A/N: Hey there. This is the second time I'm writing Chapter 8. I was about ten pages into the first version, but then I said, "I don't like it." See, I wrote a scene that was a bit out of place in the AC universe, and the entire chapter revolved around it, so I scrapped it. I briefly entertained the idea of posting that chapter just to get one out. But then I recalled my promise: take no shortcuts. So here I am. A bit late for a Halloween installment, but this is the only chance I have. As of the writing of this chapter, Project New Leaf has 407 views. That means a lot to me. I don't know if 407 views is a big deal on , but I, personally, am truly humbled to have entertained (or wasted the time of) that many people. When the story reached twenty views, I was extremely excited. It compelled me to write more and improve myself as an author. So, thank you! Also, I'm thinking of writing chapters for Alpha and Omega and I Prefer Those With No Spine when my schedule clears up. The former is my attempt at the first person view, and the latter will be in third person. The focus in both stories is emotion. Y'know, make the reader feel as though the characters do, whether the sentiments be love, hate, fear, anything, really. Anyway, let's get this goin'.
Chapter 8
October 30, 2182... right?
Hiiiiiiii. So it's been a week and a half since I got Merri a job, m'kay? She's now Isabelle's apprentice. I'm just sitting in the town hall, alone, being a useless piece of shit like always. Isabelle is giving Merri a proper tour of Bigwood. Y'know, getting her acquainted with the villagers, teaching her how to make bells, the same tutorial she gave me. Anyway, turns out that Maple has been talking to Cher. Just, like, in the park, I guess. She says they've been meeting up every day since, uh... Since Merri moved in. Yup. That morning, Maple set out and made a new friend. I'm so happy she's getting accustomed to the organic lifestyle. I mean, she does fine as a synthetic, but I think she wants to function just like us. Oh, uh, in unrelated news, I keep my Pip-Boy on me at all times. It's just, like, in my pockets. I don't know, it's kind of stupid. Back in the wastes, I couldn't carry anything more than my weapons and a few useful effects. It's too fuckin' hot out there to haul loads of items. And the extra supplies would've done nothing but weighed me down. See, I was really good at taking things out from miles away. If I had to, I rushed headlong into battle, getting into close-quarters instantly. I couldn't close the distance that quickly if I had surplus on me.
Anyway, I think I did a good thing here. Isabelle really likes Merri, or at least, that's what it seems like to me. I know that she's all smiles, but I do believe I started a long friendship here.
… You know, I've been having some vivid dreams lately. It's like… Just… Flashes of images of fights. Right here in Bigwood, and over in the city as well. That frightens me, it really does. I believe in dreams and omens. But I can't comprehend how violence made its way to this place. My home is so peaceful, y'know? It frustrates me, seeing this country burn. I've been on edge for a few days now.
I just need to calm… down… The scenery around my home is quite peaceful. I think I'll take the day off. Who gives a fuck, I'm the mayor.
Christy
The Former Courier looked up from her Pip-Boy, seeing only the stuffy, empty space of the town hall. It was a little before midday, and the morning sun shone through the window panes, particles of dust glittering in the rays. The hall was comfortably warm, like a heated room on a cold winter evening. The continuous splash of the fountain Christy built just outside was hypnotizingly soothing. Christy leaned back in her chair, eyes drooping. The view was so tranquil and calming… She took the sights and sounds in. Then she peacefully drifted off.
"MISS MAYOR?!"
The woman in question jumped completely out of her chair. "SHIT…" she cursed.
Isabelle stormed in, Merri right behind her. "Miss Mayor? Are you in here? We have an idea!"
Christy popped up from behind her desk like a mole pops out of a hole. "Hey there. What do you have in mind?"
Merri swayed excitedly. "A Halloween party, and you're the host!" She used her hands to form an imaginary canvas in front of her as she said this. Isabelle nodded enthusiastically.
The Mayor sighed. She had no fuckin' clue what Halloween was. It sounded, to her, like a weapon with an empty center. But then her friend added the word "party." …Why would anyone want to celebrate that…?
"I'm a busy person, guys, you know that. And I don't even know what a Halloween is!" Half of that statement was true.
The secretary, as well as the secretary-in-training, did recoil in surprise. But only a moment later, they both realized why.
"Oh, that's fine, it's a very simple concept to grasp," Isabelle began. "On the thirty-first, everyone dresses up in a costume. Some costumes are really scary. Others are downright hilarious! Then they go around town and collect candy, be it from a pedestrian or a villager in their house. You see, they get candy from the people outside by 'trick-or-treating' them. You could give them candy, or they play a prank on you. At the end of the night, everyone gives their candy to Jack, the King of Halloween. He gives out some really cool things!"
"'Kay," Christy said, a tad uninterested. "I'm sorry, but I don't see why anyone would want to celebrate that."
Merri piped up, "It's a lot of fun, Christy, that's why! Tell you what: you don't have to prance around in a cheap costume with the villagers. You can host a party instead. I'm sure the others would enjoy the change of pace, because, uh... How long has Bigwood been doing this?"
"Jack gave us the idea 232 years ago. Some ancient mayor thought it was a wonderful idea, so this village has been practicing Halloween since. Merri does have a point. They really would appreciate a celebration with their beloved mayor!" Isabelle answered.
Christy nodded, pondering the idea. "Sure, I'm up for it. Where will it be held?"
"Your place."
"'Course it will be... All right. Halloween is the 31st, right? At night?"
"Uh-huh!" the secretaries replied.
"Okay, can you two head out and buy some party stuff? I got to do some research."
"Yes, Miss Mayor! Right away! Let's get going, Merri."
Christy called out to them as they left, "Nothing too flashy, all right! I don't want... Ah, fuck it, they're gone."
I hope they heard me.
The Former Courier crashed onto her swivel office chair, sliding over to the computer on her desk. She searched up "Halloween parties," and proceeded to read some how-to's and articles on them.
M'kay... So I need a costume? The Riot Gear will do. Decorations and... food. Smiles and Sunshine are getting those. What else? Music? The fuck kind of music do the villagers like? Isabelle can help me with that, I guess. ... All right! Looks easy enough.
"Whoooaa dude, check this thing out! Ha ha haaa! Hah hah!" Merri giggled as she picked something up.
"Merri? Merri where'd you go? Don't you think we have enough stuff already?" The secretary abandoned the items she bought to search for her apprentice. She wove through the wavy aisles of the Halloween store, becoming a bit confused and worried. She found her apprentice crouched in front of some brown, shriveled up corpse that was more disgustingly disturbing than Isabelle thought possible. "Merri, leave it alone. I'm sure Christy will be fine with what we have."
"But look," the thief smiled. She held a black box. Merri flipped one of the switches on it. Then the corpse she was just doting over literally sprang to life. It towered over the two, looking down upon them with massive, black eye sockets and a permanent smile, crudely sewn onto its deformed head. One girl stood open-mouthed in horror, the other, smiling gleefully. "I can move it."
"O-okay, yeah. I don't think we, um, need him. We really don't want to scare anyone to death at the party. Makes a bad reputation."
"Awww..." Merri turned a dial on her controller, and both her and her robot's heads drooped down in sorrow. "Okay... Bye, you poor, wittle, ugwy monster." She dropped the remote, and hugged the abomination. She only reached the thing's knees. It leaned down and wrapped it's disgusting, long, clawed hands around her.
"O-okay, Merri! We-we got to go!" Isabelle stammered as she backed up.
"Coming!" She started towards a cart overflowing with Halloween stuff, stealing one last glance at the gigantic monstrosity. They continued on in silence until Merri spoke up. "... So while we're waiting in line here, do you have any idea on how these decorations will look inside of Christy's house?"
Isabelle turned to the thief with a concerned look on her face. "No, actually. I was hoping you did."
"Aw, crap. Oh well."
"We bought some pretty nice things, Merri. I'm sure we'll figure something out."
"Yeah, you're right. And we got Christy, too. She's really smart."
"But she's new to all of this, y'know? I-I mean, she doesn't know much about... interior decorating and stuff like that." Close. That was close. Isabelle was worried that maybe Christy hadn't told this woman about her previous life in the Wasteland. She didn't want things to get awkward between those two. It would make it seem like Christy doesn't trust Merri enough to tell her.
"Really? Her house is not too shabby, actually. It's absolutely lovely. Hm, now that I think about it, maybe we shouldn't get her nice house all messed up."
"Well, she wouldn't have agreed if she didn't want a bunch of guests."
"Yeah, good point. ... All right, that looks like the last of it. Shall we get going? Oh no, wait! We got to head over to Able Sisters."
"Why is that?"
"Christy goes out and buys everything in the store, and she told me to go ahead and take her place today. She's been doing that since I moved in."
"Oh. Why, though? Able Sisters has good clothing sometimes, but I don't see a reason to purchase every item."
"I dunno. She mentioned something about their business. Like, they're having a tough time making some money, so she's helping them out."
"I see. Well that's nice of her!"
"Mm-hmm! All right, let's go." The two wandered outside the store, seemingly moving towards nowhere in particular. They wove side to side, Merri searching all around her for the clothing store. "So... Where do we go from here? Left?"
"I... am not sure, actually. I was following you."
"Well that's fantastic. Oh, no, wait! We're right here!"
They both entered Able Sisters, receiving a warm smile from the young worker. "Hi, welcome to Able Sisters!"
"Hello, Mabel!" the thief sang.
"Merri! Isabelle! Good to see you again! Here for Christy?"
"Yup, exactly. Hi, Sable!" The eldest sister looked up and smiled from her work station, giving a wave to Isabelle.
The master secretary spoke up. "Mabel, Sable! It's been a while, hasn't it? How have you been?"
Sable began, "It's been great since your Mayor started buying everything. She's just doing it so we can make money, isn't she?"
"Well, yeah. She thought you guys were having some financial problems. I don't know why she didn't just donate it. My guess is she's building up a collection."
"Whatever the reason is, tell her we said thanks. I see the look in her eye, sometimes. She makes this face when she's actually impressed with something, and she makes it often. We feel accomplished when she buys something because she likes it. We're also so grateful when she purchases some ugly item. I think we both know no one will but that. That's so nice of her, isn't it, Mabel?"
The youngest sister in question strolled into the room with a box filled with clothes and accessories, leaving the store empty for the tenth day straight. "Yup! We really appreciate her coming in and talking every day, too. It puts us in high spirits. Anyway, here ya go! That's everything, again, heh."
"All right! Thanks! See ya!" Merri cheered as she pushed the door open with her back.
"Bye everyone!" Isabelle added.
"Wait, Merri!" Labelle lingered at her doorway. "Um... Bye."
The thief locked eyes with her, giving her an endearing smile. "See ya, Labelle! We have GOT to catch up later, m'kay?"
"Sounds good!"
The secretaries took their leave, starting towards Christy's abode. Sable gave the middle sister an inquisitive look. "What?" Labelle said.
"What's up between you two?"
"You don't remember her?! It's Merri! From middle school!" Sable shook her head as Mabel tilted her head in thought. "How could you not? She was perfect. In school, I mean," she added smoothly.
"Nope, sorry, sis," said Mabel.
"We were in different grades, Label. We wouldn't have known her," Sable pointed out.
"That's fine. She's just an intriguing person. It's just I'm shocked that I never introduced you back then."
"It's fine, sis! We got another chance now, right? Let's get ready for tomorrow, 'kay?"
"Oh, so you're a doctor?" Maple asked. She sat cross-legged with Cher on a park bench, head cocked inquisitively.
"Essentially, yes. I help people with their problems," said the assassin.
"Oh, that's wonderful! You must be very popular around these parts."
Cher tilted her head to one side. "Mm, I'm not that well known. But I'm very good at what I do."
"That's good to hear. Oh... Just a moment, I'm getting a call."
"Of course." Cher watched as the synthetic nodded, the light of her eyes turning from green to white. "That's intriguing..." the assassin whispered.
"Hello, Christy. Okay... I'll be right there." Then her eyes returned to the brilliant emerald shade they were before. "I have to go now. I enjoyed our talk. Goodbye!"
"Have a good day, Maple. Bye!" She smiled as the synthetic strolled away. Her grin then disappeared quickly. That damn robot made her lose her target again. But that's fine. Maple is always fantastic company, and she still knows where her mark is. Normally, she wouldn't dare going for a hit during the day. But that scum leaves Bigwood tonight. She will NOT let a murderer like him get away. The man was having some kind of celebration on the other side of the park. He sat with many other muscular, tough-looking people. It just gets easier, she thought. She checked behind her to see if there were any possible witnesses. Clear. She pushed off her seat, storming towards her prey. Cher nudged her murky black jewel, which caused her nightmarish dark armor emerging from it. One of the target's friends seemed to have spotted her, because he appeared to have said something to the murderer. He brushed it off. He thought his friend was joking. How unfortunate. She pushed her body up against the trunk of a park tree, waiting. After a few moments, the assassin peeked around her cover. Then she sunk her claws into the bark to get the firmest grip she could manage. She pulled herself forward, bolting from the tree. The assassin vaulted with such force, her target turned urgently from the noise. He panicked as she fell on all fours, racing towards him with speeds that many thought were unachievable. One moment, she was a fair distance away. If she wasn't moving at fucking Mach 5 he could've turned and run. But the next moment she was on him. Cher leapt and grabbed his head, smashing it into the floor as she fell. One of his buddies tried to throw a punch at the attacker. She ducked underneath the reckless swing and tripped him. His momentum made him fly. Cher slammed her shoulder into his midair body, sending him sprawling on the ground. She scooped up her target's unconscious body as his friends were trying to figure out what the fuck was going on. Then she dashed into the city, ignoring the screams and car horns. She sprinted and sprinted, arriving at her destination in no time. She slowed down in front of the police station, and threw her new friend on the doorstep, along with some damning proof her benefactor had given her. She jogged into a nearby alley, retracted her armor back into its jewel, and walked away like nothing had ever happened.
What time is it...? 3 o' clock, that's not too bad. I guess I'll just head back home, wait for another contract. I'm sure there won't be a shortage. Never is.
"All right, guys!" Christy announced to her secretaries and Maple, who stood in some kind of military line. "We have exactly 25 hours and seven minutes until the Halloween party begins. The party will be held on the first floor only. This room and the other five rooms on this level will all need to be decorated. This... is going to take some time." Her tone dropped from authoritative to her casual voice. "I don't know why I agreed to this. I've never even been to a party, how am I supposed to host one?"
"It's not that hard, Miss Mayor," Isabelle commented. "All a host does is provide a space for the party and make sure everyone's having a good time. You know all the villagers; it won't be difficult to keep them entertained."
"Thank you, Isabelle. That's relaxing. Let's get started, m'kay? Do you guys want to work together or be in charge of your own rooms?"
Everyone looked at each other, hoping someone would give an answer. When the Former Courier received no such thing, she said, "All right. Let's all work on one room at a time."
Oh, goodness, why on Earth did I want to work as one? This has got to be, like, the least effective team I have ever seen, Christy thought as she worked. "Merri, can you hand me that box of light... pumpkins. Whatever they're called."
"Jack-o-lanterns?" the thief corrected. "I don't know where they are."
"They're literally right beside you. No, to your left." The thief rummaged around the supplies, taking slow, small steps. "Closer... Closer... You're getting warmer, Me- Colder. Collllder. Yep, now it's ice."
"Well, why don't you just get it?"
"Because I'm on the other side of the room, and I'm on top of a ladder, Merri. You are standing right next to it."
The blonde woman turned in a circle. "I don't see it. Oh! Maybe it's in another room! I'll be right back!"
"Wait, Merri! I- okay, that's fine..." Christy turned back to the task at hand. Soon, the thief returned.
"Oh, check this out. They're right here!"
"That's what I fucking told you, Merri!"
"Oh I thought you meant- Christy stop yelling at me. I don't like it when you get like this."
"I apologize."
"Oh, sorry, heh. I, uh... Hm. I don't know what to say."
"It's fine. Isabelle already gave me something to substitute these decorations for. I'm going to finish up in here; can you help the others in the lounge?"
"Yep! I'm on it!"
The four continued to adorn Christy's home with appealing ornaments and props. Things were strewn on the walls, the furniture was switched out with something more festive, and all the lovely little things often associated with Halloween were placed upon tables and such. In the end, the house kept its spacious, visual attraction while being in the perfect spirit for a celebration.
The Mayor's companions were lined up in the same formation as before all of this. Christy paced back and forth in front of them. "All right, guys! You all did an amazing job, and. I truly could not have done it without you. Thank you, everyone! Isabelle, do you want to stay for dinner? I'll be cooking."
"Aw CRAP!" Merri threw her arms up and turned away as Christy mentioned this.
"What? Why crap? I'm not too bad of a chef!"
"Maybe not, but you always choose some recipe from way back then, and THAT tastes awful. Just awful. It's impressive, but awful."
"Okay, just so you know, I've told both of you about my time in the Wasteland." She said this as she pointed to Isabelle and Merri. "I thought you liked my gecko soup..."
"I probably would have. But not when the gecko meat has been rotting in a supply crate! I am so sorry, Christy, but I don't want Isabelle to experience your food."
"Ugh, fine," Christy whined jokingly. "I'll look up a recipe for something good, m'kay?"
"Thank you, Christy!"
"... But you're not that great of a cook, either."
"WHAT?! NO! Really?!"
"Yes, really."
Merri was absolutely flabbergasted by this. "Aww! And here I thought I was a fucking chef prodigy. Man..." The Mayor simpered as she took in the disbelief in the blonde's face. Then the thief looked up at everyone and laughed, "I thought I was so good." She turned to Christy. "Why did you pretend?"
"I'm sorry, but I was under the impression that since you ate your food too, you thought..."
"Well, why did you pretend so well?"
"I'm sorry!" the Mayor squeaked.
"Aww... I'm so annoyed..."
"Anyway!" Isabelle piped up, "I'd love to, thank you."
"All right, great! What time is it? ... Seven thirty-two. Okay. Better get started."
"So Isabelle," Maple asked. She and Christy were preparing some grub; the latter of the two had humorously donned a tall chef's hat. "How long have you been a secretary?"
"Oh, about six years. I started learning the ropes when I was thirteen. Yeah, my mother knew that I'd be an asset to Bigwood, so she let me become an apprentice."
"That's interesting, Isabelle, I didn't know you had a knack for that kind of business from such a young age."
"Yes, my mother used to tell me all the time to help others. Because she told me that everyone was nice, so I should lend a hand to anyone I meet. And that's what I did."
"That's funny," Christy exclaimed. "My mom said almost the same thing to me when I was a kid. Considering that, y'know, it was the wastes, that's pretty remarkable."
Everyone in the room agreed with her. "It is quite astonishing," Maple began, "that your mother was able to remain so unselfish even while you and your family fought for survival. She sounds like she was a wonderful woman."
"She was, Maple, she was. Ohh, I loved her so much. Don't know what happened to her after I was executed. I hope she's all right."
"I'm sure she's doing fine, Christy!" Isabelle reassured. "She's probably living a fancy, safe life in some expensive estate, all because of your achievements."
"Wow... Thanks, Isabelle! I'd never thought about that. To be honest, everything happened so fast, I don't really know what rewards my victory yielded. Regardless, dinner's ready. I hope it's edible." Christy and Maple proceeded to serve the meal the Former Courier concocted.
"What's this called, Christy?" Merri asked.
"It is called... Let me check on my Pip-Boy here... Spah-je-tee."
"Oh. Never had spahjetee."
"Spaghetti, actually. It appears to be a Pre-War cuisine often associated with the stereotype of the country of Italy," Maple informed.
"It looks delicious, Christy. Thanks for having me."
"You're welcome anytime, Isabelle. Now eat up, everyone. We got a long night ahead of us."
Only Christy and Isabelle began to dine. Maple didn't need to eat, obviously. But Merri only poked the meal on her plate.
"Something wrong?"
"No, nothing's wrong, Isabelle. It's just... It looks like worms. Dead ones. I was never so desperate as to eat worms."
"Just try it. For me?" Christy pleaded. The thief hesitated, but the imploring look in Christy's eyes encouraged her to eat up. She raised a forkful of the meal upwards reluctantly. "C'mon. Please? You're kidding, aren't you?" She smiled and nodded, and dug in.
"Shit, Christy. This is really good!"
"Yeah, it tastes great!"
"Yes!" Christy made a quick celebration motion.
"Proud of you!" Isabelle said.
"Gee, thanks. Savor this, guys. I tried my hardest."
"Good night, Isabelle!" Christy said.
"See you tomorrow!" the blonde called out from somewhere inside the house.
"Bye everyone!"
Christy closed the door behind her. Maple walked in the main hall and said, "That went well."
The mayor turned and smiled at the synthetic. "Yeah, it did. Thanks for the help, Maple."
"Mm-hmm! Sure! I have a question, Christy. One of the most prominent traditions of Halloween is adopting a false visage to celebrate the holiday. This platform is unique; it is almost as alien as the costumes organics wear. Should I make an appearance at the party like this, and only this?"
"If you want my honest opinion, your look is just like my clothes; it's normal to be seen in it. So no, I think you should dress up."
"Interesting. Thank you, Christy. I'll be upstairs."
"All right, good night!" She waited a moment before heading upstairs. She already said good night, so it'd be awkward if she followed Maple up. After half a minute or so of standing around, she trudged up the stairs. She dropped by Merri's room. The blonde woman was standing in front of her mirror, dressed as an angel, with wings and a super short, brilliantly white dress and everything.
"'Sup, Christy."
"Where'd you get that?" The Mayor thought that this costume would be the center of attention. It's definitely more eye-catching than Christy's costume.
The thief twirled in a circle. "You like it? Isabelle picked it out for me."
Isabelle? Really? Isabelle has interesting taste, it seems. I'd say she's a minimalist when it comes to skin coverage. "It looks great, Merri." But, she... She really does look like an angel. And this was true. The brilliantly clean whiteness of her costume complimented her slightly tan skin wonderfully. If her hair was just a little bit lighter, she would've looked exactly like an angel.
"I look great! Ha ha!" She turned to her reflection again, admiring every bit. "These boots are awesome too. Remind me to treat her to somethin' later."
"White thigh-highs, huh? Y'know, angels weren't dressed as, uh... provocatively back in the Wasteland."
"'Kay. Oh, wait, is this another Wasteland story?" The Former Courier nodded. "Oh nice! Tell me more, please!"
"First, angels had sleeves. And, uh, they didn't show that much cleavage. Or stomach. Or... legs. Goodness, I can't believe Isabelle chose that for you... Anyway, they wore armor, black armor. Wore a long duster and a gas mask. They even had a helmet that let them see in the dark-"
"Wait- wait- wait, I know what you're doing. Yes, I know you were a messiah back then, Christy. I should've seen that coming."
"Sorry, couldn't resist. You get a good night's rest, okay? Tomorrow is going to be a long one. Good night!"
"Night, Christy!"
The Former Courier climbed the stairs to her private floor. She lazily hopped onto bed, thinking about just taking her clothes off and falling asleep like that. But then she recalled what happened last time she did that. Ugh, that was so embarrassing... Aww, But I don't want to get up... Screw it, I'm not taking that risk again. She wandered over to her closet, randomly picking an un-matching pajama outfit. She threw it on, pausing at her window. She looked into the distance, but her gaze caught something. Christy spotted a dissimilarity in the colors of the autumn night. Bright orange, round on the top. The figure she was observing didn't seem to have a body. Or at least, it was wearing something black or purple. It was too dark too see anything. The Mayor quickly tugged her Wasteland chest out and unpacked her favorite rifle. As she looked through the scope and out the window, the target seemed to tilt its head in slight curiosity. She locked on, catching a glimpse of the thing before it performed a backflip and... Disappeared. It was literally gone. The Former Courier searched frantically, using all the scouting tactics she mastered, but calmed down soon enough. I mean, it's a Bigwood Halloween night. Must've been someone practicing for tomorrow, I guess.
Then she sat on her bed, lied down and pulled the covers over her. Christy stayed awake, thinking about how lucky she's been. She managed to struggle through her youth with the help of her mother. It seems that the Wasteland wasn't willing to take another child's life during those years. And then she grew up, left her mother to make both their lives better; her mother by coming back with a mountain of caps and food and fresh, clean water, and herself by coming back alive. She never came back though. After that stupid asshole Benny nearly ended her life, she was hell bent on destroying him. He was so, so close from taking her from her mother. She believes that's part of how she survived with a bullet in her head: she will return to her mother. That and Benny's a shit shot. ONE of Christy's regrets was that she never did return. She probably never will. This thought haunted her; a bitter sentiment screamed at her in her mind. But she's strong. She's all right. The Mayor just pushed the bad thoughts away. Just a little... push... After that she felt oh, so much better. She flicked her bedside lamp off, and let warm sleep creep up on her.
October 31
Hey there. So, uh, Christy told me to start keeping a journal. Said something about "putting the true Merri on paper." I dunno. I guess she's excited about having somewhere to write her feelings. I'm not sure what to put down, actually. Um... Maple made breakfast today. "Wasteland omelets." Christy got pretty excited. Yeah, they were saying it was one of the Wasteland's precious delicacies. Apparently, the ingredients included a "Deathclaw Egg," which is like, super rare and heavy. I didn't think it was that big of a deal until Christy showed me a picture of a Deathclaw. That was THE most intimidating, terror-inducing abomination I've ever seen. I mean, it seriously looked like death itself, with those white, empty eyes, claws as big as my arm, bulging muscles and spikes everywhere. Goddess, it was just... Ugh, man... I can not believe the world could produce something so fucked up. It was kinda funny. I kept looking back at the picture because I felt like it was gonna jump out and kill me. Oh! And then she started firing off facts about those things. The fuck, Christy? They're one of the fastest things in the wasteland? Their attacks pierce armor? They hang out in packs? Turns out they have the most acute senses in the Wasteland, and there are bigger, faster, strongerversions of the young Deathclaw Christy showed me. Why? Why did you have to infuse a nightmare into me, Christy? She said she's killed Mother Deathclaws, which have, like, a crowd of little baby Deathclaws around them at all times, Irradiated Deathclaws, who healed their wounds in the radioactive hellhole Christy found them in, and a Legendary Deathclaw. Maple and Christy said that it was called legendary for a couple of reasons: it was holed up deep in a cave filled to the bitch with all kinds of Deathclaws, it stood 17 feet tall, it's hits hurt twice as much as the other Deathclaws, it can basically fly with its leaping attack, and it was one of the largest things that have ever tried to kill them. And THEN Christy went on to telling a story about how this one special spot in hell was filled to the bitch with Deathclaws way way way more dangerous than the legendary one. Ah, I just got the shivers writing about it... You know what? I'm done talking about them. ...
It's hard to believe Christy went through so much pain in the Wasteland and turned out to be who she is today. She's such a strong woman... I admire her a lot. You'd think that the Wasteland would make a person greedy, opportunistic. But Christy escaped that world as a paragon of unselfishness, a literal messiah. I don't know how that's even possible. She often drifts into thought, recollecting her adventures out loud. And I'd sit there, gasping at dramatic moments, laughing heartily at the wild bits, listen with intrigue to her explanations. Christy amazes me. That sums it up pretty well.
Wow. I'm reading over what I just wrote down, and I think Christy is on to something with these diary things. I can see myself making more of these. Um, without focusing so much on Christy. Holy shit, that's kind of embarrassing. But anyway, it's Halloween! Yay! The party is supposed to start in about half an hour, and I'm all dressed up. Mm-hmm. I'm going as an angel, and I think it's the cutest outfit. Here's a note in case you've forgotten already, you dumb fuck: give Isabelle a present as thanks for the costume. Christy is just going to be wearing her Wasteland armor. Elite Riot Gear, or somethin'. I know Isabelle is going to be a vampire because I saw her trying on some fake fangs. It looked really cute, actually! Maple was contemplating about what she'll wear last I saw her. Umm, who else... Cher and Labelle are invited, I know that, and that's AWESOME. I'm so happy I met Labelle again. She and I were good friends back in school, and now she's getting close to Christy. That's great! The Mayor and I have been going down to Able Sisters, buying everything, and then we would just stand around and chat for a while. It's always nice, talking to them. Cher, on the other hand. Goddess, that woman is an enigma. I see her giving me these looks from the corner of my eye. But it's not mean looks. It's more like, um... Like she's observing me. Like she's just looking at my face without any perceptible emotion. She's really pretty. I don't know why she's still single. She tends to avoid the subject when anyone asks about her job. She's so cryptic when she talks about it. It's almost as if she's hinting at something bigger, like a riddle. By the goddess, writing about Cher just makes me want to know everything about her. I really should catch her alone sometime. Let's see... Is there anything else I should write down? ... Naw, I think that's it. All right. Bye.
Merri Carmus
The blonde woman closed her journal shut and threw it over her shoulder, making a mental note to sort everything out later. Her room had gone from perfectly organized to... less... organized. There's simply random shit everywhere. Merri chuckled about the time three days ago when Maple found about 30 empty water bottles stashed under the bed. The thief seriously had no knowledge regarding those bottles. Stuff just seems to appear. She didn't let this mystery drag her into deep thought; she brushed it away and walked to the bottom floor with a certain pep in her step. Merri was having a good day so far, and she was in a great mood because of it. She threw herself on one of the themed couches, and waited for the costumed guests to arrive.
Labelle was kind of nervous. Usually, she'd stroll in with cool confidence, but this Halloween party would be the first time she talks to Christy and Merri and all the others outside of work. She doesn't know why she felt so apprehensive about even showing up. She'd enter the party in a lacy pirate costume, which she swore was much tighter than when she first tried it on. For some reason she was standing in front of a mirror, fretting over how this is gonna go. Should she be energetic? Calm and cool? Perhaps she would take the role of the lonely person on the sideline.
Then the woman heard a young voice outside her door. "Hey Label? You in here? We should- Whoaaa, sis, you look HOT! What in the world possessed you to buy that?"
Labelle turned covered her chest and turned away from Mabel, blushing from the blunt compliment. "I didn't think it'd be this, um... provocative when I first saw it. Honestly."
"Aw, it's fine, sis! You look great, so don't worry about anything, all right?" Mabel said cheerily as she gave her big sister a little reassuring pat on the shoulder.
"Thanks, sis, I appreciate it. Now what were you going to say?"
"I was gonna ask if you were ready yet, but it seems like you're as ready as ever."
"Oh, okay. Let's get going then. So. I see you're dressed as um... You're dressed as a banana." Labelle's tone was an even mixture of confusion and disbelief. "What're you- what're you going to do, dressed as a banana?"
"Uh, it's a Halloween party? I can dress however I want."
"Yes, you're right. But your spikes are poking through the back."
"I know."
Labelle simply stared at Mabel in silence. "... Okay. You are one strange little girl. And I love you for that. Please don't change, sis." The middle sister pulled Mabel into a warm hug.
"Aw, thanks, Label! I love you too! Let's get going, yeah?"
"So how you feeling, Christy?" asked Merri, who sat on a couch in such a way that she took up the entirety of its length. The Former Courier was leaning against one of the entry hall walls.
"Uhh... I'm kind of nervous, actually. I still have no idea how parties work."
"That's all right, you'll pick it up quickly. It's like-" Merri was cut off by a knock on the door. "Uh-oh. It has begun. You ready?" The Mayor simply nodded, and apprehensively opened the door.
"HEYO! Hi, Christy!" the foremost villager shouted. Behind him was the rest of Bigwood, and then some. They all cheered at the sight of the Former Courier, their excitement electrifying the air around them. "Mind if we come in?"
"Oh dear..." Christy murmured as she looked over the animated crowd. Dozens of people, all smiling brightly in their low quality costumes. It was evident they were thrilled that Bigwood was doing something different for Halloween. The woman took a deep breath, exhaled slowly, and said, "Of course! Get in here, everyone!" Perhaps she should've picked her words more carefully. The group of costumed villagers charged through the front door and, once inside, indulged in normal party antics. Merri hadn't even had a chance to turn on some music before the entire first floor was completely pervaded with guests. The blonde woman was startled by the sudden wave of people, so it took her longer than it should've been to do her job. "Merri! Hey!" the Former Courier shouted. "I'll wait for the other guests! You make a run around the house and make sure everything is still in one peace, all right?!"
"M'KAAAY!" was the response from somewhere in the crowd. Satisfied, Christy leaned against her spot on the wall a second time, back facing the door as she watched the energy flow through the room.
That actually does look like fun. I guess.
The Mayor turned around when another knock on the door met her ears. She opened it swiftly, meeting the eager eyes of the Able sisters. "Oh, hey! ... Guys..." Her enthusiasm drifted off as she studied their costumes. The littlest sister was a banana, and looked laughably cute because her spikes penetrated through the fabric in the back. Labelle looked as ravishing and glamorous as ever, even in a rather small pirate outfit. Sable, however. Goodness gracious. Her costume nearly made the Former Courier break out in a fit of uncontrollable laughter. She wore a dusty brown suit that looked similar to a hairless cat. At the ends of her fingers were amazingly long, knife-like claws. A spiky tail protruded from her backside, and tall horns were pointed forward on her head. She was a Deathclaw. "You- You all look fantastic! Honestly! I love your costumes, girls! Come on in!"
The sisters said their thank-yous in near unison, Mabel and Sable beaming at Christy's compliment, and Labelle giving a smaller smile, but blushing just a touch. The middle sister entered the Mayor's home, and was awestruck by the energy in there. People in the first room had formed a circle, and a lone person in the center was performing these strange moves that didn't impress Labelle one bit. She thought he was simply making a fool of himself. Because it looked like he was. But them Labelle saw the fun everyone was having a moment later. She approached the circle, and started cheering the dancer on, laughing at his alien moves. The host of the party seemed to materialize beside her.
"Hey, Labelle! What do you think of this?" Labelle turned to Christy, still smiling and clapping along to the beat.
"I think his dancing is very enthusiastic!" she shouted above the noise.
The Former Courier lunged at this, making the designer feel accomplished. "Hey, why don't you try to dance?"
Labelle shook her head, still jumping slightly along with the crowd. "I don't want to deal with that much attention for something I can't do. Why don't you get in there?"
"Ehh, not right now. Say, can we talk later? Just, get to know each other?" Her questions made Labelle's stomach tingle.
"O-okay!" the designer replied, barely audible over the cheering mob.
"Great! I got to go back and receive a few more guests. See ya!" And then she went back to wait by the door. Labelle stared after her. She doesn't know what it is, but there's something about that woman that sparks her intrigue. She's pretty, Labelle will give her that. But looks are not the reason. ... Looks are not the entire part of the reason. She began to list a few possibilities. Christy is very polite, incredibly so. She has a mysterious, experienced aura around her that absolutely charms Labelle. The Mayor comes in to talk to her every day since they met. Labelle feels comfortable and less cold when Christy looks at her. It's a good feeling. Labelle... Likes it. But she doesn't know why. So she must find out. As she was staring, she noticed that the Mayor had turned around to watch the dancing villager, and was still facing the designer. Labelle looked away in embarrassment.
The Former Courier chuckled at this, and answered another knock. This time, only one person stood in the night. "Hello, Cher! Please, come in! You're costume looks great by the way!"
'Twas true. The feline was dressed as a witch, and looked stunning in a black dress akin to Merri's, boots of the same shade, um, akin to Merri's... Actually, their costumes are only identical in length; Cher's dress had long, straight, somewhat loose sleeves, and the tips of her boots were curled in a spiral shape upwards, just like one would imagine a pair of witch's boots. Her incandescent, icy blue eyes contrasted lovingly underneath the shade of the dark, conical hat she wore. Combined together, her appearance would be one that many of the villagers will remember as the most beautiful woman they have seen. Unless they see Merri or Labelle. Then it would be about a three way tie.
"Good evening, Christy. And thank you," the assassin said with a smile as she entered the Mayor's energized home. The Former Courier admired her as she walked past. She could see her eyes glow even from a distance. Goodness, they were so cool... Christy watched the feline move along the edges of the crowd, staying in the shadow of the walls where some party-goers stand to watch. Another knock. The Mayor opened it posthumously. Isabelle and Maple were revealed to her, both of the new arrivals beaming in excitement.
"Oh, hey, guys! I was wondering when you two would get here! Come on in, the party just started." The Former Courier sized her two best friends up. Isabelle was grabbed in traditional vampire clothing, which looked absolutely adorable on her! Ah, goodness, she looks so cute! Oh, and, uh, Maple had a vermillion red cape and hood over a long white dress. Christy knew nothing of the significance of it. It looks like something from a child's book she saw once back in the wastes.
"Thanks, Christy!" The two said simultaneously. And then they brushed past her like the others, eager to join the festivities inside.
Knowing that every guest was present, the Mayor took a moment to observe the life in her abode. A small number of brave new villagers had dominated the miniature dance arena while the original star relaxed in the shadows. Cher was nowhere to be found. Christy figured she was having a sophisticated conversation with one of the more appreciative party-goers in some dark corner. The Former Courier saw the golden hair and feathery halo of Merri shining amidst the exited crowd. The woman was enjoying herself, laughing and dancing with a rather large group of people. Labelle became lost in the energetic mob; the Mayor couldn't seem to spot her. The designer would've been constricted in a crowd of admirers due to her knee-weakening charm. Christy saw her synthetic friend weave her way to one of the other rooms, Isabelle chatting enthusiastically beside her.
The dark-haired woman was pleased when she learned those two formed a strong relationship so quickly. Come to think of it, she did the same with Merri and herself. It was definitely Isabelle, then; there is something about that girl that makes you want to talk to her, and listen to what she says, and meet again with her, and hear her pep-filled, cheery voice again. The Mayor made the conclusion that Isabelle's charisma was indescribable. There is such a compelling force about her, and it makes you want to stay with her for as long as you can. Christy admired her secretary for this reason.
The Former Courier unconsciously smiled with her open mouth; the enjoyment of this celebration Christy once thought unnecessary and idiotic was truly contagious. She found herself drawn to the center, as if she was being pulled along by some invisible rope. For a few moments, what she saw turned into a surreal, ethereal landscape. The Mayor loved how the lights moved and changed colors.
They're so pretty...
She felt her body moving in tandem with the beat of the music.
This is new... I like it...
She made her way around the crowd, no particular destination in mind.
I just want to see more of this happiness...
Christy literally bumped into Cher as she was lost in her thoughts. The assassin turned calmly, a blank and uninterested look on her face. Once she recognized the dark haired woman, though, her expression lit up. "Hello, Christy," she said loud enough for it to be audible over the noise. "Can we talk outside for a moment?"
"Yeah, sure!" the Mayor shouted back. The two women slid their way through the mob, and out the front door. Some attendees had also come out for some fresh air and a little quiet time. They started for a remote spot next to some apple trees.
"Christy..." the feline began as she looked over the Former Courier's Riot Gear. "Who in the world are you?"
A/N: Finally. Am I right? 2014 and I'm on the Halloween chapter. I'm gonna skip Thanksgiving or whatever it's called in Animal Crossing. Harvest Festival, I believe. Regardless, I think I did well on this one! Spent a loooong time writin' this. One day, I literally just sat and wrote. I made progress elsewhere, though. I didn't procrastinate and waste ALL of my time. I wrote the ENTIRE storyline for Where Are We Now? and parts of the storyline for Here's How It's Done, Monstrosity, and I Prefer Those With No Spine. I've also written a part of the first chapter for Refined, which is a new story that takes place in Skyrim. So you can expect lots of content from me later on. I'll do my best!
Also, Project New Leaf has 551 views. That's a big number. It just makes me feel accomplished, knowing people are reading. Really, it's exciting to see that number climb despite my inactivity. So, thank you so, so much!
One more thing. Never power through something. Take the time to slow down and appreciate everything. I give this advice because I was playing Tomb Raider last weekend. It's such an amazing game, it really is. I spent 13 hours one day playing that game. Damn me… I finished it with a 98% overall completion. For those who don't know, Tomb Raider is rather linear, but the map is actually huge and you need to explore a lot to 100% an area. I had so much fun playing that game. I threw up because something really cool happened. But now, I feel if I go back into single-player, it won't be fun at all. So take your time and enjoy something.
That's all I have to say. Thank you once again for reading. Good bye!
