Estimated Reading Time: 21 Minutes

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Leafstorm

Ness shook his head with a small chuckle. "Not unless you want Sonic to bother us," he replied.

Leaf tilted her head, confusion written all over her face. "Sonic?" she asked, her tone skeptical.

Ness: "Sonic breaks in almost everyday."

Leaf: "What the fuck!"

Ness: "He won't leave me alone."

Leaf: "Just kick him out."

Ness: "I've tried. He just hops back through my window and if I close it, I know he's going to break it."

Leaf: "Call the guards."

Ness: "It's fine. I don't want to make it a big scene."

Leaf: "But that's weird."

Ness: "I know. I don't get him either. He can bother anyone else, but he chooses me. It's because he says he has no respect for me whatsoever."

Leaf: "What an asshole."

Ness: "It's Sonic. What'd you expect?"

Leaf: "That's so random."

Ness: "He says we're friends, but really I'm just his nanny at this point."

Leaf: "Okay?"

Ness: "Yeah I don't know. Anyway I grabbed my laptop. Let's head out."

Leaf nodded, and they made their way to her place. Once inside, they settled on her bed, the mattress dipping slightly under their combined weight. Ness placed his laptop on his lap and powered it on, the faint hum of the machine filling the quiet room.

With a few quick clicks, he booted up the dating simulator. The colorful title screen flashed to life, its cheerful music contrasting the unspoken tension still lingering between them.

Dating Sim: Luna Luna

-Press Start-

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A Blossoming Festival:

The screen fades in to reveal a vibrant festival in a quaint village square. Lanterns hang overhead against the morning sky. NPCs bustle about, selling trinkets, sweets, and festival-themed accessories. You, the protagonist, is standing in front of a flower stand, nervously adjusting your outfit.

Love Interest: Luna
Luna, a shy artist with a knack for painting, stands nearby, holding a small sketchbook close to her chest. She has long silver hair and warm hazel eyes that dart nervously around the lively crowd.

Dialogue Choices:

1. "This festival is amazing! Have you been here before?"

2. "You look like you have something on your mind. Want to talk about it?"

3. "Hey, do you think that fortune teller over there is legit?"

…

Ness: "So, which one do you want to pick?"

Leaf: "I'm not sure. Hmm. Something seems to be bothering her. Let's pick choice two."

…

You lean closer, lowering your voice to match Luna's soft tone.

You: "You okay? You seem… distracted."

Luna hesitates, her gaze dropping to her sketchbook.

Luna: "I just… I'm working on a painting inspired by the festival, but I feel like I can't capture it perfectly."

You: "Oh I'm sure you've captured it perfectly. Can I see?"

Luna: "A-ah! I-I suppose. Here I took a picture of it on my phone."

Luna tilts her phone toward you, the glow of the screen illuminating her face in the dim festival light. The image displayed is a breathtaking painting of the festival. The scene is alive with vibrant colors—the warm, golden hues of lanterns casting a soft glow over bustling vendor stalls, each adorned with colorful banners fluttering gently in the breeze.

Cherry blossom trees frame the scene, their delicate pink petals cascading like confetti, adding an air of whimsy and enchantment. The artist captured the lively atmosphere perfectly: people laughing and chatting as they explored the stalls, children chasing each other with sparklers, and couples strolling hand in hand beneath the blossoms. The detail is so intricate you can almost hear the hum of the festival and feel the crisp evening air.

Dialogue Choices:

1. "Wow! Luna, this is amazing! I love it!"

2. *Hugs her* "You truly are amazing, Luna."

3. "This shit's terrible."

…

Ness: "Obviously option three, right? Hahaha!"

Leaf smirked as she gave Ness a playful shove, her fingertips barely grazing his arm yet enough to make him stagger dramatically for effect. "This is why you're single," she teased, her tone light but laced with mock pity.

"Ouch," Ness laughed, clutching his chest as though her words had physically struck him. His grin was crooked, a mix of amusement and mock offense. "That's a low blow, Leaf. You're ruthless."

Leaf shrugged, a mischievous twinkle in her eyes as she leaned slightly closer. "Just calling it like I see it."

Ness rolled his eyes, the corners of his mouth twitching upward despite himself. He glanced at the options on the screen, his finger hovering over the choices. "Alright, which one?"

Leaf: "Option one. The second one is a little too strong."

…

You: "Wow! Luna, this is amazing! I love it!"

Luna: "Y-you do?"

You: "Yes. I can't even comprehend how good it is. The detail in this painting is superb."

Luna: "T-thank you." UwU

…

Dialogue Choices:

1. "Would you like to have sex with me in the public bathroom?"

2. "Would you like to check out the vendors?"

3. "Ok baiii." :3

...

Leaf: "What the fuck is option one?!"

Ness: "Hahaha!"

Leaf: "Is this a hentai game?"

Ness: "Uh…"

Leaf: "Oh my god, Ness…"

Ness: "If we choose option two, it won't be!"

Leaf: "So if we choose option one, what's gonna happen?"

Ness: "Uh…"

Leaf: "I hate you."

Ness: "I hate me too."

Leaf: "Option two."

…

You: "Hey, Luna, I've been meaning to ask… do you want to look at the vendors with me?"

Luna: *Blushes* "Ah! I-I would love to, Senpai."

The two of you check out the vendors.

Which one would you like to see?

1. Check to see the food vendor.

2. Check to see the "toy" vendor.

3. Check to see the plushie vendor.

…

Leaf turned sharply, her eyes narrowing as they landed on Ness. He could feel her gaze, hot and unyielding, but he kept his eyes locked on the screen, pretending to be engrossed in the game. He knew exactly what was coming.

"Really, Ness?" she said, her tone dripping with judgment and just a hint of disbelief.

Her voice cut through the air like a blade, and Ness winced slightly, though he kept his expression neutral. "What?" he replied innocently, finally daring to glance her way.

Leaf: "Option two… Are you serious?"

Ness: "Uh…"

Leaf: "Tch! Men…"

Ness: "I wasn't thinking about option two at all! I was actually thinking about option three."

Leaf: "You've definitely chosen the second one in the past."

Ness: "Me? No. I'm innocent."

Leaf: "Mhm, suuure."

…

You: "Luna, those plushies. Would you like to check them out?"

Luna: "How did you know I love plushies?"

Dialogue Choices:

1. "Because you're a woman, duh."

2. "I dunno, it just screams you."

3. "Because they're cute like you."

…

Both Ness and Leaf burst into laughter at the sheer absurdity of option one, their voices echoing through the room. "There's no way Luna would like us," Leaf managed between giggles, wiping a tear from the corner of her eye.

"Right?" Ness grinned, shaking his head. "Option one is basically setting yourself up for rejection."

After catching their breaths, the two leaned back toward the screen, their laughter subsiding into amused chuckles. Leaf tapped her finger thoughtfully against her chin. "Okay, option one is a no-go. Let's go with option two. It's the safest choice."

Ness nodded in agreement, moving the cursor over to highlight the second option. "Yeah, can't go wrong with playing it cool."

With a decisive click, they locked in their choice, exchanging a quick glance that was equal parts excitement and anticipation for what would happen next.

…

You: "I dunno, it just screams you."

Luna: "O-oh! Senpai, are you implying that I'm cute?"

Dialogue Choices:

1. "Of course I think you're cute! N-not to sound creepy or anything. But yeah you're cute."

2. "Yes, bitch! I want to fucking fuck you. God, you're so stupid. You're lucky you're pretty."

3. "Honestly Luna, you're average at best. I'm only pursuing you because you're a girl, and no other girl wants to date my ass."

…

Leaf: "Hahaha! What the fuck is this game?!"

Ness: "A hilarious one! I knew you'd like it."

Leaf: "It's funny. I can't deny. We should totally pick option two."

Ness: "Nooo. Hahaha!"

Ness obviously picked option one. Despite Leaf egging him on to pick the terrible choices.

…

You: "Of course I think you're cute. N-not to sound creepy or anything. But yeah you're cute."

Luna: "S-Senpai…"

You: "Uh, y-yeah, sorry to make it suddenly awkward haha… Let's uh, check out that vendor shop, shall we?"

Luna: "Okay."

The two walked over to the vendor. Luna couldn't help but stare at the purple horse plush.

What would you like to do?

1. Buy it for her.

2. Continue to stare for a bit and then move on.

3. Ask if she wants it.

…

Leaf: "Wow, no overly terrible options this time."

Ness: "Surprising. So, what'd you want to do?"

Leaf: "Let's buy it for her."

Ness: "Okay!"

…

You reach for the purple horse plush, its soft fur glinting under the warm light of the stall. The vibrant violet of its body contrasts with the shimmering silver mane, stitched with care to mimic flowing locks. As you hand it over, her eyes widen, shimmering like two pools reflecting the festival's glowing lanterns.

Her lips part slightly in surprise before curving into a radiant smile, one that feels like the first bloom of spring after a long winter. She clasps the plush to her chest, hugging it close as if it were the most precious treasure she's ever received. The faint scent of cherry blossoms wafts through the air, blending with the sound of her soft, heartfelt laugh.

"Thank you," she says, her voice warm and full of sincerity, her cheeks tinted with a delicate pink. That smile—so pure, so genuine—sends an unexpected flutter through your chest, leaving your heart racing and your words momentarily lost.

The two of you stroll through the bustling festival, the air alive with laughter and the enticing aromas of street food. Colorful lanterns sway gently in the breeze, casting a kaleidoscope of warm hues over the cobblestone paths. As you weave between the lively stalls, a man in a bright red yukata extends a pamphlet to you. His grin is as inviting as the festival itself.

Curious, you take the pamphlet and glance at its ornate design—a vivid depiction of dancers and floats illuminated by a sea of lights. The bold lettering announces a parade later tonight, promising music, floaties, and magic under the stars.

You show the pamphlet to Luna, who gasps in delight. Her emerald eyes sparkle like the lanterns above, a mixture of awe and anticipation lighting up her face. "That sounds amazing! Let's definitely go!" she says, clutching your arm in excitement.

But as the evening progresses, and the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in rich purples and deep blues, you notice Luna's energy begin to wane. Her glow dims ever so slightly, and her steps grow slower, her hand occasionally brushing her temple. Concern etches its way into your thoughts as you watch her, realizing something's not quite right.

You: "What's wrong? You don't seem well."

Luna: "Oh it's nothing. I'm fine."

You: "Are you sure?"

Luna: "Yes."

What do you do?

1. Continue to pester her about it.

2. Nod your head and find a spot for the night show parade.

…

Leaf: "Oh, only two options this time."

Ness: "Eh, let's go with option two."

Leaf: "What? No. Clearly she's unwell."

Ness: "Y-yeah but… T-the light show is so worth it. Trust me."

Leaf: "Something's wrong with her."

Ness: "You really became attached to Luna, huh?"

Leaf: *Blushes* "I-I…"

Ness: "This game's pretty good at sucking people in."

Leaf: "Yes. It's fun. I'll admit. At first I thought it was cringy, but I see why you like it now."

Ness: "Riiight, you get so into the characters."

Leaf: "Please, Ness, I wanna know what's wrong with her. Let's choose option one."

Ness: "Ah… I—honestly, don't really care for her. I really want to show you the light show. The animation is amazing."

Leaf: "You can just show me on Youtube."

Ness: "Yeaaaah, but I would rather us experience it through the game."

Leaf smirked, her expression a mix of mischief and triumph, before rolling her eyes at Ness's hesitation. Without missing a beat, she leaned forward and swiped the laptop from his lap, her quick motion catching him completely off guard.

"Hey!" Ness exclaimed, his voice rising in surprise.

Leaf chuckled. "Sorry, Ness," she said with an unapologetic grin, her fingers already navigating to select option one. "But I'm too curious to resist."

The faint click of the trackpad sealed her choice. Ness groaned, flopping back dramatically against the bed.

Ness: "Can I at least have my laptop back?"

Leaf: "Nope~"

Ness: "God dammit."

…

You: "Luna, I can tell you're lying. What's wrong?"

Luna: "Senpai, you're too kind, but please, do not worry. I am fine."

You: "You're not fine. Here, let me walk you back to your place."

Luna: "B-but the parade…"

You: "There will be other chances. But for now, let me walk you back."

Luna: "I'm so sorry, Senpai. I feel so baka."

You: "Don't feel that way. Being here with you was the best memory I could've ever asked for. Light show or not."

Luna: "R-really?"

You: "Yes. Now let's get you home."

You walk Luna back to her place under the soft glow of the streetlights, the quiet of the evening broken only by the distant hum of cars and the occasional rustling of leaves in the breeze. Her steps seem slower, her breathing a bit shallow, but she brushes it off with a faint smile.

As Luna reaches for the door and pushes it open, a sudden, harsh, and raw coughing fit overtakes her. The sound reverberates in the quiet night, sharp and alarming. She stumbles forward, her legs giving out beneath her, and she collapses onto the ground just inside the doorway.

"LUNA!"

You immediately scoop her up in your arms, her body alarmingly light and fragile. Her breathing is still uneven, each shallow inhale tugging at your heartstrings. Carefully, you carry her inside and gently lay her down on the couch, ensuring her head is supported by a cushion.

Kneeling beside her, your eyes dart over her pale face, searching for any sign of relief or worsening distress. Her usually vibrant features are now drained of color, and a bead of sweat trails down her temple.

"I'll get you some water," you say, your voice soft but urgent. Even as you speak, your gaze flickers toward the kitchen, already calculating the quickest way to find a glass and return to her side.

She gives you a weak smile, her voice soft and hoarse. "Thank you… I'll be fine, really." But the way her body trembles slightly betrays her words, and you know she needs the comfort you're offering.

You hand her a glass of water and she drinks it. "Where's your parents?" You ask.

Luna: "They're on vacation." *Coughs*

You: "They went without you?"

Luna: "I didn't want to come."

You: "Why not?"

Luna: "Because I wanted to go to this festival with you."

You: "Luna…"

Luna: "I really like you, Senpai."

You: "L-Luna!"

Luna slowly sits up, her movements deliberate and shaky. Her hand rises to her forehead, and you notice her wince, her brows knitting together in pain. "Luna, don't push yourself," you say firmly, stepping closer to her as you rise to your feet.

She shakes her head, a weak but determined motion, her hair falling messily around her face. "Can you... can you help me to my room?" she asks softly, her voice barely above a whisper but carrying a note of vulnerability that tugs at your chest.

What would you like to do?

1. Help her to her room.

2. Tell her you have something to do and leave.

…

Ness starts chuckling to himself. Leaf looks his way and raises a brow. "Why're you laughing?"

Ness: "Oh it's nothing~"

She gives him a long look, her eyes narrowing slightly as if trying to search for some hidden meaning in his expression. There's a flicker of something—hesitation, maybe curiosity—but it's gone as quickly as it appeared. With a small shrug, she reaches out and clicks on option one.

…

You gently help Luna up the stairs, her hand resting weakly on your arm for support. As you reach her room, the door creaks open, revealing a space that feels like a little sanctuary. Her room is softly lit by an array of fairy lights strung along the walls, their warm glow creating a cozy, almost magical atmosphere. Plushies in every shape and size are scattered across her bed and shelves, adding to the playful charm of the space. There's a calmness in the room, a sense of comfort that contrasts with the worry clouding your thoughts.

Luna smiles faintly, her eyes softening as she looks around her room. "It's not much, but it's home," she says quietly, sinking onto the edge of the bed.

You glance around at the carefully arranged trinkets, each one a little piece of her personality on display. There's a delicate charm to the way she's decorated, from the soft pastel hues to the stuffed animals, each one a token of comfort in her world. It's a stark contrast to the intensity of the situation just moments ago. You gently sit beside her, trying to keep the concern off your face as you check in on her.

You: "How are you feeling?"

Luna: "Better now that you're here."

You: "I'm glad you're feeling better. Is there anything I can do to help more?"

Luna: "Well…"

You: "Yes?"

Luna: "We forgot my glass of water downstairs. Can you get it for me?"

Dialogue Choices:

1. "Get it yourself."

2. "Sure, I'll be back."

3. "Of course my sweet." *Pecks her cheek*

…

Ness: "Option one for sure."

Leaf: "You're so mean."

Ness: "Hahaha!"

Leaf: "I'm going with two obviously."

Ness: "You sure not three?"

Leaf: "No, that's too creepy."

Ness: "She sure seems into you though."

Leaf: "Are you spoiling it?"

Ness: "Just a suggestion."

Leaf: "So she's already into me?"

Ness: "Who knows~"

Leaf: "Wait, have I been friend zoning myself?"

Ness: "Perhaps."

Leaf: "Sorry, option three makes me uncomfortable. I dunno, it seems too fast."

Ness: "Okay. Whatever feels best."

…

"Sure, I'll be right back," you say, turning around. You head downstairs and grab the glass of water. You walk up the stairs and see that her door is still open. With a warm smile, you enter her room, but you don't see her anywhere.

However, when you turn around, your breath catches as your heart drops into your stomach. The unsettling sight of Luna's wide, almost manic eyes paired with the unnerving grin freezes you in place. The knife in her hand glints ominously in the soft light of the room, its presence far too out of place in what was once a sanctuary.

L-Luna?!