Closed to thetombkeeper

[moonlightshine]

[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.

Comments

[thetombkeeper]

[For all his confidence and flirting it was amazing what a simple hug could do to him. It made him feel vulnerable but the right kind of vulnerable. He knew he was safe, loved, and able to be himself with those arms pulled him in like that. Like all of his troubles were washed away in her warmth.]

So are you, Usagi...

[The rest of the night went smoothly, Marik deciding not to touch on any topics he had thought about discussing earlier. They were happy as is and there wasn't much else to discuss about the youma until they got back to Tokyo. Perhaps then he could tell her his entire story of what happened in Battle City.

Or perhaps he would never need to bring it up again. Whatever the case, he'd need to keep an eye and ear out for this Silver Crystal the robbed man had told him about. Tsk. While working without lackeys was a pain, he knew he'd be better off without them. Just like with the Egyptian God Cards he needed to handle this situation cautiously. Information was needed first.

It might take him years but he would get the Silver Crystal.

The next morning he found himself not wanting to get out of bed either, just wanting to stay in it with his wonderful, perfect girlfriend. He'd gotten up and jumped into the shower first, allowing him time to order room service for them by the time Usagi was done with her shower. Dressed in just a pair of khaki pants for the time being, spritzed in his usual perfume, he finishes putting on his makeup then heads to the bedroom to grab his jewelry and shirt.

Marik stops when he sees Usagi searching through the bed, watching her for a moment before he makes his presence known.]

Breakfast should be here soon.

... Everything alright though? Did you lose something?

[moonlightshine]

I...nnghh... [She had been trying to keep hold of her hair in position with one hand, and search for the missing hair pin with the other. Sadly, this was a task that needed both hands. She released her blonde hair, letting it all cascade down her back as she searched over the cover of the bed.] I lost my hair pin--well, pins. I thought I had more, but those are gone too. I know I packed some!

[The little pink bag that had her extra hair ties and hair pins went missing. Thankfully, she had enough hair ties, but not enough to do her signature hair style. Nothing to really get upset about, but hadn't gone without her hair style in....forever.]

I can't believe it--!! [Her sentence comes to a halt seeing her boyfriend without his shirt on. A pair of khaki pants, the scent of his perfume lofting through the air, and his make up on his face. He...looked ready to be on the cover of a magazine. Usagi was so happy she got Luna out of their room, she would not appreciate the wonderful sight that Usagi was seeing.]

...O-oh...you're dressed. [A blush was forming on her cheeks, and suddenly she was feeling...under? Or overdressed? She had on a light blue sun dress that reached her knees and a white cardigan. Something cute and light, and she had the right shade of blue to match for the bows. Standing across from him, well...she was starting to think maybe she wasn't matching his 'look.']

Ahh..um. [Right, she needed to do something else other than stare at her boyfriend. Forcing herself to avert her gaze, she started to fidget on her spot.] So, I won't be able to do my hair like I normally do...Which is going to be so weird.

[Maybe she could run down to the store and buy some?]

[thetombkeeper]

[The Egyptian tilts his head slightly then looks down at himself.]

... Should I not be?

[For once he doesn't mean it as a flirtatious comment. Should he have waited to put on pants so they could color coordinate their outfits better? Still, the blush made it worth it. Marik found himself blushing as well. She was so cute... Gods, she always knew how to make him truly happy.

And now he could protect her too.

Marik walks over to her and runs his fingers through some of her hair, thinking of what she could do with it instead of her usual odango style.]

I think you look beautiful no matter how you have your hair. If you wear yours different today... then I should let you decide how I wear mine. And what my outfit should be.

[moonlightshine]

[Oh, her shirtless boyfriend was coming closer to her. He was coming closer to her, and if he hugged her, she might melt in his embrace. He managed to get close enough to touch her hair and see the pink coloring on her cheeks. It was embarrassing, but she had a hot boyfriend! It wasn't often she got to see him shirtless, but it was such a treat. Usagi was so focused on her own blushing, she didn't notice Marik was doing the same.]

Ahh, I didn't want you to change what you had planed. [Since well...anything would go well with those khakis.

Still, as silly as it sounds, her hair style made Usagi... her. It had been part of her identity for so long, it was weird to be without it. It's just one day, no harm could come of it.]

I was hoping to wear these blue ribbons I found too, but.. [She chewed on her bottom lip for a moment.] You really think I look beautiful with my hair like this?

[thetombkeeper]

I didn't really have anything planned. I just threw on some pants in case Luna was still around. I think I've got something to match your blue.

[He should treat her to this more often... as long as she doesn't mind his scars. Not that she really needed to look at them when he was facing her but still. He was still a bit self conscious about how such things could make people squeamish.

Marik smiles gently, the hand that was stroking her hair pulling back slightly to cup her cheek.]

You look beautiful any and every way to me, Usagi. If you'd be more comfortable with putting your hair up though, I can make a run to the store for you.

[moonlightshine]

I made sure to have Luna go back to the girls while we were changing. T-to give us both privacy.

[Because the black cat trusted them that much to at least no do anything rash or stupid--like suddenly make out on the bed, even with breakfast arriving soon. Being treated to Marik without his shirt was a treat, but she knew he was still self conscious about his back. If her magic could heal him, she would try, but there were limits to what magic could do--even hers.

She leaned into his touch, her smile growing bright as she turned to press a kiss into the palm of his hand.]

You're really sweet, Marik-kun. [She meant it every time.] No, I'll change my hair for today. [Though, in hindsight, she might look a little too alike with Minako...but there was still their height difference.]

Maybe on the way back, I'll pick up some hair pins for tomorrow. [Unless they were somehow all gone because someone wanted to be a little shit about it.] But, you don't have to match me. I just wanted to wear something nice for today.

[Since the people in DOmino seemed to be very.....on point with their fashion.]

[thetombkeeper]

[There was also a strange bit of pride to his markings that would make him not want them healed. Despite the pain and misery that came with them, they were quite beautiful.

With Luna gone it was quite tempting. Very tempting, honestly. Even with breakfast arriving at any moment. Her kiss followed by the compliment makes his blush deepen.]

So are you...

[He looks over her hair for a bit.]

What if you put a ribbon on either side? That would look cute.

[Reluctantly Marik pulls away and starts undoing his pants, shimmying his way out of them and walking over to the closet to look at his other outfits. Usagi's now treated to a back (and butt) view of him as he rifles through his options.

He might be purposely doing this to fluster her - but it is important for him to pick out an outfit!]

Hmm.. What about... this black suit with the powder blue top? That way I can match your dress.

[moonlightshine]

I could do that. [Usagi mused. That would be a great thing to do, especially since it would keep some of it away from her face. She could ever do little braids to add something different to her hair.] Yeah, that's a great idea.

[Happy with the idea, she was about to start on her hair when she saw Marik pull away and....get out of his pants. Her blush increased ten fold. Her eyes trailed down his body, right down to the curve of his butt before she forced herself to turn away. Her heart was pounding away in her chest, and she swore her face was a lovely shade of red now.]

Y-yeah, you could do that.

[Really, he could wear anything and he would still look amazing, but she needed to find a corner to start doing her hair. Regardless if that corner had a mirror or not.

Luna was so going to kill her if she ever found out.]

Just, uh, go with what you think is best. You'll look great either way! [Just focus on your hair, Usagi!]

[thetombkeeper]

[He's essentially wearing what he does to bed minus the tanktop so it shouldn't be a big deal to be running around in his underwear, right? But Marik hones in on that embarrassed tone of hers and glances over his shoulder, smirking to himself. Yes, tonight would be perfect to take things a bit further... provided no youma attacked. They'd have the place to themselves, there's already unresolved sexual tension in the air... They both deserved it.

The Egyptian dresses in his aforementioned chosen outfit: tight black pants, a well fitted black blazer, and the powder blue dress shirt which he keeps the top 3 buttons undone to show off a bit of his neck and chest. He has an idea of how to wear his hair but first...]

Should I wear any jewelery?

[moonlightshine]

[The sexual tension between them was so thick, one would have to be blind to it. Usagi loved Marik and believed that he was the one she would spend the rest of her life with. She wasn’t sure if they were ready to explore each other fully yet…but who knows.

Her hormones kept telling her she was ready to explore more of her boyfriend. To kiss his scars and tell him he was beautiful would be an exhilarating experience.

But, she had to focus on her hair! Putting the thought of Marik out of her head, she set to work on braiding the front ends of her hair and pinned them behind her head using the blue ribbons she had.

At Marik’s question, she turned to see him in his clothes…and she was right. He looked great in anything. ]

Mmmm…your earrings, and maybe a necklace?

[She tilted her head to the side, looking him over further. ] …you look like you’re dressed to impress. I think you just need a pocket watch to complete the look.

[thetombkeeper]

[Marik had been experiencing the tension for quite a while now. Obviously he loved anything they did together and the amount she was comfortable in letting him take part of, and never wanted to push unless she expressed she was ready.

But that didn't stop his hormones. Almost every night he dealt with them to the thought of Usagi. Whether it was looking at pictures of her, remembering her from earlier in the day, or smelling her perfume, she was the only one on his mind. Usagi was the only one for him. They'd discussed it before briefly but the more time they spent, the more he knew he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her.

Which meant they had all the time in the world to get to more intimate things. The moment had to feel right, no matter how greedy he was.

He does a few poses for her, letting his girlfriend look over the chosen outfit, grinning both triumphantly and sheepishly.]

My gold bands or the ankh chain?

[Marik steps closer and takes a hold of Usagi's hand, offering a wink before bringing it up to place a kiss against it.]

... Dressed to impress you, "dah-ling~"

[The petname said in English, of course.]

You look adorable with that hair. Kind of gives you... a reserved vibe to you.

[moonlightshine]

[Marik poses earn more grins and a few chuckles from the blonde. Yup, she was thoroughly convinced that she was dating a model. Or a model in the making.
]

Mmm, the ankh chain?[A dash of the dramatic for his look.] Though, I’m partial to the gold bands, but that’s me.

[Usagi preferred simple jewelry, but that was because that’s all she had access too, and simple things had a unique beauty of their own. A classic classic could really elevate a dress or a blouse.

Or in Marik’s case, add to his appeal and make any girl swoon. ]

A-ah! Marik-kun! [And she was blushing again, just when she managed to calm herself down. ]

Reserved? You think so? [She pulled away from and slowly turned to show him her complete look.] I guess it doesn’t make me look…so young? [So kiddish and immature.

The girls were in for a treat then.

At that moment, there was a knock at the door. ] Probably room service? I’ll get it.

[She left Marik to finish getting dressed to open the door. A member of the hotel staff wheeled in a cart with two trays. He placed them both on the coffee table, along with cups of coffee, water and juice.

Marik had really gone all out.]

[thetombkeeper]

Hmm... I'll try the ankh. Maybe give my neck a break and give you more eye candy throughout the day. I'm sure you don't mind, right?

[When all was said and done with the Pharaoh and his memories, he could try his hand at modeling. If he wanted to be a well known face again.

He chuckles at Usagi's reaction, gently letting her hand back down.]

Mmhmm. Like I said, you look good every way.

[When Usagi leaves to answer the door, Marik puts the finishing touches on. The chain necklace and his earrings, which he pauses to look at for a moment. Strange... they look a bit different than normal... like the rectangular parts have been flipped upside down. Maybe Usagi got him another pair? Eh, it wasn't too important. He'd look for his regular ones later.

Then he slinks off to the bathroom to brush back on side of his bangs, using a bit of hairspray to keep it in place. Once he's done he enters the living room of the suite, the staff member having already left, and makes his way to sit down on the couch.]

Let's see, the game shop is about... a 15 minute walk from here. You want to catch a taxi instead of are you alright with walking that distance?

[moonlightshine]

N-no… [Marik was succeeding in keeping her blush from fading. She wouldn’t mind eye candy, and her brain would’ve been able to come up with something clever if Marik didn’t turn it into goo—and if she wasn’t hungry at the same time.

She took a seat on the couch next to him, opting to eat a bit of fruit first for breakfast. She didn’t have to rush at least. ]

I’m okay with the distance. It’ll be nice to walk with you. [Enjoy the sights a little more. No need to spend money on a taxi can. ]

I think the girls want to do some shopping later, would you like to join them too? I’m hoping I can find something for Naru-Chan. [And maybe something for Marik too. ]

[thetombkeeper]

[Much like a pampered cat, Marik was absolutely enjoying how flustered he was making Usagi. She was positively adorable. Best to reign it back a bit for now though. Don't want to overload her so early in the day.

The tomb keeper adds some sugar and milk to his coffee, letting it sit for a bit while he takes a piece of toast to nibble on.]

It will be. Despite everything, Domino is a pretty nice city...

[He ponders in her invitation for a bit, finishing his piece of toast.]

I was thinking of calling Odion a bit later to check in with him. Why don't you go with the girls and I'll catch up with you after I'm done? This way you can have a bit of alone time with just them.

[moonlightshine]

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.]

[thetombkeeper]

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!"]

[moonlightshine]

[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. ]

[thetombkeeper]

[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.]

[moonlightshine]

[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?]

[thetombkeeper]

[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...?"]

[moonlightshine]

[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.

[thetombkeeper]

[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.]

[moonlightshine]

[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. ]

[thetombkeeper]

[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...?