WARNING: IF YOU ARE UNDER 15 YEARS OLD OR YOU CAN NOT HANDLE SEXUAL SITUATIONS…LEAVE NOW. IF YOU THINK YOU CAN AND FIND OUT THAT YOU CAN'T HANDLE THE FIRST SCENE, GET OUT! IT'S OKAY I WILL BRING ALL THE CHILDREN UP TO DATE NEXT CHAPTER. IF YOU CAN HANDLE THE MENTIONED THINGS THEN READ ON , ENJOY AND REVIEW!

OH AND IF I GET YELLED AT BECAUSE SOME LITTLE KID IS READING THIS AND ISN'T SUPPOSED TO BE I WILL DELETE. IT WILL MAKE YOU CRY. IT WILL MAKE ME CRY. THANK YOU. AND ENJOY.

:::::::::::::::: scene change ((because the new editor doesn't want to give me more spaces))

Aura stared at the window, watching as the last rays of the sun disappeared over the horizon. The day had dragged on as it so often seems to when one is anticipating an event. For Aura, it seemed to be like a dream. As though Ra decided to play a cruel trick on her. The day had dawned clear and bright as Bakura's promise hung in the air. She had been awakened just after dawn to find Kebi standing in the doorway of his room watching her.

"Kebi? What are you doing up so early?"

Kebi stood there silently for a few minutes, avoiding her gaze. "Is he coming back?" he suddenly asked.

Aura blinked, "Who?"

"That man. The one who watches you sleep. Is he coming back?"

A smile lifted Aura's lips. "Yes, Kebi, he is."

Kebi nodded. "Then I guess I'll make sure the chair is ready."

She looked at him strangely. "The chair?" She asked.

"Yes." Kebi nodded.

"What for?"

"Cause that's what he always does. He puts the chair in front of my door after he tells me to go to bed." After he finished explaining he skipped out of the room.

Aura watched him go and once again wondered how these things happened to her.

:::::::::::14::::::::::::::::::::::

Frustration. That was the only word to describe it. All the way feeling massed into one giant ball of…frustration. Seto gritted his teeth and once again attempted to tackle the mountain of paperwork in front of him. He had to get his work done. Pharaoh had already begun to grow suspicious. He couldn't' believe it had turned out like this. He, the great High Priest Seto, who swore never to break the law was constantly thinking, no fantasizing about, doing just that. He couldn't get her out of his mind, but that was nothing different. He hadn't been able to since she had come to the palace all those months ago. It was, he mused, a vicious cycle of thoughts and dreams. Dreams that kept him awake and refused to allow him even a moment's peace. It had to end. The way he saw it, he had two choices. One, he could either bite the bullet and forget about her…or part her silky thighs and bury himself inside her in what promised to be one of the greatest experiences of his life…and then forget about her.

Seto smirked. The dilemma was at once quite easy to solve. He would simply bed her and forget her. Smiling with his wonderful plan, he turned back to his work, certain he would be able to get some of it done.

::::::::::::::::::::14::::::::::::::::::::::::

Seraph walked down the hall slowly. She had nothing to do but was very restless. She didn't even have Dakar to talk to. Seraph sighed. She knew exactly what she wanted to do: go see Seto. But she wouldn't allow herself to do it. No, she wouldn't have anything more to do with the man. He would only break her heart, and she most certainly didn't want that. Even as she continued to list all the reasons why he was no good for her, she had inevitably walked right to his room. Now the only thing standing between her and what she wanted was a door. Not to mention the list of reasons she had come up with. But once she was there, those reasons no longer seemed to matter. Before she could change her mind, she raised her fist and…hesitated.

Why was his door closed? Was he still asleep? No, it was much too late for him to be asleep. Maybe he was changing. Her imagination seized the thought and ran with it at once. Visions of him partially clothed his muscles hard and tanned displayed for her, roared through her mind. And then partially clothed went to fully unclothed. She wet her lips as she saw him standing in front of her. Oh my, she thought flutters roaming through her body.

And then suddenly he was there, standing in front of her fully clothed. She blinked and reached out to touch him, certain she would feel hard stone. When she felt warm male, she jerked back as though she had been burned.

Seto watched her, a smile playing about his lips. She looked like she was dreaming with her eyes soft and her lips parted. When she slowly reached out to touch him, he froze. "What are you doing?" she snapped.

She blinked. Her face changing rather quickly from dreamy to surprise and finally to embarrassed.

Seto watched the myriad of expressions play across her face. He stared down at her and crossed his arms. Shifting his weight, he raised an eyebrow and waited for an answer.

Seraph sighed inwardly. Why did he have to look so handsome? Even standing there with his arms crossed, she liked him. She thought about his question. What was she doing there? She didn't have the faintest idea but she wasn't about to tell him that either. "I came to…" she paused desperately, searching her mind for a reason. "Pharaoh asked me to see if I could take some of your paperwork from you." She lied.

Seto responded with a questioning look.

"Yes. He said that you may have too much and since I am the High Priestess I was entitled to my own share of paperwork. So he sent me to see if there was any that you could spare." She finished quickly, rather proud of herself.

"Why not Aurahkah? She's probably loaded down too."

"She's next." Seraph said without moving.

Seto nodded, not sure whether he believed her or not. He moved away from the door and motioned her inside. He closed the door, just in case, and walked to his desk. He began to sort through his papers, and placed them in piles.

Seraph stood by his bed watching him. She saw him glance in her direction and she walked over to the desk.

Seto looked at her, raising an eyebrow. "Is that all, Seraphic," he asked softly.

Seraph hesitated. She wasn't sure what to say. Everyone told her she was a terrible liar, and she was inclined to agree. "Yes," she hesitated. "No," she admitted. She stared at the ground, avoiding his eyes.

Seto nodded. "Then what else," he prompted.

"I…I don't know."

"Yes, you do. You know what you want. Now ask for it Seraph."

Seraph's eyes widened. She couldn't. There was no way she could behave like that. She slowly shook her head.

Seto smirked. "If you want a kiss, Seraph, ask for one."

Her head flew up, her violet eyes going wide. "I don't want a kiss," she said defiantly.

Seto laughed. "Yes, you do Seraphic." He stayed where he was. "You can't resist. Now if you want a kiss, come over here and get one."

Seraph watched him and judged the distance to the door.

"Now, now, Seraphic. Why deny yourself the pleasure? Come over here, and kiss me."

Seraph bit her bottom lip and made a decision. She walked towards the door purposefully. Reaching the doorway and pivoting, she raced into Seto's waiting arms.

Seto gasped as she ran full into his chest. His arms came up against her back like steel bands and he met her eyes questioningly.

"You're right, Seto. I do want a kiss and I'm going to get one." Smiling she wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled his head down, meeting his lips with hers. She waited for the exploding sensations but besides a low, pleasant humming, none came. She broke off and looked at him confused.

Seto watched the confusion in her eyes and said "Why don't you try moving your lips this time?" he suggested biting back a laugh. Ra, she was innocent.

Seraph hesitantly kissed his lips again. She tugged on his bottom lip with her teeth and was rewarded with a sharp intake of breath. Feeling more confident, she opened her mouth fully on his and kissed him the way he so often kissed her.

Seto clenched his fists behind her back and tried to keep all the blood from pooling between his legs. Her soft mouth on his was almost too much for him to bear. Then she began an assault, using her tongue to explore his mouth.

He couldn't take it anymore. His hands crushed her slim body to his hard one. He brought one up and tilted her head allowing him complete access to her soft, pliant mouth.

The kiss seemed to go on forever. Seraph couldn't think. She wasn't even sure where she was. Her world narrowed to Seto's mouth and the pleasure racing through her system. She finally pulled back and laid her face against his chest, desperately trying to think.

::::::::::::::::::::::::14::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Aura grudgingly looked in the mirror. There, she was covered with gold. She felt extremely heavy and was not happy. But it was a special day. She walked out of her room and down to Seraph's, the gold in her hair clinking with every step. She checked Seraph's room but it was empty. Sighing with irritation she walked out and made her way to Seto's room. The door was closed, so she knocked and waited.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::14::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Seto held Seraph against his chest. He felt her lush curves fitted against his body. It was complete torture to have her delectable body against his. It was driving him insane. He was tempted to throw her onto the bed and take her now, then the pounding registered in his mind. "Dammit!" he cursed. He jumped away from Seraph as though he had been burned.

Seraph's brain was still muddled but she felt Seto stiffen and jerk away. Confusion lit her violet eyes as she looked at Seto's tense face. Then she heard a strange pounding. It suddenly sank in, that it was the door. Her eyes went wide, her mouth dropped. She flew into motion and began to straighten her dress. She looked at Seto and said, "Does it look like anything happened?"

Seto surveyed her swollen lips and shook his head. He walked over to the door and opened it.

Aura wasted no time. She pushed past him into the room and said, "Alright Seto. You need to make sure you know your lines for the ceremony. We all have our parts to play on this day of joy." She looked at Seraph and her eyes widened. Shaking her head she grabbed Seraph's arm and said, "Relah needs your assistance."

Aura pulled Seraph out of the room and pushed her down the hall. Straightening some of her gold, she turned to go towards Yami's room. Her duties were almost finished.

Seraph knocked on Relah's door and heard Relah call out enter. She opened the door and saw Relah standing next to her bed, a dreamy smile on her face. "Relah? You aren't ready yet." She shook her head as Relah just stood there. Seraph grabbed her dress, a simple but elegant cotton dress. She brought it over to Relah who simply raised her arms and allowed Seraph to slip it over her head. "Now." Seraph said. "You must be decorated."

Seraph quickly slipped on the elaborate headdress and grabbed her armbands. She looked at the pile of gold still lying on the dressing table. Seraph sighed and began the tiring process of putting all of the gold on Relah. When all of it was finally on, Seraph reached for the finishing touch. She reached for Relah's gold crown, lying on the bed of satin. She carefully placed it on Relah's head and stepped back to survey her handiwork.

Relah was breathtaking. Her eyes were a soft green, her red hair contrasted nicely with the soft white of her dress. On her fingers, golden rings glinted in the morning sun and golden armbands circled her upper arms. Threaded through her curly hair, strands of gold rustled and swayed. Her satisfied smile lit up her face and emphasized her striking features. Her slightly sun-kissed skin seemed glow, and her cheeks had a slight blush. The crown resting upon her curls gave her an air of importance and authority.

"So what do you think?" Relah asked.

Seraph looked at the other two maidens who had helped dress her.

"Wonderful, my Lady." One breathed.

"Like a queen," the other added with a smile.

Seraph smiled, admiration lighting her eyes. "Oh Relah, you are absolutely beautiful. Stunning."

Relah responded to the praise by merely inclining her regal head like the queen she would soon become. Relah looked at Seraph and saw a smile on her friend's face. Her expressive eyes were sad, though. Relah smoothed a nonexistent wrinkle and said, "Seraph? You don't look as happy as you should on this rather important day. Is anything the matter?"

Seraph sighed and nodded to the two maidens and they quickly bowed and departed. "I know how much you love Yami and I know how you think he can do no wrong, but I've seen it Relah. Kind men turn into wife beaters." She grabbed Relah's hands concern in her eyes. "I don't want to see it happen to you."

"It won't." Relah said confidently.

Seraph wasn't convinced. "You can't be sure, Relah. I've-"

Relah pulled away and raised her hand cutting Seraph off midsentence. "It won't." she said more firmly. "I asked Yami four months ago to refrain on lovemaking until our wedding night and he has not touched me once. If he was as cold and heartless as you seem to believe, he never would have done that." She said irritation causing her voice to rise.

Seraph stared at Relah. She felt duly chastised and hung her head. "I'm sorry, Relah. I didn't mean to upset you. I just don't want you to get hurt."

Relah walked over and pulled Seraph into an embrace. "I know and I really appreciate it, but Yami is not like those men. Seraph, that isn't love, that's ownership. You can't continue to believe that. Even Seto isn't like that."

Seraph stiffened and her eyes flew to meet Relah's. "How?" she asked.

Relah smiled slightly. "Aura mentioned something about the two of you."

Seraph nodded and said, "Well now that you're ready, I'm going to go."

Relah grabbed Seraph's arm and pulled her over to the bed. She pushed her down and said, "Seraph, what have you seen since you came here?"

Seraph sighed, "I've seen Yami beat people around. I've seen many things, some good, some slightly upsetting."

Relah sighed, "Yes, it's true that Yami has lost control a few times. And he has done things that would seem rather harsh, but that's only every once in a while. Do you remember those bruises Seraph? The terrible ones on my arms? Yami shook me and not gently either. I will admit that Yami is formidable when enraged. But he has sworn on Egypt not to do it again. And that is a big deal. See, Seraph, he knows what he's doing, but he can't control it. He's trying though. And he is extremely contrite after he realizes what he's done. He hugs and feels absolutely terrible. If only you had seen his face when he realized that I would flinch when he raised his hand. He beat himself up for days, Seraph. And that's why I know Yami won't become a wife beater."

Seraph listened intently and images warred in her mind. She saw Yami smiling at Relah over a plate of food. She saw a frantic Yami pacing beside a pale Relah's bed, and staying with her trying to keep her alive by sheer will. She saw Yami breaking the news about her father and hugging her when she began to cry. Yami bringing gold and decorating Seraph, then presenting her with a collar for Rasui. But other things conflicted as well. She felt the sting of his slap and remembered Relah's bruised arms. She saw him yelling, and his arms crossed, a muscle twitching in his jaw. The memories only confused her more. Yami seemed like a good person. He had his good points, she had to give him that much. But his uncontrollable rage still remained first, and foremost in her mind. She decided to drop it for now, but would watch and wait. She wouldn't let Relah become a broken, bruised, and bloodied wife like so many others. She would give Yami a chance but she would be ready to help if he gave any indication of losing it again. Seraph stood up and looked at Relah. "I hope you're right. Now I have other things to attend to." So saying she quickly left the room.

::::::::::::::::::::14::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Yami was almost ready when Aura entered his room. His door was open so there was no need to knock. He looked up and then went back to his task of having his gold put on by three slaves.

"So my Pharaoh. The day has finally come." Aura said coming over to his desk. She perched on the corner and watched.

"Yes. I thought it would never come, but now it's here and I can finally claim Relah as my own."

"There is still the matter of the law my Liege."

Yami sighed, "It always goes back to that. Can't we just leave it the way it is? I am Pharaoh; therefore I am above the law."

Aura shook her head." We've been through this my Liege. You are above it; Relah is not. And you're people won't take too kindly to a leader who won't follow his own laws."

Yami nodded. "Yes, yes. But I'll take care of that later. Today I have more important things to worry about." Mainly satisfying my need for Relah. He had been unhappy when she had proposed waiting, but he had never expected it to last this long or be this bad. He wanted her so badly, and the fact that he couldn't only made him want her more. He didn't know he could go four months, but apparently it was possible. He had reached a new awareness and was tuned into her every move. When she entered or left the room, he was well aware of it. He found himself daydreaming about her in the middle of doing paperwork, or even when he was in the middle of a meeting. He remembered their first days together and how sweet and innocent she had been after she finished hating him. And then he would be even more upset because he couldn't release his frustration. And when she touched him, even the slightest touch, would send all the blood rushing from his head and images of animal lust would pop into his brain. But the four months of hell were almost over. In another few hours, he would carry Relah, his wife, into his room and lose himself in her. His wife. He liked the sound of that.

::::::::::::::::::::14::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Kali opened her eyes and stretched. She saw Nadai sitting near the campfire, warming his hands in the early morning chill. She pulled the blanket around her and said, "We have to go."

Nadai looked at her and smiled, "I know. We need to get into the city and figure out a way into the palace."

Kali nodded and clasped her hands. She was finally going to see her baby after all these years. Her little angel. She stood up and folded the blanket as Nadai doused the campfire.

They quickly walked up to the gate. It took relatively little time to get past the illiterate guards, and were soon standing in the marketplace wondering what to do next, when a paper tacked to one of the booths caught Kali's eye.

She wandered over to it and almost clapped her hands in delight after reading it. It was absolutely perfect. She would be able to get into the palace with no suspicions. She grabbed the notice and ran to find Nadai.

She finally found him negotiating with a vendor over the price of some bread. Nadai jerked angrily as Kali pulled him away from the stand.

"Hey, I was trying to get some food for us. In case you haven't' noticed, we are out of supplies and I'm not hungry."

"You will have as much food as you want in a little while." She said, showing him the notice.

Nadai took the paper and read it, his brow smoothing and he smiled.

:::::::::::::::::::::14:::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Aura shook her head and rolled her eyes. Yami had a strange expression on his face. She was about to get his attention when a slave appeared at the door. He waited patiently to be noticed and quickly dropped into a deep brow when Aura looked at him.

"My Lady, there are visitors here. They are waiting in the throne room my Lady."

Aura nodded. She looked at Yami and decided he could use some time alone with his thoughts. She dismissed the slave with a curt wave of her hand and followed him out the door. She took a moment to straighten various pieces of gold-appearances must be kept up after all. Quickly she moved towards the throne room.

:::::::::::::::::::14::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Kali stood, her hands clenched. "Nadai, from now on, call me Isis. Okay?"

Nadai nodded. "Should I go by a different name as well?" Nadai asked his brow furrowing.

Kali considered. "I don't think that will be necessary. Seraph probably won't remember. She was too young."

Nadai nodded but he felt a tightness in his chest. "I remembered her. " he pointed out to her. He sounded like a whining child.

Kali smiled sympathetically. She laid her hand on his arm, "You had me to remind you." She said gently. "Seraphic has had no one."

Nadai sighed, "I know, I just…I don't know. Kali?"

"Isis, but what?"

"Well, Isis..do you think she'll ever? Remember, I mean."

Kali considered. "Perhaps, when she has had time with you, she may remember."

Nadai felt the weight recede slightly. The thought of the girl he had loved since childhood not remembering hurt. He had never forgotten her. He didn't think it was possible. He still remembered the many times they had played, while their ever watchful mothers looked on.

A man came into the room and walked over to them. He dropped into a curt bow and said, "Pharaoh's Advisor Lady Aurahkah will be with you shortly. Please remain here."

Kali nodded. Aurahkah, she thought. So the baby was a girl. I bet Chibale was very proud. She smiled softly as she saw Halima in her mind's eye. Her bulging stomach and clasped hands protecting the small life that rested within. She looked up and saw a young version of Halima standing in front of her. And Chibale's blue eyes. This was Lady Aurahkah, Kali thought. She carefully schooled her expression to show careful curiosity and polite acceptance.

"Good morning and welcome."

Kali stepped forward and handed the flier to Aurahkah.

Aura quickly scanned the paper and said, "Right now the palace is in chaos with the Pharaoh's wedding mere hours away. However, once the wedding is complete and the palace reverts back to some semblance of normal, Lady Seraphic will be more than happy to put you to work. What are your names?"

Kali answered, "I am Isis and this is my companion Nadai. I am sorry for the trouble we have caused."

Aura nodded. "If you would follow me, I will take you to your chambers. Please make yourselves comfortable and don't hesitate to ask if you need something." She turned around and led the way out of the throne room. Aura settled them into two unoccupied rooms and gave instructions to the slaves. Then, she headed back to give Yami the push he most likely needed. It wouldn't do to have the Pharaoh late to his own wedding after all.

::::::::::::::::::::14:::::::::::::::::::::::

The wedding was beautiful. Relah was a glowing bride and Yami had a content expression on his face. After the prayers, as the Egyptians so often loved to do, it was time for the party. The palace was buzzing with activity. Slaves were running here and there, replacing rapidly emptying platters of food with new hot, heaping ones. And as the music began, Yami swept up his bride and amidst her laughter, glided onto the dance floor.

In front of everyone, he gently lowered her to the ground and held her close. The music continued to play but for Relah and Yami, the world had narrowed to each other. Relah looked into her beloved's eyes and smiled. Then she laid her head on his shoulder. Yami smiled and held her even closer. The looks sent between the bride and groom were enough to inspire several of the guests to find their own dancing partners.

A strange, tangible energy floated around the room. Couples moved onto the floor in rapid speed as though just being around the two in love, would give them their own small piece of heaven.

Seto moved rather purposefully towards Seraph who was at the moment giving instructions to a slave. He gently pulled her towards him.

"But I have to make sure he-"

Seto silenced her protests with a finger over her mouth. "Aura will take it from here. Come dance with me." His voice had gone low and husky and Seraph knew she shouldn't.

She moved a few inches away and finished giving her instructions.

Seto smiled and came up behind her. He encircled her in his embrace and looked at the shocked slave. "You have your orders. Now go." Seto said curtly narrowing his eyes.

The slave bowed and quickly left to tell the others that Seto had shown affection. And their beloved Seraphic, nonetheless.

Seraph leaned back into Seto and closed her eyes. She felt safe and protected in his embrace. Already sparks were beginning to jump. Her blood warmed and she simply followed as Seto pulled her gently, but firmly, onto the crowded dance floor. He pulled her close but was careful to make it look like they were just friends sharing a casual dance.

Isis watched as a dark haired girl was pulled onto the floor. Isis wasn't sure who she was, but she thought it could be her Seraphic. She moved over and threaded her way along the floor to try and see who this girl was. Isis finally had the couple in her sight. She stood on her toes to see over a tall man and stopped. The violet eyes were a dead giveaway. Not to mention Akur's nose and her own sultry mouth. Seraphic had grown up beautifully. Isis watched her dance and smiled. Her eyes softened. Her baby was in love. She knew that look. After all she had seen it in her own face often enough. "Look at her Akur." Isis whispered. "Our baby is all grown up and falling in love." She sighed and wished Akur was standing there beside her. She walked back to Nadai and grabbing his hand pulled him onto the floor. "I think I found her." She whispered.

"Where?" Nadai asked scanning the dancers around them.

Isis moved closer to Seraph and Seto and carefully nodded in their direction.

Nadai looked and said, "Her? I saw her earlier. Ra, Kali, she's gorgeous." He watched her sway with her partner and admired her beauty.

"My name is Isis and" she said moving him away "I think she's taken."

Nadai's eyes narrowed when Seto's hands moved to the small of her back. "He's awfully friendly, don't you think?" Nadai asked.

Isis smiled. "This is no time to be getting protective. Now, I want to see the Pharaoh." She moved off the floor but whispered, "Don't do anything rash."

Seraph laid her head on Seto's shoulder and sighed, a purely female sound that had Seto tightening his arms and he felt his blood heat. "What is it, love?"

Seraph's heart lifted at the endearment and she sighed again. "Relah and Yami are so happy. Look at them. I just hope they stay that way."

Seto heard her voice catch and he pressed his lips to her hair. "Why wouldn't they?" he asked.

Seraph lifted her head and thoughtfully chewed her lip. "I…I don't know."

Seto heard the worry in her voice and felt tenderness and the need to protect her race through him. He squeezed her lightly and said, "No, there's a reason, Seraph. Why don't you think they'll be happy?"

Seraph shook her head. "No reason in particular. It was a beautiful wedding, wasn't it?"

Seto smiled. She was trying to evade. Very well, he would drop it for now, but he intended to find out at some point in time. He thought about her as a curly haired child wishing that someone would need her. The image caused his eyes to turn a possessive royal blue with a hint of passion. The combination made Seraph's breath catch.

The music paused and Seto led her off the dance floor. "I'm sorry, sweetheart. I have an urgent matter to attend to but I will be back momentarily." He pressed his lips to her forehead gently and left.

Seraph moved back against the wall and watched as couples danced on the floor. She saw Aura in a corner and was about to go see her, when someone stepped in front of her. She turned to go the other way but stopped when a voice said, "Hello Lady Seraphic."

Seraph turned and saw a handsome man with black hair and dark brown eyes standing in front of her. She looked at him trying to figure out who he was. "I'm sorry but I can't seem to recall your name. Have we been formally introduced?" she asked.

Nadai smiled, "You could say that." He held out a hand to her and bowed. "Might I have this dance my Lady?"

Seraph placed her hand in his palm and strolled out into the sea of dancers. She turned into the man's arms and began to move in time with the music. She slowly scanned his face, looking for some sort of clue that would tell her who he was.

"Did you find what you were looking for, my Lady?" he asked referring to her lazy perusal of his face.

Seraph flushed. "I'm sorry, I was just…" she stopped. "What did you say your name was?" she asked again.

The stranger laughed and said, "Don't worry about that now, Seraphic."

Seraph's brow furrowed, "How do you know my name?"

Nadai grinned, "You are the High Priestess." He said simply.

Seraph nodded. Yes, it was true that many people knew exactly who she was. It was an annoying part of being so close to the Pharaoh.

"Tell me," Nadai said. "Who was that man you were with earlier?"

Seraph raised a brow. Now this was interesting. The stranger knew who she was, but not Seto. Seto had been the High Priest long before she had ever entered the picture. "He's the High Priest, Lord Seto."

Nadai nodded. "I thought as much." Although he really had no clue. He wasn't one to worry about royal affairs. They bored him tremendously.

"Are you here for the wedding?" Seraph asked trying to engage him in conversation.

"Among other things." Nadai agreed. The dance ended and he took her hand and kissed it. "Thank you for the dance." Before Seraph could say another word, he had melted into the crowd.

"You're welcome," she said to the air.

Aura was becoming increasingly irritated as the hours went by. She loved Relah and Yami and was happy for them, but dammit she wanted Bakura. She wanted to be able to dance with him and have him hold her while they swayed. A shiver ran through her when she realized his smoldering eyes and his promise to return. She desperately wanted to get away and just be alone.

Isis made her way through the crowd to Aurahkah's side. "Lady Aurahkah, I am deeply sorry to bother you right now, but my companion and I have had a long journey and we are very tired. Unfortunately this palace is very large and I simply can't find my room. Would you mind helping me? If you're too busy, I will understand." She said quickly.

Aura smiled. "Isis, right?" At Isis' nod she said, "I would be more than happy to help you. I, too am feeling tired and you have given me a way to disappear. Come, your rooms are this way." She began to lead Isis out of the grand room but turned and said, "You seem to have lost your companion."

Isis looked around and spotted Nadai with Seraphic. Her eyes narrowed when he kissed her hand. I told him not to do anything rash, she thought angrily. She waited until she reached her and said stiffly, "Come Nadai, we will retire now."

Nadai nodded and followed her out. Isis trailed after Aura pretending to blindly follow. She knew the palace very well. She knew all the twists and turns of the complicated passageways, having grown up inside these very walls. She surveyed the halls and looked to see if any of the slaves happened to still be around. No one paid the three any attention as they made their way through the crowded halls.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::14::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Seto glared at the man standing in front of him. "What can you tell me?"

The man shook his head. "The reward first, if you don't mind."

Seto glared at him. "No." he said simply.

"Then you won't get anything out of me."

Seto stared at the man. He was filthy and disgusting. But he was smart and stealthy. And Seto had no doubt that one of the thieves that had been breaking into the tombs as of late. Seto moved towards the man with slow, menacing steps. "What is your name?"

The thief considered lying, but decided it would be in his best interest to tell the truth. "Kashim."

"Well, Kashim, I have your reward, but I want the information you have first." He held up his hand to stop the thief's protest. "There are ways to make you talk and they all involve a great deal of pain."

Kashim was not stupid. You didn't get very far in his business without being cunning and stealthy. "Half." He managed to say.

Seto smiled. "Yes, I can work with that." He took out a small gold pouch and dumped it onto the table.

Kashim licked his lips. He could buy so many things with that pile. He started to reach for it but pulled his hand back when Seto smacked it with his Millennium Rod.

"Now Kashim, listen to me very closely. You will receive half of your reward, after you tell me everything you know. Once your information has been proven true, I will give you the rest."

The thief nodded eagerly but stopped when Seto said in soft, but firm voice, "And if you even consider betraying me, I will make absolutely certain you pay with your life. And I can promise you now, you will wish Ra had taken pity on you when you were born and ended your life then. Do I make myself abundantly clear?" He pulled the sheath off his Rod and revealed the dagger. He began to lovingly trace its sharp edges as he finished the threat.

"Yes my Lord."

"Good." Seto gestured to the small table. "Sit and I will listen to your information."

Kashim sat and eagerly began telling all he knew.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::14:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Seraph stood against the wall and looked around for Aura. She wanted to talk to her. Aura had looked so depressed lately and Seraph was certain why. But although she knew there was nothing she could say, or do, for that matter, she still wanted to help. She surveyed the crowd and thought she saw Aura over on the other side of the room. She moved to go over to her.

Seto smirked and grabbed her around the waist. Pressing his lips to her neck he said, "Going somewhere, my dear?"

Seraph smiled. "I was but I guess now I'm not."

Seto laughed. "Yes you are. You are coming with me."

"I am?"

Seto nodded. "Of course you are. Unless of course you'd rather stay here…with all these people. Until the bride and groom leave."

"Well it would be proper."

"And could take hours." He said looking at her with eyes already darkening with passion.

"Do you think they'll miss us?" she asked hesitating slightly.

"Them?" he asked nodding in the ecstatic couple's direction. "Not a chance. They didn't miss Aura. And she's been gone a good half hour."

Seraph's attention was diverted momentarily on the fact that Aura was not in the room any longer. "Really? Where did she go? I have to find her." Seraph tried to pull away but Seto tightened his arms.

"I'm sure she's fine. Now, Seraph shall we also disappear?"

Seraph bit her lip in indecision, then she met Seto's blue eyes with her own. Her knees went weak at the look he sent her. "Come Seraph, the things I want to do would not be well received out here."

Seraph's eyes widened but she slowly nodded her head. "I seem to be feeling a bit lightheaded."

Seto laughed despite himself. "Ah yes, and I will personally escort you to your room. Come my Lady. You need your rest." Seto had no intention of letting her rest but he wasn't about to tell her that. He quickly took her elbow and threaded his way through the crowded room. Once in the hallway he pulled her along past staring slaves and finally found an empty corridor. Unable to wait any longer he pushed her against the wall and buried his lips in hers in what turned into a stormy and passion-ridden kiss that had them both panting with desire and arousal.

::::::::::::::::::::::14::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Yami held Relah in his arms and smiled. "Relah darling, I realize you are having a lot of fun. But I have never been one for long parties. And there are other things I would rather do than dance." He said meeting her gaze.

Relah smiled up at the man she had taken to be her husband and allowed her own desire to turn her green eyes into liquid emeralds. "I, too grow tired of this party. Let the others dance. We have our own celebration to attend to. Our private celebration." She said smiling in pure sexual invitation.

Yami motioned his Captain of the Guards over and said, "Take care of these people. I have more important matters to attend to."

The Captain nodded and bowed. "Good night my Liege. I shall do as you ask."

Yami dismissed him with a wave of his hand and took Relah's hand in his own. "Come wife. It is time for us to retire."

Relah walked next to her husband through the room and turned to nod to all their guests. Yami grew impatient and pulled her outside, and closed the door after her. Grabbing her gently he threaded his hands into her hair and held her head. For a long while he simply stared into her eyes, mesmerized by the depth of love and passion he saw in their stormy depths.

"My Lord?" Relah asked laughingly. "Is something the matter? You seem to have missed the point of pulling me out into a deserted hallway."

Yami just stared at her and said, "You're beautiful Relah. Absolutely gorgeous. And you're mine." With those words he claimed her with his lips and lifted them both to new heights in their desire for each other.

When Relah broke the kiss, Yami said, "Bedchamber. Now.

Relah laughed and said, "Whatever you say…my Pharaoh."

Yami simply grabbed her arm and pulled her gently but firmly into their room. Leaving her in the middle he walked out and stopped the first slave that happened down the hall. "I think it goes without saying that we are not to be bothered for ANY reason no matter how dire. I don't care how good you think it is. I don't even care if the Nile dries up. Do I make myself perfectly clear?"

The slave nodded trying very hard to balance the heavy tray and bow to the Pharaoh at the same time. "Yes, my Pharaoh. I'll make sure everyone knows that you aren't to be disturbed. Even if the Nile dries up."

Yami nodded and went back into his room without another thought to the poor slave still trying to stand with the heavy tray on his shoulder. Although Yami was preoccupied with other things, another slave did come along and help him up. Then they both went off on their way down the hall.

::::::::::::::::::::::14:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Aura wandered aimlessly along the hallway. She wasn't absolutely certain Bakura would return tonight. And disappointment lingered just over her head. She really wasn't sure what she would do if she got to her room and found him waiting for her. Although she figured it wouldn't take them long to figure it out. Her thoughts turned to Kebi. She wasn't sure if he had been recruited to help out with the wedding, but if that was the case, it would take care of him for the night. She smiled. Bakura wouldn't need the chair tonight. She passed bustling slaves and wondered how they were feeling. The party would go on for days…if not weeks. They would be stretched to their limits and as always they would fulfill their duties. Pharaoh's slaves were among the elite. Well, most of them anyway. There are a few that weren't very good. She instantly thought of Dakar. There was something wrong with that whole situation and she couldn't quite place the feeling of foreboding she felt when she thought of him. She knew he would bring despair. Although how that would happen, she really wasn't sure. After all he had escaped, much like Bakura had only months ago.

Thoughts of Bakura brought her back to her original dilemma. Should she go back to her room and wait for him. Again the threat of disappointment lingered in her mind. But then he had always been a man of his promises. She knew that he would do everything in his power to get to her tonight. And when it came to Bakura, he had a lot of power. She just wasn't sure when he would show. Finally she decided to make her way to her room. She could just walk the corridor in front of her room all night until he popped up. But that seemed a little desperate. No, she would go into her room and prepare for bed like there was nothing wrong. She would simply act like she did on any other night. Yes, that was the best plan.

"Lady Aurahkah?" a voice behind her questioned.

Aura jumped visibly. "What?!"

"I umm just wanted to see if you were to …dismiss the guests…" said the slave bowing rapidly unsure of what had upset her.

"No…no. I believe Pharaoh told someone else to do that. But if someone needs to, I give you the authority. Now, leave me alone."

The slave's eyes widened. "I-I couldn't my Lady. That kind of honor…."

Aura rolled her eyes and cursed the small slave. "Look this isn't difficult. Simply say 'Lady Aurahkah would like to thank you all on behalf of the Pharaoh and his bride for coming out to enjoy this most prestigious occasion. Now enjoy your evening and have a good night.' Then leave. Okay?"

The slave nodded and set off for the grand room excited that she was going to get to do something so important.

:::::::::::::::::::14:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Bakura inched slowly out of the tomb, the necklace tucked into his tunic. He had already knocked the first guard out but the second he had saved for later. Later was now. He stealthily moved into the darkness, allowing the shadows to swallow his form. He pulled out a glinting ornate dagger and prepared his strike on the unsuspecting guard. The guard paused for a moment when he saw his comrade on the ground but assumed he was sleeping and shrugged it off. He quickly scanned the area and saw something white off to the left of the tomb.

Bakura grew restless and moved. He heard the guard shout, "Hey! You there! What are you doing over there?"

Bakura cursed inwardly. His damn hair. It gave him away every damn time. He smirked and stepped out into the moonlight holding the stolen necklace aloft. "I was simply preparing to run with this beautiful necklace I found."

The guard narrowed his eyes and said, "Where did you get that?"

Bakura rolled his eyes. By Ra, the guards were extremely idiotic tonight. How in the world does Pharaoh expect his tombs to stay safe when he hires morons to guard them? "Now I know why so many tombs are raided. The guards are pure geniuses." He shook his head and nodded to the necklace in his hand. "I believe it belonged to the late Pharaoh. Or one of his mistresses."

The guard came toward him drawing his blade. "Thief! Give me the necklace. And surrender yourself in the name of the Pharaoh."

Bakura looked at him in confusion. "Do I look stupid to you? I really don't see why it is such a big deal. The Pharaoh is obviously not using it. And I just want to 'borrow' it. I fully intended to return it in a few hundred years." He said twirling his dagger.

"Likely story," the guard scoffed. He raced toward Bakura his sword raised high into the air, prepared to strike a killing blow. Bakura yawned and waited for the guard to get close enough. Then barely blinking he thrust his dagger deep into the guard's chest and watched him stumble and fall clutching Bakura's dagger.

Bakura waited patiently for the guard to stop writhing and finally die then quickly sent a prayer to Osiris. "May his stupidity not drive you insane." He reached down and plucked the dagger out of the guard's chest. Wiping the blade, he said, "Ordinarily I don't kill guards, I simply knock them out, like your friend over there. But you were just too stupid. You deserved to die and I do believe I should be rewarded for ridding the world and the Pharaoh of a moron such as yourself. Of course Pharaoh probably won't see it quite the same way but oh well." Bakura stepped over the fallen guard and checked the sleeping to make sure he would dream for a very long time. Bakura had no doubt the man would die soon. He would be killed simply for 'sleeping' while on duty. But it wasn't Bakura's concern. He had somewhere to be. He scanned the area one last time and deftly made his way into the city.

:::::::::::::::::::14:::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Seto lifted his head and sighed. He laid his heated forehead against cool stone of the wall. It didn't help. His entire body was on fire. And it needed to be quenched. Soon. He wasn't sure how much longer he could stand the tension. He looked down at the limp beauty in his arms and smiled at her dazed look. He loved it when she looked like that. It meant he, Seto, had made her forget who and where she was. He made her focus only on him and the pleasure he gave her. It was a purely dominant feeling that made him smile in delight.

Seraph felt like she was floating. She was dimly aware that Seto was still leaning against her as well as the hard stone wall against her back. She blinked a few times trying to clear the cloud that had taken up residence where her brain had been moments before. She slowly became aware that they were in one of the few deserted hallways in the palace about halfway to their hall and rooms. She tugged on Seto's sleeve.

Seto felt her faint tug and smiled. "Yes, my love? What can I do for you?"

Seraph smiled. There were a few suggestions that sprang to mind but she was too timid to actually voice them. Instead she nodded to the hall. "We shouldn't be here. Someone could come along and catch us at any minute."

Seto glanced at the empty hall and raised an eyebrow. He didn't comment but simply took her arm and led her down the hall once again. He faced a moment of indecision when they finally saw their rooms. He desperately wanted to claim her in his own bed but knew it would probably make her nervous if he took her to his room. Not to mention that he was going to have to slip from her bed in the middle of the night. No, as much as he wanted to, he couldn't. He would take her to her room but unlike she thought, he did not plan to bid her good night and leave her to rest. He fully intended to rid himself of his frustration. Tonight.

::::::::::::::::::::::14::::::::::::::::::::::::

"Even if the Nile dries up, Yami? I'm flattered actually. I know how important the Nile is to you."

"Nothing is more important than you. Nothing. Egypt could come crashing down and I wouldn't bat an eyelash."

Relah's eyes widened. "We do eventually have to leave the room, Yami."

Yami stopped her when he began to walk toward her slowly his eyes revealing their intent. He stalked her to the bed as though she were his prey and Relah played along running from him.
He finally caught her around the waist and gently tossed her onto the bed. Following her he said, "We will speak of leaving when that time comes. However I don't plan to let it for a very long time."

Relah nodded. She moved over to make room on the bed and sighed.

Yami stopped and looked at her. "What's the matter, my dear?"

She shook her head. "Nothing. I just can't believe it's really here. Four months is a very long time."

He shook his head, "Relah, you have no idea."

"Oh I think I do." She said. "I didn't show it but I wanted you just as bad. And when we were dancing, Ra I thought I was going to die if we had to wait any longer. Every time you touched me I wanted you. Every time you walked into a room…every time you spoke made me need you even more."

His eyes had gone hot and the blood was quickly leaving his head. Relah had wanted him just as badly as he had wanted her. "Never again." He managed to say.

She looked at him. "What?"

"Four months…is too long. Never again. I mean it Relah. I waited once. Once was enough."

Relah laughed and moved closer to him. Twining her hands around his neck she tried to silence him with a kiss.

He indulged her briefly but broke the kiss and said, "I want your promise Relah. Never again."

Relah rolled her eyes. "Fine. Never again."

"You really mean it? You won't break your promise?"

"I wouldn't dream of it. Now do you really want to ply me with questions or do you want to finally do what you've been rambling on about these past five minutes."

It didn't take him long to decide which option to take and Relah found herself flat on her back in a matter of moments. She looked up at him and pulled him to her in a deep kiss that went on forever.

::::::::::::::::::::::::14::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Aura walked into her room and stood by the bed. She walked into Kebi's room and found him gone. He wouldn't return tonight, of that she was certain. He had been recruited for the wedding just like she had suspected. Every slave possible was needed to pull off Pharaoh's wedding. She wandered back into her own room and began pulling off the heavy rings that had been on her fingers all day. She reached up to take off the headdress Yami had insisted she wear when a voice in the darkness stopped her.

"Leave it on."

Aura whirled around and looked for him. She knew he was there but she couldn't see him. Then he moved and she saw him sitting in the window, nonchalantly perched on the sill watching her.

Aura's hands stopped halfway to her head and she lowered them slowly.

Bakura moved from his spot on this sill and slowly walked toward her. She was beautiful in all her gold. Damn! He had missed her so much. Usually he only got to watch her sleep after getting rid of the annoying kid. But tonight she was wide awake and by the invitation in her eyes, he gathered she was thinking the same thing he was. He sauntered the rest of the way over to her and reached up. Clasping her face in his hands he met her eyes with his own. Unspoken thoughts passed between the two. It was something they had done many times before and with the ease of old lovers they moved into a kiss. Bakura held her tightly as he plundered her mouth with his own. He tasted her sweetness and had the taste of vanilla on his tongue. It was a familiar taste and he knew that even if he had eternity, he would never tire of it. It was the one thing he could drink of and then want more and more and more. He would never be satisfied. He broke the kiss and pulled her to the bed. Sitting down he yanked gently until she tumbled into his lap. Nuzzling her hair he said, "I brought you something."

"You did? Bakura, you didn't steal it, did you?"

Bakura shook his head. "Always worried about me, aren't you. No, I didn't steal it. I earned it." He dropped the necklace into her hand and smiled at her gasp of pleasure.

The necklace was made in the old fashioned style. It was on a long chain just like she liked and was ornate but simple in its own way. The necklace was fashioned in the shape of intertwined ankhs. They were made of the purest gold and the chain itself was one of the thickest she had ever seen. Precious jewels rested within the center of the ankhs and also on the side. It was a very valuable necklace and the gesture touched her heart. Not to mention the symbol. It was seductive and romantic all at the same time. She lovingly caressed it and then looked at Bakura suspiciously, "Where did you get it?"

He sighed. "I already told you. I earned it."

"For? What kind of thing did you do to get this as a reward?"

"I won a fight."

She raised an eyebrow but decided she would ask him about it later. She kissed his mouth softly and said, "It's beautiful, Kura. Thank you."

He smirked and gently draped the chain around her neck. The ankhs came to rest just below the swell of her breasts and automatically drew his gaze there. The winking jewels beckoned him like lights and he longed to strip away her dress and see her wearing just the necklace. He sighed. "Aura, why don't you wear gold every day? I mean you're gorgeous without it, but ….whoa!"

She shook her head. "I can't stand it. I feel like I'm a paperweight. I don't know how Seraph and Relah stand it." She continued on about how Pharaoh made her wear the gold on special occasions but no other times did she let him get away with it.

He was not listening. He was too busy trying to decide if he wanted to leave the gold on and get rid of her dress or remove it first. The thought of all that gold against her sun-kissed skin made his decision for him. Taking out his dagger, which moments before was bloodstained. He stood up and held her in his arms then set her on her feet, sliding her down his body and making her eyes go wide, then darken in desire. Chocolate met azure and held as he took the dagger and carefully cut the thin fabric. Then tossing the dagger aside he took the fabric in both of his hands, and still holding her gaze her ripped it right don't the middle. Snatches of skin shone through the torn garment and she was too dazed to realize that he had just ruined the only white dress she had.

Bakura leaned down and began to place kisses along the column of her neck, when she slipped her arms around his neck. She tried to kiss him on the lips but he pulled away, a mischievous gleam in his eyes.

He held her gaze and smirked. Then he slowly turned her around and once again ripped the garment. He slowly and carefully slid the soft cotton down her heated skin, placing random kisses where skin appeared along the way until he reached the floor.

Aura's knees were weak and she knew that in a moment that she was going to collapse. The gold would bring her down. She shook her head and gripped his shoulder with her hand. She squeezed gently trying to get him to bring his attention to higher places than where he was focusing right now.

He lifted his head and stood up. Staring at her expressive eyes he took her mouth in a stirring kiss. He felt her begin to sway and locked his arms around her back, supporting her before she toppled over. If he hadn't been so aroused, it would have been a comical sight. Aura, half of her dress lying on the floor, the other half slipping off with every move she made. And covered in gold. Ah, it was extremely arousing to see the gold catch on the moonlight and wink at him from their hiding places. She had a gold belt looped around her waist and he looked forward to removing it with his teeth. He tugged on the belt and felt her jerk and fall toward him. He caught her and laughed at her surprised expression. "Couldn't resist. Now hold on for just a moment, sweetheart. It seems you still have half a dress on."

"Half a dress…." She said slowly. "Why would I wear half a dress….Pharaoh would have a fit."

He bit back a laugh and shook his head. She had forgotten the necklace and the fight already. This worked for him. He would get some tonight. He returned his attention to the other half of her dress and gave the left side of her body the same attention he had allowed the right.

Aura's thoughts turned to mush again and she simple held onto his shoulder. She felt a slight breeze on her heated skin and sighed in pure pleasure.

Kura laughed and continued his foray into forbidden territory.

::::::::::::::::14::::::::::::::::::::

Seraph entered her room and walked over to her dressing table. She reached up and unclipped the ear cuffs. She dropped them on the table, completely oblivious to the fact that Seto was lounging in the doorway watching her.

She reached up and removed the gold clip that held her hair back and allowed the raven curls to cascade down her back. She tilted her head and used her fingers to begin combing through it.

Seto watched her his breath catching at the sight. She was a natural temptress and she had no idea the effect she had. Her striking features had caused more than one man to glance in her direction tonight. He felt his chest tighten at the thought of her with anyone else. He slowly closed the door and walked up behind her.

She continued to comb her heavy curls desperately trying to get the snarls out. She knew that her hair was her worst thing. It was so thick and bothersome. It really got in the way. She sensed Seto behind her and twirled around. But she moved too quickly and almost fell.

He caught and steadied her, his hands lingering at her tiny waist. Her curls had come to rest at her shoulders and dangle invitingly in front of the bodice of her simple gown. Seto licked his lips at the thought of the inviting flesh lying beneath the simple cotton.

She looked down at his hands on her waist and realized how much bigger he was. His hands nearly spanned her waist and she had no doubt that if he wished he could keep her from moving. But she felt safe, if only a little lightheaded. She knew that part of it was from Seto's drugging kisses earlier in the hallway. And some of it was from the way he was looking at her now. Her eyes widened when he reached down and swung her into his arms. Holding her against his chest he picked up the ivory brush on her dressing table and walked to the bed. Setting her down he climbed onto the bed behind her and settled her between his legs. He gently began pulling the brush through her raven tresses and she sighed with pure feminine bliss. He loved her hair. It was his favorite thing about her. He loved to pull the brush through slowly and stroke his way down the long length. He buried his hands in her hair and tilted her head down, flipping her hair over her head and revealing her neck. He slowly ran his hands slowly along her hairline and felt her shiver in response. Smiling to himself he finished brushing her hair and then stood up. Pulling her to her feet he brushed the hair out of her eyes and lowered his mouth to hers.

The kiss was fiery and passionate but so very gentle it touched Seraph's heart. She knew she was falling for him and she hated the vulnerability she felt right now. But when Seto kissed her, it all seemed worth it. Even she, who had sworn not to fall for anyone she was in danger of doing just that. She gave all the love she felt in that kiss and it reduced Seto to a panting male. She moaned softly when he tasted her and he was rewarded again when she grabbed his shoulder for support. He found her taste intoxicating. She was honey and sugar, a stirring combination. She smelled like lavender. And tasted like heaven. He broke the kiss and met her now indigo eyes with his own.

She looked into his eyes, now almost a black they were so dark.

"I'd love to continue love, but if we don't stop soon, you're going to find yourself in a very compromising situation soon." He had originally intended to simply tell her what was going to happen and then follow through but now that it came time, he couldn't. He knew she was innocent and he didn't want her first time to be that way. He had no intention of forcing her but she really wasn't sure how much more of her innocent caresses he could take. "Stay with me tonight." He whispered his voice thick with need.

Seraph's eyes darkened even more. "I…Yes." She whispered then pulled his mouth down to hers.

He kissed her back and then broke off. "Are you absolutely certain, Seraphic? Once this happens, things will never again be the same. Are you sure you're ready for this?"

She weighed the choice in her mind. She didn't want to over analyze this. It felt….right. And she couldn't deny she didn't want it too. Although she wasn't entirely sure what 'it' was. She was certain Seto knew, and would be more than happy to show her. She buried her head in his shoulder and said, "Yes, Seto, I'm sure. Take me to bed. Make me yours."

Seto's heart swelled with tenderness. She couldn't even look at him when she said it but he admired her for being able to put it so bluntly. He carefully lifted her face and framed it with his hands. Black eyes met Indigo and fused. Sparks flew and both were taken back by the intensity of each other's gaze. "Don't be afraid, Seraphic. I don't want any secrets or shyness between us. Okay?"

She nodded and said, "No shyness. No secrets."

Seto reached down and slipped the simple gown up over her head. He left the garment in his hands and pulled her now naked body to his. He took her mouth in another stirring kiss and she felt the cool fabric press against her back where he still held it in his tight fist.

:::::::::::::::::14:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Relah lie back on the pillow and let the warmth flow through her. She saw Yami above her and laughed at how absurd he looked in all that gold. It was going to be very troublesome to get rid of it all, but she was always ready for a challenge. She reached up and plucked the ornate crown off his head. "As much as I love it, my Lord, it has to go."

She tossed it on the floor with a clank.

He laughed. "As does yours, my dear." She reached up to remove it for him, but Yami stopped her. "I don't want it to come off just yet. It marks you as my queen. That's not something I want to remove just yet." He reached down and slowly removed her ankle bands. He tossed one and then the other to the floor where the landed and bounced off the wall, landing just feet from the crown.

Relah laughed. "Always had to be different, didn't you? Two can play that game. She reached down and removed the gold chain-linked belt that was draped around his waist. Dangling it above his face, she said with a smile, "There is so much I could do with this one piece, and most of it is quite shocking."

He smiled. "Ah yes, I have taught you well. But I believe it's my turn to rid you of more gold?"

"By all means."

Yami reached up and removed the bands encircling her wrists.

Relah responded by removing the bands around his neck. She placed a few chaste kisses to the strong column.

He responded by pushing her back. "No fair. You can't distract me. It's my turn to take something off."

Relah sighed, "Yami, I have more gold than you. I am going to win. And it's your fault. So I think you should take off two pieces each time. That will help it go faster."

"No." He reached up and removed the earrings dangling from her ears. "One at a time. Those are the rules."

She shook her head. "Fine, but don't get upset when I win."

He smiled seductively. "Darling I planned this all along.

She stopped in mid-reach for his wrist bands. "What do you mean, you planned this?"

"Oh I hoped for it. You see, my goddess must be decorated. It's just not right if she's not."

She rolled her eyes, "You just love to decorate things. I shudder to think of our children and how much gold you will pile on them from the day they are born."

Yami stopped. "How many?"

"Does it matter?"

"I want five. But not for a while. A very long while. And I think going to enjoy bringing these 'children' into existence. Very much so."

She shook her head. "I was thinking two."

He just looked at her. "What if they both die? Then who will take the throne. We have to have some back ups. After all you never know what could happen."

Relah glared at him and smacked him right where his royal crown had previously been.

He stared at her, "What?"

"My children are NOT going to die, and I can't believe you said that."

He looked down at her and bit back a laugh. "I'm kidding sweetheart. If anyone harms my children I will personally make them pay."

"Jerk. That's so mean."

"Now, I'm confused. I thought you wanted me to take revenge…you don't?"

"I meant you teasing me like that. And I want to help."

"Fine. Now you have way too much gold on my Lady. Let me help you with one piece of that."

"It's my turn." She said removing his wrist bands.

He rid her of the elaborate headdress that had been weighing her down ever since she had put it on. He reached down and grabbed the belt she had removed earlier and quickly tied her wrists together. Before she could say anything he removed the rest of his gold in quick succession.

Relah watched as gold went flying in all directions. She looked at him and pouted, "I wanted to do it."

He sighed, "I have better things to do with my time than allow you to take off one piece of gold at a time. Ra, we'll be here forever."

"You made the rules."

"And now I'm breaking them. As Pharaoh I am above any all laws, rules, and the like."

"And as the Queen, so am I."

"Ah but you are tied my dear. How are you going to break the rules, now?"

She simply smiled up at him mischief in her eyes.

:::::::::::::::::::14::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Aura moaned. She felt thousands of emotions hit her as she rode the wave. Kura raised his head and watched her mouth drop open in ecstasy. He stood up and carefully maneuvered her onto the bed. She had lost the other half of her dress but still had on all her gold, including the necklace he had recently given her. She lay there on the silk sheets looking extremely inviting. Kura licked his lips at the mere sight of her.

"Are you going to stand there, Kura, or are you going to join me?" she asked.

He smiled, "I'm going to stand here."

She glared at him. "What do you mean, you're going to stand there. Get down here, now!"

"No."

"You can't tell me no. I'm Lady Aurahkah, the one who used to be your mistress. You have no authority."

Bakura shrugged. "Titles mean nothing to me. If they did I never would have touched you in the first place. But don't worry, love, I am going to join you soon enough. But it does seem that one of us is overdressed." He slowly began to remove all his hidden weapons. Aura waited on the bed as he pulled daggers and sais out of places she had no idea, daggers and sais could be. When he had finished there was a pile almost as big as her pile of gold was that morning.

"I'm always prepared." He said smirking at her shocked expression. "You don't kill anyone anymore, do you?"

He rolled his eyes and kissed her quickly. When he had robbed her of all coherent thought he returned to his task of removing his clothes.

She watched in delight as he slowly divulged himself of the red cloak. He tossed it over the chair he used to keep Kebi in the room and then thought about the kid. "Where's the kid?"

Aura jerked up. "What kid?"

"That new slave of yours."

"Oh, Kebi. He's helping with the wedding clean-up so he won't be joining us this evening."

"Sounds good to me." He slowly pulled his tunic over his head and tossed it in the direction of the cloak. It missed the chair but he really didn't care.

She was rewarded with the sight of his bare chest, tanned and perfectly sculpted. Her hands itched to run her fingers across the warm muscle and she motioned him over.

He shook his head. "Not yet." He quickly got rid of his pants and Aura lay back against the soft pillows. He was hard intoxicating male. Perfectly made. And all hers. "Now will you come to bed? Please?"

"Well, since you asked so nicely, mistress dear."

"What are you up to, Bakura? You never call me mistress unless you are planning something."

"Me? Planning something? Why would I have to plan anything? You're pretty willing and we both know what we're doing…where's the planning?" He crawled onto the bed and made his way toward her reaching out with flighty caresses on different places on her body as she laid spread so invitingly on the bed.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::14::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Seraph sighed and began to kiss him back in the same way he had taught her. She wasn't entirely sure what to do but simply copied Seto's moves.

Seto was quickly reaching his breaking point, but he knew he had to bring Seraph almost to the brink before she would be fully ready. He leaned down to press a kiss to the gentle swell of her breasts, then stopped as another thought hit him. "Seraph, he said gently shaking her to bring her back to reality. "We have to be careful. You could conceive. Now when did you last bleed?"

Seraph felt her face go red with embarrassment but she recalled his earlier statement. She thought for a moment. "Last week."

"Are you sure?"

Seraph hid her face and nodded.

"It's okay Seraphic. Look at me." He tilted her chin up and said, "No secrets, no shyness. Remember?"

She nodded and tried to keep from blushing again. She didn't succeed but Seto really didn't mind. The blush gave her a rosy tint that seemed to cover her entire body and Seto's already aroused self was becoming painful. He longed to just bury himself in her but she still wasn't ready. He took her lips in another stirring kiss and slowly eased her down onto the bed. He began to stroke her body until she purred with delight. She felt all the sensations he was evoking in her and it felt so delicious. Her world narrowed to the needs of her body and she so desperately wanted….what was it? She didn't know.

Seto continued to stroke her full breasts and almost lost it when they swelled to fit his seeking hands. He moved down to her navel where he spent a good five minutes bestowing that jewel with its proper tribute.

Seraph ran her hands over his chest and felt the soft fabric and the hard muscles underneath tense. She ripped off his cape and tossed it to the floor then reached for his shirt, but Seto stopped her. He couldn't bear to have her touch him. Not now. He rid himself of his shirt and his pants in a very quick motion.

Seraph laid back and feasted on him. Her fantasies from the morning were all coming true. But this was so much better than anything she could have pictured in her mind. He was so beautiful. Perfect in her eyes. She reached up and stroked his chest. It was hard but warm and very inviting. She drew her nails gently across and was rewarded by his moan.

He carefully captured her seeking hands and began to carefully bring her to the point of no return.

:::::::::::::::::::14::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Yami blinked up at Relah. He was now beneath her, tied, gold-less, and clotheless. And he had no idea how it had happened. One minute she was tied and his for the taking and the next…he remembered a flash and a slight pain but now he was totally at her mercy. This was not the way he had planned it at all.

Relah smiled. She smiled at him and stood up. "Please, excuse me, my Lord."

"Relah. You can't leave me like this. This is not fair at all. Relah! Come back here! I command you to come back here and untie me!"

Relah sauntered over to the desk and picked up his rather large, fluffy quill he used to sign all his important papers. Winking at him she slowly walked back to the bed tracing the feather along her cheeks. "Well my Lord, I seem to remember that you are ticklish."

Yami squinted at her and glared. "Relah, don't you dare. I will get you back. Relah! I mean it…no stop!" He was consumed in a laughing fit as she dragged the feather across his exposed chest. She paused after he had laughed himself into tears. Then she slowly began to remove the rest of her gold. She pulled of her armbands and dangled them over his tied hands. "Hold these, please."

"Well since I have no choice."

"I knew you'd see things my way." She held the feather above him and slowly began to trail it down his body. He was way too aroused to laugh now, instead he was writhing beneath her in a most enjoyable way. "You see my Pharaoh. You may have intended to use me…but I am using you instead. Of course in the end we will both use each other multiple times but that's neither here nor there. I told you I would win. You thought I meant the gold game. But I meant so much more."

Saying this she moved the feather even lower until Yami moaned in sheer anguish.

Relah was having a lot of fun reducing Yami to a moaning pile of flesh. He was on the bed, tied, and she was still fully clothed with most of her gold still on. "My first ruling as Queen. I win! Our very first game as Queen and Pharaoh I won. And I will never let you forget it. Oh and before I forget, my second ruling as Queen is to force you to look and not touch." She smiled quite seductively and began to slowly divulge herself of gold while caressing Yami every once in a while with the wonderful feather.

Yami couldn't take much more. It was shocking that she had reduced him to this. He had to get her back. Someway. He had to come up with a plan. And he had to do it fast.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::14:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

He began by caressing every inch of her body. Every time she reached for him, he gently pushed her back onto the bed. She still had all her gold on and it was becoming an intense point for Bakura. He began to remove his own gold. He really didn't wear much so it took little time. When he was left with the Ring around his neck he realized that she had the Ring on as well. "Did the Pharaoh have another one made?"

Aura looked up at him in confusion. "Another one? What are you talking about?"

Bakura smiled in spite of himself. Usually by now she was fully coherent and functioning normally again. But tonight, he had succeeded in keeping her from reality for a little while longer. He was extremely proud of himself for it too. "Aura, focus. Love…I know it's hard but listen closely. We both have the Ring on. What happened?"

She shook her head. "I gave the Ring to you. I don't have one."

He shook his head. Tonight she was really out of it. He did a little too well. "Where did you get this?" he asked holding up the Ring that was around her neck.

"Oh…fake. Made in…village? Town? "She shrugged. "Fuzzy. Not sure. You have real one. Right?"

Bakura raised an eyebrow. Damn! I'm good. He pulled the fake off her and laid it gently on the floor, for fear it might break. Then he supporting his weight on his hands stretched out above her. The Ring dangled down and its points tickled her breasts. She writhed and tried to pull him all the way down, but he evaded her grasp. He bathed her completely from head to toe and when he was finished Aura was starry-eyed with passion. She definitely couldn't' think straight. There was not one coherent thought in her mind….except…"You. Here. Now!"

Bakura smiled and leaned down, taking her mouth in a stirring kiss. He broke the kiss and stood up and walked over to her dressing table. Grabbing the bottles he walked back over to the bed. Aura was splayed out giving him access to any part of her he wished. He surveyed the bottles and picked the lotions that smelled like her. Jasmine. That was his Aura. She always smelled like jasmine, although he wasn't sure if it was because of the lotion or that was her scent. He opened the jar and took out the slippery oil. He began to smooth the oil over every inch of her body and caressing places again and again.

Aura felt his hands glide deliciously over her body. She felt smooth and slippery. Like she could just slip right out of his grasp. She didn't want to move though. It had been so long…too long. And now was heaven. Now was perfect. She hadn't felt like this in almost a year. But now everything was right.

Bakura finished smoothing the oil over her and watched her supple limbs glint in the moonlight. She was already the sun-kissed color and now she was sun-kissed and oily. He closed his eyes in pure ecstasy. Then he began to slowly remove her gold and smooth oil in the spots her 'decorations' had been.

She simply laid there, he had brought her to the peak twice. She was spent and now he was arousing her again with full body rubdown.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::14:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Seraph felt him open her legs and instinctively clamped them shut.

"No, sweetheart. Don't. Please don't." He buried his face in her breasts and shook his head. She looked down at him and when he met her gaze, he saw the fear in her eyes. It about killed him but he stopped. He sat up and pulled her into his lap.

"Seraphic. I'm not going to do anything you don't want me to. Although I hate to say this, but I have to hurt you. Once but I can't keep it from happening. When I finally move inside you, I will have to break a barrier and it will cause you the briefest of pain. I wish I could take it from you, but I can't. Ra, Seraph. I wish it didn't have to be this way. But after the pain you will feel only pleasure in my arms. I promise you that, Seraph. I will never hurt you again. Just don't close yourself off to me and for Ra's sake don't hate me for it."

Seraph felt tears brimming in her eyes at his words. She forced herself to relax and unclenched her thighs.

Seto took her surrender in stride and kissed her. He moved his hand down and began to work his magic on the very core of her. She felt herself writhe under his attention. She felt a wave wash through her and suddenly she was crying out and screaming Seto's name. Seto silenced her scream with his mouth praying no one heard her. He wiped the moisture and cherished the picture of her. Warm, wet, willing. He slowly moved into position over her. Her eyes opened and he looked deep into the pools of Indigo that told him so much. He looked at her in silence telling her with his eyes that it was time.

She read their silent message and nodded. Squeezing her eyes shut she waited for the pain she knew was coming. But it didn't. Seto had moved his head where his fingers were and was now remaking the same magic he had only previously. Her body once again racked with shudders and she bit her lip to keep from screaming. He finally moved into position once more and prepared to enter.

He hugged her close and with one deep thrust, entered her kissing her violently to keep her from screaming out loud.

Seraph felt him move inside her and then a searing pain ripped through her body. She felt like she was being torn apart inside. Tears slipped from her eyes and ran unchecked down her cheeks.

Seto was staying perfectly still inside her. He broke the kiss and held her close trying to quiet her sobs. He framed her face with his hands and wiped her tears. "I'm so sorry Seraphic. I told you, love, I had to."

Seraph felt more tears slip out and she moved slightly trying to get rid of the invasion into her body. A wave of pure electricity shot through her body and made her sigh. It had only been a brief pain and when it faded, the pleasure that took its place was so much nicer. She saw Seto his eyes pleading with her. She carefully kissed him and began to move underneath him.

Seto saw stars. He was finally inside her silky thighs. Right where he wanted to be. He knew that he was going to hurt her. He had known it all along. And yet when it happened he felt a hatred for himself. He had caused her unspeakable pain and all to fulfill his selfish desires. He had tried so hard to arouse her enough to keep her from feeling too much pain but he wasn't used to dealing with innocents. He preferred women who knew how to pleasure him as well as he could them. But her innocence was refreshing. He had tasted the experienced and now he had tasted the innocent and the innocent was much more intoxicating. It aroused him and evoked a sense of tenderness he didn't know he possessed. Then he realized Seraph was kissing him. But not on his lips. She had been slowly and deliberately placing feather light kisses all over his chest and writhing beneath him. He snapped out of his fog and continued what he had started. He built the forbidden rhythm until she was moaning and almost at the edge.

She was reaching….reaching…it was there…she knew it…wait..there!

"There? Alright Seraph. Let's go." He pushed her over the edge and then lost himself in her, spilling his seed inside his angel. When he was spent he gathered her into his arms and held her close as she melted against him. He kissed her and said, "That is lovemaking my darling, and now it is time to sleep."

Seraph snuggled against him and smiled when his arm locked around her waist and rested familiarly under her breast. He covered them both and buried his face in her hair. He was where he wanted to be…until dawn anyway.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::14::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Relah had Yami right where she wanted him. She had stripped herself of all her gold and now was simply dressed in a white sheath and her crown. She didn't want to take it off yet either. She reached and pulled the sheath up slowly revealing her long legs, and then her thighs. She stopped at her thighs and looked at her husband, still tied to the bed.

Yami was dying. He had to bury himself in Relah, and he had to do it soon. If he didn't he was going to explode…and die. Each inch she raised the sheath he died more inside.

"How high do you want it Yami? Tell me?"

Yami closed his eyes and sought for the words. He groaned and shook his head. "NO! Floor…..now…."

"What about the floor, Yami? I don't understand. Do you want me to put your gold back on…piece by piece?"

Yami whimpered. "Relah…all the way."

"I can't hear you, Yami dear."

"You are …going to pay."

Relah raised an eyebrow. I don't have to untie you, you know. Unlike you, I tied that belt tight. You won't be able to undo it like I did. And I hold all the threats now, Yami dear. So you haven't told me yet. How much do you want to see?" She raised the slip of cloth a little bit higher and Yami died again.

Finally he can no longer take it. He screams out "TAKE THE DAMN THING OFF RELAH! NOW! I WANNA SEE IT ALL….."

"Well…now I know what you want, but I don't take orders very well. In fact I have been known to be quite rebellious when I am yelled at. I'll just have to put it all back on…"

Yami whimpered again. "Please….now I'm begging…please Relah…let me see you….please…please…please…FOR RA'S SAKE PLEASE!"

Relah smiled. "Well why didn't you say so?" She slipped the sheath over her head and laid it on the floor. She gave him a tantalizing view of her back and then her breasts, her red hair flowing down in curls.

Relah climbed onto the bed and crawled over to him. He tried so hard to move his hands but they were tied too tightly. "Relah haven't you had enough?"

"Actually, yes. I have. I want to finish this. But I want to do it while you're tied."

"NOOOOOOO! Relah please have mercy."

"Mercy…I'm not familiar with the term. And neither is my Pharaoh.'

She climbed up on top of him and sighed in ecstasy. Yami struggled against his bonds but stopped when he felt himself inside her. To hell with it. Relah could be in control. He would have his turn. And oh revenge would be sweet.

When Relah finished with Yami he was spent as was she. Too spent to untie the poor Pharaoh, which is why he had bruises on his wrists and was very stiff when he finally woke up to find out what wedded bliss truly was.

::::::::::::::::::::14:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Aura was once again at that crucial point but this time when she went crashing over the cliff she wanted her love with her. "Kura Kura….don't you feel a little uncomfortable?" she asked gently.

Bakura clenched his teeth as she began stroking him. He wasn't ready to end this yet…no dammit! Not yet. But apparently she was finished and she wanted him inside her. And that's where he wanted to be. But first he wanted to taste the oil. The friction of their bodies, hers slippery, his hard and warm joined together in a wonderful way. She slid down and he moaned in spite of himself. He wanted her so badly. He wanted to be inside her so he could reach the peak together. He craved the dance that he had missed so much. The simple joining by two people who had become one so many times before. But this time was different. This time was so much more. He entered her and the forbidden dance was once again replayed. The moves were rehearsed and very much the same. The music pulsed in their veins like it had so many times before. And when they both reached the critical step. That last move. The twirl. The big finish…they went crashing down and ended the dance with an encore. One that beat in their very souls and beckoned them to repeat the dance over and over again. It was a rhythm as old as time itself. And in that dark room they once again danced.

::::::::::::::::::::14:::::::::::::::::::::::::

Yoru: sigh Pure gold. yawn okay I don't want to hear it. I know it took me a REALLY long time to write this chapter but it was worth it! And now you have it. Oh and anything that is implied… yes it is. All innuendos are meant to be innuendos. Some of them I didn't even catch but they are they are…the double meaning of hard…I'm sure it will take some of you days to finally finish this chapter but again it is well worth it. And if I get yelled at because some kid did not follow the warning…I will delete this chapter. Yes I will hit the almighty delete button. I mean I'll save it for myself so I can read it and you can't but I'll replace it with something like they all had great sex. The end. And that won't be as much fun, now will it. All you girls that are now puddles…put yourselves into some semblance of solid and REVIEW!!! And guys…no comment but REVIEW!! Tell me how wonderful I am. Remember I hold the power of DELETE!