Kaiba stood as he watched Bakura depart, the large doors closing behind him leaving the General alone in the vacant room. He scoffed as he turned to make his way through a small archway off to the right hand side of the throne.

Ancient hand-painted masterpieces decorated the walls of the small room ranging from renaissance portraits of biblical figures to fleshed out landscapes. All of these paintings were collected throughout the years during the Demon King's conquests, as buildings burned and human artifacts turned to ash he couldn't help but be drawn to the emotion that these pieces captured. There were more throughout the castle chambers, however the compositions that hung in this particular room just so happened to be the King's favorites.

Further back into the small apartment, past a set of pews, was Bakura's personal altar dedicated to Lucifer, whom he worshipped. Behind it, framed by more of the rouge drapes that the Overlord adored, was a piece painted around 1620 by Peter Paul Rubens christened The Fall of the Damned. It depicted a mass of bodies who were condemned to Hell, thrown into the abyss by Archangel Michael assisted by accompanying angels. It was the centerpiece of Bakura's collection and it held a small secret that only a certain few were aware of.

With each stride Kaiba's footsteps, heavy and purposeful, echoed throughout the room. Long toned legs painted in leather and strapped with buckles carried him up the aisle and past the altar where he halted, resting in front of the portrait. His long pale fingers caressed the side of its gilded frame until they lingered on a small concealed mechanism. He pressed down until there was an audible click as the painting swung forward, revealing a narrow stone hallway illuminated by torches ablaze with mythical flames. Sparing a quick glance behind him, he swiftly made his way through the opening and shut the entrance behind him.

The passageway led to a network of corridors that branched throughout the castle. These corridors are what was known as the Passetto. Similar to its namesake that was originally in the Vatican City, it was used in case of an emergency in which a quick escape was needed for the Monarch. Since Bakura was hardly one to run without a fight, the Passetto was largely forgotten, and those that knew of its existence were under strict orders to never use it. Being that it granted its user quick access under a veil of secrecy, it could be used for an assassination attempt. However this didn't stop Kaiba from taking advantage of the perk so he could make his way anywhere quickly, without being followed.

Trailing the burning torches through the winding stone hallways he made his way into the heart of the castle where his personal chambers resided, stopping at a seemingly dead end. He lifted his hand to the stone wall in front of him and pushed firmly. Slowly the wall gave way and opened, revealing a cold darkened room. Kaiba stepped through the threshold and closed the entryway behind him, leaving a large full length mirror in its stead. With a wave of his hand the logs in the fireplace lit ablaze, bathing the room in a cool glow from the blue flames. With a sigh he removed his embellished coat and laid it on the chaise that was placed near the ornately carved fireplace. He stood, lifting one arm overhead, dropping his forearm behind, letting it rest between his shoulder blades. Using his other hand he grabbed above his bent elbow, pulling gently as he stretched. He repeated with the other, his muscles flexing underneath his form fitting shirt that was tucked neatly into his leather trousers kept in place by a matching black belt.

After the events of the night he couldn't help but feel exhausted and the very thought of retiring for the day was tempting indeed. He looked in the direction of his bed which was beckoning him with its soft navy duvet rimmed with silver and matching plush pillows. The bedstead was large and sturdy, made of metal that was hand crafted and decorated with intricate designs. The style of the bed matched the side tables that were placed on either side of the frame along with the bench that was sat at the foot of it. Above each side table affixed to the walls were victorian wall sconces which housed two candles, each lit with blue flames. Although his body longed for it, he knew he couldn't as there was much to be done.

Kaiba's chambers were large with high ceilings supported by a ribbed vault as one would see in classic gothic architecture and followed the overall theme of the rest of the castle. As Bakura made this structure the base of his operation, he began remodeling to make the palace larger than life to exemplify his might. The newer additions were more elaborate and open in their floor plan so the King could keep a close eye on the goings on in his keep. Bakura's own room resided in one of the newer wings. He didn't believe in hiding behind enclosed walls, after all, now that he was on top of the food chain, who was he to barricade from?

The original construction however was more closed off and fortified. Kaiba's room was placed in the center portion of the castle and was part of the original design. Due to this, Kaiba's room had no windows, thus keeping the cool air that emitted from his blue flame within the enclosed walls. He preferred the cold. It kept his mind sharp and his body alert. For a slight added comfort, he placed area rugs and furs around the chamber floors. This was mainly for aesthetic reasons as this was the only place that he could call his own. Not many were allowed in the inner sanctum of the castle, save for the King himself and a select few of the guards. There were many secrets hidden deep within the castle and Kaiba as well as Bakura had made sure they were well guarded.

After a momentary rest, he made his way to the far end of the room, stopping before a large portrait which was partially obscured by a silver cloth. From what could be seen the subject of the painting looked to be Kaiba himself, although slightly younger than he was now. His hand ghosted the cloth, hesitantly reaching out to uncover its obscured secret. Blue eyes narrowed at the covered spot, the emotional pain evident as his fingers twitched, longing to see but opted against it. It was for the best as there were more pressing matters at hand and he couldn't afford to lose himself in the past. He guided his hand to the edge of the frame instead. As he did with the entrance of the Passetto, he unlatched the hidden mechanism to reveal another secret entrance. However, this one wasn't an underground network of corridors, but instead a solitary room.

The room was Kaiba's personal study, consisting of two floors worth of material he had accumulated over his years of existence. Volumes and volumes of monographs, types of mythology and other reference materials varying on a multitude of subjects; all of which were meticulously organized by subject and placed in alphabetical order. These books were housed in rows of bookshelves that spanned the full length and width of the walls, all of which surrounded the executive desk that sat in the center of the room. The desk, which was anchored by a hand-carved dragons' head, was flanked by four additional, individually hand-carved dragons with exposed teeth and powerful claws. Built from solid mahogany it stretched to almost two yards wide, and contained two functional letter drawers, two file drawers, and a center writing implement drawer, all with handsome metal pulls. The handcrafted piece was hand-rubbed to a burnished finish although it had shown its age through some of the wear and tear on certain surfaces. Atop the surface was a candelabra lit with Kaiba's brand of blue flame which casted its light across the various parchments and quills that littered his workspace.

The heels of his boots pounded against the flooring as he made his way up the spiral staircase that led to the upper floor of his library. This portion of his collection contained topics that involved angelic and demonic lore acquired through Bakura's earlier conquests. The tomes, which were holy in nature, needed to be handled with care as they were protected by magic to keep the knowledge safe against prying eyes. For Kaiba to gain the experience needed to read such texts, it meant countless attempts of trials and errors before he was able to break through the books' defenses.

Blue eyes scanned the bookshelf until they stopped in front of a particular volume, this one being a compendium of different classifications of angels ranging from all types of cultures and religions around the world. He searched for any mention of angel-human hybrids, turning the withered pages as he scanned the text, however there was nothing that outright mentioned what he sought. He shut the book and reshelved it, scanning the spines of the editions lining the shelf until he took another one down. This record presented him with general knowledge of the divine beings.

'Is it possible for a living human to be an angel? More accurately, is it possible for a human to possess angelic qualities,' he puzzled as he thumbed to a specific chapter.

Angelus

"Angels are benevolent celestial intermediaries between God (or Heaven) and humanity. They are also characterized as messengers of God. Angels in art are usually shaped like humans of extraordinary beauty and are often identified in Christian artwork with bird wings, halos, and divine light.

All angels originate from the human race, and there is not one angel in heaven who first did not live in a material body. Moreover, all children who die not only enter heaven but eventually become angels. The life of angels is that of usefulness, and their functions are so many that they cannot be enumerated. However, each angel will enter a service according to the use that they had performed in their earthly life.

While living in one's body an individual has conjunction with heaven through the angels, and with each person, there are at least two evil spirits and two angels. Temptation or pains of conscience originates from a conflict between evil spirits and angels.

Due to man's sinful nature it is dangerous to have open direct communication with angels and they can only be seen when one's spiritual sight has been opened. Thus from moment to moment angels attempt to lead each person to what is good tacitly using the person's own thoughts. An angel's existence is entirely based on faith whereas for Demons they can be seen in plain sight based on man's sinful nature."[*]

Shutting the book in mild frustration, he shoved it back into its rightful place on the shelf. Yes, it is true that humans and angels are connected, however it isn't exclusive. Every person is fighting an internal battle of good and evil within their hearts, it's the person's faith that determines which side reigns victorious. However, this doesn't explain how a mortal can possess physical characteristics of an angel, only how their actions through life can lead them down the path to become one in death.

He shouldn't have been surprised, he read these countless times as they were brought into his study. The contents inside helped Bakura's forces get the upper hand against their enemies. Although he was grateful that they were in his possession, they did little to aid in his current predicament. He crossed his arms furrowing his brow. He would need to get the information he sought from the source directly. He turned and made his way down the stairway to his desk and unlocked the file drawer on the right hand side.

Neatly tucked away within the drawer was a small collection of vials, of different shapes and sizes. Each vial contained a different color liquid with its own unique consistency. Toward the back of the drawer, hidden behind the larger vessels, were three smaller crystal vials each sealed with a diamond cork, cut to look like a teardrop. Kaiba examined one of the containers and shook it's contents. The vial was half full of clear liquid that shimmered in the candlelight. He shook his head in annoyance. It wasn't enough. To get the information he needed he would require at least a full vial's worth, but it was risky. His supply was a well kept secret. Even Bakura was unaware that it was in his possession as it was forbidden to use such a potion. The only individual who had access to this was in fact the Bakura himself. Kaiba, being as cunning as he was, managed to acquire three vials of the precious liquid knowing that one day it would prove its usefulness.

He placed the bottle back into its hiding place and took out one that was full. Holding it up to the light the liquid showed dull and clouded. Satisfied he made his way to a more secluded corner of the room. With the bottle secured in his pocket, his mighty wings materialized, spreading wide. His wings quickly wrapped around his frame as the sheer force elicited electric sparks which danced around his form. In a flash of lightning he disappeared, leaving no trace of himself behind.

The Violet Room –

Thousands of miles away from the Conqueror Demon and his legion of devotees who worshiped their Demon Prince Lucifer, there lived another chapter of fiends. Although bound to those who served Lucifer via the Tractatus de Septem Daemonia, their allegiance truly lay with the Demon Prince Asmodeus.

One of the Seven Princes of Hell along with Lucifer, Asmodeus was known as the demon that embodied the deadly sin of lust. For those who have laid eyes upon him, it was said that he was a very handsome, well mannered creature who emanated charisma. However all of those who fell to his charms were doomed to suffer in the Second Circle of Hell. His followers, notoriously known as Succubi and Incubi, were more than enthusiastic to spread his teachings of debauchery and explore deepest carnal desires.

The most insatiable succubus within their ranks was a voluptuous blonde with a larger than life flirtatious attitude. Known as the Eater of Men, she lived up to the name as she was single-handedly responsible for the downfall of the prefectures that surrounded the capital. One look from her violet eyes and men would fall to their knees, renouncing their faith for a chance to merely touch her. Once they surrendered themselves to her, she damned their souls to Hell in eternal servitude to her prince.

This day she found herself engrossed in her own vanity, admiring her golden curls in the mirror as they cascaded around her face, past her slender neck and veiled her shapely breasts which were further obscured by thin pieces of leather that adorned her clothing. She sat with her thigh-high boots crossed, one foot bouncing in the air as her clawed fingers ran through her shimmering strands. Music could be heard throughout the room and she found herself lost in it, the beats making her heart pound in tune. Her head swayed along and she hummed the lyrics, lifting her hand to the surface of the mirrored vanity where various liquids, powders and brushes sat each in their designated places. She grabbed a small black tube embellished with tiny pearls. She popped the cap and twisted the bottom causing the light pink tint to rise. She smiled at the bashful shade bringing it to her face, the creamy substance smearing across pouty lips. There was a slight shimmer that reflected the light from the purple flames that illuminated the room, setting the mood to her exact specifications.

As she placed the lipstick back into it's spot, a flash of white light engulfed the room, causing the succubus to shield her eyes briefly. She squinted through the blinding light as it quickly dimmed, and ultimately died out leaving the room in its original darkened state. There in front of her, tall and proud, stood one of her oldest acquaintances.

"Hello darling," she said with an alluring grin, repositioning her body on her seat to face Kaiba.

"Mai."

"What brings you to my humble abode? Surely you haven't traveled all this way just to say hello? Perhaps there is something more you crave! Be careful, Darling, I just might be happy to oblige." Kaiba's glare bore into her and she threw her hair back, letting out a soft and pleasant laugh. She could tell Kaiba wasn't in the joking mood, but then again he never really was the humorous type.

"It's not like you to come visit given our current situation. Although allies, we need to keep ourselves in check lest someone turns a prying eye." She lowered a leather clad heel until it dug into the plush silver carpeting, lifting herself up to reveal her true height. Her natural height was five inches shorter than her visitor, however her choice of footwear made them eye level. Under normal circumstances she preferred towering over the men she dealt with as it asserted dominance. However, given the company it wouldn't have been wise to partake in such power play.

She made her way over to Kaiba, searching the blues of his eyes hoping they would reveal the truth behind his visit. He stopped her by extending an arm, something trapped within his grasp. Her violet eyes looked down, caught in the reflection of the glass containing the swirling liquid within. Her eyes flicked back up to Kaiba's, her smile fading as she let out an exasperated sigh.

"Darling, I-"

"You've done this for me previously, I need your assistance once more."

"That I did. Pray tell, why is it that you need a new vial? If you had followed my instructions you should have half a vial full. Effects are permanent, you shouldn't even have the need for that."

"I found something interesting in my hunt for Bakura's evening entertainment."

"He assigned you as the royal hunting dog, did he?" He glared at her as she let out a light chuckle.

"This particular find has peculiar traits; traits that we thought were eradicated." Mai's eyes widened. "Bakura already finds him quite intriguing and has asked me to dig into this matter further while he takes his pet out for a trial run. With that being said, I will need a full dosage as I plan to do a thorough investigation. I feel he may be more useful than just something to warm a bed."

"That may be so. However I must stress; you will be able to get the results you seek with the amount currently in your possession. A full vial is overkill and such a waste on a mortal that merely peaks your and Bakura's interest."

"I need to be certain beyond a shadow of a doubt that he's truthful with me. If not, everything I have worked for could fall into ruin." His eyes were sharp as he loomed over her. "This is the closest I have ever been since I started all those years ago, and I will not sit idle as this opportunity passes me by. " The succubus shook her head as her eyes grew sullen. She lifted a well manicured hand to his cheek, letting it rest there briefly.

"You're still holding onto the past so tightly. Please listen to me, darling. Nothing is going to bring him back. You know this." Kaiba scowled at Mai and pulled himself away from her touch.

"I didn't come here to listen to you lecture me on if what I'm doing is right or wrong. We're demons; killing, maiming and destroying those who have wronged us is in our nature."

"It's in your nature. Keep in mind, not all of us partake in sin for the same reasons." It was obvious to her that there was no getting through to him. She had tried for years to help guide him down a different path, a path of healing that he would be proud of. Through countless meetings she had been there for the brunette demon as a listening ear and lended a helping hand. It was her wish that once enough time had passed and he had secured a high ranking position, Kaiba would abandon his plans and focus his energy on the empire. She was foolish for thinking that it would be that easy. Giving up went against Kaiba's very being.

"Fine. I'll do this favor for you once more, but under one condition. I want to meet the mortal you plan on administering this to. It shouldn't be too much of a problem for you to sneak them out for a night of fun?"

"Once I get to the bottom of all of this and can confirm that my suspicions are correct, then I will bring him here to honor our agreement."

"Very good, I look forward to it!" She turned around and looked towards the entrance of her boudoir.

"Tea, my precious?"

From the entrance to the neighboring room emerged a beautiful young human woman. Her shoulder length brunette hair framed her face perfectly, bringing attention to her soft azure eyes. Her body was thin but well toned, clothed in soft fabrics of pinks and purples decorated with pearls and golden accents. Her posture was that of a submissive - head down and hands folded - and her footsteps light upon the plush carpeting. If it weren't for Kaiba's enhanced hearing he wouldn't have heard her come into the room. She nodded in the direction of her mistress.

"Yes, Mistress. What can I do for you?"

"Can you bring me The Good Book? You know the one." With a slight nod the young girl left the room, leaving the demons alone.

"The Good Book?"

Mai chuckled. "It's good for me, anyway. At least my book has answers to questions asked unlike other literature produced." Before Kaiba could respond, the human woman returned carrying a leather bound text. Quietly, she made her way over to her mistress and kneeled, arms outstretched, presenting the item to the violet demon who graciously accepted it.

"Thank you, Precious," she said as she ran her hand past the woman's cheek and through her dark locks. Her thumb rubbed affectionately on the servant's cheekbone which caused heavy lidded eyes to close and lean into the gesture. "You may return to your duties."

Although slightly hesitant, the woman rose from her position, curtsied and did as she was instructed.

The weight of the book now rested on Mai's lap. For a book that was meant to have the answers, it was underwhelming to say the least, as it was plainly decorated. It was a deep forest green with worn, metal embellishments, tarnished with age. Mai opened the cover and began flipping through the yellowed pages until she reached the appropriate chapter. She gestured for Kaiba to hand over the vial, which he quickly did.

With the crystal container in hand, her eyes shut, and brows furrowed as she slipped into deep concentration. Her open hand rested on the pages as both the book and the vial started to glow with red energy. Once violet eyes revealed themselves to be deep red and glazed over as the power coursed through her body , the book and the vial.

The glow started to dim as Mai was brought back to the present. She blinked rapidly as the red dissipated from her eyes, bringing back their beautiful purple shade. Placing the book on the table nearest her and walking back to Kaiba, she presented to him the crystal vial which he eagerly accepted. Inspecting it he saw the once dull contents shimmer in the lighting of the room. Satisfied, he turned on his heel and began his exit.

"Darling, please be careful," Mai called out to him in an almost desperate attempt to break through his stubbornness, however she was only rewarded with a grunt as the room quickly flashed with white lightning, leaving her with nothing but her thoughts.

Sources:

* wiki/Angel#Christianity