Sorry I couldn't get this up as quick as I thought! I'm so sorry! Personal, emotional stuff. You know the stuff that you often see in angst? Especially Ryou angst, where he commits suicide and whatnot? Yeah, well, imagine that storyline in real life...that's what I've been dealing with lately. So pardon me if this thing was so late! I'm so sorry!

(bows) Okay. Now. Chapter 16. Two more chapters to go!

Oh yes, and for those of you who wanted explicit lemon but didn't get it in your e-mails? This is because I'm using that explicit lemon for this upcoming lemon in the next chapter. So do not be disappointed, my readers!

READ AND REVIEW!


Chapter Sixteen

When Ryou woke up the next morning, it was unusually dark. Also, how he had awakened was a little unnerving also. His body began to tremble, as it always did when there was someone unfamiliar next to him, or at least, close to him. Immediately, he began to shudder, tensing as he slowly sat up, wary of his unfamiliar predator. He hesitantly brought his fingers to his face, and found, once again, a blindfold.

"Oh, Marik…" Ryou sighed exasperatedly. He wasn't quite in the mood for romping now, but as he thought back, perhaps he had been a little too emotional with Marik. Despite there were things Ryou would rather do with their limited time than romping, that didn't give him the right to walk out on Marik like he did last night.

"Good morning, Ryou," came Marik's voice, the smirk obvious on his face as the Egyptian gently took Ryou's hand. "Come on. Get up."

Sighing, Ryou did so, flinching when he realized that his torso was quite bare; the air in the room was utterly cold, and his shirt still had to be mended.

"Stay here."

Ryou did as he was told, standing entirely still, before he felt Marik slip something across his torso. Realizing what it was, Ryou struggled to attempt to find the crevices of the shirt, finally allowing Marik to guide his arms through the sleeves. As he felt Marik button his shirt, Ryou couldn't help but feel a little nervous. What was going on?

"There," came Marik's voice smugly. "You look lovely."

Weakly, Ryou swallowed. "Umn…Marik? What are you doing?"

Okay. He could definitely hear the smirk in Marik's reply.

"You'll see."

Suddenly, Ryou felt himself being swooped up in someone's arms. He yelped and clung on tight to the first thing that he felt, which he presumed was Marik's neck. He clutched on tight, whimpering slightly in protest, before he felt Marik's lips brush pass his ear fleetingly.

"It's okay."

The Egyptian began to carry Ryou off; doors opened and shut, hallways turned, swiveled, and twisted, before Ryou felt Marik begin a flight of stairs. Soon, he could hear the door open, and suddenly, cool air blew against them both. Ryou shivered slightly, feeling Marik climb more steps, before he heard the soft sound of gears turning. Curiously, Ryou turned his head about, knowing now that whatever Marik seemed to intend wasn't sex.

"Where are we?" Ryou asked.

"So inquisitive," Marik joked lightly, kissing Ryou on the lips. Carefully, the Egyptian slid Ryou upright, so Ryou was now standing next to him. Carefully, he led Ryou towards something, his hands outstretched, before they came to feel cool metal.

"Marik?" Ryou whispered.

Smirking, Marik wrapped his arms around Ryou, stepping behind the Light so not to block his view. Fingers slipping off the blindfold, Marik whispered, "Surprise."

The blindfold came off, and Ryou had to blink a few moments before he could eye his surroundings. He and Marik seemed to be standing on the duelist arena uptop the blimp, staring towards the east, where, in the velvet night sky, was a thin horizon of gold.

Ryou gasped, his jaw dropping slightly, eyes wide.

"M-Marik?" he whispered, blinking, hardly daring to believe it.

He felt Marik tighten their embrace, slipping his arms around Ryou's waist and drawing them close. The Egyptian slowly nuzzled adoringly into Ryou's neck, smiling softly.

"Marik?" Ryou whispered again, as though afraid that if he spoke any louder, the magical moment, the wish he had, would be broken. "Are we…are we…?"

Smiling still, Marik softly kissed Ryou's cheek. "We missed the sunset last night."

Ryou's eyes widened, his chocolate orbs twinkling as bright as the remaining night sky, as his open mouth slowly formed into a breathless smile. Eyes twinkling, Ryou turned around to face the cynically smiling Marik, who was eyeing him with one eyebrow raised.

"You…you really wanted to see the sunrise with me?" Ryou breathed, his lips forming into an awed, breathless smile.

Wriggling his eyebrows slightly, Marik leaned in to kiss Ryou's cheek once again.

"Of course," Marik whispered. "Have I ever told you, that the sunrise reminded me of you?"

"I thought…," Ryou whispered, "…I thought that you said…sunrises weren't a big deal."

"You're worth more than all the sunrises in the world," Marik whispered softly, nuzzling Ryou's nose with his own, their foreheads pressed together. Tenderly, he placed another sweet kiss on Ryou's heavenly lips. "It's good to see you smiling again."

Ryou could barely breathe. He felt strangely misty, strangely serene, and yet excited all the same. And with Marik's honeyed lips and his equally sweet words, Ryou had to admit, that Marik himself, was worth more than all the sunsets in the world.

"Look," Marik breathed, nodding slightly towards the oncoming sun. "Ra is rising."

Slowly splitting into a large, beautiful smile, Ryou turned his head around, watching in total awe as the golden line began to grow. Beaming happily, Ryou threw his arms around Marik's chest, drawing them closer than ever before.

They stayed there, in each other's arms, watching as the ball of fire began to seep the sky pastel pink and pale yellow, reflecting off the remaining stars with golden sparks. The deep blue sea, once combined and one with the night sky, tinted pale yellow across its golden ripples, while the sky slowly began to change into dabs of pastel pink, clouds of magenta and purple.

It was a truly wondrous sight.

"It's beautiful," Ryou whispered, beaming still.

"It is," Marik breathed distantly, as though he had let a private thought slip through. Ryou blinked up at him with large innocent eyes, before they widened.

The sun's golden rays had finally reached Marik's cold demeanor, outlining his godly figure with a thin string of gold, his amethyst eyes flashing pure, soft lavender, and his hair, sandy in the darkness, was utterly breathtaking in the sunlight. They looked as soft and as pure as spun gold.

"Do you…do you like it?" Ryou stuttered a bit, feeling his cheeks blush pink.

Marik finally managed to divert his gaze upon the star, turning to Ryou with raised eyebrows.

"Yes," Marik whispered, slowly leaning down to kiss Ryou's lips. "I think…perhaps the reason why I never liked it before is…" He paused a moment, staring deep into Ryou's eyes.

"…is what…?" Ryou breathed back, as he enjoyed the way Marik was softly caressing his cheek.

Smiling, Marik finally captured Ryou's moist, soft lips in his own, both their eyes fluttering shut in bliss.

"…is because…"

"…because…?"

"…there was no one to share it with…"

Time seemed to pass, like a silk woven breeze, fluttering pass in peace, drawing them closer together. Ryou never felt this way before. In truth, everytime Marik had kissed him before, there was something exciting about it, something hot and warm to lavish on, but this time, even the glowing sun of Ra seemed to still, allowing such a magical moment to pass. This kiss was so serene, so peaceful, and yet capable to make Ryou's heart race.

Neither felt the need to pull another closer, the temptation to feel each other's silky skin, nor anything else. They remained close enough, their lips blessing each other's in a warm, loving embrace.

Slowly, as though if he went too fast, the moment would shatter, Marik brought his hands to Ryou's throat, and gently clasped something cool upon it. Gradually, they broke the kiss, never wishing to leave, and Ryou blinked, fingering the object that was around his neck. He looked down, and gasped.

"Do you like it?" Marik asked, smirking as he raised an eyebrow.

Ryou's eyes seemed to twinkle, if possible, even more brightly. It was a necklace; a thin, delicate golden chain from which hung a beautiful golden scarab beetle, with small hinges upon one side of its wings. His fingers slowly pried open the locked that now hung around his porcelain neck, its smooth, golden surface reflecting the equal beauty of the sun itself, as Ryou opened it.

"Oh, Marik," Ryou breathed.

Inside, on each side of the locket, was, as traditional as it was, a picture of each of them. It actually looked as though it had been cut out from one single picture, since both slips seemed to fit together perfectily. Closing his eyes, Ryou clasped the lids shut, holding the locket close to his heart. When he opened them again, he stared up into Marik's eyes.

"Marik," Ryou whispered. "You….you shouldn't have…"

"If it makes you smile," Marik smirked, bending down to kiss Ryou's cheek, "then I should've."

However, Ryou suddenly turned around, his lips meeting flush on Marik's, before he wrapped his arms around the Egyptian's neck in a tight passionate kiss.

"Oh, Marik!"

The Egyptian couldn't help it. Chucking lowly, he broke the kiss, brushing Ryou's bangs away, a mischievous glint in his amethyst eyes.

"Today," Marik whispered, "is your day, Ryou."

"My day?" Ryou whispered.

"Yes, yours," Marik breathed, kissing Ryou's forehead. "There's more to come."

"What else is there?" Ryou asked, blinking with an awed, dazed expression upon his face.

Marik smirked. "You'll see."

Gently, Marik took Ryou's hand, cocking his head a little towards the risen sun.

"We'll be able to see Ra set tonight. But for now, we have to be patient. Come."

Smiling with incredible disbelief on his face, as though he could only hope that there was more, Ryou eagerly followed his lover, stepping back into the blimp.


It had been a rather exhilarating day for Ryou. He had half-expected Marik to lead him to bed again, as what the Egyptian had did last time, but instead, Marik had led him to the blimp lounge, closing the door and locking it securely. From the plush, crimson couch, they had listened to music, talked to each other, and ate sweets and chocolate as they watched a movie.

Marik had presented Ryou with flowers, a beautiful bouquet of roses and lilies, before settling down with him to watch a famous film.

At first, Ryou had expected Marik had chosen something dark, something murderous and homicidal, like "The Ring". If nothing else had surprised Ryou greatly, this did. For when Marik turned the large screen on, Ryou saw the shape of an all-too familiar ship, with four funnels, sailing upon an ocean, with large mountainous icebergs floating in the backround.

"The Titanic?" Ryou had said, his eyes wide. Smirking, Marik pulled his lover close, until Ryou was practically leaning on Marik for comfort.

"Don't look so surprised, my little thief. There are some things in this movie that I enjoy also."

"Like what?" Ryou asked, looking at Marik quizzically. A love movie. How could Marik like watching anything like that?

"Let me put it this way," Marik said slyly, leaning close to Ryou's face, giving him a sneaky gaze, "would you trust me to bring you anywhere near a carriage after we watch this movie?"

Ryou's eyes widened drastically. "Oh…."

Laughing, Marik pulled Ryou close, kissing the top of his head. "Don't worry. We're not going to do that today. Not if you don't want to."

The hikari couldn't help but gaze, utterly amazed, as the movie progressed. Eventually Marik had decided to take advantage of Ryou's open lips to claim them.

"Hah," Marik had smirked, triumphantly.

They had watched the movie in silence, eating slowly from a bowl of fruits and chocolates. Marik wasn't quite able to tear away from the glorious scene of artistic artwork, despite Ryou's face being buried in his chest. When the scene had passed, Marik sat back, quite satisfied, and suddenly burst out in laughter when he realized Ryou's face was redder than the strawberry he was once feasting on.

"You should eat that," Marik said slyly, leaning in dangerously close to Ryou's face, as the Light was ready to pop the strawberry into his mouth.

"I…I know…" Ryou breathed, his eyes never leaving Marik's; gods, they were so entrancing….

Slowly, Marik had begun to lean closer and closer to Ryou, who had the strawberry innocently pursed between his lips.

Soon, Ryou was lying on his back, Marik's lips hovering just above his. Ryou could actually feel his heartbeat quicken like mad, as he felt Marik's heavenly breath sweep across his lips.

"It looks good," Marik whispered, seemingly also captured himself by Ryou's own eyes.

"It…it is…" Ryou whispered back, easily as dazed.

Marik's lips hovered just millimeters away. "Can I …also taste it?"

Ryou's eyes widened slightly, as he felt his breath being taken away. "M-Maybe…sure…"

Marik's face split into a grin, and within a second, he had captured Ryou's lips in his own, whole strawberry and all. Ryou gasped a little as he felt Marik's familiar tongue intrude and curl possessively over his own, as each of them began to nibble a bit on their half of the strawberry. Both eyelids fluttered shut, the strawberry in the middle being slowly consumed. When their lips finally met once more, each of their silky skin was made all the more delicious to taste, thanks to the juice of the heavenly fruit.

"You taste like strawberry," Ryou whispered.

"So do you," Marik smirked.

"Do you….do you like…strawberries?"

"I do…especially when…" Marik trailed off.

"When..?"

"When they're on you…"

Ryou flushed.


When the movie finished (all the fruit being eaten away, as well as the chocolates), Marik had one eyebrow cynically raised, while Ryou's eyes were loaded with tears. Laughing again, Marik gently pulled Ryou to his feet, kissing away the Light's tears.

"You are so sensitive," Marik said softly.

"I—I know," Ryou admitted, staring the floor, feeling his cheeks blush. In effort to look stronger, he frowned at the ground, and said, "I don't usually cry like this…but watching Titanic brings back lots of memories…"

"Which ones?" Marik asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Umn…" Ryou shifted uncomfortably. "…Amane and I used to watch it with Mother…"

Smiling assuringly, Marik raised Ryou's face, and promptly kissed him, a tongue flicking out to taste the bit of mousse Ryou had not managed to brush away.

"Come, Ryou. There's more."

"More?" Ryou asked, blinking, but curious all the same. "Marik! Where are we going?"

Silently, but smirking rather proudly, Marik led Ryou towards the cafeteria.

As Marik led the dazed hikari to the cafeteria, Ryou couldn't help but grin. This had been…the most wondrous day he had ever experienced. The sunrise that he had never seen in years, the golden locket, the movie; everything seemed so…unreal, as though floating among a fantasy. And what really brought warmth to Ryou's swelling heart was that…

…Marik did all this for him.

A small grumbling interrupted his thoughts, and he had realized his stomach was complaining for food. As he passed by the hallways and open rooms, he had noticed that it was quite late in the afternoon; passing clocks indicated late three-ish, and since Ryou hadn't eaten much since the sunrise, he was quite thankful towards his lover for bringing him for some food.

Marik stopped, giving Ryou a suspenseful glance. Ryou merely blinked quizzically, his eyes wide. Smirking, Marik opened the cafeteria door; Ryou stepped in, and gasped.

The entire room had donned a look of comforting darkness; crimson sheets had been hung through the ceilings, and on a single table, draped a wine red cloth, and sat two, long elegant candles.

"Oh…Marik," Ryou whispered.

Smirking, Marik stepped in, his eyes closed as Ryou stared, in utter disbelief and awe, at his surroundings. Upon the small table, where the two elegantly lighted candles lay, were two plates, each of them loaded with a delicious-looking steak.

"It's not raw, I assure you," Marik teased in his ear.

Ryou was rendered utterly speechless, beaming widely as he turned to face Marik. The Egyptian was regarding him what seemed to be a look of slight, mild intrigue. Finally breaking his gaze, Marik chuckled, leading Ryou towards the table, and sitting Ryou in one of the chairs. Before Marik himself sat, though, he stood in front of Ryou, producing something from his pocket.

"I told you there was more," Marik smirked.

Ryou gasped, if possible, even louder, as he stared at the object in Marik's hands. It was a crystal seashell, elegant and cut purely from glassy diamond, glittering in the candlelight. It was slightly open, revealing a small, golden band, with small diamond studs punctured elegantly in a beautiful, intricate design. Ryou gasped again, clasping his hands to his face, as he stared, wide-eyed at the jewelry being presented to him.

"M-Mar…Marik…" Ryou breathed, his voice slightly muffled from his hand. "Where did you get that?"

"Did you really think my Rare Hunters simply stole cards?" Marik asked, raising an eyebrow, smirking. "Please. There are many other valuables the world has to offer than the monsters of a stronger deck." Closing his eyes, Marik gently pried Ryou's hands away from his face, kissing the back of one lightly. "Like you, for one."

Still holding the kissed hand, Marik softly picked up the bracelet, and slipped it upon Ryou's porcelain wrist. The Light's eyes were wide, were so large, that you could almost see the diamond bracelet being reflected off his chocolate orbs.

"Oh…Marik," Ryou breathed, "I…I can't possibly…"

Smirking, Marik kissed Ryou's hand again, ignoring Ryou's breathless protests.

"It looks beautiful on you."

With that, Marik left Ryou's side, sitting opposite of the Light, smiling at him from across the table.

"Come on. Eat," he said.

Taking all his energy to tear himself from the bracelet, Ryou turned around, swallowing for breath. He looked up at Marik, seeing the Egyptian had already started on his dinner, and, hesitantly, picked up a fork, and began picking at his steak.

Oh, how light did Ryou feel! It was as though he had been filled up by helium, threatening to drift into the sky in utter bliss. This entire day had been so…so different…so loving. It had been so long since anyone had done any of this for him, since anyone else had done anything else for him. Everyday before he had came home to an empty apartment, to an empty table, and an empty bed. And now…here Marik was, setting all this up and showering him with gifts to make him feel better. Now that Ryou realized, he remembered his words from last night…Marik was doing everything Ryou had suggested the night before! And more!

Touched by this wondrous show of love and adoration, Ryou suddenly burst into tears, covering up his face with his hands in a feeble attempt to hide the tears.

"Ryou? What's wrong?" Marik asked, concern laced in his voice.

Hiccupping, Ryou shook his head, his face still buried in his hands. "N-Nothing….n-nothing…"

He heard Marik get up from his seat, his chair scrapping against the floor, before strong, firm hands gently pried away his own, revealing his soaked face for all to see.

Marik was kneeling on the floor, forced to do so because there was no way of having Ryou look up. His lavender eyes clouded mauve with concern, as he scanned Ryou's face for any sign of disappointment, or distress.

"Ryou? What's wrong?" Marik asked.

Hiccupping again, Ryou shook his head, allowing Marik to gently caress his hands with warming gentleness. "Nothing...(hiccup) …N-nothing…"

"Is something the matter?" Marik asked. "Is there something wrong?"

Again, Ryou shook his head, gripping Marik's hands tightly. "I…It's just…I've never…today's just been so happy and…and…"

The Egyptian continued to listen, kneading Ryou's hands gently to ease him to relax.

"It's just that…" Ryou hiccupped again, taking a deep breath, "…that…no one's ever…ever done so much for me…it's been so long…and…today's just been so wonderful and great and and…"

The Light hiccupped again, swallowing for breath. "…and and… I mean…you've done so much for me today, and I'm just so happy, and I've never felt like this before, or if I have, it's been so so so long and…all you've been doing today…watching the sunrise with me, giving me gifts, watching Titanic with me, and getting to know me, doing things other than just romping, it just, it just…"

Ryou hiccupped again, eyes filling with tears once more.

"…and I'm just …just so happy, and I've never felt this happy before, and it's so new, and so different, and I don't know why I'm crying, it's just, I don't remember being this happy, and I never want to you to leave, I don't want this day to ever end and I can't believe that you actually care so much, I mean, you really shouldn't have done so much….I'm just so happy…and I've never been this happy before.."

Smiling when he realized he hadn't screwed something up, Marik stood up, engulfing Ryou in his arms, comfortingly rubbing the boy's back as Ryou began to sob into Marik's shirt.

"It's okay," Marik said softly. "I did all this because I wanted to make you happy. You seemed so upset last night, and I just wanted to make it up to you. I wanted you to know that I cared more for you than a romp between the sheets."

Ryou hiccupped the loudest yet, before he buried himself deeper into Marik's chest. "T-Thank…thank you…it means so much to me…I'm so sorry I'm acting like a child…"

Marik chuckled, kissing the top of Ryou's head.

"Just enjoy yourself, Ryou," Marik smirked, breaking the embrace and wiping away Ryou's tears. "There's still more."

"There's still more?" Ryou's eyes widened, momentarily stopping his tears.

"Yes," Marik smirked. "Kaiba certainly supplies enough to make anything possible." He gently wiped away the last of Ryou's remaining tears, smiling softly. "Come on, Ryou. Stop crying. There's so much more to do."

Suppressing one last hiccup, Ryou nodded, and turned back to his food. He stared at the steak for a moment, before glancing up at Marik, who seemed to have finished his steak and was thinking very intently. After one more glance, Ryou stared down at his steak, and promptly began to eat it, making very happy eating noises along the way.

Marik watched the entire exchange with interest from corner of his eye. It made him smile to think that Ryou was all happy because of him. After what Ryou had been through, Marik couldn't help but feel more than guilty to ease him from all his pain. Dying in the Shadow Realm….gods…

When Ryou had finished eating, Marik silently took his hand once more, and led him back up the blimp stairs. They stepped out of the arena once more, cooler wind blasting against them, as they walked past the railing, heading towards the front of the blimp. The sun was about to set.

Feeling the wind blast past him really made Ryou feel more than alive. It was as though the air itself soaked itself into his skin, revitalizing him with all the magic within its presence. He raised up his arms by his side, closing his eyes, glad to feel the air energizing him and calming him at the same time.

He opened his eyes when he felt a pair of warm arms encircle around his waist, drawing them closer. Marik was nuzzling into the sensitive part of Ryou's throat, kissing him lightly.

Distinctly, Ryou realized they were a very familiar position…

"Have you had a good day, Ryou?" Marik asked softly, kissing the back of Ryou's neck again.

"I…I have," Ryou whispered. "Thank you so much…"

Marik smiled, as he and Ryou watched the sun sink behind the waters of the sea, the golden rays withering into the oncoming darkness of the night. As the sun finally began to disperse into the blue hue of the sea, with the remaining light, Marik led Ryou to the center of the arena.

The holographic technology activated itself immediately, and quietly, music filtered through from the sound system, soothing and loving. Smirking, Marik wrapped his arms around Ryou's waist, drawing them close as both of them began the same familiar steps that they had done in the privacy of their rooms so many times before.

"I love you," Marik whispered.

Ryou smiled, his eyes twinkling with tears. "I love you too."

Ooooooh Ooooohhhh….

He snuggled close deep into Marik's chest, sighing contently.

Hmmmmm….

Everybody's got something, they had to leave behind.

They stepped back, rotating slowly in a circle, drinking in the flow and beat of the heavenly soothing song.

One regrets from yesterday, that seems to grow with time

Swiftly, Marik swirled Ryou out, having the Light twirl right back in a moment later. Ryou giggled breathlessly, kissing Marik on the cheek before the Darkness swirled the Light back out.

"I've never been this happy," Ryou breathed, as their bodies pressed into each other's once more.

Marik smiled, holding Ryou's hand tightly as they continued to rotate around the spot, occasionally kissing Ryou upon his cheek.

"I'm glad I could," Marik whispered, unusually soft. He glanced down upon Ryou, who was looking up with happy tears in his eyes. "Don't cry, Ryou…"

"I've never been this happy…"

Marik smiled, kissing Ryou's neck tenderly as he swirled Ryou around. "I assure you, Ryou. In the future, you will no longer have to ever be upset again."

There's no use looking back, or wondering,

Ryou sighed wistfully, snuggling close to Marik once again, feeling so warm and content in the Egyptian's grasp.

"You promise?"

"Of course."

Smile strengthening, Ryou clutched closer, nuzzling into Marik's chest.

How it could been now or might've been

"You'll never leave, will you?" Ryou whispered.

Holding on tighter, Marik kissed Ryou's forehead tenderly. "Never. I love you, Ryou."

All this I know but still I can't find ways to let you go

I never had a dream come true

Till the day that I've found you

Even though I pretend that I've moved on

You'll always be my baby

I've never found the words to say

You're the one I think about each day

Even Though no matter where love takes me to

A part of me will always be

With You…

They continued to dance, drinking in one another's presence, as well as the flowing beat of the music, swaying their hips and cuddling close to one another.

Ryou sighed contently once more, trying his best to recall the last time he had been this happy. It wasn't easy. But he remembered his moments with his family, with people he loved, whom loved him back. Playing with Amane. Working on homework with Father. Sewing with Mother.

But this time…

…it wasn't family.

It was love.

Marik, the godly handsome figure before him, looking breathtakingly striking in his tight, black tank top and black pants, decked with his golden jewelry, seemed to Ryou, an utter dream. It had been so long since anyone had cared this much for him, cared this much for his well-being. And with Marik, that was even more surprising. Marik. The evil, cunning, insane child of the Darkness, created by hatred, anger and vengeance, was actually doing all this for him.

Ryou couldn't remember a time when he was happier.

Somewhere in my memory

I lost a sense of time…

And through my world could never be

Because yesterday is all that fills my mind.

There's no use looking back, or wondering

How it should been now, or might've been

All this I know but still I can't find ways to let you go

They continued to dance, even after the sun had set and the stars had dawned, twinkling as bright against the night sky as the diamonds upon Ryou's wrist. Marik watched his lover hungrily, mesmerized in total awe by those silky soft ivory hair, as though spun silver in the moonlight, that beautiful, bright smile, the smooth porcelain skin. How the stars seemed to bless Ryou's pale figure with their rays, and how the moon brought shadows and lights across Ryou's face.

Marik couldn't believe it. He was still at square one with his emotions. Though it had been a long time since he'd known he cared very much for Ryou, hearing the words "I love you" seemed so distant, so numb, as though another force was controlling him. Something stronger than that of the shadows within his heart.

He swirled the beautiful angel away from him, a mane of silver and white flashing and bouncing against the velvet night, as Ryou laughed. Oh, how Marik loved that laugh! So melodious, so joyful.

As he danced, Marik thought back to Ryou's words at the dinner table. Happiness had never came to Marik either. In truth, Marik didn't quite know what was Ryou's form of 'happy', since Marik always considered himself "happy" if someone died. Or if someone was in pain. Or if there was blood everywhere…

And yet, no one was dying. No one was in pain. There was no blood anywhere…

"Marik?" Ryou whispered, edging a little closer.

Marik snapped out of his reverie. "Yes?"

Ryou beamed, his eyes twinkling as bright as the stars themselves. He scooted closer, nuzzling deep into Marik's chest.

"Thank you."

Marik smirked. "You're welcome."

I never had a dream come true

Till the day that I've found you

Even though I pretend that I've moved on

You'll always be my baby

I've never found the words to say

You're the one I think about each day

Even though no matter where love takes me to

A part of me will always be

With you…

Soon, Ryou was utterly exhausted, having been swirling and twirling into and out of Marik's arms. As he performed one more twirl, he accidentally slipped, flying through the air. In an instant, Marik caught him in his arms, smirking as he nuzzled Ryou's cheek mischievously.

"You're so clumsy on the blimp," Marik sighed, kissing Ryou's throat. Ryou giggled.

"I know…like that time…when I fell off?"

Marik snickered. "I can't believe you even remembered."

Ryou smiled, turning to face Marik fully, his porcelain fingers idly tracing the kohl lines upon Marik's cheeks.

"You've done so much for me," Ryou whispered distantly. "I can't believe…I can't believe it's real…our entire time together has been like a dream…"

Smiling, Marik drew Ryou into a kiss, needing to feel those silky, honeyed lips. Distinctly, he felt a tear trail down upon Ryou's cheek, and opened his eyes. Ryou was crying again, but silently as he allowed his tears to flow freely.

"And then….you'd have to go…" Ryou whispered sadly.

Closing his eyes, Marik kissed each teardrop away, eventually trailing and capturing Ryou's lips fully. Whilst Ryou was distracted, Marik skillfully placed a single ring, a simple golden band, from his pinkie to Ryou's ring finger. Feeling the smooth gold against his skin, Ryou pulled back, staring in awe at the golden ring.

You'll always be the dream that fills my head

Yes you will, say you will , you know you will baby

You'll always be the one I know I'll never forget

"I will never leave, Ryou," Marik whispered firmly, his lavender eyes sharpening back to their normal amethyst. "And this will prove it." He raised Ryou's hand, kissing the fingertips, before he continued, "No matter where I go, Ryou, I will always come back. I promise. And while you wait, my little thief, you will have parts of me with you, to remember me by." He kissed Ryou upon the lips once more, feeling more tears travel down Ryou's cheeks.

"Oh…Marik…" Ryou whispered.

To Ryou, the ring was the most precious thing Marik had given him so far. Though plain and simple compared to the flowers, the locket, and the diamond bracelet in a diamond seashell, it brought more happiness to Ryou than he could ever thought possible. The ring…it was almost like…as if…he was finally Marik's. Finally part of Marik enough to be remembered by.

"I can't leave you," Ryou whispered.

"You never will," Marik whispered back, holding Ryou's hand firmly. "I will always come back, Ryou. And until then, these gifts will always accompany you until I do." Marik kissed the Light one more time. "I will always come back. I will never leave."

There's no use looking back, or wondering

Because love is a strange and funny thing

No matter how I try and try

I just can't say goodbye.

They kissed once more, Ryou wrapping his arms tightly around Marik's chest, drawing them so close together that they were pressing up against each other for more than warmth; for love, compassion. Gods, Ryou never wanted to leave. Those sweet lips, those heavenly eyes…how could he ever possibly leave them alone?

No no no no…

I never had a dream come true

Till the day that I've found you

Even though I pretend that I've moved on

You'll always be my baby

I've never found the words to say

You're the one I think about each day

Even though no matter where love takes me to

A part of me will always be

….with you…

A breeze riffled pass the two lovers, and Ryou shivered instinctively. Gradually, he and Marik broke apart, before Marik picked him up, allowing him to cuddle close for warmth.

"One last thing," Marik whispered. "You're exhausted."

"But happy," Ryou murmured, nuzzling into Marik's chest once more. "So happy…thank you so much, Marik…it meant so much to me."

Marik smirked, kissing Ryou tenderly on the cheek. "Just one last thing, and then we'll go to sleep. Bakura hurt you a lot, didn't he?"

"Not too much," Ryou muttered, not wanting Marik to worry.

"You lie," Marik snorted. He gave Ryou a mischievous smirk. "But I'll make you feel better Ryou."

"How?" Ryou asked.

"You'll see," Marik said mysteriously.


Turned out, Marik's final surprise was a large bath; once again, Ryou's jaw dropped at the sight. Thick, round candles were perched around the room, casting heavenly scents. The bath was hot and warm, bubbling with a pink tinge from the fragrant soap within.

Gently, Marik perched Ryou ontop the sink, feeling the water with his hand. He smirked.

"Okay. Well. You know what to do."

After Ryou had discarded his garments, and was sinking within the depths of the tub, Marik joined, but not after making a rather impressive show of removing his own attire.

Ryou's jaw had dropped again subconsciously, as he watched Marik slowly shed his garments, his hands trailing his body before he lay fully bare. He cocked an eyebrow.

"Like what you see?"

Ryou blushed furiously, sinking into the water until the bubbles covered his nose. Laughing, Marik slipped in after him, sitting behind the Light and flexing his hands.

"Just relax," Marik whispered. With that, he gently began to knead Ryou's shoulders firmly, his fingers deepening soothingly across and around Ryou's neck and throat. The Light immediately relaxed, arching back slightly.

Warm bubbles soothed his skin, accompanied by the extra and comforting warmth of Marik's body. Fragrant mists floated about them, soothing Ryou's entire body to relax against the Darkness' siren hold. Sliding his eyes shut in bliss, Ryou eased downwards, until the bubbles were barely tickling his nose, and cuddled close to Marik.

The Egyptian smirked, increasing the pressure of his ministrations, easing all of Ryou's bruises and pain away. It pleased the Darkness to finally see Ryou truly happy, and it also pleased him to know that he was the one who made Ryou happy.

A soft moan drifted from Ryou's way, and Marik increased the pressure once more, kneading with slow, yet vigorous firmness, as he leaned over Ryou's shoulder, and began to nibble a bit against the Light's earlobe.

"Enjoying yourself?" Marik purred.

Ryou giggled softly, cuddling closer to Marik's grip. "Yes…thank you so much, Marik…"

Marik chuckled, as he roamed his hands down Ryou's shoulders, back up, and down his chest. "My pleasure."

Ryou moaned once more, unable to contain himself. Despite the fact that Marik had done it at least twice before (once forcefully and once unexpectedly), Ryou couldn't help but feel the sparks along every touch, the growing heat radiating from every stroke. He felt his senses ebbing away into the bubbles, drifting off into the atmosphere. If only he could stay like this forever…

By this time, Marik had begun to wash him; seemingly unable to draw away from cleansing that of Ryou's neck. Ticklish senses activated themselves and he giggled, tensing a little bit.

"I love it when you laugh," Marik chuckled. Sneakily, he then ran his fingers around Ryou's torso, sending the Light into another laughing frenzy.

"Marik! Stop! I'm ticklish!"

"I know that," Marik laughed as he mercilessly began to run all of his fingers around Ryou's torso. Ryou's laughing grew louder, as he twisted and squirmed uncontrollably in the water.

"Marik! Stop! I'm ticklish!"

"You think I don't know that?" Ryou laughed once more, arching when Marik increased the severity of his tickle torture. However, as Ryou was squirming about in his own little world of pleasure…

…Suddenly, Marik's eyes grew wide, as Ryou felt a hard bulge slip pass the top of his bottom. Both of them immediately tensed, before Ryou turned around sheepishly, sinking farther into the depths of the water.

"Sorry," Ryou murmured weakly, his face a furious red. Regaining composure, Marik simply laughed, before he nuzzled Ryou's nose with his.

"Don't be," the Egyptian chuckled. "That'd be …the second time you made the first move?"
"I didn't mean it!" Ryou exclaimed, his eyes widening. Marik laughed once more, before he captured Ryou's lips in a kiss.

"By Ra, you're beautiful," Marik breathed.

Ryou giggled quietly, his face flushing, as he returned the kiss.

"You are too…"

Suddenly, there was a loud crash. Instantly, both of them looked about, before there was another crash, and then followed by yells and screams.

The blimp lurched to one side, sending Ryou flying out of the tub. Quickly, Marik followed right after, clutching the Light protectively into his grasp as candles went out and flying, and water drenched them both. They slid into the corner of the sink.

"Damn, what the hell is with this blimp?" Marik growled, quite annoyed.

Ryou whimpered, curling into a small ball as the blimp gave another ferocious shake. There were more yells, and more screams, before they seemed to shoot off into the air. Yelping, Ryou clutched onto Marik with his life, slightly relaxed when Marik returned the protective grip, before the blimp began to shake once more.

"What's happening?" Ryou cried, his voice muffled from stuffing his face into Marik's chest.

"I have no idea," Marik growled. "Just stay close to me."

Suddenly, there was a loud explosion, and Ryou clutched madly at Marik's body, as the blimp shook and rattled violently. Another explosion soon followed, echoing in their ears, before the blimp evened out…

…and everything was silent.

Panting for breath, Ryou timidly looked up. He could hear the voices of his friends…did Noah keep his promise? Would they come and find Ryou and Marik together?

"The door's locked," Marik whispered, as though he had read his mind. "Don't worry. No one will know. They'll think I sent you to the Shadows or something."

Weakly, Ryou nodded, before he just realized where he was.

While he knew he was sprawled out in the corner, he had no idea how indeed he was. His eyes widened as he realized that he was wet, warm, and holding an equally wet, warm (and nude) Marik, whose legs had been intertwined with Ryou's.

Though highly suggestive, Ryou couldn't help but feel…safe…and warm. Sparks flew once more between their soaking bodies, before Marik slowly sat up, making sure that Ryou wasn't too dizzy. The Light still remained clutching Marik's chest.

"You okay?" Marik asked, concern shining in his eyes.

"Yeah…" Ryou nodded. "Yeah."

Marik nodded also, and gently picked Ryou up. Candles lay strewn across the room, the last few emitting wisps of smoke, before dying off entirely. The bath was already ruined, for most of the water had splashed out of the tub and marked the floor shining and slippery.

Suddenly, and intercom buzzed, before a voice could be heard.

"The final duels will take place tomorrow and the day after. Once we arrive at Alcatraz Tower, all four final duelists will chose their opponents before continuing the finals. Thank you."

Ryou blinked, before looking away as Marik stared (quite annoyed) at the intercom in his room. Barely sighing, Ryou snuggled a little to himself, unsure of what to take of this new news. So Marik could only stay for a few more days… Ryou's eyes were prickling, signaling more tears, when Marik shrugged, held him tight, and led him to the bed.

"Well, obviously that bath was ruined," Marik growled, looking genuinely annoyed. Ryou gave him a weak smile in return, giggling nervously.

"Well…I guess you'd better get ready then," Ryou forced out, giving Marik a strained smile. Marik gave him a bewildered one in return.

"Get ready for what?"

"The…duel tomorrow," Ryou replied feebly. "Aren't you…aren't you going? I mean, you don't know who your opponents are…"

Marik snorted, kissing Ryou on the cheek. "It doesn't matter who I duel," the Egyptian whispered softly. "I'll eventually win all the god cards anyways. And when I do…I'll know the Pharaoh's secret…and then…"

A snicker was heard, before Marik wrapped his arms possessively around Ryou's shoulders, nuzzling into the paler boy's throat.

"And when I do…the world will be drenched in darkness…" Marik smirked, "and I will be Pharaoh." Laughing, he kissed Ryou's cheek once more, nuzzling it with soft gentleness. "And you …will be my queen."

Marik burst out laughing when he saw Ryou's face. The poor boy had turned into a furious shade of red. Standing up, Marik strode forwards towards the dressers, and threw Ryou his favorite pajamas (where he managed to get them, Ryou had a sneaking suspicion), before turning back around.

"If it comforts you, my little thief," Marik smirked, striding forwards, "I shall leave my duel with the pharaoh until the end. That way, I can still spend some time with you before the world will fall under my reign." He gently stroked Ryou's cheek, coaxing the paler boy to look up and into his eyes. "Will that please you?"

Ryou smiled weakly, nodding slightly. "O…Okay."

An awkward silence fell between them. Ryou fidgeted nervously in his pajamas, hugging his knees close to him as Marik redressed himself. The Egyptian looked back, scratching his head as he thought of some way to cheer Ryou up. He was not going to allow the pharaoh's stupid duel to get in the way of his relationship with Ryou.

"You needn't worry, Ryou," Marik said silkily. "I know all of the Pharaoh's traits and secrets. His moves will be entirely predictable. Kaiba is even worse. He never changes his deck and he constantly brags about his tactics. And Jonouchi…" Marik burst out laughing. "Gods, if the Pharaoh was the one who taught that mutt, I shouldn't be worried at all." He turned to gaze at Ryou, who was still sitting on the bed, his face in his knees. "I know everyone's secret, Ryou," Marik said softly. "I know everyone's weakness. And I know yours also…"

Ryou blinked, looking up at Marik with a confused look in his eyes. "Oh?"

"Yes," Marik hissed manipulatively, striding towards Ryou with a mischievous glint in his eyes. He stood before Ryou soon, his eyes gazing piercingly into Ryou's soft ones, before he began to lean downwards, towards the paler boy.

"And your weakness is…"

Suddenly, Marik pounced, tackling Ryou onto the bed, and saddling the surprised boy across the waist. Before Ryou could do anything, Marik had already slithered up his hands beneath Ryou's shirt, and was tickling the boy mercilessly with his fingers. Ryou burst out laughing, squirming like mad beneath Marik's grip as Marik roared with laughter as well.

"Ha! See? I told you I knew everyone's weakness!"

Ryou continued to laugh uncontrollably, "Marik! Stop! It tickles!"

"I know that," Marik purred, before he ran his fingers down Ryou's side again. Ryou jerked back laughing, squirming about like mad, attempting to throw Marik's hands off him. This attempt was futile though, as the Egyptian merely grabbed both Ryou's wrists in one hand and pinned them above his head. Ryou continued to squeal and squirm, laughing as Marik continued his ticklish onslaught.

"M-Marik!" Ryou laughed. "S-stop! I'm ticklish! Stop!"

"What will you give me if I do?" Marik asked slyly. "Will you give me anything?"

"A-any…anything!" Ryou laughed. "Just stop tickling me!"

"Okay." Slowly, Marik ceased his tickle torture, as Ryou panted for breath, flopping onto his bed, looking tired but delighted.

"So…what do you want?" Ryou asked timidly, once he had regained breath.

Chuckling, Marik slipped next to him, pulling the covers above their bodies.

"A smile," Marik said simply.

Ryou blinked. He had been expecting something a little more…different. "A smile?"

"Yes, a smile," Marik smirked, kissing Ryou softly on the lips. "You've been so upset lately, I just want to see a smile." He laced his arms around Ryou's small frame, kissing the paler boy's soft cheek tenderly. Slowly breaking into a smile, Ryou beamed, launching himself around Marik's chest.

"Thank you so much," Ryou whispered. "It meant so much for me today."

"I know," Marik said softly, kissing Ryou's forehead. Ryou beamed once more, tears welling up in his eyes.

"Thank you…" he whispered, edging closer. "Thank you so much…I honestly don't know how to thank you…"

"Just seeing you smile is good enough," Marik said, before kissing Ryou on the lips once more. Ryou giggled, deepening the kiss as he prodded his tongue against Marik's timidly. Immediately, Marik's tongue dominated his, curling possessively over Ryou's own. Soon, they broke apart, snuggling deep into their sheets.

"Goodnight, Marik…"

"Goodnight, Ryou."


The ending of this chapter was crap, but I had to add in teh bath thingy a jig, so I could explain that Marik was going to have his duel very soon. Bwah! Oh yes, and that song? "Never Had a Dream Come True" by S Club 7. Listen to it!

The next two chapters will have lots of songs in it too. (snickers) You should hear the next one! I never thought it was possible to find such a song that could explain Ryou's lemoness so clearly! And do you know what the next chapter is called?

"If Walls Could Talk."

I'll leave that up to your imagination right now. XD

Sorry that this was so late! Please read and review!