Title: A Hundred Scars Upon the Heart (A Seto Kaiba love tale)

Main Characters: Seto Kaiba, OC, Yugi/Yami

Summary: Seto Kaiba: A frigid-souled CEO whose heart lies hidden except in the innocent eyes of his brother. Kestrel Amun: A charmingly polite founder who brings smiles to all those around her while only showing her biting pain to the understanding face of her adopted daughter. Fate brought them together, but with each carrying scars along their hearts, can these two opposites learn to love again? A classic tale of romance, irony, and possibilites.

Warning: This will not be a cliche, love-at-first sight tale. Why? Because Seto Kaiba is in it. Also, with him as the main character this fic is rated teen for dark material, brief sexual comments, and violence. No sexually explicit scenes will be shown, but while this story stars out light, there are going to be some dark chapters. I will warn you before then, but if you don't like it, don't read.

Disclaimer???Who thinks I own Yu-Gi-Oh?

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Love. Sometimes love comes at us hard and leaves us shaking in its aftershock. Sometimes love strews from grief. Other times love captures our heart strings slowly. Other times love wheels forth by kindness. True love however, well that is rare.

This is the tale of two different people, leading two different lives, and many unseen secrets. And in a trial that pushed their will to survive, their strength over their fear--somehow they found true love. And it all began with two plotting children and one pointless magazine…

This month is our annual bachelor and bachelorette selection! We travel across Japan to find you the 10 most suitable, single men and woman. Then you vote on who should be the # 1!

After several months of polls, the results are in! Japan, you have voted, and here are your top twenty:

Woman

10. Anne Cauldwell: This 30 year old inherited quite a chunk of her uncle's fortune. A inheritress in career, this woman loves to golf and her powerful shots are only beaten by her manor's size…

9. Celia Magnatine: An 18 year old supermodel with a promising career ahead of her. This stunning beauty is still young and shy, but with a constant cash flow and many call-backs she'll be a poster child for all things soon! She currently dwells in a well-furnished condo in the city(See next month for an exclusive interview with Celia)

8. Ally Steambanks: At 25, this woman is quite a catch. Though she has chosen our fine country of Japan for residence, her roots travel back to the European countries. In fact, she is the second-birth princess of England. Her mother, Anne Steambanks is the current queen of England, while her brother Luke is in line for the throne. This noble-blooded woman keeps most to herself with her amazing wealth…

7. Mary Sinnger: Mary is our oldest of the line-up at 42, but don't let that keep you away! She still has much of her beauty and charm from younger years, and holds the title of head designer for several companies. Her work is seen all around the world from her own line of Sinnger shirts and dresses. Very feminine, she's always ready to woe any unwary men. But who wouldn't love her?

6. Mai Valentine: Mai is our youngest bachelorette, being 17. However this beautiful woman has plenty of spirit. She is the top female duelist in all Japan, competing in the ever-popular game of Duel Monsters.(See pg 13 for the current rankings and announcements in the Duel Monster world) Not only is this woman skilled and simmering, she has a firecracker soul. Ready to take on anyone, anytime she is the ultimate seductress…

5.Bridget McCarthy: Our own famous novelist! Yes this 27 year old has already come out with bestsellers such as, The Life & the Love, The Eyes of the Swamp, and Black Swan.(See our Reader's Choice for other great books this fall) Her play on words is only bested by her skills as a single mother. A poetic, graceful housewife she is calm and collected for her age, with a beautiful three-year old son named John. Loaded with money from her writing skills, she prefers the less-dense country area of Japan, waiting for a lucky man to make her life whole…

4. Serena Callahaun: If you don't know this name, you don't know Japan! This 21 year old pop-star is an international hit! And who is to argue? Perfect Black curls and bold make-up. The only thing that bests this star's looks is her voice! With her latest album, Siren's Calling, she managed to produce another song to top the charts with "Come and Find," A high-wild streak she loves the clubs and a good time! Only a few guys can keep the beat with this saucy singer…

3. Sophie Courdeua: 32 years old and still kicking! A much more toned-down chick than most of her competitors, she still holds her own at # 3 in our charts. A clever woman, she won the Nobel Prize last year for her work on the human mind, discovering how to effect REM and in essence, control it. REM being of course, the part of our mind that works in our unconscious. Out-spoken on her views on saving the environment and nuclear energy, this clever vixen spends most of her time in her own laboratory or under the press light's…

2. Tallulah (Tammy) Rw'Ankh : Our second-best bachelorette! Aging 18, her qualities are many. Tammy is first, the only daughter of a South African King. She came to Tokyo to study pop-culture and fashion and became an actress. Her latest film, Silver Stones, (See Movie Reviews for more info) gained her significant popularity for her charming character Shade. A beauty to be sure, her acting career took off two years ago and she now holds her own vast wealth. A strong love for the life of the rich and famous, Tammy enjoys large shopping sprees and extravagant parties. A play-girl by nature, she has more suitors then shirts yet this woman keeps her cool when it comes to men…

1.Kestrel Amun: And here you have it! Our number one bachelorette for the year! Japan voted and we tolled, so here she is! Kestrel is 19 years old and already has a firm foundation. Where should we begin on her? Besides being a truly beautiful woman, she is CEO and founder of one of Tokyo's largest companies: Mikagi Medical Co. The multi-million dollar company not only owns the best hospital in Japan, its extensive staff design new technology to help in medical practices. What does this make our # 1? Loaded. However despite her many board meetings, she manages to find time to help out other people. Kestrel is the adoptive mother of a little girl. Her records show that she is a qualified doctor, in fact the best ranking at her hospital. This woman has traveled quite a bit before settling down in our own Tokyo! So she's clever, rich, beautiful, kind.. Oh, and it's rumored that she is extremely event-tempered and charismatic to all people, even those we'd rather not be.

Well that's all for the females. Let's go on over to the other side for the top 10 males…

Men:

10. Gregory Dunnevon: Starting our bachelor countdown is Gregory! At 26, this famous actor has the looks--sleek, dark hair, stunning eyes, strong jaw… and look at those abs! He started his river to stardom thirteen years ago, only a kid! Of course, this handsome bachelor has quickly grown into a fine actor!(See page 11 for more on his latest movie)

9. Vin Hammer: At 34, this body-builder is one hunk! Totally steroid free and a slight health addict, this man's body is enough to prove his devotion to the gym. The only thing that matches his deep dedication is his honorable views on woman. He is renowned for protecting… even the shadiest of woman, stemming from his simple rural roots. Protector of all innocence, this kind fellow just needs a partner as dedicated as he is…

8. Vann Gustafa: He's are oldest at 39. This man came to Japan after leaving Germany on shady terms. Of course, we all love a bit of wild-life right? Filthy rich from sources unknown, Vann is your classic playboy. He love's the nightlife and we hear his day-life isn't that boring either, as he manages for several celebrities. Plenty of charm to go around, this man will sweep you off your feet with thousand-dollar dinners, gold-tongued charm, and excelling dance moves. Only one lucky woman will be able to keep him though…

7. Connor Rightmen: Alright, enough with the crazy guys eh? We need some down-to-earth sweethearts. That's where Connor comes in at 18. He's a young, innocent man with a prospecting future in poetry. Many of us are already familiar with his work such as, "Heaven I Have Found," "Crow's Love," and "Tears for Autumn". An angel with words, this heavenly man comes from a moderate background, adopting traits of shyness and simple hospitality. This is the bachelor most likely to save the world, and smile doing it. Your classic nice-guy and we hope he won't finish last…( View our Selected Work of the Month for his poem, "Smile Runaway".)

6. Ricky Silverstein: In his 21 years of life, this soccer-star has won two grand titles for Japan. Rugged, athletic, and talented to million dollar contracts this man is a find. His famous shots are trademarks around Tokyo and you can find Ricky's face almost anywhere. Because when this champion isn't kicking soccer balls he's kicking back the drinks at local bars--always ready for a thrill. A definite adventure, Ricky's legacy goes to amusement parks around the world, white-water rafting, mountain climbing, and he even spent some time as a volunteer firefighter. He has a two year old son, the child's mother died in birth and Ricky took him in. Number six leads a promising career, has a great taste for fun, and knows a little bit about being a good daddy and tucking the kids in at the end of the day. (Last Month's issue featured his exclusive interview and statistic of his team.) What more could a woman want?

5. Carmen Diago: Half-way through our listing and we hit 20 year old Carmen. This bio-chemist developed some of Japan's top military weapons. Instead of brutal guns and bloody battles, he works with diseases and poisons for a quicker, cleaner victory. A bit bizarre? We don't think so--Carmen's a classified A genius. With an IQ pushing 180, his specialties are mathematics and chemistry. Days and nights are spent mostly in this scientist's home lab, but when he does come out it is always with a new discovery. This man is brimming with bucks. He has more than one million-dollar contracts with the government, not to mention private buyers. He has been runner-up for the Nobel Prize twice with his medical militia. A slight zealot against guns, this nutty professor often warns against the damaging effects bombs and tanks have on civilians and landscape. An excitable, rich, genius--near perfection!

4. Cole Cascade: Last name sound familiar? That's right, this 28 year old bachelor is the son of the famous Soran Cascade. Soran of course, was an international performer--putting on spectacular shows ranging from practical magic to defying gymnastics. He served palettes such as the King of France, the 1st Lady, and more than one Prime Minister. Like father, like son as it goes. Cole has taken on the heavy shoes of his father with superb affluence. A man of many traits, whether it be sky-diving, rock-jumping, fire-wheel driving, or bear wrestling he does it all. A charming smile, infectious laugh, and warm eye all round out with the fact that Cole is toned beyond most men's dreams. As fantastic as a performer as he is, Cole is always ready to sit down and have a good laugh with a few friends. (Turn to back index calendar to find out when he'll be coming to a theater near you!) A polite partier, this daredevil knows his stuff and learned from the best. With his father's wealth pouring into his own, this guy's got no lack of income. He just needs some girl to spend it on…

3. Brian(Baine) Wolfe: Anyone not know this name? Brian, or his stage name Baine, has been the top male artist in Japan for three years and running. No one can outstrip this hot 22 year old guitarist. Known best for his celestial face and capturing voice, he's a real rock star. This man can sing your heart from you with his voice of inlaid silk and carefully carved fingers strumming the acoustic guitar. From a high scream of pain to a low moan of sorrow, this rock star can do them all. He's so good, why would he even need a band. Brian's record deals have made him a multi-millionaire. He loves the clubs, but has run into some trouble with the cops a few times. But hey, where is law when you have someone like him? Our third bachelor is well-versed in the ways of seduction from playing sweet songs to making the bold moves. His core of rock is a sexy appeal to an already great hull. Who will be the one to tame this free guitarist?

2. Yugi Motto: At 18, Yugi's our youngest bachelor by three months. But that doesn't keep him from snapping second place. Among many qualities, he blazes the title King of Games. He is the international champion of our popular game duel monsters. This man may come from a simple past, but his future is promising with already so much recognition. The famous tri-colored spikes have captured quite a few hearts before he's only done with High School! However who could blame them? Despite all this attention and victory, Yugi continues to stay modest--always putting his faith and balance on something he calls 'The heart of the cards,' (Have a favorite catch phrase? The most famous and infamous are listed on the next page.) This earnest man continues to teach everyone he encounters a real life lesson, and his determination and grit are matched only by his unwavering loyalty. He would make a devoted, trusting, and working partner for anyone. While not big on the flow of cash now, his dueling career will soon take flight along with money reservoirs. And who could resist the seductive baritone voice and dreamy violet-red eyes?

1. Seto Kaiba: Your # 1 bachelor for the season is none other then the 19 year old Seto Kaiba! What do we have time to say about this man? To begin with, he is the CEO of Kaiba Company, inherited by his adoptive father. Seto began running the company from a young age and took it from warfare to gaming. Currently, he is the main producer for the game Duel Monsters, and also one of its best competitors. In fact, the only person to ever beat him in a match is none other that our # 2 bachelor! Well Seto you beat him at this game! Because between running a company and playing in tournaments, he finds time for his younger brother. Kaiba Corp is one of two large producers for Duel Monsters. As such, it brings in a lot of money. Also, our favorite CEO is the head designer of all his projects. He is a genius with technology, creating things we could only dream of. Besides all that, this man is stunning to see. He is the 'pinnacle of eye-candy' as my co-editor described. Wonder what's hiding behind his trademark trench coats. The other lore to this guy is that he is a great mystery to the public. Facing the press on strictly business information, nothing is known about his personal life. We never see him go on dates, but who has the time between a kid, a company, and a competition? Known for his mysterious gaze and stubborn, unrelenting attitude this is one man who doesn't take offense laying down. He's not afraid of coming out of his high office to face problems, and charges head on with a calculating head. What amazing woman will ever get past the mystery that is Seto Kaiba?

-Excerpt from Tokyo Pop, Issue IXX

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We begin this story mere months after the incident with a certain man named Darts and several ancient legends. Due to the strange and dangerous behavior of the duel disk and cards produced by Kaiba Corp, the company was suffering some looses. And this is the time when fate begins to deal…

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Seto Kaiba was sitting in his private office, a sterling black laptop resting on the table in front of him and a steaming coffee cup in his free hand. A frown that lit up to his cold blue eyes played on the reflection of his own face on the glowing screen. A red, blue, and yellow pie graph glared back at him laughingly.

Down another two points…

The CEO gritted his teeth in frustration.

Ever since Yugi and his little friends started that magic trick with the dragon my company has been paying. 'Save the world' what a load of bullshit.

Angrily, Seto maneuvered his mouse to check on his new amusement park. Kaiba Land had always been Mokuba and his dream and he was very persistent in checking up on its progress. The income slide of bars was climbing steadily upward, raising the viewer's mood slightly.

At least something is going well.

Thoughts of Kaiba Land led his straying mind toward a certain black-haired boy. Glancing down at the watch, the concerned brother noted it was half past six.

Mokuba should be getting up soon, I better go down and sit at breakfast with him.

The blue-eyed teenager has not eaten breakfast since Gozubora had been in control. His stepfather had given him a great distaste of the morning meal and his work kept him from ever rectifying that. But every morning he would walk down the stairs for coffee and to sit and listen to his brother chatter about school and friends. It looked like a patiently bothered adult pleasing a naive child. But between the two brothers, it was a brief moment together before the day took them off onto different paths.

Rubbing his temples, Seto threw his white trench coat back over his broad shoulders and froze his face into the cold frown he was trademarked for. Striding down the stairs, he looked superiorly over the many rambling employees screening around. None dared to cross their employer.

He passed through the threshold of the dining room, coming past a long entertaining table to a smaller, finely made table of mahogany. Here, Mokuba was sitting eagerly awaiting him with wide same-colored eyes. A table that would sit eight was filled with dishes of deviled eggs, blackberry crepes, honey-glazed scones, and crystallized fruit. A single, oversize mug of black coffee was positioned in front of the elder's seat, along with a fine china plate that had never seen use. On the other hand, as soon as his brother sat down the younger began to pile his chosen food onto the plate and talk at a rapid pace.

"…and today at school we're going on a trip to Mikagi hospital. They said a new student has high connections with the Mikagi company and got us in…"

Sipping his coffee and surveying his younger brother Seto usually input only a few words.

"That's a large company to make connections with at 13."

Mokuba nodded in vigorously, silent between his bites of pancake and scone. "I know, I can't wait to meet him."

"Hn," Was the brunette's only reply.

Finishing his plate, the raven-haired boy checked the large digital clock beside him.

"Uh-oh, I have to go Seto or I'll be late. See you later bro!"

He nodded, not needing words to tell his brother to be careful or that he loved him. That was established back in the orphanage. As Mokuba sprinted out to the limo, backpack in hand, Seto switched into CEO mode. It was time to work. Grabbing his drink with him the blue-eyed man swung from his seat, striding up the stairs.

"Mr. Kaiba," A sweet voice called to him from the stairs, followed by a petite woman.

"What is it?" Her employer replied in cold irritability.

"Mikagi corporation is on the phone for you. They wish to discuss your newest holographic technology."

A medical company? Seto thought while he replied in his frigid monotone voice. "Put them on line 9 and hold all my other calls."

"Yes sir," The woman replied, walking off to do his bidding.

The man turned, striding back up to his office, pulling up his laptop again and seizing his private phone while placing down the hot beverage.

"Seto Kaiba, CEO of Kaiba Corp speaking." He began to show dominance and using his chilling voice to add a little fear into the other line.

However, the voice that replied was smooth, calm, and polite. "I am aware of who you are Mr. Kaiba as I called you. I am Kestrel Amun, CEO of Mikagi Corp."

Taken slightly aback by the sudden wit of the words, in the back of Seto's mind he noted that the speaker was female.

"Look I don't care who you are. You're wasting my time so tell me why you called or get off the line." The brunette replied with a low growl of annoyance.

"Certainly Mr. Kaiba. I value my time as highly as you do. I would like to discuss about your new holographic technology--the kind you use in duel disks that gives the image a feel and substance, making it more realistic."

"I am familiar with my own work Ms. Amun." He was smirking slightly on the phone. This woman had no idea who she was dealing with.

"Good, then you know just what I mean. I am interested in purchasing this technology from you and applying it to my own inventions."

The 19 year old man let her words wash over him. This could be a big break, but I can't let her discredit my work in any way…

"What use does H187 have for Mikagi Corp exactly? Don't you work in the medical field?"

There was a faint pause in the other line, and Seto read it easily. She was debating how much to tell him of her plans.

"Using life-like holograms has high value in surgery work."

The elder brother caught on quickly. "You intend to use it in training--modifying it to reenact the human body to help teach surgeons."

Another pause, and even corned the woman's voice remained untouched and polite.

"I do,"

Now the blue-eyed duelist was in his element. He was in control.

"I propose a bit more than a simple purchase Ms. Amun." He began, his smirk evident in the smug tone of his cold voice. "The second-rate idiots you have working at that hospital have never dealt with something like the H187--"

"I have complete faith in my employees capabilities." This time Kestrel's voice had a tinge of anger.

"Cut me off again and you'll never see it." Kaiba snapped back.

"Then do continue Mr. Kaiba. Your wasting my time dawdling."

The orphan had the urge to break something. He was not as in-control as he thought. Though it seemed Amun needed him, she also knew that he needed her. Damn stocks. Checking his anger with complete control, Seto smoothed out his voice to a deadly chill and spoke again.

"Nonetheless, I propose that I build you your hologram system rather than sell my model to you. It can have any specifics you might need, and then you can purchase that one from me."

It was not a bad deal and there was no hesitation in her once again mild-mannered tone.

"Agreed, we should work out details such as price and the specifications of the model face-to-face. How is tomorrow for you?"

"I am unavailable except between six and eight."

"Very well, I shall meet you at… say Shichimencho Café then?"

Amun had been bold deciding the place, but once again Seto mastered his annoyance.

"Alright, Goodbye Ms. Amun."

Click.

Leaning back on his swiveling desk chair, the CEO of Kaiba Corp considered this upcoming. By selling her specific technology he kept his company from becoming part of the medical field, which he had no interest in. The design would also bring good publicity and a source of high income for the company.

Not too bad for a phone call. Though she was an excruciatingly vexing woman.

But he didn't contemplate it long. The laptop spilled pale light from its spot, reminding him of the work that needed to be done. With a sip of coffee, Seto Kaiba continued his day.

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