moonlightshine | Closed to thetombkeeper

Closed to thetombkeeper

[Usagi wasn't sure how they all decided to take a quick trip to Domino, but she was happy for it. She would get to see the place where Marik made a name for himself. Be able to explore a new city, and over all make more memories with her friends. The girls decided to go with them as well, which made it easier when it came to getting transportation and hotel rooms. Plus, going as a group and not on a date made it easier to convince her parents.

Leaving their hotel room, she turned to Marik, gauging his expression. She had a feeling he might be nervous being back in a place that was both good and bad. They could take things at his pace. If he wanted to show her around, or if they wanted to explore, that was fine. Either way, she would be happy as long as they got to spend time together.]

The girls said we could meet up with them later in the day. I know Ami-chan wanted to visit a museum or two, and Mina-chan wanted to do shopping...

[Usagi told her boyfriend, her hand easily slipping into his, hoping it would help calm any nerves.]

I'm curious to what you'd like to do. We could wander the city, or stay at the hotel and enjoy a relaxing day.

[Heck, they could make a game of pointing out how many 'KaibaCorp' symbols or buildings were around if he wanted.]

We can do whatever you'd like, Marik-kun.

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[Even Marik isn't sure. He only interacted with Yugi rather viciously before this trip so he... honestly doesn't know much about him other than what information he had his Hunters pull.]

She is incredibly smart though and really good with strategies.

[Yugi listens intently to Usagi's descriptions. He seems mostly intrigued by Ami and Mina. Maybe Ami's a bit of a outcast like he used to be? Before he became famous, no one paid him any mind and deep down he knew no one would now if it wasn't for that fact. He looks solemn for a moment before returning to his usual optimistic but slightly uncertain self.

"And Marik's friends with them too?"

The taller blonde bristles and puffs out his chest.]

What's that supposed to mean?

[Yugi holds up his hands defensively. "N-Nothing! It's just... nice to know you have friends. I know how it is... not to have anyone."

Marik blinks, actually stunned by the boy's words. He shifts a bit in place and averts his gaze.]

Oh. ... Thanks. They've all been really incredible to me...

[Meanwhile Solomon dusts, taking the opportunity to eavesdrop on them and smiling. It's good to see his grandson making real friends.

"That's good. I'm glad to hear it. Um... I don't want to take too much of your time. I'm sure you two have plans for today. If you... wanna hang out again before you head back to Tokyo, I'd be game for it."

Before Marik can answer or ask what Usagi would like to do Solomon chimes in. "Actually, Marik... if you have the time, I'd very much like to speak with you about your family's practices if you're comfortable with that!"]

Ahh...

[They want to hang out with him and learn about him...? The tomb keeper looks like a kid who's just been told he's actually royalty. He's not used to people actively being invested in him, even with Usagi's circle.

He looks to his girlfriend like a deer in headlights, at a loss for words. Why, who knows. It's not like she can read his mind.]

Edited 2023-02-01 01:28 (UTC)

[Usagi was going to answer that question when Mario decided to act all huffy. She squeezed his hand a bit harder, figuring it was better than snapping at him or checking him with her hip. She understood where Yugi was coming from—maybe not the best wording, but the intent was clear. Yugi was showing that he cared.

Her heart broke for him though. He seemed to have friends now from how Marik spoke about him in the past, but…the road to get probably wasn’t an easy one.]

My friends were a bit skeptical at first. They’re just a very protective bunch. [ Putting it lightly.

But, oh, Marik looking like a deer caught in the headlights. That was too cute for words. ]

I think, that would be a good idea. I mentioned I was going shopping with the girls. You can catch up with Yugi-kun and Moto-san. We can meet up for dinner later. [ Usagi gave Marik an encouraging smile and leaned in to kiss his cheek.]

You have my number, if you need me to get you anything, let me know? [She lingered in close for a moment longer and whispered:] And you can always text me if you need an excuse.

[Slowly, Usagi pulled back and offered a small bow to Yugi and his grandpa.]

It was wonderful meeting you both! And Yugi-kun if you want to meet my friends, have Marik-kun give you my number.

[From that, she left her boyfriend’s side and left the shop. A quick text to the girls revealed which shop they were in and Usagi dashed there. They spent the next few hours chatting and trying to figure out that new youma but it was fruitless.

At least she managed to buy Naru a cute phone charm and a pocket watch for Marik. Sadly, Usagi managed to get separated from her friends….again.

She was left wandering around, trying to figure out where she was. ]

[When he first solved the Puzzle, he believed he'd be granted a wish. His wish was to have friends. He'd always had Teá but she wasn't as interested in games as much as he was. But then Joey and Tristan came along and events led to them both becoming his friends rather than remaining his tormentors.

Yugi rubs the back of his neck nervously, curious as to why her friends were skeptical but it's best he doesn't ask. Just by looks alone, Marik isn't really... trustworthy. There's just something about him.]

But-

[He was looking forward to going to the stationary shop with her... The kiss to his cheek helps break away some of his anxiety though and he even returns it when she leans in to whisper.]

Nh... Okay. Be careful. I'll text you when I'm done here...

[Which he's kind of hoping isn't too long. Despite his confidence thanks to his new power, he doesn't want Yugi interrogating him.

Yugi and Solomon bow in return, thanking her for coming. "Yeah, for sure! I'll have him give you my number later, Usagi!"

"Take care, Usagi. Drop by whenever you like!" Solomon adds.

After she leaves, Marik becomes a bit more awkward again, at least until he begins speaking with Solomon. He spends the next few hours talking with him, Yugi listening off to the side, both of them discussing the ancient ways, his upbringing, and other archeological things.

As for Usagi, there would be no youma attack tonight. No, instead there's a white haired boy walking by, fiddling with a book-

And bumps right into the blonde girl.]

Oh...! I'm terribly sorry! I wasn't watching where I was going... Are you alright, miss...?

[If Marik was very upset with not going to the stationary store, then they could stop by one on their last day in Domino. It was a small price to pay if it meant that Marik might be able to expand his horizons a little. He was doing a great job with Yugi's grandpa and Yugi himself. Hopefully it would be smooth sailing from that point on.

At the moment, however, things were not going in her favor. First it was her hair pins, then it was getting lost from her friends, and now she bumped into someone.]

No, no, I'm the one who's sorry. [She almost drops her bag that had Naru's present and Marik's pocket watch. Thankfully the bag doesn't hit the ground, but Usagi is still a bit flustered and apologetic.]

I was trying to look for my friends and I wasn't paying attention. Are you alright?

Edited 2023-02-01 13:23 (UTC)

[Less upset and more "why do things keep interrupting us." Still, the time goes much more smoothly than he ever thought.

The boy frowns, tucking the book under his arm, and bows his head. It's obvious from his mannerisms and accent that he isn't Japan native. ]

I'm fine. This happens all the time, I'm afraid... I sort of live with my head in the clouds.

Ah, are you lost? The mall can be a bit confusing in its layout. Perhaps I can be of some assistance?

[There was a nervous laugh from Usagi. Was it that obvious she was lost?]

A little bit. I was with my friends a moment ago, and now I can't seem to find them.

[The layout of the mall was both confusing and frustrating, so how more people weren't lost and confused like her, she hadn't a clue.]

I appreciate the offer, but I bumped into you and I can try and text my friends to see where they are. [She didn't want to take up his time, especially if he was busy reading!

Ami-chan was annoyed was annoyed with her when she accidentally interrupted her in the middle of a good book.]

[Ryou's manages a small smile and shakes his head.]

Please, I insist. I really don't mind. I could have accidentally made you drop your things and I'd feel terrible if I broke something...

What store were you just all at? I can take you back there, as I imagine they haven't gone too far by now.

I was at a small boutique not too far from here…

[Usagi paused, looking ahead of her then to the left then right, trying to get her bearings again. ]

I think it was that way? [She said, pointing to the right. ]

And no need to insist, I should’ve paid more attention. When you’re reading a good book, it’s easy to get lost in it.

Small boutique... Ah, yes! I know the one.

[While he does go in the direction she pointed, he leads her down a more deserted hallway where most of the stores seem to have shut down. Ryou stops and looks around.]

How odd... I thought it was down here... My mistake.

[Usagi can suddenly feel dark energy oozing from the white haired teen in front of her, a similar energy to when Marik first arrived in Juban. Something that clings to your very soul. His hair begins to shift and his stature changes as the energy practically crackles off of him.

When he speaks, his voice has become more rough, a raspy sort of whisper, and an air of confidence that wasn't there before.]

But while I have you to myself...

[He turns around, his expression smug and his eyes filled with dark amusement. Around his neck is an exotic looking Ring with dangling ornamentation, which seems to be the source of the dark energy.]

What's a pure little bunny rabbit doing with a disgusting jackal like Ishtar?

[Sometimes, Usagi’s kind and trusting nature could be used against her. Case in point, not realizing where they were going until it was too late. Until she felt that dark aura and goosebumps appeared on her skin. Her hand, moving into the pocket of her dress to grab her locket, just in case she needed to use it.

But there was an issue—he saw her face. Could she risk revealing her identity as Sailor Moon? No, she couldn’t. She’d have to come up with a different strategy.]

How do you know Marik?

[Usagi countered, not backing down, not caring she was called a bunny. She was more upset that he was compared to a “disgusting jackal.” He was far from either!

And probably best not to disclose their relationship to a a crazy stranger. ]

[The Spirit's grin widens. Feisty, wasn't she? Not many would head him face on like this unless they had a bluff. That or she was more brave than she looked. They say never to judge a book by its cover after all.

Like the energy radiating from the regular looking locket he managed to slip from her.]

We're old... "business" partners.

[Marik had jokingly called them partners in crime but that would make it rather obvious. He needed to see just how much of his dark past she was aware of.]

Let's just say I'm checking in to see how the pompous ass is doing. He has great potential. Tends to bite off more than he can chew though.

As most scavengers do.

[A dramatic pause to cross his arms.]

Has anyone ever told you it's rude to answer a question with a question?

[Usagi reached into her pocket and didn’t feel her locket. She thought it had fallen out when she first bumped into them, but had they swiped it?! Panic was starting to settle in her, but she did her best not to show it. If he found out how important that locket was to her, that would be game over.

For now, she would have to play by his rules. Even if it made her uncomfortable. ]

Has anyone ever told you it’s rude to keep a cute girl from her friends?

[Yup, Usagi was firstly alright, but it’s dawning on her that this person knows Marik…and not in the best of ways. Deep breath, she can’t reveal too much. She has to make sure she finds her locket and protect Marik at the same time. ]

You knew him from the Battle City tournament. [Not a question, a statement. An inkling that she knew of her boyfriend’s past…but not much.] If you have unfinished business with him, why take it up with me?

[Bakura lets out an amused chuckle both at her comment and how he notices her feeling through her pocket.]

You'll have to excuse me. I'm a bit behind on the times.

[Looking like a pleased cat who's just caught his prey, the thief shakes a finger at her and tuts.]

The only unfinished business I have with him is a good punch to the face for nearly getting us both killed with his terrible backseat driving.

[In one fluid movement, he unfolds his arms and presents his hand, Usagi's locket sitting in his palm.]

Looking for this? What an interesting little bobble you have... Such light must attract plenty of dark entities, hmm?

So you want me to punch him in the face for you? Is that it? [Probably not it, but at least she was “trying” to cooperate.

Not that she would ever do such a thing to her boyfriend—but she would need to bring this up to him later. Assuming she got out of this situation unscathed. ]

[The brave demeanor Usagi has been able to keep cracks at seeing her locket in his hand. Could he truly sense the power of her locket with the Silver Crystal there? Yugi didn’t seem to notice, but Marik had always commented she had a lot of light in her.

She thought he was being poetic! Not literal! ]

I don’t know what you’re talking about, but you need to give that back!

[Yes, play dumb Usagi. She could hopefully get her locket back.

The blonde tried to reach out for her locket, hoping to be quick enough to snatch it back. ]

No. I'd much rather do that myself.

[Like the devil offering an apple, Bakura keeps still until the last minute and draws his hand back.]

Ah, ah, ah, little moon rabbit. I will give you your precious locket back if we can come to an agreement. Play as dumb as you want but I know there is more to you than meets the eye.

[The Spirit nods upwards, as if motioning to the sky despite the fact that they're indoors.]

Those clouds the other day. You saw them, yes? Sensed the evil practically raining down. Your boytoy sensed it, that's for damn sure. All of us Millenium Item holders did.

You have the power to dispel it, don't you? If you find the source, that is. I tell you what, I... assist you in gathering information on this new enemy and you and your little galpals send it back from whence it came. How does that sound?

Normally I'm not so generous but Marik's antics are amusing when not directly tied to them and... this competing energy is treading in my territory.

[Usagi lets out a frustrated sound, unhappy that she wasn't able to grab her locket. She could only hope her friends noticed her disappearance and were coming to find her. If not, she was utterly screwed. She tried to push thoughts of Luna and her friends being so disappointed with her out of her mind. The blonde had to stay focus on the task at hand.]

I saw the weather changing, if that's what you mean. [Yes, she was going to keep playing the dumb card for her own good. As for dispelling it, there was a hard shake of her head.] I don't know what you're talking about. I'm a klutz, a cry baby--I couldn't do anything like that at all!

[Because...technically she was still those things. She tripped over things, and nearly walked into walls. When she was utterly exhausted she cried, or when a task seemed too difficult the water works came on. How or why would she be connected to something that involved actual power?]

And Marik-kun isn't doing anything! He's a different person now! He's not... [She bit down on her lower lip thinking back to the videos of Battle City.] He's not the person you were "partners" with.

Hn.

[How annoying. He understood why she was acting dumb but there was no denying the power she had inside of her. It would take a blind man not to notice the light emanating off of her.

It was somewhat nauseating.

What she says about Marik gets a raised eyebrow.]

Different, no. Trained, yes. He might have had good behavior beaten into his head since rolling over and showing his cowardly belly for the Pharaoh but once you've had a taste of the Shadow Magic, your soul is forever changed.

[He taps the Ring to emphasis.]

He was and is a desperate child. If pushed too far, he may... give in to certain urges.

[Bakura lifts up the locket and curiously inspects it.]

You best keep him on a tight leash or he's bound to get himself into trouble again. For someone who throws the insult "fool" around as much as he does, you'd think he'd realize it applies to him as well.

You don't know him! [Those words caused Usagi to snap. She could feel tears pricking at the corners of her eyes from how angry she was getting. What he was saying couldn't be true!] I've seen the kindness in his heart--I've seen the darkness too, and I know he's changed.

[Sweet summer child, she believed those words with all her heart. She believed he was a good person who made some horrible mistakes. Ones that he was working towards repairing and healing from. He wouldn't turn his back on everything he's done so far. He would betray her by seeking power and going after it like a power hungry animal.

Her heart was pounding, silently praying he wouldn't be able to open her locket. He couldn't know what was inside.]

Give that back! [Usagi tried again, reaching forward to grab her compact but to no avail.

"I suggest you hand that back to the pretty girl!" Came a voice off to the left. It was a voice Usagi knew very well, one she was happy to hear but upon looking at the speaker...

It was Minako as Sailor Venus...dressed as Sailor Moon. Oh boy.

"I am the guardian of the Moon and Love! I will triumph over evil like you, so hand it over! Magic Moon Chain!" Suddenly, a chain of golden hearts appeared, ready to grab the locket of the white haired thief's hands.]

Naivé child. He's obviously never told you what he used the Millennium Rod for. Perhaps you should ask Yugi's cheerleaders next time you see them!

[... Alright, now that he wasn't expecting. The "good" energy he felt yesterday when Sailor Moon was parading around town while fighting that strange creature matched the energy coming from this girl and this locket. But then, who was this?

Bakura simply chuckles, not moving from the spot as his Ring springs to life and deflects the magical chain with a loud clang. His gaze is honed in on Usagi, his expression still absolutely confident.]

This isn't what I'm after anyways. Your little trinket is useless to me.

[He casually tosses the locket to Usagi.]

Tell Marik his old friend Bakura says hello and watch his eyes. If he's changed like you say he has, he'll think nothing of it. Probably make some snide remark and ask if you're alright.

If he hasn't, he'll be paranoid that I came "snooping around" and ask you what I confronted you about.

[His grin widens.]

Don't say I didn't warn you, little moon rabbit!

[The Ring emits a bright flash followed by a sinister laugh. When the light fades, Bakura is gone and all that's left is the tabletop rpg book he had been carrying on the floor.]

[To the surprise of Usagi and "Sailor Moon," the heart chain didn't make contact. It bounced off like it meant nothing. Was this the power of a Millennium Item? There was much they didn't know about them, but the darkness that Usagi sense from the Ring was different than yesterday.

Thankfully the enemy didn't stay long. The locket was tossed back at Usagi, which she barely caught. Once it was in her hands, she sunk to the floor. She could only watch, speechless, as Bakura made his exit. The stress of the event spilled over, causing her tears to fall from her face. She was beating herself up for separating from her friends, for having her locket stolen...and for having her faith in Marik shaken.

Sailor Venus disappeared from the scene, but Ami and Rei were soon there to comfort their friend and princess. Makoto and Minako soon appeared afterwards, managing to calm Usagi down. Her eyes were red from crying, but they agreed they needed to head back to the hotel.

Their vacation would need to be cut short. They would head back to Tokyo as soon as they could.]

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