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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Mhmm! You said it’s a port city, so it’s pretty close to the ocean. [Tokyo was too, but that was besides the point. They were in a new city and trying to explore different things—including what the beaches looked like. Assuming they had time, that is. ]

Sure, that sounds fine. [A line time with her friends. A boyfriend who understood that she had friendships outside of him to maintain. He really was the perfect catch. ]

I hope Odion-San is alright. If you can, could you please tell him I said hello? [As quiet as Orion had been, it was still great meeting him.

Usagi finished her fruit and opted to have a piece of toast as well. She covered it with butter and jam before taking a bite.]

The ocean here is lovely. The view from coming into port was really impressive back when I first arrived.

[Maybe he could get a small yacht or something they could sail out on... Marik grabs a plateful of eggs and some rice, getting a few forkfuls before he continues talking.]

Of course I'll pass on your message. He'll be happy to hear that from you.

[He doesn't rush but it doesn't take him very long to finish his breakfast then his cup of coffee, although he paces it to match up with Usagi when she finally finishes her food.

The two head out afterwards and head to the game shop. With them looking rather striking, they get passersbys whispering and smiling as they walk by, some even giving them compliments. Needless to say, it's a far cry from yesterday.

They arrive and are greeted by a short older man sweeping the door step. The man is about to give them the usual small talk until he gets a better look at Marik.

There aren't many people in Domino that look like the blonde.

"Oh...! Hello! It was Marik, wasn't it? Yugi said you'd be stopping by. It's been quite some time since I last saw you! How have you been?" A pause to grin and narrow his eyes. "Who's the lovely lady with you?"

Marik is taken aback by the friendly nature of Solomon, having only interacted with him for a short time when he'd brought an injured Bakura to them.]

A-Ah... hello, Mr. Moto. I've been well... This is Tsukino Usagi, m-my girlfriend.

[To which his face turns red and he shuffles a bit. Solomon's grin widens and he elbows the blonde boy in the side. "Hoho! You rascal! Yugi could learn a thing or two from you!" And then he's immediately calm, offering a bow to Usagi. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Tsukino. Please, come into the shop!"]

[Marik grabbing a yacht would remind Usagi and her friends that he has more money than any of them could ever want. The blonde would tell him it was too much and they could something else. Nothing to break the bank over. ]

The ocean is one of the things I like viewing. It’s calming, peaceful and feels…rejuvenating in a way. [Plus, they could build sandcastles, play volleyball or just spend the day, people watching.

She matched his pace, opting to go for rice porridge and dried fish. Once they are done, she applied a bit of lipgloss and headed out with him.

It was a different experience. His head was held high. He wasn’t as nervous as before. He didn’t need reassuring words or change of subject every few minutes. People were even looking at them and as nice as it was, it wasn’t something Usagi was used to.

They made it to Yugi’s grandpa shop and she was delighted to meet the older man. She gave a small bow and did her best to not blush. ]

Thank you, Sir. The pleasure is mine. If you would like to call me Usagi, you can.

[Ever informal, ever so friendly with a smile that was bright as the sun. They walked into the shop, holding hands as usual. Usagi momentarily pulled away from Marik to look around a little more. ]

This is really nice, Moto-san. There are more games in here than I thought possible. [And she didn’t know how to play tabletop games to save her life. ]

[Spending money on those he cared about was just a thing he did not if she told him not to, he would listen to her.

Marik's a bit nervous as they enter the shop only due to the aspect that Yugi might be home but other than that, he doesn't seem panicky. He does allow Solomon to give her a tour of the place, hanging back a bit to look around at the different games.

"Usagi then. You can just call me grandpa! Everyone else does. And there are so many different games and genres! I've traveled all over the world to learn more about the history of games. Yugi tells me you haven't quite gotten the hang of Duel Monsters yet. It isn't for everyone, of course, but... perhaps you'd be willing to give Capsule Monsters a try?"

He takes Usagi over to one of his display shelves where there's different terrain maps and fields, along with Duel Monster looking miniatures. "This was Pegasus's first game while he was in the process of creating Duel Monsters. You collect these little figures and can battle with them!"

Marik makes a beeline for them, curious to check out the game as well. At least until he sees Yugi coming down the stairs. The small Duelist stops half way, blinks, and pouts.

"Grandpa! I told you to tell me if they came over!"

"I was getting to that! I just wanted to show them around first."

Not even Yugi can stay annoyed at his grandfather. He smiles and shakes his head, finishing his descent and walks over to join them. Marik and he exchange looks for a moment before Yugi utters a "Hey."

If Usagi's listening, she'll notice Marik's voice change a bit. A bit more gravel with emphasis on specific words. Just like yesterday.]

Hey. ... Thanks for inviting us. You didn't have to do that.

[A shrug. "It's fine. That's all behind us now. We both enjoy games and... I didn't really get to know you very well before you left so... thought it would be a good opportunity to do that."

Marik rubs the back of his neck.]

Yeah.

["Yami hopes you've been doing alright too."

There's a clipped noise from Marik, him tensing up a bit.]

Th... Thanks.

[All of this happening while Solomon continues to show a bunch of different games to Usagi.]

[One of the things Usagi should have realized when dating someone who was a top a ranked Duelist, games were their hobby and their passion. Video games were a nice hobby for her, but she didn't realize how big table top gaming was until stepping into family owned shop. One could get lost in this place for hours.

Maybe she should've brought Ami-chan with her. The girl like chess and was better at Duel Monsters than all of them. She probably have fun looking for another game or two to play. Whereas Usagi, she was fine nodding along to Moto-san's words and politely saying she would probably fail at Capsule Monsters too. Strategy games weren't her thing--but thankfully she used strategy when it came to actual fights as Sailor Moon. Not that anyone other than Marik would know about.

The figures were cool though, she would give the game that much credit.

She does hear the slight change in Marik's voice. She believes its due to nerves, but doesn't rush to his aide. Her attention was on Moto-san still and quickly getting overwhelmed with all the gaming selections. Exit strategy! She said thank you to Moto-san again, and told him she might consider one or two games in future. Since Yugi was in sight, she could turn her attention to him and hopefully it wouldn't be considered rude.]

Ah, Yugi-kun! [Usagi moved back to Marik, easily slipping back to his side. Her hand brushing against his if he wanted to take it.] I wanted to apologize again for leaving so suddenly. Once my call was done, the weather got bad, and I hope you don't hold it against me. [A small bow, hoping he'd accept her apology.]

Maybe if you're ever in Tokyo we could show you around? I know my friends would be thrilled to meet you.

[And didn't she say she had only girlfriends?]

[She was far more considerate towards Solomon than most. He rarely got to prattle on about games to anyone, let alone a girl. It was obvious from his presentation and just... everything about the shop that the man really did love games. He's a bit disappointed when she excuses herself but kids will be kids. As long as they're enjoying themselves, that's all that mattered.

Marik gladly takes her hand, immediately relaxing when she's near. Even Yugi notices the shift in his demeanor.

Still not enough to figure out if he's up to his old tricks though... The small Duelist smiles at Usagi, returning the bow of her apology. "Oh, no! Not at all. Teá and I were just concerned. I'm glad everything turned out alright though."

His face lights up a bit and the thought crosses his mind. She did say her friends were girls. He briefly imagines Marik in a stereotypical Pharaoh outfit, cackling with Usagi and 4 other scantly clad girls draped over his lap and throne.

Gulp.

Marik raises an eyebrow, noticing the smaller teen's face turning red and looks to Usagi as Yugi shakes his head to snap himself out of it.

Even he forgets he's a bit of a celebrity at times.

"T-They would? That could be fun, yeah. I've never been to Tokyo...!"]

I'd pay to see you duel Ami.

[Yugi blinks. "You mentioned to grandpa that she plays Duel Monsters too...? I didn't mean to eavesdrop but it's kind of a tiny store. Um... what are... your friends like...?"]

[Usagi squeezed Marik’s hand, giving him a bit of reassurance and love. She noticed Yugi’s blush and looked at Marik for a quick moment. She didn’t know if she said something embarrassing, but figured it was best to drop it.

There was a sheepish laugh from her. ]

That would be an interesting duel. She’s never played in competitions or tournaments though.

[So playing against a celebrity like Yugi would be an awesome thing to see. ]

Ah, it’s okay! Ami-chan, is super smart, but she’s also kind and soft spoken. Mako-chan is the tallest out of all of us, but she’s loyal and strong willed. Plus, she makes delicious meals. They both go to my school.

Then there’s Rey-chan. She’s a shrine priestess and goes to a private school. Somewhat serious nature, but knows when to have fun. Then there’s Mina-chan, she’s goes to a different school and was studying in England for a bit. She’s a romantic at heart and super sweet.

[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.]

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