June 3rd, 2027

Around the time after Yuki turned two, she became much more active around the house, seeking to play and learn with every waking minute. According to Takemi, she was perfectly healthy for a little girl, weighing around twelve kilograms and measuring in at nearly three feet tall. She wore her hair in little pigtails, with her flower pins bouncing as she ran, crawled, and walked everywhere. Sumire had an extensive wardrobe of flower-decorated dresses that she let Yuki pick out every day, and in their downtime, Morgana and her taught Yuki a variety of games and showed her numerous activities, all of which they'd surprise Ren with when he came home from work. These included the equivalent of Simon Says, dubbed "Mama Says," where Sumire would give instructions and Yuki would do her best to fulfill them. She learned to identify every part of her body, and in time, began to try the play the role of "Mama." This was an easy role to play with her extended vocabulary, as Sumire found herself able to have basic, short conversations with Yuki.

"Mama says… touch your toes!" Sumire gestured with her hands while sitting on the floor in front of Yuki, who stood proudly.

"Touch toes!" Yuki bent down and touched her toes.

"Good job! Hmmm… Mama says… find Mona!"

"Mona Mona…" Yuki started to walk around, looking for her feline companion. She crawled up and down furniture, looked in the cat tower, and eventually found him hiding under the bed pillow.

"Got Mona!" Yuki giggled as she grabbed his ears and pet him.

"Guess I'm getting rusty…" Morgana looked at Sumire and laughed. "Or I'm teaching her too well."

"Mama play! Mama play!" Yuki turned and looked at Sumire.

"You want me to listen?"

"Yeah yeah!" She paused for a second. "Yuki says…" Another pause. "Hug Yuki!"

"I have to follow the instructions." Sumire giggled, walked up to Yuki, picked her up, and hugged her tight. "What do you want me to do now?"

"Yuki says… kisses!"

"I love kisses!" Sumire pecked Yuki's cheeks several times, which made her giggle. "Papa will be home soon, and I need to cook dinner."

"I help!"

"Yes. You can help me cook dinner."

"Mona help!"

"Morgana can help too!"

"Love cook!"

"You like to cook for papa?"

"Yeah!"

"So do I!" Sumire nuzzled her nose against Yuki's. "We're going to work together!"

"Food time!"

"Mhm!"

Sumire carried Yuki to the kitchen while Morgana followed, and she set her down in a high-chair in front of the counter. She made a simple meal, letting Morgana and Yuki season it lightly, though they went a little overboard at some points, given that Morgana could not pour it easily, and Yuki did not know measurements. By the time they were finished, Ren arrived home.

"Hello!" He cheerfully stated as he closed the door behind him.

"Welcome home, Ren!" Sumire picked Yuki up and set her down.

"Home papa!" Yuki ran up to him, and he lovingly scooped her up and kissed her on the cheek.

"Hi Yuki." He looked over at the kitchen counter. "Were you helping mama make dinner?"

"I cook!" She nodded.

"For me?"

"Papa food!"

"Thank you so much!" Ren kissed her again. "I can't wait to try it!"

"I helped show her the ropes." Morgana sat on Sumire's shoulder. "But she did most of it."

"Don't just stand there, Sumire. Get over here!"

"Ah!" Sumire blinked and joined them for a group hug. "I just got caught up in watching you and Yuki…"

"Miss me that much?" Ren laughed and wrapped his arm around her.

"...Of course I do…" A light hint of pink tinted her cheeks.

"I miss you too. All of you."

"I miss!" Yuki tapped his chest with her finger. "Miss papa!"

"I know sweetie." Ren pressed his forehead against hers gently. "But papa has to work so we can eat and play with toys. You want food and toys, right?"

"Yeah!"

"Then I'll have to keep working. I'll try to get some time off when Futaba and Hanako have their wedding."

"That's in September…" Morgana remarked. "After that, everyone will be married…"

"What about Yusuke, Morgana?" Sumire pet his head.

"Yusuke is married to his craft. At least, that's what he says."

"That sounds like him!" Ren chuckled.

"See Fuba! See Hana! See Yuyu!" Yuki bounced in his arm.

"We could invite them over sometime soon, sure."

"Yeah!"

"Someone's excited." Ren set her down. "It's dinner time, though."

"Food time!"

"Follow me, Yuki." Sumire held out her hand, which Yuki took. As she walked forward with her mama, Ren watched with a wide smile on his face, a sense of complete bliss in his heart. The family sat down at the dinner table together, and once Sumire had brought out all the plates, Ren glanced at Yuki before taking his first bite. She sat in her high-chair, which Sumire had moved, and was excitedly bouncing.

"Eat!"

"Here goes…"

Ren took his first bite and found it to be very, very, salty. His tongue recoiled in his mouth, but he pushed on and ate the entire meal while Yuki smiled.

"Taste good?"

"It was delicious, Yuki. Best meal I've ever had."

"I cook!" She cheered.

"You did it, Yuki!" Sumire patted her head.

"Good job." Morgana jumped on the back of the high-chair and purred.

"Yay!" Yuki bounced and giggled, which made all their hearts melt simultaneously.

After dinner was bathtime, where Sumire would bathe with Yuki and teach her how to clean herself. Once bathtime was over, Ren and Sumire told Yuki stories and read books until it was bedtime. Yuki's favorite song, which the two sang as a duo, was I Believe. She didn't understand the lyrics, but she loved watching her parents sing together and laugh. This was just one day in her life, and there were many more like it.


Over the course of June and July, Sumire and Ren taught Yuki how to fold origami, somersault, draw on a dry-erase board, make her own songs and dance, act like different animals, though she liked to act like a cat the most, count blocks and numbers, learn colors, play with magnets, sort laundry, and name family members and friends when they visited. They started a morning routine where they all did some light exercise in the morning, with Yuki trying to imitate Sumire, though she often fell over. Sumire and Morgana taught Yuki how to play hide-and-seek, and in time, Yuki learned how to be a "Phantom Thief." Yuki also started to learn a rudimentary form of haiku, which helped her with language development.

Every day before bedtime, Sumire would ask Yuki what they did over the course of the day. This was meant to improve her memorization skills, and much to Sumire's delight, she could almost perfectly recall the activities they performed over the course of a day. On his days off, Ren was sure to make the best of the time he had to spend with Yuki, and on one beautiful Sunday, decided to take her to the park.


July 25th, 2027

Ren woke up as dawn broke across Tokyo. He adjusted himself to slide out of the bed so he could make a cup of coffee, but he instead found himself locked in an iron grip by his loving wife.

"Where do you think you're going?" Sumire nuzzled her face against the back of his neck, pressing herself against him.

"I wanted to make some coffee…" Ren yawned.

"I think you should spend another hour with me in bed."

"That doesn't sound like a bad idea…"

Ren rolled over and kissed Sumire.

"Have I ever told you how happy you make me?"

"Every day. But I want you to tell me again."

"I love you with all of my heart. Or maybe half, now, since we have Yuki? Can I love you both with all my heart?"

"I think your heart is big enough." Sumire giggled and ran her hand through his frizzy hair. "I wish you could have every day off…"

"You know how it is." Ren scooped her soft hand into his. "I would if I could, but everyone warned us that this is life."

"Mhm… I know. It makes moments like these that much more special, though."

"Yeah…" Ren rolled over again and looked over the edge of the bed, where Yuki laid in her crib. Sumire leaned up on his back and looked over his shoulder. Her soft touch sent a shiver down his spine as she massaged his chest through his shirt.

"Do you think she's cuter when she's asleep?" Ren stretched his hand out and ran his fingers through Yuki's hair.

"She's always cute. That was a trick question."

"You got me there…"

The married couple silently waited together for their child to wake up, with Sumire's arms wrapped around Ren as she laid against his back.

With a yawn, Yuki slowly opened her eyes and looked up at her parents.

"Hey there Yuki."

"Good morning sweetie."

"Mmmm…" Yuki reached her arms up, and Ren adjusted himself to pick her up while Sumire held him on the bed. In one big swoop, he picked her up and sat her down on his chest.

"Papa... Mama…"

"Someone's tired…" Ren smirked. "Maybe this will wake you up!" Using his nimble fingers, Ren started to tickle her.

"Papa!" Yuki giggled and squealed as he woke her up. "Mama help!"

"Of course!" Sumire went to grab one of Ren's arms.

"Sorry, Yuki, but mama can't help you!" Ren laughed maniacally and reached one arm out to tickle Sumire. "I know exactly where mama is the most ticklish!"

"Ah, Ren!" Sumire laughed as Ren tickled her belly and side. "Ren please!"

"Ah! Mama!"

"This is one of my ultimate secrets, Yuki!"

"Mona help!" Yuki called out.

"Fear not, for I am here!"

Morgana jumped out from his cat tower and leaped onto the bed, jumping onto Ren's head.

"I'll save you!" He covered Ren's eyes with his paws, and Ren fell backward onto the bed.

"Curse you, Morgana!"

Sumire regained her bearings and grabbed a hold of Yuki.

"Here's our chance, Yuki! It's time for an all-out attack!"

"All out! All out!"

Yuki crawled up on Ren's chest while Sumire laid down next to him, and they both started to tickle him.

"Oh no! I surrender!" Ren laughed as his wife and daughter tickled him. "I'll make breakfast! Please!"

"I help!" Yuki stopped tickling him and crawled up to his face.

"Huh? Oh, sure. Let's cook breakfast for mama!"

"Cook for mama!"

"Woah… Sumire, did you hear that?" Ren looked at Sumire in shock.

"She made a three-word sentence!" Sumire nodded.

"This is some nice progress!" Morgana cheered.

"Great job, Yuki!" Ren leaned up and picked her up as he hopped out of bed. "Now, let's cook!"

"Cook for mama!"

With a bout of speed, Ren and Yuki made breakfast, making waffles with whipped cream, butter, and syrup. They sat down at the table together, ready to eat.

"What do you want to do today, Yuki?" Ren poked his daughter's cheek while she slowly ate. Her food had been cut up into small, edible bites.

"The park!"

"Oh!" Sumire clapped. "We can go to the Ariake Park!"

"Oh right…" Ren scratched his chin. "They dismantled the centre after the Olympics and turned it into a huge park…"

"Yes!"

"Park time!" Yuki clapped repeatedly.

"Hmmm… Sure. We'll make some sandwiches and go to the park."

"That sounds nice! I might get to climb some trees!" Morgana stretched himself out.

"I know how much you like to walk with us, Morgana." Sumire scratched his ear. "Although Yuki usually ends up in the stroller for a majority of our time outside…"

"She can't help it! She's just a baby!"

"I walk!" Yuki announced.

"You can walk around for a little bit, Yuki. But you like to be in the stroller too, right?"

"With mama!"

"Mhm. With mama."

"And papa?"

"Papa can carry you too, if you want.

"Yeah!"

"Well, let's get ready to go then!" Ren scarfed down his waffles at a rapid pace, stood up, and grabbed their baby stroller.

"I help!"

"Of course, Yuki." Ren patted her head.

"We'll all work together!" Sumire giggled and pet Morgana, who raised a paw.

"Me too!"


July 25th, 2027, Afternoon

The Amamiya family made egg salad sandwiches together before driving to Ariake Park. Where the massive structure that once hosted the 2020 all-around rhythmic gymnastics final once stood was a massive number of trees. The park had a central pavilion with a fountain and natural paths paved, with benches scattered throughout. Leaves gently fell to the ground as Yuki looked around from her stroller.

"I walk!" Yuki pointed at the trees and looked up at Ren, who was pushing the stroller.

"You want to walk to the trees?"

"Yeah?"

"What say you, mama?" Ren shot a smirk over to Sumire.

"Stay close to mama, okay?" Sumire lifted Yuki out of the stroller and walked over to the trees with her.

"I close!"

"Don't worry, Sumire." Morgana walked with them. "I won't let her out of my sight."

"Thank you, Morgana."

"I really like what they did with this place…" Ren took a deep breath as he walked with them. "To think it all started here, seven years ago."

"What do you mean?" Sumire tilted her head.

"Well, it all started in Thiais, really, but it was here that Hanako won the bronze, we became friends, and you overcame your inner demons."

"That's true." Sumire nodded. "It was Arina Averina-san's performance that really pushed me to dedicate myself completely to winning in 2024. I still wish I could thank her."

"I'm sure she already knows how you feel." Ren patted her back. "I have no doubt in my mind that she watched you perform in Paris."

"Hmmm… I think so, too."

"Mama look! Papa look!" Yuki excitedly tapped her feet while standing near a tree.

"What is it, Yuki?" The two walked over.

"Bug!"

Yuki pointed at what appeared to be a large beetle.

"Big bug!"

"I think that's a rhinoceros beetle…" Sumire adjusted her glasses and carefully looked it over.

"No no, Sumire." Ren shook his head. "That's clearly a stag beetle."

"But Ren, those are horns, not pincers."

"I dunno Sumire… I know pincers when I see them, and these are some big pincers."

"Then let's call it the Yuki stag beetle!" Morgana announced. "Since she found it and all."

"Morgana, wait!" Sumire held up a hand. "I'm sure this is a rhinoceros beetle… So we should call it the Yuki rhinoceros beetle!"

"Is it…?"

"Hold on, let me call an expert." Ren pulled out his phone.

"A video call? What's up?

"Hey Futaba. Tell me, this is a stag beetle or a rhinoceros beetle. The fate of the beetledom is at stake."

"Beetledom? More like beetledumb! Is this really what you called me for?"

"Yes!" Ren spun his phone around and showed her the beetle.

"Hi Yuki-chan!" Futaba waved through the phone.

"Fuba!" Yuki turned away from the bug and toward the phone. "Hi!"

"Your mama and papa are arguing over a big bug, huh? What do you think it is?"

"Big bug!" Yuki pointed at it.

"Yeah… Kinda figured." Futaba sighed. "Let's just call it a rhinostagros!"

"You can't just make up a new name, Futaba!" Sumire took the phone.

"Eh, why not?"

"It…" Sumire sighed. "Nevermind that. Since you're here, I wanted to ask if Hanako and you would like to visit soon."

"Hm? Sure. Does Yuki-chan want to see us or something?"

"She wants everyone to visit."

"True… Hmm… I don't think we'll be able to until after the wedding. There's still two months, but there's lots to do, and I don't want to take the magic away from Hanako."

"I see… That's fine!"

"Sorry, Sumire."

"Don't apologize!" Sumire giggled. "We're all adults!"

"You sound like Hanako!"

"Hehe. Where is Hanako?"

"Doing private sessions with some of her students."

"How sweet of her!"

"Just between you and me, Sumire, but she rocks yoga pants. Drives me crazy."

"Futaba…"

"What?" Futaba shrugged through the screen. "Someone has to say it. Who's more suited than her wife-to-be?"

Sumire sighed and looked up. Ren had walked over to Yuki and caught the "rhinostagros" in a small container. Morgana rested on his shoulder, and Yuki had started to pull him by the hand to go elsewhere.

"Let's put you back in the stroller."

"But I walk!"

"You can't walk forever on those little legs. Morgana will sit with you, anyway."

"Hmmmm… Okay! My bug!"

"Sure, it can be your bug."

Ren lifted Yuki and set her in the stroller. Morgana jumped in and rested on her lap, purring.

"I love Mona!"

As the three went to continue down the park trail, they turned around and waited for Sumire.

"I'm going to catch up with Ren, Yuki and Morgana." She looked back at the phone. "We'll see you at the wedding."

"I got some websites to design anyway." Futaba stretched. "We'll spend a load of time with Yuki-chan once we're married, though. Don't worry."

"Thank you, Futaba! Goodbye!"

"No problemo, Sumire. Buh-bye."

"All done over there, Sumire?" Ren waved to her.

"Come mama!" Yuki held up her arms and waved.

"Yes!"

Sumire jogged up to meet with them, stepping up next to the stroller and patting Yuki's head. The three made their way over to a familiar bench that gave a perfect view of the Rainbow Bridge. Ren set Yuki down on his lap after picking her up, and Sumire opened a plastic container, pulling out several sandwiches.

"They're nice and chewy for you, Yuki."

"Yummy!" Yuki took a bite from her sandwich.

"This bench seems a bit familiar…" Ren took a bite and looked out toward the bridge.

"This is where Sakiya, Hanako and I all promised to do something big at the 2020 Olympics." Sumire rested her head on Ren's shoulder while resting her left hand around Yuki, who sat next to her.

"Huh… I've never been here, but it still feels familiar."

"Perhaps it has something to do with the World. I think that's what Chihaya-chan would say."

"Maybe. Do you like the view, Yuki?" Ren leaned forward and looked at her.

"Pretty big!"

"Yes. It's pretty and big." He looked up at Sumire. "Is this view of the bridge any different, now?"

"Yes. I feel… content. I'm happy as I am, with you, Yuki and Morgana."

"That's good." Ren leaned back. "I'm happy like this, too."

"Yuki happy!"

"We're happy that you're happy, Yuki." Sumire patted her side.

"Her happiness is our happiness." Morgana nodded.

"Hmmm… Let's stay like this for just a bit longer, then."

The family relaxed in the park for the next several hours, taking in the fresh, open-air and enjoying each other's company until Yuki decided it was time to sleep, after several sessions of walking, sitting in the stroller, and walking again. In a sense, they were taking their time.


Throughout August, the Amamiya family went on another park trip with Etsuko, Rumi and Maruki, practiced and helped Yuki develop her vocabulary, and bided their time until the wedding. Yuki learned a massive amount of words, her talent as a wunderkind shining as she slowly began forming three-word sentences and memorizing more words. She spent more time with friends and family, going out with her grandparents, playing with Shizuku as her big sis, and simply growing up. On their days off, Ren and Ryuji doted over their daughters and shared stories about what they were doing and had done. They also talked about their wives, both of them agreeing over how incredibly lucky they were. Later on in the month, Yusuke came to visit after an exhibition. He presented Sumire and Yuki with a finger painting kit, which they excitedly used. Yuki covered more than just paper with paint, though, and Yusuke attempted to show her how to properly "make art."

She didn't quite understand, but she made some unique pieces regardless. During one session, Yuki covered her hand in paint and pressed it against the canvas. She gestured for Sumire to as well, remarking "Mama hand paint!" and so she did. Yusuke proposed that they have their hand prints made on one wooden canvas to be saved for the future, and so they did. On Ren's day off, the family, including Morgana, all pressed their paint-covered hands against one piece of wood, let it dry, and hung it up on their wall, with the text written "Amamiya Family" at the bottom. Along with the photo album, which grew exponentially every day, the family made plenty of mementos together.

Two areas of learning that Sumire focused heavily on teaching Yuki was in chaining words to make longer sentences, and potty training. According to official government schedules, Yuki would be starting Pre-K right before her third birthday, and they all wanted her to be ready, even though they all assumed she would be. Sumire had Yuki focus on learning key sentences meant for communication, working their way from "I am Yuki" to "My name is Yuki." She also helped her mouth syllables, and in time, Yuki learned how to say "Am-am-i-ya." By September, Yuki could say "My name is Yuki Am-am-i-ya." This was the first of the five-word sentences she started to put together, and out of excitement, Sumire told everyone she knew about how smart her little girl was. Yuki continued to practice and expand her vocabulary, and before they knew it, the day of Futaba and Hanako's wedding arrived.


September 23rd, 2027

Ren sat with Morgana and Yuki in a pew as they waited for the brides to walk. All of the Phantom Thieves barring Sumire were present. The Maruki family was also present. Shiho sat next to Ann, while Sumire, Sakiya and Sojiro were with the brides-to-be. It was a smaller, more intimate gathering, but they were all there for them. They were in Kyoto Church, the same one that Haru and Makoto got married in seven years earlier. Familiarity probably helped with the anxiety, at least that's what Ren thought. It helped though, since Haru happily helped them fund the wedding. No priest stood at the main podium, and Ren assumed it would be Sojiro doing the honors. The last time Ren spoke to him before the wedding, he mentioned getting some sort of license. Even though marriage laws had changed drastically since 2020, Hanako wanted to keep it intimate and private, inviting only her close friends, to which Futaba agreed. More than anything, she didn't want anything to do with her parents. From what she told Ren, they hadn't spoken since the day she left, and she grew to like it that way. She was comfortable with Sojiro, Futaba, and everyone else.

The bells chimed as the procession formally began.

Hanako stepped out first, wearing a wedding dress that starkly contrasted what Ren thought she'd wear. He remembered her traditional dress from Haru's wedding, though in each subsequent wedding she wore a dress. This wedding dress was very intricate, snow white and shoulderless with a purple lining along the bottom of the dress, an incredible veil that flowed from the top of her head all the way to the floor with a purple inner pattern, and a purple sash around her waist that connected to the veil, topped off with her blue-framed glasses. Standing on both sides of her were Sumire, who wore a deep maroon dress, and Sakiya, who wore a dark green dress. Their arms were all interlocked as they marched forward, and in their free hands they held the wedding rings. Normal marriage expectations had changed since same-sex marriages began to become more popular, with the couples often choosing who walked first, or if they'd walk together. Hanako had always been the more active one between the two, so he wasn't surprised to see her walk first. She smiled and waved to Ren as he glanced at her.

Not long after, Futaba stepped out with Sojiro, who held her hand and walked with her. She wore an identical wedding dress, but with a green sash, pattern and lining. Ren could tell she was blushing up a storm, even with the veil covering her face. She walked up to Hanako and stood opposite to her while Sojiro stepped up behind the podium.

"Hello, everyone." Sojiro cleared his throat and stroked his goatee, which had completely greyed. "Thank you all for joining us today, on the 23rd of September, 2027, to witness the union between Hanako Natsuki and Futaba Sakura. Nine years ago today was when they first met, and since that day, the two formed a strong friendship that soon blossomed into unconditional love for one another. With their friends, they went to Tokyo University together, participated in the Olympics, and built a future together. No matter what problems they faced individually, they confronted them head-on together. This strong bond they shared, as well as their passion to take on the world together is what brought them here today. This ceremony represents the celebration of their journey together, and everything to come after. Once they make their vows, these two will be one. With that said, Hanako-chan, are you ready to make your vow?"

"I am!" Hanako happily nodded.

"Futaba?"

"Y-Yes."

"Good." Sojiro chuckled and looked back at Hanako. "Go ahead."

"Futaba. When we first met, you looked like your whale world had turned upside down. I wanted to help you smile again, and once we started to talk, I realized how similar we were. When we started spending time together, I started to notice that I was more comfortable being myself with you than anyone else. I didn't understand my feelings for a long time, but it eventually all made sense one day. I love you. I always have, and I always will. You're cute, funny, and always willing to stand up to people that wish harm upon others. You're my hero, and as your wife, I vow to make you laugh and smile like you make me. I'm going to protect you, cook for you, and snuggle with you every day, too!"

Futaba felt Hanako clasp her shaking hands as her lips quivered. Her heart was just about ready to explode. The timer was below zero.

"Hanako… I love you so much! I really really love you! Oh I'm off-script… Uh… Since we met, I've always thought you were the kindest woman in existence. I honestly didn't know what to say to you half the time, because you were so nice. I didn't think you had any reason to be kind to me, because I didn't think I was worth it. You stuck with me, though, and I eventually realized that you really just did love me. You don't love me because you're kind to me, you're kind to me because you love me. Once I figured that all out, I've wanted to do everything with you since. So… As your w-wife… I vow to help you with your gymnastics studio, to keep learning how to cook better, to lay off the ramen, to take care of dad, and to run Leblanc with you like a pro!"

"Good…" Sojiro sniffled. "Will the ring bearers please present the rings?"

Together, Sumire and Sakiya stood approached the two, with Sumire presenting Futaba her ring, and Sakiya presenting Hanako hers.

"Hanako-chan." Sojiro pulled up a handkerchief and wiped his eyes. "Do you take Futaba as your wife?"

"I do!"

Hanako gleefully lifted Futaba's hand and slid the beautiful, golden ring onto her finger.

"And Futaba, do you take Hanako as yours?"

"I do."

Futaba swallowed nervously and lifted Hanako's hand, sliding the other ring on while her own fingers shook.

"Now… You may... " Sojiro could barely hold back his tears. "You may seal the vows… With a kiss."

Without hesitating for a second Hanako lifted Futaba's veil, and a second later, Futaba lifted hers. A nervous but excited smile met a radiant and excited one. Hanako wrapped her arms around Futaba's waist and pulled her in, and the two kissed while Sojiro freely cried tears of joy. Everyone clapped as the final couple sealed their fate and walked the path of adulthood.


With the wedding ceremony complete, the guests made their way to the reception hall, where they all changed. The reception hall had the usual decorations; multiple tables set up with food, a DJ, a podium, and more. The groomsmen wore black suits with color-corresponding ties depending on who they were, Ren a red tie, Ryuji a yellow tie, and Yusuke a blue tie. Morgana's scarf had been made into a small yellow tie. The bridesmaids wore white dresses with sashes corresponding to their own colors. Ann and Shiho wore red, Makoto wore blue, Haru wore pink, Sakiya wore green, and Sumire wore a mix of black and red. Yuki wore a baby's version of Sumire's outfit, and Shizuku wore a small version of Sakiya's. Sojiro wore his classic white and pink suit, while Maruki wore a classic black suit and tie. Rumi and Etsuko both wore matching red dresses. Everyone mingled for a bit while they waited for Futaba and Hanako to make their second grand entrance.

"This is your third wedding, isn't it Yuki?" Ren looked down at his daughter while she played with Etsuko.

"Three!" Yuki held up three fingers.

"Yup. Three."

"More cake!"

"There will be cake, yes."

"Yuki-chan, your dress is so pretty!~" Etsuko held her hands. "Want to dance?"

"Eheh dance!" Yuki tapped her feet, and the two started dancing. With a smirk, Sakiya joined them and started "dancing" with Shizuku, huddling her close as she moved in circles.

As the girls dance, Ryuji approached Sumire, who had her camera ready.

"You getting a record of all this too?" He smirked while flourishing his phone.

"Of course!"

"I swear I've nearly filled a whole photo album full of pictures of Shizuku." He grinned.

"You do the same? I've always been paranoid of losing the pictures if I don't print them out, and I like the photo albums I have from my childhood too much to not continue the trend!"

"I feel the same way! My mom nagged me to print everything, too…"

"Ren also wants to be able to try and embarrass her when she gets older too…"

"He never changes huh?" Ryuji laughed.

"He did vow to tease me forever, so I figure he wants to tease Yuki, too."

"What are you two talking about?" Morgana snickered as he walked up to them.

"Just talking about our kids."

"Shizuku takes after you, Ryuji. She's like a little monkey! Just kidding."

"You're not actually wrong, Morgana." Ryuji laughed. "She is a little monkey, crawling and climbing everything. Drives Sakiya crazy, but she is like me. Becomin' a dad made me realize just how immature I was back in those days, but hey, I guess that's what growing up does. Watching her grow really opened my eyes. It's a nice feeling."

"How did Sakiya and you react when she started calling you papa and mama?"

"Oh I recorded that on my phone!" Ryuji chuckled. "Lemme show you!"

Ryuji turned his phone horizontally and pulled up a minute-long video. It showed Shizuku sitting on Sakiya's lap in their apartment, and her babbling.

"Hey, Shizuku! Say papa!"

"Do you think she's ready to form words, Ryuji?" Sakiya held Shizuku's arms up and played with her.

"Let's see! C'mon. Shizuku! Papa! Pa-pa!"

Shizuku curiously looked up at Ryuju, who held his phone in one hand, recording them.

"Pa!"

"Close! Say papa! Pa-pa!"

"Pa… pa!"

"Papa, Shizuku!"

"Papa!"

"She really did it!" Sakiya giggled.

"That's my girl!" Ryuji leaned in and kissed her face repeatedly. "I'm papa!"

"Papa!"

"Yup! That's me!"

"Shizuku!" Sakiya turned her around. "Can you say mama? Ma-ma."

"Papa!"

"No no, ma-ma."

Shizuku tapped her hands against Sakiya's stomach for a few seconds.

"Ma-ma. Mama!"

"Yes!" Sakiya fell over backward, smiling with joy as she took Shizuku with her. "I'm mama!"

"Mama!"

The video ended with Ryuji laughing, and he laughed as he put his phone away. "Ah… good times."

"Yuki's first word was mama. I remember that day like it was yesterday…" Sumire closed her eyes and spoke with clarity.

"Excuse me, Ryuji, Sumire." Yusuke cleared his throat from behind them. "Do you believe Hanako and Futaba would find a painting a worthy wedding gift? They did not specify what I should bring, and in accordance with the previous weddings, everyone requested that I paint something."

"I'm sure they'll love anything you give them!" Sumire beamed a smile at him.

"Yeah, man!" Ryuji tapped his shoulder. "Why get worried now?"

"I see… When you put it that way, I suppose I shouldn't worry."

"C'mon, Shizuku!" Sakiya laughed as she lightly bounced her daughter in her arms.

"These girls are just so cute!" Shiho giggled while she drank with Ann.

"I know! Huh… Now that I think about it… This is probably going to be our last big wedding." Ann took a sip of her wine and looked around. "Sumire and Ren, Makoto and Haru, Sakiya and Ryuji, Futaba and Hanako, you and me… Yusuke and Morgana are free spirits. Guess that really makes us adults, doesn't it?"

"In one sense it does! I remember going to Bali with almost everyone here all those years ago… Man that feels weird to say out loud."

"I know, right! Hey, Ren!" Ann waved him down.

"Stay with Etsuko, Yuki." Ren gave her a nod and walked up to Ann.

"Isn't it crazy that our last heist was over ten years ago?" She started.

"Hm? Yeah. Talking about it makes me feel old."

"Aren't you just so proud of Futaba? She's basically your sister and all!"

"I'm proud of both Futaba and Hanako. I plan to say so in my speech."

"Oh right! It makes sense that you'd give a speech for them too. I just can't get over how far we've all come!"

"Life came at us fast, but we didn't let anything hold us back as we moved forward. That's all there really is to it. Now, we're here."

"What are we going to do now, though? I feel like Hanako and Futaba getting married is the last big thing for us as like.. A group!"

"There will always be more for us to do, Ann." Ren adjusted the sleeve of his suit. "Now that Futaba's published her research, you never know if something might happen…"

"You're kidding, right?"

"Mostly. I can't predict if the Metaverse will come back or not. Given the fact that it hasn't in over 10 years, there's a low probability it ever will, but hey, never say never."

"I guess we just have to focus on raising the next generation right, then!" Ann wrapped an arm around Shiho's shoulder. "To the kids!" She raised her glass.

"To the kids." Ren smiled and nodded.

"How are you doing, Yuki-chan?" Maruki leaned down to greet her.

"I am good!" Yuki replied.

"three-word sentences? My my, your parents must be very proud."

"Etsuko was making three-word sentences around the time she turned three…" Rumi rubbed her chin. "Yuki-chan's only two… Jeez. I wonder what Sumire's been teaching her?"

"I learn!" Yuki proudly declared.

"You've learned a lot, and fast." Maruki nodded.

"Right Mama!"

"Oh, right… That's what you call me." Maruki laughed and felt a malicious presence radiating near him.

"Are you enjoying the reception, Dr. Maruki?" Sumire appeared behind him suddenly.

"Huh? Oh, yes. I'm happy to see how far Natsuki-san and Sakura-san have come together."

"I'm happy to hear that!" She turned to Yuki. "Yuki, remember, this is Dr. Maruki. Mah-roo-ki. Can you say that?"

"Mah-roo-ki." Yuki slowly mouthed the syllables.

"There you go! Dr. Maruki!"

"Mah-roo-ki."

"Mhm! That's his name. I'm mama!"

"I love mama!" Yuki cheered as Sumire picked her up.

"And I love you!" Sumire kissed her on the cheek.

"That's cute." Rumi laughed.

"My!" Haru clapped as she walked up to the group. "How are you doing, Rumi-san?"

"I'm doing well, Okumura-san. I'm always surprised to see someone as high-profile as you at these weddings."

"I may be the CEO of Okumura Foods, but I'm Haru first and foremost!" She giggled.

"Getting the time off to come to these weddings has been tough, though." Makoto sighed for a moment and smiled. "But it's worth it. Watching my friends all get married has been a treat."

"That's right, Mako-chan!"

"I'm happy to hear that." Maruki nodded. "Watching you all mature brings me great joy."

"Indeed. It appears the brides are on their way now." Makoto looked toward the entrance and saw Futaba and Haru walking with Sojiro. They wore the same wedding dresses as earlier, though they didn't have their veils. Sojiro escorted them to the main table before stepping up onto the podium in the center-back of the room.

"Hello again, everyone. I know we've come fresh from the wedding, but I'd like to thank you all for joining us again for the reception. Feel free to talk, dance, and eat to your heart's content after Futaba and Hanako share a few words with us all."

Following Sojiro, Futaba stepped up to the podium.

"H-Hi everyone! Thank you all for coming! I'm super glad you all made it! Hanako and I spent a long time putting this all together so it could be perfect! So really! Thank you! I'm super happy and nervous right now, but the fact that I know you all really helps!"

"There there, Futaba." Hanako patted her back as she stepped up. "Hello everyone! As Futaba said, we're all grateful and happy that you've all come to our wedding! I've had this entire day planned out for a long time, and it's going perfectly, thanks to you all! Please enjoy the reception! Futaba and I will be taking pictures and walking around, so feel free to talk to us!"

As Hanako stepped down, she took a hold of the mic.

"I love you, Futaba!"

Everyone laughed as Futaba's face burned red.

"H-Hanako…"

"I should have done that at my wedding…" Ren sighed to himself.


With their welcome speeches complete, Hanako and Futaba took each other's hands and walked to the center of the reception hall, where they began their first dance. It started as a slow dance, but quickly transitioned into a much quicker one, with Hanako guiding Futaba along as they twirled around each other. Futaba kept up, and Ren could tell from observing that she had practiced incredibly hard for the dance. Once they were finished, he stepped up with Sumire to give his speech.

"Greetings, everyone. We're all familiar with each other, so I suppose I don't need to name names. Hanako and I have a long history together, and we both helped each other a lot when it comes to where we are today. She helped me find passion in my career, and I helped her become the woman she always wanted to be. Futaba and I go even further back, though. We've been causing trouble for years now, with her sending me dozens upon dozens of strange shows to watch and whatnot. We're best friends, siblings, even, and I can't imagine having a boring day when she's around. I think these two match up perfectly, and I'm glad to finally see you both put on the rings. What makes me the happiest is the act that I know you two are going to keep rhythmic gymnastics alive in Japan, whether it's Futaba running the website, or Hanako running her studio. Speaking of running things, I can't think of a better person, other than myself, to inherit Leblanc other than Futaba. She's snarky, quick-witted, and fun to talk to, if you know what she's talking about. I know you'll both take good care of Sojiro, so thank you for that. I want both of you to enjoy your lives to the fullest, so don't let me down!"

Sojiro sniffled again while everyone else clapped. Yuki played with Shizuku while the speeches went on, so they didn't pay it much mind. Sumire stepped up to the podium next.

"Hello, everyone. Both Hanako and Futaba are very special people to me. I first met Futaba in high school, and she introduced me to Featherman. We became friends after that, and since then, we've supported each other with everything. If you ever need someone to back you up, let that person be Futaba. She's the smartest girl I've ever met, and once you become friends with her, she'll do everything she can to help you. I'm very proud of her for this fact, too. Through our time in college, Hanako and I practiced for rhythmic gymnastics basically every day, and Futaba was always there to help Hanako with her classes. She even helped me if I ever needed it, managing to do that and her own work all at the same time. As for Hanako, I'd like to thank both you and Sakiya again for helping me make my dream come true. You're an inspiration to all rhythmic gymnasts, especially Japanese girls. Your burning passion for the sport can't be matched by anyone else I know, and even to this day I believe that to be true. When I trained for the 2024 Olympics, you stayed with me late into the night every single day, teaching me new moves, difficulties, and helping me understand the rules completely. It was thanks to your support that I mastered the hoop and won the gold. I'm grateful for everything you've done, Hanako Sakura."

Sojiro broke out in tears as Sumire stated her name, and Hanako jumped up in excitement, holding Futaba close as she did.

"Thank you, Sumire!"

"Hanako… Sakura…"

The rest of the guests broke out in applause, and the reception continued. Hanako and Futaba took pictures with everyone, especially Yuki and Shizuku, who they took several dozen pictures with. During the family dance, they both shared a dance with Sojiro before dancing together again. Ren danced with Futaba, while Hanako danced with Sumire and Sakiya. The other's mingled amongst themselves, catching up and enjoying each other's company. For as many weddings as they had, the days they spent working separately vastly outnumbered that. The wedding was a nice occasion to remind them of what really mattered.

When Futaba and Hanako danced again, they tossed the bouquet, and this time, it landed in Haru's arms.

"Oh dear!" She giggled. "Perhaps we need to get officially married, Mako-chan?"

"I think we're fine like this." Makoto set the bouquet on a table and took Haru in her arms to dance. The night slowly came to a close, but not before Hanako scooped Futaba up in a bridal carry and disappeared from view.

No one could guess what their honeymoon would be like.


As Yuki continued to grow, her vocabulary did as well. There appeared to be no limit on how many words she could learn. In October, Futaba and Hanako visited, and after a bit of teasing, Futaba was pressured by Ren into stating that Hanako and her finally "did the deed." In response, Ren wondered how Futaba was able to hold back for so long. She didn't comment. While Ren worked, Sumire continued to practice different activities with Yuki, including playing Doctor. Time flew, and by Shizuku's second birthday, Yuki was speaking consistently in three-word sentences. Sakiya and Ryuji kept the party smaller, inviting Futaba, Hanako, Sumire, Ren, Yuki, and Morgana primarily. It wasn't possible for everyone to make it every year, but they were fine with that. The party was short and sweet, and Shizuku was excited to play with her big sis, who she called "Yuyu."

By January, Yuki was able to speak appropriately most of the time, saying things like "I am Yuki," "I love mama," I love papa," and "I love Mona" easily. This was an impressive development, and she was only improving. In the following months, she learned how to use time markers properly, including now, later, first and then. Eventually, in April 2028, Yuki started attending Kindergarten. Sumire and Ren enrolled her in a public institution that wasn't far from their apartment.

Yuki stopped in her tracks outside the building, where a teacher and several other students waited.

"Yes, Yuki?"

"Can you come?"

Sumire took a deep breath and bent down, resting her hands on Yuki's shoulders.

"I'm sorry, Yuki. I can't go to school with you. I need you to follow your teacher."

"B-But…" Tears welled up in her eyes as she gripped her school uniform dress.

"Don't cry." Sumire pulled her in for a hug. "Mama will cry too, and nobody wants to see that."

"I want you…"

"We've been preparing for this, haven't we?" Sumire rubbed the top of her head. "I'll always be with you, Yuki."

"I'm scared…"

"You don't need to be scared."

"Can Mona come?" She pointed at Sumire's bag, where Morgana popped his head out.

"Can you carry him? He's a bit heavy."

"Hey!"

"Uh huh." Yuki opened her school bag.

"Okay. Take Mona with you."

Morgana hopped out of Sumire's bag and into Yuki's. She stumbled slightly as she stood up, but she caught her balance.

"There! If anything happens, Mona will be there to help you!"

"I miss you mama…"

"I'm going to miss you too, Yuki." Sumire kissed her forehead one last time. "You'll be okay, though. When you're all done, I'll be waiting right here."

"You will?"

"I will. You're super smart, so show them what you can do!"

Yuki gripped her fists and closed her eyes, concentrating as hard as she could.

"Okay!"

When she opened her eyes, Sumire was gone. Almost immediately, anxiety began to well up inside her again. Just as she was about to break down, a gentle paw rested on her shoulder.

"I'm with you, Yuki. Let's do this together."


With her feline companion, Yuki walked up to the other students and teacher. The first thing they all did was walk up to the show cubbies inside, where all of the kids changed into their school shoes. After that, their teacher escorted them to the classroom, which had several rows of desks, meant to seat two to four students. In the center-front of the room was a piano, and behind that were several more cubbies. One corner of the room housed a sink, while the rest of the room was decorated to give off a child-friendly vibe. Each of the kids went up to their cubby, which has everything they needed. Yuki had to set her bag down, and she did so reluctantly.

"I'll keep an eye on you the entire time, okay? We'll talk during your break. I'm pretty sure you get a lunch break…" Morgana whispered to her.

"...Okay…"

Yuki pouted as she walked up to her desk. As the day went on, though, she found herself having fun as she labeled everything that belonged to her, writing her name on each and every thing. Once they were finished labeling, the teacher began their first lesson. Just like at home, Yuki found herself absorbed in the learning process, taking notes and listening to her teacher. The class did their first group activity, and she became fast friends with some of her classmates. They were all fascinated by her white streak, and she told them she shared it with her cat. Morgana snickered from inside his bag while she did. On her lunch break, Yuki brought her bag to a desk, pulled her bento box, and peeked in. She looked around to make sure all of the other kids were occupied, and started to talk.

"Mona!" She whispered.

"What's up?"

"This is really fun!"

"It looked like you were having fun. You're not nervous anymore?"

"Nope! Everyone is nice!"

"Make any friends?"

"Mhm!"

"That's good. Do you still want me to come with you tomorrow?"

"Yes! I want you with me."

"Like daughter like father, hehe."

"Hm?"

"Ren, or, papa used to bring me to school with him every day."

"Oh!"

"Yup."

"Thank you Mona!"

"Of course. Now go talk to your friends. You'll stand out if you talk to me for too long."

"Uh huh! Okay!"

Yuki closed her bag and scooted over to one of her newfound friends, and they all ate lunch together. After lunch was a brief recess and naptime. While it wasn't a daycare, many of the students were still very young, including Yuki. She had a lot more energy than before, but she wasn't unstoppable. Once they woke up and finished recess, the students spent the second half of the day doing another learning activity. In the blink of an eye, Yuki completed her first day at school. She followed her classmates and teacher outside, and standing near the main gates was her mama.

"Mama!"

"Hi, Yuki!" Sumire bent down and picked Yuki up in a hug as she ran up to her. "How was your first day?"

"Good! I made friends!"

"How many friends did you make?"

"Um… One… Two… Six!"

"That's good!" Sumire patted her back. "You didn't cry at all?"

"Nope! Mona was here!"

"It wasn't that bad, was it?"

"It was fun!" Yuki beamed a smile at Sumire, whose eyes were a bit red.

"I'm so happy to hear that, Yuki!"

"She's telling the truth, Sumire." Morgana peeked his head out from the bag. "Yuki's really sociable. Everyone really likes her, too."

"Thank goodness!"

"Mama… Did you cry?" Yuki touched a finger under her eye.

"Me… Oh... No."

"Don't lie, Sumire." Morgana snickered.

"Mama…"

"...I did cry… I missed you so much!"

Sumire wrapped one hand around the back of Yuki's head and hugged her even tighter.

"I knew this day would come… And I'm so proud of you! Don't worry about me, okay? This is normal for a mama."

"You mean it?"

"Mhm! I'm super-duper proud of you!"

"Thank you mama!"

After holding each other in a hug for another minute, Sumire set Yuki down, held her hand, and walked home with her. All three of them napped after returning to the apartment, and Ren was sure to take plenty of pictures before waking them up.

"Boop!" Ren poked Yuki's nose after putting his phone away. She slowly opened her eyes and saw him smiling at her.

"Papa!"

"How was your first day of school?" Ren scooped her up in a hug while Sumire and Morgana slowly woke up.

"Good!"

"What'd you do?"

"We learned and played!"

"You're going to be a super genius at this rate! Four-word sentences!"

"Mona came too!"

"You took Morgana?"

"Uh huh! You did too!"

"Hm? Oh, yeah. I used to take Morgana to school with me."

"Hehehe."

"Did mama cry when you went inside?"

"H-Hey, Ren!" Sumire blushed and pouted.

"Mama cried!"

"I did!" Sumire's cheeks puffed out. "What's wrong with that? My little girl is finally going to school…"

"There's nothing wrong with it!" Ren laughed and leaned over to kiss her on the cheek. "I'd probably have cried, too."

"You're just teasing me!"

"Of course I am."

"Sumire grumbled and joined them in the group hug.

"You're lucky I love you so much."

"I know I am. Do you know why mama cried, Yuki?"

"Why?"

"Because she loves you so much!"

"Heheh…"

"Yuki's quite the talkative one at school, Ren." Morgana hooped onto Sumire's shoulder. "I kept an eye on her throughout the day."

"Thank you, Morgana. That's good to hear. Now… to celebrate… Who wants curry?"

"I want some!" Yuki raised her hand, as did Sumire, whose stomach growled.

"Then let's get cooking!"

The Amamiya family made a killer curry dinner that night, using yogurt as the special ingredient. This was just the first day of Yuki's school life, and every day after saw her becoming more welcomed and friendly with her schoolmates.


May 10th, 2027, Afternoon

By the time Yuki turned three, she could hold full conversations with adults, albeit one-sided ones. Her hair had grown a bit longer, and she had stylized her flower pins with her twintails, which touched her shoulders. The white streak was much more prominent in her hair, too. She was little over three feet tall, and weighed about 14 kilograms. To her teacher's amazement, Yuki asked short questions, spoke in longer sentences, and had a massive vocabulary of words that she loved to use. She was a bit shy, but liked to talk to other students when they approached her. Ren and Sumire were happy to hear the reports they received, but on her birthday, they realized something far more shocking.

"Happy Birthday, sweetie!" Ren picked Yuki up in his arms as she ran up to him.

"Thank you papa!" She kissed him on the cheek. "Can I open presents?"

"Let's at least eat dinner together first!" He laughed. "I know you're excited, though."

"Okay! I wanna help!"

"Sure, sure. I'm going to make curry."

"What about pancakes?" Yuki asked with stars in her eyes.

"Ohhh! Good idea, Yuki! Let's go to Dome Town!" Morgana carefully jumped onto her shoulders.

"Oh! Dome Town! Where?" Yuki looked at him and scratched his ear.

….

….

….

….

Ren and Sumire's jaws fell slack.

"H-Hold on." Ren blinked. "Yuki, did you just say Dome Town?"

"Yes, papa!"

"But… Morgana was the only one who mentioned it."

"He did!"

"So… Wait…"

"Yuki, can you understand Morgana?" Sumire looked at her with total surprise.

"We talk at school!"

"What, you guys didn't notice?" Morgana laughed. "I've been talking to Yuki since she could first make words! You two have gotten really rusty, huh?"

"We just thought you were meowing to her the whole time! It's natural for her to respond to a cat, but it never seemed like she was actively responding to what you were saying!" Ren gripped the sides of his head.

"Nope! She talks to me at school during lunch and on breaks!"

"I have to tell everyone!" Sumire pulled out her phone.

"You guys do know I can talk to Etsuko too, right?" Morgana looked between them with his head cocked to the side. "Don't ask me how it works, but my guess is since they were born from Metaverse users, they might just be able to understand me? I'm not too sure, considering how mysterious and alluring I am in general! Heheheh."

Hmmm…" Ren cupped his hand under his chin. "I have no clue… I think we need to ask Futaba. From what I understand, it's a matter of cognition and perception, right?"

"Yes! If you see me talk, you'll understand me!" Morgana declared.

"But Yuki never saw you talk."

"That's where you're wrong! She's been watching me talk every single day of her life!"

"If that's the case, wouldn't she think all cats can talk?"

"No, papa!" Yuki stomped her foot. "Mona is special!"

"And there you have it!" Morgana triumphantly grinned.

"I… I guess!" Ren threw his arms up. "Honestly, there isn't making much sense of it in the first place! I guess there's no need to dig any deeper. The fact of the matter is that you can talk to Morgana, Yuki, and that is amazing."

"Just like mama and papa!" Yuki cheered.

"And you just made another five-word sentence!"

"That is easy!"

"It's not easy for a lot of kids…"

As they finished their discussion, Sumire texted the Phantom Thieves.

Sumire: Hello, everyone. Would you all be able to video call later?

Futaba: Ez

Yusuke: I could from my phone. I do not own a computer.

Futaba: How do you not own a computer in this year? At this time? At your house?

Ryuji: Aurora borealis? I can video chat, yeah!

Makoto: Haru and I can chat for a few minutes before bed tonight, yes. Did something happen?

Sumire: Nothing bad. We just have some important things to share!

Ann: Oh! Are you pregnant again?

Ren: Hey slow down Ann! No, it's not that!

Ann: Aww….

Sumire: Ann, please!

Futaba: Kinda sus…

Haru: I'm curious to hear what you and Ren-kun have to share! We'll be in contact later tonight!

Sumire: Thank you, everyone.

Sumire let out a long sigh as she looked down at Yuki.

"How did I not notice sooner…?"

"Mona said it was secret!" Yuki put a finger over her mouth and shushed.

"So it's all been an act?" Ren scratched his head.

"Well, I wanted to surprise you two at the right moment, and here we are. We talk at school, but only in private. I don't want other kids thinking Yuki is strange because she is talking to her cat."

"Well… Thank you for helping her out at school. You definitely had us fooled."

"I am the original Phantom Thief, after all. I've been teaching Yuki my tricks!"

"Oh dear…" Sumire sighed.

"Heheheh! Yuki and I are going to be the New Phantom Thieves!"

"New Phantom Thieves, huh?" Ren bent down and pet him. "Just don't get into trouble, aright?"

"Of course not!"

"Hmmm… With that out of the way, who wants to go to Dome Town?"

"Me!" Yuki raised her hand, as did Morgana. "Me too!"

"And Destinyland this weekend…?"

"Me!" Sumire jumped up and raised her hand.

"Oh?" Ren grinned, while Yuki curiously turned to look at her mother. "Do you want me to hold you when we go through the scary rides?"

"U-Um… Well… That's…" Sumire's face turned a deep crimson red as she realized the predicament she put herself into.

"Mama is a tomato!" Yuki giggled and pointed at her.

"Yuki!"

"If you want me to protect you, you need only ask!" Ren wrapped an arm around Sumire's hip and pulled her close. "That's what I vowed to do, after all!"

"Sumire felt her cheeks burn as her heart throbbed.

"You're so cute when you get like this~" Ren snickered as he gave her a kiss on the cheek.

"Why do you always try to embarrass me?" Sumire pouted.

"Because it's fun!"

"Ren…"

Sumire sighed and embraced her husband. Yuki and Morgana joined them in the hug, and soon after, they all went to Dome Town to eat pancakes and waffles. Yuki was presented with a special birthday stack of pancakes, which she shared with her parents. Once they were finished, they returned home and had Yuki open her presents. Ren and Sumire got her a mask-molding kit, where she used clay to mold out what could be a series of different masks. In the past year, she had become enamored by Ren's Joker mask, and they figured she wanted her own. Morgana got her a coloring book of cats, with Sumire's help. She pulled him close and cuddled with him for a while, thanking him for all the help at school. That night, they started a large video call with their friends, informing them that Yuki could speak to Morgana. Ann, Futaba, and Ryuji lost their marbles, while Makoto, Haru and Yusuke congratulated them, stating that it was a blessing for her to have such a wonderful companion.

Yuki fell asleep soon after the call ended, and despite all the mental confusion Ren and Sumire went through, they fell asleep soon after, cuddling with Yuki in their bed. Morgana watched from his cat tower, satisfied with the day.


May 14th, 2028

Tourists and Japanese families ran amok around Destinyland as they all scurried from one ride to the next, grabbing treats and food as they went. Ren wore a black t-shirt and jeans, while Sumire wore a violet sundress, and Yuki a white one. Morgana hid in Ren's brown leather messenger bag, keeping an ear out as they entered the park.

"Alright, birthday girl. Where to?"

"Um… Can't see…"

"Oh, fair enough. Say, do you want a piggyback ride?"

"Yes please!"

Ren smirked and handed his bag to Sumire, who happily took it. Bending down on one knee, he scooped Yuki up on his neck, letting her legs rest against his chest as he held them tight.

"So tall!" She gasped in wonderment as she took in the sight of the park in its fullest.

"Got a better view now?"

"Yeah!"

"Anything catch your eye?"

"Mhm!" Yuki looked down and pointed at Sumire.

"Hm? Me?"

"Mama is very eye catching!" Ren laughed, and Sumire lightly blushed.

"You pick, mama!"

"Yuki… It's your birthday, though."

"You pick!"

"Hmmmm… Okay…" Sumire looked around and pointed to the scariest ride she could remember. "Let's go there."

"Okay!"

"Hm…." Ren smirked. "Here, Sumire." He carefully let one hand go and took her hand. "Let's go."

"Isn't that the…" Morgana peeked out.

"Shhh, Morgana." Sumire hushed him.

"Hold on." Morgana looked at Yuki. "Do you really want to go? It's scary."

"Papa and Mona are here!"

"Well, you do make a good point. We'll protect you, Yuki!"

"Mhm!" Yuki's radiant smile made Ren and Morgana want to protect her more, not that they didn't want to already.

The family made their way to the Haunted Castle, where they were sat down in a slow moving cart and instructed on how to properly latch in. Morgana had to stay behind, and they took off. As it began, they entered a tunnel that turned pitch black. Creepy noises echoed from every corner, and Ren felt both Yuki and Sumire latch onto him. This made him extremely happy, and it only got better as the ride continued.

"This place is haunted…."

"Uh… Mama…"

"Ren, what's going on?"

"You wanted to go on this ride, I don't know!"

"You stand on desecrated grounds … Leave… Or your souls shall be CONSUMED!"

A large red light lit up the room, and the family found themselves surrounded by a series of animatronic monsters.

"Ahhhhh!" Sumire and Yuki both screamed and buried their faces in Ren's chest.

"Back, foul creatures!" Ren put on his Joker voice and stared the animatronics down. "You dare challenge me?"

"Help, papa!" Yuki cried out.

"Of course! I will protect you and mama!"

"You are but a graverobber! We are the denizens of the night!"

"I'm not an ordinary robber…" Ren grinned and grabbed a toy prop that hung from the ceiling. He swung the toy sword around, holding back the ghosts as they worked through the graveyard. Eventually, they escaped, and even as the ride ended, Yuki and Sumire still clung to him.

"Hey, Sumire, Yuki. The ride's over."

"It is…?" Sumire slowly opened her eyes. Then she blushed as she looked around and saw the next round of visitors waiting to get on the ride. "Oh!"

Ren laughed as he got out while holding onto Yuki, with Sumire following him.

"It's over now, Yuki. Papa's got you."

"Mmmmm… I fell asleep…"

Ren chuckled as Sumire picked up his bag, and he retrieved a photo from the ride, which he happily bought. Captured in the photo were Yuki and Sumire both clinging to him.

"I'm putting that on Friendbook, and in the photo album."

Sumire found herself only able to blush as they walked to the next ride. Her mood improved exponentially when she found out that they still had the Cinderella Play, which she begged Ren to take them to. He happily obliged, and they all went to watch the play together. Yuki found herself drawn into the story, and even though she couldn't completely understand the themes, she loved it and wanted to go again. Sumire rubbed the tears from her eyes and, along with Ren, gladly heeded her request. After their second viewing of Cinderella, the family bought a set of animal ears.

"I wanna be like Mona!" Yuki giggled as Ren placed a pair of fake cat ears on her head.

"And so it is done…" Ren smirked. "Sumire, you have to get a picture of this."

"Already done." She put her phone away.

"Hmmm…." Sumire looked over the other sets. "I think cat suits you best, Ren."

"I can't argue with that."

"You should all wear cat ears!" Morgana pooped out and rested his front paws on Sumire's shoulder.

"Yeah! Just like Mona!" Yuki giggled.

"Sure!" Sumire picked out a set of red cat ears and placed them on her head.

"Haha! Mama is a kitty!"

"Tell her to say meow, Yuki." Ren whispered into her ear.

"Mama! Say meow!"

"OH! Um… M-Meow…"

"So cute!" Ren felt his chest tighten.

"Yuki!" Sumire tapped her head. "Now you say it. Look directly at papa, too."

"Okay!" Yuki turned to Ren. "Meow!"

"Awwwwww! That's not fair!"

"Heheheh!"

"The charm of a cat…" Morgana sighed.

The family went on a family-friendly rollercoaster where they could all sit together next, and just like the last time, Yuki clung to Ren as tightly as she could, even though the ride was slow and calm. When they got off, Ren was simply euphoric and overjoyed. He got another picture printed out of the scene. Once they finished the ride, they all went to buy snacks, and after that, they went on the ferris wheel.

"Wow!" Yuki gazed in complete amazement as she looked out the window. "So much!"

"Tokyo is a huge place." Ren nodded. "You'll get to walk all around it one day."

"Can I go with you?" She asked slowly.

"Of course. Mama, Morgana, you and I can all walk around Tokyo together."

"Yay!"

Sumire patted Yuki's back and held her up as she held herself against the window.

"That big tower!" Yuki pointed. "What is it?"

"That's Asakusa Sky Tree." Sumire nodded. "Papa basically proposed to me there."

"Pr-o-pose?"

"He said he wanted to be with me forever."

"Oh!" Yuki's eyes widened. "Forever!"

"Mhm! Day after day! Together!"

"I want… mama. Papa. Mona. For-ever!" Yuki shook her fists with a determined look on her face.

"We'll be with you forever, Yuki." Ren ruffled her hair.

"Yeah." Morgana tapped her shoulder.

"Papa and Mona are right, Yuki." Sumire placed her hand on Yuki's other shoulder. "No matter what happens, we'll be together."

"Forever."