It's a tough battle, and Kaiba's first proper test as a Trainer. Mizuchi had retaliated against being blown away, Zephyra had shown off her agile grace, King and Mothra had pitched in where they could....but it came down to Leizi, the Raichu who loved to hang ten.
She'd expertly zapped the Pidgeot to slow it down, dished out her little jolts...and with some evasive maneuvers she'd managed to keep out ahead and best the bird. Kaiba rushed to her side to give her a potion, and there was an immediate effect: she started twirling on her little surfboard-tail all around the arena. That was fun!
Kaiba stepped forward to receive his first Indigo League badge from Falkner, thanked him for the opportunity somewhat awkwardly (hey, still working on the grace thing), then walked back toward Marik with Leizi floating at his side. He smiled at his friend.
"...guess dinner's on me tonight, huh?" A little teasing laugh, but it's clearly an offer.
Marik, Chenzira, and Oba watch the entire battle, eyes glued to the field. Even if Kaiba's still learning, the man knows showmanship no matter what situation he's in. If he were uncertain about anything during his battle, anyone watching would have no idea. The guy's a natural. This is something Marik soon won't forget and it inspires him to train even more. Maybe someday he'll be able to take on the gyms and appear half as confident as Kaiba.
Once the battle is done and Kaiba receives his badge, Marik walks over to meet up with him and laughs, then in what most who truly know him would assume to be an uncharacteristic moment, he throws his arms around the other teen's torso to pull him into an excited hug. Chenzira of course gives him a pat on the head from his perch on his trainer's head. Oba flings himself at King because CONGRATS BIG BROTHER.
"That was... That was incredible! Like something you'd see out of a movie...!" His grin feels so wide it's hurting his face but he's too happy to care. "I knew you could do it!"
Kaiba has his arm half-extended, as if expecting a high five, but this is new. It's nice to have someone to lean on for a minute while the adrenaline filters out, though, so he'll return the hug. It's over...their first match, they did it. And they're in this together. Kaiba, his team, Marik, and his team. He's just starting to understand what that means, and it's actually a pretty nice feeling. Kaiba sighs contentedly, reaching up with one hand to pat Chenzira's.
Meanwhile, King gladly catches Oba and spins him around! That was so much fun! He's so glad his little brother got to see it. They're on the road to being champs someday, and they're gonna prove it to the world. Leizi continues to zip around, static electricity sparking all around her---ah, maybe Kaiba had better make sure she gets outside before she zaps someone. He pulls back with a little fond smile and leads the way out---first top, PokéCenter to get everyone healed up, but thankfully there aren't any critical injuries.
"The thrill of a duel with a strong opponent...it's not just my skill on the line anymore. Our partners are the ones in charge of the battle. And you all exceeded expectations today."
Leizi finally floats close enough for him to reach over and pat her head. He gets a little static electricity and his hair shoots up in every direction, but he laughs it off. She earned it today.
It's an odd sensation that's for sure, especially for Marik when it comes to someone touching his back, but he's far too excited to let it bother him now outside of the slightest hint of him instinctively tensing up at first. A part of him also wonders... is this what it's like to have a true friend? He'd always thought the way Yugi and his gang interacted was childish, weak. But here he is, doing the exact same thing with Kaiba. He's actively invested in seeing the guy do well in this world, see him succeed and become a super-power. Obviously there's perks in it for him but the majority of what he feels is to see good things happen to his friend. Chen beams happily upon being patted and Oba is far too excited being spun around and starts vibrating. Don't worry. He's okay.
Marik follows next to Kaiba as they head to the Poké Center, still grinning widely, even laughing at the static that effects the other teen's hair.
"You were really in synch with your pokémon. If all of your battles are going to be this good I might never leave your side. That even got my adrenaline pumping!"
[Marik's been in town most of the day, oblivious to just who's arrived. He's writing down battle notes and trying to strategize for what he saw at the Violet City Gym, chilling at one of the cafés with Chenzira while Kaiba's at the beach. Deciding it's probably a good time to meet up, he gives him a ring.]
Hey. You still at the beach? Want me to grab you a smoothie or something?
[ He picks up with a little smile. It's still strange having someone whose calls he looks forward to after all this time, but he's rolling with it. ]
If you think you can get it down here before it melts. But---
[ He opens his mouth, hesitates. Everything that had happened to Marik back then had been about his family's duty to the pharaoh, right? That conversation from a few weeks ago is still clear in his mind.
When he does speak, his voice is softer. ]
There's something I have to tell you. Think you can hurry straight here?
[It's still strange even to him. He's certainly not complaining though.
And Kaiba should know by now not to egg on the blonde with time challenges. He might not have his bike but he still prides himself on getting things done well and quickly. Marik looks far too sure of himself, Chen glancing up concerned from his usual spot on his shoulder.]
Of course I can get there before it melts! What flavor do you want?
[He notices shift in tone, his own smile wavering for a second. Kaiba's been with him enough to probably see the slight twitch to the corner of his mouth.
That's a cliché, isn't it? To tell someone they need to talk to them about something and leave them a puddle of anxiety. He's fairly certain he hasn't done anything stupid as of late. Or anything at all since he arrived here. Well, except one thing. Diavolo doesn't know anything about Kaiba so it can't be that...
No, stop it. You can be upfront with him. Stop jumping at shadows that aren't there.]
[It's a bit later in the day. Marik hasn't done or said anything out of the ordinary despite Leizi's little announcement to the network the other day. He knows Kaiba's similar to him and would rather no one make a big deal out of it, so he won't.
Still. He had gotten his friend a present. Having managed to snag the damaged coat from his pack with little notice, Marik snuck off with it a month ago to get it remade at one of the tailor shops in Goldenrod while they were there. It was finally ready and had been delivered to Azalea during their stay there forthe gym challenge. Marik kept it in his pack ever since.
Seeing as they're not doing anything particularly important right now, the Egyptian approaches Kaiba.]
Hey.
[He waits until the other looks up and holds out a nicely wrapped flat box, trying not to look sheepish. Getting items for others from a battle convention is one thing. Getting personalized gifts for someone you consider your best friend is another.]
... Here.
[Kaiba will find... inside the box is a perfect replica of his favorite white trench coat.]
[ Kaiba is unfortunately aware of what day it is, no thanks to Leizi. The Raichu has been given a party hat to wear and a stack of pancakes for dessert, and that's at least kept her occupied today. But it's been quiet on the road other than that, and Kaiba doesn't mind.
Which is why he's shocked when Marik places a present in front of him. It's big...]
Marik, you...really didn't need to...
[ But his team is gathering around the box now, curious. Kaiba sets about unwrapping it, carefully pulling out the piece of himself that had been missing all this time. He stands, folds the short replacement jacket he'd been using for the winter, and slips it on...and it fits perfectly, just like before. He laughs gently, delighted to have it back. ]
[He smiles, puffing up a little with pride. Chen softly claps his hands.]
I have my ways.
[He is a counterfeiter, after all. The coat is the real deal, or at least as true as it can get to Kaiba's original. Marik's smile widens into a grin, giving Leizi a brief glance. Sure, she dropped the info to everyone but at least she shared it with him well before then.]
[ He wishes he had a mirror. They're not near a lake this time, so he'll have to settle for posing...yeah, he'll try a lot of poses to see how it feels. His Pokémon cheer.
And he finally sits back down next to Marik, thinking a moment before reaching over to pat his arm. ]
I'm new to the whole gift thing, but...I definitely wanted to feel normal again. Thank you.
[All he's getting is just a picture of the fluffy hisuian growlithe who is currently curled up with an equally fluffy vulpix in what seems to be a Pokemon center.
That's it, that's the context. Enjoy that, Kaiba.]
They are, both refuse to go into their balls right now, but I'm not complaining. Mhmm! I finally made it to Goldenrod at least, which... seems like an easier place to get settled once things warm up.
[Although the two have been in correspondence throughout his journey, Marik's very happy to have Kaiba return to civilization again after so long. Sure, he knows the brunette is fully capable of taking care of himself but he still worries. As soon as he spots the other Marik rushes over, followed by Oba and Chen.
Before the tomb keeper can throw his arms around his friend, Oba flings himself at Kaiba instead. Right for his face. So he can get sloppy Goomy kisses.]
... Oba! I told you not to jump on him!
[Too busy smooching and nuzzling.
Marik shakes his head before returning his attention to the other.]
How was your trip back down?
Re: Viridian City, after Kaiba's Mt. Silver expedition
[ Well, that was a big jump for a small Goomy. Kaiba sputters, but catches Oba and lets him have his fun for a moment. King's following right behind to lumber over and hug Marik and Chen, and then they switch. King scoops up his baby brother with a little laugh, leaving Seto free to (carefully) hug Marik and Chen. So much slime. ]
It was easier than the way up. Aura took us for a glide down whenever we were outside.
[ The Altaria trills and flaps her wings, eager to swoop in and wipe the slime. She'll get her turn soon. ]
[Marik laughs and happily returns the hug to King, as does Chenzira. It's been too long since he had a good Goodra hug.
There is a lot of slime but he doesn't mind one bit. It's not like he doesn't deal with it every day. He gives Kaiba a hearty pat on the back when it's his turn to exchange hugs with him, grinning.
Oba is practically sobbing from how happy he is to see big brother King! It's been so long!]
That's good. I'm glad you made it back safely.
I've been well. The construction over in Lavender and researching the breeder's book has me pretty busy but things have been going really smoothly.
You need to tell me all about your journey now that we aren't dealing with limited signal over the network! Or, uh. We could do that while we eat if you'd prefer.
[ Hugs all around for his little family. Aura fusses and manages to wipe most of the slime from Seto's cheek, but he has to convince her to relent. Soon enough they're on their way. King carries Oba on his shell, just like old times. ]
Mm. Breeding life suits you more, huh? I've learned more about it while helping Kisara, and you know I'll help you too.
As for us...it was tough. Weeks without being able to resupply, I just managed to ration everything appropriately. But the hardest part was the battles. The wild Pokémon and trainers were the toughest I ever faced, and we lost a good handful of battles. But they're stronger, and I'm proud of them.
[ King murmurs his happy agreement now that he's well-rested and back with his family. ]
[ Kaiba's still busy, preparing for his final gym challenge push, but training's going well with his newer team members. At least he thinks it is. He makes it a habit to check in on their home daily as the breeding project progresses.
So it's time to call Kisara. Ring, ring. ]
...I'm on my way back. Has Kuri made any more holes in the walls?
[Sir. You know the answer to this question when she picks up and she looks a little more frazzled than normal, especially when there is a haxorus currently sitting on Kuri and looking rather annoyed about this fact.
[Kaiba gets a call and when he answers, he's greeted to the sight of Marik pacing angrily, muttering under his breath. Before the other teen can even speak, the tomb keeper whips towards the feed and begins hissing loudly through gritted teeth.]
Can you believe the audacity?! Did you see that interview?! How dare the natives do this to me! I- I'll-
[Kaiba is then treated to a barrage of very angry sounding Arabic words which eventually shifts into ancient Egyptian - and that's when the other teenager can understand him fully thanks to soul and rebirth shenanigans combined with the lessons Marik gave him. It's a very... colorful speech. Filled with very nice things being said about the raceway and the owner.
Really, it's just him cursing very creatively and wishing various curses on everyone. All while pacing madly back and forth. Chen watches him from the futon with a frown. Not even he can blame his trainer for being so upset.
This goes on for about a minute or so before he finally simmers down, panting from his long rant and shaking slightly with angry.]
... Sorry. I needed to get that off my chest. I'm just so... Ghhhhh....
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
September 14th: Zephyr Badge Get!
She'd expertly zapped the Pidgeot to slow it down, dished out her little jolts...and with some evasive maneuvers she'd managed to keep out ahead and best the bird. Kaiba rushed to her side to give her a potion, and there was an immediate effect: she started twirling on her little surfboard-tail all around the arena. That was fun!
Kaiba stepped forward to receive his first Indigo League badge from Falkner, thanked him for the opportunity somewhat awkwardly (hey, still working on the grace thing), then walked back toward Marik with Leizi floating at his side. He smiled at his friend.
"...guess dinner's on me tonight, huh?" A little teasing laugh, but it's clearly an offer.
no subject
Once the battle is done and Kaiba receives his badge, Marik walks over to meet up with him and laughs, then in what most who truly know him would assume to be an uncharacteristic moment, he throws his arms around the other teen's torso to pull him into an excited hug. Chenzira of course gives him a pat on the head from his perch on his trainer's head. Oba flings himself at King because CONGRATS BIG BROTHER.
"That was... That was incredible! Like something you'd see out of a movie...!" His grin feels so wide it's hurting his face but he's too happy to care. "I knew you could do it!"
no subject
Kaiba has his arm half-extended, as if expecting a high five, but this is new. It's nice to have someone to lean on for a minute while the adrenaline filters out, though, so he'll return the hug. It's over...their first match, they did it. And they're in this together. Kaiba, his team, Marik, and his team. He's just starting to understand what that means, and it's actually a pretty nice feeling. Kaiba sighs contentedly, reaching up with one hand to pat Chenzira's.
Meanwhile, King gladly catches Oba and spins him around! That was so much fun! He's so glad his little brother got to see it. They're on the road to being champs someday, and they're gonna prove it to the world. Leizi continues to zip around, static electricity sparking all around her---ah, maybe Kaiba had better make sure she gets outside before she zaps someone. He pulls back with a little fond smile and leads the way out---first top, PokéCenter to get everyone healed up, but thankfully there aren't any critical injuries.
"The thrill of a duel with a strong opponent...it's not just my skill on the line anymore. Our partners are the ones in charge of the battle. And you all exceeded expectations today."
Leizi finally floats close enough for him to reach over and pat her head. He gets a little static electricity and his hair shoots up in every direction, but he laughs it off. She earned it today.
no subject
Marik follows next to Kaiba as they head to the Poké Center, still grinning widely, even laughing at the static that effects the other teen's hair.
"You were really in synch with your pokémon. If all of your battles are going to be this good I might never leave your side. That even got my adrenaline pumping!"
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
cw: child abuse from here on out
(no subject)
cw: adding parental death to that...
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
Sept 26th: Network, after Kaiba's conversation with Atem
Hey. You still at the beach? Want me to grab you a smoothie or something?
no subject
If you think you can get it down here before it melts. But---
[ He opens his mouth, hesitates. Everything that had happened to Marik back then had been about his family's duty to the pharaoh, right? That conversation from a few weeks ago is still clear in his mind.
When he does speak, his voice is softer. ]
There's something I have to tell you. Think you can hurry straight here?
no subject
And Kaiba should know by now not to egg on the blonde with time challenges. He might not have his bike but he still prides himself on getting things done well and quickly. Marik looks far too sure of himself, Chen glancing up concerned from his usual spot on his shoulder.]
Of course I can get there before it melts! What flavor do you want?
[He notices shift in tone, his own smile wavering for a second. Kaiba's been with him enough to probably see the slight twitch to the corner of his mouth.
That's a cliché, isn't it? To tell someone they need to talk to them about something and leave them a puddle of anxiety. He's fairly certain he hasn't done anything stupid as of late. Or anything at all since he arrived here. Well, except one thing. Diavolo doesn't know anything about Kaiba so it can't be that...
No, stop it. You can be upfront with him. Stop jumping at shadows that aren't there.]
Yeah. Is everything alright?
no subject
Mango. And you didn't do anything wrong, we're fine. Just hurry, all right?
(no subject)
(no subject)
1/2
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
October 25th: Birthday Present
Still. He had gotten his friend a present. Having managed to snag the damaged coat from his pack with little notice, Marik snuck off with it a month ago to get it remade at one of the tailor shops in Goldenrod while they were there. It was finally ready and had been delivered to Azalea during their stay there forthe gym challenge. Marik kept it in his pack ever since.
Seeing as they're not doing anything particularly important right now, the Egyptian approaches Kaiba.]
Hey.
[He waits until the other looks up and holds out a nicely wrapped flat box, trying not to look sheepish. Getting items for others from a battle convention is one thing. Getting personalized gifts for someone you consider your best friend is another.]
... Here.
[Kaiba will find... inside the box is a perfect replica of his favorite white trench coat.]
no subject
Which is why he's shocked when Marik places a present in front of him. It's big...]
Marik, you...really didn't need to...
[ But his team is gathering around the box now, curious. Kaiba sets about unwrapping it, carefully pulling out the piece of himself that had been missing all this time. He stands, folds the short replacement jacket he'd been using for the winter, and slips it on...and it fits perfectly, just like before. He laughs gently, delighted to have it back. ]
How did you pull this off?
no subject
[He smiles, puffing up a little with pride. Chen softly claps his hands.]
I have my ways.
[He is a counterfeiter, after all. The coat is the real deal, or at least as true as it can get to Kaiba's original. Marik's smile widens into a grin, giving Leizi a brief glance. Sure, she dropped the info to everyone but at least she shared it with him well before then.]
How does it fit?
no subject
[ He wishes he had a mirror. They're not near a lake this time, so he'll have to settle for posing...yeah, he'll try a lot of poses to see how it feels. His Pokémon cheer.
And he finally sits back down next to Marik, thinking a moment before reaching over to pat his arm. ]
I'm new to the whole gift thing, but...I definitely wanted to feel normal again. Thank you.
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
1/2
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
Text
That's it, that's the context. Enjoy that, Kaiba.]
Text
They look cozy. You found a safe place to wait out the storms too?
no subject
They are, both refuse to go into their balls right now, but I'm not complaining. Mhmm! I finally made it to Goldenrod at least, which... seems like an easier place to get settled once things warm up.
no subject
I live in an apartment nearby. May I stop by and meet them?
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
->action
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
Viridian City, after Kaiba's Mt. Silver expedition
Before the tomb keeper can throw his arms around his friend, Oba flings himself at Kaiba instead. Right for his face. So he can get sloppy Goomy kisses.]
... Oba! I told you not to jump on him!
[Too busy smooching and nuzzling.
Marik shakes his head before returning his attention to the other.]
How was your trip back down?
Re: Viridian City, after Kaiba's Mt. Silver expedition
[ Well, that was a big jump for a small Goomy. Kaiba sputters, but catches Oba and lets him have his fun for a moment. King's following right behind to lumber over and hug Marik and Chen, and then they switch. King scoops up his baby brother with a little laugh, leaving Seto free to (carefully) hug Marik and Chen. So much slime. ]
It was easier than the way up. Aura took us for a glide down whenever we were outside.
[ The Altaria trills and flaps her wings, eager to swoop in and wipe the slime. She'll get her turn soon. ]
How have you been?
no subject
There is a lot of slime but he doesn't mind one bit. It's not like he doesn't deal with it every day. He gives Kaiba a hearty pat on the back when it's his turn to exchange hugs with him, grinning.
Oba is practically sobbing from how happy he is to see big brother King! It's been so long!]
That's good. I'm glad you made it back safely.
I've been well. The construction over in Lavender and researching the breeder's book has me pretty busy but things have been going really smoothly.
You need to tell me all about your journey now that we aren't dealing with limited signal over the network! Or, uh. We could do that while we eat if you'd prefer.
no subject
Mm. Breeding life suits you more, huh? I've learned more about it while helping Kisara, and you know I'll help you too.
As for us...it was tough. Weeks without being able to resupply, I just managed to ration everything appropriately. But the hardest part was the battles. The wild Pokémon and trainers were the toughest I ever faced, and we lost a good handful of battles. But they're stronger, and I'm proud of them.
[ King murmurs his happy agreement now that he's well-rested and back with his family. ]
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
dragon disaster(s)
So it's time to call Kisara. Ring, ring. ]
...I'm on my way back. Has Kuri made any more holes in the walls?
no subject
And a tyrantrum squinting at them.]
Not yet?
no subject
[ The Altaria he's sitting on makes a soft huff, but does her best as she pulls into a dive. Whoa---]
I'll take her out for training, promise. Maybe regular intense exercise will do something.
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
May 7th - After the broadcast - private/video;
Can you believe the audacity?! Did you see that interview?! How dare the natives do this to me! I- I'll-
[Kaiba is then treated to a barrage of very angry sounding Arabic words which eventually shifts into ancient Egyptian - and that's when the other teenager can understand him fully thanks to soul and rebirth shenanigans combined with the lessons Marik gave him. It's a very... colorful speech. Filled with very nice things being said about the raceway and the owner.
Really, it's just him cursing very creatively and wishing various curses on everyone. All while pacing madly back and forth. Chen watches him from the futon with a frown. Not even he can blame his trainer for being so upset.
This goes on for about a minute or so before he finally simmers down, panting from his long rant and shaking slightly with angry.]
... Sorry. I needed to get that off my chest. I'm just so... Ghhhhh....
no subject
King and Sakuma show up at the sound of Uncle Marik in distress, watching with sad eyes. Kaiba reaches over to pet them.]
...I get it. Those scumbags. But we'll have the last laugh. If there's anything I know better than running a business, it's crushing a rival business.