Chapter Text
Chapter 5
"ACHOO!"
Kaiba was sick as a dog, stuck in bed with a cold compress on his forehead. Of all times to be sick. He couldn't do any work at the White Lightning Electronics, nor can he spend time with his brothers. All he could do was lay on the couch in the living room while Kisara whined at not being able to play with her papa or help out at the shop. Autumn was the time of people preparing to cook and preserve the harvest for the cold winters ahead. It also meant more time to be with family, but he couldn’t even muster the energy to get out of bed.
Come on, papa, it's a beautiful day outside! Kisara pouted while she and Kurogane looked outside the window. We wanna play in the leaves or roast sweet potatoes.
I want to have some pumpkin pie as well! Kurogane whined.
“I feel like crap… I can’t take you out like this. I’m not good at moving around at this moment.” Kaiba grumbled, feeling a headache coming on. He had the covers wrapped up to his neck and shivers down his entire body. He didn’t remember the last time he was sick, but he sure as hell didn’t remember it being this bad! Probably because he had staff to help him. Here however, he is relearning what being sick and alone is like.
And man does he hate feeling so weak and helpless…
Papa called for help to arrive. Kurogane mentioned. A few Madams are coming over with soup and medicine as we speak.
"I'd rather be at work, probably curled with a good book and tea right about now," Kaiba muttered. "Why can't I ask my monsters to help?"
Because Vorse Raider tried making a sandwich and sliced the table in half! Kisara giggled.
Kaiba grumbled how his monsters were not helpful just before the trio heard the bell ring. The dragons flew towards the front door and opened it. eagerly bouncing up and to greet a handful of Madams with warm smiles, each holding a basket of food, medicine and gifts. Help is here! Thank you for coming to help daddy! Kurogane chirped.
"Oh it's no trouble at all!" The lead madam said with a sigh. "Call me Dorothy, little ones. We made some of my famous drawbread and some warm soup to help him out. But I must say, this house is full of dust!" Dorothy coughed a little.. "Who does the cleaning around here?"
No one does... Kisara whined. Kurogane and I tried but we broke a vase the last time....
Daddy Joey is busy with his casino and sleeps in the daytime! Kurogane mentioned. He has to keep an eye on people who'd cheat!
"That is a problem," Dorothy said. "Well, thankfully, the Madams and I brought help. Behold the power of the Kuriboh Cleaners!"
A few Madams opened their baskets as numerous furballs with feather dusters and cloths popped up, ready for duty. All while Kaiba had to resist screaming into his pillow.
Oh Obelisk, not those furballs... he groaned as he heard the irritatingly familiar cooing.
The Madams chuckled as Kurogane and Kisara cheered, wagging their tails playfully at the cleaning crew. "These little helpers are always eager to be of service and they do love to be of aid to those who need it." Dorothy said as she turned to the Kuribohs. They were all a bit put off by the state of the house and were itching to get going. "Go on everyone, do your thing. But be careful and mind Mr. Kaiba. He is sick and needs rest." she warned as they nodded and floated off.
The Kuribohs went to work opening drapes, dusting and wiping down all surfaces. Some made sure to gather cobwebs. Others helped the Madams set food on a tray and prepare cups of tea and duelbread as well. Kisara and Kurogane looked in awe at how the furbabies were so dedicated to cleaning.
One by one, the Kuribohs made sure to clean the house from top to bottom, even gathering clothes drying outside. The dragons watched the Kuribohs fold everything, wishing they could also be useful for their sick daddy.
We want to help too! Is there anything we can do? Kurogane pleaded not wanting to just sit idly by watching. Both hatchlings wanted to join in on the activities and prove they could be good spirits to their papa and themselves.
"Who takes care of the gardens?" Martha questioned. "There should be flowers or vegetables you can pick."
Each house had a beginner gardening kit for flowers and vegetables, along with berry bushes. Kisara remembered how their daddies took care of the garden while waiting for the casino to be built. Joey also took cooking lessons as well. He made amazing zucchini bread
Flowers and veggies! Yes yes! Kisara cheered. Let’s go get some for papa!
Joey always said 'a veggie a day keeps the doctor away'! Papa has been very bad and neglecting his veggies so he got sick, Kurogane whined as Kisara giggled. There was a lot of work to do to care for their daddy.
The little dragons flew to the backyard garden and found the basket for gathering veggies. They looked at the eggplants, chili peppers and zucchini already nice and plump, but forgot what Joey said about which ones were ripe. They all looked the same to them. Oh well, might as well gather them all for the nice Madams!
The Madams should know what to do with them if we don't. I say we just pick the ones that smell nice. Kurogane suggested eyeing the peppers.
I think the zucchinis are good enough. I remember Joey said that they ripen fast. Kisara growled, pulling at some vines.
The dragons went to work, using their sense of smell to see if the veggies were ripe. As soon as the basket was full, they flew back inside as they smelled how the kitchen was full of yummy spells and the house sparkled. Then there was Kaiba being comforted by the Kuribohs, one taking his temperature, one who placed a claw on his forehead, and one pouring medicine in a spoon.
"The zucchini and peppers would be perfect for a hot soup." Martha gasped when she saw the veggies. "Thank you very much!"
You’re welcome! Thank you for helping us take care of Papa. Kurogane replied, bouncing up to watch them cook.
Kisara purred, smelling the delicious food being made. Can we try some too? I know it’s for papa but I want to try some. She begged giving them cutesy puppy eyes. Kurogane also shyly asked for a taste just to see if Papa would like it.
"But of course!" Martha smiled, handing the spoon towards them. "Just need to know if it needs a little extra."
The two were given a spoonful of food and the dragons squee at the taste, wagging their tails.
It's very tasty! I don't think it's too spicy either. Joey always said spice is nice but too much is bad for you. Kisara giggled, licking her mouth.
The zucchinis should help balance out some of the spice. At least I think that's what Mama meant. Joey said zucchinis suck up a lot of extra flavors so maybe if it's too spicy they help? I don't get it but it tastes fine. Kurogane commented.
"Oh yes, zucchinis do absorb flavor," Dorothy smiled. "But zucchini is also good for fighting off colds and fevers, along with chili peppers. Now then, we should do something to get Kaiba his medicine...literally."
Kaiba groaned as he put a pillow over his face, not wanting to have a Kuriboh give him his medicine. The Kuribohs pouted and began shouting their names as if that would convince Kaiba to finally take that spoonful.
"I would rather have anyone but those furballs give me medicine. They're hairy and when is the last time they bathed?" he grumbled as the Kuribohs stopped and started bawling. Kurogane and Kisara stared at how mean their papa was to their company. The Madams present just sighed at how stubborn and childish Kaiba was being.
Daddy, that's not very nice. They are very clean and have been very kind to help us care for you and the house! Kisara growled, climbing onto the bed to grab the pillow away.
Kaiba's scowl was nothing to Kurogane who just crawled up to give him a glare, snatching the spoon from a wailing Kuriboh. Wait til we tell Daddy how mean you are being. Joey won't give you any love or cuddles for a month I bet. He deadpanned.
"I said no," Kaiba stated bluntly. "I don't mind sleeping on the couch for a month, just as long as I'm not being spoon-fed by these furballs."
As the Kuribohs were being comforted by the Madams with hugs, the hatchlings stared at him then at each other. Then they suddenly started jumping on Kaiba. The former CEO was too weak to properly get them off as the two kept annoying him further. Too bad, we say yes! Now take your medicine Papa! Kisara growled, bouncing on his stomach.
Kurogane was gentler in his endeavors but was still very annoying as he kept pecking at Kaiba's face with a spoon. It's either us shoving the medicine down your throat or the Kuribohs. Or Joey coming in to force feed you like a baby, and we all know how well that turned out once!
"Get! Off! Of! Me!" Kaiba wheezed, trying to shoo the dragons away. "I do not need Joey to come back while he's busy with his duties at the casino!"
Then take your medicine or we will ask the Madams to call him and tell him how dumb and mean you are being. I'm certain he'll come quickly when he learns how rude you are to the people he asked to come and watch you himself. Kurogane growled, poking him further with the spoon.
"You wouldn't dare," Kaiba muttered. When did these two get so much sass in them? Oh right, Stardust and Hundred Eyes.
I can call the other duel spirits to deliver the news Kurogane said. Baby Dragon needs exercise.
I’m certain if we asked Hundred Eyes and Stardust, they would use the opportunity to stretch their wings, and help us give you a scolding. They have a lot of wisdom and would probably be better at making you take your medicine. If not they can nag Yusei and Kiryu to come over to help. Plus I’m sure the Kuribohs can tell them how mean you were to them. We just want you to feel better quicker. Pick your battles better daddy! Kisara hissed.
Kaiba was not afraid of Yusei. In fact, he liked having someone be an equal in verbally putting people down. "I am. I am not taking medicine from furballs and that is final."
The hatchlings grumbled before turning to Dorothy. Can you please call Daddy Joey here? Papa is being stubborn and dumb. Kisara wailed. Kurogane also whined over their Papa's stupidity
"Oh come on," Dorothy sighed. She can’t believe that once upon a time, she was hired to work at one of his Duel Academies. "After the medicine, we can leave. The hatchlings will keep an eye on you till your brothers return. You can close your eyes and not have to see them spoon feed you. Fair?"
"The sooner you get out of my house the better." Kaiba said flatly, not caring for how dumb he sounded.
The Kuribohs nodded as one placed some cloth over his eyes and another gave him the spoon of medicine. Kaiba silently swallowed the medicine and then pretended to go back to sleep.
Dorothy nodded as she turned to the Kuribohs. "We have done what we can, now we leave him to rest. Remember to gather all our stuff before you go." They nodded as they floated away, happy to have been of aid.
She then glanced at the hatchlings. "Do tell Joey and the boys to watch him when they get back and that we send our regards. Take care now little ones." Kisara and Kurogane nodded as they finally settled on top of Kaiba to rest.
Lastly she addressed the main focus of this ordeal, "Mr. Kaiba, whether or not you appreciate our efforts, we do hope you get well soon. I'm certain Joseph will be a better caretaker than us strangers." she mused as he grunted in acknowledgment.
Kaiba groaned as the door slammed shut. The little hatchlings purred at how silly and stubborn their papa could be. The house was clean, leftover soup ready, and all that could be done was keep an eye on the patient getting better.
You feeling better, papa? Kisara asked.
"As best as I can after all that jumping..." Kaiba grumbled, pulling the pillow to his face as the two dragons laughed.
If you weren't so stubborn we wouldn't have resorted to that! Wait til Daddy hears of this. He'll be very amused. Kurogane giggled, rolling over like a puppy.
Sure enough, Joey was quite amused to learn this story when he returned home with some leftovers from the casino’s buffet, shaking his head. "Would it kill you to swallow your damn pride for five seconds? Unless you want Vorse Raider or Battle Ox to give you your medicine..."
"I rather not imagine that..." Kaiba groaned, turning to his side.
"The place is so clean!" Mokuba gasped, seeing everything sparkle. He could see his face on the marble countertop. "The Kuribohs did all of this?"
"Why can't we have Kuribohs to help out around the house? I’d love to live in a clean house every day." Noah added, causing Kisara to pout a little.
Kurogane and I can help around the house! she said.
“But you two can’t get in the cracks as easily as they can. And your claws are longer and less flexible than theirs.” Mokuba noted. “We do appreciate the help in you putting away the dishes though.”
“If I remember correctly, big brother just hates them because they prevented him from winning against Atem. He holds grudges way too long.” Noah whined.
“Big bro, are you still salty over that?” Mokuba groaned. “You’re always telling me that a good defense is one most often overlooked. You shouldn’t hate them for simply doing what they are supposed to do. Sure I can understand being annoyed with them but actually being mean to them is overkill. You’re being more childish than me and Noah that way.”
"Obelisk the Tormentor's attack should NOT be blocked by a thousand furballs!" Kaiba snapped.
“Dear, quit being a sore loser and take your medicine.” Joey scolded, shoving a spoonful of cherry red syrup in his husband’s mouth. This just was pathetic coming from the former CEO. “You should know better than that by now. After dinner is over, I’m going to call Atem over how horrible you are and to cancel your duels against you as punishment for throwing a hissy fit. Not until you can man up and also give an apology to the Madams and Kuribohs. They came by my request because I would be out for who knows how long and wanted to make sure you get taken care of in my absence.”
Kaiba pouted as he swallowed the medicine. "Anything but that..." He muttered.
"Then you better be on your best behavior or else no dueling to fix your bruised pride for three months! I'm certain your spirits will agree with me seeing as they deeply respect the others, especially Atem and me." Joey huffed.
In another life, the idea of Joey mothering Seto Kaiba would be ridiculous. Yet Joey didn't take any of his husband's BS this time around. Joey placed a hand on Kaiba's forehead. "Good, fever's dropped. But you are going to need a shower later and perhaps some more Vitamin C. And that apology as well."
"They did look like they hadn't bathed for a few days!" Kaiba exclaimed.
"The Kuribohs are furry spirits. Of course they look like they don't bathe. But seeing as you don't care enough to tell the difference that means little to you anyways." Joey huffed. "Kuribohs need to be brushed and cleaned often so that their coat doesn't get tangled, just like one should care for their hair. If you couldn't tell that aside from their normal look then you are just being plain rude. I swear that you really need to understand what it's like to take care of the Kuribohs..."
Then an idea formed in Joey's head. "Say...I think that's a great idea…"
"Oh no. You are not seriously thinking..." Kaiba groaned as he realized what Joey was planning while Mokuba and Noah looked at their older brother with pity.
-----
"Hello!" Joey said, pushing someone towards Yusei and Kiryu a few days later. "I requested my husband to take a day off so he can properly apologize for his rude words towards the Madams and their Kuribohs while they took care of him by helping out with the Kuribohs for the day! He needs some sunshine and exercise after the cold hit him. He also needs to touch grass and hug something cute and fluffy!"
Kiryu laughed seeing the legendary duelist send a scathing death glare his partner's way. "Well I most certainly am not opposed to some extra help if it also serves as a nice lesson in humility~ I'm certain your husband will learn a thing or two about respecting our babies after this. However, are you certain he won't get rowdy with them? I'm not willing to let him help if he can't show a little restraint. I hear he can be rather volatile towards people at times. I'm certain he doesn't want to get on my wife's bad side either."
Yusei gave the brunette a sharp look. Her steel blue eyes cut through Kaiba's cold exterior as he felt a strange tingling in his body. "If he harms my children you can expect an earful from me. Legendary duelist or not, you will show some respect in my house."
Kaiba slowly nodded his head. He heard bits and pieces of Yusei from Yugi. but the stories didn't do Yusei justice. She looked ready to murder him! "G-got it."
"Good!" Kiryu smiled. "First thing you're going to do is help give our Kuribohs a nice~ brushing to get the hay out of their fur!"
Kaiba was silent as Kiryu dragged him to the little furballs rolling around in the hay and having fun, sone snoozing away or even attempting to paint with an artist palette and globs of paint. Oh Exodia, will someone kill him?!
Kiryu clapped as the furballs all looked at them curiously. Their eyes wide and curious at the additional person in their midst. "Children, you have a new caretaker for today. Do be kind with him, Mr. Kaiba is not one for simple affection. He's going to be here for a bit to learn what it's like to care for you all. So be nice and not jump too much around him. Thank you!"
The Kuribohs nodded and cooed in understanding. They proceeded to waddle towards the hired help as Kaiba stared at them awkwardly.
Kiryu handed Kaiba a comb. "Let's see if you can handle this without getting too squeamish. It's the easiest task compared to actually giving them a bath. They get a little restless around water unless you have a bond with them to calm them down."
Kaiba glanced dumbly at the comb. It was no bigger or different than a regular hair comb. But there was no way to half-ass this.
A Magikuriboh approached and Kaiba took the time to remove their hat so he could start combing. The little Kuriboh purred in delight as Kaiba began wondering what they did with all the fur. Weave it into mats or somethings?
Well it didn't matter as the Kuribohs stood in line to get their fur combed until soft and silky and with no tangles. The furballs were on their best behavior, some even giving him a kiss on the cheek as thanks.
It was strange yet cute to watch the normally stoic CEO tending to the Kuribohs. Joey hummed as he stood by along with Yusei and Kiryu to watch him work. “Thank you for letting him do this by the way. Is there anything you two need or would like in the future that I can give? I could ask Atem for some games for your children if you’d like.” He offered.
"Hmm," Yusei hummed. "That is a tough question. We know that Mokuba and Noah are smart for their age and good at hacking and coding. Leo would like some help to program his robots. He has so many new Morphtronics to play with!"
Joey smiled as he thought of Mokuba doing some hacking in his spare time. “That sounds nice, and I’m sure the three would become good friends. The kids could use more playmates. And if they help each other improve, that’s a bonus! Plus with Noah and the twins having green hair, I joke about whether or not they're cousins." Joey chuckled.
Kiryu and Yusei both laughed, “I didn’t think of that but that sounds pretty funny. Leo will get a kick out of that if he ever heard of it.” Kiryu started giggling in amusement.
Yusei hummed, thinking a bit further. “Actually I wonder if Leo and Luna are distant relatives of Kaiba somehow. Maybe not from him directly, but from Noah’s side. We don’t know much about his mother’s side of the family, just his father.” Yusei commented as they all pondered on the potential. Would make sense as to how Leo and Luna were rich enough to live as Tops after all.
“If anything, it may explain how they have an unusual amount of wisdom despite their age. They also don’t know much about their family tree so it could very well be possible. If it is, I don’t doubt there will be a lot of fun stories to tell from both sides.” She mused as they smiled in agreement.
The adults smiled as the Kuribohs jumped for joy and hugged Kaiba, the former CEO doing his best not to scream at being drowned by a sea of floof.
“Kaiba won’t break from being surrounded by ‘fur balls’ will he? I do not want to go through a fiasco if he winds up screaming over their fluffiness.” Kiryu questioned as they all took note of his body language. Kaiba was literally a breath away from yelling at their Kuribabies to leave him far alone.
"I did warn him that if he doesn't make up for it, no dueling for three months," Joey noted. "But just in case, we need to do something to make him not want to strangle them..."
"Should I have Stardust and Hundy observe him?" Yusei offered.
"Or..." Joey chuckled. "How about I ask Atem for a favor..."
…
Minutes later, Kaiba glared at how Atem gained the hearts of numerous Kuribohs and happily brushed their fur or read them picture books. Atem didn't seem out of place with the Kuribohs, giving one a kiss on the head or filing their claws while praising how much they’ve grown.
“Atem is such a natural around them~” Yusei gasped. “I’ve never seen the Kuribohs take to someone so quickly. How does he feel up to playing with our babies once a month? Or even every week or so? I have to know his secret!”
"To be fair, he does use them in his duels," Joey mentioned. "He used one against one of Kaiba's old employees when he wanted a different Deck Master but went along with it. Kuribohs are loyal to Atem and Yugi cause they shower them with care and love, believing in their potential."
As he said this, a Kuribabylon approached him to nuzzle Atem all over. Kaiba's eye twitched at how popular the Pharaoh was with the cuties.
"Okay, calm down," Atem chuckled as he continued reading, the Kuribohs crowding to get a better look. "This is the story of a brave knight fighting to protect his family against the evil wizard. Now the story starts in a faraway kingdom..."
The Kuribohs all cooed in rapt attention, eager to hear Atem tell how good conquered evil and everyone lived happily ever after. Their eyes and fur sparkled in the sun, making them look cuter and sparkly than ever before. Atem put his heart and soul in imitating the characters in the book from the brave knight, the innocent children, the dragon with his prideful roar. The Kuribohs giggled and began imagining them as the heroic knights who were on a grand adventure to save the world.
Kaiba felt his heart burn seeing how easily the Atem mingled with the furballs. He knew he could do better. He just needs to get over himself somehow... Which is to say easier said than done .
Joey knew that the minute Kaiba saw Atem out-do him in something, Kaiba tended to go...overboard. He had to interfere before the CEO did something he would regret. "Hey, take a deep breath. Think it over. You just wanna get some exposure therapy or whatever and slowly open up to the Kuribohs. Just try bonding with one Kuriboh first."
" Fine. I guess I could start with just a normal one. Maybe the white one since it reminds me of Blue Eyes," he grumbled. He then noticed a Kuriboo off in the distance, not interested in Atem’s story time. But when Kaiba approached them, Kuriboo squeaked and flew towards Joey, hiding behind him.
Joey sighed and briefly brought the white Kuriboh into his arms. "This is my husband, little one. He won't hurt you, I promise. Just let him hold you."
Kuriboo tilted their head but allowed Kaiba to pick them up.. Kaiba’s breathing slowed down when he saw Kuriboo sit there calmly.
"See? That wasn't so bad! Now just hold him for a few minutes then you can put him down. Small steps. Think of it like Kisara. For a tiny thing it sure has a lot of potential to be great, or annoying in your case. You just need to see it from a different perspective." Joey advised calmly.
Kaiba paused, remembering the first time he saw Kisara as a baby in his bedroom, asleep amongst some towels, blinking her sapphire eyes at him before flying onto his chest to give him a hug. It surprised him to see the strong dragon he fought with reduced to something small and fragile. He remembered the days where he was getting used to Maiamiland and how he had to tend to her, making sure the house was dragon-proof and he could cook meals for her tiny stomach. Hearing her call him 'papa' almost made him cry ; there was someone out there not his brother who cared for him.
That was why he worked so hard to practice the new magic Maiamiland gifted him, so he could gift Joey his own baby dragon to comfort and love. A way of saying, “Take this, so you know how I feel about learning what it means to love someone.”
"I suppose you're right. It's just so…hard to see them as anything but annoying when they ruin a perfect opportunity." Kaiba grumbled as Joey snorted.
"You need to remember that if that were the case then you should also hold a petty grudge against multiple cards Atem used to delay your wins. Not just the Kuribohs but cards like Big Shield Gardna for his defense, Dark Magician for simply being his ace, or even Slifer for being an obstacle for Obelisk to directly attack! Heck, be mad at Exodia for annihilating your dragons if you want. Your logic for hating the Kuribohs is essentially very bad and childish, I'm sorry dear." Joey tutted as Kaiba felt his face redden in embarrassment. "Besides they're the prototype for Hand Traps; they're supposed to be annoying. You know how many times I've heard the likes of Effect Veiler and Ash Blossom and Joyous Spring causing a lot of grief for duelists?"
Kaiba sighed deeply. He couldn't refute that logic. It didn't make things any better in his opinion of the Kuribohs, but he supposes that's to be expected given his pride. "I see your point, dear. It'll be a while before I can totally lose that feeling though."
Joey smiled. "Well, we have all the time in the world. Maybe you can have the little one join you for work so they become more acquainted with you. You don't have to adopt them if you're not ready. Just take it slow, okay?"
"I know... I just need more time," Kaiba muttered, cradling the Kuriboo in his arms carefully. They looked up to him in wonder, feeling their holder's heart melting away.
Joey placed a hand on Kaiba’s chest. "You have a good heart even if you don't show your emotions very well. It's fine. No one's gonna laugh at you here. Even this little guy wants to see you happy."
The Kuriboo cooed softly as they snuggled into Kaiba’s hold, encouraging Kaiba to give them more affection. He stroked their white fur gently, feeling warmer than he did before. “For all my complaints, thanks…” he whispered.
Joey smiled as he gave his husband a kiss on the cheek. "The little one is shy, so let's think of plans for later when Kisara and Kurogana can become good friends with them. Maybe the little ghosty here can pay us back by cleaning the house while we're gone."
“That should be fine, I think. Apparently our house was in pretty bad shape since you and I started working. Kisara and Kurogane can’t clean as much nor hold things like feather dusters properly to clean. And when Noah and Mokuba are out they can’t help until evening and they’re usually busy with their homework.”
Kuriboo's eyes sparkled wide, wanting a nice home to stay in and new friends as well! And Kuriboo loved to clean and make things all nice and sparkly. Plus they could help Kisara and Kurogane do the best they can in gathering laundry or putting dishes away as well. "Kuriboo Kuri!!!"
Joey chuckled, patting the spirit fondly, “We’ll talk with your parents, small one and see what can be done. Don’t worry, you'll have the chance to explore soon.”
Kuriboo cooed and nuzzled Kaiba's cheek even as the other Kuribohs happily cheered at the end of Atem's story, begging him for just one more.
"Hey Atem, think we can talk to these two for a bit? Thanks for coming too, though I think you'll be coming back again much sooner than you think." Joey mused while Kiryu and Yusei noticed the Kuribohs showing Atem more and more picture books, wanting him to stay even longer.
"It's never a problem for you or my friends, Joey. It was quite nice to see the Kuribohs again. Even after all this time, they are still so fond of me." Atem mused, patting a few Kuribohs who clung to him. Their eyes looked all round and watery, not wanting him to go. “I have to get going, little ones. I’ll come back soon, I promise.”
Kiryu chuckled at the Kuribohs’ antics as he helped his wife pry the Kuribohs off Atem, waving their little claws around as they demanded Atem for one more minute. "Don't worry children, we can schedule more playdates with Atem and Yugi. Now run along, we have some business to discuss." Yusei coaxed gently.
The Kuribohs pouted but they understood. They waved goodbye to Atem who began to head back to take care of business. The former Pharaoh smiled though; it was nice to be around such cuteness again.
"So," Joey began, turning to Kuriboo in Kaiba's arms. "My husband has created a miracle; he's getting along with a Kuriboh."
Kiryu looked in surprise. "...Someone punch me."
Yusei had a teasing smile on her face as Joey and Kaiba felt shivers crawling up their spines. "Sure thing, dear."
SMACK!
"I didn't mean it literally !" Kiryu groaned, rubbing his cheek as Yusei's grin grew wider.
"All's fair in love and war dear~ Be careful what you wish for." she mused as Joey was cracking up in hysterics.
"I think we'll all get along just fine," he snickered, wiping tears from his face as Kaiba held a tight smile.
Kiryu rubbed his cheek. "Okay, I'm not dreaming. Kaiba actually likes Kuribohs! Oh boy this will be a fun gossip amongst the other Guys and the Rare Hunters!"
Kaiba sent him a glare, "You will not ," he growled threateningly as Kiryu held a manic grin.
" Try me daddy~ " he teased before turning serious. "Besides, it would be rude not to share news of your achievement with the others. People will ask about why there is a Kuriboh in your home if Kuriboo is seen there when you made it quite clear you hated them. May as well give them the info they desire before rumors spread. There's only so much people are willing to believe, even if Joey vouches for you otherwise." He pointed out as Kaiba grumbled.
Kuriboo nodded as they floated and perched themselves on Kaiba's shoulder. Kuri kuri! Daddy, kuri!!!
Kaiba glared daggers at Kiryu while Kiryu pet Kuriboo’s head. “Take care of the little guy. He’s a good boy and will listen to what you say. If you want him to be useful or stay out of your way he will. Trust me, if you can handle the hatchlings then you can handle a Kuriboh much easier. They’re pretty easy to care for and less trouble than you’d expect. If he needs to play then Kisara and Kurogane can help with that. He can also help make sure the two don’t burn anything while no one is home.”
"Oh thank goodness," Kaiba said with a sigh. As much as he and Joey try to dragon-proof the house, something always happens to leave scorch marks on the wall or floor. Turns out Kisara had some strong allergies.
"The two will love their friend!" Joey squealed. "And Mokuba and Noah will love someone to help them clean up their room as well. Honestly, poor Noah had trouble folding his clothes!"
"It's a good thing we taught our babies basic household skills like laundry, cleaning and cooking. They do just love being helpful in any way they can~ You don't have to worry as much if you have one. We made sure they were given proper etiquette, social and day-to-day skills." Yusei praised proud of how her children have grown.
Kuriboo floated to Yusei and Kiryu and gave them a hug. Bye bye... they said as Yusei petted them.
"You are always welcome to visit us," Yusei said. "Now play nice with Kisara and Kurogane, okay? No explosions or the like."
Kuriboo nodded as it floated back to perch on Kaiba’s shoulder as Kiryu smiled at the pair. “If you have any questions or concerns please don’t hesitate to call us. We’re always available for further help if needed. Just promise to take care of boo.”
"They need a better name than that," Kaiba muttered.
"Then do it yourself," Kiryu smirked, gears spinning. "I dare ya."
Kaiba looked around nervously, trying to find something to get inspiration from. "Er, I'll get back to you on that."
Kiryu just snorted in amusement. “Let me know when you do so the adoption can truly happen. They’ll need a different name to reflect his new family status.”
Kaiba did not like anyone damaging his pride in anything. He looked up at the clouds being soft and puffy like cotton in the autumn morning. Hmm… "He looks like a cotton ball," Kaiba noted, looking down at the white fluffy Kuriboh. "Does Cotton work for you?"
The Kuriboo now named Cotton cooed happily as they nuzzled Kaiba quickly before settling down again. “There. Happy?” He asked as Kiryu and Yusei quipped a smile.
"Perfect," Yusei smiled. "Now let's sign the adoption papers inside. Your family will love the new addition."
—---
"Welcome home!" Mokuba said, opening the door once school was over. Autumn was the time for things to settle down, and for the red and yellow leaves to land on his hair. He plucked one off of his head. "How was your day…” He looked in shock at seeing a white furball wiping the coffee table down. “...is that a Kuriboh? Is he ours?"
Cotton turned upon hearing a new voice as they paused their cleaning. Kuri? Mokuba just rubbed his eyes blinking thinking he was dreaming.
Joey laughed as Mokuba and then Noah came in slowly. The two looked at the Kuriboo in shock as if they couldn’t believe one was actually here of all places. “Yup! I made Kaiba go to the Kuriboh Corner for a bit as an apology for how mean he was to the Madams and their Kuribohs back when he was sick. We got a lot more accomplished than we expected. So we decided to adopt one to help us around the house, and get Kaiba decently acclimated to Kuribohs in general. Their name is Cotton, by the way.”
"They're small and fluffy..." Noah whispered, seeing the Kuriboh cleaning the floor. "Do Kisara and Kurogane know yet?"
"Nah," Joey smiled. "They were having a nap when we returned so we decided to let them see for themselves. Atem was there too. You should’ve seen him; he was like a Kuriboh magnet!"
The two boys then imagined the Kuribohs magnetized and sticking onto Atem's body like nails to a magnet, until he was drowning in a sea of cooing furballs. And then body slammed by Kuribabylon.
“Did he get smushed by Kuribabylon? Or worse. Did Seto challenge him to anything funny while he was there?” Noah asked, curious as to what happened with Atem. For some reason he had memories of him and Atem dueling and of a Kuriboh biting his arm.
"Nah, Kaiba had to watch Atem be soft and gentle to the Kuribohs, the little cinnamon rolls they are, while he combed their fur and read them fairy tales."
And now the two boys imagined Atem feeding cinnamon rolls to the Kuribohs. Or the Kuribohs rolling around in cinnamon. And Kuribabylon chomping on Atem with a huge cinnamon roll stuck to the horn. The image immediately changed to the two boys hugging the Kuribohs while handing them freshly made cinnamon rolls.
“Can we go see them again? It’s been a while and they’re so cute and fluffy!” Mokuba begged. He spent hours cuddling them when they first entered Maiamiland and Kaiba found him asleep with the Kuribohs purring and keeping him safe.
"Of course," Joey smiled. Then he heard something growl upstairs. "Oh, just in time."
Kisara and Kurogane flew down, yawning wide. Papa, Daddy! Welcome home! Kisara cheered, hugging her papa. We missed you!
Did you have a fun day? Kurogane asked, noticing Cotton’s presence. Did you hire a Kuriboh to clean the house?
"No, you two," Kaiba sighed, seeing Kuriboo float to his side. "This Kuriboh is ours now...meet Cotton."
Kisara and Kurogane gaped in surprise at the Kuriboh and their parents. They then let out happy squeals while bouncing around in joy. Yay a new housemate!!! Can we play with them too?! Kisara asked, wagging her tail eagerly.
"Yes!" Joey said. "Cotton also knows how to take care of the house to make it shine so they will help you in taking care of the chores while we're out. Come on, say hello."
Hi hi! Kisara cheered, cuddling Kuriboo. Don't be afraid, we wanna be your friend!
We're so happy that Papa opened his heart to a Kuriboh! Kurogane added. He was being very mean for no reason.
Kuri Kuri (It’s fine)! Cotton cooed, floating around happily and waving to their new family.
The baby dragons cheered as they chased after Cotton while the four humans smiled at their family growing a bit bigger. Then Kaiba frowned as he realized something. "My other Duel Spirits are going to think I've grown two heads when they see Cotton."
"It's not as bad as my Spirit monsters coming to visit," Noah commented. "I think Paladin of White Dragon and Kaiser Seahorse will be happy at seeing someone cute and cuddly. Speaking of which, why isn't there a Kuriboh dressed up as a dragon? I heard that Kuribohs like to dress up as other Duel Monsters, like Flame Wingman."
Kaiba hummed. “The closest I know is Galactikuriboh which takes after a dragon named Galaxy Eyes. But you’re right, there needs to be a change in that.” He noted, looking at Cotton.
Cotton imagined themselves with the wings and claws of a Blue Eyes white Dragon. Kuri!!! They roared, pretending to huff and puff like a dragon, attacking others with fire or lightning. The baby dragons cooed and nuzzled their little sibling.
You need to have a dragon costume! Maybe we can ask Mai if she knows anyone who can make you one! You can become the first Blue-Eyes White Kuriboh! Kisaga said excitedly.
Kuri!!! Cotton cooed. Oh how cute would they look and how all of the Kuribohs would want costumes for Halloween. Yusei and Kiryu were going to make sure everyone was dressed with a nice costume each. However, given how difficult it would be to keep numerous costumes for Kuribohs, the plan was that the Kuribohs would mix and match costumes every year so that the clothes would last longer and everyone had a chance to dress up as something different.
“That’s right,” Joey noted. “Halloween is coming up. My casino is hosting a cute halloween event as well. I even said I’d have the legendary Kaibaman appear for a show.”
“You did not…” Kaiba blanched. He still had no idea where Mokuba got the motivation to make a Duel Monster that was basically a superhero version of him.
“Oh come on!” Joey grinned. “It’ll be fun. Plus, you’ll have two partners by your side! Isn’t that right, Cotton? Kisara?”
Yay! I wanna be on stage for everyone! Kisara cried and Cotton cooed, giving their best Blue Eyes White Dragon impression to the laughs and cheers of everyone else.
———
“…By then Cotton became the first Kuriboh to make a new hobby out of dressing up as other monsters! It was certainly something to see but the little guy was so cute as Blue Eyes. Course nothing could beat Kisara’s cuteness.” Kiryu giggled.
Yusei nodded before noticing the time on the grandfather clock. Then she frowned. "Kiryu, you're doing that again."
"Doing what again?"
Yusei looked at her husband with tired eyes. "You act like Schereazade, weaving long tales in order to keep me entranced and make me not notice the time. You're scared about Crow and Jack."
“… How can I not be worried dear?” Kiryu sighed, snuggling his wife close. “I may have to be the actual bad guy and break someone’s heart, and I vowed never to do something so painful again. Not if I can help it.” He said remorsefully.
"You aren't breaking someone's heart," Yusei said. "Crow and Jack can still bond as blood brothers; there's nothing wrong with that. Not everyone is paired up to be a Guy and Doll. It's recommended not required ."
“I guess that’s ok. It’s better than actually separating Crow from his husband.” Kiryu thought before turning back to Yusei. “Think their kids can come as easily if that is the case? I don’t want to separate the two from their children, even if Jack becomes an extended uncle.”
"We were able to take Leo, Luna, and Rally as our children after the darkness devoured the souls of their parents," Yusei reminded him. "Our god is kind and willing to listen. He does not force us to worship him."
Yusei reached up to gently brush her husband’s locks. “You have a right to be concerned with the possibilities dear. But remember that not everything is set in stone. There are alternatives to reach the desired outcome. Our God is not so picky as to deny you a chance to do things differently if you converse with him. He will understand your feelings and take them into consideration. Trust in him, Kiryu. He has never led us astray so far, and he wouldn’t deceive us now.” She coaxed.
Kiryu finally felt himself relax, feeling his wife’s gentle touch and hearing her voice of reason. She was always the wise one when it came to matters of the heart. He chuckled softly as he buried his face into smooth black locks. Yesterday it was him comforting her in the quiet of the night. Now the tables have turned and Yusei is the one taking the initiative to comfort her beloved. “You’re right dear. Perhaps I have been overthinking it too much in the wrong direction.
"You do have a tendency to overthink and spiral into worry and despair," Yusei whispered. "It's not your fault and sometimes it can be near impossible to break. But once you find a way to cut the knot, then the possibilities are endless."
“I’m still not fully over that problem, am I?” Kiryu lamented, feeling tired and exhausted as Yusei kissed him gently.
“Not yet, but you have made strides since then. I’m proud of how far you’ve come. Don’t lose hope. One day you’ll fully be freed from your troubles. I’ll be with you always, ready to assist and support you through thick and thin. Through heaven and earth, until the stars meet.” She promised tenderly. "You can also see Miss Ishizu when you return from your mission just in case. Don't be afraid to reach out for help. That's why you have that mark on your neck..." She brushed her fingers over a semi-colon tattoo on Kiryu's neck. "A symbol to state that you wish to continue your life and to take it into your own hands."
“I’ll make one soon, then.” Kiryu promised, tenderly tapping the same tattoo. A reminder of him stating that he will fight for the right to live and be happy. “It’s been a while since my last session and I could use a refresher.”
Yusei nodded. "Come now, time for bed. I wish to make you breakfast in the morning before you head off."
"After you then dear~ The bedroom calls and our beauty sleep awaits us." Kiryu kissed Yusei's hand tenderly as the two finally retreated for the night. The two beaming softly as their love and devotion for one another once again eased them through the worries of the day's events.
The two changed into something more comfortable before falling into bed, cuddling one another. Another day in Paradise ended with everyone asleep. From the dragons to the Kuribohs to their children, all of them counting their blessings in the comfort that was Maiamiland.