Disclaimer: I don't own Yami no Matsuei or the song mentioned at the end of this...and I don't think they'd ever let me after this.

Alright, this little bit sprung out of various thoughts and conversations. It is a slightly different take on Muraki's thoughts upon losing at poker to Hisoka.


Consolation
~~~~~~~~~~~~

Damn, how could he have lost?

He had let himself get distracted and he had underestimated the boy.

He had counted on his comments to get the boy riled up and sloppy, but they had only made him determined.

And Muraki had let his attention wander. He had said that anticipation made the game worth while, so he had been doing just that...anticipating.

How could he help himself? Tsuzuki-san had felt so good before that meddling boy came in with his childish challenge.

Muraki's pride had made him accept the challenge, and then not take it seriously.

And now he was left to console himself as best he could.

Damn! Who knew when he would get another chance to get Tsuzuki alone? His plans on the Queen Camilla wouldn't allow it...and who knew next time?

Unexpected perks were pleasurable, but could not be allowed to interfere with the larger plan.

Muraki sighed as he opened the door to his VIP suite. He had had to get rid of that stupid, moon-eyed girl on his way back to his room, and that did not make him feel any more pleased.

He sighed again, and pulled the old photo from his pocket again. He gazed at the long-ago Tsuzuki and patted himself.

"Guess its you and me again, tonight, Rosie."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Author's Notes: Shame on me! Bad Rat-chan!
Ehehehe...that last line is the last line from a Jackson Browne song, called "Rosie." And if you didn't get it, Rosie is not a person...
Oh, and there's no offense meant to Ginzai-san. I loved Simple Games, which sprouted the conversation, which sprouted this sorry gag.
I hope this makes you laugh, Ginzai-san!