Chapter Text
When the worlds subsequently became connected by the forming of the Declaration of Universal Tourism act, planets that were legends became mere “destinations”. The planet that SHIRO had lived on for three years after leaving Bomber Star –Primus, is only a few hours out, and if one left early enough in the morning on one star, they could be on the other by late afternoon. With the ascension of planetary travel, it goes with the territory that many cultures, ideas, and ways of life that would have at one time never have interacted become intrinsically involved with one another.
Which is to say, it has never been easier to run from one’s problems.
In the far reaches of the universe a planet –Carydon exists. This planet is similar to Bomber star –verdant, with azure skies and seas, and the indigenous beings there are of different alien backgrounds and races. Ruling this planet is a monarchy that has a republic for the rank and file daily motions of the everyday life –which is to say the monarchy is mostly a figure head meant to give a sense of stability and overall power to the ruling class as they live in the capital of Carydon, New Lucia in a well-furnished castle that towers over the nearing city like a golden tower. It is here that the King lives with his children in relative comfort and splendor. Today seems to be yet another normal day in the castle, as a young man with a hair that’s a familiar shade of purple strides down a corridor, wearing a slightly unbuttoned white shirt and unkempt dress slacks. His eyes are a hard set hazel indicating someone who has a serious personality, but not without some mischievousness. In his right hand is a set of rolling luggage, and in the left he clutches a pair of space liner tickets. He is almost to the end of the corridor where a door leaving the castle awaits his departure when a voice –of a girl calls out to him.
VOICE:
Leaving without saying farewell? I never thought you were so uncouth.
The young man stands for a moment thoughtfully without turning to the girl addressing him. She is pretty, slim and perhaps in the latter half of her teens. Her long red hair flows down to her waist, and she is clad in a white nightgown as she crosses her arms and gives the young man a stern look, her cerulean eyes narrowed. Another younger girl –perhaps not yet a teen peeks out from behind her, sleepily rubbing her green eyes, her long mauve hair unkempt from sleep.
YOUNG MAN:
I didn’t want to wake you.
The girl uncrosses her arms and puts a hand to her forehead shaking it slowly.
GIRL:
You say that, but I’m sure it’s more that you hoped to sneak out without being seen.
YOUNG MAN:
There’s no need to be cross. It’s not as if I’m like her and won’t return.
GIRL:
Ah, so this is about our wayward sister….ah, half-sister. You intend to look for her after all?
The young man turns to his siblings and offers a contrite look.
YOUNG MAN:
It’s not that I want to, mind. It’s just our oldest brother won’t let her go.
The girl purses her lips and sighs.
GIRL:
He always was fond of her for reasons I won’t understand. If she ran away, why not just leave her where she is?
YOUNG MAN:
In any case, to ease his fears I’m going to check on her.
His mouth sets in a hard line before it twists into something sinister.
YOUNG MAN:
And I’ll have a word with her while I’m at it, so she understands her place in this matter. After all, he cannot be upset with me if she decides to stay where she is, can he?
The girl nods in comprehension.
GIRL:
I suppose so. She was always nothing but trouble, the little brat.
YOUNG MAN:
In any case, inform our brother that I’m departing for Bomber Star and will report in once I’ve landed.
The girl nods and gestures to her little sister that they’re going. The Young man remains behind until they’re out of sight and turns for the door.
YOUNG MAN:
Thinking.
Lewisia, you won’t stand in the way of our birthright. That I promise you.
Opening theme: As long as I am me….
Is it because I am me, that I know powerlessness and loneliness?
If I were someone else, would I still have experienced misfortune?
Would shooting stars in the sky and the moon in the skies look different from another’s point of view?
The dreams and wishes I’ve embraced hard enough to break –would they still be as meaningful?
The little things; my height complex, stubbornness, and how I wear my heart on my sleeve,
Are all a part of me. Light at times, heavy at others, but never more than I can shoulder.
I know I face forward only because I don’t want others to see these tears of frustration,
And I run forward --I’m too stubborn and prideful to give up, because until the end I will be me.
Tripping and falling along the way only means I have a new starting point to begin.
The soil I kick up as I run is the only time I’ll stop and smell the flowers.
As long as I am me, even if others snicker under their breath, I won’t stop, and won’t be stopped.
Episode 15: Ménage Melee.
MOMO:
You want us to come where?
MOMO is on the phone with an incredulous expression as SHIRO’s uncle, his Rui and POMMY look on. On the other end of the receiver, SHIRO has the same expression for a moment before sighing and forcing a smile.
SHIRO:
To the base, Grandma. They’re having a Family day type thing, and it’d be great if you and unc could come.
MOMO eyes the phone, her eyes fixed in what could be described as a sly grin.
MOMO:
And here I was thinking you forgot about us. It’s been a few episodes now hasn’t it? Are you sure you aren’t actually calling because you need money or something?
SHIRO:
Not just that…! I-I-I mean, uh…no, seriously, everyone’s families are going to be there and y’know, I wanted you guys to come.
SHIRO recalls his conversation with TOTO and his family and how he had loudly proclaimed how justice eats lunch with it's family.
SHIRO:
Thinking.
Not that I'd ever admit it, but he has a point.
MOMO:
You sure we won’t embarrass you? I’d hate for your probably fragile social standing to be broken.
SHIRO:
It’s like a fawn, okay?! It takes a little while to get steady but given time---
MOMO:
We’ll be there Shiro. It’s tonight right?
SHIRO:
Y—yeah. Tonight.
SHIRO can hear his uncle on the other end.
UNCLE:
You best believe we’ll be there kiddo! Just roll out the red carpet, and we’ll stroll on in!
SHIRO:
Unc, Grandma…thanks.
MOMO:
See you later, then.
SHIRO nods at first, but realizes his family can’t see this.
SHIRO:
Yeah, I’m looking forward to it.
They both hang up and SHIRO breathes a sigh. He hadn’t really known what to expect, but he’s glad things went better? Or well…about what he expected? Look, he did say he wasn’t sure what to expect, but things are good and he can’t ask for more.
SHIRO:
…My thoughts have gotten kind of narrator-like. In any case, I’ll go give Kuro the good news. I can’t believe it, but I think I’m actually excited!
SHIRO leans out from the stall where the phone is, gives a cursory look around and upon finding no one in the immediate vicinity allows himself a small cheer. Meanwhile KURO and REI are outside of HE2L where the former observes the other in reclining in a beach chair wearing a bikini bottom, flip flops and a white t-shirt that has “PURE UNFILTERED TRASH” proudly printed on it. REI’s eyes are hidden behind sunglasses, as KURO looks on with an expression that seems to be between concern and confusion.
KURO:
I get that the weather is nice and all, but do you have to do that here? And in that shirt…?
REI removes the sunglasses and gives KURO a onceover.
KURO:
You know Shiro bought that for the express purpose of making fun of you right? So why would you wear it?
REI:
Dearest Kuro, how I am not deserving of your concern! Worry not, as I realize the intention behind that pup’s purpose. That being said, this fabric is breathable, and most of all comfortable. I know because our body types are different due to gender and general alien physiology you may not understand this, but a petite lass as myself finds it difficult to find clothing of this caliber, so settling for off the rack affairs like this is a requirement.
KURO’s face scrunches up out of pure confusion.
REI:
As for your other inquiry, it is a must that I take care of my skin –especially since I will be meeting your parents this evening.
KURO:
..Yeah…on that note, I know you can be a little bit….showy, but do you think that you could um..tone it down a little for my folks, maybe?
REI blinks for a moment , but the corners of her mouth turn up into a smile.
REI:
For you, anything.
KURO smiles back and nods.
KURO:
On that note, are your parents coming?
REI’s smile fades and she faces forward avoiding eye contact.
KURO:
Come to think of it, you don’t talk about your family…at all. I don’t wanna force the issue, but it’s a little weird if I’m to be honest.
REI breathes a sigh.
REI:
They’re not coming, and that doesn’t matter to me. After all you’re here and…
REI can feel her cheeks swelling as her voice trails off. How is she going to finish that sentence? That he is all she needs? Could she really say that and let consequences be damned? Is she ready for the significance of that sentiment….? Within her she can feel it, the hotness of embarrassment and something else….old habits returning, the dance of a flame left unstoked –calling to her, asking that she come back, an ugliness that oozes up her spine and hangs in her throat asking for permission to--
REI:
It’s fine Kuro, dear. I’ll be fine.
KURO frowns.
KURO:
O—okay, I suppose if you say so? Though someday it’d be great to meet them…or at least hear about them.
REI:
Of course.
KURO nods and checks his watch.
KURO:
Ah, my parents will be here soon! I have to go meet them….
REI stands up and smiles at KURO.
REI:
Then we should get going, yes?
KURO nods and the two head back to the dorms –as EIN meets with BONGO in the lab as the latter prepares for the evening as well.
EIN:
Ahh, it’s that magical time of year where the parents of our up and coming cadets get to see just how well we’ve been raising their treasures, and I couldn’t be happier!
BONGO who is sitting at a desk turns to EIN, with an incredulous look in his eye. A small purple and blue robot floats nearby using means unknown, it’s expression similar to BONGO’s as it speaks…
ROBOT:
Doc, you haven’t been excited for this in almost three years.
BONGO:
Gang’s right, da bongo.
EIN glares at them.
EIN:
You two are clearly mistaken. I’m always in a chipper mood this time of year.
BONGO:
This year is a special occasion, da bongo, and I think it’s because Shiro is here, which means Momo has a reason to attend.
EIN flinches, but maintains an impressive poker face.
GANG:
Just admit the truth prof. You’re happy you get to see her again, not that it matters much. She’s not into you, and the sooner you accept this, the easier it’ll be to move on.
EIN retains his poker face, as GANG floats over to BONGO and rubs his head affectionately.
GANG:
Now if there is something to be excited about, its how my good buddy Bongo here has promised not to modify me today so I can enjoy the festivities! I don’t have to be a flashlight, or an oven, or a cattle prod…not sure how that one came up, but hey, today is a happy occasion!
BONGO:
I mostly ran out of ideas, but I’m glad you’re happy, da bongo.
GANG:
…You just casually admitted something outrageous there, buddy….but I don’t care! Now the school gets to see me in my glorious form..!
EIN nods slowly and heads toward the exit.
EIN:
You’re right that Momo is coming….as is our good friend –Shiro’s Uncle. We’ll want to have the best for them won’t we? Shout mentioned that the lighting could use a bit of a boost –do you think you could do something about that Bongo?
GANG gasps as EIN turns around, a dark, sinister gleam in his eyes.
EIN:
I’m sure you can work with what might be lying around, right?
GANG turns to BONGO and is shocked again when the dark gleam appears in his eyes as well.
BONGO:
You know me –they call me Mr. thrifty, da bongo.
GANG:
H-H-h-hold on prof, maybe I went a little too far, but there’s no need to do anything hasty…
EIN:
Good luck.
BONGO claps GANG firmly and smiles.
BONGO:
Thanks~
GANG:
WAAAAAIT! I’M SORRY, PLEASE DON’T DO THIS! PLEASE HAVE MERRCYYYYYY.
MERCY suddenly perks up and looks around as if someone called her name. After realizing that this isn’t the case, she shrugs and leans on her hand again as she watches REGULUS do something in the base kitchen as the staff looks on bemused at the speed and dedication REGULUS puts into whatever he’s making.
MERCY:
They say that the best kind of man is one that can cook, but this is far beyond my wildest expectations.
REGULUS opens an oven inhales and closes it again.
REGULUS:
Not ready yet.
MERCY:
Amused.
You know you don’t necessarily have to make anything right? They’re going to serve food at the event.
REGULUS answers without facing her.
REGULUS:
And why settle for second rate when you can just do it yourself?
There’s a long silence as the staff glares at REGULUS.
REGULUS:
…No offense.
MERCY:
You’re not lacking in confidence, I suppose. What are you making, anyway?
REGULUS pauses thoughtfully.
REGULUS:
Hellcakes.
MERCY makes a face that’s shared with the entire staff.
MERCY:
Come again?
REGULUS:
Hellcakes. Sinfully good, corruptingly delicious.
MERCY:
I’m not sure if my curiosity or my fear wins out here.
REGULUS:
I think a little of both is fair, honestly.
MERCY:
Not sure how I feel about that coming from you, but…
She strides past the staff and to the door where the pauses and gives REGULUS a smug grin.
MERCY:
You’ll have hell of your own to pay if you mess with me.
REGULUS:
Been there, done that.
MERCY blinks and then laughs as she leaves the room. All around the campus, preparations are being made for the family fest that evening, and before long the sun dips under crimson skies heralding in dusk, as the families make their way to HE2L. Watching this scene from a distance is a certain young man who regards the visitors and the festivities with an enigmatic expression as upbeat party music floats into the air…
***
The festivities have been under way for a while before a white bomber and black bomber arrive on the scene. The white bomber is flustered, obviously upset that they’ve arrived late to the party, while the black bomber simply admires himself in a mirror, (in the dark, somehow) as the two walk.
WHITE BOMBER:
Nott, I told you we needed to get here on time. We’re almost an hour late! Did you need to take those twenty extra minutes to get ready? I told you exactly what time we needed to be here and you still managed to hold us back!
The black bomber, who has an odd tuft of (hair?) poking upward from his helmet gives the mirror a knowing nod as he tweaks the aforementioned extremity with two fingers.
WHITE BOMBER:
How can you even see that in the dark?!
NOTT:
True beauty is radiant even when nothing else is, Yuki my dear brother –I’d think by now you’d understand that.
YUKI:
Exasperated.
What are our siblings going to think?!
NOTT:
That while we are chronologically late, we are fashionably on time.
YUKI:
I’m almost positive no one cares about that.
NOTT:
I do.
YUKI rolls his eyes.
YUKI:
Fine, no one other than you cares about that.
NOTT:
Better. Beauty is in the small details.
YUKI:
Why do I even…ah, we’re here!
They arrive at HE2L looking completely different than it did when the students had happened upon it to do repairs. The house has almost been completely repainted, adorned with multicolored lights, and a stereo system that plays a nostalgic and catchy tune. In front of the house, are lights and tables set up strategically around a stage enacted with a red curtain that is currently shut. People buzz around in the glow of the lights and evening conversing and eating as NOTT and YUKI arrive, and they are almost immediately called out by someone…
ROSA:
Ah! They’re finally here!
YUKI and NOTT turn to see ROSA, CIEL, RAVI, AQUA, KORIKO and TOTO waving them over. YUKI smiles earnestly, waves back and dashes over to the group, as NOTT grooms himself one more time and follows. AQUA gives YUKI a hug as the others crowd around the two, excited to be reunited.
AQUA:
It’s so nice to see you again, big brothers!
RAVI:
It’s been too long, way too long! It’s not fun without you!
YUKI:
I know, I know. But work keeps Nott and I super busy!
TOTO:
No need to worry guys, I’ve kept everyone safe with the power of justice!!
YUKI grins and pats TOTO on the head.
YUKI:
I knew I could trust you to!
NOTT:
Of course without beauty, justice is just an ideal….You all have been lost without my luxurious form to lead you, no?
KORIKO tilts his head.
KORIKO:
Who are you again?
NOTT flinches and sweats a little as he nods sagely.
NOTT:
Hahah, yes, it’s true, my existence is so immense that it can be hard to fathom, but forgetting me is…
KORIKO turns to CIEL and asks…
KORIKO:
Ciel, why is this guy talking to me as if he knows me?
CIEL who pulls up a nearby chair and slumps over in it gives NOTT a look before yawning…
CIEL:
You are training to be a hero. (Yawwn) Maybe he’s lost and wants your help.
KORIKO opens his hand and pats his fist into it.
KORIKO:
I see! Don’t worry sir, we’ll reunite you with your real family soon enough!
NOTT cries exaggerated tears.
NOTT:
Is my existence a lie….
YUKI:
Okay guys, that’s enough. It might be funny to tease your older brother, but don’t take it too far.
ROSA:
Okaaaaay. Oh, oh! Yuki notice something different on Aqua and I?
YUKI takes a look and notices it.
YUKI:
Ah! You’ve gotten into that new “antenna swap” fad, yeah?
True enough, at the end of ROSA’s antenna is a cherry blossom, and on AQUA’s is a blue sphere with yellow and pink dots. ROSA pulls her sister over and the two smile and pose.
ROSA:
Sure did! We got done up just for you!
AQUA:
I hope you like it, Yuki, Nott.
NOTT:
Absolutely gorgeous.
YUKI:
You two look great!
The girls trade elated glances as TOTO clears his throat and poses heroically.
TOTO:
I have an announcement! After deep thought, I’ve come up with my super hero name!
YUKI:
Super hero name?
AQUA:
Toto met a friend who’s inspired him to change his image.
YUKI:
Oh? What’s this new name of yours?
TOTO:
Listen and be amazed! I will be Toto no longer, and instead will ascend into my glorious new self as VERMICULUS THE SCARLET FIREBRAND!
All of the members of his family give him a perplexed look.
YUKI:
That’s uh…
RAVI:
Long!
KORIKO:
Sounds like a case of overcompensation to me.
NOTT:
I think it’s incredible. Perhaps I should think of a new name…
YUKI:
Oh great, this can only turn out badly…
SHIRO had happened by when he saw the two arrive. He had thought about going to the group, but thinking better of it, shrugs and walks away but he doesn’t get far when he runs into his uncle –quite literally.
UNCLE:
Whoa there! Where you headed?
SHIRO:
Unc!
MOMO:
Don’t tell me you forgot you invited us?
SHIRO:
Grandma!
They both smile at SHIRO –his uncle wearing a casual polo shirt and pants, and Momo in a pink variation of her usual outfit. Although he had invited them, he’s still surprised and overjoyed they actually showed up –which he realizes is pretty messed up but with his past experiences, he can’t blame himself too much, right?
SHIRO:
Thanks for coming, both of you.
UNCLE:
Hey, anytime little guy. Though, uncle has a little thing to do so if you’ll excuse me…
SHIRO:
What? You’re leaving?
His uncle rubs his head sheepishly and points a thumb over his shoulder.
UNCLE:
Nah, it’s just there’s a big card game going on here and…
SHIRO:
…Card game….? You mean gambling?
UNCLE:
Nooooooooooooooyesss.
MOMO and SHIRO give him a look.
UNCLE:
It won’t be long, I promise! Besides, I’ve got a good feeling on this one!
SHIRO:
Monotone.
Why?
UNCLE:
I’ve never seen anyone play Poker as well as Rui and your cat.
SHIRO stares at him blankly and leans to the side to see a gathering of people around the aforementioned duo and two bombers. POMMY is wearing shutter shades, as is RUI their expressions obscured as they deal.
POMMY:
Pommy doesn’t want to hear complaining once you lose, myu.
The Bomber that sits before him has a sword on the ground before him, and wears a pinstripe suit with a black overcoat draped on his shoulders. His helmet is green with a tuft of salt and pepper hair peeking out the top and while one eye is sealed by a scar, the other is wide open and black as he glares down at POMMY, his voice low –almost a growl as he speaks.
BOMBER:
As long as this game is above the board, I ain’t got no complaints. Though if I smell a cheat, I’ll cut you down, ya brown can of miracle whip.
POMMY snorts.
POMMY:
Yeah, yeah, Pommy has heard scarier than you before, myu. You ready to take this guy to town Rui?
RUI glances over at POMMY and nods.
SHIRO:
….What the hell has been going on since I was last at home?
MOMO:
Your cat is pretty decent at card games. I’ve been beaten by him a few times myself….anyway, go ahead and bet only if you’re going to win.
UNCLE:
Got it ma. See you guys later!
SHIRO and MOMO watch his uncle go and it’s at this moment that BELL appears, dressed in a black long sleeve lace Victorian dress with matching black boots and stockings with intricate designs.
BELL:
Shiro, sir!
SHIRO:
Ah, it’s Bellsie.
MOMO:
Surprised.
You do have friends…
SHIRO:
Hahahah, not funny Grandma.
BELL stops in front of them, catches her breath and suddenly perks up with a salute.
BELL:
Your friend Bell is reporting for duty!
SHIRO:
I keep telling you there’s no need to be that formal….anyway this is my Grandma.
BELL holds a hand up to her face and gasps.
BELL:
Madame Grandma! It’s a pleasure to meet you!
She curtsies.
BELL:
I am Bell, Shiro’s friend!
MOMO:
Chuckles.
My, aren’t you cute. Though you’re awfully familiar….
BELL:
Shiro, sir I was thinking this would be a great opportunity for our families to meet and strengthen our bond of friendship!
SHIRO:
Oh, well my uncle is here but he’s kind of…busy. Where are your folks?
BELL:
Ah, it’s just my Papa! Um, I’m not sure where he is though.
VOICE:
DAMMIT!
The group turns to the voice and the scary looking Bomber from earlier stalks away from the poker game as POMMY looks on with a smirk.
POMMY:
Don’t hate the game, hate the player, myuuu.
VOICE:
DON’T THINK I’LL FORGET THIS, PIPSQUEAK!
POMMY dismissively waves him off and he takes notice of the group –specifically BELL, and he makes his way over.
BOMBER:
Oh, so this is where you got to Bell?
BELL:
Ah, Papa! Excellent timing! I want you to meet my friend Shiro, sir!
SHIRO:
You’re making that sound more and more like it’s a part of my name…
MOMO:
YOU!
The BOMBER turn in MOMO’s direction and after some scrutiny realization creeps into his features.
BOMBER:
MOMO!?
MOMO:
Toshizou, you bastard, I thought you died in some ditch somewhere!
TOSHIZOU’s pupils flare as he draws his sword.
TOSHIZOU:
Same goes for you, old fossil! What the hell do you think you’re doing on my turf?!
SHIRO and BELL exchange glances and look at their guardians.
SHIRO:
Um….do you two know each other?
TOSHIZOU and MOMO manage to stop glaring at each other long enough to glance at the children, their eyes filled with disgust.
MOMO:
So then this is your daughter?
TOSHIZOU:
And that brat is related to you in some way then?
SHIRO glances at BELL, his forehead furrowed.
SHIRO:
Did they not hear me?
TOSHIZOU’s eyes bore into SHIRO.
TOSHIZOU:
You stay away from my daughter, kid.
BELL:
But Papa, he’s my friend! You promised you wouldn’t be like this!
TOSHIZOU simpers slightly.
TOSHIZOU:
Listen, I know I didn’t tell you much about the old days, but this old bat used to lead a gang that I had territorial “disagreements” with! She’s the enemy which means whatever the hell that kid is to her is the enemy too!
MOMO glances at SHIRO, her eyes full of disapproval.
MOMO:
You’re dead to me.
SHIRO:
WHAT?! YOU NEVER TOLD ME ANYTHING ABOUT THIS!? WHAT DOES ME BEING FRIENDS WITH BELLSIE HAVE TO DO WITH YOUR TERRITORIAL WARS FROM A PAST ERA?!
TOSHIZOU glares at SHIRO, white hot hatred dripping from his eyes.
TOSHIZOU:
What did you call my daughter?
SHIRO gulps.
SHIRO:
B-B-Bellsie? It’s a nick-name, I give those to people I like…
MOMO:
Aghast.
You’re dating this girl?! Oh now you’re really dead to me.
SHIRO:
Sputtering.
We’re not dating, dammit!
BELL:
We’re friends! Shiro, sir is the most important person to me, and I really care about him lots!
MOMO and TOSHIZOU stare at SHIRO who suddenly feels very small. To his further chagrin, REGULUS seemingly appears out of nowhere with a box of cupcakes in his hand nodding sagely.
REGULUS:
Hey, hey. No need for that. If anything, I’ll kill Shiro someday so you two should use your time for more important things, like Hellcakes.
SHIRO:
You stay out of this, dammit! Moreover what are hellcakes?
REGULUS hands them all one and adds sinisterly.
REGULUS:
They’re treats to kill for.
SHIRO:
DON’T YOU MEAN TO DIE FOR?! More like, why is it you have a place in my Grandma’s house, yet you never seem to be there?
REGULUS:
Eerily.
Isn’t it more fun when you don’t know when I’ll be coming?
SHIRO:
NO?!
While this is going on, EIN watches from afar, crying exaggerated tears –being too afraid to approach MOMO while she’s with TOSHIZOU, while simultaneously being heartbroken at his chance to talk to her going up in smoke. Meanwhile NITROS approaches his sister DYNA who is on the phone with someone, her expression troubled. NITROS notices this and stops short of her until she hangs up and she glances over at him, her eyes filled with worry….
NITROS:
Sis? What’s wrong?
DYNA:
Something’s going on back home…and it’s really bad news.
NITROS frowns and sits beside her to get the whole story –meanwhile KURO is with his parents who are two black helmeted bombers –his father who looks like his double overdressed in an elegant suit and tie while his mother, with blue eyes and red hair is casually dressed in slacks and a shirt. KURO glances around expectantly as his father checks a golden watch and sighs.
FATHER:
Son, where is this friend of yours? You seemed so insistent that we meet her…
His mother leans on his father’s shoulder, eating a party favor while smiling.
MOTHER:
Don’t be a stick in the mud, honey. We’re here to have fun!
His father gives her a patient look and sighs.
FATHER:
I suppose that’s true, but time is money…and I certainly didn’t become successful doing nothing like this.
KURO:
I’m sorry father. She promised she’d be here, so I don’t understand what’s keeping her…
KURO’s mom laughs loudly and smacks her husband in the back.
MOTHER:
You’re worrying the poor boy! Don’tcha know ladies take a while to get ready? I’m sure she’s on her way, no worries!
KURO:
Moth—er, Mom. Thanks.
MOTHER:
No need to worry! She must be one hell of a girl for you to be this interested in her. Is she cute?
KURO blushes bright red and shakes his head.
KURO:
She’s just a friend is all.
MOTHER:
Oh I see. What about Shiro? Where’s he? I always liked how brash that kid is! Really gets the blood pumping! Sometimes I wonder why you couldn’t be more like him…
They suddenly hear KIIRO’s voice over the loudspeaker.
KIIRO:
Ladies and gentleman! Sorry for tha’ delay, but if you’d please take a gander at the main stage, the show to end all shows is about ta’ begin!
All eyes are on the stage as a spotlight shines down on the stage where he and FLAMME stand. If one were to look at the spotlight that hangs above, they might say it looks like GANG who is crying to himself, but who can be sure? In any case, FLAMME is dressed in a red parka, a bear mask with blue and white flames around the sides on their face. KIIRO on the other hand wears a top hat and suit jacket as he twirls a wand around and leaps across the stage energized. On the sides of the stage, CROW and KIDD move the spotlight so it’s focused on KIIRO as he does some expressive showmanship.
KIIRO:
And now, I’d like to show you some daring fire manipulation!
FLAMME perks up on this and holding their hands behind their backs, flicks a flame into life and launches it in the air, manipulating it secretly so that it follows KIIRO’s wand flicks.
KIIRO:
No need to be fire alarmed, I’ve got things under control!
Everyone is captivated by the show, even TOSHIZOU and MOMO which allows SHIRO to sneak away, although BELL quickly tags along with him.
SHIRO:
Dammit our parents are friggin’ crazy. I thought adults were more mature than this?!
BELL:
Shiro, sir where are we headed?
SHIRO makes a face and then suddenly leaps into an exaggerated pose while pouring will into a small thunder bomb that lights their path during the intermittent fireworks, which earns him a round of applause from BELL.
SHIRO:
I don’t know where we’re gonna go, but it’s a hell of a lot better than staying.
BELL:
Lead away, Shiro, sir!
The two depart as the audience cheers and claps as the fire dances in the air, and then when KIIRO gives FLAMME the signal, it bursts into small fireworks that light up the sky. Everyone cheers at this as KIIRO winks at FLAMME, indicating a job well done.
KIIRO:
Now if everyone’s having a blast, may I suggest you give just a little of your well-earned cash to fund this our education?
CROW smirks at this.
CROW:
That’s the Kiiro I know, always the clever businessman.
KIDD gives CROW a knowing look and they continue to operate the light as the magic show continues. Meanwhile REI dashes from her dorm, wearing a plaid button down shirt, a white fitted under shirt, blue shorts and black slip ons. Her hair is done in a messy bun on the top of her head, and she has just a sliver of eyeshadow –she had done as KURO had asked and made sure not to go over the top. Unfortunately she’s now running late as deciding on what to wear had taken longer than she expected.
REI:
I hope I’m not too late…poor Kuro will be so cross with me…
Taking a shortcut through the forest she dashes through the terrain until she comes to a complete stop for reasons unknown –until they walk out before her.
YOUNG MAN:
Your instincts are as sharp as ever, Lewisia. I was doing my best to ensure you wouldn’t detect my presence.
REI:
C-Clayton? B—but what are you doing here? How did you know…?
The young man tut-tuts her with a wag of his finger and a slow approach. He soon stands before –and over her due to their height differences, and smirks down at her condescendingly.
CLAYTON:
You know our older brother misses you dearly –even blaming himself for your abrupt departure. What do you intend to do about that, Lewisia?
REI’s lip quivers but she remains resolute and shakes her head.
REI:
Don’t call me that. I go by “Rei” now, and his feelings are none of my concern.
CLAYTON:
Oh really?
He stalks around her like an animal that has cornered its prey and from behind grips her shoulder causing REI to tense up as he leans close into her ear.
CLAYTON:
You say that, but the truth is you’re worried about it. What would you do if our older brother were to hate you, hmm?
REI whirls around and smacks his hand off, and the young man backs off his hands up in mock apology, as a firework goes off in the distance, illuminating their surroundings briefly.
CLAYTON:
I mean, I don’t blame you. Did you really believe we’d just accept an outsider because father made a “mistake” in his past? You have no right to be a part of our family –of royalty. Why, the only reason why we even tolerate you is because our older brother who is next in line to rule favors you for some inexplicable reason….but…
REI gulps as the young man sneers and shakes his head.
CLAYTON:
You know that father is ill, and his days to rule are limited. Even now our older brother is barely able to manage family time with us –he’s only able to give you a spare thought as is. Eventually he’ll be too busy to look out for the likes of you, and then as an illegitimate child you’ll have no place in our family.
REI can feel the pit of her stomach fall as he says this to her –should this happen she really will be left with nothing the young man; her brother turns to leave—
CLAYTON:
Though I suppose since you had nothing to begin with, going back to nothing shouldn’t be a major loss, no?
He turns back and gives REI a smile and wave.
CLAYTON:
Just thought I’d remind you of your place, Lewisia, so you don’t get any funny ideas about returning.
He then walks off as if their conversation –one-sided as it was didn’t happen. Back at the festival, KURO glances up at the sky seemingly at the fireworks, as the music plays but in reality his gaze is somewhere further away.
KURO:
Rei….where are you?
REI holds herself and takes one slow and unsteady step after another, her gaze fixed on the ground before her. Past scenes flash before her eyes starting with her father, the King and her brother bringing her home as a child r who hid behind him. With another step a scene of a town illuminated by night where her eldest half-brother hoists her on his shoulders. Another step, and now a scene from just a moment before where another of her half-brothers informs her that their father is getting weaker and the oldest of the family has been assuming more of his roles. His face is obscured –the focus oddly on his mouth which is contorted in a sneer.
CLAYTON:
Sneering.
Soon he’ll be far too busy to look out for the likes of you, and as an illegitimate child you’ll have no place in our family.
The music from the festivities is faded as Rei continues forward slowly holding herself as if she’s cold despite the warm spring breeze that permeates the night. She continues, only stopping when her knees bump into a park bench some distance away. For a moment, she rubs her arms up and down before sitting on the park bench illuminated by a nearby lamp. She leans back staring up into the lights with a lost expression for a long while before her eyes narrow and her lips turn up into a sneer not unlike her half-brother’s.
REI:
Derisive chuckle.
I will not have a place in the family anymore? Was that his way of trying to frighten me? Would one desire to belong somewhere that will soon no longer exist? The wind rustles as REI lifts her hand over her face and examines it calmly.
A firefly descends from the light and upon her finger, and REI turns her hand allowing it to make its way into her palm.
REI:
Soon I will have all I need to crush all of you. So whether I have a place there will be irrelevant. So do enjoy yourself dear brother….
Raising her hand with the firefly still crawling in it, she gestures toward the Ferris wheel spinning at the nearby festival.
REI:
For you are already dancing in my palm with no idea when I will close my hand and wring the life out of you.
REI suddenly clamps down on the bug ending it –a single wing drops sadly from her fingertips as she turns her hand with a sadistic grin. The warm and then cold sensation in her hand suddenly brings her back to another scene with SHIRO from a few weeks ago, and she opens her eyes wide.
SHIRO:
To answer your question, or statement or whatever, I just don’t want to end up regretting anything anymore.
SHIRO leans back and puts his hands behind his head.
SHIRO:
And the best way not to regret things is to do things.
REI blinks several times and her features soften as she momentarily returns to feeling lost and alone. She bites down on her lip and shakes away the doubt that had seized her, sitting forward and wrapping her arms around her knees.
Ending Song: Passionate Orbit
Say, did you know, that heart beating in your chest…
Is a gift from the depths of this wide universe?
When we are born our guardian star breathes a silent prayer to the galaxy,
And in the break between dusk and morn, dyed silver-black hues it ends up in our hands.
As we experience our lives and are touched by the gentle but rusted hands of time,
Colors born from daily life drip from this gift from the galaxy yearning to be shared –to take orbit.
So when the time comes and your little universe yearns to orbit another’s –don’t be frightened.
Just clasp your hands together, and let those feelings bubble to the surface and become a star.
For each time two hearts intertwine and orbit one another,
A little more of the universe is filled with color.