So...this is going to be an interesting chapter. Not saying what happens...but if you all remember Cira wanting to make Helios clean up his mess...and if you know Helios...he's not going to take this sitting down. There's some in this chapter that's a little...well...borderline M *glares at Fic* but I promise it's still a T rated fic.

Chapter V

Four squeals rang through the daycare as four children suddenly landed on a pile of pillows out of a shimmering pink, gold and purple portal.

"That was fun!" Ares whooped, hopping up to his feet.

"I forgot how much those made my tummy feel weird…" Apolla whimpered, holding her stomach as she lay flat on her back.

"Oh, c'mon, 'polla!" Ares told his twin, "It was fun an' you know it!"

"But my tummy…"

"Well, I thought I heard new voices!" a deep, heavily Freljordian accented voice boomed.

The siblings all shot up, beaming brilliantly.

"Braum!" they cheered, rushing the Heart of the Freljord and hugging him.

"If it isn't little Artemis, Ares and Apolla," Braum chuckled, ruffling each of the siblings' heads, "I wondered where you three went off to,"

"Went to go see Grandma Gwen," Artemis smiled, "But we're home for now,"

"Did you really?" a now green-eyed Braum, his Chosen, Piotr, asked, "Well, it is good that you are back,"

He looked up at Zoe, who gave a wave.

"And what about you, Miss Zoe?"

"I'm ok now," she told him, "So are Aunt Diana, Mama and Daddy. I just...don't know how long it'll last,"

Piotr gave a soft hum as he nodded before picking up Ares and setting him on his shoulder.

"Well, let us make the most of this, yes?" he asked.

The siblings nodded before a high-pitched squeal pierced the air.

"MISSY!"

Artemis looked up, beaming brightly as a black-haired, blue-eyed blur shot towards her and nearly tackled her.

"Vasher!" Artemis beamed, hugging her best friend.

"Where were you?!" the Freljordian Princess demanded, narrowing those ice-blue eyes, "It's been so booooring! I haven't been able to get Torin to glitch because you weren't here!"

"I thought your Mama told you not to do that anymore,"

"It's fun," Vasher shrugged, "Besides, Torin doesn't remember when I do it and I only do it when Mama and Daddy aren't around,"

"You're gonna get in trouble one of these days,"

"Eh, don't care,"

"Hi 'polla!" a small girl cheered. Her hair was short and her bright blue eyes seemed to show the smile on her face. "Eon probably didn't even notice you were gone." The girl jerked her thumb towards a boy who was very similar in appearance, though his hair was slightly curly and he he had green eyes though… you couldn't see them for the book his nose was shoved into.

Apolla's blue eyes gleamed with wicked mischief as she spotted Eon reading. She padded closer…

"SNEAK ATTACK!" she squealed and tackled Eon around the neck, giggling happily, "Hi Eon!"

The boy yelped, dropping the book. "A...polla? When did you get back?"

"This morning!"

"Oh o-KAY!" He yelped as another figure tackled him, though this one...

"Gotcha!" Umbra beamed as she lay flopped on top of him.

The boy groaned. "Stop that…"

"DOG PIIILLEEE!" another female voice cheered as a white-haired girl flopped ontop of all of them there.

"Owie! Saraaaaaa!" Apolla whined.

"Hi 'polla!" Sara grinned, giving the same almost manic smile that her mother was famous for, "What's up?"

"Not you!" Apolla grumbled, "Lemme uuuppppp!"

"Uggggh fine…." Sara grumbled, getting up, "But only because I didn't want Sparky to-AH!"

There was a slight zapping sound and Sara jumped high into the air, whirling on her blue-haired brother, who was on his butt laughing.

"SPARKY!" she yelled.

"What?" Coal, better known as "Sparky", shrugged, "I was just getting even for you cheating me in Uno!"

"I WON FAIR AND SQUARE FUNSUCKER!"

"All of you get off of 'im!" a shrill voice declared before small figure raised her arms causing pebbles to pierce through the floor. Tara, Taliyah's daughter was trying to knock them all up but… her stoneweaving wasn't quite as advanced as her mom's.

"And this is where line is drawn," came Piotr's rumble as the Support plucked the kids off the ground with impeccable speed and placed them away from each other, "We must be careful we do not hurt anyone, yes?"

"Yes Mister Braum," came the chorus of children.

"Good, now, go on and play," Braum shooed the children away, who ran off in little packs, giggling.

He gave a chuckle and walked over to the Nursery where the younger children were...particularly the infants. He gave a smile as he walked over to one of the crying babies and picked her up.

"Now, now, little Aiko, is fine now," he soothed, gently rocking the white-haired, violet-eyed baby that belonged to Syndra and Zed before looking up at another figure, "How are the others, Emilia?"

"They're fine," Annie's chosen declared. "I was coming to check on Aiko myself, then I was gonna see if the older kids wanted to play with Tibbers."

"Perhaps," Piotr nodded, "Though I think only Artemis would be able to exactly get close unless you are able to disenchant his flames,"

He sat Aiko down and tickled a little boy with dark hair and intelligent brown eyes.

"Deshi looks happy," he noted looking at Shen and Akali's son, "Maybe it was because he got to spend the day with Aiko?"

"Maybe. And I can. I let them play with him yesterday Piotr, remember?" she huffed.

"Haha! True, true," he chuckled, "Sorry, there have been a lot of things I've been thinking about. That War being one of them. But, apparently it is over and everything is back to normal for a bit. I would not be surprised if I would be seeing Cira soon…"

The Daycare's doors opened and the two Chosen could hear Apolla give a squeal of joy.

"Mama!"

"Speak of the devil," Piotr grinned as he started towards the doors to see a group of people, most of them he recognized...but there were two he didn't.

He saw Leona's golden eyes light up happily as she spied him before they darkened to blue and Cira gave a warm smile.

"Been a long time, Braum," she smiled as she scooped up Apolla, who nuzzled into her neck, "Good to see you're still as good as ever,"

"It is good to have the real Leona back as well," the Heart of the Freljord agreed, "Not that imposter who tried to start a war. But, I must ask, who are those two?"

He looked at Helios and Selene.

"I have never seen them before,"

"Selene. The moon." She said, nodding.

"Helios. The sun." He grinned. "A pleasure to finally make your acquaintance. And good gods, that mustache of yours is magnificent."

Braum gave a loud, booming laugh that infected just about everyone, causing the room to fill with giggles and laughter.

"Ah, thank you, my friend. That is a very good compliment...haven't had one that good since Leona complimented me on just about everything,"

"You mean she fangirled over you," Cira grinned before her eyes flashed gold and Leona's face turned a lovely shade of scarlet, "Cira, I thought we agreed not to talk about that…"

Helios pulled out his phone.

Selene raised an eyebrow. "What are you doing?"

He held up a finger to silence her.

He swiped through the "Videos" folder, until he'd found the file he was looking for.

He hit play, then showed everyone the screen.

"Hello young lady!" the Braum in the screen greeted, "My name is Braum, what is yours?"

"L-Leona," she started, her golden eyes wide as she started forwards, reaching a hand to the shield, "It's so…where's your sword?"

"My shield is my sword, Miss Leona," Braum chuckled, "It used to be an indestructible door…but I got around it and used it as a shield to protect a little troll child from avalanche,"

"That…that's so…COOL!" she grinned, giving an almost undignified, girlish squeal as she nearly danced in place.

"She then followed him around like a golden puppy for weeks," Cira grinned.

"How did you even film that?" Selene asked her brother.

"I'm always watching, Selene." He said. "Always watching."

"Hehehe he sounds like that monster from Monsters Inc!" Ares giggled.

"He kinda does, doesn't he?" Artemis agreed.

"Disney is love, Disney is life." Helios grinned.

The kids giggled and nodded, despite some of their peers looking at them weird.

"Tron best Disney movie," Cira grinned, picking up her eldest daughter, "followed by Hunchback of Notre Dame and Brave,"

"Pooh bear!" Artemis beamed.

"Him too," Cira agreed.

"Lion King, then Aladdin." His eyes narrowed. "And you will never convince me otherwise."

"To each their own," the Project Chosen shrugged, "But you'll never convince me that 'Hellfire' isn't the best villain song,"

"If you say so." He replied. "Kids, you ready? We've got to clean up the stunt we pulled, and you know how irritable your mother gets when we don't-"

His eyes landed on Aiko.

He fell silent, staring.

"Something on your mind…" came Cira's query as Piotr held Syndra and Zed's daughter close, gently rocking her.

"That's Syndra and Zed's kid, right?" He asked.

"Aiko, yes," Piotr nodded, "she's only a few months old,"

"Well, clearly she got none of her looks from her dad, because she's the cutest thing around!" He exclaimed giddily, holding his arms out. "Mind if I hold her?"

Piotr smiled and handed the baby to Helios. The baby's violet eyes fluttered open under almost impossibly long lashes.

"There's a little bit of Zed in there," Cira told him, "she's like Torin, Sora, Coal...Sparky I mean...Gabriel, Jayvyn, and Artemis...though like Torin she's one of the few who has their parent's white hair,"

"A little bit of Zed, huh?" He said. "As if I'm going to let her become a miniature edgelord." Gods knew that Zed and Kayn were enough edginess for the Institute to handle.

"Well hey there!" Helios smiled, cradling her in his arms. "My name's Helios. You must be Aiko. It's nice to meet you!"

Aiko giggled, getting a chuckle out of him. "Aren't you just the cutest thing?" He asked. "I guess I'm gonna have to be your uncle so that Irelia lays off of you. Because Irelia's mean, isn't she?" He cooed, leaning in close. "Isn't she?"

She laughed, reaching up with her arms to grab tiny fistfuls of his hair. "Ack! Leggo!" He laughed, gently removing his locks from her grip. "You're a clammy little lady, aren't you? You might make a decent partner in crime someday."

"Helios, she's far too young for you to be inducting her into your schemes." Selene chided, though it wasn't without mirth. "You could at least wait until she's old enough to speak."

"I like to plan ahead." He replied, smiling as Aiko tried to chew on his shoulder plate. "I think she'll do just fine."

"She's already a bit of a handful," Cira chuckled, "wouldn't be surprised if she and Deshi ended up being little trouble makers. He's Akali and Shen's son,"

"I figured." He said. "We'll start planning later, little one." He handed her back to Braum. "Right now, I've got to…" He shuddered. "Work."

"And so do you four," Cira added, tapping her foot, "March, munchkins,"

The four Targonian children gave whines, but did as their mother said.

Helios sighed, then followed, sharing their glumness.

But, while Cira and Arthur weren't looking, he gave a sneaky grin to their children.

They were going to be forced to clean it up, but he would not suffer a blow to his pride like this.

Oh no, he knew exactly how to turn this situation around for all of them.


After depositing Helios and the kids on the roof of the Institute, handing them buckets of cleaning supplies and telling them to behave (Cira had also arranged for Vivian to watch over them as a precaution), the Rakkoran warriors figured it was time to catch up with a few old friends.

"I just hope that they don't judge us too harshly for what happened…" Cira muttered.

"They won't," came her husband's reply, "they know it wasn't us...they'll probably be really happy to see us both,"

"You're probably right,"

The two walked into one of the many common rooms of the Institute. As soon as they set foot into the room, the Champions And Chosens assembled ceased talking and looked at the two. There was dead silence for a moment...before an overwhelming cry of the two Targon Chosens' names rang out and they were rushed.

"It's so good to have you back!" came Amelia's smile as a faint flicker over her showed icy circuits.

"It's good to be back," Cira replied, "how are all of you? Anything happen while we were gone?"

"Eh, not really," Violet, Vi's Chosen, shrugged, "missed my sparring buddy is all…"

"We'll have to fix that then!" Cira grinned, "You think you can take me, New Gen?"

"Bring it on, Old Timer!" Violet challenged.

"Maybe later," came Krista's voice as she came up and punched Cira in the arm, "you realize how many people wanted your head under that curse…I turned 'em down of course because you're a Champion. But also because you're a friend,"

"It's good to see you too, Krista," Cira smiled.

"Oh you're not gonna think that once we get on the Rift together!" Krista grinned.

"...you're gonna throw me 1v5 aren't you…"

"1v6...it's Hexakill this week!" Krista cackled.

"Some things...do not change," Cira sighed.

A high pitched shriek shot through the area as a blue-haired blur nearly tackled Cira. Cira blinked before giving a sad smile as Jinx, or rather Mya, buried her head in her chest.

"You're back…" Mya cried, hugging her cousin, "I thought...I thought…"

"I'm back," Cira reassured her, "I don't know how long...but I am."

"You mean this isn't permanent?" Caroline, Caitlyn's Chosen, asked.

"Apparently this whole thing was started on Earth," Arthur said, "and we can't get to it. The Tribunal made it so we're sane...least for a while,"

"...Can we fix it?" Samantha, Morgana's Chosen, questioned.

"We...don't know," Cira admitted, looking at her husband.

"But I sure hope we can…" came Leona's soft whisper.


To say the least, the three Chosen brought by Zoe were very confused. They got left behind in a rush, then decided to explore this Institute at their own leisure. They thought it would be similar to the one they knew, but they could not have been more wrong. Within the first ten minutes, they were absolutely and hopelessly lost and they just kept trying to figure out where to go, resulting in them getting even more lost.

"I knew we should have taken a right back there!" Arthur declared to Dianne who was rubbing her head.

"Arthur we listened to you last time and you actually had us walk in a circle somehow," Janie huffed.

"Let's just look for one of the Chosen here and see if they can help us find the others of our 'group.'" Dianne decided.

"Fine," Arthur said and the three Chosen instead began to look for someone to get directions from, not a particular place.

They hadn't gotten too far when they heard giggling and the sound of little feet running on marble.

"Jayvyn Anwar! Get back here!" a female voice yelled, "You aren't getting away that easy!"

A blur ran out from behind the corner and smack into Arthur. The boy's skin was nearly as dark as the Purifier's, but his hair was a light chestnut brown and wavy and his eyes nearly shone with blue-green light.

"Daddy! Help me!" He called, hiding behind Arthur's legs.

The man blinked as he looked at the small child. He sighed and picked him up before walking towards the voice whom he assumed was the mother of who he also assumed was Jayvyn.

"I'm going to have a looong talk with that man about that boy…" came the woman's voice as the speaker came around the corner, revealing Senna, "Young man! It's time for your bath! You've been avoiding it all day!"

"But Maaaamaaa!" Jayvyn whined.

Arthur smiled before offering the child over. "I believe he is yours?" Dianne laughed behind him though, when he turned, she didn't offer him a reason as to why.

Senna looked at him strangely for a moment as she took her son.

"Lu-"

"Senna, I can't find him...I've been all over this whole building...I swear he's been taking lessons from Umbra…" came a voice similar to Arthur's as this world's Lucian came up.

The double caught sight of the three travelers and stopped short.

"So...Vesper didn't just drag Dianne out did she…"

"She didn't," Dianne's eyes burned with amusement beneath her mask.

"Hi," he said somewhat sheepishly. "I'm Arthur."

Lucian's eyes turned a lighter shade of brown and he extended his hand.

"Jonathan, this is my wife, Sienna," he said, "so...my guess is that Cira isn't…"

Arthur took his hand. Dianne shook her head and Janie sighed. "We don't like talking about it. I'm Janie, Leona's chosen."

"I'm sorry for your loss," Sienna apologized, "but if your guys' timeline is going to be anything like ours…I'm pretty sure she'll be back...and you might get a little trouble maker like this kiddo!"

She tickled Jayvyn, who squealed and squirmed, a faint flicker revealing teal circuits.

"He's… a project too?" the man shivered.

"The firstborn kids of ours are," Jonathan nodded, "Artemis, Aiko, Gabriel, Sora, Coal, Jayvyn, Torin...all of 'em are Projects,"

Arthur studied the boy for a moment. I think I get it." He shook his head and looked to his hands. "I kind of feel bad knowing that I will have to force this on one of my children."

"Does he look like it's hurting him?" Jonathan asked with a smile, "They're just normal kids, they just happen to be a bit stronger than normal. Honestly...none of us thought this was going to be possible...us having kids,"

"Didn't you go into a dead faint when Leona told you?" Sienna teased, making Jonathan rub the back of his neck in embarrassment.

"Yeah well…" he sputtered, "Y'know...I'm just gonna go and give Jay his bath,"

He took the boy from his mother and started walking down the hall while Sienna laughed and rolled her eyes.

"I don't know what I'm going to do with him," she chuckled.

Janie laughed. "I suppose you're just gonna be stuck loving him."

Lucian rolled his eyes before leaning against the wall. "So anyways… we're a bit lost to be honest…"

"Anyplace in particular you want to be at?" Senna asked, smiling warmly, "I might not know the Institute as well as my husband but I can get around,"

"Well we were just exploring but now we should probably figure out where Helios, your Arthur and Cira are," Dianne told her.

"Most of the time, where there's a bunch of Chosen, that's where Cira's going to be," the older woman hummed, "So Cira might be in one of the common rooms and Arthur is rarely far from her side. Your other friends are probably going to be a bit trickier to find,"

Dianne tilted her head to think. "Seeing what he did earlier…. If you were a troublemaker where would you probably go?"

"Anywhere in this building to be honest," she grinned, "The worlds' biggest group of troublemakers lives under this roof. Cira might know where your other friends are, she has a knack for knowing that sort of thing. Maybe finding her would be best,"

"Mmm… okay," the girl sighed.

"No chance that there's a map of this place?" Janie asked hopefully.

"Did your Institute have one?" Senna chuckled, "Sadly no. But, like I said. I know my way around,"

"Well would you mind leading us on?" Arthur asked, a small grin on his face.

"Absolutely," Senna nodded, making to take his hand but pausing, unsure if it would be alright.

She shook her head and took it, giving a warm smile as she felt his warm palm in hers.

"Follow me," she told them.

The trio followed after Sienna rather quietly, though it was made obvious if you looked at them that Dianne and Janie were mumbling under their breath, talking to their champions.

"Oh...almost forgot. Remember when you asked about troublemaker hangouts?" Senna asked, "this place here...the Arcade, is probably one of the biggest,"

She gave a soft 'huh'. It looked like Ahri had fallen asleep, exhausted, while a few of the other Arcade Champions chatted excitedly amongst one another.

"Wonder what happened here…" Sienna hummed.

"I do too," Janie murmured.

"Hey uh, have any of you seen Helios or Cira and Arthur?" Dianne asked, raising her voice to be heard.

A flicker of blue green fire appeared in the corner of Sienna's vision.

"Krista, no!" Sienna called, "They're friends!"

"Friends?" came the echoing voice of the Spear of Vengeance, who strode forwards, Black Mist curling around her bare feet protectively, "Sienna, I know Dianne's voice. She's been one of my closest friends since I was Chosen and this person here?"

A spear sputtered into existence in her hand as she warily looked at the other Kindred.

"This is not the Dianne I know and have come to call my friend," Kalista's Chosen stated almost coldly, "So tell us, who are you,"

Dianne gulped as she met Krista's eyes. "I'm Dianne… from an alternate universe. Vesper brought me, Janie and Arthur to try to help with the curse." Kindred's chosen motioned to the two behind her.

"Krista, that's enough," came the British-accented voice of Camille, "Stop scaring the spectators,"

"Sorry, Ma'am," Krista apologized, the spear fading away.

"Don't you apologize to me, and stop with the 'ma'am' crap. I haven't been your Ma'am in many years,"

"You think that's gonna stop me," Krista chuckled, "C'mon, Viv, you're still my Major,"

Camille's Chosen rolled her emerald eyes.

"I told you, I'm not the one you should be apologizing to, Captain Rhon,"

"Sorry," Krista apologized to the group of alternate Chosens, "I guess I fit my Champion a little too well with the wariness. So, let me start over,"

She brushed two ghostly fingers to her helm in an informal salute.

"Captain Krista Rhon, Kalista's Chosen," she introduced, "As to your question earlier, yeah...Helios was here. He tied with Ariel over there in a dance off before getting marched out by Cira and Arthur. I think I heard them say they were going to go to the Daycare to pick up their kids,"

"Ah. Okay. Well we should probably go to one of them… but they did leave us behind…" Dianne huffed.

Janie bumped her fellow Chosen's shoulder. "Stop acting like such a kid," she teased.

"I thought there was a reason you sounded different," Krista started, "How old are you?"

Dianne shifted a bit. "Seventeen…?"

"Aw, you're just a kid!" Krista laughed, "Y'all need a chaperone here…"

"Krista, honestly…" Vivian sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose.

The girl stared at the spear of vengeance for a moment before declaring, "Death needs no chaperone."

"Fine, call me a tour guide then," Krista grinned savagely, "Tour guide, Chaperone, same thing. Sienna here might know her way around the Institute somewhat...but she's not a Champion and technically not really a Chosen. She can't pinpoint Cira as well as say I can,"

Janie smiled and responded before Dianne could bite back. "If you could take us to her that would be great."

"No problem," Krista shrugged, walking towards them...before grabbing Dianne in a light hold and rubbing her knuckles over the soft fur of Dianne's head, "HA! I've always wanted to do that, my Dianne's too fast for me to do it though!"

Dianne squirmed in her grip letting out sounds of protest while Janie and Arthur looked at each other before bursting out in laughter.

"Krista,I swear…" Vivian muttered, rubbing her temples.

"What!" Krista grinned, letting Dianne go, "Alrighty, kiddos, let's go find some Chosens,"

Dianne glared at Krista before huffing and walking off in a random direction, seemingly forgetting that there was a reason for them trying to find a guide in the first place.

"Where are you heading off to?" Krista asked, her playful manner dissipating slightly, "Aw, shoot. I'm sorry, Dianne, I didn't meant to make you mad,"

The girl turned her head before walking back. "I was joking." She she was quiet for a moment. "Mostly." She rubbed the back of her head before yawning.

"No matter what universe...Dianne is Dianne and always tired," Krista chuckled, "C'mon, this way,"

And with that, she led them towards one of the common rooms.


Eventually, after Cira and Arthur had finished reacquainting themselves with their friends and family, they decided it would be an appropriate time to check on their children, along with their troublemaking superior. While Vivian had left to watch them after interacting with Janie and her Arthur, and was sure to keep them in line, the two of them just wanted to be sure.

After climbing up to the roof through a hatch in the maintenance room, they both saw just how right they were to be uncertain.

Helios had, once again, taken the rules as a mere suggestion. And he'd roped the children into it.

Though figure skating was unusual, even by their current experience with him.

"Come on kids, let's do it one more time!" He said. "Let's wrap this up!"

All of them had attached their brushes to their feet, and were using them like ice skates. The entire room was covered in a layer of soapy water, with the paint and drawings underneath. They stood in a line at the ready, led by Helios and of all people, Vivian. Somehow she'd managed to acquire her own brushes, which fit around her prosthetics.

"Remember children," Camille told them gently, "keep your hips low to floor and have a strong knee and ankle bend,"

"Okay Miss Camille!" came the quartet's sweet voices.

"Oh dear Lord…." Cira whispered, looking at her husband, "if they fall…"

"I don't think Helios or Vivian will let that happen," Arthur reassured her.

"Here we go!" Helios said.

He pressed the play button on an audio player that he'd somehow acquired, which sat on a deck chair next to him. Eine Kleine Nachtmusik started playing, and the five set off. They were...surprisingly good, considering that it had only been a few hours. Their path was largely dictated by where the soap had been scattered (a few large patches along the towers and middle had been cleaned already), scrubbing the surface spotless where they went. Helios couldn't help but sing along to the rhythm, as the five gracefully spun, pirouetted and jumped accordingly.

They then split up, each going to a different section of the roof. They were so efficient that not a speck of paint remained after they were done (along with gaining style points in addition). For the grand finale, Helios swept his leg in a full three hundred sixty degree turn, gaining momentum with each rotation. He sprayed water all around the area, removing the stains and wiping the roof clean. The kids and Camille mimicked his technique, spinning faster and faster until each of them was a blur.

As the music reached its climax, they suddenly stopped, striking a pose as they flung the last gallon of water onto the roof.

"Goddamn, I'm fabulous." Helios said, brushing himself off. "Well, that was fun. Thanks for helping me out, Camille."

"Not a word of this to Krista," Vivian warned, giving Helios a sharp glare.

"Deal." He replied, without any intention of keeping quiet. Vivian didn't need to know that, though.

"Oh, Cira! Arthur!" He waved. "We finished!"

"I can see that," Cira called back.

"Mama! Daddy!" The kids yelled as they slid over to their parents.

"So…now that we cleaned up our mess...does that mean we're off the hook now?" Vesper asked.

"I'd say so," Arthur hummed, picking her up, "You All did a great job...I think that calls for some chocolate moon cake,"

Zoe squealed in happiness as she hugged her father's neck.

"Just so long as it's Panth who makes it and not you, dear," Cira teased.

Arthur shot her a playful glare.

"That was revenge for the pie stealing thing wasn't it,"

"What do you think?"

R
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A thunderous rumble shook the roof.

"Did Aurelion start grumbling again?" Arthur asked.

"No, that was my stomach." Helios replied, staring down at it. "I'm starving. Is it lunchtime yet?"

"Just about," Cira nodded, "I say we all go to lunch...especially after all of you worked so hard,"

"If you can call it that." He said. "What's there to eat around here? I need something with meat in it. I don't do that vegetarian crap."

"There is the marketplace...but their food is rather light," Arthur reasoned, "we could go back to Targon and make something,"

His eyes lit up. "Hell yeah. I need that barbecue in my life."

"Home?" Artemis asked, a brilliant smile painting over her face.

"Yeah, Sunshine, we're going home," Cira told her daughter, ruffling her hair, "I suppose that your grandparents are back on the mountain...but let's go get Janie and her Dianne and Arthur and bring them with us,"

"Hope you've got your ceremonial knife on hand." Helios said, rubbing his hands together. "Time for some sacrifices to be made to yours truly."


There was the sound of a feline meowing and a muttered curse from Leona as she poked her head from the kitchen.

"Artemis! Get this cat out of our kitchen!"

"Sorry Mama!" Artemis called, "Leon! C'mere kitty!"

A blur of tawny gold prowled out of the kitchen, hopping on the couch next to Artemis and laying it's massive head on her lap, purring happily as she rubbed his ears.

"He's just a baby, Mama!"

"Lykos is better!" Ares argued as he tossed a ball and a silver blue shot after it, trotting back to Ares as the wolf pup licked him, making him giggle.

"Mama? When can I have pony?" Apolla asked.

"Apolla, we have a lion and a wolf, I'm not having a horse!" Leona grumbled.

Apolla looked at Helios, who was sitting at the table as he eagerly awaited his meal.

He looked back at her.

"Oh, you know it's happening." He grinned, giving her a double thumbs-up.

Janie rolled her eyes. "You aren't going to ask their mom first?"

He blinked.

Then he laughed.

"No."

"Helios if I come out and find there is a horse in my yard, house or home, you are not getting anything from here. And you can forget about getting any cinnamon rolls," Leona threatened.

Ah, excellent. Helios thought. Loopholes in the agreement. "Ugh. Fine. But only because cinnamon rolls."

"I mean it...I don't need a horse up here," she warned, "she's got Hecarim she pesters,"

"Yeah, yeah, I got it." He replied, waving her off, while simultaneously mouthing "no" to Apolla. "Hoo-whee, that smells good. What's on the menu besides cinnamon rolls?"

"Some stew and a few other things," Cira told him, wiping her hands on a towel before coming into the living room, "it's not much...but it's what we've got for now. We might have to go hunting again soon,"

He shrugged. "I'm not picky. So long as it fills my stomach, it'll do."

"Should be done soon," she told him, "doesn't take as long up here,"

"About five minutes," came her husband's reply from the kitchen.

Helios slumped back in his chair, looking bored. He then realized he'd forgotten something, sitting upright again.

"Oh, I just remembered: I forgot to ask Andrew about lodgings." He said. "Should see if I can't get my own room at the Institute. It'd be nice to have a place to chill out."

"You're welcome to stay here on the Mountain," Leona told him before giving a smirk, "I almost bet the High Priests would go crazy meeting you and Selene,"

"Don't worry about them treating Selene badly," Diana reassured them, "They've gotten better about treating Lunari better,"

"Like Asterios?" Leona teased her sister.

Diana turned a shocking shade of red as her silver eyes flicked away from Leona.

"Honestly Diana I think it's sweet!" Leona smiled, "So...when should I be expecting to be Aunt Leona?"

"Leona!" Diana yelled, still red.

"I want nieces and nephews! Mother and father want more grandkids!"

"Same." Helios said. "I want more minions."

Diana buried her head in a pillow, her voice muffled by the fabric as her face shone scarlet.

"I have to torment her," Leona chuckled, "she is my little sister,"

"They wouldn't be your minions anyways!" Diana huffed, shooting Helios a glare before burying her head again.

"Keep telling yourself that." He replied. "My influence gets to everyone sooner or later."

Diana looked at Selene, who sat across from her brother.

She shrugged, basically confirming his statement.

"Not if I have anything to say about it," she grumbled.

"Oh Diana, you're talking as if you're already expecting," Leona teased, hugging her sister before freezing, "Wait…you aren't...are you?"

"It wouldn't surprise me." Selene smirked. "I've seen Asterios get surprisingly hands-on in his advances, from time to time."

"L-Lady Selene!" Diana sputtered.

"Now now, there's no need to be ashamed." She replied. "Your...performance more than made up for it."

"...You are!" Leona squealed, "Yes! I'm going to be an aunt! I am going to spoil those children rotten and there is nothing you can do to stop me!"

"Why me…" Diana sighed, putting her head in her hands.

"You haven't told our parents have you…"

"...I was getting to it…" Diana replied, squirming slightly.

"...Father is going to chase Asterios up and down the mountain with a sword...you know that,"

"He's got a head start…"

"I dunno, I've seen how fast the old man can move." Helios said. "Asterios might want to stop skipping leg day, just in case."

"How long?" Leona asked.

"...three weeks," Diana replied, putting a hand to her abdomen, "It's...been hard. I've been staying with him while running from you,"

The Radiant Dawn's shoulders sagged.

"Diana...I…" she started only to freeze up for a second, "Coming, dear!"

There was a chuckle from the kitchen.

"Sometimes I wonder how good that hearing really is…" he called back as Leona came in and kissed his cheek before grabbing the stew pot barehanded.

"Still pretty good," she smiled as she carried the pot into the dining area, "alright, food's ready,"

"Oh, YEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAH." Helios gleefully cackled, rubbing his palms together. "Bring. It. ON!"

"Here we go." Selene rolled her eyes.

Cira and Leona soon discovered that he boasted an impressive appetite. It rivaled even that of Tahm Kench, as he slurped down bowl after bowl after bowl. He rarely used his spoon, choosing to tip his bowl up and gulp down the whole thing.

He set down his fifteenth bowl with a satisfied gasp, smacking his lips together. "I think that'll hold me for now." He said.

"I'm glad we made enough to feed the village," Cira grinned.

"I'm surprised Dianne hasn't showed up...you know how she is with cinna-"

Arthur was cut off as Cira shoved a cinnamon roll in his mouth.

"Speak the devil's name and Death will appear," Cira told him.

"Hmm?" A slightly muffled voice asked from behind them.

"See," Cira deadpanned, "Honestly, Dianne I think you might be losing your touch...used to be you'd be here when they were in the oven and trying to swipe one when it was cooling,"

"I have kids now; I came when I could. I'm sure other me," Kindred's chosen motioned to the other room, "was hovering. I know me."

"Possibly," Cira nodded, "But I'm surprised my own kids didn't try. Not that I'm complaining...seems they finally learned patience,"

"Perhaps, but that doesn't mean you should let your guard down," Dianne announced before moving her mask away from her mouth to take another bite.

"True…Ares, finish your soup!" Leona scolded, not even looking at her son, "You know the rules, no dessert before dinner is finished,"

Ares gave a huff, crossing his arms for a moment before finishing his stew.

"All those years of teaching paid off," Leona mused as she idly swirled her spoon in her bowl.

"Yep. I should head back soon though. Astrid is going to dreamwalk again and I need to watch her in case she goes too deeply into someone's nightmare. Don't want to know what will happen if I can't wake her from that," Dianne shivered.

"I do." Helios said, taking a sip of his drink (he'd really gotten addicted to the tropical stuff).

The woman turned to face Helios. "It's… probably really bad, isn't it?"

"Actually, no." He replied. "I mean, a bunch of weird stuff would happen, but like most people there'd be a certain point where she'd figure out she was dreaming and wake herself up." He shrugged. "The more you know."

She nodded before reaching up and adjusting her mask. "I still want to be there for her. Eon probably has something to show me too."

"Fair enough." He replied. He frowned, humming. "Oooooh, I just remembered: I left Ahri sore in the arcade back at the Institute, and I promised her another round. Guess that's going to take up my afternoon."

"I want to watch this time. I only came at the tail end," Cira grinned, "Rematch time!"

"Sure, just don't expect us to do anything too crazy." He replied. "I think Ahri passed out last time."

"Sounds fun," Cira chuckled, "Just don't get Arthur or Panth to dance...I think the only thing they can do is Jailhouse Rock,"

"That's not fair, Cira!" Arthur huffed, "Doesn't help that Rakan stole my dance,"

"Hm." Helios hummed. "I've been meaning to talk to him, too. Though I'd have to pry him away from Xayah before I could get anything out of the conversation."

"And the...what would you call them?" Cira hummed, "Ah, I'm just going to call them what they look like. Fluffy chick-kiddos. Afi and Riya are actually quite clingy to their parents. Not that Kristen and Fabien or Xayah and Rakan mind,"

"More minions. Excellent."

"...You're going to corrupt every child in the Institute aren't you…" she deadpanned.

"God help us if he gets a hold of Vasher…" Arthur sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose.

Helios waggled his eyebrows, grinning.

"Ashe and Tryndamere will never forgive you," Diana chuckled, "Vasher's hard to control as is...I almost feel sorry for those two when she becomes a teenager,"

"That'll be fun." He said. "Now, about those cinnamon rolls…"

Cira pushed the plate to him.

"Here,"

And in less than a second, it was gone.

"Let it never be said that I don't appreciate good food." Helios said, patting his stomach. "I should be good to head back, once my stomach settles."


Ahri was generally what one would call a night owl. When there was fun to be had, she was perfectly comfortable with a night out on the town, looking for whatever suited her interests at the time. If there was a nightclub, she was all for it. Late-night sales at the market, done. She'd take whatever she could get.

But this time, on a weekend no less, she was turning in relatively early. And it was all thanks to Helios.

The first round had already taken enough out of her. It was only by sheer luck that she'd managed to win their rematch, which Cira and Arthur had spectated. Helios had suddenly sneezed in the last minute, which cost him enough points to grant her the win. After that, she had to be carried to the couch in the corner, her legs were so numb. Despite her typical routine, she decided that some rest would do her some good. She made a quick order from the food court, ate it after it was sent, then showered and slipped on her nightgown.

She'd just gotten into bed when there was a sudden rap at her window.

She sat up, confused.

She waited for a few seconds, and then it started again. A series of short, rhythmic knocks, lightly striking the glass. She sighed, then pulled off the covers, walking over and throwing the curtains open.

To her surprise, Helios was just outside, hanging upside-down from the roof.

He waved.

She blinked calmly for a moment before suddenly screeching. "WHAT THE HELL HELIOS!"

He placed a finger to his lips, gesturing for her to quiet down.

Though confused, she complied.

He gently opened the window, then swung into the room, doing a neat little flip and landing in a crouch. "Are you trying to get us both caught? I don't need every single guy at the Institute knocking at your door to see what's wrong. Not if this is going to work."

"If what is going to work?" She asked quietly.

"Well, you do remember the offer I made you earlier today, right?" He replied.

He grinned. "Still interested?"

She blinked, then gave a feral grin. "Of course."

"Excellent." He rubbed his hands together. "Alright, here's what we're gonna do…"

He told her.

...He wasn't kidding when he said that it was high risk, high reward. This...this could end very badly, if it didn't work. She would most likely be scarred for life if what Helios had in mind didn't work out.

PBut on the other hand…how could she refuse an opportunity like this?

Ariel grinned. "If we get caught we'll be in so much trouble, but…" her tails curled before fluffing up like an excited cat, "It's going to be so fun."

"Then let's get to work." He replied.


Cira and Arthur, on the other hand, had felt that it was the perfect time for a date. It'd been a while since they went out for dinner, and the Institute's markets and food courts had only grown exponentially during the years they had been cursed. There was one place in particular that they wanted to try, a fancy diner that Fiora had recommended to them earlier that day. It imported cuisine from all over Runeterra, and thanks to the input of the Chosens, plenty of food from Earth was also served. After leaving the kids with Braum, they'd made their way down to the restaurant.

"Monsieur, madame, welcome." The waiter at the door bowed as they arrived, his voice bearing an East Demacian accent. "Table for two, I presume?"

"That would be correct," Arthur nodded, a smile lighting up his helmetless features as he held Cira around her shoulders.

"Then please, step inside." He replied, gesturing to the doorway. "Someone will lead you to your table shortly."

The two walked inside, looking at the lovely scenery, the lights, the tables...it was a beautiful place.

"We might have to come back here again," Cira mused.

"Agreed," Arthur smiled, "but no matter how pretty this place is…it's nowhere near as pretty as you,"

She gently smacked his arm.

"Flirt!" She teased.

"Can you blame me?"

"No...I can't really…"

"Hello!" Another waiter came up to greet them. "Table for two? Right this way." He directed them to a table in front of the stage, where jazz musicians were playing an upbeat little tune as the customers ate, drank and conversed. There were a few Summoners and champions present too, enjoying themselves in the relaxed atmosphere.

"Here are the menus for tonight." The waiter handed a pair to the couple. "I'll be right back." He left, disappearing into the kitchen.

"It all looks good," Cira told her husband, "What do you think you'll get?"

"Probably something from home," Arthur admitted, "It's...been a long time. You? Huh...look Leona, they have calamari…"

Cira gave a slight wince.

"And she's yelling at you," she deadpanned, "Way to go. I'll probably have some Italian Fare though...Victoria said this place had a decent chicken carbonara."

"Have whatever you want, you don't need to worry,"

"Right." The waiter returned. "Ready to order?" He asked, smiling.

"We are," Cira nodded, "I'll try your chicken carbonara,"

"I will have your steak," Arthur said, handing back the menus as he gathered them from Cira.

"I can definitely get that for you." The waiter replied. "And for drinks this evening?"

"What would you suggest?" Cira asked.

"We recently imported some wine from Demacia, though our Ionian and Piltovan stock is also worth sampling." He said.

"Not much of a wine drinker but I say we try for the first time," Arthur suggested.

"Victoria says the Demacian wine they have is very good," Leona hummed, "let's try that,"

Pantheon nodded.

"We will have the Demacian wine, please,"

"Alright then." The waiter finished scribbling across his notepad. "I'll be back with your meal shortly, then."

He turned and left, disappearing through the kitchen door.

Cira and Arthur, resuming their conversation, failed to notice the sinister grin spreading across his face.

"They have no idea." He said, upon entering the kitchen.

"Good." Helios said, leaning against the wall. The chefs paid them no mind, though they were all aware of what they needed to do. "Nicely done, Evaine."

The waiter's form shimmered, revealing the Deceiver in his place.

Her eyes shimmered to a dark black brown as her Chosen gave a wry grin.

"I love these two to death, but they needed a little trick pulled on them," Ana Testarosa chuckled, "glad we could help,"

"You've made sure that the rest of the staff know not to interfere, right?" He asked Fiora.

"Of course," she snorted, "Zey know me and my family, one of my nephews is interning 'ere as 'e wanted to learn a new skill. My brother was tempted to send 'im to Pantheon before the Curse...but 'ere is a good place as well."

"Excellent." He said. "What'd they order?"

"Cira ordered the carbonara, Arthur the steak and both are trying the demacian wine," Ana reported.

"Huh, zis will be interesting…" Victoria hummed, "I 'ave never seen zem drink. I wonder how well zey can 'old their liquor,"

"I guess we'll find out." He grinned. He glanced over at Ahri, who was inspecting a nail while she leaned against a vacant counter. "Think you can work your magic on that stuff okay?"

She smirked. "Of course I can." The fox stood up properly before looking at the others. "Just prepare the wine and I'll do the rest."

"Remi!" Fiora called as a young man of about fifteen or sixteen came up, "You know what to do, oui?"

Remi gave a nod as he went to prepare the two Chosens' meal.

"At least he knows what he's doing," LeBlanc stated, getting a proud smile from Fiora.

"My nephew is the best apprentice they 'ave right now," She preened, "'e is wanting to be a Summoner, but zis is a good place to start,"

"Then we're all set." Helios gleefully rubbed his hands together. "And the TV chefs think their food's made with love."

"Tante Fiora, monsieur Helios, it's ready!" Remi smiled.

"Perfect." He replied. "Ahri, you know what to do."

She nodded as the food was brought out to the counter. She breathed in, then exhaled a cloud of thick pink mist, which settled over the steak and carbonara before vanishing. She moved over to the wine next, repeating the process once the bottle was uncorked.

"Better add some spices to the food, too." Helios advised. Ahri's charm magic was colorless once it took effect, but it had a distinct odor and taste when applied as a consumable aphrodisiac. "Anything you can recommend, Remi? It's gotta be strong enough to mask the effect."

"For Madame Leona, ze garlic in ze carbonara will cover it. For Monsieur Pantheon, I would say ze pepper and mixed spices would cover it. Zey are quite potent,"

"That should do." He said. "Ana, Evaine, you're up. I'd tell you not to give it away, but I don't think you'll have a problem with that."

"Never do," the Deceiver's Chosen grinned as she once more donned her disguise.

Ariel waved to them as they left before turning to Helios. "You ready?" She grinned.

"Oh, you know it." He replied.


"Here you are." The waiter said, placing Cira and Arthur's food on the table. "Enjoy your meal!"

"It looks delicious, thank you," Cira smiled.

The waiter bowed, smiling, before leaving to tend to the other customers.

Cira took a bite, giving a hum of delight as she swallowed.

"This is good...I haven't had good Italian food in ages," she sighed wistfully.

"Same," Arthur agreed, "They've got this perfectly seasoned. Might have to see if we can get the recipe...so we can try this at home. Well...not me obviously, but you and Panth,"

Cira nodded, diving back into her food. She'd made an understatement when she complimented the taste. It might've been the best chicken carbonara she'd had since, well...ever. The smell was wonderfully enticing, and the taste was simply addicting. She couldn't get enough of it.

Arthur appeared to share the same sentiment about his own dish.

It happened slowly at first, the aphrodisiac taking hold little by little, nibble by nibble. Both of them only began to notice when they started on the wine, but they brushed it off and attributed it to the alcohol. Both of them were starting to feel a little tipsy, Cira giving her husband an awkward smile as she glanced up from her food, which he reciprocated.

He kept looking at her for a while and she finally spoke up.

"What are you looking at?" she asked.

"Something pretty," he replied.

She giggled. That surprised her, to some extent. She didn't giggle- she wasn't some lovesick schoolgirl with a crush. But the aphrodisiac whispered sweet nothings in her ear, lulling her thoughts into a dreamy haze. It urged her forget thinking; she needed to act, to do. It would only be appropriate to return his advances, the aphrodisiac reasoned. She loved him, right?

One eye flared gold as balance was struck between the two souls of the Radiant Dawn. She got up and slid into the chair next to her husband, leaning her head on his chest. He got closer to her, drawing her into a warm embrace. A low, rumbling purring sound emitting from the Project as her projector sputtered and she cuddled closer to him. He tipped her head upwards and drew her into a long kiss. Her projector completely failed, her circuits blazing almost white-gold from happiness as she returned it, making his own glow shine.

She momentarily panicked at the realization, but the aphrodisiac was having none of it. Forget about who's watching, it reasoned.

"Mine," came the low growl from her husband as his hand touched the finial at the side of her helm, making her nearly fall limp from the feeling of pleasure that ran through her system.

"Always," she breathed, breathless from the touch as he reached to the nape of her neck and found a small latch that would disengage the seal on her armor.

Wait, the aphrodisiac cautioned. Do this first.

And suddenly, Cira had forced Arthur onto the table, knocking the food and wine off the side. The other customers stopped, looking up from their meals to witness the osculating session.

"Oh my gods." Helios stared from the kitchen door's window. "What the hell did you do, Ahri? I didn't think it would work this well."

"I just did as you said," the woman announced, covering half of her face with a hand. "Did I use too much….?"

"Are you kidding?" He exclaimed. "This is GREAT. Just means I have to get a move on faster, is all. You guys can watch if you want. It's my time to shine!"

It took them a minute to process the joke. They groaned. Except for Ahri. She...actually snickered, though an eyeroll accompanied it.

Huh. He thought, as he exited the kitchen (Cira and Arthur were preoccupied anyways). How about that.

Outside, the customers were in stunned silence. What was there to say? Two champions were currently making out on their table. There really was no reaction to that. Shock, horror, disgust and, to some extent, amusement were all running through their heads. Many of them were already pulling their phones out. This was going to the higher-ups, without a doubt.

But Cira didn't care. She wanted Arthur now.

The lights suddenly dimmed.

Two spotlights shone down from the ceiling, one on Cira and Arthur, the other on Helios, who had just taken to the stage. The musicians were all still onstage, but this time Helios was the one at the microphone.

The audience fell silent, distracted from their disapproving chatter.

He nodded at the pianist.

He cleared his throat.

The pianist started playing a soft, mellow tune, and then Helios began to sing.

"Can you see what's happening…" He sang. "Right before your eyes…"

"She's taking him there on the table…" He pointed at them. "Fueled by the heat deep down inside…"

"I really want to go on about…" He continued. "How she's gonna shriek and shout…"

"BUT THIS FIC IS RATED T!" He got to his knees, the volume of his voice rising until it was almost a scream. "SO MY STATEMENT HAS TO BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE-"

The music crescendoed, rising up to its climax- ...its peak. The music crescendoed to its peak volume, power chords ripping through the air.

"THEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEY ARE GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONNA POOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOORK TONIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGHT!" He sang. "THEY'RE SO GOOOO-NNAAAAAAAAAAA POOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOORK!"

"SHE'S EATING HIM OUT, AND HE'LL SOON RETURN THE FAVOR, 'CAUSE THEEEEEEEEEEEEY AAAAAAAAARE GOOOOOOOOOOONNA POOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOORK!"

The music ended, and Helios dropped the mic, panting.

The audience stared.

And then they stood up from their chairs and erupted into tumultuous applause, giving Helios a standing ovation.

"THANK YOU!" He yelled, pumping his fists out as he stood. "THANK YOU! YOU'VE ALL BEEN A BIG HELP WITH OUR PERFORMANCE TONIGHT, EVEN IF IT WAS JUST TO BEAR WITNESS! I'LL SEE YOU NEXT PRANK!"

Ahri, Fiora and LeBlanc all came up to stand beside him. They grasped each others' hands and took a bow, reveling in the success of their scheme.

"Five…" Helios muttered. "Four…three…two…"

At that moment, as planned, the aphrodisiac finally wore off.

"Cira...what are you...we…doing?"

Cira's eyes shot open and she gave a sound never uttered by her before. The mortified Chosen got up, projector sputtering back on as her cheeks flared burning scarlet before she hid her face in her hands in embarrassment. Arthur blinked slowly as it wore off on him as well.

"What just happened…" he asked dazedly.

Cira didn't give an answer, just hid in her hands again...her face rivalling her hair in its color.

"HOW DOES IT FEEL TO EXPERIENCE SWEET REVENGE, CIRA?!" Helios asked, practically choking. "AND YOU THOUGHT I WAS GOING TO TAKE MY PUNISHMENT LYING DOWN!"

A low, rumbling, electronic growl wove through the air, the room warming to an uncomfortable level as Cira finally looked up...and boy did she look mad.

"You…" She seethed.

"And that's our cue to run like hell!" Helios grinned. "Split up, guys. They can only catch two of us."

All four of them bolted, shoving out the door. They split off in separate directions, disappearing into the markets.

"He's mine," the Solari growled, bolting after Helios with a speed that wasn't humanly possible.

"Cira!" Arthur called, giving chase but being hopelessly outstripped.

He sighed, giving chase to one of the others instead.


Out of them all, Pantheon was only able to catch Ahri. Leblanc kept juking him and laughing as she did, Fiora was a Project and quickly outran him in a flicker of gunmetal grey and vibrant pink...Ahri just had her three dashes, which she did use in good moments, but he still managed to track her down. He was currently waiting with Ahri in the alley next to the restaurant.

Ahri huffed before putting Ariel in control, clearly not wanting to deal with the consequences of their prank. "I uh… plead the fifth?" The way she phrased it sounded more like a question than anything else.

"That does not exist here, you know that," he stated, "You are lucky I am the one that caught you and not Leona,"

"Thanks a lot Ahri," she muttered under her breath. The girl sighed and let her head hang. "Cira… is going to be mad, huh?"

"That is an understatement,"

Ariel groaned, "Helios why have you abandoned us now?"

"I do not think he was abandoning you, he was making Leona chase him so she would not go after you,"

Her tails twitched, "I was joking, Panth."

"I'm still working on that with him," Arthur apologized, "I'm still getting back into the swing of things. Sorry, Ariel...especially about grabbing you by the scruff back there,"

"Eh, you had to, I probably would have gotten away otherwise." She looked around for a moment. "Could you let me go though? I won't run again and you'll just catch me if I do."

He released her wrist...right as a flicker of red and gold caught his eye.

"Oh, she's back,"

Ariel tensed and looked to her feet, refusing to look up at the first Chosen.

Leona almost seemed to prowl closer. Anger still radiated from her in waves, but she seemed a little calmer.

"The run do you good?" Arthur asked.

The blue and gold eyes closed for a moment as she took in a deep, calming breath.

"I'm still angry," she grumbled, "He's not getting away with it,"

"I figured,"

She reopened her blue eyes and looked at Ariel.

"What did he promise you if you helped him?" she asked.

"Uhm… Fun?" she mumbled, the cringe obvious in her voice.

The Radiant Dawn's face turned unamused.

"Did you have fun?" she questioned.

The girl went quiet, toeing the ground anxiously.

"Ahri, Ariel, answer me, please," Cira told her, almost gently, "I want to know,"

The girl's eyes flashed gold as she slowly looked up "Mhm."

The Solari gave a nod.

"If there's one thing he does, its make good on his promises," she hummed, "Ariel, I want you to promise me something,"

Her eyes returned to normal, a pale blue. "Yes?"

"Never. Do that. To me and my husband. Again," came the low, metallic growl as the projector flickered, "If you do...it won't be Pantheon who finds you. It will be me,"

"I suggest you agree," Arthur said slowly.

She nodded. "I won't."

"The other thing...you are not to tell Helios what I am going to do," Leona told her, "Either of you. It's night so he won't be able to hear me,"

She nodded once more.

"Arthur, we need to get Krista," Cira told her husband, "I think some good old fashioned revenge is in order,"

Ariel managed a smile, but her ears folded, "You still mad, Cira?"

The cold, unamused look spoke volumes.

"Mine and my husband's romantic life is private for a reason," she growled, "Helios stepped over the line. He started this...I'm finishing this,"

Annnnd here comes the prank war...Leona is not going to take this sitting down.

Chosens Used (We Are Warriors)
Leona- Cira Noble (Jonson)

Pantheon-Arthur Jonson

Lucian- Jonathan Cross Jr. (Senna-Sienna Cross)

Fiora- Victoria Meraux

Zoe- Vesper Jonson

Annie-Emilia Naethos

Xayah- Kristen L'Amour

Rakan-Fabien L'Amour

Kindred-Dianne Faye (Diamond)

Kalista-Krista Rhon

Ahri-Ariel Royal

Camille-Vivian Vauclain

LeBlanc-Ana Testarosa

Braum-Piotr Kozlov

Chosens Used (We Are Chosen)

Kindred-Dianne Faye

Lucian-Arthur Jonson (Senna-Cira Noble)

Leona-Janie Noble

...And then there are Helios and Selene.

Anyway, hope you liked it. If you did, please let me know!

Qui vállë tóquetë, ván tecë (If no review comes from y'all; no story comes from me)

Máriessë ar mára tecië

Farewell and fair writing

Elhini Prime signing off.