Mercy

Angela had learned that it was important to come up for air once in a while now that she was back in the trenches of helping in the far corners of the world where officials were content neglecting to the shadows. She and Fareeha had been away from Overwatch's base in Korea for over a year now, and they found themselves in Japan most recently, finally taking a small break in Kyoto to rest and recover. When some of the other members of Overwatch heard of this, apparently a small band of particularly enthusiastic agents decided to cash in on the momentary break in the fighting to visit the angel and her knight whom, according to Jack, were terribly missed around base.

'Their plane's landed.' Fareeha pointed at the terminal within Tokyo's airport. Her hair had gotten a little longer, and it was tied in ponytail, her strong neck exposed for all to see. She stood out in Japan, her height and skin tone drawing attention as it did in Korea what felt like so long ago. The fact she was beautiful likely helped little, even if she preferred to dress more masculine than not, her current outfit exemplifying as much with her form-fitting jean jacket and stylistically stressed black pants.

'Are you a princess?' A young Japanese girl asked suddenly, appearing before Angela outside her vision initially. This wasn't uncommon. Blonde hair and blue eyes were a combined spectacle for the primarily black and brown combinations within the country.

'I am not, sweetie.' Angela shrugged. 'Just a doc – '

'She is, but it's a secret.' Fareeha swooped in, putting an arm around the woman and sitting next to her. She gave the little girl a wink, and the infant seemed happy with the answer, giggling to herself and rushing off to her apologetic parents.

'It's not good to lie, Ms. Amari.'

'Who says I'm lying?'

'Please…' Angela blushed. This woman, even after so long, continued to make her heart throb with love so fierce it was physically painful. 'I'm in but an oversized sweater and leggings. Hardly "princess" material.'

'Maybe the kid was just smart. She could tell you were special.'

'Then why did she say nothing to you? Hm? As far as I'm concerned, you're just as noteworthy.' Angela tried to counter.

'Because I'm big and scary, obviously. Hahah!'

Fareeha had really learned to loosen up around Angela, and she certainly didn't mind this unfiltered version of the woman who always seemed to hold back when conversing with anyone. Indeed, in the beginning of their relationship, Fareeha had progressively calmed around Angela and Angela alone, but the doctor finally felt she knew this soldier of justice so intimately well it was strange when they were apart. She had quite literally become Angela's other half, and as frightening as that could be at times, Angela relished it more than not. She touched the dog tag beneath her sweater and smiled gently to herself.

'Anyway, who all was coming again?' Fareeha asked, offering Angela a sip of the beverage she had purchased outside the airport from the seemingly endless supply of vending machines sprinkled throughout the country.

'Jack mentioned Lena, Amelie, Brigitte, and Hana for certain, but he suggested one or two extra contemplated tagging along as well.'

'Really? A lull in the fighting is always good.' Fareeha didn't sound overly certain, however.

'With progressively increased U.N. backing, Overwatch can afford more liberties than before. Our efforts in the name of the same company do not go unnoticed either, and Sombra has done impressive work networking through the cancer eroding within the powers that be. Rest amidst war is as essential to those involved as the fighting itself.'

'Wish I knew that during my greener days. Maybe the physical and emotional exhaustion is what led me to making such idiotic choices relationally in the past.'

'You still dwell on such things?' Angela raised a brow.

'Of course. It's a blemish on my record; even more so now that I know what real love is.'

'We all must learn through such experiences. It hardly bothers me anymore.'

'But it does a little, correct?'

Angela steadied her voice.

'Only because I care about you so. It is nothing to be concerned over.'

Fareeha paused, but then nodded, squeezing Angela's shoulder before standing up, crossing her arms and glancing through the terminals projected above them both. The airport was bustling with omnics and humans despite it being somewhat early, but that wasn't a surprise considering the sheer density of the eastern populace. Fareeha had mentioned not being in Japan before, and she seemed especially excited to explore parts of the country with Angela. They had planned their trip so that it would overlap with the Gion Matsuri festival, one of the largest and most important annual events in Kyoto. It was once observed, according to Angela's research, as an opportunity to pray for deliverance from plague, but has since evolved into a celebration of Kyoto – and, in turn, Japanese – culture. It sounded quite exciting either way, and Angela had always wanted to wear a kimono, as the designs on such clothing piqued her interest.

'Looks like they're in baggage claim now.' Fareeha noted, and Angela stood up, going to her side and standing close.

'It's been quite some time since we've seen them, hasn't it? The days simply slip by when we're so involved with others in need.'

'That's true enough. The black omnics help our cause little, but I'm thankful to have learned a thing or two through watching you work.'

'Indeed!' Angela clapped her hands. 'Your ability to help has improved dramatically.' She thought about Fareeha's first encounter with such remedial practises in Iraq, and smiled fondly at the memory. 'Although, you displayed a knack for such comforting in the beginning.'

'I still can't transfer the nanomachines to others, however. That's frustrating.'

'Well, you put them through the wringer almost immediately upon obtaining their benefits, so, it wouldn't surprise me if they're hesitant to expand their horizons.'

Fareeha made a face, and Angela almost had to giggle.

'That still gives you chills, hm?'

'Speaking like that makes it sound like…I have parasites in me.'

Angela nudged Fareeha with her hip.

'Well, in a sense…you do.'

'Stop it!' Fareeha shook her head. It was positively adorable. Only very particular notions made her squeamish, and this was certainly one of them. Creepy crawlies were not her favourite, although she hid it well until recently, to Angela's delight. She loved learning new things about this pretty woman. The wonders never ceased, and she continued to chronicle and value every moment with joy.

Hana was the first to appear, and she was practically skipping, yanking a large suitcase behind her and utterly beaming the second she caught sight of Fareeha and Angela. She essentially screamed with a dramatic finger pointed in the pairing's direction.

'Ah! Spotted them! There they are! There they are! Hah!' She almost sprinted, sliding before Fareeha and Angela prior to standing upright and saluting cutely. 'Dva, reporting for duty!'

Angela had always thought Hana Song was indisputably delightful, and her black bow atop her head and short overalls with cat-themed thigh-highs did little to contest that fact.

'Heheh! At ease.' Angela joked back.

'You look well, Hana.' Fareeha grinned.

'Meh! Not as good as you two! I've missed you so much!' The smaller girl embraced Angela tightly, surprising the doctor, admittedly.

'Oi! And I thought I was fast!' Lena appeared next, with the bulk of the entourage around her. Angela had difficulty taking them all in, a myriad of colours and shapes full of familiar faces greeting her gaze. Lena in a backwards hat, white shirt, and shorts. Amelie wearing a sexy purple shirt and tight black jeans. Brigitte with a sleeveless shirt, of course. And…Sombra? Blue tube top, stylish sunglasses, and white shorts? What on earth? Angela expected perhaps Emily as well, but not the rather isolated world-genius hacker.

'Hey, girl!' Brigitte hustled to Fareeha, clasping her hand and bringing her in for a tight hug. It was somewhat masculine how the two women interacted, and this intrigued Angela's inquisitive mind. 'You keeping up with your training?'

'I don't have all the equipment in the world available to me anymore, but I make do.'

Brigitte gave Fareeha a light jab to the stomach, flicking her head in a teasing way.

'You look good though. New life suits you?'

'Any life with Angela suits me.'

Angela lost her breath. She hadn't expected the unfiltered response and, as a result, made an audible sound that embarrassed her.

'You losers were waiting here for us? What are we, ten?' Sombra chimed in, lowering her glasses sassily.

'You didn't have to come.' Fareeha defended, naturally.

'Feh. And pass up an all-inclusive trip? Yeah. No. Japan is a cybernetic playground for a girl like me. You guys do the hot spring thing and dance around in kimonos or whatever, I'll be surfing some overpopulated seas of data.'

'Seriously? Seems like a bit of a waste, Luv.'

'You wanna play with little ol' me again, "Tracer"? I think you got your hands full enough.'

'Don't be daft.'

'Heheh!'

Angela observed Amelie after the comment, wondering how she had been after all this time. She had left Overwatch so abruptly, and although Jack had assured her the once deadly assassin was well enough, all things considered, she was still terribly mysterious; even more so now that the true Amelie was at the forefront of her persona. What kind of relationship was currently taking place between her and the poster child of Overwatch? Ever perplexing. Perhaps Angela could ascertain some answers for her own amusement over the course of this small vacation.

'How are you feeling, Amelie?' She decided to ask.

'…Fine.' Was the curt response, although Amelie wasn't one for small talk if she could help it, Angela knew. She, at the very least, made eye-contact with Angela, her expression softening just so for the doctor who had helped her become somewhat normal again. Her skin was still blue, and her eyes an unsettling yellow. Did she wish for those abnormalities to be adjusted even now?

'I'm sorry I never had the time for…further procedures.'

'It is not your fault. I left.'

'But she still helps out, so, it's all good.' Lena beamed.

'Can we go now?' Sombra was already on her way, no doubt more than capable of circumnavigating to their hotel without much issue. Nonetheless, the group decided catching up in the bustling airport wasn't the quietest space to do so, and followed the spicy Hispanic. Fareeha held Angela's hand amongst the crowd, and it reminded the doctor of the comfort she felt for the woman. The undeniable link. The longing to be with her forever. She never wanted to take this presence for granted, but she caught herself doing just that, at times. She had almost lost Fareeha. Any normal person would have. Any regular individual would not have been able to bend time and space to their will in a euphoric effort to save one person.

Yet, Angela had.

The reality of that fact ever caused her scientific mind to ramble with questions. Truthfully, she had attempted the act once more, as an experiment, in Vietnam, one of her and Fareeha's stops recently. It was a young girl. A sister. The family was devastated. A rogue black omnic had attacked their home. Angela chose this particular individual due to her ability to heavily sympathize with the loss. She channeled her thoughts and considered the loss of Gloria while she worked. She pushed to be successful more than Fareeha would ever allow. Her nanomachines still buzzed with slight discomfort from the effort.

She couldn't do it.

Zenyatta's words ran through her brain from then onward. "Love", as ridiculous as it sounded. The missing ingredient. A love so profound, pure, and unblemished was the missing component. What else could it be? She couldn't control the emotion. She couldn't when it engulfed her the day she watched Fareeha dig graves in the blistering sun for her sake in Iraq, sweat drenching her clothes and not a singular complaint uttered between her full lips, and she couldn't when a young girl lay before her lifeless. It twisted her heart that such a power was so selective, but she could also comprehend the value it had for humanity.

Living things were meant to die. It's what gave life meaning to begin with. There would be no happiness without sadness. No success without failure. No love…without hate.

Angela looked up at Fareeha, attempting to be sneaky, but her lady caught the gaze, and grinned back down at her, her sultry eyes making Angela's toes curl.

She hated to think about it, but their line of work wasn't precisely the safest form of employment. Thus, the thought passed her by more than she wished it. If Fareeha was lost to her again, would she attempt another revival of the woman? Was it fair? Was it morally sound? Could she make the prior statement – living things are meant to die – with authentic passion?

Angela almost giggled to herself. Yes. She would become a hypocrite without a moment's hesitation.

It was a large, traditional Japanese mansion-turned-hotel the group was staying in. Angela and Fareeha had suggested the space when hearing of their old teammate's desire to visit them on the vacation. There was just one vacancy left open to house the collection of individuals despite the short notice and the current festival. Somewhat unfortunately, however, was the fact Fareeha and Angela had agreed to allowing both Hana and Brigitte to stay in their room, considering the space allowed and the attempt to keep the cost of the vacation a little reasonable. Angela didn't mind that much, but the idea of being intimate with Fareeha in such a romantic, foreign city wasn't unappealing either. Still, she did like Hana and Brigitte quite a bit, and thus, was happy about the decision to be slightly frugal more than not.

The reality of Sombra, Amelie, and Lena sharing a room was curious enough as well, but even more so when Lena flippantly mentioned a detail she delivered with a touch of apprehension few would be able to deduct with relative ease.

'Emily won't be getting here until tomorrow, but she can at least make it for the festival's big shebang.'

Angela immediately watched for Amelie's reaction, but the woman was quite impossible to read on the best of days, and this was no exception.

'I haven't met your girlfriend yet, Lena. I'm interested in what she's like.' Fareeha responded, surprisingly.

'She's a good woman.' Widow spoke up, eyeing Angela with a glimmer in her gaze. 'Smart. Observant. Compassionate. Lovely red hair.'

'H-heh. Yeah. She's got a lot going for her…' Lena scratched the back of her head.

The group was escorted to their neighbouring rooms shortly thereafter, the woman in a traditional Japanese kimono doing so with incredible grace and composure. She explained the facilities available, mentioning the onsite hot springs, the inclusive meals available, and the other facilities incorporated into the hotel, such as a space for meditation, and even a small exercise area. Angela had to admit that the hotel was stunning in every way, making one feel as though they had stepped into the past of Japanese culture, witnessing the way those of influence from decades ago lived in the beautiful country. The wooden construct. The rice-paper walls. The gardens all around them. She quite liked it.

The room that would be their own for nearly a week was picturesque as well, as if stripped from a painting of Kyoto and brought to life for the women of Overwatch to enjoy. Spacious, decorated in a minimalistic fashion, and warm, invitingly paying homage to the impression Japan wished to leave on any who stayed. The short train ride over to the city gave everyone the chance to catch up a little, with Brigitte, Lena, and Hana being the most talkative as they dug around for information in relation to Angela and Fareeha's activities. Angela was more than aware Fareeha wasn't the talkative type, so, she fielded most of the questions, but her lady attempted to contribute as well, perhaps worried too much pressure was being placed on the doctor. It was a small thing, but Angela found herself constantly tucking such notions away in a special space within her memory. Fareeha was always willing to step out of her comfort zone for her girlfriend. Always. She never drew attention to it. Never made a spectacle of it. Perhaps wasn't even aware she did so. It was part of her honesty. It was part of who she was at her very core. They had been together for a little over a year now. The capacity of love Angela harboured for her was almost painful.

Fareeha placed her and Angela's bags off to the side, cracking her shoulders and observing the area available to them now.

'Are you guys totally sure it's okay that we stay here with you?' Brigitte asked kindly. 'I mean, we don't want to get in the way of anything…'

'Hahah!' Hana blushed slightly. 'In the way of what?' She jested.

'It's fine.' Fareeha maintained her composure well enough. 'Angela and I have had plenty of time to ourselves since leaving Overwatch's main base of operations. Catching up with you all is important as well, considering our vacation isn't that long.'

Angela puffed her cheeks a partially.

'That's not precisely true, Fareeha. Our living conditions are rarely entirely ideal, and thus, such…activities have been rather infrequent as of late.' The oldest of the four women made the claim before she could catch herself.

'Oh! Oh! Oh!' Hana giggled wildly.

'It's…really okay.' Fareeha attempted again, and Angela shrunk to work. Unpacking her clothes and unloading various toiletries in the washroom.

It was true though. Angela silently pouted, finally having time to be a bit selfish. She and Fareeha didn't exactly work in the most advanced places on earth, their living conditions often mirroring the difficult lifestyle of Iraq. Water was generally in limited supply, to an extent, and regular bathing had its place only seldomly. Not only that, but Fareeha and Angela's days were long and hard, countless souls needing healing both physically and mentally due to the God Program and black omnic's terror. Whether it was due to feeling dirty, or simply because of utter fatigue, Angela could count on one hand how many times she and Fareeha had been intimate since leaving the luxuries an Overwatch base had to offer. It was a version of reality she chose not to dwell on until this moment, and finally she had the occasion to be irked by it.

'Well, at least it won't be as weird as next door. Emily, Lena, and Widow in one room? Plus Sombra? I almost want to spy on what goes down! Hahah!' Brigitte changed the subject tactfully.

'Oh, my gosh! Right? Drama!' Hana agreed.

'Is there any news on that particular scenario?' Angela rejoined the conversation.

'It's one of the mysteries of Overwatch now.' Brigitte grinned. 'Officially, Lena is still with Emily, but there's so something going on with Widow, too, you know? Widow's always on these crazy solo missions though, and the only person that sometimes joins her is Lena. It's just weird.'

'Intriguing…' Angela cupped her chin.

'We should leave them be, in any case.' Fareeha suggested diplomatically. 'What was the plan? We agreed on visiting the Fushimi Inari shrines, correct? Is everyone coming?'

'Sombra didn't seem interested, but I think everyone else was willing.' Brigitte was changing, obviously used to having to do so in the presence of other women, for she stripped down to her sports bra, removing even that, to Angela's surprise.

'The muscle on your back has become even more defined.' Fareeha appraised, approaching the other woman and nodding approvingly.

'Heh! Thanks! I've been working on that.'

Angela's cheeks were burning. Her eyes flittered back and forth, unsure of where to focus whatsoever. Was she jealous? Aroused? Both? Hana made a squeaking sound of some kind, and Angela finally caught sight of Brigitte's breasts, the fullness of them surprising her. Again, she questioned her own sexuality in the moment, wondering if, indeed, she and Lena weren't so different, ultimately. If she were to lay claim, Angela would likely prescribe herself as preferring women over men, but not exclusively, like Lena. She thought Brigitte attractive, and knew Hana was absurdly cute, but she could also recognize Jack and Gabriel's masculine appeal.

Well, it hardly mattered. She was with Fareeha, and didn't intend on changing that fact anytime soon.

'Ooo! Nice boobies, Brig!' Hana grabbed the young woman from behind, groping her aggressively.

'Hey! Hands off!' Brigitte responded with a harsh slap, the sound cracking through the room.

'Owie!'

'Oh, my…!' Angela covered her mouth. Hana had always been overly flirtatious, but this seemed like a bit much even for her.

'It's fine. She gets like this.' Brigitte chuckled.

'Really?' Questioned Fareeha.

'Yep. Girl likes to tease me. Last couple of times I took her to the gym she's tried something like that. You keep forgetting I'm a bit stronger and faster than you.'

'Meh. I'll get there. I'm training now, after all.' Hana flexed, but it was unimpressive at best. Comical even. Everyone laughed; even Hana herself.

This was nice. Even the simple act of getting dressed for the upcoming hike involved with Inari shrine's red gates was just…nice. As much as Angela used to obsess with what she could do to help any and all in need, Fareeha had revealed just how important it was to take some personal time as well. She could only give so much of herself without needing to refuel. This trip provided Angela with that chance, and she was excited to see where this current adventure took her.

Angela was reminded of her somewhat compromised physical prowess when the group began climbing the mountain interwoven with beautiful red gates after paying their respects to the Inari shrines at the bottom of the path. Lena and Widow moved very quickly, with Hana surprisingly keeping decent pace with Brigitte, who was urged by Fareeha to not worry about herself and Angela.

'My apologies, Fareeha…' Angela breathed out. She was a bit embarrassed, seeing the way Brigitte, Fareeha, and even Widow easily carried bags with water, snacks, and other necessities with such ease.

'For what?' The girl asked, and Angela knew her well enough to be aware she wasn't joking.

'Being weak. This path is…quite steep.'

Fareeha turned, hands on her hip and gazing upward.

'It is that.' She said distantly.

'I can wait at the bottom, perhaps.' Angela suggested. She had quite enjoyed the old shrines and the natural beauty all around her. It wasn't a horrible possibility. 'I would prefer not to ruin your experience.'

There was a beat then, and Fareeha simply sighed, shaking her head.

'You really think I'd allow that?'

'Well, what would you have me do? I'm already exhausted. We've hardly made any progress. Perhaps I should start joining you for runs in the morning to better increase my stamina…'

'I would welcome the idea.'

'Heh.' Angela smiled wryly. 'It would ruin your exercise, unfortunately.'

'Another second with you? I would take it without hesitation.'

'Even after this long? Truly? By now you've surely ascertained that I am not quite the "angel" the populace suspects. I have my faults, you see.'

Where was this coming from? Angela was irritating herself with such a pathetic attitude. Still, it was somewhat therapeutic as well, really. Honesty. Revealing her doubts. Taking off the mask of strength she always wore in the presence of her patients. Only with Fareeha. Only with her knight. But was she overstaying her welcome? How much longer would her moodiness be tolerated? Fareeha had every right to be annoyed. Perhaps she would finally leave Angela to her silly devices and be on her way.

'What's really wrong here?' Fareeha asked suddenly, pulling Angela to the side so that other tourists could make it by them. They were between two red gates, the kanji decorative and mysterious. Angela could smell the preserved forest nearby, bamboo and wind shifting between physical matter.

'…Nothing.' Angela lied, pushing her luck.

'It's not nothing. Are you frustrated by your fatigue?'

'Well…mostly…' Angela diverted her gaze.

Fareeha breathed out slowly. Would she, at last, tell Angela off? It's not as if they hadn't had a minor spat or two on the road, but Fareeha had such military training that it was near impossible to shake her unless Angela's life was literally on the line.

However, a hand touched her face, and Angela closed her eyes instinctively, leaning into the touch.

'Months of serving others, of lackluster meals, and of uncomfortable beds? Heh. Your body is finally releasing its fury. Your nanomachines may be able to heal, but they do not create muscle from nothing, correct? You pushed yourself too hard…again.'

'…Perhaps you're right.' Angela mumbled.

'But that doesn't mean I wish to go anywhere without you.'

'Pardon?'

And Angela felt herself lifted up, carried in Fareeha's arms like a bride.

'F-Fareeha!?' She stammered. This was not what she had been anticipating, and yet, her world lit up anew, and Angela could only sigh, actively trying not to shed a tear.

'Hmph. This is nothing. You're light.'

'B-but…!'

Fareeha huffed as she walked. Even with her strength and, perhaps, her nanomachines having evolved to support such demands, the mountain was steep, and Angela felt downright terrible for making her partner work so hard because of her lack of energy.

'Please. Just…leave me.'

'Never.' Fareeha snapped at last, frustration in her voice. 'Never, Angela.'

She was a woman of few words, in most cases, and thus, when she spoke, her claims carried weight. "Never". She meant it. So long as Angela allowed her to, Fareeha would be there for her. Forever. It should have been frightening. A year ago it was. Yet, now? Now, relief cleansed Angela's fears. She held Fareeha's neck tightly, breathing into her exposed collar.

'…Very well.' The doctor relented.

They took a break at one of the resting points, various little shrines and statues of foxes with scarves everywhere. Multiple tourists were snapping photos, even a pair of omnics relishing the ancient work of humans from the distant past.

'My!' Angela appraised. 'How mysterious!'

'It really is.' Fareeha stared hard at her surroundings, breathing a little more heavily than normal. She had carried Angela for well over one hundred metres up the mountain. She was quite the beast. 'The architectural prowess should be commended. How old are these little shrines? They're pretty.'

Angela giggled. She liked it when Fareeha expressed herself as such. Their life together hadn't been exactly stress-free, therefore, it was difficult to have such relaxed, natural interactions like this.

'I agree! Perhaps we should capture this moment together?'

'Oh! Yes!' Fareeha extracted her phone from her jean shorts, getting in close to Angela and putting an arm around her. She extended the device away from the two of them, having difficulty adjusting for just the right shot.

'There!' Angela instructed, and Fareeha snapped a few, taking a moment to evaluate her work with Angela.

'Our eyes are closed in this one.'

'Well, mine are partially. I look drunk!'

'Hahah! This one turned out well.'

'Indeed!' Angela paused, shaking her head slightly. She took a deep breath, and leaned into Fareeha. 'My apologies for my antics prior. You draw out emotions I'd prefer to remain hidden.'

'On the contrary, I'm honoured. It is my duty to help facilitate your feelings.'

'Heh. Your duty…'

'I…didn't word that properly. I just mean that I…I like being your confidant. I want you to lean on me.'

Angela smiled.

'Then I shall. For as long as you'll tolerate my silly outbursts of insecurity.'

'You best be ready to have my support until our final days, then.' Fareeha blinked awkwardly, as if she had caught herself saying something strange, and then turned her face away, slight colour coming over it. It was somewhat out of character for her, which made that physical rhetoric more noteworthy.

'Fareeha?'

'N-nothing.' She stammered. 'Anyway, should we keep going? I don't want the others to worry.'

Angela raised a brow, but would leave it be for now. She could always bug Fareeha later.

'So be it. I shall attempt to walk some of the way this time.'

'Okay. Would you like my hand?'

'Very much so.'

Although it took a great deal of effort, with only an occasion or two of Angela taking Fareeha up on her offer for a small lift, the couple finally made it to the top of the mountain, where small vendors and a montage of individuals relished in their accomplishment. Statues of foxes were aplenty, and there was general excitement in the air as families in every shape and size went about tiny celebrations by taking photos and participating in the various games and events present.

'My! Even somewhat late in the afternoon this is quite the form of entertainment, isn't it?' Angela observed, finding joy in the communal scene.

'There's Brigitte and Hana.' Fareeha pointed, the pairing seemingly writing upon little trinkets. Angela's legs were perpetually in pain as she moved still, but she approached the girls regardless, peeking over Hana's shoulder prior to the young woman jumping and hiding her charm.

'No! You can't look! It's a wish that only works if it's done in secret and all that!'

'Well, you're gonna hang it up or whatever anyway, so, what's the big deal?' Brigitte laughed.

'But once I hang it it's ambiguous! Duh!'

'Do people still say that?' Fareeha blinked.

'I do!' Hana tapped her pen and rushed over to a collection of other charms, glaring back at the girls cutely.

'Shall we?' Angela grinned.

'Why not?' And Fareeha handed her a spare pen, working on her own. Angela thought for a moment, knowing it was a little silly to wish for much else considering she really couldn't be happier, but decidedly jotted a couple of lines down anyway, resisting the urge to see what her lady was scribbling quite readily.

"Allow me to remain capable of making the love of my life happy."

It was simple enough, yet Angela couldn't help but worry she was emotionally compromised due to her upbringing and way of living until recently. Fareeha was obscenely tolerant as well, which helped matters little. Angela held the charm lovingly, following in behind Fareeha and hanging hers up before turning, somehow catching sight of just a piece of her lady's writing as she did so. It was subconsciously done, perhaps with some purposeful intent after all, and she could only note two words that managed to perplex her infinitely.

"…please say…"

Please say? Say what? What more could Angela say that hadn't been said already?

The doctor attempted to brush the notion away. However, her naturally inquisitive mind was already working in overdrive with the desire to dissect whatever Fareeha could have wished for. The more the seconds passed, the more she found her head pounding in frustration.

Say what? Really, now. They had nearly said it all.

Angela leaned into Fareeha, muttering affectionately under her breath.

'I love you…'

This had some effect, perhaps because of its abruptness, but Fareeha simply smiled sheepishly, nodding with affirmation.

'And I love you.'

Hm. That wasn't it, then? Odd. Very odd, indeed. Curse Angela's observational skills. They were going to be the death of her.

'Heya!' Lena sauntered over, Amelie, surprisingly, not at her side. 'You made it up, huh? Did Fareeha here have to carry you?'

'Only a little.' Fareeha shrugged, not catching the fact Lena was joking, making the interaction even more comedic.

'Damn, girl! That's pretty badass!' Brigitte chuckled.

'Aw! Like a princess!? Jealous!' Hana pouted.

'Where's Amelie?' Angela wanted to change the subject, feeling the weight of her own insecurities again.

'Over yonder. Girl wanted a sec to check out the view.' Lena nodded down the strip a way.

'By herself? I will fetch her. I want to speak with her for a moment anyway.' Angela didn't ask. And she gave Fareeha a small shake of her head, knowing she would desire to escort her. 'I'll be back in a moment.'

'Okay…' Lena didn't sound so sure, but Angela could use the distraction. She shuffled past some omnics and a family; a mother and father holding hands while two children "ooed" and "awed" over this and that. Angela didn't even notice the way she slowed down, observing what was perceived as the "ideal". As the most "acceptable" form of affection and upbringing. Moira's words echoed in her mind. The truth about them haunting. Ana's apprehensions, despite her blessing. The fact even the Tracer wasn't immune to ridicule. After so long, one would have thought any form of discrimination would have vanished, but perhaps there truly was something fundamentally wrong with the choice. Or was it biological? Did it even matter?

Angela ripped her eyes from the sight. It bothered her more than she wished it to. Husband. Wife. A man. A woman. They so naturally fit together. They balanced one another. It was undeniable how perfectly the two organisms complimented the needs of the partner.

Yet, Angela couldn't imagine being with someone other than Fareeha. She tried to picture it, and her heart physically ached.

Thus, was she demented? Was she flawed? Mentally unsound? Emotionally broken?

She and Fareeha would never be "normal", despite the word being subjective to begin with. Even during their work in impoverished cities – perhaps even more so – they were viewed with suspicion when not treating the mortally wounded. Two women who were so close. So very, very close. Strange. Acceptable, at this point in time, fortunately, but ever strange. Even individuals of different races, when paired together, were still given a second look. Strange. Just a little odd. Not quite perfectly "normal".

'Angela?'

The cool, cold voice penetrated the doctor's steaming brain, snapping her back to the present and near the top of the beautiful mountain in Japan, red gates lining its spine and shrines decorating it like birthmarks.

'Amelie. My apologies. I was…thinking.'

'Heh. So it would appear.' The seductive woman looked amazing even in loose black pants and a tank top. Speaking of abnormal; it would appear Amelie had little issue with her skin colour anymore. She hadn't even mentioned the idea of having another operation. Perhaps out of consideration? Knowing Angela and Fareeha were perpetually busy? Some tourists knew of the nearly world-famous Amelie Lacroix. She had, indeed, made quite the name for herself dancing her wickedly powerful ballet. Talon had attempted to even abduct her again, from what Angela had heard. Unfortunately for the terrorist group, the monster they created had a will now, and that made her nearly impossible to capture with relative ease.

'I simply wished to check on you, if that would be alright.' Angela glanced back, happy to see that the rest of their group was having fun with the souvenir shops set up. Fareeha surely had one eye on her lady, but she didn't make it obvious, which was appreciated.

'…I'm fine.' Widow shrugged subtly. 'This life…is not so disagreeable.'

Angela stepped in a little closer, sensing Widow's tension.

'Are you and Lena well?'

'Heh.' The other woman smirked. 'It is a riveting relationship, to say the least.'

'One you're hopefully content with?'

A beat.

'I suspect as much as I'll ever be.'

She was holding back, but Angela couldn't quite ascertain why exactly. She decided to pursue the details, Widow seeming to be in a decent mood.

'Are you still romantically involved?'

Widow smirked.

'When I wish us to be.'

'Truly?'

'Hm.'

'But…what of Emily?'

'We are all content, Dr. Ziegler. Your concern is appreciated, but you are beginning to overstep, one might say.'

Widow's patience for conversations that didn't interest her was obvious, and due to everything Angela had done for her, she had gotten away with pushing harder than most. That didn't elevate her to being capable of avoiding this very conclusion, however. Widow was done talking of the matter. She was a private soul; primarily when her heart was involved.

'So be it. My apologies again, then.'

'There is nothing to forgive, my dear. You are only curious and, perhaps, deflecting concerns of your own?'

'Whatever could you mean?'

Widow nodded toward Fareeha in the distance.

'Trouble in paradise? Lena and I have discussed your seemingly flawless relationship once or twice, but it would seem, at last, something is amiss between you two. How reassuring. You're both human after all.'

'An ironic thing for you to say.' Angela snapped, flinching back the moment she said it and shaking her head. 'I meant it…as a joke…'

It was partially true.

'Heh. It takes much more than that to insult me, my sweet. I am, indeed, still very much a monster, should I wish to be. Recent mission logs hidden in the depths of Overwatch's archives would reveal as much. Blackwatch, was it? Hmph. That commander of yours is being pressured for results. I provide them, in many cases. The killer is still needed, after all.'

Angela twisted her jaw. This woman had always been frightening, but she was even more terrifying now that her mind was mostly sound. Complete control of her body as a living weapon? Small wonder Talon valued her so.

'This is another war, to an extent, so, I hardly doubt it.'

'A brave face. I do not mind such blatant obstinacy.'

'I've changed over these past few years as well, you should know.'

'Then perhaps you would allow this lowly killer to offer a word of encouragement?'

Angela almost lost her balance.

'…Pardon?'

'Do not hesitate any further. What you have with that woman – that human – transcends anything I've ever seen before.' Widow stared off in the distance longingly. 'I treasure dance because I am not one for words, you see? They're far too restrictive. I prefer to do the binding; not the other way around, yes?'

Angela certainly didn't doubt that. Goosebumps tickled her neck as she listened to Widow speak, her voice as intoxicating as ever. She was a dominator without question.

'What I feel – no – what I envy between you and that admirable girl cannot be so easily contained in language. She would die for you again, and again, and again if it meant you were safe. As pretty as such claims are between fake lovers, she would do it without hesitation. Why, she has, has she not?'

'…Indeed.'

'I was bound by ridiculous notions of conventional normality in the past. Foolish girl. I reflect on such closed-mindedness with disgust.'

'How could you…?' Angela wondered. Had it been so obvious? Impossible.

'A humoured guess. I'm not wrong, then?'

'…Only when I imprudently allow my analytical mind to proceed rampant.'

'I don't doubt it with a brain such as yours. When the data cannot be quantified, how else is a scientist expected to react but with fear of the unknown? Of everything that rejects what is biologically sound? Why, I would suggest you are handling such paradoxical notions with grace, all things considered.'

This conversation hadn't progressed the way Angela had envisioned. She had always suspected Amelie Lacroix of being something of an extraordinary woman, but she was more than convinced now. Without Talon whispering into her psyche with every given thought, she was an individual worth respect.

'W-well…thank-you.' Angela nodded slowly.

'I am simply elaborating upon my observations. Nothing more.'

'They are appreciated, regardless.'

Widow rolled her eyes. This abrasiveness was strangely alluring, considering Angela knew Amelie cared more than she liked to let on. Perhaps that's what drew Lena's attention so. Humans naturally wanted what they couldn't have, correct?

'Go. You've exhausted me.' Amelie demanded. 'And do stop this foolish tendency of over evaluating that which many would kill for.'

Angela left it at that, approaching Fareeha again and seeing the woman for the gift she was in her life. She was still curious about what that partial piece of Fareeha's wish had meant, but for now, she would at least enjoy the vacation for all it was worth…without concerning herself with the gaze of anyone but her lover.