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.)

34. Chapter 34

Author's notes:

Oh my gosh! It's been almost a year since I've updated this fic. I'm so happy that I am since this fic is my baby and what got me into fanfic writing. Life got in the way with my updates and a lot of things happened since the last time I a posted chapter for NieR: MHST. Monster Hunter stories 2: Wings of Ruin was released, I thoroughly enjoyed playing it, Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak was announced, I'm hoping for some monsters to return like Deviljho and Lagiacrus, and it was Monster Hunter's 18th anniversary and NieR: Automata 5th anniversary, plus an anime announcement for the latter.

*I'm a bit mixed feelings for the anime adaption, but I can't help but be excited.

Now I'm happy to post this new chapter that you readers would hopefully enjoy. It's mostly fluff, and minor introductions to the other characters who would appear in this fic.

Also this chapter was supposedly a lot longer because I wanted to add a lot of stuff, but I decide to split it into two and hopefully post the next part much earlier—or at least not almost a year later.

Thank you for those who have sticked with this fic and still have an interest with it. Your support is welcomed and I'm happy if I'm able to entertain you with my NieR x Monster Hunter story.

With that said, I won't hold you any longer with this Author's notes.

So here is the chapter, and an Omake too, enjoy!

P.S. just a fun fact.

03/15/19 was the date I posted this fic for the first time in FFNET. Which makes my fanfic NieR:MHST 3 years old by the time I posted this chapter. (03/16/22) How the time has passed.

---

Tonight, was the night.

The night 9S found himself at home, currently waiting anxiously in their living room.

Waiting for the inevitable arrival of his partner and date for the evening, 2B. Who was at the moment, still in her shared room with A2 and getting ready for their outing to the Founding Festival of YoRHa and its opening night performances.

To say 9S was nervous would be an understatement. He was outright panicking internally, while at the same time dueling with the storm of emotions and feelings inside of him.

He was freaking out in the inside, like a whole swarm of butterflies were fluttering in his stomach, and his feet were shaking in place due to his nerves. From the anxiety of finally going out together with 2B. Hoping and wishing that tonight would go well, and nothing would go wrong.

And holy shit! He did it!

He asked 2B out on a date, a real date. 9S still couldn't believed that it was just yesterday, when he asked 2B unexpectedly to go out together to the festival's opening night.

Recalling that he only briefly planned the date itself, with the help of his friends, earlier of that same morning. And after much teasing and egging from 801S and 32S for him to ask 2B out, he decided to meet her later that day and somehow mustered the courage to ask her out.

To be honest, 9S was scared for the worst, the moment he saw 2B exit the Guild building and he made the leap of faith to ask her out.

That she would turn him down—or outright reject his offer, which would break his heart—despite the confidence he and his friends had that she should say yes. Yet his worries and fears were put to rest, when 2B accepted his offer for a date.

She even seemed to be looking forward to it too, stuttering her reply and not realizing she was blushing. Unaware 9S took in every single detail of her reaction and response. Because at that moment when she said yes, he felt over the moon with his heart beating ecstatically. Wanting to immortalize the memory in his mind and vowing that it would be forever engraved in his memories, grouped together with the others he had if 2B.

Just the thought of remembering it again, made 9S giddy and excited.

"Oh, my gods… I'm really going out with 2B."

He couldn't help muttering briefly to himself, before deciding to go over again his plan for the night. And it was a simple plan, easy to follow and to remember, glad that he had the help of 32S and 801S pitching in some ideas.

Basically, it starts with him and 2B spending the first few hours going around YoRHa; See the stalls, do some of the games, and try out any new attractions present. Even grab some food to eat and maybe takeout for them later. Before heading to the central square in front of the Guild, to watch the YoRHa stage plays and band performances of the opening night.

Essentially nothing too different to what they do normally from past festivals in the last years. Overall, simply having fun and a good time in this year's founding festival as usual.

Except 9S knows that this time, he and 2B are also on a date. Which of course, meant there are certain elements of courting expected and the goal of becoming closer with their partner. Which is why, with the help of 801S and 32S, 9S prepared something special for him and 2B later when they'll watch the stage plays together later in the evening.

He hopes 2B would like what he planned, and the rest of their night together would go off without a hitch. Plus, the chance to progress their relationship further.

"You can do this Nines; you can do this." 9S started pumping himself up.

Standing up from his seat on the couch, drawing some confidence and a bit of faith. He already made his resolve to finally address his feelings directly to 2B and reveal them to her…Officially.

Not that she already knows, but there is something special of finally getting his feelings across upfront. Admit that he does see her more than a friend or someone he's really close to.

Besides, 9S knows that with 2B, being honest and direct with her is the best approach. And that 801S and 32S was right, he was also getting a bit tired of dancing around with 2B and their feelings for each other.

Now, he just wants to love 2B openly, without hiding his affections anymore.

"…kuu." From the latter thought, 9S muffles an embarrass squeal, hiding his reddening cheeks in his hands.

He couldn't help acting a bit like his age, flustered just the thought of him and 2B being a couple. It was hard keeping his emotions in check for the time being and not get too excited or overjoyed, yet.

Luckily, 9S was able to calm down, just in time when he heard the telltale sounds of footsteps descending down the stairs from their second floor. And knowing who it was, he turned to face the person and give a greeting.

"Hey 2—" Only for his words to get stuck in his throat, upon seeing 2B and her attire.

She was wearing a black kimono, it being a festive Yukata, the length of it reached her legs but not enough to restrict her movements and possessing a slit on one side of her hip. Floral designs are patterned at the sleeves and lower half of the attire, images compose of mainly Lunar tears decorating the entire dress. Their brighter white color having a contrasting compliment to the dark kimono. And holding all of it together was similarly a colored sash that wrapped around 2B's waist.

9S also noticed that 2B has put on some light makeup. Seeing a notable darker shade present on her lips, and a touch of concealer on her cheeks. While the ever-present ribbon he gifted to her years before, topping off her entire outfit for tonight, adding a bit of sentimentality. Knowing how much that ribbon meant something to 2B.

In her entirety, 2B was even more beautiful than she normally was in 9S's eyes.

Words were not enough to describe how ethereal and elegant 2B looked at this very moment to 9S. How exquisite and bewitching, that he would shamelessly admit, her curves were from wearing the Yukata. Her assets accentuated and made more noticeable through the formfitting attire. While her snow-white skin is made more noticeable, in contrast to the dark fabric of her attire.

Too lost at the sight of her, 9S didn't notice he was staring.

"Nines?"

Until 2B called out to him and cutting from his entrance stupor.

"A-ah, 2B!"

9S quickly made his way to his date for the night. Feeling a bit embarrass for just staring at her and scolded himself briefly for not saying anything. He could imagine a voice similar to A2's telling him to say something and compliment.

Which 9S immediately sets to do, as he stutters an apology.

"Sorry, I just. W-well, ah—" He gave one more glance at 2B before he spoke honestly. "You look beautiful 2B… I think the Yukata suits you."

"Oh, really?" 2B blushed lightly from the compliment. "I'm glad you do. I think it fits me perfectly, too."

'Too perfectly' 9S thought internally. He wondered if Zinnia made a mistake and bought 2B a size a bit smaller than her usual. Not that 9S was complaining, but he hopes 2B was comfortable wearing it. Though it appears she didn't have trouble moving around, 2B even made a small twirl and gave him a short glimpse of her entire attire.

"You don't look bad yourself Nines." 2B then spoke, taking a glance at 9S's and his attire for the night.

"You think so?" 9S glanced at his own Yukata.

Seeing the black colored fabric with floral patterns, though instead of Lunar tears like 2B's, 9S's had silver colored maple leaves that were designed and patterned around his robe. The unique style decorated and adorned on his sleeves and lower half of his kimono, with a dark grey sash that ties his entire Yukata all together and wrapped around his waist.

His attire was basically similar to 2B's, which was not a surprise since both of their kimonos were actually a matching pair. That Zinnia no doubt bought for the occasion and for them to couple up.

Though in 9S's opinion, 2B wore her Yukata much better than he did. "Thanks for the compliment 2B. But I doubt I'd looked as good in it compared to you and your own."

9S brushed a hand to his hair. "I wasn't sure if I should have styled my hair or just combed it a bit."

2B disagrees with a shake of her head. "Nonsense. You look handsome Nines, and I rather have your hair the same style it was." She brushed her own hands through 9S's locks, before gliding it down to cup his cheek and looking straight at his eyes, speaking sincerely. "I'd prefer you look just the way you are. And you're already cute as it is."

9S felt his cheeks heat up at 2B's admission, while finding it adorable of seeing her blush lightly too, upon realizing of what she just said. He was liking this bold and more open side of 2B, no doubt already taking the initiative of showing more of her affection towards him.

9S thought he should step his own game too, as a result. But before he could even sputter or try to make decent reply, he noticed something while standing close to 2B.

"Hey 2B, can you hold still for a minute?" He asked, much to 2B's slight confusion, giving him curious gaze.

9S looked down to 2B's feet and saw she was wearing flat sandals, while he checked his own footwear, it being the same or similar flat footwear. He then turned his attention back to 2B, who continues to watch him before he suddenly flashes her a grin.

"Hey 2B, I think I got growth spurt." 9S spoke with a playful tone.

"What do you mean… Oh!" 2B at first didn't understand what 9S meant, until she realize that they were looking at each other eye to eye, unlike the uneven gaze they used to share before. Figuring out that 9S did get taller, which was a surprise to her to say the least.

"Wow Nines. I didn't notice." 2B said while raising her hand to measure their height. Moving it between her head and 9S's.

"It's probably because your still taller when you're wearing your heels." 9S pointed out. "Although, without it, I think I'm an inch taller than you."

2B narrowed her eyes at the claim. "Now let's not get ahead of ourselves."

"You mean an inch ahead of you." 9S teased, while waving his own hand between their heights and obviously making it look like he was taller. "See! You know, I think I can get used to being the taller one!"

"Don't even think about it." 2B rebuke, disagreeing before claiming. "And you see, I'm still taller. My eyebrows are still higher than yours."

"Yeah, sure it is… it's okay to be in denial 2B."

"I'm not. And I think you're the one in denial, Hmm?"

9S couldn't help chuckling at their light argument of who's taller, while 2B pouts and turns away disapprovingly, though he knows she wasn't too serious about being wound up about it.

He felt a bit of his nerves and worries for the nights dissipate from his mind. Having more confidence to fill the spaces and replace them instead. Making him more motivated to continue their night like they were now.

At ease and spending their time together having fun.

"Hey 2B?" 9S called, looking at the beautiful and still pouting girl before him.

"What?" She answered not looking his way.

9S simply grabs a hold one of 2B's hands, the act also getting her to look at him.

"Shall we get on to our date?" He asked, offering a small smile and a look of excitement and adoration towards her.

2B was slightly caught off guard by the sincere expression 9S gave her, but she in turn gives him the same look and responds with a more reserved tone. "Yes. We should."

With a warm feeling in their chest and bated anticipation for the festivities the village of YoRHa will offer in this year's Founding Festival, 9S and 2B depart their humble abode, locking the door and stepping out to make their way to the village.

"You think the others are already having fun in the festival?" 9S asked, his hand clasped together with 2B's as they walked, their fingers intertwined with one another.

"I think so... Zinnia and 6O looked to be excited in managing the stage plays tonight. So are Jackass, Pops, and the Commander with their performances later." 2B hummed in thought. "Also we both know A2 is helping Anemone with the security for the night, while the Pods are off helping Whistill's felynes for the evening in their own stall."

"And 32S and 801S have their own respective plans too today—Oh, we should try the new ride 801S said the research center prepared." 9S adds with a bit of excitement. "I heard you can win prizes from it too. We got a lot of time before the stage plays anyways to try it out."

"Indeed. Then what should we do first?"

"Ladies choice. Though we can make your decision once we arrive." 9S suggests, which 2B nods agreeing.

"I don't mind whatever we do, I'm okay as long as we have fun and do it together."

"Couldn't have said it better than myself."

Both 9S and 2B leaned closer to each other, slowing down their steps and taking their time heading towards the village.

The couple wanting to relish the moment of being alone together, before joining the inevitable heavy bustling and festive mood the village has that they'll get into later.

---

Despite the present cheery and exciting ambience of the village… A2 wasn't in with the whole celebratory mood.

In fact, she felt mild sense of boredom growing, while patrolling the streets of YoRHa.

Watching many festive goers around, enjoying the overall celebration and festivities of YoRHa's founding. Whether a tourist, a local villager, or a stall owner, the young hunter kept a diligent gaze while walking down the streets, keeping an eye out for trouble, despite the lack of any as of late.

As expected of her, since after offering to help Anemone and the guild with the security for the festival the other day.

A2 was even wearing her new Black Belt armor. A gift from the hunting captain for volunteering, despite not needing to. The armor itself was not bad and at least easy to move around in. While also coupled with a few good skills A2 knew she can use in future hunts. Appearance wise, it looked to be custom made for her physique too, the only difference from the standard Black belt armor being that helm was significantly smaller and thinner; streamed line to be more form fitting, almost like a giant head band to cover her forehead. It wasn't exactly eye catching either or made A2 standout in the crowded streets, as much as the other hunters on patrol with her. It did leave her prepared to handle any kind of physical and troubling confrontations should any arise.

Again, not that anything noteworthy happened since the night and her shift began.

Besides the growing boredom she felt, A2 was rather bothered by how tedious some of the things she's done while on duty.

Most of the time it was giving directions to a few lost and airheaded tourists or stopping some pick pocketers too dumb enough to steal while there were multiple hunters on watch and subtly hidden around the crowd. Both cases weren't difficult to do or grueling to say for someone of her caliber, yet besides those two things, A2 felt that there was nothing much else for her to do.

Not that she wants for something to go wrong, just for the sake of her of having something to do. It was nice that the evening so far was peaceful, and her village had a chance to relax and take their mind off the previous months troubles. Plus, it seemed security felt to be overstaff for the night, with a lot more hunters that volunteered to help than what A2 and Anemone initially expected the day before. Which was good, as it meant there would be more watchful eyes and enough able hands to help out in case of emergencies.

The Hunting captain was even confident her fellow hunters were diligent in managing the security of the village. Supported by the fact A2 could count the number of times she crossed paths with others on duty, patrolling the streets and helping people out in the past hour.

So, there was really nothing to worry about in regard to YoRHa's safety. And as an added benefit, the on-duty hunters themselves can enjoy the festivities, as Anemone gave them permission to enjoy the festival with a little leniency, as long as they remain diligent on their job.

A2 included and supposedly she could have used the opportunity to stave off her boredom as well.

Some hunters with similar thoughts were already doing so, as she recalls seeing a few already holding a beverage or a food item on one hand. Others took breaks in between patrols to try out some of the game stalls and winning prizes.

There were even hunter pairs, who were allegedly assigned together—so they say— and going on an impromptu dates while diligently watching over the streets. One couple actually broke up a fight happening between two drunkards that got into an argument, as A2 recalls witnessing a female hunter roundhouse kick an aggressor to a wall, while her partner reassures the crowd in the background.

But as tempted A2 was to follow in her peers example, confident too she can afford having some for herself while on duty, she didn't feel… okay, going around the festival by herself.

She knew why. Despite her loner tendencies and avoid socializing in any given opportunity, A2 does enjoy hanging out with her sister and their friends during this time of the year, of YoRHa's founding anniversary.

But with everyone having their own plans for the evening, A2 figured she wouldn't be having as much fun by herself than she was with her friends. Not comfortable to do in forcing herself to have a good time either.

It doesn't help that as she continuous to walk around the village—watching people spend time with their peers or family and enjoying each other's company—A2 started to feel a deep longing rise within her.

As long past memories resurface. Influenced by recent events and the carving knife she left at home for safe keeping.

While the festival sounds compelled her mind to remember of simpler times…

Of two young girls holding hands with young woman. All three dressed in colorful festive kimonos, as they walk along the streets with both girls tugging at the woman's arms to follow them to a certain stall or game they wanted play…

Then the memory then shifts to the two young girls much older than before, but now accompanied with a group of friends instead, enjoying the festival together as one boy tugs one of them to follow him…

A2 shook her head from the thoughts of those previous memories, realizing she actually paused in her steps during her recollection, and was now standing in the middle of the road. She received a few odd stares before resuming her patrol and ignoring them. Muttering a curse to herself, for standing around like an idiot lost in her thoughts.

A2 tried not to feel bored and melancholic at the same time, though she was failing at that regard.

Normally, occasions like festivals or celebratory holidays never made her feel sentimental, not when A4 was still around, who was always a ball of joy and energetic excitement. And when she passed away, A2 had 2B, Zinnia, and then 9S when they found him, to keep her thoughts occupied from sorrowful memories and the warm company they gave that came with it. Her friends were also there offering the same respite and she admits, to a certain degree, that she misses their company too.

Alas with 2B and 9S going on their date, Zinnia and 6O handling the stage plays which were the main events for the evening, and 32S and 801S having their own plans as well, the latter even managing the game stalls on Jackass' behalf; Their absence did make her feel.. a bit lonely, for the night.

With A2 by herself, on the job patrolling the streets of YoRHa. Her friends off having their own fun.

Failing to prevent her mind from wandering and recalling the previous years Founding Festival spent with them. Of how 6O and 9S would be the most excited in the bunch and leading them where to go first, 2B unfortunately becoming the first one to be drag off by the two together. 32S and 801S would give suggestions of the latest trends and shops to spy, sometimes making a small competition of who held the most street knowledge. A2 would follow all of them to their suppose fun, feigning interest yet deeply enjoying their entire outing.

Being with them during festivals, actually made her feel like a kid again.

The same kid who loved festivals in her young age, especially with A4 who was the one that pointed out all the fun and amusement that came with the celebration. When her late mentor was still in YoRHa, A2 recalls that they would try out all the games, buy fireworks to set off in a quiet corner for themselves, and eat all the good food that was offered.

She remembered particularly that A4 would always seek the newest deserts and rank which stall served the sweetest delight for the night. Which was all for naught since she'd always choose a crepe stand, crepe being her favorite dessert, or ranking all the crepe stands instead of the other stalls serving noteworthy desserts.

"A2, 2B come here! This one is serving them in three layers with different flavors! Let's get one with all our favorites!"

"But we've already got a crepe each from the last stand…"

"And now we can get one to share with all our favorites! Oh, I guess I know who's going to be first place for tonight!"

"You're not listening are you?"

In her nostalgia, A2 was not surprised she stopped at the stall selling the particular dessert. Then eyeing the crepe stand's menu and seeing the different options and additional toppings available. She can order one with two flavors of filing or two kinds of fruit to stuff in her dessert.

For a brief moment, A2 thought to herself and then made decision walking towards the stand.

"Here's your double custard crepe with caramel glaze! Thank you for your purchase ma'am and have a nice evening." The server then gave A2 her order, as she exchange the appropriate amount of zenny for her purchase. Giving a quick thanks back to the server before moving on with her treat.

Taking a bite of her patisserie dessert, A2 relish the sweetness that invade her mouth and didn't regret her decision of buying something to eat. She was feeling peckish anyway.

She also made her mind to the make the most of her evening and try to enjoy the festival despite being on her own. She can't spend the rest of the night moping and reminiscing while her friends are no doubt having fun. Even despite the unrestful thoughts and memories of A4 that resurface whenever she is reminded of the late hunter, while missing her too.

Though A2 knows, if A4 was here, she would have encourage her in enjoying the festivities too. Maybe even tell her to see which food stall has the best desserts and rank which one was the sweetest on her behalf.

A2 softly chuckled at the latter thought.

Who knows, she might actually enjoy patrolling around the village by herself and trying each stall on her own pace. Not like with her energetic friends who would breeze past and do everything quickly without a beat.

"Hey, you hear that Chief Zinnia will still be hosting the stage plays?"

"I know, I'm glad they're still pushing through for this year too!"

A couple of festive goers spoke out loud, enough that A2 heard them as she passed by.

She noticed that she was actually close to the main square and decided to head there to see if there was anything she could do to help out. Maybe even give Anemone of an update of how everything is fine and peaceful, while visiting Zinnia and 6O, and see how the night's preparations for the performances are doing.

.

.

It didn't take long for A2 to reach the main square in front of the guild.

She saw first the previously in construction stage the day before, which was now complete and ready for the performances scheduled for tonight. Seats where being arrange by felynes while a temporary band of musicians played on stage for entertainment.

A2 saw Anemone near the center, directing some hunters and felynes alike with the seating placement, and made her way to the captain as the latter saw and waved at her direction.

"A2! Glad to see you've taken some liberty of enjoying yourself while you're out on patrol." Anemone smiled as she eyed the nearly finished crepe in A2's hand. "I assume there's no trouble out in the streets or anything that needs to be taken care of?"

"Nothing I couldn't handle. Or with how many of us our out there." A2 replied, with Anemone chuckling from her remark.

"Yes, I've noticed that we may be overstaff for the evening. But not a problem, and every hunter still gets to enjoy the festival while they're out on duty."

The hunting captain raises an eyebrow at A2. "So I assume you're here looking to help out?"

"More or less…" A2 shrugs. "But I also came to see how's everything going before the main event later. And if there's nothing here for me to do, I can just always return to patrolling the streets."

"Or trying dessert stands?" Anemone teased, mockingly reaching to the hunters crepe, and smirking as A2 simply responds by finishing her dessert.

"Well, sorry to say that we have everything covered here in the main square." Anemone gestures to the number of hunters and felynes moving around the area setting up equipment and chairs. "And as of late, the only mildly interesting that happened here was a woman looking for her boyfriend."

"Really?" It was A2's turn to raise an eyebrow at Anemone, who then points behind to a pair of hunters talking with a woman.

When A2 turned her attention to the sight, she was caught of guard by the woman—or rather the woman's appearance and unique attire.

If she were to describe the woman with a few words, she would be 'Drop-dead gorgeous'.

Gorgeous being a more tamed word, because the woman was a head turner and really sexy, even in A2's opinion. Her attire helped, it being a kimono that looked to be a size smaller for the woman to wear, being barely modest and more scantily clad, while emphasizing on the woman's curves. Dangerously short near the thigh and hips area. That one could easily see, what A2 could guess, the lingerie the woman was wearing, if she were to perform a roundhouse kick.

While Drop-dead, because if one isn't falling to their knees because of the woman's beauty, they'd be dropping down and eating dirt instead from the dangerous vibe the woman was giving off, and gave the impression that she can knock you out with a flick of her finger.

A2 was impressed, and rarely amazed, by the deadly aura she could sense from the woman, despite her mildly annoyed expression and reserved demeanor.

Then both she and Anemone were caught off guard, at the expletive manner of speech that came out of the woman's mouth.

"Are you cock-shit brains listening to a damn word I said?! Or are you horny tit gazers too busy staring and letting your crotch heads do the thinking?! HUH?!"

The two hunters talking to the woman raised their hands in a placating manner, trying to clam her down and not draw more of the crowd getting curious at their exchange.

"Ma'am please calm down, we're here to help you." One hunter said, while his partner brought out a notepad. "It's not that we weren't listening.. or err getting distracted."

The woman scowls, and the two hunters shuffle uncomfortably before the second hunter explains.

"But's hard to narrow down appearances, with you just saying you're looking for a guy who's running around like an idiot."

The first hunter adds. "We've received many reports of the kind, mostly about drunken men and women who had more than a drink or two they couldn't handle."

The woman holds a pensive expression, thinking if she didn't give a proper description earlier of who she was looking for, or forgot to.

Regardless, she relents, sighing before addressing the two hunters once more.

"Fine. But I'm not going to repeat myself." The hunter with the notepad prepares himself, while the woman begins.

"He's tall like this height." She gestures her hand above her head, at least half a foot or taller than her. "White hair, white as an egg or snow white like a shitty fairy tale princess. He also has blue eyes, deep blue, or a bit gray depending on the lighting and… well, cute lips, and sometimes a nose I really what to punch for how damn pig-headed he can be at times."

"Cute lips and… Punch-able nose…" The second hunter jots down.

"Also, he's…" The woman's cheeks flush lightly for a brief moment, before admitting. "Admittedly, hot as ****. But that can be my bias speaking.."

"How would you rate his hotness?" The first hunter asks, a sincere tone in his voice, while Kaine shrugs and makes a small wave of her hands.

"Ehh… generally he's a 7-8ish out of 10, but he's also my damn boyfriend and isn't a shitty lay—actually good enough to move him to a 9 or 10 with plus points."

The two hunters kept whatever reactions they had from the woman's latter words to themselves, while silently cursing at the lucky bastard who is the woman's boyfriend.

Until the second hunter suddenly exclaims. "Wait! I recall receiving a similar report from a bunch of couples matching your descriptions ma'am."

"Oh, yeah!" The first hunter snaps his fingers recalling as well. "Tall white haired, really attractive male, wearing a fit black shirt and grey slacks."

The woman asks. "Was he also spouting something about looking for his daughter or mistaking someone else for her?"

"Yes! Most of the couples said he'd mistaken them for someone else." The first hunter answers, while his partner adds. "He was also last spotted in the western quadrant of the village. Admittedly, most of the attractions there are catered for couples on dates and the like."

"Gog-damn it Nier..." The woman pinches the bridges of her nose, clearly irritated.

A2 and Anemone continue to watch with amusement at the exchange between the woman and the two hunters. Before the former heads off to find her 'lost' boyfriend, after being given more directions and info of where to find him.

"Well that was amusing." A2 smirked, finding the entire scene a bit ridiculous, though entertaining.

"True, YoRHa isn't short of having eccentric individuals visiting our village." Anemone shared the same sentiments, before turning to A2. "But with that out of the way, there's nothing else interesting going on here in the square, before the Stage play performances later."

"Then I best get back on patrol." A2 said, taking it as her cue to leave and part ways with Anemone.

But the hunting captain stops her briefly and suggests. "You might want to take this chance to meet with Zinnia, and maybe let her see how you're doing, since she's been at bit worried about you spending the festival by yourself."

"Or if she has anything you can do for her, to help out." The captain adds, before A2 could give an excuse to pass to Zinnia of not to worry. "You might not know, even if I'm confident of our village chief's capabilities, there might a thing or two our YoRHa founder needs for the evening. Maybe even a pep talk since she's hosting tonight."

A2 thought of Anemone's suggestion for a moment, before quickly deciding it wouldn't hurt to check on her guardian. She was planning to check on her guardian and 6O anyway. While recalling Zinnia can have bouts of stage frights despite doing a lot of public speaking through the years as YoRHa's chief.

It was one of the reasons why the wyverian brought A2 and 2B to her many public events for moral support when they were kids. Besides her attempts to try to show off her 'cool' side to her 'babies'.

"I guess I'll go see Zinnia first and check if she needs anything."

Anemone gives an appreciative nod before directing A2 to the guild. "She might be in the captain's quarters, hyping herself up or helping out the performers for their acts. Last I saw her, she was assisting some felynes with an animatronic… or a really big prop."

"Noted." A2 waves Anemone a goodbye, before she heads toward the main doors of the guild. Making her way to the steps and waving to a few hunters she recognized while she enters the building.

Inside, she finds the main hall of the guild has turned to an impromptu dressing room. With a few performers lounging about and many more preparing for tonight's performances. While stagehands assist and were running around shouting incoherent orders or reminders. But A2 simply ignored them and made her way through the hall. Noticing that her wyverian guardian was nowhere to be found either, despite the chaos that is the guild's main hall, and guessed that she might be at the captain's quarters, as Anemone said where she would be.

Along the way, A2 made a passing glance and spotted Jackass and her crew. Seeing the explosive addict's band with 6O, the handler-to-be helping them apply their make-up. She tried—and failed—to keep a grin from forming on her lips, when she spotted a disgruntled Commander White being fussed over by both Jackass and 6O with her makeup.

The esteemed commander looked miserable, her expression hinting of wanting to be anywhere else than in the dressing room or be dolled upon for a metal rock performance. A lot of black and white face paint, stood at a table beside White.

Chuckling quietly at the amusing sight, A2 was quick to make her way to the hall that leads to the captain's quarters.

Wondering if Zinnia will have anything her for to do. Or they could simply catch up and A2 could maybe even give a pep talk, if Zinnia had any nerves for hosting the evenings stage plays.

Whatever happens, A2 was sure she can handle it. Her mind confident as she arrived at the door of the captain's quarters, and gave a few knocks for common courtesy, before announcing her presence.

"Zinnia, are you there? It's A2, I came to see you."

"A2?" But who responded, was a stranger's voice.

Immediately, A2 was taken back and wondered if Zinnia was with someone… or if someone else was in the captain's quarters. Her train of thought turning to suspicion and drifting to the worst-case scenario of the probability that someone sneaked into the captains quarters. This could mean trouble, if they didn't come with good intentions.

"A2, is that you!? Come in, come in!" Fortunately, hearing the familiar voice of Zinnia ceased A2's escalating thought.

The young hunter was hoping she wasn't interrupting something important yet felt at ease Zinnia was in the room. She was greeted first by her wyverian guardian's cheerful face the moment she opened the door and entered the room.

"What a good coincidence you came to the guild at this time." Zinnia spoked, smiling vividly. "We were just talking about you, and I'm hoping you'll be open to a small request of mine for the evening."

We? A2 was then reminded that there was someone else in the room with Zinnia. The wyverian chief made a gesture to her side, just as A2 was about to ask who the other person was.

But all her words were suddenly caught in her throat, as she paused and stared at the figure beside Zinnia.

The individual's… appearance, unexpectedly spurred the forlorn feelings A2 was trying hard to get her mind off for the night.

Only for them to rise up with vengeance, as she continues to stare at the stranger before her.

Her breath hitch, as she found the stranger's—no, the boy's appearance strikingly familiar to someone else dear.

And A2 couldn't help her mind race through the similarities he possessed, comparing them to…

A4, who's hair was a beautiful shade of dark brunette… While his was darker, and more black than brown.

Framing a feminine face that always sported a bright smile… But his was clearly masculine and youthful, with a timid expression instead.

While her striking turquoise eyes, filled with confidence and joy, was something one wouldn't forget… And A2 was staring at those same eyes, though his was greener in shade, yet it didn't diminished the uncanny resemblance.

The young hunter knew who this boy was, heard who this boy is, from the many stories her late mentor told her about him.

She just didn't expect to meet him at all… not after A4 passed away.

Yet, A2 already knew his name at the tip of her tongue. Even when Zinnia started to introduce them to each other.

"I think some introductions are in order."

The wyverian chief gestures her hand at A2.

"This is A2, she's one of my charges." Zinnia says to their guest, deciding to introduce A2 herself. Seeing the blank and mildly stunned expression of her charge.

"And A2 this is…" Zinnia then gestures her hand to the boy next to her, who takes it as his cue to introduce himself.

"Oh, right... yes." The boy places a hand to his chest and says his name.

"Hi, I'm 4S."

The now named 4S, then adds an awkward smile and an equally timid wave in greeting to A2.

"It's ah… nice to meet you."

A2 gave a small wave back, finding his late mentor's younger brother's introduction to be boyish, shy and a bit too timid.

Though actually kind of cute—Wait, what?

Where did that come from?

Despite being able to register his name, A2's mind was still reeling from her late mentor's younger brother's sudden, and unexpected, appearance. Shock by the flurry of emotional feelings that rose within her, from 4S's striking resemblance to A4. Unable to think clearly and how to react properly as such.

Zinnia softly giggles in the background, amused as A2 continues to scrutinize 4S, who clearly didn't know how to act around her. The Wyverian couldn't help herself, for the next words that came out of her mouth.

"Now A2… its rude to stare, you know…" Zinnia teased, with a playful expression. "I know 4S here is easy on the eyes, but it doesn't mean you can just ogle him because it's your first-time meeting each other. No matter how handsome you think he is…"

'$ %#%$%!'

A2 looked away and felt her cheeks flush scarlet at her guardian's remark, just as 4S's face flushed the same shade of embarrassing red, while averting his gaze from her too.

Leave it to annoying and no sense of boundaries or anything related to the matter of tact and sensitivity, Zinnia, to metaphorically bulldoze the room with an awkward uncomfortable tension.

In less than a minute, A2 would point out.

The young hunter would have spent the next minute throttling the clearly smug wyverian, plus wipe that irritating teasing smirk to the floor with her fist. If she wasn't stunned by this unexpected event and the raging emotions she felt from seeing someone resembling A4 in the flesh, and her younger brother no less!

A2 was not prepared for this development tonight.

"Aw, you two are so cute…"

Nor was she prepared for any further teasing from Zinnia, or her amusement of seeing their reactions.

Fortunately, much to A2's relief, Zinnia decided to move their conversation away from the awkward atmosphere and back to business.

"Okay, now that introductions are out of the way, A2 would you be so kind to lend me your ears and listen to the request I have?"

A2 willed her blush to die down, while she tries to listen to Zinnia as she explains what her request was. Though, she could guess it involves 4S and why he was in YoRHa in the first place. She wondered if it was related to A4 as well, and if it's one of the reasons he's here.

She made a brief glanced at 4S again, upon hearing Zinnia mention him, but accidently locked gaze with the boy instead. Which may, or may have not, caused A2 to be distracted and paused from listening to Zinnia's words, droning them out.

As she stares with her own cerulean pupils to 4S's turquoise eyes, a shade greener than his sister's, but still really reminded her of A4 and was beautiful to look at. It spurred another wave of bashfulness to wash over the young hunter for some unknown reason.

4S then gave A2 a meek smile and a look that meant he hopes they could get along. Before returning his attention to Zinnia.

A2 found the small gesture a bit cute, and does agree 4S looks easy on the eyes when he—No, no, no.

'Stupid wyverian comments… calling him handsome… he isn't that good looking, and she wasn't ogling him either.' Quickly, A2 mentally shook Zinnia's earlier words away. She wasn't expecting her guardian's words to affect her so much.

She tried to ignore them and focus her attention hearing what Zinnia was blabbering about. The wyverian chief looked to be excited for some reason and somehow caught herself in her own world, since the brief moment of time A2 wasn't listening.

But as A2 continues to take quick looks at 4S, a certain sense of curiosity about him grows. That was slowly turning, to wanting to know more about him and what his relationship was like with A4. How it was as a sibling, how it felt growing up together, and living together in their home village. Maybe even shed some light to the shrouded area of A4's past she kept hidden.

Her late mentor had her secrets, and A2 wonders if 4S knows anything about them.

Hoping if he'll be open to sharing them too.

Also, A2 was glad she wasn't the only one suffering under Zinnia's mischief, seeing his face still sporting a faint blush on his cheeks.

---

"And strike! We have a winner!" A stall owner shouts, as 9S pumps a fist in the air and relishes his victory at a ball toss game he finished playing.

"Yes, that's one more win for me! Ain't that right 2B?" He smugly asked to his companion, turning to see 2B giggling lightly at him.

"Yes. That would mean our scores are tied." 2B says, before getting a competitive glint in her eyes. "What say should our tie breaker be?"

9S simply grins. "I don't know. But I'm sure we can find something around here for one more game."

The couple were in an area filled with gaming stalls and have taken to a little competition between themselves. Once they arrived in the main village of YoRHa, the two decided to have some fun and shake off more of their awkward dating nerves together, which is why they settled in by playing games and winning prizes for each other.

Even going so far to start tallying scores of whoever won or got more points, from every stall they competed with each other.

And it worked like a charm.

2B and 9S felt more at ease with each other, almost forgetting that they were on a date and not forgetting at the same time. Both of them getting bolder in acting like a couple in between games and giving small romantic gestures. Like a simple kiss on the cheek or a small hug for every victory.

Even trying to one up each other by distracting the other with flirty winks or cheesy jokes.

2B lost count the number times she had to stifle an amused snort from the number of corny jokes or pick lines 9S would use on her, so that she would lose focus or miss her aim. In turn 9S found himself lost at the number times 2B retorts with her own use of a cringy pick up line, from how unusual it is to hear stuff like that from her, or from the flying kisses she would unexpectedly shoot him, much to his heart's rapid beating as a result.

In the end, 2B and 9S were lost in each other's company. Not caring of other people and ignoring the bustling crowd of festive goers with them. If anything, it appears they were blending in well with the other couples and those with dates of their own enjoying the night.

They didn't look out of place, especially with how much easier it was for 9S to wrap an arm around 2B—a level up from their earlier hand holding—as they resume their walk around the streets of YoRHa in bliss.

Basking in each other's affections and close proximity, as they were looking for another game stall for their tie breaker.

"Oh, hey! 2B, why not we try that one?" 9S pointed to one, as 2B follows his gaze and sees another stall. Though this time the type of game it was hosting made her lips twitch to small smile.

"Are you sure you want to challenge me in that game, Nines?" She asked with a bit of confidence and an air of arrogance in her voice. But still playfully jest at 9S. "You told me yourself, you were never good in goldfish scooping."

Indeed, the stall 9S pointed to was a goldfish scooping stall. And with knowing of her own experience and affinity with fishing and anything related to such, 2B knew she had a unique advantage should they compete against each other in that game, that 9S was well aware of.

Regardless, 9S didn't back down and responded with an equally matching confident look. "Oh things are going to be different this year 2B. I've been training and got better in fishing like you."

He even whispered closely to 2B's ear. "I also have been practicing with Rogue, since he liked to fish too, so I think I can give you a challenge 2B."

2B raises an amused eyebrow "Oh… You sure you can last more than a minute without breaking your poi? Washi paper is more brittle than you know…"

9S counters. "Bet I can catch more fish than you even with a hole in my poi."

"Bet I can catch more with the same odds."

"Can you?"

The couple then shared a competitive look with each other, before the two made a beeline to the stall owner and began their tiebreaker.

More than half an hour in, 2B and 9S were surprised that they found themselves losing.. in a way, as not one of them were able to catch even a single goldfish during their time playing in the stall.

All because not a single fish dared to come close to the two of them, much to the stall owner's and other bystanders confusion watching them. Perplex from seeing an entire small pool of goldfishes avoid 2B and 9S like the plague, and literally occupying the side where they weren't.

Even when the two shifted and moved closer to catch, the school of goldfish would immediate swim away, much to their growing frustration. Some even swam deeper to the bottom of the basin, just to avoid the reach of their Pois.

It was baffling sight to see, that even garnered the storeowner some pity for the two.

"How about I give the two of you some consolation prizes?" He asked, while 2B snaps the handle of her poi from her frustration and utter humiliating defeat as a fisherman, against the small gold swimming gnats.

9S awkward responds. "Oh, you don't have to—"

"No its okay. It's the first time I've seen… something like this." The bewildered stall owner says, continuing to watch with amazement as the gold fishes continue to evade 2B, before quietly musing to himself. "Maybe the fishes got smarter? But then again they're goldfish. It's strange to why they're acting like this."

"Give me a minute. I'll catch one." 2B says, her attention still on the gold fishes avoiding her broken poi. Her pride as a fisher stubbornly refusing to admit defeat. Somehow giving a malevolent and determined aura around herself, as she focuses intensely on the small pool of water before her.

"Sure… and I'll just, get your consolation prize for that…" The stall owner awkwardly backs away slowly, leaving to retrieve whatever goods or trinkets he'll give as a consolation prize to 2B and 9S.

Not use to seeing a customer having the same intensity as 2B when it comes to fishing.

9S sighs, watching the owner leave before he turns his gaze towards 2B. Shaking his head at how she was behaving, yet couldn't help admiring her stubbornness. Despite how comically serious she was in her resolve to at least catch one goldfish. He knew 2B took her fishing seriously, and genuinely enjoyed it.

He guessed it was because of the tranquility that came with the act, or from the satisfaction of a successful catch, born from her patience, determination, and resolves to accomplish the task. The latter, a trait 2B carries with her constantly in hunts or when fighting to defend the village.

A heroic and unrelenting part to her that 9S greatly admires and loves about 2B. Whether it's out in the field watching in awe from her fighting a powerful monster or enjoying it as a cute quirk in simpler acts that she dedicates herself in doing.

Present moment included, with 9S finding 2B's purse lips and eyebrows scrunch with focus, adorable. Even more with the look of elation that came when she finally does scoop a single goldfish to her cup with her poi.

"Yes…" 2B whispers, whooping quietly with triumph. Before a chuckle escapes from 9S, causing her to look up from her small victory.

"I guess you win." 9S says, much to 2B 's confusion eyeing his still empty cup.

She asked. "You didn't even try to continue?"

"No point, I've already guessed the gold fishes could probably sense Rogue's presence on me." 9S answers and explains. "Which is why they've been avoiding us, since despite their goldfish memory, their survival instincts must be screaming for them to flee. Sensing an unseen threat that would scoop them up and eat them, you know."

"Oh." 2B reacts with an astonished looked, though agreeing with 9S's explanation. "I guess that extends to me since I've been spending a lot of time with you and Rogue lately."

"Yeah. But on the plus side, now you have some idea why small monsters have been avoiding us out in the field!"

"A good benefit no doubt. But knowing that, I guess I might have to invest on a longer fishing poles." 2B mused. "Since I don't want to scare all the fishes away and still keep the both of you with me."

"Aw, 2B…" 9S couldn't help but feel touched, while giving 2B a side hug. "Let me be the one to buy you a new fishing pole. It's my lost anyway."

"Didn't we agree the loser will pay for desserts later?"

"Well that too. Whichever you prefer!"

The two laughed quietly, as the stall owner returns holding two items, a smile forming on his face as he saw 2B's success.

"Hey! You caught one. Good for you champ!"

2B could only offer a wryly smile in return before she and 9S accept the prizes from the stall owner. The two items being a long red scarf and a leather mask designed with a manic grin.

"Try to come back to my stall tomorrow. Maybe by then, I'll figure out what went wrong with my gold fishes." The stall owner said, as 2B and 9S begin to depart, while they wave him goodbye.

"No need to worry sir. We'll come again."

"And thanks for the prizes too!"

The two resume their walk around town while wearing their new prizes, much to 9S insistence that they should, finding that he liked the mask he was given with a certain childlike glee.

2B thought the black mask was a bit tacky, yet when 9S wore it she saw that it somehow fit him, despite his appearance and kimono. Ideally, she thought if 9S had an eye patch that accompanied it, covering one of his eyes, he would have looked a bit intimidating. Or something like a masked rogue in someone's illustrations.

On the other hand, 2B wasn't inclined to wear the red scarf given to her. Seeing no point, and that it might end up being a hinderance instead when moving around. But when 9S wrapped it around her neck and persuaded that it would keep her warm since the night was getting chilly, 2B relented and didn't mind wearing the scarf for the time being.

It also helped hide the red flush of her cheeks, when 9S's suddenly wrapped the scarf around her, while complementing she looked beautiful in it and found the scarf also suited her.

2B's heart skipped a beat from the remark, before 9S begins to pull her along and resume their walk around YoRHa.

"Where to next?" 9S asked. "Want to check out the shops before we buy some food, and head back to the guild square for the Stage plays?"

"Sure." 2B replied coolly. "But can we check the stalls catering for hunters. I'm curious if they have some items from Geo-Fulkright."

"I don't mind. I'm curious too of what they'll offer." 9S said, before teasing. "And I know you wouldn't be that interested in the other shops selling—what do you usually call them, useless 'trinkets'?"

2B huffs a bit defensively. "It's not that they are useless. It's just that they are just trinkets. And we've already got enough from the games we've played."

9S chuckles lightly from her reasoning. "Yeah, yeah, I know."

"Nines, what did I say? One confirmation—"

"One confirmation would suffice." He finished for 2B, while giving her playful bump. "No need to sound like a broken record 2B. I know."

"Yet, I'm deign to keep reminding you." 2B scolds yet lacking the usual sternness, while 9S pulls her closer to his side in good gesture as they continue to stroll the down the street.

"Guess we have to make a stop at the Pods, to deposit some of our prizes for the time being. Better not to carry too much on our person, while we walk around more." 9S said, recalling that both Pod 42 and Pod 153 were most probably helping the Felynes of the settlement sell their wares for the night.

He also wondered if they were making good money selling their Lunar Tear themed merchandises. "It wouldn't be bad to check on them for a bit."

"True. It be nice to see how they are faring as well." 2B shares the thought, then asked. "Maybe we could ask if they know any of the shops that are popular or have any good deals."

"Yeah or the latest street—" But before 9S could finish his reply, 2B suddenly pulls them away from colliding with somebody.

"Nines watch out!"

"Woah!"

The couple nearly collided with a man who came close to barreling towards them. Fortunately the stranger was able to right himself and stood to turn his attention at 2B and 9S, who became wary of the man as he initially had a frantic look before speaking with a panic tone.

"Yonah! I finally found you—" The man paused, giving a once over of the couple. Before realizing he made mistake and schooling his expression to an apologetic one.

"Oh. Sorry. I thought you were someone else… both of you..." The man shuffles awkwardly, no doubt wondering how to address the couple. Taking in both of their unique appearances with their recently acquired prizes of a mask and a scarf, while internally reprimanding himself for mistaking two individuals for the one he was looking for… again.

Unknownst to 2B and 9S, they did resemble partially of the person the man as looking for. While the couple share confused glances with each other before looking at the man once more, taking his appearance more clearly.

He was an attractive individual and really handsome, that both would admit. They guessed the man's age was probably in his early 30s yet looked younger than what his real age would dictate, surprisingly. Possessing long white hair with bangs framing his face, in a darker shade than 2B's or 9S's, and eyes that were also a deeper blue than both of the couple's.

They could also tell he was a fit lean man, possessing a hunter's physique that 2B and 9S infer based on experience of reading other hunters appearances. Plus, from how the man presents himself with his posture alone, standing strong and confident, despite the awkward tension he held. And if not from the man's appearance, he also held an aura and demeanor of being an experienced seasoned veteran.

They could also imagine the man wearing monster hunter armor, instead of the casual black shirt and grey slacks he currently wore.

"Can… we help you?" 9S suddenly asked, breaking the ice, while both he and 2B remain wary of the man, not sure what he'll do. The latter ready to defend them both should the man try something funny. And with him being a hunter, more so.

But the man was quick to dispel both the awkward and tense atmosphere, once more being apologetic in replying to 9S.

"No, no it's okay. I'm sorry if I've suddenly intruded both of you and it's my fault." The man sheepishly scratch the back of his head, timidly admitting. "You're not the first couple I've bump to and interrupted their date…"

The man mutters quietly to himself as an afterthought. "Oh Gog, Kaine's going to kill me..."

The man then made a quick bow, apologizing once more. "I'm sorry for ruining your time."

Before raising his head and pulling something out of his person and handing it towards to 2B and 9S.

"Here's coupon for a shop my friend manages. You'll get compensated for the trouble I've caused you."

"Uh…" 9S was at loss of words, sharing another confused glance with 2B. Before accepting and taking the coupon off the man's hands, seeing no reason to reject the offer and just get it over with it.

The man then immediately turns around, once the couple accepted the coupon, and began to sprint away. Waving both 2B and 9S a goodbye, while quickly returning to his search, no doubt for the person he was looking for.

"I'm sorry again for the troubles! And tell my friend, Nier sent you with that coupon. He'll understand!" The man last yelled at the two, as he went through the streets, with the crowd of festive goers parting ways for him and earning weird looks from them as well.

2B and 9S continued to stare at man, impressed at the speed he was going, before he was gone from their line of sight.

"Well, He was… something?"

"Indeed..."

The two then looked down at the coupon 9S held in his hands. Both of them scrutinizing it and taking in the details written on the piece of paper.

"Looks to be legit, but it says here their only doing a sale for today and today only." 9S says, spotting that particular detail on the coupon.

While 2B adds, a bit intrigue. "And the shop appears to be a small Hunter Emporium."

"Wanna check it out?"

"Sure, looks promising. But let's ask the pods if they heard about this shop, just to make sure."

With a destination in mind, the two continue on their way. While wondering if they'll be meeting other eccentric individuals like the man they met earlier, seeing that they'll be heading to his friend's shop in a bit.

They were also slightly curious of who the man was looking for.

Just as 2B and 9S turn around a corner, they missed one of their friends passing by and the company they currently had.

"Yonah watch your step, the roads here are still a bit uneven from the monster stampede that happened a month ago." 32S said, while holding hands with a girl his age.

"I could tell." The girl giggled noticing that some of the pavement still held the footprints of a Tigrex. Playfully hoping over them, while she and 32S continue to walk among the crowd.

The two also one of the other couples enjoying their date for the night.

---

Author's notes:

And that's the chapter!

I hope you guys enjoyed it and the introductions I made for Kaine and Nier. They're going to be major players later in the story as the rests of their group too.

A note on Nier, his appearance is more in line to Brother Nier and his young adult self after the time skip in Replicant but try to imagine him just a bit older and not as buff or rugged looking like Papa Nier in Gestalt. Personality wise, he takes more of his fatherself and mixed with his brotherself, which you might see later on.

I hope you guys like the tiny easter eggs or references I placed made. Though I'm sure it wasn't much in this chapter.

Thanks for reading, and I hope you enjoyed the chapter. Fav, Follows, and comments are also appreciated!

Hope to see you guys in the next one and enjoy the omake!

---

Omake

(Festival Extra Stories: Nier & Kaine)

"C'mon, Nier. Don't you think we've done enough searching?" Kaine asked from across the table they were currently staying.

She finally found Nier after who knows how goddamn long she spent looking for him around YoRHa—probably an hour and a half or more—and she finally coerce him to stop his search for the time being.

While taking the chance for them to get something eat, since they didn't have any dinner yet like they were supposed to, as part of their supposed date tonight. Hence them being in the area where majority of the festival food stalls were.

"You should really try this. Mmmh..." Kaine hummed pleasantly, holding a grilled kebab on one hand, picking small bites in between as she conversed to a presently downtrodden Nier. Clearly enjoying the festival food she acquired. "I didn't ****ing get how meat and honey are supposed to taste good, but— mmm... Yeah, I think I might like this. And it's better than the other shit they're selling tonight."

Kaine cast a look at Nier, who was already done eating his kebab and was absently fiddling with his stick. She knew his mind was still occupied by other matters pertaining to the person they were looking tonight. It was getting mildly annoying.

And as she expected, he wasn't one to give up, as Nier immediately tried to get them to start searching again. "Kaine. Just one more round. Maybe, near the central square… We might find her and—" He asked timidly but was immediately shut down by a stern reply by Kaine.

"No."

"But—"

"****ing. No. Nier." She punctuated while pointing her kebab at Nier threateningly, brandishing it as if it were one of her dual blades.

Before scolding him harshly, with her infamous foul-mouth. "We've spent enough time hauling our asses around the village of YoRHa looking for Yonah. While one of us—I'm looking at you— was acting a like a derange $# % twit who's lost in the city, bumping into several shit-head rude $# %$ ass grabbers—and a few nice couples alike. The latter of which you've outright disturbed and ruined some of their dates!"

"While we are ****ing wasting our own time together!" Kaine huffs a bit petulantly, but not without good reason as she adds. "Shit, Nier. It was supposed to be about us tonight… not you and your overprotective ass for Yonah."

Nier winced, more from the latter of what Kaine said than from her outburst. Feeling the guilt rise within him for treating Kaine unfairly. Worst that he didn't notice how he was behaving until she pointed it out too, just as they were taking a break—or rather Kaine forcing him to stop, due to him too solely focused on finding his daughter.

He made an awkward apology in response. "Oh-ah, you're—well... I'm sorry?" Nier wasn't helping himself posing his apology as a question.

Fortunately, Kaine merely huffed from his sheepish expression, before staring him down and asking what they'll do now.

"Well? Are we going to keep having a shitty night? Or are we going to do a damn hell of something?!"

She expounds further. "Like ****, Nier. we're in bloody YoRHa!"

Kaine gestured wildly towards the entirety of the village before she turned back to face him, raising two fingers from both of her hands to add emphasis to her next words.

"Quote, unquote 'The most open trading center and the number one multicultural exchange hotspot village' in the entire ****ing continent, and on this side of world, where the bloody moon is completely seen clear in the sky!"

Again, Nier move his head back from Kaine, as she thrust her kebab threateningly once more towards his face. "Now, here we are. Staying for one night... During one of their most booze wasting, money shitting, fan ****ing festive events! I thought you'd at least show me around and have a good time like you'd promise?! Maybe even go around looking for one of their 7-8 mysteries or whatever phenomenon shit tourist trap they had that you kept talking about…"

Kaine then briefly made a pained expression, adding more fuel to Nier's guilt. Before she resumes chastising him.

"Not your daughter, who's has the right to make her own plans tonight and is probably having a good time with her beau! And having a better time than the $ #% we are having right now—If. I. May. Add!"

She ends her rant by taking a vicious bite of her kebab and muttering. "At least the foods good…"

Nier reels himself back from leaning away during her rant, settling his brief moment of fear towards the female hunter before him. And rubbing his ears from the occasional unknown profanity she would spontaneously let loose that even Weiss wouldn't know of.

"Okay I understand that you're upset Kaine…" Nier started, trying to calm her down first. Or at least take Kaine's kebab away from his face and anywhere else near his body she'll likely stab, painfully. Expertly grabbing and then throwing her stick, plus their remaining trash to the nearest trashcan.

Before he continues to have relatively safe conversation with Kaine. For the safety of any innocent bystander foolish enough to get close to them at the moment.

Preventing Kaine from lashing out violently was always a top priority whenever they're out in public for obvious reasons.

Reasons that Nier admits guiltily, he also has been ignoring for the night and eloquently reminded to him by Kaine.

"Really? I didn't notice… Maybe because you kept dragging me around—Without asking for my ****ing opinion like an ignorant jackass. And then getting lost, while I had to look for you." Kaine replied sarcastically with even more venom in her words towards him. "Plus, always leaving me behind to apologize to every person you've kept bumping into. While I… as you must know, was restraining myself from carving the insides of a number of poor shumcks, who lack any self-preservation or didn't have a shit-ton idea who they were talking too."

Yes, Nier was well aware and too familiar to what Kaine calls 'restraint. Recalling the few times he did witnessed her type of restraint, throughout their evening.

He just hopes the other man's jaws wasn't too dislocated and the same could be said for the man's date too. That poor woman should have kept her mouth shut around Kaine…

Hastily trying to make amends, Nier speaks up hoping to not aggravate Kaine further. "Look, Kaine. I'm sorry. I really am… and—And! The night's still young. The performances in the guild square don't start until the next hour… so maybe we could still look around…"

"By the craptastic ancients… It's like I'm talking to a hot brick wall shat by a Basarios—Actually I am! Aren't I?! With how thick-headed bull-shitting-drome stubborn you are! Ughhh…"

Nier watched in confusion as Kaine brought a palm to her face and muffled a frustrated groan at him, no doubt his words upsetting her. He was also wondering if being called a 'hot brick wall' was both a complimented and an insult from Kaine.

He tried asking why she suddenly got upset. "Kaine? what did I—"

Until he briefly replayed his previous words entirely in his head, realizing how they sounded. Which gave the impression that he was still trying to convince Kaine to continue their search for Yonah.

Hence, the pissed off woman in front of him ready to burst.

In an instant, warning bells begin to play inside his head. Signaling him that he was rapidly thinning Kaine's patience if he doesn't choose his next words carefully. Which could then lead to her more infamous temper and even more strings of cusses from her mouth that could theoretically kill a man.

"Wait Kaine! You misunderstand!" Nier quickly stands up, waving his hands panickily and stammering apologizes to explain himself before it was too late.

"It's not—What I really meant was… I-I didn't mean to continue looking for Yonah! I meant that we…we…we… go together and look around the festival! As in look around, just us—not Yonah and—"

Ignoring Nier's sputtering, Kaine began to rub her head, trying her best not to get too upset and showing more of her temper. Focusing to reign in the fire burning within her and begin breathing in air though her nostrils slowly. It was good she was practicing the breathing exercises she's learned from Fyra, calming down and successfully letting her frustrations go.

Getting angry wouldn't be helping any one in her and Nier's current situation, beside herself letting out some steam. But a part of the reason for doing so, was because Kaine is still banking on the chance that they'll be able to enjoy the rest of the night together.

Mainly on the subject that they'll still be able to attend the YoRHa stage performances that Nier mentioned earlier.

One that she was looking forward to, since based on a rumor she's heard going around, there's a chance that they'll be able to watch the esteemed and uptight Commander White—The prime stickler of the Guild rules herself and with probably the biggest stick up her ass to boot, who Kaine had unfortunately met in one or two horrible occasions— Sing a lengthy dose of wyverian heavy metal songs.

Giving Kaine the chance to laugh at the absurdity of seeing the stuck-up bitch debase herself. Or be surprised and enjoy one of her few taste in music be performed live. Whether White would suck or actually have talent that Kaine would admittedly respect, it wouldn't matter since she'll be having a great time, and it was a win-win situation for her either way.

Plus, not that she would say it out loud, but Kaine appreciated how sweet it was for Nier to plan this date for them tonight; after hearing about White's supposed performance, knowing how she would have been interested to see it. Especially, since he didn't like heavy metal much, but still decided to go join her because he wanted to spend more time with her.

Especially after all the serious monster hunting they had for past few days. That left little time for breaks, until today and allowing themselves for a well deserve R&R.

It was nice too, for them to plan a pit stop in YoRHa for a short outing, a village they don't frequent much and right before their plans to head to Albarax for their next lieu of assignments. Enjoying at least one day of the weeklong festival celebrating YoRHa's founding.

Which was the plan but…

'Why couldn't have Weiss kept his mouth shut?' Kaine groans internally remembering the culprit who caused all of this mess in the first place.

If Weiss could have shut his trap just a few more seconds before they left, then Nier would have just focused on their planned date, instead of accidently finding out about Yonah having different plans of her own tonight.

Specifically with a 'special' someone, no doubt a detail he zeroed in, that Kaine knew set him off into his rabid overprotective dad mode, to find and question his daughter about it.

"Uh, Kaine? …Kaine? Are you still with me?"

Kaine heard Nier calling out to her in worry. Fortunately, her mind was now less filled with her temper and more just feelings of annoyance. Allowing her to address Nier properly and calmly as well.

As she looks at the man who's name many would consider to be synonymous to an overprotective dad or older brother. It doesn't take a genius to figure out why Nier reacted the way he did from learning Yonah has a boyfriend.

But now the current expression plastered on his face was of concern, for her. Giving the same look he always had that would remind Kaine of a kicked puppy. Seeing the soft expression though, help dissipated most of the anger she had at the moment.

And Kaine also realize that if she wanted to stop Nier from ruining their night together and Yonah's as well. She might have to lay down and ask the hard questions, bluntly.

"…Nier?"

"Yes, Kaine?" He immediately answered. Which Kaine could tell that she had Nier's sole attention from the tone of his voice.

Good because she needed him to hear her next words clearly.

"Be honest with me…" She gave him a hard stare first, before saying her next words gently. "…Are you really that upset, because Yonah has a boyfriend? And she didn't tell you?"

"W-Wha-what! No. No, no, no. I'm not—Pfft… you really think that I'm—" Nier tried to scoff at the notion. But Kaine continued to stare at him impassively.

"…"

"…Why didn't she tell me?" Nier whispered, eyes miserably looking away to the side.

While Kaine's expression softens, reminding herself that this was the same idiot she fell hopelessly and unexpectedly in love with. The same sensitive and bleeding heart of a boy and then turned man, who saved her from that fateful day. She knew why he was upset and could feel the slight disappointment and confusion in Nier's tone, underlying his question of why his beloved daughter kept this from him. Something which was a big deal for an overprotective father like Nier.

But remembering how he initially reacted from finding out, even by accident and how sudden it was for him…

"My daughter has a #$% WHAT?!"

Kaine could have some idea why Yonah wanted to keep any of her more… sensitive relationships, on the down low from her father at the moment. And that a little bit of herself may have been rubbing off on him, unfortunately.

"Hey, if it makes you feel any better. No one knows who the guy is, none of us, me included. We don't even have clue on how he looks like either, so… We're kinda in the dark as you are." Kaine said, telling the truth that no one has really met Yonah's beau. "We were surprised too when we found out and thought all of the worst scenarios. You know if that helps…"

Hopefully that tidbit would cheer Nier up a bit, knowing she and the rest of their group were on a similar boat.

Kaine would also give props to Yonah for thinking ahead, about withholding any information until she'll reveal her boyfriend to them herself, officially. The girl knowing to avoid a possible unplanned confrontation Nier would likely commit—like the one tonight—and have an awkward dad meets boyfriend scenario too soon for her liking.

"I won't lie… it kind of hurts." Nier responded back, honestly to Kaine. "That I'm the last to find out. Especially after learning that you and the others know, and as far as I could tell, have been keeping this from me for quite a while, no?"

Nier didn't give her an accusing look when he said the latter, nor was his tone any of the like, instead his voice sounded more defeated and self-depreciating.

Which made Kaine feel a bit guilty, from seeing how depressed and affected Nier was from this whole ordeal. Not helping that he was right about her and the others knowing for some time about Yonah and her secret boyfriend. Remembering that they also made a promise not to tell him, about 3 months ago.

Still, it didn't mean Kaine liked keeping a secret like this to Nier.

It was understandable of keeping him in the dark because his daughter didn't want him to go on a one-dad-rampage on her boyfriend. A justifiable reason and the safer option at that time, which proved to be true as tonight's event could testify.

But now, Kaine could at least try to make it right for Nier, despite how difficult it would be.

"Nier its ah… How do I say this…"

Trying to find the right words to explain and failing, wasn't a good start for Kaine. But Fortunately Nier was patiently waiting for her to reply. And from looking at his forlorn expression, Kaine knew that she didn't want this secret boyfriend dilemma to form a wedge between Nier and Yonah. Or cause any drama in their father-daughter relationship with each other. Which while complicated, was a very loving and endearing one that she and the others could see as plain as day.

And Kaine knows she'll fight for it to stay that way, no matter how shitty or ****ing out of the league she was with this emotional crap and complicated type of talks about feelings. Taking a deep breath before speaking to Nier once more, Kaine proceeds to apologize first for keeping everything a secret.

"…Look, Nier. I know we kept it a secret from you."

Kaine also hopes he wasn't too mad at her doing so.

"I'm sorry we did. I'm sorry I did… If it made you feel that I betrayed your trust—"

"What? Kaine, I don't think you've betrayed me…" Nier was quick to reassure her. He even grabs to hold one of her hands to show he wasn't mad or having anything against her, much to Kaine's confusion.

"No, no, no. It's nothing like that, really. And even I could figure out why Yonah and the rest of you kept it from me... since you know, based on my behavior tonight…" He made an obvious sheepish look and scratching the back of his head, clearly regretting his actions.

Kaine was glad of how understanding he was at the moment. But still wondered if Nier was still upset or something.

So she asked. "Then what is it? Are we good? Did you just need to process everything first? I know you're still upset about Yonah keeping it a secret that she has boyfriend, …and how you found out about it. Especially with you suddenly taking off and forgetting about our night. Which I still think is a shitty thing for you to do."

"Yes, I know. I'm sorry about that too." Nier made a nod of his head, agreeing regarding his behavior, replying impishly. "It was really an ass thing for me to do to you."

Kaine couldn't help but tease with a flirty wink. "Not the kind of ass thing you normally do to me~"

"K-Kaine!"

She chuckled briefly watching Nier's sputtering and reddening expression. Before he quickly brought the conversation back on track.

"Look." Nier gave Kaine a serious look that shifted to a sincere one. "I know how I was acting tonight was wrong, and I'm really sorry about that… But now…"

Kaine could see that Nier was pondering on the next few words he was going to say. And something told her whatever he'll say next, it would either rile her up and start beating the shit out of him. Or his words would make sense and they finally/hopefully put this 'Yonah's boyfriend debacle' behind them.

So she waited patiently, as Nier speaks up once more.

"Now that we've sat down. With you making me stay put for a bit. It got me thinking… And I want you to know that I realize—"

Nier braced himself closing eyes, feeling a bit of pain from saying the words that will come out of his mouth and a bit of trepidation for Kaine's reaction after. He hopes that she wouldn't explode after hearing them, especially after how their night was going because of him.

"I'm actually… Happy. That Yonah has a boyfriend."

"…"

"…"

It was silent for a few moments.

Nier waited a few seconds for anything to explode or something to hit his face, like a sudden exploding fist or a devasting kick to his legs under the table.

Instead he heard heavy breathing that forced him to dare a peek at Kaine, opening his eyes just a tiny bit—

"HRAH!"

*SLAP

"OHUUKK!"

Which was a big mistake, as Kaine bitch slap Nier from across the table. There was enough force to send him flying off his chair, before landing roughly and sprawling to the ground in a heap.

While the other patrons eating near the stalls with them, were gawking at the sudden scene.

Admittedly, it was a spectacular sight, seeing an adult man fly off his seat into the air briefly for a few seconds, by an incredibly powerful slap. But they shortly averted their eyes to avoid gaining Kaine's attention—and her ire— towards them for looking weirdly, less they risk inciting her wrath.

"ARE YOU ****ING KIDDING ME?!" Kaine shouted angrily, while slamming both of her fist on their table. Already approaching the threshold for the amount of bullshit she could take for the night.

Nier heard her, also aware of Kaine's rapidly dwindling BS tolerance, letting out at a small groan and knowing he deserved that slap, since his earlier actions and recent words contrasted each other greatly.

Lifting himself off the ground, he sees the mix disbelief-murderous-incredulous look Kaine had on her face and the growing intensity of her expression as he got up to sit back at the table. He knows he has some explaining to do before she does something worse to him.

Quickly his minds adds, as Kaine yells once more at him, rightly so. "You say you're happy when—Ugh! Make up your mind, you're confusing me! Do you know how much of a pain in my ass you were tonight?!"

"Not what you normally tell me when I'm in there… most nights." Nier countered, returning Kaine's earlier teasing to hopefully lighten the mood.

"Nier." Kaine glared not liking it, which the man quickly raised his hands in defense, before responding much more seriously.

"Let me explain."

"If it's going to be another bull-shit response—"

"It's not. Promise." Nier said sincerely, locking his eyes with Kaine's. Blue orbs telling her that he wasn't going to hide anything anymore and speak truthfully. Holding one of her hands again while rubbing them in soothing gestures, to show to he wasn't going to run off and leave her.

Kaine simply closed her eyes, and for moment breathed heavily before exhaling a tired sigh. Metaphorically letting out some steam to avoid smacking Nier in the head again unless she didn't like his next words.

She then gestured for him to explain, which the guy was happy to do so, albeit a bit melancholy.

"It's well… I'm her father. I can't help but feel overprotective of her. But at the same time, I think it's also because… I wasn't always there for her." Nier spoke with his tone filled with guilt and regret. "I've missed so many moments of Yonah growing up, and I feel like I'm slowly missing out on all the other opportunities to witness the remaining significant happenings in her life..."

Once more Nier's honest words help dissipate the anger Kaine was holding. With the latter surprised at the admission, staring at him with wide eyes as he continued.

"She's what? 15 turning 16 this year? …I didn't realize how old and how fast my baby girl has grown up. And how much I don't know about her, of all the thing she's achieved, learned, and had experienced, while I was gone during those times we were out for hunts." Nier said, with the latter much more bitterly to himself.

"I didn't even know she started writing to someone again and gaining a new pen pal… and now boyfriend." He irked at his last words before resuming with an even more somber expression.

"And most of my memories of her, are the brief moments of joy from coming back home safe from a hunt and the looks of disappointment she'd give me for the broken promises I made, for the days I could not be able to stay with her longer and read bedtime stories." Nier adds with an even more pained look. "Or worst… the times I remembered her pained expressions when her illness got too serious. And the feeling of helplessness I had that followed because I couldn't do something about it."

Briefly, Kaine squeezed Nier's hand back as show of comfort from mentioning those memories, while he smiles in return for the gesture before resuming a bit less somberly.

"And now… Yonah's cured, healthy and what her mother would have been if it weren't for the Black scrawl. She has become a beautiful and intelligent girl; one I could feel proud and happy for. And because she isn't burden by her illness anymore and with me having more free time, I thought by bringing her with us in our travels, then maybe I'd have the chance to make it up to her. For the lost times we couldn't spend together." Nier had a hopeful expression on his face from saying the latter.

Before it slowly fades away because of his next words.

"That's what I thought at first…"

Nier pauses, flashing a weary smile before continuing. "But now I realize I might be too late, since Yonah's not a little girl anymore and she…she… has someone else now—*sniffle—to be with her… and... I…I…I…I—"

For moment, Kaine couldn't believe her eyes. Trying hard to make sure she wasn't hallucinating and that it wasn't something she ate making her see things. Because, as rare of an occurrence it was, she could have sworn that Nier is…

Crying?

Granted there were no tears present, but the man before her was admittedly trying his best to not wipe his eyes with his fist.

Though she spoke too soon, as what Nier would later describe to Weiss and Emil, manly tears began to escape and plummet below to their table's surface. Like numerous descending Bazelgeuse scales, exploding to puddles of water born from a father's grief.

"H-hey Babe… Are you?" Kaine asked warily seeing how Nier's expression stayed unflinching, despite his obvious tears.

"I'm fine…" Even with the metaphorical floodgates open despite the rigidity of the structure they were attached too, Nier remained stone faced and resumed confessing.

"I should be happy Yonah has found a boy, yet. I'm scared that she's going to leave me… and stop being a part of my life, Kaine."

Ah. That's what it was. Kaine probably should have suspected that was the case, as Nier's confession gave her an idea of what he was going through. He was trying to be strong not just for Yonah but also for himself. Thinking of the same fear that all parents would face in the future.

Which is their baby chicks growing up and leaving their nest once the time has come.

Kaine could guessed Nier's insecurities were already piled up and suddenly exploded after learning Yonah had a boyfriend. Coming to the panicked conclusion that she'll leave him for her new beau anytime soon. Though, Nier was probably more scared of Yonah not involving him anymore in her life, because she's older and growing up too fast to his liking. Which is natural in life, for kids turning into their adolescence and becoming even more independent from their parents.

But Kaine knew that wasn't the case. The truth of matter being that Yonah wasn't planning to leave her daddy behind and alone by himself anytime soon, even if she was all grown up as an adult. Being alone was one her greatest fears and not something she would wish for others to experience.

Her daddy leaving her alone or finding himself alone without anyone, was the last thing she wanted to happen in her or Nier's life. Kaine knows this because Yonah herself confided it to her when they were by themselves one time. And like her, Kaine knows too that no matter what, Yonah will always love her dad.

Even if he could be an idiot at times.

"And I can't help wanting to still be a part of hers. I'm not ready yet to let her go… not yet. I don't want to." Nier continues blabbering his tearful confession, while his expression remains stoic even if his eyes began to mimic waterfalls. "But I know I'm supposed to…"

Looking back at the father, the currently tearful hunter she unknowingly fell for all those years before, Kaine can't help but feel a small adoration towards how sensitive Nier could be. Which was offset by how exasperated she felt for the times he was too dense to realize he was simply overthinking things.

Leading to incredulous responses and actions because of it. It was little a bad habit he had.

With that said, Kaine knows she just has to set him straight of a few things to sort all of this out. Starting of course with…

"Nier, you're an idiot." Kaine spoke bluntly, bringing Nier out of his depressed teary-eyed stupor. "You were insecure of Yonah not involving you in her life, so you had shitty idea to what? Spy on your daughter while she's on a date with her boyfriend, at the cost of ours. And acting similar in behavior to a stalker who is content in watching a celebrity in their presence. Or in this case, an overprotective dad wanting to feel inclusive to his daughter's love life, by being there to witness it."

She then asked, with a raise eyebrow. "Was anything I said wrong?"

There was few seconds of silence int heir air, before Kaine then watched Nier blanch. His eyes widening from her remarks and then sheepishly rub the back of his head, while his cheeks shamelessly blush from guilt. "I know with how you worded it… you've both pointed out how wrong my behavior and course of action is… And I know how that sounds but—"

Kaine cuts him off from making an excuse. "No shit. What were we going to do once we find them? Hide in a bush and watch them do couple activities at the expense of their privacy. Were we really going to do that, Nier?"

"What NO! It's not—That wasn't—okay maybe—When you say it like that I…" Nier had nothing to defend himself and thinking even more clearly, he realized his mistakes and course of action.

"I see the error of my ways…." He spoke in a monotoned tone, under the influence of this sudden epiphany. Bringing his hands to head, while he despairs.

"What was I thinking?! That's too creepy to Yonah. She and her boyfriend don't deserve that or any of the kind. Especially from me. It's unbecoming of me as her father…" Nier whispers the latter, bowing his head in shame and utter disappointment.

Because really? What kind of father would want to stalk their child on their date and be a creep about it.

"It is creepy Nier." Kaine didn't mean to say it out loud, but her mouth just blurted it out automatically. Worst. Hitting another nail to Nier's guilty conscious' proverbial coffin.

"Ugghhh..." He slumped down further to the table, beginning to hid away his shame by burying his head under his arm. The gravity of what he was going to do, because of impulsiveness and flawed thinking, plus the irreparable damaged he would have caused to his relationship with his daughter, was finally weighing heavily over him than before.

"I'm a horrible father." He muttered in his arms which Kaine heard, moving her chair closer and putting a hand on him in comfort.

"No, that's not true. You're great father Nier." She said reassuring him and rubbing small circles on his back, before bluntly pointing out. "You're just a ****ing idiot. You know that?"

"Thanks for being honest Kaine…" Nier replied depreciatively, which didn't bother Kaine who resumes in cheering him up.

"But a damn good and caring man." She clarifies, her tone honest and sincere, making Nier look up from his arms to stare at her as she continues. "At times too saintly and with a lot of shitty good intentions. A guy who is still imperfect and occasionally gets in over his head from overthinking things that causes unnecessary worries and dilemmas. Stubborn, thick-headed dense mother****er, oblivious to my advances in the past even when my tits and ass were practically in your—"

"Okay, okay!" Nier interrupted. "Damn it Kaine, you know I wasn't that dense…" His cheeks were red, from Kaine's brief remarks before asking her to get to the point. "What are you getting at? Is this supposed to cheer me up? Normally you don't mix insults and compliments whenever you tried before."

"I'm just saying for all that is who you are Nier, pros and cons… there's nothing for you to worry about regarding Yonah." Kaine pointed out "She will always love you and won't be leaving you anytime soon—Hell, you made sure that she wouldn't all those years before and actually gave her the opportunity to live a normal life. And Yonah will never forget that. You'll always be her dad who made the journey for her and save the day."

Nier felt himself tearing up again, this time from Kaine's words, aware that it was a rare occasion for her to say all these sort of things. "…You, really think so?"

"I ****ing believe it… Plus, you can be a bit pessimistic at times Nier, and I know some of the reason behind that is because of all the shit the world threw at you. What you had to go through as a hunter—which at times were literal shit from Congas being thrown at you."

Nier could only nod, agreeing to Kanie's words. Knowing that he owns a bit of a pessimistic side of him. Born from all the trials and hardship he went through throughout his life.

"But…" Kaine then made a quick kiss on Nier's cheek to prove a point. "It doesn't mean some good things won't happen to you; among all the crappy ones you'll face, you know…" She says, with a knowing look in her eyes.

Nier admits he was a bit caught off guard by her gesture. While Kaine proceeds to visibly blushed a unique shade, not one to show affection in public, hopeful that the lights of the stalls around them were hiding her reddening cheeks. Her eyes looking at the sides briefly before she locks her gaze back at Nier and her lips form a teasing smile.

"And you said you were happy Yonah met a boy. And maybe its good thing she did, you might have a potential son-in-law you might like—And hey! Since Yonah will have to introduce her boyfriend to you someday, you can really play the overprotective dad card and have some fun saying things like 'No! I won't give you Yonah! ****ing fight me bitch! ...rarwr raging dad noises and shit'. Something like that."

From her delivery and how… Kaine-ish it was. Nier started to chuckle lightly before letting it go into a full-blown hearty laugh. Feeling himself getting better and off his slump, as Kaine was successfully cheering him up.

"My gods… I won't do that hah… Yonah wouldn't appreciate it. But I can see myself having some fun messing around the boy. If he's a good match for her."

Kaine snorted. "With how imposing you are and being the legendary shade slayer, it be easy pickings for you to intimidate anyone."

Nier smiled at the remark before giving Kaine a returning kiss on cheek, catching her off guard this time.

"Thanks Kaine, I'm glad I have you by my side for all of this... I was really overthinking things again wasn't I?" Nier said, happy that he really did have someone Kaine with him. Finally taking her words to heart. "And you're right about Yonah. I really got nothing to worry about and she's a big girl making her own decisions, I trust her and there's no need for me to keep doting on her like I use to."

"Or trying to stalk her with her date." Kaine reminded him.

"Yes, that too… I need to be more careful of how I react to this sort of things." Nier visibly cringed, and knows he still has some issues to work on. "Jaggis… you really help me dodge a bullet from that one and any potential catastrophes that could have happen."

"You're damn right!" Kaine said proudly, adding. "Glad I didn't have to kick the shit of you like the last time and get you out of whatever slump you had. Or you might end up doing something stupid you'll regret later."

She remembers the last time Nier looked and felt so hopeless. And he was in a worse state compared to how he is right now that Kaine literally had to knock some sense back into him.

"You're really watching my back Kaine… What would I do without you?" Nier tells Kaine with a stupid grin on his face, that the latter couldn't help but be fond of. Seeing that it was one of his boyish charms.

Kaine shrugs in reply. "Probably still waiting for me to teach you how to swing a blade, and probably done a lot of the stupid things while you're at it, without me stopping you."

"True! I'd probably still be struggling in my hunts without you partying with me... Man, I was such an idiot wasn't I?" Nier laughed again at the thought, while Kaine continues to watch him with an affectionate gaze.

She hopes the world wouldn't throw Nier into another pit of despair or pain he'd be forced to endure. Though Kaine knows, she'll do anything in her power to face any trouble that besets him in the future. He'd do the same for her, heck he already had ever since the day they first met and called her his friend.

Kaine will always remember Nier's words, telling her not to give up on life yet and come back home with him and Weiss. Which led to everything else good that happened to her.

"Hey, Nier." Kaine speaks up, getting his attention.

"You know that…" Kaine paused, feeling a bit shy in front of Nier, before speaking honestly. Her tone not without any inch of sincerity she held within.

"…You know I fucking love you, right?"

Nier suddenly paused, surprised at Kaine's admission, seeing the intense look she was giving him. It wasn't a bad one, but he can see the deep affection behind it. That invoked the warmth he was currently feeling, blossoming in his chest.

"Yeah… I know." He said in reply, unsure what Kaine would do next.

"So, while I know I'm not that good with these type of talks or whatever emotional shit people call it. Since I'm not really good and very crappy in expressing my own emotions and feelings… But I could lend an ear, for you…and I'll listen to whatever problems you have." Kaine said, surprising Nier from her offer, while giving him a determined look and a reassuring smile.

"I told you in the past that I'll be sword, to help you fight in the battles you'll face in the future… But I think I can also be your support and you could be mine. And we could figure out things not related to fighting or hunting… together."

Nier was stunned, while he also felt his heart warming up even further because of Kaine. And couldn't help the feelings of affection he has for the normally temperamental loud-mouthed cussing hunter before him grow even stronger.

"Kaine, you'll already are my support… my partner." Nier said, affectionately squeezing her hand and feeling her squeeze back. "And more… But Thank you. I'll keep what you said in mind, and I look forward to us going on together."

Kaine smiles at his response, while Nier leans forward and places a chaste kiss against her lips, which she returns. Parting once Nier leans away and apologizes once more.

"And again, I'm really sorry about tonight. I promise from this moment on, I'll just focus on the two of us having fun and enjoying our night watching the famous commander of YoRHa sing out heavy metal wyverian songs in front of the screaming masses."

Nier was going to make sure there weren't going to be anymore distractions. He was going to make it up to Kaine. Deciding that they should now continue spending the night together, properly.

"You better… Or I'll bust you're kneecaps, stab you with the shards, and force feed you your joints if I'm not satisfied." Kaine warned him with a serious expression, but the slight upward twitch of her lips told she was just teasing.

"Yes ma'am." Nier answered back with equal mirth before rising from their table and offering his hand to help her up like a gentleman. "Now shall I take my lady with me and have a fan ****ing good time in YoRHa like I promised?"

Kaine lightly scoffed at his gesture and finding it a bit too over the top. Yet amusingly offered her hand in return, accepting his offer and played along while being pulled up. "My good sir. A damn fan $# $ ****ing good time we should have!"

As they began to leave the stall, Nier moved to wrap his arm around Kaine's waist, with the latter moving closer to feel her side pressed against his. They began walking along the street, ready to start their date night anew.

"And one more thing. Just so you know…" Taking the opportunity, Nier leans down to whisper in Kaine's ear.

"…I fucking love you too."

The couple came to an abrupt stop as Kaine was surprised at Nier's sudden admission, her eyes widening and mouth gaping like a fish out of water as she turned to face him. With her face flush and her mouth at loss of words, now the one being caught off guard. While slightly annoyed at Nier for springing this up so suddenly.

"****. Y-you just…w-what—Mpmmh!"

Nier took the opportunity to give Kaine a deeper kiss, which elicited a cute squeak from her. Before it transitions to a soft moan, as one of his hands palms her ass and giving it a squeeze, while one of her arms tightly wraps around his neck.

When Nier pulls back ending their exchange, he found himself chuckling lightly. No doubt from finding Kaine's blushing face really cute, much to the latter's chagrin. This earned him an elbow to his ribs, which he took astride, as they resumed their walk along the street.

"Shit… don't surprise me like that. You know how I feel about confessing and saying things like that in public—And arrghh… stop making me blush! I have an image to maintain…" Kaine said, annoyed and still a bit flustered, yet continued to lean closer to Nier. Not minding how his hand was still on her ass, kneading and caressing it, while rubbing her waist in good gesture.

She found it nice that he was starting to show his playful side after being so worried for Yonah all night.

Kaine also guessed they'll probably have some private time for themselves later after their date. Which she would be looking forward to if that were the case. But she's still happy that Nier was beginning to relax and starts keeping up with his promise, to focus on each other for the rest of the night.

"Hey! Since we're in YoRHa…." Nier had a thoughtful expression, before pointing out to Kaine. "I just realized no one would recognize us without our armor or weapons. So we could probably go around without anyone minding and pestering us."

Kaine agreed with the thought. "True… besides recognizing you as that idiot who kept running around like a mad man."

"You're not going to let me live that down are you?"

"Hell, no." Kaine chuckles, while Nier shakes his head in defeat.

"Oh, Fyra and her hubby actually have a stall here until the end of the festival." Kaine remembers that their friend Fyra said to her, she and her husband will have a food stall representing their restaurant from Gildegaran.

"Let's give them a visit?" Nier asked, with Kaine nodding and taking the lead, this time being the one pulling him around YoRHa.

The coupled carried on through the night together, solely focused to enjoy the festivities of the village. Passing by many others doing the same.

Unaware that they passed a certain pair they spent the first half of the night looking for.

---

As Nier and Kaine walked by on one side of the street, a young girl with white hair and wearing a white yukata with a flora theme was on the other side, walking at the opposite direction of them.

The girl suddenly paused to turn around and look, as if sensing Nier and Kaine, before trying to spot the pair of adults among the crowd of other couples present in the street she was in.

The girl was also not alone and was holding hands with a boy with dark hair and wearing a blue yukata of a similar flora theme matching the girl's. He suddenly noticed his companion staring at the distance behind them.

"Something wrong, Yonah?" The boy asked.

"Its… nothing." Yonah replied. "I thought I saw some people I know."

"Really?"

"Yeah, but I think it was just some random people who looked like them."

"Shame… I was hoping to meet one your of friends or acquaintances." The boy said sounding disappointed. "You've already met one of mine."

"Yeah, but 32S… I'm still looking forward in meeting your other friends too." Yonah cheerfully said, while 32S rubs his head timidly.

"I don't think we'll be seeing some of them soon, they all had plans and one of them—He, ah? Kinda has a date right now too. Probably enjoying it as we speak." He said, remembering 9S was finally going out on a real date with 2B.

Yonah simply nods her head in understanding. "Oh well, wouldn't want to disturb your friends and the others with dates too. Might as well continue to enjoy ours. Oh! Let's head to the guild square, you said your dad's performing right?"

"Right! I almost forgot. I got front row seats too for the stage plays before them…" 32S said, remembering it. While Yonah begins to pull him along the streets.

"Then what are we waiting for? Let's go!"

Yonah and 32S sped off, laughing, and giggling as they raced to the guild square.

Carefree and having a lovely time at the festival tonight.