! This chapter contains explicit language, sexually suggestive themes, and violence. Throwing up content warning. !

A/N: Thank you i-justwanttoread for your awesome reviews! They always make my day! (:

Upper Levels, Haven City

Mulberry Row Condominiums

Apartment 224

If there was one thing Haven excelled at, it was replicating the surface's warm morning sunrise. Golden light flooded Holly's bedroom, the sim-sun rays streaking across white walls. One 'sun ray' in particular flashed across the bed, disrupting the sleep of the couple beneath its sheets.

Holly stirred awake, warm and comfortable against Artemis' chest. She let out a lazy yawn as she opened her eyes, shifting her weight on top of him. He awoke with her, and she met his drowsy gaze. "Wake up, sleepyhead," Holly sang, trailing a delicate finger across his smooth cheek.

"Hmfble."

"Hm?"

Artemis would've rolled over, had Holly not been partly covering him. His eyelids fluttered open, eyes trailing to the soft warmth against his chest. "Hi," he mumbled, finishing the greeting with a sleepy yawn of his own. But unlike Holly's chipper self, he shut his eyes again with furrowed brows and groaned.

"What's wrong?" Holly giggled, nuzzling him. "Hungover?"

"Mhm."

"How do you feel?"

"Like rubbish. Can you heal me?"

Holly snorted against his neck. "I'll try." She kissed the sensitive skin on his throat, shooting off a dozen blue sparks that circled his head and hair. She waited for them to seep in before lifting her face to check his. "Better?"

But Artemis was miserable. Her healing helped his aching stomach relax, chasing away the nausea for a few seconds, until it inevitably returned. He smacked his forehead, leaving the hand there. "No," he grumbled pathetically.

Artemis forced his eyes open through the piercing glow, taking in the elfin beauty above him. "Hey," he beamed, unable to resist such joy from seeing his love so close. His gaze shifted to her bare collarbones, realizing her nudity with panicked eyes. "Oh! Er-" His eyes shot back up with a weak smile. "Hey…"

Holly arched a brow at him in confusion. "Uh, you okay?"

"Perfectly content."

"Then why're you-" She followed his previous gaze with a gasp, leaping off his chest and covering her own with the white duvet. "Holy Frond! Where is my shirt?!"

Artemis didn't know how to reply at the moment. He could flirt with her, for it was morning, and he was usually most lascivious at the start of the day, but the lurching loops in his stomach would not permit that sort of activity. Artemis took a deep breath instead, choosing a calmer, truthful route. "You don't remember? We kissed, and you, er… Well you removed both of our shirts."

"...I did not."

"You did."

Holly smacked her forehead, letting it run down her face to reveal the frown left behind. "I remember now. I was- Shit." She hid her face again, took two deep breaths, and pouted shamefully at Artemis. "I'm so sorry."

Artemis couldn't help a sharp laugh, waving his palms in the air. "Holly, please don't apologize." He sat up on his elbows, tucking a strand of auburn hair behind her pointed ear. He dropped the hand slightly, cupping her cheek. "I really don't mind."

"Oh yeah. I'm sure you don't," she scoffed, glaring daggers at him.

Artemis would've played along but his expression shifted suddenly, as if struck with pain. "Oh-" he groaned, pressing his hand to his bare abdomen. "Oh- Oh no." He tore off the bed and dashed to her bathroom as fast as he could, slithering down the narrow tunnel towards the tiny toilet room.

"Arty?" Holly called after him in concern. She watched him run like the wind until she eventually heard him heaving and hurling. "Oh. That's unfortunate." She rolled out of bed as well, searching her closet for a top to put on.

As she perused, she tried to remember detail by detail what they'd done last night. They drank a little more and flirted, when she had kissed him. Holly smiled to herself as she ran a finger over her lips, a tingle where his own had been. She'd actually done it. And the more she recalled, the clearer her memory replayed in her mind. They'd made out. She had exposed what little breasts she had, even slept half-naked against him; nearly engaged in sex with him. Her! Nearly engaged in sex with Artemis. She shook her head in disbelief, unable to wipe off her smile. She had no regrets. She was content with her decision, and in fact, she couldn't wait to kiss him again.

That was, until she heard Artemis's second round of vomiting down the hall.

She winced. "Yeah… I can wait."

Holly exited the bedroom with a messy braid, and fitted into one of Artemis' fancy button-down shirts. She'd always wanted to wear one as a sexy, oversized dress, the bottom hem coming down to her knees. She stretched her arms high above her head, cracking her back in the process. "Do you want some tea?" Holly called out as she strolled through the living room.

"Uh-huh," Artemis sputtered from the bathroom, spitting the last of his stomach's contents into the toilet bowl.

"Poor baby," Holly murmured, turning on the holo-TV and heading into the sleek kitchen. "I'm gonna make breakfast!" she declared. A news network rambled on in the background as she scanned the glass fridge for plant milk and seitan bacon.

"LEP officers are searching for two suspects following a string of crimes committed last night," the television echoed around the apartment. "The suspects are believed to be the human, Artemis Fowl, and the LEP's own Commodore Holly Short."

Holly froze every fiber in body, only her neck slowly twisting around to stare at the TV across the room. On screen, her ID photo and Artemis' mugshot glared back at her, as if taunting her. "Uh… Artemis?!"

"Huh?"

"Come here! Now!"

Artemis lumbered out of the bathroom seconds later, a mixture of panic and misery sweeping his sickly face. "Huh?"

Holly didn't speak. She nodded towards the screen instead, prompting him to look for himself.

"If you see these two or have any information regarding their whereabouts, please call Haven's safety tip line at 77 444 909."

Several seconds of silence passed as they stared on, absolutely floored with bewilderment. Eventually, Artemis braved glancing at Holly. "What… What did we do last night?"

Holly shook her head, unable to take her eyes off her plucky ID photo plastered across the screen. "I have no idea."

Haven City

12 Hours Before

"YOU CAN'T CATCH ME!" Holly hollered on Haven's people-moving Stick, running the opposite direction in her lane. "AH! HAHA!" Holly looked over her shoulder, bumping into a few confused fairies. Artemis was trailing close behind, a panicked Holly darting away. "AHH! HUMAN'S GONNA KIDNAP ME HELP!"

Artemis Fowl drunkenly raced ahead of Holly on the sidewalk of Haven's hip Milk District, plucking an orange cone into his shirt and whisking away.

Holly, panicked by the crime committed in front of her, dashed after him. "ART- ARTEMIS! YOU- YOU CAN'T STEAL TRAFFIC CONES!" Holly could hear incoherent snorting and wheezing from him, pulling back on his elbow. "Artemis! That's public property!"

"Screw it."

"WHAT?!"

Woop woop!

Holly's eyes widened in fear, slowly turning to watch the flashing LEPTraffic hover-truck approaching. "Oh fuck." She tugged on his elbow desperately now. "Artemis return the fucking cone-"

A tawny elfin corporal stepped out from the vehicle, approaching the pair with a stern stare.

"Artemis fucking Fowl. I said right fucking no-"

The corporal pulled out another orange cone from behind his back, replacing where the previous one had been.

Holly and Artemis blinked at each other once, not before snickering while sneaking away.

Holly tip-toed into the candy aisle of Oak's Goods and Groceries, twirling a red pen between her fingers. She giggled as she crossed out the price of marshmallows, scratching in 420 and 69 instead. She peered at the tall human roaming the chocolate section, peeking from around his arm at his work of art.

In black marker, Artemis was jotting onto the wrappers, Warning! NOT real chocolate!

"Oh, fucking Frond, Artemis."

"Hello, I'd like to place an order to-go, please," Holly said into her phone at Artemis' side, the two snickering and holding up foot traffic in the center of the Stick's lane change.

"Ok," the nasally voice over the line replied. "What can I get for you?"

"Nunya."

"Nunya?"

"Nunya-business!" Holly hung up, laughing the night away with her love.

Mulberry Row Condominiums

Apartment 224

Now

"And now, I have to scrub together funds to shut up the tabloids," Trouble complained on the speaker function of Holly's phone. "I still can't believe the security footage of you two stealing a moongoat from the lab."

"Oh yeah…" Holly winced through a guilty smile. "I forgot about that one."

A deep sigh distorted the speaker, a few minutes of silence drifting between them. "I'm glad you two at least got home okay. Particularly, I'm glad you're okay."

"Thanks, Trubs," Holly chuckled, stirring her tea with a wooden spoon.

"How's the mud man holding up?"

Holly glanced across the living room, eyeing what little she could see of Artemis on the couch. "He's, uh, alive. Sorta." She called out to him, "You still alive?"

"Uh-huh," Artemis croaked.

"Yeah. He's alive."

"Well, I'm glad he's at least suffering for his delinquency. As for you-" Trouble started.

"Mhm?"

"You've got to be on perfect behavior now, Short. Lope has his eye on you."

"Of course he does," Holly scoffed, rolling her eyes. "Not like other officers get away with stupid stuff all the time-"

"Yeah, but they're not you, Holly," Trouble said with an edge of warning. "You have to work harder than most, unfortunately."

"Don't remind me."

"It's true. Don't do anything else to compromise your position. I don't want to lose my best commodore."

Holly formed a crooked, tight-lipped smile. Trouble was like an older brother lecturing you about a sour parent. She sighed, rapping her forehead with her knuckles as she accepted her fate. "Okay. I'll do my best. Thanks, Trouble."

"Of course. Take care, and please. Please. For the love of Gods, don't get into any more trouble."

"Yeah. Only Trouble can get into trouble."

"Ha, ha. See you later." The line clicked, leaving Holly, Artemis, and the apartment in silence.

Holly sighed once more, irritated over her predicament with Lope. Despite all the species inclusivity the Council and the LEP had pushed for in recent years, little had been done to remedy or address the mistreatment of female officers. Holly pondered solutions. What could she realistically do?

No use in stressing over it now - she had a human to take care of. Holly poured another steaming cup of peppermint ginger tea, swirling the sugar cubes around with her spoon before picking up both teacups and heading for the couch. She carefully strolled over, a smile gracing her lips as she laid the cups on the coffee table.

Holly spun to face Artemis. He was sprawled out on the sofa, wrapped up in her velvet blanket with Meowington loafed on his chest. Despite this, a sad frown was etched into his pallid face. "Aw," Holly cooed, leaning over to plop a kiss to Meowington's head. "Hey, bud," she greeted, scratching his white chin. "You love your human?"

"Meh," the tuxedo kitty mewled between two tiny fangs.

"Aw!" Holly smoothed a hand over Artemis' clammy forehead, sweeping his bangs from his eyes. "He loves you."

"I'm glad someone does."

"What is that supposed to mean?"

Artemis smirked from the corner of his mouth. "Don't worry about it."

"Oh?" Holly tilted her face closer, hovering her lips over his. "Guess no kiss for you then."

But Artemis cackled, cocking a brow at her. "Oh? Really?"

"Mhm. Guess you'll just have to-" She didn't get to finish because Artemis surged forward, taking her lips fully into his. Holly closed her eyes, a rush of love flowing through her when she remembered his retching minutes ago. She yanked herself back, cleaning her mouth off with an arm. "Ugh, yuck! You kissed me with your vomit-breath."

"And I'll steal a hundred more kisses. Come here," he grinned, pulling her back towards him and planting a series of kisses against her face.

"Ew! Ah! Stop! Gross!" Holly laughed, smothering her hands over his eyes to halt him. But Artemis was persistent, pulling her into his warm chest and kissing her over and over. Holly acted disgusted, but it was all in obvious jest. She loved every second of this. She loved being close with him, huddled against his chest. She loved-

Well, she loved him, didn't she?

She slowed down, just staring at him through a bright smile. She loved him. She was in love with Artemis Fowl. It was the first time she'd allowed herself to accept it, to think it. She loved Artemis, and it felt so good to admit that.

"Nasty human," Holly chittered. She picked up the warm teacup, handing it to him carefully. "Here, this should help some."

"Just being close to you helps, if I'm honest," Artemis said quietly. A pink flush restored the life to pallid cheeks as he took a sip of tea and set it down.

"Aw, getting sappy on me, are you?"

"I'd like to believe I'm taking full advantage of my newly-restored privileges, thank you," Artemis said, running a finger under Meowington's chin. "Look at him. I think you scared him."

Holly glanced at Meowington, unable to hold back a cooing laugh at the kitty's flattened ears and giant, round eyes. "Sorry, Meow. Your human is a wiggly one."

"Raow!" the kitty whined, hopping off Artemis' chest to stretch on the rug, leaving their side to stroll across the apartment.

"Perfect," Artemis snickered, wrapping his arms around Holly's waist. "Got you."

"Hu- Ah! A-Arty!" Holly could barely breathe from laughter as he pulled her into him. "Stinky human." She pressed her hand to his face again, pushing him away. "Go brush your teeth."

"I did." Artemis rolled his eyes. "You don't believe me to be so unsavory, do you?"

"I don't care. Do it again."

Artemis reached for his tea, sipping it and narrowing his eyes at her instead of answering.

"Don't give me that look."

He didn't bother replying to that either, merely opting to ignore her while sipping his tea.

"Artemis Fowl."

"What?" he said, finally removing his severe stare off of her.

"Thank you for stopping me last night."

Artemis was like a deer in headlights, halfway frozen while setting down his cup. He wanted to reply, but nothing felt right at the moment - not while his stomach and head were throbbing, anyway. He nodded awkwardly instead, continuing his motion of setting down his tea.

"That's kind of a big deal, and I'd like to wait," she continued, flattening her palms on his chest. "If that's okay."

"Of course, Holls," Artemis replied quickly, caressing her cheek. "Of course that's okay. That's why I stopped it. I figured that's not something you'd normally be comfortable with."

"Yeah," Holly nodded. "Drunk Holly and Sober Holly have different motives, it seems."

Artemis risked a glance at her outfit. "Hm," he smirked. "I'm not sure they're too different. You look awfully appealing in my shirt like that."

Holly sported an elfish grin, brushing her nose against his as she climbed on top of him. "Oh? You like how I look in your shirt?"

"I like how you look in it, and I like that you're in it," he winked. "If you catch my drift."

"Pervert."

"Maybe," he laughed, flashing her a sharp canine with that vampiric smirk of his. "Just a bit."

"I knew it." Holly created space between them by poking the tip of his nose. "I knew you were secretly a dirty old man."

Artemis threw his head back as his laugh rang around the apartment. "A dirty old man?" He settled down, peering back at her. "I'm only 28, you know."

"Still dirty."

"Says you," Artemis rolled his eyes, shifting his weight against the sofa to readjust their position. "You're the one who removed both of our shirts. Without warning, may I add."

"Like I said!" Holly smacked his chest. "Sober Holly - Drunk Holly: different people."

"Right," Artemis teased, moving in for another kiss. "I'll keep that in mind." He was grateful when she allowed him to take her lips into his, closing his eyes as he became engrossed in her embrace. He pulled back after a few sweet moments to whisper, "I'm still in awe I get to do that."

"Hm? You mean this?" Holly leaned back in for more, pressing a single, hard kiss against him. "Get used to it."

"Oh yeah?"

"Yeah."

"I think I can manage that," he grinned as leaned in to press his lips against hers, closing his eyes to relish the moment.

They were gentle at first, their lips in slow unison as they expressed a tender fondness for the other. Artemis loved it. He loved every part of this. Romance: to love someone as much as they loved him, or at least, he assumed she loved him. He tested her, retreating slightly to separate them. But Holly wouldn't have it. She pulled him back in deeper, unwilling to let him go, and Artemis felt it. He felt her need for him, how she desperately kissed against him, yearning for his touch as much as he yearned for hers. He was addicted to her: to her elfin citrusy scent, to how insanely soft her lips were, to the heat emanating from her skin. He wrapped his arms around her waist as he increased intensity, showing her how he felt in the only way he knew how.

He didn't know why, but he succumbed to his instincts, his mind going blank as he slowly flipped them over to lower himself onto her. Maybe it was the urge to shield her, protect her (not that she needed it). Maybe it was the guarantee that she couldn't just fly away while trapped beneath him. Maybe it was that he loved her embrace, and being as close to her as possible. Or, perhaps it was a strange amalgamation of all three.

Artemis was careful not to crush her under his weight as their kiss grew and grew. A heat blossomed from his core, his bare chest covered in chills as Holly's hands ran over him. Gods, how badly he wanted her.

Control yourself. She wants to wait, he reminded himself. And wait, he shall.

Artemis slowed down, reluctantly pulling away with a sigh. He pressed his lips to both of her cheeks, smearing glitter from the night before. He finally lifted a little higher, kissing her forehead, pulling back to gaze at her.

Holly wore an adorable smile, her eyes bright under the sun rays that cast into her home. Their home, as she thought of it now. She lifted a finger to stroke his cheek, spreading his glitter around. "I could kiss you forever."

The confession made Artemis' heart flutter. "I feel the same way," he admitted, giving her a quick kiss. "I'm addicted to you."

Holly chortled, her laugh sweeter than honey. "Oh? Are you addicted to me?" she teased, wrapping her arms around his neck to pull him closer.

"I am," he said, kissing her again. "It's all your fault."

"I'll be sure to keep this conversation in the books. Never know when I need to blackmail you."

"Oh?" His face scrunched up suddenly, doubling over above her. "Oooh."

Holly swept the hair from his eyes. "Sick again?"

Artemis nodded, rolling onto his side so he was spooned behind Holly. He winced as he pressed a hand to his stomach, taking deep breaths as waves of nausea slammed into him. "I should rest a while," he frowned. "As much as I'd like to continue."

Holly continued stroking his face, flipping onto her side to stare at him. He was just- "So beautiful." She froze, as did Artemis, both blinking at each other.

"What?" he asked in confusion.

"You," Holly chuckled. She could feel her cheeks burning in embarrassment, but she tried not to care. "You're so beautiful."

Artemis opened his mouth, closed it, then mumbled, "Me?"

"No. Your dad, the other Artemis." Holly rolled her eyes. "Yes, you." She poked his cheek twice. "Don't forget it."

"I'm… I'm not sure I know how to reply to that." Artemis coughed, removing his shy gaze off her. "Thank you."

"It's true. You're Haven's favourite celebrity for a reason, you know."

"I thought that's because I'm human."

"Yeah. A hot human," she winked. "Hot, genius, rich as sin-"

"It's no wonder I got Keni's attention," Artemis chuckled, fully prepared for Holly's fit of jealousy. But, it never came. Instead, her breathing slowed and her eyes grew into a raging fire the longer she stared at him. "Uh… Holls? I was just joking."

But Holly's mind was elsewhere. She recalled her exchange with Keni from the night before. That was right - she needed to deal with Keni. But first, Holly had to be sure that the pixie held any blame. She knew next to nothing of Artemis and Keni's relationship, after all. Perhaps they had had a falling out prior to yesterday? But her intuition was nagging her, desperate to uncover the truth. Whatever Holly did, she needed to confirm her suspicions first.

Holly flipped their positions so Artemis was below her and crawled to her knees, her eyes glued to him.

"I promise it was a joke-"

"I need to ask you something," Holly interrupted seriously, changing the mood from warm to icy. "I need you to tell me everything you remember."

Artemis furrowed his brows. "Er… About what?"

"The day you were kidnapped. How were you drugged? What happened?"

Artemis shifted his focus from his roaring stomach to concentrate on what had happened that day. But, no matter how hard he tried to recall specific events, he couldn't see them clearly in his memory. They were there, but it was like peering through fogged glass. Another part of him felt no alarm, as if the memory wasn't even worth worrying over. It's fine.

"I'm not sure," he said slowly, fighting his hazed brain for the memory. "I know I smoked a cigar, but the day was fine. It was like any other."

But Holly knew better. Unbeknownst to Artemis, there was a flatness in his eyes when the topic arose. His usually piercing blue irises were matte, cloudy, and one-dimensional as his pupils bloomed: the mark of heavy mesmerisation. The confirmation of her suspicions ignited a broiler within her heart, enraging her to a controlled point of madness.

"Artemis." The severity of her tone captured his attention. "I need you to trust me. Do you trust me?"

He nodded. "Of course. More than anyone."

An invasive thought pierced her mind. He trusts you more than anyone, and yet you haven't told him why you really brought him here. Holly nearly reeled back from the realization, but shook herself from it instead. One thing at a time, and she needed to handle this first.

Holly swept his bangs back, kissing his temple lovingly. She whispered against him, "I need to mesmerise you, but just for a second. Do you trust me?"

Mesmerise him? The idea made Artemis nervous, if he was honest with himself. The fairies hadn't been exactly kind in their use of magick against him, but Holly wasn't like that. He did trust her, even if he didn't want to be tapped into again. "Yes. Just-" he sighed. "Not too long. Please."

"Just a few seconds." She kissed his temple again. "I promise."

She lifted her face to meet his eyes, taking a deep breath. She visualized clearly what she was going to do. In and out. Just a few seconds. She nodded once and pinned her forehead to his, bearing her magick into his soul and mind. Her eyes swirled into gold pools, her voice layered with the hypnotic mesmer. "Were you mesmerised at Phobos Tower?"

Artemis' face was blank, his will nonexistent as he gave into her enchantment completely. "Yes."

"Who were you mesmerised by?"

"Keni."

Holly's hand clenched into a fist against the cushion, a snarl blooming from her mouth. "What did Keni do?"

"I disclosed information to her that I shouldn't have, and she tricked me for it."

"What did she do?" Holly pushed again through gritted teeth.

"I can't be certain how it happened, but she was on top of me. She told me it was fine. To smoke a cigar. It's all fine." He shook his head, his mind fighting to release his memories.

Even through the mesmer, the memory itself was locked away and sealed, and Holly couldn't gain deeper access. She nearly released Artemis of the bewitching, when one more question swirled within her. "Did she hurt you?"

"Not directly? I don't think. I don't remember."

Holly let go; that was it. Whatever Keni had done, it had solidified into stone and there was no meshing into it. She pressed gentle lips to Artemis' forehead, nuzzling her face into his. "Sorry."

Artemis was a little shocked. He hadn't even pondered the kidnapping, or why or how it'd happened. Keni completely erased the care from his mind. The realization deeply unnerved him. How many other instances had the fairies tampered with him, and he'd had no idea? It was scary, but the fae would be fae. "You warned me," Artemis grunted, nestling the side of his face into the seat. "You said fairies were especially deceptive. I thought I knew that. But clearly, I was wrong. I should've been more careful." He linked an eye with her and lifted a single finger, brushing a stray curl behind her ear. "I'm sorry."

Holly leaned in and kissed him briefly, pulling back with a grimace. "It's my fault you moved out in the first place. If I hadn't arrested you-" She shook her head in frustration. "If I hadn't brought you to Haven, this whole thing would've never happened. Minerva would've never come for you the way she did-"

"Holly, stop." Artemis swept the glitter from her cheeks, searching for the freckles underneath. "You cannot blame yourself for my actions. I got myself evicted from my family home because I chose to mess with the Yakuza. I chose to seek out the Black Alley, despite you wasting your efforts in finding me a normal job. None of this is on you. I asked for it. This was my fault." He gave her a sad smile. "I'm a mess. And not one for you to clean, either."

Holly groaned. "Everyone is a mess, Artemis. You just feel more guilty than the average person because you're so much smarter than them. But you're just trying to figure out life like the rest of us. I mean, look at me." Holly waved a hand over herself, unable to resist flashing a playful smirk. "I'm almost 98, and I'm still figuring things out."

Artemis cocked a dubious brow. "You seemed quite stable before I arrived, to be honest."

"Career-wise? Sure. But I don't have a family, Arty. I didn't have anyone to come home to, to hear all my thoughts and stupid ravings. I didn't have anyone to share daily curry and espresso with." She pressed their foreheads together. "I didn't have anyone to hug me whenever I wanted, or to hold me at night. Yeah, I know I had Trouble. But… We're just so much better as friends. And, with you, I kept pretending- I kept telling myself that we were just friends. That we're better off that way. That that's all we should be. But-" She ran a slow finger over his ample lips. "I want you. And since you've arrived, I've had the most fun and excitement I've had in years. Yes! You're fucking chaotic. But that's what drew us together in the first place." Holly kissed those lips that she loved so much, pulling away to whisper, "You're my foil in every way. If it meant going through a hundred more kidnappings, near-death experiences, and saving the world scenarios just to stay with you? Then so be it." She kissed him again, though it was brief as she pulled away to nuzzle his neck. "Don't feel sorry. I asked for this as much as you did."

Artemis didn't have words. How could he after a speech like that? Instead, he rushed forward, desperate to feel and taste Holly again. He cupped both of her cheeks, thumbs brushing her sparkly skin as he dug his lips deeper into hers. He eventually had to break for breath, another flip souring his stomach.

"Fowl and Fairy forever?" Artemis asked, smiling against her.

"Forever."

"This sounds like we're getting married."

"Hmm, I dunno," Holly teased. "I'm not sure I could marry someone so dangerous in the kitchen-"

"Shut up," Artemis snorted, resorting back to kissing her. That was, until his stomach flipped again. A few blue sparks erupted from Holly's lips, circling him in a blue halo as he broke away with a groan. "Ughhh. As much as I'd love to continue this conversation, I don't think I can."

"I'm sorry my magic isn't helping," Holly frowned, playing with his hair. "I guess fairy liquor is toxic to humans."

"Liquor is toxic, in general," Artemis informed. His stomach pulsed twice, and he gagged as his mouth began salivating. "Oh- Oh no." Artemis leapt off the couch, dashing back to the bathroom.

"Oh gods-" Holly winced when she heard him puke for the third time that morning. "Yeah… that's gross. No more kissing for you." She got off the couch, inching her way to the ajar bathroom door. "Do you want water?"

"Don't b-bother," Artemis coughed in segments. "I-I'll just shower."

"Okay." Holly glanced at the holo-clock on the wall. It was already late morning. If Holly wanted to do this, she needed to go now. "Hey, Arty. I have to go somewhere really quick, but I'll be right back."

"Wha-?!" he whined halfway through heaving. "W-Why?!"

"I'll just be an hour! Maybe even less." Holly nearly tripped over Meowington as he zipped through her legs ahead of her. She braved entering the bathroom, strolling through the acrylic tunnel to the toilet room. Avoiding a glance at the toilet, she placed a hand on Artemis' bare shoulder. "I'll bring back soup. You want potato curry?"

Artemis nodded. "No-Not spicy, p-please."

"Okay."

"Raow!"

She kissed the top of Artemis' head, ruffling his hair. "See? Meow will keep you company. I'll just be an hour, okay?"

Haven's Underground

K-Club

Holly Short could think of four times she was this livid, this absolutely enraged, in her life.

It didn't take her long to rummage through the cosmetics store and take the elevator, dropping into the criminal depths below Haven. After a single ding, she was released from the metal box and into the druzy tunnel above K-Club. Holly ran her hand over the obsidian ledge, peering through the blinding glow of the pink tourmaline generators, and towards the lounge below. There, past the gossip and punching bags was a yellow-haired pixie at the edge of the arena, chatting to elves - and Holly's fellow friends - Vera and Dalí.

Perfect. She'd hoped for an audience.

Holly stormed down the metal mesh stairs, fiery eyes glued to the pixie as she rounded the corner to march at her. "HEY!"

Keni whipped her head around, keen eyes searching for the fairy responsible. "Hey?" It didn't take long to notice Holly approaching. She looked over the elf's white tank and army green cargo pants. "Oh. Hey, Holly. You look cute… And also like you haven't showered since last night, but, not judging."

Despite Keni's good spirits, she recognized Holly's anger, hesitating in place. She scoffed, cocking an amused brow. "If you're gonna hit me, Short, you better make it good."

"We have a fucking problem," Holly spat, shoving her face into the pixie's.

"Do we?"

"I know you mesmerised Artemis. I know it was fucking you-"

"What's this about?"

"Don't play stupid, bitch," Holly snapped, jabbing a finger in Keni's face. "I mesmerised him with his consent. He told me everything." It was a stretch, but Keni didn't need to know that.

"Yeah?" Keni mocked.

"Yeah. How fucking dare you-"

But Keni had had enough. She got in Holly's face and hissed, "You are not fighting me over a fucking guy-"

"This this NOT about a 'fucking guy'! Artemis is my best friend. The one person- The one person you don't fuck with. And then, you went and fucked with him anyway."

"I also fucked him. In case you didn't know."

Holly's fist soared through the air, nearly colliding with the smug pixie's cheek, but smashed into Dalí's palm instead. Vera and Dalí tore Holly away from an undeterred Keni, one girl per arm.

"You're the reason he was kidnapped!" Holly roared, fighting against her friends' hold.

Vera chimed in, "Babe, relax-"

"Did you know he almost died?" Holly carried on. "That I almost died?! Because of you? You're supposed to be my friend. So what does this make you?"

Keni's smirk dropped into a curled lip. "What do you mean 'you almost died?'"

Holly fought her friends off, taking a side-step to give them space. "We were chased to a dead end," she huffed. "We fell into the fucking spring, Kens. We nearly boiled alive! Artemis drowned! I had to resuscitate him - without magick. Do you have any idea what you put us through? Me through?"

It was apparent that Keni wasn't aware, considering her jaw was at the floor. But Holly didn't care - she was completely incensed. "We fight tomorrow."

"Do we?"

"Yeah."

"What time?"

"17."

"Sounds fun. Don't be late, Short."

Despite her confident words, Keni's eyes were largely unsettled. She blinked rapidly as she watched the redhead storm away, pondering through solutions as her breath hitched. Losing a friend wasn't on her list of to-do's for the week.

"Holly."

"What?" Holly hissed, whirling around.

"I'm really into healthy communication, so I'll just say this: My client assured me that Artemis was in no real danger-"

"Your men shot illegal, modified laser beams at us!" Holly laughed incredulously. "What do you mean?! The fact I haven't arrested you- "

"Just shut the fuck up, and listen to me!" Keni yelled, her eyes intensely glued to Holly as her fists shook. "I would've never agreed if I thought you or Artemis were in danger. I may be a bitch, but I'm not fucking evil." She traced her eyes over the elf. "Contrary to belief, I'm not a greedy fucking pixie."

"Pretty fucking greedy to me."

"Phobos was my daddy's company," Keni declared, closing her distance to Holly. "If you were in my position, you would've done the exact same thing-"

"No, Keni! I wouldn't, because I'm not a fucking criminal."

"That's ironic. Pretty sure you were on the wanted list a few hours ago."

Holly silently fumed at her. She'd nearly lost her cool already, and as much as she wanted to sock Keni's face at the moment, K-Club meant too much for her to throw away. She had rules to respect, and if she wanted to stay in this community, she needed to honor their code. Holly exhaled a growl, jabbing a finger at Keni's nose. "We fight tomorrow. Make a fucking reminder." She whipped around, stomping back to the staircase.

"Oh, I'll be making a whole fucking show!" Keni called out, crossing her arms with a mischievous smile. "Vera, Dalí: set up the club. We're gonna have a Ring Rush."

K-Club, Haven's Underground

Next Day

16:30

Holly Short glared at her reflection in the locker room mirror, ignoring the booming music and cheers from the arena outside. She took a deep breath, studying the fire blazing behind those determined, mismatched irises. Could she do this? She'd been messy as of late, and her cos tapa was a bit rusty.

However, the friend at her side recognized the pre-fight anxiety, placing a comforting hand on Holly's shoulder. "You've totally got this. Don't psych yourself out."

Holly sighed, closing her eyes for a second to clear her mind. "You're right. I need to focus." Her eyes snapped open, and she leaned her head against the woman's freakishly tall figure. "Maybe I was hasty," she mumbled, offering Juliet Butler a hint of a shameful smile.

Juliet shifted her arm to rest atop Holly's head, waving a finger at her in the mirror. "Nuh-uh, girlie. Doubting yourself will only weaken you out there." Juliet released Holly, placing a firm grip on her shoulders. "Remember: Why are you doing this?"

"Because Keni had Artemis kidnapped and nearly got him and me killed."

"Exactly," Juliet reassured firmly. "Your anger is valid. It's the whole reason a place like this club exists. Take Keni down." Juliet leaned across the vanity, pulling glittery, green shadow from her makeup bag. She swiped one of Holly's lids with a wink. "Butler-style."

Juliet applied glitter to Holly's other eyelid, showing off her work in the mirror with a wave of her arm. "Green totally suits you, by the way."

"It's also my favourite colour," Holly sighed, resting the side of her head against the blonde's thigh. She gave Juliet a small smile in their reflection. "I missed you."

"Aw! I always miss you." Juliet wrapped an arm around Holly's shoulders, pulling her in close. "I'm always grateful when you manage to smug- I mean sneak me down here." She patted the curls atop Holly's head. "Naughty little elf."

"I don't know what you're talking about," Holly said dismissively, fixing the lipstick on her mouth.

"Uh-huh. You remember that grapple technique I showed you?"

"Yes, oh glorious master."

"You better," Juliet huffed, getting off of Holly to sort through her bag on the counter. "You don't want Artemis to see you get your ass handed to you, riiight?" When Holly didn't reply, Juliet elbowed her in the shoulder. "So? How is my little brother getting in?"

Holly raised an amused brow. "Little brother?"

"Uh, he's totally my little bro. Unlike the twins," Juliet whimpered, wiping away a fake tear. "They're my little shits."

"You mean your charges?"

"Same thing," Juliet shrugged. "I say little shits affectionately, BTdubs."

"BTdubs?"

"By the way."

"Right." Holly pressed her palms to the resin countertop, studying the stern expression in her reflection. "To answer your question: Artemis isn't getting into K-Club."

"What?" Juliet gasped. "Well, that sucks."

"Don't worry. He's watching via the secret cameras I installed instead."

Mulberry Row Condominiums

Apartment 224

And the secret cameras were, indeed, streaming straight from K-Club. Artemis smirked as he connected to Holly's home network, the live feed blooming onto her holo-TV. "Perfect."

Artemis dropped onto the couch lazily. Was he embarrassed that his elfin lover was going to fight in his honor? Not at all. In fact, Artemis was exhilarated. He'd imagined Holly punching Keni through a wall before, but he never thought he'd actually get to see it happen. Artemis did feel for Keni, though it disappointed him. But, it was no surprise.

Yes, she had betrayed him, but there was something to be said of her wit. Not many people could outsmart Artemis Fowl, and though it had been under Minerva's direction, he couldn't help but feel respect for the pixie. She not only ran K-Club under Haven's nose, but she'd actually tricked him, and he'd thought nothing of it.

Until now.

So, Artemis allowed himself to get comfortable, one knee up as he leaned across the coffee table for his tea. Might as well kill time as he waited for the match to start. "I sincerely hope this doesn't end in the loss of your life, Kens," he chuckled as he sipped his steaming cup of earl grey, keen eyes on the screen.

K-Club

"You sneaky bastards," Juliet gasped, shaking her head in actual shock. "I can't believe you'd break our code like that."

"I thought it was worth it," Holly shrugged.

"Oh, you totally don't have to worry. I'm not mad. Just… Imagine the chaos if anyone else found out-"

"Well, that's why I'm telling you and not anyone else," Holly raised her brows sternly, suddenly nervous about her decision. But then she really stopped, and really thought about it, tilting her head to the left. "You know… They'd probably be thrilled. Half of them are in love with him anyway."

Juliet gave a hearty laugh, clapping Holly so hard on the shoulders that she literally slid the elf. "That's hilarious. I really need to check in with Artemis, don't I? God knows what that boy's up to."

"Holy Frond!" Holly cackled, catching herself on the counter. "What have you been eating?"

"Protein," Juliet grinned with a flex of an arm. She was plenty tanned from her recent matches back in the American frontier, her rippling muscles a pure reflection of her strength and endurance. She was a Butler, after all. "And plenty of greens," Juliet giggled with a wink. She backed off the elf, walking around her instead. "Anyway, do you remember everything I taught you? Have you been using it well?"

"That, mixed with cos tapa," Holly nodded. "Did you read my messages from the desert?"

"You mean the canyon?" Juliet smirked.

"Same thing."

"Okay," Juliet wheezed. "Don't let Artemis hear you saying that."

Holly met her gaze with a sneaky grin. "Or I'll get an hour-long lecture on rocks?"

"And a PowerPoint." Juliet gave an exasperated sigh. "Your messages about kicking Yakuza ass? Oh yeah, girlie. I saw them!" She clapped Holly's shoulders once more (gently this time), bringing her fingers to the top of her head, brushing through the auburn curls. "You're a total badass. I never doubted that. Do you remember that choke takedown I taught you?"

Holly's face reddened despite her grimace at her friend in the mirror. "Yeah…"

"Are you sure?"

"No," Holly admitted with a sigh. "I don't really like moves like that."

"I know," Juliet said gently, weaving Holly's hair in tight braids against her head. "But it's the move that took you down, remember?"

Holly flattened her lips into a thin line. She remembered. It was the whole reason she couldn't cut her hair. "Of course. But Keni doesn't move like that."

"No, but you can."

"I'll try to take her down with a punch."

"And if that doesn't work?"

Holly deepened her gaze in the mirror. "We'll see."

"Holly," Juliet started, finishing Holly's braids and whipping them over her shoulder. She twirled her friend around so she could bear her gaze into her. "Repeat after me: I am a badass."

"Oh gods-"

"Holly Short! Repeat it."

Holly frowned. "I am a badass."

"No, no," Juliet wagged a finger at the (much) shorter athlete. "Say it like you believe it."

Holly let out a hefty sigh. "I am a badass." She had to admit, the affirmation was improving her mood, although it may have been Juliet's infectious smile as well. "I'm a badass!"

"You bad giiirl!" Juliet dug her fingers into Holly's shoulders. "You're the baddest bitch I know. You've got this."

"Yeah." Holly turned to gaze at herself in the mirror, sparkly green eyelids blinking back at her. "I've got this." With everyone watching, she didn't have a choice.

K-Club Arena

17:00

A Ring Rush event was known to draw in hundreds of female fairies, the arena itself built to accommodate a maximum of two thousand. Most events saw five- to seven-hundred. Those were average events. When Keni was involved, the number spiked to nine-hundred, and when Juliet Butler was involved… the club was packed, and packed it was indeed. Besides Artemis, Juliet was the favourite human amongst most ladies and non-binaries in Haven. She was strong, fun, and independent - although Juliet would attribute the latter to her aro-asexuality. She was a beacon of ferocity amongst the oppressed in Haven, a woman who had, and continued, to overcome any odds - magickal, or physical. Juliet always came out on top, and thus, had earned the respect amongst The People - at least, The People who knew of her.

From the center of the glass cage Juliet tossed her jade-ring braid over her shoulder, and hollered into her microphone, "WHAT'S UP, LADIES?! ARE YOU READY TO RUUUMBLE?!"

The crowd was beyond thrilled, throwing up their hands and yelling into the air.

"Let's meet our fighters! Though, I'm totally sure you already know who they are-"

"K! K!"

"POPPY!"

"K! K!"

"POPPY!"

The fairies cheered for their favourite competitors, thousands of voices echoing off the cavern walls.

"Who's ready to meet our first contestant?" The hype grew ever-fervent in response. "Alriiight! You asked for it! Give a warm welcome to-!"

The pink tourmaline crystal generators crackled and sparked to life overhead, casting a magenta glow over the end of the dark ring. A metallic door dropped, revealing the braided fighter on the other side.

"POPPYYY!"

'Poppy' stepped into the ring as the intense rock anthem thundered from the speakers, her fists raised high into the air. But Holly didn't smile, or wave or acknowledge the rumbling fairies. A stoic frown claimed her features, her severe stare searching the cameras over the crowd. Hope you're watching, Arty.

"Now - you may remember when Poppy fought against the Jade Princess, and lost," Juliet chimed, ignoring the stray whistles. "But now, our favourite soldier is back in action, hungry for revenge, and gonna kick some major ass!"

Holly smirked when the audience roared, feeling a little exposed in her poppy-red, hoodie leotard, but she was comfortable and sure of herself. She could do this.

Another thing was for sure: Juliet was never short of life. The boisterous human certainly knew how to rile up a crowd, didn't she?

"And our next competitor- Well, you all know who she is. Welcome the owner of our beloved club: IT'SSS K!!!"

The fight anthem shifted, allowing electronic bass to reverberate off the walls. Throats hollered, fists pumped, fairies stomped the obsidian ground as sprites flipped in the air. The opposite end of the ring unfolded, revealing the limber and pale pixie on the other side. Keni emerged with a smug smile and confident demeanor, her once-yellow hair now two, freshly-dyed magenta buns at the nape of her neck. She wore a similarly pink athletic shorts and sports bra, the same colour as the gemstone that circled the ring overhead. Holly recognized Keni's intent immediately: The pixie blended with the lights, making her even harder to spot. Clever. But Holly knew better than to be intimidated. She knew Keni's style, as well as her weakness. All Holly needed was one punch; land one hit, and Keni was out cold.

Juliet stood between the ladies, one fist in the air. "Any last words before we start?"

Keni took a few steps forward. "Yeah." She looked past Juliet, throwing a smirk at Holly. "Try not to run out of magick, bitch."

"Try not to get hit, bitch," Holly mocked back, taking her own strides forward. "Or it'll be your last time talking shit."

"Ooohhh!" echoed across the crowd in response, prompting Juliet to step away from the fighters and hang back towards the back of the ring's glass cage.

"Alright, everyone. Let's go over some ground rules." Juliet counted off on her glittery fingers. "One: whoever knocks out first loses, two: no shielding, and three: don't kill each other. Sounds easy enough, right?" she said, riling up the crowd around the cage. "Who's ready to see these two fight?"

The crowd screamed in response but Juliet shook her head. "That's all you've got? Come on! I said: WHO'S READY TO SEE THESE BITCHES FIGHT?!" The crowd erupted, losing their minds with shrieks and wails of excitement. Juliet looked between the fairy fighters, waving her hands between each one. "Alright. We start on three-" The club was wild, counting down with the woman.

Holly rolled her shoulders, twisting her neck to gauge her magick. It'd been only a week since she refreshed her magick in the clay earth, sparks bubbling along the veins in her throat. She'd be just fine.

"Two!"

Holly reset her sights on Keni, fidgeting fingers curled tight in bandaged fists. She could do this. She had to. For Artemis.

"ONE! FIGHT!"

Holly soared her fist through the air, just barely smashing the blonde woman ducking out of the way. But Holly's fist didn't land, not that she expected it to. She swerved left and tucked herself in, swiveling to put herself behind Keni - if Keni were there.

Holly groaned, sliding left to avoid the invisible threat - at least, invisible to the average eye. But Holly knew Keni's strengths, and though she couldn't see the pixie, she knew the traitor was there.

Holly waited, trusting her skill, until she felt the bristling of the hairs on her arm. She snapped her fist up, nearly jamming Keni's jaw.

But Keni was fast. And when one exclaimed, "Keni is fast!", they meant that she was fast. Keni leapt down on Holly from above, twirling her body like an acrobat to avoid the elf's fist. As soon as her bare feet touched the ground, she sprang like a cat, tumbling around Holly to avoid swing after swing. Keni blew out a single breath, switching up her technique to irritate Holly further. Keni had fought her before. She knew her weaknesses as much as Holly knew hers. Keni grunted to herself, unable to resist a sly smile. This would be fun.

She stood directly before the elf, letting Holly come to her. As Holly's fist flung out for her, Keni rolled back, barely dodging the attack with ease. She ducked right and stepped left, sensing the elf's movements before she made them. "Come on, Commodore," she taunted, sliding past Holly's upward swing. "I thought you were better than this."

Holly grimaced, blinking sweat from her eyes. She was better than this. So, what was holding her back? Holly briefly considered that maybe Keni was better than her, but the prospect didn't last long. She held back to have a laugh to herself, looking over the pixie instead. She knew Keni would want her to reply, so she wouldn't out of spite. She needed to change up her strategy, as the offensive boxing technique was a weak match to Keni's evasive, aerial movement.

Keni's mother was a Chinese pixie, and insisted passing on the tradition of the family's ancient purei aute'ong, as it was said in Gnommish. Keni constantly shifted her center of gravity, swirling and rolling around Holly's power punches. Despite her austere demeanor, she was being especially careful. Keni was only a pixie, and not a particularly strong healer. One hit from Holly was a guaranteed knockout. One hit, and the match was over. But she wouldn't lose in her own club. If it meant playing dirty, so be it.

Keni stood several feet from Holly, waiting for the sweaty elf to surge at her. She was almost put off by Holly's sudden slide past her, having switched up her technique now. Keni clicked her teeth. New technique? No problem. She stuck out a pale leg to trip the elf, grinning when Holly pulled her in for a punch. But it never came - not with Keni's fingers lodged in Holly's diaphragm, anyway. With Holly's magick blocked, she was rendered stunned and momentarily useless. And that was when Keni struck. She whacked Holly in the ribs, cracking maybe three, throwing her knee up to jam the elf in the nose.

But Holly saw it coming. She growled in response, quickly locking her fingers and catching the swift knee. She yelped in frustration on her exhale, throwing the pixie far and away from her. She watched Keni's agile frame twist through the air, landing like a cat a few feet away from her. Holly could move as smoothly as that. So what was stopping her? Was it the pressure? Was it the intense desire to slam down the fist of justice for Artemis?

If only she was focused, because right then and there, the wind was knocked out of her when Keni's flat hand came spearing into her sternum.

Holly sputtered, dropping to her knees. The bitter taste of metal filled her mouth, like sucking on a copper coin. But as quickly as any pain or ill effects could effect her, Holly's skin lit up in deep, sapphire sparks, encasing her in a soft cocoon of health. That was the benefit of being an elf: their healing was unmatched, and Holly's would continue to save her.

Until she ran out.

Anyone who knew Holly knew how irresponsible she was with magick, but even then, it'd take at least a year to fully deplete her… Unless the source of her depletion was a Fowl. Then, it was just a few hours time.

But Holly didn't have her head in the game, as evidenced when Keni's heel slammed against Holly's skull, careening her back to the floor.

"Oh, that's gotta hurt!" Juliet spectated from across the ring.

Holly felt warm blood splatter across her sticky skin, though she didn't know where. She ignored the pain as it swept away with sparks, gasping for air as she took labored breaths on her knees. Her hands bunched into fists, and if she bit her lip any harder, it would surely bleed too.

This was embarrassing. Artemis was watching her fail. This had all been for him; to win justice for him. Wasn't that motivation enough?

The thoughts didn't sit well with her, as if she'd swallowed an avocado pit whole. Mismatched eyes widened in heavy realization: this wasn't just for Artemis. Holly was so focused on winning for him, that she'd lost sight of herself. This wasn't just for Artemis. This had to be for Holly too.

It didn't matter if she won in the end, but she did want to put Keni in her place. She did want to execute everything she'd practiced and learned. She did want to take out her trauma on those responsible. She didn't desire just sweet, sweet justice - she wanted revenge. Juliet's words from minutes prior rang in her mind:

"Repeat after me: You're a badass."

"I'm a fucking badass," Holly choked aloud, a whisper of a smile escaping her lips. And she was. She could do this. Not for Keni, or Juliet, or Artemis.

For herself.

A breeze blew over her head. Now or never. Holly rolled left, tucking her limbs as she tumbled away from Keni's spinning kick. Holly jumped to her feet, twisting her neck to release sparks from her veins. A blue halo encased her body as she watched the pixie through a death glare.

"I'm gonna kick your fucking ass," Holly declared, causing the crowd to ooh and ahh from below.

"Well?" Keni sneered. "I'm waiting."

Juliet was yelling, riling up the mass of fairies. But Holly didn't hear her. She was filled with blossoming strength and determination. Eyes focused, wrists straight and biceps bubbled with excited blood. Holly flung out a solid fist, and another, and another, blinking the stinging sweat from her eyes. Keni swerved left, right, backward, avoiding each hit until she was forced against the glass cage. The neon pixie rested her foot against the glass, preparing to spring over her elfin rival and into the air. If Holly timed this right, she could catch Keni. Emphasis on the if.

Holly nearly missed Keni's launch, the pixie's magenta get-up blending her into the crackling crystal lights above. But Holly's acute eyes locked onto her target skillfully. You can pull this off. Just like Juliet did.

Holly's hand shot up into the air and lunged for the pixie's throat. The second her willowy fingertips brushed Keni's flesh, Holly tightened around the sides of her throat and pulled down with all the weight she could muster.

"OOF! Poppy just executed a perfect choke takedown on K!" Juliet yelped.

Keni slammed into the floor, almond-shaped eyes like dug out pits as the wind was knocked out of her. "Hea-" she muttered when Holly's fist soared past her cheek. Keni tumbled backwards, sluggishly spinning to her feet. She took the moment to rub her neck, unable to find her breath when another fist flew by her.

Just a bit more, Holly encouraged herself, raw adrenaline sharpening her vision of the glass cage and its occupants.

"It's now been six minutes, folks!" Juliet announced into her mic from the edge of the ring. "Who's gonna take the win?!"

Holly was tired. Keni was tired. The girls glared at each other through gasps of air, the floor slick with sweat and blood, and the pink light disorienting. But Holly could see Keni's confidence was rattled, and that was all she needed to end this. She surged forward, power-ramming her fists at the pixie with as much speed and force as she could exert.

Holly was as fast as Keni now. She lunged past her, tripping her foot behind Keni's ankle. And because the pixie whirled around to jump back, unaware of the obstruction, she flipped backwards instead, jumping over Holly altogether.

That would be Keni's final error.

Holly's fist skyrocketed upwards, smashing into Keni's delicate cheek with bone-shattering force.

The pixie was out cold before she hit the floor.

"AND THAT'S WHAT I CALL A KNOCK-OUT SPECIAL, BABY!" Juliet roared, the crowd's wails and raves reverberating around the cavernous arena.

Before Juliet could congratulate her, Holly kneeled quickly, placing a hard palm to Keni's forehead. "Heal."

Long lashes fluttered as sapphire sparks hugged Keni's silhouette, eventually opening to reveal the gratitude in her eyes. "Thanks," she sputtered, sitting up slowly.

"Yeah."

Juliet rushed over, throwing Holly's fist up triumphantly. "WE HAVE A WINNER! GIVE IT UP TO POPPYYY!"

The old friends celebrated with fervent fairies pouring into the glass cage, congratulations, squeals, and fist bumps galore.

Juliet turned to Holly amidst the chaos, clapping her fondly on the shoulder. "I totally knew you'd win! Plus, you nailed that takedown. So, because of that-" Juliet stroked Holly's long, auburn braids. "You can cut your hair!"

Vera and Dalí shoveled forward through, running their fingers through her braids as well. "Oh shit! Are you gonna do it?" Dalí asked. "Are you gonna join the Short Hair Club again?"

Holly took a step back, anxiously playing with the hair in question. "I… don't know. I was so certain I wanted to, like, certain I hated it. But now, the thought of cutting it…" Holly mulled it over, biting her lip. Eventually she came to a sigh, offering her friends a bright smile. "It's kind of grown on me. So, the long hair is staying. For now."

"Yay!" Vera cheered, grasping Juliet's jaded braid now. "Twinsies!"

"What's my punishment?"

The raspy voice alerted the group, Holly spinning on her heels to frown at the owner of the defeated voice. "Your punishment?" Holly pondered a few ideas. "Nothing. I got what I wanted. Now, I just hope you know your place."

Keni nodded, smoothing the baby hairs from her eyes. "Yeah. I should be grateful you haven't arrested me."

"You should be."

Keni offered a hand. "You put up a good fight, Holly. Thanks for the entertainment."

Holly glanced at her hand. Should she shake it? Wouldn't that be akin to forgiving the pixie? Holly sighed again. Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer. She took Keni's hand in hers, shaking it with respect. "Thanks for letting me beat your ass."

Keni pulled her hand away with a cheerful laugh. "Anytime. That's what K-Club is for."

The celebration warranted nettlebeer and chocolates truffles, the festivities going into the late of night.

Mulberry Row Condominiums

Apartment 224

Holly returned home nearly three hours later, anxiety building in her chest as she prepared to face Artemis. She passed through her sliding front door, watchful eyes darting around the apartment. "Artemis? I'm home."

"Huh?"

Holly chuckled, approaching the sofa. "Sorry. Did I wake you?"

It appeared she had. He was sprawled across the cushions, staring at her in dazed disbelief. When Artemis finally registered his surroundings, he smiled at the sight of her. "Holly," he whispered, sitting up with a yawn. "Sorry. I fell asleep."

"No, no! Don't be." Holly joined him on the sofa, burrowing herself into his cozy chest. She breathed in deeply, relishing his woodsy scent and closeness. "I hope my match wasn't too boring."

"You're joking," Artemis rolled his eyes, wrapping his arms around her. "I watched the whole thing. You were fierce, Holls." He kissed her forehead, muttering against her, "But I already knew that."

"Thank you, Arty." Holly hugged him tighter. "I missed you."

"It's only been a few hours," Artemis laughed kindly, running his fingers through her fiery hair.

"Still."

Artemis curled a finger under her chin, lifting her face to look at him. "If it's any consolation, I missed you too." He pressed his lips to hers, closing his eyes as she kissed him back. Gods, how he loved this. A certain idea sprouted in his mind, causing him to break their kiss slightly. "You know how proud I am of you, right? How inspiring I find you?"

"I do," Holly nodded, kissing him again.

Artemis pushed back gently, their foreheads still pressed together. "I've been wanting to ask you: What are we? Are you-" He choked, swallowing a lump in his throat. "Would you be my partner, Holly? My girlfriend, as your People call it?"

Holly blinked at him. "That's how you're gonna ask me? Not even on a cute picnic?"

Artemis went paler than usual, and reeled backwards as sweat formed on his brow. "Oh! Er- I-" He facepalmed. "I hadn't considered that. I'm an idiot." He smiled sheepishly. "May I start over?"

Holly grinned impishly, pressing her palm against his mouth. "I'm messing with you. I already told everyone you're my boyfriend."

"Including Juliet?" he asked, muffled against her palm.

Holly removed her hand and gave a guilty smile. "No… I didn't mention it to Juliet."

"That's probably best for the time being. At least, until I sort out my familial situation." Artemis stole another kiss from her, savoring her taste and feel for a moments before pulling away. "So, that settles it. You're my partner." A huge sigh of relief escaped his lips. "It feels incredible to say that."

"Agreed." Holly pecked him. "Artemis Fowl is my boyfriend."

The two curled up in each other's embrace, enjoying the rest of their night together as Haven's city life buzzed outside the windows, the apartment like a bubble of peace suspended in time.

The next morning, Holly had left for her work shift, leaving Artemis to her devices alone. Meowington perched on the counter, staring at his frustrated human fumble with the espresso maker, clumsily dropping the powder across the counter. "Hellfire, Meow," Artemis grumbled, speaking to his tuxedo friend. "How does Holly do this? The skill level required to make a cafe au lait is ridiculously excessive."

"Meh."

Brrrt. Brrrt. Brrrt.

Artemis barely noticed the buzzing phone, sliding the call open through the holographic projection. "Yeah?" he said, returning to the mess he'd made.

"Hello, Arty."

Artemis froze. He knew that silky, sweet voice. Weary eyes trickled to examine the contact name. Mother.

"We need to talk, darling."