AN: This might be the very best chapter I've ever written. Seriously. Every scene, every character, it all just flowed out from my fingertips. And it feels so good to finish this arc, preparing for the last ten chapters of the story. There's going to be quite a lot of action ahead, and still more twists, but for now, this is the very last 'relaxation' chapter – and finally, I get to do a Christmas one, using the idea I had in mind for it two years ago!
As ever, thanks to my very special readers, especially ArcanaCompendium, AriMoriarty, MoldyJellyBean and CurioOfTheHeart. Review, favourite, and follow if you please. I'm so glad to have started this work, and I swear I will finish it to the highest standard possible. For those of you who had stuck with me this long, I appreciate it. Please stay with me until the end!
Chapter 85: Noel For The Future
|December 7th|Amara's Apartment|07:30|
The month of December had arrived, but there seemed to be no change in the other world. In fact, Aeternus had gone completely quiet. Not one of their members had been sighted outside of their HQ, and the Interitus Legion's presence was restricted due to a lack of electricity. Matthew and Tara had ended up battling a Trauma Shadow, however, but thanks to Keisha and Kaman's assistance, they defeated it before it could invade the city.
Amara looked to her kitchen wall, and opened the 7th door of her advent calendar – a pricey chocolate one, given to her by her father. She took out a caramel fudge, and sighed. Zao probably would have pestered her to share the chocolates with him, and she would have caved in. Knowing him, he would have leaned in for a kiss so she could taste it anyway. Unhygienic, perhaps, but that was his kindness.
These past two months without Zao were long and tiresome. Focusing on the other world helped, as it gave her a chance to be with the others. But tonight, she would be stuck here. Today was Blaine's 31st birthday – and from what she heard, he was spending it with Dan and Lucy.
Birthdays...I used to love those, but...
There should have been another one, between hers and Blaine's. But October 17th was nothing but a day of sadness for everyone. Amara could only imagine how his grandfather and parents must have felt – and from every year onward, they would have to face that date.
Sulking, Amara looked at her phone – aside from messages from work, there was an invitation for a college reunion party before the end of the year. Michelle was going, despite spending most of her time with her fiance abroad. It felt like a lifetime had passed since that graduation, where she had lamented the end of another relationship.
"No. I can't feel sorry for myself. Today's a special day."
Amara found Blaine's number, and started typing a message. Pleased with it, she hit 'send'.
Happy birthday, Blaine. Hope you have a lot of fun. See you soon.
Later, once she was dressed up in her warmest – and purple – coat, and running out of the building, heading straight for the bus. She was half-expecting Dan to be the driver – as he had been on that day in June.
To think that I'd end up helping him fight evil in another world...but back then, he was just another driver.
However, the driver was a younger man, who seemed friendly enough. Perhaps he could tell she was anxious about something, and wanted to cheer her up with a warm smile. She noticed there seemed to be two six-packs of chocolate chip muffins near his seat, and laughed.
She took a seat, and soon she went on her daily journey from Farawell to Legarte. Before long, the bus would ride over the Silvana River, and stop not far from Motion Publishing. Just before they crossed the bridge, however, there was a beep from Amara's phone. She read it, and smiled.
Hey thanks Amara, I think it's gonna be a fun birthday, Lucy and I are going out for dinner and me and Dan are having our yearly pub crawl at the weekend! :D I'll tell you all about it later, but just try and have a good day, okay? Won't be much of a birthday if I'm worrying about a pal! :(
He really is a sweetheart. And thanks to that phone's predictive texting, his messages are a lot easier to read! I wonder if the others sent him any messages?
Amara told Blaine not to worry. Just then, she noticed people laughing near the front of the bus. Kyle and Serena, playing something on their 3DSes. They didn't seem troubled at all – just relaxed in each other's company.
Those two...now that it's official, I should be happy for them. But...no. I refuse to be jealous. Especially of Serena. She's too good for that. ...But it hurts. She has Kyle. Nathan's had Priscilla for most of his life. And Blaine's always talking about Lucy...I used to be that way.
But it can't be like that anymore. He's not sitting next to me, showing me pictures of his latest catch. I'd kill just for him to ramble on about his grandpa's beard. Everything felt so special with him. Now...
Amara looked outside, and gasped. Her stop was only a few feet away. Hastily, she got up, checked she had all her belongings, and ran off. She went straight to the entrance, not checking to see if Serena or Kyle had noticed her. Perhaps it was better that way, Amara thought. Seeing her so emotional would have worried them all day.
|Motion Publishing – Real People Offices|8:51 am|
On the way up to the elevator, she passed Alastair, who smiled at her. He seemed to be enjoying a conversation with a rather attractive colleague of his – clearly, romance was in the air for this entire building. As she went up the many floors, she looked at the sky – covered with clouds here and there, but still bright for this time of year. This feeling, of beholding the entire city beneath her, still gave her goosebumps.
One thing hasn't changed. I still love this city. My city. But six months ago, I wasn't trying to save it from destruction. Why did Stella have to give me that reading? If only it had been a normal job, like all the others!
She reached her floor, and got inside. Most of her colleagues were already there, and Karen was looking around, franticly.
"Oh, good morning." She said, shoulders slumped. Amara looked around, and saw the rest of the staff seemed rather anxious. "...We were going over sales figures. They're...not what we expected."
"What does that mean?" Amara asked.
"Our magazine isn't selling anymore." Karen said, solemnly. "It's been declining for a while. That Glasswater issue helped slow it down, but...there may not be much time left."
"That-that can't be!" Amara shouted. The others looked up at her, surprised. "We've only been on the shelves six months! Surely we can go longer than that!"
"I said may, Amara. I...just need a plan." Karen said, perturbed. "Listen to me. You've been a great asset, as has everyone else. It's no one's fault, understand? I thought a magazine like this would be what the young people of this city wanted. And for some, it still is."
"I'm sorry for shouting, Karen." Amara said. "I've been in a funny mood this morning. I swear, I'll get straight into work -"
"Don't worry, Amara. Regardless of this magazine's future, I intend to make our Christmas edition the best we've ever done. ...I need some time to gather my thoughts." Karen quickly walked into her office, slamming the door behind her. For her magazine to last less than a year would be a huge blow to her career, Amara realised.
"Amara." Stella said, after they sat down. "...Your mind is in turmoil. I could sense it a mile away. Jealousy burned away at your soul, despite your attempts to smoulder its flames. Sadness, regret, and anger...today should be a happy one, especially for a friend, but all of those feelings are clouding the celebrations."
"Must you do this now?" Amara said, burying her face in her hands. "You're right! Today's supposed to be special, but all I can think about is...him! I saw Serena with Kyle on the bus, and they were laughing the whole time! Alastair was with some woman, and they were getting pretty cosy. Colette and Juan are always loved up in here, and...and..."
She felt a hand on her shoulder. She looked up, expecting to see a consoling Stella. To her surprise, Lucy had gotten there first.
"Listen up, Amara. You think you've been left behind?" She asked. Amara gulped, but kept quiet. "No one has forgotten about you. How could we? You're that plucky artist who's always in here, happy as can be, drawing whatever the hell they want! That, Amara, is what I looked up to!"
"You looked up...to me?" Amara said, stunned.
"Not just her!" Colette said, coming over. "The way you go about your life kind of clicked with me! You didn't need to worry about what you wore, or how loud your make up was, you just went out there and smiled! So...I don't think I worry about that so much."
"Even after what happened to Zao, you didn't sit here moping, and let us smother you with our sympathies. You kept drawing." Sheila said, proudly. "I've given up on so many things, Amara. That's why I never finished law school. But next year, I'm going back. Being a relationship columnist is fine and all, but I need to be out there making real changes."
"Implying relationships don't?" Lucy said. "Cynical as always, Sheila."
"Yup. My relationships here have turned out better than most of the ones before. And that's kind of sad." Sheila said, shaking her head. "Maybe this magazine folding isn't the end of the world. I'll get to meet some cute law students, right?"
"You're sounding like me!" Juan said, laughing. "But you know, I think we'll all do fine. All of us have talents we can use anywhere! Me...all I have to do is buy a plane ticket and check out a new country. Amara's given me an idea of which one!"
"...Haven't you been to Egypt before?" Colette asked, confused.
"Yes, but only Luxor." Juan said. "For some reason, It's taken me this long to see Cairo! If someone like Amara's from there, it must be one great city."
"Thanks, Juan. But it's this city that made me who I am." Amara said. "Being in this office with all of you has been wonderful. Let's not say our goodbyes yet, okay? There might be a way to turn things around. And a big speech like this is just the beginning."
"Exactly." Lucy said. "Now I can look forward to the future. Not just because I met someone as special as Blaine. It's because you've made me...well, see the bright side in everything." She blushed, and laughed awkwardly. "...I'm sorry we didn't get along at first, though. I probably gave you and everybody else some big headaches."
"Ah, it's fine. I've been a brat too." Amara said. "Let's get to work. The less time we spend talking, the more time you'll get to spend with Blaine."
"Now that's my favourite incentive to work ever!" Lucy said, cheerily. "It might snow tonight, actually. Just imagine it, a stroll through the dark streets, lit with those pretty lamps, and the snows falls...it's so romantic!"
"Everyone seems to be in good spirits." Stella said, happily. "That can only bring good fortune. I've got a good feeling about that."
"Wait a second, Stella. You can just see the future, and tell us if this magazine's going to fold soon, right?" Amara asked.
"I could do that. But I already know it won't. Even without this power, it's clear to me." Stella said, pointing towards her forehead.
"I hope you're right." Amara said. "Stella, I've never said this before, but thank you for that reading. It's given me a lot of sadness, but...more hope than I know what to do with!"
"I'm glad to hear it. Readings may be a thing of the past for me, however. Knowing exactly what the future holds robs people of the will to go into the future." Stella said. "...Would you like to come to the mall with me after work?"
"Um...sure." Amara said. "That sounds great. It's been a little while."
The morning continued, everyone spurred into work by the multitude of good feelings. Amara may be without Zao, but she was certainly not without friends.
|Nathan's House|8:25 am|
Nathan was in the dining room, downing a quick cup of coffee as he browsed the internet on his tablet computer. In the news, there had been a report of students in Takanawa suffering 'nightmares' involving Tachibana University and Sakura Odori High School. The former involved seeing a giant purple crater where the campus stood, some seeing the school itself sink into the ground. Students of the latter reported seeing classmates in their dreams as mindless, bloodthirsty zombies, somehow able to summon 'demons' to attack.
It's true then. Memories can seep into other dimensions. If this keeps up, these people won't know what's real anymore. My own memories don't seem to have been affected...but what if Priscilla recalls something from the other world?
"Would you like fried eggs, Nathan? Or would you rather have them boiled today?"
"Um...fried, darling." Nathan said. "I was just reading this report about nightmares in Takanawa. Doesn't it seem odd that they're all dreaming similar things?"
"That does seem a little strange, yes. Unless it's some sort of prank to get in the news. But it's not April 1st..." Priscilla said, curious, as she cracked open the eggs. "Speaking of dreams, I had one last night. This woman was trying to kill me!"
"...What?" Nathan asked, looking up. "What woman?"
"I have no idea. I just hated her so much...but I've never felt that way about anyone before." Priscilla said. "It was like...she was trying to torture you. And I couldn't let that happen. So I ended up fighting her back...but I don't even know how I survived. She had guns!"
"That...must have been scary." Nathan said. "But you managed to fend her off, somehow. That would take courage. So well done to your dream self."
"I suppose, but it's so confusing! We were in some sort of lighthouse place I've never seen before. It was gigantic, with these weird lights everywhere, and strange technology I couldn't even begin to describe." Priscilla said.
"Lore – um, You're sure having some interesting dreams, honey!" Nathan said. Thankfully, he managed to withhold the tower's name. So his worst fears were possibly coming true. Priscilla's memories were flowing between the worlds.
If only the final battle was coming sooner...then we could put a stop to this once and for all.
"I know. I must have been watching one of those Matrix-type films. Except without the phoned-in acting." Priscilla said. "Although I think I'd suit those leather jackets rather well. Hehe."
"Well, don't worry about that." Nathan said. "What time's your flute class?"
"10 o'clock." Priscilla said, putting some scrumptious fried eggs on the table. "If I'm going to turn this into a career, I have to do it right. Even if I have to re-learn the basics. I almost wish I had started out like Tara..."
"You'll get there someday, I'm sure." Nathan said. "Besides, you'll always have an audience in this house. And that's an honest one."
Priscilla blushed, and kissed him on the cheek. "Thank you." Smiling, she sat down to eat her own breakfast, when she took a look at the brochures on the table. "We still need to get the venue, though. This wedding has to be perfect..."
"I know." Nathan said. I want this wedding to happen, no matter what. Nihane can't stop me from marrying this wonderful woman, no matter what evil schemes he concocts. "Well, how about this? Rowengate Palace?"
"Oh my goodness!" Priscilla said, taking in the details. It was a magnificent estate, somewhat away from the city near Darrell Forest. Beautiful lakes surrounded the venue, populated by swans, and the surrounding gardens were carefully maintained, filled with flowers all year round. Once owned by a wealthy family, since their decline it fell under the ownership of a real estate developer, and had been used for weddings and other events over the last century.
"Looks nice, doesn't it?" Nathan asked. "...And just think. All our friends will be there. Tara and Adrian, my father, your parents, Joe, Victoria, the list goes on. They'll fit right in!"
"What about your other friends?" Priscilla asked. "Would they be comfortable there?"
"...Ah." Nathan said, smiling. "I think they'll be thrilled! Especially Serena, she loves swans and ducks. And knowing Amara, she'll paint a wedding scene. Blaine, he'll be fine with anything, as long as he can party. Not only that, we can have Tara play us some music during the reception! And Adrian said he might have a few surprises in store for us..."
"Now I'm excited!" Priscilla squealed. "Alright, if we can get Rowengate, then let's do it! Oh, those statues outside the front door are incredible, too. This is just what I was hoping for!"
"Priscilla, this is going to be the best day of our lives." Nathan said, happily. "Anyway...oh crap. I should be heading off. It's sort of lonely driving to work alone, you know."
"Is that a guilt trip?" Priscilla asked, jokingly pouting. "Not to worry. If your car breaks down, I'll make that casserole for you again. Speaking of dinner...why don't we go to Solar Ray Mall tonight?"
"What, really?" Nathan asked. "Hmm...it has been a little while since we dined out. And I might get to finish a little earlier today. Perhaps beforehand, we can go shopping. Maybe some cologne for Adrian."
"Sure!" Priscilla said. "Well, have a great day!"
Nathan walked out to his driveway, and Priscilla accompanied him. Before he got into the seat, he leaned in and kissed Priscilla passionately – prompting one of the neighbours to whistle.
"I'll see you tonight then. Sometime after 5?" Nathan asked.
"I'll be looking forward to it. Bye for now!" Priscilla said, her face red as she waved to the man across the road. Nathan took off, on the journey to the Albion HQ.
There's not much time. December is here, but no Eternal Road. I've gotten stronger over the last six months...I can even hold my own against that wretched Josephine. She's brought nothing but trouble for me. Yet I can't help but wish there were options other than fighting. I may be skilled in combat, but it sickens me. I shouldn't have to maim other human beings to save the world, even someone as heartless as her.
Ethan discovering the Shadows has put all of existence in jeopardy. All the cars zooming past, the seagulls flying overhead, that dog on the pavement licking his master's face...they'll all disappear if I can't succeed.
It's terrifying. And there are so few people here I can confide in. Priscilla, I want to tell. More than anyone else. But there's no way I can drag her into that world. She's already involved there – and I cannot give those dreams any clarity. What might happen to her mind? Everyone else might be remembering things from their other lives, as well.
Forgive me, darling. Sometime soon, I'll be fighting to save our future. Maybe someday, I can find the words to tell you. That will be a greater challenge than fighting a thousand Nihanes.
Sighing, he continued the journey, thinking about his comrades. He was praying Blaine's 31st birthday would not be the last – and he himself would reach 30, and endure jibes about his 'old' age.
|Lucille Valley High School – Registration|8:45|
Today had felt so ordinary for Serena, simply one day closer until the Winter break. After that, there was only half a school year to go, until graduation. But on the way to school, Serena had watched Amara run off the bus, fighting tears.
Kyle did not seem so fazed though, instead worrying about his rushed homework. Grades were more important than ever for him, considering the intensive courses he had applied for at college. Yet Serena had fear in her heart...
"This isn't going to get over 70%...what was I thinking?" Kyle said, shaking his head.
"Relax. There's still the end of term tests. You'll pass them no problem." Serena said. "Fine, you'll get top marks."
"I have to...Computer Science has my name written all over it!" Kyle said, anxious. "Serena, are you okay? Ever since we saw Amara get off that bus, you've been all quiet."
"I'll be fine. It's just, she looked really upset about something." Serena asked. "If only mobile phones weren't banned during school..."
"Give her a shout during lunchtime, then." Kyle said, thoughtfully. "Perhaps she's still upset about Zao...it's not been that long since..."
"You might be right." Serena said, sighing. Zao never got to see his birthday this year. Today, that thought's going to be in Amara's mind. And it'll take a lot to shake it off.
"Tell you what. How about we go to the mall after school?" Kyle asked. "Maybe we can get some of our shopping done. "
"I guess we can do that. Might take my mind off things." Serena said, anxiously. Not that I can forget the world could be gone in a matter of days... "Who are you getting presents for?"
"Let's see, I'll need a gift for you, Lucas, my mum...and maybe my dad, depends on if he remembers. All he sent for my birthday was a card." Kyle said, grumbling. "Still...I learned one thing this year. You need to keep your family in your life, cause if you lose them, you'll regret it forever."
"Dan?" Serena asked.
"Yup. Even after everything, he won't forget about his little brother. I don't want anything like that to happen to my mum, and my dad, well...it'd be nice if we saw each other more often. So I'll get him something nice." Kyle said. "You got any ideas? Budget permitting?"
"Well, getting him new golf clubs probably goes way beyond, but maybe a nice glove..." Serena suggested, giggling. "That reminds me, I need to get my folks something too! I dunno what, though...they're so hard to shop for."
"At least we won't struggle to find gifts for each other!" Kyle said, happily. "Right? I've got a pretty good idea of what you like now. And there's plenty of games you still need to play. Like Star Ocean: Till The End of Time."
"Yeah, well you still haven't watched Spirited Away. Shame on you!" Serena said, sticking her tongue out. "This will be the first romantic Christmas I've ever had, mind you...and I couldn't ask for a better person to spend it with."
"Aww..." Kyle said, blushing. "Just wish it was a white Christmas, though. It's not the same without some snow. Makes it hard to move around, but it's so nice to watch."
"Oh, you lovebirds are getting in the mood already?" Lucas said, looking over. "Lucky! Seems like we'll all be busy over the holidays. I've got a Winter Marathon to prepare for!"
"In this cold weather?" Serena asked, stunned. "You might be running too much there..."
"There's never a 'too much'!" Lucas said, thumping his chest. "I'm not sitting in by the fireplace, trying to warm up. And besides, a true athlete adapts to any situation!"
"There he goes again..." Catherine said, rolling her eyes. "I'm heading back to North Carolina. My family puts on a great Christmas dinner! And I missed out on Thanksgiving with them, too."
Kyle smiled, and looked at Serena. "We need to do something like that one of these days. Maybe surprise my dad with a visit! Now in Aberdeen, we'd have a white Christmas."
"Hmm...yeah!" Serena said, eagerly. "Until then...trade?"
"Thought you'd never ask." Kyle said, pulling out his 3DS XL. "Shiny Metagross?"
"Shiny Milotic." Serena said, firing up her game. There wasn't much time until their History class, but they would enjoy every second of it. For there would be little time to rest until the day of judgement.
|Blaine and Dan's House|7:30 am|
The alarm clock went off, and Blaine jumped up out of bed, swearing in surprise. This new model Dan had picked up for him was loud, and guaranteed to wake up the entire neighbourhood. Yawning, he headed out the door, but a certain picture caught his eye.
"Dad..."
He had found more old pictures, tucked away. One of his favourites was of him, his father, and his mother, taken in the park near his old house. Unfortunately, however, a King Charles Spaniel had photobombed it, a frisbee in his mouth. So the image had his father staring at it in surprise, while the seven year old Blaine smiled in the delight at the chance to play with this fluffy new playmate.
You never did get me a dog for my birthday, huh Dad? Ah, don't worry about it. I'd say you were hairy enough to count.
Smiling, he went downstairs, still in his pyjamas. Dan was sitting on the sofa, with two coffee mugs on the table.
"Ah, looks like my impulse buy turned out great." He got up, and smiled. "Wouldn't want you to still be sleeping before I left for work, not today!"
"You had to pick the alarm clock with the most annoying ring, huh?" Blaine said.
"Whatever gets you up faster, my buddy." Dan said. Then, he wrapped his arms around his friend, laughing. "Happy birthday, Blaine. You old bastard!"
"Old?" Blaine said, laughing. "You're still one year older than me! And when it's March, it goes up to two!"
"Ah, shaddup." Dan said. "I'm like a vintage wine, anyway. I just get better and better! Same kinda goes for you – two fine wines from the vineyard, or something."
"You suck at metaphors, but I think I get it." Blaine said, amused. "So, looks like I'm going to cook my own birthday breakfast again?"
Dan shrugged, also in good spirits. "Well, I could try it, but only if you really want runny eggs and burnt toast in your belly. At least I built that breakfast table myself at that workshop! I contributed more than just the coffee!"
"Ah, shut it. You've contributed to my whole life." Blaine said, happily. "Sorry to get all sentimental, but it's true. Meeting you eighteen years ago was one of the best things that could have happened. You got me out of that funk – dammit, Dan, you helped me get over losing Dad! And then Mom, too...so thanks for everything."
Dan's face went red, and he shoved a coffee mug into Blaine's hand. "Don't mention it. You're my brother, ain'tcha? Sure, we probably won't be in the same house for much longer. We gotta fly the nest someday, and with you all loved up, that's probably gonna be any day now. But you'll be needing me to redecorate your new pad – shelves were always your weakness!"
"Hey, give me some credit. I managed to paint that shed out back...well, half of one layer...the first layer...yeah, I'll let you 'help'." Blaine said, sticking his tongue out. "We're still on for that grub at the mall, yeah? You, me, Lucy and Shirley. A double date, too!"
"Hell yeah. But you know what? I bet your new friends will wanna party with you too." Dan said. "That Nathan guy doesn't seem that lame anymore. He's rich, but at least he'll buy you a round. Serena seems sweet, although I still don't get how you managed to be friends with a schoolgirl. Then there's that Amara chick. What is it with you and helping people this year? You've turned into Mary Poppins on a motorbike!"
The two men laughed – and Blaine was now imaging Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke as him and Dan. This made him laugh even harder. But Dan had a point – meeting up with the gang would be nice. Blaine took his coffee into the kitchen, and still chuckling, looked at his phone. There were several messages. At the top was Lucy, who had sent a smiley-filled message. Nathan, as ever, had sent a formal sounding one. Serena's was similar, but a bit more sensible, to Lucy's. And Amara had sent one that seemed sad, somehow.
Dammit...is she moping around because of Zao? Poor girl...I guess birthdays are gonna be hard from now on, for her. We never got to party for his. I oughta say something...
He finished up his message, sent it, and got into the breakfast preparation. He might be doing all the work himself, but at least he would share a fine meal with his dearest friend.
|Saragel Stadium - Training Field|10:14 am|
The Lyeds team were pushing themselves again, and for food reason. The Farawell Fliers were due to play a friendly against them next week, and after they lost the final in the tournament, they were eager to show up their rivals. Karl wasn't particularly scared, but he had to make sure the team were up to the task.
"Phew!" Richard said, falling backwards. "Can't believe we're playing the Fliers! They're after our blood!"
"Exactly." Karl said. "So get back up. We're not done yet."
"Aww..." Richard said, pulling himself off the ground. "I dunno how can I survive until lunchtime. You're coming too, right? To Aquamarine Lodge?"
"Sounds nice. Sure." Karl said. "Right, back in the game! Move those legs!"
The team continued their practice, honing their dribbling, tackle, and shooting. By the end, there wasn't a single man on the team not drenched in sweat. The cold breeze had everyone running faster as well, to escape from the chilly weather.
"At last..." Richard said, groaning. "Those Fliers...are gonna crash when we face off!"
Karl nodded, lying back on the damp grass. "So, Richard...any updates on your love life?"
"Not really. But Alastair talked to me about that Keisha lady. I think...her family owned the place my parents run now. And she's still angry." Richard said, downcast. "Wish I knew what to say to her. I dunno...I hardly know her, but it feels like I ought to do something."
Oh crap. Is he recalling Keisha from the Other World? The Richard there had a crush on her, but she wasn't interested. I can't tell him that part. Or any part!
"Ah, you're just that kind of guy. Wanting to help out any girl." Karl said. "Forget her. If she can't move on, that's her problem. There's bound to be someone special out there!"
"Yeah...I guess." Richard said, but his eyes betrayed his claim of acceptance. "What about you?"
"As a matter of fact, yes." Karl said, happily. "He and I got together not long ago, actually."
"Oh, lucky you - wait, he?" Richard said, narrowing his eyes. "But you always go on about girls!"
"I know. But this time, it's a guy that caught my attention." Karl said, awkwardly. "I never said anything like this before. Being on a soccer team, it's a bit hard to go around telling everybody. Please, Richard, don't tell anyone."
"Hey, I wasn't gonna. I'm pretty open minded about these things. Makes it easier to tell jokes at the comedy club!" Richard said, laughing. "Although the ones from that Jewish Joke book didn't go down well. About as well as a pork chop in a synagogue."
"...If you used that in your act, I'm surprised you weren't thrown out the window." Karl said, exasperated. "But thanks. I need to take thing slowly. Telling my parents won't be easy. Or the other guys."
"Why does it matter what they think? All that matters is you play a damn good soccer match." Richard said. "...And so does Liam."
"What? You...figured it out already?" Karl asked, blushing. "It's not that obvious, is it?"
"Chill out. I'm just saying, since you two hang out a lot after training..." Richard said, ruminating. "It was a good guess. But I'll keep this secret. Just promise me it won't always be one, okay?"
"I will." Karl said, sincerely. "Right, well...time for the Lodge. I think we've worked up an appetite!"
The two of them got up, and walked towards the promenade. As they did, Karl saw Liam, a black haired member of the team, and waved. He was an older player, about 28, but still had a youthful countenance. Liam waved back, smiling brightly, and walked past the two of them.
I wish I could have told Zao about him. He would have been thrilled. Man, woman, he wouldn't care. He was always trying to hook me up with someone else. That goofball must have been so lonely before he met Amara, he didn't want anyone else to feel like that. If only...we could have saved him.
Zao, I'm sorry. You should still be here, recommending all your favourite restaurants. And I'd go to every single one of them, just to shut you up. I'll not forget about you, though. I'll let everyone else know, too. They'll be fine with it. You wouldn't have befriended them otherwise, right?
"What's up? Lovestruck?" Richard said, jokingly. "...Sorry, shouldn't have said that-"
"No, it's fine. I was just thinking. Zao loved the Lodge. Anywhere with seafood, really, but this was one of his top ten." Karl said, melancholic.
"Oh..." Richard kept quiet, as they approached their lunch venue. "You want to go somewhere else?"
"Nah. Someone has to keep them in business, and if he can't, I will." Karl said, clenching his fists.
|Solar Ray Mall – Outside|5:12 pm|
Blaine leaned against the wall, watching the customers come and go. Bianca was making a killing by selling poinsettias, the gorgeous Christmas stars of the plant world. He half considered buying one for the house, to give it a more glamorous touch.
"There you are, you stud! Happy Birthday!"
Blaine grinned, his heart pounding. Lucy had arrived, and no sooner had she seen him had she wrapped her arms around his large, toned body. Even if she was petite in comparison, her grip was tight. He embraced her, stroking her hair, with a wide open smile.
"Hey, take it easy! I just got back from the gym..." Blaine said. He flexed his arms briefly, prompting Lucy to laugh. Several other young women wolf whistled, which causing Lucy to snarl at them.
"31 years old..." Lucy said, looking him up and down. "You've certainly aged well..."
"This really must be my birthday. You're stroking my ego more than usual!" Blaine said. "Come on, let's go look around before Dan and Shirley get here."
"Relax. I told them to come half an hour from now. So we get a bit of time to ourselves!" Lucy said. "Where do you wanna look first?"
"How about the wine shop? Might pick up something for our next home-cooked meal." Blaine said. "Or maybe a mobile phone shop...there's some cool accessories I could get. Like those micro STD cards."
"...You won't call them that in the store, will you?" Lucy asked, worried. "Ah, whatever." The two of them walked inside, and gasped at the many Christmas lights and ornaments decorating the mall. Fibreglass reindeer were leaping over the fountain, and a giant tree was right behind it. Further along the ground floor was a Santa's Grotto, where Roger was pacing himself, anxious.
"Wonder what he's worrying about?" Blaine asked. "Ah, I'll ask him later. Come on, time to check out that -"
"Ah! Blaine!" Roger said, hastily coming over. Lucy sighed, folding her arms, but put on a fake smile. "You couldn't do me a massive favour, could you? I'll pay you good money! Just for an hour!"
"What, now? It's his birthday! And he doesn't work here anymore!" Lucy said, angrily.
"Oh...I forgot. Happy birthday, Blaine." Roger said, embarrassed. "I know it's short notice and all, but it'd really help me out."
"What's this favour, then?" Blaine asked, curious. Lucy crossed her arms, tapping the ground impatiently. "I don't have to go back to serving curries with fucked up names again, do I?"
"Nothing like that. Although this one involves a uniform..."
|Legarte – River|5:25 pm|
Amara and Stella were on their way to the mall, when suddenly, the psychic stopped. She looked over the river, where the night sky shone down, the stars reflected on the clear water.
"Why are we stopping?" Amara asked.
"Remember what I told you this morning?" Stella asked. "It's as I said. In the new year, I won't be reading anyone's future ever again."
"...Really?" Amara asked. "But...you've been doing that for years! What else are you going to do?"
"I've been giving that a lot of thought." Stella said. "Truth is, all I knew was that I wanted to abandon the Stella Cleon name. All the people want is an easy way to know what to do with their future. There's no achievement if you know the answers before the test starts, right? It's the same with life. That's what I told my mothers. So..."
"So?" Amara asked.
"I've decided to help guide people on a better path. Truly reach out to them, not by looking at their minds. But by helping them express their true pain and dreams. So I'd like to be a psychiatrist." Stella said.
A psychiatrist? But that's a major commitment...has she thought this through?
"...Are you sure that's what you want?" Amara asked.
"Yes. It's clear to me." Stella said. "I've been mimicking that childhood fantasy for far too long. This is no longer any fun. People have the right to their privacy, and I want to respect that. But they'll need professional help for their issues. Using this gift has taught me a lot about the human heart, so I'll be right at home."
"...You've got a lot of work to get there." Amara said, seriously. "You're determined, though. That much I do know. Me, I..I still have a long way to go for my dream."
"Indeed. But the both of us still have our youth." Stella said. "Doors close and open every day. You never know where you'll end up. At least, that's how it should be. Next January, I'll begin the load road towards my true calling. What happens to Real People...that's up for fate to decide."
"Everyone's thinking about the future." Amara said. "But if I fail, there won't be one. There's no way I can let Nihane snuff out everybody's hopes. Colette, Sheila, Juan and Lucy would never forgive me. And you wouldn't either."
"No man is an island. Nor is any woman." Stella said, smiling. "The other me will be right beside you. And soon, she will be reunited with the women I love most. The last mission will be full of danger, yes, but haven't you risked your life countless times now?"
"Yeah...so many weird Shadows have tried to kill me. And the Ater Vox." Amara said, shuddering. "But they won't. Come on, let's go shopping. I might need a new coat to go into battle with."
"Ah! Perfect. Then let it be an early Chirstmas gift from me." Stella said. The two laughed, walking towards the mall, as they admired the lights and decorations all across the river.
I never thought I could look forward to Christmas this year...but maybe I'll be alright.
|Solar Ray Mall|5:53 pm|
Amara admired the look of her new purple jacket, posing with her leg behind her back.
"I can't believe I let you buy this for me!" Amara said. "I'm going to have to try really hard to top that."
"Do you? I imagine you've got plenty of paintings at home prepared for gifts." Stella said, winking.
"Well, maybe...but after today, I want to do something special!" Amara said. "I'll need to get my brushes ready...maybe pick up some new paints."
The two of them walked from Rosa Candida downstairs, where there were still customers browsing the shops. Karl wasn't here it, it seemed, but there was a big queue for the Santa's Grotto.
"Hmm...seems busier than I'd thought." Amara said. "Wait – Nathan and Priscilla?" The couple were watching the Santa hand out gifts to the growing line of eager children, laughing heartily. Not far from them were Serena and Kyle, also enjoying the shenanigans. Standing further away were Dan and Shirley, who were holding in peals of laughter.
"All of them together, watching Santa? That's a bit weird." Stella wondered out loud. "Unless they still believe in him. With the Shadows and Personas, they might reconsider the tooth fairy and the Easter Bunny..."
"Nah, a guy in a suit with an itchy beard kind of pales in comparison to things like giant four-armed knights." Amara said. She walked closer, Stella following, when they saw Karl come over to them.
"Hi girls. Didn't expect to see you two here." Karl said. "What's going on with the Grotto?"
"That's what we're going to find out!" Amara said. The three reached their friends, who didn't even notice their arrival. "Hey, what's all this?"
"Oh, good timing!" Serena said, giggling. "Didn't expect him to do this, huh?"
"...Do what?" Amara asked.
"Who's him?" Karl asked.
"We could tell you, but...just look!" Kyle said, pointing. Amara looked, and when she got a closer look at the Santa, she burst out laughing. Beneath that red suit was a man as far from plump possible. Indeed, he seemed rather fit. And those eyes she couldn't forget.
"...Blaine?!" Amara gasped.
"Santa Blaine, it seems." Nathan said, struggling to hold it together. "So this is what he does on a birthday? I have to admit, he wears that hat well..."
"He's done some crazy stuff for money, our Blaine." Dan said, face red from laughing. "But not as awesome as this! Oh god, this is priceless!"
"At least the kids seem to enjoy it." Priscilla said. "This Blaine didn't tell you about this?"
Roger looked over, and walked over, amused. "Actually...the man supposed to be doing this called in sick, and I couldn't get a replacement. Just when I thought all was lost, Blaine comes in, and with a bit of begging..."
"How much did you have to pay him?" Amara asked.
"Let's just say it was enough." Roger said. "He's a grafter, I'll give him that. Look at him go!"
"Ho ho ho!" Santa Blaine cheered, while briefly checking his beard. A girl about five years old looked at him questioningly, tilting her head. "Merry Christmas, little lady! What's your name?"
"Becky!" She said. "Is that Mrs Claus?"
"What the -" Amara said. Sure enough, in a red and white dress with a hat on, was Lucy. Had she been dragged into this? Or did she just want to share the fun?
"That's right!" Lucy Claus said, beaming. "Isn't Santa handsome? They say he's fat, but look at him, he's a hunk!"
"I suppose she doesn't have to do much acting there." Shirley said, rolling her eyes.
"Santa Claus, for Christmas...um, can you get my mum something pretty? She's been really good this year!" Becky said, looking over to her mother.
"Strange..." Shirley said. "I think I've seen her before."
"You have?" Dan asked. "You teach her kid piano?"
"...No." Shirley said, pondering. "I don't know...maybe she just looks familiar."
"Well, I'll do my best! As long as she's been a good girl! But what about you?" Blaine asked.
"Really good! I help her with the cooking, cleaning, and when she's crying I try and cheer her up with my teddy!" Becky said.
"Now that is a good girl!" Lucy Claus said, making the bell on her hat light up and posing. No one seemed impressed, however, so she sighed. "Um...right. So what can we get for such a good girl? Does your teddy need a friend?"
"I really like those Jack Frost dolls!" Becky said, with a toothy grin. "He freezes people that are mean to him, but I'd give him a warm hug! But not too warm, or he'd melt."
"Alright then!" Santa Blaine said, pulling out a box with the adorable snowman. Somehow, it resembled the Persona often used by the Ornatu Legion. A mascot transcending dimensions, it seems. He lowered it into Becky's arms, and ruffled her hair. "How about this fella? You'll look after him, okay?"
"Yes, Santa!" Becky said, cheerfully. She ran over to her mother, amazed with her gift.
"...Hey." Dan said. "This is really sweet."
"Yup." Amara said. "Those kids are really having fun." Maybe this was what I needed. To just get out there and have some fun. "But it's strange to see Lucy like this. She hates kids most of the time!"
"Well, it's Christmas!" Shirley said. "Everyone's feeling the good vibes in the air."
More and more kids came up to Santa Blaine, aided by Lucy Claus eagerly showering him in affection. He really did suit the image of a jolly red fellow, climbing down chimneys. And the boy receiving an Iron Man toy seemed to think so too.
Later
The Grotto had closed, and Blaine & Lucy were back in their regular clothes. Both seemed embarrassed, but cheerful nevertheless.
"Thanks again, you guys." Roger said, pulling out his wallet. "Here. For your hard work, especially today. $500."
"Seriously?" Blaine said, amazed. "This much for just that?"
"Well, what you did really made those customers happy. Those children probably never saw such a good Santa. Although maybe your girlfriend could have held back a bit..." Roger said, wandering off.
"He's right, you know. You kept kissing him and massaging his shoulders..." Amara said, chuckling.
"Hey, it's cold! I was warming him up!" Lucy said. "Well, it was pretty cool to do..."
"The best." Blaine said. "Brought back some good memories, too. Makes me wish I was one of those kids. Especially the one with that toy truck."
"Was better than our toys, gotta admit that!" Dan said, putting his arm around Blaine. "I bet you're starving now. Time for some grub!"
"Heck yeah! Let's go!" Blaine said. "What are you guys doing?"
"Me and Priscilla were considering having dinner here, actually..." Nathan said.
"We could always do the same..." Kyle said.
"How about we all eat here, then?" Karl said. "Amara, Stella, if you don't mind, I'd like to treat you both."
"Now that's the Christmas Spirit." Stella said, impressed. "Amara, did you have other plans -"
"Nope! And I'm pretty hungry, too." Amara said, eyeing the food court above.
Later
The group left the mall, completely stuffed. Amara's appetite had finally gotten back to normal, and she even felt the courage to eat some fish dishes. Blaine walked out, tightly holding Lucy's hand, gazing at the starlit sky.
"Alright, everybody, thanks for hanging out with me tonight!" He said. "Even if you did have to see me in that outfit..."
"Certainly brightened up my day." Amara said, still laughing. "You see...Real People might not last too much longer."
"Oh my goodness!" Priscilla said. "Surely, it won't come to that, will it?"
"I don't know, really. It's the first job I've ever liked doing...and I wanted it to last a while." Amara said. "But somewhere along the way, I wanted to move on to bigger things. Perhaps now is the time."
"Hope everything works out." Kyle said. "I've been stressing out over qualifying for the Computer Science course..."
"You just try not to wear yourself out, kid." Dan said, messing up his hair. "A smart kid like you will be alright. Taking on computers and science at the same time should be no prob!"
"Um, Dan, it's not quite like that." Shirley said, dumbfounded.
"Well it's good to see you cheered up." Blaine said. Without warning, he quickly hugged Amara.
"I'm just glad you're having fun!" She said.
Then, he turned to Nathan. "And you, Nathan, were a good pal way back, and you're a terrific one now!" He then hugged him, grinning ear to ear.
"Who would have thought we'd ever find each other again?" Nathan said. "You certainly took after your father."
"Who else, buddy? Best role model there ever was!" Blaine said, cheerfully. Next, he looked at Serena. "Serena, you better stay in school. My one regret was never having a career, just one lousy job to the other. But also, no matter what, keep in touch!"
"Will do, 'cousin'!" Serena said, allowing herself to be hugged. "Although maybe I'll pass on your pub crawls..."
"Don't worry. He and I have that covered." Dan said. "This weekend, Blaine. Just us two, painting the town red!"
Blaine looked at Karl, and after a moment of consideration, hugged him too.
"Whoa, what's this for?" Karl said, surprised.
"Why not?" Blaine said. "You're a good gym buddy, drinking buddy, and...a buddy, what more do you want?
You got me into boxing, too. And I'm watching my weight a little more..."
"Always glad to help." Karl said. "Let's keep up our regime, alright?"
"Right!" Blaine said, playfully jabbing Karl's fist.
"So..." Lucy said, gazing into Blaine's eyes. "What now? Are you going to let me treat you to a drink for once?"
"Well...maybe just tonight." Blaine said. "Still can't believe you got me that Huawei." He took Lucy's hand again, and nuzzled against her cheek. "Alright, everybody, thanks again! Go on, have a great evening! Dan, don't wait up!"
"I know the drill by now..." Dan said, laughing. "Shirley, how'd you like to find a karaoke night somewhere?"
"Great!" Shirley said.
"Kyle, let's go to my place. We can see Kiki's Delivery Service again!" Serena said, excited. "And later, I'll finally beat you at Tekken Tag 2!"
"You think so? My Kunimitsu's unbeatable." Kyle boasted.
"I'm sure it is..." Priscilla said, as she gazed at her fiancé. "It's still early. Let's go to Augustus Square. The Christmas market's still open, and I know how much you like mulled wine."
"Sounds delightful!" Nathan said. "Off we go, then."
"You guys all take care!" Amara said. "See you all soon!"
The four couples left, leaving the trio of Amara, Karl and Stella.
"Look!" Stella said, pointing to the sky. Tiny white specks were beginning to fall from the sky, slowly approaching the dry stone pavement. Soon, there was a small snow shower, with snowflakes dancing throughout the cold winter air.
"Snow..." Karl said. "It's beautiful. Just like last Christmas, when I was with you."
"...Yeah." Amara said.
"A white Christmas?" Stella asked. "Now that does sound romantic!"
"Well, not so much at first. It was freezing cold, the worst kind of weather. I don't know, but after all my whining, we still got to the top of Lucille Hill. Just the two of us, watching the snow." Amara said, fondly in reminiscence.
"I just felt like it. That place is perfect for couples!" Karl said. "That was the best night of our relationship. After that, I ruined everything."
Stella shook her head, looking at the two former lovers. "Not entirely true. Despite what happened, you two rediscovered each other, thanks to...him."
"Zao..." Karl said. "Yeah...he found me online, rambling about how awesome it'd be to catch up. And he had this cute girlfriend he wanted me to see. Should have figured it'd be the greatest girl in the city."
"Um..." Amara said, blushing. "That's right. It was summer then. Warm weather, the sun blazing down on my skin, ice cream in my hand...my favourite season. But back then, it didn't feel so magical. I had Shadows to worry about. Night after night, I risked falling in battle. So when I saw him on that beach, the magic of summer came back..."
"Zao never wanted to see friends fall out. That was why he kept trying to get you in the same place." Stella said, looking upward at the stars and snow. "To him, knowing that his favourite people were distant was anathema. I'm glad to see the rift between you both has closed. He would be, too."
"That dork..." Karl said, grinning. "He really came through for his friends. I ought to follow his example. Maybe not the fish, though. Or the blue hair."
"Hmm..." Amara reflected once more on Zao, walking towards her on the sand. That handsome, upbeat man would never fade from her heart, only now she didn't mind. Especially if she could share her memories with all her wonderful friends. "Since it's snowing, I know a place we can go."
"My apologies...but I sense I would only be intruding." Stella said. "You two could use some privacy."
"Are you sure?" Karl asked. "It's not like we're an item anymore. You don't have to worry about being gooseberry."
"I understand that, but...some moments are best unobserved." Stella said. "We can always meet at the Cocoa Harbour later."
Amara nodded. "Okay! In that case, Karl, follow me. You might remember how much I love this place."
|Biela Vetra Square|7:20 pm|
"See?" Amara said, pointing to the scenery around. The snow was growing thicker, laying on the church roof, but it only complemented the gorgeous snow scene on the ground below. Christmas lights decorated the small shops and cafés around.
"It's nice." Karl said, taking it all in. "Should have known you'd go anywhere there's artwork."
"Hey, be nice!" Amara said, nudging him with her elbow. "...Everywhere in this city could be a painting. That's why I love living here so much. The beaches in Saragel. The cathedral of Farawell. The markets of Takanawa. The harbour in Legarte. The theatres in Nova Albion. Pride Square in Kanaloa. Clairdol. And the sunset looming over Lucille Hill."
"You've got a point there. Everywhere in this city is so picturesque. Hard to believe it all started with the old villagers coming together, huh?" Karl said. "I'm grateful they did. Or all of this would never have been built! I might take Liam here someday."
"Liam? From your team?" Amara asked, surprised. He nodded. While she had always known he was bisexual, him actually dating another man never occurred to her. "You never told me that!"
"Well...it's early days." Karl said. "We got talking one night out, and, well...things went really well. We've been seeing a lot of each other, outside of training. I've got a good feeling about this guy. Sure, he's a little older, but that doesn't bother me one bit."
"That's great news." Amara said, smiling. "You'll have to introduce us sometime. I've never been someone's 'beard' before. Is that the right term?"
"I don't think it matters." Karl said, chuckling. "But yeah, we'll all get together one of these days. I need to focus on our mission first, of course."
"Same goes for me. I never thought we'd have to fight to protect this city." Amara said. "The place I came to as a little girl, where my dad told me I could make my dreams come true..."
"You still can." Karl said. "You've got the talent. More than anyone I know. Not that I know many other artists, hehe..." He put his arm around her, holding her close.
"Well, the man who painted this was a master. I'll need to buckle down and practice before I reach his level!" Amara said, looking at the masterpiece before her.
"Hey, if I've learned anything about my sport, it's that following in the footsteps of others isn't the best way. You gotta stand out on your own, and make your own mark on the world." He looked around, and brushed some of the snow out of his ginger hair. "I wonder if Ethan was like this with his friends?" Karl asked.
"I'm sure he was. The one I see in those visions was quiet, but he meant well. Archie, Nina, Josephine, Pierre and Carlos all meant the world to him. The only friends he really knew in his life." Amara said. "...Although we met once before. It's thanks to him that I still have my mother's keepsake. I wish I could return the favour, but he's..."
"Nihane's not the same man anymore." Karl said, shaking his head. "That's the greatest tragedy. Discovering those Shadows turned him into a psychopath. He uses and abuses all his friends! Treats his subordinates like shit, and he's put every person in the city's life on the line, just for his selfish dream! That's not the quiet, lonely boy you saw."
"It's so sad." Amara said. "I hate Nihane so much...he laughed in my face about Zao! That's it. When we fight him, I'm not letting him escape! Nor is he going to defeat me, or anyone else. I'll destroy him and his stupid Aeternus!"
"Right. There's no way you can negotiate a way out of this confrontation." Karl said. "I'll take him on with you. We'll protect each other this time! And we will win, or die trying!"
Amara nodded, wiping the tears out of her eyes. "Nihane Kronos! You're not going to erase a single one of us! Instead, we'll erase you! So prepare yourself!"
The two were silent, until Karl burst out laughing. Amara frowned, but couldn't help but join in. With the snow still falling, the two took each other's hands, leaving the square. Their fight to protect the city – no, the world – had begun in earnest. And the flames of passion in Amara's heart were hotter than any sun.