[KH/FF] Treachery of Fate: Imperfect Imposter

Chapter 21

Pre-Chapter Author's Note: Results have changed a bit since I did a recount on the B.O.C Poll. If a B.O.C is a P.O.V Result, he has no votes. The new B.O.Cs who do not have any votes either, have a * next to their name, and will be P.O.Vs alongside the others who still have nothing if by the time the next major results chapter is out (whenever that is) they still have no votes. Again, I'd like to remind you all, recheck the B.O.C Poll and make sure you didn't forget anyone—I hate having to leave some guys out! Enjoy the chapter! :D

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It was around sunset as you exited the Shinra building in your normal attire. The results for the job positions would be announced on Wednesday, and you were given a paper signed by Rufus himself that allowed you to skip school for that day. Until then, the uniform and locker you had used was left in your name in case you were selected.

With your phone in hand, you inhaled the fresh outside air as a breeze blew, and proceeded to walk across the parking lot. Despite the time, it was still fairly cluttered with cars—that going for the busy street the building was on as well, where they honked continuously and uselessly when the traffic came to a standstill.

As you were about to cross the final section of the lot, a black BMW came to a screeching halt by your feet, and you fell back, barely avoiding it. Letting out a sharp exhale, you shook your head in disbelief and got up, dusting your hands as the front, right side passenger door opened, and a person immediately rushed to your side.

You glanced up to see a tall ravenette boy in his late teens kneeling down to you—a scar framing the corner of his left eyebrow, down his temple. He was in a dark red hood, pulled up over his short black hair, zipped halfway down to expose his white shirt beneath. The stylish holes in his ripped denim skinnies gave a slight tear as his movements stretched them, and his emerald gaze observed you worriedly.

"Are you alright? You're not hurt are you?"

You shook your head," I'm fine."

"I'm terribly sorry about my brother," he sighed, scratching the back of his head. "He's still learning to drive and since this was a parking lot I thought...," frowning, he trailed off, sighing again.

"Look, it's okay—I'm not even hurt," you smiled. "But thank you for your concern."

"If you say so... Hey, get out here and apologize," the boy turned around, speaking to the driver, whose door opened at the command.

"Machina," you blurted out, recognizing the driver who sported a black shirt and jeans.

"Amaya," the ravenette bowed slightly in acknowledgement, approaching. "S-Sorry about that."

"Were you here for a job too?"

He nodded," SOLDIER; I saw you going for the Turks—I'm sure you made it," he gave a small smile.

"You two know each other?" the other male cocked an eyebrow.

Machina nodded again," This is Amaya—Amaya, meet my older brother, Izano."

"Izano...as in a province within Italy?"

"Huh," the elder of the two smiled," not many people know that."

"Your background IS a bit misleading to your first name," you shrugged.

His eyes narrowed," Who told you we're ninjas?"

"I was introduced to her like that," Machina rolled his eyes. "If it wasn't said then, she would have surely heard something from Yuffie at one point or another."

Izano nodded slowly. "Ah," he turned to you," why don't you get in? We'll be more than happy to give you a ride home."

"Are you sure? I don't want to be a bother," you frowned.

He waved you off, gesturing you towards the front passenger's seat," Get in; I'll drive—that way you won't have to worry about someone else getting hit." At this Machina snorted, grumbling as he plopped down into the seat behind you.

The ride home was enjoyable: music played on low volume as you got to know the two brothers more, and vice versa. As it turned out, not only were they in the same Wutaian clan as Yuffie, but were her step cousins as well—the girl's aunt having married the boys' father when their biological mother had left the three of them shortly after Machina's birth. They were three years apart also—Machina sixteen and Izano nineteen—and when you heard this, a sudden pang of homesickness made you look out the window, thinking about your own brother, as the conversation died down.

The car pulled into the driveway of the house at around seven, and because of the long ride, you and Machina had both fallen asleep from the lack of traffic moving for a significant amount of time on the freeway. Getting out of the car, Izano walked to your side and, after unbuckling you, lifted you into his arms, kicking the door closed. The thud of it made you stir slightly, but you remained asleep. As the ravenette stepped onto the porch and leaned forward to ring the doorbell with his forehead, the door opened within a few moments by an auburn haired boy with gray eyes.

You woke up the next morning rather early compared to the usual sleeping in you did on Sundays. The sunlight flooded in through your balcony window at an angle, and because your curtains were already pulled to the side, your face began warming at the little heat it radiated—your room overflowing with a soft orange glow. Sitting up, you found yourself in the same clothes from the previous night, and you groaned distastefully when seeing it was barely eight thirty in the morning.

You showered absentmindedly, where after combing your hair and pulling on a                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          simple white shirt and black pants, the time had already shifted to nine. Shuffling out of your room, the echo of conversation was heard from the kitchen, and the smell of fried food wafted upstairs faintly, mixed with that of toast, and even coffee. But as you neared the staircase, a yelling voice broke out—one you did not recognize—and you immediately broke into a sprint, halting at the top of the staircase where you saw a black haired man in a gray suit, holding Kai in a headlock as he continued to yell.

Instinctively, you blocked the rest of the scene out, and with that, went halfway down the stairs where you then set both your hands on the railing. Using it as leverage, you flipped forward and was about to kick the unknown man's back when your arms were pulled behind you midair. You jumped slightly, hitting the back of your head against the front of theirs, and as they wavered, staggering and loosening their grip, you squirmed out of it, elbowing their stomach. Grabbing their wrist, you twisted their arm behind them, summoning your katana and pressing the blunt end of it to their neck.

"[Name] [Surname]!" the person shouted. "Is this any way to treat your senior!?"

"A-Ah!" you immediately stepped back, katana clattering onto the floor. "M-Ma-eum!"

The auburn haired teen ran a hand through his hair in exasperation as he turned to you, hands on his hips. "I have yet to see you in three weeks since you came to stay with us, and THIS is my hello?"

"I'm sorry," you mumbled, bowing. "I just saw a guy holding Kai and yelling and I thought...," you trailed off, pouting as you gazed at the floor.

He sighed, pulling you into a hug," You're such a kid [Name]."

"Wait then, who is he?" you pointed to the suited man.

His hair was spiked back, and as black as his narrowly shaped eyes—reminding you of a dragon. He was a tall man, standing at at least six, no more than six two, and had a muscular build that as identifiable through his clothes, despite his at least late thirties look, and was softly tanned. A small thin goatee rested upon his chin, and was barely identifiable. He gazed at you curiously, even shockingly.

"Dojima no Ryuu," Kai grinned with a 'viola' gesture. "He was just telling a story."

"Dojima no Ryuu," you repeated skeptically. "Anata...yakuza des?"

"Iyah," he shook his head. "Former fourth chairman of the Tojo Clan, I am Kazuma Kiryu," as he switched from Japanese to English, you heard the noticeable accent in it.

"He lives next door to us in Okinawa—running Sunshine Orphanage," Ma-eum said. "Remember briefly meeting Haruka on your first day there? That's his adopted daughter."

"So then...why did he come here?" you asked, still confused. "I-I mean no disrespect of course," you quickly added, seeing the man's lips twitch into a frown.

"My nephew couldn't wait," Kazuma sighed, sitting on a stool and gesturing to the teen behind him.

He wore a formal white shirt, buttoned up just enough to leave the top portion of his chest exposed, with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows. Denim skinny jeans were slightly baggy, his pale colored hair was tied back into a tight little ponytail by a rubber band, leaving his bangs to frame his face. As he gazed at you with gray eyes, recognition crossed them and he opened his mouth to speak, but you beat him to it.

"Now I remember," you murmured. "Zero mentioned he had an uncle and twin brother."

The boy cocked his head to the side," Zero?"

"Rei changed his name, remember?" Kazuma noted, the boy nodding. "[Name], this is Rei's younger brother, Ichiro."

"You could not have remembered me, but that night you invaded the syndicate, I was the shinobi you sent home," Ichiro gave a slight smile.

"That's right!" your hand flew to your forehead. "What were the chances you were related to Rei!?"

"Right?" he smiled briefly. "I do thank you deeply for that."

"On another note, we should all get to know one another more," Kai grinned. "C'mon, I'll help you unpack before we go out to hang," he tugged at Ichiro arm, dragging him up the stairs.

"Sit," Ma-eum patted the spot beside him at the counter.

"Ichiro remembered your eyes vividly that night—that's how he knew for sure who you were when seeing you back in November," Kazuma stated as you sat. "Aoi informed us on your situation as well, and in thanks, you should let me know if there is anything I can do to help."

"I will," you smiled, nodding. "...I'm not so sure how the two of you arriving will affect Zero though. He kind of...well, if Aoi told you, dislikes me."

"Or as Koji-kun said: a dick," Ma-eum shrugged, sipping his orange juice.

"Ah," he nodded slowly. "Well, Rei has powers to alter his appearance, correct? They tested on Ichiro too when they mistook him, and he was kidnapped.  He also obtained his own...power: to alter the physical appearance of any subject, not only his."

"Which means they can meet Kiryu without really...meeting him—it's different than illusions," Ma-eum said. "Today we'll see how it goes at the festival."

"I must warn you all now," Kazuma scratched the back of his head irritably," not to bring up their parents."

"Eh? Why?" you furrowed your eyebrows.

He leaned forward to whisper," They passed away a while ago, but Ichiro was never told you see, and he still believes that they are overseas in the United States—obviously the same goes for Rei. He has always been strong willed, but he is very emotional, and his health waves from time to time even because of the slightest things."

"I see," you ran a hand through your hair. "I'll...help you in any way I can. I need to spend time with Ichiro and know him better though, before you leave—if you have other business that is."

"Understood," Kazuma nodded, getting up. "If you'll excuse me now, I think I'll rest."

"The room is this way," Ma-eum smiled, leading the way upstairs.

You turned to Kei, who had been silent the entire morning," Is something bothering you?"

He didn't answer even the slightest—left hand on the handle of the wok on the stove that had fried banana in it, his right on the spatula that seemed to be stuck in place. Kei was frozen, staring at the food, and you curiously approached, eyes widening as you saw that it was quickly going from golden brown to a charred black.

"What are you doing? You're burning it!" you called, taking the spatula from him. However, a peculiar thing happened when your skin touched his.

*Flash*

"I wish for my prince to come back safely," you murmured, fingers fumbling with a simple golden ring as you sat upon a fallen tree branch, the black silk of your kimono's sleeves fluttering lightly in the breeze.

"Of course he'll come back safely," Kei's voice said confidently—the teen with his back to you, squatting down in front of a fire pit as a thin smoke erupted from it, his body shaded with the orange glow it emitted. He was in a black hakama, hair tied into a medium lengthed ponytail behind him. "I KNOW he will, in fact—he has to."

"Tch, you cannot be so sure of these things, Kei-seok-ah!" you sighed. "I—," you stopped, sniffing the air.

"...Is something wrong my princess?" he asked, when you silenced for a long while.

"What are you doing?" you gasped, peering behind him—the dumplings in the pan within the fire darkening second by second.  "You're burning it!" you frowned, taking the chopsticks from his hand.

"Aish... G-Gomenasai [Name]-hime," Kei frowned, hanging his head in his hands.

*Flash*

You exhaled sharply, jolting away from Kei, the spatula clattering onto the wooden floor. As he averted his gaze, you shook your head, a smile of disbelief twitching across your lips as you ran a hand through your hair. A mixture of emotions conjured themselves up within you other than the two: anger for never receiving an explanation from Kei about the past he had with you and the fact that he was still hiding things, irritation that what Kai told you could not answer anything about the questions that remained unanswered after his life story summary, and confusion at why there would ever be a memory flash between the two of you at all.

"M-My apologies," Kei murmured finally, shutting off the stove. "You're alright, are you not [Name]-hime?"

"Kei... What are you not telling me?"

"...I am u-unsure of what you—"

"Your speech pattern took a drastic change," you noted, taking a step towards him. "It's too formal, and...you're actually flustered."

He looked away from you again," It's nothing [Name]-hime, my memories are just... They're..."

"I have no memory like that with you though," you spoke softly, watching as his expression went from one of thought to panic. "Why do you?"

"..."

"...Kei?"

"..."

"Kei?"

"..."

"Kei-seok!" At your command of his name, the ravenette straightened and he gulped involuntarily.  Before he could answer though, Kai came back down with Ichiro.

"Alrighty! Let's go ladies!"

"I'm staying here," Kei murmured, turning to the stove. "I have dishes to clean up."

"Suit yourself," Kai shrugged. "C'mon [Nickname], I'll buy ya something to eat!"

Leaving a sulking Kei there, you went upstairs to grab your phone and wallet, shoving them into your white bag, then left with the two boys, heading towards Café Alps—that is after Ichiro took on the appearance of a blue eyed brunette. It was late nine o'clock, and the early birds of the Sunday crowds were just filling into the stores which recently opened for the day. As you walked along the path towards your destination, you learned more about Ichiro, finding that even he had a unique distaste, yet love for his brother—it puzzled you really, but in the end, you felt the same way towards Wasurete when comparing.

Café Alps now had a new door. It was black framed, and for the most part glass, just as the other had been. A small bell attached at the top chimed as you entered, and Kai stood in line as you and Ichiro found a booth across from the display case. He rejoined you after a few minutes, and looking around the murmuring crowd of students, your eyes fell upon the workers for the day: Leon, Zexion, Roxas, and Zack.

"So, what's my brother like?" Ichiro asked, leaning forward expectantly.

"Well, he's only nice to those he trusts," you leaned on your intertwined fingers, elbows propped up on the table. "And I'm not even kidding about that, he seriously will be a jerk if you don't know him well enough."

"How am I supposed to speak with him then?" he frowned, sulking immediately.

"The best you could do is probably observe him first, or have someone introduce you to him," Kai shrugged. "But...control your emotions at all times—even the slightest thing can give you away."

"That's right," you nodded. "Rei is incredibly attentive and alert—he has a level of focus I only wish I did."

"Here's your order Kai," Roxas announced, his arms full. "Cream cheese croissant, medium mocha frappe, orange juice, large coffee, and donut holes."

"Thanks Roxy," the ravenette grinned, shoving two folded gil into his apron pocket. "There's a little tip just for you!"

"Thanks," the blonde smiled, his gaze turning to you. "Hey Amaya."

"Hi Roxas," you smiled back. "How are you?"

"The same as always," he shrugged. "I should get back to work though—maybe I'll see you later."

"Are you going to the music festival?" you called after him.

"Yeah," he turned, nodding. "Are—"

"I'll see you then," you smiled, his lips returning the gesture. You then looked towards Ichiro again," Sorry, where was I?"

"Can you teach me something, sometime [Name]-san?" he asked in Japanese.

You nodded," What is it?"

"Teach me...tactic five."

It was later in the day now, just after the sun had set, leaving the sky dyed with an orange glow, fading across the horizon to a light blue, paling eventually to white as it went higher. You were at home now, spending the day out with Ichiro as you taught him all you could about being another person within the short time before everyone decided to head off to the music festival. As you did, Kai additionally played as tour guide, eventually leaving the two of you sitting on the fountain bench within town square as he went into a clothing store, coming back out with two rather large paper bags.

You had just stepped out of the shower, wrapped in a towel over your undergarments when bumping into Ma-eum in the hallway. His shoulder length auburn hair was let down as he sported a rather boy band-ish look: black short sleeved, hooded shirt over a white long sleeved one, gray pants with rips in them, clinking as the chains at either side hit one another with every step, a black cutoff glove on his right hand with numerous matching bracelets around his left wrist, and finally, a gray handkerchief around his neck, forming a V as if at any moment, he needed to hide his face.

"So...are you planning to preform something?" you asked, cocking an eyebrow.

"Perhaps," he smirked. "You'll just have to wait and see [Nickname]-chan," he ruffled your hair, heading down the stairs. "Kazuma-san, Ichiro-kun, and I will be heading off early—see you there."

There was an ensemble of folded clothing upon your bed when you entered. You locked the door and curiously walked up to it, unfolding the cloth to find that it was a simple dress: a soft black color and about three-fourths down your thigh in length, making you take the extra precaution of wearing shorts beneath, despite them not being seen. The pale gray designing of flowers was diagonal of one another—across your chest right to left, then across your lap, left to right—in beautiful smoky wisps. There was only one sleeve, loose and touching your right elbow, as the left was a plastic braided chain, dark in gray. Pulling out your floral bracelet that was once your mother's, you clicked it onto your right wrist before sling your bag across your torso. You smiled, inspecting yourself in the mirror with a turn, then with a sigh, sat in front of the mirror and began with your hair.

The reflection of your face suddenly caught your attention—more specifically, the fact that it was now clear of the black eye Wasurete had given you. Fingers brushing over it, you remembered awaking in the medical ward at the Shinra building, and only guessing that you were healed with the magic of materia, you smiled like an idiot, undoing the bun you previously had your hair in, and pulling out a pair of scissors, as well as a headband matching that of the designing on your dress.

Kai gave a low whistle as you descended the stairs, making the boys turn their attention towards you. Ryuushin was here now, with Hiro on his back, and Noa as well: the three of them in their own outfit of a white shirt, black bracelets, and dark blue jeans. As for the twins, they were dressed the same for once: a black shirt, white skinnies, and a dark gray vest or flannel, left open.

"Man, do I know how to shop or what?" Kai twirled you as soon as you reached the bottom.

"I owe you one," you smiled. "Thank you for the dress."

"Don't worry about it," he waved you off, then, noting the change in your features, leaned forward. "Aigo~ your eye is back to normal! No wonder you cut your hair!"

"Just bangs right?" you shrugged, smiling again.

"Oi, oi, oi!" Noa frowned, hands on his hips. "In what world is it okay for you to flirt with my [Nickname]-chan!?"

"Aish," Kai snorted. "Relax, will ya?"

"Wait, Noa, did you just call me...?" you nodded towards Hiro, who Ryuushin was now setting down.

"Go ahead," the ravenette nodded with a smile, shoving the small boy forward.

Hiro approached you with steady steps, eyes nervous as you crouched down to his level with a smile. He opened his mouth to speak, but after numerous times, when nothing came but a whimper at his final try, your eyes widened, and you shook your head in disbelief. His lip quivered uncontrollably, and he began to bawl, throwing his arms around your neck as he spoke incoherently. You, too shocked to move, didn't register this until a moment later, and you shakily put your arms around Hiro, hugging him tightly.

"[N-N-N-N-Name]~!" Hiro's voice finally broke through in a single wail.

"H-Hiro," you sniffled. "You remember m-me." He nodded, pulling away from you to wipe his eyes with the back of his hand—his face red with emotion.

"Now, I thought you said you weren't going to cry," Kei mock frowned, then smiling at the boy, wiped his face with the sleeve of his shirt. "Remember? We don't want Suteki to cry, now do we?"

"Uh-uh," Hiro shook his head, sniffling.

"How...?" you looked at the boys, confused.

"I tried a little brainwashing," Ryuushin shrugged. "Remember the day Kazuki got mad at him for throwing shit at Chiyoko?" You nodded. "Well, I took the opportunity when we were babysitting and kinda hypnotized him. Long story short, it embedded into his brain—accidentally actually—and well, he remembered."

"It was hard to get him to understand not to say anything though," Noa smiled, ruffling Hiro's hair. "He was gonna tell."

"Well, you're officially undercover then, Hiro," you smiled, holding his hand. "C'mon now, let's go—there's a festival waiting for us."

The music festival was held at the park. By the time you had arrived, it was already dark, and across the fields of greenery and winding around the trees, small multicolored paper lanterns and white balls of light were strung upon black strings. It was already fairly crowded, and educational booths and games were scattered across most of the main entrance area located north, beside the first playground.

There was—ironically—a lake here as well, winding into small rivers, and centering itself within the park with wooden bridges going over the gaps it made upon the land. In front of it where there were the most picnic tables, there was a stage set with speakers, and what looked to be a karaoke machine. Further down, there was the southern entrance, and with it, a playground too. Towards the east, the parking lot was packed; the west holding a moderately large skate park, just as crowded as the entire park itself.

You gasped, releasing Hiro's hand, and clasping yours in admiration as your eyes scanned the numerous booths. There were multiple games, accompanied by a few rides here and there, leaving you excited as you decided upon what to approach first. Though as you turned around to the boys you had come with, you found yourself immersed within the crowd, and they, gone.

Frowning, you sighed, and turned on your heel, beginning to walk through the first row of booths, noticing that the attending public were in their own array of various traditional clothes, varying from Indian saris, Japanese kimonos, Korean hanboks, and much more. They were bright or soft in color, and had intricate designing, as well as embroidery.

You continued along the path until coming to a booth where you recognized Kurogane and Fai standing behind it. Curiously, you went up to them and found they were promoting Auron's dojo for its newest training sessions. There was a thin crowd around them as they chatted with those interested, and with Kurogane in a black hakama, Fai in white, they indeed looked like the yin yang symbol portrayed upon their headbands.

Another figure in a dark blue hakama sat behind them, writing down papers he was given to by either the blonde of ravenette, or answering questions when someone asked. His blue hair was tied with a band behind him, and you smiled as you approached.

"Hey Saix!"

"Can I help—oh, hello," he nodded curtly when looking up to your profile.

"I didn't know you worked at the dojo."

"I don't," he crossed his arms, leaning back against his fold up chair. "This is for community service credit."

"Ah, I see," you nodded.

"Good evening Ami-chan~!" Fai sang, leaning forward on the table separating the three of you. "My, my, my! You sure look pretty!"

"Thank you, Fai," you smiled, bowing to him slightly. "I just got a little haircut again."

"Adventurous with style aren't you," he smiled, crossing his arms as he stood straight. "See, I knew little Noa was lying when he said you had a black eye..."

You frowned," Actually, Fai—"

"But that's a matter for another day!" he sighed.

"You interested in joining the dojo?" Kurogane asked, cocking an eyebrow towards you. "From what I see, you're not half bad."

You scoffed," Not half bad huh? Well then, I'd rather not join—your other apprentices may cry to their mommies when I beat them out of the rankings anyway."

"All the more reason to join," he pressed. "You'll be happy working here."

"Can't say that for Saix now can you?" you nodded your head towards the blue haired teen who snorted in response, rolling his eyes.

"That's because he's there to clean, not fight—there's a difference." You turned, seeing Auron with Ryuushin trailing behind him sheepishly as he looked at the ground.

"Cleaning duty is the worst," you muttered.

"If you have a brain, it could not be THAT terrorizing," Saix said, rather coldly.

Feeling the tension in the air, Fai spoke," SO! What's with Ryuushin?"

"He skipped out on helping set up, remember?" Auron sighed, walking into the booth; his hakama a splash of dark red, white and gray. "He's in for a little punishment until later."

"No wonder you guys ditched me," you scoffed, crossing your arms.

The ravenette boy frowned," Hey! It's not like I wanted to!"

"And why should I believe you?" you raised an eyebrow.

"Well~," he smiled deviously, leaning forward with his hands on the table," for one, I'm—"

"Excuses~!" Yuffie sang, making you cringe in surprise as she popped out from behind you, unintentionally yelling in your ear.

"Oh, hey, you look great Amaya," Rikku smiled, appearing on your other side. After numerous looks between you and Saix—who you were standing in front of still—her eyes widened. "Are you two...?"

"WHAT!? NO!" both of your eyes widened.

The blonde giggled," If you say so!"

"What about the two of you?" she then glanced at Ryuushin.

Ryuushin smirked," I wouldn't mind."

"Of course not," you muttered, rolling your eyes.

"C'mon, I wanna go see the first performance!" Yuffie tugged at your arm.

"B-Bye!" you called behind you, being dragged away.

You were met by a group of Namine, Yuna, Paine, Olette, Xion, Fuu, and Rika as you arrived at the area in front of the stage, given a [soda] bottle from Olette which you chugged down in thirst. Within the minutes you were distracted, the stage itself had expanded forward on either side, and the middle, into three small, separate runways, where a square, multicolored platform rested. There was a karaoke machine too now, and the backdrop of the stage was a large screen depicting the audience as multicolored lights flashed in all directions.

The group you were with stopped near the front and a burly man came up on stage, explaining what was to happen. According to him, there will be three types of performances: one was a game, the other, a regular old performance, and finally, karaoke. A normal performance and karaoke was self-explanatory, and with that said, he explained the game, which was the reason for the extended platforms. Upon them, a person could challenge another to a basically, large-scale Dance Dance Revolution, which also required them to sing and dance, in order for the music to keep playing—the winner was decided by the applause of the audience.

Suddenly, the crowd burst into an uproar of cheers, and you gazed up from chatting with Yuna to see Ma-eum casually stroll onto the stage, in a change of clothes—a black suit to be specific. Behind him, you recognized Noa, Kazuki, Natsu and Isamu a little ways behind him as they took their stance in similar outfits of the blonde of the group. They all sported headsets, but the four in white seemed to be more of back-ups who began the singing.

"(I'll be on my suit and tie, suit tie, suit tie, suit tie. I'll be on my suit and tie, suit tie, suit—Can I show you a few things a few things, a few things, little baby? Cause—I'll be on my suit and tie, suit tie, suit. I'll be on my suit and tie, suit tie, suit—Let me show you a few things~ Let me show you a few things~)

Ma-eum then turned," ...I can't wait til' I get you on the floor, good lookin. Going hot, so hot, just like an oven. And I'll~ burn myself, but just had to touch it."

"(But it's so fine~ It's all mine~)"

As the anticipation for the first performance grew, you were tapped on the shoulder, and turned around to see Zidane with a grin on his face as he handed you a glass bottled [soda]. You smiled, taking it as your second within the last few minutes, and were soon met by Bartz too—his ensemble of light purple surprising you just as much as Zidane's light blue.

"(And as long as I got my suit and tie, I'ma leave it all on the floor tonight And you got fixed up to the nines—Let me show you a few things~)"

"Are you two...performing at some point?"

 "All pressed up in black and white, and you're dressed in that dress I like—Love is swinging in the air tonight: Let me show you a few things~"        

"Nope," Zidane shook his head. "Just a coinky-dink we dressed up like this."

"(Let me show you a few things~ Show you a few things~)"

"Definitely," Bartz nodded. "I would have avoided it if I could."

"About love~ Now we're in the swing of love—"

"Aw, what's that supposed to mean!?" Zidane frowned.

"(Let me show you a few things~ Show you a few things~ About love~)"

You took a swing of the soda you were given as they two bickered childishly, and was surprised at its tangy-sweet taste mixed into the hint of its normal deliciousness. Shrugging it off as nothing, you continued to drink, eventually chugging it down, the two boys looking at you in surprise.

"Oh so thick—now I know why they call it a fatty."

"Thirsty much?" Paine smirked.

You shrugged," It tastes different, but in a good way."

"(But that's alright~ Cause you're all mine~)"

"Maybe it's spiked?" Olette narrowed her eyes, swirling her drink.

"Dunno," you laughed lightly. "But I think I'll be having another one."

"I'll get it for you!" Zidane chirped, running off.

"I'll...help," Bartz waved, following his friend.

"Oh my killer—my thriller—yeah, you're a classic. And you're all mine~ Tonight—"

Suddenly grabbed by the waist, you were pulled towards the large gap between the audience and the stage. Stumbling, and also suddenly dizzy from the movement, you looked up when steadied to find Yazoo with amusement behind his eyes as he began to dance with you slowly.

"Any reason in particular, or are you this bored?" you asked, swaying along with him.

"All pressed up in black and white, and you're dressed in that dress I like—"

"Trying to enjoy the night," he smirked," anything wrong with that?"

"Love is swinging in the air tonight—Let me show you a few things~"

"No," you shook your head as he dipped you. "I'm just a little surprised is all."

"You appear to be drunk as well," the silverette chuckled.

"I am not," you huffed.

"Good, that was a test. You will be though," he leaned in," by my presence."

"Oh how cheesy Yaz—," you pulled away in the opposite direction he spun you out.

"Now we're in the swing of love—."

Face to face with Zidane then, you gasped, and he chuckled lightly, staying in the position, face inches from yours as he spoke," Um...could I have this dance instead of giving you another drink?"

"(Show you a few things~)"

"I don't mind, but don't blame me when you're the first to tire out."

"Fair enough; I got a dance so I'm not gonna complain," he grinned.

"Nothing exceeds like excess—Stoute got gout from having the best of the best. Is this what it's all about?"

"Excuse me, I believe I had Amaya's hand first," Yazoo hissed, coming from behind you and shoving Zidane back.

"This is truffle season—Tom Ford tuxedos for no reason."

"Really?" Zidane scoffed, an irritated frown curling upon his lips. "She doesn't seem to mind my company though."

"Of course not—she doesn't KNOW how terrible you really are."

"Listen you two—"

"Oh, I'M terrible!?"

"Tell your mother that I love her cause I love you."

"You didn't know? How you would jeopardize—"

"Don't you dare! You don't know anything about that!"

"I know enough! So does everyone else!"

"(And as long as I got my suit and tie, I'ma leave it all on the floor tonight And you got fixed up to the nines—Let me show you a few things~)"

"Both of you—STOP IT!" you huffed, cutting off the two of them as you pushed them away from each other. They looked away from one another, sighing as they shifted their attention to you.

"Listen Amaya—"

"I don't want to hear it," you shook your head, covering your ears with your hands.

"Let me show you a few things~"

"Amaya? Is everything okay between you three?" Namine asked, tapping your shoulder. "I heard..."

You exhaled in exasperation," I think... I'm done dancing for now."

She frowned," Want to go get a drink or something to eat?" Nodding, you followed her, leaving the two boys to march away from one another.

"About love~ Hey..."

Tifa smiled as she served you a bowl of noodles at the booth she was manning along with Cloud, Rinoa, and Leon. You sat at a rectangular picnic table with the girls, still in viewing distance of the stage, and had been there for the past thirty minutes. One by one though, as they all began dispersing to look at other sights of the night, you ate slowly, and almost had to shoo away Namine and Olette who waited for you, leaving reluctantly.

You criss-crossed your legs upon the bench of the picnic table as you finished your food. Seeming to take a break, Rinoa exited from behind the counter of the booth and joined you, giving you half of a alcohol tainted [soda] she had recently bought, pouring your share into a foam cup. She then smiled, leaning forward on her elbows.

"Amaya, you HAVE to tell me where you got that dress!"

"It was a gift," you smiled. "Uh, by the way, do you know why it tastes—"

"The drinks are spiked," she nodded, taking a quick swing. "In fact, my friend is the guy who's running the booth selling them. I know you're underage and all Amaya, but you seem like you could use this."

"I do?" you frowned, hanging your head.

"Is there anything bothering you?"

'Yep: you guys totally forgot me and now you're practically best buds with this girl whose a total imposter but because she erased all your memories you have no idea of it and I don't think these little miracles with a few people remembering me is going to work and—' "Not really."

"Oh please," she scoffed. "I'm a girl too! I know when something is bothering another one of my kind!"

"Another of your kind?" Reks chuckled, sitting himself down beside Rinoa. "You make it sound like the two of you are aliens or something."

"Of course you BOYS," she sneered the word at him, leaning forward ever so slightly," wouldn't understand. So go away, this is girl talk!"

"E-Eh...? I-I-I was just—"

"Nope! Not hearing it!" Rinoa laughed, holding a hand up to his face. You couldn't help but have a small giggle escape your lips as well at his flustered expression.

"Rinoa!" Tifa called. "Get over here and stop goofing off!"

The brunette sighed, smiling at you as she stood with her drink," We'll talk later Ami!"

"Sure thing," you smiled back, getting up to toss away your trash. You returned, Reks still at your table with a bottle and two small shot glasses.

"You don't mind drinking with me do you?" he asked hopefully. "I-It's soda though don't worry!" he quickly added. "I can't drink alcohol—it messes me up pretty fast."

"Are you sure it's just soda?" you frowned, sitting down. "People mix things these days—you can't even tell sometimes."

"Yeah," he nodded, pouring the liquid. "I do this with my brother all the time when we're bored."

"Well then, cheers!" you grinned, clinking your glass with his. The taste was the same as the few drinks you'd already had, leaving you to internally sigh as Reks' eyes lightened after his swig, and he excitedly poured another glass for himself.

***

"Ladies and gentleman, your attention please! We have another willing performance! Please welcome them with your applause!"

The three boys jogged up stage, as their friends—who were backups—followed after them. They took stance after finding the song they searched for in the karaoke machine, and the music started at their command: an upbeat, and party-like theme.

Ichiro walked around, hands in his pockets, and stopped to watch. He had gotten separated from Kazuma—who was under a different appearance—and Ma-eum earlier. Since then, about an hour or two has passed, and he finally gave up on searching, sitting on the grass, pulling out his phone hopelessly. Before he could dial a number though, a hand nudged his shoulder, and he looked up curiously to see a redheaded girl hovering above him, her arm linked with another whose hair was an eye catching pink: he faintly recognized that other as Chiyoko.

"Can I help you?" Ichiro looked behind his falsely brunette bangs.

"She like that freaky stuff—two and the O, 1 in the eye—"

"That kinky stuffy—you nasty, but I like your type and T.I's"

"You look a little lost," the redhead smiled. "Are you new here?"

"I guess," he shrugged carelessly. "What do you care?"

"Now here goes some egg whites!"

"We can show you around," Chiyoko grinned, pulling him up by the elbow. "My name's [Name]! This is Kairi."

"Now gimmie that sweet, that nasty gushy stuff—let me tell you what we gon' do!"

***

You and Reks had your arms around the back of each other's necks as you stumbled towards the stage, giggling and snickering, drunk with idiocy. With each step, you wavered one way or another, and loudly apologized to those you practically ran over, bringing attention to yourselves, but nevertheless ignoring it.

The song had already started by the time you arrived, and as you stopped to watch, Reks released his hold on you to pick up a penny he spotted on the ground. When standing back up, the goofy grin on his face was replaced with puzzlement as he squinted around, looking for you, who, was pulled forward by Penelo where most people were dancing. The lead of the performers, Raizo, stepped forward for the chorus as Dante and a ponytailed redhead flanked his sides.

"Forget about your boyfriend, and meet me in the hotel room. You can bring your girlfriends, and meet in the hotel room!"

"Forget about your boyfriend, and meet me in the hotel room. You can bring your girlfriends, and meet me in the hotel room!" Dante repeated, now in the middle.

The redhead then stepped forward," We at the hotel, motel, holiday inn! We at the hotel, motel, holiday inn!"

"(We at the hotel, motel, holiday inn! We at the hotel, motel holiday inn!)"

"[N-Name]-san?"

"Hm?" you turned from dancing with the over excited girl to see Ichiro huffing as he frantically looked around. "Oh hey~! Ichi~!"

His eyebrows furrowed," Ichi? ...Oh no, are you DRUNK!?"

"Maybe~?" you giggled. He sighed and began to pull you off to the side of where there were less people. "Ah! H-Hey!"

"One's a company, two's a crowd, and three's a party. A girl ain't with it, I got somebody—in my nature she's naughty~!"

"Please [Name]-san, calm down! Chiyoko and Kairi approached me, and now they won't let me leave! I can FEEL Chiyoko trying to get into my head, and I'm doing my best to block it out but it's—[Name] are you even listening!?"

 "Oh c-calm down!" you lazily leaned against him with your elbow propped on his shoulder. "They're just two girls!"

"(Two plus two—I'm gon' undress you. Then we gon' go three and three—you gon' undress me. Then we gonna go four and four, we gon' freak some more! But first—"

"[Name]-san, you don't understand! They're—"

"Hey James—oh?" Chiyoko approached you with Kairi and Stella at her sides, crossing her arms

She wore a leather jacket over a white tank top and a black skirt to match, her boots up to her knees. As for Kairi, it was a frilly, light pink summer dress with no sleeves, as Stella sported a beige blouse over dark dray skinnies tucked into black boots. Their eyes shifted from Ichiro to you endlessly as Chiyoko continued.

"My, my, my, I didn't know you two knew each other," Chiyoko stepped forward. "When did you meet, where?"

You snorted, burying your face into Ichiro's arm as you began to giggle uncontrollably. Stella glared," What the hell are you laughing about Amaya?"

"(We at the hotel, motel, holiday inn! We at the hotel, motel, holiday inn!)"

"Y-You look like a Barbie doll!" you chocked out, clapping.

"James, you don't need to hang out with her," Kairi smiled, pushing you and clamping onto the pale haired boy's arm.

Falling on your butt, you frowned, and Ichiro pushed Kairi into the two other girls, scrambling to help you up, when instead, another pair of arms beat him to it. The brunette male who did so frowned in disappointment as he spoke," Please, let's not get violent over nothing." He then turned to you," Amaya, are you—"

"Over nothing!? She was being rude!" Stella took a step forward to the boy. "Besides Eight, this is none of your business—get lost!"

"I-I'll deal widdis," you mumbled, meeting Stella between your groups. "Listen—"

"How about you listen," Chiyoko raised a hand, cutting you off. "This is how it's gonna work. Eight is right—"

"WHAT!?" Kairi and Stella yelled simultaneously, looking at their friend in shock.

"We shouldn't use violence," she continued as if they said nothing. "Instead, we should settle this in a little competition." With that, she smirked at you, then walked off towards the stages, dragging her followers by the wrist as they spoke in confusion.

Eight sighed," I think...I made it worse..."

"Ladies and gentleman, we finally have a matchup for the game! [Name] [Surname] challenges Amaya Nochi! Amaya Nochi, are you here?"

You snickered, skipping to the stage," I'm here~!"

You ran up the steps of the stage, pushing past Stella and Kairi who attempted to block your path. Skidding to a stop where Chiyoko and the announcer was, he explained to you the rules of the game, and you nodded in understanding, not understanding anything at all due to your intoxication as you smiled goofily. Before you knew it, you were handed a microphone, and soon was told to stand upon the edge of the platform across from Chiyoko when the music began.

Initially, the goal was simple: this was only a mutated version of Dance Dance Revolution that involved singing. You both turned around to the screen with your backs to the audience as your avatars appeared on it, and rather than paying attention to it like you should have, you giggled at the colors that began to flash on the platform beneath your feet, Chiyoko singing first.

"When I first saw you I knew nothing's like it's used to be~ Boy you have got to be the finest thing in history~"

Squinting to pay attention, you leaned forward as you stumbled upon the platform, a bit less drunk because of the flashing lights that forced you to concentrate," The way I feel inside is just so hard to understand~ You feed my appetite in ways I can't explain~"

 "(I'll eat you up—na, na, na, na, na, na, na. I'll eat you up—na, na, na, na, na, na, na. Whoa-oh~ I'll eat you up, Whoa-oh~ Slow down, down Whoa-oh~ Can't get enough Whoa-oh-oh-oh~ I think I'm in love!)"

It was now your turn to begin," If you move any closer, boy there is no guarantee~ What I will do to you, I feel it and it's scaring me~" At the end, you tripped over your own two feet, falling on your hands and knees.

As you struggled to get up, Chiyoko smiled brightly," Like I've become some kind of demon in the night~ You look so tasty, I could eat you up alive~!"

"(I'll eat you up, up—na, na, na, na—ah!)"

Slipping as you crossed your legs, you suddenly fell with a loud thud. As the side of your body hit the platform, you instinctively rolled over from the pain of the impact. However in doing so, you turned in the wrong direction, and groaned when coming into contact with the grassy floor, three feet down.

The music abruptly stopped, and murmurs, as well as laughs, erupted from the crowd of people watching. You struggled to breathe, an abrupt choking feeling arising from within the pit of your stomach as your whole being ached. Not knowing whether it was from the activity you had done which ended in this situation, or the alcohol, a precipitous tsunami of emotion over the course of the last few weeks was finally triggered to release.

It was as if the world slowed since your fall, and under its judgmental eye, you hazily looked around as blurred figures approached you. Chiyoko jumped off the stage with a grin, and was one of them too. You gulped and scurried to your feet, using the stage as support to stand before dashing off as far and fast as your body would carry you.

Finally tired, you stopped in a secluded area of the park where the trees were thick, shielding you from the walkway. You huffed for air, holding onto the trunk of the tree for support as you stared at the ground, trying to force away the tears which were already flowing down your cheeks. Trying to make sense of your outburst, you could only wonder,' What's...happening to me?'

--------------------------------------

Results: The Tsunami of Emotion

Ace

"...Hey," the blonde greeted, turning you around to face him. Though when he saw your expression, the soft smile on his own countenance disappeared within a second as he lips pressed into a tight line.

"Ace...," you forced a smile, wiping your eyes. "I'm... I-I'm okay."

"You're not okay," he spoke incredibly slowly, as if you didn't even comprehend English. "Crying isn't...it isn't okay."

"Ah, what good is it now," you exhaled with exhaustion, leaning against the tree trunk again. "I'm drunk too—I already made a fool of myself."

"No, you didn't," he frowned, reaching over and wiping your tear stricken cheeks with the sleeve of his sweater. "I don't think you're the drinking type at all in fact."

"So you want to explain to me why I even bothered to do what I did?" you crossed your arms.

"Well...you could be stressed, or angry, or a whole other number of things," he shrugged. "I don't see the harm in having yourself release once in a while."

"Because you don't know how it is," you murmured.

"Hah, what makes you think that?" the blonde gave you a small smile. "Amaya, my mother has had amnesia since I was five from a car accident. I live every day with her being with other men, forgetting who I am, and even trying to harm my father. She refuses to acknowledge the fact she even has it, and altogether what she learned she forgets if she things it's unimportant."

"...I'm sorry," you sighed. "I shouldn't have—"

"No, no, it's alright," he shook his head. "You didn't know, and right now...you feel trapped, right?" You nodded. "Well, there you go, if anything I might be the most understanding of anyone you know. So, if you need anything, I'm here."

"Thanks Ace," you smiled, he returning it instantly," I really appreciate it."

Angeal

"Amaya?" the brunette called out, finally spotting you. "Amaya are you alright?"

"What do you care?" you sighed, turning to face him with a pained face.

He frowned," There's nothing wrong with trying to see if a friend is doing well."

"Do I LOOK well to you?" you snapped, narrowing your eyes at him.

"Well...no," he sighed, scratching his head in thought," but that's a given."

"Obviously," you snorted. "I'm suddenly snapped out of intoxication after falling off a stage."

"You've actually been having a hard time adjusting here too, ever since you came."

"...I shot you in the leg yesterday," you said after a long silence. "You have no reason to bother with me—more so if you count how...unemotional I was."

"And now we know you have at least one emotion," Angeal smiled ever so slightly, making you pout in response. "There you go, not that bad now is it? You have two now."

"What is it about you that's keeping from holding a grudge against me?" you asked, gazing at him thoughtfully.

The brunette shrugged," I learned a while back, during summer, that people have their reasons for everything. Of course, I knew that beforehand already but...actually feeling it...it's different. Maybe you're the same Amaya... Who knows?"

"Huh," you were awestruck, wavering slightly in your stance as you stood from your leaned position against the tree," never saw it like that before."

Angeal cocked an eyebrow," You're usually so collected. Is this how you're like with your guard down?"
"What does that have to do with anything?"

"I thought, well, maybe if you kept you guard more naturally, you wouldn't have this problem with your emotions—you might even find things a bit easier."

Auron

"You could be the poster child for the reason why kids shouldn't drink," Auron noted, approaching you. "You've had the emotional swing, the walking problems, the speech problems, and now, even the rare, yet sudden adrenaline rush, snapping you out of intoxication."

"...I'm sorry, am I being lectured?" you narrowed your eyes at the ravenette. Then, instantly sighing, remembering his position as a fighting instructor, you bowed to him in apology.

He waved you off," I could lecture you all day on how you should think correctly before imbibing your problems away in alcohol, but if it only takes a little for you to realize your mistake, I don't see a point. On the other hand, I am curious as to why you are still rather...sad."

"I'm having a tough time," you murmured," living here."

"And that's because?"

"I don't know," you whimpered, suddenly overcome with emotion. "I-I mean I do know...I just...can't say really."

"So then this...problem of yours is what's causing your emotional tsunami?" You nodded. "Interesting—Ryuushin never mentioned this."

"I wouldn't talk to him about this—I have someone else for that."

"And this person is where?"

Your gaze momentarily shifted to meet Auron's and you stared at him from the corner of you eye. His glanced towards the pathway, watching as a group of teens passed as he waited for your answer, and when you next spoke, an uncanny wave of sadness washed through him, despite the fact he hadn't the slightest idea who you were talking about. "He's forgotten who I am."

Axel

"Bravo, bravo," the redhead clapped pitifully, a smirk on his face. "What an entrance and an exit! I've never seen something so moving—how about an encore?" You didn't turn, hands clenching themselves into fists as you shook with fury. Axel chuckled, slinking right behind you," Oh no, are you mad [Name] won? Or that you sucked that much Amaya?" When again, you didn't answer, he snorted. "Well, I tried talking to ya. Don't be such a sore loser—got it memorized? Just be happy you didn't bust your head open and—"

"And what!?" you whirled around, shoving him away from you. "And, and lose what sanity I have left!? Or die!? You probably wouldn't have had a problem with either! So what do you care!? All you came here to do was gloat about how precious your damn [Name] is!"

"Hey!" the redhead growled. "Don't you even—"

"[Name], [Name], [Name]!" you continued as if he hadn't even spoken. "What's so great about [Name] huh!? She's a giant failure! She can't even give you your memories back if it meant your life! Some friend she is!"

"What the fuck are you talking about?" he scoffed. "My memories are fine—that's none of your business. Besides, [Name] would do anything for me whether we're going out or not."

"I bet she's just disappointed in you," you muttered. "You're a manwhore," you stated loud enough for him to hear," other than a disease what use is your life!?"

"I..." Axel trialed off, swallowing hard. Oh yes, you had hit a very sensitive spot.

"What? Nothing to say?" you grimaced. "Don't have a 'I'm awesome no matter what, got it memorized' encore!?"

He shook with anger, a growl restraining itself behind his words," You don't know anything about me."

"I know enough—it's you who doesn't know me," you glared, tears brimming in your eyes.

"Like I'd ever give a shit about you anyway," he hissed.

Balthier

"Are you alright darling?" Balthier asked, jogging up to you from behind. Your tear stricken face as you turned to look at him made him frown, and he sighed, shaking his head. "Where are you hurt?"

"I-I'm fine Balthier," you cleared your throat, wiping your eyes with the back of your hand.

"Apparently then, your definition of it differs from mine greatly." The blonde lightly began moving you this way and that, to make sure there weren't any immediately visible injuries on you. After a while, he nodded slowly," I don't see anything. Are you positive it does not hurt anywhere?"

"Yeah, I'm okay," you smiled as best as you could. He nodded stepping back and looking in the distance at the activity only a few yards away.

"...Things have been rather hard on you since your arrival here, haven't they?" Balthier said after a long silence, eyes still on the festival lights.

"A little," you whispered, sighing as you followed his gaze. "I just can't help but think...what would happen if...if I...gave up."

"On what?" the blonde, suddenly intrigued by your words turned to you. "Is there something that's been bothering you?"

"Yeah."

"You're free to tell me Amaya, I assure you I won't dare say a word to anyone else. I'm always here if you need someone to consult in."

You smiled sadly," You're always there aren't you Balthier?"

"I'm not quite sure I know what you mean," he furrowed his eyebrows. You didn't answer, and instead, gazed into the distance, his forehead creased with worry. "Amaya?"

Bartz

"Smile!" Bartz yelled, hugging you from behind.

You released a squeak of a scream in not hearing his approach, and you turned with your mouth agape to face his grinning countenance. The brunette gently wiped your eyes with his fingertips and shrugged off the glare you were unsuccessfully giving him as he chuckled, leaning in to rest his forehead against yours.

"So, lemme get this straight: something happened with someone, you tried to drink your problems away, and somehow things ended up here after you fell off the stage."

"That's...pretty spot on," you grumbled, ready to have rejected any idea he was to give. "But I didn't leave to hear this—"

"Neither did I!" Bartz grinned once again, leaning away from you. "I just wanted to make sure I had gotten my facts straight."

You cocked an eyebrow," And with these facts you're going to do what exactly?"

"Cheer. You. Up," he listed off his fingers as if they were three separate things.

"Right," you nodded slowly. "...Bartz, I appreciate it but—"

"But first thing's first! You need to learn how to smile again. Tears might have corrupted your brain Amaya."

"Corrupted my brain?" you repeated in astonishment. "Tears...corrupted my brain?" you said again, this time slowly.

"Yes: tears corrupted your brain," the brunette mimicked you then gave a smile as you glared at him. He continued," So, here's how you smile. It's simple, really—jus t a quick one, two, three—EE!" As he said the last part, he flashed you a dazzling dorky smile that you found your heart pounding to, and in response, you smiled as well. "Hey! Look you got it already! Let's try again! One, two, three—"

"EE~!"

Cid Highwind

"Well ain't you one of a kind?" the blonde man chuckled as he approached you, one hand on a cigarette, the other holding a bottle of the drink that you were now ambivalent towards. "Here's ta the event that made mah evenin'!" he held the bottle up, laughing rather loudly before taking a long swing from it. His plain white shirt and dark blue jeans were smeared with food stains, and the chocolaty brown cowboy hat he wore matched his boots.

You gazed at him in surprise," You're...drunk?"

"Hell yeah I am!" he scoffed. "Ya think yer the only one on this goddamn world who thinks she can drink? Well lemme give ya a little insight on that sweet'art—YA AIN'T!"

Frowning distastefully, you stepped away from his alcohol stenched figure and shook your head," I'm sorry, Cid, but I've already had a long night as it is. I—"

"Aw, c'mon now! I didn't mean ta get all rough on ya! Here, have some!" With a goofy grin he held out the bottle to you, and you hesitated a moment as you cupped it between your hands. "Go on, have some Amaya!" he nodded towards you before taking a few satisfying puffs from his cigarette. "Well? Ain't ya?"

You stared at the glass before getting a sudden surge of anger. You flicked your arm out, leaving it to fly and shatter against the bark of a tree—it's liquid contents splattering everywhere. Cid gasped, mouth agape as the cigarette fell out—you squishing it upon landing before taking your place paces back. "I'm sorry—I had to."

"Like hell ya did! The heck did ya think you were gonna prove by doin that! Ya should be lucky I ain't already reporting ya to Fai or even Vayne!"

"Then go ahead! Who are they gonna believe!? The sobered teenager who clearly has a clean record, or the middle aged man offering her a drink, then getting mad at her!?" At this, Cid fell silent, exhaling angrily as he looked away.

Cid Raines

"Amaya?" Cid's voice called from in front of you, causing you to look up from the ground into his direction. Wearing a dark green shirt and gray jeans, he stood where the pathway was, squinting as he strayed off it and inched closer. "Is...Is that you?"

"No," your voice cracked at the end in a whimper.

The ravenette frowned as he shook his head and trudged through the bushes, around the trees. He came to a stop right in front of you, and his blue eyes softened in concern as he gently brushed away your tears. "What happened to you?"

"Y-You didn't see?" you sniffled and looked up at him; he shook his head. "Th-Then nothing."

"Do you really insist on lying to me?" he cocked his head to the side, bangs falling haphazardly over his eyes. "Even with the obvious?"

You smiled weakly," Yeah, yeah I do—is there a problem?"

A soft smile spread across Cid's lips," I suppose not if you stopped crying." You nodded and looked down, hiding the light pink that spread across your cheeks. Your hair fell on either side of you face, and as you looked up, you caught Cid staring. "...Cid?"

He smiled again and shook his head as he tucked away a strand of hair behind your ear. "I'm sorry, it's just...you look really pretty tonight, Amaya. It...it reminds me of something..."

"Ah," you nodded slowly. You knew what that something was—it was when he consoled you after Noctis' party months ago. You were about to say more, nervously toying with your fingers, but he suddenly spoke again.

"Amaya?"

"Hm?"

"What would you do if I kissed you again?"

"W-What?" you looked up to find him inches from your face. With his arm allowing him to lean casually on the bark of a tree, his eyes flickered away before back to you, and he moved forward ever so slightly. You bit your lip, suddenly scared, and in noticing this, the teen pulled back.

Cid smiled," You treasure a kiss—I can tell just from that. Don't worry, I wasn't going to do anything. I just wanted to see—ah, a-are you crying again? Why?"

You sniffled and nodded, wiping the tears off your cheeks as he pulled you into his arms. "M-My stomach...really hurts," you lied between sobs.

Cloud

"This is EXACTLY why I don't want Rinoa to work when there's fun around," Cloud grumbled, whirling you around to face him. He used the sleeve of his dark blue checkered flannel to wipe your cheeks and eyes. "She's all play and no work—just look what she did to you!"

You smiled as best you could, pulling down Cloud's hand and shaking your head. He looked at you in question as you spoke. "I...willingly drank. Rinoa had nothing to do with it—I had a few beforehand."

"KNOWING what was in it?" the blonde's voice rose at the end, and he angrily put his hands on his hips, the mask of pity on him replaced with anger.

"Y-Yes?" you almost whimpered from his expression.

"I can't believe this! Why would you do that!? That's—that's stupid Amaya! Plain and stupid! You're underage by five years for starters!"

"A-Are you seriously...mad?" As soon as the words escaped your lips, you mentally scolded yourself.

Cloud raised an eyebrow," ...You're seriously asking me that?"

"W-Well...um...yes?" your voice cracked at the end. "Err...I'm...sorry." The last of the sentence you whispered, overcome with Cloud's glare as you burst into tears once again. "I-I didn't mean to! I just—"

"Hey, hey," Cloud's voice became nothing but a whisper as he frowned, pulling you into his arms and rocking you back and forth soothingly. "Shh, shh... I'm sorry Amaya—I didn't mean to yell at you; I just don't want to see you going down the wrong path. So much can happen—you don't even know. You're lucky you only tumbled off stage."

"I'll be in trouble though," you sniffled. "A lot of trouble..."

"Kei said your parents had passed though," he murmured, stepping back as he wiped your eyes again.

"They are," you nodded. "But I'll be letting everyone else down. What good example am I that way? I'm the poster child for don't let this—"

"Don't say that," Cloud smiled reassuringly. "I won't be disappointed in you Amaya, I promise."

Dante

The silverette snickered, approaching you from behind in unsuccessful silence. He stumbled a few times, making light thuds on the ground, causing you to smile unknowingly as you turned to face him, watching as he cursed and dusted himself off. Grinning to see your eyes were on him, he held his arms outstretched to the side.

"Honey I'm home~!" You sighed, shaking your head as you leaned against the tree trunk once again, Dante giggling as he stopped a foot away from you. You cocked an eyebrow," Are you seriously...giggling?"

"No~!" he giggled again, poking your nose with each word. "I'm-just-being-me-A-ma-ya!"

"You're drunk aren't you?" you frowned, all hope for a helpful conversation gone.

"Nope!" he piped up, hands behind his back as he rocked back and forth on his heels. "Just~ bored!" Then, letting his right hand be seen, he chugged down a long swig from the bottle he had been hiding. With a satisfied sigh he pulled it down and wiped his lips with the back of his hand. Smiling, he held out the bottle to you," Thirsty?"

Contemplating, you were to say no when something told you being drunk would give you a better conversation. You then grabbed the bottle from him and took a swing of your own, shivering as you passed it back to him. The alcohol was stronger this time...MUCH stronger.

*ten minutes later*

"One more time~!" Dante yelled.

You laughed before nodding and singing—screaming—at the top of your lungs," NANANANANANANANANANANANANANA—"

"NANANANANANANANANANANANANANA—"

"BATMAN!"

"BATMAN!"

"(BATMAN~! BATMAN~!)"

"B-B-B-B-B-B-B—BAT!

M-M-M-M-M-M-MAN!

"

"(BATMAN~! BATMAN~! BAT~MAN~!)"

Demyx

"Um...Is everything okay Amaya?" the blonde unsurely asked, tapping your shoulder.

"What do you WANT!?" you hissed, whirling around to face him.

He frowned," Look, I know you're upset about that whole thing with [Name] but—"

"UPSET WITH [NAME]!?" you laughed loudly and hysterically, clapping your hands like a maniac and making Demyx take a step back. "I'm HAPPY for her! She's got everything going! Why ruin her streak!? WHY!?"

"You're...still drunk, aren't you?" he sighed, scratching the back of his head. "I'm sorry then, that I came to check up on you since you wanted to be alone."

The blonde turned, shaking his head and taking slow steps to walk away. You whimpered as silently as you could, but unfortunately, almost groaned with pain at the end as you crumpled to the floor—Demyx spinning on his heel and rushing back towards you. Shaking your head as he put his arms around you, you smacked him as hard as you could, wanting to push him away, and instead, having him hold you tighter.

"Leave me alone Demyx," you whispered through a sob. "G-Go away...!"

"No," he murmured. "You can't get rid of me that easily Amaya—I can be just as stubborn as you are."

"You're so annoying," you grumbled, shaky hands beginning to hold back onto him, tugging at his shirt.

"You want me to stay," you could hear the smile in his voice as he laughed lightly, shifting his position so you were on his lap. "It's okay though... I can stay here as long as you need me to."

Sniffling, you nodded and wiped your face with the back of your hand," Th-Thanks Demyx... I... I'm s-so—

"Shh," Demyx cooed, shaking his head. "Just breathe...nothing's gonna happen."

* Eight *

The running of footsteps behind you made you turn, and the person holding them ran into you, causing you to fall backward with them on top of you. You groaned, back hitting the grass with a hard thud as you shut your eyes. They fluttered open to hazily see Eight wincing, rubbing the side of his face. His eyes then trailed off to you, and he gasped, scurrying off as he reached forward and helped you sit up.

"I-I'm so sorry!" the brunette blurted out as he blushed. "I-I came to check up on you and then next thing I know I look up from my hand and—gah! Where'd it go!?"

As he stood and searched around for who knows what, you rubbed your eyes in tiredness, sighing as you sat criss-crossed, removing the grass blades from your hair. Seconds later though, Eight plopped down in front of you with a smile and held out a small square box. You curiously took it from him and opened it, gasping in delight when seeing the chocolates that inhabited its insides.

"I bought this as an apology," Eight said, chuckling as you munched on the sweets. "If not for me, you probably could have avoided the whole ordeal with [Name]. I'm sorry that I—"

You shoved a chocolate into his mouth and spoke as he chewed with surprise. "You don't need to apologize—I'm thankful you stopped a fight actually. That, and I admire the fact you always try to avoid violence."

The brunette's jaw dropped," I can't believe this is coming from the girl who was drunk and crying before I ran into her." You pouted as he laughed, playfully hitting him. His lips softened into a smile and he leaned forward, resting his hand on yours," Seriously though Amaya, I'm happy to help. It's good to see you're okay."

Genesis

"There you are Ama—"

"Leave," you snarled, not turning around. The hand you kept on the bark of the tree clenched at the wood furiously, keeping you upright as you shook with rage.

"I'm not sure I quite understand you," the auburn haired teen frowned, coming closer. "Listen, are you—"

"I said leave Genesis!" you yelled, still not moving. The wood of the tree scratched your palm, digging into your skin with a piercing burn, keeping you in place from ranting—and worse.

Genesis sighed, resting a hand on your shoulder. "Please Amaya, if this is about [Name], I'd like you to—"

You spun around, palm raised in the air, using all your strength to slap it against Genesis' cheek. He gazed at you in surprise, hand lifting to cup his face that gradually began reddening. "Amaya," he murmured," ...why?"

"Because!" you screamed, the echo of it hitting the insides of your head like a migraine wave as the sight of Genesis protecting Chiyoko yesterday popped into your mind. "You're so...ugh!"

"I'm...'ugh'?" he repeated slowly. "You...think I'm disgusting?"

"Oh," you laughed bitterly," you got that!"

"But...why?"

"Everything you do or say has to defend [Name]!" you snapped, biting your lip to prevent the tears from escaping your eyes. "And I mean EVERYTHING! [Name] this, [Name] that! Even yesterday, you helped her! And—and—and when she bullies me," your voice cracked the slightest," you're one of the few people who side with her. I mean...w-what the hell!?" The wetness of a tear spilled as you furiously blinked, and Genesis' eyes softened slightly.

"[Name] is my friend... You... You're—"

"Nothing!" you sobbed. "I'm nothing! So just...g-get away from me Genesis!" You shoved him away. "I...I hate you Genesis!"

Gippal

"Argh!" Gippal made a pirate noise, sweeping you off your feet, bridal style. "Let's go matey! We be searchin' fer treasure!"

You gasped, immediately wrapping your arms around his neck," W-What are you doing!? Put me down!"

"Nope!" he grinned at you. "How about you stop crying first?"

"I did," you released one hand around him and wiped your cheeks. "See? I'm fine!"

"Are you sure?" he asked softly, pressing his forehead against yours with a frown. "You've been having a hard time since you got here."

"I know but..." you bit your lip. "...I'm...fine."

"That's it: 'fine'?" he scoffed. "After I went through all this trouble of finding you, picking you up, and trying to make you feel better, you're just 'fine'? Che!"

Gippal widened his arms, and you momentarily felt yourself glide through air. A small yelp escaped your lips, and you readied yourself for a fall. Instead though, you landed on the blonde teen's lap, and the mischievous grin he gave you made you frown.

"W-Why would you do that?" you whimpered.

"Ah... Hey..." Gippal sighed, wiping your now wet cheeks with his hand. "Don't—don't be like that! I was just playing around Amaya."

"I-I know," you smiled weakly," and it made me happy."

"THIS is how you express your happiness?" the blonde mock pouted, a smile playing at his lips. "Man, I wonder how you're like when you're depressed..."

Hope

"This kinda feels like we're playing seven minutes in heaven again," the blonde chuckled as he turned you around to face him. "The thing is though, that this time, you're the drunk one."

"A-Actually I think I sobered up," you mumbled, Hope dabbing your eyes with the handkerchief you remembered picking that night, two weeks ago.

Noticing you staring at the piece of cloth, he smiled," Don't worry, I washed it. I'm sorry about that night though, I was being so stupid..."

"It's alright," you shook your head. "I kinda know how you feel actually."

"Really?" he shoved the hankerchief into his pocket as you nodded. "How? Is it because you fell, or do you have your own heartache too?"

"I have my own heartache," you laughed lightly at his suddenly sorry expression. "C'mon Hope, don't pity me now!"

"I'm not, I just... I'm wondering how that could happen to you..."

"What do you mean?" you furrowed your eyebrows.

"Well," he scratched the back of his head, cheeks slowly pinking as he spoke," you're really...sweet Amaya. You always smile, and...I don't know, it makes me feel...nice... Especially with me you...you have so much patience."

"I don't have a reason to get mad at you really," you smiled. "After all, you did bother to come check up on me."

"I feel like I owe you for putting up with my barf," Hope laughed, you along with him. As he continued to, you smiled and watched him. He had really matured a lot since summer, and by that, he also got taller, and—you had to admit—much more handsome; there wasn't anything childlike left in his features. "...Hey?" the pale haired boy waved a hand in front of your face in amusement. "You alright?"

"Y-Yeah," you shook your head quickly, sighing as you were caught staring at him. He was about to open his mouth and say something though, when you beat him to it. "Hope?"

"Hm?"

"You're a great guy... Thank you," you smiled genuinely.

"U-Uh... You're...welcome...?" he whispered back, blushing despite his confusion as his heart thumped from your gesture.

Isamu

"Are you alright?" the ravenette asked, approaching you with his hands shoved in his pockets. He wore a long sleeved white shirt and denim jeans, with a thin, dark green scarf loosely around his neck. He reached out and took your wrist, turning you to face him as you hastily wiped your eyes. Frowning, he took the tip of his scarf, dabbing your face with it.

You sniffled, pushing his hand back," I-I'm gonna get your scarf dirty."

"There's this thing called washing Amaya, so I think I can handle it if my clothes get dirty," the ravenette answered in amusement. "Besides, you should be more concerned for yourself."

"I guess," you mumbled and sighed. "My night's already ruined—I stopped caring as soon as I got drunk."

He scoffed, rolling his eyes," Well, whether you choose to accept it or not, I'd like to apologize on behalf of Chiyoko."

"Chiyoko?" you cocked your head to the side. "You mean [Name]?"

"Yeah," he shrugged carelessly, nodding."Chiyoko's her family name, so I usually call her that at home—habit."

"Right," you bit your lip. "...Isamu...do you like [Name]?"

"Of course I like you," Isamu smiled.

"Wait what?" your jaw dropped. "You—"

He laughed lightly, shaking his head," When someone usually asks that, they like the person they're asking. So, in a sense, you're asking if I like you—get it?"

"...And you do?" your voice got high with anticipation.

"As a friend of course—nothing more," he nodded. "You're very likeable Amaya: pretty, fun, nice smile, voice, honest... Come to think of it, you're...actually my type... almost perfectly," he muttered the last part, biting his lip and nodding his head as if understanding a complex situation.

"...Isamu?" you asked, not hearing the final of his words, and worried when he just stared at the ground. "Are you alright?"

"...Yeah," he smiled.

* Izano *

You sighed, about to shift your position against the tree trunk when you stumbled backwards, caught into the arms of someone then, as if you had been doing a sloppy trust fall exercise. "Whoa, easy there," the ravenette smiled, steadying you.

"Izano," you mumbled his name in surprise.

"I take it I wasn't expected," he stepped away, running a hand through his hair, the gentle smile still on his face.

"Well...no," you admitted quietly. "...But thank you for coming."

"...Seeing what happened just now, and comparing it to when I met you yesterday, either you're really clumsy, or fate likes having you as a crash test dummy."

"Hey," you frowned. "Yesterday was Machina's fault! Not mine!"

"Still left you smacked to the ground didn't it?"

"Yeah... But—"

"But what? I'm right aren't I?" he smirked, crossing his arms.

You pouted, hands on your hips," I don't like you much already."

He shrugged," I'm not here to have you like me, just to see if you're okay."

"Very straightforward aren't you?"

"I guess," he sighed, taking a step towards you. "Seriously though, are you okay?"

You nodded," Not a scratch on me."

Izano brushed his fingers across your cheek softly, removing the lingering wet teardrops as a concerned look crossed his features. "So then, you were crying from embarrassment?"

"Y-Yeah," you exhaled as he nodded and stepped back, your heart suddenly pounding hard.

Noticing this, the ravenette smiled playfully," You're blushing Amaya."

"N-No I'm not!" you gasped, hands flying to your cheeks which were, yes, warm. "It's just the...the movement of...running here."

"Are you telling yourself or me?" he chuckled.

"Myse—you!" you shook your head. 'What's wrong with me all of a sudden!?'

"Right, right," Izano smiled, nodding. "Well, it's good to see you're alright then."

Jack

Your sides were suddenly jolted, and you yelped, causing the blonde to chuckle. You turned, glaring at him as best as you could. Instead, the smile on his face widened, and he leaned forward, pressing his forehead against yours as his hands cupped your face, thumbs wiping the stray tears off your cheeks.

"I think I like you better pissed off instead of sad Amaya."

"Th-Thank you—I think," you smiled slightly at his comment.

"Or smiling," his lips softened into a gentle smile. "I think THAT looks the best on you." You blushed, and he chuckled," Heh, you're cheeks...they're really warm."

You realized his hands were still cradling your face, and you cleared your throat, pulling back from him as he scratched the back of his head in embarrassment. "So...um..."

"A-Are you okay?" his gaze shifted up to meet yours. "You had a pretty bad fall."

"I've had worse," you nodded with a shrug.

Jack chuckled," Well, so have I, but you can't be too sure these days. Don't want you getting a concussion—you know?"

"Yeah," you smiled up at him. "Thank you for worrying about me then."

"H-Hey," he frowned, ignoring the blush that crept onto his cheeks. "I'm sure I'm not the only one who is."

"Well, nobody else is here," you pointed out.

"Then maybe I'm just the best at finding you," he grinned. "If you're ever lost, I'll magically appear and save the day!"

"Who said I ever needed saving?" you put your hands on your hips. "

Kadaj

"Are you okay?" the silverette asked, swiftly whirling you around to face him.

"E-Eh?" you were taken aback not only from his presence, but also from his actions—he was never this way towards you, not since...

"Are you okay?" he repeated, looking you over, frowning as he held you by the shoulders. "I saw everything—what happened to you?"

"I-I just... I... W-Why do you care?" you pushed him back. "It's none of your business!"

"None...of my business?" he repeated slowly, head cocking to the side. Kadaj grimaced, raising his voice as a sudden fury from your words engulfed him," A-Are you crazy!? Of course this is my business!"

"It's not!" you shook your head furiously, your tears scattering through the air. "This is MY problem. It doesn't concern you. All you'll do is...is tell [Name]!"

"What!?"

"Then I'll rot until I get everything all figured out! As if this all wasn't hard enough!" Beginning to sob, you turned away to leave when the silverette grabbed your wrist, making you come face to face once more. His face was blank, eyes deceiving the emotionlessness as they raged through his gaze that was locked on you intently, forcing you to look back at him through a blurry haze.

"Tell me... In what universe...would that...THING...be more important to me than you are?"

"I-In...the one that...that..." You struggled to find words, mesmerized by his eyes which slowly glistened in tears that welled up at the bottom. Sniffling, you shook your head and reached up, wiping the first one you spotted away. "Please...don't...c-cry for me."

"W...What are you doing to me!?" Kadaj hissed, more to himself, as he jerked away from you. "Don't you know who I am!?"

"I... I don't know you at all...!" You shook your head, stepping back.

"...You better be kidding," he muttered, turning away to hide his face as he ran a hand through his hair.

Kazuki

"[Name]-san!" Hiro called, hugging you from behind, his arms wrapping around your waist. Your eyes widened, and you unlocked his arms from you as you turned to face him, crouching to his level. His face took on surprise," A-Are you okay!?"

You smiled," You're worried for me H-Hiro?"

He nodded, hands sweeping across your face, wiping away your tears. "I was with aniki! I saw you go on stage, then you danced, then you fell, then—then—then—then Chiyoko went towards you, then everybody laughed, then—"

"Oi!" a voice called in the distance. "Hirokiyoshi Hinomoto! How many times did I tell you not to just run off like that!? Where the hell are you!? Hirokiyo—oh?" Kazuki stopped running, in the direction across from you, spotting your figure with his brother. He approached, biting his lip as he slipped his hands into his pockets," Hey...Amaya."

"Hi," you forced a smile. "I'm sorry if Hiro caused any trouble worrying over me."

"No, no," he shook his head," him running off is the problem—he does it a lot... Are you okay?"

"Yeah," you nodded. "Just a little fall."

"It looked more than just a little," the auburn haired teen frowned. "You kinda...you know...bounced around."

"It's all your fault!" Hiro yelled, whirling around to face his brother. "She wouldn't drink if you were nicer!"

"W-What!? It's not MY fault," Kazuki narrowed his eyes. "Don't go around saying things like that about other's private business!"

"Then apologize to her!"

"H-Hiro," you stood, toying with you fingers awkwardly," Kazuki didn't do anything—"

"YES HE DID! He yelled at you last week! Remember, remember, remember!?"

"Uh...well yeah...but—"

Kazuki sighed," He's right... I apologize, really I do." He then held his hand out with a smile," I hope everything between us is okay now."

"Apology accepted," you smiled and nodded, taking his hand.

"Good!" Hiro grinned. "Now kiss her!"

"WHAT!?"

Kei

Kei's footsteps were silent as he approached you, but feeling his presence as he was to pull you into his embrace, you shifted away from him, still not facing his figure. He sighed," [Name]—" You pushed him back, unwilling to speak, but this didn't stop him from trying again. "[Name]—"

"L-Leave me alone!" you choked out, pushing him back once more.

His arms were forceful this time though, and he pulled you into them, whispering in your ear as you whimpered and continually fought to free yourself from an iron grip that wasn't to ever break. "Shh, shh, shh, calm down princess—"

"I'm not your damn princess!" you shouted against his chest, trying to squirm your way out. He remained silent, stroking your hair with one hand while his other held you against him. "Let me go Kei, dammit!"

"Why should I listen to you if you're not my princess?" he murmured. "Besides, what would it matter if I do? What will YOU do? You'll run off and cry, or scream and act violently in a rage—what good would any of THAT do?"

"What good are you doing, by doing THIS!?"

"I'm helping you control yourself," Kei sighed softly. "If you think it's so bad here, then why are you hugging me back with such force?"

You felt your hands that had unknowingly held his shirt tighten at his comment, and you whimpered, swallowing back tears as you answered. "...I'm not going to be able to help everyone."

"It's my duty to protect you," he whispered against your ear. "That, and to make sure your desires are fulfilled. I won't allow myself or you to walk away from this until what is wanted is accomplished."

"K-Kei...Why...?"

Kei smiled to himself, brushing away the hair from your face," Whether you're too drunk to remember this or not, I don't care... [Name] I just want to make sure everyone remembers you... On my honor as your kudan, they will, I promise."

Leon

"Leon~!" you giggled, skipping up to him when hearing his approach—stumbling at least twice due to intoxication. When close enough, you jumped and wrapped your arms around his neck with a grin on your face.

"What are you—get off me!" the brunette growled, shoving you off of him.

You tripped on landing and fell on your butt with a dense thud, frowning deeply. You sniffled," Th-That was mean!"

Leon scoffed," You're the one who tried to put the moves on me. You KNOW I'm in a relationship with Rinoa—"

"But that didn't stop you from kissing me in the closet at Natsu's party!" you interjected, hands on your hips as you stood.

"That was different," he muttered. "I was being stupid... But that's not the problem right now. Now, you're drunk, and need to calm down before—"

"I am calm~!" you sang, laughing as you skipped circles around the brunette. "Now c'mon! Let's go get a drink!"

"No," Leon sighed in irritation, sitting himself down on the ground. "We're going to stay here until you get a hold of yourself."

"I—"

"You're not okay," he interrupted, grabbing you by the wrist and pulling you down next to him. "You were crying when I got here, and now you're freakishly happy—mood swings are common when intoxicated, and we're going to stay here until you've balanced yourself enough, that you can think rationally."

"W-What!?" you whimpered. "But I—"

"No," Leon grabbed you again, keeping his hand atop yours to prevent you from moving again. "You will sit, you will stay, and you will think about what you did."

"...Yes sir," you sighed, laying on your back, his hand still over yours.

Machina

"Don't move," Machina whispered in your ear from behind.  You gasped at his sudden appearance, your hands flying to his wrists that were around your stomach, his arms around you.

Resting his head on your shoulder, he told you to stay quiet, and as you did as he said, a group of footsteps were approaching in the distance. From the opposite end of where you once stood, Stella, Kairi, and Chiyoko were running, coming to a stop in the small clearing.

"You said they both came here!" Chiyoko hissed.

"They did!" Stella scoffed. "It's not my fault if they move around!"

"I think they went that way!" Kairi called, running back towards the main area of the festival. The two other girls sighed before following her.

You weren't able to speak as Machina released you, flexing his hands you had subconsciously been gripping tightly. His emerald eyes seemed to dim as well, and it finally register into your mind what he had been doing.

"You came to help me," you smiled at him. "Thank you Machina!" You threw your arms around him in a tight hug.

"Don't mention it," he chuckled nervously, hugging you back. "Think of it as payback for almost running you over yesterday."

"Yeah," the smile on your face wavered slightly, and you sniffled, hiding it from Machina with both your hands.

The ravenette frowned, pulling your hands down," Don't do that," he whispered. "Please Amaya? Don't cry..."

"I-I'm just really touched," you laughed at yourself, shaking your head as you wiped your eyes. "I don't know why."

"You could at least laugh or something," Machina shook his head with a soft smile, hugging you.

Marluxia

"Now what do we have here?" Marluxia spoke softly. "On such a beautiful night, you'd rather run than prove what happened would leave you unfazed—it's not like you."

"It's not like it matters to you," you hissed, running a hand through your hair.

"Why of course it does," the pink haired teen frowned. "Tell me, please. If it's over your loss, it's a game—I can't possibly see a reason for it to irritate you," he paused," unless there's more to this."

"You wouldn't get it," you grumbled, slurring your words. "You're just...Kirby on...on crack as a human who...whose confused about their—" You were cut off by being whirled around by the wrist, and you stumbled, facing him.

"Huh...so you are drunk," he murmured in disappointment.

"So what?" you crossed your arms, almost losing balance when doing so. "All you do is stand there like some kind of living tulip thing! It's better than you!"

He sighed," Are you really drunk, or just acting like this because of [Name]?"

"It's none of your damn business," you hissed. "Now go—run to your beloved [Name] before she decides on ruining someone else's life!"

"You're telling me, to leave you here, drunk, and emotionally unstable?" he cocked an eyebrow, crossing his arms. You rolled your eyes, nodding as you shooed him off with your hands. "Well, I'm going to have to decline your offer Amaya."

"Marluxia," you pinched the bridge of your nose," I'm going to say this as nicely as I can... I don't want to waste my time on a pink Venus Fly Trap-Human hybrid; now leave!"

"As much as that hurts, I'm not leaving." Marluxia reached out to you, taking your hands in his.

"W-What are you doing!?" you almost shrieked. "I said go!"

"It's not your fault," he whispered, squeezing your hands. "It's not your fault Amaya—just remember that."

Your voice broke before you could retaliate, and with a whimper, you began sobbing once again, almost throwing yourself into Marluxia's open arms as he cooed for you to stop—telling you it would be alright.

Masayoshi

"Oi, miseinen no sakenomi!" the young policeman called with a crooked smile, hands in the pockets of his dark gray jeans. The vest he wore matched it, and on the white collared shirt beneath that, he sported a little black bowtie.

"T-Tanimura-sensei," you straightened, biting your lip as you bowed. "H-How do you do?"

"My name is Masayoshi when you're out of my class Amaya—we went over this," the brunette corrected, fishing in his pocket before pulling out a tissue. He leaned forward a bit, dabbing your wet cheeks," Plus, don't be so formal with me... Are you feeling okay?"

"Y-Yeah," you nodded, sniffling. "Um...thank you," you bowed slightly as he pulled back.

"You're welcome," he smiled, rushing over to a trash can where he threw the tissue away before returning.  "Now, what should I do with you?" he sighed, hands on his hips.

"Eh?" your eyes widened. "Am I in trouble?"

Masayoshi frowned," Are you kidding? You broke a law Amaya—drinking underage. I can't just let that slide."

"B-But—"

"No buts," he held his hand out," let's go."

"Masayoshi," you whimpered, shaking your head.

He looked at you for a bit longer before dropping his hand and grinning," You finally called me by my name!"

You pouted," You scared me just for that!?"

"And to get your mind off things," he chuckled. "Besides, if I arrested you, I'd have to do the same to most of the people attending, and I'd rather not ruin everyone's night. Of course, that's probably a horrible way of looking at things but, well—"

"You're trying to be understanding," you nodded slowly. "I get it."

"It's because I'm understanding, I want you to know you can come to me if you're having any problems—understand? This goes especially for [Name] and her little gang; I know they've been bothering you."

You smiled and nodded," I will... Thank you, Masayoshi."

Maqui

"Oh... Amaya? Is that you!?" You looked up to see Maqui squinting from the pathway across from you, slowly inching towards your figure. When you nodded, he grinned, and ran over, pulling you into a hug. "Hey there! What're you doing alo—ah." Stopping short, the blonde's eyebrows furrowed as he gazed at you worriedly. "What happened to you?"

"I just...made a fool out of myself," you smiled as best as you could. "It's nothing to worry about Maqui, but I don't think I feel like getting back to the festival right now."

"Well, then I'll stay here with you," he smiled, plopping down on the floor by you. "C'mon! Sit! Don't tell me to leave though because I'm not gonna have a girl sit out here all alone by herself!"

You giggled slightly," You're really sweet aren't you Maqui?"

"I-I guess," he chuckled nervously, scratching the back of his head. "Oh! Want some?" he held out the drink that was in his hand. "I don't mind if you just drink from it."

"What is it?" you asked curiously, taking a cautious sip from the straw.

"Strawberry milkshake," he answered, taking the cup back from you as  you handed it to him. "Good?"

"Actually yeah," you smiled. "I haven't had one in a while."

"Huh," Maqui nodded slowly," I should take you out for some sometime—I know a great place."

"I'd like that."

"So~... Why are you out here by yourself?"

"High school drama," you sighed, pulling your knees to your chest. "I also kinda...got a little...drunk."

The blonde laughed," You say that like it's a bad thing! Even if you do make an idiot out of yourself, everyone has to let loose once in a while! Don't worry too much Amaya—I've been in your place before."

"What if I—"

"Nope!" he shook his head with a grin. "Even if you look like a total moron Amaya—it'll be fine."

Nero

"Your voice would probably be nicer if you tried," the silverette mused, approaching you.

"You would probably be nicer if I shoved my food up your ass," you hissed back, glaring at him from the corner of your eye.

Nero smirked," Ooh~ a feisty drunk? This just might be worth the walk."

"If you didn't want to be here, why did you come?" you sighed, running a hand through your hair.

"Well if you must know, Fai made me come check on you. I don't know why though, I was busy when you did whatever you did, but are you alright? Your eyes are bloodshot; it looks...unattractive."

"Just what I wanted to hear," you muttered, rolling your eyes. "Look, tell Fai I'm alright, and that he doesn't need to worry about me. I—"

"Hah! You know he'll know when I'm lying right?" the silverette crossed his arms and snorted. "I have nothing against you Amaya, but I'm not gonna put my butt on the line just so you can be all depressed in the corner. What happened to you anyway? I saw you dancing against [Name] one minute, then after some food, next thing I know the whole audience is laughing and you run off."

"I fell off the stage," you said, kicking at the grass. "Really stupid huh?" You glanced up at Nero to find him gazing at you with worry or...was it pity? You weren't sure, clearing your throat, then speaking," That's it."

"You're lucky you're not hurt," he said quietly. "There's so much that could have gone wrong... Must be hard...with everything..."

"What are you talking about?" you furrowed your eyebrows.

"I just realized...a lot of...bad shit happens to you," Nero made a distasteful face. "How do you keep up with it?"

"I live," you murmured. "...I live for him."

"Who?"

"Just this guy," you smiled to yourself, stealing a glance at him as he nodded, looking down at the screen of his phone.

Nine

"I knew I'd find you here," Nine grinned, sitting beside your crumpled figure that rested against the tree trunk. "Actually, Terra told me," he laughed quietly to himself. "So anyway, wanna talk about what happened?"

"Not really," you shook your head, sniffling and wiping your eyes.

"Fine with me," he shrugged. "Whenever you're ready though, just go ahead."

"...Can I ask you something?" He nodded. "Why did you come here?"

"What do you mean?" Nine furrowed his eyebrows. "You want to be alone?"

"No, no," you shook your head. "I want to know...why you came here—instead of being out having fun with everyone else."

"Amaya, let ME ask YOU something," he turned completely, his body facing yours. "Do you consider me a friend?"

"Of course I do," you nodded.

"Then, there's you answer," he shrugged. "I'm here because I'm your friend. I'm not saying everyone else here isn't your friend, but in a night of excitement, people get carried away. I was going to do the same, but I decided to make sure you had someone here with you. I know how it's like to be alone when you feel mortified inside—it's not good," Nine chuckled.

"You always seem to be smiling," you giggled slightly. "I kinda envy that."

"You shouldn't have to," his eyes widened. "After all, if you need someone to make you laugh," he jabbed a thumb at himself," I gotcha covered. I don't know many jokes but...hey, I'm generally not that bad!"

"You're not bad at all Nine," you sighed affectionately as he smiled at you. "You're actually pretty awesome."

"I'm glad you think so Amaya."

Noa

"Peek-a—shit," the blonde's eyes widened, and he took a step away from you as soon as he whirled you around to see him.

"I don't want to peek on any shit, Noa—leave me alone," you mumbled, hiccupping as you turned away.

Grabbing your arm, Noa forced you to look towards him again, this time his countenance serious. You hiccupped, and he frowned," You drank?"

"Yes! You know why I drank Noa!? Because I'm lost here! I can't beat Chiyoko at some stupid kid's game, which means I won't be able to beat her in real life!"

He snorted," C'mon [Nickname]-chan, you know how childish that sounds? You're not five!"

"Haven't you ever heard of foreshadowing? THIS is what will happen to me! But of course," you laughed mockingly," the all so passionate Noasuke Flourite doesn't understand this because all he does is make joke after joke about every little thing I do or say!"

"Hey," his face glazed over with insult," that's not true. I—"

"Of course it's not! You're always excluded from everything, ever since we were little! Even if I only had a short time with you, I remembered you being spoiled, and rotten, and—"

Noa clamped his hand over your mouth, almost hissing his words as he leaned in. "Listen here [Name], I don't care how fucking drunk you are, but I DO care about how you're throwing around your words!" You grumbled behind him, stopping short as he continued. "Don't say anything you don't mean. Especially if—"

You yanked his hand down, squeezing a pressure point on his veins," Who said I didn't mean anything!? It's all true!"

"Then maybe what Chiyoko said about you being a bitch is too!" the blonde finally snapped back. He grimaced before releasing something that had been in his free hand, and quickly walking away from your figure once your fingers released him. You bent down in exasperation, eyes widening to see a rather large sized candy apple you always had a sweet spot for.

A spot you now had in your chest though was something else entirely—regret: for even daring to say such mean things to Noa. You whimpered and slumped, tears spilling from your eyes as you clutched the apple to your chest, sobbing quietly while repeatedly murmuring your apology.

After a short while, you were hugged from behind as the breath of a sigh passed your ear, Noa's voice coming out soft and gentle. "I'm sorry [Nickname]-chan... Please, stop crying."

Noctis

"You got what you deserved—you pay the price for you stupidity," Noctis scoffed, walking past you and towards the direction you had come from.

Grabbing his wrist, you forced him to face you," Why are you so mean to me!? What did I ever do to you!?"

"For starters, you're a commoner who's touching me!" the ravenette yelled back, shrugging himself out of your grasp. "Besides, why would I bother being nice to you? After all the mean things you've done to my friends and I? Not to mention your rudeness and informality to addressing a prince such as myself!"

"You know what?" you put your hands on your hips. "You're not anything without that crown. Say Lucis wasn't your father—you'd be normal like every other person. But, thankfully, your mother was enough of a bitch to squeeze herself through high society."

"Hey! I will not endure your speaking of my mother in that manner!" he snarled, irises threatening to shift to crimson. "You might as well speak for yourself anyway—you practically squeezed yourself into this school, interacting with people who were better off before your arrival."

"Like you?" you challenged, cocking an eyebrow.

"Of course! I was perfectly happy before you came! The day you arrived here, you harassed me—as if [Name] dumping me wasn't bad enough!"

"You should be treasuring these moments you have with me Noctis," you mumbled, shaking your head as you ran a hand through your hair. "I'm probably the only person who's willing to take and give back the bullshit you vent out."

"I can speak to whomever I wish! I don't need you to—"

"If that's true then why do you always release your anger on me!?" you almost shrieked, eyes suddenly spilling tears. When he only remained silent and looked away, you continued. "Well!? How about I answer for you!? It's because you care enough to even bother with me! You care enough to sneer, and give me your crap because somewhere, in that idiotic brain of yours, you're trusting me with the information you're letting out when you rant!"

"I...I can't believe you think that," Noctis muttered, glaring at the ground. "I HATE you Amaya Nochi, and—"

"Look into my eyes and say you hate me then," you sniffled, wiping your face as your voice broke, and now would not go above a whisper. "Noctis Lucis Caelum, look at me, then repeat what you just said...!"

"...I can't," Noctis whispered in disbelief, eyes shifting to meet yours.

Noel

"Hey there," Noel smiled, turning you gently by the shoulder," are you okay?"

You sniffled and nodded," I-I just got a little carried away and—"

The brunette shook his head, pulling you into a hug," It's not your fault."

"Ah..." Taken aback by his forwardness, it took you a moment before you wrapped your arms back around him.

"Whatever it is, it's not your fault—not ever," he whispered in your ear.

Shocked, you were left speechless "...N-Noel?" you finally murmured.

He pulled away from you as his forehead creased with worry," Is there something wrong? Am I making you uncomfortable?"

"A little," you sheepishly smiled, scratching the back of your head.

"Right, sorry," he smiled back in the same manner, releasing you completely as he took a step away. "It's just...well...I..."

"You don't need to apologize for anything," you smiled gratefully. "I'm thankful you just came to see if I'm okay—I really am."

"Oh," his face seemed so fall a little, along with the now forced smile across his lips. "I still have something to tell you though," he chuckled. "Err...I just...don't quite know how to put it."

"Just say it," you shrugged, looking at him with curiosity. "That IS the best way isn't it?"

"I guess," the brunette mumbled. Fumbling with his fingers for a moment, he then took a deep breath," Okay, the thing is—" A sudden explosion in the distance made you jump in surprise, and you instinctively dashed forward, hugging Noel for protection. He chuckled lightly, and you gazed up at him in confusion. "It's just a few effects on that karaoke thing—don't get scared."

"A-Ah, right," you blushed, mad at yourself, and attempted to step back when you felt Noel's arms hug you, forcing you to stay against him. "Is...something wrong?" you whispered, trying not to show your willingness to stay in the position.

"...You know, if you are scared...ever...you can come to me...I'm here for you... You know?" Noel whispered, just above your ear. "All you have to do is tell me, yeah?"

"Sure thing," you whispered back, biting your lip as tears welled in your eyes.

Prompto

"It's times like this I'm glad I'm a wet guy."

"...You do know how wrong that sounds right?" you looked up from your position on the ground, only to immediately avert your gaze as the blonde took off his shirt. His hair, dripping with water, hit the skin of his shoulder, and as he sat in front of you, he smiled, folding the clothing piece into as thin of a rectangle as he could.

"Okay, I could have said that better—like saying that I got hosed with a water gun by Xion," he chuckled and nodded. Then, he held out his shirt to you," Here, put it on your forehead. If you have a hangover, it won't be as bad."

"Are you sure?" you sniffled, tilting your head up against the tree trunk as he shifted forward and rested the shirt on your skin. "I-I feel like I'm being a bother."

"Don't worry about it," Prompto's voice came from beside your ear as a warm whisper. "It'll help both of us. For example, you can cool off, and maybe if you blushed just a little more, it can fly up to your forehead and dry my shirt."

At this, you felt your cheeks heat more than they already were, and you shook your head, sitting up straight as you pushed away his hand. "You know what? I-I'm pretty sure I'm fine," you said, rather unconvincingly. "You can go ahead and—"

The blonde smiled, chuckling lightly," Look, I was just kidding. Relax." He took your chin with his fingers and tilted it up as his other hand lightly dabbed at your face with his shirt before holding it upon your forehead once again. "...Hey Amaya?" he asked suddenly. "...Do you think you could ever like a guy like me?"

The question caught you off guard, and you pulled his hand away from you, sitting up again. "Why? Is there something wrong?"

"I'm just wondering," he mumbled. "You're always getting into trouble, and there's never a guy to step in and help you... I'm not saying you're not independent, but everyone has that one person out there and... Well since Cid kissed you and now isn't doing anything after seeing what happened, I'm kinda mad at him..."

"Prompto, I don't like Cid," you sighed, running a hand through your hair. "If anything, you're probably my type," at the end of your sentence, your speech slowed, and you found yourself blushing madly.

The blonde grinned in return," Yeah? Well, I'll keep that in mind then."

Raizo

"Gatorade?" the brunette offered, turning you around as he held out the open bottle with a soft smile. You stared at the light green liquid momentarily before nodding, and as you tilted your head back to waterfall from it, he spoke again. "Go ahead and just drink from it—I don't mind."

Nodding, you did so and took a long swing. Then, handing it back to him, you smiled a little," Th-Thank you."

He nodded, taking a sip for himself, then closing the bottle. "...So, long night huh?"

"Yeah," your voice wasn't louder than a whisper, and you sighed, leaning against the tree trunk. "Raizo...why do you think people are mean?"

"I don't know," he mumbled, staring at the ground. "For a lot of reasons I guess but honestly, people really...suck, don't they?"

"They do," you nodded. "They really do. "

"...I'm sorry about [Name]," Raizo sighed, brushing the hair of his bangs back with his hand as it swept through in frustration, lingering at the back of his neck. "[Name] was never this type of person really. She used to get picked on—maybe this is her way of letting those feelings out, I don't know, but...it doesn't make it right. Heck, this apology doesn't even count since it's not even coming from her."

"I'm just grateful you came to check on me," you smiled a little, playing with your fingers. "Just knowing that, I'm fine if I get picked on."

The brunette laughed, looking at you brightly with his dark gray eyes," You know, I'm fine

checking up on you. I like seeing you smile—it feels nice to know I helped someone. With the dad I had... I really don't mind being there for you Amaya," his gaze softened. "I just know how hard it can be, so don't hesitate to—"

You sniffled, throwing your arms around Raizo's neck," ...Thank you...!"

"Hey," he chuckled, patting your back soothingly," come on now—don't cry."

Reno

"Y'know, I'm really bad with words, and I don't think I'm the best guy to cheer you up but...could you at least look at me?"

Reno sighed, and you did as well, turning with crossed arms to weakly gaze at him, in no mood to speak. His face was distressed, and he tightened his ponytail, silence passing as he contemplated what to say. Crossing your arms, you spoke instead.

"...Can I just be left alone please?" your voice was barely a whisper. "I don't want to talk about what happened."

"Then you don't need to!" the redhead let out a sigh of relief as he grinned. "Just...I don't know... listen to music or walk around or—"

"Reno, my feeling better about what just happened doesn't include you in it."

"...Oh," was all he managed to say.

His face fell as he gazed at you, your eyes not even on him when you had said what you did. Rather, you were kicking at the grass, tears falling down your cheeks carelessly. Reno stepped forward, but before you could tell him to back away, one hand tilted your chin up, the other brushing away tears with his fingertips. You stood still as Reno lowered your face so you were directly looking at him, and this time, he beat you to speaking.

"You think I'm here because I'm pitying you," he whispered," but you're wrong... I'm here because I care. You're a really great girl Amaya—it hurts to see you act like this."

"Like what?" you whimpered. "Are you telling me—"

"I'm not saying you can't be sad or mad," he shook his head. "I'm just saying that you should be happy. I honestly don't know why you're crying whether it was because of the whole thing with [Name] or because you still might kinda be drunk but... Look," he laughed nervously to himself," I don't even know what I'm saying anymore just...come here."

Reno outstretched his arms, and you ran into them almost instantly, burying your face into his shoulder as he whispered for you to stop—his voice soothing and caring, making your heart ache even more.

Riku

"Hey," the silverette greeted quietly, hugging you from behind," are you okay?"

You sniffled, holding back the next wave of sobs to escape your lips as you unlocked his hands from yours and pushed him away. You glared, whirling around," What do you want from me golden boy!?"

"There's no need to be aggressive," Riku muttered, frowning as he took a step back. "I just came to see if you were alright."

"What do you think?" you almost hissed. "Do I LOOK like I'm alright? What kind of guy whose supposed to be the genius golden boy asks such a STUPID, RIDICULOUSLY OBVIOUS question!?"

"I'm a genius huh? You sound just like everyone else," he grimaced, scoffing as he ran a hand through his hair. "Alright then, if I'm such a genius, then why don't YOU tell ME why can't seem to understand the incredibly complex emotions of a teenage girl!"

"Because you're retarded!" you yelled back, drunkenly jabbing him in the chest. "Now leave me the fuck alone—I don't want you here!"

"All I'm trying to do is help you!"

"I don't need help! I never asked for it, and I refuse to take it from you!" you huffed, wiping your tearing eyes.

"I DON'T CARE!" the silverette roared back in exasperation. "I WANT to help you, and you WILL take it [Name]!"

"I'M NOT [NAME]!" you groaned agonizingly, leaning against the tree for support as you began sobbing.

"I...know that," Riku sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I don't know why I... I'm sorry... Amaya, please..." he murmured almost incoherently when you shoved him away from hugging you again.

"I-I'm not the girl whose on your mind," you whimpered, glaring at the ground as you hid your face behind your hands. "S-So go to that—that big...meanie! ...W-What are you doing!? L-Lemme g-go!" You squirmed within his arms that forced themselves around you again.

"I'm sorry," Riku whispered in your ear. "I would never forget who you are."

'But you did...!' you  screamed in your head, sobbing harder.

Roxas

"Amaya, come here," the blonde murmured, turning you and wiping your cheeks with his sleeves. "Stop crying...please?"

You sniffled, shaking your head as the tears scattered," Y-You don't understand!"

"What don't I understand?" he frowned, gazing at you in concern. "What happened up there? Sure I don't know why you would do that, or how you feel exactly because of it, but I DO know a feeling similar to it."

"But you don't understand what I'M feeling!" you emphasized. "It's different for a guy! Even if I tried explaining it to you, you'd—"

"What?" he cocked his head to the side, a bit irritated. "Are you trying to tell me I don't have feelings?"

"Oh so you do!?" you laughed bitterly. "You're so quiet and nice Roxas—it's obvious it's an act!"

"...I don't even think this is about me," the blonde murmured, crossing his arms," is it?"

"Oh NOW he sees that he shouldn't be so conceited!" you clapped your hands.

"You're too drunk to even make sense right now," he sighed, shaking his head. "Please Amaya, I came here to make sure you were alright. At least take a deep breath for me and—"

"Why should I do anything for you!?" you snapped, eyes beginning to burn. "What have you ever done for me!? All you do is sit back while everyone tramples over you—"

"You don't have the right to be angry with me," Roxas hissed, cutting you off and pulling you into his arms. "I won't give it to you. Now cry—it's the only way to get this out of your system." Your hands which had unknowingly wrapped around him squeezed his side, and you mumbled an apology that was shushed away as Roxas in return, also held you tighter.

Rufus

Rufus chuckled in amusement as he approached you, in a fine, expensive looking hakama. The top gave full exposure of the upper half of his chiseled chest, and you fought to glare at him as it beckoned you to squeal like an idiotic fangirl of some sort. Seeming to notice your sudden discomfort, he came closer, and you ignored him until you felt his breath against your neck, causing you to whirl around, coming to face him with his lips inches apart from yours. Chuckling again, he leaned in to kiss you, but smelling the alcohol on his breath, you frowned distastefully and pushed him away.

Landing on the ground, Rufus scoffed, his words almost coming out as a growl. "What do you think you're doing Nochi?"

"I'd like to ask you the same thing," you crossed your arms. "I'm not as intoxicated as you are! I KNOW when I'm about to be taken advantage of."

"Can you blame me?" he smirked, standing and dusting himself off.  "I'm a man. Besides," his blue eyes trailed your figure," what you're wearing is rather beckoning...and alluring."

"Could you BE any more REPULSIVE!?" you gasped, fists clenching at your sides.

The blonde laughed, clapping his hands in mock applause," You're quite an actress! I say leave your guard down, and we both can get what we want here: I'll pay you, and you can put your hands where your eyes are avoiding."

Your jaw dropped," I'm sixteen! I'm not some—"

"I'm nineteen! We're about the same age then, so we can drop the formalities."

"WHAT FORMALITIES!?" you screamed with rage.

"I may be drunk, but I'm no fool: it's he fact that we still have our clothes on," Rufus laughed at your expression. "Ah, ah—calm down will you? I'll wait until you're ready."

You groaned, hanging your head in your hands," I think I'm gonna be sick..."

Ryuushin

The ravenette put his arms around you from behind, and you rested your hands on his, squeezing them tightly as you shook, glaring at the bark of a neighboring tree. He rested his chin on your head and sighed, slowly rocking the two of you back and forth in silence.

You sighed sadly, voice nothing but a whisper. "Ryuu—"

"We don't have to leave," he whispered back. "Stay as long as you like, [Name]. Even if it's all night, I'll wait here with you until you're alright to go back."

"Ryuu...I... I'm going to lose aren't I?" you bit back another wave of tears.

"Lose?" he lifted his head, resting it on your shoulder as he looked at your face. "What are you going to lose?"

"Everything... If I can't beat Chiyoko—"

"[Name], you're in and out of being drunk, you think you're even in your right mind to say these things right now? Fuck the game you played; it doesn't say anything about what's going to happen to you."

"But—"

"But nothing, [Name]; end of discussion."

"...Ryuushin?"

"Hm?"

"I hate you."

"I know," he chuckled softly. "I hate you too."

"...You don't mean that do you?" you whimpered.

"No," his voice became as light as a feather," I love you [Name]." Your heart beat uncontrollably and he squeezed your hand firmly, expressing the meaning behind his words. "Even if you lose everything else, I promise you, you won't lose me."

"That's...a horrible constellation."

"I know," he lightly kissed your cheek," and I'm sorry you're going to live with it."

"...Ryuushin?"

"Yeah [Name]?"

"Thank you," you sniffled, wiping your eyes and leaning against him.

Seifer

"Hey lamer~!" Seifer almost sang as he approached you, stumbling over his own two feet as he squeezed between two shrubs. "You lost~!"

You sighed, pinching the bridge of your nose," Are you seriously drunk?"

"Whaddya care?" he spat, pointing a finger at you with the hand that held a beer bottle in his hand. "You're drunk too!"

"I...actually sobered up."

"Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaah riiiiiiiight," he laughed loudly. "YOU'RE one of the people who're like...the guy who does the stuff y'know?"

"I'm the guy who does the stuff?" you spoke slowly in amusement. "Okay—works for me."

"Y'know, I had dis dream," the blonde mumbled, staggering closer to you before laying on the ground and curling up.

"And what was this dream?" you asked softly, crouching down beside him.

Seifer snorted," I got knocked out atta bar fight, and I dreamt that ya were the one who killed those guys in the alley—that thing that's been on the news."

"Oh...really?" you nodded slowly as he turned on his other side and lazily looked up at you.

"I dun think you'd do it though," he murmured, seeing your face fall. "You're pretty nice—I'm being honest here."

"Maybe it's just the alcohol talking," you chuckled halfheartedly.

"I dunno, maybe~?" he groaned, rolling onto his back. "You're so serious~! Stop thinking all the time!"

"...Seifer, if I told you my name was [Name], what would you say? ...Eh?" Hearing the light snoring, you leaned forward and smiled, seeing he had fallen fast asleep. He was definitely going to have a hangover tomorrow but... You softly pressed your lips to his forehead," Maybe that'll make it better."

"Thanks [Name]," he mumbled almost incoherently, still asleep. "No...I don't want any more ramen Sephiroth...!"

"Huh," you cocked your head to the side," some dream."

Sephiroth

The silverette silently approached you as you now sat huddled against the trunk of a tree, unblinking as you glared at the ground with tears silently escaping your cheeks. You didn't make a sound, and because of that, he hesitated momentarily before approaching you. He made no noise, but you felt him there, and looked up to see him peering down at you—in a white shirt, black pants, and black boots—as he removed his black jacket and placed it across your shoulders.

"Thanks," you managed to whisper, wiping your cheeks with the back of your hand. "What brings you here?"

"You're drunk are you not?" Sephiroth sighed, crossing his arms as he sat across from you—his loose hair framing his face. "I'm trying to make sure you don't do anything stupid."

"Those words are a little harsh don't you think?" you frowned. "I can take care of myself."

"According to what just happened, you cannot—you drowned your sorrows in alcohol."

"...It was one time," you muttered, then looked up at him. "But, I've kinda sobered up! I don't need you babysitting me!"

"Very well then," he shrugged. "I'm not watching you; I'm simply here to enjoy the wonders of the great outdoors."

You bit back a smile," W-Who do you think you're fooling? The 'wonders of the great outdoors'?

"Nobody said you had to believe me," Sephiroth scoffed, fluidly pushing himself to a standing position. "I find you rather amusing Amaya."

"How?" you furrowed your eyebrows. The teen just smirked, swiping your jacket off of you as he put it back on. "Hey!" you stood. "Tell me!"

"I've already said enough."

Your lips pulled into a childish pout," Don't do that! Tell me now!"

"You've raised your voice," Sephiroth 'tsk'ed with a mock pout as he shook his head. "I was considering it but now I'm not going to."

"Sephiroth!"

Sora

You were still catching your breath when something whooshed past you. Stiffening, you looked around only to have another gust of wind leaving you breathless, and leaving your knees to buckle in exhaustion. As you were to hit the ground, a hand caught your arm and pulled you up. Your eyes trailed up to find the blues of Sora as he helped you steady yourself. After a few long breaths, he finally spoke.

"Amaya what happened out there? I just got here and I saw you fall and then—"

"Why don't you go ask your beloved [Name]!?" you chocked out. "She's the one who did this to me!?"

"Really?" his eyes widened. "Well she actually would but... She's not the one who's upset here—you are."

"Which is why I'm completely nonnegotiable, and you should leave!" you nodded, then whimpered and buckled down as your emotions suddenly spilled over. "I-It's complicated Sora! You wouldn't u-understand it...!"

Sora sat beside your crumpled figure, reaching for your hand and giving it a firm squeeze," What is it between you and [Name] that's so bad?"

"[Name]'s a bitch that likes to get everyone's attention," you scoffed. "I... I never did anything to her and she... She just..." You shook your head, beginning to sob quietly. "L-Like I said Sora...you won't get it."

"Girl stuff," the brunette groaned, his arm slinging around your shoulders. You looked up to see him grinning down at you. "Don't worry Amaya, this is just high school drama! It'll pass!"

Terra

"I'm going to say this is as nicely as I can," Terra murmured, coming up behind you and wrapping you within a hug. "Amaya...shit happens."

You scoffed, wiping your eyes and turning to face him—his grip not faltering. What you were faced with though, was with the brunette's eyes only inches from yours, meaning his lips were...

"...Did you even hear me?" he asked in an amused tone, leaning back slightly as he cocked his head to the side.

"Y-Yeah... I did," you nodded slowly. "You said...to not worry...and that it'll be okay...?"

He smiled, nodding," Sorry, thought I lost you for a moment there."

You rested your head against his chest, arms returning the hug he never broke. "Do you mind...if I stayed like this with you for a second?"

"Take your time," Terra whispered by your ear," I'm in no rush. I came here to check up on you anyway... Don't hold in your tears either." He said the last part ever so softly when seeing you shook with a hiccup, and you nodded, sniffling as you shifter your head to the side, avoiding dampening his shirt.

Terra's emerald eyes gazed at you deeply as your own [color] ones were focused on nothing in particular in the distance. He raised a hand and brushed away a tear lingering by the side of your cheek, catching your attention as you looked up to him. A small smile spread across his lips, and you noticed he slowly began leaning in. You were suddenly scared of what was to happen, but as you were about to pull away from him, a cool breeze blew. With your sinuses already uneasy from crying, the simple wind tickled your nose, and you looked away, sneezing and hitting your head against the brunette's.

Making a pouting face, Terra rubbed his forehead," What kind of thanks is that?"

"I-I'm sorry!" you gasped.

* Trey *

"Hey, c'mere," the blonde called you over. He was sitting criss-crossed on the grass in all black, including the thin headband in his hair, flattening his bangs across his forehead. When you only stared, he sighed, patting the spot in front of it. "Hurry up Amaya, we don't have all night. It's already late." You sighed and wiped your cheeks, seating yourself in the same manner across from him. Trey smiled," Okay, now lay on your back, and put your head here," he patted his lap.

"W-What!?" you almost shrieked. "Why!?"

"Don't be such a girl," he groaned, shifting his position so he was sitting on his legs. "There? Better? Just put your head here! I'm not going to do anything bad!"

"Just by asking me that, you SOUND like you're going to do something bad!"

The blonde sighed," Please Amaya? You can trust me—I promise I won't do anything just...c'mon."

You sighed, awkwardly doing as he had asked, soon finding yourself looking up at his face upside down. He flashed you a grin and leaned to the side, where you now noticed he had tossed his jacket. As he worked to pull something from the pocket, you took a close look at his features and almost involuntarily sighed—Trey was handsome. Catching you watching as he turned back to you, you sniffled and cleared your throat, looking away as your cheeks flushed. The blonde pulled your hair away from your face before resting a damp cloth onto your forehead.

You gasped at the coldness, and glared up at Trey," Hey! I-I don't need this! I'm already pretty sobered up!"

"Yeah, but if you fall asleep anytime soon, you're gonna wake up with a bad hangover. This'll kinda mitigate it. Now sit still! You're getting water in your eyes!" he chided, fingers gliding across your eyelids.

Touya

"Hey, kid," the dyed ravenette spun you around carelessly, his other hand shoved into the pocket of his sweatshirt. He flinched slightly when seeing your face, and you glared, tugging your arm from his grip. He sighed, tossing you a can. "Here, it'll make you feel better."

"Thanks," you murmured, catching it. The can radiated coolness, and you glanced at it to find that it was flavored water.

Holding his hand out, he spoke," Want me to open it for you?"

"I got it," you shook your head, opening it—the fizzing sound filling the silence between you.

"...Are you okay?" You nodded. "Hm..."

You suddenly turned to him," Touya, do you know who I am?"

"Huh?" he looked up, not hearing you.

"I mean," you scratched the back of your head," you always call me 'Kid' so, do you even know my name?"

"Of course I do," the ravenette chuckled. "Your name's Amaya Nochi."

"Then...why do you always call me a kid?"

"You're not a kid, you're THE kid," he corrected. When you only gave him a puzzled look in return, he rubbed his chin in thought as he spoke. "See... I haven't told anyone yet, but I had this vision of you, and you're...well you were saving us from something. It was so blurry, but I'm pretty sure the outline is at least you."

"...How do you know I'm not the bad guy?"

"I just do," he shrugged, smiling, making you momentarily catch your breath at how it made your heart beat rapidly. "There's something about you that...I kinda like... Err, I-I don't like you necessarily though," he quickly corrected. "This is...entirely different—don't get the wrong idea."

"Yeah," you smiled and nodded. "I got it."

Vaan

"Here," Vaan huffed, shoving a small bottle into your hands.

He continued to pant as he looked around frantically, something in the distance finally catching his eye. His own blue ones widened, and he quickly grabbed your wrist, flinging you into his arms as he scurried behind a tree. With his back against the bark, he crouched down and pulled you closer against him—a gesture that welcomed you to his warmth, making you feel safe.

Numerous footsteps were heard in the distance, crunching against the leaves. As the seconds ticked by, they got closer, louder, until finally revealing two men in hakamas of multitoned gray.

"Where'd that little bastard go!?"

"I can't believe this! How could you let him get away!?"

"ME!? YOU were the one watching the booth! Do you KNOW how much that little bottle cost!?"

"Look! Over there!"

Seeming to have spotted something, they ran off in the direction they had come in, bickering at one another once more. Vaan peeked around the corner before letting out a breath of relief and emerging from the shadows, pulling you by the hand along with him. You frowned as he faced you, and he smiled.

"Sorry about that! I just—"

"Vaan you stole this," you held it out to him. "Give it back."

"No can do," he shook his head," I don't think they're the kind to give refunds."

"But—"

"Just take it will you?" he frowned in irritation. "I'm not gonna buy something they stole from someone else in the first place. They're bandits—I can tell that much. Now c'mon will you? Take it Amaya—it'll help with a hangover you're most likely gonna have."

"...No."

"Alright, that's it then!" Vaan grabbed the small bottle out of your hands and opened it. He then pulled you from behind and pinched your nose. As you mouth opened to breathe, he poured the liquid inside, then released you.

You coughed from the taste, glaring at him," Why would you—"

"Because I can," he smirked, crossing his arms in victory.

Vanitas

"And so, Amaya ran off into the cold, dark night, unable to face her rather...simplistic situation," the ravenette said as he approached, loud enough for you to hear.

"What the hell do you want from me?" you asked angrily, not bothering to turn around.

"Someone's going to want to know what happened," he said lazily, leaning against the tree across from yours," and I'm just summing it up."

"I don't want to deal with your crap right now," you sighed. "Please Vanitas, if you have any humanity within yourself, please leave me alone."

Curiously Vanitas approached you with a rather cocky smirk on his face, speaking sarcastically,
Oh yeah? And why not? Did someone hurt your feelings?" He mock pouted, about to continue when a sob escaped your lips, and you whimpered, spinning on your heel. "Wait," he said, catching you by the wrist—you in return glaring at him. Reaching out to you, his fingertips brushed against your cheek while you leaned back distastefully to avoid him. His eyes widened as the clear liquid glinted in the moonlight," You... You're seriously crying?"

You laughed bitterly, shrugging your wrist out of his hold," Yes! Why!? Come here to make the shit level in my feelings rise!?"

"First of all, that sounded horrible," he muttered," and no, I'm not." His face became series as he stepped closer to you," Why the hell are you crying?"

"You saw what happened!" you shrieked. "Why do you THINK I'm crying!?"

"Well, if I were you, I'd just have kept going—or at the least flick [Name] off or something."

"[Name]," you snorted. "I can't believe how easy things are for her."

"That what this is about?" Vanitas sighed. "Look, if I'm thinking right, you're comparing yourself to her—DON'T do that."

"It's none of your—"

"Yes it is my business," he held you by the shoulders. "I'm concerned for you Amaya. Yeah, okay, given I'm a dick, you don't care what I say, but just remember...you're a lot better than [Name]—A LOT."

"V-Vanitas," you smiled, new tears spilling out of your eyes.

"Ugh," Vanitas groaned, awkwardly hugging you. "Come on! Stop fucking crying—geez!"

Ventus

"[Name] won~! Then you ran away~! Now you are a chicken—ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha~!"

You turned on your heel, palm immediately coming into contact with the blonde's cheek. Stunned for a moment, Ven's blue eyes widened, and he took a step back from you as his eyebrows furrowed. He shook his head, his gaze slowly becoming a glare until finally, he was ticked off.

"What the hell did you do THAT for!? I was just playing around!"

"JUST PLAYING AROUND!?" you repeated in a shriek, laughing and clapping your hands loudly and hysterically. "Oh—OH! I'm sorry! Go ahead Ven—play around!"

"Now that you're being a bitch, I kinda regret wanting to check up on you," he hissed, rubbing his cheek.

"You WANTED to come check up on me?" your eyes widened in mock surprise. "Oh do I find that hard to believe! THIS is totally coming from the guy who bullies me along with Axel, Zack, and [Name]!"

"Don't be so sensitive!" he scoffed, crossing his arms. "This is high school—"

"So what you're saying is because this is high school, you have the right to treat me like shit!?" your voice broke at the end of the sentence, leaving you to sob. "W-What kind of retarded reasoning is that!?"

"I-It's true," Ven murmured, kicking at the grass as he avoided his gaze from you crying face—guilt hitting him hard. "Just...ask [Name] or—"

"[Name] is really your answer to everything?" you sniffled, gazing at him. When he didn't answer, you shook your head in disappointment, wiping your eyes.

Vergil

Slowly, you had sunk down on the grassy floor with you back against the tree trunk, huddled with your knees against your chest. The light thudding of footsteps on the grass made you look up slightly, sitting up a bit as Vergil sat beside you. The sound of a can being opened momentarily filled the silence, and he held it out to you.

"Coffee; it's chilled, but it should help with sobering you up a little."

"Thanks," you said quietly, taking it from him. He nodded in return and opened one of his own. "So...you saw everything?" you asked after another long silence.

The silverette let a sigh escape his lips before shaking his head," Only when you tumbled down."

"Ugh...so the worst part..."

He chuckled lightly," My brother has done worse things. You should actually consider yourself lucky you aren't seriously hurt." When you didn't answer, he observantly looked towards you," You aren't, are you?"

"I'm..." Your chest tightened, and you desperately tried to form a sentence to excuse yourself, but before you could, Vergil spoke again, setting his can down beside him, turning his body fully to look at you.

"Where? Tell me."

"My heart," you subconsciously mumbled, then clamped a hand over your mouth. "I-I mean—"

"It must be the sudden movement," he murmured, ignoring your sudden embarrassment as he looked you over. "A big surprise to you like that can sometimes be fatal."

"Are you saying I could have had a heart attack?" you frowned.

Vergil nodded, answering after taking a sip of his coffee as he stood. "You don't necessarily have to be old to have one I hear, so, watch yourself, will you?"

"I will," you smiled at him," thank you."

"Right," the silverette looked away, wondering if he was going to have a heart attack from that small gesture you gave him.

Vincent

There was an invisible wave that flew across you in a funny, out of water ripple mixed with a breeze, and in feeling it, you straightened in surprise. Looking around yourself in confusion to see that time had stopped. Everyone remained still in their current actions, and you were alerted because of it, wiping your eyes as you took a step forward—nothing changed. You lingered there, wondering if you should try and move again when Vincent revealed himself from behind you.

"Hello," he murmured, past your ear.

You gasped and whirled around, looking at him with wide eyes to find him about a pace away from your figure. "W-Why did you do that?"

"Scare you?" he cocked an eyebrow, amusement in the smirk across his lips.

"No," you shook your head," I mean...why did you stop time?"

"You would rather time passed while you sulked here?" he sighed, leaning against a tree, crossing his arms. "It seems like a waste of the night to me."

"Not for me," you shook your head again. "I wasn't having much fun anyway."

"That I can understand," he nodded slowly. "You want to be alone—I'll leave you to it then."

"...I...didn't say that," you mumbled, playing with your fingers as he curiously turned around from walking away. "I'd actually like it if you'd keep me company."

"I wouldn't mind that at all," a ghost of a smile passed Vincent's features, and he approached you once more, awckwardly patting your shoulder in an attempt to soothe you. "It may not be much, but I could turn back time if you'd want to avoid what happened earlier."

"It's alright," you smiled unknowingly," I'd like to keep this moment."

The ravenette pulled his hand back and cleared his throat, nodding silently as he turned to looked at the distant lights you were focused on—only, his eyes were on you, unable to shift away.

Weiss

The crunch of footsteps behind you made you stiffen and turn around, finding that Weiss was within arm's reach—you not even hearing his approach. His emerald gaze flickered away from your face as he took in the sight, and he shoved his hands in the pockets of his tan pants.

"Ah... Well, I think I should leave you to your privacy then."

He turned away when you sniffled and spoke up, voice just over a whisper," Could you stay? ...Even just a little longer?"

"If you want," he looked over his shoulder. "You don't mind? I'm sure there is a lot on your conscience right now."

You shook your head," What good is it all if I keep it inside?"

"I take it you want to talk about it?" the pale haired teen approached. "What's been bothering you? You're usually so composed?"

You looked up at him in surprise," You think so? ...I-I mean you're not just saying that?"

He shook his head, not noticing your flustered behavior. "You know what you're doing—I can see it. When you fight, handle the boys like Zack or, and especially, Axel, and when you deal with [Name]."

"...You don't like her?"

"Of course not," Weiss scoffed. "I honestly don't even think [Name] is her real name—do you? I don't mean to slander who you are Amaya, but her name fits more upon you."

You suddenly laughed lightly," I'll take that as a compliment."

"Oh?" he smirked. "That was better taken than expected. This...should be our little friendship secret then—if you're up for some idiocy. Okay...[Name]?"

"Sure, why not," you nodded and smiled back at him.

Yuj

"Heya," Yuj greeted, smiling at you warmly as you turned. "You okay?" You nodded wordlessly. He thought a moment before answering," Are you sure?" You nodded again, curiously looking at him after sniffling and wiping your eyes. "Well...you wanna hang out then?"

"Not...not really," you quietly.

"Oh thank the chosen one—you still speak!" he sighed in relief. "I'm really not good at one sided conversations!"

A frown tugged at your lips," Then why'd you come? You know I'm not in the best mood."

"But you see, you can't really cheer anybody up if you don't get a vocal reaction from them," he leaned in with a mischievous grin, his weight against his palm that rested on the tree trunk you were forced back against. "Like, if I were to just move in an inch closer to kiss you, how would I know what you felt other than your facial expression which could be a giant act?"

"I...don't know," you murmured, feeling your cheeks heat.

He chuckled lightly," Well, so far so good—my plan is working. At least you're not crying anymore." With a grin, he pulled back and checked his phone.

"Not that you see anyway," you muttered under your breath.

"Huh?" the teen looked at you curiously, shoving the device into his pocket.

"N-Nothing?" you cleared your throat, biting your lip.

"C'mon," he shook his head as he leaned in again," anything else? Really, you can tell me!"

You hesitated a moment, but slightly shifted to the side and kissed his cheek, smiling slightly. "Actually, I'm great—thank you."

"Don't mention it," Yuj smiled back, touching his cheek as both sides began to heat immediately.

Zack

The ravenette laughed, clapping his hands as if he had just seen the most amusing thing. Your call had been so amusing to him in fact, he was slowly shedding tears of joy, trying to talk through choking fits of laughter. He finally recomposed himself after a few long minutes, and as you kept your back to him, in order to have an easier way to ignore him, he finally whirled you around, his signature grin plastered onto his face. Though as soon as you felt his hand upon your shoulder, you raised your own as you turned, your palm coming into contact with his cheek in a loud noise of bare skin to bare skin.

Zack immediately stopped laughing, eyes gazing at you in disbelief as he reached up to touch his cheek," ...Ow! Why—why would you DO that!?"

You grimaced, rolling your eyes," Really? You don't KNOW?" Again, you lifted your hand—this time the opposite one—and slapped his other cheek.

Face numb, the ravenette rubbed both of his cheeks with a pout, glaring at you," ...You're such... You're such a BITCH!"

"Oh? Why thank you for taking the time to honor it!" you clapped, laughing rather hysterically. "I'M the bitch where it's YOU and YOUR stupid friends who are continuously picking on me! Yeah, makes perfect sense!"

"You threw my best friend through a window!" Zack looked at you as if you had missed an important point. "HOW can I be friends with someone who did that!? Besides, what happened right now was YOUR fault—you didn't have to go up there, but you did anyway!"

"I-I'll take blame for that then," you sniffled, wiping your eyes as your voice came out shaky. "But think about it: you'd rather be friends with a girl that broke your and your best friend's heart, rather than someone who threw him through a door to teach him a lesson?"

"...I...don't know..." the ravenette stepped away from you staring at the ground as he fell silent.

Zexion

"Believe me when I say I'm taking your feelings into consideration when I'm saying this," the silverette spoke, approaching you from the pathway in front, hands into the pockets of his khaki jeans. "You look terrible."

You sniffled, wiping your eyes, muttering," Yes because that's exactly what you say when a girl is mad."

"I'm sorry—I'm not much help in consoling," he sighed.

"Then why are you here?" you gazed up at him with hurt eyes. "Don't stay if you don't care."

"...Look, I'm worried...as a fellow student...that you might do something irrational, and as someone who has parents, I'm sure they would be disappointed in—"

"My parents are dead," you chuckled bitterly. "Your reasoning doesn't apply to me."

"Yes it does," he shook his head. "Whether they're dead or not, they're looking upon you somewhere—don't you at least worry about that?"

"Well...," you sighed, shaking your head. "Okay, I DO care, but what can I do? You saw how I handled things I'm just a big—"

"Come," Zexion held his hand out. You unsurely took it, and he helped you to your feet. Still holding your hand, he asked," What place would you like to go to?"

"What do you mean?" you furrowed your eyebrows.

"Name a place Amaya," he exhaled in annoyance," we don't have all day."

"Um... Tokyo?"

Within seconds, the scene around you changed, and you gasped, seeing the people, the lights, and the nightlife of one of Earth's busiest cities. Seeing the smile that slowly spread across your features in awe, Zexion's lips also curled up, and he answered the question you were about to ask.

"We can stay here as long as you'd like."

Zero

"You're usually all talk," the pale haired teen murmured, approaching you with hands shoved into the pockets of his gray jeans. "I'll admit it's somewhat amusing, yet, sad when seeing you make a fool of yourself."

"Get out of here...before I get really mad at you," you hissed through clenched teeth. If you were being honest, you wanted to see Zero, wanted to talk to him like old times—maybe it would help. But this, this was just ridiculous—you were fed up with it.

"I was just passing through anyway," he scoffed. "Damn drunk..."

"Yes! Yes, I drank that's why I looked like an idiot out there!" you snapped, advancing on his surprised figure. "Do you plan on making fun of that too!? The way you make fun of EVERYTHING I do since I got here!?"

"I don't do that," Zero frowned. "That's more on Axel, or even Zack."

"You DO, do that!" you yelled back. "You just do it through threats, and sneers, and, and, and," your voice suddenly broke into a sob," I HATE it...SO much!"

"Great, way to make me feel guilty," he muttered, sighing and coming towards your crumpled figure on the grass, hands hiding your face. "You're just... How can I put this? ...Amaya, sometimes you're not worth—"

"If I'm not worth talking to, then why are you trying right now?" you looked up at him with a glare, finding him crouched down in front of you.

He furrowed his eyebrows, lavender eyes shifting away in confusion as he looked at the ground. When he finally answered, Zero's voice was nothing but a whisper, and he reached over, tilting your chin up as he wiped away stray tears lingering on your cheeks," ...I don't know. Something about you is pulling me in...and I can't help it."

Zell

"Food...won't make this better will it?" Zell's unsure smile wavered into a tight line, then back upwards when seeing you let out a small laugh.

Wiping your eyes, you shook your head and turned to face him," I'm not that hungry."

"You sure?" he cocked his head to the side, slightly holding the nachos that had been in his left hand higher. "I was gonna kinda ask if you'd wanna join me—maybe it'll get your mind off things."

"I'm fine," you shook your head.

"Suit yourself," he shrugged, plopping down on the ground. "So what happened?"

"I...kinda drank," you muttered. "Not the smartest thing to do but... Actually, I don't think I can justify why I did it," you sighed.

"I get it," he said with a mouthful. "Stuff's been going on, right? You did it as a way out."

"I guess," you shrugged, toying with your fingers.

"Come here," Zell smiled warmly, pulling you by your wrist and onto his lap.

You blushed," W-What are you doing Ze—" You were cut off by the blonde's shoving of a cheese dipped nacho into your mouth.

As you glared at him, he chuckled," Less talk, more eat!"

"You can't drown your sorrows in food."

"Oh?" he cocked an eyebrow. "So you can with alco—"

"Less talk, more eat!" you giggled, shoving a handful of chips into his mouth.

"So you w-wanna play it like that huh?" Zell finally said after a coughing phase.

"Zell?" you leaned away from him when he didn't answer, glaring. "Z-Zell?" you jumped off his lap and began taking steps back.

After doing the action a bit longer, Zell laughed. "Oh Amaya, I was just playing around!"

--------------------------------------

[B.O.C]'s phone rang, and he wordlessly left to answer it, going in the direction you had come in. You stood there, watching his figure a he became smaller and smaller. It wasn't until he completely disappeared you left too—to the opposite end, closest to the pathway.

Emerging into the clearing, you kicked at the dirt of the path, following it as it twisted across the park. Long minutes passed until you found yourself at the main entrance where you had entered. You looked towards the stage as you recognized Reks up there, singing his heart out. Keeping your eyes on him, something inside you ached to go and try it again. Whether it was the first time frustration, or you proving to yourself you could still do something even if you had failed once, you didn't know; all you knew was that you wanted to go there.

The silverette swayed to the music, holding the microphone as he dipped his hips in a thrusting motion—his obvious intoxication making him sing off key and slur his words. "Shot through the heart, and you're to blame! You give love a bad name~! I play my part and you play your game—you give love a bad name~! You give-give—givegivegive~ Ah~!"

Reks screamed into the mike, a backfire of a squeal erupting from the speakers making everyone cover their ears and groan in response—you included. Two men literally dragged him off stage as he laughed hysterically and gave thanks for the audience's support. Within seconds though, as two girls were about to get onto stage, Chiyoko beat them to it with Ven in tow.

They both took to the stage, and she grinned at him, handing him a microphone. Rage boiled within you, and you ran up after her, bumping into someone in the process. That someone was Shuyin, and he grinned when seeing you, helping you up. As he informed you that you could challenge the two beings, and whoever reached the top of the meter first won—you agreed to it—the man running the machine letting both of you grab a mike, standing on the opposite platform across from the two.

"(Lolli, lolli—oh lollipop! Lolli, lolli—oh lolli—lollipop!)"

As the music started off, Chiyoko gave you a quick glance, smirking as she shook her head. You stuck your tongue out at her—as did Shuyin—and she scoffed, whirling her head towards the screen as the crowd erupted into cheers. The four of you began dancing on the platform—the game was anybody's to take.

"Makdae satangboda duh dalkomhane Nae maeumeun tuhjildeuthan dynamite! Nan ggalgeumhan namja T.O.P—nae sarang bling-bling like L.E.D!"

You followed his lead, singing," Geuden ddak nae seutaileyah! Banjjak, banjjak, seutayah! Saekdarengul wonhae? Let me show you if that's okay!"

As the screen showed you to partner up, Ven took Chiyoko by the waist," Now come on—sakggaleun rainbow! Nal neuggin soongan nun bbajeubuhringul alah!"

"(You just can't control~!)"

Chiyoko now had her turn,"

Nal sahlo jabeun gun~ Nuhwa nahmanae ahneun woori doolae secret light~!

"

"(Lolli, lolli, lollipop—dalkomhaegae dagawah! Lolli, lolli, lollipop—naegae soksakyeohjuh!)" the blondes sang together.

"(Lolli, lolli, lollipop—sangkemhagae dagawah! Lolli, lolli, lollipop—naneul wonhaejanah!)" both you and Chiyoko sang, glaring daggers at one another.

The song then called for a unified sing," (Lolli. lolli, lollipop—oh lolli, lollipop! Lolli, lolli, lolliop—oh lolli—pop, pop!)"

As Ven opened his mouth for the next verse, the music suddenly stopped, and the microphones went dead. The four of you froze on stage, looking towards the screen as numerous lights flashed on it, tallying up the strength of the cheers along with your singing as it showed clips of the performance. You bit your lip nervously heart thumping quickly. Seeming to notice this, Shuyin grinned in reassurance and took your hand, giving it a supportive squeeze.

Finally, the screen flashed white, and you held your breath, yelling in joy when a clip of your and Shuyin's side came up on the screen. Still squealing in joy, Shuyin hoisted you into his arms and spun you around—the crowd still cheering with Chiyoko stomping off in anger, Ven unsurely following after her. You were set down by Shuyin then, and hand in hand skipped down the steps with him.

There was no physical win here—just a mental one. So, grinning like an idiot, you accepted that victory.

--------------------------------------

O.C Introductions:

Kiryu, Kazuma

Former honorable yakuza member known once as the Dragon of Dojima, Kazuma left that life after his closest friends were hurt by it. A few years later, as he began ownership of an orphanage, his half-brother—whom he had no knowledge of—finds him, asking for the favor to raise his sons: Rei and Ichiro, as he leaves to United States to regain his financial status. Kazuma agreed, learning from the man where to find the missing of the two, but when upon reuniting them, and finding that Rei had gone missing, he blamed himself for it, even more so when Ichiro inevitably went as well. But now, with the reintegration of his family within reach, he hopes for the best. Kazuma is not my creation, but the main protagonist of the video game series Yakuza.

Kiryu, Ichiro

Zero's twin brother, Ichiro is both envious and loving towards his sibling, despite the fact he has yet to meet him. Sick for the most part as a child, he is quiet, but has his emotional moments where there is no holding him back. Although he has a power, there is no weapon for this teen, and unbothered by it, he looks forward to piecing his family together. Ichiro is not my creation, but is from is from the anime/manga, Vampire Knight.

Zoom: Hirokiyoshi Remembers Everything

Ryuushin and Noa entered the house after dropping his things off at Auron's, and sat on the couch beside Hiro as Kai remained on the floor, playing the PS3. Kei came in within a few minutes with food on a tray for each boy present, and sat himself on the ground, across from his brother. As they all ate, they chatted on casual matters, until the topic landed on you.

"I don't know, I think we should at least check up on her," Kei murmured, picking at his vegetables. "Whenever I turn my back...bad things happen to her."

"Better get used to it," Ryuushin chuckled. "As her best friend—if my position has not changed—she can handle herself well, despite any way she acts. You shouldn't keep anything from her especially if—"

"Does that even need to be said?" Noa scoffed with a mouthful. "You NEVER keep anything from her! When she finds out, you'll be fucked!"

"Eh? What? But I—"

"Doesn't matter, you're fucked~!" the blonde sang. "F-U-C-K-E-and-D! Fucked you'll be, fucked you'll be~!"

"You'd make an amazing cheerleader," Kai laughed, clapping his hands.

"Who are you talking about?" Hiro asked, attention away from the TV screen as the game loaded.

"Oh, err, Amaya," Kei answered. "It's nothing to worry about."

"I...kinda...think Amaya-san is pretty," Hiro mumbled, looking at the floor.

Kai snickered, sitting up," Oh really? How pretty is she?"

Noa shared the same expression," Really, really pretty, or really REALLY pretty?"

Kei frowned," Don't do this to him."

"Just pretty," the small boy shrugged, his cheeks beginning to heat.

"Huh," Ryuushin turned to him. "Hiro...what if instead of having [Name] around, you had Amaya? How would you feel about that?"

"I'd like it a lot," Hiro looked at the ravenette curiously.

Ryuushin leaned back, pulling off his kudan key and waving it back and forth before Hiro. "We can, but you have to play this game first. It's called...uh..."

"Make a wish!" Kai interrupted. "Just follow what Ryuu says!"

"O-Okay..."

"What are you gonna do?" Noa whispered.

"Brainwashing," he murmured back. "Follow the key Hiro, and count down from ten slowly," Ryuushin instructed, Kei watching in question.

"Ten...nine...eight...seven...six...five...four...three...two...one," as he did so, Hiro's eyes became droopy, and he started to squint, biting back a yawn. "W-What...?"

Ryuushin extended his right hand, hitting the boy with two fingers between the eyebrows. He leaned back as Hiro straightened, eyes closed. "Hirokiyoshi Hinomoto...that is your name, correct?"

"That is Hirokiyoshi's name," Hiro repeated monotonously.

"Hirokiyoshi, think about [Name]—how do you feel about her?"

"Hirokiyoshi...HATES her..."

"And so, how do you feel about Amaya?"

"Hirokiyoshi thinks she's pretty."

"I want you to do something for me then: go back into your memories and think about [Name], but replace her with Amaya. What do you see?"

"Hirokiyoshi sees...nothing."

"Listen to what I say carefully: Amaya is the real [Name], and the real [Name] is an imposter."

"..."

"Amaya is the real [Name], and the real [Name] is an imposter."

"..."

"Amaya is the real [Name], and the real [Name] is an imposter. Hirokiyoshi, you remember everything."

"Hirokiyoshi..." A jolt of pain went through Hiro's head and he yelped, clutching at his head as numerous scenes flashed through it. Finally, when left breathing heavily, he shook with fear and shock, looking around at all the boys. "...Remembers everything!"

"What the fuck," Kai's eyes widened. "How did you do THAT!?"

"I didn't," Ryuushin furrowed his eyebrows. "I was trying to brainwash him. I have no idea how he even..."

"I wanna see her! I wanna see [Name]-san!" Hiro jumped off the couch, running to the door.

"No!" Kei grabbed him back swiftly from behind, making the child scream.

"Hirokiyoshi!" Noa demanded, crouching in front of him with stern eyes. "You have to listen to me carefully before you go ANYWHERE. Otherwise, [Name] will be in danger—understand?"

Zoom: Let's Ditch [Name]!

Kai grabbed Hiro's hand and began inching away from your awed figure. Kei cocked an eyebrow," What do you think you're doing?"

"[Name] needs to be more social with people other than us, so I'm ditching her," he answered in a hushed whisper.

"W-What!?" Hiro frowned. "B-B-But I—"

"Whoops! Too slow!" Kai picked him up and began running away.

"Kai! Yah! Kai-seok!" Kei groaned, running after his brother.

"Oh shit, candy apples!" Noa grinned, heading towards a booth.

Ryuushin, who was the last was suddenly grabbed from behind by the ear, Auron dragging him off as he yelped loudly. "Gah! S-Sensei! That hurts!"

"Good, maybe it'll teach you something."

Zoom: A Little Betting Game

"Amaya IS annoying," Axel rolled his eyes at the table of boys. "You guys are just too stupid to acknowledge it."

"She is not—YOU'RE the stupid one," Roxas shot back, scoffing, a few nodding their heads in agreement.

"Okay, fine: I'll give twenty gil to the guy that can hold her attention for the longest."

"On it!" Zidane called first, dashing to you with a drink in hand.

"W-Wait! You said you don't even like girls!" Bartz yelled after him.

"Idiots," Zack muttered leaning back in his chair.

"Huh, looks like there's an opening," Yazoo smirked, standing as he made his way towards you—Bartz and Zidane beginning to argue, walking back within a few minutes. The silverette caught Zidane's eye, and as Bartz continued to plug his ears and close his eyes—drowning out whatever the blonde had been saying, he followed Yazoo.

Axel smirked, leaning forward as he watched you getting stolen away from the silverette. "This is getting kinda interesting..."

Reks bit his lip as he watched. He couldn't ever be straightforward like that, so maybe he could work on a different approach?

Zoom: Sore Loser

Chiyoko whirled around as the two reached the group of friends," What the hell Ven!? Weren't you paying attention!? It was step turn, step, step! NOT step turn, step, twist!"

"Sheesh [Name], calm down will you?" he muttered. "It's just a game."

"A game that WE could have won!" she stomped her foot childishly. "Ugh! Next time, I'm going with you, Zack."

"And you won't worry about winning with me," he winked, then grinned at Ven. "C'mon, lighten up! It's not your night!"

"Yeah, he totally sucked! If I had a better partner I could have won!" Chiyoko laughed, on the phone, catching everyone's attention. Seeming not to notice or care, she rambled on, leaving them to silently console Ven who was angry at himself.

P.O.V

Reks

Wher'd—wher'd 'maya go? I kinda lost 'er... I'mma—I'mma look over 'ere... Ooh, look at that, 'nother penny!

Saix

I never expected Amaya to speak to me, yet when she did, I felt ambivalent towards her: I'd rather not speak to anyone I'm not comfortable with, yet, there was this warmth coming from her personality.

Shuyin

That was so fun! The way she smiled, and danced and sang and... I haven't felt this way towards anyone in a while! Huh... But...what about me? Does she even pay attention to who I am at all? Hell, does she even KNOW!?

Yazoo

Ah, so much for fun. I was first—assuming Zidane and Bartz are defaulted—does that mean I win? Of course, it was a rather interesting few seconds with Amaya; the poor girl's consciousness was satisfyingly amusing. Though, Zidane has now become a sudden...pain...in the ass.

Zidane

What a dick! Yazoo is a dick! I can't believe how much of a dick he is! That little... Argh! I swear, I've never been this mad before! He's a serious dick!

--------------------------------------

Author's Note: Probably the longest chapter ever made in the history of fan fiction... Thanks for reading! Give feedback please~ :D Check out the announcements please, and the polls as well!

Song Credits

Suit and Tie – Justin Timberlake ft. Jay Z

Hotel Room Service – Pitbull

Eat You Up – BoA

Lollipop – BIGBANG ft 2NE1

Translations:

Dojima no Ryuu – (Japanese) Dragon of Dojima

Anata...yakuza des? – (Japanese) You're...yakuza?

Iyah – (Japanese) No

Aigo – (Korean) Geez, oh my, wow

Aish – (Korean) Geez, tch, ugh

Miseinen no sakenomi – (Japanese) Underage drinker