NieR: MHST

by Destress98life

In a world full of monsters and hunters fighting to keep a delicate balance. A boy makes a discovery of a life time that changes his life and makes an unlikely friendship his world has never seen. Secrets are revealed and worlds expand in this journey of bonds and kinship. Pairs include 2B/9S & A2/4S. Rated M for future chapters and mild gore. (Chapter 1 rewritten.)

31. Chapter 31

Author's notes:

Hello guys another update and chapter!

Just light one for now before we approach the climax of this arc and the end. Enjoy some 2B/9S fluff and two omakes after!

Without further ado, here is the chapter enjoy!

---

A cool breeze blows through the plain fields of Pondry hills. The landscape at peace, with the grass rustling and swaying to the direction of the wind. The sun in the middle of the sky with the ground below basking under its warm glow. Joining the day relishing the heat are a herd of Aptonoths grazing the field.

The group of saurian herbivores were enjoying themselves, feeding in the pastures with leisure without a care in the world. The hoots and roars they sounded off, add to the peaceful and safe ambience the land was conveying.

There were no threats at the moment or at the locale the Aptonoths were currently residing. The only thing they remain vigilant for, are the passing flying wyverns that would descend from the sky to hunt them occasionally. But at the moment, the skies are clear of any predators as the plains are absent of any threats spotted along the horizons.

One large male Aptonoth, the alpha of the herd, stands on its hind legs to get a good look of its surroundings one more time. Stretching its neck to look at the sky and then turning to look across the plains for any predators or anything unusual, then finding none and snorts in relief.

Satisfied that its herd is not in danger at the present, the large male Aptonoth drops back on all fours to resume its feedings. But just as it was about to take nip of the blades of grass below, a sudden roar causes it to raise its head back with the rest of its herd following.

"GRRRRROOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!"

The Alpha male and the rest of the Aptonoths turn their heads to the source of the roar and spot Rogue running towards them from a distance. Even from afar, they could tell the shape of the monstie and recognize the dark green scales of the Brute wyvern and several of its large yellow teeth in its massive jaws.

"YEAH! WOOHOOO!" And astride the miniature world-eater was 9S, cheering in joy and glee as his monstie runs past the herd of Aptonoths. Feeling the wind in his air and through his kinship, feeling Rogue's pent up excitement and enthusiasm for a good run, after being cooped up in the settlement for a few days.

9S wasn't alone either, sitting behind him with her arms wrap around his stomach was 2B, who was sporting a smile and laughing softy at her partner's exuberance. Though she wasn't being as loud or as expressive as 9S, she was enjoying riding through the plains mounted on a monster. Feeling the thrill and excitement, without the need to hold on and keeping oneself from getting bucked off, intentionally.

The ride itself was smooth and easy, with both 9S and 2B riding on Rogue for a quite a while and heading somewhere to a particular destination. With Rogue having fun letting loose and moving as fast as he can. He'd occasionally jump to the air and leaping a great distance, while 9S and 2B yell in amusement. Their sounds drown out by Rogue's enthusiastic roars before they land back on to the ground and resuming the sprint.

The trio of rider, hunter and monstie continue on their way past the herd of Aptonoths, leaving the herbivores unbothered and resuming their grazing in peace once they realized 9S, 2B and Rogue were just passing by.

"Are you sure Rogue wouldn't mind leaving those Aptonoths alone?" 2B asked, as the herd of Aptonoths slowly disappear behind them.

"It's fine. He already ate and Whistill has a lot of food for him back at the settlement." 9S answered back. "Besides, Rogue still wants to run more… and for once, I'm surprise, not to eat first."

"GROOOAAHH!" Rogue roars in support, suddenly accelerating and making both 9S and 2B chuckle at his response.

"I guess that's that." 9S said, before he noticed that they were approaching a large body of water and cried out. "Hey, we're here, the lake is over there!"

2B spots it as well over 9S's shoulder and noticed that it wasn't entirely a lake but looked like one with two rivers connecting to it. Each river placed on both ends opposite from each other. 2B could also spy a small inlet in the lake, serving as a landmark of where the center is.

"The fishing spot is around that area with that huge rock landmark." 9S pointed to a large stone structure near the edge of the lake. It was bigger than a house and was providing a large area of shade from the heat of the sun, its shadow also close to the water and covering some parts of the shoreline.

"I discovered there's a large variety of fish that swim near that spot, ones that you won't normally find in the ponds of Whistill forest and they're big too. I think you'll like some of the catches there too."

"I hope so, its been a while since I last did some fishing for my own leisure." 2B mused, getting a bit excited to fish again after working for while in the past days. Plus eyeing their destination, 2B could say in her opinion that it could one of the perfect spots for them to fish.

"Don't worry, you will." 9S said. "Oh, and maybe we can catch some new treats for Rogue to try!"

"Sure, why not." 2B replied and adds "It's not like we can keep most of the fish we'll catch anyway."

"GROOOAAHH!" Rogue roared with cheer, liking the idea of new treats. He gave a little shake expressing his gratitude to his riders on his back, while they chuckled in response.

Rogue quickens his pace and shortly, it didn't take long for them to reach the large stone structure.

---

For a while, 2B and 9S spent the next few hours fishing and playing with Rogue by tossing fish in the air for him to catch and eat. They caught a few new kinds they didn't encounter before, with 9S documenting them and 2B enjoying the endeavor of dueling with these fish through her fishing rod.

And after some more fishing, plus dealing with a few Hermitaurs that tried stealing their catch and ended up being Rogue's latest snack, both hunters decided to take a break and leaned on Rogue as the monstie decided to rest as well before they head back to the settlement.

While minding his sharp spikes, the combination of Rogue's smooth scales and warm body heat led to 9S and 2B lying on the monster's side feeling comfortable. Making it easy for the both of them to relax and even let their minds wander careless or even daydream as the day carries on.

It was after a few moments of relaxing, did 2B caught 9S much deeper in his thoughts. No doubt pondering on the discovery he told her about days before. And she knows how that particular topic had his attention lately, understanding how important it is.

"…Hey, 9S?" 2B called out getting his attention.

9S blinked, hearing her, and shaking him out of his thoughts. "…Yeah?"

He turns to face her and found that she had a pensive look, her expressions showing that she wanted to ask him something.

"Do you… want to talk about it?" 2B asked hesitantly, while watching 9S's expression morph briefly from confusion to recognition, knowing what she was asking.

"Oh…" He turns away, not sure if he wants to talk about it. He isn't sure what to think of it either. "I don't know… If I do."

"I think it helps... if you let your thoughts out than letting them fester in." 2B suggested. "I can listen if you want and hear you out."

"Well, I'm still thinking about this myself…" 9S said, before glancing at 2B and seeing her give him an encouraging look. "But if you're willing to lend me an ear, then I don't see what's wrong from trying to speak out my mind."

"Just take your time 9S and start wherever you're comfortable with."

"But where to begin?" 9S asked himself, glancing at the sky before leaning back to Rogue, as his head rests and feels his monstie's smooth scales.

"Well… why not just start from the beginning, two weeks ago, the day after we fought the Nargacuga." 2B pointed out. "When you woke up and told me about your dream… and how you saw your mom…"

9S scrunched up his eyebrows together, remembering that morning and waking up calling out his mom. Feeling his jumbled-up mess of emotions that came after. He felt both happy and sad, scared but relief, wanting and not wanting, and mostly elated about recovering a piece of his past. Then getting a lot more thoughts and emotions he couldn't name from realizing it.

And that was before him realizing how significant it was to remember that particular dream. Drawing to one conclusion that could be happening to him currently.

"My memories are returning…" 9S uttered out loud, his voice a bit dull and lack of the excitement that 2B would have expect from this monumental development of recovering his lost memories.

She gave him a concerned look, with a quizzical tilt of her head, asking cautiously. "…Isn't that a good thing?"

9S sighed a bit tiredly. "Yes, it is… I mean my memories are finally returning and I got to remember—and actually see my mom and how she looks like. Plus learn whole lot of other things about my family, like about my dad who was an ex-hunter and his Tigrex partner Grump, who lets me ride him occasionally when I was a boy—"

"That could explain why you were able to ride that Tigrex through YoRHa easily." 2B commented amusingly.

"Yeah, and I apparently got my riding skills from my mother. And my smarts. And my looks apparently…" 9S admitted with equal mirth.

"Really?" 2B raised an eyebrow at the last one, while 9S perked and began to describe his mother.

"Yeah, it was like looking at a mirror. But that mirror made me look more feminine and have long black hair. Though the overall shape of my head and the color of my eyes came from her." Looking over to the lake, 9S wondered if he saw his reflection, would he'd be able to see his mother in his image.

2B on the other hand was thinking the same, albeit differently by staring at him, trying to imagine and apply all the details of what he said and try to picture his mother through him as well.

"She must be beautiful…" 2B said, finding the imaginative image of a more feminine looking 9S quite appealing to the eyes.

"She is…" 9S agreed with a fond smile. "Apparently, it was love at first sight when my dad met my mom. Then he fell even more in love after getting to know her. I think it was because my mom was as kind and caring as she was fierce and stubborn, especially when she was helping others as a healer. She didn't take shit from anyone, either hunters, guild representatives or monsters too given the chance."

"I think you would have liked her." 9S said turning to face 2B.

"And I think I would like to meet her two." She replied liking the idea. And for a moment, 2B thought she was going to hear more about 9S talking about his mother with much more gusto, like he always does whenever a topic or something of interest comes to his mind to share, until she saw him slightly frowning.

"9S, what's wrong?"

"It's just…" He made a noncommittal shrug and frowned more, before clarifying. "I'm scared that the two of you won't be able to…"

Again, 2B was puzzled by his behavior and the negativity about it. She asked again. "What do you mean? Nines… what's wrong?"

9S shook his head a bit irately before confessing. "It's just that… I'm finally remembering some of my memories—I think I already was when I started training to be a rider. I'm learning more about my past, some snippets of my previous life, my parents and knowing that they loved me so much… I feel so much joy from knowing that and happy that I'm getting a piece of memories back of them…"

He turns to look at 2B, with worry in his eyes. "But now I know my parents love me, and I know they wouldn't just abandon me. So I can't help but think of what could have happened to prevent them from finding me…"

Suddenly, 2B didn't like the way this conversation was going. "…9S, you don't mean? —"

"Remember when you first found me?" 9S spoke up, cutting her. "When you found me lost, alone and drifted to shore on a broken raft. Then when I woke up, I was scared and muttering about something bad that happened that led me there…"

"And now, after hearing my mom's last words in my dream, of how they're asking me for forgiveness for something they had to do. The question of what happened to me that day is staring again right back in my face." 9S then looked at 2B, with fear and worry in his eyes, his expression dread and in disbelief.

"…I couldn't stop thinking about it. And after so long that I forgot, or maybe even ignored, asking myself how I got to YoRHa… because I don't think I'd like the answers I'd come to."

Not wanting to speak the next words that would come out of his mouth, of the uncomfortable truth he's come to conclude. Yet, despite the trepidation he was feeling, 9S still found himself speaking. "I-I think… my parents could be…—"

"We don't know that 9S." 2B spoke abruptly. "That your parents… that they're..." dead. She found herself unable to say it.

Instead, 2B tried to turn away from the thought, knowing how 9S would feel if he continues to think of this way. "We don't have proof or anything that could say otherwise. They could still be out there hiding, right? They could be following the rider's code that your manual said. You're father and mother may have been finding a way to get to you, without risking exposing themselves and—"

"For two and half years?!" 9S cuts in suddenly raising his voice, causing 2B draw back from the unexpected outburst. Seeing her reaction, he instantly felt guilty and looked away apologizing.

"I'm sorry 2B. I didn't mean to shout… it's just…"

9S couldn't make sense of what he wanted to say, feeling frustrated at the conflicting feelings running in his thoughts. From both wanting to deny the logical truth he came to or accepting it and realizing his entire endeavor was proabably… useless.

"…I've been looking for them for so long, with no direction to point for me to follow… and just when I did find a way back to them, it might all end up being for nothing...

They could already be gone…"

"Nines… I'm sorry." 2B moves closer to 9S and wraps her arms around him. He leans into her, feeling her comfort, and wrapping his own arms around her for security. "I may not know exactly what you're going through, but I'm here. We'll figure this out together…"

"…You can't give up hope, too" She whispered quietly to him. "You could be wrong, and they could still be out there… You'll find them I'm sure of it."

"I don't know if I still want to…" 9S pulled back and move to face 2B.

His expression unsure and conflicted, before speaking a bit reluctantly. "Maybe the reason I lost my memories, is because I wanted to lose them in the first place… so I wouldn't remember the pain and loss I felt that time. That it was too much for me to bear…"

2B remained quiet, at lost of words from what 9S's just said. Appalled that he would even suggest it. Even Rogue gave a concerned look at his rider, shifting and pressing closer to the two, nuzzling his snout to 9S's side.

Slowly 9S looked away, ashamed of his own words as well. He tried to shuffle and move out of 2B's arms but was tugged back and was firmly held close. When he turned to look back at 2B, she had an unreadable expression and was deep in thought.

Despite her current stoic demeanor, 9S didn't question her action nor did he give much effort to resist. He simply settled down back in her arms, while letting her go through her thoughts, no doubt wanting to say something in response to what he just said earlier.

She eventually pulled back from holding him and turned to face him directly. "I still think you shouldn't give up on finding your memories or your family."

9S felt the urge to argue but stopped himself knowing that 2B had more to say. She expression turned to a pained one, as her voice spoke in a solemn manner.

"…I don't blame you for thinking of it or believing that it isn't right for you to feel this way, of not wanting to know the truth because of the chances of it being terrible and bringing much pain to you… Others, including myself, would be face and be brought to similar situations at times, to be given the same kind of choice to choose between knowing and not knowing. And the difficulty it comes with, could be unbearable. Eating you from the inside and turning to a burden you'll carry for the rest of your life if you're indecisive."

"And there could be no real right or wrong choice for the matter." 2B admitted. "All that remains is how you'll live with the choice after. On one hand, you'll never know and try to move from not knowing. On the other, you get to know the truth and all of its entirety. Then process it and eventually live with it. As you carrying on with life, knowing for the better or for the worse."

2B made a pained smile and went to grab 9S's hand tenderly. He weaves his fingers in between hers, sensing the next things she'll say is a bit sensitive. "It might not exactly be the same as with your situation right now… But I once consider moving on with my life, not knowing what happened to A4. To her true fate of what happened during her last mission, because Commander White and the guild wouldn't reveal anything else."

"You already know of how important A4 was to us. For me and A2, after spending most of your childhood as orphans and moving to different caretakers and orphanages time to time because of monster attacks destroying the villages we've been through, we never met someone who loved and cared for us like Zinnia, until meeting A4. Who'd become something more like a mentor or an older sister that we wished we had before."

"And it grew painful of not knowing what happened to her in the end. For me, and for A2 too, especially." 2B could feel a bit of pain stirring in her chest from remembering, but 9S was stroking her hand in comfort as if sensing her distress. She appreciated it and continued calmly. "Eventually, it grew too painful for me to think about her and the times we spent together, without going back to asking of what happened to her and why didn't she come back. How could someone important to me, who was so strong and so cheerful… just disappear."

2B face fell and admitted a bit shamefully. "I once thought I should just forget about everything, because it was too painful for me to think of her and knowing that she's gone."

"…Really?" 9S asked timidly.

"I did… But I couldn't go through with it." 2B answered truthfully. "I couldn't let go of the memories I made together with her and A2. They are one of the happiest I have, and they're the experiences that helped make me become who I am today. And as much as it hurts knowing that she's gone, I will always be grateful to A4 for giving me those memories and to get to be a part of my life."

"I can't give them up, no matter the circumstances because they're too important to me. And I won't give up in finding her during our investigation for the black blight and knowing the truth." 2B said with resolve for the former and determination for the latter.

She looked at 9S with a serious gaze and brought one hand to caress one of his cheeks. "And I think the same could be said for your memories Nines… Your memories with your family are just like my memories with A4. They are an important part of you. Knowing you're a monster rider, remembering your time spent with your family, all the good experiences you love and even the bad ones you're scared to know of because of the pain."

2B continued and a made pleading expression, looking straight at 9S's eyes. "I know it sounds selfish for me to ask you, but please don't give them up. I know it may hurt in the future if the truth is as horrible and terrible as you believe it to be. But don't let the fear take them away… You'll not be just losing the pain and hurt you felt, but also the joy and love you had before…"

9S widen his eyes in surprise. He didn't thought of it that way, losing both the bad and the good memories. He wasn't looking at the bigger picture or even considering how big of a mistake he would make if suddenly stop searching for his memories. His mind was too focus on if he'll abandoned them, just because he was scared of the truth and leave everything behind as the result.

"You really looked happy when you talked about your mom, the happiest I have seen besides the times you spent with Rogue…" 2B added with Rogue grunting support, agreeing with her. The Deviljho monstie raised his neck and began to nuzzle his snout to 9S's side earnestly, showing his own comfort for his rider.

2B continued, bringing her hand down from 9S cheek to grab his own, weaving their fingers together again. "You looked so lost when I found you, missing some parts of yourself. And I made a promise to myself before, to help you no matter what. To get your memories back and make you whole again…"

"But its your choice, if you want to continue or not… it's your life and your decision to make. I don't want to force you to do something you're not comfortable with or that would hurt you." 2B said giving 9S a gentle look. "Whatever you decide, I'll still be here to support you."

"Grrrrr…" Rogue growled, sounding his own support too. Going with whatever decision his rider will make.

9S stared back at 2B and Rogue, looking a bit dubious from them leaving the choice to him, despite urging him to forgo his doubt of continuing his goal to recover his memories and their show of warmth and encouragement.

While he still feels conflicted of whether to regain his lost past or let them be forgotten to avoid an uncomfortable truth, it didn't stop 2B's words from making sense to 9S. A lot of sense really that gave some inspiration and drive back to continue the pursuit for the rest of his memories.

Because she was right about his memories with his family being important, those happy and cherish moments he wouldn't regret making, stuck at the back of his head and wanting to know more about them. All the times his dad would tell him stories, remembering his moms teachings and the days Grump would take him out to play in the forest, 9S knows he wants those memories back.

He loves his family too much to forget any of them and all those moments they were together.

And it was wrong for him to consider to forget or even stop himself from getting them back. Even if truth is that they're already gone and he wouldn't see them again physically, he'll always have them with him in his memory. He owes it to his father, mother, and Grump to not forget about them and would be shameful if he did, because those moments in time spent together, could be the only things he has left of them.

Just like how it is for 2B and A2's memories for A4.

9S squeezes back the hand 2B placed on his and holds it tenderly. He meets her eyes before speaking. "You're right… My memories are too important for me to forget. They mean so much to me… And are a part of me. I mean, I didn't start knowing more about myself until I found out about my choker and got myself into rider training."

"GRRRRR!" Rogue rumbled with amusement, with 2B teasing. "Yes, and lot more from what Rogue is implying."

9S chuckled lightly before resuming solemnly. "And even if I'm scared and worried of learning what happened to them…"

"And if the truth isn't what I expect it to be… or what I want it to be…" He said a bit hesitantly. Before his expression turns to one of a renewed look of determination. "I still need to know of what happened to my family. To get all my memories back… and maybe come to peace to my lost past."

2B and Rogue shared a nod to each other before addressing 9S.

"And we'll be here to help you along the way."

"GROAH!"

"What would I do without you guys." 9S said, before attempting bring both of them into his arms and hold them both.

The hug ended up with 2B and him rising to their knees and holding each other fully, while Rogue wraps his neck and tail closer, coiling at the two and rumbling a softly.

"Thank you 2B…" 9S whispered closely to 2B's ear. "For getting me out of my funk... and reminding why I want my memories. I shouldn't give up on any of them. Including the ones I have on the present."

He squeezed her closer. "Meeting you is one of the best things that could have happened to me. The times we spent together is special to me. And if it were those memories I lost in the past, I would find a way to get them back."

"Well, those times I have with you, are special for me too…" 2B whispered back. "I would never regret saving you that day in the river. If I didn't, I would never had the opportunity to have so much fun with you and make more of them…"

"…For me, their like memories of pure lights… Always keeping the dark days away and bringing me joy." 2B could feel the warmth rising on her cheeks from confessing of how she views her memories with 9S, feeling a bit shy for admitting them.

But it didn't stop her from pulling back and smiling at him, before leaning close and placing a tender kiss on his cheek. She whispered softly after. "Even if you're gone and it hurts knowing so, I'll still be happy knowing that I got to meet you and got to spend so much time with you. I wouldn't regret making any of those memories together with you. They'll will always be with me and for me to cherish alone."

When she pulled back, 2B saw 9S blushing no doubt from her gesture. She then found it amusing, how his mouth automatically started to gape like a fish and him trying and failing to make a coherent thought or response. She couldn't help letting out a small snort on how, as 6O puts it, adorkable he was acting.

The light sound caused 9S to snap out of his flustered stupor and was about to whine how 2B was being unfair and acting unexpectedly. Until 9S remembers one other thing his mom told him to do from his dream before.

"From my dream, I remember something my mom told me to do for her, when I meet you. It's kind a bit long overdue since I forgot... and with my focus on my inner conflict of finding out more about my past."

"Hmmm? What is it?" 2B asked, finding it sudden for 9S to bring up something and curious in relation to what his mom wanted him to do.

A sudden thought came to 9S that came either because he wanted payback or because it presented the perfect excuse to do so. Which he simply acted on and didn't even bother to think about how he'll proceed with it or the consequence it entails. Thus, to 2B's surprised, she finds 9S leaning towards her before feeling his lips lightly kissing the right corner of her mouth.

And they remained there for few seconds longer than expected, because 9S didn't realized he missed his mark. (He was aiming for 2B's own right cheek.)

Before pulling back with a greater blush on his face, averting his eyes from looking at 2B's.

"M-My mom wanted to thank you for saving me… So uhm… Thank you. From her. And from me too. Again." 9S stuttered and explained to why he kissed her. While silently berating himself for acting impulsively.

"Oh…" 2B whispered softly. Reacting to the unexpected kiss with a similar flush adorning her own cheeks and now in the receiving end of having a flustered expression, though far more reserved.

She averts her eyes from looking at 9S before asking shyly. "…Was that kiss from her?"

"…Maybe." 9S replied, equally timid. Before glancing back and suddenly locking eyes with 2B. Both suddenly had a different feeling rising within them, as with their hearts quicken beating inside their chest.

They knew of their current position and now know how close they are in each other's arms.

2B finds herself leaning closer and whispers. "…How about one from you?"

9S follows, titling his head softly replying "…there's one…"

"…just one?"

Both could feel their breath getting closer, as they begin to close their eyes and let their lips meet.

"...2B"

"...Nines"

"GRRROOAAAAAHH!"

Until a sudden roar from Rogue and the monstie standing up, ruins the mood causing both 2B and 9S to jump away from each other in surprise. Both of them immediately stood up to sound their annoyance and irritation at the Deviljho, until they paused and caught eye the reason to why he interrupted them.

For just right in the sky, there was what could have easily been mistaken as a flock of birds, was actually a mass of wyverns at a distant flying away from the direction of Whistill forest and heading towards Pondry hills. Flying above passing 9S, 2B and Rogue below, ignoring them and their stunned looks.

Moments pass as the swarm of wyverns slowly disappear to the other reaches of Pondry hills, the trio of rider, hunter and monstie recollect themselves and begin to ask each of what exactly just happened.

"Did something go wrong? Is the village in trouble?" 9S asked worriedly, looking at both at the horizon where the wyverns disappeared too and direction where they came from in Whistill forest.

"There's must have been a development with the black blight." 2B added her own opinion, while recognizing the location of where they wyverns were fleeing from. "There must be a development in the north, but why happen now? When we just killed the Nargacuga days ago and the forest was healing."

"GGRRRROOOOAAAAAHHH!" Rogue bellows at the two, stomping his feet impatiently and gesturing them to his back. He points at the horizon and then looks back the two with look saying, 'I know where to go'.

2B and 9S share a look with each other.

"Only one way to find out." 9S shrugs before jumping off the ground to mount his monstie.

2B follows with 9S pulling her up, swiftly seating herself behind him and wrapping her arms around his waist. "Let's go."

With two quick taps to Rogue's side, the trio were then speeding off heading to the horizon where the wyverns came from. Making time easily too, as they rode fast without pausing through the plains of Pondry hills and until they're met with the beginnings of Whistill forest. They're terrain changing and direction turning to the one Rogue caught of interest.

---

The group was inching closer to the north, until Rogue stopped and halted in front of a large bush, sensing something at the other side. The Monstie moved forward warily, with 2B and 9S on his back feeling the same trepidation he currently holds, not knowing on what lies ahead and yet moving onward.

To their surprise, they stepped out to a clearing with a really large hole in the middle, shocking them at the sight. Dismounting Rogue, both 2B and 9S went closer placing themselves at a safe distance from the opening in the ground and began to examine it and the rest of their surroundings. Trying to guess how the hole got there, and how it is related to the flock of wyverns fleeing earlier.

"It kinda reminds you of that time with the blighted Nargacuga and the Basarios." 9S said, finding the similarities to their earlier experience of a hole in the ground and spawning several monsters.

"Indeed, if we didn't know any better then we wouldn't suggest that the wyverns we saw flying past us earlier came here or from below there." 2B adds, taking a quick look at the seemingly endless bottom.

"Then you were right, there must have been a development in the Black blight." 9S mused to himself before the sudden feeling of concern rises within him. "You think A2 and 6O are alright? They were schedule with the Royal scriveners to explore the caverns today."

2B feels the same, fearing for the safety of her sister and best friend. "I'm not sure, we can only hope that they are alright and that they're on their way back to the guild to report their findings."

"Though, the wyverns that flew past us looked less agitated and more concern and fearful, like they were fleeing something." She adds, remembering her observation of some of the flying wyverns that flew over them. She also heard their cries and it sounded more like warnings, fearful roars to get away from something.

"You think another black blighted monster has come out of the depths?" 9S asked, thinking they'll have to deal with another monster infected by the blight like the Nargacuga.

"Probably." 2B answers agreeing with him, before turning away from the hole. "Where's Rogue? It's better we head back to YoRHa and hear the news from A2 and 6O, with their returning party. No doubt everyone has seen the swarm of monsters flying to Pondry hills, and we may have another council meeting with the leaders."

"I know, we're supposed to get a new mission assignment based on today's investigation results. Best we head back quickly too if we want to hear it and prepare for whatever we need to do." 9S adds, before beginning to look for his seemingly absent monstie and knew that he was just right beside them a second ago. "Where is Rogue… He was here right beside us a second ago."

Both 2B and 9S began to turn their heads at every direction, searching and hoping to spot the Deviljho. Until they hear his distinctive bark coming behind a row of trees, near their location.

They head towards Rogue and find him past the trees growling at safe distance to a patch grass, infected with the black blight, and right beside a smaller hole emanating the black haze, the foul blight leaking from the opening.

9S made a face grimacing at the sight. "Man, the black blight going to spread worst out top if we don't stop it underground."

2B nods in agreement and sharing the same expression of dread at the hole and infected grass. "If there was only a way we can cure the infection or at least curb its influence. The black blights true nature is still a mystery and it could still persist despite not having a monster maintaining its presence."

"I remember my Kinship stone was able to purge the black blight from Rogue and the room we were in…" 9S brought it up a bit wearily before resuming. "…But we haven't figure out how we did it."

"Grrrr…" Rogue growls softly, remembering the incident, while 2B had a thoughtful expression.

"How did you try testing it? Did you go to some other areas infected with the black blight and try to purge them of the infection?" 2B asked, with 9S shaking his head in response.

"No, we didn't. Most of the areas infected with the blight was too exposed for me to bring Rogue out. Instead we tried testing or replicating of what happened with the slain infected monsters we faced in the caverns. But we weren't able to get the kinship stone to shine or even flicker."

"I once tried focusing on the same thought I had before, of protecting Rogue and banishing the blight…" 9S shrugs, approaching Rogue and giving him a pat on sides. "But nothing significant happened even when we were touching. No bright flash of light that shined and banished the blight away. And sometimes only a small glow between me and Rogue. Nothing more after that."

"If anything, I once thought it was just a one-time deal and after Rogue's first encounter with the black blight, he's somehow grown more resistant to it and completely immune when I'm with him. So, I thought maybe the kinship didn't need to do that power again because we don't need it anymore as long as we're together." 9S guessed, though still unsure of what he said is the probable explanation.

2B pondered more, before suggesting. "Have you tried doing it without Rogue?"

"Hmmm?" This earned a thoughtful expression from 9S, who shared a similar look with his monstie before facing back to 2B. "No… I didn't think of trying it without Rogue. I mean, Whistill theorized it was our kinship bond that helped drive the blight away from Rogue's mind, so we figured maybe we needed to do it together for it to work."

"…Maybe, there's something you didn't consider yet?" 2B said while 9S raises his eyebrow, curious to what she's thinking.

"While your kinship with Rogue may have had helped with purging the blight, I think it's more of the power you have with your kinship stone that did it…" She gives measure looked at 9S before proposing. "I think your kinship stone responded to your feelings and goal in mind, which triggered the healing effect or whatever power it has to purge the blight. Maybe you don't need Rogue with you or think about healing him from the blight for that power to appear."

"What do you mean?" 9S asked, perplex but seeing some of the points from what 2B was saying.

"Think about it. As I recall from you telling me that particular event, you were the one who jump in first to try to heal Rogue and snap his mind out of the influence of the black blight." She points out and continues to explain. "And it was your desire and train of thought of bringing Rogue back from the blight's influence that your kinship stone responded to."

"Maybe for the kinship stone to work, instead of just thinking the exact same thought of healing Rogue from the blight, you try to think of something else to heal. Like try thinking instead of whatever infected monster or thing to heal, in Rogue's place from that train of thought." 2B suggests with 9S thinking about it.

He was starting to think that she was right in her explanation and guessed she might be right too in the execution of the kinship stone's power to purge the blight. After hearing 2B's points supporting her theory, 9S found himself seeing his error and now thinking of himself ridiculous from trying to use the exact same thought process of healing Rogue to heal another blighted monster or plant.

"...Oh... now I see it."

Why would the kinship stone try to purge Rogue of the blight, when he's already healed of the blight? And why would he, 9S, keep asking and thinking of it to do so, when there's something else that needs healing and he needs to put his focus on?

"Let's try it." 9S says turning to the patch of infected grass and approaching the infected area near the hole leaking the black blight's haze.

"Wait, really? Like, right now?" 2B asked in confusion, before turning and sharing a look with Rogue, who had also an skeptical look at his rider's decision.

"Yeah, why not? Your theory is sound 2B and why waste this perfect opportunity to try it out, when there's a perfect patch of grass here to heal." 9S said explaining. "It's just the three of us here and what's the harm from trying? We got more to gain if we succeed than failing anyway."

Both 2B and Rogue couldn't argue to what 9S said and did agree that they'll gain a great boon against the black blight, if he could unlock the power and learn how to heal with the kinship stone.

"Okay, we can try and test to see if my suggest works." 2B said, while Rogue growls in agreement and in warning, chuffing to tell his rider to be careful.

"Grrrr!"

"Rogue's right. No funny business." 2B adds, agreeing with the monstie's warning and reminds 9S to be careful. "We need to be cautious on how we'll approach this."

"Yeah, yeah 2B. I know…" 9S waves lazily while crouching down to look at the grass closer. 2B huffs annoyed from his response and warns him, not liking how close he's getting to the blight.

"Nines, We're serious… And one affirmation would suffice." Rogue nods and barks feeling the same. "GROAH"

"Yes… I know how to be careful, guys. Besides, the both of you don't have to worry too much" 9S reassures them both, standing up to face 2B and Rogue with a knowing smile. "I got you guys with me in case something goes wrong—not that a lot could go wrong with what I'm trying to do— I mean, how hard could healing the blight be than the last I did it."

Both hunter and monstie were not amuse, but simply resumed observing 9S as he goes into a position and preparing his attempt to purge the blight. Watching his ministrations from a safe distance, with 2B folding her arms and Rogue right behind her, still feeling wary of the black blight, and not wanting to get closer to it than he's comfortable with.

"So should I do a pose or something?" 9S asked, not knowing how to proceed or realize if there was certain gesture he must do for the kinship stone to react, besides using his thoughts. He didn't do exactly anything when he healed Rogue, beside clamping his jaws shut and holding on for his dear life while he was being wailed as a rag doll.

"Yes, maybe try doing so. It might help you visualize or something." 2B replied, wondering the same. "Just remember to focus on the grass and wanting to purge it of the black blight."

"Got it." 9S nods and then begins to think of what appropriate gesture or pose he could try to do.

He then simply thrust his right hand towards the blighted patch of grass, with his left arm folded and latching to his right bicep. He then imagines himself as if he were projecting his thoughts and consciousness of wanting to heal the blight and willing the kinship stone to do so.

Only a few seconds later, did he start to feel conscious instead on how he looked and found it a bit absurd for him to try doing a pose in the first place. He deflates from his pose, embarrassed, and sheepishly turns back to his companions to voice his doubt and having a sudden indecision if they should proceed.

"Okay I feel a bit ridiculous, are you guys sure? —"

"Nines, just do it."

"GROAH!"

Both 2B and Rogue were having none of it and gave him a stern look for him to continues. 9S sighs and returns to his pose and thrust his right hand back at the patch of grass. Though this time, he was being more serious and focused in doing what 2B suggested.

Remembering how his thoughts were during that time when Rogue was infected and recall the feeling of the sudden power to purge the blight form his monstie. But only now, instead of thinking about Rogue, he'll focus on the grass and letting his kinship stone know through his mind that he wants to heal it.

For a brief moment, 9S closes his eyes in concentration and takes a deep breath. Before opening his eyes, pushing all of his thoughts and will power for his Kinship stone to react and shine towards the infection right in front of him.

A bright blue light explodes right in front of 9S's vision, blinding him for a second, forcing him to squint his eyes before the flash disappears as fast as it appeared. He then looks around towards his surroundings, trying to see if anything change, knowing something happened and felt elated that it worked, and his kinship stone shined.

When he turned to look at the patch of grass that was infected by the blight, he felt a surge of joy and excitement seeing that the blight was gone, everything looked healed and even the hole had stopped leaking the black haze. If anything the entire area they were in looked brighter and more glowing with life, as if the kinship stone spurred and reinvigorated all the plant life from its shine.

"2B! Rogue!" 9S couldn't believe that it worked and flash his companions an excited and hopeful smile at the success. He found them staring back in both equal awe and shock, but eventually returned his smile with one of their own.

"Nines… You did it" 2B couldn't stop the awe in her own voice, sharing the exuberant feelings 9S had at the present. "Do you know what this means?"

9S nods back.

"Yeah… We can stop the black blight."

---

Back at the village of YoRHa, another group has made a fantastic discovery that could lead them to finally ending the black blight threat once and for all.

Within the captain's quarters, A2, 6O, Devola and Popola have just returned from their expedition under the underground caverns of Whistill forest and are reporting their findings and the unexpected event of wyverns suddenly flying off from the forest to White, Zinnia, and Anemone.

Devola was the first to speak. "Based on our compiled data, we were able to narrow down where the center of the Black blight's influence could be and headed to a monster den that was nearest to its location and begin digging a way from there."

"No sooner than we, as you could say 'struck gold', and found an open path that went deeper than the ones we found before; We soon heard the chorus of roars echoing the walls and immediately braced ourselves as soon as we saw the swarm of wyverns flying straight at us, coming further from the path." Popola resumed and reported their findings.

"It was an unexpected encounter, but even more puzzling when none dared to even attack us."

"More so when one actually landed in front of us, a Rathalos, and roared at us to flee with it."

"I'm sorry, you're saying a Rathalos dropped down in front of you and warned you to flee?" Anemone was puzzled from this unexpected development, her confusion shared by White and Zinnia.

"Its true!" 6O spoke up, with cheerful disbelief. "The Rath didn't just try to scare us into leaving, it went even further by flinging us on to its back and started flying us out of the cavern itself!"

"And none of you tried to stop it?" Commander White was appalled that none of party tried to stop them from being ferried by Rathalos, and much less at the undocumented behavior of the flying wyvern displaying altruism to humans. She subtly directed her question particular at A2, who knew that even Zinnia and Anemone were silently asking the same question at her.

"Look, even I was caught off guard from being suddenly flung on to the back of a monster." Her voice sounding a bit annoyed from the YoRHa leaders questioning looks to her suppose lack of action.

"But if you were offered free service to get away from a rampaging of blighted monster, then you wouldn't be complaining now would you?" It occurred to A2 that it wasn't the first time something similar happened to her of fleeing a cave from a blighted monster astride another monster.

It's not something you'd hear every day, which led to the surprise expression from White, Zinnia and Anemone, as expected from hearing such as thing. But A2 knew more that their shock came from learning that there is another blighted monster loose, and a threat big enough to warrant a mass migration of flying wyverns.

"The investigation ended prematurely because we encountered a blighted Rathian chasing out any inhabitants or intruders from the caverns. Probably from the place where the black blight's source could be." Popola added grimly. "Worse, the Blighted Rathian looked to be even more infected than others before it and seemingly spreading the black blight as it flew."

"And looked to be stronger too. The fire balls it shot at us blew craters and shook the cave. I admit, if it weren't for the Rathalos' untimely arrival and getting us the hell out there, we would have been in bigger trouble or be trapped in a cave in." Devola shared a worried look with the rest of YoRHa's leaders, with Commander White and Zinnia sharing calculated stares with each other; no doubt trying to process all of this information.

"What happened next?" Anemone asked the group. "Where did the Rathalos take you?"

"Surprisingly, as swift and exciting the ride was, it got us out of the caverns and brought us near the outskirts of the village walls." Popola answered.

"Yeah, it landed and let us off it's back after that with no fuss." Devola added. "Then flew up to follow the rest of the wyverns, not even batting an eye at us or at the village."

"It's behavior was strange… There wasn't any reports in the Guild archives about Rathalos acting this way." 6O said regarding the particular wyvern they encountered. "Not to say it wasn't exciting to ride on the back of the King of the skies, but it was quite a coincidence that it brought us back to YoRHa in a way."

"It may sound like it did intend to bring you four back here; like it knew you were needed in YoRHa to report your findings." Zinnia mused, earning slight skepticism from some of the others.

"You can't expect us to believe that a Rathalos helped us because it knew we could deal with the black blight?" Devola raised an eyebrow, her voice skeptical to the notion the wyverian was suggesting.

"Who knows? While the guild did give it the moniker of King of the skies due to its power and mastery of flight, some scholars would say that it was one of the more noble of monsters and at times act out more outside its base animal instincts."

"There are times when the flying wyvern would avoid hunters and interrupting hunts due to knowing they are dealing with a troublesome monsters." Anemone added, sharing her own knowledge, and agreeing with Zinnia. "Raths are one of the few monsters in the wild that could discern if one could act as an ally against a shared threat."

"Regardless of the Rathalos' intentions, its unnatural behavior justifies the threat we have at the present." Commander White spoke, cutting in from their trivial chatter. "Monsters would always behave differently when changes disrupt the natural order in the ecosystem. For the past month, we've had several monsters acting out and causing disturbances affecting everyone from the forest to YoRHa itself. This latest development with the flying wyverns suddenly fleeing is no different."

"And it seems, as the days go by, the black blight's influence continues to grow and spread underground. If left unhindered, we may not be able to stop it in time." Popola speculated, casting a forbidding mood in the room.

"It's already affecting more monsters below the surface. But it would eventual affect those above too." Devola pointed out with a grim expression etched on her face. "With all the monster dens dug up from monsters fleeing it, an open path has been paved by the Black blight to spread its influence. Heck we've practically been helping it too, with our own contribution of digging holes searching for it."

"Then its settled, we need to act now and head back to underground to stop the blight before anymore monsters get infected and the forest damaged." Anemone voiced what everyone in the room was thinking. All, unanimously agreeing that they needed to act now, less the damage the black blight would do be irreversible in the future.

"But how will we proceed? We already suspect where the location of the Black Blights source is, and it's just ahead of the path we've been in. But it's being blocked by a blighted Rathian." Devola spoke knowing the infected fire wyvern will prove to be an obstacle.

Anemone shared the same concern and voice her own thoughts regarding it. "We need to slay it… But this might be a delicate and difficult task. With what you said of its strength and its fire power, we can't risk fighting it in the tunnels where its unstable. Or risk sending in a large group to face it and have the ceiling crush them because of a stray fire ball being launched at everyone."

"Regardless of the number of hunters we send, it'll still be a disadvantage for us to face a monster in an enclosed space. We may have to limit the quest to a single party of four, to minimize the risks, but compose of our best hunters to fight the Rath. Those who are capable of fighting in volatile conditions." Zinnia proposed initially, before 6O went on to suggest a slight alteration to the wyverian's plan.

"If I may chief, what if we could lead the Rath back to the surface and have the hunters face it there. It would be much safer for the hunters to do so and it would free up the path for some to head to the black blight's location."

"As good as that sounds 6O, it would be highly unlikely for the Rathian to abandoned the tunnels or the caverns below. Both because of the black blight's influence and a Rath's highly territorial nature." Popola pointed out to the young handler's dismay. She explained further. "The Rathian might be unwilling to leave its territory, and by extension the black blight, behind from its protection."

"There might be a better chance of bringing the fight to the underground location, drawing the Rathian to defend its turf than bringing it up to the surface." Devola noted, bringing up another plan. "But that would require finding and reaching to the location first, less you risk outrunning a fire wyvern at your heels and let it follow you back."

Much thinking was brought to the group after hearing the Scrivener Captains' words, with others like Zinnia and White calculating what best decision to decide and choose from. And planning what to do next and how to enact it. They were running out of time with how strong the Black blight's influence was growing and they couldn't afford wasting another second, with now knowing at the present where its prime source could be. They might have to risk fighting the blighted Rathian under the tunnels and hope for the better, than finding another way to reach the black blight's source first and draw the flying wyvern back to fight in supposedly safer grounds.

"And what if we just do that? Find another path or way to the black blight and draw the Rathian there?"

The rest of the room was surprise at hearing the sudden voice, no doubt because it came from the one who contributed the least in the conversation. Feeling all eyes on her, A2 spoke up with her own proposal.

"We already know the general location of the Black blight of where it is. We could find another path and reach its source first, bring the fight there and deal with the Rathian or whatever other threat would come to our way to stop us. Simple as that."

The others turned to each, sharing questioning glances, silently speculating to themselves or to others through eye contact. They found nothing wrong to what A2 suggested and agreed with her opinion to bring the fight straight to the Black blight.

"A2, you do know if we proceed with your plan, you could be facing something worse than the Rathian right? Straight to enemy territory I may say." Zinnia asked worry in her voice, knowing better what her charge—or rather what the rest of her charges—might end doing if they go through with her plan.

"You might be facing an even more powerful blighted monster." Anemone added, the hunting captain bearing caution to A2. "We're still not sure if the source the black blight is a large infection made from the Black calamity or a monster that was expose the longest from it."

"That and you're confident you can find another route in a short time?" Devola asked additionally, her tone coming a bit impolite but not without reason. "We barely were able to find the first one in a matter of weeks, it might take less time, but still days to find another safer and alternate route."

A2 simply smirked and responded with equal mirth. "I'm not exactly the one who can find a new path quickly… It's rather, I know a certain felyne settlement that could be of help for us."

Though A2 alludes to the Whistill and his felynes, she and the others like Zinnia, White and the twin Scrivener captains knew better who she was pertaining to.

Further in her mind, A2 knows the right rider and monstie for the job, who could do better than them in finding hidden routes underground. Plus, giving them the additional muscle and fire power from their kinship to deal with any blighted monster they'll encounter.

Her expression turns serious and faces the others in the room with a look of determination. "Look, send me, 2B and 9S down to the caverns. We faced similar dangers and blighted monster before, and I know with the felynes' help we'll find another path to the black blight's location."

"We can simply make it a scouting mission too and not prioritize slaying other monsters for our safety." She proposed, her train of thought mainly to appease Zinnia, seeing the conflicted look on her guardians face. "We'll report our findings and form another plan of attack for a later—"

"No… Your orders will be search and destroy."

Commander White suddenly spoke. Cutting A2 off from finishing, surprising her and everyone else in the room.

There was a mix reaction coming from every individual, with Zinnia and Anemone giving White wary glances, the former having a slight warning look in her eyes to her old friend.

6O was unsure what to think of the Commander suddenly agreeing with her friend's plan, knowing that it meant for them doing a task of great danger and difficulty. While Devola and Popola had a calculating gaze towards YoRHa's guild commander, questioning this course of action.

A2 was astonished that Commander White of all people in the room would, while bluntly, support her proposed plan. She would thought the guild commander would disagree sending hunters the likes of her, despite being promoted to high rank a few days back.

But staring ahead towards White's cool and calculating gaze, A2 knew that the commander wasn't joking and was in full agreement to what she has just said.

She felt a prickle in the back of her head, a slight panic concerning 9S and Rogue but wasn't sure if it was related. Hopefully not, but A2 could tell that Commander White may know of something, which is why she's giving her permission to be with 2B and 9S to go on this mission.

A2 remained silent for the rest of the meeting and became cautious of the White. Trying to decipher to what she knows and with a need to warn the others.

---

"So that's the gist of it."

"Really? …Well, the Commander was always wary of me before. I'm not surprise if she suspects me of something, but I doubt she knows about Rogue."

9S and A2 where sitting on a bench outside of Masamune's shop, with the latter telling and explaining of what happened in the meeting with YoRHa's leaders. They were waiting for 2B, who was outfitting her new armor inside the smithy, and 9S's new glaive, both equipment created from the Nargacuga materials they received after their previous battle with blighted flying wyvern.

"Hopefully, she doesn't. She might just suspect our growing prowess as hunters and having a little more faith in us." A2 shrugs, unsure if that was the case with Commander White's interest to them.

"Maybe so…" 9S remembered White's supposed pep talk, of wanting them to work together more and achieve good breakthroughs against the Black blight. Their current mission may be one of these opportunities for them to do so, and with not only the Commander banking on them but also the rest of the village leaders as well.

The Black blight plaguing YoRHa has gone long enough and it has to be stopped. Luckily, by a struck of luck and coincidence, 9S now knows that they have the means to do so, which brought a small smile to his face.

"Something good must have happened when you and 2B went out or are you just excited for your new glaive?" A2 asked noticing his expression.

"Oh, ah. It's a little bit of both. And 2B sort of helped snapped out of my funk and come to terms to somethings." 9S answered vaguely, yet A2 already had an idea of what it was.

She and Zinnia knew that something was bothering him, but didn't tell them, besides 2B, because it looked to be personal and probably related to his memories returning. Based on what her sister told them in secret.

Though seeing 9S in better mood, dampened the slight concern A2 had for him. "Well, glad to know you'll be up your game for tomorrow. Just in time too. Distractions can lead to error and lousy hunts, or worse."

"Yeah, I know… Thanks for looking out for me A2. You, 2B, Zinnia, the Pods, and everyone else." 9S said in surprise gratitude towards A2. "I'm really glad I met all of you."

"Okay, what is with all this sap?" A2 asked this time confused, not trying to sound rude but 9S was acting a bit sentimental to her liking. "I thought something good happened when you guys went out? Or am I wrong?"

9S was quick to reassure and explaining. "No you're not wrong A2. It's just… I've come to realize a few things and may have come to some uncomfortable truths now that my head is cleared of my doubt. And I'm starting to see some connections with my past and the circumstances of I'm facing at the present. But I don't want to bore you with my long thoughts and let's just say I learned a lot of things from the few memories I recovered."

"Well, I don't mind hearing some, if you like." A2 shrugs and leans back on the bench getting comfortable. "You can tell me a few things if it helps. Not good when you bottle them up."

9S chuckles softly at how similar 2B and A2 were in their advice. "You guys really are siblings..."

"Gee, I didn't know that… tell me something I don't, why don't cha?"

"Yeah, yeah no need for the sass."

9S leans back to the bench too, getting comfortable as well and finding it weird on how long 2B's fitting was taking. Then again he thought, Masamune must be teaching her how to properly put in on by herself, so it might be a few more minutes waiting for them.

Glancing at the streets and seeing no one around, 9S was glad for the little privacy they possess at the moment. "Well, seeing we're the only ones here, then it's safe for me to say some stuff the guild would consider treasonous. Not that anyone would believe me if they heard anyway."

"Oooohh... Like what?" A2 quirked an eyebrow, her interest growing like she was to hear something scandalous.

"Well, first off. Both my parents were apparently on the run from the guild. My dad for saving and befriending a Tigrex and my mom supporting him."

"No shit, really?"

"Yeah, really." 9S said with smug tone. "Turns out I got my rebellious and troublemaking traits from my parents. And that my riding skills I inherited from them both two, surprisingly more from my mother, despite her being a healer."

"But knowing your parents, could explain why you have hunter traits and knowledge regarding monster related info, plus healing items too. Some need to take spartan level training and pushed to their limits to be hunters, while others inherit them from their gene pool." A2 mused before playful rubbing 9S hair in affection. "I guess your mom knew that teaching you how to take care of your boo boos has been a must, with how reckless you are. And with hanging around monsters due to having monster riding parents to boot."

9S bats A2's hand off playfully and adds with equal mirth to his voice. "Yeah, lucky too I knew how to craft healing items less we'd be stuck with you and 2B's horrible tasting mega potions."

"Hey, you don't need medicine to taste good!" A2 defends herself and her sister, give a light punch to 9S's shoulder in good nature, before shyly admitting. "And so what we couldn't figure out how to make them bearable to taste. You know how crafting items isn't our strong point."

"I am fully aware of that, even when I'm there watching and directing you guys, somehow your drinks still end up tasting like sour and spicy cactus juice." 9S made a disbelief shake of his head, with A2 nodding along dejectedly, groaning how she and 2B couldn't figure out how their potions taste like that either.

Returning back to subject A2 asked. "Going back, is that all you have pondering in your head? It seems to me; your memories of your family are returning. Isn't that… good?"

From her remark, 9S expression grew a bit conflicted. His thoughts returning to the forefront topics in his head that was bothering him, before starting to speak back to A2 a bit wearily.

"It is, but I've realized that… some things come into mind after. Some harsh truths, I might find while I'm gaining my memories back." 9S had a solemn look facing A2, as she remained quiet and gestured for him to continue.

"Even though 2B told me not to give up and at least still have some hope… I still might have accept that I won't be making anymore memories than the ones I have… of them."

"…Oh." There was a small silence between the two, as A2 understood well what 9S was implying and look at him with a concern. She didn't how to address this topic delicately, the only thing that comes into mind was the fact both she and 9S may be looking for the same closure, from the ghosts of their past.

"Are you… I mean how do you—"

"Know?"

9S faced her with a forlorn smile, knowing that A2 would be asking the same as 2B of how he was sure.

"I' don't know if they're truly gone and are hiding somewhere else. But I'm not sure their alive either…" He wasn't really sure either way, honestly. But some points comes to mind that points to more to the latter. "I was found alone washed ashore with pieces from a broken boat, muttering something bad happened."

"And I think whatever bad thing it is, was probably the reason to why my parents' weren't with me." 9S explained. "In my dream my mother was apologizing about something they had to do, to at least save me from whatever danger was out to get us."

"While Sacrificing themselves for you…" A2 whispered softly with 9S nodding along. She places a hand on his shoulder comfortingly. "I'm sorry, Nines… I don't know what to say."

"It's okay A2… I don't know what to say either, I'm still not sure if that's the case." 9S gives a tired shrug and offers her an easy smile before adding. "But if that is the case, at least I know my parents love me and that I owe it to them to remember who they are and recover my memories. It's going to be hard, but I can manage… with a little support of course."

"And of course that's us. Me, 2B, Zinnia and the Pods, we'll be here for you." A2 said pulling 9S to her side in a one arm hug. "We're your sort of other family. Plus Rogue too when your outside. You got both humans and monsters who care for you, so don't forget that."

"I know. I'm not alone anymore and I'm happy to be with you all." 9S replies leaning in to A2 for a few moments before he flashes her a mischievous look. "Still didn't expect for you to be this sappy out in the open."

"I wasn't expecting to hear a sappy story from you today." A2 bit back without venom in her voice and responded with equal mirth, knowing that 9S was just lightening the mood.

"Am I finally making the big bad A2 soft for me?" He couldn't help himself teased, knowing how rare it is for A2 to show her sensitive side out in the open. 9S adds by giving her the puppy eye look.

"And you ruined it." She shoves him back roughly, with hand to his face while he chuckles back. "For the record, your not making me soft. I've always been a fighter with a heart."

"A heart closed off with many barriers and hard-hitting fists." 9S adds playfully. "I fear for the guy, who'll be interested in you."

"I fear that I'll get someone before you and 2B get together. I mean aren't you two making progress or something?" A2 asked, deciding to move the conversation to something lighter.

"P-Progress? What, no… Nothing like that. I mean if we're doing anything it'd be more on focusing on our careers as hunters first than dating." 9S answers back, not bothering to hide his affections to 2B or denying it anymore with A2. "I mean it's not like 2B sees me that way anyway…"

A2 just stares at him with an incredulous look, before giving a dope slap at the back of his head.

"Ahh!"

"Don't play stupid with me you Dumbass! I know that both of are aware of each other's feelings but didn't act on it at first for a couple of reasons I won't list. But something's different now, and why do I feel like you guys are just dancing around each other?" A2 asked, while 9S makes nervous shake of his head before looking away twiddling his fingers.

"Okay, I'll admit that you're right and something has change between us. Like we're being more proactive or something?"

"I don't know the words or how to explain it, but I feel like we are trying to broach our feelings to one another and may have gotten pretty close to something." 9S remembers what happened earlier today before the sudden slew of wyverns flying off interrupted them. He knew what he was going to kiss 2B and by the way they both responded to each, it wouldn't stop with just one. "I guess we just didn't have the right timing, or it isn't the time yet for us to, you know talk about it."

"Well, timing is everything. That's what A4 would say and she dated a couple of times." A2 shrugs before ruffling 9S's hair again in good nature. "Don't worry rider boy, you guys will get there. Maybe after the black blight's been taken care of."

A2 suddenly notices someone exiting Masamune's shop and gets mischievous grin from seeing who it was, deciding to mess with 9S for a little bit. "Though, a word of advice. You may have to practice taking a hint and the initiative at times, less 2B takes some drastic measures for you to do so. And I doubt you'll be able to survive whatever it is she's planned for you."

"What do you mean? —" 9S asked her in confusion, only to hear another voice call him.

"9S, Masamune wants to see you."

He turns to look at the owner of the voice, recognizing it to be 2B's. But as he did, he found his voice and whatever reply caught on his throat from seeing how she looks with the armor she was wearing.

And in his head, 9S couldn't find enough words to describe how beautiful, attractive, and dare he say it, sexy, 2B was wearing a Nargacuga armor. With few modifications that made it fit her perfectly.

The Nargacuga helm she's wearing looked to be designed as fusion between an armored head band and a mask made by the black scales of the monster. 2B's hair was freely flowing behind her, while the head band designed with red highlights and shaped to look like a Nargacuga's ears, covers her forehead and then connects to a lower mask covering her mouth to her nose. Leaving the top half of her face and her blue eyes expose out in the open.

Her Nargacuga mail and braces were also black scaled and both decorated with white teeth connected by a red thread. One placed near the collar and two wrapped around in the middle of both of her upper arms, between the black pauldrons that fit her shoulders and her braces. Her chest was covered by dark scales and her stomach covered by a fishnet that stretches to her waist, which left the armor accentuating her breasts and 2B to partially bare her midriff.

The Nargacuga faulds 2B wears was also black scaled with red highlights on the edges, her hips protected by two armor plates on both sides and a black sash that connects them and tied around her waist like a belt. Underneath the armor, 2B looked to be wearing, at first glance short black shorts, and a fishnet waistband that stretches until her Nargacuga greaves.

The greaves in particular weren't shaped like the normal wide armored boots seen in standard Nargacuga armor, instead 2B's were design to resemble black scaled high heal boots that reach above her knees, living much of her thighs exposed and have red highlights on the top and silver colored scales on top of her knees.

Overall, 2B's custom Nargacuga armor made her resembled a highly skilled, attractive, and yet deadly, ninja. She was both beautiful and powerful in the eyes of 9S, to the point that he didn't realize he was rendered speechless and staring for a bit too long, until A2 snapped him out of it.

"Its rude to stare 9S, you might end up looking a creep." She teased, whispering in his ear causing 9S to jolt from his surprise stupor and realized that 2B was looking at with worry.

"9S, are you alright? You just froze for a second there." She said, tilting her head in question, while A2 whispered again to 9S's ear.

"Say something you pervert. Don't just ogle, compliment her."

"R-Right! Sorry I—it's just well..." 9S suddenly stood up from the bench for no reason before he faced 2B and found himself awkwardly explaining. "I was just surprised from how you looked—with your armor. Just a bit shock, really."

"Why, does it look weird on me?" 2B asked, twirling around in place checking if there was anything out of place and if she wore something wrong.

From her movement, 9S was able to glimpse the back of 2B's armor as she turns around and he finds himself trying to quell a surprise squeak from his mouth and the sudden arousal he was feeling. Seeing that, of what he still thinks is shorts, was riding up 2B's ass and giving him a slight unobstructed view of his crush's glorious backside.

He curses inwardly in his head, asking why the sash wrapped around her waist was providing barely any cover. And that it didn't help whenever 2B was busy turning in place and unconsciously sashaying her hips, the black flimsy cloth was further enticing it in front of him.

"No, nothing's wrong 2B!" 9S grabs her shoulders turning her around and stopping him from shamelessly checking out her ass. He could feel his cheeks heating up at the thought, feeling guilty and tries to calm himself to not be further aroused. Less he'd be prepared to explain a biological reaction normal to teenage boys and their hormones.

9S thought he grew some resistance from being physically aroused by 2B, and by extension A2, from living with them. Yet, he knows he is a healthy adolescent boy and are prone to these reactions at times. And he couldn't deny that he was also attracted to 2B in that way and that she was beautiful. Which was fortunately the reason to why 9S was able to compliment her honestly and with a bit of restraint.

"You look good in your armor 2B. It suits you and it fits you well." 9S said to 2B's delight. If he could see past the mask she was wearing, 9S would see her smiling and blushing in thanks from his compliment.

"Yeah, 9S's right it does fit you well!" A2 chimed, shooting 9S a teasing look and smug grin that irked him, knowing that she saw his reaction and probably could imagine what he was thinking.

He tried to give her a scathing glare, but 2B was quick to show off her armor to A2 as well, turning around to face her and leaving 9S back in trying to not ogle at the sight before him.

"Thank you. It's nice to know you both like it." 2B said in reply to her sister and adds. "This armor is strong, and I could feel the strength radiating from it. I could see myself wearing this for a while."

"Man, makes me jealous to want my own custom made." A2 mused to herself. "Too bad the materials we got was only enough for a new weapon, some upgrades and a single set of armor."

"Are you still sure that its okay for me to have this armor?" 2B asked while gesturing to herself and the Nargacuga armor. "We could have made another katana for you instead of this."

"Yeah, no prob. Sis. I'm still thinking of what armor would suit me and besides, I have a new weapon commission I placed for Masamune to do. I'll be getting something new by tomorrow like the two of you." A2 said, waving off her sister's concern and was okay for the time being with her equipment.

"Speaking of which…" 2B turns around back to 9S, who immediately meets her eyes and looking like he wasn't trying to look at her butt. "Masamune's done with the last finishes of your new glaive and is just retrieving it from the back. Feel excited?"

"Y-Yeah! It feels weird not having a glaive after using one for a while." 9S exclaimed, his thoughts shifting to receiving his new weapon. "I can't wait to see what it looks like!"

"Well, let's head on inside now shall we?" 2B said turning back to the shop with both 9S and A2 following.

Not wanting to feel tempted again, 9S attempts to overtake 2B and walk in front, until A2 yanks him back and begins to whisper him in conversation.

"A2? —"

"Glad to know your hormones are still working. I guess 2B's ass was really eye catching for you, huh?"

"W-What?" 9S whispers back feeling scandalize, while glancing at 2B who goes ahead and enters the shop, leaving him and A2 alone outside.

"I can't blame you though." A2 shrugs nonchalantly. "I'm confident of my body, but even I'd admit 2B's has got assets better than mine. I'd tapped that ass too, if it were on some else."

"A2! What are you saying?!" 9S shrieks mortified. "I-I didn't mean to stare okay, sorry it's just—I well…"

"Hey, I'm not mad, just messing with yah." She pulls him close, rubbing her knuckles playfully on his hair. "If anything I'm glad to find some new ammunition to mess with you!"

"Are you serious!?" 9S asked, pulling back from her, confused and stupefied at A2's current demeanor. "Why?! Aren't you supposed to be like an overprotective sister and be all threatening on me for checking 2B's ass."

"Yeah, I could be…" A2 spoke with a pondering nod, before she looks down at 9S. "But I'm not worried of being overprotective for either 2B or you, Nines. You guys love each other and wouldn't really wish to harm each other, nuff said."

A2 then stares directly to 9S's eyes, giving him a sincere look. "And I find it alright, a bit relieving that you see her as woman in your eyes. Count this as my blessing or something for you to be with her. And I'm serious when I say I want both of you to be happy together."

"Oh, I didn't know that you… Thank you." 9S responds, slightly surprise from A2's admission. "I promise to treat her right A2."

"I know you will, dummy." A2 nods, smiling and ruffling his hair. Before her smug expression returns and begins to tease him. "And besides… it's more fun teasing you than threatening you. Especially now that I know you fancy 2B's ass."

"Oh Please don't… You just said those stuff so you can mess with me." 9S said exasperatedly but went ignored by A2.

"For example, I could enjoy watching you squirm whenever 2B's around, and whisper in your ears on how you like to bend her over, see her ass and s—"

"LALALALALALA! Not listening!" 9S began to march towards the door of Masamune's shop, his face flush, covering his ears and blathering loudly to ignore A2, while she follows and continues to tease him.

"Oh come on Nines, don't tell me you don't have any perverted thoughts like every healthy boy your age?"

"Still not listening!"

"Girls think about sex too you know, so you don't really have to be ashamed of being attractive to 2B's womanly figure. You might be surprise at the thought's she has for you~"

"LALALA, I don't know what you're talking about—And why are we even having this conversation!?"

"Hey, does your kinship affect your behavior too, like do you go into heat or something when—"

9S promptly opened the doors to Masamune's shop, entering inside quickly to search for the blacksmith and get away from A2 being insufferable. He didn't want to add more ammunition for her teasing either by answering any of her question.

He'd die of embarrassment if A2 learns what happens to him once Rogue sexually matures.

---

Author's notes:

Okay and that's the chapter, hope you guys enjoyed it. Just a little fluff and peace for now before the more action and fighting in the next chapter. Look forward to it!

Just a few notes:

9S does his hacking gesture when healing the black blight or using his kinship stone by himself.

2B's Nargacuga armor was based by combining elements from both the MHWI Nargacuga armor and the MHGU Deviant Silverwind armor X. I hope I was sable to describe her armor well, if not just google the two armors and just try to imagine the fusion I made in your head. Though, I know there exist a fan art of 2B wearing Nargacuga armor, but it isn't the same with the one I envisioned here.

This will be 2B's to go armor for the story. Just so you know.

And I did put the rating for this fanfic under M, for the fight scenes since it being the world of monster hunter and with NieR characters. But in future chapters there might be some mention of adult content like sexual/erotic scenes or intimacy and of them present in some characters' inner thoughts, like in this chapter with 9S and describing 2B's armor. Though I won't be writing smut and only small scenes that are light lemons as such or limes, as others would call it.

Just a little heads up for you guys to know of what content I'm putting in the future chapters of this Story. I will put warnings when there are these scenes present at the start of the chapter, of course.

And that's all, for the notes.

See you in the next chapter and enjoy two omakes!

P.S.

I don't own the song, or the lyrics mentioned in one of the omakes.

It's by Singto Congley Ft. Hikaru Station. Titled Honeydew. Listen to it if you want while reading the omakes, it's a really nice song and I love it.

---

Omake I

(Lullaby)

.

.

.

"Zenny for your thoughts, My little Honeydew?"

.

.

"Mom…?"

.

.

"Having trouble sleeping?"

.

.

.

"I-I…

…

…Yeah, I am."

.

"I'm scared of what I'll be dreaming next…"

.

.

"I see…

Then why not let me help you rest for tonight, no dreams and I'll just sing you a lullaby?

You've got a big day again tomorrow, don't you? And I want my little honeydew to be in top shape, if he's going outside to play…"

.

"A… Lullaby?"

.

"Yes, a Lullaby. When you were a baby, you'd always fuss and refuse to sleep because of the noise the monsters were making outside are home.

We'd block the noise, but you still wouldn't go to sleep because the noise bothered you so much.

So, you're father and I decided to sing you songs we've learned from our travels to get to you sleep.

You didn't like most of the songs we sang and just cried louder at some…

Until we sung this particularly song we heard from a traveling minstrel, and then found you sleeping peacefully after. Even when the noise outside grew worst…"

.

.

"…Can I hear it?"

.

.

"Of course! But forgive me if my voice is rusty. It's been a while since I sang it."

.

"I don't mind, I remember…

…that I always liked singing with you when we were at your clinic.

…It helped soothe some of the monsters you were treating…"

.

.

"Then get yourself comfortable and just listen to my voice…"

.

.

.

Oh, my little honeydew~
~I wish you saw you the way I do~

.

~Your voice sounds like a lullaby~
~That makes me feel all warm inside~

.

~Oh, what is this presence in me? ~
~I just can't seem to fathom~

~How sweet your words can be~

.
~Tell me, my sweet honeydew~
~Do you feel the same way I do? ~
~Cause you're just so beautiful~

.

~So beautiful… Pretty light~

~So beautiful… Pretty light~

~My beautiful... Pretty light~

.

~Honeydew…

…My Honeydew~

.

~Hold on tight if you don't wanna fall~
~You're everything, I would have asked for more~
~So, wipe your tears and know that you're incredible~
~Hold on tight if you don't wanna fall~
~There's no one else I'd rather be here for~
~And soon the sun will shine~

.

~Oh, my little honeydew~
~I wish you saw you the way I do~

.
~Your voice sounds like a lullaby~
~That makes me feel all warm inside~

.
~Tell me, my sweet honeydew~
~Do you feel the same way I do?~
~Can't you tell?~
~I'm losing my mind~

.
~Oh, my little honeydew~
~Do you see you the way I do? ~
~I'm in love with you~

.

~My Honeydew…~

.

.

.

.

"Good night 9S… sweet dreams, my little Honeydew…"

---

Omake II

(Visits)

"I'm home!" A4 shouts as she enters, or rather barges in, inside a house. Arriving right in front of the living room with someone reading a tome on her lap.

"Dear, you're home." Her mother greets her. She was an older woman and a retired hunter, who's appearance A4 could only describe as similar to an aged battle worn Rose.

"You've been gone for a little longer than we expected…"

"hhhhhhhssssss… How long?" A4 lets out a weary hiss, knowing that her mother was right, and she has been gone for quite a while and way pass the date she was supposed to go home for a visit.

"You're late by more than three weeks… a lot later than we previously thought." The older woman answers, while A4 reacts with a grimace, visibly flinching and knowing she's in a lot of trouble.

But not with her mother as one would expect, rather with someone much younger and more… reserved, in showing his displeasure.

"…Is he upstairs?" A4 whispers her question, while her mother answers with a tired nod.

"He is. And he knows that you're back home. He saw you flying and arriving at the village earlier from his window."

"Argh, curse those windows." A4 then looks at the stair with weary expression, feeling guilty. "I should apologize… we promised we'd go flying when I come back."

"Oh, don't worry too much. You know how your brother's just upset because he misses you, and he understands you could be gone for a while. You are exploring the world and seeing the sights. He'll forgive you, especially if you brought something back for him."

"Oh, I did. Lots, like I even had 2B and A2 help make some hunting tools for him to try, which are safe for his age if I may add." A4 said with enthusiasm while bringing up a large sack to show her mom.

"How are those two? Those twins must have been doing well in their training if they're helping you craft." Her mother teased with a raised eyebrow, while A4 scoffs and bats her shoulder playfully.

"I'm not that bad…"

"Your brother is almost nine and he could make better traps than you. Without getting caught in them."

"Speaking of brothers, I have an apology to make." A4 said, giving her mom a kiss on the cheek before making her way to the second floor. "I'll see you later, once I get mister grumpy in a better mood."

"Be careful A4. Know your brother might not take it kindly with your teasing if he'd in a bad mood. And I also think he might be a little jealous of A2 and 2B because you talk about them so much and threatened that they'll take away his big sister from him."

A4 waves a hand in disbelief as she ascends the stairs. "Psssh… 4S wouldn't be jealous or be afraid of me being taken away. He's got nothing to fear or be jealous of from the twins. I only talk about A2 and 2B to him lot, because he likes them and wants to meet and be friends with them someday."

"Okay, I trust you." Her mother calls back as she watches her daughter disappear to the second floor of their humble abode.

"Baby brother~… I'm home…" A4 calls out softly, opening the door to her brother's room gently.

She looks around, trying to spy if 4S was reading on his desk or was in the middle of crafting monster tool. In the end, she spots his bed with a very sizable lump on top, no doubt knowing it was him under his covers and trying to ignore her.

"Oh, where could my baby brother be? He must be hiding here somewhere?" She calls out playfully, entering the room feigning to search for him.

"He's not here… go away." A voice calls out under the sheets.

"Aha! Four… are you hiding under your covers again?" A4 comes closer to bed and puts her hands on her waist, playing as if she were to scold him. "You know I can't see you if you are under there."

"No, I'm not… And even if I was, it's obvious you can't see me dumb, dumb." He answers back rudely.

"Oh, don't be like that 4S. Your dear old sister has comeback after a long time away and this is how you treat me?" A4 dramatically places her hand on her forehead in mock offense.

Before bringing both her hands up and wiggling her fingers mischievously. "Or is it because you wants a visit from the tickle monster to get you out your bed?"

The lump visibly curls up and shies away from A4 before hearing a response. "The tickle monster could go eat my shorts."

"The tickle monster is slightly offended and could pull your covers off before she tickles you."

"Well, the tickle monster has been gone for more than a month, and I though she died and wouldn't come back… and breaking lots of promises."

A4's eyes widen from the remark and looks with shock at her brother.

She comes closer, about to ask why he said that, but as she approaches him she could hear sounds of small whines and sniffling under the covers, as she listens closely. Something dawns to A4, as she slowly brings her hands to her side, dropping all pretenses of playing around with her brother to cheer him up.

Deciding to approach him much more seriously, her expression takes a more knowing look, while she clutches a hand to her chest feeling guilty, knowing because it's from her for being late and how her prolonged absence made 4S worry a lot. This was the longest she's been away from him since she started as a hunter, especially when in the past they've always been together since he was born.

She slowly sits down on the edge of her brother's bed, before lying down and wrapping an arm around the large lump, feeling her brother hiding under the covers from her.

"Don't worry baby brother, the tickle monster is not going to visit you today and get you out of your bed. You can stay if you want." She said, feeling her brother shift closer to her. "But big sister A4 is here. And she's here to apologize for not coming home in time like we agreed…and for making you worry a lot."

She felt the covers move, feeling her brother move his hand to wipe his face, from what she guesses were few tears.

4S whispers "You took so long to comeback…"

A4 clutches him closer and apologizes. "I know, and I'm sorry for being so late."

"You promised you'd be back soon too… but you didn't, and I thought you…"

"I did promise and I'm sorry for breaking it, Four… But you should already know that there's nothing that would stop me from coming back home to you and mom, right?"

"Yeah… I know." A4 felt her brother shuffle closer and relax in her embrace.

"You said we'd go flying when you comeback, are we…?"

"We still are… We can go whenever you want."

She heard her brother sniffle a bit and felt him shift to face her. There was a short pause before she heard him whisper softly.

"I missed you…"

"I missed you too, baby brother." A4 said, feeling a bit of tears escape her own eyes as she pulls the covers down and gets to see her brother after being gone for so long.

Getting to see his darker hair and turquoise eyes, which was just a shade greener than hers. She brings a hand to cup his smaller youthful face, rubbing his cheek and wiping a few more tears from his eyes. "I'm really sorry 4S… can you forgive me? I promise your big sister will make it up to you, like really make it up for you."

"Really?" He asks, while A4 chuckles and gives him knowing smile.

"I got a sack of fireworks I made with A2, which I lied to mom by telling her it was hunting tools I made together with the twins."

"You did? And you hid it from mom?" 4S asked, a bit excited knowing that their mom wouldn't allow them to play with fireworks since their village bans it.

"Yeah, I did. When I told A2 you've never seen fire works before, she was aghast and suddenly wanted to make you some, since in her words 'they're one of the most amazing, colorful and bright things to see in the sky besides a flying wyvern'. Plus, fireworks are loud and explosive."

"But where will we set them off?" He asked, while A4 reassures him.

"I know a place and we can do it tomorrow morning. Could be a good wake up alarm for the village." She whispers impishly with 4S chuckling softy.

"Dan is gong to be so mad at you…"

"Let him, he won't be that mad anyway. Everyone's going to like it."

"Okay… I forgive you…" 4S replies before moving closer to A4 and hugging her tightly. "You think I should make something in return for A2?"

"Sure, if you could think of something." A4 replies, hugging him back and brushing a hand on his dark locks of hair.

"You think I can meet her and her sister, 2B, someday?" He asks tilting to his head to A4, with an eager expression.

"Someday, you will. I promise I'll get you to meet them and let you guys be the best of friends." A4 answers and makes a promise to her brother. "When you get older, I'll take you outside village and head to YoRHa. You'll meet all kinds of people too and all kinds of stuff."

"…I like that." A4 could feel 4S smile as he snuggles back to their hug.

"Oh, do you want to hear something interesting that I came across before I got back here?" She asked, suddenly remembering something.

"Sure."

"When I was out flying, I saw the most peculiar sight that I think would mean something for us and the rest of the village." A4 said excitedly.

"Really, what was it?" 4S asked, his curiosity heard in his voice.

"I saw a boy, not from YoRHa…

… Riding a Tigrex around Whistill forest."