oh, Ryou...” And he sunk to the floor, bringing Ryou with him and began to diligently sniff him over and groom his face and hair and ears, purring loudly the entire time.

Ryou blushed darkly and licked Marik's cheek. "what are you doing?” He asked, laughing softly. "Do I stink?” He added teasingly. He giggled softly and hugged Marik close. "I missed you SO much!” He said proudly. He hugged him tightly, sniffling.

Marik purred loudly and nuzzled Ryou, then started rubbing his cheek all over him; his face, his shoulders, his arms, his back... everywhere. And the lion was purring loudly the whole time.

Ryou giggled squirming slightly. "Marik what are you doing?!” He giggled more, beginning to nibble on his lover's ear. This was just so adorable and wonderful. He felt warm in his lover's arms, and was completely content to be there forever. "My precious Marik...” He said softly.

Marik purred louder, then suddenly stopped and blinked, then blushed. "Oh, uh... sorry...” He mumbled, and licked Ryou's cheek. "I was just... I mean... well... It was instinct...” and he giggled slightly, but was satisfied to now be able to smell his own scent all over Ryou, courtesy of the scent glands he had just rubbed all over Ryou.

Ryou nuzzled him and sighed contently, curling up in Marik's arms. "I thought about you... I daydreamed... wished and hoped.” He said giving Marik the most love-struck look ever. "So... you work here...” He said beginning to nibble along Marik's neck. "What do you do?"

Marik purred loudly. "I'm the bouncer.” He said. "We just opened tonight. It's our grand opening and... and you're here! I wanted so much for you to be here tonight, and you are! And... and tonight, you're coming home with me! We're together now! Mates... you and me... for life... Is that what you want?"

Ryou grinned and nodded. "Of course!” He said kissing Marik and rubbing noses with him. "I wanted to live with you since I met you!" He said, but then paused. "But... I couldn't impose on Seto...” He said softly, looking at the floor shyly. "He already has so much on his plate, I mean... he's got you and Bakura and Malik and Yami...”

Marik smiled and purred louder. "Ryou? I worked very very hard. I have something very special for you.” He said, licking Ryou's cheek.

Ryou blinked slightly and giggled softly flicking his ears. "Oh? What? You can tell me.” He said squirming beneath Marik slightly. "I won’t tell.” He cooed.

"We aren't going home with Seto.” He said.

Ryou blinked, tilting his head to the side. "we're... not? where are we going?"

Marik smiled and purred even louder, nuzzling Ryou. "Home...” He whispered.

Ryou blinked, his eyes widening. "Y-you... you got a home?!” He said shocked. "Oh Marik! C-can we go see?! can we?!” He said latching onto him and nuzzling, littering his face with kisses. "Lets go now! I want to see!"

Marik meowed playfully and toppled over, pawing at Ryou and licking his face. "We can't! I'm working!” He laughed, tugging Ryou's left ear in his teeth.

Ryou giggled and wrestled with Marik on the floor, giggling. "No you're not! Let’s sneak out!” He said grinning like the little imp he'd grown into being. "Lets sneak out. We can go see home, and then we can break it in...” He purred in Marik's ear grinning devilishly. "I'm sure there's hard wood floors... carpeting... at least a countertop or two...”

Marik chuckled. "Ryou... I am NOT going to get myself fired and ruin this night... And besides... you'll be working here too. Why don't we go find a job for you?"

Ryou pouted slightly. "Seto wouldn't fire you... and... I don’t know...” He mumbled beginning to blush. "I really don’t like all those people close to me... especially dressed like this.” He said motioning to his outfit.

"But you're cute!" Marik protested, wagging his tail.

Ryou wrinkled his nose. "This is the kind of thing I'd wear to tease you, not to WORK."

"Pleeeeease?" Marik asked. "You look SO hot!!! And Pegasus would love it if you wore it for work!"

Ryou whined. "But Marik! I clash with EVERYTHING in this building! I'm the ONLY one dressed like a two-bit whore!"

Marik laughed. "Oh really Ryou? Did you see Malik and Bakura and that cockatoo hostess?"

"Apparently not.” He said crossing his arms. "There's no reason to wear this to work."

"Yes there is!!" Marik said excitedly, and leapt up. He pulled Ryou to his feet and walked him out into the club. They watched Malik walk out of the kitchen and over to a table, swishing his tail and swinging his hips the whole way. He was in black boots that came halfway up his calves, short, tight black leather shorts, and a tight light purple tube top that matched his eyes, and his arms, neck and tail were bedecked with the usual gold bands. He flicked and ear and winked at a girl who was openly oggling him as he set down chips and salsa , then took drink orders. Then he headed over to the bar and gave Bakura the list.

The skunk was in his normal tight black leather pants, and was wearing a formfitting fishnet shirt. Several people sitting at the bar were watching the skunk's every move as he put a sexy smirk across his face and spun the bottle of booze in his hands like an old pro as he went about mixing the drinks.

The Siamese cat twins were wearing the same outfit that Malik was, only their tops were a golden pink color, and their boots had high heels.

"See?" Marik said.

Ryou laughed. "I'm in LIGHT blue! I don’t match that at all!” He said giggling and shaking his head. "They've got more black than pastels!"

Marik grinned and nuzzled Ryou. "We'll get you a black one, then.” He snickered, giving Ryou a long lick up his neck and cheek.

Ryou wrinkled his nose. "Nooo!" he said shaking his head quickly. "Marik! I can’t! People stare!” He said motioning to a group of men, already oggling him, and that cute fluffy tail of his.

Marik snickered. "Get used to it, baby. You are fucking gorgeous...” And he wrapped an arm around him, and his tail around the bunny's waist. "But make no mistake that you are mine... and I will not let ANY one... touch you...”

Ryou smiled slightly, blushing. "I hope not... with the mental suggestions I get... I don’t think I could take it if anyone ELSE touched me.” He said giggling softly. "Looks like my wonderful lion will have to protect me.” He cooed, licking his cheek. "Are you sure we can’t sneak out? Just for tonight?” He giggled. "I want to see our home... I want to see it so badly... I want to see the fruit of your labors...” He cooed nuzzling into Marik's arms. "Maybe if we ask Seto, someone can cover you just for tonight... I'd wear this horrid thing to work if you take me home.” He bargained, grinning. "You'll kill me from curiosity if I have to wait until 2 am before I can see it!"

"You're not going anywhere, Ishtar!" Seto said from behind them. "Ryou... do you want a job? If you do, I have one for you."

"He is NOT waitering." Marik growled. "I won't take the chance of someone grabbing his ass!!!"

"No, Marik. Not waitering." Seto snickered.

Ryou pouted and stuck his tongue out at Seto. "Ruining my fun when I just get back Seto?” He said flicking his ears. "What could I possibly do here?” He asked sighing in defeat.

Seto chuckled. "Take over for Kira. She says she's sick of being the hostess already. I'm putting her on waitressing duty. Would you be the host?"

"Perfect!" Marik said before Ryou could even answer. "He'll be near the door so I can keep an eye on him!"

Ryou laughed. "I... suppose...” He said softly. "It's a bit farther away from those horrid speakers.” He said smiling. "At least I won’t go deaf quickly."

Seto grinned. "Perfect. Go on over. You're hired!" And he ran off after an armadillo hybrid that had freaked out at the sight of Rex and was currently ROLLING across the dance floor towards a very expensive piece of equipment.

WTF?!

XD I LOVE armadillos!!!

Ryou sighed, his ears drooping. "I wonder when I'll get to go home...” He pouted disappointed he couldn't go see the surprise Marik had described to him. "What time do we close?” He asked, taking note of the placement of tables.

Marik smiled and nuzzled Ryou, purring. "We close at 2 AM.” He said. "But I'm sure Seto will let us go home instead of hang around to help clean up...” He walked Ryou over to his spot. "You'll be fine." And he reluctantly left Ryou's side and went back to his own post.

The time passed so slowly it was almost agonizing for Ryou. He was so eager to go 'home'... plus he'd been teasing his lover from his post, between customers. He was relieved to have very few problems, even though he'd had more than a few gropings, that Marik all too eagerly put a stop to, it was a relatively uneventful night. Well, as far as bar fights went.

Ryou grinned at Marik glad he couldn't be seen from the seating area. He nonchalantly ran his hands over his body seductively, yawning softly, a blush seeming to paint itself across his pale cheeks. Oh he'd gotten GOOD at being sexy.

"I saw that." A voice said in Ryou's ear, and the bunny squeaked and jumped. Pegasus laughed. "You are a naughty naughty bunny.” He said in a teasing tone.

Ryou giggled and gave Pegasus a kiss on the cheek, grinning devilishly at Marik. "Only because he can’t do anything to stop me.” He said amusedly. "All he can do, is stand there and take it.” He giggled blushing darkly.

Pegasus chuckled and hugged Ryou. "Well... I'm going home now...” He said, and sighed, stroking Ryou's cheek. "I'm going to miss you. The bed will be very cold without you snuggled up to me...”

Ryou gave Pegasus a sad look. "Maybe one weekend I can come over and we can have a sleepover.” He said hopefully. "We'll watch movies, and play games... it'll be just like a birthday.” He offered smiling. "And then we can sleep curled up together."

Pegasus chuckled. "We'll see how your mate feels about that, hmm? Now Ryou... it hurts me very much to give you up... I want to keep you forever and ever. You are my precious baby bunny, and you always will be. But I know that you love that lion. He is your true mate, Ryou. Not I. And you miss having your own life. And I love you so much, all I want is for you to be happy. And... this is the best chance you will have at being happy. So please... be happy.” He kissed Ryou's forehead. "Live your own life. Love your mate. And do not forget Master...” He held up a small box, wrapped up nicely with bow on it. "This is for you. Don't open it until you get home, okay?"

Ryou nodded and nuzzled Pegasus once more. "I won’t forget master, as long as he promises not to forget the bunny.” He cooed giving him a kiss on the cheek. "You promised to come here once a week... if you don’t keep your word I will not be happy, I will be sad.” He said firmly. He took the small box and hugged it. "Master... don’t be sad... I'm still your baby bunny.” He said smiling. "And we'll work something out, so you won’t have to be alone in such a big house."

Pegasus smiled and wrapped his arms around Ryou, hugging him tightly and kissing his cheek.

"Who's my good bunny?” He whispered into Ryou's ear.

Ryou grinned and licked his cheek. "Me. I’m your good bunny.” He said hugging Pegasus tightly. "And don’t ever forget to reward me for it.” He cooed flicking his ears. "I'll wait right here for you... everyday, and when you come, I'll be happy."

Pegasus smiled. "I love you, baby. Be good. And be happy.” He said, petting Ryou. Then, he turned and walked out, pausing and looking at Marik on his way. Marik blinked, and Pegasus finally sighed and smiled, nodding slightly to him. Then, he reached out, and to Ryou and Marik's surprise and delight scratched Marik behind the ears. The lion hooded his eyes and purred.

"Take care of him." Pegasus said.

"I will." Marik assured him, and Pegasus walked out of The Jungle.

Ryou pouted slightly after Pegasus and gave Marik a sad look. Despite how happy he was with Marik, it hurt to see his 'mate' leave. He sniffled slightly and put the present away offering Marik a weak smile. "We'll visit him soon... ok?” He said softly, ears drooping slightly.

Marik blinked, then smiled and nodded. "Sure. He gives really good scratches." and he smiled and purred. "Almost as good as Rem!"

Ryou smiled, feeling better at Marik's enthusiasm. He grinned devilishly once more, and stretched slightly, lifting his arms behind him, beginning to unzip the body piece of his outfit, deciding it would raise his spirits to get Marik hot under the collar.

He sighed in seeming relief as the top slid down his shoulders, just barely out of place... but just enough to let Marik know what he was doing.

Marik's eyes widened, and then he shook his head and chuckled.

"You're a mean little thing." Said a voice. A voice that made Ryou's blood run cold. A voice that was usually followed by intense pain... Slowly, Ryou turned. Rex stood only two feet away, smirking.

Ryou growled softly, backing away quickly. "Leave me alone!” He hissed, fur bristling. He sought immediate shelter in Marik and ended up darting behind him whimpering.

Marik blinked, then narrowed his eyes at Rex, who slowly approached with his hands raised.

"Easy... I... I'm not gonna hurt him, Marik. I swear it." Rex said, and Marik quieted his growling. "Ryou... I... I'm sorry."

Ryou, however didn't stop his growling. "I forgive you... b-but g-go away... I still don’t trust you."

The coyote sighed and nodded. "I understand. But... we're gonna be working together now, and... well... I AM sorry, Ryou. I was... I was jealous...”

Ryou blinked, nuzzling Marik's back slightly, peering out at Rex. "Of what?"

"You... you were so lucky... I've been in that place almost as long as Marik... I came just a week or so before Bakura... no one liked me... I was a mangy coyote that no one wanted. No one ever wanted to see me... no one ever considered buying me... and then you came in and everyone loved the bunny, and the bunny was wanted, and had a master ready, and...” He shrugged. "I was jealous. I had been there so long that I beleived that I was an animal. And that the best thing in the world was to be bought. And wanted...”

Ryou gave Rex a sympathetic look, but still remained behind Marik. "Ok...” He said softly. "I forgive you... b-but I still can’t just... suddenly trust you. You hurt me in so many ways...” He said softly.

Rex nodded. "I know. And I understand that. But... it's because of you that all of this happened. This club... this job... it's because of you that I actually have a life, now.” He smiled. "I wanted to say I was sorry, and... thanks. We ARE human. Thank you for giving that back to me."

Ryou nodded and smiled softly, but remained behind Marik. "You're welcome...” He mumbled, eager to see the uninvited interruption leave, so he could ONCE AGAIN try to amuse himself by teasing Marik.

Rex smiled and nodded. "See ya round... I gotta get back to work.” He said. "Marik... try not to get a hard on in the middle of the club, hmm?" And the coyote went back to busing tables. Marik snorted and looked back at Ryou.

"Try not to get a hard on, indeed...” He drawled, giving Ryou a look that said 'I know what you're up to.'

Ryou grinned at him and wrapped his arms around Marik's waist from behind. "What? I'm innocent.” He cooed running his hands up Marik's stomach and pressing close to him. "Can’t I be friendly?"

Marik chuckled. "Some people are waiting to be seated, Ryou."

Ryou grinned and licked up Marik's back. "They'll find some chairs.” He cooed grinning devilishly.

"Ryou." Marik snickered, turning around. "Go do your job." And he gave Ryou a little push in the direction of his post.

Ryou stuck out his tongue and grabbed some menus for the guests and smiled. "It's almost closing time.” He said smiling. "I hope you enjoy your stay however.” He said leading them to a table and offering them the menus. "A waiter or waitress will be with you shortly.

"Hey, sexy." Malik said, coming up and giving Ryou a smack on the ass. Then he turned to the people in the booth. "Hey.” He gave them a saucy wink, noting the two girls eyeing him up and down while their boyfriends glared. "My name's Malik and I'll be serving you this evening. Can I get you something to drink?"

"Beer." Said the first guy.

"Strawberry daiquiri." Said his girlfriend, and the other pair both ordered Margaritas.

"Okay, I'll need to see your ID's." Malik said, reaching out and tweaking Ryou's tail as he started to leave.

Ryou huffed. "Don’t!” He grumbled hurrying away and glaring. "I hate it when people do that.” He grumped, pouting at Marik. "Have you seen Yami? I've been meaning to ask him about visiting Yugi later this week.” He asked, calming down.

Malik frowned as he gathered the drivers' licenses. "No, I haven't actually... Otogi’s doin' the DJ thing right now...” He said, looking up at the panther. "But you know Yugi. He'll always be glad to see you. And why not ask Otogi? I mean, HE'S the one living with Yugi now... Yami's taken up permanent residence with Seto.” He headed for the bar and motioned for Ryou to come with him so that they could talk. "I'm SO glad he let you go!" Malik said, throwing an arm around Ryou in a hug. "I NEVER saw that coming! But it's so great! And just think!!! Marik and Bakura are taking us HOME tonight!!!” He gave Ryou an excited lick on the cheek.

Ryou smiled slightly. "Yeah... it'll be good to go home... I'm so curious to see it...” He said proudly. "Maybe I'll ask Seto where Yami went...” He said thoughtfully. "Anyway... Marik and I will visit him. It hurt to see him go...” He said, the tips of his ears drooping slightly.

Malik smiled and nuzzled Ryou, licking his cheek. "It'll be okay, Ry.” He said, and then turned. "Bakura! Bring that fine piece of ass over here! I need two margaritas, one frozen, one on the rocks, no salt, a frozen Strawberry Daiquiri, and Mr. Cheap wants a beer!"

"Yeah Yeah, I hear ya, I'm comin!" Bakura shouted back from where he was mixing a Bloody Mary. Malik smirked and turned his attention back to Ryou.

"Ryou, this is a GOOD thing!” He said, running a hand through his hair.

Ryou laughed slightly. "You should be more polite to our guests.” He said calmly and pulled away. "I'm going to look for Seto... I'm getting tired, and I still have to ask about Yami.” He said shaking his head. "Plus, I don’t want to be around if you get decked for being an ass.” He giggled.

Malik snickered. "I won't be.” He said, winking at Ryou and flicking his tail. "I'm too sexy."

"Well well well...” Bakura said suddenly, walking over. "Look over there at the door, Malik... Aren't those the guys who jumped you that day in the park? The ones me and Marik beat up?"

"Hey... yeah, they are!" Malik gasped, and then grinned. "Ryou... be a dear and sit them in my section, hmm?"

Ryou nodded slowly and went to seat the newest guests. He provided menus and left, leaving them to Malik… Who eagerly came up, smirking all the while.

The guy who had jumped Malik from behind looked up to order his drink, but froze. His eyes widened.

"YOU!!!" He blurted, and the other men looked up and stared.

Malik nodded smirking. "How can I help you?" He said flicking his ears slightly. "Or were you just coming in to ogle like idiots?"

"What are YOU doing here?!" The guy blurted, eyes moving up to Malik's large ears, and then down to his tail. "You... You're a... a... Are those REAL?!"

Malik nodded slowly. "Are you going to order, or gape at me like codfish?" He said smartly. "I have a job to do, and if you're not ordering I have other customers to help."

They all sat there gaping for a moment, then all ordered beers.

Malik took the orders and huffed slightly. "Right." He said calmly, turning on his heel, his tail flicking irritably.

Slowly, the men turned and looked at each other, stunned. But they all stiffened when Malik returned, a beer in each hand... followed by Bakura.

"Well well... here are some familiar faces...” Bakura snickered, setting the beers down.

"Shit...” One of the men squeaked.

"Shit indeed...” Bakura snickered, flicking his tail. "You're in our territory now...”

"Yep...” Malik giggled, swishing his tail around. "I know how you boys like to start trouble... well... if you wanna... do so at your own risk...” The men glanced at each other.

"If you wanna run... do it now." Bakura sneered.

"Oh, and watch the lion on your way out...” Malik sang, and the men bolted.

"Malik...” Malik whirled and stared at Seto.

"Uhhh... hi?" He giggled slightly. Seto sighed and rolled his eyes.

"Oh, screw it... it's been a long day for you guys. Things are winding down now... why don’t you get Marik and Ryou, and head home, hmm?" Bakura's ears perked. "I’ll see you two tomorrow." Seto said, and turned, walking off.

Ryou grinned from his post and nodded. "HOME!" he cheered immediately, picking up the small gift Pegasus had left him and rushing over to Marik and smiling. "Take me home Marik, I'm ready!" He said eagerly. "I want to see our home! I want to see it, and I want to sleep there... with you." He cooed, beginning to once again litter Marik's face with kisses.

Marik laughed. "C'mon Malik! Move your furry ass Bakura! We're going home!!!" Bakura ran over, pulling Malik by the hand. They waved to Seto and left the club, holding hands.

"C'mon... it's close enough to walk it...” Bakura said, nuzzling Malik. "Gods, you're so sexy in those shorts...”

Malik laughed grinning. "I'm even sexier out of them." He said smirking. "Unless of course the old barkeep is sleepy." He taunted, dragging his tail up Bakura's side, slowly.

Ryou blushed slightly. "Um...” he mumbled burying his face into Marik's arm, unwilling to watch his other friends flirt shamelessly.

"Oooooh... no... Not tired anymore...” Bakura crooned. Marik snickered.

"Come on, boys... you're making the bunny blush." The lion called, and Bakura and Malik looked back, grinning. "Wait till we get home."

Ryou blushed more. "Marik!" He said wrinkling his nose. "Stop drawing attention to me!" He said, practically smothering Marik with himself, seemingly trying to melt into him.

"Awww, sweetie...” Marik chuckled, wrapping an arm around him. Malik and Bakura smiled and slowed down and fell back until they were walking beside Marik and Ryou. Malik turned and nuzzled Ryou gently, and Bakura, who was on the other side of Marik, wrapped his tail all the way across Ryou and Marik's backs to finally wrap around Malik's waist, bringing them all in closer. Malik giggled and flung an arm across Ryou's shoulder, as Bakura did to Marik, who grinned and wrapped his arms around Bakura and Ryou's waists.

"Don't get upset, Thumper...” Bakura said, looking at Ryou and smiling. "It's just us...”

"Yeah." Malik said. "We... we're practically family now."

"Yeah." Bakura agreed. "We're family." Marik hooded his eyes and purred, coiling his tail around Ryou's hips.

Ryou smiled and nuzzled into Marik, relaxing slightly. "It'll be good to have some family... who'll be around more often." He said softly. "But when father comes back from his excavation, you must all meet him." He offered smiling. "Especially you Marik. I doubt my father would allow you to escape a meeting with him... after all I am his only son." He said grinning and cooing, before turning to nuzzle Malik.

Malik grinned. "I can’t wait." He said flicking his ears. "So... when do we get there?"

Marik and Bakura smiled at each other and stopped a few feet down the side walk. "We're here." Bakura said, and they turned Ryou and Malik to face the small cozy red brick duplex. The daffodils had died as the weather got cool, so the pair, with Bakura's digging skills, had redone the garden (And gave it a de-grubbing, courtesy of Bakura) and had planted winter pansies.

Ryou squeaked in delight. "Flowers!" He said eagerly running toward the garden and stooping to sniff them. "Oh it's perfect!" He said proudly. "The house is perfect! There are flowers! It's gorgeous!" He turned to Marik and stood, ears quivering in glee and the largest smile he'd ever had on his face. "Oh Marik lets go in!" He said eagerly walking up to the door and trying to peer in the windows.

Malik grinned at Bakura. "I'm proud of you...” He whispered in his ear, nibbling it slightly. "Tomorrow, we'll invite Rem and my sister over... and I bet you'll be their pride and joy." He cooed hugging Bakura to him and sighing. "You worked hard... both of you."

Marik and Bakura both nuzzled Malik and purred, and then Marik grinned and followed Ryou.

"We thought that... well... we'd all want to be near each other...” Marik said. "That and... well, you know me and Bakura... we've never been apart since we were first brought together in that store. But when we saw this place, we knew it was perfect. Ryou, honey... that's Bakura and Malik's side. C'mon over here. This is OUR home." Marik said, unlocking the door. Bakura grinned and unlocked his side of the duplex.

"You should get a familiar sense of home in here." The skunk said to Malik with a grin.

Ryou blushed and giggled, eagerly running to Marik and nearly tripping, grabbing him tightly for balance and nuzzling him. "Home...” he mumbled contently.

Malik grinned and nuzzled Bakura. "He's so excited... it's almost like watching a little kid." He said chuckling. "Tuc and Nod should be home already, Rem said she was dropping them off before she left." He chuckled, grinning at Marik, before entering his side of the duplex, with Bakura.

Ryou's grin broadened. "Tuc and Nod! Let’s go in!" He said hopping up and down slightly and practically crushing Marik in a hug.

Marik laughed and opened the door, and they stepped into the small home. He flicked on the light. The little entry hall was very empty and bare, so Marik took Ryou's hand and led him to the living room, and turned on the light. Two pairs of ears shot up from a small dog bed in the corner, and a moment later Tuc and Nod came hurtling out of their little bed and towards Ryou, tails twitching in excitement.

Ryou gasped and stooped and hugged his friends. "Oh I missed you both so much!" He said nuzzling them. "Marik's taken such good care of you!" He cheered giggling and grooming their ears slightly, giggling as they seemed to squeak in approval and nuzzle him. Ryou picked them both up and hugged them close, before putting them down to look around. "It's so nice... this is just perfect for us...” he breathed, looking at the living room. It was sparsely furnished, but what it had, was more than enough to thrill Ryou.

There was a cherry wood entertainment center, with a large TV (probably a gift from Seto, or Rem) a Game station a DVD player and behind a glass door, was a few DVDs and three video games. Ryou giggled and sighed, eyes catching the soft couch. He grinned and rushed over, and plopped into it. "I love the couch!" He said turning and giving Marik an approving look. "Black is such a good choice! You can’t really stain it, plus it will match everything!"

Marik smiled and walked over to a large basket in the corner. "Winter's coming." He said. "Here are a bunch of blankets that we can put down in front of the fire place and... cuddle on cold nights." He said, purring and winking at Ryou. "Come on, I'll show you the kitchen." And he pulled Ryou into the kitchen. One of the first things Ryou noticed was the two dishes on the floor, one with water, and one with rabbit food in it. Then, he looked into the dining area and found a table with six chairs around it, and a plant in the corner. Marik smiled and opened cabinets, showing Ryou all the pots and pans and dishes.

Ryou gasped and his ears quivered. "Oh I can’t wait until tomorrow! I'll make the most wonderful breakfast you've ever eaten!" He said gleefully. "It’s been so long since I've cooked though...” He said thoughtfully. "So you'll... have to excuse me if I burn something.” Ryou smiled sheepishly, but immediately perked up at the sight of a juicer. "OH I've always wanted one!"

Marik laughed. "Ryou, I'm sure you'll do fine." He said, hugging him. Then he took him to the sliding glass door behind the kitchen table, and pulled him out into the backyard. "Nice, isn't it? One of the reasons I agreed to the place was that there was plenty for room for you to have your own vegetable garden."

Ryou hugged Marik, trembling in sheer delight. "Marik... this place is perfect... it's absolutely wonderful! Once spring comes I'll plant so many delicious fruits and vegetables... it'll all taste so good you wont MIND eating something other than meat." He giggled. "There's so much room for Tuc and Nod to romp and play... and I bet Malik and Bakura would love some vegetables too... I'll grow enough for everyone!"

Marik purred and nuzzled Ryou, gently. "Come on...” He said, taking Ryou's hands and pulling him back inside, laughing at Tuc and Nod who were watching them intently from the doorway. He pulled Ryou back to the bedroom, and turned on the light. "Surprise." Ryou's eyes widened as he stared at the familiar contents of the room. It was HIS ROOM!!! His bed, his dresser, his desk, his bedside tables, his bookcase! And there, on the wall, as the big beautiful window that he had always dreamed off, with matching curtains on it. And there on the window seat were several pillows, and some of the old stuffed animal plushies that Ryou had kept in his room at home.

"Oh my god... Marik...” He breathed sniffling softly. "You... you got my old things... My bed...” He picked up his pillow and buried his face in it. "Oh these things are so special to me...” He mumbled giving Marik a watery smile. "Mother left it to me... it's all I had left of her...” He smiled and put the tearstained pillow down and dove into Marik's arms, smothering him in a hug.

"I love you so much... oh Marik... I don’t know what to say... you've made me so happy...”

Marik smiled and purred, rocking Ryou in his arms and glancing at Tuc and Nod, scurrying across the room and diving into their little bed in the corner of the bedroom. They curled up together and watched Marik and Ryou intently. Marik chuckled.

"I can't believe this...” He said softly, nuzzling Ryou. "This is a dream come true...”

Ryou nodded sniffling and clinging to him. He kissed him, wiping at his tears. "It's... what I always dreamed of when we were in the pet shop... it's perfect...”

He sniffled and began unwrapping the small gift he'd been clutching since they'd left The Jungle. He sniffled and smiled, pulling out something truly special. "Oh Marik... look...” he breathed, pulling out a beautiful doll. "A... A doll to remember."

Marik blinked and looked down, then smiled. There in Ryou's hands was a little winged horse; a pegasus plushy. And around its neck was a little note

'To my precious baby bunny... Be happy, and remember that Master loves you.' Marik purred and nuzzled Ryou, then turned and picked up his own bunny plushy from the bed. He looked down at the worn thing, and smiled.

"That was nice of him." He said. "I think I should return the favor. After all... I don't need this anymore. I have the real thing." And he smiled and looked at Ryou.

Ryou laughed softly. "No... We’ll put them both somewhere special...” He said, taking the small bunny and Pegasus dolls, and placing them on top of the dresser. "This poor bunny has been through so much, it'd be cruel to give him away." He said smiling and wiping his eyes slightly. "We'll get him a gift later... something he'll appreciate as much as you loved this doll."

Ryou turned and hugged Marik once more, sighing. "Thank you...”

Marik purred and took Ryou into his arms, hugging and nuzzling him. "I love you...” He murmured.

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

Bakura smiled and opened the door, guiding Malik in. He closed the door behind them and locked it, then pulled Malik into the living room and flipped on the light. "Welcome home, love...” He said, watching Malik's eyes widen. The place was a re-creation of the basement that Malik had set up for himself and Bakura to live in back at his sister's home. There was the sofa and bean bags, and the big screen TV and game station. Bakura had even brought over the red wall paneling with the golden dragons on them and installed them.

Malik grinned broadly. "Wow Bakura...” He said gently his hand over the sofa. He chuckled. "I guess we have similar tastes." He teased smiling. "It's great...” He looked around ears flicking. "There's so much room...” He said, wandering into the kitchen and laughing. "We'll have to ask Ishizu to teach us to cook...” he said in an amazed voice. "I never did learn... I've always eaten those... frozen TV dinners." He said sheepishly.

Malik's ears twitched and he sniffed. "Ohhh...” he said opening a cabinet to find his favorite kind of tea. "How'd you know?" He asked, picking up the small box. "Ishizu has to order it special, because it's only made in Egypt...”

Bakura smiled. "I had help." He said. "Obviously. But wait till you see the bedroom...” He grinned and sauntered over to Malik. "I put a lot of work into our love nest... and it's made especially for you...” He pulled Malik down the hall and covered his eyes, guiding him into the room. "Now... I had a savings account before I was made a hybrid... And Seto helped me get to it... And this is what I did with it." He uncovered Malik's eyes.

The entire room was black and gold. The walls were black, the seat cushion on the window seat was black, the curtains and carpet were gold. The dresser was black with gold lining, and the bed was gold with black comforters, while the sheets were gold, and the pillows were mixed. The black iron bedside tables had gold lamps on them, and black and gold statues of Egyptian gods were placed around the room, including one that was an incense burner.

"Welcome home...” Bakura purred, licking Malik's ear.

Malik gasped in shock. "Oh gods... Bakura... You... YOU did THIS?" He asked eyes wide. "This... this is amazing!" He blurted stepping forward and running his hands over the bed, ears tilting back in awed wonder. "The gods... they're all here...” He breathed, looking over the statues in the room. "Well, at least the best ones are." He said amusedly. "Bakura this is wonderful... I didn't even think you knew about my belief in the gods... let alone think you could decorate like this...”

Bakura grinned. "I had help." He said, snickering. "Marik discovered his inner interior decorator with BOTH of our homes." He laughed. "But I thought you would like it. It's all yours." And the skunks grinned and pushed Malik back onto the bed, crawling over him. "And so am I...”

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

TWO WEEKS LATER….

Seto sighed and hung up the phone, then continued to pace back and forth across his office. Mokuba watched him in silence.

"Where the hell is he?!" Seto shouted, banging his fist on the desk. "It's been almost two weeks!!!" He turned and looked at the empty perch in the corner of his office. It had been almost two weeks since the club had opened... and since Yami had disappeared. Seto was desperately worried for his lover's safety. Pegasus had said he knew nothing about the hybrid's disappearance, but would keep an eye and an ear out. Seto had even gone to see if Daisuke had anything to do with it, only to find that the man had disappeared and the labs were under new management. Rem, who was still working at the pet store and helping the hybrids maintain their humanity had heard nothing.

Seto and Pegasus both had been checking the animal shelter frequently, and Pegasus had actually adopted three hybrids (a hedgehog, a chipmunk, and a badger) and was carefully teaching them to be human again, and when they were ready, Seto would hire them on at the club. But there had been no sign of Yami.

"Mail, sir." Said a soft voice, and Seto looked up as the maid walked in and handed him the mail. Seto nodded his thanks and began flipping through the mail. The usual stuff. Bills, invitations to charity events and parties, and... A postcard. A postcard? Seto looked at the picture of a beautiful white beach, clear skies and crystal blue water. 'The Weather is Here, Wish You Were Beautiful' said the caption in hot pink letters. Seto blinked, and flipped it over.

'Seto-

Got cold, so I flew south for the winter. Sorry, it was kind of a sudden thing. Having a great time here in Australia. Come visit, I know you can afford it, AND you could use the vacation. Hope to see you soon!

Love,

Yami

P.S. Bring some of those puzzle toy things. I have some new friends here who would like them, too.'

Seto gawked at the letter in his hands. And then the silence of the Kaiba Estate was shattered.

"YAMIIIIIII!!!!"

~*~

THE END

~*~

The sequel is already up! Twilight Menagerie!!!

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

Steve Irwin

The Crocodile Hunter, Wildlife Warrior, Reptile Expert, Conservationist...

A Loving Husband and Father.

You were taken before your time.

We miss you.

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