Episode 6: The Proposal
(Leaders of each species sat at their appropriate podium, awaiting for the meeting to commence. The only seat left empty was that of the Deer, of course this was because he was to make a big declaration and attempt to pass a new law that abolishes the segregation act. After removing a small piece of one of his Horns and placing it into the vase, the chemical turns blue to signify the council meetings start. While the All Organism Council Meeting was originally done in private, it wasn't until the brave request of Louis himself that they began broadcasting some of these meetings on live feed, claiming that the public had the right to know the topics that would alter their future and the laws in place. Louis walked to a podium that was built in the center of the room as it was to represent the person speaking to all others, once he stood on the platform that elevated it, he cleared his throat and began to speak.)
Louis:"Ladies and Gentlemen of every species, I stand before you all today in an attempt to prove to you all the ineffectiveness of the system we have in place."
Leader of the Wolves:"If this has anything to do with abolishing the Segregation act, I would like to state my opinion that it is wiser to drop it. The last time you had us vote on it, 85% chose to allow the act to remain while 15% voted to disband it. The Voting before that was 70% to 30%, you're losing numbers and there's no signs of it turning over to your favor."
Louis:"I will admit that I have had some moments of doubt because of the recent votings, though my confidence was restored every time I reminded myself that the change in votes was not because of certain candidates changing their minds, but rather candidates going 'missing' and being replaced."
Leader of the Bison:"Almost like whoever tried to WORK with the Carnivores ended up being eaten by them."
Louis:"And Yet I still remain, it seems that despite my constant surrounding of Lions and being married to a Wolf, I still stand. It's fascinating really, it's almost like those that voted for the abolishment of the Segregation act were silenced to keep the majority in place."
Leader of the Komodo Dragons:"If you are accusing someone of something, it'd be best not to be passive about it!"
Louis:"I'm not accusing, but I do want to point out where the flaw of that logic can be misinterpreted and how it could seem to work another way entirely. If my hypothesis is proven false and entirely pointless, then no one here should be nervous in the slightest."
Leader of the Mice:"All you proven is that you're biased in the discussion-"
Louis:"I've PROVEN it can be DONE! That this Harmony so many of you think is impossible can actually be achieved."
Leader of the Wolves:"With all due respect, it is obvious that your emotions are currently getting the better of you."
Louis:"(Breathes deeply) Apologies…But I would hope the evidence I provided this time would do the job better than the last. If I can convince even ONE of you to change your vote to abolish the Segregation act, I will consider this enough of a win."
Leader of the Sheep:"…As last time, you have twenty minutes to state your peace…Begin!"
(Whether it be in favor or against the Segregation law, many watched intently as the live Broadcast was being displayed to many different devices all throughout the city. One of which was the phone Juno used as she and Haru watched it while they sat in the park, nearby in a sandbox was Winter, completely oblivious to the political debate about to commence. As the Council was about to begin, Juno couldn't help but comment as she and Haru began discussing as to why this rule was kept up for so long.)
Juno:"I really hope this works, Louis and I spent so long working on this proposition that we couldn't find a single chink in it, no matter how many times we went through it."
Haru:"I hate to sound cynical, but I think people will vote against it. I don't think they're doing this to protect the students either…Something about this just-…doesn't-…Feel right. What happened to that Alpaca kid, it wasn't the first time something like that happened and we all know it was far from the last. I don't know what they're after, but they know as much as we do that this law won't protect anyone."
Juno:"I know how you feel, but I think they're just in denial, it's hard for people to change-let alone a whole city, but I think they want what's best, even if they're going about it wrong."
Haru:"That's almost what Legoshi was telling me, that they care, but they're taking the Lazy approach. They aren't doing it because they think it'll work, they're doing it and HOPING that it works."
Juno:"Louis and I think they're just being stubborn, then again he can be quite stubborn himself."
Haru:"And then some, I still remember the first time we met, I screamed because I saw some poor Deer whose head was covered in blood and the first thing he did was flash money at me and demanded I keep quiet about it…Honestly…I'm glad he married you."
Juno:"Really?"
Haru:"Yeah, from the moment we met, I could tell from the start by the way he talked…he was miserable. Like he was some poor fool in a play and you could hear it in his voice that he hated his role, I dunno if it was because of who he was or what was expected from him…but his life…Actually got better once…Well…you came into it."
Juno:"To be fair, some of that was because of Legoshi…I think his life really changed when he became his friend. Then again, Legoshi changed my life too, he made me feel proud to be a Wolf and Louis made me feel like the world could be a better place, I…actually used to think the Segregation act was a good idea."
Haru:"Really? What convinced you it wasn't?"
Juno:"Actually…YOU did. When I saw what you used to do, what you went through, what you knew about Wolves…and what Legoshi went through for you…it reminded me of how Bill and Els interacted with each other, how Tai interacted with Kibi…it made me realize something…I KNEW we COULD co-exist…I was just…afraid…I was jealous."
Haru:"Jealous? Of what?"
(Juno bowed her head in shame and embarrassment, she explained to Haru her phase of adoring Legoshi.)
Juno:"Of you. I had a HUGE crush on Legoshi back then…"
Haru:"OH!…(Giggles) Well I can see why, he is a really handsome guy!"
Juno:"Even THAT, how do you control your emotions so well?!"
Haru:"Oh, well…I guess you don't really control them…you can just…understand them? For the longest time, I was afraid of Legoshi, ever since we first met…but…eventually I accepted the fact that he was more than just a Wolf…he was…well- Legoshi…I mean, I ALWAYS knew he was Legoshi, but there was that part of me that kept telling myself 'He's a Wolf and he'll eat you!' You know? I think THAT part of me accepted Legoshi and while I can't say my fears are completely gone, I can at least take solace knowing that 100% of me knows he's more than just a Wolf. If it means anything, you still handled your relationship with those two better than I did. You wanna know the first time Legoshi and I met? He tackled me and tried to eat me…Second time…Iiiii almost raped him."
(Juno turns her head to Haru upon hearing this, realizing that those were words she never would've expected to hear from an Herbivore who was in a relationship with a Carnivore three times her size. Haru felt the Wolf's gaze and stated "It's a… (sigh) really long and bizarre story." Upon hearing this, She couldn't help but snicker a little as she felt the Humorous irony of it, she tried to fight it but it only grew worse as her snicker became a chuckle and eventually a full blown laughter. Haru couldn't help but laugh too, from the awkward first encounter she had with her Husband, to the even MORE awkward sequel to the event, they both laughed upon realizing just how weird the relationship was.)
Juno:"At least you didn't shout 'I'm in love with a male Wolf' on Live Television."
Haru:"(Laugh) I forgot you did that."
Juno:"Lucky! I wish I could forget that."
Haru:"I dunno, I thought it was pretty sweet. (Laugh) (Sigh)...We are not normal Animals."
Juno:"Nope, no we are not…"
Haru:"Hmmm…It's a good thing too, I can't imagine how dull it would've been if I was with another Dwarf Rabbit."
(Juno contemplated those words Haru spoke and she couldn't help but feel like the accuracy the statement brought was uncanny. The Life she envisioned with Legoshi was perfect, but it would've been so monotone, so one way that it would've been quiet so quickly and abruptly that it would've lost its spark, it would've been a near loveless marriage. But with Louis, there were so many moving parts, so many things about it that made it feel alive, like a story that could've been written forever and still have some spark left in it. Her life with this Deer was an adventure without end and it felt like a strange form of Freedom, like she was breathing fresh air for the first time and years later she hadn't once felt the need to cough. She then began reminiscing about those events that led up to this marriage, of how she met the Fiance of the man she loved and how all three of their lives were changed in those few months.)
"It had been almost 16 years since we got married, to this day, it still feels surreal. I couldn't be happier and seeing him smile because I'm in his life. It…it really made me feel like life itself was perfect. It's crazy how much things can change in just a few months, especially when everything during that Year seemed so set in stone."
*15 years ago
(Juno was at the Mall and was looking to buy some clothes for a friend's upcoming Birthday, she figured a Scarf would be perfect since the friend in question was a Reptile and the Winter time was approaching. However, something caught her attention as she heard a voice ask "Shopping for someone?" as she turned to see a Female Leopard asking a Female Deer if she needed any assistance.)
Doe:"Yes, I plan on getting something for my Fiance's first day of work, he's a male Deer, do you have any shirts in his size?"
Employee:"Of course, right this way Ma'am!"
(The Employee said as she gestured the Doe to the topwear section, the very section Juno was in and she watched the two approach her as she had just realized the rack of shirts nearby. The Leopard finally stops and gestures to the line of clothing as she explains to the Female Deer.)
Employee:"These shirts are made for Mammals of the average body build such as your Husband. Feel free to take a pick and let me know when you want to check out."
Doe:"Thank you!"
(She waves the Employee off as she begins to lift up one of the shirts, a tag on it said "For Mammals" as it was more attuned to dealing with the constant fur shedding that Felines, Canines and other Animals alike struggle with, Juno notices this and comments on the woman's decision, warning her of a mistake she's making.)
Juno:"Eh…That's not a shirt for a Male Deer."
Doe:"I'm sorry?"
Juno:"That type of shirt is for regular animals that shed heavily, not Male Deers."
Doe:"How so?"
Juno:"Well, since Male Deers have antlers, they can't apply a shirt the same way most other Animals can, their horns would get in the way or even ruin the shirt. There's a company that specializes in making shirts that have a neck flexible enough to stretch over the torso and reshape itself to the shoulders. They have to apply the shirt backwards by going through the neck instead of the waist, of course you could get a button shirt since it's more applicable."
(The Female Deer stared at the fabric clothing in her hand and was surprised at how much of a point this Wolf brought, she then commented on it as she asked Juno a question.)
Doe:"Interesting, I never realized that was an issue…."
Juno:"R-really? But, didn't you say you were looking for a shirt for your Fiance?"
Doe:"I am, but I never knew that Male Deers struggled with such a thing. Though I don't really spend that much time with him, I never even spent that much time with my Father. In fact our Marriage is entirely political, the only reason we're getting Married is so we can have a child to take over for our companies."
Juno:"That's Horrible!"
Doe:"How so?"
Juno:"Well, Love is supposed to be with someone you love, not because a bunch of people voted on it."
Doe:"I don't see what the big deal is."
Juno:"Well…Have you ever felt a craving for something? You don't care where you'll find it or how, but you know you want it! And even though it can be bad for you and you don't like the idea of how people will see you, you still want it no matter what?"
Doe:"Like a Dish?"
Juno:"Yeah, but they're cute and smart and funny…and are confident, show an intense resolve that I never thought I would see and you can't help but just say…Wow…"
Doe:"What an interesting description…How is it you know so much about Male Deers anyway?"
Juno:"I…used to have feelings for a Male Deer…actually, I got him a shirt to surprise him for a date, but… It…didn't work out."
Doe:"A shame. But we know how the relationships between Carnivores and Herbivores typically work out, it was wise to break it off."
Juno:"Actually, we…never really dated…Besides, he was already spoken for, Arranged Marriage."
Doe:"Really? Must be more common than I thought. Well, he sounds like a man of duty."
Juno:"And Honor…And Ambition…and Bravery, Attractiveness, Charisma…he was…definitely something."
(Juno says with a smile as her tail begins to wag, the Doe couldn't help but notice this and began to ask Juno a further question.)
Doe:"You…Really liked this Deer, didn't you?"
Juno:"Oh, Absolutely! I even embarrassed myself on TV for him."
Doe:"He must've been something special. What was he like?"
Juno:"He was Amazing! He had fierce eyes and was an amazing person, he and I actually competed for the title of Beastar…But he…He saw something in the world I didn't, I never realized how much good he could do, so eventually I felt…I just figured he could do something that I couldn't."
(The Woman was surprised to see this emotion from a Wolf before, she met quite few and even then she was told to keep her distance. She never saw Wolves seem so…sad, before. This was actually the first time she even noticed a Wolf being sad. For some reason, she felt a strange sense of respect and even a new emotion…pity, she felt a strange need to say something to this Wolf to try and make her feel better.)
Doe:"Hey…if you know so much about Male Deers. Perhaps you could help me with a few more errands?"
Juno:"Oh, sure! How can I help?"
Doe:"Well for starters, we should probably introduce ourselves…Azuki, and you are?"
(She states while holding out her hand, Juno accepts it and shakes as she then tells this Woman her name.)
"Juno!"
(The two developed a partnership to help Azuki arrange things for her wedding with Louis. Of course Azuki didn't realize this as time went on, but she developed an appreciation for Juno and eventually a friendship with her.
Eventually this friendship grew strong enough for Juno to be placed in charge of planning out Azuki's wedding as the two were getting along quite well, they met as strangers and didn't realize the common friend they shared.
As Time went on Azuki had realized something about Louis, while on a trip to get Office supplies, she had collected an Ink Cartridge and returned to her Fiance, who was just standing there waiting. Azuki reunites with Louis and he's reading something off the list, they converse a little before an Irish Sheepdog rushes up to them and hands Louis something, a small Printer.)
Employee:"Here you go sir, One Printer! Sorry for the wait!"
Louis:"Don't be, Thank you for getting it."
Employee:"Absolutely! If you need anything else, let me know!"
Louis:"Sure, you did great today."
(As the Sheepdog Employee leaves with a wagging tail, Azuki is impressed and curious.)
Azuki:"How'd you convince him to run across the store and run back carrying a Printer?"
Louis:"I didn't, I just asked him. It's rare for Canines to refuse a request from someone, you can ask one to run a mile and they'll do it with a smile on their face and their tails wagging like a propeller."
Azuki:"Your time in the Black Market must've served you well to acquire this much knowledge about Canines."
Louis:"Actually I knew that fact before joining the Shishigumi. There were two Wolves in the Drama club I was a part of, a Male and a Female. He almost threw out his back helping someone move a box of props and there was a Squirrel that always used him like a Nut cracker. There was a time the Female had to wait hours just to use the Restroom but almost every time she got close to the stalls being free, another girl would show up and ask if they could use it too, of course I asked her why she couldn't just use it and disregard the others, then she explained to me that 'Achilles heel' they all shared."
(Azuki had then realized that Louis knew a lot about Wolves and the common struggles and quirks they seemed to experience, it was far from the last fact she would learn about these Carnivorous creatures. Throughout time, Louis told her many things he knew about them, About how Wolves shed more than most other Mammals, About how so little control they have over their own tails so it's easy to tell their emotions, Even about how you can easily subdue a Canine if you scratch their tummies. She was even more shocked when she learned more about Male Deers from Juno, such as the incredible growth rate Antlers go through on a weekly basis, about how to tell a real pair of antlers from a fake set, about how they can feel Emasculate if they are seen without them, even about how Deers will bleed if their Horns shed pre-maturely. All this knowledge about her own Species and she learned it from a Wolf, and so much knowledge about these powerful predators and it came from her own Fiance, she eventually learned from one of the workers that Louis used to have feelings for a female Wolf.
It wasn't until Months later as the Wedding was fast approaching that Azuki considered asking Juno for more info on the Deer she had feelings for, it wasn't hard for her to connect the dots as she figures out that this Deer was none other than Louis and pondered if Juno would jeopardize the wedding, she then converses with her about it in a discrete and subtle manner.)
Azuki:"Juno, if you don't mind me asking…What would you do if you met that Deer again?"
Juno:"Oh! I dunno…I guess I'd…just catch up with him, try and maintain a friendship…then I'd wish him luck in his future and hope that he lives a happy life."
Azuki:"Even though he'd be with someone else entirely? Someone like me? Would you willingly stand aside and let him get married to someone that you barely even know?"
Juno:"I…I guess I'd be happy knowing that He's happy…even if it means…I'm…NOT happy…"
Azuki:"I'm-…sorry, that it didn't work out between you two."
Juno:"Don't be…If anything it's my fault, I should've BEEN there. I should've told him how I felt from the start and just…Stuck by my stance…But it's not too late for you, if you have feelings for someone else! Confess them! Don't make the same mistake I did, if you don't love this man, or even if you DO love this man, tell them how you feel!"
Azuki:"That won't be necessary, I don't really have anyone I'm after."
Juno:"Really, No one? Well…What DO YOU want out of life?"
Azuki:"…I'm sorry?"
Juno:"You know, what's something that you REALLY want, more than anything?"
Azuki:"I…Never really thought about it…Nothing really got my attention before…What about you?"
Juno:"Hmmm…I wanna live the best life that I can and to have a happy and healthy family!"
(From this interaction, Azuki learned that Juno really did care for Louis and wanted the best for him. It wasn't long until Juno was told by Azuki that her Fiancee was Louis, though it wasn't hard for her to figure it out before the confession. However, it was clear to both of them, that Juno would do everything to plan their wedding accordingly and without a hitch, that she really did want Louis to be happy, even if it was in a life without her.
Louis was left completely oblivious about this, he had no idea Juno was so close to him until Azuki invited her over on the day of the Wedding. They were setting up tables and planning on who sat where, and of course Azuki would occasionally check in on her Husband. Louis was adjusting his suit and bow tie as he was preparing himself for the big day, he would've been just about ready had it not been for a familiar voice greeting him in the exact same way they did when they were younger.)
Juno:"Hey Senpai!"
(Louis catches a glimpse of her in the reflection of the Vanity he was using to help improve his image, her voice proved it wasn't just some figment of his imagination or a trick his eyes played, she was there and he turned to face her upon realizing this.)
Louis:"Juno!…What're you doing here!?"
Juno:"Your fiance wants me to help her with the wedding since I know so much about male Herbivores…How are you doing?"
Louis:"…I-iiiii…"
(Louis was split on what to say, a part of him wanted to state his excitement to see Juno but another part of him wanted to apologize, to show he regretted that decision and to this day still does. But no matter what he thought, what he said to himself…All he could do was stand there in silence as her and Azuki continued to converse and co-ordinate the Wedding.)
Azuki:"I want to make this place comfortable for everyone, is there any specific layout we can have the guests attend to?"
Juno:"Well first we need to make sure Canines and Felines are far away from each other, they aren't particular friends. As for families, tradition has it so the Groom's family is on one side while the Bride's on the other, but if you want, we could reorganize it if you want them to mingle with one another."
Azuki:"That won't be necessary, I'm going to go check on the help and see if we can't work with the seating arrangement. I'll be back shortly."
(Azuki says as she left the Wolf and Deer alone in the room together, Louis was surprised at this decision, but he was unaware that Azuki trusted Juno, both as a Carnivore and an Ex-Lover of her Fiancee.
Another thought that would not evade Louis' mind is Juno's intentions, he pondered why she was so willing and gleeful to help with this, why was she so accepting of it. It bothered him enough to actually confront Juno and ask him about her planning of all of this.)
Louis:"Why are you doing this?"
Juno:"I wanna help!"
Louis:"No, I mean…why help THIS? You realize what this means…right? What you're doing? What you're supporting?…Why aid this?"
Juno:"…I spent so much of my childhood dreaming of the perfect wedding…I wanted such a thing to be the perfect day for both me AND the man I loved…but…I guess, at least one of us will be happy in the end…"
Louis:"One of-…? You mean you still have…?"
Juno:"Of course, I always have since that day…You're an amazing guy, Louis. You lead Lions, help take down Criminals, you are always so willing to suffer for others… that I'm amazed at how you still hold together… I thought maybe I could take solace in the fact that I got to walk away…but…What I felt for Legoshi…it felt…natural…but what I felt for you…it was…well, there's no words to describe it. I mean, there ARE words for some of the things I felt, but…some things were just…so hard to describe…one thing I definitely felt was happiness…I know…why you broke it off between us…a relationship between a Carnivore and Herbivore would never work…but-"
Louis:"No! That's not why I broke it off, in the time of me knowing Legoshi, he has taught me many things…Even that a relationship between two Animals like us COULD work…Him and Haru are already engaged…He even asked me to be his best man…and I asked him the same."
Juno:"Th-…Then why-"
Louis:"Because this was as close as I was gonna get to honoring my Father's last wish…he never outright said it, but his whole relationship with me was devoted to following a path, a path that did not involve the Shishigumi…that involved telling the world of the Back Alley Markets…and…one…one without…(Sigh) He never even met you…I always pondered just 'what if' he met you…but like all those damn times before…I was a coward, I chose to wait instead of being upfront…My life was a play…and I already broke enough of the role to know my Father would be rolling over in his grave right now…"
(Juno then noticed something, Louis was showing an expression he never showed ANYONE before, he showed regret, sorrow…more importantly…defeat…Juno tried to cheer up the man she loved by explaining her plan to him.)
Juno:"Don't worry! I promise you that I'll make this the best day of your life! Now if you don't mind, I have to make a few calls to some caterers."
(Juno says as she walks out of the room, completely unaware of the fact that Azuki was hidden behind the door. Azuki noticed that Juno's tail was still and lifeless while Louis looked dead inside, like he had an overbearing sense of guilt, he turned away from the door and hung his head down as he rested his straightened arms on the Vanity. In a quick motion, Louis raised his fist and rammed it against the mirror that was built into the piece of furniture. His hand was cut and the Reflection was shattered, realizing what he had just done, he held his still bleeding hand, cursed himself for such a wreckless reflex and exited the room to look for a Butler to help fix his hand. As he left, Azuki began to think of this moment heavily, pondering why things are the way they are, more importantly…why some of what transpired didn't bother her in the least.
She decided to tail her Fiance and witnessed an even more disturbing situation transpire, she was almost unaware of the fact that the Lions of the Shishigumi were in the living room and Louis' hand was bleeding profusely. They were having a conversation when they caught the scent of blood and they panicked when they found the source of it.)
Agata:"Man, I can't believe the Boss is getting married."
Free:"I just hope the bachelor party we threw him was enough."
Sabu:"I just hope he wasn't pissed about where the money came from, I mean…it counts as a business expense if it's from the workers for the Boss, right?"
Agata:"So what do you guys think of the bride?"
Free:"I mean, she's hot but damn, talk about a buzz kill. Everything Is either about business or…well that's it actually."
Dolph:"As long as the Boss is happy with her, we must go with it."
Free:"Yeah, I get that, I also get the whole 'duty' thing, but I think he'd be freer with a literal ball and chain."
Sabu:"At least the catering's gonna be nice."
Free:"Tell me about it, I can smell something tasty right now even from here!"
Agata:"Kinda smells like-"
Dolph:"Boss!"
(One of them shouted as they all turned to see what the cause for the alarm was, Louis walked into the living room with a bloody hand, explaining the Pride where the delicious smell originated from. They then rush to the Deer as they panic and plan to fix his hand, of course he protests as he was intending to do the deed himself, but Dolph immediately orders Agata to rush to the upstairs bathroom and fetch bandages.)
Louis:"It's fine, I was gonna take care of it myself."
Dolph:"Agata, head upstairs and see if there's bandages in the Bathroom!"
Agata:"On it!"
(The Youngest spoke as he rushed to the task, meanwhile the others couldn't help but stand there and observe the wounded hand of the Deer, thankful that his bleeding wasn't too bad. Of course there was a slight salivation within their mouths, but their duty and honor outweighed their diet and hunger, Dolph continued to apply slight pressure to Louis' hand to reduce the bleeding while the others were on their toes, ready to jump at anything that may come up.)
Dolph:"How did this happen?"
Louis:"I tripped and fell."
Hino:"Hand first?"
Louis:"Are you doubting me?"
(Free and Hino looked at each other upon hearing this, they would never show hesitation for their loyalty, but they also wanted their Boss to be happy as well. Not many people knew this, but Louis was the best thing to happen to the Shishigumi and easily the best Boss they ever knew. Agata had already returned with the items he was requested to collect and Dolph bandaged Louis' hand almost immediately after. Once his hand was patched up, he claimed he was going on a walk outside and demanded isolation as he did, the Lions accepted but had a conversation shortly after their Boss left the room, Azuki could hear the whole thing in the Hall she hid in.)
Dolph:"One of us needs to tail him, make sure he's alright."
Free:"And who's going on that suicide mission?"
Agata:"He's right, remember the last time someone tailed him without his knowing?"
Miguel:"So how will we decide?"
(Azuki eventually began to ignore their conversation as they determined who would be the unlucky soul to trail their Boss. She never saw Felines of all creatures act so loyal to someone before and never saw Carnivores be afraid of an Herbivore either, so she decided to follow and question Louis about a few things. She found him in their bedroom, a place where they made a few attempts to procreate an heir to their companies, she approached him while he was writing something down, it seemed to be his Wedding vows, he kept writing and erasing over and over again until she eventually understood that he was never going to finish, he couldn't find the words he wanted.
Azuki eventually spoke with Louis and disrupted his already heavily faltered concentration as She asks him how he broke his hand, to which he immediately says he "Tripped and fell" she then asks him another question.)
"Do you still have feelings for Juno?"
(He had a great poker face, but even he couldn't hide feelings this strong. His eye twitched and he answered almost immediately "No." but Azuki knew the truth, his tells gave it away and Azuki knew what this meant. Once again bothered by her own Apathy of Louis not having feelings for her and even him hurting himself because of his pent up feelings for Juno. She thought heavily about all of this, never before had she ever seen someone willing to harm themselves for another, for those to go out of their way for someone they genuinely feared that was a fraction of their size, but the thing to bother her the most was that she never once had any feelings like this, she was even scared as she finally experienced this emotion of disturbance for the first time.
But before anything else could be said, Louis stood up, the desk he was writing on covered in shreds of eraser from all the failed attempts and the paper still blank. He began to walk out of the room as he said "Let's just get this over with, the sooner we finish this stupid Wedding, the sooner we can get back to work." but she knew this was not what he meant, he wanted it all to be over.
Louis pulled out a cigarette and lit it as he began to head outside to smoke, saying something random as he was leaving the room.)
Louis:"Agata, if I catch you following me again, I'm going to turn you into a rug."
(As he finally left the room, the room Azuki thought she was alone in until she saw one of the Lions stand up from behind one of the chairs big enough to conceal his frame and began to awkwardly shuffle out of the room, apologizing with "Sorry, I uh…I'll just go now…" as he did.
Later that day, nearing the Sunset, everyone was seated, somewhat nervous since most of the Deers were not too far from Carnivores like Lions and Wolves. The loudest table was the one that the Shishigumi were seated at, they began to converse and gossip as they waited for the song "Here comes the bride" to begin playing, they mostly noted the environment and people present.)
Sabu:"Man, Everyone looks like they're about to have a panic attack."
Miguel:"Just so long as they don't call the cops, they're ok in my book."
Free:"This is bullshit, why is THAT damn dog the Boss' best man?!"
Agata:"To be fair, he and the Boss do have history."
Free:"Whatever, I suppose that's a good thing about ms. Buzzkill, she ain't a Wolf…Eh-"
(Free finishes as he realized Juno was walking by, standing by to make sure the Wedding went well. She stared at the Lion in offense and he stammered to apologize.)
Free:"N-Not that there's anything wrong with being a Wolf…uh…"
(She walks off with a stern look and closed eyes, Agata was surprised Free was actually apologetic to a Wolf and questioned him about it.)
Agata:"Were you actually sorry for what you said to that Wolf?"
Free:"Meh, she's better than most of 'em if you ask me. She got us the best seats in the house, under a tree, out of the sun's light, best part is I've got a GREAT view of those bridesmaids."
Sabu:"Is one of them a Rabbit?"
Jinma:"She's probably part of the other company or something."
Agata:"She kinda looks familiar…"
Sabu:"You think so?"
(As some of them tried to recall where they've seen this Rabbit before, while others just didn't care enough to try, Dolph remembered exactly who this Rabbit was and how she's involved in this Wedding. He also remembered the Wolf that fought his way through their mansion to try and save her, but he saw it the same way Ibuki did, had it not been for this, they would not have met Louis. That it was fate that smiled upon them despite their loss.
As the Sun was nearing the Horizon, Louis was standing in his Tuxedo at the Altar with a similarly Legoshi, his best man, standing right by him, they conversed as they awaited the bride.)
Legoshi:"So, are you feeling Nervous?"
Louis:"No…"
Legoshi:"Is…Everything ok? It looks like something's bothering you."
Louis:"(Deep sigh) I saw Juno today…"
Legoshi:"Eh? Yeah, I noticed that she was the head coordinator for the Wedding."
Louis:"Am I making a mistake, going through with this? What would you do if you were in my shoes and you were to marry another Wolf instead of Haru?"
Legoshi:"…I don't know…I can't imagine what you're going through right now…but, I don't think I'd be able to help even if I did. I don't have that same Will that you do, I…can't…be brave like you are…I…I don't know what I'd do…"
Louis:"You call it bravery…but it feels more like defeat…I can't believe less than a Year ago, I told the world the truth about the Black Market, the Shishigumi helped me when people wanted me silenced…You had my back when others didn't, hell even when I was with the Shishigumi, Juno was the only one out of everyone I knew to actually talk to me…The worst part about all of this…I feel like I'm betraying her…after what she went through to help me…going through the Back Alley market, asking you advice on how to date an Herbivore…even…even accepting my rejection of her…She…her tail…it was limp…the look on her face was smug…but…somehow I felt like…she was just as sad about it as I was…"
Legoshi:"…Louis-"
(The two were interrupted when the big moment happened, the sun was setting and the song "Here comes the Bride" began to play. For some reason, Azuki wanted the Wedding's peak to transpire during the Sunset, Juno complied but warned her of the narrow window and strict schedule they would have to pertain to, she didn't mind though.
Azuki was approaching the Altar with her Father by her side, he was probably the most nervous out of everyone there, her whole family felt Louis was 'undeserving' of Azuki and their only reason for doing this was the political benefit both parties would receive. As she was mere meters away from the Deer, he began to feel time slow and his thoughts were racing all around his head.)
"I-…I can't do this…I don't feel…Right…I'm tired of pretending to like someone that isn't even a friend…Juno…If you were here…I'd say so much to you instead…"
(Azuki stood next to Louis who barely even aware that her Father had already gave her to him, they then continued on with the ceremony as the Pastor began to speak and go through the usual stuff. Once it was time for the vows, Azuki said hers, she had already prepared them and was ready for this since she was a child, she was always prepared for whatever her family needed of her. Of course the one thing she wasn't prepared for was Juno, she asked her a question she never was given by her own loved ones, "What DO YOU want out of life?" It still rings through her head as she waits for Louis to begin speaking his vows.
The Deer pulls out a piece of paper and begins to clear his throat. But as Louis was about to speak, keeping his eyes on the sheet he kept in his pocket, Legoshi noticed that the paper was blank and covered in graphite marks, suggesting that he never could find the words. Louis still spoke and managed to say something that everyone could tell was from the heart.)
"I've barely spent any time with you…And yet it feels like I know you better than ever. Everytime I look at you and I ENVY what you are…Passionate, powerful, considerate…You deserve the title many said I was destined for…And yet there was a moment when you thought I didn't respect you…To this day that still boggles my mind, because I've ALWAYS respected you…From the day we met, to the day we kissed, to the day I finally went on that date with you…My only regret is that it didn't last…I'd give my other leg to spend it with you…I-…Love you…Azuki."
(The Vow was heartfelt and deep as everyone could tell that this was blood pouring from an Animal's soul. Of course the only thing that felt off was his tone of voice at the end of his Vow, like he meant to say something else entirely and called out the name of a random person. The Shishigumi noticed this and began to gossip from the distance they were given, the first one to speak about it was Sabu.)
Sabu:"Is the Boss ok? He seems…off…"
Free:"Nah, I ain't into that lovey dovey stuff and even I noticed that what he said was from the heart…But that last line, the way he said Azuki…Now THAT was off."
Agata:"You think he was talking about another girl?"
(As the Wedding continued, the 'I do's were finally being done, the Pastor recited from his usual profession as he asked them the following.)
Pastor:"Do you…, Azuki, take this man, Louis, to be your lawfully wedded Husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do you part?"
Azuki:"I, Azuki, take you, Louis, to be my lawfully wedded Husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part.
Pastor:"And do YOU…, Louis, take this woman, Azuki, to be your lawfully wedded Wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do you part?"
Louis:"I, Louis, take you, Juno-…"
(His eyes grew wide and the whole crowd gasped with him as everyone realized his mistake, Louis began to have a panic attack while the gang in the back gossiped once more.)
Free:"Yeah, I think it's safe to say he was talking about a different girl entirely."
(Azuki's family began to grow angry, they considered this an insult to their own blood, but to everyone's surprise and even somewhat unsettled nerves, Azuki was laughing. She covered her mouth and continued the barrage of laughter and Louis was just confused, he tried stammering an explanation "I-I-i-I'm sorry, I- got distracted, I can-" but is interrupted by Azuki who tried to calm him and stated with a smile "It's ok…Let's try this again, Pastor?" prompting the Holy man to restart the last part of the Ceremony as he began to redo a certain line.)
Pastor:"Uh…okay?…Do you…, Azuki, take this man, Louis, to be your lawfully wedded Husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do you part?"
Azuki:"I do not."
(She says with a cheery smile, the crowd gasps yet again, Louis was stunned and baffled by this turn of events. He then began to apologize all over again as he tried to claim that this was still salvageable, but she retorted and explained her reason.)
Azuki:"Louis…Let's talk in private. Father…I'll need my phone back please."
(The Tall Stag that walked her down the aisle was confused, he gave the Doe her phone back and she immediately began texting a message to someone as she returned to the inside of the House. Louis was utterly confused, he had no idea how to process what was happening, he felt like he blew it, that his one chance of making something right was thrown out the window. Of course this unnerving feeling was piled upon confusion that only grew once he realized…he never saw Azuki smile or laugh before, why was she doing it now?)
*No more than 15 minutes Later, inside the House
(Azuki stands by a Vanity, awaiting her 'Fiance' to be present after the wedding was placed on pause, she seemed relatively calm about the situation as Louis entered the room and approached her, apologizing up and down for the scene he caused.)
Louis:"I-I'm sorry, I had- I have no idea what came over me back there! Azuki-"
Azuki:"Do you love me?"
Louis:"Of COURSE I do! Azuki-"
Azuki:"Louis…You don't…but that's ok…Because I don't love you either,… I know you still have feelings for her…for Juno."
Louis:"I-I'm sorry-"
Azuki:"Don't be! Louis, it's not because of what you said that convinced me…it's about what you both knew…"
(Azuki seemed so calm, Louis couldn't tell if his Fiance was a great actor…Or was actually being open for once. He NEVER saw her display any emotion before, but this time was different, it felt like she was telling him something that had the same weight as what Louis said in his Vows.)
"You said 'Wolves almost can't ever refuse a request' she told me things about Deers that even I Didn't know…She even knew your horn shedding schedule, that's why we rushed the date and had it today instead of next Month…It wasn't until she told me that I was fooled into believing that those horns were real…"
Louis:"I-…"
Azuki:"Say it…"
Louis:"I miss her! I miss her optimism, her smile, that cute way her cheeks puff out when she's annoyed…I even miss that stupid tail that wags whenever I'm around…I'm sorry Azuki…But I don't…Love you…"
Azuki:"That's ok…I don't love you either…Louis, you're a good man with a good heart and an interesting Past, one that she told me all about your life, your childhood…But…the sad thing is…I never really cared… She does though and you do about her…You two SHOULD be together…"
Louis:"But what about our companies?"
Azuki:"We'll manage…I think we can find another way we can both get along."
Louis:"What about your family?"
Azuki:"What, you think they actually liked you? They only did this for the company. Besides, this is the first time I did something they didn't want but I did, if that upsets them... then that's too bad."
Louis:"Why are you so ok with this?"
Azuki:"You wanna know something that really got me curious…You guys put in SO much effort to learn about the other one's species and problems that…I couldn't even remotely relate…I guess, you can say she opened up my eyes to something that I never knew I was missing…I don't know where it is or when I'll find it…or if I even can find it…but something's out there that will get my undivided attention, it'll make me so fascinated that I'll devote my time just to knowing it exists…It was something that I never realized I could experience until you and Juno showed me…My Father always asked me how I'll do something, when I'll do it and what I'd do and for how long…But you two made me ask myself a question…'What do I want?'…What's something I'M passionate about…I guess I owe you guys for that…So, I'll be happy to merge the companies, but you gotta promise me something, you'll let me go looking for it…And you two finally give your thing a fair chance…Prove to me that the emotions you two show are worth experiencing-Are worth chasing!"
Louis:"I…I don't know what to say…"
Azuki:"You can start by saying 'thank you'…and by facing her, you already did the hard part."
(Azuki says as she held up her phone, it displayed that it was on a Text to a random number, but Louis recognized the number and knew who she was calling. The sound of a door shutting grabbed their attention as they both turned to see Juno, standing there with an expression that was filled with so many different emotions. The two began to slowly approach each other as they both locked eyes and began to hug and embrace the other. Juno opened her eyes to look at Azuki and simply said "Thank you" before the hugging ended and they both face the Ex-Fiance, who smiled and simply said "Hey, I should be the one thanking you guys…Now, if you don't mind…I gotta go look for that thing that gives me the drive you guys have…" to which Juno said "I hope you find it and I hope it's everything you're expecting it to be!" as her tail began to wag. Azuki smiled and stated "If it's anything like what you guys have, I know the search alone will be worth it." as the Deer and Wolf turn to each other and locked eyes once more as they began to speak to the other, Juno breaks the ice as she simply asks "Even miss that stupid tail, Eh?" as Louis retorts in his usual demeanor and claims "It IS stupid…but it's not JUST stupid." as he begins to crack a smile. Azuki comments once more as she notes something in particular, she stated "You know, we have everyone together, all this stuff set up…Be kind of a shame to let it go to waste only to be re-set up for a later date…You guys thinking what I'm thinking?" of course Juno realized the flaw of this plan as she asked "B-but the Sunset, it's already passed!" to which Azuki explains as she continues her smile "Relax, that was for MY Wedding. And someday when I DO get married, I will have it during a Sunset…Besides, I heard it's a Full moon tonight." Juno blushes at this, somehow she had forgotten that the Moon was to be full tonight, Wolves often like to keep track of things like that since the significant association it had with them and their culture and history. She then turned to Louis who shyly commented "It…would be rather romantic to get married under a Full moon." as this caused Juno's tail to begin wagging. Azuki approaches Juno and removes the ring from her finger and says "By the way, you'll probably need this." as she hands the piece of jewelry to Juno, her eyes widen with excitement and she immediately hugs Azuki and says in a calm whisper "Thank you!" as tears began to roll down her face, to which Azuki replied "Easy Girl, Save all that Love for him, will ya?"
And so, the Wedding continued later that night, Azuki would go off into the world and explore it to find her passion, Louis and Juno got married under a Full moon and just a couple of years later, the Horns Conglomerate would be deemed to have a new heir…a newborn baby girl named Sarah.
And while they didn't necessarily live happily ever after, their lives definitely felt to have more meaning, passion and flair as opposed to if things did not change. Eventually Sarah met one of the people that she would see as Family as Aunt Azuki would occasionally visit to see the child and was even labeled as a Godmother should something happen to the Parents.)
*Years later, in the Present.
(The Vote was casted and the decision was made, the Leader of the Komodo Dragons spoke as he announced the result.)
Leader of the Komodo Dragons:"And so it has been decided! 86% agree that the Segregation Act should remain, while 14% are opposed to this, and so the Act will remain in place until further notice…Does the Proposer have any further comments?"
Louis:"…No…No I do not…"
Leader of the Lions:"Then the meeting is Adjourned…"
(A Gavel slammed against the hard wood of the desk to inform everyone that the meeting is Over. Afterwards, the Leader of each species began to stand and walk out of the room, including Louis, who kept a cold face as he returned to his men, who knew he was not pleased about this turn of events. Dolph placed a coat over Louis' shoulders and began to walk with him out the front door of the building, but he couldn't help but ask an important question as to something Louis purposely failed to mention to the council today.)
Dolph:"Boss, if you don't mind me asking, why didn't you bring up that Chimera thing?"
Louis:"We don't need anyone in the public to panic or worry, and I wanted this discussion to be public so people know the little excuses the Council has to allow this act to continue. Besides, I know the other Council members are keeping secrets about the votes, so I think it's fair to keep a secret of my own. For all we know, this Chimera could be working with some of them, the last thing THEY need to know is that we're aware of their partner."
