Did anyone notice that all the characters seem to have forgotten Bakura was
present in the last story? Yeah? Ok, just checking. XD And what happens
when the depression hits? Who's going to break who? Who will be broken?
What will anyone do about it..? (If I've been slow updating it's because
I'm trying in school, fighting a computer-ban, and babysitting)
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The hallway was silent. It was always silent when Marik came to visit Ryou. But this time it was cold. And as he headed downstairs, his mind swam, Why does he make this so hard? Frowning, Marik came to the bottom of the staircase where he paused, He acted like he cared and... Looking over his shoulder, Marik winced as he thought about the one he left behind, Now he doesn't? It makes no sense. Marik looked down to his hand on the railing, realizing that he had been gripping it tightly this entire time. He released it and stepped away from the staircase. The door to the apartment complex wasn't far away, yet he stumbled toward it. Once the cold air outside hit his face, he knew he couldn't leave. Luckily, there was a bench nearby, so he maneuvered his way over to it and sat down, closing his eyes and letting the depression hit him.
Ryou shook his head and rubbed his eyes, "Whu- Where's Marik? Bakura, what did you two talk about?" Glancing at a nearby clock, Ryou noticed that their meeting hadn't lasted more than a few minutes. Yet again, Ryou was greeted with silence. With a sigh, Ryou prepared to sit on the couch and read a book, but he noticed something. Bending at the waist, Ryou plucked a folded note from the couch cushion, "I didn't write this...Marik must have dropped it when he came by." Ryou bit his lower lip. He really shouldn't open it, but... In the end, the teen's curiosity peaked and he sat down in a corner of the couch, looking at the note. Bakura's name was scrawled across the front in neat cursive that made the note all the more interesting. Ryou unfolded the paper and smoothed it out before reading it.
"If you promise not to hurt me, I will stay beside you. I hope you know that I've never opened up to anyone else like this before, so it's difficult to explain what I'm feeling. I'm so happy that you've returned my feelings; I don't feel so alone?" Ryou paused, frowning. "Something tells me Bakura doesn't feel the way you think he does.." Ryou muttered. Dragging his legs up onto the couch, Ryou continued reading, "Love you a lot...See you soon. What does he think he's doing? Bakura would kill him if he read this!" Ryou folded the note, thinking of what to do with it when suddenly a voice invaded his mind, What are you up to, mortal? Ryou jumped and mentally squeaked, N...nothing, Bakura! The spirit wasn't convinced, You sound frantic. Did I interrupt something?
The teen shifted uneasily, I was just reading...A book. Ryou quickly disposed of the note by hiding it between the pages of the book in his hand. Is it a good book, mortal? Bakura hissed. Ryou yelped in surprise since the hissing was in his ear, not in his head. He dropped his book and turned to Bakura who was standing beside him in his projected astral form. Bakura glanced to the fallen book, noticing the slip of paper which fell from its pages, "That's an odd bookmark you have there." Ryou froze. Bakura lifted his gaze, "Why does it have my name on it?" Ryou moved his mouth wordlessly which agitated Bakura, "Pick it up and let me see." Ryou blinked, "Uh...why?" Bakura narrowed his eyes, "Do it." Ryou reluctantly retrieved it and held it up for Bakura to see his own written name. "Now unfold it." The spirit instructed. Ryou sighed and did as told. "Good..." Bakura muttered as he read the note.
Bakura growled as he finished reading, "I'll kill him..." Ryou saw him make a move to re-enter the ring and Ryou's body, "I wrote it!" Bakura gawked at the teen who blushed at having blurted out such an outrageous statement, "What..?" Ryou swallowed nervously and repeated himself, "I wrote the note." Bakura grinned devilishly, "Oh really now? You love me, do you, mortal? That's certainly interesting...I forget, you've been sleeping with me for years." Ryou looked uncomfortable and his blush hadn't faded, "Well...I..." Bakura seemed amused. He sat down on the couch close to Ryou, "And all this time I thought you were innocent. But no matter. You may not realize it, mortal, but I'm a liar too. You need a little work with your act. Trying to be a martyr won't save Marik."
Ryou watched him get up and walk over to the window, "He hasn't left yet, I feel him." Ryou set the note on the table, "Don't hurt him. Please." Bakura chuckled and walked back over to Ryou, "Don't worry, you won't remember a thing..." Ryou bowed his head as Bakura returned to his body. Bakura, having taken control of the boy, left the couch and headed for the door, donning a pair of shoes before stepping out into the hallway and calmly making his way down the stairs and outside. Marik heard the apartment door open and became very still. Bakura sneered, "So, you're still here. Do I have to kick you to make you go home?" There was no answer. Bakura frowned, "I'm talking to you, faggot, and look at me when I'm speaking." He proceeded to march over to Marik and glare down at him.
He stood there waiting with an odd expression on his face. It was a mix between annoyance and anticipation, Why isn't he answering? Bakura growled, "Look at me, damn you." When he received further silence, he reached down and grabbed the front of Marik's shirt. Bakura blinked as Marik's right hand closed around his wrist. This time, Marik lifted his gaze to Bakura, hate burning in his eyes. Bakura smirked, "That's better." He released Marik, expecting him to do the same, but he didn't, "Let go of me." Bakura was slightly unsettled, He won't try hurting me. He knows he'll only hurt the mortal. Marik rose from the bench and shoved Bakura back, releasing his wrist. Bakura rubbed the afflicted area, wincing as it did hurt. He looked to Marik in time to see him raise a right-handed fist to his left hand and crack his knuckles.
"What do you think you're doing?" Bakura stammered. Marik's frown deepened and he charged at Bakura. Bakura darted aside as Marik came at him and went wide-eyed. Marik wanted a fight? But this vessel was too weak! Marik stopped himself and turned, grabbing hold of Bakura's left arm and launching his fist into the base of Bakura's neck. The silver-haired spirit hissed as a nerve was pinched and the searing pain ran through his spine. Marik wasn't finished yet. He twisted Bakura's arm behind him and kicked him in the lower back, sending him sailing toward the bench. Bakura collided with the bench, tripping over it and landing harshly on the wood. He groaned and tried to get away. Marik snarled and followed the fleeing spirit, grabbing him by the hair. Bakura, who had been at a full sprint, emitted a yelp of pain as Marik reeled him in. Marik socked Bakura in the jaw and soon the taste of blood ran over his tongue as his canine tooth punctured his lower lip.
Bakura struggled in Marik's hold and landed a kick to his crotch despite the obvious unfairness of the move. Marik released him instantly and backed off, hissing in agony. Bakura wiped his mouth, shocked at the blood flow he discovered. Bakura produced his ever present switchblade. Either it was the traditional knife or he had obtained a new one. But nevertheless, there it was, gleaming in the afternoon sun. Bakura held it out protectively, "Stay back." Marik stood, growling like a feral animal. Bakura could swear he saw a glint of red in his eyes, "Impossible. You can't still be a Vampire!" Marik sneered and regained a confident posture, "No, not anymore. However, I'm not human either. I'm trapped in between, Bakura. Because of you!" He pointed accusingly.
Bakura furrowed his brow in confusion, "I did nothing!" Marik seemed to burn with rage, "That's the problem. You -didn't- do anything. You never warned me of the lethal combination of the spell and my previous suicide attempt. Do I amuse you, Bakura? Do I? Is that why I'm still alive? Am I your little toy?" Bakura huffed, "And if you are..?" Marik seemed surprised, "You will know true pain, Bakura... Oh yes you will..." Bakura didn't like the sound of that. Marik advanced on him again and he blindly slashed with his blade, hoping to effectively strike Marik. Marik's hand bled steadily as he cupped his palm around the serrated knife's edge. Wrenching it free from Bakura's hand, he tossed it aside, "Don't avoid the inevitable death which awaits you..." Bakura spat in frustration before turning away and taking off.
He needed to find a place to hide and quickly too. The Egyptian snarled and took chase. Bakura figured out an effective course of action. He'd pose as Ryou and escape to the home of one of his friends. Yugi lived closest in the game shop, so that's where he headed. It was just down the street. But first, he'd have to slow Marik down. Darting off down an ally, Bakura slid behind some discarded boxes and crouched down. Marik soon after entered that same ally and briefly looked around before spitting in disgust and continuing on. Once he heard Marik's footsteps moving away, Bakura took off running again. Just a little further...
Yugi lifted his head to some frantic yelling from the game shop downstairs, "Yugi, please, help me!" The short boy ran downstairs to see his friend Ryou standing in the center of the shop, panting heavily with blood leaking from his mouth and staining his shirt, "Ryou! What happened?!" Bakura put on a worried look and staggered over to Yugi, "It's Marik. He's trying to kill me." Yugi's eyes widened. He went over to the shop door and locked it, flipping the open sign to closed, "Why is he after you?" Bakura shook his head, "I...I don't know. I didn't know where to go, so I came here." Yugi took pity, "That's alright, Ryou. Come on, let's go upstairs. We can talk with the spirit of my millenium puzzle; maybe he'll know what to do. Bakura nodded sheepishly and followed Yugi behind the counter and down a hall which led to a spiral staircase.
Marik, who had heard Bakura scurry out of the ally, wasn't far behind. He narrowed his eyes at the unwelcome sight in front of him. Though not a normal enemy of Yugi these days, he hated him more than ever for harboring Bakura in his home. He walked up to the game shop door and tested the lock. It was firmly secured. Marik uttered a curse in his native tongue and kicked the base of the door, "BAKURA!" The Egyptian shrieked toward the upper half of the building where the Motos lived. Yugi cringed at the yell and looked towards Yami who sat on Yugi's bed with his arms folded. Yami sighed and stood, walking to the window and looking down. From where he was positioned he could see Marik trying to break the door down, "I'll go talk to him if you don't mind, Yugi."
Yugi thought a moment before nodding, "If you think that will help." Yami vanished from view and a few slight changes took place about Yugi. A more mature aura seemed to set in about his body and he briefly shut his eyes to let the pharaoh take control of his mind. Yami nodded to Bakura before exiting the room. Bakura smirked and sat upon Yugi's bed, waiting to hear any screams from downstairs. Marik ceased his door ramming when he heard the lock click from within. He stood there breathing heavily, waiting. The door swung open and Yami stood there with the eye of Horus glaring at Marik from his forehead. Marik frowned in annoyance, "Where is Bakura?" Yami locked his gaze on Marik, "His name is Ryou. You can't see him right now."
Marik growled, "This is none of your business, pharaoh." Yami lifted an eyebrow, "Ryou is my friend. It is my business. Tell me why you are trying to kill him." A chuckle emitted from the psycho, "He's not Ryou." Yami was beginning to think Marik was crazy, "I see..." Marik frowned at his disbelief, "He's not! He's Bakura and he's wronged me. Now tell me where the hell he is before I start on you!" Marik took a step forward, but the millenium puzzle around Yami's neck gleamed, "Bakura is gone. He was dealt with in Battle City. I think you need to go home and think that over for awhile." Marik's left eye twitched, "Do you have a death wish?" Yami shrugged, "Do you?" Yami noticed the amount of rage building up inside the one standing in front of him. Reaching out, he put a hand on Marik's arm, "Go home, Marik. I'm aware you're under a lot of stress lately but it's no reason for anyone to get hurt."
(Random Commenter: o.O Mai should walk by naked to see what happens. If one of them would blink or something. o.o)
Marik swatted his hand away. Yami gasped in surprise, "Marik..." The dark spirit looked past Yami toward the staircase where Bakura stood grinning, "You dirty little snake..." Yami looked back just as Bakura put on a mock look of worry. Marik took this opportunity to shove Yami aside. Yami collided with a magazine rack and lost his balance, falling to the floor. Marik grinned demonically, "This time I won't let you get away from me..." Bakura backed up the stairs, but not before Marik seized him and threw him up against the wall. Bakura felt himself choking as he was lifted off of the ground. Yami scrambled back to his feet and the millenium puzzle glowed brightly. Marik wasn't paying attention as he kneed Bakura in the gut like he had done oh so many days before. Marik suddenly cried out as the pharaoh used his puzzle to send painful shocks through his head. He released Bakura who clattered to the floor, gasping for breath and coughing up vomit.
Marik fought against the painful mind attacks and abandoned Bakura, darting out the game shop door and disappearing down the road. Yami gave Marik one last spiteful shock before moving over to his injured friend. Bakura wiped his dirty mouth on his sleeve and groaned painfully. Yami helped him to sit up and lean back against the wall, "Ryou, I'm so sorry I couldn't stop him sooner..." Bakura nodded, trying to keep up his act, "That's alright. At least he's gone. Marik found solitude in the depths of a local park, suffering a raging headache and grief. He had so much rage and nothing with which to discharge it. He stopped walking all together and looked to the sky, emitting a ferocious scream of frustration. No matter what he did, Bakura would keep getting shielded with his guise of 'innocent Ryou.' Trying to catch his breath, Marik felt himself fall to his knees. Sitting back on his ankles, Marik looked downward and glared at the grassy earth. Soon his vision became blurred with liquid. The emotions swirled in his chest, pulling him down, pulling him down... After a minute of letting this go on, Marik lifted his head with a forlorn expression on his face. And he cried...
Yami returned to the millenium puzzle and Yugi helped to clean Bakura up. As Yugi tossed aside the cloth he had used to clear the blood from Bakura's mouth, he sighed, "I don't understand what's wrong with him. Bakura's gone. You know he is, right?" Bakura nodded. Yugi frowned and fell silent. Bakura shifted uneasily, "Are you alright, Yugi?" Yugi snapped out of his trance, "Oh, yea. I'm fine. It's just... Do you think we're being a little hard on Marik?" Bakura gawked, "He tried to kill me!" Yugi folded his arms, "Maybe he's finally snapped. That's not something he'd do for no reason..." Bakura shrugged, "I don't know, Yugi. He's been pretty offensive lately; you know?" Yugi nodded after a second or so, "I guess you're right. Do you want to stay awhile just in case?" Bakura shook his head, "No, I don't think that will be necessary. Thanks for helping me, Yugi." Bakura smirked to himself as he left the game shop, heading back to Ryou's apartment.
Malik blinked, hearing his Yami return home. But he didn't come to look for him or greet him; he just went to his room and calmly closed the door. Too calmly. "Yami?" Malik called out as he walked over and knocked on the door. "Come in." Marik yelled back. Malik stepped inside and found Marik lying on his back in bed with his pillow over his face, obscuring his eyes. Malik moved to Marik's bedside and sat down on the mattress, "What's going on..?" Marik sighed, "I don't want to talk about it." Malik frowned and took Marik's left hand into his own, "Please tell me? You have to. Don't keep secrets from me. It's like keeping yourself in the dark." Marik closed his hand around his Hikari's and drew the pillow away from his face with his right hand, "You're right." Malik noticed the red rims at the bottom of Marik's eyes, "You were crying, weren't you?" Marik felt a knot of sorrow the same as before well up in his throat. He didn't want to start again, but a solitary tear fell free, "Yes...I was."
The memory of why he had been crying only brought images of Bakura to light again which was not something he wanted. Marik sat up and drew Malik into a firm embrace. Malik's expression softened as he returned the gesture. "I love him, Hikari. I love him..." Marik sobbed quietly. Malik closed his eyes, understanding what was going on now. Bakura had broken Marik's heart in the cruelest of ways. Why does he hurt you? Why? That's not fair... Malik ran the thought through his mind. He knew he held a child in his arms; a defenseless at heart child. It angered him, but it wasn't any of his business unless his Yami asked for his help. But would he ever? "I know you've never really asked for assistance... Never in a thousand years would you really admit it. But, Marik, if I can help in some way..?" Malik offered.
Marik drew back and stared lovingly at his Hikari for a moment before taking the teen's chin into his hand. "You are doing a lot for me right now. Ah light..." he admired his Hikari's caring expression before releasing him, "Ra help me if I really deserve to know you." Malik sat watching his Yami wipe the tears from his eyes with the back of his hand, getting angrier at Bakura by the second. Marik noted his light's feelings, "I'm afraid I... attacked Bakura earlier. Hm, that means I hurt Ryou as well. Please forgive me... I tend to forget that they share a body when he makes me mad." Marik liked Ryou. He was a good friend. Knowing that he'd hit him made him feel quite low. Malik sighed, "I really wish you hadn't, but it's alright. Look, maybe you should get some rest and calm down." Malik noticed the way his Yami was slouching and put a hand to his forehead, "Uh! You've got a fever. Has it been like this all day? Lay down!"
Marik complied though he didn't like being babied, "I wouldn't know, I haven't checked. I'm ok, Hikari. I really don't think I need to lie down." Malik wasn't convinced; he left the room and promptly returned with a thermometer which he stuck into Marik's mouth before he could protest. Marik grumbled in the back of his throat but tolerated the treatment he was receiving. The thermometer beeped and Malik held it up to read it, "Tch. 100? You're walking around like this and it doesn't bother you?" Malik sighed, "You're too stubborn, even for me. Get some rest, Marik." Marik shifted his jaw, "I'm not tired." "No?" "No..." "Not even a little?" "Well maybe a little..." "More than a little?" "You got me." Marik admitted with a defeated tone. Malik smiled and stood, "Rest, you stubborn Baka. I don't want to have to stay here and make sure you do." Marik smiled slightly, "Ok, Light, I'll sleep." Malik started to leave the room, "I'll check on you later and see how you're feeling. Don't you dare let me find you walking around the house. If I do, I'll come over there...And nothing will happen." Marik laughed, "Oh my, wouldn't want that!" Malik chuckled and shut the door.
Malik found Odion in the hallway. The two had spoken about Marik while he was gone and so the Hikari now knew what the Yami was going through. Odion was generally very perceptive in the case of a lot of things. Malik grinned, seeing his guardian, "Hello, Odion." The man nodded, "I see you two are even closer than before." Malik nodded, "I was wrong about him. He's not just the ruthless monster everyone sees him as. Come to think of it, I should change their views..." Odion followed Malik to the living room, "He's a lot like a kitten, don't you agree?" Malik dropped down onto the couch, "Mm-hm. A kitten with PMS perhaps but yea." Odion chuckled, resting his astral form beside Malik. Malik frowned then, looking aloof, "Bakura though. He's another story." Turning to the armrest of the couch, Malik let his arms hang over it, "He makes me so mad. That asshole!"
Malik sighed, knowing that Marik didn't want him to interfere, "I suppose you know already about him and Marik. It doesn't bother you does it? That they're...Well you know?" Odion arched an eyebrow, "Homosexual? You can say the word, it's not derogative. No, I'm not bothered. Love is still there regardless of gender. And I know you're going to ask next, but no, I don't think you're homosexual as well." Malik went red in the face; thankfully he was facing away from Odion, "Gee, thanks, Odion." He nodded, "My pleasure." Malik lifted his hands to his head and rubbed his temples, "I don't get it. Why is Bakura so cruel? I mean I know how cruel Marik was, but he got better. And now he likes Bakura. And Bakura even slept with him one night. Now he doesn't care about him anymore. How does he just...UGH!" Odion blinked at his young master. It was as if Malik had been the one who was dumped, not his Yami, "Malik, he'll deal with his problem, don't worry for him."
"But he's so sad. And it's making me sad. I don't know why." Malik mumbled. Odion nodded, "It's because you two share your feelings. Marik told me that he tries not to vent his through you, but he can't always stop them. That's why I can tell how you're feeling by talking to him." Malik glanced over his shoulder to Odion, "Really? I feel...Violated." Odion smirked, "Oh don't be like that. He's you. There's no harm in him knowing why you act the way you do." Malik sat properly on the couch once more, "I suppose that's true. But I feel so... guilty. I mean, he bottles up everything and he hides from me even though I'd help him." Odion folded his arms, "Yes, I asked why he does that. Now, I'm not sure whether this is true or not, but he's told me that most of what he feels is pain and he doesn't want you to ever feel the way he does. Quite a martyr I'd say... He really loves you, Malik. I don't even think he loves Bakura more. Not in the sense that you two would ever get married, no, no... But more like a soul mate thing. Do you understand?" The teen nodded though quite astonished.
Serenity sighed as she climbed atop her bicycle. Snapping the clasp of her helmet below her neck together, she pushed up her kickstand with her left foot. Putting her feet to the pedals of the bike, she rode down the driveway and onto the sidewalk, relieved to hear the yelling of her father and brother fade in the distance behind her. They fought more often now and sometimes the pressure was a lot to take. Even so, the experience left her very open to others' problems which were partially the reason for this evening bike ride. Thanks to Joey she hadn't been able to speak with Marik and she worried so much for him. Now it was her goal to sit and speak with him for the first time in a long while. After their encounter with Domestique, they were closer for a time. But their peers drove them apart. Sometimes she wondered whether her friends really practiced all of the friendship techniques and acceptance they preached.
The wind felt good in her hair. The sun wasn't as high in the sky. In fact, it was getting quite dim. This meant no extra heat to contend with. Stopping at a street corner, Serenity checked for cars before crossing. Marik didn't live too far and so it was worth the trip. Yet even if it were miles, she still would have come. When the comfortable looking house of the Ishtar family came into view, Serenity smiled softly. Marik's company was something she normally enjoyed. It satisfied her to see him smile because she was one of the few who knew of his depression. After passing a few houses, Serenity swooped up Malik's driveway and rang the small bell on her handlebars to announce her arrival. He paused near the side of the house, getting off of her bike and putting up the kickstand. She took off her helmet and hung it off of the left handlebar.
Malik perked to the tinkling bell noise from outside. Walking to the door, he glanced passed the small curtain hanging over it, "Oh, its Serenity. What's she doing here?" Malik opened the door with a smile as the girl approached it, "Hi." Serenity smiled in return, "Hello, Malik. I'm sorry for not calling first. You know how things are at my house." Malik nodded, "Yea, it's ok. Would you like to come in?" Serenity nodded, "Yes please." Malik stepped aside and let her come in, shutting the door, "So, what'cha need?" Serenity smoothed her hair with her hand, "Well, I was hoping to talk to Marik, is he home?" Malik nodded, "Ah, thought so. Yes, he is. But he's gotten sick." Serenity gave a look of pity, "Poor thing..." Malik noticed the disheartened tone she used, "But if you want to talk to him I think that's ok." Serenity instantly brightened, "Oh, really? Not a problem I hope?" Malik shook his head, "Nah. He'd probably feel better talking to you anyway. I know I would." Malik made a face, blushing slightly.
Serenity giggled, "Aw, you're so cute... Come show me where Marik is so you can save yourself some embarrassment?" Malik went ahead and led Serenity to Marik's room, "I'll be around somewhere if you need me ok?" Serenity nodded and Malik walked away. Turning the doorknob, Serenity quietly entered Marik's room. She smiled softly at his sleeping form. Since he had moved around, Marik had left enough room for Serenity to sit beside him which she did. And since he faced her, she could see the discomfort of illness painted in his features. Sweat beaded on his forehead, hinting that his fever was still raging. To test her theory, Serenity gently placed her hand to his cheek. The flesh beneath her palm still burned and she sighed, "You must feel terrible..." Not wanting to wake him just yet, Serenity admired him while stroking his face and petting his hair a bit.
Serenity withdrew her hand to her lap as she noticed Marik's eyes fluttering open, "Oh, hello." Marik, who had been ready to sit up in alarm, smiled weakly and relaxed once more, "Hey. What are you doing here; won't your brother yell at you?" Serenity pushed a lock of hair behind her ear, "Most likely. But I don't mind. I came to talk to you. I don't really understand the whole Vampire mess or what else is going on. I never get to see you. If it isn't too much trouble for you, please talk to me?" Marik sighed and maneuvered to lay on his side, looking up at Serenity, "Well what did you expect? I'm not too popular if you haven't noticed." Serenity nodded, "Yea, but if I were you I wouldn't want to be popular among the people I know. And I'm not. I guess that's why I like you, you're similar to me. Tea and all of them say they accept differences and do what they can in the name of friendship... I don't see it, do you?"
Marik sighed, "I have too much blood on my hands to be accepted." Serenity frowned, "You aren't a bad person... And they call you a monster and all sorts of terrible things. I want so badly to say that you're not, but then they'll spread rumors about me too. Why doesn't anyone want to know you? Am I the only one who sees how hurt you are?" Marik was staring by this point at the girl's level of comprehension. Serenity looked at the floor, "I get so mad sometimes. They aren't judges. They can't just label you. They can't... And you don't do anything either. You just take the insults and... You don't do anything. Do you just keep it inside?" Marik found his words after a moment, "Where else could I store my pain? In others? That would be so simple, but then they would be grieving as well. You see, sadness is a disease. And it's one I've been trying to keep to myself. And yes, it is making me sick, but it's still my illness. And as long as you don't turn away from me I'll be alright. You instill hope in me that otherwise I wouldn't have. You and the few others I care for are all that I have. So you're doing your part."
Marik shifted uncomfortably, "Let's talk about something uplifting for a change before I make you cry." Serenity smiled at Marik who did the same, "You're funny when you want to be." She said half-heartedly. Marik moved to sit up but he found Serenity helping him. He blinked at her and they both kind of stared at each other for a moment. The trance was broken soon and Marik smirked, sitting on his own, though using his arm to prop himself up. Serenity tilted her head causing her hair to fall over her shoulder like a wave of honey, "It looks like you've been crying. I won't tell anyone, don't worry, but let me know what's going on ok?" Marik shrugged, "Eh. I know you won't tell anyone. I'm just a little messed up over someone right now." Serenity leaned sideways in front of Marik, "Oh? Tell me about it won't you? What's she doing to make you so depressed?" Marik blinked, "She?" Serenity blushed, "Oh, I thought you meant you were all... Over a girl and yea. Well who and what is it then?" Marik laughed a bit, breaking a cold sweat, "No, no. It is...a girl. Yeah." Serenity blinked and sat upright again, "Right. So, what's wrong?" The thought of Bakura being a girl threw off his train of thought for a minute or so and his mind couldn't stop laughing.
"Well I really love her..." Marik tried to explain. Serenity nodded politely. "She's playing with my mind. I really can't take it. With so much going on. I finally got to telling her that I loved her and... She made me think she did too. But now she acts like she wants me dead. She even insinuated that I was a toy to her. Serenity, how can someone be like that? I thought I knew enough to think that my feelings were worth something. Are they?" Serenity pouted, "Of course they are! Whoever did this is a terrible person!" Serenity's expression softened the more she noticed Marik's distress, "Marik... God, look at you. You're falling to pieces." Marik shifted his jaw and slouched, "Really?" Marik looked down at his hands, "Ra, help me. I am..." Marik shut his eyes, "What can I do? He won't listen." Serenity arched an eyebrow, "He?" Marik's eyes flew opened wide, "I...I said She. You're mistaken." He stammered. Serenity made a face, "You said He."
Marik denied, "No, I'm sure I said She." Serenity shook her head, "I heard He." "...She." "No, He." "It was She." "You're lying, it was He." "She." "He." "She!" "He!" "She!" "He!" "She!" "You said He! Now you're just being silly," Serenity blatantly stated. Malik appeared at the doorway, "What are you two yelling about?" Marik whipped his head in Malik's direction, "Tell her I said She!" He whined while pointing at Serenity. Malik blinked... Slowly... "Um...He said She..?" "Ha!" Marik grinned with a sense of satisfaction. "He couldn't hear; he was in the other room!" Serenity protested as she folded her arms. Malik blinked, "What were you arguing over anyway?" "Oh, Marik was talking to me about this girl he likes and then-"Malik frowned in confusion, "Girl? What girl?" Marik winced and moved an index finger across his neck as if to signal that Malik was saying something wrong. Serenity got suspicious and looked at Marik just as he whipped his hand behind his head and scratched it innocently, looking off toward the wall.
Malik suddenly seemed to remember, "Oh, her. Right, sorry, I'm not thinking." She frowned, "You're covering for him. I know it!" Serenity looked between the two with unease, "Wait, does this mean..." Marik blushed wildly and slapped himself in the face, covering his eyes with his hand. Malik laughed nervously, "Erm...surprise?" Serenity stared for a moment, "Marik's...gay?" Now Serenity felt a blush rising on her own face as a result of the awkward situation. The dark spirit couldn't even look at the other two present, "..." His whole face felt hot with embarrassment. He felt as if he needed to get out of there and fast. Yet he was still ill. Marik lowered his hand, looking a bit dizzy. His eyes crossed slightly and he fell back down to where he had been lying previously. Serenity gasped, "Marik, are you ok?" Malik frowned and walked over to the two. Marik's pupils swam in his eyes a bit before he could focus, "I don't feel so well..." Serenity felt his forehead once more, "You're burning up! Malik, he could get brain damage or something! Go find something to cool him down, I'll keep him awake so he doesn't slip into a coma or anything."
Malik's eyes went wide at the mention of brain damage. Serenity eased the thermometer which was resting near the bed into Marik's mouth in order to determine how close to brain damage he really was. The spirit groaned quietly and shut his eyes. Malik turned and sprinted from the room, nearly crashing into the wall across from the room. He entered the kitchen and grabbed a dishtowel and turned the cold water on full. He plunged the towel into the water and rang it out slightly, turning off the water afterwards. He rushed back to Marik's room in time to see Serenity removing the thermometer, "Oh, god! He's running a fever of 105!" Malik made it to Serenity's side in no time at all and laid the cool wet towel over Marik's forehead. He then strode over to the wall and switched on the ceiling fan. Serenity's hair blew about slightly due to the sudden wind as her worried gaze fell on Marik. He was trembling now from intense discomfort which Serenity could only aid by holding his hand in her own.
Marik's trembling lessened rather quickly and when Serenity went to feel his cheek again, she emitted a relieved sigh, "He's only above normal by one or so degrees. I think the fever broke..." Malik slumped in relief after having been so tense, "Thank you..." Serenity thought for a minute, "So...Was he talking about you before when he mentioned a girl..?" Malik's jaw dropped and he quite nearly fell down. A blush consumed his face by the time the sentence was finished, "HELL NO!" Serenity winced, "Jeez, I'm sorry, Malik. I was only wondering..." "That's...Really none of your business, no offense..." Malik uttered. Serenity nodded and then glanced back to Marik, "He's so brave--doing what he's doing for you. What he's doing for all of us really. He's so worried about everyone else that he forgets to take care of himself and now he's worked himself to illness. Sometimes he reminds me of a little kid, you know?" Malik nodded unbeknownst to Serenity whose gaze was averted. He did know, and he saw more of the fact the closer he looked. Serenity stood, "I should get going. It will be dark soon and Joey will worry." Malik nodded, "Ok. Thanks for stopping by... That was nice of you." Serenity was shown to the door by Malik who hung around the door frame for a moment or so. Serenity rang the bell on her bike and smiled to herself. Malik returned the gesture and retreated inside.
Moonlight shone in through the window of Marik's room. The window itself was open a tad to allow the breeze to keep the room cool. A very sick and very unsettled Marik opened his eyes wearily, looking at the window to his right. His shallow breathes came in broken and a clot of something or another agitated his throat. Of course nothing was really there, only the tight grip of depression which thrashed him like no mortal hands ever could. There was no sleep for him that night. He could tell by the height of the moon that everyone was asleep. Serenity had long gone and Malik was deep within his own personal dreams. Sitting up slowly, Marik's blankets slid off of his torso and collected in his lap. He pulled himself from bed though he was sternly instructed not to. Reprimand would be in order, but that didn't matter to him. He strode towards his closet, his feet dragging upon the carpet as he limped along. His hand collapsed limply on the handle as he steadied himself against the door. He then drew it open with a stuttering swing. Casting aside a hanging outfit or two, the dark spirit narrowed his eyes in sadness. Folded neatly within the darkness was a tattered black cape. Beside it rested a pair of beige cargo pants and an onyx tank top. There it was--the look which had earned him his current reputation as a monster. And he had promised Malik that he would burn it...
----
The hallway was silent. It was always silent when Marik came to visit Ryou. But this time it was cold. And as he headed downstairs, his mind swam, Why does he make this so hard? Frowning, Marik came to the bottom of the staircase where he paused, He acted like he cared and... Looking over his shoulder, Marik winced as he thought about the one he left behind, Now he doesn't? It makes no sense. Marik looked down to his hand on the railing, realizing that he had been gripping it tightly this entire time. He released it and stepped away from the staircase. The door to the apartment complex wasn't far away, yet he stumbled toward it. Once the cold air outside hit his face, he knew he couldn't leave. Luckily, there was a bench nearby, so he maneuvered his way over to it and sat down, closing his eyes and letting the depression hit him.
Ryou shook his head and rubbed his eyes, "Whu- Where's Marik? Bakura, what did you two talk about?" Glancing at a nearby clock, Ryou noticed that their meeting hadn't lasted more than a few minutes. Yet again, Ryou was greeted with silence. With a sigh, Ryou prepared to sit on the couch and read a book, but he noticed something. Bending at the waist, Ryou plucked a folded note from the couch cushion, "I didn't write this...Marik must have dropped it when he came by." Ryou bit his lower lip. He really shouldn't open it, but... In the end, the teen's curiosity peaked and he sat down in a corner of the couch, looking at the note. Bakura's name was scrawled across the front in neat cursive that made the note all the more interesting. Ryou unfolded the paper and smoothed it out before reading it.
"If you promise not to hurt me, I will stay beside you. I hope you know that I've never opened up to anyone else like this before, so it's difficult to explain what I'm feeling. I'm so happy that you've returned my feelings; I don't feel so alone?" Ryou paused, frowning. "Something tells me Bakura doesn't feel the way you think he does.." Ryou muttered. Dragging his legs up onto the couch, Ryou continued reading, "Love you a lot...See you soon. What does he think he's doing? Bakura would kill him if he read this!" Ryou folded the note, thinking of what to do with it when suddenly a voice invaded his mind, What are you up to, mortal? Ryou jumped and mentally squeaked, N...nothing, Bakura! The spirit wasn't convinced, You sound frantic. Did I interrupt something?
The teen shifted uneasily, I was just reading...A book. Ryou quickly disposed of the note by hiding it between the pages of the book in his hand. Is it a good book, mortal? Bakura hissed. Ryou yelped in surprise since the hissing was in his ear, not in his head. He dropped his book and turned to Bakura who was standing beside him in his projected astral form. Bakura glanced to the fallen book, noticing the slip of paper which fell from its pages, "That's an odd bookmark you have there." Ryou froze. Bakura lifted his gaze, "Why does it have my name on it?" Ryou moved his mouth wordlessly which agitated Bakura, "Pick it up and let me see." Ryou blinked, "Uh...why?" Bakura narrowed his eyes, "Do it." Ryou reluctantly retrieved it and held it up for Bakura to see his own written name. "Now unfold it." The spirit instructed. Ryou sighed and did as told. "Good..." Bakura muttered as he read the note.
Bakura growled as he finished reading, "I'll kill him..." Ryou saw him make a move to re-enter the ring and Ryou's body, "I wrote it!" Bakura gawked at the teen who blushed at having blurted out such an outrageous statement, "What..?" Ryou swallowed nervously and repeated himself, "I wrote the note." Bakura grinned devilishly, "Oh really now? You love me, do you, mortal? That's certainly interesting...I forget, you've been sleeping with me for years." Ryou looked uncomfortable and his blush hadn't faded, "Well...I..." Bakura seemed amused. He sat down on the couch close to Ryou, "And all this time I thought you were innocent. But no matter. You may not realize it, mortal, but I'm a liar too. You need a little work with your act. Trying to be a martyr won't save Marik."
Ryou watched him get up and walk over to the window, "He hasn't left yet, I feel him." Ryou set the note on the table, "Don't hurt him. Please." Bakura chuckled and walked back over to Ryou, "Don't worry, you won't remember a thing..." Ryou bowed his head as Bakura returned to his body. Bakura, having taken control of the boy, left the couch and headed for the door, donning a pair of shoes before stepping out into the hallway and calmly making his way down the stairs and outside. Marik heard the apartment door open and became very still. Bakura sneered, "So, you're still here. Do I have to kick you to make you go home?" There was no answer. Bakura frowned, "I'm talking to you, faggot, and look at me when I'm speaking." He proceeded to march over to Marik and glare down at him.
He stood there waiting with an odd expression on his face. It was a mix between annoyance and anticipation, Why isn't he answering? Bakura growled, "Look at me, damn you." When he received further silence, he reached down and grabbed the front of Marik's shirt. Bakura blinked as Marik's right hand closed around his wrist. This time, Marik lifted his gaze to Bakura, hate burning in his eyes. Bakura smirked, "That's better." He released Marik, expecting him to do the same, but he didn't, "Let go of me." Bakura was slightly unsettled, He won't try hurting me. He knows he'll only hurt the mortal. Marik rose from the bench and shoved Bakura back, releasing his wrist. Bakura rubbed the afflicted area, wincing as it did hurt. He looked to Marik in time to see him raise a right-handed fist to his left hand and crack his knuckles.
"What do you think you're doing?" Bakura stammered. Marik's frown deepened and he charged at Bakura. Bakura darted aside as Marik came at him and went wide-eyed. Marik wanted a fight? But this vessel was too weak! Marik stopped himself and turned, grabbing hold of Bakura's left arm and launching his fist into the base of Bakura's neck. The silver-haired spirit hissed as a nerve was pinched and the searing pain ran through his spine. Marik wasn't finished yet. He twisted Bakura's arm behind him and kicked him in the lower back, sending him sailing toward the bench. Bakura collided with the bench, tripping over it and landing harshly on the wood. He groaned and tried to get away. Marik snarled and followed the fleeing spirit, grabbing him by the hair. Bakura, who had been at a full sprint, emitted a yelp of pain as Marik reeled him in. Marik socked Bakura in the jaw and soon the taste of blood ran over his tongue as his canine tooth punctured his lower lip.
Bakura struggled in Marik's hold and landed a kick to his crotch despite the obvious unfairness of the move. Marik released him instantly and backed off, hissing in agony. Bakura wiped his mouth, shocked at the blood flow he discovered. Bakura produced his ever present switchblade. Either it was the traditional knife or he had obtained a new one. But nevertheless, there it was, gleaming in the afternoon sun. Bakura held it out protectively, "Stay back." Marik stood, growling like a feral animal. Bakura could swear he saw a glint of red in his eyes, "Impossible. You can't still be a Vampire!" Marik sneered and regained a confident posture, "No, not anymore. However, I'm not human either. I'm trapped in between, Bakura. Because of you!" He pointed accusingly.
Bakura furrowed his brow in confusion, "I did nothing!" Marik seemed to burn with rage, "That's the problem. You -didn't- do anything. You never warned me of the lethal combination of the spell and my previous suicide attempt. Do I amuse you, Bakura? Do I? Is that why I'm still alive? Am I your little toy?" Bakura huffed, "And if you are..?" Marik seemed surprised, "You will know true pain, Bakura... Oh yes you will..." Bakura didn't like the sound of that. Marik advanced on him again and he blindly slashed with his blade, hoping to effectively strike Marik. Marik's hand bled steadily as he cupped his palm around the serrated knife's edge. Wrenching it free from Bakura's hand, he tossed it aside, "Don't avoid the inevitable death which awaits you..." Bakura spat in frustration before turning away and taking off.
He needed to find a place to hide and quickly too. The Egyptian snarled and took chase. Bakura figured out an effective course of action. He'd pose as Ryou and escape to the home of one of his friends. Yugi lived closest in the game shop, so that's where he headed. It was just down the street. But first, he'd have to slow Marik down. Darting off down an ally, Bakura slid behind some discarded boxes and crouched down. Marik soon after entered that same ally and briefly looked around before spitting in disgust and continuing on. Once he heard Marik's footsteps moving away, Bakura took off running again. Just a little further...
Yugi lifted his head to some frantic yelling from the game shop downstairs, "Yugi, please, help me!" The short boy ran downstairs to see his friend Ryou standing in the center of the shop, panting heavily with blood leaking from his mouth and staining his shirt, "Ryou! What happened?!" Bakura put on a worried look and staggered over to Yugi, "It's Marik. He's trying to kill me." Yugi's eyes widened. He went over to the shop door and locked it, flipping the open sign to closed, "Why is he after you?" Bakura shook his head, "I...I don't know. I didn't know where to go, so I came here." Yugi took pity, "That's alright, Ryou. Come on, let's go upstairs. We can talk with the spirit of my millenium puzzle; maybe he'll know what to do. Bakura nodded sheepishly and followed Yugi behind the counter and down a hall which led to a spiral staircase.
Marik, who had heard Bakura scurry out of the ally, wasn't far behind. He narrowed his eyes at the unwelcome sight in front of him. Though not a normal enemy of Yugi these days, he hated him more than ever for harboring Bakura in his home. He walked up to the game shop door and tested the lock. It was firmly secured. Marik uttered a curse in his native tongue and kicked the base of the door, "BAKURA!" The Egyptian shrieked toward the upper half of the building where the Motos lived. Yugi cringed at the yell and looked towards Yami who sat on Yugi's bed with his arms folded. Yami sighed and stood, walking to the window and looking down. From where he was positioned he could see Marik trying to break the door down, "I'll go talk to him if you don't mind, Yugi."
Yugi thought a moment before nodding, "If you think that will help." Yami vanished from view and a few slight changes took place about Yugi. A more mature aura seemed to set in about his body and he briefly shut his eyes to let the pharaoh take control of his mind. Yami nodded to Bakura before exiting the room. Bakura smirked and sat upon Yugi's bed, waiting to hear any screams from downstairs. Marik ceased his door ramming when he heard the lock click from within. He stood there breathing heavily, waiting. The door swung open and Yami stood there with the eye of Horus glaring at Marik from his forehead. Marik frowned in annoyance, "Where is Bakura?" Yami locked his gaze on Marik, "His name is Ryou. You can't see him right now."
Marik growled, "This is none of your business, pharaoh." Yami lifted an eyebrow, "Ryou is my friend. It is my business. Tell me why you are trying to kill him." A chuckle emitted from the psycho, "He's not Ryou." Yami was beginning to think Marik was crazy, "I see..." Marik frowned at his disbelief, "He's not! He's Bakura and he's wronged me. Now tell me where the hell he is before I start on you!" Marik took a step forward, but the millenium puzzle around Yami's neck gleamed, "Bakura is gone. He was dealt with in Battle City. I think you need to go home and think that over for awhile." Marik's left eye twitched, "Do you have a death wish?" Yami shrugged, "Do you?" Yami noticed the amount of rage building up inside the one standing in front of him. Reaching out, he put a hand on Marik's arm, "Go home, Marik. I'm aware you're under a lot of stress lately but it's no reason for anyone to get hurt."
(Random Commenter: o.O Mai should walk by naked to see what happens. If one of them would blink or something. o.o)
Marik swatted his hand away. Yami gasped in surprise, "Marik..." The dark spirit looked past Yami toward the staircase where Bakura stood grinning, "You dirty little snake..." Yami looked back just as Bakura put on a mock look of worry. Marik took this opportunity to shove Yami aside. Yami collided with a magazine rack and lost his balance, falling to the floor. Marik grinned demonically, "This time I won't let you get away from me..." Bakura backed up the stairs, but not before Marik seized him and threw him up against the wall. Bakura felt himself choking as he was lifted off of the ground. Yami scrambled back to his feet and the millenium puzzle glowed brightly. Marik wasn't paying attention as he kneed Bakura in the gut like he had done oh so many days before. Marik suddenly cried out as the pharaoh used his puzzle to send painful shocks through his head. He released Bakura who clattered to the floor, gasping for breath and coughing up vomit.
Marik fought against the painful mind attacks and abandoned Bakura, darting out the game shop door and disappearing down the road. Yami gave Marik one last spiteful shock before moving over to his injured friend. Bakura wiped his dirty mouth on his sleeve and groaned painfully. Yami helped him to sit up and lean back against the wall, "Ryou, I'm so sorry I couldn't stop him sooner..." Bakura nodded, trying to keep up his act, "That's alright. At least he's gone. Marik found solitude in the depths of a local park, suffering a raging headache and grief. He had so much rage and nothing with which to discharge it. He stopped walking all together and looked to the sky, emitting a ferocious scream of frustration. No matter what he did, Bakura would keep getting shielded with his guise of 'innocent Ryou.' Trying to catch his breath, Marik felt himself fall to his knees. Sitting back on his ankles, Marik looked downward and glared at the grassy earth. Soon his vision became blurred with liquid. The emotions swirled in his chest, pulling him down, pulling him down... After a minute of letting this go on, Marik lifted his head with a forlorn expression on his face. And he cried...
Yami returned to the millenium puzzle and Yugi helped to clean Bakura up. As Yugi tossed aside the cloth he had used to clear the blood from Bakura's mouth, he sighed, "I don't understand what's wrong with him. Bakura's gone. You know he is, right?" Bakura nodded. Yugi frowned and fell silent. Bakura shifted uneasily, "Are you alright, Yugi?" Yugi snapped out of his trance, "Oh, yea. I'm fine. It's just... Do you think we're being a little hard on Marik?" Bakura gawked, "He tried to kill me!" Yugi folded his arms, "Maybe he's finally snapped. That's not something he'd do for no reason..." Bakura shrugged, "I don't know, Yugi. He's been pretty offensive lately; you know?" Yugi nodded after a second or so, "I guess you're right. Do you want to stay awhile just in case?" Bakura shook his head, "No, I don't think that will be necessary. Thanks for helping me, Yugi." Bakura smirked to himself as he left the game shop, heading back to Ryou's apartment.
Malik blinked, hearing his Yami return home. But he didn't come to look for him or greet him; he just went to his room and calmly closed the door. Too calmly. "Yami?" Malik called out as he walked over and knocked on the door. "Come in." Marik yelled back. Malik stepped inside and found Marik lying on his back in bed with his pillow over his face, obscuring his eyes. Malik moved to Marik's bedside and sat down on the mattress, "What's going on..?" Marik sighed, "I don't want to talk about it." Malik frowned and took Marik's left hand into his own, "Please tell me? You have to. Don't keep secrets from me. It's like keeping yourself in the dark." Marik closed his hand around his Hikari's and drew the pillow away from his face with his right hand, "You're right." Malik noticed the red rims at the bottom of Marik's eyes, "You were crying, weren't you?" Marik felt a knot of sorrow the same as before well up in his throat. He didn't want to start again, but a solitary tear fell free, "Yes...I was."
The memory of why he had been crying only brought images of Bakura to light again which was not something he wanted. Marik sat up and drew Malik into a firm embrace. Malik's expression softened as he returned the gesture. "I love him, Hikari. I love him..." Marik sobbed quietly. Malik closed his eyes, understanding what was going on now. Bakura had broken Marik's heart in the cruelest of ways. Why does he hurt you? Why? That's not fair... Malik ran the thought through his mind. He knew he held a child in his arms; a defenseless at heart child. It angered him, but it wasn't any of his business unless his Yami asked for his help. But would he ever? "I know you've never really asked for assistance... Never in a thousand years would you really admit it. But, Marik, if I can help in some way..?" Malik offered.
Marik drew back and stared lovingly at his Hikari for a moment before taking the teen's chin into his hand. "You are doing a lot for me right now. Ah light..." he admired his Hikari's caring expression before releasing him, "Ra help me if I really deserve to know you." Malik sat watching his Yami wipe the tears from his eyes with the back of his hand, getting angrier at Bakura by the second. Marik noted his light's feelings, "I'm afraid I... attacked Bakura earlier. Hm, that means I hurt Ryou as well. Please forgive me... I tend to forget that they share a body when he makes me mad." Marik liked Ryou. He was a good friend. Knowing that he'd hit him made him feel quite low. Malik sighed, "I really wish you hadn't, but it's alright. Look, maybe you should get some rest and calm down." Malik noticed the way his Yami was slouching and put a hand to his forehead, "Uh! You've got a fever. Has it been like this all day? Lay down!"
Marik complied though he didn't like being babied, "I wouldn't know, I haven't checked. I'm ok, Hikari. I really don't think I need to lie down." Malik wasn't convinced; he left the room and promptly returned with a thermometer which he stuck into Marik's mouth before he could protest. Marik grumbled in the back of his throat but tolerated the treatment he was receiving. The thermometer beeped and Malik held it up to read it, "Tch. 100? You're walking around like this and it doesn't bother you?" Malik sighed, "You're too stubborn, even for me. Get some rest, Marik." Marik shifted his jaw, "I'm not tired." "No?" "No..." "Not even a little?" "Well maybe a little..." "More than a little?" "You got me." Marik admitted with a defeated tone. Malik smiled and stood, "Rest, you stubborn Baka. I don't want to have to stay here and make sure you do." Marik smiled slightly, "Ok, Light, I'll sleep." Malik started to leave the room, "I'll check on you later and see how you're feeling. Don't you dare let me find you walking around the house. If I do, I'll come over there...And nothing will happen." Marik laughed, "Oh my, wouldn't want that!" Malik chuckled and shut the door.
Malik found Odion in the hallway. The two had spoken about Marik while he was gone and so the Hikari now knew what the Yami was going through. Odion was generally very perceptive in the case of a lot of things. Malik grinned, seeing his guardian, "Hello, Odion." The man nodded, "I see you two are even closer than before." Malik nodded, "I was wrong about him. He's not just the ruthless monster everyone sees him as. Come to think of it, I should change their views..." Odion followed Malik to the living room, "He's a lot like a kitten, don't you agree?" Malik dropped down onto the couch, "Mm-hm. A kitten with PMS perhaps but yea." Odion chuckled, resting his astral form beside Malik. Malik frowned then, looking aloof, "Bakura though. He's another story." Turning to the armrest of the couch, Malik let his arms hang over it, "He makes me so mad. That asshole!"
Malik sighed, knowing that Marik didn't want him to interfere, "I suppose you know already about him and Marik. It doesn't bother you does it? That they're...Well you know?" Odion arched an eyebrow, "Homosexual? You can say the word, it's not derogative. No, I'm not bothered. Love is still there regardless of gender. And I know you're going to ask next, but no, I don't think you're homosexual as well." Malik went red in the face; thankfully he was facing away from Odion, "Gee, thanks, Odion." He nodded, "My pleasure." Malik lifted his hands to his head and rubbed his temples, "I don't get it. Why is Bakura so cruel? I mean I know how cruel Marik was, but he got better. And now he likes Bakura. And Bakura even slept with him one night. Now he doesn't care about him anymore. How does he just...UGH!" Odion blinked at his young master. It was as if Malik had been the one who was dumped, not his Yami, "Malik, he'll deal with his problem, don't worry for him."
"But he's so sad. And it's making me sad. I don't know why." Malik mumbled. Odion nodded, "It's because you two share your feelings. Marik told me that he tries not to vent his through you, but he can't always stop them. That's why I can tell how you're feeling by talking to him." Malik glanced over his shoulder to Odion, "Really? I feel...Violated." Odion smirked, "Oh don't be like that. He's you. There's no harm in him knowing why you act the way you do." Malik sat properly on the couch once more, "I suppose that's true. But I feel so... guilty. I mean, he bottles up everything and he hides from me even though I'd help him." Odion folded his arms, "Yes, I asked why he does that. Now, I'm not sure whether this is true or not, but he's told me that most of what he feels is pain and he doesn't want you to ever feel the way he does. Quite a martyr I'd say... He really loves you, Malik. I don't even think he loves Bakura more. Not in the sense that you two would ever get married, no, no... But more like a soul mate thing. Do you understand?" The teen nodded though quite astonished.
Serenity sighed as she climbed atop her bicycle. Snapping the clasp of her helmet below her neck together, she pushed up her kickstand with her left foot. Putting her feet to the pedals of the bike, she rode down the driveway and onto the sidewalk, relieved to hear the yelling of her father and brother fade in the distance behind her. They fought more often now and sometimes the pressure was a lot to take. Even so, the experience left her very open to others' problems which were partially the reason for this evening bike ride. Thanks to Joey she hadn't been able to speak with Marik and she worried so much for him. Now it was her goal to sit and speak with him for the first time in a long while. After their encounter with Domestique, they were closer for a time. But their peers drove them apart. Sometimes she wondered whether her friends really practiced all of the friendship techniques and acceptance they preached.
The wind felt good in her hair. The sun wasn't as high in the sky. In fact, it was getting quite dim. This meant no extra heat to contend with. Stopping at a street corner, Serenity checked for cars before crossing. Marik didn't live too far and so it was worth the trip. Yet even if it were miles, she still would have come. When the comfortable looking house of the Ishtar family came into view, Serenity smiled softly. Marik's company was something she normally enjoyed. It satisfied her to see him smile because she was one of the few who knew of his depression. After passing a few houses, Serenity swooped up Malik's driveway and rang the small bell on her handlebars to announce her arrival. He paused near the side of the house, getting off of her bike and putting up the kickstand. She took off her helmet and hung it off of the left handlebar.
Malik perked to the tinkling bell noise from outside. Walking to the door, he glanced passed the small curtain hanging over it, "Oh, its Serenity. What's she doing here?" Malik opened the door with a smile as the girl approached it, "Hi." Serenity smiled in return, "Hello, Malik. I'm sorry for not calling first. You know how things are at my house." Malik nodded, "Yea, it's ok. Would you like to come in?" Serenity nodded, "Yes please." Malik stepped aside and let her come in, shutting the door, "So, what'cha need?" Serenity smoothed her hair with her hand, "Well, I was hoping to talk to Marik, is he home?" Malik nodded, "Ah, thought so. Yes, he is. But he's gotten sick." Serenity gave a look of pity, "Poor thing..." Malik noticed the disheartened tone she used, "But if you want to talk to him I think that's ok." Serenity instantly brightened, "Oh, really? Not a problem I hope?" Malik shook his head, "Nah. He'd probably feel better talking to you anyway. I know I would." Malik made a face, blushing slightly.
Serenity giggled, "Aw, you're so cute... Come show me where Marik is so you can save yourself some embarrassment?" Malik went ahead and led Serenity to Marik's room, "I'll be around somewhere if you need me ok?" Serenity nodded and Malik walked away. Turning the doorknob, Serenity quietly entered Marik's room. She smiled softly at his sleeping form. Since he had moved around, Marik had left enough room for Serenity to sit beside him which she did. And since he faced her, she could see the discomfort of illness painted in his features. Sweat beaded on his forehead, hinting that his fever was still raging. To test her theory, Serenity gently placed her hand to his cheek. The flesh beneath her palm still burned and she sighed, "You must feel terrible..." Not wanting to wake him just yet, Serenity admired him while stroking his face and petting his hair a bit.
Serenity withdrew her hand to her lap as she noticed Marik's eyes fluttering open, "Oh, hello." Marik, who had been ready to sit up in alarm, smiled weakly and relaxed once more, "Hey. What are you doing here; won't your brother yell at you?" Serenity pushed a lock of hair behind her ear, "Most likely. But I don't mind. I came to talk to you. I don't really understand the whole Vampire mess or what else is going on. I never get to see you. If it isn't too much trouble for you, please talk to me?" Marik sighed and maneuvered to lay on his side, looking up at Serenity, "Well what did you expect? I'm not too popular if you haven't noticed." Serenity nodded, "Yea, but if I were you I wouldn't want to be popular among the people I know. And I'm not. I guess that's why I like you, you're similar to me. Tea and all of them say they accept differences and do what they can in the name of friendship... I don't see it, do you?"
Marik sighed, "I have too much blood on my hands to be accepted." Serenity frowned, "You aren't a bad person... And they call you a monster and all sorts of terrible things. I want so badly to say that you're not, but then they'll spread rumors about me too. Why doesn't anyone want to know you? Am I the only one who sees how hurt you are?" Marik was staring by this point at the girl's level of comprehension. Serenity looked at the floor, "I get so mad sometimes. They aren't judges. They can't just label you. They can't... And you don't do anything either. You just take the insults and... You don't do anything. Do you just keep it inside?" Marik found his words after a moment, "Where else could I store my pain? In others? That would be so simple, but then they would be grieving as well. You see, sadness is a disease. And it's one I've been trying to keep to myself. And yes, it is making me sick, but it's still my illness. And as long as you don't turn away from me I'll be alright. You instill hope in me that otherwise I wouldn't have. You and the few others I care for are all that I have. So you're doing your part."
Marik shifted uncomfortably, "Let's talk about something uplifting for a change before I make you cry." Serenity smiled at Marik who did the same, "You're funny when you want to be." She said half-heartedly. Marik moved to sit up but he found Serenity helping him. He blinked at her and they both kind of stared at each other for a moment. The trance was broken soon and Marik smirked, sitting on his own, though using his arm to prop himself up. Serenity tilted her head causing her hair to fall over her shoulder like a wave of honey, "It looks like you've been crying. I won't tell anyone, don't worry, but let me know what's going on ok?" Marik shrugged, "Eh. I know you won't tell anyone. I'm just a little messed up over someone right now." Serenity leaned sideways in front of Marik, "Oh? Tell me about it won't you? What's she doing to make you so depressed?" Marik blinked, "She?" Serenity blushed, "Oh, I thought you meant you were all... Over a girl and yea. Well who and what is it then?" Marik laughed a bit, breaking a cold sweat, "No, no. It is...a girl. Yeah." Serenity blinked and sat upright again, "Right. So, what's wrong?" The thought of Bakura being a girl threw off his train of thought for a minute or so and his mind couldn't stop laughing.
"Well I really love her..." Marik tried to explain. Serenity nodded politely. "She's playing with my mind. I really can't take it. With so much going on. I finally got to telling her that I loved her and... She made me think she did too. But now she acts like she wants me dead. She even insinuated that I was a toy to her. Serenity, how can someone be like that? I thought I knew enough to think that my feelings were worth something. Are they?" Serenity pouted, "Of course they are! Whoever did this is a terrible person!" Serenity's expression softened the more she noticed Marik's distress, "Marik... God, look at you. You're falling to pieces." Marik shifted his jaw and slouched, "Really?" Marik looked down at his hands, "Ra, help me. I am..." Marik shut his eyes, "What can I do? He won't listen." Serenity arched an eyebrow, "He?" Marik's eyes flew opened wide, "I...I said She. You're mistaken." He stammered. Serenity made a face, "You said He."
Marik denied, "No, I'm sure I said She." Serenity shook her head, "I heard He." "...She." "No, He." "It was She." "You're lying, it was He." "She." "He." "She!" "He!" "She!" "He!" "She!" "You said He! Now you're just being silly," Serenity blatantly stated. Malik appeared at the doorway, "What are you two yelling about?" Marik whipped his head in Malik's direction, "Tell her I said She!" He whined while pointing at Serenity. Malik blinked... Slowly... "Um...He said She..?" "Ha!" Marik grinned with a sense of satisfaction. "He couldn't hear; he was in the other room!" Serenity protested as she folded her arms. Malik blinked, "What were you arguing over anyway?" "Oh, Marik was talking to me about this girl he likes and then-"Malik frowned in confusion, "Girl? What girl?" Marik winced and moved an index finger across his neck as if to signal that Malik was saying something wrong. Serenity got suspicious and looked at Marik just as he whipped his hand behind his head and scratched it innocently, looking off toward the wall.
Malik suddenly seemed to remember, "Oh, her. Right, sorry, I'm not thinking." She frowned, "You're covering for him. I know it!" Serenity looked between the two with unease, "Wait, does this mean..." Marik blushed wildly and slapped himself in the face, covering his eyes with his hand. Malik laughed nervously, "Erm...surprise?" Serenity stared for a moment, "Marik's...gay?" Now Serenity felt a blush rising on her own face as a result of the awkward situation. The dark spirit couldn't even look at the other two present, "..." His whole face felt hot with embarrassment. He felt as if he needed to get out of there and fast. Yet he was still ill. Marik lowered his hand, looking a bit dizzy. His eyes crossed slightly and he fell back down to where he had been lying previously. Serenity gasped, "Marik, are you ok?" Malik frowned and walked over to the two. Marik's pupils swam in his eyes a bit before he could focus, "I don't feel so well..." Serenity felt his forehead once more, "You're burning up! Malik, he could get brain damage or something! Go find something to cool him down, I'll keep him awake so he doesn't slip into a coma or anything."
Malik's eyes went wide at the mention of brain damage. Serenity eased the thermometer which was resting near the bed into Marik's mouth in order to determine how close to brain damage he really was. The spirit groaned quietly and shut his eyes. Malik turned and sprinted from the room, nearly crashing into the wall across from the room. He entered the kitchen and grabbed a dishtowel and turned the cold water on full. He plunged the towel into the water and rang it out slightly, turning off the water afterwards. He rushed back to Marik's room in time to see Serenity removing the thermometer, "Oh, god! He's running a fever of 105!" Malik made it to Serenity's side in no time at all and laid the cool wet towel over Marik's forehead. He then strode over to the wall and switched on the ceiling fan. Serenity's hair blew about slightly due to the sudden wind as her worried gaze fell on Marik. He was trembling now from intense discomfort which Serenity could only aid by holding his hand in her own.
Marik's trembling lessened rather quickly and when Serenity went to feel his cheek again, she emitted a relieved sigh, "He's only above normal by one or so degrees. I think the fever broke..." Malik slumped in relief after having been so tense, "Thank you..." Serenity thought for a minute, "So...Was he talking about you before when he mentioned a girl..?" Malik's jaw dropped and he quite nearly fell down. A blush consumed his face by the time the sentence was finished, "HELL NO!" Serenity winced, "Jeez, I'm sorry, Malik. I was only wondering..." "That's...Really none of your business, no offense..." Malik uttered. Serenity nodded and then glanced back to Marik, "He's so brave--doing what he's doing for you. What he's doing for all of us really. He's so worried about everyone else that he forgets to take care of himself and now he's worked himself to illness. Sometimes he reminds me of a little kid, you know?" Malik nodded unbeknownst to Serenity whose gaze was averted. He did know, and he saw more of the fact the closer he looked. Serenity stood, "I should get going. It will be dark soon and Joey will worry." Malik nodded, "Ok. Thanks for stopping by... That was nice of you." Serenity was shown to the door by Malik who hung around the door frame for a moment or so. Serenity rang the bell on her bike and smiled to herself. Malik returned the gesture and retreated inside.
Moonlight shone in through the window of Marik's room. The window itself was open a tad to allow the breeze to keep the room cool. A very sick and very unsettled Marik opened his eyes wearily, looking at the window to his right. His shallow breathes came in broken and a clot of something or another agitated his throat. Of course nothing was really there, only the tight grip of depression which thrashed him like no mortal hands ever could. There was no sleep for him that night. He could tell by the height of the moon that everyone was asleep. Serenity had long gone and Malik was deep within his own personal dreams. Sitting up slowly, Marik's blankets slid off of his torso and collected in his lap. He pulled himself from bed though he was sternly instructed not to. Reprimand would be in order, but that didn't matter to him. He strode towards his closet, his feet dragging upon the carpet as he limped along. His hand collapsed limply on the handle as he steadied himself against the door. He then drew it open with a stuttering swing. Casting aside a hanging outfit or two, the dark spirit narrowed his eyes in sadness. Folded neatly within the darkness was a tattered black cape. Beside it rested a pair of beige cargo pants and an onyx tank top. There it was--the look which had earned him his current reputation as a monster. And he had promised Malik that he would burn it...