Hi Everyone! I forgot to thank my Guest in the last chapter for reviewing as well and I am so sorry! Therefore, my great thanks to you for reviewing all of the chapter so far along with Pharaohs Girl18 and Koobre. Hopefully you will enjoy this chapter just as much.

Warning though, there will be torture and a family-fued (not in that particular order) plus Atemu grinding his teeth while he has to deal with both his siblings as well as Anzu.

That being said: enjoy!

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Chapter 7

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The dungeons were dark and eerie, especially with the shadows hanging from the ceiling and pretending to be cobwebs in between the metal bars. Black cat-ears turned to the sound of screams in the distance and Yami wished he had been able to join his lover while Atemu tortured a few criminal to eat their souls. All so he could ready himself for his upcoming battle with the disgrace Tamil. Atemu was a true gentleman for still calling the ingrate a 'Lord', even though he technically still was until the tanned man would cut him down and slay him. Yami knew he would enjoy that moment, because nobody should get away with insulting his beloved and the Neko narrowed his eyes at the pale woman his lover had imprisoned. Shadows kept him hidden so he could observe Anzu and question himself at the same time. For why had he asked for mercy? Why had he allowed for Anzu to insult his lover? Insinuating a coupling between them was outrageous and Yami flicked his tail in anger as a possessive streak boiled his blood. Atemu was his saviour, his beloved and his world. Why would she want to change that? Why would she want to take Yami's happiness away?

Narrowing his eyes some more, Yami knew he could still ask for Atemu to get rid of the woman. He had taken pity upon her when she had been brought forward as a gift to be tortured, her face bleeding from a horrible cut while the rest of her body was just as wounded. It had taken Ishizu weeks to let Anzu's face heal properly and she had been grateful for that the past three years. What had changed that? Had he not paid enough attention to her like he had perhaps done with other pets? Yami sighed as that was apparently the conclusion, while he also believed Anzu lived in a world of her own illusions. Perhaps to cope with her pain and struggles, which would be nothing new. Mai still practised her hunting after all, even though she knew she would never leave these grounds for fear of her own death.

Sighing as he realised that standing there wouldn't solve anything, Yami slipped from the shadows and walked towards the cell Anzu occupied. Her blue eyes were wide with fear and he could see she hadn't slept all night. Her dress was in tatters, no doubt the work of shadows as they had overheard the conversation between Mai and Anzu. The younger brunette hated him, probably because he had neglected her, though more so because Atemu loved him and not her. Standing before her cell, Yami's face was blank while he boiled from the inside. How had she dared to insult his beloved? Yet, there was a curious gleam in his eyes. He was wondering where her desires would lead to. Would she give in and behave? Or would she end up being the one screaming until she could scream no more?

"About time, Neko", Anzu spat softly, before covering her face with trembling hands and emitting a soft sob. Her breath came in shudders as she looked at him again. "I'm sorry, Yami. Please, tell me you are here to set me free? Please?", she begged and Yami gave a small nod, opening the cell door for her as the shadows unlocked it. The main reason for prisoners never escaping, as only the shadows were able to lock and unlock the doors to which Yami was more than grateful of. He refrained from smirking when Anzu quickly followed him out of her cell and the dungeon while the sound of her cell closing send shudders across her spine.

Reaching the beautiful courtyard, they were momentarily blinded as the late summer sun shone in their eyes. It's warmth was like a comforting blanket after the cold, damp dungeons and the Neko smiled as he basked in the feeling while he let his eyes adjust. Yet, as soon as they could see, he made the brunette follow him through the courtyard where they passed Mana and Malik who held baskets filled with fruits and vegetables in their arms. They looked quite cosy together, even though their lips sealed tight when they saw her. Anzu ignored them to the best of her abilities, nearly fleeing inside the house while Yami led her back to her bedroom chambers.

"I can find them myself, Yami", she whispered as she wanted to be left alone, though the Neko turned to her. A shadow came from the ground to gather in his open palm and she stared at the image of her husband. Rose-red eyes were blank with indifference towards her which hurt.

"Anzu, a word of caution. You have been released from my dungeons for I finally allowed Yami to fetch you. Because of your misbehaviour, you have missed the announcement my family will be visiting for my upcoming battle with Lord Tamil. You are hereby expected to get yourself more than decent and have something to eat before any family member arrives. I will not have you slack off just because a night in the dungeons might have upset you. I hope the dungeons have been a pleasant reminder of your status within my house and if I see you step another toe out of line, I will personally do more than you think I am capable of", the image threatened before it vanished. Anzu could feel the goosebumps forming on her skin, before she nodded.

"I understand", she whispered, before Yami stepped aside and let her pass. Crimson eyes watched her go for a mere moment and only when she left did he smirk in glee. His lover had sounded absolutely amazing and he couldn't wait to see the torture Tamil would have to endure. If possible and allowed, perhaps Kisara would join in, even though she would afterwards complain about having to wash her hair thoroughly. Purring softly, Yami couldn't wait to wash his lover's skin from blood just so he could touch it again. Unfortunately, however, that had to wait and Yami sighed as he watched Malik and Mana return with baskets empty. Silently, he urged them towards their chambers to get ready, staring after them with a tilt of his head.

Malik's hand laid itself down upon Mana's shoulder in offered comfort and Yami smiled as he watched the gesture. At least two of his pets were able to get along just fine and with that thought, he moved towards the throne room. Making sure everything was pristine, he let the shadows slither around the room and perch themselves upon the waiting seat. The council table was put away, a red carpet covered the stone floor while all the torches were lit. Elegant tables with pastries, snacks and drinks were summoned, though they were mostly a way to kill the time they had to wait until the battle would start. A time wherein tension would freeze the very air they'd breathe while he would loath the family members. No one cared for his lover after all, they only wanted to see him dead. For if he would die, they'd get to fight over his land which was rich in vegetation and gold.

Shaken from his thoughts when Shizuka was the first to appear, Yami stared at her while her white dress flowed behind her as she walked. A leather belt accentuated her slender waist and a silver brooch gleamed on top of her left breast while her auburn hair was pulled back into a bun. Small curls of hair hung before her ears, while her make-up brought out her stormy-grey eyes. "Everything ready?", she asked nervously, gazing at the table though she had to reign herself in. Her hands were covered in white gloves made of lace, with ribbons curling around her wrists, though Yami could still see they were itching to touch a plate and redecorate it. Yami rang his bell softly to gain her attention and beckoned her towards a small spot, before Atemu entered and glanced around the room. Yami's ears perked up when the tanned man came in, his tail curling in a greeting as he immediately felt a certain peace fall over him. His world would protect him, after all, no questions asked.

"I see everything is ready. Glad you could find the time to arrive early, Shizuka", Atemu commented, before he walked towards his throne and sat down. He didn't like it one bit, though tradition called for a family gathering. If he would die, they would try to slaughter each other for his land after all, which quite possibly needed immediate dividing. True, he would rather not think about that as that would also mean the deaths of many, including Yami, who would kill himself before the slaughtering would happen. That much Atemu knew, though his death would come more likely by the hands of his own siblings than those of Tamil and the tanned man snorted softly at the ridiculous idea of him losing the battle. The tanned demon smiled when the shadows were so kind to alleviate his thoughts with their own macabre images of him slicing down his sword whereby he would make sure to spill some organs. As Seto and Kisara, followed by Ishizu, Mai, Mana and Malik were so kind to join them in the throne room, Atemu ignored the images and sighed softly to calm his adrenaline filled heart. Thunder rolled in the distance and he couldn't help but roll his eyes at the doom it would bring. His mood darkened as Anzu walked in with another loud sound of thunder, before he rose from his seat.

"I want everyone to line up next to the raised steps. Mai and Ishizu, you two form the rear and watch over the younger ones. You, my dear", Atemu almost snarled as he grasped Anzu's arm and lined her up next to Mai and furthest from his seat, "will stand here. Malik, before your sister, Mana at his left side, Shizuka to his right. Do not speak, do not utter a sound unless spoken to. I will protect you, but only if you do as I say. Yami, stand at my side", the tanned man ordered, before he ascended the raised steps and glared at the door. The shadows curled and a dark glare formed in both blue and ice-blue eyes as both Kisara and Seto were feeling the urge to snarl, before the door swung open.

Blood-red eyes gazed at them, his wild white hair a stark contrast to his tanned skin while a scar ran across his right eye. It was an ugly one and Mana trembled as she had to laid eyes upon it. Malik grasped her hand softly, his thumb stroking her tanned skin reassuringly, while the demon walked inside. He cackled softly, before purring in content. "Brother, such a beautiful day to die", he said, the heels of his black boots tapping against the red carpet. Atemu's glare intensified, a cruel smirk curling his lips.

"How kind of you to offer yourself to me, Akefia", was the reply and blood-red eyes darkened considerably at the returned insult.

"I can't wait to see you sliced and diced by a commoner. I can't wait to drag your corpse through the desert sand and show father how much of a failure you are", Akefia answered and Atemu snorted.

"My thoughts exactly", he whispered eerily and Mana trembled as goosebumps appeared on her skin. They were horrid to each other, how had they survived all those years between the walls of their home? The scar was ugly too, as if it hadn't healed properly for weeks and Mana glanced to her right ever so slightly and passed both Malik and Shizuka to look at Anzu. The scar marring the pale woman's face was more beautiful than ever in her opinion and Mana quickly turned towards the door as another demon came in. His bleach blond hair was nearly similar to Malik's, yet it stood upright in defying spikes. His dark plum-purple eyes had an insane gleam in them and Mana could see how he licked his lips when they fell upon the young male next to her.

"Marik", Atemu greeted and those dark eyes moved towards her Lord. Somehow, the way she addressed her new master had changed overnight. He was her master, her husband and Lord and deep down, Mana had accepted that. Malik had showed her he was not horrid after Ishizu had calmed her down and even though their Lord had been slightly disgusting over dinner last night, she was amazed by the fact he had said to protect them.

"Atemu! So good to see you again, though truly, why did you even come up with this battle? Heard you would put your shadows magic aside and fight like a peasant. What kind of fun is that? Tear him apart and feed him to us is what I would do", Marik said, glancing up hopefully. Atemu snorted.

"That's why I don't eat when I am forced to visit you", the tanned man replied and Marik shrugged.

"More for me. Kisara, sister, you look as lovely as ever", he cooed, though her blue eyes darkened as soon she was addressed by her older sibling.

"Don't even think about it", she hissed, a forked tongue slipping passed her lips and Mana wished she hadn't seen it. Kisara looked 'normal' for being a demon. Aside from her blood lust, that is. Now, she looked more like a snake and Mana shuddered as she squeezed Malik's hand a little more. Seto growled, revealing sharp fangs as his features turned into a threatening scowl. Marik glared in return.

"Brother", Marik tempted with a purr and Kisara snarled softly.

"Take another step and I will make sure your blood covers the ceiling. I will have crows eat from you while you are alive and leave you to rot in the desert sun!", she threatened and took a step forward, her silver white hair flowing around her. Marik snorted, before he watched her straighten herself with a cocky smirk on her lips. "Though I could always tell daddy what you did with those seven whores of his who mysteriously vanished?"

"They were eaten by father himself", a woman said as she entered, her brown eyes piercing at Kisara while her black hair was tied up in two neat buns. Marik's lips tightened in a snarl as his body grew tense and even though he wouldn't show it, there was a slight twinge of fear swirling in his eyes.

"Dear sister", he muttered towards the newcomer in disgust, before he turned to the silver-white haired woman. "Truly, all I wanted was to greet you, Kisara. Perhaps you would be open for a second brother to tie you your bed and ravage you?" At those words, Seto snarled, before shadows curled and darkened the room. It grew cold with breath visible against the air and Mana shivered like the other women. Rose-red eyes were dark with fury while Atemu snarled under his breath softly in warning.

"If you came here to have a nice chit-chat then leave. I have better things to do than that. There is someone to defeat, maim, torture and kill, so if you don't mind. Shut up", was his threat while the shadows curled around each other, before he snorted and they lowered their guard while slithering back towards the ceiling. Seto still snarled, though Marik only winked and then turned around to get himself a snack from the table. He glared at his youngest brother though as the demon addressed the second sister.

"Vivian, you shouldn't have come", Atemu said in all honesty and for the first time he could see how Yami's ears flattened against his head. His kitten was able to 'tolerate' his other siblings, yet something about Vivian set his lover off. Claws would extend almost unnoticeable while a blank expression would still dominate Yami's features.

"I know, but I was hoping you wouldn't let me down this time", Vivian said, her red-painted lips curling in a cocky smirk. Atemu tilted his head, his dark eyes penetrating through hers, before he snorted.

"Just know I will not apologise when I crush your hopes and dreams", was his reply, before he walked down the raised steps and stood in front of his wives. Akefia looked at him with a hungry glint in his blood-red eyes while the youngest of them took his sight away from the women. "Step away from them or do you want to lose the sight of your other eye too?", Atemu hissed darkly, though his glare was returned. Perhaps not with his intensity, but definitely with an equal amount of malice.

"Just give me the Amazon. She's the last I need to slay, like I did with her tribe", Akefia countered, though Atemu growled in answer. The shadows curled to his darkening mood, especially when Vivian joined them. She stared at the women and Mana had to control herself lest she would cower in fear. Those brown eyes were trying to flay her where she stood and the young girl trembled.

"I see you got yourself a new wife, brother. What demon accepts such a measly looking gift?", Vivian asked and Atemu growled softly as he turned to her.

"At least she has more pleasant things to say than you", was his retort. Vivian snorted at it with a sour face upon her features as if she couldn't believe the answer.

"Luckily you have Anzu. Now, why is her stomach not fat with child? Why does she look horrid? Girl! Are you trying to get out from under your duties?", she asked loudly, her brown eyes glaring at the young girl. Anzu shook her head in response, lowering her eyes to the floor as Vivian continued to watch her.

"Leave my wife and my private matters alone, Vivian. Unless you wish to give me the pleasure of teaching you how to do so once more?", Atemu growled, before Akefia tilted his head.

"Father is wondering when you'll produce an heir, considering you have wives to spare", the white-haired demon asked and rose-red eyes turned to him.

"When it suits me. I will not be like Vivian or father, considering that disgusts me greatly. Have whores give birth to children and when they are not pleasing enough, have them for breakfast. I will not have a family like us, 'chosen and trained' to become an heir. Though perhaps I should teach father to stop sticking his nose where it does not belong, considering he is nearly offereing it up for me to cut it off", the tanned man said off-handedly, but Akefia merely rose his shoulders once.

"Don't kill the messenger, though I must say he is right. No one lives forever, not even Soul Eaters like you", Akefia retorted, his lips curling in a gleeful smirk. Atemu returned it cockily.

"At least I'll live longer than you", Atemu answered, to which Vivian snorted.

"Unless you do me the pleasure and die", she interrupted, tearing her eyes away from Anzu to glare at her younger sibling. Atemu merely laughed at her and the shadows curled around him in joy. He could see his wives tried to ignore the lustful gazes send their way and how Mai tried to look passed Akefia who had murdered her whole tribe one by one. He glanced at Anzu when he saw her blue eyes look up at Vivian once, only to lower themselves again and he smirked.

"My answer is still the same, dear sister, I will not apologise when I rise in victory and see torment within your eyes at the sight of my survival", Atemu said, purring darkly, before his eyes were set on fire. "Now, I suggest you move towards the arena and leave my wives and private matters be. There is a man to slay and punish", the tanned man continued eerily and Vivian rolled his eyes as she walked away from her brothers. Akefia snorted in response, but said nothing else as he gave another lustful glance at Mai moments before turning away from them.

"Yami, get my wives to the arena. My siblings can escort themselves to their private seats", Atemu ordered and the Neko nodded as he walked down the steps. A mere second later, Marik banged his fist against the table with an insane laugh as if he just had the most brilliant idea in his whole life.

"If only you could reproduce with your cat, Atemu! He's always been your favourite and all of your problems would be solved! Stick your shadows up his body and ravage him until he no longer screams!", Marik cried out with even more laughter, before it stilled as the room was covered in darkness. Only Atemu's blazing rose-red eyes could be seen, his snarl clearly heard before Marik choked on his breath.

"You dare insult my possession? The shadows should rip your organs to pieces and make you bleed from gaps you didn't know existed! I should carve your body, rip your jewels away from you and plunge a spear through the disgusting entrance you possess. I should have you tied and raped until you can scream no more", Atemu hissed dangerously, the shadows curling around his frame as they gathered at his feet. Both Yami, Malik and the women were gone, so was the food and the red carpet. Only the siblings remained as they watched how Marik was on his knees with Atemu's hand tight around his brother's neck. Shadows trembled in excitement while thunder sparked while fire slithered forth and Kisara hissed softly as other siblings tried to mingle with the fight for willpower.

"It was just a joke", Marik spat out between a gasp for air and Atemu kicked him harshly while releasing his brother. With the precious air knocked from him, Marik made another attempt to gather his breath. "He is your favourite, has been for years", were his next words, though Atemu snarled at him in response.

"You do not touch my possession, nor do you insult him. Now get your limbs to the arena before I remove them from you with pleasure", Atemu hissed, the shadows curling around him before he vanished himself, leaving his siblings to their own thoughts. The shadows grieved at their loss, but he would not kill the insanity Marik was. There were reasons for it, good ones, which meant the had to keep his brother alive just a little while longer. Instead, he would combine his fury to defeat the ingrate. Tamil would feel what Marik should have felt if Atemu could have had it his way.

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Blue eyes stared ahead while Anzu tried her best not to scowl. The balcony was spacious enough for her to get some privacy and she hugged herself while staring down at the arena below. Her husband was already down there, swinging his sword in rapid movements which made his muscles flex handsomely. Why she could not have him was beyond her. The touches in her dreams always seemed so real, his soft kisses and warm hands upon her body. Or the way his flesh drove itself into her and she always woke wet with want, twitching with the feeling of completion.

Why could she not have that for real? Why had he send her to the dungeons and made her look less appealing than the starved little girl next to Malik. No... instead of her, it was Yami who stood at his side and was a personal servant. A Neko, a worthless cat and disgusting excuse for a living being. They should have cut off his ears and tail the moment he was born, or pin him to a pole and burn him alive so everyone would be allowed to enjoy his screams. How she longed for that kind of torture. How she longed for the day one of the siblings would do such a thing so she could stand next to her husband and have his children. She would rule the land with him, without the other wives and siblings surrounding them. He would no longer frighten her or smack her, because he would love her. The filthy little animal was poisoning her husband's mind and she would save him from it. Just like he had rescued her from the man who had raped her prior to cutting the children from her body with his disgusting methods.

Blinking as chains rattled, Anzu stared at the criminal being brought forward and sneered slightly at the disgusting being. He was relieved of his bindings while her husband smirked at him as an assortment of weapons were spread out before him. There were many, raging from daggers to swords, crossbows, normal bows and axes or spears. Her Lord still wielded his silver sword which flashed in the sunlight.

"You may pick whatever you wish and change your choice during the fight. My magic is locked away behind that talisman and will not interfere", Atemu said and he pointed at a glass vial, dark with shadows. The talisman gleamed as they tried to reach towards him while a second intricate design lit up within the sandy earth beneath their feet in response. "No magic", the tanned man said as he took his stance. Lord Tamil gazed at him and Mana grasped Malik's hand tight. What if her new master would die? What would happen to her? Would she be given to the she-demon Vivian? To be a whore and give birth to children that would be eaten? She shuddered and trembled at the thought, while crossing her fingers as she prayed to a deity she didn't know would listen.

She watched as Seto stepped up to be the judge while the man who had plucked her from the streets chose his weapon. It was a sword as well and he seemed to balance it for the moment, before nodding. She couldn't help but notice he seemed well, as if he had been taken care of in the last two days she hadn't seen him. Truthfully, she couldn't believe it had only been two days and she was once again reminded of the changes made in her life. But also in her head, as she could feel herself cheering for her Lord whilst Seto signalled the start.

The clashing of swords was less audible than Atemu's powerful roar as he charged. Swords swung up and down, side to side as rose-red eyes gleamed in predatory joy. The tanned man was enjoying himself, especially as his challenger was able to put up a fight. They circled each other, his smirk broadening as Tamil roared in return as he charged ahead.

"LEFT!", Mai screamed in excitement, her voice echoing across the arena as she flung her arm to the side she wanted her Lord to move to. A small, knowing smile curled Yami's lips as his lover did just that, seconds before the blonde woman had ordered for Atemu to do so. Mai was in her element, even though the remaining wives and Malik stared at her as if she had gone crazy. Mai simply straightened herself and her dress.

"Just helping", she offered off-handedly, which had Mana nibble her lip with a small smile. Beneath them swords clashed again and the young girl watched how Mai had to bite her lip or else join the fight vocally again. Ishizu was wringing her hands slightly, before moving them as if she was stitching skin together and Mana stared at Anzu who muttered underneath her breath slightly. Next to her, Malik was tense with his plum-purple eyes focused upon the battle below the balcony. As she followed his gaze, Mana gasped together the other women, as small drops of blood coloured the sand red. An axe lay forgotten in the sand, it's use long since passed, but Mana took a shuddering breath as she watched the tear in her master's clothes turn red. The broad shoulder was left bare and blood ran down Atemu's arm to drip from his fingers. Slowly, Mana shook her head in disbelieve when her master laughed in amusement.

"Playtime is over", Atemu chuckled, before snarling loud as he charged. He skidded to the side before Tamil could react and swung the legs from beneath the will-be-dead-soon-demon. Mana grasped Malik's hand tighter and then Ishizu's as well, her eyes falling upon Yami who had not yet moved. He was calm and collected, his gaze bored as his eyes followed the battle down below. He even seemed to sigh softly with indifference.

"He's not worried?", she asked softly, her dark-blue eyes gazing up into Ishizu's. The older woman followed her gaze momentarily, before gazing back down at Mana.

"Remember what I said about them, Mana?", Ishizu whispered as inaudibly as possible. "Look at Yami, see his tail flick back and forth. See his ears move to the sound of our master's voice. He is far more worried than you are, child. Which is only understandable considering what they mean to each other", were the older woman's soft words as if she didn't want to share her thoughts with the others and Mana agreed. It was still ridiculous to believe the Neko was her master's half-brother, though she had noticed how rose-red eyes would be different when looking at anyone else or Yami. Then again, if the Neko was so worried, why did he not show it?

A cheer escaped Mai's throat and Mana was pulled from her musings as she gazed down at the battlefield and saw her master pointing his sword at Tamil's throat. The other demon had knelt down to grasp his fallen weapon, but the blade was stuck beneath Atemu's foot and Anzu smiled. Her handsome husband had won. He had declared himself ruler and conqueror despite his wound. She would care for him and make sure he was healthy once more so he would appreciate her. Yet, she knew she would not. She knew someone would stand in her way and she sighed softly as she tried to school her features in a joyful smile because her husband had won the battle and that was most important. At least to them... Not to her. She wanted to be noticed, she wanted to have him and she wouldn't because a filthy animal stood in her way. One she wished she could push over the balustrade to see his broken body while claiming her rightful place. Her husband would see her be victorious and make her his Queen.

"I believe I win", Atemu said, to which many siblings rolled their eyes, though he did not see. Tamil shuddered and scurried back while the silver blade in Atemu's hand gleamed in the sunlight. Seto nodded at Atemu's comment and lifted the talisman from the shadows. They slithered across the arena and attached themselves to the tanned demon, before grasping Tamil and dragging him back. Atemu smirked with a soft hiss when the shadows touched upon his wound and burned the flesh to stop the bleeding, while he looked down upon the offending piece of filth. Slowly, rose-red eyes glanced up at Kisara upon her seat and they beckoned her down. Tamil tried to scurry off again, yet screamed in agony when the sword plunged itself in his foot while Atemu's gaze blazed with fury.

"No, you are not going anywhere. I promised my sister a fun filled blood fest. You aren't going to turn me into a liar, filth. You lost this battle. You belong to me, as do your wives, your homes, your villages and your land. All of that belongs to me and I will strike down those who are loyal to you, yet you... You will be an example", Atemu threatened, before he retrieved his sword from Tamil's foot slowly. He turned slight to give a bejewelled dagger to his sister as soon as she stood at his side and smiled. "After you", were his soft words and he was not disappointed as she struck down and cut through skin. Blood ran down in rivulets, painting the sand beneath them red and Atemu chuckled softly as he watched Kisara smile eagerly. Thunder rumbled softly as Akefia leaned forward and sneered.

"Considering I will be the lucky one to tell father you are still alive, I'd suggest you have fun while it lasts!", the white-haired demon called out and Atemu glared up at his sibling.

"At least it will last longer than you drawing breath!", the tanned man snarled back prior to thunder booming which signalled his brother had vanished from his own private seat. Rose-red eyes could see how Vivian muttered in displeasure, her words probably not for him, before she bend forward and glared at him.

"Anzu and I need to speak!", she ordered, her voice echoing through the arena. Mana shrieked as Yami was surrounded by the shadows and vanished, while Ishizu patted her shoulder gently and pointed out the young Neko stood next to their master because he had been summoned by the dark magic. Both her master and the Neko seemed to discuss something, with Atemu talking and Yami merely tilting his head. Kisara cackled as she struck Tamil down again, which had the demon wailing in agony as he tried to scurry away and she pounced on him like a cat. Yami couldn't help but feel his muscles twitch at the idea to mimic her.

Anzu gasped softly as the shadows curled around her too, before she stared into blazing rose-red eyes when her arm was grasped fiercely as soon as she looked at her husband. He was glaring at her, growling softly under his breath while he addressed her. "Once more I shall show you mercy, but remember, put a toe out of line and you will see my worst. You may speak with my dear sister, but I know all", he threatened and Anzu nodded, before she was whisked away and stood next to Vivian. The tanned man growled softly at the barrier his shadows bounced off against so he could not listen in on the conversation, before his attention was pulled elsewhere.

"What about me dear brother? I'd love to help you cut him apart!", Marik called from his spot and rose-red eyes turned to him while the tanned demon allowed for his wives to leave the arena. Mai gathered them while Ishizu watched a moment longer with a small tilt of her head as Kisara continued to cut the skin or slice little pieces off the body.

"Find your own piece of filth, Marik! Get out of here!", Atemu barked back and he watched how thunder sparked to make his second brother leave the arena. The shadows curled around him, which turned his attention upon Kisara with her silvery-white hair covered in blood. A smirk played on his lips as the real fun would begin with Tamil screaming in agony. It would become a lot worse still, as these little cuts Kisara gave were nothing and the shadows curled at his idea. A wooden block appeared from nowhere and the shadows binding Tamil eagerly curled apart to fasten a hand next to the golden knife. Atemu picked it up slowly, his rose-red eyes gleaming with glee.

"Make sure he can move, this doesn't need to be a clean cut", the tanned man muttered as Kisara moved her hair from her face and struck down again. Tamil screamed in agony and Atemu chuckled as he brought the golden knife down to cut off the pinkie. He pursed his lips as it was a clean cut, though he smiled afterwards when he separated the next finger. It was fun nonetheless, clean cut or not. Especially because the screams got louder and the agony far more present. Tamil writhed against the shadows holding him down and he tried to pull himself free or move away from the blade Kisara handled with a bloodthirsty gleam in her blue eyes.

"Bring it to me", Atemu whispered to the shadows curling at his side and he smiled when some disappeared from sight while others slithered across his arm towards the golden knife he used to cut off another finger. They wanted to participate in the fun and therefore slithered into the wound to scorch the veins. Most of Tamil's wounds had been given the same treatment, in order for him to live much longer with Kisara cutting away his flesh and the shadows had enjoyed themselves as they continued to purr softly in Atemu's ear. The tanned demon couldn't help but smirk as burned muscles were staring up at them from open wounds with veins unable to spill forth any kind of blood after a period of time as the shadows lapped at the falling liquid.

Glancing sideways, Atemu saw crimson eyes gleaming in content. His Neko's black ears and tail were relaxed and the golden coloured fur on the tips gleamed in the offered sunlight. Yami was truly beautiful, as he watched both demons having fun while a small approving smile curled his pale lips. Atemu grinned, slicing off the last finger and straightened with a splatter of blood against his cheek. Kisara giggled at the sight.

"Good one", she commented while Atemu smeared the blood across his face as he tried to wipe most of it away, before licking it off his hand.

"It doesn't taste very good", he commented, dragging his knife slowly across Tamil's arm, though that received him a pained moan instead of a scream. Especially as he didn't cut that deep and it was truly a shame. Yet, it was all right as well, considering there would be plenty of screaming soon and Atemu turned as the shadows notified him of their return. The uncovered a huge kettle, one big enough to fit three people while it was currently filled with molten gold. Tamil stared at the kettle and his body trembled as he was given a brief pause to his torture.

"No, please", he whispered prior to cowering as burning rose-red eyes were looking down upon him when he had dared to open his mouth.

"Pleading for your life? Begging for mercy?", Atemu hissed in anger, before he chuckled in cruel amusement. Snorting, he shook his head as he stared at the bubbling golden liquid. "You tried to war against me and failed, sending hundreds of lives in disarray. You challenged me and lost the battle. You insulted my possession. I cannot let that slide. No, like I said, you will be an example", the tanned man said as the kettle was brought closer. The wood beneath it burned brightly and Atemu smiled as he knew he would enjoy this. The smell of burning flesh, the screams of pain as Tamil would be lowered in the kettle as well as the knowledge organs would boil before he would slowly disappear. The tanned demon couldn't help but shudder with pleasure.

"Kisara", he called softly at his white-haired sister who had struck down again while Atemu had been speaking. She was cutting only, the skin torn apart and even though that would only quicken Tamil's death, it was a lovely sight to see. "Kisara, stop it", he ordered, hissing softly as she rose the knife again. With a pout on her lips, his sister glared at him.

"I am nearly at the thousand cuts. Three more!", she whined softly and he rose an eyebrow. She tilted her head slightly as Atemu continued to stare at her. "I kept count", she answered to his silent question and he nodded slowly, waving his hand at her so she could make the last cuts she desired. Grinning eagerly, Kisara turned her cruel blue gaze back upon Tamil and brought the dagger down three times in successful slices. Blood streamed towards the sand beneath them, while the tortured demon's cries were soft and sobbing, before he was lifted from the ground by his wrists. The shadows curled eagerly as they lifted the wailing and screaming demon and hovered him above the kettle.

"Feel my wrath", Atemu said, before he nodded towards the shadows. Tamil screamed and trashed as he was lowered slowly and even tried to pull his legs up as he struggled to free his hands. Kisara grinned in pleasure as she watched the wailing demon, before his feet touched the boiling liquid at last. It was the loudest scream yet, but it was absolutely beautiful. His eyes and lungs were already burned by the amount of steam rising from the hot kettle and now it was his flesh that would wither away.

"What kind of statue will you make?", Kisara asked and Atemu tilted his head slightly as he seemed to think on it. Then, he smiled.

"A cat, one big enough so it will gleam in the sunlight. Everyone will see it because as soon as they leave the door towards the gardens, they will be met by its sight", Atemu answered and Kisara nodded as she looked at the sniffed the air which carried the beautiful stench of burned flesh.

"Sounds beautiful", she whispered and smiled while putting the silver blade away she had been using to cut and slice the criminal. She was satisfied though. Very satisfied and that would only grow as she watched how the shadows pushed Tamil into the kettle completely. True, there was regret, considering Tamil's screams died out as he was completely engulfed by the molten gold in the kettle, but the scent of his burning flesh remained. His screams echoed in her ears and Kisara smiled as she looked at Atemu who seemed to enjoy himself just as much as she did.

Rose-red eyes gleamed as Atemu caught the satisfied look within Kisara's eyes while they waited for the flesh to burn and melt away. The tanned man looked at Yami slightly, the black tail flicking back and forth slowly as if it measured the time it would take for Tamil to be completely gone. Atemu smiled almost fondly as he gazed back upon the kettle. "It will be a beautiful statue", he commented softly and his sister turned her gaze upon him once more, though tore it away from him when Seto came their way. The brunet had one eyebrow raised in question as he gazed at the bloodied silver-white hair of his wife.

"What will you craft from it?", he asked, ignoring Kisara's eye-roll as she had already asked. Atemu merely smiled as if he didn't mind telling them again.

"A cat, though it will be a statue of which the deities will be jealous. Large ears, intelligent eyes, slender body and tail. Though tha means I will have to look for rubies as well", Atemu muttered while the shadows curled around him. Tilting his head, the tanned man pursed his lips as he tried to figure out what other jewels to use for his upcoming statue.

"Give it blue eyes?", Seto asked with an amused expression gleaming in his ice-blue eyes and Atemu glared up at him. It was an immediate no, even without words, but the tall brunet couldn't help but smirk. "We'll come and see it when it's finished. Currently, I believe my wife needs a bath", the talled demon muttered and Kisara grinned, before she grabbed his hand and pecked his lips softly. The brunet pretended as if he hadn't received anything from his wife while walking away from both Atemu and Yami, because he had a stoic appearance to uphold. The latter inclined his head slightly in farewell, before moving to Atemu's side so he could touch the burned shoulder wound gently.

The shadows had taken care of most of the wound, especially considering the edges were already healing and Yami was glad it was. It was a different burning from the kind they used upon criminals, because Atemu was precious to them, but that didn't mean he could finally breathe a sigh of relieve. The cut had looked awful from where he had been standing upon the balcony and even more so when he hadn't been able to look at it with Atemu torturing Tamil. Yet, now that he could see the flow of blood was stemmed by the shadows, the pale man was relieved to see his lover was doing just fine. He would be sore tomorrow, Yami was quite sure of that, but at least healthy as well as alive and with that notion in his mind, he purred softly.

"Yes, I know, Kitten", Atemu responded, turning his gaze back upon the kettle in front of him where the molten gold was bubbling peacefully. "But revenge has been extracted as ordered. Kisara has had some fun and tomorrow we shall deal with the new land I have just acquired. We shall visit new villages, torture some more people and make sure to make some profit as well", the tanned man continued and Yami's crimson eyes gleamed, before there was a new soft purr. It was a different one, Atemu could tell by the different tune and he smiled as he could relate to his lover agreeing with him.

"Though for now, I must tolerate the fact your pet is with my sister. There will be another warning, Kitten. I will make sure Anzu knows not to follow Vivian up on her words, whatever they may be. Not even when it is a complaint about the colour of her dress", Atemu muttered angrily and Yami gave a small smile with a nod, before he turned his gaze upon the kettle again. It was huge, but also very useful and Yami flicked his tail as he hoped the statue would turn out nicely. At least Atemu had made sure there was one less criminal to worry about, yet, his lover snorted with boredom and Yami followed him out of the arena as the tanned man turned to walk away.

"Gather my wife and let my sister leave my house. I no longer tolerate her presence in my home", Atemu whispered to the shadows and they slithered off towards the balcony Vivian resided upon. Yami glanced at the shadows and gave a small tilt of his head as he softly touched Atemu's arm for the dark magic had been denied before. Rose-red eyes turned to him to see Yami retrieve the silver bell and Atemu sighed when he realised his mistake. Staring at the bell for a moment longer, he could do nothing else but agree with a nod.

"Yes, go fetch her. Let the shadows tell Anzu I will speak with her in the throne room immediately", the demon ordered and Yami nodded, before he touched the wounded shoulder softly. A worried frown spread across pale features and Atemu sighed softly. "Yes, while you fetch your silly pet, I shall go to Ishizu and have her take a look. And no, I will not maim Anzu, just warn her", were his next words and Yami nodded, before he walked back into the arena with the shadows slithering behind him. Atemu sighed softly as he gazed at the leaving Neko, but was glad when he felt the core of his magic curl around his frame. They brought him towards the infirmary where Ishizu was waiting for him with bandages.

"My Lord", she greeted with a slight bow of her head and Atemu greeted her in return while the shadows hid his necklace and ring from view, prior to him shedding himself of his top garments. Facing Tamil, he hadn't even bothered with protective clothes, perhaps a little too cocky, but he didn't regret it. The wound had stung and had hurt his pride, though it felt good to have this feeling of being alive course through his veins. The thought alone made him question how his lover could still sleep at his side, because the answer eluded Atemu. Then again, Yami had never shunned him or looked at him in fear, unlike many others. It made the bond between them as strong as it was today and Atemu was forever grateful to have found the one person who loved him for who he was. With his additional cruel and questionable traits.

After all, he would not allow for certain criminals to roam free. Those who had done wrong would be punished, as was his law. Those who touched or hurt his possession would know his wrath and Atemu bristled softly with the shadows curling around his frame again. Ishizu stilled for a small moment, but when he didn't comment, she continued her gentle and soft touches. At least the black-haired woman had been a good choice regarding Yami wanting pets, as was Mai. They were reliable and useful, as the blonde woman had proven yesterday. True, perhaps not willingly, but she hadn't known she was carrying a shadow with her and as long as she didn't know she had been used, Mai wouldn't be hurt.

Now, Shizuka was a cute addition with a fire in her soul he could appreciate while Mana feared him greatly and would still need to be allowed to bloom into a beautiful young woman. Anzu, however, was turning into a different story. She believed herself to be worthy of Yami's place, that she was the one to stand next to Atemu and the tanned man wondered where these hallucinations came from at the same time he wished he could stop them. He had asked the shadows, while wondering if they had poisoned her mind, but they had not. It was a promise between them after all, they would not touch Yami's pets unless told otherwise. The shadows kept themselves to that quite well and he was thankful to them for everything they did.

But Atemu could also feel that loyalty swaying whenever Anzu was either discussed or near them. The young brunette had maybe not yet learned enough from her night in the dungeons and Atemu wondered if a good painful approach would differ her opinion of where she stood. To him, she meant nothing after all. Just a way for Yami to have something to do while the demon was busy with 'ruling' his land and villages. The tanned man hated ruling, even though it was necessary. He could care less, to be honest. As long as he had his lover and a house to protect, he could live a happy life without the added necessities.

"Thank you, Ishizu. When the wound turns bad, you shall see me", Atemu said softly as the black-haired woman had long since finished but hadn't been sure on if he would forgive her for breaking his train of thought. Ishizu gave a warm smile and bowed her head again, even though they both knew the demon would not return. His magic had taken care of the wound after all and as she had done was apply a pain-relieving ointment. Yet, after saying his goodbye, Atemu asked the shadows to take him the throne room for his next duty which was already wasting too much of his time. It made him fume as he dressed in his battle-shirt, because he knew he shouldn't have allowed for Anzu to speak with his sister and Atemu growled as the shadows reacted to his foul mood. The nerve of that woman, disregarding his kitten so. Disregarding the fact she owed Yami her life. How dare she? He should have her whipped for the outrageous ideas in her head, before a new cut to her face would be made. Just to teach her not to insult or hurt his kitten and to be afraid of him for the rest of her miserable life.

It was with that thought he allowed for the shadows to open the doors to his throne room where he could glare at the brunette woman with his rose-red eyes burning in fury the moment she walked inside. "Had a pleasant conversation with my sister?", he asked with a hiss and the demon almost smirked when he saw Anzu tremble as she sunk down on her knees to show her respect to him. He could care less about what she felt towards him, it was his lover she should thank on her bleeding knees while kissing the ground beneath his feet.

"Lady Vivian was most helpful, my Lord. She made me realise I still have a long way to go if I want to be the wife you deserve", she whispered and he growled softly. Blue eyes lowered towards the floor and Atemu watched how she bowed her head a little lower. "I also understand my behaviour has been most disrespectful and therefore I hope you will accept my sincere apology. Not only you, but Yami and the other women as well. I did them great wrong", Anzu continued and Atemu narrowed his eyes. Briskly, he walked over towards her and stared down at her quivering form.

"Let me be clear to you, Anzu. My sister is an idiot if she thinks her pathetic attempt at a barrier could keep my shadows out, nor do I believe the lies she told you to tell. I told you before, I know all and I will tell you again that there is no escaping me or my shadows. If you take whatever she said by heart, I promise you right now: I will kill you. Slowly, painfully and until the bitter end. Do we have an understanding? The night in the dungeons was Yami's request, as is you being here in the first place. To me, you are worthless. You are a nobody and nothing you do or say will ever be able to change how I view you. Never forget you are here solely because of Yami's mercy. You are not here because of my own", Atemu hissed, his rose-red eyes gleaming with held-back anger.

Anzu merely gazed at him and took a shuddering breath prior to closing her eyes in fear as she nodded. "I know", she whispered gravely, as if uttering every syllable of those words hurt her to her very core. Atemu snorted softly at the answer, before he turned to sit back down upon his seat and glare at her from where he sat.

"You will apologise to Yami and my other wives for your insolence. Let me be clear, Anzu. Do not tempt me", he hissed, before waving his hand to signal she could go. Anzu bowed her head in understanding, slowly got off the floor to walk from the throne room and shuddered as soon as she stood outside. She was close to crying, knowing her husband hated her so because she had had a slip of the tongue. For years she had threaded carefully and she would do so again. He would be pleased with her once more and desire her like he had done so from the very beginning. Atemu was her husband after all and he loved her.

/\/\/\/\/\

Thank you all for reading and if you have the time, please leave a review. I am still trying to decide if I want to change the upcoming chapters to a little more fanfiction-friendly nature, so it might again take a little longer before I have edited them. I'll try to get them up as soon as possible though! See you all then, byebye!