Yeah I know this is a little late but a lot has happened where I wasn't able to upload this until now. So for a very late gift and a welcome to the New Year, enjoy this filler knowing that I am at work making new things for FFW.
Anything new that anyone wants added may want to PM soon or place it somewhere where I can check for it like the DA site or the on the wikia. So for all of you Happy Holidays and have a Happy New Year.
Now…ON WITH THE SHOW!
(Play Bleach ost: Ditty for Daddy)
For the three women of Kurotsubasa their days usually started out the same, running through crowds avoiding Admin Guards after a successful prank. However, with a special day of the year tomorrow the girls had to give the pranks a rest and go shop for Christmas presents.
Or should I say battle for presents.
"Let go of it nya!" Ravena hissed as she tried to pull and tug the item away from another shopper.
"I saw it first and you know it kitten!" The woman argued back. As the two girls fought Bella and Illu soon appeared behind Ravena with a covered cart full of gifts.
"Come on Kitty cat we're wasting time!" Bella said impatiently as she wanted to leave the store behind. The normally energetic toon was already bored of the endless shopping.
"Maybe you can find something like that in another store Rave-chan." Illu offered hoping that her friend wouldn't get in trouble for this small fight.
"Nya, I picked it up first and it's exactly what I need!" The two fighters continued to struggle against each other. A few onlookers were glad that no one could use their powers during the Christmas week when they saw that it was Kurotsubasa.
Illu sighed seeing that this wouldn't end until they did something. "Bella-chan, can you please do something to help speed this along." She asked knowing the Hyna-girl would either end it or make it worse.
"On it" Bella rolled up her sleeves and entered the fray.
(Song end)
Moments later they were carrying their bag away from a mall that now had a large hole in the wall. The three ignored all the stares that were aimed to the building as they wanted to take the gifts back to the guild.
"Sometimes I don't know how you do it Bella-chan." Illu said.
"Hy-nya can always find a way to go around any rule, even the one where we can't use our powers." Ravena said.
"Nothing can contain the Hyna!" Bella yelled at the top of her voice. "Besides you got your gift right, hoping to surprise a certain someone?"
"Nya, none of your business, let's just head back to the base before the guys finish decorating." Ravena said.
"How many people are supposed to be coming to the party anyway?" Illu asked.
"Depends on how many you invite." Bella said. "Though the limit is ten per person after a small disaster we had one year."
"You invite the entire codex of your Omnitrix?" The two looked at the Hyna girl.
"I still don't see what the problem was." Bella admitted.
"You have almost a million lifeforms stored in your wrist, I'm sure the building would start getting cramp after a while." Illu said.
"Just trying to spread the love and the Christmas spirit!" Bella smiled.
"There some thing as too much love nya" Ravena said.
"Blasphemy!" Chibi Bella jumped in rage.
"It's ok Bella-chan; there will be enough people there to help spread the love." Illu tried to calm the raging chibi.
"Speaking of love" Bella pulled out a pack of… "Look what I was able to score for free."
"Nya mistletoe?" Ravena asked.
"Just a little party fun, it helps when a few stiffs are invited." Bella placed the plant back in her pocket. "We have a good crowd of guests coming."
"I still glad that Shadow let me invite Chocobo and others to the party, I was afraid to have to choose who I spend time with." Illu smiled while carrying her share of the gifts.
"Those two aren't that bad, they just need to get over how their fight ended." Bella said.
"Enough about the two knuckleheads, we need to hurry back and finish the decorations nya!" Ravena then ran on ahead.
"Hey get back here!"
"Wait up Ravena-chan!"
(Scene Change)
"Set that one a bit higher Punnya." Key directed the manju as they both prepared the tree. The neko meow a reply and set another ornament as the Beta wrapped the tinsel. DB then walked into the building carrying a bundle of drinks.
"Did you finish all the lights?" Key asked seeing the musician walk in.
"Of course, and I was able to drop by and pick up some drinks." DB set them down on a table away from the tree.
"You know some of the people coming are minors right?" The keyblade user asked.
"I planned for them too; I got the real and fake brand." DB reassured him.
"Fake?"
"Think all the fun of alcohol, without the alcohol." DB explained.
"What makes it fun?" Key said curiously.
"The fact you won't have to worry about a virtual hangover." DB joked. "Is Shads in the kitchen?"
"He's finishing up at the Daycare, though he has some things out that can be prepared when he gets back." Key said. "Since you're free, go and pick up the bird."
"Why can't you do it?" DB asked.
"Take a look around," Key directed him to all of the decorations that were put up across the room. "I still have more decorations to do and we have to finish the tree."
"Where'd you put the star?" DB looked at the tree questionably.
"I had Mukurowl take it somewhere safe; we don't want another fight like we did last time." Key glared at him.
"Hey it was my turn." Chibi DB pouted.
"We didn't know whose turn it was and you two had a brawl just to decide who got to put the tree on top." Key sighed.
"And I would have won if Shads didn't have to break up the fight." DB said.
"You and Bella almost destroyed the building." Key deadpanned.
"Eh, it would have been fine this place has been through worse." DB walked back to the door. "Fine I'll get the stooped chicken."
"I'm just going to assume you're joking," Key then threw him a wreath. "Hang that on the door on your way out."
"Now you plan on working me to the ground, this is ridiculous." DB said.
"Its call pulling your weight, and since you'll be walking out you might as well put it on the door to save time." Key explained.
"You have an answer for everything don't you?" DB glared at Key a bit.
"That's why I'm a Beta." Key simply answered and then went back to work. Punnya just looked at the boys clueless and then went back into the box of supplies to pull out more ornaments.
DB then left the shop as soon as Mukurowl flew down from upstairs and perched on top of the tree.
"Did you hide it in a good place?" Key asked.
Mukurowl nodded with a hoot; Key nodded back and then pulled out more ornaments. "All right, you can help us finish or maybe you can be our place holder."
The owl looked confused until he was carried up by Punnya and set back on the tree. Mukurowl shook off its ruffled feathers and just stared at the grinning cat. Punnya continued to smile at her friend and placed a small hat on the owl's head.
"Enough joking around you two, let's get back to work." Key said as he pulled Punnya back to finish helping. Mukurowl hooted softly and resigned to his fate as an ornament.
(Scene Change)
At a Daycare in Tokyo City the playground that was once filled with laughing children was now empty and covered in a fresh coat of ice and snow. However, the laughter that was usually heard around could be heard inside as the children were warming up after their last game.
Shadow sighed in exhaustion. "I didn't think any of you kids had arms like that."
"We've been training everyday just like you said boss!" One of the boys said excitedly.
One of the girls was enjoying some of the cookies that Shadow had brought over. "We want to be strong just like everyone else in your team."
"Then you all have to train hard to get anywhere close to our level." Shadow joked as he ruffled some hairs.
"Now Shadow, I don't think you should encourage them." The brown haired director and caretaker said with a smile. "You don't want to give them any ideas."
"Tell that to the rascals who turned a snowball fight into a war." Shadow said. "And don't give that they are just children excuse Emily."
"Well they are only children." Emily said.
"I was a kid when I first drove a tank that meant nothing." Shadow then stood up. "Well munchkins it's time for me to go."
Moans and groans filled the daycare as they were all sad for their big brother and role model leaving. A few tried to tug on his clothes and make him stay but he just set all the attempts to the side.
"Come guys I want to spend the whole Christmas with you but I have things to do." Shadow said to them.
"Aw~~ do you really have to leave?" One of the kids asked the player.
"Afraid I have too, you guys aren't the only ones who enjoy Christmas cookies." Shadow said as he packed up his things to leave. "It's nice to know you all enjoy it."
"It was good of you to bring any," Emily, the caretaker, said to him.
"And leave you guys out, besides I should be thanking all of you for the gift." Shadow gestured to the Santa cap on his head. "Well I'm off, you all be good for Christmas you hear."
All the children voiced their agreement and rushed to hug to the guild leader before he could go. After a minute Shadow climbed out the hill of children and walked to the door.
"And you have a Merry Christmas yourself Shadow." Emily said.
"Right back at ya" Shadow left out the door.
Shadow walked through the snowy streets of Tokyo City as he checked his list that he brought with him.
"Alright, hung out with the kids, started on some of the food, let's see did I…" Shadow opened up his inventory and looked through it.
"I guess I still have to shop for a few more people." Shadow closed the list.
"Still out shopping, you strike as the type who tries to beat the rush." Shadow stopped walking only to see it was RoM that was speaking to him.
"It's just you Reed, for the moment I thought it was another Christmas Eve bounty attempt." Shadow said.
"The holidays are a bounty hunter's worse nightmare, with the no violence law in effect and the fact that powers is suspended." RoM said.
"Speaking of which, I figure you would still be in that old shop of yours." Shadow said.
"Even I like to go out and enjoy the winter air, besides I figure I would give you your gift now." RoM answered him.
"This won't be something I'll regret right?" Shadow asked.
"Well I hope not, most would kill for these." RoM reached into his pocket and pulled out what seemed like a ticket.
"Tickets, are you serious?"
"As a heart attack, this ticket is a freebie for any piece of information from my shop." RoM explained.
Shadow studied the ticket in his hand. "To know or to take?"
"It depends on what you want, though as always there is a catch." RoM reminded him.
"Yeah it has to be a specific thing I want information on, I get it." Shadow then stuffed the ticket into his pocket. "Shame I didn't get you anything."
"Oh really?" RoM raised a brow.
"You always can tell huh," Shadow reached into his pocket dimension and threw a book towards the broker. "Something new to add to your collection."
"For me, you shouldn't have" RoM looked at the book and chuckled at the small attempt to wrap it as it had a bow and nothing else. "I was thinking you would give me the occasional map."
"Oh you wish I would wouldn't you," Shadow smirked. "That book came from a temple I excavated awhile back; I figured you would be interested in that kind of magic."
"I still wondering when you will let me take a look at that Book of Life you took from that tomb." RoM asked.
"Well wonder on my friend, that power stays with me." Shadow simply said.
"Of course, better you than someone actually willing to use that kind of forbidden magic." RoM sent the book into his inventory. "Well I might as well be off then."
Shadow saw that RoM was walking a different direction. "You sure, if you want something to do tonight there are a party going on."
"That's thoughtful but knowledge doesn't sleep even during Christmas Eve." RoM said. "You enjoy your party, have fun under the mistletoe."
"Ha ha, you're hilarious" Shadow said sarcastically. "Happy Holidays."
"And Happy Holidays to you as well" RoM's form then burst into many pieces of paper that were swept into the wind.
"And I thought I was a workaholic" Shadow joked before continuing on his way. 'Better go and get this list finished, these girls are going to be the death of me.'
"Aaachoo!"
Rose recovered from her sneeze and went back to her drink. Mazareth was resting next to her, enjoying the feeling of being petted by his owner.
"What are you still doing in a bar at this time?" Rose looked and saw the owner of the voice was Grim who took a seat at her table. Oddly enough he was holding a chain in his hand used for…
"Why are you dragging your shadow around like that?" Rose pointed to the bound and gagged Doppelman.
"I don't want any more holiday mishap to happen, so I figure my best bet was to make sure he was tied up all day until we get to the party." Grim explained.
"Party?" Rose asked.
"The party that's being held over at Kurotsubasa's place." Grim specified.
"Oh really," Rose said.
"Don't act all surprised, I know you got an invitation as well." Grim tied the chain to the table leaving Doppleman to struggle against the floor. "You and Shadow did patch up your 'relationship.'"
"Doesn't mean I'm in a big hurry to spend much time with Shadow and his group." Rose said.
"This doesn't have to do with the last fight you and Ravena have been in right?" Grim asked. The Reaper soon slammed a foot down on the head of the almost freed Doppelman.
"Hey this is discrimination!" The shadow yelled.
"Against what, think of this as payback for the last filler." Grim yelled back.
"Payback, what I did wasn't that bad!"
"That's because you couldn't feel any of those attacks, and some of them actually hurt!"
Rose had to clear her throat to remind them that she was still there. The Bounty Huntress looked at them with a dull expression. "As amusing as your soap opera is, do you mind getting back to the point."
"All right the point is maybe you should consider going to the party, spending a little time with Kurotsubasa won't kill you." Grim plainly said.
"You might as well say her real problem." Doppelman said silently.
"And what 'problem' would that be; maybe it might be bigger than being a shadow tied in chains." Rose smirked.
"Funny thing you said Shadow." Though it wasn't clear everyone at the table felt a sly grin on Doppelman's face.
"Of course what else would I call you?" Rose stopped her verbal abuse just to take a drink from her cup.
"Oh I wasn't talking about me; I was referring to another 'shadow' you would want tied in chains." Doppelman clarified.
As the words left the specter's mouth Rose's drink soon found itself all over Grim (much to his ire). Rose took a second to recover from her unplanned spit take and glared at the chained weapon.
"Maybe I should get something that covers your mouth Doppelman." Grim sighed and then cleaned himself off.
"Why, you know she was thinking of it one time or an…" Doppelman was then silenced by a knife to the head. Grim picked up Rose's dagger and handed it back to her.
"Was that really necessary?" Grim asked.
"He was starting to piss me off; as for you Grim, I plan to spend my Christmas how I want to." Rose took her dagger back.
"Well let's hope you try and have some fun otherwise you wouldn't be enjoying yourself."
All those at the table turned and saw Naenia standing behind Rose. Doppelman tried to fly from his position on the floor to the beautiful women but was pulled back by Grim.
"Well this is a small reunion, now if we only had whatshisname we could have our own little party." Rose returned to her drink.
"Still as sarcastic as ever" Naenia then sat down. "I take it you both were invited?"
"Great you're going too?" Rose asked.
"I'll take that as a yes." Naenia knew she was getting no more than that.
"I'm just trying to convince Rose here to go to the party as well." Grim explained.
"Funny, I thought you would weasel your way out of the party. Something like it would be too troublesome to attend." Naenia said to the reaper.
"It would be too troublesome if I don't," Grim admitted.
"Since they know where you work." Doppelman reminded him.
"That too"
"I see, as for you Rose why don't you want to go to the party?" Naenia asked curiously.
"Please why would you besides sucking face with your fanged boyfriend?" Rose asked.
"That's just a bonus, besides even if you hate them you have to admit they are fun to be around." Naenia said.
"The food makes up for the chaos at the least." Grim then sat up from the table. "Well I have to get going." He tugged on the chain dragging Doppelman across the ground.
"Where are you off too, bounties are shut down and the onsen is probably closed by now." Rose said as she wondered where the mercenary was going.
"I promised some friends I would hang out with them before I go to the party." Grim told them. "Keep in mind what I told you before Rose." The famed Grim Reaper then left the two women alone dragging his struggling shadow with him.
"You know that he is right, or is there another reason you are avoiding the party?" Naenia asked the "Bloody Rose."
"None of your business hag, leave my life alone I don't tell you how to live yours."
Naenia nodded to Rose's words. "True but when you can see the future it's kind of hard to tell me. However keep this in mind, don't let matters of the past effect how you are in the present."
Naenia left the girl and tiger to their thoughts; she rose from the table and placed a few munny on the table along with a wrapped gift.
"What's the munny for, a bribe?" Rose looked at the items on the table.
"I know your tab has been a little high so this will pay for off; as for the gift…well it is Christmas." Naenia smirked and then turned to leave. "Cheers."
Rose waited for the Huntress to leave and then she stood from her table. She woke up Mazareth who was sleeping beside her under the table so that they can leave. 'A gift huh, well it's still my decision on going but I may stop by just to drop off a gift.'
The girl and tiger went to the counter and paid off their bill before venturing out to the wintery town.
-Fanfiction World-
"I do not understand this concept." Hagane said as Raiden was holding a few candy canes in his arms.
"Of course you won't get it because you choose not to understand human concepts." The child warrior of Kusanagi said as he enjoyed another stick of peppermint.
"Most things humans make do not make sense." Hagane said in his usual monotone. "Why would humans give out gifts without thoughts of something in return?"
"It has something to do with giving rather than receiving as humans say." The two looked over and saw Sakura walk into the room and joined the two.
"Hey Sakura-nee, I figured you were off in Crystal City monitoring the Academy." Raiden smiled seeing his somewhat sister figure had arrived.
"Yes you were an important assignment for Mistress, why are you here?" Hagane asked more curious as to why she was disobeying orders then why she was here.
"Before you go on your rant about Mistress's absolute orders Mistress was the one that called me back from my posting." Sakura then took a seat on one of the couches in the room. "I am just as confused as you are."
"I see that you are all here."
All three stood in a line and bowed before the woman that had walked into the room.
"Mistress"
"Nee-sama"
"At eases all of you" Kusanagi said to them letting them rise from the ground. "All forms of violence have stopped all around this world; there is no need to continue any major assignment tonight."
"Is it because of this…Christ-mast that these humans are celebrating?" Hagane asked.
"Christmas Metaru-baka" Sakura said.
"Possibly, though this whole weak the filthy actions that have gone on in this world have all but stopped." Sakura explained.
Even during the serious conversation Raiden was still all smiles. "If people gave me free candy canes and chestnuts like they did today I would stop fighting too." He soon began to suck on another cane.
"Not all of us are as simple minded as you." Sakura held a hand to her temple in frustration.
"So…" Hagane began to regain everyone's attention. "We pull out of our operations today."
"And we will soon continue after these holidays." Kusanagi finished for the metal soldier. "For now we will let this 'Peace on Earth' continue." Kusanagi then left to her throne room leaving the three warriors to themselves.
"All it takes is a simple holiday for humans to realize their fighting is pointless…humans." Hagane then chose to leave to his quarters.
"You see everything as pointless, oh well no fun today might as well pig out on the treats I collected." Raiden pulled out a large bag of Christmas treats.
"When did you find the time to collect all of that?" Sakura asked astonished at the amount of cookies and cake Raiden had collected.
"They are practically giving these away in stores, especially in Animetropolis if you know where to look." Raiden stuffed a Christmas cookie into his mouth. "I don't care what Hagane says, humans come up with the best stuff!"
"Yes…though hopefully humans have something to help calm your sugar rush in a few seconds." Sakura sighed.
-Fanfiction World-
Standing on a patio overlooking an ice capped mountain a soft melody could be heard. The song was carried along the wind though unfortunately no one was around to her this graceful tune. Izanami went along with her song as she watches the snow fall from the heavens.
Merry Christmas. My song for you
Masshiroi tameiki hoho wo sasu tsumetai kaze
Kogoeru yubisaki furidashita yuki ni fureta
Seinaru kane no ne hibiita utagoe
Sekaijuu no daremo ga shinjiteru no
Kono hi dake no chikara
Merry Christm…
"That's a good song you're singing by the way."
Izanami stopped and saw that it was only Shadow who had walked from the building behind her. "I understand this is your realm where Kusanagi can't detect you, but don't you think you should be out celebrating?" Shadow asked as he leaned against the wall.
"It is fine, I already have plans off server and even if everyone else is enjoying the peace I know my sister would still be working in her own way." Izanami said without glancing to the dark hero.
"I can understand that, though maybe she could have taken a break just as CHAOS has." Shadow said.
"Everyone seems to have gone underground, which is perfect because no blood should be spilt during these times."
"If only the same could be said in the real world." Shadow then walked up and looked at the scenery Izanami had her eye on. "What makes these mountains so special?"
Izanami giggled a bit. "Anyone could go to a snowy town or tundra, but I see this as a sign of beauty."
"I get what you're saying but how about a compromise." With Izanami's permission Shadow began to play around with the sky. It turned a dark blue however the blue was soon overtaken by a fine stream of colors.
"An Aurora?" Izanami asked curiously seeing what Shadow created.
"It's a bit better than the mountains, besides look at it now."
Shadow pointed to the fact that the ice on the mountain began to reflect the glowing lights from the Aurora. The shimmer of the lights made the serene mountains a more breathtaking sight.
"I have to admit this is some compromise, I didn't know you were so poetic." The girl joked.
Shadow waved off her comment. "I'm not, but if you're lucky you may see different sides of me." The player then pulled a gift out of his inventory. "Here you go, figured I get a gift for you as well."
Shadow then handed the box to the silver haired girl. "I didn't think you would come this way to just hand me a present." She said with a smile.
"While I enjoy just talking you don't think I would just leave you with nothing on the holidays." Shadow said.
Izanami decided to open the gift and pulled out a coat. The coat was as white as her outfit looking as new as possible; it also had fluff along the interior and gold trim. The young girl then tried on the coat enjoying its warmth. "You really didn't have to go out of your way to buy this."
Shadow shrugged. "I had enough munny lying around to buy a few gifts, besides after all you have done the least I can do is give you something for the holiday."
"Even if that included having a bounty on your head?" She asked.
"That's a small price to pay" Shadow answered. "I have to go now though, it is too bad that you can't leave and join us."
"It's fine enjoy the peace while it lasts" Izanami said. Shadow nodded and then turned to see a portal open.
"Try to enjoy yourself as well, I know it may be hypocritical for me to say this but try not to think too much about it and enjoy some downtime." Shadow spoke before he left the area.
Izanami smiled a bit then turned back to the scenery, using a bit of her abilities she allowed snow to lightly fall from the sky. 'I can't exactly enjoy some downtime but I will enjoy myself for as long as there is peace.'
(Scene Change)
Shadow walked into the base and saw that the living room was prepared and set up. He went over to the tree to see Mukurowl perched still using his powers to make him appear to glow.
"Not that I don't mind your creativity but where is the real star that we paid munny for?" Shadow asked.
Key then walked from the hall and saw Shadow had arrived. "Had to make sure it was hidden so we don't have another brawl for it." Key explained and then relived Mukurowl of his duty. "I needed Mukurowl to be the replacement until we were finished."
"Clever" Shadow held out a finger to let Mukurowl land on it.
"Did you finish all you need to?" Key asked.
"Of course" Shadow let Mukurowl fly off so that he could place some more gifts under the tree. Key looked and was interested seeing that he had more presents than those in the guild.
"Went out of your way shopping didn't you, I thought we agreed one gift per person." Key said.
"That rule still applies, there are more people coming to the party than just us remember." Shadow said.
"Right" The conversation ended when DB walked back into the guild carrying a wrapped turkey. "I'm back with the bird are we just about done?" The vampire asked.
"You're done for now, put it in the kitchen and I'll have it ready." Shadow said.
DB nodded and went to the back to put the Turkey with the rest of the food. When he was gone Shadow then felt a familiar weight as Punnya landed on his head. "That solves the mystery of where you were."
"Punnya!" The manju meowed.
Shadow decided to let Punnya stay after she gave a silent promise not to mess with the hat the kids gave him. "So we just have to wait for the girls right Key?" He asked the Beta.
"Did someone call for us?!" Bella chimed as the girls entered the building. Punnya then flew from Shadow's head to Ravena's arms happy that her owner was back.
"Just did, what took you all so long?" Shadow asked.
"Bella-chan wanted to pick up some more things." Illu said though she had a small blush knowing what one of those things was.
"We also had to finish some shopping nya." Ravena added and the girls proceeded to pile their presents under the tree with the others.
"So Shads when will you start preparing the feast?" Bella asked.
"We still have a few hours before anyone arrives and I wanted everything else finished before I start cooking or baking anything." Shadow explained. "Since we're finished I'll be in the kitchen." The guild leader then left the room.
"I'll help you prepare Shad…" Illu mouthed was then covered by Bella's hand. "All right you just take your time and make then all delicious!" Bella said getting confused looks from everyone else in the room.
"Whatever" Shadow called before the door to the kitchen shut closed.
The hybrid soon removed the toon girl's hand from her mouth. "Why did you do that Bella-chan?"
"Because there will be time for that during the party" The wildcard said sagely.
"Time for what?" Illu asked confused.
"That doesn't matter for now you and Kitty need to help me with something." Bella said.
"Nya you have an army on your wrist get one of them to do it." Ravena said wondering what the girl's intentions were for having them help her.
"I would but this requires a more feminine touch, something my men have a problem dealing with." Bella said lying with a straight face. Before the two could get suspicious their arms were quickly grabbed by the Hyna girl. "Come on enough questions; let's get this done before the party."
"Wait stop pulling Bella-chan!"
"Hy-nya you'll pull our arms off!"
Key and DB just looked confused wondering what Bella could be planning. "Think she has some kind of holiday pranked worked up?" DB asked.
"I doubt it Bella tries to keep her record clean on the holidays, besides there are a few people coming that would really need a reason to put her behind bars." Key said.
"Then why did she have a bag full of plants?" DB asked.
"Plants" Key repeated.
"Yeah she had that look in her eye that you know she has something planned out." DB said.
"Whatever it is, let's just hope it won't cause too much trouble." Key said.
(Time Skip)
Soon enough all the cooking and last minute decorating was prepared. Shadow saw the mischievous look on Bella's face and had her promise as long as the building remained standing she could do what she pleased. Already some of the guests began to arrive.
"Happy holidays Kurotsubasa" Cast greeted them all at the door. Rina was smiling behind her along with a silent Leon.
"Sorry we were late we had to drag old Scrooge with us." Rina said.
"I have nothing against Christmas but why are we at a party here instead of back in the main HQ?" Leon asked.
"Because unlike some of the higher-ups this guild knows how to have fun." Rina answered drawing a sigh from the older man. Cast sweatdropped a bit and then turned to Shadow.
"Thanks for inviting us all the same." Cast said.
"No problem, figured it was a way to have Leon forget about the last match we had." Shadow said.
"If we hadn't been interrupted you know I would have won!" Leon yelled back.
"In your dreams and speaking of nightmares aren't you guys missing a face?" Shadow asked.
"As soon as Speed found out the party was by you guys he decided to stay behind." Rina said. "He really needs to forget about the past, though from what I heard you guys did to him I would hold a grudge too."
"His loss, come on in guys!" Bella said. The Admin trio then walked in and marveled at the decorations.
"Wow to think you guys set all of this up." Rina commented.
"We had an extra bit of munny this year and our old supplies needed to be replaced." Key said. "So what brought you along Rina, I thought only Cast and Leon would show up."
"Why thinking of spending time with someone else?" Rina asked playfully.
Key decided not to answer that one not wanting bring up a certain someone around Rina. "No it's just don't the Analyst have their party?"
"Yes and they are enjoying it; I figure I would see how this party was when Cast told me about it." Rina answered.
Shadow felt a tap on his shoulder and saw DB was trying to get his attention. "So what is the real reason you invited Rina along with the rest of them?" The vampire whispered.
"One to add some life to the party and two…" A knock on the door stopped Shadow from answering. "You are about to find out in a second." He said after peeking with his Byakugan.
Shadow left DB hanging and went to open the door. He then greeted the person on their step. "Not a surprise that Key invited you."
"Oh I tried to get ready as soon as I could, is Key waiting?" TPB asked.
"He still is but he has someone keeping him company" Shadow moved aside letting the confused girl inside. DB then rejoined him to watch the drama ensue.
"Sometimes I don't get you Shads" DB said.
"Why is that?" Shadow asked.
"You saw this love drama coming right?" DB asked as the two watch Rina and TPB began to pull Key between themselves.
"From a mile away" Shadow said.
"Yet you are clueless to the ones that involve you" DB thought out loud.
"What do you mean?"
DB sighed. "Never mind" They both were cut off by another knock on the door. "Answer this on will you?" Shadow asked him.
"Sure" DB said and then opened the door and froze midstep.
"Sorry if I'm a bit late I just had to grab a few things." Naenia said.
"I am not a thing you just grab" Rose glared. "Why did you drag me here anyway?"
"Like you weren't going to decide to go yourself." Naenia said slyly.
"Shut up hag!" The bounty huntress blushed.
Naenia ignored the insult and walked in with Rose and Mazareth behind her. Shadow chuckled a little bit seeing Rose walk in with a present in hand. "I almost thought you wouldn't show up."
"Be glad that I took some time to show up." Rose huffed and looked away. "I only want to drop off some gifts then I will go."
"Really just a drop and go?" Shadow asked.
"I don't have another reason to stick around do I?" Rose asked back.
Shadow smirked a bit. "Really I guess you can miss out on all of the food then."
"Like I care about some food you bought from a cheap holiday st…" Rose stopped when a smell travelled through the air. Everyone stopped their talks when they saw a larger Mukurowl and Punnya balancing plates and placing them on the table. They red head blushed when her stomach reminded her she hasn't eaten in a while.
"Fine I guess we can stay for a while." The blushing girl said.
"Hopefully long enough so that we can pass out gifts." Shadow said. "You might as well enjoy the party, your cat sure is." Rose followed his finger and saw that Mazareth was to the side chatting (or meowing) with Punnya as the neko manju finished helping with placing out the food.
'Traitor' Rose thought.
"Come on Rosie stop being such a sourpuss nya!" Ravena chimed from a distance.
"What did you call me boobcat?!" Rose left Shadow alone to start her usual argument with the nekomata.
Shadow shook his head and went to the door seeing that Naenia had dragged DB somewhere. 'They'll turn up by gift exchange time I bet.' Another knock made him open the door and then look at the arrival strangely.
"Do I want to know why he's tied up?" Shadow asked.
"No you don't" Grim said as he still had Doppelman in chains. "Though if he behaves himself I may let him loose."
'Don't count on it!' Doppelman yelled out in his mind.
"As long as he doesn't make too much trouble let him out whenever." Shadow said. "Now come inside and enjoy the party with everyone else."
"Don't mind if we do." Grim then walked in and dragged his shadow along the ground.
(Scene Change)
"You looked surprised when you saw me at the door." Naenia smirked. "You thought that I wouldn't be able to come?" The famous hunter asked.
"To be honest yeah, when I sent you the invite I started thinking that maybe you were in another town or area far off and you wouldn't be able to come." DB explained in embarrassment. "I'm happy you were able to get here though."
"Well I'm happy you decided to invite me." Naenia said with a playful look. "I didn't think you would take the time to think about me with everything you must have done to help decorate."
"I didn't much even though I was basically worked like a dog." DB said silently cursing a certain Beta who had his hands full. "Still why don't we go with the others and enjoy the party."
"Of course, though let's save the drinking for later." Naenia said knowing the vampires habits.
"Hey I do more than drink you know." DB complained playfully but followed her back to the others.
(Scene Change)
"I see you are doing well for yourself TPB." Rina said with killing intent forming around her.
"Same goes for you too Rina." TPB said matching the Admin's intent with her own. Between the girls was Key who let out a sigh feeling the intent from both of them. From a distance Cast and Leon watched on.
"I never really seen my cousin be this competitive for anything this much." Cast said.
"You sure that she isn't really just possessive?" Leon asked.
"What do you mean Leon?" Cast asked.
"If I remember right Rina is the head of the Betas correct, some Admins have their favorite Betas correct?" Leon said. "It's like Rina just doesn't want to lose her favorite toy."
"Somehow I think this is completely different." Cast sweatdropped.
Back with the three Key thought of a way to end the conflict for a moment. "Say PB, didn't you want to show Rina something when you got the chance to?"
This made the girls looked at him confused until TPB remembered what he was talking about. "Oh yes I remember now!" Key took the time to back out from between the two as TPB brought out what looked like a giant key. "You happen to know what this is right."
"A world key" Rina said in amazement. "Where did you find one?"
"It appeared in my inventory after I defeated a few monsters in the Kingdom Hearts area. I was wondering if you knew what it does." TPB asked.
As the two chatted Key just sat and watched glad to have dodged a potential tug-a-war.
"Dodge a bullet?" Grim asked.
"You have no idea" Key said and then saw Grim was holding something. "Why are you holding a chain?"
"I had to keep Doppelman tied up to not make a ruckus." Grim explained.
"If only we could do the same with some of the people here." Key said. "By the way where is Doppelman?"
"He's right…" Grim noticed the light weight of the chain and pulled it to see that Doppelman had escaped. "Son of a…"
(Scene Change)
'Operation Mistletoe Ambush is a go!' Bella called out to the ones that helped with her plan. 'You guys sure this will work?'
"Of course all it really takes is the right timing." Greymatter said to her.
"I concur with my fellow extraterrestrial on this one, though there are other factors they have been eliminated by the careful placing of the flora around the base." Brainstorm explained.
'In layman's terms, I just have to get them paired off and let the plants do the rest.' Getting nods from the two Bella then grabbed Illu who was trying to end Ravena's and Rose's bickering.
"Hey Illu I think something might be missing from the menu, can you check the kitchen and see if Shadow got everything?" Bella asked.
"It isn't like Shadow to forget anything, are you sure?" Illu said.
"Maybe you should go with him and check ok." Bella pushed the girl along.
"Bella-chan" Illu stopped herself and sighed knowing that she wasn't going to get anywhere with the Hyna General. "All right I'll go and ask him."
"Good luck" Bella gave her a wink and then pushed her along using a bit of her strength.
After her unexpected flight Illu walked over to Shadow who got himself a drink of punch from the food table. "Shadow-kun, Bella wants to know if you have forgotten something in the kitchen."
"I shouldn't have" Shadow looked at all of the food. "Everything I made is all out here, unless she knows something I don't."
"Maybe she left a surprise in the kitchen?" Illu wondered.
Shadow shrugged. "I stopped wondering how she thought a long time ago, I'll go check now." The teen then walked to the kitchen.
"I'll join you in case you need help." Illu said following after him. When they both entered the kitchen Shadow used his Byakugan and froze when he saw that extra addition. "That crafty little…"
"What do you mean?" Illu asked wondering why the boy was cursing the toon girl. Shadow stopped his rant and pointed to the ceiling; Illu followed and then blushed when she saw the mistletoe hanging from the ceiling.
"I know it isn't like her to try some prank but this is more thought out that she usually tries." Shadow said eyeing the plant.
"Um, what should we do, we don't really have to do this…I mean it's not like anyone can see us from in here." Illu blushed red trying to think up excuses, as she tried to make more a small part of her secretly wanted the kiss.
"Eh it's not that big a deal" Shadow shrugged surprising Illu. "It's a Christmas prank right, besides might as well follow tradition."
"So that means…you don't mind if we…" Illu said shyly.
"Only if you don't mind" Shadow said though inwardly he was nervous himself about the kiss. They looked to each other and both decided not to rush it, they both went in slowly going for a short kiss until the door behind Illu flung open knocking her into a deep kiss.
"Yo Illu, I was looking around for you and your friend said that you were…" Aeon stopped talking as he got mad seeing his sister kissing a certain someone. "Hey what are you doing taking advantage of her!"
"Taking advantage?!" Shadow yelled with a blush still on his face from the surprise lip lock. Illu looked with a full-face blushed and saw who it was at the door. "Chocobo!"
"One second Illu," Aeon walked forward with his Fusion Sword out. "First I need to deal with the one threatening your innocence!" The protective brother raised his sword only to be pulled back by the rest of his guild.
"Come on Aeon just because our Neechan is growing up doesn't mean you have to throw a fit." Sol joked as he held him back taking his sword away.
"Stop teasing him Sol, besides all of this looks like a misunderstanding." Ganymede said.
"And how is this a misunderstanding?!" Aeon yelled.
"Would you guys like to Love Doctor?" Ganymede asked the others.
"Sure thing man" Malachite said as he got ready to explain. "From the look of the ceiling Mistletoe was set up, so it could just be they were following old Christmas traditions."
"That and you were the one that crashed them into each other Aeon." Zephyrus added.
"Ugh can you please take Chocobo out of the kitchen so that I can explain what happened." Illu asked them as her blush faded down to a light pink.
"That and I don't want to break the law and have the kitchen destroyed just to deal with you right now." Shadow forced his blush away. "I'll be out and about if you need me."
"All right" Illu said as Shadow left.
"Oi I'm not done with you yet!" Aeon squirmed to get out of the grapple the others held him in. the struggling stopped when he felt a large killing intent on him. The others of Atherion got out of Illu's way as she glared at her brother.
"Oh Chocobo, I think we need to have a talk about something." The smile on Illu's face betrayed the intent swirling around her.
Shadow walked into the room oblivious of the actions in the kitchen and walked over to Bella who was smiling next to the tree.
"So did you find the extra thing in the kitchen?" Bella asked innocently.
"Don't toy with me Bella, how many do you have strung up around the base?" Shadow asked.
"I don't know what you're talking about." Bella said still smiling innocently. "Now if you excuse me I have a party to liven up." The Toon girl then left Shadow alone at the tree.
"Sometimes I hate that girl." Shadow stated before he was dragged away by Ravena and Rose.
"Shadow-kyun we need you to settle something for us!" Ravena said.
"Yeah I want you to explain to this girl why she is wrong!" Rose added.
"And to think you two actually bonded a little bit this year." Shadow removed his limbs from their clutches and then looked at them. "Now what is going on?"
"Be honest Shads, who do you think would have won if you and Grimmy hadn't interrupted us?" Ravena asked.
"We want your full honest opinion." Rose crossed her arms waiting for the answer.
"You two are still going on about that fight; you both nearly destroyed each other that day why do you think we stopped you?" Shadow asked.
"Nya it might have gone a little overboard but I know I could have pulled though!" Ravena said.
"Puh-lease you would have become a new moon in FFW after I was finished with my attack." Rose argued.
"The jutsu that you have no control over and would have drawn us all into your gravity well?" Shadow asked her.
"Shut up, even if I lost control kitty here would have been dead before anything else." Rose answered.
"Want to try it now Tattertots?" Ravena asked as she sharpened her claws.
"As long as you're ready to die Boobcat" Rose said getting her daggers out.
Shadow sighed and decided to end the argument. "Look you can probably find out who would win next time you fight but for now since you can't use your powers…why don't you try being friends for once."
Both the girls huffed and then looked away from each other. "Never!"
Shadow sighed before pulling Ravena to the side. "Mind if I talk to you in private for a bit?" He asked the cat girl.
"Nya what for?" Ravena confusedly asked.
"Just come with me" Shadow dragged the girl away before the argument went any further. The players then ended up in a room alone. "Rave I'm not going to ask who started the fight but can you turn away from up at least this once."
"Nya why me?" Ravena asked.
"Just try and turn away from just for today, we're trying to have less fighting around here…besides Rose is just talking about her wounded pride." Shadow explained.
"How do you think Felis feels?" Ravena pointed to her bell.
"Probably mad after the tournament/mind control thing but can we at least put the grudge on hold." Shadow asked again.
"Fine…hey what's that?" Ravena asked. Shadow followed her eyes and sighed seeing what was hanging from the ceiling. 'Bella I am going to kill you.'
"Mistletoe nya?" Ravena stared at the decoration.
"Looks like you got your chance Deedee" Felis laughed when she felt Felidae's fate light up with a blush.
"How was she able to hang all these up without anyone noticing?" Shadow asked no one.
"So…" Ravena said awkwardly.
"Yeah…" Shadow said equally awkward. The two decided to skip to talking and went forward into the kiss.
After a few minutes Rose saw Ravena and Shadow walk back into the room. "So did you teach your pet some manners?"
Before another fight could happen Rose found herself being dragged by Shadow. "Hey let go off me you bastard!"
"See you later Ravena, try to think about what I said." Shadow said carrying the bounty huntress away. The neko-girl nodded with the blush finally fading from her cheeks.
In another part of the building Shadow put the rowdy girl down to talk with her. Rose brushed the imaginary dirt off her clothes and glared at the boy. "Who said you could drag me away like that?"
"The host of this party, who ironically is me" Shadow started off. "Besides I figured you would be better than that."
"What is that supposed to mean?" Rose asked angrily.
"For someone famous for keeping her cool you always lose it when it comes to Ravena." Shadow said. "What's all that about?"
"Me and Kitty have our own history" Rose said while regaining her cool. "Besides after you and Grim stopped that match there was no clear winner."
"And normally I would say decided with your fists than with your mouth, but since no violence is allowed let's just enjoy the party." Shadow said.
"Whatever…did you happen to make…" Rose said almost hoping.
"Like I would invite you without making that" Shadow gestured to the table to see a small cake right next to the fruitcake. "If you want you can take it and leave."
Rose thought for a bit before deciding. "You know, I might as well stay…just to see what you got me."
"Oh and what makes you so confident I got you something?" Shadow smirked.
"You're too much of a softy; you wouldn't invite me without making sure I had a gift." Rose smirked back.
"Touché" They started to walk back until a light blinded them. Once they light was gone Shadow just stared at what just fell from the sky? "You got to be kidding me here."
"Is this a joke?" Rose asked eyeing the mistletoe as well. "Because if this is I'm not laughing!" She said as she started blushing.
"Unfortunately" Shadow sighed.
"Let's get this over with." Rose said with her face matching her hair. The two then went on and slowly kissed not seeing a smiling Bella holding onto the string with the mistletoe attached.
"And the spirit of Christmas strikes again." Bella whispered as to not alert the two.
-Fanfiction World-
"Well we might as well get to what we've been waiting for and start giving out the gifts." Shadow said as everyone walked to the tree. While some of them pulled gifts from their inventories others noticed something different about the room.
"Um Shadow-kun I think we're missing some gifts." Illu said.
Everyone looked underneath the tree seeing only the fallen pines from the evergreen itself. They all heard a ruckus and heard noise from the chimney.
"Since when did we have a chimney?" DB asked.
"Since we lost that bet." Shadow said.
"What?"
"Never mind we got presents to get back nya!" Ravena yelled.
"I think I know who did this, Bella mind helping me for a bit?" Grim asked the toon.
"Sure what do you have in mind?" Bella asked. As they planned Doppelman made it outside holding a large bag filled with the stolen presents.
"Keep me wrapped up for most of the party wills ya, let's see how you all like it if I take everything under the tree!" The rogue shadow said as he tried to look for an escape. Doppelman looked to the sky only to see something falling from the sky.
"Oh a Christmas shooting star, what will I wish for?" Doppelman said as he watched what he thought was a star falling. "Hey is it supposed to be that close?"
"Doppelman, in about five seconds we'll getting those presents back whether you like it or not." Grim voice said from all around.
"And what makes you say that!" Doppelman asked the voiced. Soon the star hit homed and slammed him back into the base. Grim walked from the shadows next to Orochimaru who shushined next to him.
"Thanks for the help Bell, think that will hold him?" Grim asked.
"The sealing jutsu I used on your golem should be able to keep him their unmoving until the next few days. He won't be able to break out of that." The snake sannin explained before transforming back into Bella.
"Thanks I owe you one then" Grim said.
"No thanks, all in a day's work." Bella said before walking back to the party with the presents.
"Did you really have to put a hole through the ceiling?" Shadow asked.
"Yes, yes it was" Bella said with a smile.
"Whatever" Shadow decided to ignore the damage done to the roof by the falling golem. "The presents are back, no one is hurt, let's just pass around gifts already."
"For once I think I agree with you Shadow" Leon said as they began to exchanging gifts.
"Merry Christmas everyone!" Bella called out holding a cup to toast.
"Merry Christmas!"
A way to end it right well had to end it somewhere everyone. I hope everyone is with their friends and family enjoying these holidays. So everyone have a happy 2013 and have a happy safe holiday.
-Shadowlight0982 out.