Chapter Text
5000 years ago a pharaoh sacrificed himself to save the world. His soul lived within the millennium puzzle for centuries. Until a young boy named Yugi unlocked its power and saved the world from the chaos and destruction that the shadow games would've brung. if unleashed upon the innocents of the world.
But what many don't know was that a young evil was berthed from the remaining shadow magic that surrounded Egypt. Certain tainted souls were corrupted and given dangerous powers. Which allowed them to summon duel-monsters within the shadow realm as well as the real world.
Ra, Bastet and Huh watched on as the darkness grew. The three knew that the mortals would not survive this second attack soon after the first shadow games. With that said the three took action.
Ra, forged his millennium item out of pure light and strength. His item would only be given by a worthy warrior willing to protect others even at the cost of their lives. But in order for the warrior to receive their ultimate power, they would have to leave there family behind and let them suffer before they could make amends with them. As well as fall in love with a great heroes first born.
Bastet, created her own millennium item, but instead of giving it to a human. She and Huh chose a newly born soul made out of pure light. They gathered the shadows around the child. And Bastet intertwined the light and dark souls. One could not wheeled the millennium item without the other, but the yami was to protect its light while in the body of a feline. Only when the darkness took control would the yami become a hikari. Balancing the darkness that would hold the yamis light.
As for Huh, he gave the pure soul the ability of song, beauty and the skill to battle gracefully as if they were a dancer while in a duel or a shadow game. And like the pharaohs millennium puzzle, the one who solved it would be granted a wish. But there would be a price, if their wish was used selfishly than that human would die a brutal death. If the wish was selfless then the wish would be fulfilled, but the wielders wish would not be free, depending on the consequences.The wish would intertwine itself with the subject of the wish and the wielder of Huhs millennium item.
Thankfully the nameless queen, assassin and their friends managed to stop this darkness from achieving their goal by using the three millennium items. along with a few others that were made by powerful magicians but they to were lost to time.
However that was many, many years ago.
The history of this story, they say was altered through time on purpose. Kemets rulers not wanting their enemies, if ever they were to be released, to find out the truth so easily.
And the spell that was supposedly used to banish this army of darkness which called themselves the shadow riders, is now nothing more than a memory...
Now after many years of failed attempts and deaths that followed soon after in trying to solve the god of times millennium item. It would soon fall into the hands of its rightful wielder, like the millennium puzzle so many years ago...
But who shall this next wielder be?
Present day ~
"Eeeeeeeeeeeeeek!! Kaiba land, tell. Me. You. Are. Joking!"
A few nearby people turned to see a large group at the entrance of kaiba land. Nearly the entire group of adults had their ears covered say for three members. Which consisted of a young man with tried colored Gold, black and Violet tipped hair, another man a head taller than the first with a little more blonde in his black red tipped hair and a small girl with light Brown hair that faded from a darker brown color to amethyst tips at the ends. Her bright innocent adorable brown eyes shined with excitement.
"Yugi don't get me wrong I love Jaden, but why did you and yami decide to get pregnant via you know what again?" Grumbled a stylishly dressed blonde haired woman with violet eyes.
The king of games and the reincarnated pharaoh looked at one another and shrugged. Yugi was now holding on to Jaden's shoulder as she jumped up and down, trying to take everything in. The little brunette was impatient, she wanted to go and play all of the games, rides and just do as much as possible. Not to mention there was sugary sweets calling her name.
"Aww, come on Mai it's the kids birthday loosen up a little will ya?" Chuckled a lanky blonde haired brown eyed Man standing in front of her.
" says the one who is dating seto kaiba after many years." Replied Mai, a short haired brunette girl and another girl with long slightly light brown hair and bright brown eyes.
Joey wheelers Face went beat red as he could feel the gazes of Mai, Tea and his little sister serenity boring into his back. he glanced at the dark blue eyed, almond Brown haired CEO standing next to him. Makuba, setos younger brother chuckled as he pushed aside a lock of his messy black hair. He nudged Joey in the ribs his gray eyes shining with mischief.
Before Makuba could open his mouth to tease his brother and boyfriend, he was cut off by a warning tone from seto.
"Makuba..."
"You guys we’re supposed to be having fun." Complained Malik.
" yeah," agreed Marik. “besides we can talk about how hot yugi and joeys significant others are later."
Seto thankfully had the foresight in reaching over and placing his hands over makubas ears just in time. Joey was right behind his boyfriend covering serenity's own ears. Jaden however wasn't so lucky. The little girl looked grossed out and she made it clear to everyone present.
"Ewwww! dad! daddy!" She loudly complained getting everyone's attention.
Tea, Mai, Joey and Seto gave the reincarnated assassin death glares while serenity and Makuba looked confused before getting the gist of what must've happened by Jaden's expression. The two were relieved when they're older siblings plugged their ears, saving their innocence on this special day. They felt sorry for Jaden who looked about ready to cry. Serenity frowned deciding that her and makuba would make it up to Jaden by giving her, her first birthday present. Or second one if you counted them coming to kaiba land for the day.
The two weren't the only ones to notice this, Tristan looked about ready to punch Marik while yami was giving the man a murderous death glare, his red eyes flashing dangerously. Yugi meanwhile was giving Marik a disappointed look while comforting his daughter.
Ryou, who was usually quiet and sensible, couldn't keep his frustration in. His gaze flickered to Yugi who was now holding a quietly crying Jaden in his arms. If no one was going to speak up and give Marik a taste of his own medicine...Well he wasn't about to just standby and do nothing while his niece was crying.
The white haired brown eyed boy turned and got directly into The man's face pointing a finger at him jabbing it every so often none to gently on his nose. As ryou began lecturing the former assassin, none to gently mind you. Bakura took this opportunity to clobber Marik over the head with his hand. The reincarnated thief was many things, threatening, scary, but he was not one to have his favorite and only goddaughter cry on her birthday because of some killing pervert unable to keep his mouth shut.
Plus the pharaoh looked just as murderous as everyone else, if the shadows around them weren't any indication. They were hissing and writhing. Wanting to get at the former assassin, but the pharaoh was admittedly doing a pretty good job of keeping his temper in check.
Although bakura did have to admit it would've been entertaining to see the pharaoh pummel Marik or better yet kick his sorry butt into the shadow realm. Ah, well the tomb robber supposed that ryou giving a verbal breakdown was good enough for today, besides he could always punch Malik when they weren't around Jaden. Then again, it was the kids birthday. So he supposed he would have to wait until tomorrow for his... revenge for the pharos and shrimp's princess.
Yami took some deep breath's calming himself down. It wouldn't do well in getting his daughter even more upset than she already was. He then smiled slightly in Bakura and ryous direction. The latter still giving a full on lecture and it didn't look as if they'd be hearing the end of it anytime soon. The former however looked smug, no doubt enjoying the drama unfolding in front of him.
During Bakura’s beating and ryous lecture on 'how you should not make your 10 year old goddaughter cry on her birthday for heaven sake!' Yugi managed to calm Jaden down. The little girl was now reduced to mere quiet sniffles and a frown on her face.
"You all right sweetie?" He asked pulling away his hands still on her shoulders.
Jaden nodded her eyes still red rimmed and slightly puffy. " i'm all right daddy."
"That's good to hear." Yami stated. "Now then," he continued picking up Jaden, Who squealed. He then placed her on his shoulders and ran off laughing. "First one to beat me gets to give Jaden her birthday present first!"
"Yami!" Called Yugi, he side and shook his head in amusement. a smile on his face. "Sometimes I wonder if I'm the serious one in the family."
Joey only smiled at his best friend as he draped an arm over his shoulders. "Come on Yug, let's make sure they don't get into any mischief."
The blonde was soon pulling his laughing friend along as everyone else followed. Gradually everyone parted into groups either going on rides or playing games either against one another or by themselves.
Makuba, tea and serenity were competing against one another in a balloon popping game. Were they had to throw darts at balloons that had pictures of duel monsters. The less powerful monsters were at the bottom while the more powerful ones were at the top. If you were able to hit a powerful Monster then you would get some pretty good prices. As for the last powerful monsters, you got a decent prize.
It was tea Who managed to win the little competition between the three of them. Ironically she had hit a balloon that had the image of harpy lady. The two younger kids had to clamp their hands over their mouth's in order to not laugh out loud. They've heard stories of mai's Favorite dueling partner and they also knew about the slight rivalry that the two girls still had. So it was no wonder that serenity and makuba had to Stifle their laughter. Tea ignored them in favor of choosing a fairies gift plushy.
Meanwhile Malik, Tristan and ryou had the unfortunate task of making sure that Marik and Bakura didn't do anything that would get themselves in trouble... Or injured. And unfortunately that meant going on all of the fast and craziest rides that kaiba land had to offer, which were quite a lot actually. Currently the three 'babysitters' to the two yamis were stumbling out of a blue eyes White Dragon themed roller coaster. Tristan and Malik were currently on either side of ryou supporting the white haired boy who had seen better days.
"Ugh, I think I'm going to be sick..." he muttered clamping a hand over his mouth, his brown eyes going wide.
Tristan instantly grabbed the boys long hair as he doubled over vomiting on the floor. Malik looked ready to join his friend, but Marik laughing like a madman followed by Bakura stopped any thoughts of his stomach throwing out his breakfast.
"I knew we should've brought a first aid kit." deadpanned Tristan.
"More like an Army of doctors." Agreed Malik
With an unspoken agreement Malik went off after the two while Tristan stayed behind until ryou Felt well again. The light half and wielder of the millennium Rod eventually found himself at the entrance of a haunted house. Malik stirred up at the tall dark imposing building. Screams and Laughter could be heard as a recording of lightning and thunder played. Malik's eye twitched, a 'you have a got to be kidding me' expression crossed his face before he threw his hands up and screamed.
"I'm going to kill YOU TWO!"
Meanwhile~
Ryou lifted his head up from the table at one of the food booths that he and Tristan were at. The pale skinned boy could've sworn he heard Malik's voice. He must have been hearing things, perhaps the sickness was getting to him as well as the heat. He lay his head back down groaning feeling cold metal against his flushed skin. It felt so good after walking around in the hot weather outside. About 15 minutes later he looked up as Tristan came over caring a strawberry milkshake in one hand while the other held a cold water bottle.
"Thanks." Ryou whispered slowly sitting up and beginning to drink the cold sweet beverage. It thankfully took away the remaining aftertaste of the vomit.
Tristan shrugged and smiled opening his own drink and taking a sip. "Wonder how Joey and the others are doing?"
Ryou cocked his head to the side. "Hmm, well if I know Yami and Yugi they'll be most likely competing against one another. While Seto and Joey are watching. As for Mai and Jaden... I don't even want to think about how much more hyper she can get with sugar. I just hope Mai didn't get her ice cream..."
Tristan nearly choked on his water as he burst out laughing, slamming a clenched fist on the table. "Why do I have a feeling you're right? Are you sure you're not psychic like isis? And yeah, I have to agree with you on that part. Jaden with sugar..." he shuttered.
The white haired boy took a long sip from his drink. "Oh trust me I'm not psychic. I've just been around them long enough to suspect their actions. Not to mention Mai Is pretty smart so she most likely have gotten Jaden on some type of ride to blow off some energy before lunch. Plus We both knew Mai ever since dualist kingdom, remember?"
Tristan hummed in acknowledgment before looking out at the crowd passing by enjoying the friendly silence between them.
In another part of kaiba land~
Jaden and Mai ran out of a large maze filled with mirrors and other reflective objects. The little brunette was clutching a winged kuriboh plushy in one hand while the other held onto her aunt Mai's hand. On her head she had a headband with black fluffy cat ears the insights being red, which was her favorite color next to blue. Her hair which ended just above the middle of her back was tied up in a ponytail.
"Best birthday ever, thank you auntie Mai!" She exclaimed giving her a smile that could brighten anyone's day, even seto's.
Mai Felt tears welling up in the corners of her eyes. She quickly blinked them away as she looked down at the little girl. Jaden was certainly a gift from the gods. The blonde had offered to take Jaden off of her dads shoulders. The two agreed wanting to spend a little time together before the little brunettes birthday party. She was more than happy that yami and Yugis supposed last duel ended in a draw.
"Aww, kiddo you're going to make my make up run." She laughed. "Now, let's go get that kettle corn you wanted."
"Yay! Sugar for uncle mutt Joey!" Jaden cheered as winged kuriboh's Spirit appeared next to her.
Jaden smiled at seeing her duel-monster friend. "Hi chip." She whispered.
Jaden knew that her uncles, Dad's and god parents could only see their respective duel monsters whenever they appeared. She also knew not to talk to chip in public... Or else bad people might see her and do something really bad. The 10-year-old birthday girl skipped a long as her previous hyper state disappeared. Her aunt Mai had made the mistake of getting her an ice cream cone, more specifically a chocolate ice cream cone. But thankfully the mirror maze had kept Jaden distracted long enough for her to calm down. Any type of game that had something similar to a puzzle always calmed her down. Along with a lullaby that her daddy always sang to her after a nightmare or bad incident.
"Kuri kuri!" Replied the little duel monster. But Jaden heard this in her mind. (happy birthday Jaden!)
She nodded in reply before dragging her aunt to a nearby booth. Meanwhile Joey and seto were watching yami and Yugi. As they dueled against one another in a small dueling Arena. It was one of many dotted around kaiba land.
Joey looked down at his watch, then back up at the match. "They've been at it for two hours!"He complained. " I swear if they keep this up then Jaden will have no parents on her birthday."
"Speaking of which." seto said pointing to said girl and Mai as they came up.
"Hey lovebirds," greeted Mai as Jaden tossed the large bag of kettle corn to Joey.
"Shut it, valentine!" Snapped seto.
"Yeah,"agreed Joey opening the bag of kettle corn. "By the by Jay, mind getting your dad's out of the game?"
"Sure uncle mutt!" Jaden said happily
Seto had a small smirk on his face as for Mai, she burst out laughing at seeing Joeys indignant expression.
"Hey!" The blonde cried indignant. "Who told you that you could call me that?"
Jaden blinked her adorable brown eyes, an innocent look on her pale face. "Why can't I call you that? Seto calls you puppy, so why can't I call you mutt?"
Joey slumped in defeat, he'd let it slide for today. "Oh never mind, just drop it jay. Anyway could ya get your dad's away from the dueling arena?"
The little girl nodded wondering how she was going to stop her dad's while they were in the middle of a game. It was impossible and Jaden knew that from personal experience. She had to say something shocking to get them out of the game, but how? And what was she going to say?
While Jaden was thinking on how to stop her parents from dueling all day. Tea, Makuba and serenity came towards them. A few prizes held in their hands and a fourth person right behind them. The man was wearing a red suit, his long silver hair covering his left eye.
"Hey, sis!" Called out Joey happily.
" Joey! Look who we bumped into." Greeted the younger Wheeler sibling.
Seto blinked once, then asked. "Pegasus? What are you doing here?"
The silver haired man left eye shined momentarily as it caught the suns light. "Well kaiba-boy, I decided to give Jaden-girl over here a new deck that I personally made for her. It won't be coming out for a few years now, since I had to make a second deck from the original. But I believe this will suit our little game princess very well."
"And may I ask why you're giving Jaden a new deck?" Questioned the CEO. "Her elemental hero deck is just fine as it is."
"True," agreed Pegasus. "but her deck as well as her strategy is widely and well known, kaiba-boy. I've had over 500 of these decks sold in only half a year. This new deck involves some special monsters that Jaden-girl created herself. As well as a few... Surprises. Does...this card ring a bell?" He trailed off bringing out a specific card...
Or more like one part of a card. Seto Took it and his eyes widened for a split second before he returned it. His face showing no emotion.
Pegasus had a small smile on his face as he tucked the card back into the deck before slipping it into One of his inner pockets.
"so I see you remember it..." He said simply.
Makuba, overhearing the conversation couldn't help but ask. "Wait, Pegasus sir. Do you mean to tell us that this deck is like a back up? Just in case Jaden might need to hide her identity one day or something?"
A flash of sorrow and something a kin to grief shined in Pegasus's visible eye. The silver haired man bit the inside of his cheek, wondering what he should say. Last night he had a terrible dream, it was too realistic not to be a vision. Isis had been there, her eyes had been distant as she to viewed the dream. The dream ... No vision was to terrible to think about. It would happen in the next 24 hours when they all would leave kaiba land. He was now glad that he had created Jaden's gift. Pegasus had poured his heart and soul into this deck hoping that it would make Jaden happy on her birthday, but now he just hoped that it would be strong enough to help her out in the years ahead.
He shook his head realizing that seto, makuba and the others who overheard their conversation aside from Jaden was staring at him expectantly. Pegasus didn't want to do this, but he and Isis had agreed that the events that they saw should be kept secret knowing that it could have a major impact. Isis had told him that it could lead to Jaden's death in the process if he told anyone this. And Pegasus would be damned if he let this little bundle of pure light and joy die on her birthday.
He cleared his throat. "Something like that but I hope she won't have to use it anytime soon. Although I wouldn't mind if yami-boy and I along with her other father. Trained her in private while teaching her on how to use this deck."
"Hmm," seto pondered the question for a moment. Weighing the advantages and disadvantages that this would bring. Making up his mind he replied with. "I believe that would be wise, the less people that know of Jaden's new deck the better it will be for her just in case she needs to hide her True identity one day. This deck would indeed allow her to hide in plain sight. But I'm hoping it doesn't come to that."
"As do I." Pegasus agreed with the CEO. But somehow deep within his heart the silver haired man knew that Jaden would be using that deck sooner than he would like.
The young amethyst tipped brunette was looking back and forth between her parents. The duel was now getting to its climax. Her dad had dark magician out which had 2400-ATK points while her daddy had Gaia the fierce night, that had 1900-ATK points. Just then running footsteps caught her attention, her and chip turned and saw... Her uncle Malik chasing Bakura and Marik... With a gun. Then right behind them was her uncle Ryou and Tristan.
She stared at the trio, unsure as the group ran or more like walked in Tristan and ryous case, towards them. The adorable brunette looked around wondering who would scream the loudest at seeing her uncle with a very bad weapon. Then her gaze fell on her godfather seto. When her god father got angry, he got angry. Especially when it involved her safety.
A mischievous grin was on her face as she heard chip laughing up a storm knowing what she was planning.
' it might not be Marik, but I can always smash his face into my birthday cake later.' she thought grinning like she'd just won the lottery.
She ran towards her godfather seto, he was talking to Pegasus or Peggy as Jaden likes to call him. They were talking about some type of new deck and a rare card inside said deck. Normally Jaden would immediately ask a million questions, like what type of deck it was and what monsters it had. But right now she needed to get her godfather's attention. Plus she was hungry and it was her birthday, and that meant cake. She shook her head like a dogs and began tugging at his blue trenchcoat vigorously, after a few minutes, which felt like an eternity to the 10-year-old. Jaden successfully got the CEOs attention.
Pegasus smiled and walked over to talk to some of the others in the large group of friends.
Seto looked down to see the young girl tugging at his blue trenchcoat. His gaze softened and a small smile tugged at his lips.
"What is it jay?" He asked wondering what his goddaughter needed. He hoped it didn't have anything to do with to certain psychopaths especially a perverted assassin.
"Uncle Malik has a gun..." Jaden began, but was cut off as she was shoved behind her godfather.
Jaden for her part grinned, but she was a bit uneasy at the look that her godfather was getting.
"Oh boy... he's gonna blow." She muttered to no one in particular.
Oh seto was really not amused. First it was Marik with that inappropriate comment a few hours ago, now it's Malik with a dangerous weapon that could harm his rivals child. Not many knew this, except for the group currently there, but seto kaiba had a soft spot for children. Especially ones that weren't living in the right conditions and who were being miss treated. The Final straw was a child living in those conditions while having a disability and a clever mind.
Serenity wheeler held that reason, after she recovered from the eye surgery. And that was why he had his eyes on a certain orphanage with a certain blonde blue-eyed girl that was very intelligent and bright. She was in fact a year older than Jaden and something just told him that those two would get along.
He mentally shook his head feeling Jaden shift uncomfortably as the psychopaths got closer along with the others.
"MALIK! HOW DID YOU GET A GUN PAST SECURITY!" He roared catching Yamis and yugis attention.
"WHAT!" Cried Yugi instantly putting away his deck.
Yami placed his deck back inside a small pouch that hung at his hip and rushed towards the group a ticked off expression on his face, Yugi not far behind him.
"Bakura, " he stated. "Explain now and Malik, give me that!" He snapped, snatching the gun out of Maliks hands and tossing it behind him. His shadow sucking the weapon into the shadow realm.
Bakura had on his signature poker face as he answered. "Well, I wasn't going to come here with out back up, my six cents is on edge and I don't like it, besides Marik gave it to me on our way here and I simply snuck it past security. Pays to be a reincarnated thief."
Before anyone could scold or lecture the two, Jaden and Joey's stomachs took that moment to make themselves known. Everyone diverted their attention to the pair. Jaden was rubbing the back of her head sheepishly while Joey tried not to make eye contact with anybody. His hands absently playing with the clear plastic of the now empty kettle corn bag.
"So... " began Joey sheepishly. "Can we continue this over... Lunch?"
Jaden was in agreement with her uncle Joey. "Food now, argue later!"
Mai looked at them before blurting out. "But Jaden i got you that chocolate ice cream cone a couple of hours ago. How can you still be hungry?!"
"How should I know!"Complained the amethyst tipped brunette throwing up her hands.
Yugi shook his head in disapproval at his friends actions. "Mai, why did you give Jaden chocolate ice cream of all things? You know how hyper she gets."
The blonde got defensive, she placed her hands on her hips. "Well if you want someone to blame then blame the puppy eyes, she gave me that look and I couldn't resist. Plus do you even know how adorable she gets whenever she does that?!"
Yami nodded in agreement. "Unfortunately, I know exactly what you're talking about."
Ryou decided to be the voice of reason. " I don't mean to derail the topic even further from the main subject, but it is getting close to lunchtime and I believe we could all use a bit of a break from the heat. Ra knows I still need it after chasing these two..." He pointed to Marik and Bakura. "around the park all day."
Tea silently agreed with the dark brown eyed boy's statement. He did look a bit sickly and some shade would definitely help along with some rest.
"Well then, I believe we have a private reserved building. That is if Seto was able to get one on time." The blue-eyed brunette joked.
"Of course I did, everyone follow me." He ordered walking off briskly his blue trenchcoat billowing out behind him.
In response Tea rolled her eyes as she watched makuba and Joey rush to catch up with the tall brunette. Everyone else began following them. Pegasus, Yami, Ryou and Tristan keeping a Sharp eye on the two once World dominating determined yamis. The silver haired man had been told of the days earlier events on their arrival to kaiba land and Pegasus was more than displeased at the darker halves actions.
"Kaiba is seriously demanding at times." Commented Mai
Tea snorted as she walked alongside Yugi. He was holding Jaden's freehand as she skipped along happily, winged kuriboh, still in spirit form was happily flying around the two, singing happy birthday. Yugi burst out laughing as the little furball of a duel monster flew through Tristan. The boy in question got goosebumps and cringed. Having a feeling that it was a duel monster that gave him the chills.
"Tell me about it."
Yugi looked at his daughter, sure Jaden looked nothing like he or yami, say for the amethyst tips at the ends of her hair and bangs, but he loved her none the less. Although she did gain two things, one, the Muto shortness and two, 'the adorable innocence of an angel' as his husband would put it.
"Hay, Yugi?"
Said young man looked up to see makuba.
"Yes, what is it Moki?"
The raven haired teen had a curious expression on his face. "Why didn't you and yami Cover your ears when Jaden squealed? I was wondering about that."
The king of Games had a sheepish expression as he laughed nervously. "Well you see... We brought earplugs and we just had a feeling that Jaden would react the way she did."
Makuba stared at the older male not knowing what to say. "Oh..."
"Finally we're here!" complained Marik.
The blonde got withering looks from all of the females. The former assassin huffed in irritation at all the stairs and lectures that he'd been receiving today. But he shifted uncomfortably when seto deliberately turned around slowly, giving him a look that normally had unwanted business partners quaking in their shoes.
The CEO was still ticked off at the fact that a gun managed to get past security. Not to mention he was still irked off about the assassin's comment from earlier.
Yami gave the darker half a calm cool smile his eyes narrowing slightly daring him to say another word. Marik clamped his jaw firmly shut not daring to have the pharaohs wrath upon him... He wasn't that stupid, most of the time anyway.
After that little incident everyone made their way inside the spacious building. Lunch was eaten or more like devoured, in Jaden and Joey's case. The entire group minus for the two had eaten at a more leisurely pace and now they were simply waiting for the two to finish up. While waiting Tea turned to her old childhood friend and asked.
"Hay, Yugi are you sure Jaden isn't Joeys kid?"
Yugi looked at her as if she'd just stolen his dark magician card. "Heaven for bid, no I'm sure of it. Besides you were there at Jaden's birth, remember?"
Tea blushed, slightly embarrassed. "Oh right, I just... It was just something that's been on my mind for a while."
"It's all right." He responded before turning to seto. "Speaking of children, how's the adoption with ryoko going?"
The brunette wiped his mouth with a napkin before responding. "I took a look at the orphanages history and apparently it has a reputation of some less than civilized people. There was once even a smuggling operation involving drugs that took place around 50 years ago before it was stopped due to the law getting suspicious. I'm planning to rebuild the old place, which will take about One to, two years at the latest, with any added delays. I'm currently transferring all of the children and owners to a smaller, yet more stable living environment down the street. With the other paperwork that I'm doing along with running kaiba-Corp it'll take me two years at the latest to retrieve her."
"Well better late than never, I hope those orphans find someone more capable to look after them." Yugi said with some worry for the orphans.
Kaiba chuckled slightly. "The owners of that establishment will be working as janitors in a low paying school. if I have anything to say about it."
Yugi nodded in approval. "Good, maybe they'll learn a thing or two."
After another five minutes of conversation among the group the two bottomless pits known as Joey and Jaden finished stuffing themselves silly. Yugi chuckled as he watched yami wiping away some remaining crumbs off of Jaden's face and hands.
Next came the cake, one of Setos helpers dimmed the lights as another helper brought out the birthday cake. It was a three layered cake with a thin layer of White frosting, large round chocolate balls outlining each layer. It was simple, yet beautiful. 10 candles were placed around the top layer in a perfect circle.
Mai, being One not to miss out on any special moments took pictures along with ryou and to some of the groups surprise Bakura. The thief gave anyone and everyone a withering death glare. When he caught any of the group staring at him for too long.
Yami picked up Jaden in order for her to be level with the candles. Yugi was standing right next to them a smile on his face, winged Kuriboh right next to his master. Mai took the opportunity to snap a quick photo before they all began singing... Except for Bakura, seto and marik. It was something known, but not spoken among the large group, the three previous mentioned couldn't carry a tune to save their lives.
After making a wish everyone clapped and cheered as the lights returned back to normal. Jaden was placed back down on the ground by her dad. Pegasus walked over and retrieved the 10 candles placing them in a plastic bag. Yami, Yugi or anyone else in the group except for Chip, the Winged Kuriboh, couldn't have predicted what happened next.
Jaden practically dragged a puzzled Merik in front of her birthday cake. Quickly scrambling onto a chair the little girl grabbed the older man by his hair and shoved him headfirst into the top lair of her birthday cake. Marik didn't even realize what happened until it was too late.
Everyone stared dumbstruck not expecting this from the little girl who was grinning like a madman. A few of the party members had their mouths wide open, their eyes wide while others had blank expressions. There were a few stifled laughs a few minutes later before someone snorted. That cost a chain reaction, someone else giggled. Then everyone burst out laughing as marik pulled his face out of the cake a shocked expression on his face.
"What was that for princess?" He asked wiping off some of the frosting from his face.
Still laughing Jaden replied with. "Revenge!"
This simple statement seemed to increase the laughter. Makuba and Joey were practically rolling on the floor tears streaming down their faces. Bakura was leaning against the wall his hands on his knees as he kept on laughing at his friends expense. Ryou tried to keep his laughter minimal, but it was quite hard since he accidentally pressed the record button on his phone instead of the photo one. He smirked slightly as he sent it to seto knowing that he'd make good use of it. The blue-eyed CEO stopped his quiet chuckling to check his phone and smirked. He saw that it was a video of marik being shoved into the birthday cake. He would definitely use this as black male.
Yugi and yami looked at their daughter not knowing what to say or do. Pegasus, tea, serenity and Tristan having similar expressions on their faces. Mai just smirked in amusement, the pervert had finally got what he deserved, and buy a 10 year old no less.
The blonde decided to break the odd feeling in the air. "Well then, will just have to remove a bit of the second layer from the cake and I believe we'll have enough for everyone still."
"Right..." Said Yugi, still a bit shocked from his daughters actions.
Once Mai's suggestion on what to do with the cake and everyone else was brought out of whatever stupor they'd been in, The cake was cut. There was indeed enough for everyone and a few comments were exchanged on how delicious it was. Once the table was cleared and cleaned of any dirty dishes and remaining food. It was time for presents.
Makuba and serenity went first. They gave her a customized battle city dueling disc with all of the upgrades from the newer designs. Jaden gave them both a big hug before placing her present on the table.
Seto raised an eyebrow turning to the pair. His suspicion on the past few months had been confirmed. The secret project that they were working on was Jaden's birthday gift.
"So that's what you two were working on for the past few months."
Serenity nodded in reply. "Makuba worked on the technological stuff, while I worked on the design and what materials we should add or discard."
The raven haired boy blushed, embarrassed. "It was nothing really... It was a team effort."
"Yeah, sure..." Teased Tristan.
The pair's blush turn an even darker red color, which went unnoticed by Jaden. Who was being handed her Second gift by Joey. Which was a lifetime pass to kaiba land.
"Tristan stop embarrassing them!" scolded tea.
Jaden wrapped her little arms around Joeys legs. "Thanks uncle Mutt."
Joey frowned and gave a small glare in his boyfriends direction. "This is all setos fault." He grumbled before perking up. "Your welcome Jay."
Yami glanced at Joey's gift and groaned. “A lifetime pass Joey? We're going to regret this."
Yugi rubbed his temple a small smile on his face. As he agreed with his husband. "I knew it, they were going to spoil her today."
Ryou gave her a white floppy eared bunny that was made out of silk and had green eyes. Tristan and marik workEd together to get Jaden a board game that was able to bring the little pieces to life and move on their own. The board could also change into 16 different landscapes. Like the two boys, Mai and Tea both gave Jaden one gift which they worked together on. It was a simple baby blue blanket with gold outlining the edges. Little red stars dotted the baby blue fabric.
Jaden was sure that her face was going to split in two, she was grinning so much. she cherished each and everyone of her gifts that her uncle, Aunts and godparents gave her.
Except for the dagger and poisoned coated sheath that went along with it. That was self-explanatory... Her dad snatched the two objects in question away from her before she could even touch them. And shoved them deep into his black bag, glaring daggers at a certain reincarnated pair.
Ryou and Malik shook their heads and gave their darker halfs disapproving glares.
"We are going to have a long discussion about this Bakura. Don't think I'm forgetting about this incident." Ryou said simply.
"Whatever." Grumbled the thief.
"Well you guys, it's just pegasus, yami, Yugi and seto left." Tea commented.
"Actually," began the dark blue eyed brunette. "I already gave my gift."
Joey and makuba looked at one another before turning back to the CEO. "Huh? What do you mean?"
"Let me ask you this pup, why did the paparazzi not swarm us once we entered kaiba land? Hmm?" seto shot back.
Yamis eyes widened slightly in realization. "That's why you insisted on all of us coming here. You knew that the paparazzi wouldn't come near us if we were here. "
Mai whistled. "Didn't expect that, what a twist."
Seto nodded in confirmation before gesturing to the three who hadn't given their gifts to Jaden yet.
"I'm going to give my gift... To Jaden later." Yugi said a small mischievous smile on his face.
"Yug, what are ya planning?" Joey Asked curious.
"Sorry Joey, I'm not saying a word." He apologized. "You'll have to wait and see once we all get home."
"Aww, party pooper." Pouted serenity crossing her arms.
" Jaden-girl why don't I start." Pegasus said Kneeling down in front of the short 10 year old.
Jaden blinked wondering what her uncle Peggy had planned for her. She bounced on the balls of her feet in anticipation. The silver haired man reached into his red suit and handed her a pack of cards. Jaden was confused, they looked new.
'what so special about them, kuriboh?' Jaden wondered to her duel monster friend.
(why don't you look inside.) replied chip
"All right if you say so." She replied Outloud.
Jaden turned the first card around, then the next. Her dark chocolate brown eyes grew wide as she flipped card after card. There were her own creations along with some extra cards that she recognized from some of her uncles and aunts deck. But they were only 37 cards in total, she noted confused. Shrugging it off she gathered all of her new cards that she created and tackled Pegasus in a hug.
Thank you! thank you! thank you! thank you!" Cried the brunette elated at having her own creations turned into actual cards.
' chip this day can't get any better!' She thought gleefully.
As if to prove her wrong her dad came towards her with a present of his own. After Pegasus got off of the floor and detached himself from her grip. Yami knelt down in front of his daughter holding a medium sized brown box with the lid having a few holes on the top. There was a simple blue ribbon with red sparkles on the front side facing her.
Jadens dark chocolate brown eyes shined with curiosity. What did her dad get her for her birthday? Most outsiders wouldn't know that her dad was a kind and caring person. His features were sharp and his eyes looked scary. But if one looked deep enough and got the time to know him. Then they would know that he was a kind and caring person.
"Go on now open it. There's more than one surprise inside." The reincarnated pharaoh encouraged.
Yami placed the box in front of her, slowly she lifted the lid and peaked inside. A small pink nose bumped her own followed by a soft Black-furred kittens head. The creatures bright green eyes flu open and stared at Jaden. The amethyst tipped brunette stared back and blinked before gently picking up the small black kitten in both of her hands.
The little kitten meowed before a soft glow caught her and everyone else's attention. It was coming from the box, placing the kitten down Jaden reached inside and pulled out a collar that was the perfect size to go around the kittens neck. But that wasn't what everyone was looking at.
"Please, don't tell me that's another millennium item!" complained Tristan throwing his hands up.
"It is." yami answered simply. " something just told me to get this kitten and collar."
"Don't tell me something else is going to try and take over the world!" Bakura snapped annoyed.
"Yeah."Agreed Marik
"Says the once upon a world dominating Yamis." Quipped Pegasus.
"Pegasus, don't you remember duelist kingdom?" Reminded Yugi
The creator of duel monsters coughed. "Touché, Yugi-boy."
The collar which was made out of a gold material was glowing slightly. And in the center of the collar was the eye of Horus.
"Yup, that's a millennium item all right." side Joey. "Man, I just hope we won't have to save the world... Again!"
Yugi was in agreement. "Three times is enough... Then again what else is inside that box love?"
Yami gestured to Jaden. "Hey sweetheart, want to see what else is inside?"
Jaden looked up as she finished placing the collar around the kittens neck. Something urged her to place the odd object on her new furry friend. Her parents had told her about the millennium items and of their abilities. She loved hearing about her dad's and daddy's stories of their past adventures with the rest of their family when they were in high school.
"Ok!" Cheered the little girl happily as she reached inside and pulled out a golden box similar to the one that the millennium puzzle was kept in before it was solved. Said puzzle was around her Daddys neck still to this day.
"Feline and wielder, time and collar, these combined will unveil the darkness inside. Whomever solves me light and purity with The mind and instincts of a Yami. Beware greed shall slay, selfless will intertwine itself with your desires." Yami read aloud.
Jaden took a peek inside the box and saw that it was a bunch of gears and wires. She didn't quite understand the meaning of whatever her dad had said, but she knew one thing, whatever was inside was a puzzle. And she was determined to solve it. Like they say, like father like daughter.
"Umm, Yami are you sure allowing Jaden this other mysterious present is such a good idea. Because from what I'm reading from these hieroglyphics on the side... It seems as if many people have died once they solved this puzzle." Ryou explained with some concern.
Yami only smiled. "Don't worry about a thing I have a strong feeling that the gods wanted me to give this to Jaden."
Seto managed to not roll his eyes. "Here we go again with the mambo jumbo magic stuff."
"Seto be nice." Chided his little brother.
The CEO glanced at his brother and caved in. Knowing that today was a special day for his goddaughter and he wasn't about to ruined it by blathering on about how magic definitely did not exist.
"So guys how about we all play a few more games and go on a few more rides."Suggested tea.
"I'm down!" Cheered Joey.
Everyone else nodded in agreement except for Ryou, Malik and Tristan. The three boys had had enough with babysitting marik and Bakura.
"We're not babysitting those psychopaths again. Pegasus can watch them." Complained Malik looking desperately at the creator of duel monsters.
The older man huffed knowing that no one else would volunteer... Willingly to watch the two.
"Very well," he relented sighing heavily. He grabbed the pair by their wrists and drag them out of the room. "Come along you too and don't think that just because I have one eye that is made out of gold, doesn't mean that it isn't capable of knowing what you two are going to plan next."
"Oh come on!" Complained Bakura " we promise we won't get into any trouble!"
“Yeah right," muttered Tristan. "last time that Promise was made, kaiba had to bail the two of you out of jail."
The rest of their complaints were lost as the three weaved their Way through the crowd of people outside. Seto, the two Hikari's and Tristan along with the kitten that had yet to be given a name stayed inside the lunchroom to get out of the sun and heat. The rest of the group went off in different directions, Mai, tea, Makuba, Joey and serenity going towards the part of the park that had more rights while the Mutou’s went towards the part that had more games.
The rest of the day went without a hitch surprisingly, everything seemed peaceful and perfect. Nobody would've guessed the tragedy that was to befall upon the Mutou's later that night except for Pegasus and isis.
Later that Night~
The large group was now standing outside in the parking lot waiting for setos limos to arrive. Tristan had placed all of Jaden's gifts inside a large bag which was being carried by yami. Jaden was holding on to her daddy's hand while the other held the newly named kitten, pie.The black kitten blended almost perfectly with the surrounding darkness. Minus for a few street lights the parking lot was completely bare of any lighting.
Serenity stretched and yawned."Well today's been a perfect day."
"Yup,"agreed Tristan. "Nothing can ruin this night."
Joey elbowed his taller friend in the ribs. "Don't jinx it. Yug, still hasn't told us what his surprise is."
Yugi laughed at his friends impatients and squeezed his daughters hand tightly. "Sorry Joey, the only one I'm telling right now is Jaden. Besides I left my coat at the bench that we were sitting at while we were waiting for the rest of you guys. so we'll be right back. Come on Jay."
Yami smiled softly at his daughter and husband. He kissed Yugi on the lips before saying. "Don't take too long. I'll call when the limos arrive."
Yugi nodded giving his darker half a loving look before he and jaden walked towards the benches. Which were around the corner of the wall that surrounded kaiba land. They walked around the corner the wall obscuring the daughter and father pair from site.
While walking towards the benches which were a ways off, Jaden made a fake gagging motion while looking up at her daddy. Yugi knew that his daughters antics were all fun and games. Unlike most 10-year-olds Jaden didn't mind her parents obvious affection when in public. Sure, Jaden could do without the kissing on the lips bit, but she didn’t really mind.
Yugi grabbed his domino high school uniform which he used as a coat on more then one occasion. It was a reminder of his adventures and how they started. He didn't take Jaden's hand and walk back towards the group. Instead he sat down and gestured for his daughter to do likewise. Jaden scrambled onto the seat placing pie right next to her. The kitten curled up into a little ball pressing it small body against the young girl side. Yugi and Jaden looked up at the stars not saying a word, the nighttime sky was a favorite of theirs.
The king of games turned as he pulled out a red cloth from his pocket as well as a small silver band. The band was wide in the center, but the material got slightly smaller as it moved away from the center. However the material remained sturdy. And in the center of the band sat snuggly a silver oval shape. Jaden looked at it curiously was this the gift that her daddy wanted to give her in private?
Yugi then wrapped the silk bandanna around her neck. The knotted end in the front while the rest of the fabric was at the back. Next he slipped the metal band onto her right hand and held it up at eye level.
"Daddy?" Jaden asked confused
"This," Yugi began in a soft voice not wanting to break the magical feeling surrounding them. "Is a locket, the only way to open it is by our..."
Jaden's eyes lit up with realization. "Our lullaby."
“Exactly," Yugi exclaimed cheerfully. "Want to sing it together?"
Jaden nodded, The two shifted that way so Jaden was sitting on her daddy's lap, pie resting on top of hers. Yugi held Jaden's hand that had the bracelet around it, the two began to sing softly. As the song was being sung the small silver disk opened up and showed a holographic picture of Yugi and yami smiling at them while holding an infant jaden.
hush little light
and say good night
Dream of two hearts side-by-side
The sun and stars will be your guide tonight
Hush little light
and say good night
Two stars shine as one tonight
So make a wish and close your eyes
And may your wish come true
tonight
Hush little light
Good night
Jaden hugged her daddy tightly after the song ended. The locket closed with a gentle push from her daddy's hand as he hummed. Yugi never got tired of hearing that lullaby or singing it for that matter.
"Thank you..." She whispered not wanting to break the silence.
Yugi hugged her back. He pulled away wrapping his jacket around his daughters shoulders. Jaden picked Pie up and got off of the bench. Yugi stood up as well feeling the shadows stirring, Jaden could feel them too and she knew that the shadows were very bad news.
The older man scanned the area and saw a group of black clothed people a ways off. He scowled, the shadows were strong around these people whomever they were. Yugi could challenge them to a shadow game, but there was Jaden's safety which was at the forefront of his mind. He couldn't endanger his daughter, and if there were shadow games starting to appear again after a decade of them being gone. Then that couldn't be a good sign, something was definitely wrong here.
He pushed Jaden away from him a stern expression on his usually cheerful and carefree face.
" Jaden go back to your father." He ordered. His voice uncharacteristically stern.
Jaden looked at her daddy and frowned not wanting to leave him. Yugi looked at his daughter for a moment before making a decision. Yugi knew if he gave his most powerful cards to his daughter right now. Then he would surely lose the shadow game that was to come. The shadow magic was calling to him, challenging him to duel these people. Yugi could use shadow magic for summoning and other spells, but when it came to a shadow game he had to have his wits about him. Yami could easily take on a shadow game and control the shadows much more easily than he could. Since he was his darker half. But that didn't mean that Yugi wasn't capable of taking care of himself when it came to the shadows.
' Jaden is still learning. The shadows will overwhelm her and possibly injure her. I can't take that risk, I have to give her my dark magician and my dark magician girl. They'll protect her no matter what. Even if I lose, Jaden will be safe.'
Making up his mind Yugi pulled out his deck and handed her three of his cards. knowing that they would be more used to his daughter in the future then with him at the moment.
"These are for you." Yugi Said placing them firmly but gently in her small hand. Not taking his eyes off of the... People coming towards them. The shadows hissing menacingly.
"Trust in the heart of the cards. Jaden no matter what happens I love you and yami with all of my heart. I only wish... I only wish I could've told you sooner." Yugi now had tears swimming in his eyes. As he placed a protective hand on his stomach.
The last gift that he would've gladly told Jaden back home was that she was going to be a big sister. It had only been a month since the Discovery of his pregnancy. At the time there had been a bug going around and thankfully that helped to cover up the surprise. He was so excited to tell everyone that there was going to be another little bundle of joy to add on to their family.
Now? Now he wasn't so sure if he would even survive this fight with his two best monsters out of the game. Let alone his unborn child.
Jaden looked and felt confused and scared as she held the cards and pie tightly. "Daddy what's wrong?"
" I just hope your brother or sister survive this..." Yugi whispered walking away from his daughter not daring to look back. Knowing if he did then he wouldn't be able to go through with this shadow game.
Jaden was now really confused and scared for her daddy. She quickly spread the cards out in her hand and saw that it was her Daddys dark magician, dark magician girl and winged kuriboh. She stared at them for a long time, transfixed. Wondering why her daddy would give her his two most powerful cards and her own personal favorite. Mahado and Mana had become duel monsters back in ancient Egypt, she knew.
They were loyal to her daddy and to the rest of the group, but mainly her parents and herself. Since they were technically the royal family of ancient Egypt. Or they would've been if Egypt still had a monarchy, but that didn't apply to the Spirit realm. In the duel monsters eyes her dad was pharaoh, her daddy queen and herself the princess. Apparently the monarchy still survived in the spirit world and the shadow realm.
A sudden wave of shadow magic filled the air as screams and cries cut through the once peaceful night.
The amethyst tipped brunette looked up as did her small black feline companion. She hadn't realized how long or deep she'd been in her thoughts, until now. The shadows and people that were running after her daddy felt uncomfortable. They didn't feel all that willing to help her or her daddy. The shadows looked more scary and mean. As if they didn't care if she was the pharaoh or queens daughter. Something bad must've happened because her daddy looked really tired.
She knew that shadow games were dangerous and that they could take a lot out of you. But her daddy looked on the verge of collapsing. As he ran towards her his eyes desperate and afraid. He'd never been afraid of the shadows before, why was he afraid now? She didn't have any more time to think. Because her daddy's words cut through her like a knife breaking her momentarily out of her trancelike state.
"Run Jaden! Run!" Yugi ordered
Jaden didn't run, she was frozen on the spot vaguely aware of running footsteps coming towards them. Her eyes were only fixed on her daddy as a hand from one of the figures reached out and wrapped itself around his neck. Her daddy didn't move, he was frozen in place. The figures hand had a tight hold on his neck not letting go. His mouth was opened in a silent scream as his gaze locked with hers. Jaden stared back not blinking vaguely aware of pie hissing and thrashing in her arms.
The black feline hissed in rage as the millennium collar around her neck glowed. It was a warning, if these men dare try anything. Then she'd personally deal with them. But her mistresses hold was tight and firm. There was nothing that she could do unless pie wanted to harm her new mistress, which she most certainly did not. The felines light green eyes followed the four figures coming towards them. She recognized one of them instantly as the pharaoh.
"YUGI!" Cried Yami running even faster sensing the amount of shadow magic which could only mean one thing. A shadow game had been played.
Bakura, Seto and Marik we're right behind him. The white haired man had a knife out while his spiky blond haired comparing it had a gun out ready to shoot at a moments notice. Seto was calling for the police and some of his best security to get onto the scene immediately.
"Unless you want to be homeless by the following day! You will gather a squad of your best men and get down here, right now!" The CEO roared into his phone.
For Jaden everything seemed to happen in slow motion. She could hear her heart pounding in her ears as the man looked at her dad and three godfathers. She stared directly into her daddy's eyes as they filled with love and one final word.
RUN!
She watched along with the others as they picked up their pace. Jaden knew that they wouldn't get there on time, she just kept on staring as her world crumbled in front of her eyes. The figure squeezed her daddy's throat and in a burst of golden light. He vanished into thin air. Just as her family members arrived.
The amethyst tipped brunettes vision swam as she felt herself falling towards the concrete ground. Vaguely aware of strong-arms catching her before her vision faded into darkness...
Jaden gasped as she woke up in a cold sweat. Five years later safe in her bed.