The Right Kind of Wrong
Chapter 7: Shooters and Liars
Perspectives in Bold.
Lyrics and time changes in Italics.
Okay this is the second time I wasn't able to get this out on time because of unexpected vacations. Anyways I tried to find the music that would match best and I hope I did. Just for kicks really should end this story here... but I won't do that. Next chapter is called Dance With Me... Enjoy or get angry. Either works for me.
Music:
Girlfriend by Avril Lavigne
Assassin's Tango by John Powell (this song should be played throughout paintball wars)
Goodbye by Secondhand Serenade
Nanoha
Staring at the ceiling last nights events replayed in my mind...
Last night...
I awoke to Amy, sitting on a recliner next to the couch I was on. Seeing me awake she laid down the gossip magazine to talk to me, "Finally decided to wake up huh? You missed dinner, but you gotta bigger problem." Still groggy I try to decipher where I was and what day it was. My confusion plain to the brown-haired woman, she clarified my whereabouts, "Fate dropped you off about three hours ago." My eyebrows shot up at the amount of time. Another part of my mind was jotting down notes about how cruel Fate was to just dump me off without saying goodbye. "She didn't stick around neither... good thing 'cause someone ain't so happy about your little adventure today. Just a warning." A pause to inspect my mental condition then she continued, "Yunno is gettin' more pissy by the minute on the front porch swing. Oh and before I forget, Lindy left a plate for you in the microwave. That's it. Anyway well goodnight... and good luck, Nanoha." As she was about to exit the room she paused and said, "Tomorrow's my birthday and were goin' paintballin'."
Collecting myself I sat up slowly only to be greeted by stiffness in my back. It felt like I had bruises on my butt. With great care I rose up to find my less than happy boyfriend. Opening the front door I saw Yunno sitting on the swing with furrowed eyebrows, angry forest green eyes and a taut jaw. Walking up to him, "Hey, there stranger. Anyone sitting here?" I was aiming to lighten the mood... No luck.
"Sit wherever you like." Came the bitter reply. Sitting down next to him, I stared into the night. We sat in silence for a short while until I couldn't bear it any longer.
"What's wrong?" I had an idea, but it was only proper procedure to ask.
"What's wrong," was the mocking retort, "what's wrong is that you spent the day with someone I asked you to STAY AWAY FROM." His fist clenching as he continued, "I told you that for a reason Nanoha. She may seem like an... an angel in everyone else's eyes, but I know that... that woman is far from heaven sent."
"But Yunno she didn't... Your mom had to work so she called Fate to take care of me. Plus, Fate doesn't seem like..." Before I could finish Yunno intervened.
"I don't care what she seems like. The woman is the child of the devil!" Yunno cursed.
"Yunno... Fate never killed... She's your sister." I could see a sadness in his eyes along with the hate, but his voice only echoed with pain. Trying to take his hand in my own, but he pulled it away.
"That bitch... she told you didn't she." His voice turning to ice, "pfft! I told her not to, a simple request and she opens her mouth." Facing me he spoke again, "It might seem like her mother was some crazy bitch that went on a rampage, but you know what. It wasn't Precia that decided my father's death, it was Fate. That liar sentence my father to death. And he... he shouldn't have even been working that night. But no... he was called by her precious daddy to save a wolf. A goddamn wolf!" I couldn't say anything... It was clear Yunno flat out, hated Fate. There wouldn't convincing him otherwise. "You wanna know something interesting... The day we laid her father and mine in the ground she didn't cry."
"I'm sure she felt something Yunno. How could she not be sad."
"Look here," he said taking my hands a sigh before staring into my eyes, "I'm not just saying this out of jealousy of her or something. I don't wanna to see you get hurt or worse. In the end I know its not right for me to control who you associate with but, I refuse to lose you Nanoha. If you continue to hang out with her just promise me you'll be safe. All that glitters isn't gold, babe. There's more to her, there's another side. Just promise to take care of yourself?" He wore an earnest expression while all I could do was smile sadly and nod.
I simply couldn't understand why he held an unadulterated hate for Fate. It was her mother who was the murderer. Trapped in a confused state of mind I stared at the wooden porch trying to think of possible explanations for his repeated warning of the danger of my new friend. I sat there for another thirty minutes after Yunno had left me with a kiss to my cheek.
All I could come up with is that Fate wasn't perfect, but it was the imperfections she possessed that made her perfect... if that made any sense. What is it that makes Yunno so weary of the angel? Why hate her? Those were the thoughts that haunted me as I laid down that night.
Next Morning...
"Good morning everyone!" The shouted greeting that rang through the halls at five in the morning.
"Arghhhh..." I groaned as I tried move myself into a sitting position. It felt like someone had taken a baseball bat to the lower half of my body.
Just as I sat up, in came Amy... "GET UP NANOHA!" Too loud, too early, "Come on you two its a glorious day." Pausing to take a deep breath, as her eyes opened once more and her arms shot out to the side, "Cause... IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!"
"Ugh... happy birthday." I replied without meaning it. While Yunno buried his head in his pillow grunting.
"Party poopers... I'm gonna to seek out more supportive family." Closing the door behind her I was just about to lay back down, but the door suddenly slammed open again. Leaning into the room the disturbance spoke once more, "By the way," pointing a finger at me, "no going back to sleep were leaving in thirty minutes. PAINTBALLIN'!" With that she was gone.
Two hours later...
"Geez, what took ya' folks so long?" Vita shouted as we got out of Chrono's truck, "Amy you said six-thirty... it's seven! This retard woke me up by...mmmph." Hayate quickly covered her girlfriend's mouth.
And with a smile she addressed us, "Oh don't mind her she isn't a morning person..." more like Vita was going to expose her wake-up tactics, "Anyways good morning y'all. Happy Birthday Amy!" Hayate abandoned her hold on Vita to hug Amy. Of course as soon as they were together the intelligence transfer began. Chrono walked away from the duo shaking his head. I walked hand in hand with Yunno leading me. We followed Chrono to the rest of the group that included, a frustrated Vita next to Shamal who was scolding a pink-haired woman. Beside them was the tall, orange-haired Johnny Lanster who was laughing with two girls. One I assumed was his sister because of the similarities and another with short violet hair and green eyes. Standing alongside the larger group I saw Fate talking to a woman with long lavender hair similar to that of the other purple-haired girl. Walking alongside Yunno I tried not to look at Fate, but the fact that they were so deep in conversation... Yunno hit Johnny on the shoulder to get his attention, when the quarterback turned around I saw his face light up.
"Well, well what do we got here." He smirked, rubbing his chin. "G'day my lady. Don't you just look fresh picked peach." Johnny placed a kiss on my hand. Releasing my hand he turned to his blonde friend, "Yunno, why ya' been hiding this sexy thing from me," jabbing my boyfriend in the ribs, "think I'm gonna steal her from ya'!" All Yunno did was shake his head while Johnny laughed. "Jus' jerkin' ya' balls. I'm not the one you should be worrying about." I'm not sure who he was referring to, but I didn't like the way this conversation was going so I cut in.
"Your right Johnny, he doesn't have to worry about you. I'm sorry but your just not my type." I said with a smile.
"Is that so..." The country boy replied, "I didn't think so. So what is your type... tall, blonde..." my eyebrows twitched, "Yunno."
"Of course." I didn't know what this troublemaker was doing but I didn't appreciate it. Luckily Yunno only smiled at our exchange.
Turning to look at the rest of the group a hand shot out towards me, "Howdy, I'm Subaru Nakajima. It's a pleasure to meet cha'."
"Nice to meet you as well, Subaru. Nanoha Takamachi." I shook her hand. She then turned to the orange-haired girl, letting go of my hand to gesture to the girl.
"This is my..." She was instantly cut off by the other woman.
"Hi I'm Teana Lanster. Unfortunately for me that dumbass is my brother," pointing to Johnny who wore a hurt expression, "and Subaru is MY girlfriend." I don't know whether that was a possessive remark or some kind of domination thing between the two.
"I see. Well, its nice to meet you Teana. And I pity you." I said while looking at Johnny.
Ignoring it I chanced a glance at the golden blonde with her arms crossed and her companion whose... whose hands were gripping Fate's forearms. She just moved them to Fate's hands...
Before I reached angry Shamal distracted me, "Mornin' Nanoha. I don't think you've met my partner yet," turning to the woman with pink hair, bright blue eyes and an emotionless face, "Signum Wolkenritter." In response Signum grunted her hello, but Shamal planted a firm elbow in her ribs for a real hello.
Rolling her eyes Signum greeted me in a firm voice, "Hello, Takamachi. Hayate and Amy told us all about you." My mouth just hung open for a second before I turned around to see to two innocent smiling faces to which I could only stare at until my temper kicked in, "AMY! HAYATE!"
Cringing at my angry exclamation all I received from Amy was. "Aha... sorry."
Followed by Hayate's, "Oi, Signum!" A sigh, "Sorry couldn't help it."
Turning back to the group I noticed Signum had moved to Fate's side telling her something to which the blonde nodded and looked at me, then back at her companion that thankfully kept her hands to herself.
"Temper, temper... I like 'em feisty." Johnny said.
"Not going to happen." I put that fire out fast.
"So cruel. Jus' broke my heart cutie."
"Leave her alone idiot." Teana shook her head at her brothers antics.
"Oh and thanks for yesterday Nanoha." Subaru surprised me. Seeing my dumbfounded look she elaborated, "You know for..." However Fate interrupted her.
"Hey, hey Subaru I told you don't have to thank the woman." Somehow I get the feeling the truth is being hidden from me.
"But Fate, you said she cleaned the stalls, fed and watered so we wouldn't have to. I just wanted to thank her." The angelic demon squeezed her eyes shut, and inhaled deeply to face me. While Subaru continued to sell her out, "Usually Teana and I do it, but we got to go out yesterday since you were there."
Maintaining a smile on my face that contained the rage within. I spoke again, "Is that so. Well, glad I could help you two out. Hope you had a great time."
"Yep, we did. Thanks." I then turned my icy glare to Fate who immediately looked around for something to pull her out of the grave she'd fallen into.
"Geez I wonder when were gonna start." She tried to recover.
"Aunty Lindy said she'd be coming soon with the food and supplies." Her companion cut in. Seeing me she introduced herself, extending her hand at the same time, "Hello, I'm Ginga Nakajima. Subaru's sister."
Shaking it firmly, "Nanoha Takamachi, nice to meet you." Not...My attention quickly went back to those not-so-innocent burgundy eyes. She ignored me at first and now I find out about this... Blondie was so going down.
Fate
I think I'm getting the death glare. Its true I tried to ignore Nanoha at first but that damn Subaru and her gratitude. Amy had warned me when I got home last night about Yunno being less than pleased to find out Lindy sent her to me. Now it's just a staring down between us as everyone else begins to tell embarrassing stories about each other. I abruptly look down as Yunno's eyes land on my own. Wonderful day has begun...
Everyone had gathered for Amy's birthday at the paintball grounds about an hour away from town. As odd as it might be, every birthday Amy had made it tradition to come out to the Mid-Childa Cedar forest and play paintball... all day. She's not even good. Part of the forest had been fenced and made into war zone for paintball fanatics that lived in and around Mid-Childa. So with one person pissed at me and another who hates my guts its going to be an interesting game today. Thank the Heavens, Mother finally arrived.
"I brought doughnuts!" The older woman announced to the hungry crowd. "Johnny Lanster don't you eat too many. I do not wanna to see you sick as dog after one round."
"Don'tcha worry Miss. I am not that hungry." Liar... Till this day it amazes me that a man that skinny, can eat half cow for lunch and rest for dinner.
"Better watch Fate though. Looks like that six pack's turnin' a lil' soft!"
"TIIDA!" That was the ass' real name... I don't really know why but everyone just decided to call him Johnny. "Wipe that smirk off your face before I do it for you!" I have a perfectly fine abs, that idiot.
"Oh... I like it rough." What jackass.
"Don't bother Fate. He's jus' jealousy cause he gained five pounds." Teana interjected.
"Five pounds of pure muscle!" He said lifting his shirt to show off is well-toned abdominal.
"Your blinding me dammit! Put that shit away. I sure as hell don't wanna see it." Chrono whacked him over the head. "Where's your girlfriend... Vice?"
"He ain't my girlfriend. You should know I'm aiming for Ginga's heart, but she's so cold to me." Ginga just shook her head at Johnny's failed attempt to woo. "I'm gonna getcha one day, my dear." Pausing he answered Chrono's question, "Plus, you should know Chrono, Vice is in love with his helicopter its impossible to pry the bastard away from it. He's probably at the clinic polishing the sucker and making out with it right now. Just waiting for an emergency." A pause, "Plus you know he doesn't like shooting more than he has to." Tiida was probably right.
"Okay kids that's enough bickerin'." Lindy cut in to shut us all up. "Let's discuss the first round today. This is how its gonna be. You'll have a partner and the both of you should have different colored paintballs. A team will be eliminated if one of the two partners gets hit with two different colored shots. Should one of you get hit twice with two different colors you're out. Each team will have a radio and be responsible for telling us if you were eliminated. This is an honor system, be truthful. The team that has eliminated you will also be responsible for confirming it with me. Am I understood?"
"Yes ma'am!" Came the automatic reply from everyone.
"One more thing... No head hunting." Somehow all eyes landed on me.
"What? I didn't mean to. Plus, y'all had helmets." Attempting to save myself.
"I don't even know how you aim that well with paintball gun. It's scary." Amy said.
"Fate... no head hunting."
"Yeah, yeah... might happen on accident."
"Fate." The Admiral warned.
"Yes, ma'am."
"Okay, half-an-hour for everyone to get suited up. Get ready!" The Admiral announced and everybody went about getting ready.
"Dibs on Fate." Johnny yelled out. I really didn't care who I partnered with well... maybe I did. There were two people I'd rather not be partners with. Guess who.
"No one gets Fate." Hayate called out.
"Yeah its uneven, so... Fate's by herself. She can handle." Amy confirmed Hayate's order.
"Whatever." I knew something like this MIGHT happen. There was a huge target on my back after all the head shots I took last time.
"Okay so team one is Fate. Team two is Chrono and Amy. Team three is Yunno and Nanoha. Team four is Hayate and Vita. Team five is Shamal and Signum. Team six is Teana and Subaru. Team seven is Ginga and Johnny." Lindy finish off and I heard Johnny say to Ginga,
"See gotcha." To which Ginga calmly replied,
"Dream on, loverboy."
From my truck bed I stole a quick glance at Nanoha and couldn't help but smile as she picked up the paintball gun in a fashion that made it clear she knew what she was doing. But as soon as Yunno came around she held the gun as a beginner would, acting completely hopeless. What a talented actress. Getting back to my set-up I put on my black armor and loaded one gun with yellow paintballs and another gun with pink. At least I was allowed two guns since I didn't have a partner. I just need to remember to aim low. But what the hell is she doing here?
Jumping down from my truck bed, I can't help but stare at her. It was true that I didn't love her in the romantic sense as I once did. But dammit she was still as beautiful as she use to be if not more. Staring at her now I can't help but feel...
Nanoha
I'll admit it Yunno is totally boring me with his explanation and I'm totally acting like I don't know shit about guns, a lie. Conversely if I don't do this I won't make him feel good about himself. Let's face it guys enjoy teaching girls things... especially when it concerns sports, guns and automobiles. It gives them a testosterone high. Often enough we just play along so that we have an excuse to buy a new outfit.
I nod my head while he goes on about safeties and such... basically I'm bored. So I start to look around... of course my eyes land on those golden blonde locks.
Hey! Hey! You! You! Hey! Hey! You! You!
I don't like your girlfriend!
No way! No way!
I think you need a new one
Hey! Hey! You! You!
I could be your girlfriend
I know that you like me
No way! No way!
No, it's not a secret
Hey! Hey! You! You!
I want to be your girlfriend
She looks like she's finished getting ready... I'm still a little pissed about the cleaning stalls thing... but what pisses me off more is that she totally ignored my presence earlier. That flame is only fanned by the fact that she paying complete attention to Alicia, who just happens to be here.
You're so fine
I want you mine
You're so delicious
I think about ya all the time
You're so addictive
Don't you know what I could do to make you feel alright?
Don't pretend I think you know I'm damn precious
And Hell Yeah
I'm the motherfucking princess
I can tell you like me too and you know I'm right
It looked like she was ignoring Fate's gaze as she put on her hiking gear. Yes ignore Fate... Opps almost got caught ignoring Yunno.
She's like so whatever
And you could do so much better
I think we should get together now
And that's what everyone's talking about!
Hey! Hey! You! You! Hey! Hey! You! You!
I don't like your girlfriend!
That's Right! No way! No way!
I think you need a new one
Hey! Hey! You! You!
I could be your girlfriend
I know that you like me
No way! No way!
You know it's not a secret
Hey! Hey! You! You!
I want to be your girlfriend
Really can Fate look at something else... oh great now Alicia is looking back at Fate. Okay they've been staring too long... yes a minute is too damn, fricken long.
I can see the way, I see the way you look at me
And even when you look away I know you think of me
I know you talk about me all the time again and again
So come over here, tell me what I want to hear
Better yet make your girlfriend disappear
I don't want to hear you say her name ever again
(And again and again and again!)
Cleverly, I aim my paintball gun at Fate though it would appear to my teacher, Yunno, that I just don't know how to hold it properly. Now get it just right... BOOM!
She's like so whatever
And you could do so much better
I think we should get together now
And that's what everyone's talking about!
Hey! Hey! You! You!
I don't like your girlfriend!
That's Right! No way! No way!
I think you need a new one
Hey! Hey! You! You!
I could be your girlfriend
Hey! Hey! You! You!
I know that you like me
No way! No way!
You know it's not a secret
Hey! Hey! You! You!
I want to be your girlfriend
Everyone turned to look at Fate who had just cried out. After taking a glance at the pink splatter on her butt, she turned murderous burgundy eyes on me. To cover my "mistake" I yelled, "Sorry, I didn't mean to." In return she gave a small "yeah right" smile and began to try clean off the paint.
In a second you'll be wrapped around my finger
Cause I can, cause I can do it better
There's no other
So when's it gonna sink in?
She's so stupid
What the hell were you thinking?
In a second you'll be wrapped around my finger
Cause I can, cause I can do it better
There's no other
So when's it gonna sink in?
She's so stupid
What the hell were you thinking?
I saw Alicia smile and turn to begin her hike with a camera. Good riddance! I just finished off suiting up when I heard.
Hey! Hey! You! You!
I don't like your girlfriend!
That's Right! No way! No way!
I think you need a new one
Hey! Hey! You! You!
I could be your girlfriend
Hey! Hey! You! You!
I know that you like me
No way! No way!
You know it's not a secret
Hey! Hey! You! You!
I want to be your girlfriend
"Alright everyone, out into the forest. There will be five minutes of no fire. I have a blow horn to signal the start. Go it?" Aunty Lindy laid the final grounds and allowed all hell to break loose. As Yunno and I were about to run in, Fate ran past and whispered so only I could hear, "You're such a liar."
Before she was out of earshot, I yelled, "Takes one to know one." To which Yunno just stared at me wearing a confused expression.
"Let's shoot shit!" Chrono shouted out.
"Agreed." I mumbled under my breath... Let's shoot a blonde liar.
Five minutes later...
(Assassin's Tango)
Yunno and I found a decent area to start from when we heard the horn. Looking around suspiciously we moved separately from tree to tree. I did my best to not make any noise despite the ground being covered in leaves. Yunno refused to try as hard. He'd be the first to go if everyone had real guns.
Listening to closely the bushes twenty feet away shuffled with life. From shifting of leaves I could tell someone was climbing a tree. Posting up against a cedar I gestured for Yunno to stop. Looking ahead I saw the shift of a tree branch. Whoever it was tried to conceal themselves, but failed as I saw the tip of a black boot. I could've made my move however his or her partner was sure to be close by. Yunno pointed to a bush ten feet away that moved. It wasn't a person, but a rock. Someone had thrown a rock into the bush to flush out whoever they could. Checking the bush about twenty feet away, I saw a brightly colored hat. Taking aim and advising Yunno where to shoot. I began the countdown... one, two, three... Bam!
"AHHHH CRAP!" Vita yelled out. She was wearing a bunny hat.
"I knew the hat would do us in. But no you HAD to wear it." Hayate called out as she jumped down from the tree. "Team four is out."
"Copy that team four."
Yunno radioed in, "Team three eliminated team four."
"Okay team three. Proceed."
"You like it when I wear the hat." I heard Vita complain as she and Hayate walked away.
"Yes, I do." There's something wrong about that... Oh well, onto the next victims.
Fate
This is just sad. Johnny chooses the same rock to play sniper in every time, yet he still manages to get people out. There he is now taking aim at Subaru who is completely clueless to her surroundings. However, I know Subaru is bait that Teana set out to see where Johnny was shooting from because I see her sneaking up behind him. It would almost seem as though Teana is going to take him out but she doesn't know about Ginga in the tree across from her. Subaru somehow just spotted Ginga, so Johnny prepared to shoot. The four of them take aim and all at the same time... boom! Ginga almost fell out of the tree, but managed to stay standing. Subaru could only stare at the rock. Johnny rolled over, and stood up to shoot Teana who was still in shock from being hit. Despite the craziness one thing was certain. They were all out. As I took aim and shot Ginga and Teana who I could easily see.
"Son-of-a-bitch!" was the group curse as they all moved to leave the field and announce defeat.
"Goddammit Fate! Your going down!" Johnny yelled out still unaware to my location.
After radioing in their defeat I moved on. Next target Chrono or Signum.
Nanoha
I was locked in a bit of a tight spot. If I exposed myself Chrono or Signum would shoot me so Yunno and I just waited until we could slip in. Meanwhile...
"Signum, your always in my way of winning." Chrono shouted out to Signum.
"Like you ever stood the chance of winning." Signum replied.
"Same could be said of you." As if they had just identified each other's location it went completely silent. Just as fast as it had become quiet, the air erupted into fire as Chrono and Signum released fire upon each other. Perhaps realizing they needed more than just one color to defeat the other. Each one began to look around while still aiming at each other. "Amy, some info on Shamal's location, please."
"Aha... That's pretty easy... cause she's right in front of me." Amy and Shamal slowly revealed themselves stepping out from behind the some trees. Guns pointed at each other, everyone was on edge. Taking this as signal I took aim of Signum as she was the easier target and prepared to shoot Chrono immediately after. One deep breath prior then, "Splat!"
However, I wasn't the only one who got a round off at that moment. Chrono sported yellow paint on his armor. Yunno turned to glance at the situation only to receive a rude awakening when a ball clipped his shoulder. Dammit! He was hit. I quickly yelled, "Hide." He was a liability now, I would have to continue alone, "Give me your gun." Reluctantly Yunno threw the weapon. This was a welcomed challenge... "I'm impressed, nice shot... Fate." Searching the area for any sign of the golden girl.
"You've impressed me too." Pausing, I still can't pinpoint where she is, "To think your just a beginner. Huh?"
"You know... beginner's luck." While we exchanged comments in an attempt to find each other, Chrono and Signum radioed in their defeat, which we confirmed.
"I don't believe luck has anything to do with it."
"I'm flattered." With our little game of cat and mouse... it was just a matter of time before we came contact.
"Don't be. It wasn't a complement. Just the truth."
"Funny you mention the truth. I don't think your capable of differentiating between fact and fiction."
"Take a look in the mirror." A pause. "And I didn't lie I simply neglected to mention a small detail." Small, pfft. As we exchanged words, the air seemed to be buzzing with electricity. Adrenaline pumped through my veins. Hearing her voice worked like a magnet, pulling me towards her. As I turned hoping to I'd catch her off guard behind a tree I was instead greeted by a shot to my ass. I sprinted to find cover before another strike came. Dammit where is she? "Looks like were even now."
"I hope you didn't take that shot personally. It was just a beginner's mistake." I heard her grunt in response. Scanning the area to the best of my ability without giving my position I saw just the tip of a black boot. Moving with stealth I moved around the trees until I could find better shot. Preparing my two guns I inhale as much air as possible before I began my attack. And on three... one...two...BAM! Oh shit oh shit. It's only a shoe... then... SPLAT!" That was my other cheek.
"You know, I think yellow and pink suit you." Fate said with a cocky grin while inspecting the pink and yellow paint splatters on my behind. "To think you were so close to actually getting me. So close, but so far."
"Feeling good about yourself?"
"Yes." Just then Yunno ran around tree closest to me.
"I heard fire! Did you shoot... her? Oh, I see. Nevermind." Yeah nevermind... This sucks, I can't believe she got me. Well I can... but still.
With Yunno's arrival came Fate's icy, vague expression. "Good game." Came a flat tone, I preferred it when she was bragging. "We better head out." The shooter said turning away to retrieve her boot and walked away from us.
"It's okay Nanoha. I'm sure you gave her a great challenge. She cheated, plus she does this all the time so..." Having heard enough excuses for my failure I glared at Yunno to have him shut up.
"No, Fate didn't cheat, she was creative. She won fair and square." I said in final tone... not that I would ever admit those words in front of her anytime soon. Lightening up on my boyfriend, I shrugged, "It's over now. Let's go back."
Fate
Nanoha had done extremely well in locating me. In fact she actually found me, I just heard the crunch of her boots that tipped me off so I ditched my boot and quietly snuck around her. However now that the game is over I'm back to ignoring her existence... sort of. I can't help feeling the vengeful glare from her or possibly that glare is for neglecting her. At the moment I wasn't in the mood to care. Johnny and Chrono petitioned that I sit out the next game as I didn't have the liability of a partner. Unwilling to get into an argument with the two sore losers I just sat on the side. As I predicted, Nanoha was... well Nanoha and Yunno were the victors. Once lunch was through everyone prepared for the final round... sudden death.
In sudden death the Admiral explained, "Every man and woman for themselves. No partners." For some reason it kind of gave me the chills when I saw a smile grow on Nanoha's face. "No head-hunting," did she really need to repeat that. Perhaps she did but I had one better than a head shot. A small idea that had sprouted when those fools had me sit out. My plan was already in action as I had planted it in the trees during my supposed bathroom break. This battle was going to come down to two people, with the way the world was turning these days I had an inkling as to who would be left standing. "Just one shot and your out. Well still have five minutes of no-fire. The horn will signal the start. Understood?" Everyone nodded to the terms. "Okay ten minutes to prepare. Get ready!"
Staring into the trees I could see Chrono talking to Signum. I could already surmise the conversation went something like this...
"Signum, Amy is an easy target but I can't shoot her. She'll shoot me with a real gun...after."
"And... I can't shoot Shamal. Although I know where she's hiding. So what are you proposing, Harlaown?"
"A switch."
"What? You mean you shoot Shamal and I get Amy."
"It'll work. So is it a deal?"
"Deal."
That's pretty much it. Such betrayal. Not like the siblings are any better. Ginga and Johnny are trading information on Subaru and Teana. It's a good thing Vice isn't here, I'd have to pay more attention to high areas, but since everyone will probably stick to the ground there's nothing to worry about.
"Okay shooters, head out!" The Admiral announces.
Let the games begin...
Nanoha
We were about a half-an-hour in and I already took out Ginga, who eliminated Subaru right before my arrival. I think I heard Lindy announce that Yunno was eliminated first.
Fate
Nothing personal, its just that Yunno happened to be standing out in the open so I took my shot. First out. A few minutes later Johnny was out... Teana probably got him.
Nanoha
Walking further, I stopped instantly as I heard the crunch of leaves. Checking the situation, I saw Hayate targeting Teana. Deciding to wait until everything was finished I looked around to see if anyone else was present. Watching the event unfold Hayate shot Teana, but before I could blink Hayate had also been shot by an orange bullet. Looking down at her orange spot Hayate yelled, "VITA! EXPECT PUNISHMENT!"
Tracing the sound of chuckling to a tree branch I saw Vita, but before I could shoot Vita spotted me Dammit this just got difficult. Using the new trick I just learned I allowed the red-head to get close to me. Then I left a boot in my spot. Running behind her I timed it perfectly so when she prepared to shoot so would I. Despite her being out I was still a little intimidated by the murderous glare she gave me prior to leaving. "Watch your back Natoka!"
"It's Nanoha," maybe she forgot.
"Whatever Nodoka." Nah she didn't forget.
Fate
I passed Amy and Shamal both headed out of the forest probably victims of their ruthless partners. Fairly certain that Signum and Chrono were locked in battle, I ran to the sound of gunfire. I spotted my pink-haired friend scooping out Chrono's possible hiding place. Unable to take a clear shot I moved closer until I fell into a trap. Chrono had me from one side and Signum from another. Truthfully, the only reason I'm alive right now is my unnatural speed but I have to think of something soon... Without stopping to consider the consequences I took off my armor and boots. The vest I used as a shield and the boots as a distraction. After my calculations I ran quickly, shielding myself from Signum's fire and deciding how to approach Chrono. I managed an angle that Signum was unable to shoot me from and began the slaughter. Sure this might be a cheap trick, but we don't play by regular rules. I threw my two boots at Chrono so he'd be unprepared. Off guard I shot him, then turned my fire on Signum. Prior to attacking Chrono I had decided Signum only had one angle between all the trees to get me, so as soon as she rushed unprepared around the old cedar I took my shot. What I hadn't anticipated was the crunch of leaves directly behind me along with a pink paintball whizzing by my head.
Not good. I didn't have boots on, plus I dropped my shield... she had the upper hand. But not for long...
Nanoha
Now look whose off guard... though I feel a bit guilty that if I do shoot her she doesn't have any gear on so its gonna hurt. However when I think about being shot in the ass twice my pity just seems to vanish. More importantly this battle just got intense because by some kind of devil's luck I just missed her head. Screw no head-hunting, if someone shots me in the behind it erases all logical thought processes leaving the only goal of destroying the enemy.
Fate didn't have her boots on... I'm slightly concerned because she moves soundlessly. In these woods the angel becomes a ghost. To get some kind of read on her I try talking... maybe this time I'll actually trace her. "Why did you ignore me?" Smooth Nanoha... I can't believe I just said that.
In response I heard a chuckle then, "So that's why your so dead set on killing me! Here I thought it was because I gave you polka dots!"
"Well that too... but don't avoid the question!" Since I dug my own grave I may as well lay in it.
"I was just trying to help you." She was moving away from this area so I followed.
Fate
Perfect just keep following my voice.
Nanoha
"By ignoring me!" I swiftly turned coming face to face with the silent assassin. The disappearance of the grin I knew she had been wearing only made me smile despite the predicament.
"Amy told me about Yunno's reaction. He's right you know?" Why was she saying this... did yesterday not happen? Plus how did she know what green eyes said.
"I don't know what your tal..." Before I could finish she had moved swiftly to grasp my wrist and hold it above my head. In response I grabbed her gun hand and held it above her head. Both struggling against the other's grip, both unwilling to surrender. Fate ran at me, slamming me against a tree trunk. "Fuck... oww." Good Lord that hurt, but I didn't loosen my grip on her wrist.
"Why won't you just give up?" I don't believe that comment was just about our current struggle. At the moment Fate was flush against my front... keep this in mind... in battle I never really think fully about what I'm doing... thus... I kissed her. Again no thinking involved just means to an end. I dove for the forceful kiss. For a second or possibly two I forgot exactly why I was in lip-lock with my opponent as I felt soft lips pressed against my own. Her scent completely engulfed me in such a way that our grip on each other had loosened. However, there was one thing, one tiny little thing that brought me abruptly back to reality... she wasn't kissing me back. Comprehending this I took the element of surprise to pull her back just enough so I could firmly kick her in the stomach take back my gun and shoot her. Whether it was the unexpected win or the unexpected kiss, but the angel had an expression between horror and astonishment.
"I won..." Thinking wasn't really my thing during fights.
"Congratulations..." She replied in a daze, but that look didn't last long as she looked at where I was planted, "You forgot your knife yesterday." What the? Before I could so much as flinch she drew out my blade and cut a rope behind her. I don't know when or how she managed it but I was soaked in yellow water. Apparently Fate had tied a net full of water balloons to this particular tree. True I may have won, but I'm not sure if her intention was to win. Perhaps she was like me with the goal of destroying the enemy. Who knew shooting someone in the ass could cause such vengeful actions. "A white devil turned yellow. I'll call you, Sunshine."
I lost it. Come on if you were dyed yellow wouldn't you go crazy too? Just say yes. That smirk's gotta go. Squeezing my gun I took a deep breath and in a scary calm voice I gave only this warning, "You are so dead." With that I unloaded all the paintballs I had left on my enemy. Those balls would paint her body black and blue rather than pink, yet pity was the last thing on my mind.
Fate
Owwie... I'd avoided half of her bullets by hiding behind an oak, but I was definitely going to be spotted tomorrow morning. Awesome...
If you asked me if it was worth it or not though, I'd say... HELL YES. Seeing her horrified face was a gift from above.
Once Nanoha was done trying to kill me. We began our walk of shame out of the forest. It should be pretty clear to them who won as I was painted pink. Although, the wet yellow rag next to me didn't wear the look of a winner. Defeated wouldn't be the term to describe her, however totally pissed off would work too. As for me, let's just say I was clutching my sides holding in the tears. Oh the agony... Once in the open, questions poured out and all the both of us could say was, "Don't ask."
Seriously I am in pain and Nanoha is well probably still thinking about killing me, but whatever. "What the fuck did you do the to my girlfriend?" The green-eyed man wreaking of alcohol questioned me. The ache in my abdominal came before drunken interrogations so I kept walking until a hand reached out to squeeze my arm. "I said what did you do?"
"This doesn't involve you." He must have been drinking since I eliminated him. The pile of cans near Chrono's truck meant this wasn't going to end pleasantly...
Nanoha
As pissed as I was to be covered in yellow dye, my angry expression was just for show. I mean I did leave Fate in a state of pain. Now though that I see Yunno squeezing her arm my being angry isn't just an act. That battle had been between Fate and I, it had nothing to do with him. Amy shook her head at Yunno grabbing Fate saying, "I told you not to let him drink so much, Chrono."
"I thought the bastard could handle it."
"Come on let's do something before he gets himself into trouble." Johnny moved towards Yunno and Fate. I too moved closer until I could hear the conversation.
"You... are just like your mother... a thief. I know your a monster... You think you have everyone fooled but I see you for who you really are. Just like her only looking out for yourself... Bitch!" I knew that this didn't have anything to do with the fight... this was something more.
"Yunno you don't know what your saying. Don't do this right now. Look Nanoha is watching." Johnny tried to reason while Fate remained silent, eyes downcast.
Prior to pulling Yunno away from Fate, I noticed everyone else's posture. Expect Lindy who was missing.
Strange could be one term for the situation surrounding the duo. Everyone encircled the two the moment Yunno had laid a hand on Fate. Despite Teana and Subaru's semi-relaxed position I noticed their eyes scanning Yunno for any signs of greater threat. Chrono, Signum, Johnny and Vita took on a pose that hinted the readiness to strike my boyfriend at a split seconds notice. Amy, Hayate, Ginga and Shamal were right behind those four. Yunno didn't seem to notice the S.W.A.T team surrounding him and continued his rant, "I can't even stand the thought of calling you family. I mean who the fuck let's their family die. You... you could have just said yes and none of it would have happened. Instead you played God. Let 'em all die, right? I wonder if you even have a soul at all."
"That's enough Yunno." Came such a commanding voice I didn't realize belonged to Chrono until he reach out and removed Yunno's hand from Fate. With this Yunno became more enraged.
"Why are you defending her? He was your father too? You almost..."
"That's enough!" It was odd to see the normally reserved, nonchalant Chrono take on such a serious, almost deadly appearance. "This has gone on long enough. It's about time you grew up and learned the truth. Your damn well old enough to know. I tired of Fate carrying all the blame."
"Chrono don't..." Was all Fate managed to plead, but the words fell on deaf ears as Chrono continued.
"If your gonna blame Fate, then blame me, hate me because I'm just as guilty as her in contributing to my own father's death if not more." With those words the haze in Yunno's eyes cleared somewhat, "You think our old man walked on water. You think he was some hero, a saint. But the truth is that man betrayed family. That man betrayed the way of life he preached constantly. I caught him having an affair on my mother so I made that bastard leave the house the night it happened. He wasn't suppose to be at the clinic, but I kicked him out and that's where he went. Just so happen Uncle Leo went to the clinic and that's that. Sorry to destroy your idol, but its time you knew..." Chrono stopped dead in his tracks as his line of sight landed on Lindy. "Mom... I..."
Something told me not even Lindy knew about her late husband's betrayal, "That's enough Chrono. You've explained yourself." Fate and Chrono had sad eyes, it appeared the both of them had been hiding this truth from her then again, "I found out a long time ago." Chrono and Fate stared at her in disbelief.
"My mom told you didn't she?" Everyone turned to Amy then who didn't make any eye contact.
"Yes," Lindy flatly responded, "After the funeral she told me about her and my husband."
"You knew Amy?" Chrono asked in shock.
Nodding slowly Amy answered, finally meeting his surprised gray-blue eyes, "Yes. I knew. I just didn't want you to know... to think I was like her. Because..."
"I didn't want to you to think I was like him. I would never ever do that to you." Suddenly this just took a very awkward turn.
"I know. And I would never do that to you. I love you and only you." Disgusting... this just turned into a declaration of love conversation.
"I love you too." I think I'm gonna be sick. Can we please get back to the adultery and buried secrets. I'm not enjoying the little romantic moment happening between those two. I'm a bit more concerned about the two blondes in the middle of this conflict.
"I can't believe this." Yunno shook his head in disgust with the information he was receiving, "I don't... I..." Speechless for a moment, he stared into Fate's eyes for a moment and said, "I still... I still hate you." With that he vomited then fainted falling into it. Gross...
"I ain't touchin' him." Johnny threw his hands into the air.
"Not me." Everyone else walked away from the center of controversy. There was surely something wrong with a bunch of people who could hear all of that and walk way completely unfazed asking what's for dinner tonight. I was still in a state of disbelief, staring at my passed out boyfriend and the tall blonde standing next to him.
In the end Johnny and Chrono wiped off Yunno and threw him into Johnny's truck bed. Chrono and Amy had plans to go to dinner in the city. Everyone else began to leave once everything was cleaned up starting with Hayate and Vita, Ginga, Teana and Subaru. Shamal and Lindy both received emergency calls so Signum drove Shamal and Lindy left in her car. In the end four of us remained, Johnny, Fate, an unconscious Yunno and I. The stun of secrets revealed wore off, but something a bit more irritating came to mind. I kissed Fate...
Fate
Well wasn't that an interesting afternoon. First I get ambushed with a kiss, then Yunno got drunk, Chrono and Amy spilled their guts and Lindy admitted to knowing about the affair. For such a small town we sure know drama. Of all those lovely events however one of them just continues to bother my mind... those lips...
"Hey Fate. I'm gonna drop shit-face off at Lindy's. Help me wit' 'em?"
"Okay, Tiida. I'll follow you."
"Who you ridin' wit' beautiful?" Tiida questioned Nanoha.
"With Fate," she said uncertainly then asked me, "Is that okay?"
"Yeah its fine. Jump in. Wait! here's a towel and some extra clothes. You must be cold."
"Oh thanks. I'll just..."
"Don't worry. You ain't that interesting."
"FATE!" That was a lie, but at the moment I was trying not to think about that kiss, those soft lips, that sweet scent... that kick to my stomach. Dammit this needs to end... tonight. I've gotten too close.
"Are you ready yet?"
"Yes, I'm finished."
"Great, because I need to get some ice packs."
"Sorry about that..." Came a meek apology.
"It's okay. I should have remembered that violent temper of yours."
"I suddenly don't feel that bad." Chuckling at her attitude that was the last words to be said as I drove us to back.
One and half hours later...
Nanoha
"Time to get up, Sunshine." I heard the familiar low voice pulling me from the darkness.
"Five more minutes." I mumbled.
"Your outta time... we already unloaded Yunno, so you have to go play nurse." Yay me! Maybe I can act like I'm sleeping, "Don't make me kiss you." Without my permission my eyes shot open. "Wow that worked better than expected."
"Shush." I must retain what dignity I have left.
"Anyways Johnny left already, so yeah." Fate said as I crawled out of the truck. I stumbled a bit and hoped for some assistance however it didn't come. In fact my angel turned her back to me. Walking in silence to the porch she sat on the wooden swing with a sigh. I joined her as it seemed to be what she wanted, in spite of this I asked the first question.
"You never really answered my question during our shoot out."
Sighing she spoke, "I figured that Yunno's drunken performance demonstrated exactly why I was ignoring you."
"I don't get why Yunno hates you so much. I mean your mother did all those things. You shouldn't feel guilty about her actions."
Fate went quiet for a long time before...
"Your right and your wrong. Yesterday I didn't tell you that detail about Teana and Subaru. Well I left out a detail about my mother's rampage." Taking a deep breath she continues, "Yunno, Chrono and I... we used to be like siblings when we were children." She turned to question me, "You have siblings right?"
"Yes. My brother Kyoya and my sister Miyuki."
"Okay. Say your sister Miyuki knew a secret that no one else really knew. I mean fully, but other people heard stories about it and such. Now this secret if she gives it away no harm will come to her or anything she loves. However giving up this secret would mean something else. Imagine Miyuki was given a choice to give up the secret and save everything she loves, everything that makes up her life. Or if she kept the secret, then she forfeits everything she cares for. Which one would your sister have chosen?" I didn't know exactly where Fate was going with this but I answered anyway.
"I guess she would have given up the secret."
"Most would." A deep breath, "But I didn't. I chose to keep my secret, the secret my mom wanted, the single piece of information that would have stopped her from taking everything I cared for. I bet Miyuki wouldn't have said it was okay for you to die."
"You say that but Precia didn't take Chrono or Lindy or even Yunno."
"I said everything I cared for including them."
"But..."
"Their house blew up. It was rigged with C-4 to go off at the same time Precia killed my father... and uncle." Her jaw clenches and her fingernails bite into the wooden seat. "When she told me everything... I knew the possibilities of what she would go after. I was young but I wasn't naive."
"It didn't work. How..."
"The house blew up, but by the grace of God... Five minutes before it did Lindy had taken the boys to her parent's place."
"Oh my God..."
"Do you understand now? Why Yunno doesn't want you around me? Not only did I grant permission for his father to be killed, but I also gave consent for Yunno to die as well. He was there when I said no... when I allowed her to take whatever was near to me... when I refused to tell her what she needed to hear. All that is close to me stands the chance of disappearing." A pause, "When we talked on Monday, I didn't want you to hate me. I don't know why, I wanted to be greedy just one time in my life I guess. I realized though, you don't need to hate me. Nanoha just understand that Yunno is right. I am a monster, I am a horrible person because till this day I don't allow myself to regret that decision. I'd do the same thing." Her face and her voice like ice, void of emotion. This wasn't the warm Fate I knew her to be, this was another side. I didn't know how to respond. She sacrificed everything she loved for a secret. Would she do the same today?
"What about now? Everything close to you for that same secret. Everyone." She was standing, back toward me.
"... If I must." What kind of secret was worth a person sacrificing everything they care for? What kind of secret curses its protector to a lifetime of loneliness? How can someone even survive with that kind of burden? How could she live?
It's a shame that it had to be this way Maybe I'm to blame
It's not enough to say I'm sorry
It's not enough to say I'm sorry
Or maybe were the same
But either way I can't breathe
Either way I can't breathe
Those questions ran through my mind trapping me in their mystifying grasp. "I'm close to people, but not close enough to say I can't leave them behind."
All I had to say is goodbye I'm alive but I'm losing all my drive
Were better off this way
Were better off this way
Cause everything we've been through
And everything about you
Seemed to be a lie
A guiltless twisted lie
It made me learn to hate you
Or hate myself for letting it pass by
I couldn't move, it wasn't out of fear of Fate, it wasn't because I was scared, I just... Now that I look back on it I should have held her hand, I should have told her that I would stand by her side no matter what. Instead I sat there in a daze, as she said, "Goodbye... Nanoha."
All I had to say is goodbye
Were better off this way
Were better off this way
All I had to say is goodbye
Were better off this way
Were better off this way
Fate
This was for best. For her, for me... I mean I've only known her a few days... but why does it hurt this much to see her stay away from me. To see her terrified of me... Could I really give up all that I cared for now?
And every, everything isn't only Bye
What it seemed so hold these
Words that you never told me
Its time to say goodbye
Its time to say goodbye
Its time to say goodbye
Goodbye
Nanoha
I couldn't even speak because as much as I had denied fearing for my life... in the end fear held me in my seat.
Take my pain away
Tell me I, tell me I was wrong
Tell me I was wrong
The angel was gone... darkness moved in... the moon was covered by clouds... there were no cicadas... the only sound was slow breathing... in... out... inhale... exhale... inhale... exhale... Tonight Fate said goodbye... I wish she didn't.
Take my pain away Take my pain away Take my pain away
Tell me I, tell me I was wrong
Tell me I was wrong
Tell me I, tell me I was wrong
Tell me I was wrong
Tell me I, tell me I was wrong
Tell me I was wrong
