Therapy for Champions at low costs

by Ark19

Meet Cid, a simple therapist on Demacia, a simple man with simple goals, well until the institute deems him able to receive the visits of champions, now he will have to find the way to do his job while keeping his sanity on place.

18. Chapter 18

How you been everyone? Hope you enjoyed your week and had a fun time. If not well hope things go better! Now to start with a bunch of action this is a big chapter for this new week! Probably the longest so far for this story. Enjoy this sort of double chapter! Once again, thanks everyone!

I own nothing of League of Legends except for my OC.

Chapter 17! Arcade games, a fun festival, and playing matchmaker. Listen to the melody of my heart!

---

After the morning slip up with the door and a small chat with Vi about setting an appointment Cid was on his way to get breakfast with others. Things had gone rather well with the enforcer.

"So, I can come whenever I want to?"

Cid smiled.

"Pretty much, though according to Caitlyn you need to at least sum up 16 sessions of therapy before you can go back to action"

At this Vi let out a groan in protest before thinking for a moment.

"Okay, let's just get done with it starting tomorrow… yeah tomorrow"

Cid nodded.

"Sounds good to me, see you tomorrow Vi"

With a wave from her gauntlets, Vi proceeded to leave with a tired look. She didn't like the idea of therapy for anger at all.

---

Cid chuckled at remembering. It was just like Riven who didn't like the idea of therapy. Yet she did open up, hopefully, Vi wouldn't feel bad. Still, he had to admit, Caitlyn asking for 16 sessions was sort of a big deal, either Vi had done something bad or she simply was giving her a punishment for something.

Cid was hoping today would be a relaxing day. As far as he knew there weren't any appointments, though people could just come and find him, so it was a bet with lady luck to see if someone would see him.

As he was making his way to meet Lux and Taliyah he noticed a familiar face. He waved at Sona. Who started to signal at him after waving.

"Hello, how you doing Cid? Also, glad to see you cleaned your hair"

Cid smiled and let out a chuckle at the hair part before signaling back at her.

"I'm doing well, want to have breakfast?"

Sona nodded enthusiastically at Cid. He smiled at her. He was glad to see her in a good mood.

"Someone is happy today"

She smiled at him before signaling back.

"Is a good day, so I feel happy with spending it with a friend"

As Sona made her way to the doors of the dining hall Cid was surprised at her, it seemed they were really friends already.

As they made their way to get food Cid noticed he could see neither Taliyah nor Lux in the area, he saw many faces but he didn't saw the faces of them anywhere. He even saw Garen and Jarvan in a table, but aside of them no clue of where the others were.

Sona looked at him before tugging at his sleeve.

"Who are you looking for?"

Cid answered back while focusing on her, he didn't want to seem rude.

"I was supposed to meet Lux and Taliyah for breakfast, seems it will just be us though"

For a moment Cid thought Sona eyes seemed to open slightly in surprise. It was hard to know due to the fact that while Sona often was open with how she felt, there were reactions in her body language that gave mixed signals.

For example, it seemed that just then she was happy that he was alone, and surprised at the fact. It was confusing for Cid. Sona tugged at him before signaling a table.

"Well then, I will be your company lets go sit"

Cid nodded at her and both went to a table. Sona stood again going to get her breakfast, Cid had decided to simply get an apple. Honestly, mornings where a time he never felt truly hungry. As he was taking a bite of the apple he noticed Sona looking behind him. He left the apple to signal at her.

"What's behind me?"

Sona smiled before signaling.

"One of my friends, we play games together"

Cid decided to try to guess because he had a general idea.

"Ahri?"

Sona looked surprised before signaling.

"You know Ahri?"

Cid pointed at his hair

"Ahri was the one who pretty much tamed my hair"

Sona giggled at the mental image of Cid being having to put up with Ahri for a while.

Sona was happy her friends got well together. She thought maybe Cid would like to see them play later, they were rather competitive in their small arcade group. Ahri, Ezreal, Sarah, and even Hecarim. Though they didn't fully trust the last one outside of their game group.

"You should come to our game reunion one day, we got the latest of Piltover technology to play games"

Cid smiled at the excitement of Sona as she proceeded to explain the fun on the games they played.

Their silent conversation was interrupted when Cid got a hug from behind, the sudden contact made him yelp in surprise.

"Cid! I was sure it was you!"

Ahri tightly hugged Cid before releasing him. Cid took notice of how Sona smiled but the smile looked a bit forced. He signaled at her

"You okay?"

Sona answered rather fast. Her expression still one of forcing herself to smile.

"Yes"

Before Cid could ask Ahri sat at the table with them.

"Is so good to see my friends today! Sona I didn't know you knew Cid"

Sona nodded before signaling at Cid.

"We play together with Sarah and Ezreal"

Cid nodded.

"Ahri mentioned that yesterday, we just met recently"

Ahri saw the exchange between them and simply hummed. She knew more or less what they were speaking about. Ahri might not know the whole signal language Sona used. But she did understand the feelings and reactions she was showing better than Cid. Emotions were her field, just like the field of the mind was of Cid.

"Hey Cid, I forgot. Zac told me he would be in your office, seems the summoners asked for your help and he would be waiting there"

Cid attention focused on Ahri for a moment.

"Really? I better check then"

As he stood up he signaled at Sona.

"Sorry, seems our breakfast was cut short"

Sona smiled before signaling at him. Cid wasn't sure if he saw Sona getting slightly down at him leaving.

"I will see you later right?"

Cid smiled at the hopeful question, he signaled fast at her.

"Sure, find me in the office later"

Sona smiled as she waved for him to go. She didn't want to be the reason he was late to help someone. As Cid left the area Ahri looked at Sona with a smile.

"So… do you like the therapist?"

Sona got surprised at the words of Ahri. She took the small notepad she carried with her to speak to those who didn't get sign language.

"No, do you?"

Cid was her friend. He had made his way into her heart and became a presence she enjoyed. She liked the fact he was honest. She appreciated the fact he wasn't one for formalities and lies. No, the therapist was honest and rather blunt in his statements.

And she knew she was lying. She did like him. She wasn't sure. But she did like him. And that was the part that made her a bit jealous of Ahri. While she wasn't afraid of admitting things, she was afraid of something else.

Losing the friendship, she had obtained with Cid.

Her thoughts were interrupted by Ahri speaking.

"I do"

She smiled at Sona. And that was the smile Ahri only had when she was truly honest. The truth was Ahri liked Cid, but not in the same way as Sona. She liked his presence and enjoyed their interaction. They just met, but she knew she wanted to keep him close.

Sona reaction to her words was all the confirmation Ahri needed.

"If you don't do something, I might take him. He seems like someone truly nice"

Sona wrote on the paper.

"Why? Didn't you just meet yesterday?"

Ahri smiled again, enjoying teasing Sona.

"Doesn't matter, I like him, simple as that"

Sona was surprised at how easily Ahri spoke. But the thing was that she didn't know Ahri was speaking of Cid as a friend. Not in the romantic feelings Sona had for the therapist. Her thoughts were interrupted by an Ahri who was too amused but didn't felt like keep teasing her friend.

"I like him as a friend Sona. As amusing as I find your reaction, I like the therapist as a friend I want to have close"

At this Sona face got red with embarrassment. She had been played. She fell for Ahri words, and she had totally fallen. Ahri chuckled before hugging Sona closely, her whiskers making contact with the soft cheeks of Sona.

"I apologize, I was only teasing you Sona"

As Sona tried to keep angry and failing at it, she simply returned the hug.

Ahri giggled before asking the question in the air.

"So, what is it you like of him?"

Sona started to write on her notepad. It would be a long explanation.

---

As Cid found himself in his office he was presented with the imposing visage of two mountains in the form an armored bear and a ram in the clothes of a blacksmith. The imposing figures held by Zac and… was that a giant diving suit?

"Cid! Great that you are here! We sort of need help stopping them, the summoners thought you could make them stop trying to destroy everything around"

Lady luck wasn't on his side today it seemed. Ahri surely forgot to mention it by accident.

As Zac and the later known Nautilus were holding both titans from destroying the halls, Cid was getting a bigger area for the five to fit in place for therapy for Bolivear and Ornn, Riven and Yasuo found themselves in the company of Karma.

Riven could only speak express her surprise at the festival.

"Well this surely is different"

Riven smiled at the festival, the people around were all smiling and enjoying the food and the stands around. Yasuo found himself enjoying the view. A part of him thought he would never see the festival so closely again. Karma was the most excited taking them from one stand to another, inviting them to try the food or try their luck.

Irelia was walking closely behind of them the whole time, making sure neither Riven nor Yasuo did anything funny. Riven especially was the target of Irelia. Karma could only frown in disapproval of how Irelia was acting, she would have a chat with her later about courtesy.

But if anything, it didn't seem to affect Riven at all, in fact, she often would look behind her and point Irelia to a stand asking if she wanted anything. She would of course refuse, but still Riven kept trying to offer something to her.

Karma was happy with the gesture of Riven. Trying to invite Irelia to their fun. So far Karma had enjoyed the festival, she couldn't wait for the night for when the true show would begin. Yasuo had obtained a small goldfish in game. In fact, he won two. He said one was for Taliyah, and that the other would be a simple present for the therapist.

Riven thought he would appreciate the gift. Karma was curious at how Riven expression would brighten at the mention of the therapist. And she was curious about it, for she thought maybe Riven had a small infatuation with the therapist.

They were coming to a part of the festival filled with stands that sold all sort of trinkets and gifts. Karma took the chance to take Riven away from Irelia prying eyes as they were surrounded by people.

Riven complied rather easily, she felt Karma had something to say so she decided to go along.

"Riven may I ask you something?"

Riven nodded. Eating all the time something she had taken from a stand, a small piece of grilled meat on a stick.

"Go ahead"

Karma smiled at the childish display of Riven speaking with food on her mouth, still, she decided to focus on the question in her head.

"Are you and the therapist you speak so much about dating?"

At the innocent question, Riven almost choke on her food. She took a moment to get her breathing back in place.

"What makes you say that?"

Karma smiled before pointing at her cheeks.

"You smile a lot more when speaking of the therapist, and I couldn't avoid but wonder if you two were dating"

Karma smiled as Riven found herself a bit embarrassed.

"No, not really… I mean we became friends but that's all…"

Riven felt embarrassed, she had taken a liking to Cid. And this trip to Ionia had made her understand how much of an influence he had become to her. After all, Cid made her try more, to learn, to enjoy… she wouldn't even have put effort into writing if it wasn't for his suggestion.

She had been patient the whole time, she didn't get angry at the way Irelia treated her, if anything, she made use of what she learned with Cid. Keep calm, let things flow, don't let the anger get her. She had even been able to make Yasuo relax before they spoke with Karma.

She couldn't wait for tomorrow to go back to the Institute and see him.

But dating was a strong word.

They were friends for sure, and while they knew a lot of the other she wasn't sure if she would actually try something like dating. For starters, her looks weren't like the other champions…

"Riven, I apologize…it wasn't my intention to make you sad"

Sad?

And that's when she felt it, that sensation in the pit of her stomach, sadness. She hadn't felt sad like that in a long time. Was Cid that important to her? She decided to leave those thoughts aside. And focused on Karma.

"Is not your fault, I just had a lot of things in my head don't worry"

Karma smiled, but before she could speak Riven interrupted her.

"Really, I know you didn't have bad intentions, so let's go, we still got a festival to enjoy right?"

Karma smiled, more honestly this time and nodded at Riven.

As they looked for Yasuo they found him drinking with Irelia. The scene was surprising, but more for Karma who didn't know how both of them ended up drinking as buddies. The scene brought warm to her thinking maybe Irelia would finally enjoy the festival.

Irelia looked at Riven and sighed before speaking.

"Want to join us?"

Riven nodded before sitting with them, Karma followed behind. She was not going to miss a moment of this.

---

Back in the Institute in a special room meant for spars, Cid was in the middle of two forces. Bolivear and Ornn. Neither was budging an inch, and it seemed they were just waiting for a moment to destroy the other. They had their past as a fight destroyed the relation they had. They weren't in amicable terms in the past, but they weren't trying to kill each other either. Now they were.

Zac and Nautilus had done a splendid job retaining both titans on their side. Zac proved to be able to keep Bolivear away, and Nautilus proved his anchor could easily get Ornn back to him if he tried going to close to Bolivear.

The session had been going for little more of two hours according to Cid internal clock. He heard both sides of the story, and he had to admit he felt surprised at the existence of Ornn, if his story was true, he was responsible for some of the wonders of the world.

Bolivear had been in the wrong in the opinion of Cid. And he tried to make sure Ornn understand that what happened in the past couldn't be fixed. He had to keep moving forward. It seemed that between both titans Ornn was the easier to speak with.

And in a way this was worrisome, he needed to make Bolivear calm down.

Before Cid could think of a solution Ornn walk forward without any hint of anger to Bolivear.

"I will make sure to punish you… but it will be on the fields of Justice… no in a petty fight in the Institute…"

As Ornn made his way to the exit in the company of Nautilus, Cid motioned to Zac to let Bolivear go.

"I will get him!"

At this Cid interrupted him.

"No you won't, if you try anything like that again the Institute will take action Bolivear, so act like Ornn, keep that for the battlefield"

At this Bolivear looked at Cid with killing intent.

"You dare order me?!"

Cid chuckled.

"I guess this only proves Ornn is better than you then after all you cant avoid to fight"

At this Bolivear grunted before looking with a questioning look.

"He is not better than me, I'm the better warrior"

Zac noticed how Bolivear was falling for Cid trap.

"Oh really? Then if you are better, surely you can be more patient than Ornn?"

Bolivear roared with laughter

"Of course I can! I can beat him in anything in any field!"

Cid smiled. Hook, line, and sinker.

"Well then, prove it, don't fight with Ornn in the Institute, keep it for the battlefield"

Bolivear laughed his roar resounding in the room.

"You will see, Ornn will be the one to fight me, he will break first"

As Bolivear left the room Zac looked at Cid.

"He totally fell for that didn't he?"

Cid smiled

"Totally, still, I will tell the summoners I need to have therapy with Ornn and Bolivear by separate, this was only a temporal solution. If anything, I think Bolivear will lose his patience first"

Zac knew he was right. Bolivear and Ornn would keep clashing until something else was done.

"Still, for such short notice, you managed to solve the problem"

Cid chuckled before pointing at Zac.

"You are the hero this time, I doubt I could have done much if it weren't for you and Nautilus"

Zac chuckled.

"We had a hard time though, plus you managed to stop them for a while with words, we needed to use a lot of muscle"

Zac decided to pose a bit to show off his muscles, and Cid could only chuckle and nod.

"Thanks, Zac, well I think I will take a rest in the office, this was hard"

Zac nodded and asked something out of nowhere, at least from Cid point of view.

"How is Riven? Surely you are missing her"

This took Cid by surprise. He tried to be eloquent while answering.

"What?"

And failed miserably at it. The question had taken him by surprise. Zac saw his confusion and kept going.

"Aren't you two dating? Is sort of the talk of the institute"

And then it clicked. Viktor words:

Plus, some rumor you might be getting too close to some Champions

"Oh… no, we are not dating"

At this Zac chuckled.

"Sorry, I guess I shouldn't have placed such attention to rumors"

Cid waved his dismissal about it.

"Don't worry, there is nothing bad there, but well, me and Riven are friends you know?"

Zac was in thought, both started to take the walk to the office.

"Well… is just Riven has never been so friendly you know? The most we have seen of her expressing herself is with you. So rumors just started going at the fact you were always seen together in here"

Cid chuckled.

"I haven't been here that long, and rumors already spread"

Zac laughed before pointing to the halls.

"Everything that happens here is often taken as rumors, can't blame them for wanting some excitement in the walls of this place"

Cid nodded. Rumors sadly worked like that. And Viktor had given him some insight into it.

"I guess you are right Zac…"

Cid was in thought about Riven. They were friends, they were both survivors of the battlefields. And they sort of came to reach a friendship, and while weird, he had to admit he did miss her. It hadn't been long, just a few days… but still, he had to admit it. He missed their chats and friendly banter. Therapy had made them meet. But trust and honesty made them friends.

While in thought about Riven also memories of therapy with Sona came to mind. They had a rocky start. Mainly with the left hook to his nose. He chuckled at the memory of being knocked by Sona. And same as with Riven, therapy made them meet, but it was understanding that brought them friendship.

"I guess I can understand why rumors would go around"

Zac smiled at his friend.

"Well if you need help, I can give you some pointers to actually get a date"

This surprised Cid. He didn't know Zac was dating anyone.

"I didn't know you were dating someone Zac"

At this Zac chuckled.

"I'm not, but I see the summoners trying and failing all the time. So I'm an expert already at what not to do"

He placed a heavy emphasis on the not.

"Thanks, Zac, I might actually take that offer"

Zac smiled before offering a bit of advice to his friend.

"No problem, as a matter of fact, remember this… girls love chocolate, but that doesn't mean they like you. But if you offer them chocolate they will accept it, be sure to not misunderstand"

Cid smiled at the honest advice of his friend. And it was a rather good advice. He could only wonder what Zac saw happening all the time in the Institute.

"Thank you Zac, I will keep that advice"

Zac smiled before stopping.

"Well I must go somewhere else Cid, take care"

Cid nodded and waved at his friend.

"Take care, big guy"

Zac smiled and left in a good mood. While going away he wondered if he could help his friend get a date. Cid was a nice guy, a bit frail sure. But Zac thought that he had charm in him, and if he had learned anything from the summoners, was that looks weren't all. Sometimes girls wanted someone who could listen…

And then it hit him.

Cid was a therapist, he was kind, he knew how to listen, and he knew when to stay quiet and let people speak and let out all of their anger…

He could easily get his friend a date! But who… who could be a good date for his friend? He needed help to find the best candidate… but who had a sort of test to find the best partner…

"Blitzcrank!"

Zac took to running. He had to help to move some stuff but surely that could wait. His friend happiness was more important.

Blitzcrank. The golem with a human heart, the one who loved to help others. While not many knew it, Blitzcrank and Viktor shared something. The wish to help others. They had different ways of doing it, but in the end, they both aimed for the same goal, to help.

And a fact not many knew was Blitzcrank ways of helping also included something else. He offered the Blitzcranks Fleshing Compatibility Service. Offering to find the companion of their wildest dreams with his patented Hook-up-Look-up Algorithm.

Of course, the test was long, so it wasn't something many tried. But those who had to try it knew it didn't fail. Bob Nashahago had filed a complaint. But it was in the end denied of any veracity. After all, he did date Nidalee for a while and Janna too. Though details of that were sketchy and it was known to not speak so much about the incident of Nashahago.

He went to the room of Blitzcrank, hoping that as always his door was open. Blitzcrank was never to refuse a visit, of anyone. Zac found his good friend in the company of the Lady of Clockwork. Orianna.

Zac smiled at them, he knew they were one day going to end together… well, he hoped. If anything he thought Orianna was happy with friendship, so was Blitzcrank. Robots while with human hearts and minds were hard to get.

Still, he had a job to do.

"Blitzcrank! I need your help! Also sorry for interrupting you Orianna"

At this, the lady of clockwork simply smiled at the being known as Zac. She always found his attitude fun, he always tried to help and moved all over the Institute taking odd jobs others didn't want to do. One could often find him in the pool cleaning the surrounding area after the champions used the facilities.

"No worries Zac… what do you need Blitzcrank help with?"

Orianna was in thought at what could he need. Probably a job of strength, or maybe to stop champions from clashing again?

Blitzcrank was in a similar state. Zac often asked for help in tasks that needed strength or were too risky for beings of flesh.

"I need the matchmaking service"

Orianna expression was one of confusion. Was Zac looking for a date?

"Is for my friend, the therapist of the Institute"

Orianna thought that if it was a lie, it was a poor one. Meaning he had to be telling the truth.

"The therapist is looking for a date?"

Zac denied with his head before speaking

"No, but I know he could find a date, and that he would make whoever it is his date happy"

Orianna was confused. But Blitzcrank wasn't.

"I see…"

Blitzcrank moved into the room and came back with a stack of papers.

"Make him fill out those forms… once finished bring them back to me and I will give you his results"

Zac stretched hugging both Orianna and Blitzcrank. The first one a bit uncomfortable at the gratitude and the later simply acknowledging he helped Zac.

"Thanks! I will bring this back soon!"

Zac took a running start and left going to the office of the therapist. Orianna meanwhile looked at Blitzcrank with a curious look.

"I didn't know you still had the compatibility services"

Blitzcrank simply nodded at her.

"I never stopped doing them… people simply stop asking for them after Nashahago incident"

Orianna nodded. Everyone knew of the incident.

The nerve to try to double time two nice girls.

---

As Cid was in his office making a sketch of Volibear and Ornn, Zac came carrying a stack of papers. And he feared what it could be.

"Cid! Good, you are not busy, here!"

He let the stack of papers fall on his desk.

"The Institute need for you to fill this asap!"

Cid was curious at the state of Zac. He seemed to be serious, but also really excited about the concept of filling the papers.

While thinking something was out of place, Cid started to fill the papers.

He was curious at the questions and the multiple options to answers.

Do you like the sea or prefer the desert?
Would you got around looking for adventure or calm?
Are you prone to cause mischief?
Resistant to charm?

The questions were confusing, and as he made his way through them he thought on them.

They were making a profile of him. One of his likes and dislikes, what was he good at and what he was bad at. But the more he answered he took notice of something. This was a profile, they were learning all about him for future reference. And he was surprised.

Is not easy to make a profile, because people might lie in them. For him it wasn't a problem, he was actually glad the Institute seemed to be so careful with the people who were in it, maybe he could get the profile on Volibear and Ornn to look for a solution to their feud. But that was hopeful thinking.

Maybe he could also find information about Vi. They had an appointment tomorrow after all. And maybe the profile would give him an idea of how to approach therapy with her.

The more he thought about it the more excited he was to fill the forms in front of him. He was going to thank whoever was the one to create such an incredibly deep system to be able to profile others. But when he reached the final question of the final form is when he took notice it wasn't a normal profile.

It was a dating profile. And he only took notice because of the last question.

367.- Are you looking for:

Casual Friendship [ ]
Special Someone [ ]
Political Marriage [ ]
Partner for evil deeds [ ]
Business associate [ ]

"Hey! Zac this isn't something the Institute asked for, is it? This is a dating profile!"

Zac smiled nervously at Cid. But rather than risk it, he took the papers and run.

Cid knew better than to try to run behind his friend. In fact, he didn't mind that he brought something like that. But he didn't need to try to fake it. Cid loved filling those sort of tests and profiles to see his results. Sometimes having too much time was a bad thing. And those helped to pass time even if he never submitted them.

"Hey… did I fill the last question?"

---

In the room of Ahri, Sona was resting on the many pillows as Ahri poked her cheek.

"Come on! Why not?"

Sona had written the reasons she liked Cid.

He helps me face my fears, the night and the darkness aren't so scary if he is close, and it makes me wonder… the same way he fills me with courage and happiness. Can I also fill his heart with the same happiness? Shouldn't he have someone who can speak with him?

He knows signs, and when we chat he doesn't focus on anyone but me. He makes me feel that I'm there. He knows I'm in front of him. I don't need to make a sound for him to know I'm around. He just knows I'm there, even if I make no sound.

He is childish, he never takes care of his hair, he doesn't like dressing for formal events, he often is one to make jokes about things and never worries too much about being blunt. He is a child in his soul… yet he can be an adult when the situation calls for it.

I don't understand. My first contact with him was by punching him for making me get angry… I never get angry. He made me speak of my past, and he took the sadness away. He takes the anger, the sadness, the fear… and puts happiness and good memories in their place.

He brings music to my life without the usage of an instrument.

His presence is like music. And I want myself wishing to hear more.

Is that love?

At the end of the note, Ahri found herself smiling fondly at her friend. Sona might not speak through conventional means but she always thought she could express herself more than others. Maybe it was because she couldn't speak, but Ahri thought Sona didn't need to speak a word to express herself.

The silence was her voice, but the music was her soul. And Sona was someone who spoke with her soul.

But she was also too stubborn. Ahri had taken Sona to her room to get privacy, and she tried to make Sona admit to Cid that she liked him. Worst come to worst he would say no. But Sona thought that the worst-case scenario was Cid being repulsed at the idea and would ask for them to not see each other.

Ahri was tired of their deadlock and she simply kept poking Sona soft cheeks. A part of Ahri had gotten interested in Cid. And the words of Sona made her curious. Ahri knew all about emotions and knew that emotions were more complicated than any magic in the world.

And she found herself in wonder. Did she felt jealous that Sona had someone who made her feel like that? Was she seriously jealous her friend had someone who made her feel in love?

Whatever the case, that was something that could wait. She had a job to do, and that was to get Sona stop being so stubborn.

"Come on! You just wrote it yourself! You adore the guy! And I doubt he doesn't find you pretty, come on Sona, how many people have tried to ask you out?"

Sona was popular, while Ahri and Sarah often had lots of people behind them Sona wasn't so far behind. Many summoners and fans had in the past try to ask her out, even some champions had tried in the past. Still, she would kindly turn them down. She just didn't feel the same, and in Sona opinion having someone just for the sake of having someone at your side was sad.

If you need the presence of someone all the time at your side, that someone should be yourself.

But in love that was different. Two people who like each other should be together. But they should be together by respecting each other. To understand the other had their own hobbies and their own need for space. Love was not need, it was respecting and caring for the other…

Sona moved on the pillows and she poked Ahri cheek this time.

"Are you sure you want to turn this into a battle Sona? For I will have no mercy on you!"

Ahri smiled as she took a pillow to get Sona. She was fast but predictable. And Sona threw a pillow square to her face surprising the Nine-Tailed Fox.

Ahri laughed before lunging again at Sona.

Ahri knew Sona was trying to distract her from the conversation about Cid and her feelings. But that was okay. If she could help Sona by making her relax and enjoy a silly pillow fight, she would do it. Sona needed to relax. And she was happy of knowing she was helping her friend, the same way a therapist had helped her yesterday.

---

Meanwhile back with Blitzcrank Zac had brought the forms for him. Orianna was seeing them with curiosity. She never knew Blitzcrank matchmaking service had so much detail in it. She was reading the forms that Blitzcrank had finished processing.

"… the last one lacks an answer…With the forms unfulfilled the result can't be perfectly processed"

Orianna looked at Zac.

"You didn't tell him what it was for?"

Zac looked nervous before admitting he said it was of the institute and not for dating.

"Well… surely we can fill the last question, right?"

Blitzcrank was in thought before nodding.

"We can, but the result might not be what he looks for… but he did fill the rest, so it should hold not much problem. A slight variation of 0.27247956% is possible"

Orianna and Zac were surprised at the small margin of error. But as Blitzcrank stated. Cid had filled the rest of the forms without a problem, only the last question was lacking.

But what should they mark in the end?

---

In the night on Ionia, Yasuo was carrying an inebriated Irelia, the Unforgiven had a high resistance to alcohol the Will of Blades simply didn't share. Riven had avoided drinking too much so she was well, and Karma simply didn't drink alcohol, stating water was more of her thing.

Yasuo offered to take Irelia back to her place in the Placidium. Karma thanked him and she stated she would take Riven to enjoy the fireworks, she also told Yasuo to look outside when in the Placidium as to not miss the fireworks.

He nodded and left supporting Irelia.

Karma pointed for Riven to follow her.

"So, enjoyed the festival Riven?"

Karma asked hoping Riven like the festival, she was a bit worried she might have ruined it the experience of getting her sad before.

Still, she was surprised at the smile of Riven, a bright smile full of cheerfulness.

"Yes, this was really fun, different from anything I have experienced before, Noxus was never one for festivities… this was truly fun"

Karma let out the breath she didn't know she was holding.

"Glad to hear you enjoy it, the best part is about to begin though, the fireworks mark the end of the festival, and they are the best"

As Karma guided Riven to a spot without people they both sat in the soft grass.

"This is the best spot to see the fireworks Riven. Hope you enjoy them"

Riven nodded.

"I will… thanks Karma"

Karma was surprised at that. She didn't think she did anything deserving thanks.

"You are welcome… but why thank me?"

Riven smiled looking at the night sky of Ionia. Looking at the stars.

"I never would have seen this side of Ionia if you didn't allow us to be here. My memories of Ionia don't make justice to this place… Ionia is beautiful, and I find myself loving it…"

Karma smiled at the words of Riven. Because it proved she was right. Riven wasn't like the Noxians who were in war often. No, Riven had truly changed, and where others saw land to conquer, it seemed Riven was able to appreciate the beauty of the land.

"I'm glad to hear you like it here Riven… if you wish, I can get you a pass. That way you could visit our land as much as you want"

Riven was surprised at the offer and nodded.

"Thanks…"

Riven saw the sky and got surprised at the lights in the sky, she was amazed at it. Karma smiled.

"Enjoy the fireworks Riven"

Riven couldn't speak marveling at the show. The many lights flashing in the sky, some even making shapes, a dragon, a bird, the symbols of Ionia. So many figures in the sky illuminating everything in it. Riven didn't feel when Karma got close to her.

Nor she noticed how Karma was holding her hand.

Karma would lie if she said she didn't found Riven refreshing. She was bluntly honest, and she carried a feeling of innocence in her. But she wasn't sure if Riven would notice her. After all, she seemed to have someone else in her heart. And she would support Riven… because a real friend supports its friend.

A shame she found this side of Riven so late.

A part of Karma felt ashamed. She was slightly glad to know Riven wasn't dating the therapist. But she knew probably Riven liked him…

Feelings, emotions. The greatest mystery in the world. The greatest of magics.

Karma stayed close to Riven the whole time. Riven held the hand of Karma the whole time. But Riven was considering the whole time one thing.

Would Cid enjoy watching the fireworks with her?

---

Cid found himself sketching again in the night. He was sketching Zac and Nautilus, making sure one could feel the kindness of Zac and the imposing nature of Nautilus. He sketched Vi expression in the morning. He found himself doing the second sketch of Viktor as he had taken the first one.

He smiled at the many sketches he had done after meeting so many. He was sketching Pix and Lulu with Veigar at their side. So much to sketch, and so many memories. He saw his left leg, a proof of Viktor ability, it had been fast, and the leg proved to work perfectly.

He wondered what happened with Taliyah and Lux that he didn't see them. Maybe they had a match in the Fields of Justice. After all, Nasus had mentioned before that when matches took place sometimes champions would be busy for the day.

As he was sketching he heard a soft knock on his door.

"Enter, is not locked"

He was surprised to see Morgana. She was wearing the same cooking uniform she was wearing last time. This time she wasn't wearing her gloves nor the hat. She had a small tray with her.

"Greetings, I hoped you be in the mood for a late snack"

Cid smiled at her nodding. Morgana smiled before entering and placing the tray in his desk. Cid smiled when he saw the tray. Cookies, the same cookies of a small suffering gingerbread man.

Cid took one after thanking Morgana. She sat on the couch of the small office looking at his sketches. As she was observing the many faces sketched, she also saw the ones who had been drawn fully. Ornn and Volibear. She chuckled. If he had seen one of their fights he knew how destructive the tanks could be.

She smiled looking him eating the cookies with gusto. She liked seeing someone enjoy her food so much, and she also took notice of his hair, it looked cleaner than last time… almost styled.

"Did you styled your hair?"

He spoke before eating another of the cookies.

"Ahri did, she took the chance"

Morgana smiled at the image of him being sit in the vanity of the Nine-Tailed Fox. She knew Ahri was one to be good at styling.

"I'm surprised she didn't dye your hair blonde"

Cid chuckled.

"We agreed my hair couldn't handle being blonde, my hair is dark after all"

Morgana chuckled at him before taking a cookie herself. She loved the sweet taste the cookies had. She had been baking as it was her free day of any matches, so she took the chance to try new recipes, but after thinking for a while she decided to make some cookies for her friend.

"I'm glad to see you keeping it dark, it suits you"

Cid smiled before pointing at her hair.

"We sort of match, we both got dark colors in our hair"

Morgana smiled at him. Many referred to her looks as a proof of how evil she was. And here he was smiling and pointing how their hair match.

"Good taste is something we have in common"

Both smiled eating in silence for a while, then Morgana saw a sketch of herself. Differently, from the other sketches, this one was colored. Her hair, her eyes, her skin… he had made a drawing of her. And she found herself thinking something she didn't quite think. She was beautiful…

Morgana was always sure of herself, she had confidence and carried herself with a shield against the judging of others. After the loss of her wings, she needed to carry herself with confidence, no one would make her feel down. No one would make her feel inferior, nor make her feel like she was a failure.

But sadly, Morgana was in the eyes of many an evil creature, unholy, dark… she had her own motives, and sometimes she hated how some who didn't even knew her mark her as an evil being right from the beginning. She could care less. But she never saw someone who placed such detail into picturing her.

"Cid… you drew this right?"

Cid stopped his devouring of a cookie before looking at the sketch. He thought he could put some color in Morgana sketch, add a bit of detail to show her presence. Still, it was a sketch, nothing too call a masterpiece.

"Yeah, I sketch before resting, is a good way to sort of close my day you know? Your sketch took a bit more time, I wanted to portray how you look, and only in black and white I felt like it lacked a bit you know?"

Morgana nodded. She felt in black and white the sketch might not have looked the same.

"Is beautiful Cid… do you mind if I take it?"

Cid nodded his approval.

"Sure, you can keep it"

Morgana smiled. Morgana might now know, but the smile on her face was the same as in the sketch.

"Thank you, Cid. I shall take my leave, I didn't plan to stay long, enjoy the cookies"

She left the small tray, before leaving she looked fondly at him before waving him goodbye. Cid was surprised at the kindness and affection Morgana could emit at times. He thought she was probably thankful for the sketch. He found himself taking a cookie that seemed to be screaming.

"You get what happened?"

The gingerbread man stayed silent as Cid ate his head.

"Me either"

Cid words echoed in the office before hearing a soft knocking again. Maybe it was Morgana.

"Enter, is still open"

Cid kept sketching as the door opened, he was surprised at seeing Vi without her gauntlets so late. She looked a tad embarrassed.

"Sorry for intruding… I just couldn't leave it for tomorrow"

Cid nodded smiling.

"Don't worry about it, you can rest on the couch if you want"

Vi let herself fall on the couch. Cid stood and offered her the tray of cookies.

"Want one? I'm telling you they taste great"

Vi looked at the suffering cookies. Imagining they were from Morgana. But she was tired, and at this point, she could care less, she needed something to eat.

"Sure. I will take one"

As she took one cookie of the tray and bite it she got surprised.

The cookie was delicious, and if a dam had broken she ended up taking the whole tray and started eating.

"Well, well, look at that, someone was hungry"

Vi grunted before speaking with her mouth full.

"Can't, eating"

Cid chuckled at seeing Vi eat the rest of the tray. Cid looked for something he could offer her to drink, behind him he only had water and juice. So better than anything he offered her a glass of water. She accepted it with a nod.

"Thanks"

As she took the glass of water and down it in a second Vi felt a bit better. More relaxed at least. She still wasn't sure of the whole therapy business.

"Hey, you good Vi?"

Cid could notice how even though she was relaxed she was still tense, her body showed apprehension as if she didn't want to be in the office. Vi breathed before letting out a big sigh.

"No, I'm not… I don't like this whole idea of me needing therapy"

Cid nodded at her before speaking.

"You think this is a punishment of sorts?"

Vi nodded.

"Of course, cupcake no I don't like this whole deal of having someone telling me I'm crazy and giving me meds"

Cid nodded before chuckling.

"I'm a therapist, not a psychiatrist, I don't give medicines, nor I am allowed too, therapy is all about speaking"

Vi eyed him with a questioning look.

"No funny business? Just… talking?"

Cid nodded smiling at her as he took his seat in his chair behind the desk.

"Only talking, maybe playing a game if you feel like it"

Vi nodded. Still wary of the whole idea of therapy.

"Just talking for now"

Cid nodded. And he pointed the obvious thing in Vi mind.

"You are not like Jinx, the fact you were asked to come to therapy doesn't mean they think you are going to become like her or that they think you are like her already"

Vi eyes opened in surprise. And before she could speak Cid interrupted her.

"Yes I'm reading your mind, also stop undressing me in your mind, I don't do that with people I just met"

At this Vi smiled and laughed, she openly laughed because she understood he was joking. She needed that joke. She needed to laugh.

"Ah, thanks. I needed that, but do not worry, you are a bit too frail for my tastes"

At this Cid faked to be hurt.

"And here I thought you would hold me in your strong arms and carry me to the morning sun"

Vi laughed before pointing at his hair.

"Well you would make a nice princess"

Cid simply decided to play along and make a small bow at her.

"Oh thank you, my dear knight"

Vi started to laugh again, holding her sides at the fact he was easy going.

She didn't understand why people couldn't be like that, why did they need to be so uptight about everything? They took offense at whatever she did or said. No one knew how to take a joke or a comment…

Her thoughts were interrupted by his voice.

"Hey… all good? You looked sort of down for a moment"

She tried to say a lie but thought better of it.

"Yeah… is just, I was thinking everyone takes what I say badly…what happened to others having your back?"

She spoke of how the people on the force of Piltover seemed to take offense whenever he called them names, she never meant them, but they took offense rather easily. Some even thought she was always rude. And while working some say she did more damage than good.

It seemed there had been an especially sensible operation, and Vi had compromised the operation by rushing through a wall. It seemed she heard the voice of a kid from the other side of the wall where she was supposed to make guard. After hearing the kid, she broke the wall making sure the kid got out. But at the same time, she had made her presence known and alerting the criminals.

The result,

A warehouse ended up in flames, two officers got injured. Nothing fatal though, but the damage to the warehouse according to Caitlyn would have been able to be avoided had they done the plan in order. The injured officers were already filing complains about Vi before, so this only served as further evidence against her.

Caitlyn could have help, but she decided she would not help this time.

At this Vi got angry mentioning how at a time the sheriff shot the hand of a man away. She remembers the interrogation and asking and finding out. And what did she do? Nothing, she kept silence and didn't mention the incident. But did Cait defend her this time? No, and now she was having to be in therapy.

Cid noticed the obvious anger. She wasn't one for breathing, no. Vi needed to punch things out…

"Hey, follow me"

Cid stood up and pointed for Vi to follow him in silence.

As Vi walked behind him she was curious about where they would go. The institute was dark, and Cid knew the route more by memory than by anything else. And he stood in front of a door Vi knew well.

The sparring room.

But it was locked so they wouldn't be able to enter…

The click of the door opening made Vi eyes open as she saw the therapist put something in his pockets. And making a sign for her to keep quiet.

"This stays between us, call it therapist and patient secrecy"

Vi smiled at him before entering the room.

Once inside Cid just closed the door behind them and spoke to her.

"Well, go wild, hit the dummies, break some targets, let it all out. Don't think of anything else"

Vi smiled. She might not have her gauntlets, but she was more than physically fit. And so, she went ahead to punch the bags.

Cid just looked at her hitting the punching bags. Saw her scream in rage while even managing to break a couple of them, she had a lot of rage bottled up it seems.

He took note that therapy for Vi would advance better if she let her let out all the rage. He had been lucky. The lock of the door wasn't anything too hard to pass. It was almost the same as of his first office. It had been a risky move, but he knew Vi needed to let it all out.

Rage is something weird, and at times it is like a tree.

The seed is planted, and it can die. Or it can grow. Rage is a poisonous tree, and when the seed manages to live by, it grows, and when the poisonous tree gives fruits, results are horrible for everyone, especially the one who carries the seed of rage in their heart.

Cid attention came back to Vi as he heard her falling down on the floor. She was sweating and was getting her breath back. Cid noticed how she looked tired. And then he noticed the bunch of punching bags broken on the floor. She had really outdone herself.

As he walked near her he spoke.

"Need a hand?"

She didn't answer, but she did reach for his hand.

"Up you go"

As he helped her stand up she gave him an awkward hug. All the sweat stayed on his shirt, but he smiled at her, noticing it was her way of saying thanks without air. As they walked out of the room and close the door Vi pointed directions for him to go too. After a few minutes, they reached her room.

She opened the door before smiling and entering in silence. Cid smiled before closing the door and leaving the area. Vi fell on her bed without much effort. She was tired, she was still angry at what happened. But therapy hadn't been so bad. If the other 15 sessions would be like the one she just had, then she wouldn't have a trouble breezing through them.

Cid went to his room and decided he needed a shower. Vi had pretty much let his clothes sweaty. He smiled at the face she had after all the destruction she did. She was relaxed. It was a weird smile, one full of happiness but at the same time as if saying, hey look, I did this.

As the night started to end and the sun started to rise to signal the start of a new day many around Runaterra had thoughts on their minds.

An exile was in thought regarding her friendship with someone who had started to become a positive influence in her life. A maven of strings was thinking if risking friendship was worth it in exchange for getting something better. A herald was considering maybe there were other ways to ask others for cooperation.

An officer was tired, her muscles sore after a lot of damage done. An unforgiven was receiving the new day with hope, things would go better. Many thoughts were on the minds of the many who inhabit Runaterra.

The world never stops moving, and so, in the same way, they couldn't stop moving forward.

And the most curious of thoughts was on the mind of a therapist. Who was considering that maybe home wasn't a physical place, but rather, maybe home was wherever he could rest and enjoy life.

Today would be a new day, and with a new day, new challenges always come...

---

Chapter 18! Reforging the blade, this is the melody of my heart!

"Morning Cid!"

The morning started with a yordle happily waving at him as the door of his office was open.

"Greetings Poppy, nice to see you"

Poppy smiled at him, she was carrying the hammer with her and she seemed to be in a good mood. Cid thought maybe she had come to give him a simple greeting. He was surprised at noticing she was carrying an envelope with her, the thing was small and looked formal in its clean look.

"I was asked to give you this, and I thought I would take the chance to thank you"

She smiled at him before placing the letter in his desk. She got on the hammer to get properly in front of him. Cid smiled at the gesture and spoke what he was thinking.

"I don't recall doing much to receive your thanks Poppy"

She smiled before making her way to the door.

"You just keep being a nice therapist"

She left closing the door behind her, Cid smiled at the formal yordle. He took the envelope and look who send it. It simply read a short message in it.

Blitzcrank's Fleshling Compatibility Service.

It had the sound of a dating service, and then it clicked for Cid. He did fill out the forms that Zac had left him yesterday, so maybe it had the results?

"Should I… open it?"

Curiosity was a big deal for him. After all, it would be fun to see the results. Before he could consider opening it he got a visitor in the form of a rushing Ahri opening the door and closing it behind her, she quickly took to hide behind him.

"Cid! Keep me safe she is mad at me!"

Cid saw Ahri trying to cover herself in her tails.

"Who is mad at you?"

Ahri peeked slightly from her tails to look at him.

"Me and Sona had a sort of sleep over and she got mad at me"

Before Cid could ask what happened an angry Sona opened the door. Her eyes spoke of a lot of anger at Ahri, but her face had lots of small doodles of foxes and music letters.

Cid couldn't help to snort at the look of Sona. Sona saw him and her eyes silenced him, he raised his arms in surrender. She started to signal at him.

"Where is she?"

Cid answered back to her quickly. The desk was doing a good job of hiding Ahri.

"Don't know, haven't seen her"

Sona eyes made it clear she wasn't playing around.

"Take her out of hiding"

Cid sighed before coughing.

"Oh, look at the time, better run ahead!"

Ahri got the queue and took to rush away fast sadly the iron grip of Sona got her from the neck of her clothes. Ahri choked out a gasp at Sona grip.

"Sona! Please! You can't blame me, you fell asleep first, you know that is sort of implied that happens to the first to fall asleep!"

Sona looked at him before signaling a quick thank you to Cid. Ahri was begging for help as she was taken away by an angry Sona and Cid could only shudder at what would happen to Ahri. He couldn't avoid expressing his condolences to Ahri by giving a shout

"Sorry! Hope all goes well!"

Ahri looked at him one last time with pleading eyes and he sighed as he took to walk behind Sona.

"Sona, come on, surely you can forgive her, look at her"

Sona saw him with cold eyes and pointed at Ahri still on the iron grasp of her hand.

"I know that probably she over did it with the doodles, but surely they will wash away right Ahri?"

Ahri looked quickly at him and nodded fast at Sona.

"You just need to wash your face and you will be able to erase them! They are nothing permanent"

Sona iron grip was still firm, but Ahri felt the slightest of changes as Sona released her. She started signing at Cid and pointing to Ahri. Ahri got curious and asked.

"What did she say?"

Cid chuckled.

"That you better don't do it again or she will actually have revenge"

Ahri gulped a bit before smiling and hugging him.

"Thanks for the rescue, and sorry Sona, I won't do it again"

Ahri took quickly to go away before Sona changed her mind. Sona looked at the running Ahri and signed at Cid.

"You spoil her too much"

Cid chuckled before answering back.

"Maybe, but hey, she didn't have bad intentions, right?"

Sona sighed before signaling at him.

"I will go wash my face… can we have breakfast together?"

Cid was a bit surprised at the invitation but nodded nonetheless.

"Sure, will be at the same table"

Sona perked up, she gave him a quick hug before going away. Cid got a bit embarrassed at the hug, he could see Sona was happy with the news. He thought that maybe Sona was a bit more expressive with him.

He smiled thinking that they were becoming good friends.

As he made his way to get a table for him and Sona he was met with a happy Lux and a tired Taliyah.

"Hey! Sorry for not going with you, we had some matches yesterday and they needed me to represent Demacia"

Taliyah wasn't as happy as Lux about that.

"I was call to fill in for Azir, seems he couldn't make it to the match"

Cid took on Taliyah demeanor and spoke his thoughts.

"Not a good match I will take it?"

She sighed before answering, the three of them were making their way to a table.

"Not really, I mean I did well, I just wish they stop calling me a kid"

Cid chuckled before waving at her to forget that.

"there will come a time in which you won't like people calling you old, so forget it and enjoy being young"

She chuckled, the phrase had done its job in cheering her up.

"Thanks, you are young, too aren't you?"

Cid chuckled.

"I'm not old, but I'm not a kid, sort of like Lux here"

Lux perked up before chuckling a bit.

"Pretty much, I will always be young and beautiful though, can't say the same for you Cid"

At this Taliyah took the opportunity that had presented herself.

"Maybe not young, but we can agree he can be beautiful after we saw his hair"

Both laughed at the memory and Cid scratched his head in embarrassment.

"Go ahead ladies go ahead, laugh all you want, you know you need to laugh a bit more"

As they kept laughing at their inside joke, Cid took an apple before sitting. Lux and Taliyah had more full breakfasts. Cid decided to not touch the apple until Sona appeared. Something both Lux and Taliyah noticed. Taliyah was the first to ask

"Waiting for someone?"

Cid nodded.

"I agreed on having breakfast with Sona"

At this Lux decided to tease him.

"Oh, someone is rather close with Sona"

Cid chuckled at it.

"Come on there's nothing close in having a breakfast with friends"

Lux sighed before pointing at the other tables.

"Notice something therapist?"

Cid observed the tables. And then he understood.

Not everyone shared a table, there were many tables, and not a lot was being shared. He took notice of how Vayne was alone in a corner, or how at most their were a few pairs of people. He noticed a pair of vastaya being rather chummy with the other. At this he looked away embarrassed.

"Oh, right, Rakan and Xayah, you haven't met them yet. They are a couple, actually married as far as I know"

Lux was pointing at the other side.

"You can see Tryndamere and Ashe over there, and over there is Sejuani"

Cid wasn't sure, but he felt there was a small resemble between Sejuani and Ashe.

"They come from Freljord"

Cid nodded, that explained the small resemblance between Sejuani and Ashe, daughters of the ice, often told they had to become tough to survive at the Freljord.

"Lee Sin, Master Yi and Wukong are over there"

Cid looked at the table in which two men were chatting, one who was wearing a helmet with too many lenses, and the other seemed to have a blindfold on his eyes. Wukong was bored until he took notice of Cid and waved at him.

Cid waved back at Wukong. At this Lux was a bit surprised.

"Oh, I didn't know you were friends with Wukong"

Before Cid could answer Wukong had already made its way to their table.

"Rival! Is good to see you, and I see you have company. Greeting ladies"

Wukong made a small bow to them which earned a chuckle from Taliyah.

"Formal as always eh?"

Wukong smirked.

"Only with the ladies"

They all laughed at this, Cid took notice how it was easy to always chat with Wukong. He had a sort of easy-going air, and while it was probably backed by his skill in combat it was still nice for him to be kind. Wukong took the apple from the table before Cid could speak. And suddenly there were two Wukongs both with an apple on hand.

The one on the left spoke.

"If you can find the real one you can have your apple"

Cid simply pointed to the left.

"You are the real one"

The one on the right dispersed in a small cloud and Wukong was surprised.

"How! I fixed the small difference from last time!"

At this Lux spoke.

"Your clone never speaks"

The silence that came was surprising. Before anyone could speak the laugh of Taliyah was the one to break the silence, everyone else started laughing soon after, even Wukong laughed before tossing the apple back to Cid.

"I guess I should have spoken first, then do the clone"

A laughing Ahri made them look behind Wukong.

"Yes, you should Kong, greetings everyone"

Everyone greeted back at Ahri. She took a sit between Wukong who had decided to sit with them and Cid.

Lux took a moment to find that the round tables that were often meant for many for the first time in a long time was almost full, five seats from eight were finally being used at the same time. It was a nice change to see a table almost full. Before she could speak her thoughts she found herself surprised at seeing Lulu coming to the table in the company of Veigar.

"Can we sit here? The more the merrier right!"

No one had the heart to say no to Lulu, Veigar on the other side looked a tad uncomfortable being in the company of so many. Still he sat between Lulu and Cid. The mage looked at the table and asked the question in the air.

"Why are we all sharing a table?"

No one seemed to have an answer, but Cid took the previous phrase of Lulu.

"The more the merrier right?"

Lulu beamed at the phrase being repeated and the other seemed to just roll with it.

"Is a shame to never see a table full so I don't mind it"

Lux's voice was the first to answer. Soon Taliyah offered her own insight.

"I mean, we all are champions so we sort of…. Have something in common?"

At this Wukong laughed.

"We all maybe champions, but we all know who the best is"

All of them except Cid and Lulu answered at the same time.

"Me!"

Cid tensed at how the table suddenly felt with a big pressure in it. Taliyah was the first to look at Wukong with a questioning glance.

"Oh, mind repeating that Monkey King?"

Wukong chuckled seemingly getting ready.

"Oh, what? Do you differ with me?"

Ahri chuckled.

"Oh look at all of you, thinking you can beat me"

Veigar and Lux found themselves charging magic. At this Cid decided to distract everyone, he needed something that could get all of their attention… but what? He decided to go with something random.

"Hey, what is Blitzcrank's Fleshling Compatibility Service? I got a letter today with my results"

At this, the whole pressure on the table went away. Magic seemingly dispersed and Cid received some curious looks, even others from tables afar looked at him with surprise. Lux was the first to speak.

"You filled the forms? Like… you know is a dating service right?"

Cid looked embarrassed for a moment.

"I was told it was information the Institute needed of me, I later found out it was a dating service"

Ahri giggled before she spoke to him in a sultry tone to tease him.

"Look at you, if you were feeling so lonely you could have just told me"

Cid got red with embarrassment at the tone she used. Some of the tables were surprised at the turn of events, Lulu was giggling and Veigar simply kept quiet, but even he looked tense. Lux and Taliyah were surprised, but Wukong didn't get the meaning of Ahri phrase and tone and seemingly nodded in approval.

"Yeah, you could have told me too rival, if you feel lonely feel free to tell me and we can spar!"

Ahri laughed out loud at how Wukong didn't get the phrase. The others soon followed and Wukong looked at them with curiosity.

"What? What is so funny?"

Cid chuckled before waving at Wukong to forget it.

"Don't worry, really don't worry"

Lulu giggled a bit before asking something everyone else seemed to forget.

"So what was your result? Who is your special someone?"

Everyone suddenly stopped laughing and look at him. Their whole attention was focused on him and he got a bit embarrassed but kept his emotions in check. He needed to be in control of himself.

"I… I haven't open it yet, so I don't know who is my special someone as you call it Lulu"

Lulu giggled before keeping eating her purple berries.

"You should see it, maybe you will surprise yourself"

Everyone looked with curiosity at what Lulu said. No one had done the test for Blitzcrank services in a while. And while they couldn't ask Blitzcrank to tell them the results they could so something else.

Look for the letter.

Everyone except for Wukong, Veigar and Lulu stood from the table and left. Wukong asked the question in the air.

"Where did they go?"

Cid shrugged before taking a letter out of his clothes.

"Probably for this, I knew it was a good idea to keep it close"

Wukong looked at the envelope before resuming to eat. Lulu kept to herself, only Pix and Veigar looked at the envelope.

"Will you open it?"

Cid was surprised that Veigar was the one to ask. Cid nodded.

"I plan too. Not sure though"

Veigar nodded before resuming to eat.

"You are only stopping the inevitable outcome. If you match someone, they will be matched with you later if they take the test"

Cid didn't speak Veigar to know so much about it. Before he could ask Pix got close to him and pointed at Lulu and Veigar. Cid nodded, he got the message, probably at a time Veigar took the test and was matched with Lulu.

Cid smiled hoping that they would be happy. He didn't know much about Veigar. Except he seemingly had an endless supply of power if his heavy presence last time proved anything. He would later try to speak with him.

For now, he looked at the envelope in his hand. He decided to put it back on his clothes and wait for Sona. He had promised to have breakfast with her after all.

---

Sona had been washing her face of the doodles Ahri had done. She had to admit, they were funny, but she didn't appreciate that she did it. As she cleaned her face she took a look at her features. Her blue eyes that shined with the light, her soft hair that always fell down in a cascade from her tails at her sides. The blue was her color, and she smiled thinking she looked nice.

She was hoping that would at least give her some courage today. She had spent the night with Ahri, she went for her instrument and stayed playing the whole time. She was trying to make sure she was able to show her feelings in her new song. It was different from anything she ever tried before. Her music often could draw the world around her.

But she wanted to draw something different. She wanted her music to make clear the picture that was her feelings. Ahri had made sure to convince her of speaking her mind. To show her heart to Cid.

She would play the melody of her heart to him. And she was scared.

She would do something rather personal with someone who had taken an important place in her life. She wasn't sure when it happened, but she knew she wanted to keep Cid close to her, to enjoy the fun times, good or bad, she wanted to share everything with him.

If he was the same she didn't know, but she would take the risk, Ahri words resounded in her head.

"Will you live like a coward then? Asking yourself for an eternity of the what could have been? Instead of living knowing you tried everything you could? Knowing that you will never truly know, for you never dared to take a step forward… Sona, you are no coward, so don't go acting like one"

She had been right. She was no coward, she was the Maven of Strings. She was a Champion of Demacia. She was Sona Buvelle, the Maven of String, and she was no coward. She fought against some of the strongest all the time. What was there to fear in admitting she loved someone?

None.

But she knew inside of her, that it was going to be hard. But somewhere else, somewhere close to her heart, she knew Cid would not laugh nor make horrible remarks at her. He was her therapist. He was her friend. He was someone she loved…

She cleaned her face once more, hoping the cold water would offer relief. She brushed her hair before going out. She had a breakfast to attend with her friend…hopefully more.

---

In the morning on Ionia, Yasuo and Riven were getting ready to go back to the Insitute, a summoner was waiting to teleport them back. Meanwhile Karma and Irelia were chatting among themselves.

"I must admit I will miss her…"

Karma voice interrupted the thoughts of Irelia.

"You can see her in the Institute all the time you know?"

Karma sighed.

"Maybe… but maybe it won't be the same Riven"

Irelia had been a friend for Karma for long, and she knew what happened. Or could imagine.

"Not interested I take it?"

Karma chuckled before sighing.

"I didn't even tell her… I got cold feet in the end"

Irelia chuckled.

"So much for keeping the balance of your emotions then"

Karma chuckled at the joke.

"In the end, her heart belongs somewhere else. She doesn't seem to get it though, but she is too close to this therapist"

Irelia nodded.

"Yasuo mentioned Riven had changed a lot in the past few days… I didn't want to believe his words, but I guess he is right. She has changed, and… I guess I can see past her being a Noxian"

Karma smiled at the words of Irelia.

"Is good to hear you say that Irelia… well, let us hope for the best then"

Irelia placed a hand on the shoulder of her friend.

"If it helps… maybe they aren't together? It could be platonic even"

Karma smiled at Irelia intent to reassure her, and she smiled, even more, thinking that maybe she misunderstood. Maybe what Riven had for the therapist was platonic! She took to run to the point where Riven and Yasuo were waiting to be teleported.

She screamed at Riven when she saw the purple light enveloping.

"Riven! Let's spend some time together again in the Insitute!"

Riven smiled before nodding at her, in a second later she was gone. But Karma smiled. Irelia was laughing behind her.

"Really? Excited much aren't you?"

Karma laughed. An honest laugh as a smile decorated her face.

"What can I say? She is a good influence in my mood"

---

In the Institute Yasuo bowed at Riven once they were out of the purple light.

"Thank you….you didn't have to help, but you did… thank you Riven"

Riven nodded at Yasuo.

"Is no problem, I'm happy you can go home"

Yasuo stood up from his bowing and look at Riven with a smile on his face.

"Ionia is where I was born Riven, but my home is wherever the wind blows, I have always been free"

He left thinking Riven of something.

Where was her home? Was Noxus her home? She honestly didn't see herself as a part of the Noxus that destroyed so much on Ionia, the Noxus on her past was no more, and even then, that Noxus wasn't perfect…

So where was her home?

Before she could keep on thinking her stomach decided to make itself known.

She smiled at the idea of getting breakfast.

As Riven was making her way to the halls to get breakfast she found Sona.

"Sona! I'm back!"

Sona looked behind her and saw Riven. She smiled at her before rushing to hug her friend. Riven returned the hug at Sona. She motioned for her to follow her.

Riven decided once she finished learning to write she would take on signs. She wanted to be able to communicate with Sona the same way Cid did.

When she took notice she understood Sona was also going to get breakfast. She smiled at the idea of having breakfast with her, but surprise made its way on her face as she saw Cid on a table, he was in the company of Wukong, Lulu and surprisingly Veigar. She would have to ask what he had been up to in the last days.

"Cid!"

Cid smiled at Riven before waving at her. He was pleasantly surprised at seeing Riven back, she looked happy, and judging by her body language, hungry too. It was fun how Riven never seemed to be able to hide her emotions, she was crystal clear, and that was something Cid loved of Riven. She wasn't one for fake pleasantries, she was always honest, and that was refreshing.

He also waved at Sona who was waving at him. Both girls came with food on their dishes. Riven had a lot of eggs and meat in hers, Sona seemingly took fruits and bread. Cid apple paled in comparison to the dish Riven had.

He signed at Sona.

"So you found Riven? That's great"

Sona smiled answering back.

"Indeed, she found me first though"

Cid smiled imagining Riven shouting at Sona.

Riven also spoke, alas with food on her mouth,

"So… what did I miss these days?"

Wukong was the first to answer to Riven.

"I made a new rival! Cid became my newest rival, needless to say, he is proving to be worthy so far, can't wait for a spar though!"

Cid chuckled knowing in a spar Wukong would clean the floor with him. He was simply human, he wouldn't be able to fight Wukong or any champion in a straight conflict. After all he remembered how Sona was able to knock him to the floor.

Riven smiled at the image of Wukong standing over Cid. She knew he wasn't one for fights, even less against a champion, but knowing him he would find a way to avoid such conflict. Sona took a notepad writing to Riven.

"How was Ionia?"

She smiled before telling them the whole deal with Karma and Irelia, she told them of the good food and the games, she also mentioned Yasuo gift for Cid. He was surprised, after all he didn't need Yasuo to get him anything. She also mentioned the whole show of fireworks and how amazing they were.

Sona and Cid smiled at knowing things went well for Riven, Cid was especially proud that she had managed to not fall into confrontations with Irelia, and how she had even helped Yasuo to relax. She had acted really well. Seems her issues with anger were starting to really disappear. This made him proud as a therapist. But as a friend it made him feel maybe she wouldn't be visiting him.

"So I guess you won't need therapy anymore then, sounds to me like you have pretty much solved your anger issues"

Riven smile fell for a moment before looking at Cid with worry in her eyes. Sona was surprised at the look on her face. Lulu and Veigar were going off to their own business by then, they had enjoyed the story but they had a match soon. Wukong was curious at the expression on Riven, and not being an expert decided to look for Ahri.

So it was three on the table, Riven, Sona and Cid. Riven asked Cid while sounding a bit down.

"I… I can still see you right? I mean, we are friends right?"

Cid smiled at her, the honesty on her question was surprising to Sona and him. He answered with the same honesty.

"We are, so you can see me whenever you want, though you will have to wait if I'm helping someone"

Riven smiled before nodding.

"Great! I was worried for a second there, I mean, you are pretty good company all the time, and I need to show you how my handwriting is getting better!"

Sona smiled at Riven enthusiasm. She didn't know it, or rather didn't notice. But the way Riven asked the question to Cid, was the same she had asked him yesterday if they would see each other later. The same feeling of sadness at the idea of maybe not seeing each other.

---

Meanwhile in the office of the therapist Lux, Taliyah, and Ahri were looking for the envelope of Blitzcrank results, but they didn't find anything. They were also surprised at the sound of a voice behind them.

"What are you all doing here?"

They took notice of Yasuo carrying a fish inside a small spherical tank. He walked forward placing it on the desk of therapist. Lux looked skeptical at him before speaking

"We could ask you the same… whats up with the fish?"

Yasuo looked at her before answering.

"Is a gift for the therapist for taking care of Taliyah, speaking of which, all went well?"

She looked at him and smiled, Taliyah was happy he was back.

"All went well, had a lot of fun of actually"

Yasuo raised an eyebrow at that, he was not expecting that answer, nonetheless, he smiled at her before nodding.

"Good. That doesn't answer the question though"

Ahri chuckled before making her way out.

"We were looking for an envelope but we couldn't find it, so I shall retire. Later everyone"

They didn't notice how Wukong had appeared on the border of the door asking for Ahri to get out. So they simply thought she was busy. As the rest left the room soon only Ahri and Wukong were close to the office. Ahri looked at Wukong with a questioning glance, he wasn't one to ask her to come quickly, so whatever happened, it was important.

"What happened Kong?"

Wukong scratched his head thinking the question.

"Ahri, you know all about human emotions right?"

At this, she was surprised he asked that still she nodded in approval.

"Indeed, what do you need to know?"

Wukong was in thought for a moment, thinking the proper way to ask.

"What does it mean when you have an expression like this?"

He tried to imitate Riven reaction and Ahri took notice of it.

"Oh… that's sadness Kong, well, to a certain degree is more like the disappointment at something, who made that expression?"

Wukong nodded in understanding before speaking.

"Oh, it was the Exile, Riven was making that face when Cid said she might not need to have therapy anymore"

Ahri eyes opened in surprise, hey golden orbs flowed with knowledge for a moment.

"Oh, don't worry Kong, is just they are friends so she thought they wouldn't see each other again"

Wukong scratched his head again.

"But they are friends, why wouldn't they see each other again?"

Ahri giggled at his questions, Wukong was always like that.

"Oh you know how silly humans can be Kong, don't worry about it"

Wukong nodded before pointing to the hall.

"Race to the sparring area?"

Ahri smiled but this time it was Wukong who got the headstart.

"You are slow Ahri!"

Ahri smiled knowing he was doing it because what she did last time, still her thoughts were on something more from the small race against Wukong. Riven was probably also interested in the therapist, if Wukong had properly done the expression then it meant she was right. Riven also had an interest, just like Sona.

As Ahri took speed reaching Wukong she was hoping things would go well for Sona, she didn't need any more pressure about liking the therapist. Knowing that someone else might be interested would put pressure on her, and that was the last thing she needed.

They had spent last night speaking about how she should give it a try… hopefully, all would go well.

---

The morning for the trio of friends was an easy one, having a good breakfast and relaxing. Riven said she would go read in the library if they decided to go look for her. They nodded and as she left Sona signed at Cid.

"Can I go to your office later?"

Cid nodded.

"Sure, if the door is closed someone is on therapy though"

Sona nodded with a smile. She stood up and gave Cid a tight hug and left.

He was confused at why Sona would hug him so much. Still he didn't minded so much, as he made his way to his office he noticed the small tank with a fish in it. He smiled at the note at is side.

"Thanks for the help with Taliyah. Yasuo, he didn't need to do it"

A mechanical voice spoke behind him.

"Humans often thank other humans all the time, robots need no such thanks"

While surprised he kept it well hidden and looked at the robot behind him.

"Hello, came for therapy"

The robot denied.

"No, I came to inquire if you had seen your results of this morning"

And then it hit Cid. This robot was Blitzcrank.

"Oh, you are Blitzcrank then?"

The robot nodded. And in his gestures Cid took notice, he wasn't a plain robot like those of Piltover, no… he carried a personality in him, weird to say it, but it was alive.

"Indeed, and you are Cid, therapist for the Institute, and contrary to your door you haven't charged money for your services"

Cid was a bit more surprised that Blitzcrank knew that, but he didn't mind it.

"Well, I cant charge them, the Institute is the one to pay me"

Blitzcrank nodded before speaking again.

"I came to inquire if you found the results of my compatibility services to be satisfactory or if you thought there was a failure in them"

Cid shrugged before taking out the envelope.

"Honestly I have yet to see them"

Blitzcrank nodded before making his way out.

"Please when you open it I would be thankful if you gave me your feedback, good day Cid"

Cid was surprised at how human Blitzcrank acted. But then again, Viktor had spoken before of the marvelous invention that was Blitzcrank, a robot that was more of a human than a simple machine.

"Will do"

Blitzcrank left and Cid was alone with his thoughts on the envelope.

He was curious, but on another side, the idea that maybe the results were in white scared him, what if there wasn't anyone else out there? Thinking clearly that was a foolish thought, after all the system Blitzcrank made only measured within the Institute right?

Cid looked at the envelope and open it with care. As if whatever that was inside wouldn't get damaged. When he took out the neatly folded paper he saw the results and laughed. He laughed so much he had to take a time to get air before suffocating.

"As you didn't fill the last question, we felt it would be inappropriate to give you the results of a special someone who you might not be looking for, so we decided to give you the results for a casual friendship and a possible business associate whose profile match your information"

Cid relaxed as he looked at the letter again. So many worries if they would tell him about his special someone and here it was that it was something for friendship rather than something more serious.

"Well, let us see who my special someone is eh Mr. Fish?"

The fish looked unimpressed at Cid.

"Yeah, you need a better name… I will tell Riven or Sona to name you, maybe Lux would be able to name you too"

The fish kept swimming in its small tank.

"Well, let's see what I got"

Casual Friendship:
Sarah Fortune, A.K.A. Miss Fortune.

You and Sarah seem to match, we have measured your capability to listen to others to be something she really could use to let out her constant anger. Charming while dangerous, Miss Fortune could bring a dose of adventure that your life seems to lack at times. A friendship between both of you could result beneficial for both sides.

Business Associate:
Morgana the Fallen Angel.

Morgana and you could possibly have the means to finance a restaurant, seeing as your tastes in food are similar. The results show you could have a good working relation, it is measured that may be under a change of variables it could become a more serious relationship. At the current point, it might fall under Casual Friendship.

Cid chuckled. He did hear of Miss Fortune before, though he had heard her name the whole time, everyone call it her Sarah, Jinx had made jokes about it, and the others had mentioned her at times. Morgana wasn't so surprising as a business associate, he would like for her to open up that restaurant she wanted. He would speak to her about it.

Cid relaxed in his chair and decided to sketch the fish he had gotten. He also thought to make a sketch of Riven smile and Sona too. Both had pretty smiles…

He was in thought about how Riven looked at him before, she was really down at the idea they might not see each other again, and he had to admit, he would miss her if that was the case. They had become friends after all.

He had almost no friends in Demacia. People he knew were many, but not many could be called friends. But Riven was a friend, and so was Sona and the Champions he had met. Really it was weird when he thought how they had started to become part of his life. He didn't ask for them, but they ended up becoming a part of his routine.

He guessed that maybe the Institute wasn't so bad if it gave him a chance to keep meeting them…

He got back into sketching the friends he had made, and also one of the golem he had just met. Blitzcrank was impressive.

In her room, Sona was making sure she had all the things she needed to expose her heart tonight. Tonight, she would show him. She would show her heart, expose it and let him have the chance to carry her heart. And hopefully he would accept the responsibility of supporting it with his heart…

Her instrument was perfectly tuned as always. She knew she was checking her instrument mainly to relax, never had the instrument fail to be on the perfect tune. She saw her clothes. She would wear the same clothes she always wore for a concert. Formal and not too revealing, and also comfortable while looking appropriate.

Ahri would come later to help her with her hair. The most important part of it all was the lamps. She would place them around them when she started playing.

She had it all planned out. And she was worried still, for all the plans she had, she felt that they could crumble. Ahri told her she would have the room open for her. She didn't doubt that the Nine-Tailed Fox would charm a summoner in letting the room open, only for him to go empty handed once Ahri made him fall asleep.

She had a good friend in Ahri. She promised she would help her in this quest to show her feelings. Ahri had been clear, she would also not let her back down. It was all or nothing, just like in the games they played together. She remembered Ahri voice in the back of her mind.

"Sometimes… all that is left is to risk it all. Place your bet in the wheel of destiny and let it spin, let it spin and don't miss a second of it, face it. Face the fact you can lose but remember that you can also win. Is all or nothing, and if you can stand up after losing it all and keep going forward with a smile on your face without blaming anyone. Then nothing will be able to stop you"

Sona smiled. She remembered how seriously Ahri took their games. But it was refreshing knowing she had someone so nice backing her up. So she couldn't let herself feel fear. Fear would not govern her life. And tonight she would show how important he was to her.

Fear wouldn't stop her.

Tonight the melody of her heart would be heard.

As Sona took a look again at the stuff she hoped the same courage she was feeling right now wouldn't leave her when the night came.

She would face darkness, but she wouldn't be alone. Not tonight.

A soft knock on her door interrupted her thoughts.

She went to open the door and saw Bard. She had requested his help for placing the lamps in place.

She spoke with Bard by the usual means they shared. Music. She took her instrument and Bard made sounds as if to answer back the exchange, some simple thanks in the form of a soft melody and Bard with sounds as if to say it was his pleasure.

She pointed at the lamps and Bard took them before opening a portal. This was, after all, to be done in secrecy. As he passed the portal with the lamps Sona smiled. So far things were going to be in place. Thinking it back, she could have asked Bard for help without Ahri.

But then again, without Ahri she wouldn't even dare try what she was doing.

She smiled and took the instrument, she would practice the melody again. A melody of a wavering heart, a heart that grew to become strong with the presence of someone at its side. The melody of a silent heart full of courage. The melody of her heart….

She had never done something like this. To put herself in her music. To show something so personal, her music would open the gate, after all, there was no way Cid wouldn't understand what she was trying to say. The music was her voice, and she would be heard…

---

Riven was in the library reading a book. One for children, but the thing was it helped her grasp a lot, so she didn't mind being seen reading it. She was in thought of what happened earlier. She felt sad at the idea of not seeing Cid again. And she also felt confused when Karma spoke to her.

Was Cid a simple friend? Or was there a term for what she felt. It was hard to know…

Maybe she could ask Cid about it? They were friends after all…

Right?

---

Closer to the night Cid was using the recording device Viktor gave him. He had finished writing down the whole story of Viktor. He now needed to get Jayce side of the events and he would have the whole story of Viktor. He was curious, he was sure Viktor wasn't evil, and he decided he would prove it, even if it was more for his own curiosity than anything else.

As he finished the door opened and he saw two beings walk together. One looked like a lamb, and the other like a wolf, but wearing masks and in a way it clicked to him.

Kindred.

"Oh, greetings, how can I help you?"

The wolf seemed to stay with his mouth put and started to circle the room. He was nervous about their presence but didn't show it. The lamb was the first to speak.

"We heard you give therapy to… people who fight among themselves"

The soft voice of the lamb was cut short by the fierce voice of the wolf.

"We aren't fighting!"

Cid was surprised at the outburst of the wolf. It was clear they were angry.

"Oh… well yeah I can help, but I would need to know the problem"

The wolf once again lets his distaste be known.

"There isn't a problem to solve!"

The lamb sighed before pointing at the wolf.

"He is acting like a child, ignore him… we haven't been able to hunt for a while and he is getting angry"

The wolf appeared in front of her snarling.

"That is because you are being too slow!"

At this the lamb got angry.

"You are the one rushing! If you kept quiet my arrows wouldn't miss!"

The exchange kept going for a while. And Cid had been recording the whole fight. Once that both sides were tired of screaming Cid called their attention.

"I don't know what hunt you two missed, but I don't think to fight between yourselves will solve anything"

At this, they spoke in unison.

"We are not fighting!"

At this Cid started to let the recording play itself. While he couldn't understand much of the reactions from the wolf at its lack of a body, he didn't need to worry as he was crystal clear, meanwhile, the lamb was silent, but her body language spoke a lot of her thoughts. Whatever hunt they had failed it really bothered them to the point of fighting.

Once the recording finished the Kindred were silent.

They looked at each other with what seemed to be embarrassment.

"I… I guess I overdid it Wolf, you were only being yourself"

At this, the wolf snarled, but Cid felt there was no bite in it.

"Of course! You are the one who overdid it, is always you who does it!"

At this, the lamb seemed to get angry.

"You were supposed to tell me you were sorry!"

At this, the wolf started to imitate lamb. And failing at it.

"Words, words, words!"

Before the lamb could get angry Cid laughed. And both beings looked at the human who dared laugh in their presence.

"What is so funny!?"

Cid composed himself before speaking.

"You fight yourselves, but you are honestly best friends. You are one and the same it seems, I mean, I don't know you two well. All you have been doing is screaming at the other, but that seems to work for you two"

The Kindred were silent for a moment. The wolf laughed before surrounding Cid.

"I like him! He has seen death before after all!"

This made him tense as the lamb spoke next.

"Indeed, we have seen you before… you were one of the two who survived that day… surprising, you have seen death closely and you don't seem to have lost anything"

The wolf spoke next. Never missing a beat as they kept speaking.

"He lost his leg!"

"He lost his health that day too… but he refused to accept the arrow"

"He refused to be hunted!"

"And here you are, alive… is curious how you evaded death"

Cid was tense as they spoke, but still, he kept himself focused. They were only speaking of his past. And it wasn't surprising. If the Kindred were truly the ones who took the death, then it was normal they knew him so well.

"I… I am a survivor. That's all I am, and that's all I will keep on being"

The lamb nodded. The wolf seemed to chuckle.

"Is fun how he thinks he can survive"

The lamb nodded at the wolf.

"Is fun how he thinks he can avoid death… thank you therapist. We are feeling much better… we needed to let out all the stress out"

Without saying more both left the office. And Cid felt as if he had survived a sort of test. Truly he had seen them before. But back then they had another form, and he had seen them take away the soldiers of the battlefield. Those who didn't get to escape from the chaos of that battlefield…

He shuddered at the memory. That was the past. He had survived. And he would keep living… he couldn't die. He promised he would survive after all.

He had to admit he had clashing feelings. He didn't like the turn of events the conversation had gone. But if they were better, then he had done his job as a therapist. But he would need to rest for a while, the chat had brought unpleasant memories.

Still, he took quick paper and pencil. He had to draw them before he forgot them. Draw the lamb and the wolf. Draw their imposing visage. He had to make sure to capture the image of them. Not the one of death, but the one of nature. The wolf and the lamb. They who were one, they who were Kindred.

He wouldn't mind spending his whole life without seeing them again. But he knew that was wishful thinking… everyone saw the Kindred. They never knew when, but they saw them.

Cid didn't felt the pass of time as he finished his sketches. He also made sure to write down his conversation with the Kindred. He thought he could start making files from the cases he had. For future reference, though he would surely need to find a way to keep them safe later.

He was surprised when a soft knock came to his door.

"Is open!"

Cid was surprised at seeing Sona entering his office, it wasn't surprising for her to see him. What surprised him was her look. She was wearing clothes that resembled her casual clothing, but they looked more formal, the blue worked quite well. Her hair often in tails found itself cascading behind her. She looked beautiful, more than she always did.

She signed at Cid.

"Like it?"

Cid smiled.

"It suits you"

Sona could hear him speak, but he knew she enjoyed the signs, that was the main reason he kept doing them. Sona smiled in thanks before motioning for him to follow her. He didn't ask, whatever Sona was going to do promised to be interesting.

As she guided him through the halls Sona had taken to be by his side. She was holding his hand the whole time, and Cid could feel the nerves she was carrying.

He smiled before speaking.

"No need to be so nervous, relax"

Sona eyes opened a bit before sighing, she released his hand before signing.

"Nothing escapes your attention, does it?"

Cid nodded.

"Nothing, especially when it concerns my friends"

Sona smiled, and Cid was taken by surprise at the fondness of her silent smile. She took to walk again before saying anything to him.

After a few more halls Sona pointed him to enter the room. It looked like a small auditorium. Cid noticed how dark it was, in the middle of the room was Sona unique instrument. Small lamps were lighting the room, making an emphasis surrounding where Sona would play it seemed. He was mesmerized by the feeling of the room.

He had never been to a formal concert. He wasn't well received so it wasn't weird. But he found the room amazing, the seats, the aura of the room. He was going to be seeing a concert. He was going to ask who else was coming to listen to it before he heard the sound of the door being locked.

"Sona?"

He looked at her, she smiled while pointing for him to be silent. She walked to her instrument and got in position. She signed to Cid, smiling fondly at him.

"Sit please, the concert is about to begin, refrain from clapping or shouting until the concert ends"

Sona was in the middle of the scenario. Surrounded by ten lamps lighting the dark room. He sat in front of her, not wanting to miss a second of the concert Sona was about to do. Cid didn't notice that the lamps behind him had faded. Their light no more. Now the only light in the room was from the lamps with Sona.

Ahri smiled as she was in the upper part of the room. Her fox fire would light the lamps, as Sona played she would turn them off until the darkness would envelop the room. She was excited. Things so far had taken a great start it seemed. She kept focused. Sona would play soon.

Sona looked at Cid with fondness before signing to him. Cid face got red at the fondness and warm Sona irradiated.

"This is my melody. Enjoy it"

Sona started to play. A soft melody, it was soft and beautiful in the way it played, the sounds were filling the room and soon Cid found himself immersed in the story her music was playing.

Loneliness, sadness, the melody advanced and it changed, it became something else, it became amazement, it became hope… the hope of knowing things were going well for once. But the tinges of sadness were still there. Between the sound of hope and happiness. Sadness was still there.

The music kept going, and as it advanced Cid could feel it. The fear, the fear that had taken control of the happiness, stopping it from coming back, the hope had also been destroyed by fear… fear that was the ruler of the melody.

And as if changing, the melody got to change again. Fear suddenly was being attacked. The fear who reigned supreme was now failing to keep his control. Sadness was vanishing, happiness and hope started to come back out again.

Friendship had started, changes in the life of the melody… the friendship advanced. Laughs, good moments, happiness bursting through, the fear was fading…

As the melody kept going Cid noticed how the lamps were started to dim, their light fading.

Suddenly the last lamp, the one closest to Sona seemingly turned off.

But there was no fear in her, nor fear in the melody. The beautiful sounds of the instrument were still filling the room. In the darkness where no one could see anything, the happiness and the melody were flowing…

There was something else on the melody as it changed.

In the darkness, Cid felt how the sounds came to feel closer to him. The melody changed, and no longer was it of sadness or happiness, no. The melody was speaking of hope, the hope and feelings to share with another one. The melody spokes of a heart.

A heart that had learned to let the past go and accept the hopeful future. To risk it all, for it didn't know where it was going. No longer was it going in a set route. It was a boat sailing to the unknown, there was no promise of safety, and the sea was unforgiving.

Waves of doubt and fear tried to come, but the boat had sailed, and its flags were being blown with a wind like no other. He found himself seeing it. There was no fear, there was no sadness. The unknown while scary, it promised something like never before.

This unknown feeling was guiding the heart. And Cid knew what the heart was following as the melody became softer with passion behind it.

Love.

The melody spoke of a heart, a heart that had been trapped by fear. Trapped in its own devices, a heart that couldn't speak…

It was the melody of Sona.

The melody of her heart.

Sona was playing only for him… she was playing the melody that spoke all about her, and she was playing for the one she wished to listen to it the most. She spoke her thoughts, her fear, her hopes. She was exposing everything in her melody.

As the notes of the instrument grew softer and slower Cid could notice how in the darkness that sound seemed to come closer to him. The softer the notes became, he noticed the closer it sounded. Sona was coming close to him.

In a moment when the melody reached its end one of the lamps turned on and Cid saw her.

Sona face was close to his. Her eyes closed as she was smiling with so much fondness and warm that Cid couldn't believe she was doing all this for him…

She signed while her eyes were still close.

"Whatever happens…Whatever you decide… wherever this goes…let me have this moment with you…"

Cid couldn't speak as Sona took hold of his face and brought him close to her.

She kissed him, and if her melody hadn't been clear enough the kiss was. It was full of passion and love for him. Cid could do nothing as Sona kissed him. Many thoughts were on his mind as he closed his eyes and let her kiss him. One thing was clear.

Sona loved him.

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CUT!

Wow! You don't know how much thinking went on this chapter! The melody of her heart has revealed itself! Thanks, everyone who takes the time to review and reads the story, it means a lot, I had a lot of fun with this chapter. Hope you enjoy it! let us all start with energy on this week!