Slowly, the night came again and nothing really changed, they bid each other a good night, despite neither of them thinking they’d actually have a good one again. Quickly fell asleep, still tired from yesterday.

At some point, Yumi woke up suddenly. She didn’t remember her dream, she wasn’t even sure if she woke up because of a nightmare, but something jerked her awake. She let herself calm down, trying to control her breathing, she didn’t even realize how panicked she was until she was fully conscious of what was going on. She tried to focus on her surroundings.

Suddenly, she heard rushed footsteps, probably heading to the bathroom. It was probably just Gill. Wait, he’s a skeleton, he doesn’t need to-

Before she could even finish that thought, she could hear him gagging and actually throwing up. She sat up on her bed, extremely worried, she didn’t know if she should call for him or get up. The motion made her dizzy, it didn’t help that the noises made her feel even sicker. She just stood there, staring at her closed door. She then heard the sink running and the toilet being flushed. As, quickly as he came in, he paced out of the bathroom. She could hear him panting, in between his steps. She decided that she should check up on him, he clearly isn’t fine. Slowly, she got up, fighting her dizziness to walk toward the kitchen and living room.

As she walked in the hallway, she could hear the sound of glass clinking, like someone was pouring themselves a glass... but not of water or milk... or juice. Oh, god, he’s not drinking, is he? Oh, fuck. There he was, doing exactly that. He didn’t seem to notice her until she was close enough for her clumsy steps to be heard. He stopped once he heard her, jolting a bit. He slowly turned around, as if he was expecting something else, his eye was glowing a bright yellow.

*O-Oh... i-it’s just you. Ah- sorry... I-I just-... “Did you drink yesterday?” she asked, worried. *W-Wha-? Well, I-I... y-yeah... sorry. he apologized, nervously. “... How many?” she asked in a serious and firm tone. *I-I’m not- “How? Many?” she stepped closer, speaking even more firmly. *... P-Probably more than I should. he finally admitted.

Obviously, she looked disappointed, but she couldn’t exactly blame him either. Though, she wondered how did he even get to her stuff so easily, she stored it not really somewhere hidden, but not in an obvious place, because she doesn’t really drink all that much. She started to wonder if he’s done this before yesterday. Fuck.

*I-I’m really sorry, Yumi, you know I’m not the type to take your stuff without permission but... last night was... “I know... I know... just... just one okay? I don’t really mind that you’re drinking my stuff, I don’t really drink that much anyway... I’m just... I just don’t want you to drink yourself out. L-Like... I care about your health a-and... I’m just worried. Y-Y’know?” she shyly explained.

She tugged a little at her sleeve, blushing slightly. Normally you wouldn’t really be able to see, as it is dark, but the blow in his eye and the fact that he can still see, at night, still made her fluster visible. There was a flutter in his ribs again, however, it did not feel very good, considering he just threw up recently. He didn’t say anything and drowned the feeling with a gulp of alcohol. Already, he felt a little better.

*Th-thanks. And I’m sorry... things have been rough, lately... this kinda... made it worse. he explained. “I-I’m sorry too... I shouldn’t have gone there so late.” she lowered her head. *No- it’s fine... besides, I should’ve stayed with you. I know it can get dangerous at night. I was a big idiot... “... I-I just... I feel like I ruined it... You were having so much fun a-and I was too. B-but I was too excited to think.” she admitted *It’s fine, Yumi.... really. And you didn’t ruin anything, it wasn’t your fault. It’s theirs if anything. Attacking someone at a temple on New Year’s Eve. That’s pretty fucked. he reassured her.

A brief pause, but a painful one. He made the gap with another sip. She was staring at him, with a worried expression, still tinted with guilt, despite the reassurance. Because she was trying to guess with his eyes what was the other things that were “rough”, she realized that his glass was shaking a little. Well, rather, he was shaking.

“D-Did you... have a nightmare?” *... Yeah. he didn’t even deny it.

Another pause. Normally, he wouldn’t say anything but... he was too tired and out of it to even care much information he tells her. She continued talking.

“... D-Do you want to talk about it?” she hesitated. *Heh... no... not really. But... “But...?” she repeated, tilting her head worriedly. *I’m pretty sure I’m only going to get worse... if I keep it inside... it’s hell. I just wish I would’ve forgotten completely... that I wouldn’t have these memories to deal with on a near-daily basis. he vaguely explained “I-I... I understand how you feel.” she admitted. *Maybe... but I don’t think to that extent. “W-What do you mean?” she asked, slightly panicked.

He let out a deep nasal sigh. He really was going to tell her everything, wasn’t he? Not that he cared, not today, maybe he’d regret it later but... he really doesn’t care right now. He should at least start with some kind of warning, like that she wouldn’t feel forced to want to continue the conversation if ever she wasn’t comfortable. Still, he hesitated on throwing a bomb like that.

*... Do you... ever feel like you shouldn’t have existed, Yumi?

As expected, she had a strong reaction to that sentence, however, he did not know why. She was shocked, of course, to hear this out of him, it made her sad, angry and millions of other feelings she couldn’t describe. Hearing those words triggered something in her, something that she’d rather forget as well.

He expected her to say “no” or, at least, have an expression that clearly said so. However, he could only feel a horrid sensation as the answer clearly was the opposite, that it was even something she was afraid of even answering herself. He couldn’t look at her for a long moment, guilt filling his throat. He felt nauseous and somehow decided it was a good idea to drown the feeling with another gulp, nearly finishing his glass.

“W-W-What h-happened to you?” *... I’m not sure you really want to know that. “I-I’m sure I can handle it.” she says, not very confidently. *Fine... I don’t want to get into details but- ”T-That’s fine, G. I-I understand.”  *... it was some kind of experiment failure. he vaguely explains. 

Of course, she looked a little confused, however, it was mostly covered in worry. Honestly, she didn’t even know if she was ready to hear what he was about to say, but she still wanted to hear him out, maybe it would help take off a little bit of his burden, at least. Still, she was afraid and that fear only grew as he hesitated to speak again.

The sane and sober part of him really didn’t want to tell her all of this, to be honest, but this was starting to accumulate and the frequent nightmares he’s having, specifically because of last night’s incident, didn’t help. He needed to, at least, tell someone and it’s not like he didn’t trust her, he was just afraid of how she will take it. But why worry about it now and to this extent? What even if happening to his soul? He felt like it was twisting. There was no reason to be afraid. Is he going nuts or something? He tried to ignore the feeling by taking another sip, before talking again.

*It’s really complicated... and even I don’t remember all of it, but... 

There was a worrisome pause.

*Long story short, there were two scientists working on some kind of project after monsters were freed from the Underground, but things weren’t going where they wanted... One of them got stressed to the point where they started having Soul Down. he finally explained. “S-Soul Down? What’s that?” she asked, worried. *It’s kinda like... when monsters get really depressed, because they kinda live on HOPE and LOVE... they eventually start deteriorating. 

Yumi let out a short gasp, covering her mouth. She did not like where this is going, at all.

*Because of that... they tried to use the experiment to transfer one of the two’s DT and Soul Fragment. he continued. “DT? What’s-” *That’s too complicated to explain... but it’s short for DETERMINATION. “O-Oh... okay, s-sorry.” she apologized, afraid of the implications. *It’s fine... anyway, something went wrong, I don’t know what exactly, but it made their Souls fuse into each other. The machine exploded, they died... I was... “born”. he admitted, hesitantly. “W-What!? I-I think I lost you with that last part... I-I don’t understand.”

She was unbelievably afraid, not of him, but... she couldn’t help but worry about what that meant, she couldn’t grasp it, she wasn’t even sure if she understood it correctly. G, couldn’t look at her, though, he didn’t want to explain it in more detail, it was painful enough as is. He was getting bad flashbacks and tried to drown them with a gulp of alcohol, finishing his glass. Still, it didn’t help. He couldn’t look at her as he spoke.

*I-I was “them” Yumi... some kind of Amalgamate of their Souls... they died and I still have their voices in my head. I still have some of their distorted memories. I still have nightmares about their past! About the accident! About all the stupid shit I did! Like fucking abandoning my “brother” because I can’t stand the fact that they’re DEAD and I’m alive somehow and have to take all the fucking burden of their deaths! It makes me want to fucking wish that they just died and nothing happened THAT I DIDN’T HAPPEN! I WISH I DIDN’T FUCKING-

Suddenly, his glass was taken away and he was yanked into a hug. With the small sniffles he was hearing, he realized that she was crying. He didn’t mean to upset her and especially not yell at her while he was aggressively venting. 

*I... I-I’m sorry Yumi I-I don’t-  “I-It’s okay... I just-... you were right that I probably don’t know how bad it is for you but... I-I know how you feel. Well, I used to... I... my mother was... horrible... she made me feel worthless because of how I was... my arm and my magic... she blamed me and my brother for my father leaving her... I-I... I often wished that I was born diffrent...m-maybe even... n-not at all... I-I kinda had a S-Soul Down myself...”she admitted.

He couldn’t say anything about what she admitted and what it implied. It was one thing to feel like this on your own, but someone else feeding that into your mind and your own family too? He was... words can’t even describe how he’s feeling, right now.

“B-But... even if she d-destroyed my self-esteem and e-even if my back looks l-like this because of her... I realized that she was wrong. Everyone has the right to exist! A-And... y-you’re a great person G... I-I wouldn’t have let you stay for this long i-if... if I didn’t c-care about you... y-y’know?”

She was a bit embarrassed to say that out loud, but it was more important to say it than her own embarrassment. It did help her on lessening her tears, though. But, she was still sniffling quite a bit.

Of course, it also shocked and embarrassed G that she would say something like this. However, he was still very thankful and glad that she felt that way. But, maybe he was strangely a little too glad. He doesn’t know why but, he had yet another intense fluttery feeling, just like at the New Years. This time, however, he was even tearing up a little. It didn’t help that even his Soul was also beating intensely. He doesn’t know why he would have that strong of a reaction. Maybe the alcohol made it worse. Still, he hugged her tightly, hoping it would calm him down, somehow. What is even going on?

Yumi noticed that her shoulder was starting to get wet as he laid his head on her shoulder. However, she didn’t say anything about it and they stayed like this for a little moment. 

After a few seconds, he pulled away while wiping his tears with one hand, the other was still on her shoulder. He took a deep “breath” before speaking again.

*I-I’m really sorry Yumi... I didn’t mean to upset you. But- “Really, G, i-it’s fine. That wasn’t why I was crying... I just-... I kinda had some bad flashbacks of back then... b-but it’s okay! It just... made me realize even more how horrible it was to feel that way, even though... I had people supporting me.” she explained her eyes filled with melancholy.

Her eyes started watering again, remembering the things she went through. But, she didn’t want to think about it, not right now. She was supposed to try to comfort him, but she keeps deriving it to herself. But, no matter how much she told herself to stop crying, to show her support instead of wallowing in the past, wiping her tears away, she just couldn’t stop. She hates this.

“I-I’m sorry I-I'm supposed to cheer y-you up a-and... I-I just-”

He could see that, despite trying to seem like she was okay, that she got over this, she clearly hasn’t, maybe she still had those feelings in her mind, to this day. Knowing her, she’s probably hiding it to not make others worry. He doesn’t know what came over him but, without even thinking, he cupped her face with both his hands and wiped her tears away. 

Of course, she blushed a deep red, caught off guard by the gesture, reflexively holding his wrist. She wasn’t really expecting anything but, it didn’t stop her from being embarrassed by... whatever he was doing. She squirmed a little, when he brushed his thumbs near her eyes, causing her glasses to get a little crooked. But, she didn’t mind too much, other than that, despite being a little confused.

He doesn’t know why he stood there for a few couple of seconds, making things gradually more awkward. His mind was going a bit fuzzy, his soul felt a lot fuzzier, though. It could be the alcohol starting to kick in but, this felt a little... different. Strange, even. What the hell is even going on?

Still not really thinking straight, he leaned in a little closer. What is he even planning on doing?

A little closer. Maybe, deep down, he knows the answer?

Closer. No, he can’t keep denying it. He knows why. But why does he even what to do “that”? Rather, why now?

He... no, everything feels fuzzy, he can’t think straight. He can’t do that, not like this, he doesn’t even know why. He can’t think straight, he can’t. 

He can’t. 

He stops his tracks, close enough where he could feel her restrained nasal breath on his face. He realized that she was very stiff, as if she was kinda holding her breath, eyes closed almost firmly, blushing furiously. It didn’t really look like she wanted to, but it didn’t look like she was planning on pushing him away either. She honestly could’ve, he wasn’t holding her in a way that would’ve restrained her, even her hand was free. But, she still held his wrist. 

He doesn’t get it. He doesn’t understand anything that is happening right now. Things are just too fuzzy right now.

He derives his previous attempt to, instead, rest his forehead, blushing about what he almost did. Regaining a little bit of his rationality back, he hesitantly speaks up again.

*... I-I’m sorry... I dunno what I’m doing right now... I think... it’s the alcohol starting to kick in. “I-I-It’s o-okay... I-I think...” she tried to reassure, hesitantly opening her eyes. *We should go to bed... it’s really late now... I’m tired... and probably kinda drunk. “O-Okay.” she nodded, avoiding his gaze.

He let her go and took a step back, still looking at her, but half avoiding her gaze. She was completely avoiding his, however, but she also looked like she wanted to say something. However, she didn’t speak up and turned away towards her room. However, remembering something, he stopped her for one more moment.

*Oh, uh... and... I wanted to tell you... Thank you, Yumi. I... I care about you too and... I hope we can overcome our past... someday.

She didn’t know what to say to that, it made her even more flustered but, she’s the one who said it first. However, something else caught her eye. Maybe it was just because they were in the dark but... G’s soul was glowing through his shirt. She didn’t know what to make of that information, so she just stood there. 

He thought she either wanted to say something again, or she thought he was going to say something else, so he continued. Or, rather, he gave a sign that he was finished saying what he wanted to say.

*Goodnight. “U-Um, yeah... g-goodnight.”

“Hmmm... maybe we could go ice skating? I haven’t a while... and ramen? I wanted to go to that monster place... Oooh! We could even go to the Japanese festival nearby! I should wear a kimono...-” she thought out loud *Hey, you know I’m starting to wonder if you remembered that I’m here too. he said, cutting her, jokingly. “Aaah! I-I forgot y-you were... u-um...”

She flushed, she hates it when she talks to herself like that. At least, he didn’t seem to mind that much as he was chuckling. 

*Eheheh, it’s fine. But, y’know you can just ask her, which things she’d be okay in doing. I’m good with everything, though. You come up with pretty fun stuff to do. he gave her a thumbs up. “Y-yeah, I’ll do that. A-and... thanks.” she bows her head, shyly. *Oh, and one more thing. What’s a... “kimono”? he askes, tilting his head. “... Y-You don’t know??” she asks, surprised. *No...? “W-well, it’s kind of- it’s- like a... aah, fuck, just- here.”

She gave him her phone, showing a picture and definition of a kimono.

*Ooooh! That’s what that’s called. Y’know you could’ve said that it’s “a Japanese dress” and I would’ve gotten that. he chuckles. “W-well, I’m really bad at explaining things so...” *Heh, it’s okay. But... you’re gonna buy something that expensive?? “W-what? No! I already have one! It was a gift from... my grandfather... w-when he passed away.”she explained, with a saddened tone in her voice.

Fuck, he didn’t mean to bring the mood down. She was really happy too. Dammit, he fucked it up.

*Shit, sorry, I-I didn’t mean to- “N-no, it’s fine. It’s not like you knew. Besides… it was a long time ago.”

Despite her trying to reassure him, her sad expression remained, looking at the ground and possibly thinking about her grandfather. To top it off, although G does not know this, Yumi considered her grandfather as her only real family, besides her brother, Yoru.

The few seconds of silence felt like an eternity. It’s not often that G saw her this sad, it broke his soul. He really wanted to give her a hug or… some sort of comfort. He hesitated for a bit, he isn’t usually very comfortable with initiating physical affection and he didn’t know if she would be. In the end, though, he decided to go through with it anyway. He just couldn’t leave her like that.

“U-um!?”

She didn’t exactly know how to react, her arm was reflexively placed between the two of them. She was so shocked that he hugged her that her cheeks turned a deep red. She was glad that he was comforting her, but it was still very VERY embarrassing. Hugging a skeleton was… very strange. The feeling was mutual. Well, maybe it’s a little unfair, considering he’s never hugged anyone before.

It didn’t take long before the hug was stopped. It seemed like G was also blushing a little but, seeing Yumi completely red made him even more embarrassed about it. They fell into another awkward silence.

“U-u-um… I-I’m going to call Ren.” she finally said, embarrassed. *O-okay. he replied, awkwardly. “A-and, um… t-thanks.” *Uh-… it’s no problem.

After another short awkward silence, she headed to her room to start getting ready and also call Ren back. Fucking hell, why does it always have to be so awkward? Damn the both of them for being socially awkward.

Ren accepted all of the activities, except the ice-skating. Unfortunately, she doesn’t know how to skate. It didn’t help that G had told Yumi, last minute, that he didn’t know how to either. Even if he didn’t mind still going, neither of the two women wanted to risk Ren or G getting hurt. So, I’m the afternoon they all met up at a popular Monster-owned Japanese restaurant that was both a sushi and ramen bar. Thus, they ordered a stack of sushi and they each had a ramen bowl. Even though Yumi wasn’t sure if they should order that much food because they may not be able to afford it, Ren insisted on paying the entirety of their meal.

“You’re way too nice, Ren… let me, at least, pay half!” Yumi insists. //“No, no, there’s no way I’m gonna let ye do tha’. This is just a repayment for not bein’ able to go ice-ska-in’. Besides, I’m way olda then ye, ye need yer cash! “B-but, it’s fine! I can-” //“I’m no’ takin’ no fer an answa. I’m payin’. An’ don’t even think abou’ repayin’ me.” she says, commandingly. “… O-okay.” she gave up. //“Good… Anywho, it’s nice ta meet ya, lad. What was ye name again?” she asks, turning to G. *… Uh-it’s ‘G’. //“Aaah, yes. I remember now. So yer the one makin’ Yumi’s lunches fer work, aye?” *Well, yeah, sometimes. he admits. //“Good, good, ye know it’s not often men cook for their ladies, y'know?” she smiles. *T-their ladies?? he asks, shyly. “Reeen!! How many times do I have to tell you! It’s not like that!” she scolds, embarrassed. //“Keeeheeheeheheheh! I know, I know. Just let me tease the lad a little, will ya?”

Their attention was cut off from the conversation to the waiter who brought their food. They thanked the waiter and immediately started to eat. It was unbelievably good. However, it seemed like Ren had one more comment to say about their previous conversation.

//“But, y'know… I really am grateful you’re helpin’ with the cookin’, since she’s no’ exactly the best chef out there.” she giggles. “Heeey!” Yumi pouts, despite knowing the truth. *Eheh, well… it’s the least I could do, really. Since she’s letting me stay for free and all. //“You’re right abou’ tha’, keeheeheh. Oh! Tha’ reminds me. I really should thank ya fer takin’ care of her when she was sick the other day! That was so kind of ya. But, ya should’ve told me, I would’ve done it and ya wouldn’t lose yer job!” she scolds him a little. *It’s really not a problem. The job was shit anyway. Uh- sorry. //“Kehhheeheeha! No problem lad, I don’t mind. But, then. I should treat you!”she smiles, enthusiastic. *N-no, that’s not- “Ren, NO! You’re already paying for all of our meals!” protests Yumi. //“Oh, come on, Yumi, it won’t kill me! I’ll buy you some crepes! I know a good place near where we’re headin’ too!” she insists. “THOSE ARE EXPENSIVE, REN.” she rejects, louder. //“Oh, shush, ye! I’m talkin’ to the lad. So, what do ye say?” she turns around towards G.

This wasn’t exactly a comfortable situation he was put in. On one hand, a woman he didn’t really know was tempting him into buying sweets for him. On the other, his friend was begging him with threatening eyes not to accept the offer for a good reason. However, he couldn’t resist, damn him for being a sweet tooth, despite not buying any very often. He could really go for a crepe, right now, and the woman did not seem like the type to let it go if ever he refuses. Besides, this will be the only time he lets someone do this.

*… Well… alright. he gives in. //“Yesss!” shouts Ren, cheerfully. “Goddammit, G!” *Sorry! I can’t resist… besides, I have a feeling she won’t leave me alone for this. “… Yeah, you’re right. Ren gets pretty intense for stuff like this.” sighs Yumi. //“Heey! I’m only being nice.” “ Ren, we both know you just want some crepes AND be nice.” she grins. //“Keheeheehaha! Ya got me there.” she laughs, caught in her act.

Seeing that he looked confused about what they were talking about, Yumi decided to briefly explain. It seemed like he wasn’t the only horrible sweet tooth in the group. Ren had a bad habit of, whenever a friend did something good she would treat them and herself some expensive sweets. Even though it doesn’t happen often, it does worry Yumi, sometimes, as she knows how hard it is for a monster to make money. Even though the Planetarium they work at thankfully doesn’t do that sort of thing and pays everyone equally, she still worries.

After their meal and crepes, it was finally time to head to the festival. By the time they walked towards the park the festival was located in, G had the time to be a little less awkward with Yumi’s friend. They had a strange dynamic, like sisters or mother and daughter, maybe a mix of the two. It was nice to see them interact, however, he was always caught off guard when they wanted him to join in their conversation. He should be used to it by now since it was the same with her brother’s band, yet, he couldn’t help but be stumped every time.

Despite joining a little in the giggling fit Ren was having, whenever that happened, Yumi was still a little confused as to why he always reacted that way. He was her friend, wouldn’t it be normal if she wanted him to be friends with her friends? Then again, maybe he was shy, which seems, sort of, out of character but, not impossible. She didn’t completely know him, after all, since it’s only been a month that they’ve known each other. However, he didn’t seem to mind her gesture, which made her happy that she could help him make more friends, after whatever happened to him before he was homeless.

As they approached the park, they stopped at a nearby small building where were public bathrooms inside. Yumi decided it was a good idea to change herself now, as she has forgotten to do so after they ate. Ren accompanied her to help her with her kimono, which is understandably hard to put on with one arm. However, G had waited for ten minutes and they still haven’t come out of the bathroom. He was starting to get impatient, shaking his leg as he sat down on a nearby bench and his soul, for some strange reason, was beating harder than usual. Was he excited? Worried? Frustrated for waiting for so long? He wasn’t sure and that bothered him. Finally, five minutes later Ren had come outside, looking apologetic. At least nothing bad happened. He walked up to her and wanted to ask where was Yumi, but she cut him off before he had the chance.

//“Hey, sorry, lad. I took so look because I wanted ta make a few tweaks with her outfit.” she chuckles awkwardly. *Tweaks? Well, where is- “R-Ren, I really don’t think this is nece-”

There she was. Her hair neatly tied in two small buns with a flower brooch on one side, a magnolia. She wore a royal blue kimono, simple, with magnolias growing from the bottom to her knees, some on the top of her sleeves, and a white obi. She didn’t even wear any makeup, other than a transparent gloss that seemed to have been forced on her by Ren, considering he knew how much she hated wearing any. It wasn’t that much of a change and yet… it hit him… hard. Not like a punch in the gut, more like a truck. Like a truck filled with butterflies crashed directly into his ribs. Painful, fluttery, ticklish and, most of all, sudden. He stiffed his entire body and reflexively gripped his shirt to try to ease it. But, he has no time to stop himself from blushing furiously, fixated on her, eyes widened. He’s had fluttery feelings before but, not to this extent. Why did he have such a strong reaction to this? He didn’t get it and before he could think further, he was brought back to reality by Ren’s laughter.

//“Kehheeheehehehahaha! Oh Asgore, I didn’t think ye’d react so strongly! Keheh, what’s the matter, lad? Too pretty to speak?” she teased him.

However, technically, she wasn’t wrong. He kept his mouth half opened and closing it multiple times, about to speak up, but never doing so. In reality, he just didn’t know what to say or what to do about this, still shocked by his own reaction. It didn’t help that Yumi didn’t seem very happy about this. While still blushing and looking down, she looked almost… angry? Or, something similar, at least. He wasn’t sure if he should even say or do anything, with her face like that. After he fully decided to not say a word, she spoke up, a few seconds afterwards.

“I’m going to take this off…” //“Wha-?? But why? Ye look so pretty with yer hair like that!” she asked, confused “I don’t care… I can’t.”

She stormed back in the bathroom with Ren following behind her, begging not to change back or undo whatever she did. However, Yumi did not listen, untying her hair and vigorously rubbing her lips with the sink’s water to remove the gloss. She wasn’t going to take off her kimono or hair brooch, but she didn’t want any of the extra pamperings.

//“Yumi, why!? This doesn’t make any sense, what yer doin’! Ye were really-” “I don’t care! I don’t want to be pretty… it doesn’t matter.” she cut her off, almost shouting. //“I don’t understand…” “I don’t want to be pretty! It’s useless! Being pretty… only brings bad things. I don’t want it to be the only thing I’m good for…” she explains. //“Wha?? Yumi, what are you-!?” “I’d rather just be normal, just average, nothing particular… just me. My mother, she only thought I was- I was only…” she started sobbing. //“Okay, okay, ssshhhhhh… it’s okay. I’m sorry, I completely forgot about that. I’m so sorry, Yumi.” she hugged her, comforting her.

They stayed like that for a little bit. G could only hear the muffled ruckus and sobs from the building, but it broke his soul nonetheless, despite not understanding the situation nor hearing what they were talking about.

Thankfully, it didn’t take too long afterward for her Yumi to calm down and come out of the bathroom with Ren by her side. She apologized to G, whom he immediately stopped her from doing so and apologized. Everyone was apologizing to each other and denying the other’s fault, it was strange. However, all was forgiven and they went back to enjoying their time at the festival. Strangely enough, her “un-pampering” herself didn’t change a thing. He still caught himself glancing at her, from time to time. Soul, still fluttery but, at least, at a normal pace.

They managed to lighten up the mood by doing some of the activities like fish bouncing, shooting targets with a toy gun and prize games, there were also shows such as plays and parasol juggling. They had a great time for hours. Gill even managed to win a cat-shaped body pillow, while Yumi won a few small Japanese ornaments. Ren, however, didn’t win anything, as she is pretty bad at games and not very lucky, but it still didn’t stop her from enjoying her time. They also enjoyed the strange form of play that Yumi explained it was called “Rakujo”, a one-person play where every character was played by one person. Her grandfather did this form of play, which she enjoyed very much.

Gill was happy to learn a little more about the Japanese culture, so was Ren, but she knew a lot more than Gill, who didn’t know much more past their clothes, food and anime. It was a great experience and it was one of those times where he honestly was thankful that he could exist to see this. Even “they” were awed by it. In fact, he didn’t even realize, until now, that he hasn’t smoked at all, today, probably because they were having too much fun.

However their time was cut short, or so it seemed. Soon, it was the countdown and they headed by the small lake in the huge park to see the fireworks. After heading to some drinks in a vending machine nearby, Ren left them to go take some snacks in a stand, further away, before it started. It gave them a moment to talk a little, without being interrupted or teased on by Ren.

“So… this is your first time, right? Celebrating the new years, I mean.” she asks, smiling warmly. *Yeah. I mean, especially a Japanese style one. he smiled back, turning to her. “Was it… fun? I hope my sudden break down didn’t ruin the mood.” her smile falls a little *No, no. It’s fine, Yumi. Besides… “… besides??” she repeats for him to continue. *I still had a ton of fun with you and… anyways, you still look cute.” she chuckles shyly a little.

In an instant, she was completely red, turning away and trying to hide her face with her hand. She didn’t expect him to say that at all, she didn’t even understand why would he even say that. She had nothing special other than the brooch and her kimono. She looked just as usual, right? She doesn’t get it. Him, despite chuckling earlier, he became a ball of embarrassment when she became so red. If course, he expected her to be a little embarrassed, but not this much. They didn’t say anything to each other for a good minute, until G finally spoke up, again.

*U-uhh… s-sorry, I didn’t mean to embarrass you that much. I just meant it as a friendly way, y-y'know? he scratches his face nervously. “I-It’s f-fine. A-and… u-u-ummm thanks… f-for the compliment.” she stutters, still not looking at him. *N-no, problem. he chuckles, embarrassed. //“Ooooo, gettin’ lovey-dovey behind my back so I don’t tease ye ‘till the end of time, I see?”

Awful timing for Ren to appear, right now. However, neither of them said anything, they only glanced at each other while G simply quietly scratched his face and Yumi sighed, annoyed. It seemed like not saying did the trick, considering Ren immediately tried to take a non-serious tone.

//“Come on, now. I was only jokin’! Ye two are no fun.” she pouted jokingly.

Despite looking annoyed, a few seconds ago, Yumi raised a brow and had a small grin on her face, despite still looking a little embarrassed. Although he was confused for a moment, he did eventually understand that they were joking and even started chuckling himself. Right now, that sister-motherly relationship they had shown even more, but before he could comment on it, their intention was elsewhere. The countdown was starting.

They all shouted, with everyone else, the last ten seconds of the countdown. When they reached “one”, fireworks started shooting up in the sky, exploding in different shapes, sized and colors, people around them screaming “HAPPY NEW YEAR!” as loud as they could. Yumi and Ren were ecstatic, cheering and laughing as fireworks lit up the sky. G was in awe in front of this amazing show of lights, mouth gaping open and eye sockets wide. When Yumi turned around to make a “cheer” for the New Year, she was surprised to see him so amazed by this but, a warm and gleeful smile beamed across her face.l, she poked him with her can. When he turned around a flutter flashed across his ribs, as he saw the smile she had.

“Never seen fireworks before?” she asks, still smiling. *What?? he couldn’t hear her with all the noise.

She approached him closer to where his ear would be. She could not see this, but a hint of blue had formed on his cheekbones at the gesture.

“I said: Never seen fireworks before??” she spoke a little louder. *N-no. he shook his head. “Well, I can see that you like them!” she laughs, moving away. *Y-Yeah! This is really cool. he smiled a bit awkwardly. //“Sweet Prince Asriel, KISS ALREADY!” *“WHAT?” they both shouted, not hearing what Ren said. //“Nevermind!” she giggles. “Anyway, let’s do a toast! For the New Year!” she says, turning back to G, enthusiastic. //“Good idea!” *Uh, sure. Uhh… happy New Year?? //“HAPPY NEW YEAR!!”Ren screams even louder. “H-Yeah! Ching, ching!” she laughs, clinging her can on G’s. //“Ching, ching!” Ren repeats, doing the same thing.

Confused, he still followed their motion, he guessed that it was simply what they said before cheering. It was odd, but it made him laugh. Honestly, they were happy that it turned out so well, minus the small issue in the beginning. They were having so much fun. However, it did not last long.

Ren had to leave as she was supposed to work, the day after, albeit, it was in the afternoon, she still wanted to get as much sleep as possible. It was fine for them, however, Yumi had one more stop to go to, before they head home. G had asked her multiple times where were they going, but she insisted to keep it a secret. His brow would’ve raised if he had any and her mischievous grin only made him more curious.

Once they arrived at destination, which wasn’t more than five minutes away by walking, they stopped at stairs that leads to… somewhere. Where? G didn’t know, but by Yumi’s gesture, he could guess that she was about to answer.

“Here we are!” she says, waving her hand towards the stairs. *And here is…? “Wakaba Temple!” *Huh. Sooo... why are we at a temple?he asks, curious. “Well- it’s tradition to go wish for something after the New Year! Well… normally, it’s the morning after, but I got a shift tomorrow too.” she chuckles awkwardly. *… I see. “I-Is that okay? If we go I mean.” she says, worried and unconfident about herself. *Yeah, sure. I was just wondering why didn’t you just do it another day but… I guess that’s your tradition, so I didn’t see the point of asking why. Sorry if I sounded like i was… disinterested? I was just thinking. he reassures her. “O-oh, ok! I was a little worried.” she sighs a little, relieved. *Ah, my bad. But, no, I’m actually pretty uh… happy, that you’re showin’ me all your traditions and stuff. It’s pretty cool. he smiles. “No problem! I’m really glad.” she smiles back brightly. *A-anyway, let’s go.

Another flutter. Honestly, he’s going to have to get that checked, he doesn’t understand this odd feeling in his ribs. Should he ask her? No, he was too hesitant to. Besides, it’s not like he felt sick or anything, although, it could be a pre-reaction to a strange sickness. It wasn’t like she would know, anyway, since she’s human and all. He decided to keep it to himself. Before he knew it, they arrived on the top of the long stares, where a small temple greeted them.

It was very dark, since there wasn’t much light in the area, but there clearly was some sort of rope with huge bells in the middle and small objects hanging from the side of some kind of wooden cabinet. Yumi approached the area where the rope was, glancing back to him to come with her. Something seemed familiar, like he’s seen this before, most probably in an anime. Upon approaching the area, he could distinguish small colored papers hanging from the nearby small trees. He felt like an idiot to think they were leaves, they are in the middle of winter. Before he could ask about them though, a loud but pleasant ring of bells cut his thoughts. Yumi was shaking the rope. She “clapped” on her shoulder, twice, then silence filled the area. He now understood that she was praying.

During their silence, the sudden urge to smoke came over him. He didn’t want to smoke near a sacred place, though. However, it seemed like there were ash dispensers nearby. In the end, he gave in and went to the smoking area, he didn’t smoke all day, anyway. As he was smoking, all he could hear was the wind and the sound of footsteps. Wait- but, there were more than one and they weren’t going for him. Before he knew it, unfamiliar grunts and hitting noises were heard but one voice stood out: Yumi’s. She screamed his name.

*FUCK!

He ran back to where she was, but it was too late. Even though some of them were beaten up by her, somehow, but a few of them got a hold of her, knife to her throat. They were monsters, probably some stupid fucking radical gang that think they’re just. Do they realize they’re just as bad as humans?

”G…!” she calls him again, as she noticed him. *Let her fucking GO!

They were surprised to see another monster, they called him a “traitor" that he “shouldn’t defend cruel disgusting humans like her”. Of course, he calls bullshit, he knows better than anyone that she’s not like that, she helped him so much, after all, more than he deserved. They laugh, question if he's “her boyfriend" even go as far as saying “She’s probably just manipulating him”. Honestly, he doesn’t even bother saying anything, they’re too far up their own ass to reason with them. But… what can he even do without risking her from getting hurt? He could use his blue magic and bones, but they risk either hurting her or his own attacks would. Thankfully, “they” have a solution.

It has been a little while since he’s heard the voices speak, this much, at least. They explained to him about “Gaster Blasters”. It was the only way. However, he’s never summoned these things before, but they did sound familiar. Just as asked, he focused his negative thoughts, his anger onto a form, to see somewhere deep in the Void, in himself, something. Something powerful.

The thugs who had Yumi hostage seemed to be bored with G simply standing there. To provoke him, they pushed the knife on her neck, even more, causing to make a small cut, bleeding out a little, she barely uttered a hiss. However, it only fueled his summon, even more, his eyes, even the blind one, was burning, flickering between yellow and blue. He didn’t even realize it, but the Blasters were already summoned. The only reason he looked at his side was because the thugs looked horrified, even Yumi was shocked. As if he’s done this before, with a snap of fingers and wave of a hand, the Blasters had followed orders to attack the group, Yumi excluded. The bastard holding Yumi, however, was Blued and violently pushed away on one of the bigger trees. The others were either tackled by or barely dodged the lasers of the Blasters. It didn’t actually matter though, his intention wasn’t to kill them.

After knocking out some more bastards, Yumi ran towards G, so they could teleport out of here. Unfortunately, one of them, who wasn’t KO’ed, threw magic needles at her, which landed on her back. She didn’t even make a sound other than a sharp "gurk”, falling to the ground, right in front of G. He froze, completely shocked, rage boiling up inside of him. The thug snickered, thinking that they were done, however, it only accentuated G’s rage.

He gripped his first firmly, the pain in his eyes were hurting, even more, especially his dead one, and the pain was growing, so much so that, at some point, he couldn’t bear it. He put his hand on his blind one and felt something kind of like liquid coming out of it, as he pulled away, his hand was smeared with red. Blood!?

No… it was… DETERMINATION.

As he looked back on the thugs, they were cowering in fear. He was confused by this. Why would they fear someone who looked like he was bleeding? Then, a light shined behind him, a big one and very hot, like a big laser was going to shoot behind him. He turned around to the ominous presence to see a giant Gaster Blaster, terrifying and just HUGE, ready to fire. Suddenly, someone grabbed him, making him stumble a bit.

“G-G, STOP!”

Strangely enough, it made the Blaster miss as well. The thugs managed to avoid the laser, as it shot. However, the damage around them was unbelievable, it passed through the trees nearby but, thankfully barely missed the shrine. He didn’t even notice who was trying to stop him. However, the Blaster was ready to shoot again.

“G, p-please! I-I dunno… w-whats going on but…ngh… s-STOP!”

This time, they tackled him to the ground. The fall made him more conscious of his surroundings, it also made the Blaster shoot in the air missing the thugs completely. He calmed down when he finally recognized who was calling out to him. Obviously, it was Yumi, he isn’t sure how he couldn’t recognize her voice or her face when he was right in front of him, well, on him now. He was conscious the whole time, but it was as if he was “seeing red” too much to even realize what he was doing.

Before he knew it, the Blasters had disappeared and the thugs had fled. Yumi was breathing painfully. The needles were gone but she was still very clearly wounded, she was bleeding.

*Y-Yumi? Yumi, are you okay!? Oh, fuck, I’m s-sorry. I-I dunno what happened! I-I just- “I-It’s okay... y-you lost control, it’s... urk... i-it’s not your fault... and I-I’ll live... I-I just... w-want to go home.” she sobbed a little. *I-I’m not sure if we can teleport you home... are you sure you’re okay? he hesitated. “I-I’m fine...! It’s the fastest way anyway...” *O-Okay.

With that, he did as he was asked. She did get hurt a little by teleporting there, but it wasn’t much, however, she did get to half her HP, mostly because she didn’t expect the attack. 

*Alright, you should get changed, I’ll get the stuff to patch you up, just- “Wait- what?? No!” she refused. *W-what do you mean “no”? he asks, confused. “I-I can do this myself!” she insisted. *You- it’s on your back, Yumi! L-Look, I know it’s a little awkward that I’m going to see the back of your bra, but- “N-No! I-I mean... there’s th-that too b-but... I don’t... want you to see, my back.” she explained. *Why?? “... Just... promise you won’t say anything.” *I’m not sure I understand. “I don’t really want to talk about it... just... please, G.” she pleaded. *... O-Okay, I promise.

He wasn’t sure what other reason would she specifically not want him to see her back but, the way she was saying it, it was probably related to a bad memory. He didn’t know what he needed to prepare himself mentally for, but it worried him a little. What was he going to see on her back?

A few minutes later, after she changed into her pajamas, she came back with a health kit that had everything she could need to patch herself up. She sat on the sofa, giving him her back. He took out the stuff he needed while she took off her top and used it to cover her front. When he looked up again to start mending her wounds, he was shocked and understood why she was so reluctant to let him and insistent doing it herself.

Her back was filled with scars, varying from old bruises marks to small cuts. He promised not to say anything, but that didn’t mean he didn’t want to. He wanted to ask her so many things. Why was she harmed so much? What caused this? Who did this!? It made him so angry a bit of DT leaked out of his blind eye. He let out a small pained grunt, covering his eye.

“A-are you okay?” she asked shyly, a little worried. *Yeah... just... something in my eye socket.

He calmed down a bit, his eyes feeling normal, continuing on mending her. He poured the alcohol on a small towel and rubbed it on her back. She was hissing and wincing a lot.

*I’m sorry, sorry. I have to. “I-I know, I know... i-it’s okay. It just burns.”

Still, he tried to be more gentle, despite not doing much of a difference. However, he was very quick, it barely took more then five minutes to mend her wounds and tape absorbent bandages on them. He healed her a little, but he’s shit at it, so it wasn’t much. She was still a little squirmish.

*Does it hurt?  “N-no it just feels... weird.” *Ah... that’s normal. Plus, I’m not very good at healing. he admits. “H-How come? Y-You’re very good at magic, though?” she asks, confused. *Well... it’s a little different... and a long story, that I don’t want to get into either. he explains vaguely. “O-Oh... s-sorry.” *Nah, it’s fine. A-anyway, you’re all set. “O-Okay.”

She painfully but quickly put her shirt back on and gets up for the sofa turning towards him after attaching her last button. She was still a little worried about him.

“A-are you sure you’re okay, G?” she asks one more time. *I’ll be fine... I’m not the one who’s hurt, am I? he chuckled tiredly. “I-I know, b-but...” *It’s okay, Yumi... I’ll just... sleep it off... I’m really tired. “O-Oh... s-sorry.” *No, it’s fine. he shook his hand and head reassuringly. “... W-Well... Good Night, then.” she said, hesitantly, smiling warmly. *Good Night...