-On the Prowl-

With his back against the arena walls, Sphinx narrowed his eyes. These creatures were relentless, not giving him much room to really move around, hindering his abilities. Quickly dodging a spear thrown at him, he looked up at the Spear Cretin that had attacked him. "Hmm, looks like your aim needs work."

Hearing the creature growl, Sphinx smirked while spotting a Flame Cerebrus getting ready to attack. Taunting the small spear toting creature into charging at him, he quickly leaped to the side, evading a wash of flames that roasted the cretin instead.

Taking a glance back at the larger creature, he sighed as one of the fiery heads looked at him. Not wasting anytime, Sphinx rushed through the horde of creatures. Dodging attack after attack, he took in deep quick breaths while making his way to the center of the arena, hoping to allow himself some more moving room.

Seeing the three headed cerebrus still behind him, he took off running once again before diving out of the way of a scythe belonging to a reaper then veering off to the side with a cartwheel. Doing a quick back handspring, Sphinx dug his claws into the dirt before getting back to his feet and throwing the acquired dirt right into the cerebrus's eyes.

Taking a moment to catch his breath, he quickly dodged a deadly blow from a Flash Assailant. Glaring at the evil smirk on the fiend's face, Sphinx took a quick glance around him, spotting the cerebrus as well as Twin-Headed Wolf coming toward him. He couldn't believe that Jackal and Viper had called forth so many creatures. That was probably the reason why they left instead of watching the fight.

Jumping back to avoid another blow from the assailant, he gasped feeling two pairs of arms grabbing his arms and legs from behind. Sphinx winced since his arms were in a cross position, causing his sharp claws to pierce his skin.

Biting his lip from the pain, he noticed the creature that was holding his tightly. The Lesser Fiend snarled in his ears while tightening its grip around his arms and thighs. Feeling the cool metal digging deeper into his skin, he winced feeling trails of warm blood seeping from under his claws.

Gritting his teeth, Sphinx tried to kick his legs, but from the grip on his thighs, he could only bend his knees and twist his ankles, not giving him much to work with. He needed help as he noticed the rest of the creatures starting to close in on him.

( Sphinx, listen to me! )

(( Miw-sher… stay away! There's too many of them! ))

( Listen to me! I need you to concentrate on our bond! )

(( What? ))

( Just do it! )

Not knowing what else to do, Sphinx closed his eyes and started to concentrate on the link between the two of them. Probing through the bond, he mentally blinked at feeling an intense wave shadow magic coming from the other side of the link. Hearing a loud roar, his eyes snapped open to see a creature unlike any other charging toward him from one of the arena gates.

The creature was like a living shadow, its ebony fur dusted with shades of deep indigo and dark purple. It was about twice the size of a compact vehicle resembling the looks of a black panther in body. Long, ivory white saber fangs emerged from the creature's muzzle, while spiral draconic like horns of black and gold graced the beast's head. Shadowy leather wings flared out from the creature's sides, the inside of the wings were decorated with various designs of gold that seemed to glow from the moonlight.

Sphinx blinked, he wasn't sure what was going on but at taking a closer look at the large beast his fears faded at the sight of a familiar gold collar wrapped around the creature's neck with a small cartouche hanging from the center.

( Duck! )

Doing as told, Sphinx quickly ducked his head just as the large creature lunged at his captor. Feeling the Lesser Fiend tossing him to the side, he quickly twisted to land in a cat-like crouch. Glancing back at the other creature, he sighed watching as the fiend began to disappear.

Straightening his stance, he winced from a sudden twinge of pain coming from the wounds across his chest. Getting ready to check the injuries, he stopped when noticing blood staining his gold claws. 'I feel like a piece of Swiss cheese,' he sighed taking in the fact that he now had 10 deep wounds dotting his chest.

Feeling something brush against his side, Sphinx smiled at the large creature looking back at him with concern flashing through its gold eyes.

(( Nice form. ))

( This is my true form, but that is beside the point, you are hurt. )

(( I'll be fine. ))

( You are a terrible liar.)

(( Maybe, but as you can tell there is at least a dozen creatures left and I need to take care of them. ))

( I know, but you need to rest. Calling too many creatures will drain you, and since you are wounded, it will be hard to call a strong creature. )

(( Then what do you suggest? ))

( I can bring them out, all you have to do is throw out the right card. )

Smirking, Sphinx shook his head. He was surprised at the transformation, but by the sound of things, his companion was stronger than he thought, then again there was still a lot he didn't know about the other. Deciding to investigate about it later on, he climbed onto the large creature's back before pulling out a card.

With a flap of its large wings, Sphinx and his companion were airborne. Taking a last glance at the card in his hand, he smiled before throwing the card in the air. Wincing at another twinge of pain, Sphinx heard the creature's loud roar before watching as the card quickly disappeared.

Red lightning flashed across the sky as dark clouds blocked out the moon and stars. If anyone had been passing the Colosseum they would have fled in fear at the roar breaking through the silence as well as the crimson scaled head emerging from the dark clouds. The red dragon let out another mighty roar as it looked down at the Colosseum arena.

Twin mouths full of ivory fangs shimmered in the darkness from the light coming from the flashing red and gold lightning. Narrowing its gold eyes, the dragon unleashed a powerful blaze of crimson lightning and fire, effectively taking out the remaining creatures before disappearing without a trace.

'I'm late, I'm late… I am so late!' Yugi cried, running through the halls as fast as he could. Stupid class just had to be in the building that was away from everything else, especially when his other classes took place in the building closer to the parking lot, which was almost on the other side of the campus.

Huffing up the two flights of stairs, he shot quick apologies at the people that he had nearly ran over. Making a made dash down another hall and through a set of double doors, he ran down another hall before coming to a halt, almost causing him to collide with the closed door.

Taking a deep breath, Yugi looked up at the door and almost cried. 'Cancelled… Why me?' he whined, dropping his head in defeat. All that running around and worrying for nothing. Typical College. Growling at his ill luck, he walked over to a bench seat and flopped down on the navy blue cushions.

This was his last class for the day, but since he didn't drive that meant he had at least another hour to burn until Joey and Seto were out of class. He couldn't even catch a ride with Ryou or Malik because they had already left for the day.

Running a hand through his hair, he sighed before getting back to his feet and tossing his bag over his shoulder. He might as well head back to the café and wait for his friends to get out of class. Trudging down the hall and stairs, he smiled as his mind drifted off to when he had seen Yami earlier in the day.

He had looked very nice in loose, yet form fitting cargo khaki jeans with a loose stylish red sweat shirt. Then again, he seriously doubted that any type of clothing would look bad on Yami. Shaking his head, he continued on his way before feeling a tap on his shoulder. Whirling around, Yugi gave out a startled 'eep' before blushing when he noticed who was behind him. "Y-Yami, you startled me," he flushed before realizing that he had called Atemu 'Yami' while still on campus. "Sorry, I didn't…"

Crimson eyes gleamed in mirth as Yami smiled fondly. "Relax, no one was around," he chuckled waving his hand to dismiss the problem. "So heading off to your next class?"

"… Um, I don't have any other classes for the rest of the day. My last class was cancelled." Yugi managed out while keeping his eyes on the ground. It was easier to talk to Yami this way, because when looking into those crimson orbs, Yugi kept loosing his train of thought.

Nodding his head, Yami smirked while catching the faint blush across Yugi's cheeks. The little one was just so damn cute that he was irresistible. "I just finished my last class as well," he smiled. "Are you waiting for you friends?"

"Yeah, they are my ride… after all," Yugi mumbled feeling a bit silly at having to depend on someone else, but it wasn't like there was enough money coming into the game shop for him to buy a vehicle, he was in the same boat as Ryou.

"I understand," Yami smiled, adjusting his backpack and wincing lightly from the strap digging into his shoulder.

"Are you alright?" Yugi asked, catching the wince.

"Fine, just the strap was killing me," Yami sighed. "If it wasn't so silly looking, I would get one of those backpacks that you can pull around on wheels."

Chuckling at the thought, Yugi couldn't help but think that Yami would be able to look sexy as always, even though he was dragging a backpack behind him. "It wouldn't be all that bad, save your back in the long run."

"Maybe," Yami chuckled. "Anyways, how would you like to hang out with me for a while? Afterwards, I can take you home."

Mentally fainting at the realization of what was being asked, Yugi had to fight the blush as well as the urge of passing out. Swallowing, he managed a weak smile. "Seriously?"

"Of course, I would enjoy the company," Yami smiled while holding one of the double doors open for Yugi.

Yugi was still hyperventilating in his mind. He was going to Yami's house! He was going to be a lone with his crush! Beating down the need to melt into a puddle, a light blush painted his face. "Okay."

"Great," Yami winked as the two of them made their way through the crowded parking lot. Digging into his pocket, he pulled out a set of keys.

'Ryou is going to be so jealous…' Yugi chuckled as he watched Yami press the buttons on the keyless entry clicker. Looking up, he smiled at seeing the EXT before him, still as spotless as it was the other day.

Walking over to the passenger side, Yami opened the door before turning back to look at Yugi. "Give me your pack," he smiled as Yugi gave him the loaded backpack. Ushering Yugi up into the passenger seat, he opened one of the side doors to toss both of their backpacks into the back seat.

Yugi was in leather heaven. Then entire interior of the EXT was sleek charcoal leather, matching the charcoal accents on the exterior of the vehicle. The seats were very comfortable and large,making it seem like you were sittingon a cozy recliner. The dashboard had mahogany wood accents that stood out against the charcoal leather casing.

Getting on the driver's side, Yami laughed at the awed expression on Yugi's face. "I take it you like?" he chuckled.

Dumbly nodding, Yugi ran his fingers across the dashboard. "It's beautiful.'

"Thanks," Yami smiled while sticking the key in the ignition. "It caught my eye when I was looking for a nice ride," he chuckled while lifting up the console to reveal a stash of CDs. "Any requests?"

"No, this is your ride, you can choose the music," Yugi smiled while buckling his seat belt.

Smirking, Yami took out a random disc before pressing a button on the control panel, causing a panel to slide out, revealing slots for 6 discs. Putting the disc in place, the panel closed as he buckled up before shifting the gear into drive.

Yugi was still in awe as they made their way from the campus. The music coming from the stereo was familiar, it was the same music that he had heard at the club when he say Yami dancing. Oh yeah, that music was really bringing some fond memories to mind right about now. Those swaying hips and… Ok, he really did not need to think about that right now!

Stopping at a red light, Yami smiled at the look on Yugi's face. It made him glad to see that Yugi was having a nice time so far, he hoped that the little one would enjoy the rest of the day as well. "Um, you don't mind if we make a quick stop at the coffee shop, do you?"

"No," Yugi smiled while shaking his head. "I don't mind, I could actually use a caramel crème cocoa right about now."

Hearing that Yugi liked the same thing, Yami chuckled. "My thoughts exactly."

The coffee shop wasn't that far away from where they were, so it didn't take long to reach the place, especially if you take in the account that Yami drove 10 miles over the speed limit. Good thing there weren't any cops out wanting to fill a quota.

Walking into the coffee shop, Yami and Yugi both went up to the register. Seeing Yugi getting ready to dig out some money, Yami grabbed his arm lightly. "My treat."

Beating down another blush, Yugi looked up at Yami curiously. "Are you sure?"

"Positive," Yami smiled, letting his hand linger a bit longer before he turned to place their orders.

In his mind, Yugi was nothing more than a flushing puddle. Yami's touch left his body tingling all over. He was so warm and gentle, it was enough to make anyone melt and Yugi was the prime example of what Yami could do to someone, leave them senseless.

Hearing the silky bronze voice placing the order, he came back to his senses at hearing him order the hazelnut/French vanilla cappuccino. 'I wonder who that's really for.' He mused before looking back up at the other.

Receiving the orders in record time, Yami smiled as the reached one of the cocoas over to Yugi as they walked out of the shop. Catching the curious look on the other's cherubic face, he smirked while cocking an eyebrow curiously. "What is it?"

"Well not to pry or anything, but who is the cappuccino for?" Yugi asked, lightly rubbing his hands against the warm sides of the insulated mug.

Hearing the question, Yami couldn't help but chuckle. "I'll let it be a surprise," he smiled while opening the EXT's doors and climbing in. Placing the drinks into the holders, he glanced over at Yugi while starting up the engine.

Yugi couldn't help but be curious about everything. The cappuccino had to be going to someone, right? Shaking his head, he took a sip of the cocoa and 'mmmed' in bliss at the creamy taste.

Mentally chuckling at the adorable sound, Yami shifted into gear before heading down the highway in the direction toward his home.

Blinking, Yugi took in the sites of the south side of the outskirts of town. Even though he had lived in the area all his life, he had never ventured this far, and he could see why. It was the large business district, making it very crowded, noisy, but to the upside it was full of beautiful buildings.

Taking in all his surrounds, he was surprised when Yami turned and drove up into a parking garage attached to a large building.

Reaching the 3rd level of the garage, Yami parked the EXT before turning off the engine. "Welcome to the garage," he chuckled while opening the door before reaching over and picking up the drinks.

Climbing out as well, Yugi waited as Yami came around and opened the other door after placing his drinks on the flat panel covering the bed of the vehicle. Taking his backpack, he looked around to notice that there were only a few other cars parked up on the level.

"C'mon," Yami called out, motioning for Yugi to follow him.

Nodding, Yugi followed Yami as the two of them made their way to a door. Having Yami open the door for him once again, he couldn't help flush lightly. Yami was not only good looking, but he was a gentleman as well. Grinning at the thought the two of them entered the building attached to the garage.

Yami smiled while leading Yugi to an elevator at the end of the hall. "Almost there," he chuckled as Yugi climbed in beside him. "Oh, by the way, you don't mind felines do you?"

Chuckling at the question, Yugi shook his head before hearing the chime of the elevator. Walking out onto the 6th floor hallway, he smiled at the other. "I don't mind cats."

Nodding, Yami led Yugi to a door at the end of the hall before pulling out his keys again and opening the door. Motioning for Yugi to head on in, he smiled. "Welcome to my place."

Taking in the room, Yugi felt like he had been walked right into a king's palace of ancient times. The entire place smelled of exotic spices and apparently by the looks of things Yami was also a tidy person. "Whoa!"

Enjoying the look, Yami draped his arm across Yugi's shoulder while dragging him into the living room. Catching the blush on Yugi's cheeks, he chose to not voice it while dropping his back pack onto the dark wooden coffee table. "Make yourself at home."

Yugi gently placed his bag beside Yami's before sitting back on a cream colored couch. The couch was so comfy that he could just fall asleep, or he could if he wasn't so ecstatic for being in Yami's house.

For someone having a cat, there was no cat hair present on any of the furniture, and speaking of felines, he hadn't seen one as of yet either. Looking around the room once again, Yugi noticed two food dishes sitting across from one of the kitchen counters.

Turning to look back at Yami, Yugi's breath caught in his throat as he caught sight of the feline sitting on the coffee table between their book bags. The feline had intelligent gold eyes with sleek, shiny ebony fur that seemed to shift into an array of colors under the light. What caught his eye the most was the beautiful gold collar around the feline's neck as well as the cartouche dangling from the center.

Seeing the collar, his mind whirled back to the lady that he had seen at the club with Yami. The necklace that she had worn looked identical to that collar somehow. Shaking the thought, he blinked at hearing Yami's alluring chuckle.

"Sorry, sort of got caught up in my thoughts."

"It's alright," Yami smiled before reaching over to rub a hand over the feline's head, causing the cat to purr loudly. "This is Miw-sher, by the way."

Blinking at the name, Yugi quirked an eyebrow before feeling something brushing across his hand. Looking down to find the feline nudging its muzzle against his hand, he started to pet the cat, having it purr even louder. "Miw-sher?"

"Oh, it's an Ancient Egyptian name meaning 'kitten'," Yami smiled watching the way the feline was rubbing affectionately against Yugi. "She is a bit of an odd ball compared to the rest of her breed."

"Oh?"

"Yeah, apparently she's supposed to be an Egyptian Mau, but instead of having spots and stripes covering her, she ended up turning out completely black," Yami chuckled before having the feline curl up into his lap. "She was a gift from my mom on my 16th birthday."

"She's beautiful," Yugi smiled.

"Heh don't boost her ego," Yami chuckled hearing the feline give out a low growl. "She is also the reason for the cappuccino."

"She drinks cappuccino?" Yugi asked, cutely cocking his head to the side.

"Yup, just watch," Yami chuckled before picking up the cat and placing it on the couch before going into the kitchen to retrieve one of the dishes before bringing it back in. Pouring the cappuccino into the dish, he set it in the floor.

As soon as the dish touched the carpet, the cat was lapping up the warm brew, causing Yugi to do a double take in disbelief. "A cat that likes cappuccino."

"I told you she was an oddball," Yami chuckled while leaning more into the couch cushions.

Chuckling, Yugi had to agree. It was odd seeing an animal drink a form of coffee. Shaking his head, he took another look around before noticing a picture on a stand. He smiled at the cute little figure of Yami while the woman behind him was extremely beautiful, with long ebony hair and exquisite eyes. In the background he could see the Great Sphinx looking down at the happy pair.

Catching what Yugi was looking at, Yami smiled lightly. "She was a very special lady."

"I bet," Yugi smiled while looking back at Yami. "I lost both of my parents a long time ago, I live my Grandpa now at the Game shop. I don't remember a lot about my parents only that my mom used to sing to me every night."

"I'm sorry," Yami said sadly, reaching over to rub Yugi's shoulder lightly.

"Don't worry about it, I still have my Grandpa and he has been great. He even taught me how to duel," Yugi smiled.

Yami grinned. "You duel?" Seeing the nod, his grin was replaced with a smirk. "I do too."

"Really?" Yugi asked, surprised that there was another thing that he had in common with his crush.

Reaching behind him, Yami pulled out his deck before carefully placing them on the table. "How about we have a duel then, just to have some fun and pass the time away?"

Retrieving his deck from a carrier on his belt, Yugi placed his deck across from Yami's. "Sounds like a plan."

"Lets Duel."