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Let's play a game! What's the first game that comes to mind when you think of something that a whole family can play? Don't worry – there's no right or wrong answer. Although if any of you thought of baseball, then you just said the magic word. The magic word for what? Why the topic of the story, of course! Now while I could go on about the history of everyone's favorite pastime, like how the first documented mention of baseball came from a children's book in 1744, the main focus of the sport is how it connected the lovely couple whose story I'm about to tell. And as with any good story we're going to start at the beginning, going to the bustling July Orphanage within the Fukushima Prefecture...
“Vash, Vash! I got new ribbons from Auntie! Won't you let me braid your hair?” A little girl asked to a tall blonde man.
“No way! Vash said that I could braid his hair!” Another girl argued.
“Vash doesn't wanna do girly stuff like that! We're gonna wrestle!” Proclaimed the boy sitting on the blonde man's shoulders.
“You are not! You'll ruin his air!” Both girls yelled to the boy and tried to reach him, but as he had the higher ground he just blew a raspberry at their poor attempt.
The man who was the point of contention between the kids, one Vash Saverem, chuckled at their little argument and immediately went about settling things.
“Now, now kids. No need to make a fuss over lil' old me. Girls, I'm going to wrestle with the boys first for a while. And afterwards you each can do my hair. It's long enough for you to make braids and add ribbons.” Vash replied.
“Well, I guess that's fair.” The first girl said with a small pout.
“I'm fine with that, too.” The second girl said with a shrug.
“Yay! And this time I'll win for sure, Vash! I've been practicing with Uncle Legato to learn how to counter you!” The boy proudly stated from Vash's shoulders.
“Ha, ha. Oh yeah? I can't wait to see this.” Vash replied as he took the boy off from his shoulders and sat him down. “Now why don't you kids go and play with the others? I got some preparations to do for the game tonight.”
“Ooh, that's right! Today is the Japan Series! And Mr. Wolfwood is playing!” The first girl exclaimed, now thoroughly perked up and making the two other kids cheer.
This brought a smile to Vash's face as he looked at his ring finger on his prosthetic arm to admire the silver engagement band, and his smile grew wider as he remembered who gave it to him. Nicholas D. Wolfwood. Sometimes Vash couldn't believe the good fortune in his life. He was adopted by a kind woman, he had a caring brother, beloved friends, a fulfilling career and most of all he's engaged to someone he can honestly call the man of his dreams. A man who was his friend, his business partner and a cherished former teammate. To think it all started from a game like baseball, too...
“Hey, Vash? Isn't it true that you gave Mr. Wolfwood your old jersey number thirty-three after you retired from baseball?” The second girl asked.
“Sure did. Nicholas's jersey number used to be sixty-six, because he always liked to travel and visit the fabled route often. But when I retired from playing he wanted to have my number. He said that way it'd be like we were still playing together.” Vash explained with a bright smile.
The kids all giggled gleefully at the revelation, but then an unexpected voice from behind made a playful gagging noise.
“Blegh! Come on, dad. How many times are you going to tell that Hallmark movie premise to the kids?” Asked the voice of a young man, and Vash grinned as he knew who it was without looking.
“Well the kids happen to like hearing my and Nico's Hallmark premise. We can't all have a film noir love story, Zazie.” Vash said as he turned to the new person in the room.
Zachariah Beasley, or Zazie the Beast as he was known as by the younger orphans or just Zazie, was Vash and Nicholas's adopted son. Due to his blonde hair he would often be mistaken as Vash's biological son, but his sarcastic nature and cynical humor was more reminiscent of Nicholas's personality. Because of this everyone often commented that it 'made sense' that Vash and Nicholas would be his adopted parents. The latter was pretty sure that comment was meant to be a pot shot but the former assured him that it was to be complimentary of their bond. Regardless, Zazie loved both of his fathers dearly.
“That wouldn't be any better. I couldn't bare seeing pops in a trench coat and fedora.” Zazie said with a roll of his eyes.
“Speak for yourself, Zazie. I think Nico would be a great Philip Marlowe.” Vash said while smiling.
“Tch, in his dreams. He needs to stick to running for base instead of running after gangsters. Speaking of which Uncle Livio and Aunt Milly are coming with Aunt Meryl and Uncle Roberto to watch the game.” Zazie replied.
“Oh great! But tell Roberto no 'pre-victory tailgating'. This is an orphanage after all.” Vash stated.
“Aunt Meryl's way ahead of you. She patted him down before they went to work at the Gazette.” The blonde teen said which made Vash chuckle.
“Good ol' Meryl. I can always count on her. Anyway, I'm going to go on and prep for the party tonight. I'll see you kids in a bit!” Vash said as he went down the hallway to the kitchen.
“Zazie, aren't you going to go with Vash? Mr. Wolfwood said that he can't be trusted with food and needs to be monitored at all times.” The little boy said.
“Eh, I'm not worried. Uncle Livio is bringing the doughnuts, so dad doesn't eat them all at once.” Zazie replied with a grin.
“Hey, I'm not that bad!” Vash called out in a tone of mock hurt from the kitchen which made Zazie and the kids laugh.
For next two and a half hours Vash popped plenty of popcorn, served up sandwiches, filleted several dozen fruits and topped off many cups with his own special blend of tea. As he started to set up the decorations Livio, Milly, Meryl and Roberto all arrived through the doors of July Orphanage.
“Hiya, kids!” Milly greeted in her usual cheerful tone.
“Your favorite aunt and uncle are here for the party! Oh, and Meryl and Roberto came too.” Livio said with a smirk to the reporters, the former of whom rolled her eyes while Roberto chuckled.
“Funny, Liv. Real funny.” Meryl said.
“Uncle Livio and Roberto! Aunt Milly and Meryl!” The children all cheered as groups of them ran up to the other adults. The kids wasted no time in hanging off the arms of Milly, Roberto and Livio and taking full advantage of their massive heights like they were jungle gyms. But as Meryl was on the short side the kids settled for playing with the flaps of her signature white jacket.
“Hey guys! I'm glad you all could make it.” Vash said with a smile as he blew up another balloon. Or at least he tried to.
“I'll bet you are. Looks like the Humanoid Typhoon doesn't pack the same wind he used to and needs some help just blowing up balloons.” Roberto said he looked at Vash's feeble attempt to blow up the balloon.
“Aw come on, that was my nickname from when I used to play baseball. And I still got plenty of wind left! Look at all these balloons I blew up before you got here.” Vash said with a look of pride as he pointed at the ten balloons pined up with the 'go team' banner. Roberto raised a suspicious eyebrow and walked towards the blonde as he looked around, then saw a helium canister poking out from under the chair Vash was sitting in.
“I don't know. Pretty sure this counts as cheating...” Roberto trailed off as he kicked at the canister which made Vash blush in embarrassment while the others laughed.
“H-Hey! You don't have a warrant! Back off!” Vash yelled as he halfheartedly shoved the older man away.
“Told you to put it in the supply closet after you blew up that first batch, dad.” Zazie said in a knowing tone as he brought in the sandwich platter.
“Don't feel bad, Vash! Not all of us live up to our old nicknames from high school. Once upon a time I was the Double Fang Defender of the hockey team. Now I'm just Livio McBride; regular guy and retired jock.” Livio said with a shrug.
“Aww, you're more than a regular guy to me Livio! You're as cool as can be.” Milly said with smile.
“Yeah? Heh. Well if you say so I guess I can't disagree.” Livio replied with a smile of his own as he took hold of Milly's hand and kissed the back of it, making the tall woman blush and the kids giggle until Roberto bopped Livio on the head.
“No PDA until after the game, small fry. Especially not when it involves my niece.” Roberto said.
“Oh come on, Rob! I'm not a teenager anymore! I've got a whole six inches and twenty-five pounds on you.” The white-haired man stated with an affronted look.
“I was coach for your freshman, sophomore and senior semesters. You and every other team I kept in line will always be small fries to me no matter how big you get.” Roberto stated in a matter-of-fact tone.
“If it makes you feel better, Livio, he calls me the smallest of the fries.” Meryl said as she gave a reassuring pat on Livio's arm.
“Why would him stating a fact make me feel better?” Livio asked with grin. To this Meryl glared at the man and kicked him right in the shin. “Ow!”
“It's also a fact that before I got into the journalism club, I was the number one kicker for the girls' soccer team.” Meryl replied.
“Now, now Meryl. Be nice in front of the kids.” Milly gently chastised as she made sure Livio wasn't hurt too badly, at which the man sucked up all of his girlfriend's undivided attention. The whole display made Vash laugh and Zazie roll his eyes in amusement.
“As entertaining as you all are, the main attraction is the Japanese Series. So let's finish laying out all this stuff and gather round!” Vash exclaimed cheerily which made the children cheer as well.
And so the adults, Zazie and a few of the children finished blowing up all of the balloons and laying out the snacks in the drawing room. Once everyone was settled in their seats in front of the large plasma screen Vash turned on the TV and was greeted to the opening tune for the beginning of the Japanese Series. Everyone listened as the narrator described the gorgeous weather and how both teams were in top form. The camera then cut to a breakdown of the members from each baseball team, and when Wolfwood's face and player stats came onto the screen everyone cheered.
“Last but not least, leading the five-man pitchers of Team Gunsmoke of the Fukushima Prefecture, Nicholas D. Wolfwood! Don't let his grizzled appearance fool you. Wolfwood can throw like a cannon and is known for his Holy Cross Pitch. Giving baseball it's own version of a Hail Mary pass.” The narrator explained.
“Oh wow, Nicholas still does that crazy pitch of his?” Meryl asked.
“Yep! He said that he has to have a signature throw being the number one starting pitcher and all.” Livio answered.
“Didn't he only make up that throw based on a bet, though?” Roberto asked as he dipped a cookie into his cup of berry punch, much to the audible disgust of the kids which made him snort in amusement by their reactions.
“Yeah, now that you mention it he did. Towards the end of our freshman year someone dared Nicholas that he couldn't make an effective pitch with crossing motions. And if he could then they would do his math homework for the rest of freshman year and a quarter of our sophomore year when we started.” Meryl explained.
“And like the smooth operator he is, Nicholas won that bet free and clear. After that the Holy Cross Pitch became his official signature throw.” Vash supplied with a smile.
“Heh, heh. That's my brother alright. But I can't remember, who was it that lost to him after making that bet?” Livio asked which made Vash's smile turn into a mischievous grin.
“None other than my own brother, who got a little bit too big for his tweeds.” Vash said. Just then the front doorbell rang.
“I'll get it.” Zazie said as he got up and went to answer the door. There was a moment of silence before the teen called out again from the foyer, this time to Vash. “Ask and you shall receive, dad! Uncle Knives and Grandma Rem are here!”
“Speak of the devil.” Livio muttered but Milly caught it and pinched his cheek with a scolding look.
“Come now, Zachariah. Surely you won't condemn me to that nickname for the rest of my days?” Asked the voice of a posh sounding man from the foyer.
“I surely will, Uncle Knives.” The blonde teen replied teasingly as he led the guests inside.
“Well son, you did make a sculpture of a biblically accurate angel using broken knives and submitted it for that art competition.” Spoke the gentle, older voice of a woman.
“True, mother. But I won that blue ribbon hands down.” The posh sounding man replied proudly. Vash stood up from the couch and smiled at the sight of his twin brother Nai Saverem and his adopted mother Rem Saverem.
“Nai! Mom! I didn't think you both would make it!” Vash exclaimed happily as he ran over to hug his family.
“Hello, brother. We're happy to be here.” Nai replied with a small smile.
“We wouldn't miss this game for the world, Vash! But your brother certainly tried his darnedest to make us late. You know how persnickety he gets about packing.” Rem said as she hugged her other son back.
“I do not get persnickety, mother. I am merely pragmatic with what I pack to ensure I only take the bare essentials.” Nai stated.
“Does that include that plush weighted blanket with the cobweb designs on it you like to cocoon yourself in?” Roberto asked which made everyone chuckle while Nai shot the man a rigid expression of displeasure, but it was watered down by the blush the lighter blonde was trying to keep at bay.
“The contents of my suitcases are none of your concern, De Niro!” Nai stated.
“Don't worry, Roberto, he packed it. Hokkaido could be in a state of emergency and Nai wouldn't leave if it meant not being able to take that blanket.” Rem supplied with a smile.
“Mother!” Nai exclaimed in betrayal at his adoptive parent's response.
“Mr. Vash, Mr. Vash! The game is about to start!” One young boy exclaimed as he pointed at the TV.
“Ah, right! Let's settle in everyone. Team Gunsmoke for the win!” Vash cheered as he held up a flag with the logo of their baseball team.
“Hooray!” Everyone cheered. Or at least most of everyone cheered while Nai gave a silent but supportive double thumbs up. Don't push it, folks.
As they watched the game four innings had come and gone with the rival team gaining two runs and Team Gunsmoke likewise at two runs. So there was room for either team to take this game, but of course everyone was rooting for Gunsmoke. The living room was filled with joyful chatter and playful banter. By the time the fifth inning began, though, one of the orphans looked to Vash and asked a question that's been burning in his young mind.
“Hey, Mr. Vash. How did you and Mr. Nicholas meet anyway?” Asked the young boy.
“Humph?” Vash asked back in a muffled voice, surprised as he was in mid-bite of his eighth consecutive doughnut.
“Yeah, you never really told us about how you guys met except that you both went to high school together.” Added a young girl.
“Ooh, I wanna know too! How did you and Mr. Nicholas meet, Mr. Vash?” Asked another boy.
“Were you the class clown? Was Mr. Nicholas as cool then as he is now?” Asked a third boy.
“Did Mr. Nicholas ever write you love letters?” Asked a second girl.
“Mmphwai! Mmphwai! Mmphwai!” Vash yelled in a muffled voice, mouth still filled with doughnuts, as he waved his arms to signal the kids to settle down. The children stopped their bombardment of questions to let the blonde swallow down his food before he spoke. “Now then...what were we talking about again?”
“Mr. Vash!” The children exclaimed in displeasure at Vash's dumb act which made the grown-ups all laugh. Vash laughed as well and held up his hands in surrender.
“Kidding, kidding! I heard what you said. Anyway, I'm surprised I never told you guys the full story of how Nicholas and I met. I guess I only ever told you bits and pieces about it.” Vash said as he stroked his chin in thought.
“Wait a minute, does that mean you never told them how Nick proposed to you either?” Livio asked in shock.
“Well, uh...now that you mention it...Not really.” Vash said with an awkward chuckle.
“MR. VASH!” The children yelled with even greater disappointment, their cheeks puffed out to show their irritation.
“Wow, all the times you and pops gush about each other I'm surprised you never told the kids how you actually met.” Zazie said.
“Yeah. I would've thought that'd be the first thing that Nick would talk about with the kids. Especially the way he proposed to you.” Roberto added.
“What!? You never told us how Ms. Nicholas proposed!” A little girl yelled in offense and the kids began to raise a mutiny while poor Vash was crumbled to his knees in a pathetic display, not knowing who to address first to speak his defense. Neither Milly, Livio, Meryl or even his own twin or son came to his aid – just watching in amusement as Vash was bombarded with questions. Zazie was even recording Vash's sorry predicament.
Luckily Rem came to her son's rescue and put her index fingers in her mouth before she let loose a sharp, loud horse whistle that made everyone stop what they were doing and look to the older woman.
“Gracious mother, warn me when you make your whistle.” Nai said he shook of a wince of pain.
“Sorry about that, sweetie. Now kids – I know that you're all curious about how Vash and Nicholas met. But you have to let him tell the story first, before you ask a bunch of questions.” Rem explained.
“Oh yeah.” One little boy said in realization.
“That makes sense, sure.” Another boy added.
“I guess we did get too hasty.” A little girl said with a guilty expression.
“Mr. Vash, will you tell us how you and Mr. Nicholas met?” The first boy asked.
“PLEASE?” All the children pleaded with bright, big puppy dog eyes.
“Well, it doesn't seem like I got much choice. But it's about time I tell you since I never did. So sure!” Vash replied with a wide smile that made all of the kids cheer.
“And we'll be the corroborating commentary.” Livio added with mischievous grin.
“Corroborating, McBride. Not ad libbing. No need to confusion the children with your exaggerations.” Nai stated with a look of apprehension cast to the former hockey player.
“Spoil sport!” Livio teased in protest as he stuck his tongue out to the lighter blonde who rolled his eyes.
“Well kids, do you really want to hear the story?” Vash asked while smiling, even though he already knew what the answer was going to be.
“Yeah!” The kids cheered happily as they all gathered around their caretaker. The blonde smiled even wider before he turned to look at the TV and gazed at Nicholas fondly as he pitched a ball, watching as the ball was sent through the sky.
“Truth be told, I don't think I would have met Nick any other way if it hadn't been for baseball. And it all started two weeks after Nai and me settled into our new school while I still lived in Hokkaido.” Vash started as he walked down memory lane.
Fourteen years ago, at Trigun High School...
“Vash, please. It's already been two weeks since we started attending school here and you still haven't picked an extracurricular activity! I've already picked three.” Nai said to his sibling as they started packing their bags once their history class had ended.
“Gimme a break, Nai! I'm trying to find something that I won't be super bored over. And not all of us are prodigies who can juggle a dozen things and still make a five course meal.” Vash replied to his twin as he zipped up his laptop case.
“Hmph. Exaggeration is a weak substitute for flattery, brother mine. And for the record at most I could only make a dessert while juggling half a dozen things.” Nai replied with a smirk which made Vash chuckle as they left the classroom.
“Of course, my mistake. Still I'm having a hard time finding just the right after school activity for myself. None of them really grab my interest.” Vash explained with a shrug.
“Why don't you join the debate, skeet shooting or botany clubs that I'm apart of?” Nai asked.
“No offense, Nai, but I want to be in a club of my own. I mean we live in the same house and have most of the same classes. Just because we're twins doesn't mean we have to be joined at the hip.” The darker blonde said.
“Alright, alright. It was only a suggestion.” Nai said, unable to keep off the slight pout on his face which made Vash grimace in guilt.
“Ah sorry, brother. I'm just frustrated that I haven't found an extracurricular activity yet. And it's not like it's just going to come at me through the window.” Vash said as he gestured to the large open window in the hall that they passed by.
Just then, the siblings heard a particular sound. A thud that carried on the wind – like something hitting hard against wood. Nai was the first one to notice the cause of the noise and yelled in warning.
“Vash, watch out!” The lighter blonde exclaimed.
It was a split second, but Vash saw it. Something coming right at his face. And he just barely caught it in his right hand before it struck him in the face. He stumbled back a bit from the force but was otherwise fine.
“Whoa!” Vash exclaimed in surprise.
“My God! Are you alright, Vash!?” Nai asked in worry for his brother as he rushed to his side.
“Y-Yeah. I'm okay. I'm just glad I caught this before it hit me.” Vash replied then looked down into his right hand to see what, exactly, he caught. “Huh? It's a baseball.”
“A baseball? The way that came for your face that seems more like a guided missile! Who the hell threw that!?” Nai asked in outrage as he started for the widow to yell at anyone outside, but luckily Vash grabbed him.
“Hey now! We're new students, remember? I'd rather not have our first fight after being here for fourteen days so far. It didn't even hit me, and that's all that matters.” Vash stated in his fair, diplomatic tone. It served to calm his brother down a bit but Nai still held an angry glare.
“Hmph. I still believe that some retribution is deserved.” Nai stated.
“Of course, you do. But violence isn't the answer in life. Love and peace is the way to go!” Vash exclaimed as he did a crossed V sign with his fingers. Nai rolled his eyes but chuckled regardless.
“Yes, I'm very familiar with your pacifist motto.” Nai said.
“Good! So keep repeating it to yourself and let me handle this.” Vash said and turned back to the window then shouted down below as he held out the ball. “Hey! Anyone missing a baseball?”
Soon enough someone in a baseball uniform from the outdoor field came running and called up to Vash.
“Heya! That's one of our balls, alright! Sorry about that throw! Come out to the field, and our pitcher will meet you to get it!” Yelled the baseball player.
“Sounds good! I'll be right down!” Vash yelled down.
“Why should you be made to go down and meet them halfway? If anything they should come up here to get it since someone from their team threw it.” Nai spoke in disdain.
“Aw come on, Nai, don't be such a grouch. We'd have to go out and walk past the outdoor field to get to the other wing for our next class anyway. So we may as well.” Vash said as he ran ahead much to Nai's chagrin.
“Him and going out of the way for others.” Nai said but still followed after his brother.
It wasn't long before the siblings made their way outside and were halfway to the field when they saw a figure in a baseball uniform coming their way.
“Ah, I see you caught my ball! Sorry about that.” The approaching player said as he came over.
“No worries! I'm glad that I could...” Vash started to say, only to stop when he got a good look at the player.
Now Vash has seen many people in his life. Some short, some tall, some nice and some not so nice. He's made a lot of friends and has come across a few folks who he could spend the rest of his life never hearing about, nevermind seeing them again. No one has ever really stood out to him in any special way. Until now, that is.
The player who came forward was a stud to say the least. Black hair, naturally tan skin and athletic muscle rippling throughout the white, black and red trimmed baseball uniform. He looked a year or two older than him and Nai also, explaining his height and the stubble beard. Vash couldn't quite see what his eyes looked like, though, because of the dark sunglasses he wore. But he could see that bright killer smile from two miles off. However the player seemed to have read his mind as he slowed down his walking to stop and removed his eyeglasses to reveal midnight dark blue eyes.
“Hey, I haven't seen you two before. I take it you're those new students we got, yeah?” The player asked.
“Are we yes. N-No! I m-mean...yes we are. I'm Vash Saverem, and this is my brother Nai.” The blonde greeted with a stutter as he held out his free hand.
“Pleased to meet ya! The name's Nicholas D. Wolfwood.” The player said as he accepted the hand and gave a firm shake. A shake that left quite the impression on Vash as he struggled to fight down the blush.
“N-Nice to meet you, Nicholas. Um, here's your ball back. Was that you who pitched it?” Vash asked as he held out the object.
“Sure was. Not one of my better pitches, to be honest. I'm just glad the window was open and didn't break the glass. At least it just hit the wall inside.” Nicholas replied as he accepted the ball.
“Actually, your ball very nearly struck my brother in the face. You're quite lucky that I managed to warn him and he caught it.” Nai spoke up, walking over to stand beside Vash and glare at the older teen. Nicholas looked from Vash to Nai in shock, then back at the darker blonde.
“I almost hit you!? Damn, I'm really sorry then. But wait – did you really catch this ball?” Nicholas asked.
“Oh! Uh, yeah. It was a close call but I somehow caught it. You've got a lot of power in your arms.” Vash said with a kind smile. Nicholas blinked for a moment before returning it with his own smile, showing off those bright killer teeth.
“Heh, heh. Thanks. You're clearly no small fry either, if you caught a ball coming in that hot.” The older teen said.
“Ha, ha, ha! Well I had a growth spurt. Mom had to bring my birth certificate along when we would go trick or treating.” Vash laughed which made Nicholas chuckle.
Nai looked back and forth between the two as they stared at each other. He wasn't sure he liked the way this young man looked at his brother. So the lighter blonde firmly grabbed Vash's shoulders and pulled him back.
“Well, it was nice meeting you Mr. Wolfwood. Happy to return your ball to you. We have to get going to our next class now, Vash.” Nai said he led his brother away.
He wasn't sure why but Vash felt a pretty sad as he watched his and Nicholas's hands separate, which he didn't realize were still interlocked in their handshake, as Nai pulled them apart. He waved a sad farewell at the other teen and started to walk away before Nicholas called out.
“Hey, wait! Vash, right?” Nicholas asked. The twins stopped and looked back at him, Vash curious and Nai apprehensive. “How do you feel about baseball?”
(Break)
“And from there, children, so would begin the most insufferably obvious courtship that I and many others would have to suffer through before Vash and Nicholas finally admitted how they felt about each other.” Nai said with a smirk which made the children laugh.
“Sh-Shut up, Nai! We were young and in high school! You can't blame us for not knowing right away!” Vash protested in embarrassment.
“No offense, Vash, but even if you and Nicky did a love song duet you still wouldn't have got the hint.” Livio said with an amused expression.
“It's a wonder you two weren't voted most likely to star in a romantic comedy.” Roberto said as he poured more berry punch.
“Meryl, didn't you and someone else from the journalism club take bets on how who would confess first between Vash and Nicholas?” Milly asked.
“No comment.” Meryl replied quickly.
“Yeah? Well that prize purse you walked away with for being the swing bet on them confessing at the same time is comment enough.” Livio said, which earned him yet another kick in the shin. “Ouch! Assault from the press! I'll sue!”
“Tch, get in line.” Meryl said with a smug smile, earning more laughter from the children.
“Ahem! I believe it was me who was telling this story!” Vash spoke up, making everyone turn their attention back to him. “Anyway, as you probably figured Nicholas's question soon led me to join the baseball team. I became player thirty-three and played catcher. I was a pretty good one too. At least, most of the time I was.”
“What do you mean by that, Mr. Vash?” A little boy asked.
“Well, sometimes I got a bit...distracted.” Vash said with a weak chuckle.
Fourteen years ago, at Trigun High School in the nurse's office. Five months into the freshman year...
“Christ almighty, needle noggin! Who the hell lets a walking doughnut vendor distract them from catching a fly ball? And you got up with a bloody nose to buy a dozen, at that!” Nicholas yelled as he finished wiping Vash's nose before tilting his head up and stuffing gauze into his nostrils.
“B-But it wasn't just any doughnut vendor! It was Mr. Hasegawa's Daily Doughnuts, and he had matcha flavored mochi doughnuts today!” Vash defended as he squirmed under his teammate and friend's care.
“Yeah, yeah. And you've been his number one customer ever since you moved here. Quit squirming so I can put this bandage on!” Nicholas ordered as he got a bandage and carefully placed it on Vash's nose. “There, done. Jeeze – and here I thought I'd only have to do this with Livio whenever he got struck with a hockey puck.”
“Well if you do this for him, how come you get mad at my bed of pain?” Vash asked with a pout.
“Because Livio gets hurt due to occupational hazard. You get hurt being distracted by baked goods and other foodstuffs like you've never eaten in your life, needle noggin.” The pitcher said as he teasingly but gently flicked Vash in the forehead.
“Owie! You're so mean, Nick.” Vash whined as he rubbed his forehead.
“Truth be told, brother mine, I think a bit of 'meanness' keeps you grounded in reality.” Spoke a new voice and the pair turned around to see a bemused Nai standing in the doorway of the nurse's office.
“Et tu, Saverem? My own flesh and blood betrays me! There's no justice in this world.” Vash whined dramatically which made both males roll their eyes but smile none the less.
“Thank you for taking care of my brother, Nicholas. I know from many years of personal experience that it's not easy...At all.” Nai said with a worn-out look.
“I'm not easy to take care of?! Who was the genius who thought replacing the blades on his ice skates with Miyabi knife blades last winter would 'cut down on skidding', only to cut through the frozen lake and fall into the water? Making his own twin and mom have to jump in and save his sorry behind?” Vash asked.
Nicholas barley held back a laugh, snorting in amusement, while Nai stood rigidly and gave Vash a heavy glare that was watered down by his ears reddening in embarrassment at the memory. Immediately the more mature twin shook off his shame and regained his composure.
“An act of silly youthful experimentation. And speaking of mother, she came to pick you up early once I told her what happened. She wasn't surprised by you – but did want to meet Nicholas as I spoke of his kindness to help you.” Nai replied.
“What? You and Vash's mom wants to meet me?” Nicholas asked, pointing at himself in shock.
“Naturally. Mother has a very strong belief in things such as gratitude. As such she wishes to thank you personally.” Nai replied in an as-a-matter-of-fact tone.
“Oh wow, I can't believe mom's coming here! I should text Meryl and Milly to come and see her, too. And you should have Livio and Coach Roberto come to, Nick!” Vash spoke excitedly as he rapidly texted his two friends.
“Huh? Oh, sure. I guess so...” Nicholas trailed off, feeling a bit nervous.
“Relax, Wolfwood. Mother is as nice as can be so long as you don't take advantage of her goodwill and try to act out of line on her watch. And having come to know, I can honestly say that you're the type of person she would warm to immediately.” The lighter blonde said assuredly.
“Yeah? Well I guess that's a bit better. Okay – I'll let Livio and the coach know.” Nicholas said and texted his adopted brother and coach to come meet up at the school lobby.
Within ten minutes Vash, Nicholas, Nai, Milly, Meryl, Livio and Roberto were all gathered in the lobby of the school's main entrance. Not long after a red van had pulled up to the front. Nicholas couldn't help but take note of the vibrant color of the vehicle. It made him think of a flower, but he couldn't place which one. The driver's side door opened and out from around the car came a woman with long dark hair, fair skin and dark eyes. She was dressed in casual looking attire and seemed to have a penchant for white. Nicholas wasn't sure why but she made him think of a mother in one of those slice of life, made for TV movies where a woman goes back to her small hometown home just in time for the yearly festival of said small hometown where she meets the rugged new love of her life. Either that or an anime mother.
“Vash! Hello, my little cherub.” The woman called out as she strode over to the group with the grace and elegance only a distinguished woman has. Vash ran to meet the woman halfway and hugged her with great affection.
“Hi mom! I'm glad you came. But I hope I didn't interrupt your work.” Vash said in a sorrowful tone as he pulled away.
“Oh no, not at all deary. We were actually just done wrapping up with the client when Nai called. By this time in two years SEEDs will have a new office up and running in the United States, helping out homeless veterans and at risk youths.” The woman replied with a warm smile.
“Really?! That's so great mom!” Vash cheered happily.
“Indeed, mother. The company is truly prospering now that it's under your leadership.” Nai replied as he walked over towards the woman, a small but still visible smile on his face.
“Thank you, Nai. I'll admit, though, sometimes I was ready to quit. But I couldn't in good faith stop when I just started.” The woman said, then seemed to notice everyone else in the background as she turned to look at the four teens and coach. “Oh my! Do forgive me. I was so wrapped up with my boys I didn't even properly introduce myself. I'm Rem Saverem.”
“Hello, Ms. Saverem!” Everyone greeted cheerily. Or at least Nicholas, Meryl, Livio and Milly did. Roberto just gave a casual wave of greeting to the woman.
“This is our adopted mother, so if the lack of resemblance confused you that's why.” Nai said.
“Aw Nai! Why do you always have to bring that up like it matters? Family is still family!” Vash protested.
“It's alright, Vash. You know how matter of fact your brother is. But that's alright, because even though we don't share blood he's still my big strong archangel.” The woman, Rem, cooed as she swiftly embraced the other teen in a hug. This would serve to make Nai's ears redden in embarrassment for the second time, and this time it spread to his face.
“Mother, please. We agreed not to conduct ourselves like this in public.” Nai stated in a serious tone which didn't match his dusty rose colored ears and cheeks.
“Group hug!” Vash exclaimed as he hugged both his mother and twin, much to the amusement of the bunch watching and the mild displeasure of Nai.
“I'm now thoroughly convinced that you both live to embarrass me.” Nai said, deadpanned, which made his family laugh but finally let him go.
“Of course not, son. We just love you very much.” Rem said with a smile then turned to the others. “Now, who's the sweetheart I have to thank for helping Vash to the nurse's office and fixing up his nose?”
“That would be me ma'am. I'm Nicholas D. Wolfwood. Pleased to meet you. ” Nicholas greeted as he stepped forward.
“The pleasure is all mine, Nicholas. It's so nice to know my sons have such good friends here. And even better to know that someone will take care of Vash when I'm not around.” Rem replied with a smile.
“Mom!” Vash called out in embarrassment and mock betrayal.
“I'm sorry son! You know I love you dearly! But sometimes I don't think bubble wrap could keep you from hurting yourself. I mean that in the nicest way, though! You're just so...nomadic and curious.” Rem explained with an awkward smile.
“That's an especially nice way to say danger prone, mother.” Nai spoke up in a deadpan tone, grinning at Vash's further pouting face of anger.
“You know Nai, I am not above giving you a wet Willie in public.” Vash stated, turning to stand directly towards his twin.
“Ha, ha! Please Vash. Not even you are so outrageous that you'd actually – URGH!” Nai exclaimed in shock as he was suddenly tackled by the dark blonde. “Oh, that's IT!”
From there the twins began to tussle about in front of the school much to the shock of Nicholas, Livio and Milly, the second-hand embarrassment of Meryl and the utter indifference of Roberto. Rem meanly just kept smiling – either ignoring her sons or just plain used to their antics by now.
“Well anyway, I have to get going! It was a pleasure meeting some of the friends of Vash and Nai. Please keep taking care of my sons. And feel free to reach out to me if any of you ever need help.” Rem said as she bowed politely to the group.
“We will, Ms. Saverem!” The group said as they bowed back in kind. At least Nicholas, Meryl, Livio and Milly bowed. Roberto barely managed half a bow, less his lethargic self fall forward and bite it.
“And I especially look forward to getting to know better, Nicholas.” Rem said as she held out her hand for the teenager to shake.
“Likewise, ma'am. Vash talks a lot about you, and I wish I had a mother like you myself.” Nicholas said with a smile.
“You just might. Whenever the wedding comes...” Rem said barely above a whisper.
“Beg pardon, Ms. Saverem?” Nicholas asked, not totally catching what the woman said.
“Oh, nothing! Just talking aloud.” Rem replied with a bright smile.
A bright, knowing smile...
(Break)
“Wow, Ms. Rem! You knew that Mr. Vash and Mr. Wolfwood were going to get together before they did?” One little girl asked with a shocked expression.
“I sure did, kids. A mother knows these things – and just from seeing how much Nicholas made Vash smile and the fact that Nai let him around Vash at all told me everything. It was just a matter of waiting for them to realize it.” Rem explained with a wink.
“And with how lovey dovey they were it was astounding how it took them to sophomore year to realize it.” Nai added.
“It was not sophomore year! It was two weeks before that year started, so we were still freshmen!” Vash vehemently defended.
“Whatever helps you and your princely pauper sleep at night, brother.” Nai teased with a grin to which Vash blew a raspberry.
“Hey now. I'll speak in Vash's defense on that. He and Nicky may have been the lovebirds everyone but themselves knew about – but I recall a certain cynical artist and a certain blue-haired novelist who were the power couple that ran Trigun with more authority than the principal.” Livio said with a knowing expression. Immediately Nai's teasing grin dropped as he sat rigidly.
“I have no idea what you mean, McBride.” Nai replied quickly, but his reddening ears were a classic tell proving otherwise.
“Well I sure do. You and Legato were one of the top gossip mentions with staff in the teacher's lounge.” Roberto said.
“Tch. Those old crows would gossip about the local restaurant changing the menu.” Nai remarked with crossed arms, not at all surprised by this revelation.
“Uncle Nai! Isn't Legato that cool guy with the pretty gold eyes who reads us stories? Is he your friend?” A boy asked curiously.
“Indeed he is, young lad. And a friend...Ha, ha. Legato is very dear to me. So I'd call him more than just a simple friend.” Nai spoke as he let a rarely seen soft expression cross his face.
The boy blinked, looked at his fellow kids who blinked at him in kind and then looked back at Nai. Then their little faces broke out into wide smiles as they all asked the lighter blonde the same question in loud unison.
“Are you and Mr. Legato in love, Uncle Nai!?” The kids all asked.
Meryl did a spit take in shock as she barely contained her laughter, Milly was cooing at the youthful innocence of the question, Livio was cracking up, Roberto was grinning from ear to ear and Vash and Rem barely held back their own amused expressions. And Nai? His face was frozen in horror as these young people were able to so quickly nail his emotions on the head than any adult ever could.
“Well, I...! I wouldn't quite say...I mean that isn't to say we dislike...But why would you just assume...! I mean...” Nai stuttered as he tried to think of what to say but was so thrown off by the point blank accuracy of the question, his usual articulate deliverance escaped him.
Deciding to save his brother, though, Vash looked to Zazie and gestured with his head to the orphans who stared at Nai with waiting expressions to hear his and Legato's story. The younger blonde nodded in understanding then stood up from his seat to get the kids' attention.
“Hey guys! Let's save Uncle Knives' story for another time. How about I tell you about the day Mr. Vash and Mr. Wolfwood adopted me?” Zazie asked. That immediately caught the attention of the orphans and they all surrounded Zazie in excitement.
“Really!?” The kids asked hopefully. Nai leaned back against the couch as he sighed in relief and Rem and Vash helped to calm him down with reassuring pats on his head and shoulder.
“Your son definitely picked up on Nicholas's quick thinking, Vash.” Nai whispered to his brother.
“I know he did. Because all I could think about how funny it was to see you all flustered.” Vash replied with a grin and laughed even in spite of Nai pulling on his cheek in aggravation.
“Actually, it's a bit surreal how they ended up adopting me. Just when I had given up on ever being adopted I ran into a pair of people with a kind of empathy that I thought had died out. And it was all thanks to a dragonfly.” Zazie explained.
“Huh? A dragonfly?” The kids all asked in confused unison which made the teenager chuckle.
“Sorry, I'm getting ahead of myself. See – at the time I was thirteen years-old. It's just as bad for models who hit thirty and can't get steady work. Parents want a young, peppier kid to love. And even before I turned thirteen I'd get passed up for adoption. I always pegged it being that one 'weird kid' no adult really wanted to try to understand. The folks who used to run the orphanage I grew up in, Mr. and Mrs. Badwick, were always nice and assured me I'll get my day. By that point though I had pretty much given up hope of that day ever coming. Little did I know...” Zazie started as he went down his own side of the memory lane.
Five years ago, at a park in Fukushima...
“Don't worry, Mrs. Badwick, I'll be back at the orphanage in time for dinner. I just want to try and get a snapshot of the globe skimmer. People say they've seen a gold dragonfly around here at the park.” Zazie spoke to the older woman on the payphone.
“Okie dokie, Zachariah. I hope you find it! I'm sure it'll be a nice piece to your collection.” Spoke Mrs. Badwick over the phone.
“Come on, you know I don't like Zachariah. Just call me Zazie It's too...fancy for me.” Zazie replied.
“Nonsense! You fit the name better than any stuffed shirt out there. And I'm sure your future parents will feel the same way.” Mrs. Badwick stated confidently.
“I wouldn't get my hopes up about that, Mrs. Badwick. People probably don't even remember what letter my name starts with, after skimming through it to find other kids to adopt.” Zazie spoke in a defeated tone.
“Don't give up hope, son! You'll get an application before you know it. Or you could even meet them at the very park you're going to.” The older woman assured.
“I wish I had a drop of your enthusiasm, granny. But I'm a believe it when I see it type. Anyway – let me go and get my camera ready. See you at dinner. Tell Mr. Badwick no fancy knife tricks this time. I didn't stop to get bandages yet.” Zazie said with a grin.
“You don't need to worry about that. The old codger has given up on trying to be a celebrity chef. Now he thinks he's that he can be the next great action film stuntman.” Mrs. Badwick said in a deadpan tone.
“He what?!” Zazie asked in shock.
“Oi, Granny Badwick! The old guy is trying to make the neighbor's son who runs the judo school spar with him again!” Called out the voice of Kaite Trevithick, who Zazie recognized to be his fellow orphan, in the background on the other end of the phone.
“Heaven help me, sometimes I wonder if I can't take him to the church we married in and return him. See you at dinner, Zachariah.” Mrs. Badwick said and just before she hung up Zazie heard her shout for her husband to get back inside the house and to stop fighting with the neighbors.
Zazie chuckled as he hung up the pay phone. His caretakers actually make being at that orphanage better. Still...as much as he liked the old couple and the kids there he did have on and off dreams that a person or a family came up to him for a chance. That the Badwick couple would tell him to pack his bags for his new home. But older kids don't tend to get adopted that often. And Zazie knew that first hand ever since he turned thirteen last month. Mr. and Mrs. Badwick swore that he would always have a place to call home with them at the orphanage – and that even when he technically aged out he could stay on as a live-in caretaker for the kids. And honestly, it wasn't a bad deal. It's certainly a strong backup plan. But his own bed with a family to call his would be nice...
“Focus, Beasley. No time to be daydreaming. Summer is almost over, and this is my last chance to get a picture of a real globe skimmer.” Zazie said to himself as he pulled his camera out of his backpack and made sure it had film before venturing into the park. “Now then. Predatory insect that it is, the globe skimmer is going to make any bodies of water it's hunting grounds. There's supposed to be a big pond around here so that's a good a place as any to start.”
The boy kept his eyes open and made sure to hone his ears to listen out for that distinct dragonfly wing buzzing. If he could get a picture of this migratory dragonfly he would secure his position as president of the entomology club. The competition for the role was stiff but so far no other kids have gotten a picture of it. And Zazie will be the one to get that picture! Eventually he found his way to the pond and Zazie stood for a moment to see if the globe skimmer was about. So far the golden insect was no where to be seen, but by the looks of the pond there was plenty of a dragonfly's usual fair to enjoy. Now was just a matter of waiting for it to appear.
And so Zazie sat down to wait. As the minutes slowly turned into one full hour, the boy decided to read his favorite story to distract his mind from the sense of worry that he may have missed seeing the elusive bug. Only the Badwick couple, Kaite and some of the kids know but in addition to bugs Zazie also had a love for classic Western media. And his favorite book of all time was the first novel about a certain fox cunning and free who favors the letter Z. It's the first story he remembers Granny Badwick reading to him and he's loved it and everything Western since then.
However, Zazie's peaceful reading would be horribly interrupted by a shrill scream.
“AAAAAAHHHH!!” Came the loud noise.
The boy was so stunned he slammed his book close and shot to his feet. Who was that screaming? What made them scream? Is something bad happening in the park? Before Zazie could even think to leave or find someone to ask questions of, he heard another voice.
“Calm the hell down, blondie! It's just a bug!” Shouted a man who sounded rather fed up.
Wait...a bug? No. There's no way. It couldn't be that easy. It's a one in a million chance.
“It isn't just a bug, Nico! It's a freaking dragonfly and they're predatory insects! Get it off me, please!” Shouted the same voice that screamed, which Zazie identified as belonging to a man, that now sounded quite squared.
...Alright, so once in a million times it can be that easy. Wasting no time Zazie put away his book and grabbed his bag and camera then ran towards where they heard the voices. He got towards one of the Sakura trees where he came upon quite an odd yet amusing scene. Before him were two men sitting on a blanket, apparently having a picnic based on the basket and food laid out, and one was blonde like him but with much spikier hair while the other was a dark haired man who Zazie felt like he knew from somewhere from some reason. However his eyes eventually landed on what he's been the center piece of the scene. The globe skimmer dragonfly – perched on the blonde man's left knee.
“My God! The globe skimmer! Please sir, don't move a muscle!” Zazie exclaimed as he grabbed his camera and quickly moved to sit before the dragonfly.
“Trust me, kid, you couldn't pay him to move with that thing still around him.” The dark haired man said with a grin.
“Shut up...!” The blonde man spoke sharply to his partner between clenched teeth.
Zazie felt his palms get a little sweaty in anticipation as he made sure his camera was all set up right. Surprisingly enough the way the blonde man was sitting and had his knee raised provided a postcard perfect background of the Sakura tree and clear sky, which complimented the globe skimmer nicely. And with a firm press of the button Zazie snapped a picture.
“Got it! I can't believe I really got it's picture!” Zazie exclaimed in joy.
“So does that mean I can kill it now?” The man with the dark hair asked as he held up his shoe.
“No need for that, sir. I can handle it. Come on now, sweetheart.” Zazie cooed to the insect as he held out his hand as an offer for anew perch. Without hesitation the dragonfly flew off the blonde man's knee and sat down on Zazie's finger. Freed from his hostage situation the blonde man sighed in relief and plopped down on the ground.
“Thank God...I thought I was a goner...” The man spoke in a drained voice.
“By all accounts, sir, you're actually very lucky. Not only is this a migratory dragonfly that just visited you but she's even pregnant. I guess she just saw your knee and decided to take a rest.” Zazie said as he marveled at the bug.
“Well I'm not a midwife! So take her someplace far from me to have her kids.” The blonde man whined as he crawled to hide behind the dark haired man.
“Sorry about him. You'd think after a decade he'd grow out of being such a crybaby.” The dark haired man said.
“Heh, heh. It's alright. I'll go see her off.” Zazie said as he walked over towards the pond and outstretched his arm then gently moved his hand up to prompt the dragonfly to leave, which she quickly did and the boy turned back to go over to the men.
“Oh, finally! That was so scary.” The blonde man breathed in relief once again as he leaned against his partner.
“There, there needle noggin. You're safe now.” The dark haired man said as he wrapped his arm around the blonde and rubbed his head before turning to Zazie. “I guess I have you to thank for saving my boyfriend. The name's Nicholas. And this is Vash.”
“Hi! Thank you so much for getting rid of that dragonfly!” The blonde, Vash, greeted as he stood up and shook Zazie's hand with surprising vigor that shook him up a bit.
“N-No problem! I'm Zazie. And I should be the one to thank you both. I've been looking for that dragonfly to take a picture of it so I can add it to my collection before summer was over.” Zazie explained with a bright smile.
“You collect pictures of bugs?” Vash asked in surprise. And for a moment Zazie felt insecure, worrying that yet another pair of adults would be freaked out by his hobby, but he couldn't lie now.
“Uh huh. I know it's weird, but I enjoy it.” Zazie replied in a nervous tone.
“Weird? No, that's really cool that you do that.” Vash said with a smile, which made Zazie look at him in shock.
“Huh? You...you really mean that?” The boy asked.
“Of course. Even though having bugs near me or on me freak me out, there are really pretty ones. And my twin brother likes to study on them. His favorite is the rosy maple moth. And I personally collect geodes.” Vash explained.
“Wow. I...I don't usually meet adults who are into stuff like that.” Zazie spoke in surprise.
“Well look no further kid, because Vash and his brother are a pair of weird nature kids. Don't let the bohemian hipster look fool you.” Nicholas said with a grin which made Zazie chuckle while Vash pouted.
“Jerk! Just because you collect older movie reels doesn't mean you're cooler than me. Anyway, would you like to join us for for our picnic?” Vash asked.
“I appreciate the offer, but I actually have to get going. I need to get on the next bus for the orphanage.” Zazie replied.
“Orphanage? You don't have any parents of your own?” Nicholas asked in surprise.
“Yeah, but it's not the worst thing in the world. The old folks who take care of us are really nice. And the kids are an okay bunch. Some of us just get the short end of the stick. Anyway, it was nice meeting you both.” Zazie said as he waved the pair off then started to walk away. He heard nothing as he took the first ten or so steps towards the park exit until Vash called out to him.
“Hey, wait! Zazie, right?” Vash asked. The boy stopped, and when he turned around to look at the two men again something felt different. The atmosphere changed. It felt like...he was looking at something he's been longing for.
“Yeah?” Zazie asked back.
“What's the name of the orphanage you live at?” Vash asked with a smile. A smile that gave Zazie a sense of welcoming he hasn't felt in a very long time.
(Break)
“Wow, Mr. Vash, you were a chicken with bugs even back then?” A little girl asked with an unimpressed expression which made Vash chuckle awkwardly.
“Yeah, it wasn't my my finest moment. But something good came out of it! Nicholas and I got a wonderful son who we're very proud to call ours.” Vash said as he stood up to hug Zazie.
“Dad, come on. Don't be a sap.” The teenager grumbled but made no move to push away his adoptive father.
“Did you know that Mr. Nicholas was a famous pitcher then, Zazie?” One boy asked.
“Not right away, no. He did look familiar and I wasn't sure why. But man did Kaite, Granny and Grandpa Badwick and the other kids recognize him when pops and dad brought me back here.” Zazie said.
“Back here? Then...wait, you mean you grew up here in July Orphanage?!” Asked the first girl in shock to which Zazie smiled brightly and nodded.
“Sure did. And not long after finalizing their adoption of me, the Badwick's talked to dad and pops about signing over the orphanage to them to take over while they retired.” Zazie explained as he gestured to his other parent.
“We were all too happy to accept. And every day we spend with you kids here has been so fulfilling.” Vash added with a smile of his own which brought a sense of warmth to the room. Just then the narrator for the game made an announcement that caught everyone's attention.
“And it's down to the wire, folks! It's the ninth inning with Team Gunsmoke at three runs and Team Badlands at two! Will our home team of aces take home the gold, or will the Badlands tie up the game and drag it on? Let's see firsthand!” The narrator spoke in excitement.
Everyone immediately quieted down and turned their attention to the TV. They watched as each team walked onto the diamond and assumed their positions. As expected Nicholas was at the center as the pitcher for Gunsmoke. Vash watched his fiancé with pride and a bit of concern. Nicholas was an amazing player, and he had total faith in him. But still...this has been a pretty intense game. Anything could happen.
The batter got into his position and held up his bat, standing firm and looking Nicholas squarely in the eye. The pitcher remained still for a moment, then did a swift cross motion before making his famous Holy Cross Pitch. The batter missed, and the Gunsmoke catcher caught the ball then threw it back to Nicholas. He made his signature pitch again. Which resulted in another miss from the Badlands batter. But, it seemed like the third time was the charm for the rival team as Nicholas threw yet another pitch and the batter managed to hit it. Immediately the man made a run for each base, and Vash watched with rising adrenaline as the ball flew out of the diamond and into the field. In that moment everything went in slow motion. The Badlands batter had already made it to second base, and the ball was flying more and more out of reach. The right and left fielders couldn't quite reach it in time and only watched as the ball flew. But the center fielder didn't give up, and made a dash for the ball. Everything seemed to go even slower as the camera showed the two players side by side in a split screen. The Badlands batter had just touched third base. The Gunsmoke center fielder was just below the ball.
And...the center fielder caught the ball with a firm grip just before the batter made the slide for home plate.
“And he's out! That's it folks! Team Gunsmoke wins!!” The narrator exclaimed.
Everyone jumped for joy and cheered in excitement, but none were more ecstatic than Vash who was a smiling, crying ball of tearful joy as he hugged everyone in the room, lifting them off the ground and swinging them about. With the exception of Roberto and Livio, since their robust frames didn't allow for lifting. Even Nai let his weeping brother hug him as he cried 'they won, they won' over and over. Before long the entire Gunsmoke team was gathered in front of the cameras with each player holding a bouquet of flowers, smiling widely at the praise the fans and reporters gave them.
But there was still one question left...
“Mr. Vash, you told us how you and Mr. Wolfwood met and how you both adopted Zazie. But how did Mr. Wolfwood propose to you?” A young boy asked.
“Hm? Oh right, I didn't explain that part yet. Well I guess it's only fitting that I explain it now after our team won the game. To tell you the truth – Nico only proposed a short while ago.” Vash said as he looked at the engagement ring.
“He did?” The same boy asked as the kids looked at Vash with surprise.
“Mmhm. A month before he left for the game, and it was actually at Zazie's own game at his high school.” Vash started to explain.
One month ago, at a high school in Fukushima...
“And safe! That's a home run!” The umpire exclaimed as a player from Zazie's team slid to home plate.
Parents in the sport stands cheered as the school team won, with Vash and Nicholas cheering the loudest. While he still retained his love for insects and old Westerns the blonde teen couldn't help but pick up a love for baseball thanks to his adoptive parents. He was something of a jack of all trades for the different positions in baseball, but he had a specialty as a left fielder. From the field Zazie waved up at his parents with his gloved hand and both men waved back.
“We did good, Wolfwood.” Vash said to his boyfriend.
“Mn...” Nicholas said with a slow nod as he let out a wave of smoke, smiling proudly at his son. “Sure brings back memories, seeing him out there.”
“I guess, but you're still a baseball player Nicholas. What do you mean by it brings back memories?” Vash asked.
“I meant of you. It brings back memories of playing with you. After all Zazie could pass for your biological son. Except less of a crybaby.” Nicholas said with a teasing wink.
“Ha, ha. I'm made of tougher stuff, thank you very much. I only cried for ten minutes after watching that spider and pig movie.” Vash stated in his defense.
“Ten minutes in dog time, maybe.” Nicholas chuckled in amusement, then looked up to Vash. “Say, how's about we pitch and catch on the field for a while after everyone leaves? For old times sake?”
Vash looked at the dark haired man, then thought about it for a minute. It has been a while since he's played ball with Nicholas. And Zazie will probably want to hang out with his friends for a while before they leave anyway.
“Sure! It can't hurt after all.” The all blonde said with a smile.
So the pair waited for everyone in the stands to leave and and for the players to get off the diamond. After getting permission from the coach to play for a while, which Nicholas gave an autograph for the coach's kids to sweeten the deal, the couple walked out onto the diamond. Vash and Nicholas reveled in the smell of the grass and dirt to the feel of the leather of the gloves to the fine craftsmanship of the bats and the balls themselves. Nicholas took to his pitcher position while Vash crouched down to his catcher position.
“Remember needle noggin, this is a ball. Not a doughnut. Think you can still catch like you used to?” Nicholas asked in a challenging tone with a smug grin.
“Just pitch and see, wolfy.” Vash teased with a grin of his own.
And so the couple played. Nicholas would pitch, then Vash would catch and throw the ball back at him. They played like that for a good twenty minutes before Vash noticed the time.
“Oh wow, I didn't know it got so late. We should probably get going.” Vash said as he stood up from his crouching position.
“Wait Vash. Let's play one more round before we go.” Nicholas suggested.
“Huh? But Nico, we've already played for so long.” Vash pointed out.
“I know, but it's just one more pitch and catch. One more for the road, yeah?” Nicholas asked.
“Well...I guess that's fine. It's just one more round, after all.” Vash said with a smile as he crouched down again.
He watched as Nicholas turned around to the bin with baseballs, shuffling about to get a ball. He couldn't help but feel like he was taking a longer time than usual. Finally though Nicholas turned around to a proper pitching position with a baseball in hand. Just before he threw the ball he made his signature cross motion and threw it. With ease as before, Vash caught it.
“Like I said, brings back memories.” Nicholas said with a smile which his boyfriend returned.
“It sue does. Okay, put this ball back and let's head home.” Vash said as he started to throw the ball back before Nicholas stopped him.
“Hold it, Vash. Doesn't that ball seem different to you?” The dark haired man asked.
Vash blinked at him in confusion before looking down at the ball in his hand. And it was only then that he realized it was indeed different. The “ball” wasn't actually a ball at all. Upon closer inspection Vash realized it had hinges...a case? He looked at Nicholas in further confusion, and the man only smiled and gestured with his head to the fake ball. Vash opened it and gasped at what he saw. What he now realized was a ring case had the most beautiful silver band with a sapphire gemstone at the center. It was an engagement ring. Vash slowly looked up to his boyfriend and couldn't stop the tears that flowed.
“Nicholas...” Vash trailed off in a low voice.
“So...what do you say?” Nicholas asked nervously.
Without any preamble Vash ran full speed at his boyfriend and tackled him, Nicholas barely able to brace himself as he hugged him tightly.
“I DO!” Vash cried joyfully.
(End of Flashbacks)
“And that's the story. We've been engaged since – and we'll be getting married in two years after Zazie graduates from high school.” Vash said.
“Wow, Mr. Vash, that's so romantic!” One little girl exclaimed.
“It was a really neat story to hear!” A boy added joyfully.
“And super funny, too.” Said a second boy.
“Uncle Nai, will you tell us about how you and Mr. Legato met some time?” Asked the first girl to the lighter blonde.
“Perhaps one day, young miss, when he comes back from his book tour. That is a story I'd only feel right telling with him.” Nai replied with a small but noticeable kind smile.
“Uncle Livio, Uncle Livio! Do you have any cool stories about how you and Aunt Milly got together and stories from when you played hockey?” Asked a second little girl.
“Do I? Sweetie, I can tell you stories that can go on for years.” Livio said with a proud smile.
“And I'm very happy to be part of those stories, Livio.” Milly said cheerily as she gave her boyfriend a peck on the cheek which made the gruff man blush which had the children giggling.
“Uncle Roberto, do you and Aunt Meryl have any stories about big time news you covered as reporters? Ooh, what about stories from when you were a coach?” Asked a third boy.
“I wanna hear about when you played soccer, Aunt Meryl!” Exclaimed a fourth boy.
“Yeah, yeah! Tell us your soccer stories!” A third girl said in agreement.
“Hey, settle down small fries. There's plenty of stories to satisfy every single one of you.” Roberto said with a bored look, but Meryl knew that deep down her mentor was soaking up all of the attention the bright eyes filled with admiration gave him.
“Well this sure is a change up. For once we're getting interviewed, boss.” Meryl said with a laugh.
“Grandma Rem, could you tell us about your work with SEEDs one day?” Asked a fourth girl.
“Of course I can, sweetheart! I'm sure the other members would like to share their stories as well.” Rem replied brightly.
“Looks like we'll have to start holding weekly life story talks here at July Orphanage, dad.” Zazie said half-jokingly which made the older blonde chuckle.
“Looks like it.” Vash said in agreement.
“Hey, everyone settle down! Nico is saying something!” Livio called out to everyone in the room and turned up the TV so they could all listen.
“One last question before you all head home, and this is for Mr. Wolfwood. What's your next goal now that Team Gunsmoke have becoming Japan's newest baseball champions?” Asked a male reporter.
“Hm. Well, it's same goal I've always had. Live my life with gratitude for every day that I wake up.” Nicholas replied honestly.
“What a heartwarming goal! I don't suppose there's anyone special who will be helping you fulfill this goal?” The same reporter asked.
Nicholas made a show of stroking his chin and thinking. Vash and most of everyone laughed at the obvious show while Nicholas and Roberto rolled their eyes in amusement. Same old Wolfwood. But the center fielder elbowed him in the side and made a circling motion as to indicate him to hurry it up. Nicholas chuckled and finally turned back to the reporter to give his answer.
“I sure do. He's a crybaby, a hopeless romantic and he'll eat a hole in your refrigerator if you don't watch him. Especially if it's something sweet.” Nicholas started.
The adults, Zazie and orphans chuckled at the obvious description while Vash huffed and crossed his arms in offense.
“Hmph! He's going to have a champion's welcome on the couch when he gets back.” Vash stated.
“But...” Nicholas paused as he looked directly at the camera. “I couldn't imagine living life without 'em. He's one of the main reasons I'm so grateful to have a life at all. So don't eat all the doughnuts without me, needle noggin! I'll see ya soon!”
Nicholas gave a wink to the camera and kissed his index finger before making a shooting gesture which had the photographers take snapshots at every angle. The kids, Rem, Meryl and Milly all went awe while Zazie, Roberto, Nai and Livio all made gagging motions which had the former bunch scold them for not appreciating such a loving scene. As for Vash? His face was redder than his favorite coat, and he was smiling like a goof from ear to ear.
“So, is the champ still going to have a welcoming party on the couch?” Meryl asked teasingly which made Vash chuckle.
“He is...but I'll be there to cuddle with him. See ya soon, wolfy.” Vash said as he mimicked Nicholas's shooting gesture, aiming for his fiancé's heart on the screen.