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echidnapower · 4 years

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EP’s FanFiction Master Post

So this is something I should have done a long time ago on my previous account, but better late than never. For those of you who find me, this is going to be a place where you can find all the fics I’ve written over the years. This will be added to over time as I fight to revive my muse.

It’ll be categorized by fandom, so you can quickly find what you do or don’t want to read. Here we go.

Pokemon

A Valentines Dream Come True - It's Valentines Day, and a certain redheaded Gym Leader is finally getting to enjoy it with the boyfriend of her dreams. During their time together, they get into a little discussion about dreams, and Ash doesn't wanna tell her his! So to get him to spill, she tells him her dreams...when she finally learns Ash's dream...will both their dreams come true? - Based on a drawing from @miyatoriaka, which can be found HERE.

AAML: Diamond and Pearl Version - Follow me as I remake the DP episodes in order and in sequence, all so I can add the biggest star besides Ash himself. Misty! Watch her and Ash's love grow as they go on their journey. The absolute LONGEST story in my portfolio, and you will see my writing evolve the longer you go on. Be prepared for a massive read that even now is STILL going.

All I Want For Christmas Is You - It's Christmas time and the Ketchum household is hosting a party with all of Ash's friends. But while Ash and Misty dance around their feelings for each other, another Sensational Sister is about to find herself in a situation she never could have expected, but she'll be darned if she lets it slip through her manicured fingers. (Spinoff of @hollylu-ships-it‘s "A Christmas in Kanto" comic which can be found HERE.

Best Friend - "Why? Why did I have to be so stupid as to make the mistake of falling in love with my best friend?" - Story told in Misty’s POV.

Blessings From Heaven - I'm Ash Ketchum, and I'm getting married today! But how did this come to be? Through God's devine planning is how. Here's my story: I'm marrying Misty. - Warning for religious themes, told in Ash’s POV.

I Miss You - Misty misses Ash terribly, and it's affecting her emotionally as she's more irritable than usual, if that was even possible. But Daisy has a plan to get Ash to come and see Misty again. Will her plan have the desired effect? Or will it cause something she never could've seen coming? - Based on a trio of drawings from the long lost Simply-Nicole. The old art can be found on my dA page HERE, HERE, and HERE.

I’m Misty, and You Are? - Misty tells the story we all know and love...literally. She's telling the story. Based on artwork from the long lost Simply-Nicole, which can be found on my old dA page HERE.

Keep The Faith - This time it's May and Drew getting married, and it takes place in the "Blessings From Heaven" universe. Warning for religious themes.

Looks - It's Ash's birthday and all of his friends have gathered together in the woods to reminisce on the time they spent traveling with their favorite Pokemon Trainer. But something's about to happen that could change the way that Ash and Misty look at each other forever…the question is, is it for the better?

Lovesick - Kenny is feeling strange...he feels like he's sick...but is he really ill? Or is he just lovesick?

Madam Zara - When Misty decides to get experimental with her appearance, she finds herself in the hands of a world-famous beautician named Madam Zara. With most of Misty's makeovers ending less than ideally, will this be the one to shatter the mold? And how will Ash react? - Based on a drawing and idea from @hollylu-ships-it which can be found HERE.

Our Own Sunset - Ash and Misty watch the sunset together, but Misty's bothered by it. - Set in the AAML: Diamond and Pearl version universe.

Pokeshipping Week 2015 - My first time participating in Pokeshipping Week ever, hard to believe it was five years ago.

Pokeshipping Week 2016 - This year of Pokeshipping saw me collab with @hollylu-ships-it, you can see the art she put together on her Tumblr page.

Symptoms of Love - Ash and Tracey are hit by a Vileplume's Stun Spore, and Misty has to fend for herself in order to find a cure. But once she gets Ash back to health, Ash still feels many of the same symptoms from before. Why is that?

Tell Me I’m Pretty - It isn't easy being the youngest sister, especially when your oldest sister is getting married and you're the only one without a date for the once in a lifetime event. Misty can't help but feel like she doesn't measure up somehow, but a surprise visit from her closest friend is sure to make her feel pretty once more. - Inspired by THIS piece from @hollylu-ships-it.

The Road Not Taken - When Ash gets some bad news from home, he goes into a depression and starts doubting both himself and the choices he's made. But luckily, someone is there with him to remind him he's loved and cared about. - Based on yet another drawing from @hollylu-ships-it. Look at it HERE.

Warmth - It's New Years Eve, and the recently married Ash and Misty Ketchum are ready to host their first ever holiday party at their home together, but when a snowstorm makes it so no one can arrive safely, Misty is saddened. But will they really end up spending their New Years Eve alone? Or will surprise visitors warm their hearts?

Super Robot Monkey Team Hyperforce Go

Iron Girl - A robot girl who hates the fact she's a robot...will she realize just how important she is or will she continue to simply wallow in self-pity?

War Between the Living and the Dead - The war between the living and the dead has begun, and the Hyperforce has to go up against their biggest challenge yet. But with help from their allies across the galaxy, they can triumph! Or can they? This is my take on what Season 5 would've been, plugging plotholes and making sense out of a series that left us all hanging.

Buzz Lightyear of Star Command

Reflections of a Legend - Buzz Lightyear Personal Log - Stardate 92893.81. I don't quite know how to explain this, or what I'm feeling, so I guess I'll just start talking and tell you what's on my mind. There's someone I just can't get out of my head, and truthfully, I'm not sure I want to. - This is a first-person dive into Buzz’s character.

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Kim Possible

Angels Watching Over Me - Kim and Ron are going down a dark path that could eventually end in their own destruction...literally, not figuratively. When the Sloth dangles over a cliff that holds their fate in the balance, who will come in their time of need? How about...someone they never could have dreamed? - Based on a true story, warning for religious themes.

Busted - Hana wants cookie, Hana tries to get cookie, Hana gets caught trying to get cookie.

The Running Back - All-star Running back Ron Stoppable is about to face the biggest challenge of his life. He's got just a few seconds to win the championship for the Middleton Mad Dogs, but more importantly to him, he's got just a few seconds to make his girlfriend proud.

The True Meaning - Both Ron and Kim are well aware of the true meaning of Christmas, and that's why they're volunteering at a church's Bethlehem Revisited event to spread the word. Kim's happy to help and all, but...why is Ron calling her such a weird name? - Warning for religious themes.

Trick or Treat - Kim is pulling a trick on Ron, will it be a great treat, or is he about to suffer the wrath of Kim Possible? He has no clue, yet.

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Fillmore!

A Promising Tomorrow - Takes place immediately after the end of the episode "A Forgotten Yesterday." Fillmore's lost two of his old friends now and needless to say, he's tired of losing people to the darkness he was lucky enough to escape from. Luckily, Ingrid's there to show him that his efforts to rehabilitate his delinquent friends haven't exactly gone to waste. There's one person who's benefited.

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Miraculous Ladybug

You’re Loved - Adrien Agreste, Chat Noir, different identities but more alike than he would like to admit. No matter who he becomes at any given time, there's always something very important missing in his life. Will he ever find what he's looking for? Or is it possible he's always had it and never realized it?

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Beyblade

We Are One - Kai gave it his all battling against Brooklyn and his bit-beast Zeus. Now, after his close brush with death, Kai must summon the strength to go and support Tyson before disaster strikes the world. But there's no way he's strong enough to do it on his own...but thankfully, he won't have to, which is what Kai is about to learn. Sister story to "I Can't Lose You."

I Can’t Lose You - A week after Tyson's battle against the evil bit-beast Zeus and his trapped blader Brooklyn, the world is slowly making its way back to normal. Kai managed to survive and is recovering in the hospital, and Tyson is getting some much-deserved rest. But when Kenny comes to tell Tyson that Hilary has quit the team, he loses it, and goes to find out why. My first Beyblade story.

Save a Dance For Me - With the all new BBA launching with a gala to celebrate the occasion, Tyson finds himself in the uncomfortable position of needing to ask someone to be his date. He has someone in mind, but will his greatest beyblading rival get in his way and turn out to be his greatest rival in love?

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Teen Titans

Healing Touch - With several Titans pairing up, the lingering emotions are taking a toll on Raven's empathic senses and causing her to lose control of her own feelings. When she gives in and does something completely crazy, it's up to Beast Boy to pull her out of a dark place and bring her back to the light. - There is accompanying artwork from @hollylu-ships-it HERE and HERE.

More Than a Hero - I've learned a lot of lessons under Batman, he taught me everything I would ever need to know about being a superhero, about being Robin...but Starfire taught me how to be Dick Grayson, and she taught me how to fly. - Story from Robin’s POV, accompanying artwork from @hollylu-ships-it is HERE.

Robin Rising - Life is good for Dick Grayson, he's the leader of a team of superheroes he's blessed enough to call his family, and he's about to turn 18 which he figures will open up a whole new world of possibilities for him. But when his old mentor and "father" calls in, showing that he captured a criminal that had eluded the Titans forever, things get flipped upside-down. - Multichapter fic which is part of a much larger universe, plenty of accompanying artwork can be found over on @hollylu-ships-it‘s account. Go give her a follow and fav.

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Sonic the Hedgehog

A Light in Darkness - A small band of heroes go back in time to try and prevent a cataclysmic event that would eventually destroy all of creation as they knew it. But what is the nature of this threat? How dangerous is it? And how far will they have to go in order to stop it from viciously destroying all they hold dear? Features a deep cast of Sonic characters, and a very special OC owned by @e-vay

Anonymous - For Shadow the Hedgehog, Christmas doesn't mean what it means to his friends and the rest of the world. Instead, he has a self-appointed mission he needs to carry out. But this year, he may find something that he's never really had before, and it could change the way Shadow sees Christmas for the rest of his life.

Christmas Wishes - For ten years, Amy Rose has only wanted one thing for Christmas, and she's finally come to accept the reality that she'll never receive it. But a conversation with Rouge rekindles her hope and her Christmas spirit. Will she be let down again? Or will her one wish finally come true this year? Read to find out. (Sister story to my other story titled "Anonymous")

Comfort In the Storm - When a thunderstorm strikes and leaves Cream quivering in fright, it's up to Tails to find a way to alleviate his crush's fears, and maybe even give her a reason to enjoy thunderstorms instead of fearing them.

Cream Adventure DX: Author’s Cut - A redo of an old story. Cream finds a strange statue in the meadow, and she knows just who to go to to figure out what it is, but she gets more than she bargained for when she goes looking for him. What happens?

Dreams of an Absolution - Silver lays awake at night and reflects on his life in this apocalyptic world Iblis has destroyed...but most of his reflections revolve around a certain fire girl with lavender fur. He wants to be happy with her, but a warzone is a bad place to kindle love, and so every night he lays awake, and dreams of an absolution.

Relations - Knuckles has a problem. He's in love...but...that presents a very unique problem...or does it?

Running to the Point of No Return - Sonic is the fastest thing alive, and Amy is told that that's the biggest obstacle keeping her and Sonic away from each other. But what's she supposed to do to keep up with him, when there's NO ONE fast enough to keep up with him?

Scars - Some things that happen in life leave scars behind that go with us for the rest of our lives. For Miles "Tails" Prower, such a thing happened to him in the depths of space many years ago...the loss of his first true love...though the pain weakens and the scars fade, they never go away completely, and Tails has learned to live with and embrace that fact.

Seven Rings and Five Fingers In Hand - A redo of the final battle in Sonic and the Secret Rings, Sonamy style!

The Heart of Chao - Chao are adorable little creatures, and they make great pets for anyone who's looking for something to take care of. But there's more to chao than just being cute, they're filled with more heart and love than anyone can imagine, and that can sometimes lead to bringing others closer together. Here are just a few stories of that very thing happening to our favorite characters.

Trapped In This Machine - Sonic has seemingly fallen madly in love with Amy, but is this sudden romance truly sincere, or is it only skin deep, hiding something sinister underneath? - Inspired by a drawing from @e-vay, found HERE.

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nerianasims · 3 years

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Billboard #1s 1986

Under the cut.

Dionne & Friends -- "That's What Friends Are For" -- January 18, 1986

While listening to this song, I think it's a very squishy ballad with a nice sentiment that's not for me but is tolerable. Until a certain point. That point is when Elton John has his big part. Dionne Warwick, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight: Great, amazing, I love them, and though their talents are wasted on a song this slight, they make it listenable. Elton John's talents are not wasted on a song this slight. Couldn't they have brought in someone else? There's no way Prince would do something like this, but what about Paul McCartney? Kenny Loggins? Billy Ocean? I guess George Michael was too young for the song's schtick. But I'd take even Lionel Richie over Elton John.

Whitney Houston -- "How Will I Know" -- February 15, 1986

Whitney Houston was an amazing, phenomenally talented singer. And she oversang. Almost all the time. She didn't have to; she knew how to sing with subtlety and grace. But oversinging was (and is) popular, so that's what she did. It means I don't like most of her songs, including this one.

Mr. Mister -- "Kyrie" -- March 1, 1986

I'm not Christian any more, but one can pull inspiration from anywhere. I love the phrase "kyrie eleison." There's something beautiful about that combination of sounds, and there's also something beautiful about the sentiment. The music does not live up to it, unfortunately, though the opening is gorgeous. It also gets super repetitive at the end. It's pretty good, but I want it to be great, and sadly it is not.

Starship -- "Sara" -- March 15, 1986

I'm going to have to listen to "White Rabbit" a dozen times to cleanse this from my brain. A band that used to do stuff like that devolving into making this garbage is extremely depressing. This song starts with music box tinkling which sounds nice. Then saxophone over it which... okay. Just the sax would have been nice, but over the music box it's a little much, but I can keep going with it. Then they add a harmonica layered over it, and it's like I'm listening to a parody of mid-80s easy listening. And then randomly there's a drum crash and the weak voice of this guy comes in along with massive synth, and I start to wonder if I'm being punked. Are we sure this song wasn't a joke?

Heart -- "These Dreams" -- March 22, 1986

I watched the video probably hundreds of times when I was a kid. (On Betamax!) I adore this song. I got to it and went well, this is gonna win 1986, because there's only so much rational distance I can take from what was my favorite pop song when I was 9 years old. This song didn't start my Romantic sensibility, but it spoke to what was already in bloom. "There's something out there I can't resist." We'll see what else is on the list.

Falco -- "Rock Me Amadeus" -- March 29, 1986

I love the movie Amadeus, even though it constitutes a massive slander against poor Salieri. It gets Mozart pretty spot-on though. And I always loved classical music, was surrounded by it from infancy, so I was glad to see its popularity spread by the movie. (Yes, at age nine. I've always been a huge nerd.) This song is really fun and well-made too, though of course I can't understand any of the German lyrics.

Prince -- "Kiss" -- April 19, 1986

Prince sings this almost entirely in falsetto, so one would guess I would hate it, since falsetto usually sends me running in the other direction. One would be wrong. I adore it. Prince was that kind of artist -- he could get away with anything. He was notoriously arrogant, but was it really arrogance when it was just a proper conception of his own abilities? Anyway,

of course "you don't have to be cool to rule my world" deeply spoke to my experiences. I was the most uncool girl in school. Until high school, when somehow my not giving a damn about being cool (as I'd failed at it my whole life) actually helped me.

Also when Prince drops to a low note on the last "kiss," it is incredibly hot.

Robert Palmer -- "Addicted to Love" -- May 3, 1986

I have no idea what I'd think of this song without the video. The video infuriates me. The clone-looking emotionless women aren't "sexualized." No, you have to be treated like a human being on at least some level for that. They are purely objectified, treated literally as blank interchangeable things, with nothing at all inside them. The song is skeevy anyway, though I guess the music's good. But blech.

Pet Shop Boys -- "West End Girls" -- May 10, 1986

I've never liked this song and I've never really understood why. It's the kind of song I felt I should like. But I've always felt (since I noticed it as a teenager) that there was something missing. Now I know why: According to the Stereogum article about it, the band leader doesn't like rock n'roll, and is a pop critic. Oh. Some rock is exactly what this song needs. Without it, it's too cold and removed, and to me sounds smug. Also how can you be a pop critic and not like rock n' roll? That is a wrongness.

Whitney Houston -- "Greatest Love of All" -- May 17, 1986

Whitney Houston doesn't oversing on this song as much as usual, so that's good. Though she still oversings. What's not good are the music and lyrics. The music is bland as can be. Lyrically, it starts with "I believe the children are our future" and there's a verse about "the beauty they possess inside." Blargh.

Then after the first verse there's a total change in theme, going into how the narrator never found anyone to look up to. And that the "greatest love" is loving yourself and only depending on yourself and no one else. I despise this sentiment deep in my bones. Not of loving yourself -- though the song claims that's "easy to achieve," which is bollocks of the first order. Rather that you should only depend on yourself. That's literally inhuman. We are social creatures; without depending on each other, we are adrift in nothingness. So yeah. I hate this song.

Madonna -- "Live to Tell" -- June 7, 1986

This song gives me chills. The music is gorgeous and perfectly suited to the lyrics. I listened to the "True Blue" tape many, many times from about age 10 until, um. Well, I listened to the album on Spotify the other night. This song is the standout for me on it. I always thought that Madonna was singing about having been emotionally abused as a child herself. That is apparently not it at all; it's a song for a movie soundtrack. But to me it's about familial abuse. And always has been. It felt like she was singing for me. "The light that you could never see/ It shines inside, you can't take that from me."

Patti LaBelle & Michael McDonald -- "On My Own" -- June 14, 1986

Not the Les Miz song, sadly. It's about how the narrators are breaking up. Patti LaBelle is great, but I am so bored. Michael McDonald isn't bad, but he can't match Patti LaBelle, and even she can't stop this song from being deadly dull. It took me like 5 tries to be able to listen to the whole thing.

Billy Ocean -- "There'll Be Sad Songs (To Make You Cry)" -- July 5, 1986

What makes someone decide to put a parenthetical in a song title? Is there a formula? Anyway, he's singing (in his head) to someone he wants to be with. The "sad songs" are not actually supposed to be sad songs, it seems, but love songs that make him think of her. I guess. I don't know. Something about this song is turning my brain to mush. The tinkly parts and the violins are nice I guess. But I'm going to fall asleep at my desk if I try to listen to this song any more.

Simply Red -- "Holding Back the Years" -- July 12, 1986

Just looking at the lyrics, this song should be deeply depressing. He feels that so far his life has been a waste, but somehow he'll "keep holding on." There's a beautiful saxophone part. The song is not depressing -- it's Blues. It's terribly sad and cathartic at the same time. I'm not thrilled with Mick Hucknall's voice though.

Genesis -- "Invisible Touch" -- July 19, 1986

I did not pay attention to any of the lyrics of this song except the chorus until just now. I thought it was about a woman with an "invisible touch" whom people fall for left and right, and that's true. What I did not know was that she was supposed to be doing it on purpose. Which, okay, sort of like "Maneater"? Except no, because "Well I don't really know her, I only know her name." Then how do you know this about her?! He sounds like a stalker. Or this sounds like a first draft. The music is good enough, and the chorus could make for a good song around it lyrically, if they had bothered with that.

Peter Gabriel -- "Sledgehammer" -- July 26, 1986

I used to think this song was meant to be about a guy who was going to basically tank for you (and also have sex with you.) Well, apparently he wants to solve only one of your problems in particular: namely, that of your lacking orgasms. The "sledgehammer" is supposed to be a metaphor for his dick. Ow? Whatever, I'm going with my own interpretation of it. I like the beginning flute part, which is actually from a keyboard demo. It's a fun song, but it gets pretty repetitive.

Peter Cetera -- "Glory of Love" -- August 2, 1986

"We did it all for the glory of love" is a sentiment I usually adore. But this song is a limp dishrag. Did what for the glory of love? Why does she seem to be thinking of leaving him? And Peter Cetera being "the man who will fight for your honor" is a hilarious idea. His voice is nasally and he sounds like a faker. He comes off as someone who only vaguely understands the small-r romance of flowers and chocolates, and not at all as someone who understands the Romance of a castle far away. Bryan Adams did much better with this kind of thing in the 90s.

Madonna -- "Papa Don't Preach" -- August 16, 1986

The article I'm reading about this says there was a controversy over this song regarding abortion somehow, with left-wingers being upset that the narrator didn't consider it and right-wingers praising her for keeping the baby. Maybe in California. That is not what I remember in Michigan, and I do clearly remember a controversy. What I remember is right-wingers being absolutely incensed that Madonna was singing about the pregnancy of an unmarried young woman (or teenager, though I always felt the narrator was college-age) at all. I also remember one on the radio being angry that this working class girl was keeping her baby rather than giving it up to a rich family.

It is a really good song. Actually it is kinda Romantic. The narrator's in a dramatic life-changing situation, she has to choose whether or not to marry a guy before she's sure she's ready, and there are intense violins. Her father disapproves of her boyfriend, but she needs her father's advice. She's also not ashamed. She's in a difficult situation, but there's no guilt. Good. And this is what made so many people so angry with Madonna, and what was so deeply important about Madonna. She refused to even pretend to be guilty about sex in her music, ever.

Steve Winwood -- "Higher Love" -- August 30, 1986

I think this is about wanting to believe in a god. But then there's "I could make the sun shine from pure desire." Maybe it's about Aphrodite. Chaka Khan sings on this song, and she's obviously the best thing about it. It's not great, but it's enjoyable enough.

Bananarama -- "Venus" -- September 6, 1986

Speaking of higher loves. Bananarama are obviously having a wonderful time singing this 80s dance version of this song, and who wouldn't? The "she's got it" of the song of course also means "I've got it", hence "I'm your Venus." And Bananarama leans into that in a really fun way. It's a great version of a great song.

Berlin -- "Take My Breath Away" -- September 13, 1986

This is the big love ballad from Top Gun. I have managed to escape ever seeing Top Gun, though I've picked up some ideas about it. Mainly that it's a commercial for the U.S. air force, that Tom Cruise looks blank in it a lot, and that there's some kind of volleyball scene. Before I knew it was a commercial for the U.S. air force and therefore avoided it, I avoided it because of Tom Cruise. He has always been a total cold shower to me. As I've said since I started noticing these things (which was right around 1986), he reminds me of a Ken doll.

So the song. It sounds more like it belongs with a fantasy movie than in a modern military movie. Though I guess Top Gun is a fantasy too. But not the kind in which people usually look through hourglasses. It's a big, emotional ballad. I like it but I don't love it. If it weren't associated with Top Gun possibly I'd like it more.

Huey Lewis and the News -- "Stuck With You" -- September 20, 1986

This is a middle-aged man singing to his middle-aged wife about how he's "happy to be stuck with you." It's like if dad jokes became sentient and got married. It's cute and bouncy, and honestly pretty true-to-life. You can't be all higher love all the time.

Janet Jackson -- "When I Think of You" -- October 11, 1986

If "Nasty" had gotten to #1, it would have taken my "best of the year" spot. Sadly, it didn't, and this was Janet Jackson's first #1. "When I Think of You" is a really good song though. Janet Jackson is the best of the Jacksons and always was in every way. I think she was even a better dancer than Michael. (I don't know about "is", considering her age, but she's still a better artist.) "When I Think of You" is a very simple love song lyrically. When her "world gets crazy," she thinks of you to calm down. If this were easy listening, it would be unbearable. But it's a dance song, and a fun one. There's some great bass and interesting syncopation.

Cyndi Lauper -- "True Colors" -- October 25, 1986

This is such a beautiful song. It's helped me through some rough times ever since it came out -- the tape it's on was one of my first. It's straightforward in both lyrics and music, so there's not much to say about it besides that it's a great song.

Boston -- "Amanda" -- November 8, 1986

I am listening to this song now, and I don't recognize it. When they get to the chorus near the end it sounds kinda familiar, but I'm not sure that's because I recognize this song in particular, or because it sounds like every song like this in existence was put in a blender and this is the resulting slurry. Either this wasn't played on the radio much where I lived, or I changed the channel as soon as it was. It wants to be a power ballad, but it's an absolute nothing.

The Human League -- "Human" -- November 22, 1986

I guess it's an apology song, but "I'm only human" doesn't sit right with me as a real apology for something truly bad. He cheated on her. Which I do consider forgivable, depending on the circumstances and apology, but his is that she wasn't around so he was driven to cheat on her. And he should forgive her because he's "only human." Then the woman comes in and says she cheated on him too when they were apart, because she's human too. That makes the song tolerable. Maybe they need an open relationship. They still both sound whiny. And I don't like the music. It's boring and repetitive.

Bon Jovi -- "You Give Love a Bad Name" -- November 29, 1986

SHOT THROUGH THE HEART! AND YOU'RE TO BLAME! I love this song. Also I thought Jon Bon Jovi was hot at the time, though nowadays that 80s perm is hilarious. His voice is still hot though (so is he nowadays, grey hair and all, with his more contemporary haircut.) This song got plenty of radio play. Still does. And deserves it. It's technically a heartbreak song I suppose, but the video gets it right: It's Bon Jovi goofing around on stage in front of a joyous crowd. I love the bass, I love the guitars, and I did mention Jon Bon Jovi's voice is hot, right? Voices over looks every time for me, though both together is obviously welcome.

Peter Cetera and Amy Grant -- "The Next Time I Fall" -- December 6, 1986

Christian fundies had a deep and abiding hatred for Peter Cetera. Maybe they still do. I encountered this multiple times online over the years, and finally looked it up -- it's because of this song. Amy Grant used to be a singer of Christian music only. Then she had a pop hit with this dweeb, and certain usual suspects decided she was being corrupted by him.

The only way this song could corrupt anyone is if they started smashing things because they were so bored. The narrators have been heartbroken but are gonna try it again with each other, and it's as passionless as possible. Amy Grant's a better singer than Cetera by a ways, as she does not sing through her nose, but it's not like anyone could elevate this sludge.

Bruce Hornsby and the Range -- "The Way It Is" -- December 13, 1986

People are racist and treat poor people like shit. And people say that's just the way it is, but don't you believe them. This is true. We have come incredibly far, and things change. It's a good sermon, but as a song it's too simplistic for me, both musically and lyrically. I agree with the sentiment, but it's not a song I really want to listen to either.

The Bangles -- "Walk Like an Egyptian" -- December 20, 1986

Of course I loved this song when I was a kid, all the kids did. But I was already a Bangles fan. I had their first tape, which is their best and has the least pop sheen. I would prefer "Hero Takes a Fall" had been a big hit, but oh well. "Walk Like an Egyptian" is still fun.

BEST OF 1986 -- "These Dreams" by Heart WORST OF 1986 -- "Sara" by Starship

#billboard number ones

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crazy-talk · 5 years

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As promised, here’s a little large compilation sort of thing of little moments and memories from SBFP that you folks have submitted. I really appreciate everything that you’ve all submitted, it’s pretty clear that SBFP helped and entertained a whole lot of people - in equal amounts.

Here’s some SBFP moments:

Grand Wizard Wakka

The Shitstorm VII Woolie haunting plan

“What a mysterious game.”

MY HOUSE

“Wait, what’s my objectives?” “You don’t haaave any objectives!”

Qui Gon Chi

“Whah happuh?” “das whah happuh!”

“No, shut up though.”

The Baby

“Shut the fuck up about Face/Off!”

“Bleetzboll...”

The Sadness Trilogy

“KIDS LOVE THE FOCKIN’ DEVIL!”

Pat thinking he’s dying because he sat on a chocolate bar

Kenpachi Ramasama

Shit-kids

“Whut deh fuhk? Is he using duh bät room?”

Mr. Shakedown/Kenny/Quint/Eric Sparrow

TAR-KUS! TAR-KUS! TAR-KUS!

“Love is just chemicals.”

Pat eating candy alone in a closet

Matt throwing the fire axe

“Oh no, I make’da bad game!”

“Hey, is that the script?”

“JAAASON!”

“It’s fine.”

The RE2 valve noise

“Yeyeyeye!”

Woolie’s atomic purple Gameboy

“Eyy, what’s goin’ on, man? You ready to play?”

And some SBFP memories. Some of these may be a bit emotionally heavy so feel free to skip this part:

the sbfp lp of yakuza 0 got me and my best friend into the yakuza series. we watched it together and we still laugh about matt falling to pieces over "never-before-seen results" - Anon

the best friends have had such an influence on my speech patterns that i've infected people who've never watched them before. half of my friend group says super big [x] and porked up now - Anon

SBFP introduced me to so many games that ended up becoming personal favorites of mine, like Deadly Premonition and the Silent Hill series. Their videos became a way for me to spend time with some of my own best friends as well! - captainofthestars

theres one particular moment that will always resonate with me - in their devil may cry lets play, i cant remember if it was 1 or 3, they talk about someone in the comments who mentioned that they had to beat devil may cry with items due to having a physical disability of some kind, i cant remember which. they talked about how it was awesome that he managed to even beat the game like that, and, personally, as someone who struggles with motorskills issues this made me very happy, as a devil may cry fan. theres a lot of other great moments from the tbfp, both funny and genuine that made me happy, but this one in particular stuck with me a lot. - krillfingers

I'll never stop making "pull out king" jokes thanks to sbfp - venerabledreadnought

I remember the first Shitstorm that made me actually have to get up and sit in a brightly lit room with other people in it, Anatomy. It's become a Halloween tradition to watch it every year since, though watching a whole bunch of Shitstorm also became one. As someone who started watching at their second machinma ep, it's not a lie to say that they made up the entirety of my teenage years. I will miss the channel dearly, but I look forward to the future. - duke-nitro

My friends and I have been watching The Zaibatsu for so long that we have accidentally adopted a bunch of their phrases like going “yeahyeahyeahyeahyeah” or saying someone “go down.” Also, despite us not knowing each other when we became fans, we all somehow began with their Man vs Wild let’s play and I even made friends with one of them because I quoted something from it at work. Favorite moment probably has to be the entire Omikron playthrough, I can’t pick a single moment. It was a beautiful trainwreck start to finish and I still put on the playlist from time to time while I’m doing other things. I swear I could gently fall asleep to the sounds of Pat screaming about the shooter segments. shogun-ceanataur

Persona 4 and Kenpachi Ramasama were my favourite. I found the name itself hilarious, but how they kept on referring to him as the full name in different little bits and tones never failed to make me laugh. That “See you later, fuckers!” part from when you see Yosuke was also hilarious. I’m not sure if that video is the oeigin, but it’s why I’ve integrated that phrase into my everyday life. Goddamn what a fun, memorable episode. - whatthehellisthisevenfor

tbfp got me through being homeless in my car twice. every time that I wanted to give up, to just stop trying, i'd turn on whatever new video they had out and it brightened up my life. my mom, who was with me, came to love them to, she used to wait to hear them to relax. i have so many memories of that time, and i don't fully relax or even eat on long days until I've turned their videos on. my favorite quote is still "mistakes into miracles". its a rly motivating quote imo. - c0l0c4k3s

I always loved the Silent Hill 2 LP. I never played it when it came out - all I knew was that it was a horror game, and I hated horror at the time. But when the LP came around, I knew a bit more about the game and I was intrigued. Seeing the game, meeting the characters, hearing Pat disect the story and themes for Matt, I loved it all. I was fascinated, and still am. I will still watch the LP every few months, and I call SH2 one of my favorite games, even though I still haven’t played it.Thanks, SBFP, for all the great moments and the great memories. I wish you all well. - iamthewanderingbard

The best friends are what got me so invested in the Dark souls games, and what motivated me to get through DS2. Even if I say 'You see what i mean' unironically a lot, and go 'You. Did it.' - awkwardmuses

I got into Super Best Friends from a post on the Twin Perfect forum, that linked to the Silent Hill Downpour lp, and never looked back. Their let's plays brought me so much joy back when I wasn't in the best living or health situation, and continue to do so. My favourite let's plays have to be Eternal Darkness and the Shitstorms; I always go back to those when depression hits, or for any reasons. I'll miss them together, but I'll always have those delicious delicious memories. - mrjaffesxeldritchtwin

The Best Friends Play are the reason I end so many sentences with "though". I first found them when a friend recommended the Best Sisters Play MLP animations, and I've loved them ever since. I know it's used as a joke, but I really believe they've earned the title of HYPEST GAMEPLAY ON YOUTUBE. I love all of their David Cage playthroughs, and I adore how many plot-points they guess during Beyond: Two Souls. I love how, when they play a game they really love, they show so much knowledge and care. - mads-in-zero

It was incredibly amusing and oddly touching that the Zaibatsu created this hate circle of David Cage and his godawful games. Even before Detroit’s release, the best friends AND the fanbase were ready to hate it because as a collective, we just latched onto that one thing to hate/make fun of. And we go all out on it together like some fucked up family, and I love it. - missinghmmingbird

I can’t help but shrug off every minor inconvenience and major issue in my life with “it’s fine” thanks to Gun Jumper Liam. Thanks to Matt and Woolie supporting Skullgirls like no one else on the internet, I really got into it and fighting games as a whole. I’m not good at them, but oh boy do I love them.And if it wasn’t for Pat, I don’t think I’d ever have touched a Yakuza or Persona game.These guys affected my life more than any other individual or group on the internet ever really has. - dklordg

The first Best Friends video I ever watched was Portal 2. That short LP had me in stitches. I'd never laughed so hard. I've been a huge fan since then. These guys where the ones that introduced me to LPs and made me realize that you can have fun watching other people bumble through games. TheSw1tcher has been one of my favorite channels on YouTube since I began watching. It gave me something to look forward to. I got through high school, and essentially grew up, watching these videos. There are so many catchphrases and memes I will never forget and will always make me smile. I absolutely say stuff like “whah happun?” and “shit-kids” all the time. The Deadly Premonition and Detroit: Become Human playthroughs are wonderful gems in my eyes. It’s amazing how a group of guys can get so many people to collectively love and bash certain games. We’re all on the same page, having a blast like a huge group of friends at a slumber party. Matt, Pat, Woolie, Liam, Billy, and everyone who involved themselves with the Super Best Friends are the absolute best. They gave me a chance to relax and laugh along with some familiar voices. Although it's sad they are going their separate ways, I totally respect that fact. They have my love and support. I wish them nothing but success and happiness moving forward. I'll be watching! And a note to my fellow fans: This has been a wild ride. I'm glad I got to enjoy it with you. You are all fantastic people. - fablesamongus

#Text post #Comp post #super best friends play #SBFP #Two Best Friends Play #TBFP

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snkpolls · 6 years

Text

SnK S3E2 Poll Results (Anime Only Viewer Version)

The poll closed with 208 responses. Thank you to everyone who participated!

Please note this is the anime only viewer version of the poll. Manga readers, please click here for the results of the manga reader poll!

Rate the episode

Without much room for argument, the majority of respondents have voted in favor of this episode being amazing!

Really liked it. The Levi vs MPs action scene was amazing!

Rate the ending

Over half of voters loved the ending, while a small 2% could have done without it.

How do you feel about Linked Horizon performing the ending this time?

As expected, over half of the fandom is happy that they are back, regardless if it’s the ED or the OP. Attack on Titan just wouldn’t feel the same without them, would it?

A surprise to be sure, but a welcome one

Awful

Which one is your favorite ED?

The largest group of voters agree that the new ending outshines the others, with great escape langing in second. Yuugure no Tori is barely beat out by season one’s first ending.

Which scene(s) did you like best?

Levi vs. Kenny/MP’s unsurprisingly topped the votes by over double of everything else. With it’s stellar animation and high stakes action, it’s no surprise that it had major appeal to the audience! The scene that came in second was Kenny saying Levi’s full name out loud for the first time.

Even though I love mikasa and all, They should’ve spent less time on Mikasa and more time on the others

Jean <3

levi is 11/10

Armin kawaii >3<

Mikasa was amazing.

KYEEEENNYYYYYYYY

On a scale of 1-5 how much did the animation during the Levi vs. MP chase blow you away?

It took the animation staff one month to create this 30 second sequence and their efforts really paid off. The scene was a huge hit, and both anime and manga fans were blown away by the results!

Really liked it. The Levi vs MPs action scene was amazing!

On a scale of 1-5, how daddy is Kenny?

While there’s definitely some mixed feelings about whether Kenny is really daddy material, more voters than not wouldn’t mind him being theirs.

How did Erwin light the match with one hand?

Will the mystery ever be solved? We don’t know, but the majority of voters are quite certain that Erwin’s chiseled jawline may have something to do with it!

How excited are you to see kidwin’s eyebrow game next week?

The majority of respondents are excited to see adorable kidwin in the next episode!

Is your heart ready for Historia's childhood flashback?

75% of respondents are excited to finally learn Historia’s backstory. Some of you are even sure you’re going to cry! We hope that it meets your expectations!

On a scale of 1 - 5, how much do you relate to Bartender-kun?

We all have a little bit of anxious eek’ing bartender inside of us! Well, all but 7% of us anyway.

Would you want Levi as your motivational counselor?

Nearly 75% of voters appreciate Levi’s realism and bluntness and wouldn’t mind a little straightforward advice of their own. About 25% of voters would rather be approached in a different way.

Does Erwin have a gambling problem?

71% are confident that Erwin’s tendency to gamble is totally fine and the best option for our main cast. 28% believe that gamblers anonymous would be a good choice.

What was your reaction to “Levi Ackerman?”

Unfortunately it was unavoidable for the vast majority of voters to avoid this major spoiler. Although there are a good 23% of voters who may have managed to avoid this spoiler all this time and were quite perplexed at the revelation. We are glad to see that some of you still managed to be surprised!

I didn't even realize

Cardi b laugh

How do you feel about Armin shooting with no hesitation?

Nearly 50% of respondents were really happy with this development, finding it a cool thing to add to Armin’s character. Meanwhile, a combined 42% either have mixed feelings or feel badly for Armin. We hope you keep looking forward to his development from here!

A Slap On Titan has ruined Armin for me, I expected him to enjoy it.

See, that's how you do character development.

With more of Kenny, what is your opinion of him now?

Most voters seem to be in favor of Kenny and are looking forward to seeing more of him. The general consensus that nearly 50% of us can agree on is that BANG BANG was indeed a memorable moment we can all appreciate.

I still hate him, but you have to admit that him going into the saloom with the whole "Bang Bang" sound effect was so hilarious!

Interesting how he flips from very serious to "Yahoo!" and back.

Hilarious and BANG BANG!!!

Levi mentions there is no right or wrong with what they did. Do you think our protagonists killing people was the right choice?

Most responders aren’t as concerned about the morality of the action, but rather that they had no other choice if they were to defend themselves from the enemy. There is a grey area there that the characters have to embrace if they want to survive. As manga readers, the poll hosts would love for you guys to please keep considering this theme moving forward! It only continues to get deeper and more exciting to watch!

Ain't a question of right or wrong, it's a question of kill or be killed.

I agree with the first three points. I think if i was in the same predicament as the Survey corps, I legitimately would have done the same to survive.

How about torturing the MPs for information?

The largest group of voters believe that the torture of Sannes was justified in order to get information. 25% believe that Sannes had it coming to for all the pain he’s caused others. A smaller percentage are a bit horrified by Levi and Hange’s actions, however.

I had mixed feelings, but the sixth option, the first and the second option. They werent talking, and Hanji and Levi had to do something to save Historia and Eren.

I'm mildly horrified they actually seemed to like it

Still no right or wrong

Armin says that they are no longer good people. Do you agree?

While “Only on Sundays” was a bit of a joke answer, we think it’s safe to assume that most of you believe that they are still good people who simply had to get their hands dirty for survival. There is no right or wrong in that game, after all. About 25% of voters, however, disagree and believe that ideals are most important in any situation.

I think they are still good people deep down. They had to do what they needed to do in order to survive. Is it morally wrong? Yeah, but just thinking back to what Levi said makes sense.

Is anyone a good person?

Like Levi's 'right or wrong' comment, they're neither good nor bad, just trying to do what they think is right.

Hange states that Eren is going to be eaten. What are your thoughts?

Nearly half of respondents are confident that Eren’s fate isn’t sealed just yet due to protagonist armor. Still, there are quite a few who are on edge about Eren’s fate or just plain confused in general. Please hang tight guys!

Relates to ymir eating that boy that was with reiner and annie

Wasnt he already eaten by some random Titan already? And turned into a titan for the first time as a result?????

By who? Also Erwin didn't seem phased.

You'd better eat him before he eats you

SNK has a history of quick and understated major reveals, how did you feel about Sannes’ quick confession about the Reiss family being the true royal line?

Many respondents found it comical how quickly Sannes confessed about the truth of the Reiss family. However, more than half either missed the initial reveal completely or believe that there should have been more focus on it as it was being stated.

It was dramatically short

They will focus more on it

Which group of characters are your favorite?

Where do you primarily discuss the series?

Additional thoughts on the episode?

Amazingly done & manga readers are tripping

I am liking what I am seeing so far, but I hope they give some of the scenes the time to breathe. There were moments in the both episodes where the transitions between scenes seemed jarring to me. I had also heard that this arc was more about character development, but so far I have seen very little of that.

I'm saddened that Dimo Reeves had become such a throw away character.

Talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, show stopping, spectacular, never the same, totally unique, completely not ever been done before

Too much in too little time, episodes like this should be double the time

Beast Titan WHEN

Well, fuck

Thank you to everyone who participated! We’ll see you again on Monday!

#snk polls #snk poll #snk spoilers #snk s3 #poll results

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sadisticsmiles · 6 years

Text

Beyond a Thief’s Power Episode 11

Initiated Assault

The Following Morning

Everyone was gathered inside Le Renard Noir as usual, mainly regarding important matters and so on. Since all seven members of the Black Foxes were there, it was time to discuss what was going on.

“So,” Hiro began, unsure of the meeting, “what are we here for exactly? I have a class at nine, and if I miss it, the professor’s gonna chew me out. I shouldn’t stay at LRN very long, Boss. There’s also another class after lunch is over too.”

Riki nodded. Like Hiro and most of the members in their group, he was not glad to be at the bar in the morning, especially because it was seven o’clock during that time of day. “Make it quick before I snap your neck with my bare hand.”

Takuto had his archetypal, nonchalant expression plastered on his face. “I have nothing great to say about you, old man. I’m not even amazed by this myself, but Hiro’s got college to attend, so why don’t you treat him to some breakfast as an apology for waking his stomach and nearly ruining his artistic hands? What I’m trying to point out is that this is a waste of time and we’re all busy today. Do you know any common sense or survival tactics? I don’t think so. Therefore, you should let some of us go back home and sleep or something. Kenny’s probably gonna be on duty today, so who cares about spending what little time we have at the moment over here in the stench you bathe in every day, when we could all be productive for a change without being dragged to…” He was at a loss as to what else to say, but it soon donned on him. Somehow. “…whatever you’re trying to get to. It’s just a civil thing I’m telling you to screw into your head for the millionth time in all the years I’ve been alive. You might want to consider it while you’re still around, s’all.”

Atsumu’s eyes broadened. He was stunned at hearing Takuto’s lecture to him but still. It was a normal moment in his household/restaurant. “H-Hey! I may be older than the rest of you all, but this is pretty harsh for my shoulders to handle! Not to mention, it’s a really important matter I have to announce before you guys leave the bar.”

Kenshi grinned. “You gotta admit. Takuto’s correct on this since we’ve all got something to do before we can talk about what you’re planning on revealing to us. He understands that my job as a firefighter is one of those things that’s more likely to happen as a daily part of my life. The same goes for you, Boss. You look after LRN since you’re the owner and it’s your home. You’re also one of the city elders and you attend the shopping district’s meetings, but you know what? You’re the boss of the group, so it isn’t so bad. Anyway, I should go now. An early day is something I have to prepare for and I can’t miss any more of it. See you later, though.” As cool as he appeared externally, Kenshi stood up from his seat, pushed it back in and walked out of Le Renard Noir.

“Are you going to tell us what’s on your mind already?” Takuto asked with the same expression he always had. Though, there may have been a chance he was just annoyed or bored. “Time’s tickin’ and everyone else can’t possibly be here for much longer. That’s why you should spill out what’s in your throat, but that’s gross, so give us the details, Beardface.”

“You’re as crude as ever, aren’t you, Takkun?” the most mature-looking man commented. A smile ran across his face within the speed of light. “But I’ll do what you asked and be gentle. So here goes nothing. What I’ve come to let you know is that I’m thinking we should go on a brand new mission tonight if everyone would like to participate in it, of course!” He was beaming with joy and glowing with it as well. “How about it?” He opened his eyes, quickly skimming the other four seated in front of the counter. “We’ll all kick some ass together and beat the hell out of these knuckleheads in order to save this kind gentleman—or something like that scenario. For example, we could put in some more effort and execute some justice every now and then, just for giggles. I respect my ami Fujioka a lot, and his team’s like a one-hit wonder, so I say it’s about time to repay the favor.”

Riki narrowed his eyes in irritation. “What favor? We don’t owe anything to those decorous police officers working under him, so don’t make any excuses for going on a mission. That’s the worst thing you could ever bring up to your fellow foxes as a thief. You should know better than to decide on one using those who are after us.”

Hiro smiled slyly. “Maybe he’s trying to invoke the goody two shoes to do something for him, or for all of us. Kinda makes a person think whether or not he’s trying to lure Sayuri out due to her genuine deeds as someone who’s on the side of the law.” Then, he frowned. “I’d hate to have her get angry at us for doing something like this. With Boss’ personality and harassment attempts, the whole place might be destroyed in no time if he tries to capture her.”

Takuto glanced at Atsumu. “Well, it is Beardy we’re talking about, after all. I’m sure it wouldn’t be the first time he committed a felony towards women and younger girls. I bet Shinobu’s felt betrayed many times in the other world because of him. See, even trying to think about it is disgusting. He’s also the most perverted out of all of us. That is, if you don’t count Riki.” The light blond switched his attention towards the government official, turning his head to his left to where he could see his older friend in plain sight. “But he doesn’t go after other girls when it’s clear as day whom he’s eternally in love with.” He looked back at the owner of Le Renard Noir and started to snicker mischievously. “Hehehe. You are such a lonely sucker it’s hilarious! How do you not have many female friends? Age has thrown plenty of pies at your face by now, it’s dying for more laughs! Hahaha!” Takuto kept chuckling with his teasing and it was getting to the point where he was having a hard time holding his stomach in place.

Hiro began to laugh as well. He had his right hand near the side of his charming visage, so it was endearing to anyone who saw his expression. “It can’t be helped, though, Takkun!” Tears formed as he resumed. “Ahaha! Boss is middle-aged, so it actually makes sense that he can’t get the girls after marrying and becoming a widow. He might not look the part, but he used to be an awesome combat specialist. It’s natural for him to have bad luck hovering over his head.” The college student was also amused with the teasing he and Takuto flung at Atsumu. “As for Riki, he’s caught the hearts of so many ladies, he’s turned them down the very second Mitsuki was in his eyes’ view. He wasn’t able to stop staring at her, as it was love at first sight!" He let out a giggle. "Hehe! It was so cute seeing them together! It was like watching a waltz take place without it actually happening; Riki was so happy, a trampoline surrounded him and everything started bouncing off his infectious aura, including small balls and stars. Ooh," the orange-haired artist-in-training added, "and don't forget the hearts, too. Those very really pretty coming from him." When he had spoken of the second eldest member of the entire team, his facial appearance became fond of the past he came to know during the years of childhood innocence that belonged to him, as what he recalled was a long time ago.

Riki frowned sternly. "You know, I do remember you staring at me with amazement in your eyes during my last year of high school when I brought Mitsuki here back then. Your mouth was even open, Hiro. I was wondering what was going on in your little mind at the time, and now I know why you were being cute yet strange yourself." All in all, he was calm and composed like a mature grown-up should be at his age. "Boy, am I ever relieved to find out it wasn't a serious case directed towards something wrong I may have done." He sighed and looked at Atsumu. "Anyway. If you're going to bring up the subject of having a mission later on, why don't you find something that involves the word 'danger' shining off of it? Then again, we might have to learn and gather some more information beforehand. We can instantly leave most of that to Takuto, but you get the gist of what I'm saying."

Mitsuki, who had been witnessing the events of the morning at Le Renard Noir unfold, finally spoke in a frustrated manner. "I’m the one who asked Atsumu for this meeting. I wanted to take a break from work since I was away from Ginza for a number of days. To be honest, I didn’t go to work yesterday because I went to visit Takuji in Roppongi.”

Atsumu smiled tranquilly. “I see.”

Rina’s eyes widened. “You did?! What did you discuss with him?”

“A few things,” the dark purple-haired magician answered. “To start off, we engaged in a normal conversation about his home in the Human World, along with the fact there’s someone living with him and Asuka. That’s before I became a bit more serious to inquire about Sayuri’s whereabouts and something nostalgic.”

“…About Neon?” Rina asked.

“About Asuka’s lack of presence in their place,” Mitsuki replied. “That’s not the nostalgic portion, rather it turned towards Kousuke.” Her eyes lowered a bit. “It saddens me to say that I didn’t get a chance to be part of those two’s lives as they grew up into the adults they are now.”

Rina nodded in comprehension. “Right. The Saionji and Hogo families helped those two grow up without their parents around, along with… a few others, even after your absence in Neon.”

Riki had an anguished facial expression as he listened onward. “…”

Takuto glanced at the male government official. “You okay?”

“…”

“Speaking of which," the college art student stated in order to lighten the mood, "I better get going. I actually enjoy going to college, unlike some people." He glanced at Takuto and smiled. Then, he headed to the entrance/exit and waved before going to his designated area.

Takuto blinked. “Hold on.” He took out his flip phone which was the same color as his hair—courtesy of his fondness for Shiffey—and opened it. “That little liar. It doesn’t take that long to walk from here to the university. He went off early.”

“Even though this is an important meeting…” Mitsuki and Atsumu calmly said at the same time.

“Too bad Kenny left before he got to hear what you had to say, Mitsuki,” Takuto added. “I’ll message those two on what they’ve missed out on later. Though,” he shrugged, “it would dampen their reactions compared to having them here in person.”

“It’s fine,” Mitsuki responded back. “Anyway, Takuji told me Sayuri had already left before I came, so I can only assume she knew I was going to seek her out. It’s unfortunate I wasn’t able to find any more information, especially with how secretive they are.”

Rina let out a short and relaxed sigh. "Well, they do follow Akio-sama’s instructions since he’s their advisor. Sayuri’s getting by even faster with moving from one place to another. I wonder if we’ll be able to catch up.”

“I can only hope so,” Mitsuki smiled at her fellow magician. “We should all have a little hope that we’ll be able to confront her sooner or later.” A few seconds passed by ere her cell phone rang. She pulled it out of a transparent area of the near her and opened it. “Yes? A meeting? We’ll be there.”

Atsumu glanced at the dark purple-haired magician. “Was that call for work?”

“…Of course.” Mitsuki was still smiling as she closed her eyes. “It’s too bad our own one had to be cut short, but since the call I received was basically an order, Riki and I will take our leave and meet up with you all later.”

Riki’s eyes widened. “What? We’re leaving now?”

Mitsuki glanced at her husband as she hung up and continued to smile. “There’s no choice in this matter. The Minister of Finance wants us to go to the meeting.”

Riki frowned. “…Alright.”

The married couple walked out of Le Renard Noir with Mitsuki going ahead of Riki, with only Atsumu, Takuto, and Rina in the restaurant/bar.

Rina folded her arms against her abdomen. “It seems as if I should get something from my pocket to replenish my stamina."

Takuto looked up. "Pocket?"

After the six-letter word came out of his mouth, his past sweetheart stopped in her tracks before shifting her gaze at him. "...We just saw Mitsuki-san take her phone out."

"Oh, that." It didn't take long for Takuto to figure out what Rina meant. "The invisible 'pocket' magicians have where they can take out anything they want or need when they're not close to the objects for their convenience, including things from their Neon. I'm envious of you and Mitsuki for having one. It makes me wish I was like you guys sometimes, mostly you, though. It must also be fun having super strength, unlike an ordinary person like me."

A calm expression etched rapidly onto Rina's face. "Don't forget that Sayuri has one as well. Still, I think you're fine the way you are Takuto. You're smarter than most of your kind and as a thief, you use your computer skills to hack into security systems and aid everyone on the missions. Plus, I—" She paused immediately to prevent herself from completing her sentence. "..."

"...Go on." Takuto urged for an answer.

Rina frowned. "No."

"Why not?"

"I don't want to." Rina averted her gaze. "It's... difficult for me to say. Anyway, do you want to eat something? I'll prepare something for you."

The programmer cocked his head to his right side. "Isn't that Beardy's job?"

Rina glanced at her ex-boyfriend. "It's fine. I'm working here for free, anyway. I'll be helping with the cooking and cleaning, so go ahead and order anything from the menu." A kind eye smile appeared on her pretty visage soon after.

Takuto felt drawn towards the sincerity Rina showed him, and he thought to himself in a trance. How long has it been since I saw that smile? He didn't know the exact answer, but it did feel like several decades had passed by without his knowledge, and it struck his heart with a sting. Ah, it hurts. It really hits me whenever I see you that I feel at ease, angry at myself, so pained inside, and many other emotions continue to pour out.

Rina stared at her former lover's expression and saw the sad beauty within it. "Takuto..." She reached out with her left arm in order to place her hand on the side of his face, but abruptly stopped herself from doing so before it could touch the tsundere. "...!" Then, she pulled her arm back and let her shoulders fall to their corresponding sides.

Atsumu placed his left hand on Rina's right shoulder, looked towards her, and smiled gently. "It'll be alright."

Rina didn't nod, but gazed at Takuto. "You are probably the one who understands me more than you understand the others, Boss. Then again, perhaps Hiro knows me more than you do."

Atsumu's eyes slightly widened. "Oh? I believe you're right on the mark, Rina. But you're very level-headed towards me out of everyone else."

Rina smiled and closed her eyes. "Well, it's no wonder you're a pervert in everyone else's minds."

The wavy-haired brunet laughed lightly. "Ahaha. I guess you have another point there." He poked the side of Takuto's face with his right index finger, instantly catching the latter’s attention. "Takkun~, it's time for you to order something. What'll it be? You can tell me, and I'll have it ready in a few."

Takuto glared with an irritated expression. "Wh-What are you doing, you sick bastard?!" Atsumu's poke sure did snap him back to reality. "Are you trying to harass me or something?!"

Atsumu backed away with his eyes raised more than when he was chatting with Rina as he put his hands up. "Woah, Takkun! I was just trying to get you back to Earth! Really! Besides, you still haven't had breakfast, right?" Just as he was freaked out seconds ago, he was currently joyful and beamed at the twenty-four-year-old. "Let's get some food into that belly!"

"Tch!" Takuto's upper and lower teeth met one another, indicating his grumpy mood. "Whatever, just get me something to eat. I don't care about ordering a meal right now, so serve me whatever you want as long as it’s decent and legal."

Atsumu sighed. He was down in the dumps. "And after Hiro told you that all of us are concerned about you. A growing man needs to eat his meals three times a day, you know?" He smirked in a clever manner. "You might shut down one day if you keep spacing out for many periods of time."

Hearing that made Takuto frown indifferently. "Is that supposed to be a joke about me when I'm facing a computer? You're not making me happy, though. Also, I'm not laughing, and if I did, I wouldn't giggle like Hiro, or burst out like Kenny does. Those two need to improve on their laughing styles. I'm in between, so I fit perfectly while Hiro is somewhat girly, and Kenny is too over-the-top. Riki? He's okay—he’s between me and Kenny so he's fine. As for you, I hate to admit it but you're better than Hiro; you're just under me. Out of all five of us guys, I'm the best at laughing. What do you think of that?"

Atsumu sweat-dropped once the light blond's explanation was over. "Talk about brutal. You've basically butchered everyone's ranks on that. I bet those three would really get mad. The only thing I'm glad about is that you didn't include the girls. You sure overanalyze peculiar things, Takkun. It's your specialty but it's not such a bad thing in your case."

"Of course not," Takuto objected. "I'm a gentleman and I'm nicer to ladies more than you are in terms of sensitivity, but girls outside our group are mainly an eyesore to me. Well, except magicians. Anyway. Because Rina trusts Sayuri, I'll have faith in her for now. Despite the possibility she could be up to something at the moment, I can't conclude her to be a bad woman, but she's still a little suspicious. I mean, she did lure us to the mountain and almost sent us to our deaths. Part of it was Riki's fault so I'll forgive her for..." He started to blush and continued. "...saving Rina's life. She really duped us after planning ahead but conning us might've been the best karma we’ve had in all our years of being thieves."

The next thing the two men knew, Rina came out from the kitchen with a tray in her hands. "Well here you go, Takuto. Have a nice breakfast." She shot him a considerate glance with a casual smile after placing a normal Japanese-style morning meal on the counter in front of him. "Oh, and be careful or our identities will be found out by the you-know-who. Remember what I said before in the cave, so make sure to keep a cautious eye and ear whenever you speak about us."

Takuto could only blush further in embarrassment. "I-I know! I haven't forgotten about it, so you shouldn't, either."

As the Black Foxes' hacker muttered a, "Itadakimasu," he felt a warm sensation in his chest. Then, he took out his chopsticks from their wrapper, and split them apart evenly to enjoy his food. Having his ex-girlfriend around to remind him of the fact who the seven members altogether were during the night was bad enough since it was also their secret, but... He couldn't deny the reality of the world as it was true he and his friends were thieves who performed hidden deeds behind everyone else's backs. Seeing his expression gave Atsumu the smile the brunet would typically wear on his face, while Rina went back to the kitchen to check on the food cooking inside.

Meanwhile, Kenshi was in the nearby fire department—the closest to Le Renard Noir, which was actually a long distance from there, though. As he was getting ready for duty, his co-workers smiled splendidly at him.

"Say, Inagaki," one of them began. "You look pretty happy today. Somethin' happen lately?"

Kenshi smiled back. "Nothing really. What makes you say that?"

The same guy who initiated the conversation stared at his fellow firefighter, pondering whether or not he should tease the twenty-five-year-old. "You really don't know? It's all over your face."

Kenshi's eyes widened in trivial confusion. "Huh? What is?"

"That you're in love with some chick none of us know about," the co-worker blurted out with a grin on his face.

Within an instant, Kenshi's visage was flushed with a shade of pink like Takuto's whenever the latter would get tongue-tied. "Wha—How do you know that?"

The co-worker smirked. "So it is true. Spill the beans, will ya? We all want to hear the details about her. Are you gonna try and make a pass at her the next time you see her?"

Another co-worker nodded. "We're really curious about the type of girl you've got your eyes on, Inagaki. You've never taken much liking to them in a romantic sense, but girls are attractive in their own way. It's a shame you never fell for anyone until the age of twenty-five. When it comes to us men, love comes and goes in the blink of an eye if you're not serious about a girl. And, you should be going on dates when you're young like a teenager in his second or third year in high school. When you get to the drinking age, you should marry the woman you love, and have a hot night all to yourselves when you're at home. Then, she'll be popping out a baby or two, and before you know it, you're already a father. So you see, you should enjoy the romance while you're young, not old. You won't get to do that at your age, man. You're the only one who's single now, which sorta makes you leftovers from a batch of cookies."

A third co-worker exhaled. "Face the truth, Kenshi. You've got some looks, but no significant other to share your heart with. You're also dense when it comes to a lot of things, and you're too nice." He crossed his index fingers to form an X. "That's a bad combination and so many girls have been hurt by your characteristics. It's not that we don't think very poorly of you; we're just pointing out your flaws."

Kenshi looked at the guys who had supported him for several years and looked down. "It's not as easy as you guys think it is. I've had a lot to do and... that's not an excuse. I understand that. Really. But you guys have had better luck than me. I'd like to experience being in a relationship too— and get married, have kids. Those sort of experiences. And I envy you for achieving every bit of happiness with your wives and children. Unfortunately for me, I'm in love with this girl who's out of my reach. She's beautiful and everything about her shines brilliantly." He clenched his hands into fists. "How can I not like her? She's not someone I can be with, and she's around my friends' age. I can't stop thinking about her, and it's so painful I feel like I'm going to die from these feelings if I don't get the chance to see her again. That's how much I like her."

The first co-worker walked up to Kenshi, placing his hand on the single man's back. "You're an earnest guy, aren't you? Even though she's out of your league, I'm not going to apologize for making you feel bad when you're still—how should I put this—untaken and in your mid-twenties. Continue to suffer from the heartache, will you?" He patted the posterior region he was already touching and smiled lightheartedly. "You're such a sappy guy, Inagaki. It's hard to believe you work with us in a fire station. Anyway, tell us when she dumps—I mean, rejects—you. We'll be around to hear every detail, and we'll berate you even more. Can't wait to pull another one on you. Torture you later!" As he and some other firefighters went to their station for the morning, he gave a wave with his left hand, and the back of it was in full view.

And then it hit Kenshi right on the face.

"What?!" He shouted with a shocked expression. His so-called companion at work had just made him confess he was in love with a certain someone without him saying that girl's name to everyone, to which the others joined in with saying horrible things about him, as well. Kenshi felt infuriated; his face was boiling hot with a red color. Oh, it was worse than a lobster or two. Heck. A thousand of them couldn't compare to how angry the spiky-ish-haired son of a restaurant owner was as he was soon alone in the area he was standing in. Within the almost empty space displaying his existence, he took a breath and yelled to the sky. "AHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!"

Kenshi's frustration and humiliation broke some windows belonging to larger buildings. Surely enough, it may have even shattered the glass of a certain government facility that was one of the most renowned ones in Japan.

XXX

Inside the Ministry of Finance, a meeting was interrupted from the sound of glass breaking. One of the employees opened the door each of the agents entered through, and frowned with a tone of disappointment.

"Oh, that's great," the man who checked on the situation muttered. He had emerald green hair and viridian eyes; wore a beige plaid suit over a white dress shirt [that had clear buttons], whereas his pants extended to a few inches above his ankle; his pale yellow socks and dark brown dress shoes were shown. "We have to fix the windows with our powers now. And yes, I do mean all of them. They're all... greatly damaged by a..." He tilted his head to his right, blinking with a perplex look on his face. "...human man's scream...?" Then, he narrowed his eyes defeatedly. "What the heck?" No satisfaction whatsoever appeared on his nice visage. As colorful as he was with his physical appearance, was contrasting on the outside. That was when he sighed, lowering his shoulders. "To save us some trouble, we'll have to call a repair team and go under reconstruction for a while."

Claire took a glance from the left door as he stood beside the Minister of Finance. "No kidding." His eyes were large due to raising his upper eyelids. "We've got to act fast." He took out his cell phone and dialed a call to the company that would be of most help at the moment. "Hi. So you've just heard about it. Yes. There's a huge conflict with our windows. Of course we’d like to have them repaired. Thank you very much. We will secure a large payment after you're done rebuilding the ministry. Have a nice day and goodbye." He hung up and turned around toward his many co-workers who were still sitting in their seats. "We're all clear on that matter. The repair team is currently on their way with a helicopter to provide a net for covering the Ministry of Finance and they're bringing in other materials to fix this entire place up by truck. While we're waiting, let's resume the meeting."

He and the Minister of Finance returned to their seats and sat down. Then, the latter stood up and cleared his throat.

"Ahem," he said, covering his mouth with a fist before removing it. "I called this meeting today to recognize the return of our fellow co-worker, who has accomplished an enormous success for us during her trip to Europe. Although it's a bit late to announce this, I'm still grateful of her efforts to go through with work before taking any breaks and vacations. It may have been a bit forced on her since we've been encountering plentiful amounts of escalations for a long time now, but you all know what I mean."

There was a round of cheery laughter in the closed room; even Riki and Mitsuki gave in to it.

"So to give a quick ending to my speech," the Minister egged on, "Let us all commend Mitsuki for completing this time-consuming job, and welcome back to our team." He gave a light bow with his head. "Congratulations on bringing us some more pep and negotiations. As a reward, I was going to give you three weeks off from work. However, since we're going to be dealing with an extended period of repairs to make it seem like a normal case, we'll be stopping work at the Ministry of Finance for an unknown amount of time, so I guess most of us can return to Neon without any worries.” It was then that he heaved a sigh. “I wouldn't mind it if we were to shut the office down for good.” He scoffed. “I mean, isn't that an extreme benefit to us owe don't have to keep track of everyone's money in Neon? Man, oh man, do I ever want to give the Japanese government a piece of my mind. It’s the opposite here in the Human World."

Nao smiled tranquilly. "It certainly would make our lives easier to manage if we tried to change this world to make it fit our standards. While this is not part o he ministry’s ‘business,’ Kei and Rie are more likely to do that in the future than we are at this time and day. We would also be eliminating more than just the ministry. Consider how much we could gain from the losses of most of this world’s government control. Taxes wouldn't exist anymore, so people could be paid the total amount of their work. But. As we're here to aid humans who are kind to others, it would be more for their personal gain. After all, their world is not like ours in terms of the law. I understand it's frustrating, but let's bear with it. We should ensure that they're in a safer place to live in, as well as for us before we try anything against this world’s governments. Sometimes if we wait long enough, someone else will take action to solve our complaints."

"I see," one of the male employees who had lunch with Riki that day said, and some of the others nodded. He had his arms folded across his chest again as he continued to speak. "We'll have to see what happens before we do anything about it. That gives us more time to go back and forth between the two worlds, but it might take years beyond our guesses to shut the governments in the Human World down. Maybe even a millennium or two."

With his usual smile, Claire inquired, "But doesn't the world revolve around the business field? Wouldn't international connections be lost if you decided to cancel the governments' authority?"

"Claire has a valid argument," Riki proclaimed. "We might need several governments to operate how we regulate our supplies and resources, along with keeping track of our inventory and money for—"

The Minister of Finance looked straight at Riki and commented, "And that's why you're such a realist, Riki. You don't want to accept this under the circumstances other civilians will lose what they have, and other than that, you wouldn't want to lose this job. Think about it: Is it really necessary for you to condemn yourself to working as a government agent when you could just live your life the way you want to with the woman you love? With all the problems this world has, the government isn't interested in human affairs. Those who are supposed to lead your kind aren't doing their jobs properly, and look. People are suffering every day but no one has truly attempted to lend a hand to anyone in need, except for the noble thieves known for stealing works of art to bring decorum back. We as magicians had decided to come here to aid others who are pure and can be trusted in some way or another, but we observe from afar to see if there are 'good' humans who won't stray from that kindness they let us know of. It's not that we're doing this to be terrible beings; we want proof of a human's sincerity before we act out on anything too rashly, which of course we don't want, and what we don't like to do is make mistakes we'll regret. For our reasons, we want what could be a better life for you and some others we come to trust. Do you comprehend what I mean?"

Riki nodded firmly. "Yes... I know. It isn't as easy to abandon this position and move forward. On the contrary, I'll try to live a life without being a government employee. It's just... A lot has been going on in my life. Not only mine but Mitsuki's, and our friends' lives. There are more conflicts arriving at our door, and we can't resolve every one of them by sheer will. We can't wait for anyone to do something, so we've decided to stay by their sides and support them. We're not sure if it'll turn out perfectly fine for them, but we want them to know they're not alone."

"Then, watch how things turn out for them," the male magician facing him replied softly. "You'll find the answer in due time. For now, focus on what you can do as a person before resolving a conflict. It'll go away without your presence at times. Without further ado, I believe it's time to end this meeting and take a long break from work. I'll even have them make this place smaller in size and proportions."

In a brief moment, they all decided to leave the room and pushed in their chairs before doing so. As they strolled side by side, Mitsuki took Riki's left hand in her right to assure him it would be alright. Soon, they met up with Nao outside. She was indeed as beautiful and fair as ever.

"Mitsuki-san, Riki-san," she smiled casually. "Going on a date now?"

Riki perked up. "That's right. I can't let the fact we're all out of work for a while get to me when I have my wife by my side. You seem jolly yourself, Aozora."

"I agree," Mitsuki remarked. "Do you have plans with your boyfriend?"

Continuing to smile with her eyes closed, the white-haired magician replied. "I'll be helping my boyfriend with some errands and cooking once I get home." She opened her eyes and added, "I better start shopping for a ton of groceries in a bit."

"Does your sweetheart like to eat a lot?" Riki asked with a smirk. "And cooking for just one person sounds tough when you put it that way."

Nao placed her left hand on the side of her face with her fingertips touching her cheek. "I didn't say I was cooking just for him; Riki-san, did you misunderstand what I said?"

"You mean, there's a whole round of others who'll be enjoying the food you prepare besides him?" Riki's eye were currently widened. "Boy, you must have a tough time taking care of your man and getting those meals done."

"He is a doctor, after all," Nao mentioned. "It's not a surprise several people visit him during the day. He's also very skilled at what he does. Although we're not always together since we both work separately and in different career fields, we do what we can to show that we care about each other. It isn't any trouble for me to at least cook for a big group when he's so busy because I love him."

Mitsuki put her hands together and smiled tenderly. "That's true. I don't mind preparing a bento for Riki and sometimes for our sisters. They're very important to me, and I can't help but love all of them. It's natural to have a desire to do something for those you care about."

"Well, I better get going. Have a lovely time together, alright?" She turned round and walked a few steps forward in her direction before teleporting somewhere.

The dark purple-haired magician glanced at Riki and said, "Shall we resume from where we left off? I like going on dates with you, Riki."

"Well I believe so." The tall, wealthy human man had a loving expression on his handsome visage as he gazed back into his wife's magenta eyes. He wanted to hold her in his arms so much, but restrained himself to be more gentlemanly in the eyes of those who saw them together.

"Oh, they're holding hands," a young woman whispered. "How lovely."

Another one inquired, "You don't suppose they're actually...?"

A young man nodded. "It has to be true. Just look at the way they're looking at each other."

The second woman disagreed on something. "But they're so..." It felt as if she wasn't pleased with the height difference.

Understanding what she meant, a third woman around the other three's ages responded with, "Who cares about that? Don't they look cute together, though? They really suit one another to me."

Despite the both of them hearing the spectators' comments about them, Riki and Mitsuki kept walking forward before the wife in the marriage called out.

“Riki,” Mitsuki said and stopped. She turned to face him with a sincere seriousness in her eyes and facial expression. “It’s time for me to tell you my concerns. Rather than to put our romantic reunion as a couple first, I want us and everyone else in our group, to counter the roads ahead of us. There is not a single doubt in my entire being of the dangers towards the magicians, but us as well. You know that, don’t you?”

Riki gazed back into his love’s eyes in a serene manner. “Of course I do. Being with you and the others has molded me into who I am right now, but being apart from you most of all turned into a time for me to learn more about what you’ve endured since our first encounter. Not only about you, though.”

Immediately, Mitsuki knew but was not surprised by her husband’s words. “…You’re such a workaholic. No wonder I can’t bring myself to forgive you for yesterday’s—” She cut herself off and took a step back, not once taking her eyes off of the man who loved her; and she towards him.

Riki smiled slightly, but all so affectionately. “I know, and I apologized for how I treated you after finding out about your pain and the history that’s gone on for a long time.”

“Yet, knowing the things you’ve learn about me doesn’t sever the love I have for you. I don’t doubt my feelings for you as much as you’ve felt for what I couldn’t tell you myself.” Mitsuki paused and then continued. “What I would like to let everyone know are my circumstances and Neon’s history, but I’m forbidden to as part of my punishment and exile from home.”

The sun’s rays glimmered in a lovely way on Riki’s black hair and he nodded. “This’ll be our secret until the time comes for us to tell them.” His shoulder’s fell. “No. I’ll be the one to do that so I can protect you, Mitsuki.”

“Riki…”

Riki took hold of his wife’s left hand with his right and lowered his legs. He steadily entwined their fingers together before taking hold of Mitsuki’s waist with his free hand. Then, he pulled her body close to his—it was evident there was no resistance from her, in contrast to his advances. The dark purple-haired magician placed her right hand on Riki’s cheek; their eyes gradually closed and their lips met.

The love they held for one another attracted more attention—stares and glances from bystanders, but nothing else was important. They spent as much time together before being called in to Le Renard Noir later that night.

XXX

"What's up?" Kenshi asked as he and Hiro entered the bar together. "I heard something was urgent and met Hiro on the way here."

Atsumu had a serious expression on his face. "..." He glanced at Takuto sitting in front of the counter. The latter appeared to have a flustered look.

"What's up with Takkun, you mean!" Hiro exclaimed. "His face is totally red!" A sly grin formed from his lips. "Something juicy definitely happened."

Takuto glanced upward at Hiro and Kenshi. "It's nothing." He may have had a calm tone when he spoke, but he seemed angry. "There's no way that's frickin' possible."

Hiro blinked once. "Takkun, are you feeling okay? You seem like you would be sick by your voice and facial expression."

"Of course I'm not!" the light blond yelled this time. "Who would be when they've been humiliated so much in a day?!"

Hiro glanced at Atsumu. "Boss."

Atsumu frowned in a way that seemed more like his usual self. "A male customer today was hitting on Rina, so Takkun got riled up and told him not to mess with her. There were a whole bunch of other people who had come to eat here as well, and when they saw Takkun helping Rina out, they were complimenting and cheering him on. They also called those two a couple, thinking they were dating. It was nice but also embarrassing in Takkun's case, so you know how it typically is." He smiled dryly before returning to a somber expression. "That's not what I called you all here for, however. We've got a new mission on our hands, and it involves countering the mafia. What we're dealing with is no ordinary mafia, either. It's a triad. Do you know which one?"

The men looked at each other before gazing at the wavy-haired brunet. Rina and Mitsuki on the other hand, gave their undivided attention to him as he explained the direness of his statements.

Atsumu continued. His expression did not budge as he told his teammates. "It's the 14K who're targeting us. Though this might be an assumption, they could be after the magicians as well due to the powers magicians hold within themselves. I'm concerned about Sayuri more than the girls because of the video they sent us." He glanced at Takuto and nodded.

In response, the hacker took out his laptop and opened it. Then, he clicked on the play button for them all to watch.

"Yes, may I help you gentlemen?" A man turned around and asked after closing his shop early.

When Hiro saw who it was, he was stunned. "What?!"

The video continued to play, despite his surprise.

A group of three men in suits walked up to the man. They were all wearing sunglasses and had stoic looks on their faces. What was most prominent about them was their sync when they stepped up to the man while standing next to one another in a row.

"We're looking for a girl who may have worked here," the man in the middle began. He took out a small photo of said girl from his breast pocket located on his suit’s left side, handing it to the man, who delicately grabbed the photo and gazed at it for a second before shifting his focus to the leader of the three. "She is notorious for striking against us, specifically at our master, and has attack us on many occasions since the day she arrived on Earth through a form of teleportation, or so we believe. Her name is Sayuri Mitsuyoshi. She is also a magician with wings that shine brighter than what we picture angels to have, as hers are packed with a power unlike anyone on Earth has seen or experienced when they emerge from her back. Therefore, she is a very dangerous adversary of ours, sir. If you would please cooperate with us, we will give you a large sum of money in return."

"Sayuri, you say," the man noted calmly. "From what you have just told me, I don't believe she is the same girl I remember. This young lady in the picture does not remind me of the girl I once knew, except for her orange eyes and hair. Sayuri's hair, however, is lighter than this woman's, and her eyes couldn’t be agate. Since the picture is also small, I am not certain if they have the same hair length or not, but I believe hers was shorter. The young woman in this photo probably grew her hair out longer than Sayuri's, too. The Sayuri you've described to me is not the Sayuri I know. Sayuri Mitsuyoshi could never look like this; she couldn't be a magician, or an angel-like being. Sayuri is a human girl who didn't have a place to go to until I met her. I don't believe she is, and I don't wish for money. Sayuri is not a dangerous person, but an innocent—"

"Innocent? I don't think so." He was cut off by the leader. "If you have a different view of her, you're wrong. You don't know a thing about Sayuri Mitsuyoshi because the way you see her is someone who doesn't have any special abilities--someone who's dull in nature and has no real qualities to create a sense of frustration and lure out someone else's wrath. But the orange hair and agate eyes in the photo? Those aren't what human girls have unless they dye their hair and get cosmetic surgery performed on their irises. No human could ever have those types of physical characteristics at birth, and they certainly can't have abnormal bodies and powers. Though there are some humans who are blessed with unhuman strength and attributes, Sayuri Mitsuyoshi could never be one of them due to being born in the magician world, a world so ancient and advanced before our own." He removed his sunglasses from his face, revealing his brown eyes. "She is, sculpted to perfection. That's not the reason we're after her, but she's interfering with our plans." There was one demand he and his lackeys had in mind at the moment. "Tell us where she is if you know what's good for you." He came closer to the manager.

The middle-age man's eyes widen. "...!" It appeared as if there was no place left for him to back into as the three members of the mafia cornered him to the edge of the counter.

The video stopped playing. Riki, Kenshi, and most of all, Hiro were shocked and paralyzed as to what had taken place before their eyes.

"...Who was that they were after just now?" Riki questioned.

Kenshi blinked. "And what's their reason for going after that man besides trying to get to Sayuri? Could they be after something else?"

Hearing those words from the firefighter, it was all coming together to Hiro. "!!" He swiftly turned his head towards Takuto. "Takkun!"

Takuto gave another nod. "Yeah. I checked before anyone else got here after the video was sent to my laptop. They know the manager of the café has the cymophane since Sayuri left it for him. She probably flew back the same night we gave it to her; plus, the 14K may also have been observing her and us since the night we snuck into the mansion to get that painting of Takuji Uramoto. He's pretty famous, and it's been mentioned many times that he's a magician, so it's likely they're after him as well."

Mitsuki looked at the floor. "That's correct. He's made himself known but due to the Human World's lack of magic and resources Neon has, he's brought more than enough to last him and Asuka years without having to go back to Neon. There have been times when Asuka's collapsed from overexertion and her fragile state, so he nurses her back to health.”

Rina added, “Takuji was also paired up with Sayuri during their time in high school to train and bring out their best abilities.”

Mitsuki nodded. “Despite the fact he hasn't revealed anything, he's likely to have planned something with her in order to bring the mafia down. As we're magicians, we are restricted on having our powers to their fullest range, unless we're told otherwise by the two highest ranking families of our world. But now, we need to get there as soon as possible." She looked at Atsumu. "I can't let you stay in harm's way, so the rest of us will go. At any rate, it'll be easier to get everyone else to the café now that I'm back."

Rina turned her head towards the other Black Foxes with a composed expression. "Is everyone ready?"

"Hold up." Takuto got up from his seat and closed his laptop. "I don't want to be dropped on my ass by the time we get there." He took hold of the electronic device, placing it under his left arm.

"Who said we would drop you?" Rina asked with the same look on her face.

Takuto blushed. "W-Well, I can't be too reckless, can I?"

"Anyway, let's go. We're already late as it is."

Hiro had a resolved expression etched onto his face. "We can't let the 14K do anything to the manager. He's too good of a person to be beaten and killed by anyone, so let's do this."

Everyone besides Atsumu nodded and were sent to the location of the café owner after having a bright light of different colors surrounding them.

Even though I know they'll be fine, I still fear for their lives, the wavy-haired man thought. I'm probably getting too old, but that doesn't mean I can't care about our family. Right, Shinobu? For their sakes, I'll have to prepare a grand feast for them so they can come back with brighter smiles.

XXX

It was a dead end for the manager of the café. He had run all the way to the rooftop and was a few feet away from the edge that met nothing else, but the cool air with his back facing it. It was truly a defective time and place for him to be at, as it was also one of the worst situations for someone to go through. The three mafia men were in front of him, and there was nowhere else to escape to. It felt like the end of the world for the frightened café owner.

"What is your purpose for doing this?" he asked, trying not to show his fear. "I have no clue as to where the woman you are searching for could be! She does not reside, nor does she work anywhere near here, or in the café."

The leader of the three only said, "It is your fault for not telling us so before running away. You could have saved your life if not for your unethical attitude downstairs. As for our purpose... Slaughtering you might give us an opportunity to lure her out and capture her once and for all. She has given us a long chase this past month, so it's to be expected that we'll have to take our revenge on her and sell her to the black market afterwards." He showed an eerie grin. "Perhaps we'll do some other stuff before that. She does have the looks, after all. We'll violate and torture her as punishment for messing with us. Then again, who needs auctions from the market when we can enslave her to do our bidding. Hehehe."

It was unbelievable how far the group of men would go to if Sayuri was in their hands. It was sickening and revolting enough to get on a kindhearted person's nerves, which there was no doubt the manager felt livid about.

"How dare you filthy lot of men say such impure things towards a woman, especially to Sayuri!" the middle-aged man shouted. "You should be ashamed of having been born into this world! Have your parents not taught you any courtesy at all?! No man should ever think about defiling a lady, no matter her appearance and personality! All men should be gentle and polite when a woman is in their presence!"

The 14K triad member gritted his teeth and snarled. "Why, you—! How dare you give me a lesson on how a man should behave! You're nothing but an old man who likes to run his mouth like a motor on and off until someone gets annoyed at you! I'll show you who's right or wrong!" He was aiming to punch the manager with his right hand and arm when...

"Hold it right there!" Hiro, who was enraged more than anyone else at the moment, had appeared with every member of the Black Foxes going on the mission. It was a terrible case of anger igniting his fiery core.

The three triad members turned around, and the leader smirked. "Well, well. What do we have here? So the Black Foxes have finally arrived, have they? It seems you all got our message. We were waiting for you to get here. And look, you managed to save the café owner from death's hands. For now at least. But we'll kill him after you've been finished off by our comrades." He blew onto his index and middle fingers located on his right hand to form a whistle-like sound, but was a bit softer when doing so.

Immediately, several other triad members jumped out and covered the edges of the roof. Although they were completely surrounded and outnumbered, the Black Foxes’ team did not falter, standing their ground with their backs facing the others'. It was like a scene from an action film but it was even better than one. It was also at that very moment that something phenomenal happened, and in the blink to an eye, too. A bright light radiated above everyone on the scene as if it were a fairy tale glow summoned from a book of the stories that were listed in it. Thousands of needle-like objects spun out and hit the mafia members, knocking them unconscious and evading the Black Foxes. Shortly afterwards, the sharp needles dissipated, and the light sank back to a pair of wings, giving the chance for Sayuri to display her alluring, yet pale form.

As they witnessed her appearance, Hiro's eyes were taken in the older girl's beauty, more so than Kenshi was; albeit there was the fact Sayuri landed between those two when it came to age. Even the manager of the café was enchanted by the woman balanced above all of them. Soon enough, the winged magician gracefully descended down to the roof's ground.

Sayuri scanned wherever the 14K triad members were lying. "What a pain in the back. Really. Do I have to go through all of this for a group of criminals looking for me? Just when I was about to go home, too. This isn't a night that's in favor of me now, is it?" Afterward, she confronted the members of the Black Foxes with her agate gaze. "So we meet again, you so-called noble thieves of art. Or should I say, the Black Foxes. It really isn't as great of a pleasure to see you, but that doesn't matter. I have to rally up these foul men and turn them over to the police station before the night ends, thank you very much. I'll be taking my leave, so fare thee well."

"Wait," Hiro called out, almost as though he were desperate.

"What is it?" Sayuri glanced at the orange-haired young man whom she once referred to as a friend.

Hiro frowned somewhat sadly. "Can we talk for a bit? There's a lot we'd like to discuss with you, Sayuri."

"There's no reason to," Sayuri shot down her words.

Hiro shook his head. "But there is. Because I just told you that reason."

Rina gazed at her best friend with her hands folded across her chest and added, "Why don't you hear us out, then? I don't care if you refuse to say anything in reply to the other guys, but at least have a chat with Hiro. He's a good person at heart, which sets apart what a thief at night would commonly be from who he truly is on the inside. You already know not all human guys are like this, so do something for his sake."

Sayuri's shoulders fell. "Fine. We can't speak inside the café. That's my condition for listening and answering you guys. I don't want to be in a place like that anyhow. Understand?" She arrowed her eyes with order. "I just can't find being in the place I had reluctantly agreed to live in and work at as an employee very fitting since my wings weren't comfortable the first instance I had been here. I even went home every night but you should get the point by now."

The owner of the café took a step forward. "Um..."

Sayuri glanced at him. "Yes?"

"Are you really... Sayuri Mitsuyoshi?" the middle-aged man asked. "You don't quite seem to be the same girl I remembered meeting over a month ago."

"Is there anyone else you recall meeting on their twenty-first birthday who has the same name as me?" Sayuri frowned indifferently.

"Well, no, but..." He looked down. "It's hard to believe you were the very young woman who was once here not too long ago. I was quite fond of you for being such a kind and warm person. You attracted so many customers to my café, and I have always been grateful to you. I can't thank you enough for spreading joy to this place and bringing wonderful smiles to everyone's faces."

Sayuri let out a worn out sigh. "Well, I suppose I should thank you as well for giving me a place to stay and hiring me. Why don't you join the conversation? I'm positive you wouldn't want to be left out of this." She looked back at the group of thieves, and sat down with her legs crossed.

XXX

"Now, what do you want to ask me?" Sayuri inquired as she waited for Hiro to start conversing. Her wings had disappeared after sitting down to face the Black Foxes.

A sense of nostalgia flowed into Hiro's body and he softly smiled at Sayuri. He thought back to a couple nights ago and the memories of that portion of the past came back to him in a flash. "You're really nice, and I mean more than meets the eye, you know that? You went out of your way to create a trap for us in order to restore Rina's powers and save her from losing them. That's an astounding feat none of us could have thought of since we didn't have Mitsuki back in Japan with us until after we went to the mountain. Thanks."

"Well, I can't just let Rina die from that rotten woman's plans." The orange-haired magician was looking into Hiro's eyes with a crucial hint in her expression. "It's her fault that Rina was in danger in the first place. Not only Rina, but other magicians who are here on Earth. Of course, I don't want them to perish. Because they're important to me, I can't let them go. It's too sad to never get the chance to see the ones you love ever again, along with not being able to talk to them when they're gone forever; it's even more painful to have to say goodbye to them, especially when they're in your line of sight. I'm not the only one who doesn't want that. There are so many magicians who don't, as well. That's why..." She was filled with a resolve that could move the hearts of others in a short amount of time. "...I won't give up on setting things right. And I'll make sure that woman pays for what she's done. She's pulled a lot of strings, but I'll be working to stop her with Takuji and the others."

"...Sayuri..." Hiro saw how much Sayuri was purely devoted to save her own people.

She must be going through a lot to do what she has so far, he thought. It's no wonder she has such a strong sense of justice. I want to help her, even if I'm not fit to stand on the same ground or breathe the same air as her. So…

There was a curious look on Takuto’s face as he gazed up at Sayuri from his computer screen. “’That woman?’ Who exactly would you be referring to? From what you’ve told us just now, there’s something unpleasant about her. She must be sucking away the magicians’ powers in order to eliminate them from existence, especially in the world you’ve been trying to benefit—our world, the Human World—since there was originally no trace of magic until...” He narrowed his eyes before finally coming to an answer. “ ...the magicians came here as part of their mission to help this world. So I take it she's hated all magicians enough to strategize and perform a counterattack against you guys. Which means..." He glanced at Rina for a few seconds before turning his gaze back at Sayuri. "Every magician staying here is in peril far more than quadruple the amount the whole planet is going through right now. What about your princess? Is she still on Earth, or is she back home?"

"For the time being," Sayuri went on, "Takuji and I have sent Asuka home to rest and recover her powers. At the very least, I don't want to involve her in the fight that I'm going to take part in. I don't know if that's going to do anything but... You all may end up going into this if you decide to go with me. It's no ordinary battlefield, but whatever your choice is, I won't stop you."

Hiro and everyone else smiled at Sayuri. Of course they were going with her. And. It was evidently present that their bond and willpower were powerful and overwhelming for a band of thieves, so much so they wanted the orange-haired girl to be part of their bond.

"Like anyone's going to stop us," Riki grinned victoriously. "We're the Black Foxes. We don't back down from what we seek to do and we'll finish our missions without a care for anything else. That's one of our mottos we live by when we work at night! I'm gonna ask you this again, Sayuri. You rejected my offer before, but that doesn't change the fact I'm set on having you as a member of our team. Will you join the Black Foxes?" He held his hand out for the magician's reply as he stood up.

Sayuri also rose from her position and looked directly into the leader's eyes. "I'm sorry to say this to you, Riki. But my answer remains the same. I will not join you as we're on the opposite sides, but I can stay with you all, seeing as you're willing to risk your lives for the magicians. Therefore, let us arrange what we will be doing later on. I will meet you after I recharge in Neon. I need to heal there as well since I was attacked and wounded before arriving here tonight."

Kenshi spoke despite being flabbergasted along with the others as he glanced up from sitting on the ground. "What? You're hurt?" He frowned in concern. "Is your wound... painful? If it is, I think you should come by LRN another time. Maybe, you should stay home for a few days if you're gonna go back to heal it."

Sayuri shook her head. "No, it'll be alright. It's... a wound that gives me a feeling of remembrance." She looked down for a few seconds, then raised her head up slowly. "I'll meet you all. At Le Renard Noir. So... Wait for me and don't forget that I'm going to be staying with you, so I'll be sleeping on a bed there for a while. Also. Have Rina return to Neon tonight before I come. She should at least visit her family and let them know she’s doing well in the Human World. I won't be seeing her back home, though." She turned around, walking toward the edge of the rooftop before stopping in her tracks. After that, she turned her head to gaze at the six members of the Black Foxes and the café manager. "I nearly forgot to mention this. Mitsuki-san, you two look good together. It has been over nine years now, but congratulations on your wedding. Manjuki-san must be looking forward to the day you have a kid with your husband.1 And Owner? Live well without me and don't get yourself involved with this. It's about time for you to sever your will to hold onto me, so don't become depressed over the memories I've been in, and resume your life as it already is. You can't look back and sink into despair. You need to be strong for the people around you. If your employees become worried about you, apologize to them and make a decision to remove their anxiety. Thank you for everything you done for me." Sayuri's wings grew out and flapped once before rising again. She flew up and disappeared afterward. Along with her, the 14K triad members were gone and out of sight, indicating where she might have gone first.

Hiro looked at the manager and smiled. "I know you're sad about her departure, but try to listen to her words. I'm positive she wanted the best for you, Manager. If she didn't, she wouldn't have cared to tell you anything. I believe Sayuri was looking out for us as well. She might not have said much about it, but maybe she's trying to protect everyone who're pure at heart in her own way. That's... my conviction." At that moment, his smile became softer and full of endearment. His support for his friend was to be praised, as he could not be disloyal to the feeling of care towards the winged magician.

Kenshi felt a wave of excitement for the college student. "Hiro...!" He was glad the young man was dedicated to Sayuri as he was, but felt as though Hiro had a stronger heart for her than he did.

Takuto looked at the café owner. "Well, she did pull the wool over our eyes the last time we crossed paths with her. Luckily, we weren't killed, but she concocted the perfect plan to lure us—except for Sir Beard-it-all—out to a secluded terrain and replenish Rina's powers." He gave a short nod at his ex-girlfriend. "She was losing them, anyway. Sayuri's a clever one to have done all that in a short period of time. Looking at our missions so far, she was always ahead of us. Even tonight, she stole the spotlight in just a flash. She really beats us to it every time, but with good intentions. It's no wonder Riki wants her to join us. She still rejects the thought of siding with thieves, but now we can compromise on working together to defeat the woman who's going against the magicians. She's a commendable person at least, so don't fret over not seeing her again. The girl you knew was hiding her true self; yet she does it to help her kind. You're already proud of her and you love her like a family member, but with everything that's happened, you'll have to move on and forget about her. She doesn't want you to regret anything. The thing is, she can't go back to being under your roof and working for you. The cymophane returning to you wasn't for nothing, you know."

The manager of the café was surprised. "You mean... Sayuri didn't receive it from someone she knew? Then..."

Hiro nodded in confirmation. "That's right. She said it belonged to someone she knew and that person happened to be you, Manager. We didn't know who the cymophane belonged to until Takkun and I visited you. Thanks to you, we were finally able to see her again. But... It wasn't like we were on friendly terms then." He gave an eye smile this time. "I guess the credit should go to Rina since Sayuri seems to have opened up a little whenever she spoked to her."

Kenshi chuckled. "And with Saionji here, she even acknowledged our married couple." Looking at Riki for a brief second, he laughed some more. "But she totally refused our leader, which of course makes it worthwhile. Hahaha."

Riki frown with an irritated look on his face. "Laugh all you want while you still can. I'll be giving you something you won't be looking forward to once we get back, you little brat. It's no wonder you never got a girl to keep with you." He smirked sarcastically. "Aren't you the poor old sap of us all?"

"What are you talking about?" The sniper cocked his head with a dumbfounded expression. "You and Boss are the oldest ones of us all, and Takuto's next in line after me! I'm basically in the middle of everyone, even if you include the women on our team."

Heh... Takuto narrowed his eyes as he stared at the firefighter.

Hiro was also watching with a similar facial appearance, but had a dull half-smile to add to it in contrast to the hacker's nonchalant look. Hm.

The two of them sighed simultaneously in their minds [but not letting out an exhale from their actual bodies]. At least he didn't say anything about Mitsuki's age.

They then sent signals with their eyes with Takuto being the first to respond.

That would've been bad. For Kenny, I mean.

Hiro silently agreed. No kidding. But Mitsuki's feelings would've still been hurt in the process.

"..." Riki was still looking sternly at Kenshi. Then he turned around. "Let's get going. Boss is waiting for us and Sayuri is going to be at the bar soon. He must have prepared some food for us. Hopefully, nothing's gone cold."

Mitsuki smiled. The sight of her was as serene as ever when things hadn't gotten to an unpleasant state. "Perhaps the food has already... We can reheat it once we get back. Let's not worry too much about making Atsumu wait."

Kenshi was still clueless in the current situation. "Did something happen while I was at work this morning?"

"It's nothing you really need to know about, Kenshi," Rina patted the most oblivious member of the group on the back with her left hand. She glanced at the café owner/manager. "Sayuri will be fine with us. She can take care of herself, no matter what's thrown at her."

The middle-aged man nodded. "She was capable of saving us while injured. I wonder if she can truly handle being in this foreign place by herself."

Rina raised her eyebrows. "Oh? That sounds like you don't trust her enough. Sayuri's always like this; she's a bit reckless in some ways, but she's also a magician like Mitsuki-san and I are. We all make foolish mistakes because we're alive. Sayuri probably doesn't want to inform you how she got hurt in the first place, as well. If she decides not to say anything else about it, it's her choice. Do you not think so?"

"I see you're very supportive towards her," the manager smiled gradually. "Thank you. She must be fortunate to have a friend like yourself, young lady."

"Not at all," the blonde beauty replied. Her expression was still as collected as usual when she was unprovoked by anything/anyone, especially by a certain someone. "Sayuri's... always been by my side during our high school and college days in Neon. I'm grateful to have her as a companion."

She looked down and entered her thoughts. Even during my most difficult times, she was placing more effort to cheer me up. And not just her, but everyone else in their own way. I can't abandon those dear to me, not even Sayuri. With the new circumstances we'll be facing with her, I have to ensure her safety as much as I can.

The café manager gave one last tender smile. "I must really be getting old for my age. I don't even know if I've live half my life yet when I think back at everything that has occurred in it. To think a magician had been by my side all this time, and that one of my greatest customers was a member of the famous Black Foxes. In addition, there are two female magicians aiding this band of thieves. I would have never thought the truth was laid out in front of me like this." Taking a glimpse of the six members who came along that night, he added, "My, you all are an impressive bunch, and so is Sayuri. I'm glad to have had this encounter with you seven tonight. Thank you for saving my life. I shall pray for your success in saving the other magicians, including your own.2 Goodbye and good luck to you all."

Hiro closed his eyes with a jubilant smile. "Thanks! We'll make sure those evildoers don't get away with their objective. You can count on us!" He saluted the owner of the café. "Teehee! Or should also we say, toodle-loo!"

The rest of the Black Foxes smiled at the manager and Hiro's last words to each other before heading (teleporting) back to Le Renard Noir with Mitsuki and Rina's help. From now on, they would be moving forward and could not look back on the old things which were peaceful, but the ones that needed to be done for the sake of magic and alteration. That very night was when a new door towards their future was unlocked, and they had decided to step through it without hesitation. It was because of their desire to assist Sayuri and the other magicians in order to save them from a cruel, malicious demise that they took drastic measures into their hands, jumping into an extraordinary frontier awaiting their arrival.

XXX

1) Sayuri used verbal irony in which to invoke situational and dramatic irony, as Mitsuki and Riki cannot have a child together.

2) In case there is any confusion, the café manager/owner’s words mean to save the magicians, along with Rina and Mitsuki, whom are members of the Black Foxes.

#Riki Yanase #Takuto Hirukawa #Atsumu Kashiwabara #Hiro Sarashina #Kenshi Inagaki #love letter from thief x #LLFTX #voltage fanfic #Voltage Inc. Pair-up #voltage fanfics

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iwriteficsnottragediesladies · 7 years

Text

Girl can SING (Part 3)

Can you do one where brendon and the reader just started dating and this is her first red carpet and she's nervous about the interviews cause they may not like her but beebo calms her down and the interviews kinda focus on her more surprisingly and bren's like I told you they would love you (can it be the 3rd part of girl can sing maybe????)

@jared-padaloveme @multifandom-slytherin @rindulacre

A/N: this ended up working pretty well with the plotline! Hope you enjoy :)

Before you even made it back to the bus that night, fans had plastered pictures of your kiss on every social media outlet. The captions were adorable for the most part.

"OMG yes Brendon!"

"This was so cute I almost DIED"

"I CALLED IT! I knew it the very first time I saw her on his Snapchat!"

"OTP material right there"

"OH MY GOD You should hear her sing!"

Some of the comments were not so nice.

"I see Brendon is lowering his standards"

"Ugh please get rid of her"

"I don't know why Brendon is spending his time on this ugly shit"

You try to remember the positive comments. You try to remind yourself that the people posting hate were probably jealous 14 year old girls. You try, but for each nice thing said, it felt like there were a thousand negative ones.

Regardless, Brendon still makes you as high as a kite. Sometimes you'd go out to amazing restaurants, and others you would just stay in to watch Netflix and movies, snuggling all day. He had this ability to make you smile for no reason in particular. You were practically inseparable and felt like you were getting closer to him with every second.

Panic released a single the next week, one that you had recorded on. The fans were saying the nicest things about it, talking about how much they loved it, how your voice sounded amazing with Brendon's, and how well written the song was. Despite all of the praise, you found yourself stuck on the negative comments.

"Why is Brendon letting his fling ruin the band?"

"This bitch's voice could not get any worse."

"Please take me back to before Panic turned to shit with this girl"

"I didn't know Brendon was into butter faces"

Some of the confidence Brendon had instilled in you was fading. You think it might be getting noticeable because Brendon keeps asking you what you're thinking about. You always come up with a lie or a casual "nothing".

The Grammy’s are today. You could not believe you would be walking the red carpet, with Brendon Urie, no less. He was in the shower, and you were sitting on the bed, scrolling through your phone. You look at a picture of you and Brendon on instagram. You can’t help but smile.

Your eyes then fall upon a comment that makes your smile drop.

“I don’t understand why y/n had to come and ruin the band.”

It’s not the first time you’ve read a comment like that, and it certainly won’t be the last. But it hits you in just the wrong way. You think about how tonight everyone would be looking at you, judging you, asking you questions... Suddenly you feel yourself regressing into the shy, insecure girl you were before you met Brendon. Tears fell from your eyes and you nibbled your lip.

You felt sick to your stomach. Was it true? Were you ruining the band? What if interviewers start asking you that? What if a disgruntled fan tried to hurt you? You continued to cry.

You hear the bathroom door push open and you quickly roll onto your side so Brendon can’t see your face. You hold your breath, hoping he didn’t see.

“Y/n?” his voice was thick with concern. You’re caught.

Well, no point in hiding it now. Your body shook a little as you let out another sob. You feel the bed sink down behind you and a hand is placed on your shoulder, encouraging you to roll towards it. You obey and Brendon sets eyes on your red face that’s wet with tears and your eyelashes soaked.

“it’s okay,” He says soothingly, laying down next to you, pulling you close. It only makes you cry harder, finally feeling safe to let your guard down.

“Shhhh, it’s okay baby,” He coos, running a hand through your hair. His body is warm and still damp from the shower. It feels so nice. Your cries slow.

“Y/n, what’s wrong?” Brendon asked sweetly, ducking his head to take a good look at you, “Talk to me.”

“I can’t--” You stutter, sniffling, “I can’t d-do this.”

“Can’t do what, baby?” Brendon urges you to go on while brushing some hair from your face.

“I’m just,” your lip trembles, “I’m not good enough.” More tears pour from your eyes as you finally admit the truth out loud.

“Y/n,” Brendon starts, but you interrupt.

“The band, you’re all so talented, I mean, you were born for this,” You spat through your tears, “But I’m just... I’m just me.”

“Y/n,” Brendon tries.

“Most of the fans hate me,” you start again, “they wish I was gone. I’m only holding the band back.”

“Y/n,” Brendon tries again.

“I’m not good enough,” you repeat, “For the band, for you, for any of this--”

Suddenly his lips are on yours. He holds you tighter. You sniffle mid-kiss and he pulls away.

“Y/n,” He says in a low tone, “I love you.”

This is not what you expected. The look in his eyes was overwhelming. He is nearly whispering.

“You are talented, you are beautiful, you are kind, and you are more than good enough. More than good enough for anything. And definitely more than good enough for me. And I love you.”

He is so quiet and so calm, and he spoke as if no truer words had ever flowed from his lips. You were staring at him, processing his words. Is this real life?

“I love you too.” The words fell out of your mouth. And just like that, you push your lips onto his. He kisses you back, so gentle yet so passionate. You love it so much it almost hurts. You love him so much it almost hurts. You part your lips and slip your tongue into his mouth and he follows, mimicking your movement. A hozier lyric crosses your mind.

“The sweet heat of her breath in my mouth, I’m alive.”

And it’s true, you have never felt so alive.

He breaks the kiss and looks at you again. He knows you’re not quite ready to have sex, and he respects your wish endlessly.

“Are you nervous about tonight?” He asks, knowing that this was probably the basis of your breakdown.

You nod and bite your lip, looking away.

“Hey, it’s okay,” he reassures you quickly, tilting your chin up to meet his eyes, “They’re going to love you.”

“But what if they don’t?” You ask like a small child.

“Y/n, they’re going to love you,” He replies with a small chuckle, “I’ll be right there with you the whole time, okay?”

You nod and he wipes away the remnants of your tears. He gives you a soft smile and you can’t help but giggle a little, wondering how you got so lucky.

Later, you’re getting ready. You look in the mirror, tugging on the blue dress you’re wearing to center the way it sat on your hips. You smoothed down the fabric and turned to the side, making sure the back looks okay. This gown is by far the fanciest thing you’ve ever worn. You’re really not used to the glitz and glamor being with a famous person has brought, but it’s all very exciting.

You can hear the boys arriving, Brendon letting them into the house. They were all gathering here before you go over together.

You enter the bathroom one last time to make sure your hair looks okay. Everyone told you that getting a professional make up and hair artist to do you up was the way to go. When you were in college, you worked at a MAC desk in Macy’s, and ever since then you like to do everything yourself, so you decided to go without one.

You put on your heels, which might just be the death of you by the end of the night, and grab your clutch. You make your way into the living room and it instantly fell silent. Everyone was staring at you. You giggle, truly feeling beautiful.

You hear a tiny whisper from Kenny.

“Damn.”

Dan smacks his shoulder in disapproval and Kenny cowers. Brendon is oblivious, just staring at you.

“Holy shit,” Brendon says quietly with a small chuckle.

You giggle again.

“What, do I clean up okay?” You asked.

Brendon nearly jogs over to you, anxious to put his hands on you, seeming to need clarification that this level of beauty could exist in human form. He place his hands on your waist and takes another moment to admire you.

“You look amazing,” he said with wonder. He pulls you in and gives you a quick kiss. You smile up at him and he guides you back over to the group.

The boys greet you and are stuttering messes, trying to reign in the shock of your entrance. You thought it was hilarious.

It wasn’t until the limo was pulling up to the red carpet that you became nervous. Just outside, you could see the carpet and the long line of media crowded around it, lights flashing. It was already overwhelming and you hadn’t even stepped outside yet. You felt tingles in your hand and chewed the inside of your cheek.

The door pops open and Brendon climbs out, then extends his hand to assist you out as well. You took his hand and stood up. It was louder outside than you expected. You paused, biting your cheek a little harder. People are already starting to take pictures of you both. You tighten your grip on Brendon’s hand and he leans in, whispering in your ear.

“I'm right here,” He reminds you, “You’re not alone. They’re going to love you.”

He pulled back to look at you and you nod, mustering up some confidence. He smiles, interlacing his fingers with yours, and you begin to walk forward.

You weren’t really sure how this whole thing worked. It seemed like you stop in front of a sponsor board, let them take pictures for a minute, then move on to the next, and repeat. The first few stops, the whole band is posing together. You try to act natural, but you’re still feeling the nerves. You take a deep breath and remember that four of the best friends you’ve ever had, including your boyfriend, were here next to you, and that you were safe.

Everyone starts to break off, and Brendon agrees to an interview for some entertainment outlet. You lost track of the names of all of them a long time ago. Brendon stands at the barricade and you stand slightly behind him, not wanting to say a word. He snakes his hand around your waist to pull you up next to him. Damn him. He’s lucky he’s cute.

The guy greets Brendon and starts asking him questions. You realize your face is blank and you should probably show some expression. You attempt to look engaged, smiling and laughing when appropriate.

“And of course, I must ask about the newest member of Panic! at The Disco,” The interviewer said, gesturing to you enthusiastically.

You’re pretty sure your heart stopped beating for a second, but you held the smile on your face.

“Y/n,” He began, “How has your start with Panic been?”

Oh my god. You have to talk. You have to speak. You can’t. Words cannot possibly come out of your mouth.

You feel Brendon’s thumb rub circles on your waist in encouragement.

“Uh, um yeah!” You start to reply, trying to remember what the guy even asked. “It’s been a great start.”

You should probably elaborate, but you can’t think of complete sentences in your head.

“How did this come about for you? Did you audition for the band or...” He trailed off.

“Um not exactly,” You looked up at Brendon and smiled nervously.

“It was kind of an unplanned entrance,” Brendon said.

“An accidental audition, if you will,” You added with a laugh. You loosened up.

“Oh really?!” The interviewer exclaimed curiously, “and how did that happen?”

Brendon looks at you.

“Well, Brendon and I had met through some mutual friends at a party,” You began the story. "One day when I was at his house, the whole band together, we were hanging out. I took a shower and, like, started singing, because that’s just, you know, what I do.” Brendon takes over for his part of the story.

“I’m walking by and I hear this singing,” Brendon gesticulating wildly as usual. His personality was so vivacious. You smile. “And I realize its Y/n. Dallon and Ken and Dan and I are standing outside the door listening like total creeps.”

“And I come out of the bathroom in just a towel and these four guys are just staring at me,” You laugh.

“Kenny, our guitarist, just goes ‘girl can SING’ and I’m like ‘oh my god, this girl’s voice is perfect’ and we started working the next day.”

“Yeah,” you say looking up at Brendon with a giggle, “It was probably one of the creepiest but best thing that ever happened to me.”

You have the interviewer laughing and you feel surprisingly comfortable for the first time since you arrived.

“Alright, thank you so much guys,” The interviewer wraps up.

“Yeah, thanks man,” Brendon replies genuinely with that big, enthusiastic smile he flashes around.

You give a parting nod and smile to the interviewer.

You and Brendon begin to continue to the next photo station.

“You did great, Y/n!” Brendon says happily.

“Yeah?” you ask him.

“Yes! The first interview is always the hardest,” He tells you, “You were amazing.” You smile at him, a bit proud of yourself.

At the next photo station, your awkwardness starts to crawl back. Brendon playfully pokes you in the side, completely stealthily. It makes you smile and loosen up. He’s too good at making you feel confident.

You are trying to make your poses sophisticated, or at least not prom-ish. As you attempt to figure out which camera to look at, you begin to think you might look stupid. You start to turn your body into Brendon’s to hide yourself, feeling embarrassed. He wraps his arms around you and you tuck your head into his neck, giggling nervously. He looks down at you and laughs.

He presses a kiss to the top of your head and you look up at him, smiling softly.

You realize that, in your embarrassment, you probably ended up creating really cute pictures. Well, that worked out pretty well.

As you approach the next photo station, you hear photographers calling your name. Not Brendon’s. Yours.

Brendon releases your hand and he nods to tell you to keep going. You look at him like he’s crazy.

“I’ll be right here,” He reassures you. “Go,” He nods again with a smile. You hesitantly walk to the center and smile. You put a hand on your hip and try to pose. You feel so uncomfortable and giggle nervously. You look back to Brendon and give him a joking pouty lip and a laugh. He laughs then shooed you, motioning for you to turn back to the cameras.

You face the paparazzi again with the genuine smile Brendon has given you stuck on your face. You try to look at lots of different cameras, hoping to give the photographers the shots they wanted. The flashing lights and everyone calling your name feels surreal. You realize... You’re not just dating someone famous--you were becoming famous. Being a part of Panic meant you were... Famous?

You look to Brendon and reach out, waving him back over. He walks over to you and gladly rejoins you. It feels nice to have him by your side again.

It’s time for more interviews as you make your way down the carpet. The media is absolutely eating up the story of how you joined the band. You and Brendon end up telling the story at least seven separate times.

The media is really focusing in on you. In fact, they talk to you more than Brendon. They were so excited to hear from you, you appeared to be the shiny new bicycle on the music scene.

One of the interviewers wants to talk with just you alone, and Brendon splits off to get photos taken. “You can do it,” Brendon gives you reassurance and a kiss on the cheek.

The interviewer turns to the camera.

“Alright I am here with Y/n of Panic! at the Disco! How are you doing, Y/n?”

“Great, thank you!” You reply. Oh gees, you’re nervous to be on your own. He asks what “you’re wearing” and you tell him about the designer. The whole thing is a bit too extravagant for you, but you roll with it. He starts to ask you about your time with the band and the success of the new single.

“Now, has your reception by the fans been good?” He then asks. You feel yourself tense up, the doubt and emotions you felt that morning rising in your mind. Don’t you dare cry right now. You hesitate and stutter.

“Um well, yeah,” The pitch of your voice rising, your speech slow, “Some of them have taken really well to me joining and I love to see that. For some people though, I think it’s a bit of a... change up for them.”

“Yes, it’s the first time Panic has ever had a female vocalist,” The interviewer points out, agreeing.

“Mhm, exactly,” you reply simply.

“And obviously you are dating the lead singer, Brendon Urie,” He points out in a slightly devious tone. Your heart flutters and that goofy smile spreads on your face, cheeks pinking up. “What has that been like for you?”

“All I can say is that is has been amazing. Brendon is a very special person and so kind, so loving. I am incredibly happy to have him in my life.” You reply sincerely, still smiling like crazy. Talking about Brendon came very naturally.

“Aw,” the interviewer replies, “Thank you so much for your time, Y/n. It was a pleasure speaking with you.”

“Oh, thank you so much!” You say surprised. It was just an obligatory compliment, but you were still proud. Brendon finished around the same time and you met up with him.

Finally it was time to go inside. Brendon leaned in to you, giving you a bit of a teasing booty bump.

“Told you they were going to love you,” He kissed you for a moment.

“You’re so lucky you’re cute,” You smiled and roll your eyes, “So lucky.”

A/N More chapters ahead! Like/reblog if you’re feelin’ it!

#brendon urie #brendon urie x reader #fanfic #fanfiction #imagine #panic! at the disco #dallon weekes #hozier #fluffy #girlcansing

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savingpartoftheworld · 7 years

Text

Saving Part of the World - Part Two - Chapter Fifteen

Summary: Set after G-Rev, the World Championships have come to Belfast, Northern Ireland in the hopes of spreading the interest and drawing in tourists. In between all the teen angst and the team drama, something powerful and hungry lurks on the horizon and with the help of the beybladers, it may just destroy part of the world.

Rated: T for cursing and mild violence

Ships: Hints of Mariah/Rei, Hilary/Tyson, Enrique/Julia

Previous Chapters: One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight NineTenEleven Twelve Thirteen Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

The cafe was relatively quiet as Hilary and Ian sat in the back booth. Outside a few other customers occupied the metallic table and chair sets, enjoying the warmth while shielded from the splash of sunshine by the large red and white parasols. Hilary glanced around the establishment, taking in the mahogany tables, the green leather booths and the vase of dried flowers in the empty hearth. It was quaint and homely and was probably a delight to sit in on rainy afternoons, but today the light was blue and made cafe seem cold and vacant.

She tapped her nose lightly and stifled a hiss. She was definitely burnt and a quick glance at her shoulders showed they were a delicate pink, which was bound to turn neon red by the nights end if she didn’t do something quick about it. Maybe she could smear some of her ice-cream on them. Or she could buy some sunscreen on her way back to the hotel. Not that she had any idea of when she’d return.

“You believe her now?”

Hilary turned her attention back to Ian with a sigh and delicate roll of her shoulders. “I don’t know what to believe. On one hand, I saw that person in her head and that tree -”

“Trees fall down all time,” Ian muttered, glancing down the corridor where an almost catatonic Amber had disappeared, claiming she needed the bathroom in a dull monotonous tone, not unlike Morrigan’s. It seemed so alien falling from her lips that Hilary had felt a shudder rush down her spine.

“Who reacts to a fallen tree like that, Ian? And you didn’t see Morrigan, but I did.”

“Who is Morrigan?”

Hilary pursed her lips and glanced over the counter where two staff in black uniforms were talking casually while completing their orders for two ice-creams and a tea. On the screen over their heads, reporters were discussing the clips they'd seen of the previous night’s tournament, flashing images of bladers and stats.

Since they were virtually alone, Hilary leaned over the table. “Morrigan is the voice in her head, only it’s not just a voice, it’s a spirit, an ancient deity cursed to watch over her family until this… thing is over.”

Ian lifted a bushy navy brow as he slowly blinked. “Right. Crazy.” He twisted a finger by his temple.

Hilary dropped in her seat with a sigh. “Ian, I’m telling the truth.”

“Oh I believe you think it is truth, but it is not truth. Spirits need mediums. Trust me. I know things.”

“I trust you know how to make a bomb, I trust you know how to shoot a gun, but on spirits, do not try to act like you know more than I do. I have done my research. I am like this” -- she curled her fingers -- “with Kenny, who is font of knowledge on all things bitbeast. If it needs a medium, then that is what Amber is.”

Ian rolled his eyes and Hilary huffed out a breath. Stalemate. Every so often people would walk past the open door of the cafe and conversation would filter in, breaking their little bubble of isolation.

Ian quirked a brow. "Pretty coincidental that the tree falls down after you visit."

Hilary dropped her gaze to the table, fingers toying over the smooth surface.

"Ha!" he crowed. "You think so too."

"I don't know what to think," she admitted. But it was weird that the tree came down just after they'd left. Except Amber's devastation couldn't be faked, could it? That dead look in her eyes, the way her fingers trembled, the wane complexion.

Ian leaned forward, crimson eyes grim. "We cannot trust her."

Hilary slumped in her seat, chin in her hand. "I know. I keep wondering if Morrigan being there had something to do with the tree coming down? Did it sense her or something? But I don't think Amber herself had anything to do with it."

"Lots of things seem to happen to her but there's never any evidence that can be seen."

He had a point. Amber claimed to be attacked by Eoin, but they only had her word for it. She also claimed to be living with her father, and that the world was going to end. “Well, I do know that Amber didn't knock down the tree herself. She was with us. And I hate to say it, but that kind of damage looked like it came from a blade." She looked at him.

Ian's hands lifted, as with a shake of his head, he said, "Not me." One hand dropped under the table and reemerged with his beyblade in hand. "No marks. Not been used all tournament."

She looked at the smooth purple attack ring, the weight disk minus any scoring and the pristine base and had to agree, Ian hadn't used his blade recently. She focused in on the purple bitbeast curled up in the chip, almost watching her through green eyes. "That's your bitbeast?" Having never seen Ian’s blade before, she'd never considered if Ian had a bitbeast, never mind what form it came in. Somehow the idea of a snake with such huge fangs and sleek design seemed so at odds with the boy she was getting to know. "What's his name?"

"Her name is Wyborg."

"She?" Ian had a female bitbeast? How did he know? It didn't look very feminine; it looked fierce and lethal.

"What?" Ian sneered, shoulders hunched as he pulled his beyblade back to clutch it in his hand, as if shielding it from her words. "Just because she isn't pink or wears a ribbon, she can't be female? Or is it that you don't think a boy can have a female bitbeast?"

Before Hilary could try to extract her foot from her mouth, she caught sight of Amber shuffling down the corridor towards them, dragging her feet. Her skin was still a shade of pale under the gold, making her complexion look like waxy parchment and her eyes were bloodshot.

“You look like hell.”

“Who needs a magic mirror when you have Ian,” Amber muttered, throwing herself into the seat beside him and elbowing him hard. “Budge over.”

Hilary mustered up a smile. It was hard to think of the girl as a manipulator when she really did look terrible. “How are you feeling?”

“I have a killer headache and the voice in my head is raging like a wounded animal.”

“Why do you refer to her as the voice, why not Morrigan?”

Amber sent her a dark look. “Because it’s hard enough to have a voice in my head, never mind personifying her. Once you do that, it’s like there’s a person inside of my skin, someone other than me, and that gives me the creeps.”

Ah, well that did indeed make sense. It wasn't like the spirit was a pet or a guardian that watched over her from another realm; Morrigan all but resided in Amber's body. Hilary could understand her reasoning for distancing herself from the spirit.

They fell into silence as the female server came over with an order. Placing down the two silver bowls of ice-cream, she moved around to Amber’s side to set down her tea. As soon as she was gone, Amber took the mug in her hands. Hilary watched the girl as she all but reverently savoured the liquid in slow sips.

“Enjoying that?”

“I haven’t had a cup of tea in… almost a day. Damn right I’m enjoying it. I go into withdrawal if I don’t have any. And after today, I need it for the shock.”

“Lie,” Ian muttered, studying his phone while holding a spoonful of ice-cream aloft.

“Eat your damn ice-cream and stop making snide comments,” Amber groused, setting her tea down and dropping her chin to her folded arms on the table, pouting.

“Don’t you want some ice-cream? It’s too hot for tea,” Hilary offered because, honestly, she didn’t know what else she could do. While Amber wasn’t technically Hilary’s problem, she couldn’t just ignore her, and she couldn't boss her around either. It left Hilary in a frankly awkward position.

“I can’t.”

“What, some religious reason?” Ian managed to ask around a mouthful of strawberry ice-cream.

Amber scowled. “No. Not religious, just personal.”

When they continued to stare at her, she lifted her eyes to the ceiling and heaved a sigh. “I can’t have ice-cream until I save Ireland, okay? It wouldn’t be right for me to be enjoying myself when people could end up dead. Once everything is sorted, I can have guilt free ice cream; my Nana says she’ll treat me too.”

That was almost noble, Hilary mused, then Ian snorted and she kicked him under the table. Honestly, he had no need to be so rude. She didn’t know what kinds of manners those Blitzkrieg boys were teaching him but she was not putting up with his nonsense. “So, what is next on your plan to save Ireland? You’ve shown me Mor - the voice, and the tree.”

“Well, the tree being cut down “ —Amber sent Ian a pointed look but he shrugged it off— “down wasn’t exactly in my master plan. I don’t know what that means and…” she trailed off, rubbing her temples. “I don’t know. So far I’ve just been winging it this whole time.”

Ian gaped at her. “Winning? You aren't winning anything.”

“Winging," Amber ground out. "You know, making shit up.”

Ian looked meaningfully at Hilary and pointed his spoon. “Told you.”

“Ian, she doesn’t mean it like that. Stop being obtuse. She simply means that she’s been…” Oh, she didn’t know any other English terms for it. “…ah… doing the same thing as Tyson.”

“Tyson?”

Hilary nodded while comprehension dawned on Ian’s face.

“Oh,” he said. “Attacking and hoping you win.”

Hilary winced. Well, no, not exactly. “That’s not what Tyson does. He just… has a tendency to not make a plan, but it works for him. He puts his all into his matches and he’s successful.”

Ian gave a dismissive flick of his wrist. “Won’t always work.” He turned to Amber. “You need plan.”

Amber rested her cheek on her folded arms as she looked at him. “I need a plan. I need allies. I need… I don’t know, but you can’t save the world on your own. I know that much.”

“Especially when you have no power of own self.”

Hilary sighed when Amber scowled, eyes sparking. Great. When Amber felt better, Hilary could tell that she would be endlessly playing mediator between these two.

Mariam delicately balanced her weight as she walked along the slender branch, closing a hand on the trunk when she came to a halt. She looked down upon the clearing. This was the spot where the energy had originated and gods it was a mess. It was like coming across an electric wire that had been cut; magic pulsed and sizzled around the large tree lying on its side, as leaves spiralled down onto the canvas of long grass.

She crouched down and all but tasted the magic lingering within the clearing. It was powerful. Breathing in was almost a chore, the air felt thick and soupy.

A flicker of movement made her almost lose her footing. Clutching the trunk, she stared. Sharkrash hovered on the other side of the tree, red eyes studying the broken mess below.

“How are you out?” she wondered, pulling out her beyblade with her free hand. The bitchip glowed brightly, bathing her face in its light. Strange, she hadn’t summoned her bitbeast. In fact, she’d been actively keeping her thoughts away from Sharkrash so Ozuma couldn’t nag her for running off without backup.

Her eyes dropped to clearing again, noting the slanted standing stones pushed aside by the tree and she sighed. “A stone circle, I should have known.”

“Mariam?”

She stiffened and sent an irritated look over her shoulder as Joseph stepped into sight beneath her. “Hello, baby brother.” Yet again, Ozuma was right. Joseph had been close by, though she felt miffed at not sensing his arrival. Rationally she knew she shouldn’t; sneaking was Joseph’s innate skill after all.

Still.

“I take it you felt that wave of power?”

“How could I not? This place is giving off seriously powerful vibes.”

“Well, we have a stone circle that’s possibly a gateway. Hard to tell.”

Joseph nodded, absently reaching up to stroke Vanishing Moot’s trunk as it butted against his shoulder.

Mariam frowned. “When did Moot Point show up?”

“Stop calling him that.” Joseph tossed out the order but it lacked any real heat, his attention fixated on the clearing. He stepped forward, then paused and bent down, picking something up from the long grass.

Since her brother didn’t consider it to be dangerous, Mariam jumped from her branch, landing in a crouch. Standing, she wiggled her toes, pleased with her catlike grace. She glanced up at Sharkrash, expecting a look of — acknowledgement, respect, admiration — something, but her bitbeast was happily circling the clearing above them.

“Not two fucks were given that day,” she muttered, shoving her hands into the pockets of her orange tunic. She reached her brother and held out her hand. “What have you got?”

“Looks like a broken part of an attack ring.” He scanned the clearing. “But I can’t imagine anyone blading around here. The grass is too long for a start.” He rubbed a hand through the dark green hair he’d inherited from their grandfather and frowned, gesturing a hand in bewilderment. “I don’t understand why a beyblade would be here. Did one take down this tree?”

Mariam passed him to crouch down beside the shorn edge of the trunk, running her fingers over the rough bark and breathing in the scent of sawdust. “It can be done, we know that, but why take down this one tree in particular? It doesn’t look like any of the other trees have been touched. Never mind the fact that this place is so isolated that reaching it should be near impossible and it’s guarded by wards.” Wards strong enough to almost force her to leave.

Joseph nodded. “They were definitely druid magic.”

She stood up, dusting off her hands. “What gave you the hint? The ogham writing? Or the fact we’re in Ireland?”

“Temper, temper sister.”

Ignoring his chiding, she propped her hands on her hips. What happened here? She could feel the waves of energy marching over her legs and arms, lifting goosebumps in their wake and it was clear something was broken but this was so far out of her realm of expertise. She sealed renegade spirits, she didn’t mess with magic of this nature. She ducked out of the path of an errant bug and lifted her hair off her neck as the heat began to make her feel sticky. This place was stifling, as if all the heat from the sun had become trapped by the dense circle of trees.

“Well,” Joseph said, placing the attack ring piece into a plastic baggy — why he had that, Mariam had no clue — and slipping it into his pocket, “there’s not a lot we can do other than record our findings. Here, take this camera and go take some photos of the wards so we can show them to Ozuma.”

Mariam stared at the camera in her hand. Record their findings? Take photos? What did he think they were? Supernatural detectives? Scientists? This was ridiculous. She’d expected something big here, maybe more of a clue as to what they were dealing with, or a strong bitbeast to seal away, or something! Instead, they were recording evidence in baggies and taking samples.

Biting her tongue, she stalked away with Sharkrash tagging along at her shoulder. The heat was making her cranky; it was so damned heavy. She felt grubby, and her clothes were sticking to her, and her neck was in boulder-sized knots. The idea that there wouldn’t be fresh bedsheets, a hot shower or a hot Russian waiting for her on her return wasn’t improving her mood either. She just wanted to get this done and go somewhere cool. She'd even forego the hot Russian if she was guaranteed a shower with pulsing jets and fresh, clean water. Though with the way Ozuma was acting, she’d be taking a bath in the nearest river.

Max watched the gathering crowd of fans lining up by the front door and grinned. Even on such a small island, the sport of Beyblading was really gaining interest. It seemed like the balding spirit was spreading fast all over the world. He liked to think that not only was it the good work of Mr Dickinson and the WBBA, but also the way people like himself, Tyson, Rei and sometimes Kai conducted themselves when they were in the arena.

He glanced up sharply as the door to the balcony opened, letting out bright fluorescent light that dimmed the sunlight shimmering over the River Lagan. He lifted his fingers in a salute as Rick came out of the building, a fleeting grin crossing his lips as he caught sight of Rick's one concession to being considerate to others: earphones.

The burly boy removed his white Beats, slipping them around his neck. He rested his arms on the railing, clasping his hands in front of him. "What are you doing out here? Shouldn't you be with your team?"

Max sighed. Ah, he should have guessed Rick might be a little upset that he hadn't joined the PPB All Starz this time around, but that was the problem of being affiliated with two teams. They both wanted him to play. However, he was originally, at heart, a Bladebreaker and that's what this tournament was about, going back to your roots. Besides, when he'd joined the PPB All Starz, it had been a two player team really. Now that it was back to four players and with Rick on the team, it seemed unfair to deprive Michael, Eddy and Emily of their place, and with Kai off the Bladebreakers, there was a space to fill and he gladly took it.

He wanted his chance at being World Champion of course, and he would get it through the single battles, but he also wanted to blade all the players who had missed out last time, like his old teammates, like Enrique, Bryan, and Spencer. And he missed blading side by side with Tyson and Rei, though he’d miss blading side by side with Kai now.

"No, my team is off practicing, doing their thing. I'm just checking out the crowds. We have some serious amount of fans."

Rick jerked a shoulder. "It's not like these people have anything better to do. This is probably the highlight of their miserable lives."

Max chuckled ruefully. Oh Rick. "How are things going on your team?"

Rick's shoulders hunched as he pulled out his blade and studied it. "Michael needs his ass kicked, Emily needs that stick removed from her ass and Eddy is too busy flirting with Emily to even know what he's up to. Honestly, I'm about ready to quit this gig."

Max gaped at him. Surely he hadn't heard that right. "No way, Rick."

"Max, they're not my team. They're a bunch of poser wannabes and they don't even accept me."

Ah. And therein lay the problem. Rick's self esteem issues when it came to feeling like the black sheep of the group. The PPB All Starz were a hard team to click with. They were so individual and often led by their own egos. Every so often, they just needed a reality check, and Rick was the person to do it. Under the right kind of leader, they could really live up to their potential.

"So make them respect you." Max smothered a grin. "I guess this time you're playing my role."

Rick snarled, then grumpily crossed his arms and sent Max a side long look. "You think I can get through to them? I mean, if we don't pull together, how are we gonna battle? That's what you taught me, Max; there's more to being a team than having the same jacket."

That there was, Max mused, shoving his hands into his Bladebreakers jacket as he gazed up at the deep blue sky with fluffy orange tinged clouds. "Look, right now, you guys are like noodles, okay? You're there, you're performing your function as wholesome food, but you guys are not a meal. You, Rick, have to be the mayonnaise that links it all together."

Rick frowned and kicked a foot against the railing. "Max, I don't think anyone but you gets your food analogies."

Max laughed and patted his friend on the back. “You’ll understand someday.”

“So, what do you think?” Ian asked as they stood outside the convenience store waiting for Amber to return.

For some reason Hilary had needed chocolate and mayonnaise because the hotel insisted on supplying every condiment but mayonnaise much to Max's chagrin, and, well a lot of crap Ian didn’t care about. But when she’d eventually returned with a plastic bag filled with that stuff, Amber had suddenly remembered something she desperately needed — probably tampons. Girls were always dashing off to buy tampons. So now they waited for her. Not that he knew why. She could find her own way home. They didn’t need to escort her.

“About what?” Hilary asked, looking up from her phone.

“Her. Do we ignore what we found out? Or do we tell people?”

Hilary sighed. “I don’t think we should tell anyone.”

“Not even Kai?” Well, wouldn’t Mr Sour Puss get in such a bad mood when he found out perfect Hilary was hiding things from him. Heh. Maybe he could take photos for his blog of Kai’s tantrum — or gifs. He needed to figure out how to make gifs. That would certainly help increase his followers and, in turn, maximise his profits.

“Definitely not Kai. We don’t have any evidence and what if the tree falling down leads to nothing? There’s no point worrying them.”

“Then why are we still here?”

“Because we can’t let her walk home alone and honestly Ian, I think she’s lonely.”

“Lonely?” What did that girl know about lonely? She hadn’t been abandoned by her only family while they toured around the world, now had she? She had parents; she hadn’t grown up in an orphanage. “She has her dad.”

Hilary shook her head, putting away her phone and folding her arms. “No, she doesn’t.”

“She lives with him.” He’d seen the photographs of Amber and her father posing for various things. They looked happy and unified and like a family. Ian had spent enough time observing families to know what one looked like. “She does not pay for that apartment.”

“Oh yes, I agree, that is her father’s home but he’s not living there right now. Didn’t you see her dishes? I mean, there was one cup and one bowl. She didn’t have milk and everything in that apartment was hers. There were no shoes at the door, his bed was perfectly made —”

“You spied?”

Hilary averted her gaze, a clear sign she was evading. “I had a quick look around while waiting for her to dress. But I’m nearly certain that there’s only one person living in that apartment and that’s Amber. Even if her dad is there, we can’t let her walk home alone at this time of night. Not when we don’t know what’s going on. And there's Eoin, something happened in that corridor, Ian. Maybe he did think she was trying to steal his beyblade but I don't think that warrants such a reaction.”

While that was a valid reason to attack someone to Ian’s way of thinking, he had to agree with Hilary. Much as it left a bad taste in his mouth. They couldn’t not walk her home and, he glanced around, taking in the high peaking rooftops and darkened alleys, there was just the mildest sense that they were being watched.

They were talking about her. Even as she stood in the line for the checkout in the grocery store, Amber could see Hilary and Ian standing in the middle of the darkening pedestrian street exchanging tense sentences and clipped words. Hilary’s arms were folded tightly across her middle while Ian constantly surveyed their surroundings. And once in a while their gaze would dart to her. Despite everything they’d seen — what Hilary had seen — they still didn’t believe her and that just pissed her off. Her fingers tightened around the cold plastic handle of the milk bottle and she frowned, wondering what she would have to do to convince them. At the moment she was all out of options and the voice was of no help, having slunk back to her dark corner to hibernate.

“How’s it going?” she greeted the cashier mechanically, handing over the bottle of milk and fishing in her pocket for her spare change.

“One ten, please.”

Handing over the coins, she took her milk and headed back out into the cooling night. She knew they spotted her coming, Hilary had that forced smile on her face and Ian’s expression was blank, his hands shoved into the pockets of his jeans. She shuffled awkwardly. “Um, so if you guys go down in that direction, you’ll-”

Hilary shook her head. “You live across from the arena, and that’s where we’re heading.”

“Well, just in case you get lost sometime.” Belfast wasn’t huge but it had tiny little streets and assholes and she didn’t want her only potential allies to get accosted because someone was a giant prick. Scowling, she stepped into the middle of the street and scanned over the point of the rooftops. “See those yellow things in the distance?”

“Oh, those are the cranes, right? The ones near the arena.”

“That’s right. Samson and Goliath, they’re on the Harland and Wolff shipyard, which is directly down the street from the Odyssey.”

“That shipyard is where the Titanic was made, right?” Hilary asked, rising on her tiptoes to look at the cranes.

“Ha,” Ian scoffed, “ship that could not sink. Like tree that could not fall down. Your country, shoddy workmanship.”

Hilary swiped for his head but expecting it, he ducked away with a laugh.

Amber felt her lips quirk. He was kind of right. “Except, you know, details. Anyway, once you find them, you can find the arena pretty easily. They’re much easier to spot than say the river.”

Hilary nodded, looking pleased with herself. Which made sense, she now pretty much had a compass to find her way to the arena whenever she needed to. There was something almost relieving about knowing your way around a strange city; it was like it eliminated a modicum of danger. Of course, that was probably when things became much more dangerous, but Amber didn’t like to think like that. Otherwise, she’d never leave the apartment ever.

“Right, we should all go together. Besides, didn’t Ian leave stuff in your apartment?”

Ian’s mouth opened, then shut, as he sent Hilary a dark look. “I can collect them later. You won’t damage them.”

“I won’t, but if you’re -“

“We walk you home. Don’t need extra baggage to take to arena. I collect later.”

And that was that. They headed down to the bottom of Ann Street and followed the footpath along Victoria Street. Cars swept along the route, headlights beginning to illuminate the road for them as they weaved up through the lanes or turned off down side roads. Brake lights flared in combination with the red glow of traffic lights, disappearing once the green appeared. Laughter bounced off walls as other people came out of buildings or darted across the street in front of them.

“Do you want to come to the tournament with us?” Hilary suddenly asked.

“Rain check? I just want a hot shower and bed. I don’t feel great, to be honest.”

“Hilary?”

Hilary paused and looked over her shoulder, scanning for the person calling her name. Amber spotted him just a second before Hilary called out: “Kai! What are you doing out here?”

He was standing on a pedestrian island across the street from them, wearing a blue hoodie and a pair of black cargos, with his hands casually dipped into the pockets. Silver chains flashed as he took advantage of a break in the traffic, jogging over to meet them. She knew instantly the moment he’d spotted her and faltered, his expression icing over. Great, she mused. Just another person to drag down her epically shit day. Fan-fucking-tastic.

To her side, Ian began to almost bounce gleefully. “What are you doing out here?” he asked, not even seeming to care that he was repeating Hilary’s question or that Kai wasn’t inclined to answer.

“What are you two doing out?” Kai countered, voice deep and commanding. He was like their really awful big brother, Amber decided. The kind who had to know all your secrets but not because he cared, but because he hated not knowing things.

Hilary’s mouth worked before she finally said, “Oh, we were getting ice cream with Amber. You remember Amber don’t you?”

“Yes. Amber. Our friend.”

She did not like the way Ian said that. It was almost menacing. Little douchebag was up to something. Without thinking she reached out and tugged a piece of his hair, causing him to hiss and round on her. “You attacked me.”

Rubbing her nose, she met his furious gaze with a pointed look. “Aye, I pulled your hair. It was… sticking out. Kind of being annoying, you know?”

Kai pinched the bridge of his nose. “Are you two going to the arena?”

“Yes.” Hilary seized on the distraction. “Yes. We are. Amber’s showing us a shortcut.”

“Uh, yeah, just that clock there.” She pointed to the Albert Memorial clock as they approached it. It spiked up to the sky, illuminated in orange. “If you go down the road beside it and then straight across the next road, you’ll reach the Lagan weir footbridge which pretty much ends at the Odyssey. Saves you travelling along the main bridge.”

“Ah, see, now that’s helpful because we were using that bridge a lot, weren’t we, Ian? And there’s cars and it’s dangerous. A footbridge would be much safer.” Hilary forced a laugh, flapping her hands manically, so much so that Ian almost got smacked again.

Amber closed her eyes and prayed for patience. Was Hilary really this bad at acting natural around Kai? Then again, maybe she was right when she suggested Hilary had a crush on him. She couldn’t blame the girl. He was an utterly divine example of the male species, lean, taught muscles; sharply chiselled face; nice mouth, gorgeous brown eyes… but then he opened his mouth. Heck sometimes he didn’t even need to open his mouth, a look could pretty much wither up any hope a girl had of wanting to be noticed by him. And Amber was quite happy to stay out of his way.

“Hilary, your nose is burnt.”

“Ha!” Ian barked out a laugh. “You look like you have chilli nose.”

Hilary flinched and her hand came up to cover her nose as her shoulder’s dropped. “I know. I’m going to be so sore later.”

“I’d offer aftersun, but I don’t have any.”

“Your usefulness continues to impress me,” Kai muttered.

“Sorry, been kind of busy doing other important things.” Like trying to save the world so assholes like Kai didn’t end up wiped off the face of the earth, but yeah, she should have made some time to shop for aftersun. Douchebag.

They came to a halt at the pedestrian crossing, waiting for the green man. “Ah, here, I bought you chocolate.” Hilary dug into her bag and came out brandishing a foil wrapped bar. “I heard Irish chocolate is particularly good. Nothing in comparison to Belgian chocolate, but you tell me your verdict.”

Kai’s ears turned pink and he humphed, pulling up the hood of his jacket just as the beeping began and the green man told them to walk. Hurrying across the street, Amber released a sigh as a weight lifted off her shoulders and chest, and the buzzing under her skin died away. She called out a goodbye to Ian and Hilary, then left them to cross the courtyard to her apartment block.

She was home and she had milk. Thank bloody christ. Not that she had a clue what her next step would be, but at least she knew she could go into her apartment, have a nice cup of tea and have a bowl of cereal in the morning. She’d make her next decision after that. Besides, this whole thing was a bit of a waiting game anyway. Perhaps she’d be lucky and Ian and Hilary would convince their teams to leave while she was sleeping. Unlikely, but a girl could hope.

#beyblade #beyblade fanfiction #saving part of the world #saving fanfic #fanfiction #chapter fifteen #hilary tachibana #ian papov #brotp #kai hiwatari #amber marie benson

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