Disclaimer: I Don't own Y-G-O...OKAY? ()

Zoeygirl: Ohhhh....well its been a while. Hello...do ya remember me? Yeah um hehehe I'd explain why I haven't written for like forever but I'd have to write a page for that. To some it up, Spring was just too fricken busy. I barely was able to get on my computer once a week without falling asleep. Anyways I'm happy to say that things are back on track and I'll be updating BOTH stories regularly after today. Yay! () Um thanks for everyone who reviewed had those who haven't lost patience with me. I apologize really. Um for future stories I'm going to finish this one, (Which will be a while) The humor one right now only has a few chappies left...() lol...I'll be gradually finishing the Inuyasha one AND for anyone who's a Naruto fan...hehehehe....well let's just say I plan to start there. Anyways sorry for the delay...I'll have the next chappie out either tomorrow or Thursday. Okay dokey...enjoy.

They once said one cannot have life without death. Death could not coexist without life. Without one you could not have the other. The greatest thinkers of the world from every time believed this. It was the way the world worked. To some this meant the same with night and day, the moon and sun, dark and light. One could not exist without the other. There was a mutual understanding between the two.

Humans loved the light for reasons unknown. Its daytime was a time of light and hope. The sun was a symbol of what moved and still moves now. It kept the world going, much like the concept of the and Ying and Yang. The white proved to be energetic and aggressive, full of life and spirit.

But then why did people fear or hate the night so? Was there a rather large population that took walks in the dark of night, or perhaps take a swim, maybe have a picnic? No, it wasn't like that for many. They feared the dark because it was...well dark. People feared what they could not see, what they could not figure out or what they could not understand. Unlike the sun and its light, the moon and its shadows held secrets for only itself to know. This side was the Ying. It was cool, submissive and passive. Yet this was the time where people believed evil came about and when things heated up to the breaking point.

Yet there were few individuals who understood the moon and its shadows. They would rather take comfort in the darkness then live and walk around carelessly in the daytime. They understood its secrets and didn't care to share them with anyone else. That's the way it worked. People made them out as the children of evil and over time these so called shadow children grew to accept it, in their own ways twisting and turning from the abuse of the children of light as so they were called. Thus began an existence between good and bad, dark and light. Yet who decided who was good and bad? It wasn't their choice it was the individual.

People were much like a coin or the Ying and Yang.

A script of the old was recited out loud.

In the Darkness speaks a voice, a voice that must be heard,

Shadi repeated the script to himself mentally but mindlessly spoke aloud instead. To tell Yugi and Yami this now, would be foolish. It was better to wait patiently then to jump to conclusions. His time on earth had ended and just as he was about to put himself to rest, strange occurrences arose. Some he found quite familiar. On top of that he sensed the spirit of the ring's presence and yet another form with him. It was one that he was all too familiar with and possibly the most dangerous one out of all of his problems. The evil that was born from Malik was by far his biggest concern. He'd have to get help if this was so. But for now, he would only have to sit back and observe, it was the most painful part of his job.

.... ... .. . "You're joking right?" Her entire cheek was twitching, hell her eye was twitching! ()() These loonies were off their rockers!!! What fool did they take her for? Aw shit she should've stayed inside on that rainy day. (- )(-)

Marik was still sore about the bop across the head. His tone was quite noticeable to Tea. "I don't joke."

Hehehehehehehehe, that's a good one! He's not joking! That was hilarious! What sort of sick plan did he and Bakura discuss out there?! Well good thing Serenity was still unconscious. She could never have explained this too, to the poor girl.

"So let me get this straight. You AND Bakura want to stay in MY home until you're READY to leave??? Well I guess I gave you too much credit. You really are insane." Tea spoke her mind aloud.

Marik cocked his head to the side. "And you're just realizing this?"

Bakura chuckled to himself softly. He was enjoying this girl's dismay. She looked like she had seen a zombie crawl right up out of the grave. He counted for the 45th time her face twitched. It was amazing how many muscles the face alone held!

"Where can he sleep?" Marik asked abruptly pointing to the spirit in the far corner, who suddenly quit laughing. Tea glared at the both of them. This was out of her hands. She was either sort of a prisoner to them or she was dead.

"How about in his own home? I'm not housing convicts here!!" Tea shot out.

The girl was becoming more independent and bold with her words each time. It annoyed Marik and pleased Bakura. Bakura was enjoying Marik's agitation to say the least.

"What the hell are you laughing at?" Tea snapped.

Boy if Bakura's eyes could've gotten any wider his nerves would've been shot! That was the last thing he'd expect from someone like her. Sheesh! See, he knew this girl somewhat through Ryou's eyes and the girl was a little annoying not to mention she was always worrying. The typical girl if he could say so himself. But now there was an odd change in her attitude. Was she that upset?

Bakura lowered his voice dangerously. "Watch who you talk to!"

"No why don't you! I didn't say you could stay here!"

"I said he could." Marik replied cold and calm.

"Well that's not a valid answer!! I thought you two were enemies!"

"We made a deal nothing more." Bakura cut in.

Marik scoffed. This was ridiculous. He was getting a headache. "Well that's the last time I ever do something nice for someone like you!" He mumbled.

"Well you made up spirit back from the dead...nobody asked you." This time Bakura's attention was directed on Marik.

"OH FOR THE LOVE OF RA SHUT UP!!!!" Marik spoke his thoughts aloud.

"WATCH WHO YOU SHOUT AT!"

"WHY DON'T YOU, YOU OVER SIZED WHITE RAT!!"

"HOW DARE YOU!"

"The both of you get out of my home!"

Serenity's eyes flickered open, the sound of screaming piercing her ear drums. She sat up and stared at three blurry figures yelling and screaming at one another. When her eyes focused, she was wishing now that it was just a figment of her imagination.

"You two have no right to do this to me! I'm calling Yugi first-

"AWWWWWWW!!!"

Bakura, Marik, and Tea turned their heads to stare at the girl half risen up, pointing to both deranged males. In a whiff of air, her body collapsed again.

The room went deadly silent.

Bakura blinked. "Humph I see that lasted long."

Tea sighed. (--) This was getting annoying.

Marik rolled his eyes. "Does she plan on doing that every time?"

Tea glared at Marik. He seemingly ignored her stares. "Because if she does then it would probably be better if we just put her out of her misery now."

"She's not a horse!" Tea snapped. Wait, why was she arguing with these guys? As a matter of fact why were they even in her home?? Couldn't they go to a hotel or something? Well at least Bakura could've. ("-""-")

A deep rumble stirred the remaining three.

"I'm hungry," Bakura replied simply.

(00) Marik said nothing. He walked up the stairs without giving either one a second glance. He was done talking to these fools. Why was he even talking or making deals with them? Had he stooped to that low of a level? Pathetic to say the least. He had disappointed himself. On the other hand, he wasn't who he used to be..........he was human.

When Bakura proceeded to leave for his own personal needs, Tea sighed in relief. This really was her chance to call Isis or the police even at this point! But Serenity's welfare was first. She was awakening again and not with a pleasant mood either.

Tea tried her best to hush her friend as Serenity went on and on about seeing two killers talking or arguing or whatever!

It was funny though. Serenity didn't even know Bakura before or know who he was during the Battle City incident. It wasn't until an inner war within Yugi's room did Bakura emerge for everyone to see. That's when she learned of this guy's history. Her big brother didn't know much but Tristan had a lot to say about the weirdo as did Yami who'd battled him early on. The guy was a lunatic to say the least. Supposedly Ryou was still alive somewhere within the body which was currently taken over by the spirit of the millennium ring.

"Tea you've got to get out of here! Come on we can leave together!" Serenity insisted.

Tea took the idea into consideration but declined. Marik was maybe starting to trust her and she wanted to keep her word. Besides neither of them had harmed her yet, well actually Marik almost did with a knife before the deal was made and Bakura was about to grab her early on but besides that Bakura hadn't even spoken to her. What deals they made with each other she didn't know if they were planning on using her as a hostage or what. The thought scared her but then another thought came to mind!!!

Whatever plan they had in store for Yugi and Yami she could find out about it! She could save her friends and actually prove useful for once! Especially whatever Bakura had in mind. Who knows what he had been up to the past while.

"No Serenity. I've got to stay here. I know it sounds weird but please don't tell anyone."

Serenity stared at Tea as if she were out of her damn mind! "Tea I don't like that idea. I can tell my brother and everything will be okay."

Tea sweat dropped. Tell Joey? Ha that was a laugh! He'd go ballistic. Speaking of which-

"Serenity you probably have to get home. I bet Joey's freaking out."

Serenity nodded. "Are you going to be okay here by yourself with THEM?"

Tea shrugged. "I think." That wasn't a good enough answer for Serenity. She frowned in dismay. "I'm going to come over again tomorrow to see how you're doing okay? It'll be our little secret." Serenity smiled.

"Oh thank you Serenity, Thank you! I don't know if I could do this without you!"

After she left Tea felt an overwhelming relief. Sigh, maybe she could tell Serenity her idea. Shaking with strained nerves, Tea proceeded to the family room that hovered above the stairway. She sat down and flipped the TV on. There wasn't anything else for her to do. She was scared to go upstairs because Marik was up there and who knows where Bakura now hid.

Just then Tea got the strange feeling someone was watching her. A pair of eyes from above. Tea looked up and stiffened. Marik was hovering over the mantle, his arms leaning, pressing against the wood. He stared at her hard and accusingly. He was suspicious of her already!

It disturbed Tea quite a bit. She wasn't sure if he could read minds or not or whether he could read hers.

"What did the two of you discuss?" He asked bluntly. Tea shivered at his stern, steel cold voice. He was acting a little different from Battle City. He sounded more like Kaiba interrogating her now.

"I told you, you could trust me okay?" Tea yelled up. His expression remained the same. He simply stood up and walked back to one of the spare rooms. She figured he believed her but now she sort of felt bad. She wanted to know their plans to save her friends and that meant spying. His trust or whatever trust he had for her, which was next to ZIPPO would be gone if he found something suspicious now. Besides, she still wanted to help him if she could.

Joey paced up and down the hall. It was going on 8:00 and his sister still wasn't back. Now besides a bump on his head, a 101 degree fever, and a rumbling stomach, he was worried! Jeez couldn't his baby sister just stay home for once? Man, this was worst then the time she went out to dinner with Tristan!! His best friend! Ugh the nerve of that guy!

"AW! Ew! Gross thought, yuck! Uh I gotta remind myself to hit him across da head da next time I see him." Joey thought to himself slyly, eyeing his red eyes black dragon card that Yugi had given back. Well actually Joey won it back. He still remembered that day he beat Yugi in a duel. It was another one of Kaiba's competitions that Kaiba himself chose not to compete in this time and it just so happened it came down to Yugi and Joey. Joey won by playing his last move just when he thought everything else was hopeless. Of course every game and Duel after that Joey had lost. But he never forgot that day. It was the happiest day of his life besides Serenity getting her eye sight back.

"Big brother I'm home!" Serenity's rather cheerful voice echoed through the hall. Her purse didn't even reach the table before a heap of blonde hair rushed into the room.

"Where have ya been? I was fricken worried about ya Serenity!" Joey's tantrum went on for minutes and Serenity remained silent until he got it out of his system.

"Joey are you done now?" She giggled. Joey sweat dropped and rubbed his neck bashfully. He was trying hard to think of something else to say.

"Oh and another thing!!! I couldn't make da microwave go on!!!" A single tear strayed from his eyes while his stomach pleaded for something to eat. Serenity stifled her laughter but it was as plain as day to see she wasn't taking this seriously enough.

"Uh sis?"

Serenity stared at her brother wondering what else he had to say. "Yeah Joey?"

"Uh are you okay? I mean ya look a little pale." Joey stared at her flushed face that was both red and whiter than usual.

"Uh I'm fine. Just tired. Uh I think I might've caught what you got." She chuckled nervously her stomach churning, her heart plummeting into her gut, and her lungs deflating with air. Her worst nightmares were beginning to come back. Joey did not need to know. He wouldn't take it well. Especially with Marik and all!

Joey hit his head with the palm of his hand feeling bad for getting his sister sick. "Aw man! Aw sis I'm sorry! We better get to da hospital now!"

Serenity pleaded when Joey got his coat and began getting his shoes on. Always worried about her, he was. "Uh but Joey, I'm fine."

"Na, I got ya sick." Serenity sighed watching her brother tie his shoes. He was concentrating hard, probably really worried about her. It always seemed to stress him out. But when she looked closer it seemed vaguely noticeable. Something was wrong with Joey. He had developed unusually dark rings around his eyes. His skin was a glossy white drenched in sweat as if maybe he were suffering from Ebola or yellow fever. His hair was matted down against his head and his eyes were crunched tight together, squinting to tie his shoes. He was dizzy and losing focus, that was why he was trying so hard to tie his shoes.

Serenity's mind was taking quite a hit today. Her body was already on high alert but now it was working overtime. Joey didn't look well at all!

"Okay you know what Joey? Your right we need to go to the hospital." Serenity frowned, grabbing her purse and slipping her shoes back on.

Joey smiled confidently. "Glad ya see things my way."

Serenity ignored his remark. "Joey you look awful I'm worried about you."

Joey nearly tripped over his own two feet at her remark. What did she mean HIM? "Huh? Na its you that's-

"Joey I'm not joking!" Serenity raised her voice.

Joey stopped all movement and words. He stared at Serenity's glossy glazed eyes. They were filling up with something wet. Was she crying?

"Uh Serenity if I look dat bad then I'll be more then happy to go." He said lightly rubbing his neck again. Serenity rubbed her temples. She was stressing out. "Thank you Joey. I'm just worried is all. You have rings around your eyes like you haven't slept for a week. I don't think that's normal. You didn't have those there the last time I saw you which was only like 3 hours ago."

Joey sighed but didn't say anything. Serenity got in the car and drove him over to the hospital, the same one where Tea and Marik had gone to not too long ago.

Tea yawned. She must've fallen asleep. She sat up and fell back down on the couch with not so much as a HUMPH. She was beat. Up on her wall she stared at the clock. It was going on 9:00. Maybe she should just go to bed. That way she could avoid two-

"You're awake. I thought I'd have to call the morgue for a minute there." Teased an amused voice not far from where she lay. Funny thing was, it sounded halfway serious. It was Marik. He was directly behind her staring at the shelves of books that were as old as father time.

"What are you doing?" Tea asked suddenly, not feeling the least bit comfortable.

"I'm trying to decide what to read next. It is easy to say that my mind has strayed somewhat. I need something to feed it. I've read most of these already. Their all dull and boring."

(--) Well wasn't that just blunt. Way to be polite buddy.

"Wait did you say you've read most of these?' Her voice went up an octave. Marik winced in annoyance. He was losing patience. He hated talking level to level with people like her.

"Did I stutter? No I don't think so. No I believe I spoke very clearly the first time." He mocked her words and it made her angry. What was his problem?

"Hey no need to snap. I was just asking. Besides those are my books anyways."

Marik pulled an encyclopedia from the bottom shelf. "Yes and you brought the blonde idiot's sister in here as well. I thought I told you-

"I thought it didn't matter now." Tea cut in. "Besides your letting that spirit possessing Ryou's body to live in my home! How dare you! Besides I thought you two hated each other I mean you're not the type to team up wit anyone now. You're just a cold heartless person." Oops! That wasn't supposed to come out.

Marik dropped to his knees to examine the book as if he never heard the statement. Her words were having no affect on him. "Yes that used to be the case Tea Gardener, but as you've said yourself I'm a mortal now." His confident tone made Tea sweat. He was right. Whatever that had to do with the situation, she didn't know.

"Whatever." She said quietly to herself.

DING DONG!

Damn doorbell! She was going to unplug that thing! Now who was at her door, Pegasus??!! Oh-ho-ho!! That would make her day.

Tea eyed Marik, but was only met with similar stares. "Well woman what are you waiting for? Get it." His tone was that of boredom. Guess nothing seemed to provoke this guy at the moment.

Tea rolled her eyes, stood up and grabbed the door knob. She was about to fall asleep right there but her stomach had other plans. At the moment she couldn't care less what the two other males living in her home did, as long as it didn't concern her. Of course that was her stomach and mind speaking.

"Hello?" She rubbed her eyes avoiding eye contact with one that pierced her very soul. When they finally hovered up to the face she abruptly stepped back. Oh gee someone was back.

Tea slammed the door, turning her back and prepared to run for her room.

Marik stood up and faced her. "Open the door." He wasn't amused. He had much information to catch up on.

Tea flailed her hands in the air, whammed the door open and flew up the steps. Marik closed his eyes tiredly awaiting the door to slam.

"5, 4, 3, 2, 1,-BAM!" Marik's eyes snapped wide open and they dilated in size. He remained calm as Bakura welcomed himself in.

"I think you should get rid of the girl. She poses too much of a threat." Bakura dusted himself off. He had been busy doing who knows what, from what Marik could tell.

"Oh?" Marik asked amused. Not a bad idea really.

"Yes. I'm not trying to be funny here." Bakura snapped. Malik never gave this much difficulty as this guy did. Even as a complete human being this male irritated him. "She will squeal to the Pharaoh I promise you. I know this girl better then you. She's one of those loyal types with a heart of gold and mush. I'm telling you this will end up in flames. Why don't I place the girl in the shadow realm? It would be more efficient that way." Bakura's millennium ring began to glow.

Marik picked up a card deck that obviously belonged to Tea. He stared at the rather weak monsters that more or less reflected off herself. "No. She won't try anything." Marik replied unmotivated to say the least.

Bakura's veins rose from all corners of his skull. "What?"

Marik's patience was also wearing thin. "You heard me!"

"Well then her mind should erased or something! I'm not going to risk everything over a stupid girl's choice!"

"You didn't have to stay here you know and it would've been better to kill me when you did." Marik snapped, slamming the card deck down. Bakura eyed the card deck which traveled back up to Marik.

"As a human I don't think your feelings are getting in the way are they?" Bakura replied.

Marik scoffed. "You may think what you like you lab rat, but Tea is more useful to me alive then dead. Besides her friends will suspect something, especially since one already knows. I can't risk you pulling such a dangerous stunt."

Bakura folded his arms. "That's hard to believe."

Marik paused, breathed in and spoke. "Well you are 5000 years old and yet you have feelings. You care for the Ryou kid in whom you inhabit am I not correct? I think killing everything in sight is less pleasing then mutilating yourself. Personally you're just a sadist, not an emotional being like myself at one point. Admit it."

Bakura shrugged. "It's true. Because at one point I was human. Besides Yami's the same as me and he's as generous as they come. That's the Pharaoh for you. No, it's just you weren't born like everyone else on this planet. You were born from Malik's hate, and from the power he possessed. You now are human, mortal actually, and these feelings are confusing you. Hehehehe I bet it's not the same as you once felt." Bakura seemed quite confident.

"I'm going to admit your right." Marik chuckled, finding Bakura's words pointless yet true. "You may be right Tomb Robber."

Marik and Bakura ceased talking as a brunette walked past them and straight for the kitchen. They blinked in confusion to say the least. She didn't seem the least bit happy. They eyed each other and the both of them broke out into chuckles. Her displeasure was amusing, that was until a harsh scream pierced the air.

Before either of them could take a step into the kitchen a frustrated woman ran out, her legs apart, her arms by their sides and her face showing hints of anger and resentment.

Marik stretched and slumped his shoulders lazily. "Oh what is it now?"

Tea was breathing hard her face was flushed and red. "You! YOU! Who was it?!"

Marik pointed to himself. "Me? What about me?"

Tea stomped her foot. "You ate all my saved pizza!!! How could you!!!! That was mine, not yours!!!! You know, few things really tick me off AND THAT WAS ONE OF THEM!!!!"

Bakura was now looking out the window, nervous that her annoying voice would bring attention to her home.

"I didn't touch your damn pizza!!" Marik boomed. He wasn't going be accused of taking the filthy girl's food.

"Yes you did!" Tea shot back.

"Dear Ra woman No I didn't!!!" Marik threw a stray book at the book shelf only a few feet away from himself. He began breathing hard, his mind enveloping in rage.

Bakura whistled, crossing his arms innocently if that's what you'd call him. He was staying out of this one.

Tea fumed at the response she got. "Pick those up!! Those are old!!!" Her eyes were beginning to water. She hated arguing seriously with people.

"Don't cry over something I didn't do!!!" He shot back, his eyes turning bright violet.

"He's right actually." Tea and Marik turned their heads to Bakura. He was smirking at the both of them. Man to see Marik argue with one of the Pharaoh's petty friends was almost unbearable. He would've busted his gut if they continued this much longer.

Marik wasn't amused at all. He cocked an eyebrow quizzically. "And why is that?"

"Because I ate the pizza." Bakura laughed, smiling as if he were hovering over a dead body.

Tea's jaw dropped. "WHATTTTTT!!!!!!!"

Bakura predicted that would be the reaction he'd get. How amusing. This was like taking candy from a baby.

But Marik didn't look too amused. He wasn't one for simple fun and games unless lives were on the line. And he hated being accused of something he didn't do while the culprit sat back and watched the entire thing. "You stupid crack head." Marik mumbled glaring at the spirit of the ring.

Bakura was still laughing. He couldn't help himself. "What, I was hungry. If somebody doesn't feed me I tend to help myself. Besides you're-

POOWWW.......

Marik jumped back because originally he thought it was someone who had broken in. In fact it was Tea!! Her fist connected with Bakura's jaw when he hunched over. Instantaneously, Marik pulled the girl back by the wrist and away from the white haired killer. She'd lost it.

Bakura cracked his jaw into place licking the blood aside. That was one hell of rush. He wasn't sure to grin at the pain, or murder the girl in her own cold blood.

"That'll teach you not to snoop around in other people's refrigerators!" Tea snapped. She still didn't realize what she'd done. No one pushed her around like that. Besides she was a female, not a defenseless animal, and her dad taught her well when in complete doubt, punch them.

(OO) Okay maybe he was a bit of a drinker when he said that, but heck he taught her well. But uh, if that was the case why was she at their mercy?

Bakura rolled his shoulders back, glaring at Tea who stood behind Marik. Marik was growing frustrated with the both of them.

"Spirit walk away. I can't have her dead as much as it would please the both of us. She's still useful and I've made a promise." Marik replied rather calmly.

Bakura licked up another drop of blood that began to drip. "Screw your little deal!" His millennium ring began to glow.

Marik narrowed his eyes. "Well Mr. high and mighty if you hadn't eaten her pizza without permission this wouldn't have happened. You got what you deserved for laughing at the both of us while I was blamed for your insolence. For all that its worth I should've punched you myself."

Bakura looked away dripping with rage. Both Marik and Tea were in no position to talk. They were both powerless and if Bakura felt, he could banish the both of them to the shadow realm, a place where they could live in hell paradise forever. At the same time, Bakura had a funny feeling about Marik. He wasn't completely powerless.

"As for you Tea." Tea jumped when he said her name. "I don't need anymore of this shit from you." Marik narrowed his eyes at Tea whom he predicted was becoming too big for her britches. She had better watch herself.

An hour went by and an unnerving silence was making the air stiff and nauseating. Marik wanted to get out, maybe even kill someone, but then his appearance to someone might cause attention. Well if anything he didn't want to go alone, mainly his body was just too weak. Nevertheless he couldn't very well leave Tea and Bakura in the same house alone. AW Shit! Now he was playing the baby-sitter from hell!!! () 'Dammit!!' He thought.

Bakura was supposed to be the peacemaker, he was supposed to enjoy the torment going on here! Aw hell, if he was like he once was he wouldn't be worrying about such troublesome problems. He could most likely enjoy the killing himself. But NOOOO it was Bakura who hogged all the fun, the glutton, and even though Tea was upstairs and Bakura was in the basement, it was only a matter of time before someone's blood smeared.

"Well it sure as hell isn't going to be mine." He spoke aloud stomping up the steps and straight for the closed room. Marik banged on the door with a curled fist.

"Open the damn door!" Marik didn't have to repeat himself. The door flew open and there was Tea looking frightened more than ever. Marik glared, he didn't feel like egging anyone on, on their feelings and so forth.

"I don't want you to lock this door again, got it?" He still didn't trust her. Of course then again he didn't trust himself either.

"What do you want?" Tea sniffed opening the door further. Marik raised the both of his eyebrows, helped himself into the room and straight for her closet. Tea only stared. The guy was out of his freaking mind! (OO)

Marik shuffled through her clothes without Tea's consent, pulling out dark blue jeans and a long sleeved red shirt with a wide cut of the neckline.

"Do you like the clothing I have here?' He asked formal yet so seriously it was frightening. Tea twitched the nose. Was he gay now? If so the spirit of the rod had better watch himself. Hehehe, actually what sweet revenge that would've been.

Tea smirked but snapped out of it. "Do I like this?" Marik nodded as she repeated his question.

She scratched her head. "Well yeah I bought it for myself but why-

Marik tossed the clothing at her face, walked out the door and slammed it shut behind him.

Tea blinked. "Uh guess he wants me to put it on?"

Marik sat crossed legged on the couch waiting for the two idiots to walk up. Bakura had refused reading up on some key history of the millennium items and became quite frustrated when Marik told him to hurry up and get ready. Bakura wasn't in the mood to go back out and personally he thought this was business. Bakura was going to object but Marik threw some clothing at his face and that was that.

He glanced at the clock on the far wall. It was nearly going on 10:30, another late night.

"Marik!" A voice boomed. Marik glanced lazily behind him. A voice boomed through the door crack. "You really don't expect me to wear this do you?"

Marik shut his eyes. "Hurry up and put it on I don't have all day." His patience was wearing thin. This would've been the worst time for any of them to argue, because personally he wasn't sure if he could hold back his anger. One of them would die in all seriousness if they pushed it too far, and he couldn't care a rat's ass what happened to either of them.

Bakura stepped out with slacks and a blazer over a white shirt of some sort. Earlier Marik had thrown down a rubber band telling him his hair was unfit for public and it frankly scared the girl upstairs. Bakura simply said there was nothing wrong with his hair. Marik on the other hand had told him it looked like a dying skunk's tail whatever the hell that meant. So not knowing why, Bakura tied it back in a pony tail, making him look quite sophisticated for a change. Marik's eyes bulged somewhat. Hmm if he were in a better mood he'd laugh.

"Marik! Why am I dressing like this? Have you lost your damn mind??" Bakura was feeling a bit embarrassed and frankly he wasn't sure why he was listening to Marik. They had only become partners for not even 6 hours yet! ()

Marik covered his mouth, as a yawn tried to escape. "I hope that was a rhetorical question." Marik smirked.

Minutes later Tea arrived feeling not too comfortable. She wasn't quite understanding why she changed or why Bakura was wearing-WAIT... WHAT THE HELL??????

Tea froze, her jaw hanging limp and her eyes vibrating violently within their sockets. Bakura crossed his arms. "What are you staring at?" He snapped. Jeez, now he just looked like a hot shot with an attitude. Well...not that he wasn't one to begin with really.

"You, you dumbass." Marik mumbled. "Listen I'm not going to constantly get involved with your petty arguments. I really couldn't care less what the two of you do personally, so I'm only doing this once. We're all going to get some fresh air and your all going to like it."

Bakura seemed a bit more shocked then Tea. He had only battled Marik once, so their conversation during that time was brief but a guy like that saying the words he just spoke didn't make any sense in hell.

'Shit!' Marik thought. 'This wasn't my ideal plan dammit.' He silently cursed himself as he waited for the two to walk out the door. Had he resorted to babysitting?

The walk was refreshing and silent. No one said a word. Marik insisted that Tea walk in front of him. He didn't want her getting any ideas though he knew she could've ran away in the past whenever she felt. He figured half was because she was weak and she felt sorry for him and well the other half was in fear of her friend, the girl. He figured she was most likely planning some scheme to get the both of them with one shot. Two birds with a stone. Well....he supposed she could give it a shot. The girl wasn't too bright.

"Marik." Bakura whispered. Marik stared at his new partner in crime from the corner of his eyes.

"What is it?" Marik replied tiredly. Bakura had a concern expression yet he couldn't take the guy too seriously. His new look was far too much and well....not what Marik expected. When he meant dress differently, he didn't mean dress like the freak was on his way to an art museum.

Bakura glanced at Tea's back making sure she wasn't listening. She wasn't, actually her distance he noticed, was increasing between them. 10 minutes ago, Bakura suggested a different part of town to walk through where he had become quite fond of and enjoyed the action. It would be in the girl's best interest to not walk too far ahead. It wasn't a wise choice actually. This side of the city wasn't known for being kind to young ladies such as herself.

"This is nonsense Marik." Bakura replied. "Which now that I think of it we need to stop fooling around and drop these games. We've got to make plans now if we hope to achieve what we both want!" His voice was low and dark. Only Marik could make out the words so easily.

Marik sighed, dipping his hands lazily into their pockets. The moon was shining brightly tonight. It was the type of moon where weirdo's like himself came out. He glanced at the girl who seemed to be walking further and further apart. What an unwise decision she was making.

"Speaking of games I need a Duel deck." Marik said simply changing the subject. Bakura rolled his eyes annoyingly. He hated when people ignored him, but at least the guy was thinking somewhat in perspective.

"A duel deck eh? Well why not simply borrow the girl's? Hanging around her pathetic friends I know she has one, actually I think I saw it." Bakura smirked.

Marik's expression did not change. He glanced down at the cracked sidewalk and littered streets. It was filthy. He heard a gun shot in the distance.

"Yes she does but I would hardly call it a Duel Deck. It's not even worthy to wipe the Pharaoh's ass with. No I need something strong, something to not only beat the Pharaoh with but reclaim the three God cards and dispose of anyone else who might get in our way. We may encounter similar foes in Egypt no doubt." Bakura understood what he meant. He thought deeply.

"Again why not use the girl?" Bakura said suddenly causing Marik to nearly lose his footing. What the hell, did he not just explain this to the white rat?!

"I told you-

"Bakura cut in. "I know what you mean and that's not what I mean. What I mean is why not use the girl to get a strong deck. Little Yugi's grandfather owns a Dueling shop and I'm sure Yugi would be more than happy to give her free cards. It may not be top of the line but I'm sure if she was persistent she could get a good starter deck. Tips from her friends on what cards to get and insight's on their strategy might be most helpful to you don't you think? I would have done it myself but my aibou never got close enough before I took matters into my own hands. Whether they know I'm in this form or not they will not trust me enough to give away such secrets."

Marik scoffed. "So you're saying you could not do it yourself? You should've listened to the rightful owner of that body there." Bakura growled in response.

"Besides, I've already given my word to the girl that I would not use her in such things. She wouldn't agree to it just the same."

Bakura cocked an eye. Was he serious, though? "Well...why not go back on your word? And if she doesn't agree, MAKE her agree. With me here I don't think she has much of a choice."

Marik waited a few seconds as if pondering the thought. Bakura grew impatient. "Well? We can have her do it tomorrow if so."

Marik made no head movement or expression changes. He was blank. "No."

"No?" Bakura raised his voice to the point where Tea whipped her head around. When all seemed fine she turned back around.

Bakura brought his voice back down to a whisper. "What do you mean no?"

Marik shot him an annoyed glance. "Like I said fool, No. You are a thief and killer and have no morals of your own."

Bakura gave him a delusional glance. He was joking right? "Oh and I suppose you're the spitting image of a sincere kind man brought forth in this world in all that is right and pure? That's a load of shit."

Marik sighed. "That's fine and all but just the same it doesn't do you any good. That was your downfall to the battles and Duels you fought. If you had your way and you were in my spot you'd screw her over in a heart beat and she'd never trust you again because of that. You'd be taking back your word. Unlike you though, my word is my word. I was born from Malik's hate but I have set morals boundaries of my own. I play by the rules.......somewhat.......especially when it's to the death. They are always given the chance to surrender, quit the Duel, or give up entirely but they are never forced...that way they can just give me what they want instead. That is MY way of battling. You on the other hand enjoy killing and let's be honest so do I, but not in the same sense as you. Mine you may say are more sufficient and thought out. And this my friend, is what divides us apart."

The words hit Bakura much like a dagger. His expression was one as if he were hit in the heart by a bullet. He grinded his teeth and pushed his anger aside. How dare Marik insult him like that! How dare he!! What the hell did he know about his life??!

Marik saw that Bakura was upset or rather infuriated and thought it best to change the subject. "Listen your idea wasn't bad it just wasn't thought out correctly. Overall it isn't a BAD idea and this is one reason why I prefer the girl alive. She can get that Deck to me if she and I come to a more understandable agreement. Like us I'm sure we can make a deal, one she can't refuse."

Bakura still shook with rage but calmed himself just a bit. "What did you have in mind then?"

Marik narrowed his eyes at the girl's back almost analyzing her in a way. "Why not let her bring in another friend on our existence? I'm sure she couldn't turn that down."

Bakura completely stumbled over his own feet. WAS HE INSANE!!!???

"WHAT????"

Marik hushed him. "Don't worry it should work out fine-TEA." Marik called Tea slowed her pace down just a bit, gesturing them that she was listening.

"You shouldn't walk too far ahead. I sense a lot of freaks out here...hehehe besides myself of course and Bakura here." His voice was stern and cold. The way he said it, Tea figured he couldn't have cared less. "Oh, well gee excuse me I didn't know you cared."

"He don't." Bakura replied sharply.

'Bravo." Marik thought cocking an eye. 'Fine if she wants to kill herself, feel free. He wasn't going to pull any damsels in distress type plans.

Tea on the other hand had her own plan. As they reached the corner of a stop sign she eyed a group of guys eyeing her from afar. One particular guy she recognized. He was of medium height and not completely bad looking, but the guy was scary to say the least. He was new at her school and ever since, he'd been giving her and a few other girls looks she didn't appreciate. One day he tried to grab her and luckily Tristan and Joey were there, need she say more. He was definitely going to get his group involved in this one if she continued to get close. She knew two of them were whistling to her but she chose smartly to ignore it.

Well just the same for once maybe these two psychos behind her could lend a helping hand. Perhaps Bakura and Marik could teach them a lesson. Ohh it was tempting. I mean they both needed her it was kinda like having private body guards. Oh well she couldn't pass up the chance. Its not everyday she could pull off an evil prank or revenge such as this.

'Oh your so evil girl.' Tea thought jumping to the idea.

"YOU WHOOOO!!!!! JAKE!!! IT'S ME TEA!!! YA KNOW THE NEXT TIME YOU TRY TO GRAB ME AND FORCE ME INTO SOME CLOSET YOU BETTER MAKE SURE YOUR HEAD'S NOT UP YOUR BUTT!!" Yeah the comment was lame but it got the attention of all 11 of them. Oh wow 11. That was a rather large number. Hope she wasn't pushing it too far.

"Hey Jake do you know that woman over there? Hey she your honey buns?" A guy asked looking her up and down from a distance.

Jake got a good look. "Na, but she's gonna be now. She got me in a lot a trouble and made me look like an ass. Come on guys I'll share her. I bet she's got enough to go around."

The group began to advance on her or rather walk towards her while her group was walking in the opposite direction. Just what she wanted. Now if Marik and Bakura played their cards right, this would work out well.

Immediately she began imitating a rather pathetic damsel in distress voice. "Oh help me you guys! Their going to get me!" Each word that came from her mouth was plain and rather fake.

Bakura and Marik stopped in the middle of their conversation and stared at her. "What are you complaining about now?" Bakura snapped growing weary of her annoying voice.

"Those thugs over there are going to attack me! Want to help out?" Tea said seriously, placing her hands on her hips.

SILENCE.

"No not really."

((O))((O)) W-what?? You-r obviously joking right?! RIGHT??" Tea stared stunned at Marik and Bakura who simply eyed her, mentally marking her as a mental case. The group of young men began to get closer. Tea could make out a chain around the boy from her school's left arm. Was he serious?!! (O)(O)

"No I'm actually being serious now!! Please, come on their getting closer!!" Tea began to back up from where Marik and Bakura stood. She was going to run.

"Too bad. You had better start running now if you have any mind to get away." Marik said hastily.

"I don't understand, why!" Tea's eyes widened. She just thought perhaps they would help her out since she helped them out.

Marik raised an eyebrow. "Don't ask me why you idiot. You're the one that provoked them. I made no squaw with them. You had better start learning to keep your mouth shut if you plan to live past the age of 30."

"Hey girl! Why don't you come over here and say that to my face? Better yet why don't I take ya to my place and we can talk about it there!" The boy yelled cockily from nearly 35 feet away.

Tea stared in disgust. Who did he think she was, a whore? Wasn't her answer somewhat obvious? 'Jeez, obviously this guy's never had a girlfriend in all his life.'

When Tea didn't respond the teenage boy and his friends got the message loud and clear. They pursued her when she took off across the street screaming HELP. Bakura and Marik merely watched the spectacle somewhat in interest. Sadly to say all the shops were closed and locked up. There was no one else around.

As Tea ran circles around a closed drug store, two more "thugs" approached the partners in crime. One of them was the boy from her school.

Bakura and Marik glanced at each other briefly. How the hell were they involved in her mess? Eh just the same Marik felt that overwhelming glee to spill someone's blood once more. How entertaining.

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Zoeygirl: Well that'll do it for this one. Not much more to say except expect a little more of a just an easy going one in the next chapter. () Or not...Oh yeah and even though there might be a lot of Bakura and Tea in the next chappie don't confuse that as love triangle stuff b/c it ain't happening. () With that said, I hope you enjoyed and good day to ta! (O-.)