Disclaimer: Yu-Gi-Oh! is the property of Konami. Upperdeck merely
distributes them to places that aren't Japan.
Before I begin, I just want you to know that this takes place 5 years after the normal anime events. Also, I will be using the card game rules, rather than the shows special rules. In addition, I will be using the English names for the characters. That way, everybody will know who's who without having to ask. Another thing; I apologize in advance to any of you Tea haters. I just can't find a logical, unarguable explanation as to why she 'should' be hated, especially since this fic 'isn't' about her. So please overlook her presence. This fic is mostly about the Kaibas. One final note; if any of you have questions about the card game rules, feel free to email me (which will be displayed at the end of this chapter). With all just said, on with the fic.
The Kaiba Christmas wish
Chapter 1
The wish
[Kaiba's mansion: Kaiba's office: December 5]
Seto Kaiba was customizing his deck, a very frustrated expression showing on his face. Once a year he would challenge Yugi Moto, the only person to ever beat him fairly, to a duel. What angered him was that every year, no matter how much customizing he did with his deck, he would still lose. Yugi would somehow draw the cards he needs right when he needs it, and win the duel. He could remember the final moment of last years duel very clearly.
[slight flashback]
Yugi had only 300 life points left, a Dark Magician girl (powered to 2600 attack), two face-down monster cards, and two cards in the magic/trap zone. Kaiba had 1500 life points left, a Blue Eyes White Dragon, one face down monster (Magician of Faith), two face down cards in the magic/trap zone, which happened to be Seven Tools of the Bandit and Mystical Space Typhoon, and a face up trap card called Dragons Rage, which allowed all dragon types on his side of the field to have trample effects.
Knowing that his Blue Eyes can take down whatever card that was down there, he felt very confident. And just in case Yugi might've had a Mirror Force, his seven tools would negate and destroy it. Grinning, he ordered his Blue Eyes to attack the face down card. Unfortunately, Yugi flipped a Waboku, therefore canceling the attack for the rest of the turn.
Kaiba quickly flipped his Seven Tools, knowing that he could afford the cost, and negated Waboku. What was even more surprising was that Yugi's second face down card was a Solemn Judgment, a trap card that negated and destroyed any magic, trap, and effect card activated by the opponent at the cost of half of their total life points. He flipped it, negating Kaiba's Seven Tools.
Kaiba was very frustrated that Yugi was able to stall for a turn, but the recollected himself. It didn't matter what he did the next turn, since any trap he might set, Kaiba will quickly destroy it with Mystical Space Typhoon. And if it was a magic card, how could it possibly stand up to his Blue Eyes? He knew very well that Yugi never played cards like Fissure or Offerings to the doomed, so there was very little to worry about. His only concern was if Yugi somehow managed to draw Monster Reborn, bring back one of his Blue Eyes, and collide it with the Blue Eyes on his field. Fortunately, he had a Dark Hole in his hand, so all he had to do was flip his Magician of Faith, get his Monster Reborn back, and then use it to bring back his Blue Eyes. Yes, he had it all planned out. He was going to win for sure.
He ended his turn, and Yugi drew his card. The score was now 150 against 500. He then flipped his face down card, which happened to be a Fiber Jar. Kaiba was completely shocked at this turn of events. Now each owners cards that were in their hands, fields, and graveyards were now returned to their respective decks. After shuffling, they both were allowed to draw 5 cards.
He wasn't sure how the heart of the cards could 'always' work for Yugi, but they seemed to have done so once again. Yugi activated Graceful Charity, and drew 3 cards, and had to discard 2 into the graveyard, which were Dark Magician and Skilled White Magician. Then he played Monster Reborn, brought back his Dark Magician, and attacked. Since Kaiba couldn't set any cards down yet, he received direct damage, thus winning Yugi the duel.
[End of slight flashback]
Kaiba pounded his fist against the desk, making some of the cards fall on the floor. He wanted to be the number one duelist again, and Yugi was the only one preventing him from doing so. After all, asides from having a brother he cares about, winning was all that mattered to him. He stood up, and left the office, deciding to cool off for a while. After leaving, he slammed the door behind him.
Mokuba Kaiba, who was reading at the time, was in the same room when this happened. He didn't like seeing his older brother get so worked up like that. He wished that he could stop focusing so much on beating Yugi, and just enjoy life for a change. Besides, now that Yugi was married to Tea, he didn't duel as much as he used to. Remembering that, he decided to give them a call.
So he did. Tea answered the phone.
"Hello?"
"Hi, Tea. This is Mokuba."
"Oh hi, Mokuba! It's so nice to hear from you again."
"Yeah, you too. So, how are things?"
"It's going pretty well. Yugi and Joey are casual dueling right now, Tristan and Serenity are just watching tv, and I'm feeding the baby."
"Wow. It sounds pretty peaceful over there."
"Yeah, it is. Just as long as you don't count some of the antics that go on here, not to mention either Weevil or Bakura occasionally demanding rematches, or Isis keeping Yugi's dueling skills sharp and focused."
Mokuba laughed. "I'll bet. And Mai?"
"She couldn't make it today. She wanted to get her Christmas shopping over with, although her list on who she's buying things for is pretty small."
"Oh. Hey, Tea? Can I come over today? There's something I need to talk with you guys about."
"Sure. Mokuba? Did something bad happen?"
"Not really. Just something that's been bothering me for a while."
"Okay. We'll see you then. Bye."
"Bye." And then he hung up, wrote a message telling Kaiba where he went, left it on the desk, and left the mansion.
[Later: Yugi and Tea's house]
Mokuba arrived using his bike. He could've had his chauffeur drive him there, but seeing as how it was the mere thought of losing to Yugi that got Seto upset, he might not be too happy about the sudden visit using one of his limos. Besides, it was a great day outside.
He got off his bike and walked it to the door. He set it aside and knocked on the door. Within a few seconds, Joey opened the door. He smiled at Mokuba.
"Hey there, Mokuba." He said. "Come in. Tea said that you'd be over."
So Mokuba went in, and sat down on the couch. Yugi and Tea smiled at him. Mokuba smiled back.
"Wow, the baby sure has gotten bigger since the last time I saw him." He said.
"Yeah. He 'has', huh." Said Yugi. "I can say the same thing about you."
"Yeah, well, thanks."
"So, what's on your mind?" asked Tea.
"Oh yeah! I nearly forgot!" Then he looked at Yugi. "It's about my big brother. Lately he's been focused on nothing but winning."
Yugi smiled and shook his head. "That sounds like Kaiba, alright. I only duel him for fun. I'm not interested in titles or anything like that."
"Besides," Joey started, "when 'hasn't' he been so uptight?"
Mokuba chuckled. "Yeah. But still, I'm a little worried. It seems like he's going to go through his whole life disliking people."
"Once again," Joey added, "when 'hasn't' he been such a jerk?"
"Hold him." Tea said as she handed Yugi their son.
Yugi nodded, and then backed away. Joey noticed this, and quickly hid behind Mokuba.
"N-now Tea. Ya know I was only kiddin'." He said nervously.
"But right in front of Mokuba? Talk about being a jerk!"
"It's okay, Tea." Mokuba answered. "Besides, it's not like my big brother hasn't said his fair share of insults about you guys."
Joey's eyes quickly focused on Mokuba. "Insults? What did that jerk say this time?!"
"Well, mostly just about Joey."
"Why that no good-"
"Enough!" Tea quickly interrupted. "Mokuba came here for our support, and we're going to give it to him! Understand?"
Joey gulped nervously, and quickly nodded. He knew by now how Tea can be when she gets upset. Sometimes even worse than Mai.
"Go ahead, Mokuba." Tea said.
"We're all ears." Tristan said out of the clear blue. His peripheral was mostly focused on Serenity, so he wasn't paying attention until just now.
"Well," Mokuba started, "I really want Seto to find someone that he can be happy with. You know, let him know that there's more to life than work and victory."
"Aw, how sweet!" Tea said with a big smile.
"That would be very nice." Yugi added, and then looked at the baby. "Don't you think so?"
The baby smiled.
"Looks like someone agrees with us."
"Someone like Kaiba could 'really' use a girlfriend." Tristan also added. "It just might lighten his mood."
"Yeah." Said Joey. "But he'd probably just scare away any girl that comes near him. Come to think of it, the chances are pretty-Ow!"
When he was talking, Tea walked over and socked him on the arm. Joey laughed a little while rubbing his arm.
"Sorry about that, Mokuba." He said. "It's just something about Kaiba that really rubs me the wrong way."
"It's okay, Joey." Yugi said. "I don't blame you, what with him belittling you when he gets the chance."
"Yeah. That was pretty insulting that I wasn't invited to the tournament in battle City! Not to mention that every time I challenge him, he always remarks; 'I don't duel against amateurs!'"
Mokuba laughed. "Yeah, I remember that. Still, I have to half agree with him. You're no amateur, but challenging my big brother the way you did wasn't very smart."
Joey shrugged. "What? All I did was heckle him until he agreed."
"Yeah, I remember that." Tristan chimed in. "You lost on the 5th turn."
Joey's eyes narrowed at him. "I had a bad hand. He just got lucky, that's all." Then he straightened his posture, and stood proudly. "Besides, ever since Yugi stopped dueling in tournaments, yours truly has won every tourney I came across."
Mokuba grinned. "'Every' tournament?"
"Well, except the 4th tournament when Kaiba entered, but he was just lucky."
Tea frowned. "Congratulations, Joey. You've just managed to stray everyone from Mokuba's subject in record time!"
Realizing this, Joey sunk his head low. "Sorry about that. Go ahead, Mokuba."
Mokuba started again. "So like I was saying, is there anyway that I can set him up with somebody? I don't think he'll agree with any dating services."
Yugi shrugged. "I wouldn't know." Then he held Tea's hand. "My soul mate came to 'me.'"
Tea smiled. "Yugi's right." She thought for a moment.
Out of the clear blue, Serenity responded.
"Well, it's December, right?"
They all turned towards her direction. Mokuba nodded.
"Whenever I feel the Christmas spirit in the air, I always pray for good fortune. The best part is that it almost always comes true."
"I don't know." Mokuba started. "Seto always told me that praying for miracles was something people who've run out of ideas do."
"That's completely untrue." Yugi said. "Miracles can happen at any time. Isis once told me that if one is determined and their heart is in the right place, just about anything can happen."
"Really?" asked Mokuba, a glint of hope now shining in his eyes.
Yugi nodded, also smiling.
"It's true." Serenity continued. "I remember when Tea asked me how she would go about confronting her feelings towards Yugi, and I suggested praying for an answer."
Everyone looked at Tea, who was now blushing.
"Well, it worked." Tea finally said while trying to ignore the stares.
Serenity giggled. "Although miracles can happen at any time of the year, I've always felt that they're much stronger during the holidays."
"Hmm. I gotta try that." Muttered Tristan.
Unfortunately, Joey heard him. "Hey! You better not be thinking about what I think you're thinking!"
A sweat drop formed on Tristan's head, and he smiled nervously. "Uh, I don't know what you're talking about."
"And you better keep it that way!"
Serenity was confused. "What do you mean?"
"Er, nothing important. Nothing at all."
"Okay. Oh, and before I forget, Mai wanted me to remind you of your dates tomorrow. She had a feeling you would forget to pick her up again."
A sweat drop appeared on his forehead as he tried to ignore Tristan's grin. "Uh, yeah. Thanks."
Tea sighed in frustration. "Once again, Joey, you managed to stray everyone away from the original subject yet again!"
"Again? Oops. Sorry about that, Mokuba."
"It's okay." Then he turned back to Serenity. "I like your idea, but I wouldn't know how to start. Can you help me?"
"Of course." She answered. "Just close your eyes, bow your head, and say what's on your mind."
"Okay." So he closed his eyes and bowed his head. "Hello, whoever's supposed to be listening to this. I am Mokuba Kaiba. Please grant my request. If there's any present I can have for Christmas this year, let it be for my big brother, Seto Kaiba, to find a nice woman that will make him happy. well, not 'too nice.' Otherwise, she might not stay with him. If I get nothing else but this for Christmas, I will still be eternally grateful. If this prayer is being heard, thank you for listening. If not, well, I tried at least. um. that's it."
Then he opened his eyes and lifted his head. "So, how was that?"
"It was very nice." Serenity answered.
"I hope your wish comes true." Tea added.
"I'm sure it will." Yugi said. "After all, that wish came from Mokuba's heart, and we all know how good it is."
"Yeah." Joey also said. "Too bad I can't say the same for Kaiba." Then he noticed both Tea and Mokuba's glares. "But this wish will change all that, that's for sure!" he said that part to save his skin.
Suddenly, the smoke alarm went off.
"Oh no!" exclaimed Tea. "I forgot about the food on the stove!" Then she quickly ran to the kitchen.
"We were just about to have lunch." Said Yugi. "Want to eat with us?"
"You betcha!" answered Mokuba.
"I gotta admire your bravery." Joey said to him. "Not everyone is willing to face one of Tea's burnt meals."
"I heard that!" she shouted from the kitchen. "And for your information, I saved it just in time! I only forgot to put the lid on, that's all! Nothing that a little cleaning can't fix!"
Joey sighed in relief. "Phew! We got lucky, this time. I don't think my stomach would be able to handle a burnt mystery food."
"Do you 'want' to get hurt, Joey?!"
Joey laughed. "Ya know I'm only kiddin'!"
"Yeah, he is." Yugi whispered. "When she was first learning, I suffered through many stomach pains."
"Did you say something, Yugi?!"
"N-no. Nothing important."
[Later]
And so everyone ate the meal when it was served. Nothing bad happened to it, and they all talked some more afterwards. While they were talking, another knock was heard from the door. Joey went and answered it. He grimaced at the sight of the visitor, who also grimaced.
"Oh, hey Kaiba." Joey said. "What brings you here?"
"It's not a custom for the family dog to bother the guests. Now where's Mokuba?"
Joey frowned. "Family dog?! Why I outta-"
Yugi quickly stepped in between Kaiba and Joey. "Joey, wait!" Then he turned to Kaiba. "Can't you at least be a little nicer?"
"I suppose I could." Answered Kaiba. "Unfortunately, the only ones I respect are the ones who've earned it. In other words, exceptional duelists, children, and people with class. Joey doesn't fit the bill with any."
"Oh, like you're all nice and perfect!" exclaimed Joey. "Remind me again who it was that nearly lost his own brother because he didn't want to cooperate with Yugi?"
Kaiba ignored him, and faced Yugi. "Is Mokuba here?"
"Yeah, he is." Then he called out to Mokuba. "Mokuba! Kaiba's here to pick you up!"
"Coming!" Mokuba answered. Within a few seconds, he was out the door. He bowed to Yugi. "Thanks again for everything."
Yugi smiled. "Don't mention it."
Kaiba then turned towards Yugi. "Yugi?"
"Yeah?"
"I know I never say this, but thank you for being kind to my brother, even though you hang out with people that are bad influences to him."
Joey growled, but Yugi half smiled.
"S-sure. Don't mention it."
"Just remember our duel in late December. I 'will' win this time. I don't care how much customizing and strategy I have to do. You 'will' lose this time!"
"Kaiba. I'm not dueling you to prove anything. I just like doing it. To tell the truth, you're the best duelist I've ever played against."
Kaiba didn't say anything. He then turned around.
"Come, Mokuba." Then he finally spoke to Yugi. "Just remember that winning is all that matters." Then he left.
Mokuba took his bike, thanked Yugi again, and both Kaiba brothers entered the limo, and drove off. When they were out of sight, Yugi closed the door.
"That guy really gets on my nerves!" Joey said irritably.
"Yeah, but just remember. He's had a bad childhood, no friends, and the only family member he has is Mokuba." Yugi said as he and Joey walked back into the living room. "He'll warm up one day. Besides, maybe Mokuba's wish will come true."
Joey smiled. "Thanks, Yug. You really are a true friend." Then he sighed. "But someone actually loving Kaiba? That'll be a rare sight to see."
[Meanwhile: Airport]
Waiting at the baggage claims, there was a woman in her mid twenties. She had shoulder length silver hair, thin lips that were covered in crimson lipstick, a healthy beige skin color, and dark brown eyes that were slightly narrow. She wore a red business top that was short sleeved, a white skirt that covered half of her thighs, and red high heels. She tapped her foot impatiently as she waited for her sister to find their bags.
"Have you found it yet?" she asked. "We've been here for nearly 5 minutes!"
"Almost.. got it!" her sister said as she grabbed the final bag. "You know, we should've had someone else do it."
"Yeah, but I couldn't find anybody with so little class."
Her sister was much younger. She was a mere adolescent, and shown it with her simple design in clothing, which consisted of a plain blue dress, white dress shoes and a sky blue headband to balance her slightly longer silver hair. She had the same eye and skin color as her sister, but no sign of narrowness.
"So why did we come here anyways?"
"To acquire some important information, and maybe gain a profit."
"Oh. Hey, sis?"
"Yeah?"
"Do you think you'll find a nice guy while you're here?"
"Not that I care, but exactly how many good looking Japanese men with high class are we going to find in a place like this? Most of them are short, remember?"
"Shh! Someone might hear you. Besides, you're only 5' 7". That's not something to boast about."
She just shrugged and continued. "So like I was saying, I'm only here for business. Nothing more." She then looked at her bags, and took out her cell phone. She dialed a few numbers, and waited for a response.
"Hello?"
"Yeah. Where are the servants I requested? They're supposed to be doing their jobs!"
"They're called employees, ma'am."
"Tell someone who cares."
".. What was your service number?"
"15536."
"... Ah, I see it. They're waiting by your limo."
"What?! Are you saying that 'we' have to carry these bags all the way there?!"
"Yeah, that's pretty much what I'm saying."
"Fine!" Then she hung up, and grabbed two bags while her sister grabbed the other two. They walked to the limo, and the employees put their bags in the trunk, and opened the door for them. When they entered, the door was shut behind them.
"To the hotel I requested! And get us there this minute!" She demanded.
"Please? We would be most gracious." her sister said to counteract her sisters rudeness.
The driver nodded, and they were driven to their hotel.
*End of chapter 1.*
Well, I hope you all like it so far. Please let me know what you think so far. You can either review, or email me. My email address is rubynall@hotmail.com
Please do not send any flames. They are just rude and uncalled for. Besides, I don't mean to offend anyone, thus having apologized in advance.
Before I begin, I just want you to know that this takes place 5 years after the normal anime events. Also, I will be using the card game rules, rather than the shows special rules. In addition, I will be using the English names for the characters. That way, everybody will know who's who without having to ask. Another thing; I apologize in advance to any of you Tea haters. I just can't find a logical, unarguable explanation as to why she 'should' be hated, especially since this fic 'isn't' about her. So please overlook her presence. This fic is mostly about the Kaibas. One final note; if any of you have questions about the card game rules, feel free to email me (which will be displayed at the end of this chapter). With all just said, on with the fic.
The Kaiba Christmas wish
Chapter 1
The wish
[Kaiba's mansion: Kaiba's office: December 5]
Seto Kaiba was customizing his deck, a very frustrated expression showing on his face. Once a year he would challenge Yugi Moto, the only person to ever beat him fairly, to a duel. What angered him was that every year, no matter how much customizing he did with his deck, he would still lose. Yugi would somehow draw the cards he needs right when he needs it, and win the duel. He could remember the final moment of last years duel very clearly.
[slight flashback]
Yugi had only 300 life points left, a Dark Magician girl (powered to 2600 attack), two face-down monster cards, and two cards in the magic/trap zone. Kaiba had 1500 life points left, a Blue Eyes White Dragon, one face down monster (Magician of Faith), two face down cards in the magic/trap zone, which happened to be Seven Tools of the Bandit and Mystical Space Typhoon, and a face up trap card called Dragons Rage, which allowed all dragon types on his side of the field to have trample effects.
Knowing that his Blue Eyes can take down whatever card that was down there, he felt very confident. And just in case Yugi might've had a Mirror Force, his seven tools would negate and destroy it. Grinning, he ordered his Blue Eyes to attack the face down card. Unfortunately, Yugi flipped a Waboku, therefore canceling the attack for the rest of the turn.
Kaiba quickly flipped his Seven Tools, knowing that he could afford the cost, and negated Waboku. What was even more surprising was that Yugi's second face down card was a Solemn Judgment, a trap card that negated and destroyed any magic, trap, and effect card activated by the opponent at the cost of half of their total life points. He flipped it, negating Kaiba's Seven Tools.
Kaiba was very frustrated that Yugi was able to stall for a turn, but the recollected himself. It didn't matter what he did the next turn, since any trap he might set, Kaiba will quickly destroy it with Mystical Space Typhoon. And if it was a magic card, how could it possibly stand up to his Blue Eyes? He knew very well that Yugi never played cards like Fissure or Offerings to the doomed, so there was very little to worry about. His only concern was if Yugi somehow managed to draw Monster Reborn, bring back one of his Blue Eyes, and collide it with the Blue Eyes on his field. Fortunately, he had a Dark Hole in his hand, so all he had to do was flip his Magician of Faith, get his Monster Reborn back, and then use it to bring back his Blue Eyes. Yes, he had it all planned out. He was going to win for sure.
He ended his turn, and Yugi drew his card. The score was now 150 against 500. He then flipped his face down card, which happened to be a Fiber Jar. Kaiba was completely shocked at this turn of events. Now each owners cards that were in their hands, fields, and graveyards were now returned to their respective decks. After shuffling, they both were allowed to draw 5 cards.
He wasn't sure how the heart of the cards could 'always' work for Yugi, but they seemed to have done so once again. Yugi activated Graceful Charity, and drew 3 cards, and had to discard 2 into the graveyard, which were Dark Magician and Skilled White Magician. Then he played Monster Reborn, brought back his Dark Magician, and attacked. Since Kaiba couldn't set any cards down yet, he received direct damage, thus winning Yugi the duel.
[End of slight flashback]
Kaiba pounded his fist against the desk, making some of the cards fall on the floor. He wanted to be the number one duelist again, and Yugi was the only one preventing him from doing so. After all, asides from having a brother he cares about, winning was all that mattered to him. He stood up, and left the office, deciding to cool off for a while. After leaving, he slammed the door behind him.
Mokuba Kaiba, who was reading at the time, was in the same room when this happened. He didn't like seeing his older brother get so worked up like that. He wished that he could stop focusing so much on beating Yugi, and just enjoy life for a change. Besides, now that Yugi was married to Tea, he didn't duel as much as he used to. Remembering that, he decided to give them a call.
So he did. Tea answered the phone.
"Hello?"
"Hi, Tea. This is Mokuba."
"Oh hi, Mokuba! It's so nice to hear from you again."
"Yeah, you too. So, how are things?"
"It's going pretty well. Yugi and Joey are casual dueling right now, Tristan and Serenity are just watching tv, and I'm feeding the baby."
"Wow. It sounds pretty peaceful over there."
"Yeah, it is. Just as long as you don't count some of the antics that go on here, not to mention either Weevil or Bakura occasionally demanding rematches, or Isis keeping Yugi's dueling skills sharp and focused."
Mokuba laughed. "I'll bet. And Mai?"
"She couldn't make it today. She wanted to get her Christmas shopping over with, although her list on who she's buying things for is pretty small."
"Oh. Hey, Tea? Can I come over today? There's something I need to talk with you guys about."
"Sure. Mokuba? Did something bad happen?"
"Not really. Just something that's been bothering me for a while."
"Okay. We'll see you then. Bye."
"Bye." And then he hung up, wrote a message telling Kaiba where he went, left it on the desk, and left the mansion.
[Later: Yugi and Tea's house]
Mokuba arrived using his bike. He could've had his chauffeur drive him there, but seeing as how it was the mere thought of losing to Yugi that got Seto upset, he might not be too happy about the sudden visit using one of his limos. Besides, it was a great day outside.
He got off his bike and walked it to the door. He set it aside and knocked on the door. Within a few seconds, Joey opened the door. He smiled at Mokuba.
"Hey there, Mokuba." He said. "Come in. Tea said that you'd be over."
So Mokuba went in, and sat down on the couch. Yugi and Tea smiled at him. Mokuba smiled back.
"Wow, the baby sure has gotten bigger since the last time I saw him." He said.
"Yeah. He 'has', huh." Said Yugi. "I can say the same thing about you."
"Yeah, well, thanks."
"So, what's on your mind?" asked Tea.
"Oh yeah! I nearly forgot!" Then he looked at Yugi. "It's about my big brother. Lately he's been focused on nothing but winning."
Yugi smiled and shook his head. "That sounds like Kaiba, alright. I only duel him for fun. I'm not interested in titles or anything like that."
"Besides," Joey started, "when 'hasn't' he been so uptight?"
Mokuba chuckled. "Yeah. But still, I'm a little worried. It seems like he's going to go through his whole life disliking people."
"Once again," Joey added, "when 'hasn't' he been such a jerk?"
"Hold him." Tea said as she handed Yugi their son.
Yugi nodded, and then backed away. Joey noticed this, and quickly hid behind Mokuba.
"N-now Tea. Ya know I was only kiddin'." He said nervously.
"But right in front of Mokuba? Talk about being a jerk!"
"It's okay, Tea." Mokuba answered. "Besides, it's not like my big brother hasn't said his fair share of insults about you guys."
Joey's eyes quickly focused on Mokuba. "Insults? What did that jerk say this time?!"
"Well, mostly just about Joey."
"Why that no good-"
"Enough!" Tea quickly interrupted. "Mokuba came here for our support, and we're going to give it to him! Understand?"
Joey gulped nervously, and quickly nodded. He knew by now how Tea can be when she gets upset. Sometimes even worse than Mai.
"Go ahead, Mokuba." Tea said.
"We're all ears." Tristan said out of the clear blue. His peripheral was mostly focused on Serenity, so he wasn't paying attention until just now.
"Well," Mokuba started, "I really want Seto to find someone that he can be happy with. You know, let him know that there's more to life than work and victory."
"Aw, how sweet!" Tea said with a big smile.
"That would be very nice." Yugi added, and then looked at the baby. "Don't you think so?"
The baby smiled.
"Looks like someone agrees with us."
"Someone like Kaiba could 'really' use a girlfriend." Tristan also added. "It just might lighten his mood."
"Yeah." Said Joey. "But he'd probably just scare away any girl that comes near him. Come to think of it, the chances are pretty-Ow!"
When he was talking, Tea walked over and socked him on the arm. Joey laughed a little while rubbing his arm.
"Sorry about that, Mokuba." He said. "It's just something about Kaiba that really rubs me the wrong way."
"It's okay, Joey." Yugi said. "I don't blame you, what with him belittling you when he gets the chance."
"Yeah. That was pretty insulting that I wasn't invited to the tournament in battle City! Not to mention that every time I challenge him, he always remarks; 'I don't duel against amateurs!'"
Mokuba laughed. "Yeah, I remember that. Still, I have to half agree with him. You're no amateur, but challenging my big brother the way you did wasn't very smart."
Joey shrugged. "What? All I did was heckle him until he agreed."
"Yeah, I remember that." Tristan chimed in. "You lost on the 5th turn."
Joey's eyes narrowed at him. "I had a bad hand. He just got lucky, that's all." Then he straightened his posture, and stood proudly. "Besides, ever since Yugi stopped dueling in tournaments, yours truly has won every tourney I came across."
Mokuba grinned. "'Every' tournament?"
"Well, except the 4th tournament when Kaiba entered, but he was just lucky."
Tea frowned. "Congratulations, Joey. You've just managed to stray everyone from Mokuba's subject in record time!"
Realizing this, Joey sunk his head low. "Sorry about that. Go ahead, Mokuba."
Mokuba started again. "So like I was saying, is there anyway that I can set him up with somebody? I don't think he'll agree with any dating services."
Yugi shrugged. "I wouldn't know." Then he held Tea's hand. "My soul mate came to 'me.'"
Tea smiled. "Yugi's right." She thought for a moment.
Out of the clear blue, Serenity responded.
"Well, it's December, right?"
They all turned towards her direction. Mokuba nodded.
"Whenever I feel the Christmas spirit in the air, I always pray for good fortune. The best part is that it almost always comes true."
"I don't know." Mokuba started. "Seto always told me that praying for miracles was something people who've run out of ideas do."
"That's completely untrue." Yugi said. "Miracles can happen at any time. Isis once told me that if one is determined and their heart is in the right place, just about anything can happen."
"Really?" asked Mokuba, a glint of hope now shining in his eyes.
Yugi nodded, also smiling.
"It's true." Serenity continued. "I remember when Tea asked me how she would go about confronting her feelings towards Yugi, and I suggested praying for an answer."
Everyone looked at Tea, who was now blushing.
"Well, it worked." Tea finally said while trying to ignore the stares.
Serenity giggled. "Although miracles can happen at any time of the year, I've always felt that they're much stronger during the holidays."
"Hmm. I gotta try that." Muttered Tristan.
Unfortunately, Joey heard him. "Hey! You better not be thinking about what I think you're thinking!"
A sweat drop formed on Tristan's head, and he smiled nervously. "Uh, I don't know what you're talking about."
"And you better keep it that way!"
Serenity was confused. "What do you mean?"
"Er, nothing important. Nothing at all."
"Okay. Oh, and before I forget, Mai wanted me to remind you of your dates tomorrow. She had a feeling you would forget to pick her up again."
A sweat drop appeared on his forehead as he tried to ignore Tristan's grin. "Uh, yeah. Thanks."
Tea sighed in frustration. "Once again, Joey, you managed to stray everyone away from the original subject yet again!"
"Again? Oops. Sorry about that, Mokuba."
"It's okay." Then he turned back to Serenity. "I like your idea, but I wouldn't know how to start. Can you help me?"
"Of course." She answered. "Just close your eyes, bow your head, and say what's on your mind."
"Okay." So he closed his eyes and bowed his head. "Hello, whoever's supposed to be listening to this. I am Mokuba Kaiba. Please grant my request. If there's any present I can have for Christmas this year, let it be for my big brother, Seto Kaiba, to find a nice woman that will make him happy. well, not 'too nice.' Otherwise, she might not stay with him. If I get nothing else but this for Christmas, I will still be eternally grateful. If this prayer is being heard, thank you for listening. If not, well, I tried at least. um. that's it."
Then he opened his eyes and lifted his head. "So, how was that?"
"It was very nice." Serenity answered.
"I hope your wish comes true." Tea added.
"I'm sure it will." Yugi said. "After all, that wish came from Mokuba's heart, and we all know how good it is."
"Yeah." Joey also said. "Too bad I can't say the same for Kaiba." Then he noticed both Tea and Mokuba's glares. "But this wish will change all that, that's for sure!" he said that part to save his skin.
Suddenly, the smoke alarm went off.
"Oh no!" exclaimed Tea. "I forgot about the food on the stove!" Then she quickly ran to the kitchen.
"We were just about to have lunch." Said Yugi. "Want to eat with us?"
"You betcha!" answered Mokuba.
"I gotta admire your bravery." Joey said to him. "Not everyone is willing to face one of Tea's burnt meals."
"I heard that!" she shouted from the kitchen. "And for your information, I saved it just in time! I only forgot to put the lid on, that's all! Nothing that a little cleaning can't fix!"
Joey sighed in relief. "Phew! We got lucky, this time. I don't think my stomach would be able to handle a burnt mystery food."
"Do you 'want' to get hurt, Joey?!"
Joey laughed. "Ya know I'm only kiddin'!"
"Yeah, he is." Yugi whispered. "When she was first learning, I suffered through many stomach pains."
"Did you say something, Yugi?!"
"N-no. Nothing important."
[Later]
And so everyone ate the meal when it was served. Nothing bad happened to it, and they all talked some more afterwards. While they were talking, another knock was heard from the door. Joey went and answered it. He grimaced at the sight of the visitor, who also grimaced.
"Oh, hey Kaiba." Joey said. "What brings you here?"
"It's not a custom for the family dog to bother the guests. Now where's Mokuba?"
Joey frowned. "Family dog?! Why I outta-"
Yugi quickly stepped in between Kaiba and Joey. "Joey, wait!" Then he turned to Kaiba. "Can't you at least be a little nicer?"
"I suppose I could." Answered Kaiba. "Unfortunately, the only ones I respect are the ones who've earned it. In other words, exceptional duelists, children, and people with class. Joey doesn't fit the bill with any."
"Oh, like you're all nice and perfect!" exclaimed Joey. "Remind me again who it was that nearly lost his own brother because he didn't want to cooperate with Yugi?"
Kaiba ignored him, and faced Yugi. "Is Mokuba here?"
"Yeah, he is." Then he called out to Mokuba. "Mokuba! Kaiba's here to pick you up!"
"Coming!" Mokuba answered. Within a few seconds, he was out the door. He bowed to Yugi. "Thanks again for everything."
Yugi smiled. "Don't mention it."
Kaiba then turned towards Yugi. "Yugi?"
"Yeah?"
"I know I never say this, but thank you for being kind to my brother, even though you hang out with people that are bad influences to him."
Joey growled, but Yugi half smiled.
"S-sure. Don't mention it."
"Just remember our duel in late December. I 'will' win this time. I don't care how much customizing and strategy I have to do. You 'will' lose this time!"
"Kaiba. I'm not dueling you to prove anything. I just like doing it. To tell the truth, you're the best duelist I've ever played against."
Kaiba didn't say anything. He then turned around.
"Come, Mokuba." Then he finally spoke to Yugi. "Just remember that winning is all that matters." Then he left.
Mokuba took his bike, thanked Yugi again, and both Kaiba brothers entered the limo, and drove off. When they were out of sight, Yugi closed the door.
"That guy really gets on my nerves!" Joey said irritably.
"Yeah, but just remember. He's had a bad childhood, no friends, and the only family member he has is Mokuba." Yugi said as he and Joey walked back into the living room. "He'll warm up one day. Besides, maybe Mokuba's wish will come true."
Joey smiled. "Thanks, Yug. You really are a true friend." Then he sighed. "But someone actually loving Kaiba? That'll be a rare sight to see."
[Meanwhile: Airport]
Waiting at the baggage claims, there was a woman in her mid twenties. She had shoulder length silver hair, thin lips that were covered in crimson lipstick, a healthy beige skin color, and dark brown eyes that were slightly narrow. She wore a red business top that was short sleeved, a white skirt that covered half of her thighs, and red high heels. She tapped her foot impatiently as she waited for her sister to find their bags.
"Have you found it yet?" she asked. "We've been here for nearly 5 minutes!"
"Almost.. got it!" her sister said as she grabbed the final bag. "You know, we should've had someone else do it."
"Yeah, but I couldn't find anybody with so little class."
Her sister was much younger. She was a mere adolescent, and shown it with her simple design in clothing, which consisted of a plain blue dress, white dress shoes and a sky blue headband to balance her slightly longer silver hair. She had the same eye and skin color as her sister, but no sign of narrowness.
"So why did we come here anyways?"
"To acquire some important information, and maybe gain a profit."
"Oh. Hey, sis?"
"Yeah?"
"Do you think you'll find a nice guy while you're here?"
"Not that I care, but exactly how many good looking Japanese men with high class are we going to find in a place like this? Most of them are short, remember?"
"Shh! Someone might hear you. Besides, you're only 5' 7". That's not something to boast about."
She just shrugged and continued. "So like I was saying, I'm only here for business. Nothing more." She then looked at her bags, and took out her cell phone. She dialed a few numbers, and waited for a response.
"Hello?"
"Yeah. Where are the servants I requested? They're supposed to be doing their jobs!"
"They're called employees, ma'am."
"Tell someone who cares."
".. What was your service number?"
"15536."
"... Ah, I see it. They're waiting by your limo."
"What?! Are you saying that 'we' have to carry these bags all the way there?!"
"Yeah, that's pretty much what I'm saying."
"Fine!" Then she hung up, and grabbed two bags while her sister grabbed the other two. They walked to the limo, and the employees put their bags in the trunk, and opened the door for them. When they entered, the door was shut behind them.
"To the hotel I requested! And get us there this minute!" She demanded.
"Please? We would be most gracious." her sister said to counteract her sisters rudeness.
The driver nodded, and they were driven to their hotel.
*End of chapter 1.*
Well, I hope you all like it so far. Please let me know what you think so far. You can either review, or email me. My email address is rubynall@hotmail.com
Please do not send any flames. They are just rude and uncalled for. Besides, I don't mean to offend anyone, thus having apologized in advance.