A/N: Alright, so, as promised, Part 1 of the 100 Fav/Follow Special. It's about 7k words, so I hope to have the other 8k up by next month. Not to worry, I haven't neglected this month's chapter either regarding the actual story, but I took a lot more time polishing up this chapter than I thought, so most likely you'll see the update by tomorrow or Sunday.

With that said, I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation for everyone who contributed to keeping this story alive via reviews, favs, and follows. Every single one of you have given me motivation to keep going, and down below will be a list of everyone in chronological order to recognize those who contributed to this effort. I would definitely hope that this story keeps going and that I can look back and be proud of it. This story wouldn't have been possible without you guys to keep it alive at this point, so thank you for the continued support!

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100 Fav/Follow Special
Into the Future AU

Part I
Summer - Rachel's POV (1st)
I woke up to a familiar ceiling. And when I mean familiar, I don't mean my room at Undertaker's mortuary.

I meant my house. My room. In my bed.

I sat up, confused. What the heck?

I looked around, and sure enough, my dresser, wardrobe, etc. were all here. I scratched my head, puzzled before walking to the door and opening it to a familiar sight.

"Atticus!"

Said man smiled at me, lowering himself onto one knee as he bowed before standing up. "Welcome back, Miss Rachel. Your return was quite unexpected but not unwelcome. We do, however, have a few guests that arrived with you today." He smiled at me, his white hair and grey eyes comforting me a bit.

Although he seemed elderly, he was anything but. He was somewhat of a butler with a family of his own to care for, but employed by blood to serve me eternally. Somewhat of a familiar, but not really.

"Am I dreaming?"

He chuckled. "Not at all. After you dress, I'll have the guests settled in the lounge room."

I nodded, still a bit spaced out. "Alright, I'll meet you there. Thanks."

"Not at all, my lady."

My mouth quirked at the term, but I let it go. I had requested he dropped the formality, but old habits die hard, I suppose.

As I got changed into some black jeans with an off-the-shoulders long-sleeve baggy black top, I suddenly wondered what guests he was talking about. And that they arrived the same time I did?

Hold on, does that mean…

At that thought, I rushed to put on my shoes and find a jacket, anxious to confirm my suspicions. Someone had to be screwing around with me.

I briskly walked down the stairs and past the main hall into the lounge area where guests were usually held, and there they were in all their… sleepy glory?

Vincent and Diedrich were present, wearing their casual wear - and I mean daily wear, not for sleeping - and Undertaker was lounging on my couch with a huge fat grin on his face like he was a canary who just found the bird, wearing his usual mortician clothes.

"Ara~ You never said anything about being a billionaire~ tsk tsk, keeping secrets, are we? HI hi hi!" He wagged a finger at me as if that would make me ashamed.

I only crossed my arms with a scoff. "You never asked nor is it your concern."

Vincent piped up, "I'm intrigued, however. For a woman of your stature, why would you accept Undertaker's line of work rather than establish your own nobility?"

I lifted an eyebrow. "Well, for one, change of pace. Second of all, it's far easier being a nobody rather than having to prove my legitimacy in an era where I have no roots anyhow."

Vincent tilted his head at that, as though never considering that I'd have to actually have some credibility.

"But also laziness." I heard Undertaker's snicker at my blunt honesty, but really, why go through all the hard work? You'd have to maintain that nobility with an income of some sort, and personally, I didn't think I'd be staying long enough to start one.

"But that still doesn't explain why you accepted his offer." Diedrich was eyeing me like a piece of meat that needed to be dissected and I returned it with a blank stare.

"As if that's any of your business. Besides, it's what got me a place to live in. I don't see why you'd question that."

Diedrich still looked like he had more questions to ask, but at the moment, I couldn't be bothered to care.

"Now, first order of business, since you're all here, I may as well give you a tour of my generation. But, we'll have to alter your appearance; we can't have you standing out too much. Fortunately, I do have some spare men's clothing thanks to Atticus for you all to try out.

"Afterwards, I'll try to have some activities planned for the day which may include recruiting some friends of mine. I don't know if she's busy today, but we'll see."

Atticus then walked in, dressed casually carrying a few bags filled with clothing. "Gentlemen, here are a few samples. Miss Rachel has had some family stay over, and some clothes have been procured in emergency cases, and in this instance, I suppose it applies. If there are any concerns, let me know, and we'll accommodate your preferences."

"Ah, how very astute. Thank you." Vincent looked a bit surprised and eager at the change of pace.

Diedrich, as usual, was the only one stressing out. "Hold on, how do we even know if we're able to get back! Is no one concerned about this?"

"Oh Diedrich, ever the worry wart~ Have some fun! This is quite the experience anyhow." Vincent was smirking at his associate, further pissing off the German.

"Oi! This isn't just some bloody joke! We have lives here! Think of your family and duties!"

"Oh, I'm sure they won't mind if I take the day off~"

"Actually, I'm not even sure if you being here has any effect on the past." My input not only gained all their attention but also successfully intervened their childish spat from continuing.

"And what is that supposed to mean," Diedrich snapped.

"It means, dumkopff, that you being here for about a day doesn't necessarily mean you'll be gone for a day in your lifetime. It might only just be a lapse of a second or even minutes. But who knows?" I shrugged.

"So you're not even sure." Diedrich's accusation made me raise an eyebrow.

"No, I don't. Thanks for stating the obvious. Anything else you wanna tell me that I already know?"

The disgruntled silence from him was all the answer I needed.

"Now then, I suggest you get changed so as to avoid suspicion and attention for our day out. It'll help to fit in, as well." I paused, almost about to leave before remembering something crucial. "Oh, and by the way, try not to be too reactive to what you see regarding anything you're uncomfortable or unfamiliar with. It'll just make you seem even more out of place. Just improvise your way through or follow my lead, either works."

I sweatdropped as Vincent and Undertaker smiled, having absolutely no clue what I meant. Diedrich meanwhile grumped about before standing abruptly.

"Fine, let's just get this over with. Atticus, was it? Any clothes will do. So long as we get back, I'll do whatever it takes."

Vincent snickered. "Just what you'd expect from a German."

Said German's eyebrow ticked. "What did you just say?"

"Oh, nothing, nothing~" Vincent held up his hands innocently. "But in that case, I suppose I'll do the same."

"Hihi, ara~ How fun, how fun! So you'll be our tour guide for the day?~" He set his hands on my shoulders to purposely annoy me which I shrugged off.

"Sure, sure, I just need to contact a friend to help me plan out the day. She'll know some good places to visit."

"Very well, we'll rendezvous back here, Miss Rose?"

"Sure. Oh, by the way, Earl, for the time period that we're here, we'll be on a first name basis. Will that be a problem?"

His brow rose. "Is there no such hierarchy?"

"Well, there are rich people in the states, but everyone is treated with the same respect. There's really no special treatment unless you pay extra for VIP events and such." The blank look resumed and I sighed. "I'll explain later, but that leaves the last problem." I looked pointedly at Undertaker.

He tilted his head akin to a cat. "Hm? Me?~"

"Yes, you."

He pouted. "What did I do?"

"Precisely the issue. We can't go around calling you Undertaker. It'll raise eyebrows."

He pouted even more, whining in my ear with that scratchy voice of his to agitate me more. "But it's my name~"

"Great, so just change it for a day."

He only frowned, but when he saw I wouldn't budge, he set his mouth in a determined line. "Fine~ But you have to give me a new one."

I raised an eyebrow. "You sure about that?"

He nodded.

"Great, then Stupid Idiot should work just fine."

He cried in outrage, now clinging to me. "Ellie-san~~ I thought we were friends~"

I groaned, facepalming as I tried desperately to cling onto whatever remaining self-control remained. "We'd be even better friends if you just left me alone," I grumbled. "But I digress. Fine, we'll just go with Seth Myers. It's easy and painless so long as everyone remembers it."

My stressing on everyone made all bodies present sweat drop until an unwelcome somebody made themselves known via the door opening in the form of my legal stepbrother known as Jace.

In short, Jace was the embodiment of useless, self-entitled brat no one could care for. Stereotypical? Well, life likes to play that way sometimes. Add in drug addiction, parties, and stealing… well, just overall unpleasant.

Currently, he actually looked busy doing something which could only mean trouble. Either one of the above or his infamous Trifecta involving all three. It seems me having connections with the police held no gravity over him, besides the fact that his mother coddled him incessantly and tore off my ear anytime I tried to get him into any legal trouble. But that was before I was 18. Now, we get to play the cards a little differently.

"Jace. What you up to?" I crossed my arms, already expecting whatever bullshit he came up with.

"Making invites," he replied casually.

"For?"

"A party."

"Ah, and where's this taking place?"

"Here."

"Ah, you mean in the house that I work my ass off for that you and your mother conveniently stay in?"

"Pretty much."

I nodded. "I see. Well, cancel it."

I felt four eyes jerk towards me minus the recipient who simply disregarded me.

With a shrug, he replied, "Well, I already sent the invitation, I'm just confirming it right now."

"Well then, I guess that makes it easier for you to cancel it right now." I smiled menacingly before leaning towards his face with wide eyes. "You have two options: One is to have the party and I have the cops bust your ass or Two: cancel it and you live a free man a little longer. Your choice." I closed my eyes as I bullshit-smiled at him, hearing him grit his teeth.

"No one even knows you're here."

I smiled even wider. "Would you like to change that?" I held up my phone to make a point.

A beat of silence passed before he glared. "Fine." He got up to briskly walk away from me, muttering curses.

"Great, glad to know your ears work, if barely." Somehow, I had managed to slip that in before the door slammed. Then I clapped my hands together. "Alright, with that out of the way, I'll have you carry on with changing. Atticus will be available for assistance. In the meantime, I will contact a friend to help me plan for today and we'll be on our merry way."

Without missing a beat, I simply walked out, nodding to Atticus, leaving the men in stunned silence.

I dislike having to show that unsavory side of myself to anyone else, but it had to be done.

...

We were on our way driving downtown to where my friend lived. And because there was already four of us, I only really had room for one more which worked out in the end.

"So, who's this person we're meeting?"

I looked up at the rearview mirror where Diedrich was seated in the far right, Undertaker opposite of him, and Vincent sitting shotgun. "You'll see."

"This isn't a trap, right?" Diedrich was glaring at me apprehensively.

I only snorted. "What could I possibly have to gain from that?"

He deadpanned. "Oh, right. But still, who's this person we're meeting?"

I sighed. "A close friend of mine that I've known for a while. She'll have a better idea of what places to see or amusement parks to go to than I do."

"And who'll be financing this outing, if I may ask~" Undertaker, who was currently sporting a white hoodie with some black jeans, looked pretty young and I had to hold back my snort every time I looked at him.

"That would be me."

"I'll see to it that you are fully reimbursed." Vincent, who had been gazing out the window turned towards me, dressed in brown casual dress shoes, dark pair of jeans, and a light brown long sleeve, slightly rolled up.

I shook my head. "Don't bother. I have more than enough money that I don't use, and what better than to spend it now?"

He quirked an eyebrow, lightly smirking at me. "Is that so? Do you rely on this type of reasoning often?"

I shrugged. "If I need to."

Diedrich scoffed. "If you feel some kind of obligation to do this, then we can provide for ourselves."

I looked up calmly. "Like I said, it's on me."

I pulled off the highway, making our way to the streets until I pulled up at the bar where Red lived. In her situation, she, her father, and brother all lived and worked at the bar with their rooms being a story above. Honestly, not the best scenario in my opinion, but it's none of my business. I would've had Red moved out a long time ago, but she'd told me of her moral obligation towards helping her dad at the bar despite his alcoholic crutch and abuse. (Yeah, ironic. I know.)

That much I could understand, but the abuse? Hence why I kept such a close eye on her.

After everyone gathered at the door, I knocked a couple of times. I could sense a presence behind the door, and the moment it opened and the scent of strawberries hit my nose, I braced myself for the squeal and hug Red would always greet me with.

"Rachel-san~!"

"Yo." I grunted as she jumped into me. She was about a few inches shorter than me which made her the ideal height to rest my arm on but was about a year older than me. Of course, the fact that I looked - and acted - mature played in my favor, however, so I called it even.

I pushed her back lightly, not comfortable allowing the three men see me being familiar with her. "So, you ready?"

She nodded enthusiastically. "Oh yup! I've got a list of places we could go or eat out and maybe we ought to bring Theo along, too!"

I grimaced a bit. "I'd rather not."

She frowned. "Why not?"

"Not enough space. Besides, the car's already full if we include you."

"Theo can just bring her own car."

I facepalmed. "Red, I'm trying to stay as low as possible. Don't overcomplicate this."

She looked upset, but knowing how wonderfully Theo and I got on together synonymous to dogs and cats, she let it drop. "Fine, but next time, we bring Theo, no buts."

I rolled my eyes. "Fine, so long as I'm not in it."

"Rachel!" She smacked my arm with a glare in those deep blue eyes of hers. "That's not very nice!"

"Which was the whole point," I mumbled but continued quickly so she had no room to reply. "Anyways, we need to choose what places to go and a place to eat." I turned to the guys to make it easier. "Which would you rather do, go to an amusement park or go to museums and learn about the history and stuff? It's your choice."

Undertaker already made his choice based on the grin he sported on his face. "The amusement park sounds fun~"

I looked at Red. "SeaWorld?"

"SeaWorld."

"Alright, it's been decided. Everyone in the car." I made shooing motions in the car and buckled in.

"Hold on, wait, that's only one person. What about the rest of us?" Diedrich looked beyond confused and was pointing at him and Vincent.

I shrugged. "Well, I unanimously voted Undertaker. Too bad you're fucking slow. Now hurry up 'fore I leave your wrinkled ass."

Undertaker and Vincent snorted at my "old man" reference I made of him as he balked before taking a seat in the back. His face looked a little green but he said nothing for the rest of the ride.

"Now then, here's the game plan: first, we'll head over to IHOP for some brunch since SeaWorld doesn't open until 1 pm. After that, we'll do some rides, check out some shows, and then head to Pappadeaux for dinner. Sound good?"

All three men looked at each other before Vincent shrugged. "You're in charge, Miss Rose."

Red giggled. "Just let us know if you need anything!"

I rolled my eyes as I drove out the street and back into the highway.

"What should we expect in SeaWorld, dear~"

I looked up to find Undertaker grinning at me from the rearview mirror, the long sleeves of his hoodie hiding his talons.

Oops, forgot to clip those.

"Well, they have a few rides we can check out as well as live animals they feature in their shows such as killer whales, belugas, dolphins, even seals."

"Ara, that sounds quite entertaining. My sons would've enjoyed this trip." Vincent held a hand to his chin, probably trying to find a way to bring the twins here.

"Wait, you have kids?" Red's eyes were wide before looking back at me. "Rachel, how old are they?!"

I froze before lightly flicking her forehead. "Red! That's a rude question to ask nor is it your concern!"

She simpered. "But Rachel, why are you hanging out with older guys!"

I cooly looked at her with narrow eyes. "It has to do with business."

She tilted her head. "So wait, it was a business trip?"

I paused. "… I guess?"

"You're a terrible liar." She pouted.

I snorted. "Yeah, which is a good thing for you."

She crossed her arms and huffed.

I only smirked and shook my head.

We pulled up to a parking spot, having reserved a table for five before being seated by the flustered waiter. Having to serve a large group filled with good-looking customers is quite overwhelming, at least for other humans.

"Your waiter will be with you shortly," was all she said before leaving quickly, cheeks a bit flushed.

"Rachel-san, she won't stop looking at you! Do you think she's bi?" Red was staring at the waiter, as though seeing a brand new Korean drama come to life.

I rolled my eyes before nudging her with my elbow. "Quit it, we've got guests here."

Her lower lip stuck out. "But Rachel- san, that's not even the worst of it!"

I sighed. "They're adults, they can handle themselves."

She frowned but didn't say anything, knowing that the people I worked with were usually capable.

"By the way, how come you're not sitting on the outside?" Her head was tilted in confusion because usually, I'd sit on the outside part and her close to the wall for her protection.

"Right now, I don't want to talk to people." Considering how little energy I expended on a daily basis, this outing would drain more so I had to conserve as much as possible. Plus, Undertaker, Earl, and Diedrich were here, so that oughta make it easier.

"Oh Rachel, that's all we'll be doing today, though." She giggled, as though humored by my goal.

"Well, I'd like to limit that as much as possible."

She raised her brow, tilting her head towards our newest additions. I could understand her point, but I ignored her in favor of looking out the window.

I felt a bit bad for giving Diedrich a hard time considering the fact he was pretty worried. Of course, his attitude didn't really help, but I could tell he was stressed. "Hey Diedrich, was there anything else you wanted to see?"

He gave me a begrudging look before sighing. "Doesn't matter to me, so long as we return to England, that's all that matters."

I hummed. "But still, this is your chance to discover our history, get a sneak peek at the future, you might say."

So long as he doesn't know about the Holocaust.

His brow twitched, and I could tell by his hesitation that he was thinking of entertaining the idea, but his shoulders set, and by then, I had my answer. "No thanks. What will come will pass, no matter how much I tamper with the details."

My brows lifted. Wow, what admirable confidence.

I shrugged. "If you say so."

"Not even a little glimpse at the cheat sheet~" Vincent smirked, raising an eyebrow teasingly.

Diedrich's brow twitched as he crossed his arms. "I already made up my mind, and a German never backs down from it."

The Earl chuckled. "Just what you'd expect~"

Said German huffed indignantly but said nothing more. Guess I don't have to worry about the Hitler tidbit then.

"And what about you, Un?"

"Hm?~"

"Hi, my name's Kathy, and welcome to IHOP! What drink would y'all like to get started with?"

The sudden appearance of the waiter made everyone quiet before looking at me. Seems everyone neglected to look at the menu.

I decided to take care of that. "I'll just have some coffee."

"Ooh, and I'll have sweet tea~" Red piped up.

"Great, and for the gentlemen?"

All three men looked at me as though looking for guidance.

I tilted my head, deciding whether to be nice or naughty. I could do the kind thing and get them some tea, but then a brilliant idea came to mind.

"Y'know what, as a treat since it's their first time here- yes, they're boomers, give 'em a break- why don't you give them Coke, or Coca-Cola, whatever you have."

"Sure~ That'll be right out shortly!" The waitress left, leaving all men to stare cluelessly at me.

"Ne, Ellie~ What is this "Coca-Cola" you speak of?~" Undertaker's nails poked my arm, the flashing talons attracting more than enough unwanted attention from all the other customers.

I made a mental note to clip them as soon as we got back into the car.

"You'll see," I replied evasively.

A few moments later found me holding my cup of coffee but intently focused on their reactions. All three of them were staring down at the fizzing dark drink, ice cubes floating, and bubbles glancing up the side of the cup.

I was trying my hardest to hold back a smirk, but based on Red's small smile, I was doing poorly. She didn't say a word, rather just shook her head and watched the scene play out with me.

"What's wrong?"

"'What's wrong?' What's wrong with this drink?!" Diedrich was having a hard time understanding why a drink would fizz and pop.

"Well, you don't think it's gonna hurt you, do you?"

He scoffed. "Don't be preposterous!"

I snickered but said nothing more. The other two men were calmly analyzing their drinks, but the one who decided to take the first try surprised me.

… Well, on second thought, it shouldn't have.

"Hihi, well now, you don't know if you don't try~" He took a sip and then giggled. "What a funny tasting drink!~"

Vincent, with the confirmation that his friend hadn't died, decided to take a sip as well and only one word fell from his lips. "Oh!"

I smirked. "What?"

"Well, I would've thought the drink was sort of warm since it looked and sounded like it sizzled."

I raised an eyebrow. "Even if there's ice cubes and the glass is cold?"

He smirked slyly. "Well, Miss Rose, not everything is as it seems to be."

I shrugged. "Fair point." I looked back to Undertaker, still curious with his audacity to try it out first.

"Something on your mind, dear~"

I didn't miss the way Red's eyes darted between my boss and I, but pretended not to notice in favor of asking my question. "Why weren't you suspicious at all about the drink? You didn't even ask any questions."

He smirked, and an eye exposed itself, making Red gasp and stare bug-eyed at him then me. "Well now, deary~ Seeing as how you ordered more than one drink for all three of us in a public setting already ruled out the suspicion of its intrinsic danger. Plus, you're my bodyguard. I knew you wouldn't do something intentionally to hurt me~ Especially me, hihi!" He winked at me and I could feel my brows twitch, even as I deadpanned.

Eventually, I couldn't stand the annoyance and kicked him in the leg. Hard.

"Hey!" He pouted, rubbing the bruised area. Chuckles erupted from the other occupants at the table.

"Hmph." I turned a blind eye to his pain. "So basically, you were just being cocky."

He wryly smirked. "What kind of bodyguard intentionally tries to hurt the one they're protecting?"

"My kind," I retorted without missing a beat.

I could hear a snort from Diedrich, but beyond that, we had a pretty enjoyable breakfast.

I had my usual poblano omelette with tabasco on the side and upgraded my pancake to the Nutella crepe I knew I wouldn't finish. Red had her usual strawberry pancakes, Undertaker had crepes plus the breakfast combo that came with sausage, bacon, and egg which I doubted would sate his huge appetite. Vincent and Diedrich went for the simple two meats and two sunny side-up eggs accompanied with their own buttermilk pancakes each, probably wary of American food for the first time.

"You're country is quite generous with their servings, aren't they~" Vincent sweat dropped as he looked down at his generous helping of bacon and sausage with a deformed mass of two eggs combined.

I shrugged. "Only in Texas." Then sniggered. "Just kidding. Well, not really. The south are known for big appetites and the like, not that the northern states are any different, but it's kind of expected down here due to our likeness of barbecue and red meats. Compared to your skimpy servings in England, however, the states in general tend to be more generous with how much they serve a customer."

"I see~"

"Doesn't that make obesity far more prevalent, though?" Ironically, as Diedrich pointed this out, he was already stuffing his entree into his mouth. And, to add salt to the wound, ironically - again - we'd see him in a morbidly obese state the next time we saw him after the Phantomhive manor attack.

What a depressing thought, I realized as a stab of guilt hit my chest. I shook my head to dismiss it.

"You're correct, actually~ It's a huge health concern today which is why exercise is incredibly important to maintain one's fitness and appearance!" Red filled in for me, smiling brightly in that careless manner that always sort of annoyed me.

I looked back, amused to find a strange expression on Diedrich's face as if though he had no idea how to handle someone being so nice to him without being rude. I smirked as I challenged him, "Gee Diedrich, one would you think you don't know how to talk to a girl~"

At that, his face bloomed red as he accidentally exclaimed, "Of course, I can! Who do you take me for?!"

I snickered. "Whoa, there. Hold your horses. No need to shout~"

He huffed, trying to compose himself. "Whose fault do you think that is," he murmured.

I shook my head but left him alone. However, someone else didn't seem to appreciate my humor.

"Rachel! That's uncalled for!" Red smacked my arm again and I deadpanned at her.

"Calm down, just trying to break the ice."

"By aggravating your guest?" She rose her eyebrow.

I snorted. "Not my fault he can't take a joke."

She pouted, swatting my arm again but said nothing else. Then, as though someone flipped a switch inside her, she tugged at my sleeve urgently.

"What? I'm trying to eat here." Currently, I was working on my incoming death by dumping an ungodly amount of tabasco on my omelet. Did I have a death wish? In a sense. Despite the fact that there was already poblano pepper and another jalapeño, this was the only time I went all-out spicy, and I planned to take full advantage of it.

She then pulled me so that she could whisper into my ear, yet loudly enough that it contradicted the whole point. "You never said anything about your boss being so handsome! No wonder you're so close!"

I froze before staring at her confused. "The hell's that supposed to mean?" In the corner of my eye, I could see Undertaker's grin inch wider bit by bit.

She beamed brightly at me as though she were a child figuring out an incredibly vague question. "Well, why else would you be teasing each other?"

I froze before sighing. "Oh, shut up. I'm only close to him because I work as his assistant."

She pouted, tilting her head. "But still…"

I shook my head. "I'll explain later." Which, of course, meant never. So long as I distracted her well enough not to remember, it wouldn't be a problem.

Towards the end of breakfast, as I had predicted, I couldn't even eat more than two bites of my crepe after finishing the omelette, so I ended up splitting the rest with everyone, Undertaker getting the majority of it to fulfill his sweets craving. Everyone else seemed to have no problem finishing their dish, which left me in a disgruntled state having to rely on everyone else to clean up after me.

But, better than wasting food in my opinion.

…

I hadn't expected Undertaker and the others to enjoy the soda that much. Literally, they had 2-3 more servings of it, plus a to-go beverage, so I guess I underestimated the addiction of Coca-Cola in particular.

As of now, we were all stuffed in the car with Red driving on our way to SeaWorld as I was clipping Undertaker's nails. Vincent ended up sitting shotgun next to Red and was chatting animatedly with her as I focused on finishing up.

Because Undertaker's nail was all black, it was hard to tell between when I reached the normally pink area without cutting it too short. As I was doing this, Undertaker was sporting a huge grin, ticking me off.

"You know, dear~ I could've done this on my own~"

I glared. "Yeah yeah, shut up, this is the first and last time. Besides, I can't trust if you'll even do it."

"Hihi~ Good point, m'dear~"

I sighed but finished up, brushing his nail clippings into a plastic bag. Thank God I had a trash bag in the car, otherwise I would've had to vacuum the ungodly mess from the floor later.

"Hey, Red, we there yet?"

"Yeah, just need to find parking~" She pulled in to a parking among a plethora of parked cars before moving the gear to park. "But, it's still pretty hot today! I can't understand why you'd want to eat a spicy omelette for breakfast and add tabasco sauce on top of it! You were already sweating and now you're gonna sweat more!~"

My brow twitched as the tingling sensation from the poblano pepper on my tongue resurfaced after having been preoccupied with cutting Undertaker's nails. "Oh, shut up. I just got back from England, so I'm going to make the most of it."

"Even if it means going out for the whole day under the burning sun?~"

I glared at her to shut up before getting out of the car and holding the door open for Undertaker to get out. Everyone else was already stretching or looking around, fascinated at the other car models surrounding us.

"Hey, uh, Rachel?"

"Hm?" I looked at Diedrich to find him comparing the other car models to mine.

"Why's your car so fancy looking compared to the majority of these?"

I shrugged. "Benefits of being a billionaire. It is what it is."

"Ah." His brow furrowed. "So, basically, it's for luxury."

I deadpanned. Sure, like he's one to talk.

"Try not to overthink it. C'mon, this way, guys."

I led the way through the parking lot towards the entrance when Red suddenly had a brilliant idea.

"Hey, let's take pics!"

I groaned. "No."

"Rachel! Why not?"

I sent her an exasperated look. You would think that from how long we've known each other, she'd know that I'm not photogenic.

She rolled her eyes. "Oh, come on~ That's not an excuse! Besides, it'd be nice to look back on and remember!"

"Sure, but you can't post these online."

"Not even if I'm alone in the pic?"

I shook my head. "It'll attract attention."

She blinked. "Wait, so you mean to say that no one here besides us knows you're here?"

"Yes, and I'd like it to stay that way."

She was silent, trying to understand my motive behind it, but knowing her, she'd only end up getting confused and somehow offended. "But what about everyone else?"

"Everyone else can wait. Besides, I'd have to explain their presence here otherwise." I jerked my head to the three guests listening in on our conversation.

"Oh, okay." She looked down, put out.

I sighed. "Taking pictures is fine, just don't let anyone see them besides us. We can print them later so they can have copies, too."

She gasped. "Really?"

I blanked. "Yes, really."

"Yay!~ Alright, everyone gather over there! Aww, I should've bought my selfie stick~" She kept fussing as she positioned us so that we'd be right under the blue arc of stained glass depicting Shamu.

With Red taking the photo, it left me standing next to Undertaker's left as Vincent stood at his right with Diedrich next to Vincent.

"You've quite a spry friend, ne~" Undertaker murmured to me.

I glanced up at him before focusing on her phone. "Sure, you can say that."

He giggled as Red finally settled down.

"Alright, on three, smile!~ One, two, three!"

Thankfully, she wouldn't need flash until it was darker, otherwise it'd be giving me a slight headache.

"Alright, all good~ Now, my turn!"

I sighed. "And so it begins."

"Hihihi, a change in pace never killed anyone~"

I glared at him. "Sure."

A few minutes later, I was paying for the tickets as Red scrolled through her photos on her phone. The other men were standing by the side, Diedrich and Vincent bickering about something while Undertaker grinned at anything and everything, occasionally waving at kids who passed by. But, based on the parents' faces, they were less than pleased to see him here. At least, the fingernails weren't a concern.

"Hey, Rachel, shouldn't we make him push his bangs to the side?"

I glanced at her before finalizing the purchase. "Tell him that then, but honestly, which is easier? Everyone leaving us alone because Un looks creepy or having women throw themselves at him because of his face?"

Red looked pretty stumped, and it took the amount of time for our tickets to be printed for her to answer. "Uh, have them stay away? But, that's what you prefer. Wouldn't it be easier if people liked you?"

I looked at her meaningfully. "That depends on what kind of people you attract to begin with."

"Oh."

I handed her a ticket before passing out the rest to the other three men. "Make sure to keep that on your person until I ask for it back. There will be employees up ahead who will need to verify your ticket."

"Even though you just paid?" Vincent stared at the small slip with interest at the picture.

"Some people attempt to get through without a ticket, especially since there's very few lines here. Just follow my lead and you'll be fine. Also, since you all don't have bags, you don't need to worry about being searched… aside from Red." My brow furrowed as I noted the backpack she was wearing but dismissed it as her incessant need to come over-prepared.

"What? It's just in case for emergencies~"

I deadpanned. "Such as?"

"Well, food, water, and- oh! I even brought sunscreen and my camera, too!"

My eyes flicked to her bag uncertainly before shrugging. "Sure. Anywho, this way, people. When it's your turn, just hold out your ticket for them to scan it and you're good to go. We'll only need to wait for Red to have her bag checked."

Sure enough, all of us were ready to go, me having pocketed the tickets after their tickets were scanned as we waited for Red to be checked.

"Say, Rachel, what were those things that flashed green when they checked our tickets?" Vincent murmured, still fascinated.

"Ah, well those things verify if your ticket is valid. It's a complicated system which is why people rely on technology, otherwise, we would've been in a long line if they had to check by hand."

"Oh? So then the process is much smoother in this generation?"

"Mm, not exactly. Depends on what you're verifying. For example, for events as trivial as this, it's no big deal to rely on computers, but if you're talking immigration processes, then we still rely on people to check for discrepancies. Computers are still used, but humans are reliable in situations like those to ensure safety."

He nodded. "Makes sense. My, from the way you speak, it seems technology domineers your generation's culture and daily living."

I raised an eyebrow. "Technically, I can say the same for you. But, if you're talking modern technology, then sure, you have a point. But, like all things, there's a good and bad consequence from it. Just be glad you don't know it yet." With all this talk of technology, it made me think of dropping by the Apple store or even Samsung just so they could get a good look at electronics themselves. Maybe that's not such a bad idea.

He raised an eyebrow, but by then, Red was tromping her way back to us.

"We ready?~"

"Sure." I pulled out the cartoonish map to locate our first destination. "So, what do you want to do first? Shows or the rides?"

"Wait, there's shows? What kind of shows?" Diedrich shoved his face close to the map, encouraging the other two men to follow lead.

"Uh, guys, you are aware there's more than one map, right? You can grab some /over there/." I stated dully, pointing at the sign with plastic containers holding more than enough maps for all of us.

"But you're already holding one~" Undertaker noted, poking my cheek with his index finger. "Besides, it'd be a waste of paper when all we need to use is one~" He grinned, poking my cheek some more.

My temple was starting to throb a little from his nasal whine before I huffed. "Fine," I snapped, taking a picture with my phone before shoving the map into Undertaker's chest. "You have fun figuring that out." I stalked over to Red who was conveniently holding another map.

"Ne, Rachel-san~ Which should we do first?"

I shrugged. "Don't care, choose whatever."

She looked up at me before giggling. "Oh Rachel, he's just being friendly~"

I snorted. "Yeah, too friendly in my honest opinion."

"You said he's your boss, right? How did that happen? Normally, you'd avoid people who annoy you." She was peering around my shoulder to get a better look at him.

I sighed. "Long story. Like I said, I'll tell you later."

She pouted at me suspiciously. "Fine, but you better promise!"

"Yeah yeah, whatever."

"Hihihi~ So it seems they have animal shows here as well~"

"You're right about that. But it seems that this theme park is targeted for children in general." Vincent raised an eyebrow in my direction.

I shamelessly shrugged. "Blame him," I stated, nodding my chin towards Undertaker who smiled, nonplussed.

"Uh-huh. And you said that this park has rides? In what manner do you mean? Like horse riding?"

I snorted. "Diedrich, in case you haven't noticed, this is a water-themed park. You ain't seeing any horses here… except sea horses, but that's in the aquarium. I think they have one here. But anyways, the rides we have here are roller coasters. You'll see one when we pass by."

Diedrich's face was exactly what I figured someone out of place in this time period would look like: deserted, confused, and about to pass out. The overload of knowledge was probably stressing him out, which understandably, would lead to a short fuse.

I rolled my eyes before grabbing his arm. "C'mon, this way. We'll do the shows first." As I dragged him, he started sputtering, a blush sprouting on his cheeks.

"H-hey! W-what are you-! Why are you pulling-!"

"Dude, at the rate we're going, we won't even get to see half the park, so hurry it up already, boomer!" I tugged his arm, leading the group towards the right where most of the shows were held, leaving Red with the map. From behind, I could hear Red whisper loudly to the remaining two trailing behind.

"Rachel gets pretty impatient with people who are indecisive~" She was even using a hand to "hide" their conversation.

"Oh?~ Hihi, how amusing~" He giggled into his sleeve, slouching a bit to seem less intimidating.

I rolled my eyes. "By the way, we'll be starting with the shows since they have fixed times then enjoy the rides. That way we get more leeway with time afterwards. And if you want souvenirs afterwards, then you're welcome to help yourself."

"My, quite astute~ You had planned this out already, didn't you?" Vincent held his chin thoughtfully, and I could already tell he was comparing me to Diedrich.

I rolled my eyes. "We need to at least get something done, no?"

"Fair enough. Lead the way, my dear~"

"Hmph, I already am."

01/31/20