Thriller Night Ch 5: Trick or Treat
Scotch led most of them out. He looked really enthusiastic to be able to hang out with such a large group and celebrate Halloween. Radley, however, was now pondering something else.
"That article shows a box the gems were stored in. Maybe I'm crazy, but I think your father was holding something like that, Kalin."
Kalin looked at his friend in shock. "Wait, my father?! If that were true, we would have to confront him."
"Yeah," Radley said softly.
"We could go," Yusei said. "You wouldn't have to come, Kalin."
"But if I don't come, then he might not acknowledge his mistakes," said Kalin.
Radley sighed. "Would he regardless? He hadn't acknowledged how horribly he treated you."
"Only if I continue to scare him as the Death God, then he'll finally understand," muttered Kalin.
Radley smirked sadly. "Then he might relent only out of fear and still not mean it. But if you feel up to it, Kalin, I guess we'd better see him."
"I'm not running away from him again," snarled Kalin. "I will face my past."
"You didn't run away from him tonight," Radley said firmly.
"Right," nodded Kalin as he stood up and headed for the door.
Radley and the others all followed.
"Maybe he's gone back to the Satellite," Virgil said.
"Perhaps you're right, Virgil," said Kalin.
"Why does he still live there, by the way?" asked West.
"For all we know, he doesn't now," Radley mused.
"Actually, isn't that him trying to go into that jeweler's?!" Bruno said.
"Wait, what?!" exclaimed Kalin. He looked around the streets. True to Bruno's observation, Mr. Kessler was at the counter of the shop, holding a fancy box.
"You're right, Bruno. That is my father! We have to stop him!" Kalin took out Trishula, Dragon of the Ice Barrier and ran to the jewelry shop.
Radley hurried after him. Mr. Kessler looked and scowled. "What the...? Now what?"
"Father! What are you doing?!" demanded Kalin.
"It's my own business!" Mr. Kessler snapped.
"Your business? What business?" asked Kalin.
"What's it look like? I'm going in here!" Mr. Kessler said.
"With a box that looks like something we're looking for," Radley said.
"Should we show him the gem we have?" whispered Akiza to Yusei.
"Father, you have no idea how dangerous those gems are!" exclaimed Kalin.
"They're gems that'll bring a lot of money," Mr. Kessler said. "What danger, unless someone mugs me?"
Yusei sighed. "We'll probably have to demonstrate."
"You're too greedy!" yelled Nico.
"Who wants to teach the mean man a lesson?" asked West
"I collected these fair and square!" Mr. Kessler snapped.
"And they do things like this." Yusei held theirs out and a portal started to open.
"Hey, I must have dropped one!" Mr. Kessler cried. "And ... what the?! What's that?!"
"Fair and square?!" yelled Jack. "Don't be stupid!"
"A portal to another dimension!" stated Kalin. "Now do you understand?"
"Technically, we really don't know how you found them," Yusei said. "Maybe it was fair. But they're dangerous! You can't just sell them!"
"So, what am I supposed to do?!" Mr. Kessler snapped.
"Give us the gems, or else!" demanded Kalin. An icy breeze blew through the building.
Mr. Kessler stared at him. "... Are you gonna go all Death God on me?!"
"Perhaps, perhaps not," smirked Kalin.
"Um, it's really cold in here all of a sudden..." shivered a staff member who was watching from the back of the office.
Mr. Kessler was shaking. "You'd really do that to your old man?!"
"If you don't want Trishula to freeze you, then hurry up and give me the gems!" yelled the Death God.
"... Fine! Take them already!" Mr. Kessler yelled, throwing the box at Kalin before running off.
"Jeez, what a wimp," scoffed Jack.
The icy breeze died down and Kalin reverted back to normal.
"Let's go back to Yusei's house."
Radley laid a hand on Kalin's shoulder.
Yusei picked up the box and made sure everything was in it. The gems were all there aside from the one they'd found.
"Yeah! We got all of them!" cheered West.
"We better keep them in a safe place," said Crow. "Can't let 'em fall into the wrong hands."
Yusei nodded. "We'll keep them with us." He added the other gem.
"I wonder if they're capable of opening a portal like the first one?" asked Akiza.
"They're supposed to," Billy said.
"And now that we have all of them, what do we do with them?" asked Jack.
"Make sure no one else gets them," Yusei said.
"That's right," nodded Kalin.
"Do you think there's multiple dimensions?" asked Luna.
"Like with other versions of us?" Scotch said. "That would be epic!"
"And really weird," Virgil said.
"I don't think I want to meet any alternative versions of myself," said Kalin. "Now, if you excuse me, I think I'll take my leave."
He started to head for the front door. Radley followed him, as did Yusei.
"I'm sorry you had to be around that creep again," Yusei said to Kalin.
"Was my father aware of their magical properties? Or was he just trying to get rich illegally?" asked Kalin.
"Depending on how he came by them, it may not have been illegal," Radley said. "The gems don't appear to officially belong to anyone." He sighed. "I doubt he knew or believed in their powers."
"So, I guess he just thought they would give him lots of money. I guess that's understandable, given we grew up poor. But still..."
"He could have made an honest living all along, if he hadn't been more interested in drinking all day," Yusei said.
"I still don't know why he doesn't see New Domino City like I do. What can I do to convince him to change his ways?" cried Kalin.
"I'm afraid you probably can't," Radley said gently. "He has to want to change. I don't think he does."
"Should I just forget about him and move on?"
"I doubt you can ever fully forget him," Radley said. "And moving on isn't easy. But if you can try to, it would be healthy for you."
"I envy you Yusei. Your father had at least a respectable reputation, even if he's not of this world anymore."
Yusei laid a hand on Kalin's shoulder. "My father has been hated and blamed for Zero Reverse, even though it wasn't deserved."
"Oh, true...but compared to him, my father is a nobody," sighed Kalin.
No one could deny that.
"Well, you are somebody, and you're with lots of somebodies," Radley smiled.
The others were looking at the trio from the window.
"What can we do to cheer Kalin up? Right now, he's sad about how awful his father is," asked Nico.
"We need to do something to show how awesome he is!" West said.
"Do you have any ideas, Crow, Jack, Bruno?" asked Akiza.
"Just be there for him," Crow said.
"That's right," nodded Jack.
"Maybe do what he would like for the rest of the holiday," Luna said.
"Like eat lots of food!" smiled Leo.
"If that's what he feels like," Crow said.
"Should we all go out and encourage him?" asked Nico.
"Yeah!" West hurried over. "Kalin, you're amazing! You don't need that creep! You have us!"
"You really mean that West?" asked Kalin.
"Of course!" West said.
"Yes we do! And you also helped free Crash Town from Lawton!" said Nico.
"And you're our dear friend," Radley said.
"You guys are right. You guys are my true family," said Kalin.
"We are. Always," Yusei smiled.
"Yeah, what he said!" grinned Crow.
"Let's have a race around the City!" said Jack.
Radley chuckled. "Do you feel up to it, Kalin?"
"Sure, I suppose," smiled Kalin.
Jack was already getting on his Duel Runner to ride off. The others started to get ready too. Kalin got on his 60's-style motorcycle.
"So, are we just having a race?" he asked.
"With Jack, a race is everything," Crow said. "But don't be surprised if he wants to duel too."
"I'm not much into competition, but I guess I can make exceptions," shrugged Kalin.
"Let's just see how it goes," Crow said.
"Alright," nodded Kalin. "Anyone else want to join us?"
"I think most of us are coming," Radley said.
"Shall we be off then?" asked Kalin.
Jack was already off before Kalin could finish his sentence.
"Yeah, let's do that," Radley chuckled.
They took off from the house's parking garage and down the streets. Radley was enjoying the ride.
"Are you feeling better, Kalin?" asked Nico.
"... I think I am," Kalin said.
"You don't have to worry about mean people as long as we're here!" smiled West.
"We will always be here to help," Radley smiled.
"Thank you, everyone," smiled back Kalin.
Yusei was happy to see Kalin perking up.
"After crying so much, my throat hurts, to be terribly honest."
"I have a remedy for that," Radley said.
"What is it?" asked Kalin.
"It's a secret family recipe," Radley winked. "I'll make it tonight."
"Oh, I see," said Kalin.
"I'll show you how it's made," Radley said.
"Sounds good to me," replied Kalin.
"May I learn how it's made as well?" asked Akiza.
"Sure," Radley said.
The ride finished with everyone in high spirits. Scotch still wanted to go to GameStop, but he would defer to what Kalin wanted. They needed to get ingredients for the remedy too.
"What food do we need to buy?" asked Kalin.
Radley listed the ingredients. "It should be easy enough."
"Hmm, ok," nodded Kalin.
They entered the grocery store. Radley soon found everything he needed.
"Wow, that was fast, Radley," mused Kalin.
Radley smiled. "I thought so. I'll make this at Yusei's."
"Good idea," said Kalin. "So, where else do we need to go?"
"GameStop!" Scotch said. "But we can do this first!"
"What do you want from GameStop?" asked Jack.
"To use the prize money!" Scotch said.
"Oh, right. I almost forgot you won the costume contest," said Jack.
"Yeah!" Scotch said.
They went back to Yusei's and Radley set out the ingredients. He explained everything as he mixed it together and gave it to Kalin.
"Thank you, Radley," smiled Kalin. "Is this drink just for me?"
"It's for your throat," Radley reminded.
"Mmm," nodded Kalin as he took a big gulp. "This is delicious."
Radley smiled, hoping it would help.
"I'm surprised you know all these remedies," said Kalin.
"It's a family recipe," Radley said.
"It's incredible. I feel rejuvenated,"
"Shall we go to GameStop now?"
"Yeah!" Scotch grinned.
"I want to see if they have a game I want too!" said Leo.
"Alright then," Radley smiled. "Let's go."
They headed to the store.
"Hey, Scotch, what game are you gonna get?" asked Leo.
"I'm not sure! I'm going to look at everything!" Scotch said.
"Same here!" said Leo.
Scotch headed in and looked around.
Leo saw some giant Bulbasaur, Squirtle, and Charmander plushies. Scotch chose the Squirtle one.
"I can't decide which one to get," said Leo.
Scotch went to look at the games. Leo looked through the collection of RPGs. Scotch was also looking at figure sets and shirts. After searching for a few minutes, Leo decided to pick up a copy of Xenoblade Chronicles 3. He also settled on getting Charmander.
Scotch got some Pokemon figures. Radley petted a new Eevee plush.
"Can't resist the Eevee plush, eh, Radley?" chuckled Kalin.
They're so cute," Radley smirked.
"Hmm, maybe I'll get an Umbreon one."
"Umbreon is cool," Radley said.
"Yes, it is," smiled Kalin.
Scotch got Espeon.
"Is everyone here buying stuffed animals now?" asked Jack.
"Yes!" Scotch said.
Akiza giggled and got a Bulbasaur plush and Luna picked a Leafeon plushie.
Everyone started bringing purchases to the counter.
"So, what should we do next?" asked Kalin.
"Trick or treat!" Scotch said.
"Yeah! More candy!" exclaimed West.
"Okay, we can go to our neighborhoods and then through Satisfaction Town," Yusei said.
-
Later that day, they went through Yusei's neighborhood first.
"Wow! The decorations are amazing!" exclaimed Nico.
"Yeah, people really go all out," Crow said.
"Where do we start?" asked West.
"Let's just try them all," Crow said. "The people are pretty nice here."
"Yes!" Scotch started on the first house.
They had a fun time trick-or-treating in the area.
"Wow! We got lots of candy!" smiled West.
Yusei smiled. "I was sure you would."
"We should share them with you!" added Nico.
Thanks, that's really thoughtful," Yusei said.
"Yes, I also appreciate your kindness," smiled Akiza.
The evening was fun and they were all in high spirits when they headed back to Satisfaction Town.
I hope the kids don't eat all the candy at once," chuckled Kalin.
"I don't think that would be possible," Radley smirked.
"True. They might not feel well if they do."
"That, plus there's so much," Radley said.
"Yeah, it's more than a meal's worth!" Crow said.
"I could share a big bowl with Jack!" giggled Carly.
Radley was amused. "Ooh, maybe, but you might still get a tummy ache!"
"Blue Mountain Coffee can help wash it down!" said Carly.
Radley was amused. "Well, it's your stomachs!"
In town, Scotch led them for another round of trick-or-treat.
"It's amazing how many visitors come here during the holidays now," said Kalin.
"It's wonderful," Radley smiled.
"Were you surprised by this, Yusei?" Kalin asked.
"I kind of am," Yusei said.
"I never thought anyone from Satellite would be able to walk freely here," said Akiza.
"It's a great time for all of Domino City," Bruno said.
"Yes, it certainly is," nodded Akiza.
The Bunch, Leo, and Luna returned with even more candy. West and Nico did too.
Radley chuckled. "My, what a haul!"
"Yeah! It's like we won the lottery!" grinned West.
Yeah, a candy lottery!" West grinned.
"We have enough for the entire holiday season!" said Luna.
"I'm sure you do," Radley chuckled. "Maybe for six months!"
"That's right!" exclaimed Leo.
"Let's eat some!" West said.
"Yeah! Gather 'round everyone!" said Leo.
Everyone gathered and selected some candy to try.
"What's your favorite candy?" Nico asked the group.
A lot liked chocolate bars the best.
"You can't go wrong with chocolate!" smiled Carly as she bit her bar.
"I definitely agree," Radley smiled.
"I've always wondered what made it so appealing," said Kalin.
"It's one of life's mysteries," Radley said.
"Sometimes mysteries are better left unanswered," said Akiza.
"I'm not sure there's an answer for that one anyway," Radley chuckled.
"What else is there to do?" asked West.
"Tell spooky stories!" Scotch said.
"Yeah!" nodded West.
"I think I have something to tell," said Kalin.
"Oh? Do tell," Radley said.
"Like when I was under the Dark Signer's power, I almost killed Yusei." frowned Kalin.
Radley grimaced. "Yeah, that was horrible. For Halloween spooky stories, though, one typically makes up a story. "
"I still have nightmares where I laugh at seeing him in pain," shivered Kalin.
"I'm sorry all of that happened," Yusei said quietly.
"It wasn't your fault, Yusei. It was mine. And my father's," Kalin sighed.
"At least it's over now," Radley soothed.
Kalin simply nodded. Radley hugged him. Kalin returned the hug. Yusei laid his hands on Kalin's shoulders. Jack and Crow joined their adopted brothers in their embrace.
Radley smiled, hoping it was helping.
"Thanks everyone. After this day goes, we should get to the bottom of the mystery of the gems."
"That unfortunately will require talking to your father about where he got them," stated Radley.
"I know," sighed Kalin. "But I stated I'll never run away from my troubles again. And I have you guys by my side."
"Always," Yusei smiled.
"Yeah, we always got your back!" grinned Crow.
By now it was growing late.
"It's 9 now. Perhaps we should call it a day," said Akiza.
"Yeah, that's a good idea. We've had a big day," Radley said.
"I'm afraid it's about to get bigger," sighed Kalin.
"Hopefully not today," Radley said. "And tomorrow is your birthday!"
"Uh? Oh yeah, you're right," gasped Kalin.
Yusei smiled. He definitely hadn't forgot, and he could tell Radley hadn't either.
We'll make sure it's a special day," Radley said.
"Yeah! Like a big cake!" smiled West.
"Oh, definitely," Radley said. "And gifts."
"That's right!" said Jack.
"The diner will be all decorated too!" Scotch said.
"Sounds like fun!" smiled Luna.
"Yeah, it'll be a blast!" Scotch said.
Team 5ds and the Bunch went their separate ways. The evening passed by without any real horrors.
Radley woke up come morning. Kalin was sleeping soundly, his hair covering his face. Radley silently snarked. He gently started to move the hair away. In what could be described as an automatic reaction, Kalin reached up to grab Radley's hand.
"Umm..." he muttered.
"It's just me," Radley soothed.
"Oh, good morning, Radley."
"Good morning! Happy Birthday," Radley smiled.
"Thank you, Radley," Kalin smiled.
"Hopefully it will be a good day," Radley said. He would certainly do everything he could to make it so.
"I hope so too," Kalin nodded in agreement.
Radley started to get up. "What would you like for breakfast?"
"Hmm, waffles sounds good," replied Kalin.
"I'll get right on that." Radley headed to the kitchen.
"Thank you," said Kalin. He checked his phone for any messages.
There were many Happy Birthday messages. Kalin was a bit overwhelmed by them all but he couldn't help but be thankful.
Radley got breakfast ready and came to get him.
"Thank you very much," smiled Kalin.
"Sure," Radley smiled.
"I got a lot of birthday messages."
"That's great," Radley said.
"And your waffles are delicious."
"Thanks! I do my best," Radley smiled.
"What time should we go to the City?"
"I think everyone from the City stayed over," Radley said.
"Oh that's right."
They'll probably join us at the diner," Radley said.
"Let's be off then."
They headed out, with the Bunch joining them on the road to the diner.
"Is everyone feeling alright?" Kalin asked the Bunch.
"Yeah!" Scotch grinned. "We're ready to party!"
"Oh, so you didn't eat too much candy," Radley chuckled.
"I'm honestly surprised you guys were able to control yourselves," Kalin said bluntly.
"Scotch ate the most, but he has an iron stomach," Billy said.
"I thought so," chuckled Kalin.
They arrived at the diner. Radley smiled at the scene. Kalin, on the other hand, was taken aback.
"Guys..." he muttered.
"You deserve it!" Scotch grinned.
The other members of the Bunch agree. Radley certainly did too. Yusei and the others soon came too.
"Hey, Yusei, guys," waved Kalin.
"Hey, Kalin," Yusei smiled. "Happy Birthday."
"Thank you very much."
"Yeah! Let's party!" Crow said.
"Alright!" exclaimed Jack.
Scotch put on music.
"Did everyone have fun last night?" asked Kalin.
There were many choruses of Yes.
"I'd like to thank everyone for being there for me all this time."
"Of course," Radley smiled. "Thank you for being here with us."
"The town is prospering thanks to you!" added Nico.
"Yeah! You're so cool!" West beamed.
Kalin smiled. "Is there anything Team 5ds would like to add?"
"You're a great friend and a great man," Yusei said.
"This town has really helped you get your head on straight," Crow said.
"I confess. It's good to see you enjoying dueling again," added Jack.
"I'm glad you can," Yusei said.
"Yes, it was all thanks to everyone that the Malcolm Crew were stopped," said Kalin.
"Yeah! We were rockin'!" Crow said.
"As a sort of birthday/thank you gift, I'd like to offer everyone here the Birthday Bunch Special meal!" smiled Kalin.
He showed them a list of things which included salad, sandwiches, soup, and drinks.
"Wow! This looks awesome!" Crow said.
"Radley and the chefs worked real hard on it!" grinned West.
Radley smiled with pride. Everyone was interested in trying it.
"What's today's soup?" asked Akiza.
"Minestrone," Radley said.
"What's that?" asked Leo.
"Basically pasta shells and vegetables in tomato broth," Radley said.
"Sounds yummy!" smiled Leo.
"Yes, it's delicious," Radley said.
"Let's try it!" said Luna.
Soon soup was being served with a side of crackers.
"It looks delicious!" squealed Carly.
Radley smiled. Everyone tried the soup enjoyed in immensely.
"I could come here everyday!" said Jack.
"You're welcome to," Radley smiled.
"I don't have any objections," smiled Kalin.
Everyone was happy with all their food and enjoyed the start of the party.
"We're going to have a karaoke party now. Who would like to join?" asked Nico.
"Me!" Scotch exclaimed. Of course.
"I figured you would," chuckled Kalin.
"I'll also join you," said Akiza.
"I will too," Radley said.
"Me too," waved Nico.
"What song, Kalin?" Scotch asked.
"Hmm, how about 'Let's Groove'?" he suggested.
"Yeah!" Scotch put it on.
The audience started cheering for them. Radley grinned, dancing to the song. Kalin did his best to dance as well. Of course, he wasn't nearly as good as the Bunch. Radley encouraged him nonetheless. Kalin and Radley exchanged smiles.
"What shall our next song be?" Kalin asked the team.
"You Should Be Dancing," Scotch decided.
"Always a classic."
"Yes!" Scotch put it on.
The crowd started to go wild. Radley grinned; this was fun. Kalin was wondering if Yusei and Team 5ds were also having fun. He looked over at his oldest friend. Yusei wasn't big on dancing, but he was all for having fun with Kalin. He smiled.
"Hey, Yusei, guys. Enjoying your time?" asked Kalin.
"Yeah, we are," Yusei said fondly.
"I'm glad you could all come."
"We wouldn't miss it," Yusei said.
"That's right! You're our friend!" smiled Crow.
"Yeah. And who wouldn't want to eat here?" asked Jack.
"It's a win-win all around!" Crow said.
"What do you think of Radley's Diner, Bruno?" asked Kalin.
"It's great!" Bruno beamed.
"Yes! I love it here!" exclaimed Carly.
"Glad you enjoy it. Any feedback is appreciated," smiled Kalin.
"Everything is perfect!" Carly gushed.
"Thank you very much for the support."
"Indeed," Radley smiled.
"Yeah! You guys are awesome!" cheered West.
"Come dance too!" Scotch chirped.
"Ok!" said West.
"Sure, we'll join you," nodded Nico.
The siblings went up onto the stage. Leo and Luna did too.
"Wow! We have a full house here!" smiled Akiza.
Everyone was clapping and whooping.
"What's our next song?" asked Leo.
"You pick, Kalin!" Scotch said.
"Um, ok." Kalin thought for a few seconds before settling on 'Living on a Prayer' by Bon Jovi.
"Yeah!" Scotch grinned.
Radley started a dance for it.
Everyone else followed along with him. Scotch was having a blast. Kalin was also greatly enjoying himself. The concert continued with each performance a hit. Time flew while they were having fun.
"What would you like to do now?" Radley asked Kalin.
"I'm not sure. But for some reason, I feel like we have to study the gems."
"You feel like we need to do it today?" Radley blinked. He had figured on tomorrow.
"We don't have to do it today. But the sooner we solve the mystery, the better."
"If we can solve it," Radley said. "I'm sure we'll have to talk to your father again."
"I know..." sighed Kalin.
"I wonder if he'll even remember where he got them," Crow said, rolling his eyes.
"We'll probably have to knock some sense into his noggin," Jack stated sarcastically.
"Oh, but if you beat him up too much, he may forget it all anyway," Radley remarked. The guy certainly deserved a beating, though, after all he had done to Kalin. Radley couldn't help wanting him to know how it felt.
"Perhaps we could take it down a notch and simply just intimate father a bit. That might make him give us the info," suggested Kalin.
"It's worth a try," Crow said.
"Only question is where he is going tomorrow?"
"Probably just getting himself drunk at home," Crow said.
"I still don't understand how he's still alive after all these years. Surely the City offered him rehab."
"He probably flunked out," Virgil said in disgust.
"You're probably right, Virgil," frowned Kalin.
"Well, I recommend checking his house," Radley sighed. "He'll probably be there."
"Is tomorrow afternoon alright with you guys?"
Everyone agreed.
"Well, I guess we should call it a day. I'm glad to have celebrated my birthday with all of you," Kalin smiled.
"We still need to have presents and dinner and dessert," Radley said with a wink.
Kalin chuckled and shook his head. "Oh right, I nearly forgot about those."
"What first?!" Scotch exclaimed.
"Let's have the dinner first," chuckled Kalin.
"Would you like anything special?" Radley asked.
"Part of me wants some pasta."
"An excellent choice! Any particular recipe?"
"How about some pasta with chorizo?"
"Perfect," Radley smirked. He went to make it.
"Thanks to Radley, I started to appreciate Spanish cuisine," Kalin told his friends.
"Isn't chorizo Mexican?" Jimmy wondered.
"Perhaps we should ask him when he returns."
"In any case, it's delicious!" Jimmy said.
Soon dinner was ready for everyone.
"Wow! That smells delicious!" exclaimed Leo.
"Why, thank you," Radley smiled. He and others dished up the food.
"Radley makes the best pasta!" Said West.
"That is certainly my goal," Radley grinned.
"One of your members asked if chorizo is Mexican. Is that true?" asked Luna.
"It originated in Spain and Portugal, but Mexico has their own take on it," Radley smiled.
"Oh, so he was partially right," said Leo.
"It tastes delicious!" chortled Carly.
"Thanks!" Radley smiled.
"Where did you learn to cook?" asked Luna.
"My mom, mostly," Radley said.
"She taught you well," said Akiza.
"Yeah, she did," Radley said with a wistful smile.
"The first time I had one of his meals, I couldn't believe it," said Kalin.
"Yeah! It was Heaven on earth!" Scotch said.
"Now that we got to know each other better, you guys aren't kidding," remarked Crow.
Radley grinned. "That's how meals always were at home. I wanted to bring that to everyone."
"I hate to admit it, but you did a smashing job," grinned Jack.
"Maybe you should meet Martha," said Crow. "She would probably love to meet you," said Crow.
"I'd love to meet her," Radley smiled.
"Let's contact her after this gem mess is over," said Crow.
"Yeah!" West said.
"I would also love to meet her!" agreed Nico
"She'd love to meet all of you," Yusei smiled.
"Yep!" nodded Crow.
"Wonder if she ever read about Satisfaction Town?" asked Nico.
"Oh, we told her all about it!" Crow said.
"What did she say?" asked Nico.
"She was really proud of Kalin and Yusei," Crow said. "Me and Jack too!"
"You guys are awesome!" cheered West.
"That's right!" smirked Jack.
The dinner proceeded happily and then it was time for presents.
"Time to give Kalin his presents!" chirped Nico. She gave him a ton of cookies.
Radley smiled. The Bunch had CDs for him. Kalin thanked Nico and then turned to the Bunch.
"Hmm? Music CDs?"
"Yeah! Mostly fun dance stuff!" Scotch said.
"Thank you Scotch," smiled Kalin. Perhaps we could all listen to these when we visit Martha."
"Sure! The kids could dance too!" Scotch said.
"Yeah! I'll be lots of fun!" grinned West.
"It's funny," chuckled Kalin. "When I was younger, I wasn't really into music. But, now here I am, dancing and making up music."
Radley grinned. ",It's great, isn't it?"
"Yes, it is," smiled Kalin.
Radley handed Kalin a small box. "This is part of my gift."
Inside was a locket similar to the Kaiba's card lockets. One side had a picture of Kalin with Yusei, Jack, and Crow. The other side was Kalin with Radley, the Bunch, and the kids.
"Radley, Yusei...I don't know what to say..."
"This was all Radley's idea," Yusei smiled. ",I just provided the old picture."
"I still remember that look on your face when me and Crow arrived just in the nick of time," smirked Jack.
"That was classic!" Crow said.
"I never expected you two to show up."
"It was way past time to get the Enforcers back together!" Crow said.
"Yeah!" cheered West.
Kalin nodded and smiled a large smile. " Yes, let's do it."
Well, Crow was talking about when they saved Crash Town, but any reunions are great with him. "So, what do you wanna do tonight?" he asked.
"Is everyone up for dessert?" replied Kalin.
Many "Yesses"! rang through the diner.
"Oh, I have that covered," Radley smiled. "Your favorite!" He brought out Kalin's favorite dessert.
"When did you make it?" asked Kalin
"Earlier today," Radley said.
"Ooh, what's that?" asked Carly.
"Kalin's favorite," Radley smiled.
"Looks delicious!" said Carly.
"We should sing happy birthday!" Scotch said.
"Yes, let's ," nodded Nico.
Radley led them in singing.
Kalin was stunned by everyone's kindness. He hummed along to the song on his harmonica. Radley set up the candles while they sang. Everyone cheered when the candles were lit
"Make a wish, Kalin!" said Nico.
"Yeah!" Scotch grinned.
Kalin nodded and closed his eyes in deep thought. Radley hoped that whatever it was, it would come true. Kalin wished for Satisfaction Town to continue prospering. With all of them there, it likely would.
Kalin opened his eyes, took a deep breath, and blew out the candles. There were claps and cheers.
"Let's eat!" Scotch said.
"Right! I'm starving!" said Jack.
"Be patient," chuckled Kalin as he began to slice the cake.
Soon everyone had some.
"Wow this is yummy!" said Leo.
Radley smiled. He had done his best.
"Radley is the best chef ever!" said West.
"Why, thank you," Radley smiled.
"I didn't expect Radley to be such a great chef," said Kalin.
"Oh? I looked too punk for you?" He winked.
"Huh? No! I didn't mean it like that!" exclaimed Kalin.
Radley chuckled. "It's fine. I know I don't look the part."
"Speaking of which, what did you think of me when I first moved here?"
"I thought you didn't know how to live or love," Radley said. "But I was wrong."
"I was kind of wrong in a way too. In that I thought you and the Bunch were a bunch of money-hungry thugs."
"Well, we did love money," Radley mused.
"But now I know it was because you need it to support each other. As for me, I thought emotions were pointless."
"True, that was certainly most of it," Radley said. "And I'm glad you've learned otherwise about emotions." He smiled.
"I know. Thanks to you, and the others," smiled back Kalin.
Yusei smiled too. "Of course."
"That's our leader!" added Crow.
"I admit, I missed it when you gave us commands," stated Jack.
Yusei nodded. "We all did."
A smirk reminiscent of the old days formed on Kalin's lips. "Really now?"
"Well, within reason," Crow said.
Jack nodded.
"Very true," said Kalin.
Scotch went for seconds.
"I'm glad I was able to learn more about the Enforcers," said Akiza.
"I'm glad I did too," Radley said.
"Same here," said Luna.
Everyone had their fill of dessert and other presents were brought.
Kalin was a bit overwhelmed by all the presents. "You guys didn't have to go through all this trouble, you know."
"Hey, we all wanted to chip in," Crow said.
"Because why not?" asked Jack as he gave Kalin a bag of Blue Mountain Coffee.
Radley chuckled softly, but was moved at the same time. That was expensive stuff.
"Hmm? Coffee? Where did you get this, Jack?"
"I ordered it special!" Jack said.
"Thanks Jack. I'll share it with Radley."
Radley wasn't the biggest fan of coffee, but he would definitely try this gourmet brand. "Yes, that will be nice to enjoy together."
"What other gifts have you brought today?"
"Open it and see!" Crow said.
There would be card packs.
"Card packs?" Kalin was surprised.
"Yeah! There's some good stuff for Infernities!" Crow said.
"I didn't think they would support my deck, after what I've done."
"And yet they still care about you," Radley smiled.
Tears started to form in Kalin's eyes.
"You guys are the best friends ever..."
"Yeah, we are," Crow smirked.
"But so are you," Radley added.
"What he said," stated Jack as he pointed at Radley.
"After everything I did?" asked Kalin.
"Yeah," Yusei said.
"What do the others think of me?"
"We all love you!" Bruno chirped.
"Yeah! You're the Town's best leader!" West.
"Yes, he is," Radley smiled.
"I made something for you," said Akiza as she handed Kalin a box containing a jar of jam.
"Oh, that looks delicious," Radley said.
"Yes," Kalin said in touched surprise. "Thank you."
"You're very welcome!" winked Akiza.
Scotch started a new song on the jukebox. Carly gave Kalin a book about architecture.
"That looks cool," Radley said.
"Wow, it's so detailed," said Kalin.
"There's some Spanish buildings!" Radley said proudly.
"You're right!" said Kalin.
The Bunch came to see too.
"Hey guys, came to check out our new book?"
"Yeah! This is cool!" Scotch said.
"I wonder if we can get some inspiration from this."
"For updating the villa, perhaps?" Radley mused.
"Hmm, that's not a bad idea. Thanks for the book, Carly."
"Sure!" Carly beamed.
"This town is always open to new ideas."
"And we've brought in a lot of them," Radley smiled.
"Is that all the presents for Kalin?" asked West.
"I think so," Radley said.
"Thank you all for the birthday gifts," smiled Kalin.
"You're welcome!" everyone said.
"Well, I guess we should call it a day."
"Yes, we've had a big party," Radley said.
"I would like to thank everyone for coming over to celebrate my birthday."
"We wouldn't miss it," Yusei said.
"Definitely!" grinned Crow.
"And tomorrow we'll drive to the City and try to learn more about the gems," Carly said.
"I can bet on you they can do more than open portals," said Jack.
"I wouldn't be surprised," Radley sighed.
"Yes, same here..." frowned Kalin.
"We'll try to find out tomorrow," Yusei said.
"We should all get as much sleep as possible," added Akiza.
"We should," Radley agreed. "It may be an exhausting day."
"'K. See ya all tomorrow," waved Crow as they began to head home.
Radley and the Bunch called goodbyes too. Kalin packed all his birthday gifts into a bag.
"Wow, I didn't expect to get so many gifts."
Radley chuckled. "You're very loved."
"I realize that now," smiled Kalin.
"So, let's go home for a good rest," Radley said.
"Alright," nodded Kalin.
Radley led them to their street and the Bunch called Goodbyes.
Kalin waved to the Bunch and then walked towards his house. Radley went in with him.
"That was a fun day, don't you think?"
"Yeah." Radley smiled. "I'm glad you enjoyed it."
"But I won't be fully satisfied until we solve the mystery of the gems.
"Hopefully we can," Radley sighed. "I'm surprised Billy found out what he did."
"I am too."
"Maybe Ishizu would know something?" Radley mused.
"Perhaps. She and her brothers are experts at magical artifacts."
Radley nodded. "Although their specialty is Egypt, and this is South American. But we could try. Maybe she'd know someone who could help."
"True. Perhaps we should text the others about this." He took out his phone and texted Yusei.
Yusei texted back and liked the idea of trying Ishizu.
"What time should we meet her?" asked Kalin.
"Tomorrow at 11, maybe?" Yusei suggested.
"Alright, that sounds good."
Radley was showering while Kalin was talking.
"Are you all going to meet Ishizu?"
"Yeah, we will," Yusei said.
"Ok, see you there."
Radley was coming out of the shower, drying his hair.
"Hey Radley. Had a nice bath?"
Yeah," Radley smiled. "You wanna go?"
"Yeah, I'm going," nodded Kalin as he entered the bathroom.
Radley went in the bedroom and settled down with a motorcycle magazine. Kalin spent about 15 minutes in the bathroom before he changed into his pajamas and came out.
Radley sleepily looked up with a smile. "Hey."
"Oh, you're still awake?"
"Kind of." Radley yawned and set the magazine aside.
Kalin crawled into bed. "We need get some sleep."
"Yeah, we do." Radley settled into the pillow.
Kalin whispered "Good night," before drifting off to sleep.
"Goodnight," Radley smiled.
The night passed by peacefully.