Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“A-are you sure you’re alright?” The android asked with a shaky voice. Barely able to handle herself after the rollercoaster of emotions she had just experienced. Still, she forced herself to remain strong for her… Friend. They would need to discuss the state of their relationship after everything that has happened, although, Aigis’ feelings for her remained just as strong.

“I’m okay, Aigis… I’m just tired, is all. Thanks for everything.” Answered the woman who had just left her own grave. If anything she was understating her exhaustion, the last time she felt this weak, she died. A piece of information she shouldn’t share with the worried blonde girl currently carrying her. Gently leading her to her guest room, being particularly careful not to hurt her.

Even after all these years, Aigis remained as sweet as when she left her. Time changed neither her physical appearance nor her big heart. Kotone, however, couldn’t deny just how much she blossomed as a person. How she wished she could have been there to witness it. However, it was also thanks to her sacrifice that Aigis got to experience living life. And now, it would seem Kotone could finally enjoy her own gift as well.

Her role as the Great Seal was completed, despite not knowing why, she still felt serenity in her soul. She couldn’t explain it, but she was certain everything would be alright. Even so, being deceased for years took a toll on her body. She could barely stand when Aigis found her on top of her own grave. The poor girl couldn’t believe her eyes, how she cried when she took Kotone in her arms. And even if the Messiah herself did not feel the passage of time, she cried too. It felt as if she simply went to sleep, and yet, she still missed her Aigis.

After a much too brief tearful reunion, Aigis didn’t fail to notice just how worn out Kotone seemed to be. Naturally, she proposed to take her to her apartment and let her rest. As much as Kotone wished to catch up with Aigis, and the rest of SEES of course, she simply couldn’t. Finally reaching the destination, Aigis helped her get ready to bed and tucked her in. Despite feeling her own eyes closing, Kotone wanted to remain awake just a little longer for the woman she loved.

“There we go… Um… Is there anything you need? A glass of water, maybe? Or food? I could order a beef bowl, I know you like those. Or perhaps-”

Kotone let out a soft giggle as the robot girl rambled on.

“You haven’t changed a bit…” She whispered softly. “You’re still my favorite person in the whole world.” Kotone said, removing her hand from the covers, she wished she could have cupped Aigis’ cheek but didn’t possess the strength. Instead, the android grabbed her waiting hand in hers.

“A-and you have always remained my most precious… I-I missed you so much…” Aigis felt the tears coming back.

After all this suffering, the world had brought her Kotone back. To think she almost rejected her gift back then. She was glad to have made the right choice. Life truly was beautiful, nearly as beautiful as the woman in front of her.

“I know… I’m sorry, Aigis. I didn’t wish to leave you, or anybody. But… I’m here now. I promise, I’ll remain by your side.” Despite the overwhelming feelings, both women could feel Kotone peacefully slip into the realms of dreams. Her eyes closed slowly, as her voice became but an inaudible whisper.

Her drifting to slumber would have been peaceful, if it wasn’t for the tight grip on her hand. Waking up from her half sleeping state, Kotone noticed Aigis’ sorrow, crying not tears of joy but terror. Her beautiful features crisped by anxiety and fear.

“A-Aigis? What’s wrong?”

“I-I am so sorry, but it’s just that… Six years ago, when you fell asleep like that…” Aigis couldn’t manage to finish her sentence.

“Oh Aigis… I am so sorry, I didn’t realize… But I swear I’ll be okay.”

“I-I want to believe you, but… I-I am scared I might lose you again. I can’t help it…”

Kotone felt terrible for her, she really wished she didn’t have to sleep right now. At the very least, her brain was still working enough to come up with ideas.

“Aigis, climb in bed next to me.” She told her firmly, taking her leader voice. Aigis was a little confused, but complied nonetheless. She got into bed next to her, laying on her back, stiff as a board. If Kotone had the strength, she’d laugh at the cute display, it seemed she’ll still be able to learn a thing or two to Aigis.

Kotone then reached for Aigis’ head, wordlessly guiding her. Still confused by what she was planning, the android complied without thinking, shifting her body and lifting her head as to where Kotone was guiding her. Until Aigis’ head reached its destination, right on top of Kotone’s chest.

“K-Kotone? W-what ar-” Her embarrassed query was quickly cut off.

“Can you feel it, Aigis? My heartbeat. My breathing.” She explained in a soothing voice, her hand having never left Aigis’ head, petting her hair gently as she explained.

“I… I do.” Aigis said, as the slow rhythm of Kotone’s heart soothed her worries away.

“I want you to focus on it. I am not going anywhere, Aigis. I promise you. You don’t have to worry anymore. We’re together again… I… love you…”

Once again, Kotone’s voice drifted away. Aigis didn’t need to worry this time. Even if Kotone’s hand stopped moving, she felt the reassuring rise and fall of her chest. Aigis didn’t shed tears again, she simply smiled and closed her own eyes. Ready to embrace the rest of her life, with her most precious.

“I love you too…”

Chapter Text

There might be trouble in paradise, as they say. This was all the saddened Aigis could think of as she noticed the odd behavior of her girlfriend. Not much had actually changed in the grand scheme of things over these last few days. Kotone was nothing but a wonderful partner and lover, and they expressed their care for each other every day in all sorts of way.

If anything, Aigis’ doubts had actually begun today, as all Kotone did was sing along a song she was currently listening to. Once again, this wasn’t news at all. Kotone loved to listen to her music, much too loudly. Aigis had warned her multiple times she might hurt her hearing, but this never stopped her. Her prompting Aigis to dance with her proved to be an effective way to make the android drop the case as well.

Rather, it was what Kotone was singing that bothered Aigis. Despite being energetic and happy-sounding, the song seemed to be a bout a break-up. Rather, a person much too relieved that they broke up with their ex. And Kotone knew every single lyric by heart. She even sang joyfully at the top of her lungs with her eyes closed and a big smile on her face.

If the walls weren’t soundproofed, they would have likely received dozens of noise complaints from their neighbors. Aigis would have found the display charming, if she didn’t feel as if some of these words were directed at her. Her brain knew she was being irrational, but all she heard was her heart constantly pestering her about being a bad partner.

In addition, Kotone occasionally liked to sing to Aigis. She used music as a way to communicate what she was thinking. She picked songs with lyrics according to what she had to say. Often trying to cheer Aigis up, or give her advice. The context was definitely different, but the android couldn’t help but feel anxious. After all, Kotone looped the same song five times in a row now.

Tentatively, the blonde woman approached the girl lost in the zone. Basically blinded and deaf, Aigis was forced to break her out of her trance. Shyly, she gently tapped her shoulder to get her attention, making the other girl jump slightly.

“EVERYBODY BUT YOUR DOG! YOU CAN ALL FU- Woah! Oh! Hiya sweetheart! What’s up?” She asked casually as she lowered one of her headphones, her head still bopping to the rhythm, unaware of Aigis’ internal struggle.

“Hello, Kotone. There is something I wish to know. Um… Did I do something wrong?”

“What? Um… I don’t think so… Did you?” The perplexed woman asked, lowering the volume to fully switch her attention to Aigis, starting to grasp something was wrong.

“I… I hope not. It’s just that… You’ve been singing this song a lot. And um… Given the lyrics… I was wondering if you had regrets about us. A-and if you blamed me for this.” Aigis voice became reserved near the end of her sentence, as if she was convincing her own self she was at fault here.

“Wait… What?” Kotone couldn’t help but let out, utterly confused by what she was hearing.

“I mean… I would understand. You say all the time that you don’t mind me being made of metal. But… I noticed how stiff your neck seems to be after we sleep together. A-and I know you force yourself to cuddle with me even when it’s cold. There are so many things you could do with someone more… Like you. I-I love you so much, but you deserve so much be-”

Kotone cut her off here, this wasn’t the first nor will it be the last time Aigis had a similar train of thought. Of course, she couldn’t let her think this way of herself.

“Woah! Woah! Woah! Stop this! Where even is this all coming from? Aigis, I LOVE you, you big dummy!”

“B-but… The song?”

“I sing stuff I don’t mean all the time! Sometimes I sing lyrics I hate just cos the song is catchy! I would never think these things about you! How even did you get this crazy idea?!” The music-lover exclaimed, not wishing to make Aigis feel bad, but needing her to realize just how ridiculous she sounded.

“I-I… Um… I-I’m not sure… But I do feel a bit silly right now… I apologize.” Aigis answered shyly, her cheeks reddening wile her eyes struggled to meet Kotone’s.

Letting out a small sigh, Kotone lowered her tone as her gaze grew softer. She grabbed both of Aigis’ hands in hers and told her truthfully.

“Hey… It’s okay. Don’t feel bad, Aigis. I just want you to know how much I care about you. The only person here who thinks you’re not good enough is you, and it’s total bull crap.”

Kotone’s sincere tone and her colorful choice of words managed to make Aigis look back at her, her eyes full of trust and appreciation. Kotone smiled lovingly at her as she continued.

“I love being cold at night with you. I love when you take care of me when I’m sore. I love all the good and the bad in our relationship, because I love you so much, the bad doesn’t even exist.”

Aigis had heard these three words so many times from Kotone’s mouth. And yet, they still somehow managed to bring a tear to her eye to this day.

“T-thank you, K-Kotone… I love you too… I’m sorry I overeacted like this… That was foolish of me.”

Even after all this, Aigis still found a way to think wrongly of herself. Kotone would not allow this. After a quick but comforting peck on the android’s lips, she said.

“You’re not dumb… You’re just being human, Aigis. A very self-conscious human who doesn’t realize just how awesome she is, and how happy she makes her girlfriend. Sooo… Let me help you out a little with that.” With a playful smirk, Kotone began to play around with her MP3 Player.

“What are you doing?” Aigis asked curiously.

“Making a playlist of the most romantic, cheesiest and lovey-dovey songs I can think of. Then, I’m gonna hit play and sing all of them in front of your pretty face. So you’ll know how I really feel.”

Aigis could only smile fondly at the sweet idea. No matter what she thinks of her own self, she knew Kotone was the love of her life, and no song could describe just how much she adores her.

“May I join you once you’re ready?”

Although, it wouldn’t hurt to try.

Chapter Text

Kotone made her way to the dorms right after school ended today, she was met with the usual greetings from her friends. Though, there was one person in particular who seemed to be awaiting her return eagerly. Instantly, Aigis called for her attention, and told her with her usual bluntness.

“Welcome back, Kotone. I have a question.”

“Hiya Aigis! And sure thing, shoot!”

Kotone always liked answering Aigis’ odd questions about life. She liked to think she was doing her part in helping with Aigis’ growth. That, and Aigis was just fun to talk to.

“Junpei has been calling girls at school pretty or sexy. He also called me cute when we first met at Yakushima. However, I can’t seem to understand what defines a woman as such.”

Kotone never really knew what to expect from Aigis’ queries, although this one still managed to surprise her.

“Oh! Um… Well Aigis, beauty is subjective. Everyone has a different opinion on who is attractive and who isn’t.”

“Thank you for your input, Kotone. However, this statement appears to be contradictory with my personal research.” Aigis answered flatly.

“Personal research? What do you mean?”

“I have read through Junpei’s textbooks titled ‘Sexy babes’, whom all looked rather similar. Thus, I have concluded this to be an official source for defining the beauty of women.”

Good thing nobody was close enough to hear their conversation, or Junpei would have died of embarrassment, or from Bufudyne.

“Wow! Okay! Let’s establish a little rule, Aigis. NEVER under any circumstances look up Junpei’s stuff again, okay?”

“Understood.”

“And these books aren’t objective, Aigis. Or textbooks for the record… They just spread the established standards of beauty set by society over hundreds of years. That’s why a lot of people find these rare body types attractive. But you should decide these kinds of things on your own, Aigis.”

“I see…”

Aigis still seemed a bit perplexed by all this. What Kotone said seemed to make sense, but she hadn’t quite answered her inquiry. Perhaps a reformulation was in order.

“In this case, Kotone. How do I, subjectively, define someone as pretty?”

“Um…. I’m not really sure, Aigis. I don’t think I can really answer that for you… But I guess, it’d be whoever makes you happy when you look at them?” Kotone answered unsurely as best as she could.

“Ah! I see! Thank you very much, Kotone. This has been quite informative.” At least, it seemed Aigis was content with the answer given. Kotone herself wasn’t very confident with what she said, but if Aigis was happy, she was as well! And there is no way she could be a worse influence than Junpei on her.

“Well, I’m glad I could help! Don’t hesitate whenever something’s troubling you! Anyway, I gotta go. I’ll see you later, cutie!” Kotone teased with a wink before leaving the dorms, getting back to her strange yet busy schedule.

Aigis hadn’t quite registered Kotone’s half-joke half-flirt attempt, in this very moment, she had something else in mind.

“Thanks to this new information, I can safely update my database and confirm my original supposition.” The android told her own self softly, blissfully unaware of the miniscule speck of red adorning her cheeks.

“Kotone is very pretty.” She concluded, matter-of-factly.

Chapter Text

“How many times do I have to tell you, Stupei! Tomatoes. Are. FRUITS!”

“No way! Tomatoes taste bad, that makes them vegetables! End of story!”

“Oh my god, I am fighting with an infant…” Sighed the exasperated Yukari.

“Um… Why don’t you guys just check on the internet?” Proposed Fuuka, awkwardly forced to witness the usual bickering between her two friends.

“That’s a great idea! Prepare to ‘eat’ your words, Yukari! Loser has to cough up 5,000 Yen!”

“Make that 10,000 for that terrible pun.” Cringed the brown-haired girl. “I know I’m right anyway, Stupei.”

Despite them being about to find out the answer, it didn’t stop the two from arguing all the way to the shared PC of SEES. Which seemed to be already booted up on another member’s account.

“Oh? Looks like Aigis forgot to log out.” Yukari pointed out, before noticing a mischievous grin forming on Junpei’s face.

“Oh oh oh~! Is that so~. CTRL aaaand H!” Junpei said as he pressed the shortcut’s input to display Aigis’ browser history onto the screen.

“What are you doing?!” Yukari exclaimed indignantly, her raised voice causing Fuuka to come over and check what all the ruckus was about. Meanwhile, Yukari tried to hide the screen from their eyes using her arms.

“Are you serious, Junpei?! That stuff is private!”

“Pfft, yeah, ‘cause Aigis is all about respecting our privacy.” He retorted with an eye roll.

“I mean…” Yukari thought back to all the times Aigis entered a room without knocking, or asked a much too sensitive question. Only Kotone seemed to not mind this behavior from her, it would seem. “You’re not wrong there… But still, this doesn't feel right.”

“Come on, Yuka! Can’t you admit you’re just a tiny bit curious? It’s a fighting robot’s browser history we’re talking about! Besides, it’ll be fiiine, Aigis will never know!”

“I’d be more worried about Kotone finding out… Fine. Just a peek, and if we get caught, I’ll make sure to let them know it was your idea.” She said, after removing her arms, having trouble admitting she too was incredibly intrigued as to what Aigis of all people could look up on the internet.

While Junpei clearly gulped at the mention of Kotone’s name, this didn’t deter him from sneaking a glance. Fuuka, meanwhile, wanted to be no part of this whatsoever. At least, this was what she thought until she heard her companions’ outbursts.

“Holy shit!”

“No. Way.”

… Maybe she was a little curious as well.

“Check this out… ‘What does love feel like?’, ‘Am I in love?’” Yukari read aloud, unable to believe her eyes.

“Aww, our little Aigis got a widdle crush!”

“That’s incredible… She actually has romantic feelings for someone. She’s grown so much these past few months.” Fuuka marvelled aloud.

With a shameful glance, the trio silently decided to continue scrolling. While this definitely wasn’t the type of stuff they assumed they would find, they couldn’t deny just how juicy it was.

“H-HUH?! HOLY SHI-”

“Shut up Stupei! Do you want the whole dorm to know what we’re doing?”

“B-BUT LOOK AT THIS!” Junpei yelled, pointing at the screen.

“‘Can a girl like another girl?’, ‘What is a lesbian?’, ‘Can an Anti-Shadow Suppression Weapon be a lesbian?’, ‘Am I a lesbian?’. Oh, my.” Fuuka gasped, a small blush forming on her cheeks.

“… Why are you guys so shocked? Isn’t it obvious?” Yukari asked incredulously.

“W-what do you mean?”

“Come on… Seriously? Who does Aigis follow like a lost puppy all the time? And who does she keep calling ‘my precious this’, ‘my precious that’.”

“W-when you put it that way, I suppose it makes sense. They are pretty close, after all.” Fuuka concluded.

“I’m still lost.”

“Kotone! Stupei! She’s in love with Kotone!”

Needing a few more seconds for realization to hit, Junpei finally put two and two together.

“Aw man! Even the chicks dig her! I’m so jelly!”

This comment earned him a smack on the back of his head.

“Anyway… ‘How to tell if someone is a lesbian?’, ‘Do lesbians like robots?’, ‘How to turn someone into a lesbian?’. Yeah, I don’t think she got that many results for that one.”

“I-I’m starting to feel bad reading all this, we should stop now.”

“Now I kinda wanna read Kotone’s history… You guys think she’s searching stuff like ‘How to kiss robots without getting electrocuted?’” Junpei asked jokingly, though his laughter and jolly humor didn’t last for long.

“Really, now?” Inquired, a fourth icy voice, sending chills down the spines of the three people involved.

‘Thankfully’, the voice belonged to neither Aigis nor Kotone, but Mitsuru Kirijo. Though, this outcome could hardly be called fortunate.

“K-K-K-K-Kirijo Senpai! Wh-what a pleasant surprise! We were just searching something on the internet! A-and did you know that if you press CTRL and H it shows the history! W-we just found out by mistake! C-crazy right?”

“Oh? Is that so, Iori? How intriguing.” Mitsuru said with a small smile, a pretty mask for the fury of the Ice Empress hiding beneath.

“Y-yeah! R-right girls?”

Fuuka and Yukari, who both valued their lives, chose silence. Naturally, Mitsuru was more than happy to oblige for them.

“G-girls?”

“I must agree, Iori. Perhaps you should share this wisdom with the entire dorm. I think I shall organize a meeting, where you will present this feature on your own account. I also believe it would be a right time for a nice reading session. This could be a great opportunity to teach everyone the importance of personal space and privacy.”

Junpei visibly paled at the suggestion.

“If this is more preferable to you, I could inform Shiomi of what you’ve been doing behind her back instead?”

Junpei had to admit, he had no clue which fate sounded worse. Though, he did see first-hand the way Kotone demolishes her enemies.

“Can I at least remove the very embarrassing ones, first?” A defeated Junpei complied.

“You may. Now, disconnect. Immediately.” She ordered before turning to the other two.

“Takeba, Yamagishi. Consider this your first and final warning. Iori, you’re coming with me.” The smile was now completely gone, revealing cold eyes and a thirst for justice from the imposing figure. A figure that a dreadful Junpei was forced to follow after.

Now with Mitsuru out of sight and ear shot, Fuuka and Yukari shared a look of both relief and shame.

“I guess we got off pretty easy… But…”

“I still feel pretty bad… I think we at least owe Aigis an apology.”

“Yeah… You’re right, it’s the least we can do. And maybe we can help her hook up with Kotone.” The archer added with a wink.

“And this concludes my presentation regarding the values of personal space and privacy. My sources include my own browser history. Thank you for listening.”

“...”

“...”

“Aigis… This wasn’t supposed to be a group activity…”

“Oh.”

Chapter Text

3AM, Kotone could read grumpily on her alarm clock. With a sigh, she laid on her other side, wishing she could find the magic position to instantly fall asleep. In truth, Kotone already knew what stopped her from sleeping. Her bed felt cold and alone, the all-too-familiar insomnia always occurring when Aigis was out on a mission. It was especially bad tonight, however. She just missed her adorable girlfriend so much.

Kotone let out a grunt of frustration before pulling out her phone. People always advised against using your phone before bed, but she didn’t give a damn right about now. After a few minutes of aimlessly scrolling, she quickly felt bored, and just as unable to sleep. The girl wanted to yell as loudly as she could. It was unfair, her neighbors could sleep while she had to suffer. Thankfully, before Kotone could receive an eviction notice, she decided to check the last messages she and Aigis shared. Reminiscing as if she was standing next to her.

Me: stay safe out there! and go kick some shadow butt!

Me: i miss u ):

Aigis ❤️: There is no need to worry, Kotone. Labrys and I are watching over each other’s back. The butt kicking is also going accordingly. I miss you too, I wish for nothing more than to be by your side.

Me: awww that’s so sweet <3

Me: ur just too cute!!! (‘3’)

Aigis ❤️: You are the cutest. 🐱

Me: dork… Love u tho

Me: hows labby doing btw?

Aigis ❤️: I love you too. 🐱🐱

Aigis ❤️: Given how she teases me since I “talk about my girlfriend all the time”, she seems to be doing quite well.

Aigis ❤️: She also wished to know how you were doing.

Me: thats nice of her!

Me: we should invite her over to dinner!

Aigis ❤️: Of course, I will ask her tomorrow. In the meantime, I should probably get some rest. It has gotten quite late. I wish you a goodnight, Kotone.

Me: oki baby

Me: ill call u 2morow, k?

Me: gn! i love u!!!

Aigis ❤️: Of course. I love you, too, with all my heart.

Me: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Kotone sighed happily as she read and reread the messages they exchanged. She loved her Aigis so much, she was even enamored with the way she texted her. How hard she had fallen. How much she missed her.

Without thinking, Kotone began typing, despite being certain Aigis was currently sleeping. She slightly regretted her decision upon pressing send. After all, the last thing Aigis needed was a late night message from her needy girlfriend upon waking up, she thought. Shaking her head in disapproval at her own selfishness, Kotone started deleting the message, until a certain sound stopped her in her tracks.

Me: hiya

Aigis ❤️: Hello again, Kotone. Is everything okay?

Me: oh! sry aigis! im good dw!!!

Me: i didnt think u were awake

Aigis ❤️: I am having trouble falling asleep, it would seem. How come you are still awake?

Me: cant sleep same as u ^^

Aigis ❤️: Is there a particular reason why?

“‘I guess I just missed you’. No… That’s stupid. ‘I was feeling lonely’. Nah, that’ll make her worry all night… ‘I can’t sleep without y-’. Ugh… I sound like a desperate loser… Screw it, I shouldn’t bother her anymore.”

Me: meh just spent 2 much time on the internet ^^’ dw bout it

Me: hbu? i thought u were tired?

Aigis ❤️: I was. It would seem I can’t fall asleep without you.

Aigis’ blunt but loving response made Kotone widen her eyes upon reading it. She didn’t even hesitate before sending this message. Like she always did, Aigis spoke from her heart and she felt the exact same as she did. Unlike her, however, she actually wasn’t afraid to tell her. Old habits die hard, she supposed.

Me: oh aigis… i miss you too…

Me: i huh, actually cant sleep for the same reason

Me: bed feels empty without u

Aigis ❤️: I had a feeling this was the case. I am not sure if I understand why you didn’t tell me right away, Kotone.

Me: yea… sry bout that aigis :/ i dont rly know either tbh

Me: brains just dumb and weird sometiems

Aigis ❤️: There is no need to apologize, my love. I am not angry whatsoever.

Aigis ❤️: But I just wanted you to know, I will never judge you, Kotone. I will always love you.

If Kotone wasn’t falling asleep before, she certainly wasn’t now. Not with the big, stupid smile she couldn’t force out of her face, nor her watery eyes.

No words could describe just how much she loved this woman. Not through texting at the very least.

“Mhh… It is taking her longer than usual to answer me. I hope I did not say something wrong…” The blonde woman said to herself while putting her phone on standby. Impatiently waiting for the message notification she had set for Kotone.

What she didn’t expect, was to hear Kotone’s favorite song, softly playing through her phone’s speakers. Highlighting a picture of the brunette kissing her on the cheek.

“Oh?”

‘Mon cœur would like to FaceTime…’

Chapter Text

Kotone was quite the strange character. Sure, she seemed like any other high school girl at a glance, but she also eluded a mysterious aura. Despite being outgoing and bubbly, she almost never talked about her past. She mentioned how she originally was from Gekkoukan High, but she never talked about it, be her friends, her old classes, the reason she left, nothing at all.

Her academic performances were all over the place as well. She clearly was a very smart young woman, acing a lot of classes without a problem. Yet at the same time, some were extremely difficult for her, usually related to recent technologies or events. She even seemed to have trouble using a smartphone.

None of this stopped Kotone from making acquaintances, however. Even if some would say her choice of company was peculiar. Even then, she rarely strengthened her bonds with her school friends, she never really had time after school to hang out with them. It was as if she was living a second life.

Not only that, due to being so popular. Kotone could easily get herself a boyfriend if she wanted, but seemed to have no interest whatsoever in romance. Brutally rejecting anyone who tried to date her.

Nobody really knew where she lived either, when Kotone left school, she rushed outside before getting picked up by a car that would be impossible to miss. A very expensive looking vehicle with black tainted glasses that looked taken out from a spy movie.

A few curious classmates managed to catch a glance of the person driving it. To their surprise, it appeared to be a blonde white woman. While she didn’t really seem older than Kotone, between her car and outfit, it was clear she wasn’t a high schooler. If anything, the woman looked more like she worked for the CIA.

When asked about her, Kotone simply stated she had no clue what they were talking about. With a tone that clearly meant she absolutely did, and just didn’t want or couldn’t talk about it.

Speaking of which, right as the bell ringed, Kotone rushed out of school to meet with her anonymous driver. Telling her friends goodbye, before leaving happily. She was usually pretty cheerful, but getting to leave clearly was the highlight of her day.

The car was patiently waiting to pick her up. Kotone quickly got in, closed the front door behind her, and swiftly pecked the driver right on the lips, before driving off to their shared apartment.

“Hiya Aigis!” She said affectionately right after the smooch.

“Hello, Kotone. How was your day at school?” The android always made sure to ask how Kotone’s day went, and like always, her girlfriend answered with a sigh.

“Boooring.”

“I am sorry to hear, Kotone, but you need to hang in there! I know this is hard, especially after all that you’ve been through, but you’ll get through it.”

“Thanks baby. You’re sweet.” Kotone smiled at her kind words. “It just sucks not being able to do it with you, or everyone else.”

“What about your current school friends? If they are being mean with you, I will make them behave if needed.” Aigis added very seriously, making her girlfriend giggle at the overprotective threat.

“Nah, don’t worry, Aigis, they’re cool. And it’s not that I don’t like them but… It’s just not the same. You guys are like my family, and I wished I got to experience growing up with you all.”

“Kotone…” Upon hearing the sad tone, the girl in question made sure to reassure the woman of her dreams.

“Oh, I’m sorry, baby! I didn’t mean to make you worry. I’m really happy, I swear! Every day, I’m glad I’m able to wake up in your arms. But, I just didn’t expect that after dying and reviving, I’d actually wish for time to go faster.”

“Your feelings are valid, Kotone. And I understand your frustration. But please try to maintain a positive outlook on things. Enjoy your own gift, and listen to your own advice. Live life to the fullest. After all, a lot can happen in a year.” She added knowingly.

Kotone chuckled lightly at the ironic role reversal, her girlfriend had grown so much. “Ain't’ that the truth! But you’re right, Aigis. I should try to enjoy my time as a normal high school girl.”

“That’s the spirit! As they say.” Aigis smiled at Kotone’s resolve, squeezing her leg affectionately.

“Hehe! Say, would it be alright if I invited a few friends over? I haven’t been treating them too well, and I wanna make up to them. I think you’ll like them! They remind me of SEES in a way.”

“Of course, my love. Whenever you want.”

“Thanks honey! Oh, I just realized, I didn’t even ask how your day went?”

“Nothing much on my hand either, we still can’t seem to locate this new Shadow activity. We aren’t making any progress with the Phantom Thieves either. It is quite frustrating.”

“Well, my buddies Ren, Ann and Ryuji are big Phantom Thieves fan, I think. Maybe they could help?”

“At this point, I am taking any lead I can get. Thank you, Kotone.”

“No worries! I’ll ask them tomorrow when they’ll be available. I’m not sure when, though, they seem busy all the time.”

“Very well, I am looking forward to meeting them. This will also help me ensure they are good friends to you.”

Kotone couldn’t help but giggle, she has missed a lot but some things never changed.

Chapter Text

It had been a year since Labrys joined the Shadow Ops. Yet here they were, forced to come back to Inaba, the town being once again subjected to a potentially great Shadow threat. And the Shadow Operatives, were rather lacking in personnel. The only experienced members which could deploy were Mitsuru, Aigis and Labrys herself. They could at least get some assistance from the old Investigation Team.

Unfortunately, most of them had very busy schedules and obligations. It was very rare for them to be able to help out with the case. As for Yu, Yosuke and Chie, they had officially joined the Shadow Operatives right after graduation a few months ago, meaning this would be their first official mission.

At this very moment, everyone was impatiently awaiting orders from Agent #1, who was growing more and more frustrated after so many disappointing phone calls.

“You guys nervous?” Labrys asked, as Agent #4, having climbed very quickly through the ranks, not only due to the many members leaving the group, but thanks to her impressive results as well.

“N-no! Of course not! We’re basically pros at this! Right, partner?” Yosuke said, failing very hard to hide his nerves.

“You’re shaking.” Yu pointed out, his abilities and natural leadership granting him the rank of Agent #3 despite joining after Labrys. The silver-haired android saw no issue with this, she had seen firsthand what the young man was capable of after all.

“C-can’t you show a little professionalism, ‘Agent #5’?” Chie half-mocked, half-stuttered, feeling just as anxious as her superior.

Unlike Labrys however, she was clearly very disapproving of her position right under Yosuke. Which he gained simply through having real work experience, unlike her. Of course, they both knew the two were on par, this was simply light-teasing between friends. Mostly.

“You’re one to talk! And I can’t believe you’re still salty about that! I just can’t wait to be on a solo mission with you! I’ll finally know what it feels like to bully an intern!”

“Why you littl-”

“If I may, I believe you are disturbing Agent #1 during her very important phone call.” Aigis, now Agent #2, added. The fear of execution finally making Yosuke and Chie behave.

“S-sorry m’am!” They said at the same time.

Speaking of which, Mitsuru had just ended said call and joined the rest of the team, desperation, along with a hint of discomfort, clear on her face.

“It would seem none of the Reserve Members will be joining us. This means no manpower from Akihiko, Junpei, Yukari or even Ken and Koromaru. And no intel from Fuuka. We are now officially understaffed for this operation.”

“S-seriously, Ms. Kirijo? Isn’t this really bad? The only thing Rise could tell us is how stupidly powerful that thing is!”

“Calm down, Yosuke.” Yu ordered before Mitsuru could, maintaining the composure of a Saint despite the dire situation. Which did actually manage to calm the young man down.

“I am well aware of this fact. And while I must thank your companions for all their work, without constant support, we are quickly running out of options.” Mitsuru sighed before giving Aigis a very uncomfortable, begging glance. In response, the blonde woman sighed as well, but nodded regardless.

“I must ask you all to excuse me. I have a call to make.” With this, the second founding member began entering their fortified vehicle.

“I really apologize for this, Aigis.” Mitsuru said sincerely, it was strange for the other members to see her like this, Aigis gave her a small smile and a reassuring nod before stepping aside. Mitsuru also excused herself, informing the other members she needed to put together a different plan of attack, leaving them in standby once again.

“Huuuh… What’s that all about?” Chie whispered to her friends.

“No clue… I’ve never seen the Boss act like this. She almost seemed human there.” This particular comment, earned Yosuke a few elbows in the sides.

“Ouch! I’m kidding! I’m kidding!”

“Aigis didn’t really seem like herself either. Do you know what’s going on, Labrys?” Yu asked the android.

“Well… I guess it’s fine to tell y’all given everything. Sis’ must be callin’ Agent#22 to help us out.”

“Agent #22? Who’s that? We’ve never heard of any other agents aside from us.”

“That… I can’t say, soz. Classified and all. Also, sis’ made me promise to keep quiet.”

“Oh, come on! You can’t leave us hanging like that!”

"There's a pretty big chance she won't accept, so I ain't tellin'. Sorry guys."

"Ah ah!" Chie exclaimed. "Labrys! You said 'she'! That narrows it down!"

"Yeah, to like half the population, genius." Yosuke sighed.

"And it's all you're gettin' outta me."

Before the newest members could complain furthermore, another voice joined them out of nowhere.

“It’s okay, Labrys. She’s agreed to help anyway. They will be meeting her soon enough.” Aigis suddenly said, making the new agents jump out of surprise.

“That was fast. How did she take it?” Labrys asked while the others recomposed themselves from the mini heart attack Aigis gave them.

“She was… Displeased, but understanding. Oh, she wanted me to say hi to you. So ‘hi’!”

“That’s nice and all. But could we please know who you guys are talking about?” Yosuke demanded, Chie would normally chastise him for his rudeness, but in reality was just as curious as he was.

In answer, the two sisters simply exchanged a look, agreeing wordlessly on who should inform them. Thus, Labrys left to report to Mitsuru about the secret agent’s response.

“Agent #22 was our old leader on the field, back when the Shadow Ops were simply known as S.E.E.S.”

“I always assumed Ms. Kirijo was your leader. How come you guys never talk about her?” Yu asked, certain he’s never heard them mention this person before.

“During our last mission, she’s been through… A lot.” Aigis said sadly before continuing.

“She does not really want anything to do with Shadows anymore, and wished to live a normal life. She’s agreed to help only during emergencies. I just wished it wouldn’t be so soon…”

“Um… I know she was your leader and all, but she’s just one person. Is it really okay to bother her for this?” Chie added kindly.

“Agent #22 is by far the strongest Persona user I have ever met. With her help, our mission would go from suicidal to a walk in the park, as they say.”

Everyone’s eyes widened at this statement, especially given the team of heavy hitters they already had.

“To give you an approximate idea, if we combine every single person here, we still wouldn’t compare to her.” Aigis said with certainty, none missed the hint of pride and perhaps slight bias, however.

“S-seriously? Is she really stronger than Agent #3 or you?” Yosuke asked in disbelief.

“Indeed. I have never seen someone as capable as Agent #22.” While this comment left everyone in awe, her sister joined the conversation.

“Awww! Sis’ is all proud of her lil’ girlfriend!”

“G-girlfriend?!” Chie and Yosuke exclaimed.

“Oh yes, I failed to mention we are indeed dating. And of course I am proud of her. She is outstanding.” Aigis said matter-of-factly, a very shy blush and smile adorning her facial features.

“Datin’? You two are more like a married couple, if you ask me.” Labrys teased, taking any opportunity she could get to mess with her little sister, unfortunately to no avail.

“I would propose if the law allowed us to.” Noticing the hanging jaw from her teammates, Aigis continued. “I should apologize for not telling you about her sooner. This is not because I mistrust any of you. I simply did not wish to associate her with anything work-related. To make up for this, we would gladly invite you all for dinner, however. She is a great cook.”

Chie seemed very content at the promise of free food.

“Stop salivating you! And wait a minute… Why is her number so high, anyway? Are there other members we don’t know about? And if she’s this strong, shouldn’t she be lower?”

“This was to make sure she wouldn’t find herself as the leader of an operation. This was one of her rules to make her agree to help us in times of need. She only wished to kick ass, as she said.”

“But why twenty-two specifically?”

“She insisted on it. It’s her favorite number.” Labrys deadpanned.

“...”

“...”

“... Seriously?” Yosuke finally broke the silence.

“Yep, this is the kinda person sis’ fell for.”

Aigis simply shrugged in answer, not understanding what the issue was. After all, it was important to have principles. Just another quality she admired about her girlfriend.

Chapter Text

Thanks to Mitsuru’s input, Agent #22 arrived the day after she’s been called in. The people who hadn’t met her yet had no clue what to expect. They couldn’t help but feel intimidated by this mysterious person, especially given Aigis’ extensive description of her. Her face and figure were still obscured by the black-tainted glass of the private car. The three, mainly Chie and Yosuke, whispered speculations to themselves.

“I’m betting on a very buff chick. Like, even taller than Kanji.” Chie mumbled.

“My money’s on another Anti Shadow Weapon Something.” Yosuke answered back, though Chie didn’t have the time to remind him of the implications of her and Aigis dating. Yu himself had a theory of his own, but decided to keep it to himself.

The chauffeur opened the door. Revealing… A pretty normal looking woman, all things considered. She had her own Shadow Ops uniform like everyone else, and her Evoker like Mitsuru. Other than that, nothing really stood out about her. Aside from the fact that she looked younger than the other ex-S.E.E.S members, save from Ken and Aigis. In fact, she looked about as old as the Investigation Team.

As soon as she got out of the car, she excitedly rushed to Aigis in a flash. Pulling her in her arms and fully kissing her on the lips. Uncaring of anyone forced to see the public display of affection, especially in a supposedly professional environment.

“AIGIS! I missed you so much!” Came a very chipper voice.

“I missed you too, Koto-” Was when Aigis got cut off by the kiss, melting in her girlfriend’s arms.

“You guys do realize, it’s only been like two days, right?” Labrys chimed in from the side.

When Agent #22 finished ‘greeting’ her girlfriend, she moved to hug Labrys.

“Shush you! You know how much I love your sister.”

“I know, I know. It’s good to see ya, Ko’.” Labrys laughed lightly, patting her sister-in-law on the back.

Once she was finished with the second android, it was Mitsuru’s turn to get tackled in a hug. Something she somehow didn’t expect.

“Mitsuru!”

“K-Kotone? I-it’s nice to see you too. I apologize for making you come here. The situation was quite dire.” The heiress muttered apologetically.

“Hey, don’t worry about it. I promised, didn’t I?” She reassured her friend, before turning to the three strangers, watching awkwardly from the side lines.

“Oh! Hiya! You guys must be the new recruits! I’m Kotone Shiomi, it’s nice to meet you!!” She introduced herself cheerfully to each of them, before shaking their hands one by one. Yosuke and Chie greeted her as well, a bit bewildered by her enthusiasm, but warmly nonetheless.

“Hey there! I’m Hanamura Yosuke!”

“Satonaka Chie! Nice to meet you, Ms. Shiomi!” Chie saluted.

“Oh, please, call me Kotone!” She said with a giggle.

Yu however, remained stoic in front of her, examining her up and down. Kotone meanwhile, waited patiently for him to return the handshake and reveal his name. She was a little confused by his reluctance, but smiling anyway.

Yosuke meanwhile, angrily whispered into his ear. “Dude! What are you doing? Aigis is giving you the death stare of a lifetime!”

Finally, Yu shook her hand, and if his feeling was right…

“I am Yu. Nice to me-heet you, oh!”

His odd greeting left everyone confused and weirded out.

“Did you just call her a-”

All but Kotone of course, who lightly gasped, before saying.

“ME EAT YOU WHOLE…”

The two wildcards instantly smiled at each other. As if they’ve known each other for years.

“Sis’? What the hell is going on?”

“He is in her care.” Aigis solemnly muttered to herself.

“What the f-”

Chapter Text

Given everything, Kotone being strong was quite the understatement. The newcomers had first expected a catastrophic outcome given their initial chances, but thanks to her, the mission was nothing more than utter demolition. The Shadow put up a fine fight, but with their team efforts, and Kotone’s raw power, it went out without any issue. The team was currently celebrating at Junes for a job well done.

“That was incredible, Ms. Shio- huh Kotone! Messiah is so strong!” Chie exclaimed.

“Hehe, it was a piece of cake! But you guys did great too! Go team!”

“Are you sure you’re okay, though? You will have to take it easy for a while.” Aigis asked for what felt like the hundredth time.

“Yeah, baby. I’m okay, just tired. And I’ll behave only if you take a few days off yourself.”

“I promise we’ll try not to ask for your help anytime soon, Kotone. I just hope we’ll manage to draw in more recruits next year, with a lower turnover.” Mitsuru said, concerned about the current state of the Shadow Operatives, but hopeful for the future.

“Oh, don’t apologize, Mitsuru! It was fun! I wouldn’t mind helping you guys out more in the future. And I gotta say, I didn’t think I would at first, but I actually really missed this feeling…” Her tone grew a little nostalgic, but a reassuring caress from her lover brought back her positive side.

“Though I can’t promise I’ll come often. I’m pooped!”

“Thank you, sincerely. You’ll always be welcomed, on your demands, of course.”

“Sounds good! And don’t be a stranger, feel free to call me if you need me! Plus, I’ll get to work with my favorite girlfriend in the whole world!” She said as she flashed a toothy grin at her partner, who smiled shyly in return, a small blush adorning her cheeks.

“It’s funny seeing you like that, Aigis.” Yu pointed out.

“I know right? I’ve never expected you, of all people, to act like such a lovesick puppy.” Yosuke chimed in with his signature wink.

“For real! It’s like I’m seeing a new facet of you!” Chie continued.

“Y'all shoulda see them when they’re not in public, they’re even worse somehow.” Labrys added.

In response to all this teasing, Kotone childishly blew at raspberry at them, before laying her head on Aigis’ shoulder. She really liked the new guys, they reminded her of her own family. It was easy to create links with them.

“You guys can yap all you want, all I need is my Aigis.”

At the sweet comment, the android smiled lovingly down at her, and pecked her on the head.

“I feel the same way, I love you so much.”

Gagging and light teasing filled the table once again, the couple didn’t care though. Their love and understanding were beyond all else.

“But man, I have to say, I know Aigis said you were tough, but I didn’t expect this much.” Chie told her, remembering the highlights of the battle, and the total domination Kotone brought in.

“Pfft! I’m sure she was exaggerating.”

“Well… A little, but still, you trashed the hell out of that Shadow!”

“Hehe! It’s what I do!”

“I have to admit, I really thought you would use the power of the Wildcard.” Yu, pointed out, though certain she, like himself, had a reason not to.

“Yeaaah, I lost that after… Well after I died.” Kotone finally admitted suddenly.

“Kotone? Are you sure?” Aigis whispered in her ear, while gasps filled the air.

“It’s okay, sweetheart. They deserve to know, and I’m cool with it.”

“I see. It is as you wish.” Aigis told her sincerely, still holding her hand for moral support.

“I-I’m sorry, I think I misheard something here but… Did you just say you died?” Chie couldn’t help but ask again.

“You did not mishear, Satonaka. And she’s speaking the truth. Both Aigis and I can attest to the aforementioned.” Mitsuru confirmed, while Labrys silently nodded to herself. While she did not witness the scene herself, she was well aware of all the pain her sister went through.

“But… But… W-what? Why? A-and how? I-I-” Yosuke’s perplexed string of questions was stopped by Yu’s hand on his shoulder, signaling him to calm down.

“Well, long story short, I died a few months after we defeated Nyx. I’ll skip the more complicated details, but I was pretty much stuck between life and death for a while. But I was saved by my friend Theodore, and brought back to life. He’s a Velvet Room guy.” She told Yu specifically.

“I am forever grateful for what he has done.” Aigis declared, her voice shaking slightly at one painful memory, and one blissful.

“Wow… I-I’m sorry to hear.” Chie said, unsure as to what else she could add.

“Oh! Don’t feel bad! I’m back now!”

“You’re going to have to tell us the full story one day, I’m not sure if I really followed everything…” Yosuke said while scratching his head.

“Sure! Not today, though. Sorry, I don’t really feel like it.”

“O-oh yeah, of course! I didn’t mean to- I mean, no biggie.”

“I suppose this explains why you did not really feel comfortable fully joining the Shadow Ops.”

Kotone dropped the cheery attitude a little to answer him.

“Yeaaah, the wound’s still pretty fresh to be honest. And I tire pretty easily now compared to before.”

“I see. So when you returned, you lost the ability to use multiple Personas, but you still had Messiah. Your original Persona, I assume.” Yu concluded.

Kotone snapped his fingers at him, letting him know he was right on the mark. Before looking at the uncomfortable gazes shared by everyone present.

“Hey! What’s with the long faces? I’m good now! Come on, we beat the bad guy! I wanna see big smiles!” Kotone said cheerfully to the team, not hiding behind a fake mask for once.

Her girlfriend grew to know her well, and sensed when she did so or not. Seeing Kotone so happy, it made her smile as well.

“I agree with you, mon coeur. It’s party time, baby! As they say.”

The sudden outburst and ridiculous saying from the normally stoic woman after such a tragic story made everyone burst out laughing on the table.

“Man! You two really are a perfect fit for each other!” Chie laughed out loud.

“It’s party time, baby!” Yu repeated aloud.

“Dude! Stop! My stomach’s killing me!” Yosuke said, holding his sides painfully through the laughter.

“Wow, Sis’. Ever thoughta doin’ a comedy duo? Woulda work wonders on dumbasses like this guy.” Labrys lightly punched Yosuke’s shoulder, giggling despite her words.

Even Mitsuru herself had trouble containing her snickering.

Kotone and Aigis looked peacefully at the display of happiness before them. Both, above everyone, aware of how precious the gift of life was. They shared a knowing look, before closing their eyes as their lips met. A promise for more glorious days.

Chapter Text

It had been a few weeks since Kotone’s return. Her body was still weak, but her condition had remained stable. Even then, to this day, she was stuck in Aigis’ bed, resting while the android watched over her. She finally managed to see her old friends. Between the many heart-felt reunions and shed tears, her days were rather tiring despite her low activity.

In fact, Aigis and her didn’t get to share much aside from when she found her. It was clear as day the two had longed for each other, and the care they shared was above all else. However, despite this transcending bond, Kotone had been missing for years. It’d be perfectly normal for Aigis to have moved on from her, from their relationship. Now, Kotone was back in her life, and she wasn’t sure if she truly fit in.

The revived girl had been dreading a conversation regarding this. Aigis hadn’t seen her for ages, but to her, it felt like a flash. The feeling of serenity she felt on her laps, the feeling of passion she felt caressing her heart. It was all fresh on Kotone’s mind, she loved the other woman so much, and she hated the thought of losing her. She wasn’t really proud of this selfishness. Nevertheless, if Aigis’ wish was to not pursue this relationship, she would accept her decision. No matter how much it would hurt.

At long last, the two finally had a moment of peace between each other. The rest of her friends had to begrudgingly return to their occupations, promising to visit her again in the future. As for Kotone, while not fully recovered, had managed to regain some of her strengths. Meanwhile, Aigis was, as always, looking after her, a content smile on her face.

It would seem she didn’t really register Kotone’s internal struggle, the android was simply happy to be with her. Which meant Kotone had to gather her courage to finally tell her what’s been rummaging around in her mind.

“I’m happy to see everyone’s doing well.” Kotone said, breaking the silence, trying to ease a little into the difficult question.

“Indeed, we’re finally all together again. I’ve missed this. I’ve missed you.” She clarified with a warm smile, her sweet honesty easing Kotone’s nerves.

“I’ve missed you too. It didn’t really feel as long for me, but… I still couldn’t help but cry my eyes out when I saw you again.” Kotone stated truthfully, albeit rather shyly. “I’m sorry I had to leave.”

“It’s alright, we’re together now. It’s all that matters.”

“Speaking of which… I was wondering. How… How did you take it? After I…” She had trouble finishing her sentence.

It wasn’t necessarily a topic Aigis wished to aboard. Though, she supposed Kotone deserved to know.

“To tell you the truth, for a long time. I couldn’t cope with you being gone. I felt all sorts of unpleasant emotions, and I blamed myself a lot but in the end… I think I just missed you. It took me a very long time for me to accept it.” Aigis wasn’t sure she was really using the right words, considering her old state of mind, and the current situation.

“Even then, until the very end, I thought about you every day. I kept you alive in my memories, and in here.” She hovered over her heart with her free hand, still able to feel Kotone’s touch. “And now that you’ve been brought back to me… I’m just so happy. I don’t think if I can quite process this is actually real. It feels as if this is all but a wonderful dream.”

“I can assure you, you’re not dreaming, Aigis. I promise. I’m not going anywhere.”

“I-I know, I simply can’t believe how lucky I am to have you back by my side.” Aigis flashed her usual smile, the one Kotone fell for, so full of love and charm.

“I feel the same way, Aigis. I’m really happy to be back with you. Which huh… Brings me to my next question…” The brown-haired girl announced awkwardly.

Sensing Kotone’s hesitation, Aigis squeezed her hand gently, encouraging her to go on. Her marvelous blue eyes full of patience and understanding. Kotone took a deep breath, and finally asked what’s been plaguing her mind for the past few days.

“Um… D-did you… Did you find someone else? While I was away?”

Aigis cutely tilted her head in confusion, not sure what she meant exactly.

“I apologize, Kotone. I am not sure if I quite understood? Are you asking me if I found someone else to love?”

Kotone nodded her head shyly, her eyes having trouble meeting Aigis’.

“Did you… Did you want me to?”

“Well… Yeah? I mean! Not anymore. No wait! Um… How should I put this… It’d be natural for you to move on and if you did, I wouldn’t want to like… Just wreck your new life, i-it wouldn’t be fair to you… A-and even if you didn’t find someone, I’ve been gone for years. I-I’d understand if you didn’t want to be with me anymore…” Kotone rambled on and on, hints of her true feelings finally starting to show. Sensing her struggle, Aigis helped her find her strength.

“Kotone. Please, calm down. I want you to be honest with me. Tell me how you really feel.”

At her soft request, Kotone stared back into her blue eyes. All they reflected were honesty, patience, and tenderness. All these signs of love telling her not to be afraid. How could Kotone not see them until now. The brown-haired girl took a deep breath, and finally opened herself to her closest companion.

“The way our relation ended… I hate how sudden it was. Our bond was strong, but we never had time to properly enjoy it. I feel as if I’ve been gone too long. I-I really want to continue what we started, but I’m scared you’ve moved on from me, even if it's what I used to want… To tell you the truth, all I really want is for us to become a couple again…” Kotone admitted shyly.

“The promise you made when I touched your heart. It’s all I had on my mind these past few days. That you’d always love me, even if it hurt you. I-I know I’m being selfish, and I’m sorry, Aigis, but I… I love you. I love you so, so much.” Kotone poured her heart out, a desperate cry for help to the person she cherishes most.

In answer, Aigis closed the gap between their lips. Making Kotone’s eyes widen in surprise, before melting into the kiss, tears trailing along her cheeks as she closed her eyes. In retrospect, she believed this was her very first kiss with Aigis. Time had been cruel to deprive her of this bliss, but fate was kind enough to accord them this moment of pure happiness.

Aigis pulled away from her lover, caressing her cheeks lovingly, wiping away the tears from her face.

“Kotone... Sometimes, you can be quite the silly goose, as they say. I had assumed nothing had changed between us. I love you just as much as I did the day we parted ways.”

“I-I’m sorry, Aigis… I-I’m happy you feel the same as me. I guess this all felt too good to be true.” Kotone laughed lightly, trying to get over her rollercoaster of emotions.

“I see what you mean.” Aigis agreed, after all, she was still a little terrified whenever Kotone went to sleep. “But why did you believe I had found someone else to love?”

“Oh, well, it’s not really that I thought you did. But like… You’re wonderful, Aigis. Anybody would be lucky to be with you. And… And when I do truly leave this world for good. Hopefully, in a very long time from now. I just wish for you that you can be happy with someone else. You deserve it.”

“I see. While this is a very noble sentiment, I am unsure I could find happiness being with someone who isn’t you. You might think this is too soon for me to say, now that we are together again. But I know deep inside me, you are my one and only. My soulmate. I cannot see myself love someone else, because it would never be the same.”

Before Kotone could retort, not really able to agree with Aigis’ point of view, the android continued.

“But do not feel bad for me. I am more than fine with this. All I longed for, even after you left. Was to live my life with you. To build memories. To love and be loved. This is all I want. Time with you. Time with the love of my life.”

“I… I suppose it is for you to decide how you wish to live your life. Either way, I want the exact same. I don’t want to waste this second chance, Aigis. I’m not leaving your side. Not for a long time, at least.”

On this promise, the couple shared their second kiss. A much slower, tender one compared to the first. Having missed the sensation of their lips connecting their beings. Be it in this lifetime or the previous. Both were addicted to loving each other, and both were eager to start this new chapter of their lives. Together.

Chapter Text

Kotone woke up with a happy, lazy, grin on her face, relishing that today was her day. Her 25th anniversary to be precise. Despite being what one might describe as a grown-ass woman, Kotone still loved celebrating her anniversaries. To be fair, they never quite fell the same after her parents' accident. At least, until her newfound family gave her life meaning.

As an adult woman, her anniversary meant three things. Being able to get up whenever she wished for, thanks to having flexible hours due to being an indie musician. Replying the many messages from her busy friends. And best of all, spending the entire day with her loving wife.

The rules for birthdays were simple when it came to the couple. For Aigis’, Kotone would take her on an extravagant date, attempting to make them both leave their comfort zone, and have a blast, which always take a lot of planning. For Kotone’s, the two would spend a very, very unproductive day at home, completely dedicated to the two of them enjoying each other’s company and nothing else.

As of right now, Kotone was finally starting to stretch her limbs in order to wake up near 11AM. Her dear Aigis, who had been waiting patiently until now, greeted her by pampering her with soft kisses while she sang her happy birthday. Before sharing her very first gift of the day together. Spending a long time in their shared bedroom.

Once the couple was ready to get out of bed, Kotone refusing to leave Aigis’ arms for even a second, they joined the kitchen. With Aigis carrying Kotone around while she bear-hugged her, having to drop her off on a chair before retrieving her cake.

Every year, Kotone would ask to eat her favorite, mostly by herself. A simple but tasty strawberry cake. The icing reading ‘Happy birthday to my most precious’, with twenty-five lit candles. Aigis knew how much she loved to blow at them. Singing her happy birthday once again, although a much more traditional and less intimate version compared to this morning, prompting Kotone to join her. Once she did put out the candles, Aigis clapped at the display right before pecking her wife on the forehead.

Kotone’s smile was bright and cheerful. She had been through so much suffering in her life. And the one year she had been truly happy, her life had ended as abruptly as it had started. At last, after so much hardship, Kotone could rest. Have a somewhat normal life, with a somewhat normal wife she loved very much, taking pleasure in something as simple as celebrating her birthday. Needless to say, she couldn’t be happier.

It could be seen with the way she was eating her cake as well, taking big mouthfuls in a fast pace. Normally, by this point, Aigis would have warned her about the risks of choking. The fact that she didn’t, actually intriguing Kotone. Looking up curiously from her plate to her silent lover, she was surprised to find a rather sad look on her face, looking down on the dismissed candles.

Now this would not do, Aigis and her still had an entire day worth of cuddling and heart touching sessions together. She couldn’t bear to have the love of her life unhappy on a day dedicated to the two of them.

“What’s wrong, sweetheart? I can assure you, this cake tastes INCREDIBLE!” Kotone eased the question with a small joke, already aware something else was on the android’s mind.

Breaking out of her stupor, Aigis looked up at her, feeling like a deer caught in the headlights.

“Mh? Oh. Nothing’s wrong, Kotone. Do not worry about me.” Aigis dismissed, a slight hint of shame showing its ugly head in her eyes.

Ironically, all Aigis did was make Kotone worry even more. If she knew one thing about her partner, aside from being adorable and wonderful, it was her honesty. Aigis must have sensed she didn’t really manage to convince her either, clearly having trouble keeping eye contact.

“Oh, okay. So I guess I’ll just ignore my wife that I adore looking all glum on my birthday, then?” Kotone teased sarcastically, making Aigis recoil even further in her seat. Of course, she was quick to console her.

“Hey… Come on, talk to me, baby. You can tell me anything. Let’s deal with whatever’s floating around in your pretty head, so we can go back to snuggling.” Her tone grew much softer, grasping Aigis’ hand in her own.

Feeling Kotone’s affection and dedication, Aigis saw no point in denying any further. Still, this was not a topic she really wished to deal with at this moment.

“I… I apologize, Kotone. I should have been honest with you.” She expressed sincerely before all.

“Don’t sweat it, honey. Just, take a deep breath. It’s gonna be okay, I promise.” Kotone reassured her, squeezing her hand gently.

Aigis returned her gentle smile. She was lucky to have Kotone in her life. Or back in her life, she supposed. Though, her smile didn’t last for long, not looking forward to the rather unpleasant conversation waiting for them.

“I was thinking about this for a few weeks now, knowing your birthday was coming up. I just think it dawned on me how time flows by so quickly.” Aigis admitted, Kotone didn’t quite understand yet where she was coming from, so she kept quiet, letting her continue.

“I mean, we’ve been married for three years. We’ve been back together for eight years. And you’ve been… Missing for five years. A-and all it took for you to leave my side, was the span of just a few months.” Kotone herself could feel her guilt building up. She had no regrets for the sacrifice she made, but she so wished Aigis didn’t have to suffer so much because of it.

“A-Aigis, I hope you know I didn’t want to leave you. W-we’re together now, it’s all that matters, right?”

“I-I know, Kotone. I am not blaming you. I-I am glad you did this. A-and I am so, incredibly happy that you’re here with me. But… You are twenty-five already. W-we’ve been together as a couple for quite a long time, much longer than what fate had gifted us back then. H-however…” Having trouble to find the right words, Aigis voice grew pained.

“I feel as if this is just the beginning. As if every day is the first we share together. Because of how much I love you. Which reminds me just how much I’m not ready to see you leave me again…” Kotone finally pieced everything together at Aigis’ admission.

“I-I know I am being silly. You’re still young, a-and living a safe lifestyle. E-even then, you will still have to leave me one day. B-back then, I thought I had accepted this. I thought that no matter when, you would live on in my memories, and I would be okay. B-but after having actually lost you…” The memories of Kotone slipping away pained her heart. Feeling the weight of her loss and the weakness she had felt and is still feeling in this very moment.

“N-now that we can live our peaceful life together, and actually enjoy it, losing you again is all I can think about. How it will all end one day… I-I am so sorry, Kotone. I cannot help these feelings… I wish I were stronger than this…” Aigis laid her head low in shame. In response, Kotone cupped her cheek, and made her look at her. Trying to convey all the love she felt for this wonderful woman.

“Aigis… I can’t promise you that I’ll live forever and never leave you. I can’t even promise I’ll be around for the next ten or twenty years. I can’t just snap my fingers and become immortal or predict fate.” Kotone snapped for effect, keeping her gaze on Aigis’ big blue eyes all the while.

“But this is what makes life beautiful, right? And even if you’re having a moment of weakness today, I’m sure you know that already. You’re just scared of the unknown, same as everyone else. Heck, I literally fucking died, and I feel this way too sometimes.” Aigis laughed slightly at the unexpected curse and tone, feeling herself cheer up already thanks to Kotone.

“It’s completely normal, you just have to not let it consume you. You need to have fun and enjoy anything that makes your life worth living! And if you’re feeling down, just talk about it. To me, to our friends, to your future friends, a therapist, anyone who you trust. This is all I’m asking you, sweetheart. Protect your bonds and live life to the fullest, can you do that for me?”

Aigis stared lovingly into her eyes, feeling shy tears pry their way in.

“O-of course. Y-you’re right, Kotone. A-as you said, it was simply a moment of weakness. Thank you, I am feeling much better already.” Aigis said sincerely, the fear remained, but the love she felt shined much brighter. As it should be.

“That’s great, baby. I’m glad to hear. So… Now that we established, you need to enjoy living your life… What do you wanna do? Anything that pops into your mind, we’re doing it! Right here! Right now!” Kotone said gleefully, trying to pump Aigis up.

Her wife answered with an amused laugh, before grabbing her hand. Gently guiding it towards her red ribbon, right on top of her heart.

“Well… I do have a certain idea in mind.” Aigis said slyly. As for Kotone, between the kiss she stole and how hurriedly she untied the android’s ribbon, she more than welcomed the suggestion. To think Aigis hadn’t even given her her birthday present yet.

Chapter Text

“Kotone? Are you actually nervous? You?” Aigis asked her girlfriend playfully, who’s been fidgeting besides her for a while now.

“Who? Me? Nervous over meeting your sister for the first time? Nooo, of course not! Everything’s juuust peachy.” Kotone blurted out unconvincingly, fiddling with the hem of her dress, unsure what to do to with her hands.

Aigis couldn’t help but giggle at the unusual display, seeing her normally so bombastic partner act this way was definitely new. Of course, the protective woman made sure to reassure her.

“She’s going to love you, I promise. And even if she doesn’t, this won’t change a thing about how I feel towards you.” Aigis said softly, hugging her from the side as she pecked her head.

“Not helping, sweetheart!” Kotone replied, but despite Aigis’ poor choice of words, she still felt herself relax to her touch.

“I’m sorry, Kotone. I didn’t realize meeting Labrys would be so important to you.”

“How can it not be? She’s basically your only family. Heck, OUR only family. She has to like me!”

“Mon coeur, I know you’re the one usually telling me this, but you're worrying too much.”

Kotone sighed, Aigis had a point, she was acting pretty silly.

“You’re right… I’m sorry baby. I just love you so much, and I know you two are close. All I want is for all of us to get along.”

“Everything will be fine, I promise, Kotone. If it helps, from what I’ve told her about you, she already respects you greatly.”

“Alright, thanks, Aigis. I can always count on you to cheer me up.” Right as Kotone finally felt herself relax, about to thank her girlfriend with a peck on the lips. Their door rang making her jump and yelp, nearly headbutting Aigis in the nose in the process.

”SHE’S HERE!”

“I heard, dear. Let me get the door while you calm down.” Aigis got up from their couch doing as announced, she made sure to kiss Kotone on the forehead before leaving her side.

Upon reaching the door, Aigis unlocked it and happily greeted the silver-haired woman hiding behind it.

“Sister! You made it!” Aigis hugged her before letting her in.

“Hey! Aigis! Wouldn’t miss it for the world! Is Kotone here?” Labrys asked after returning the embrace. She had to admit, she was pretty curious as to kind of her person her sister fell for. Especially with all the stories she had shared with her.

“Of course, she’s waiting on the couch. She is quite nervous about meeting you.”

“Aigis! Don’t tell her that!” Could be heard from said couch. Kotone got up and joined the sisters, having to greet her guest at some point before extending her shaky hand to her.

“H-Hello, Labby! Err… Can I call you Labby? It’s too soon, right?”

In answer to her obvious nervousness, not only from the tone of her voice, but with how she was clinging to Aigis for dear life, Labrys laughed at her antics as she returned the handshake with a strong grip.

“Only if I can call ya’ Ko’! I’m glad to finally meetcha. Aigis talks aboutcha all the time.”

Kotone lightly gasped in answer, turning to Aigis with a 1000-watt smile. “She gave me a nickname!” She whisper-shouted, in response, Aigis’ face showed a mixture of both pride and confusion at her companion, while Labrys continued snickering.

The host’s head turned back to her interlocutor, still flashing the same smile. “I’m happy to meet you too! I hope Aigis only told you good things about me?” She added the cliché line with a wink, Labrys answered before Aigis could confirm she does, in fact, only say good things about her lover.

“Oh, y’know, just how you’re the love of her life. How she wants nuttin’ more than to be by your side all the time. Or how she’d love ya’ throughout eternity. Y’know, the usual stuff. For her at least.”

Kotone was pretty certain she was quoting Aigis word for word, as if she needed more confirmation, the blonde chimed in. “It’s true.”

The brown-haired girl couldn’t help but look tenderly at her lover. “What can I say, I’m a lucky gal.”

As they slowly headed to the dinner Kotone had prepared, the three women continued sharing pleasantries and small talk. Kotone hadn’t fully realized just how comfortable she had gotten talking to Labrys. It was as if the nervousness she previously felt never existed.

“So Ko’, now dat we’re all chummy. I guess I should give ya’ the good ol’ sister-in-law talk. Ya’ bettuh not make my little sister sad, alright? I’m starting to like ya’, I’d hate to make ya’ hurt.”

“Sister, please.” Aigis shook her head at the unnecessary comment.

“Don’t worry, sweetheart. She’s just looking out for you.” Kotone told her lover before telling Labrys. “Labby, you have nothing to worry about. I would never even dream of hurting Aigis. And if I actually do one day, you have full permission to beat the crap out of me.”

Labrys laughed at that. “Well, I didn’t need your permission, but I appreciate it!”

“Please, do not beat the crap out of my girlfriend.” Aigis said, half-jokingly, half-seriously.

“Don’t worry, sis’. I’m just playin’. I know I got nuttin’ to worry about, you're in good hands. I’m happy for you. And I’m happy for ya’, too, Ko’. You two are good for each other.”

“Aww, Labby!” Kotone exclaimed as she moved to hug her, Aigis following her to do the same. “Can I call you sister?”

“Ya’ might be pushing it a little there!” Labrys laughed as she returned both embraces. “Still, you’re part of the family now. Anybody messes wit’ you, they mess wit’ me. And if some idiot ever gives you shit about bein’ two girls in love, I’ll whoop their asses.” She promised as she pulled herself away from the group-hug, looking at the couple.

“Oddly specific? But I appreciate it, we do like our PDA.”

“And there are a lot of idiots out there.” Aigis agreed, able to speak from experience. To think she had once thought somewhat similarly to the bigots who chastised her relationship. Good thing they weren’t aware of her metal body.

“Err, sorry for bringing it up. I got a weird look from the cab driver when I said I was meetin’ my sister’s girlfriend. Made me pretty mad wit’ how judgmental he was, especially with how he was talking about his wife.“ Labrys said with an annoyed eye roll. “But enough about that, sis’ told me you’re a Persona user, Ko’?”

“Yep! I used to be able to use loads of Personas back then! Wild Card GFs!” She said, high-fiving Aigis.

“Wild Card GFs!” Aigis repeated.

“Pfft, real cute. Shouldn’t it be ex-Wild Card GFs, though?”

“Nooo! People are gonna think we broke up with that name!”

“Besides, once a Wild Card, always a Wild Card, as they say.”

“I’ll hee-ho to that!”

“Err… You guys lost me. Though, Ko’. I was wonderin’, is there any particular reason you’re not wit’ the Shadow Ops? You don’t have to answer, if you don’t want to, of course. Just curious, is all.”

“Well… Let’s just say I’m taking a break from Shadow stuff. I dunno if Aigis told you about my… Weird situation;”

“I did not, Kotone. She knows something happened to you, but not what exactly. I figured you should decide who knows and who doesn’t.” Kotone did appreciate this, she didn’t have time to properly thank her, but made sure to make a mental note next time she gets her hands on Aigis’ heart.

“Ah, that bad, huh? Sorry, Ko’. I didn’t mean to pry.” Labrys apologized, scratching the back of her neck awkwardly.

“Oh don’t worry! It’s not really a sensitive topic, it’s just… Heavy, I guess. I’ll tell you one day, but not right now. I just wanna have fun today!” Kotone announced with a warm smile, which the two androids reciprocated.

“Send me a text when you get home, alright?” Aigis asked her sister.

“Sure, Aigis. Can’t promise I won’t forget, though.”

“You better do as she says! You know how much of a worrywart your sister is.” Kotone teased, boldly grabbing her girlfriend by the hip. The alcohol she had consumed throughout the night slowly getting to her head.

“Alright, alright. I’ll make an effort to remember!” Labrys conceived, finally starting to feel like a third wheel.

”I’ll see you two lovebirds soon. It was a pleasure to meet you, Ko’!” She said, exiting the couple’s apartment as she waved the two goodbye.

“Thanks for coming, Labby! You’re the best sister-in-law ever!”

“And the best sister ever as well!”

The silver-haired woman’s soft laugh could be heard from the end of the hall, once out of sight, the couple closed the door behind her. With Kotone basically pouncing on Aigis.

“I believe you might have had too much to drink tonight.” Aigis pointed out in between kisses.

“Can’t a girl kiss her amazing girlfriend in peace?” Kotone joked, somewhat defensively. “Plus, that bottle of sake you bought was divine!”

“Well, it was a special occasion after all. What did you think of Labrys?”

“Didn’t you hear? Best sister-in-law ever!” Kotone shouted, having a little trouble undoing Aigis’ ribbon, while the blond girl lead carried her to their bedroom.

Aigis had wanted to make a certain remark about telling her so, how she didn’t need to worry so much about meeting her sister. But she decided to be the bigger woman and let it slide. Her girlfriend was happy, her sister was too, and she was more than happy celebrating with her.

Chapter Text

Kotone and Aigis were slowly setting into their life back together. The blonde woman couldn’t be happier, she had yearned so long for the other. Nothing could compare to the rollercoaster of emotions she felt after loving, losing, and mourning someone only to have them be brought back to you. Especially for someone like her, who had been so new at experiencing life. Still, at the end of the day, Aigis was a pretty simple person. After all that’s happened, she was more than content just enjoying the present with her most precious.

As for Kotone, it had been a very strange experience to say the least. She was the only person in the world who could rightfully claim to have beaten death. Even if her departure felt like a blink of the eye to her, going back to the land of the living proved to be rather difficult. Her body was exhausted all the time. Not only that, several years had gone by without her, both her world and loved ones had changed so much while she remained the exact same. Of course, she was ecstatic to be back in Aigis’ loving arms. This truly was the greatest gift she could have asked for.

At this moment, the couple were laying in Aigis’, or rather, their bed. One sleeping peacefully, and one unable to. The android’s arms were wrapped around her girlfriend’s torso, both protectively and possessively. Kotone meanwhile was plagued with insomnia, due to all the thoughts rummaging inside her head. Still troubled by this new lifestyle and all this change.

It wasn’t the first night she struggled with falling asleep. At first, she was so tired, simply laying down made her nap. The first few days after she came back, it was Aigis who spent restless nights watching over her, afraid she might lose her again. At that point, the android finally realized Kotone was here to stay, and could fall asleep without any concern.

It had been quite the surprise for Kotone, watching Aigis lose consciousness and hearing her snores. She was well-placed to know Aigis did not need to sleep, and had no clue the robot could actually do so. Her current thoughts were rather bittersweet.

She was proud of Aigis’ growth as a person, but wished to have witness it firsthand. She was fairly certain this was something she had learned while she was away. Yet another thing, Kotone missed out on. Still, she couldn’t deny just how precious Aigis looked at this very moment. She felt as if she understood her old behavior more.

Kotone stared intently at Aigis’ relaxed features. Finding herself entranced by the woman who had been in her position countless times before. Despite her mixed thoughts, Kotone couldn't deny she loved this moment, the role reversal certainly was amusing, plus her partner was simply too adorable.

The blonde definitely was a heavy sleeper, not reacting in the slightest to Kotone’s soft touches. Be them on her cheek, on her side, or even near her heart. From time to time, she talked in her sleep, most of it was unintelligible, though the brown-haired girl was certain she heard her mutter her name a few times. All things considered, her snores were actually quite loud, more than one would expect for someone so prim and delicate. She’ll make sure to tease her about it in the morning, even if she knew she was even worse.

Back when Aigis was but a machine, she never really minded her watching over her while she slept. Her friends had called it weird and creepy, and chastised the android multiple times for doing so. But for a reason she couldn’t quite explain, she never cared. Perhaps it was due to her old nihilistic state of mind, or she had sensed Aigis only wished to protect her. She wasn’t quite sure.

Kotone was aware this was when Aigis only thought about keeping Death at bay, but she couldn’t help but wonder if a part of her was as enamored as she was now. She also pondered if Aigis would mind if she learned she was watching her sleep tonight. Probably not, knowing her, besides she was only returning the favor. Though, if anything, she’d probably be mad at her for not getting proper rest. Well, as mad as Aigis could be at her, at least.

Without her realizing, she had spent most of the night with her eyes captivated on her girlfriend. While she could feel herself slowly drifting away, she had managed to ease her troubled mind. Kotone pecked the person she loved the most right on the forehead, unsure if she imagined the small smile forming on her lips, before tucking her head in the crook of her neck. Letting out a serene sigh, shutting her eyes and joining her lover in the realm of dreams.

Chapter Text

Today was a pretty good day for Aigis, she had excelled in her latest mission with the Shadow Ops, carrying the team she was in charge of. The Shadows were no match against both her power and leadership.

When she was promoted to Agent#2, she’s been a tad worried about having more responsibilities, especially when it came to supervising other people’s lives. But today’s success gave her quite the boost in confidence. Not only that, this flawless victory meant she could go home early to her lovely girlfriend.

The android had felt like celebrating with her, ordering takeout she knew Kotone would enjoy, along with a nice bottle of sake. The occasion wasn’t necessarily big, Aigis simply liked to pamper her partner with gifts and surprises. For her, any excuse was good enough to treat her sweetheart.

Humming to herself happily, Aigis entered her apartment, announcing her arrival, noticing her companion tinkering on her desk. Working diligently, with her back turned to the other woman, meaning she couldn’t see what she was doing. In fact, she was so focused, she hadn’t even registered Aigis’ announcement and arrival.

Aigis put down the food and beverage before slowly approaching her. Upon reaching her, which the brown-haired woman still did not notice, she laid her hand on her shoulder, calling out to her. “Kotone? What are you doing?”

“Woah!” The sudden touch made her jump, before getting up and turning to her girlfriend, hiding what she was tinkering with behind her back, looking a little flustered.

“Aigis! H-hi there!” She greeted shakily, clearly having not expected her girlfriend to be home, praying she didn’t see what she was holding.

“Hello.” The android responded with a smile, not really realizing the awkwardness in Kotone’s tone of voice or actions. Though she did sense something was odd. “Is everything okay?”

“No, nothing’s wrong, baby. Don’t worry.” She answered dismissively. “I just didn’t expect you to be home so early. How did your mission go?”

“Indeed I am. The mission has been accomplished without a hitch! I brought sushi to celebrate with you.” She pointed to the takeout to her.

Kotone didn’t really pay any mind to the food, though she definitely made a mental note. She was aware Aigis had been nervous about this mission, while she never doubted her abilities, she was happy for her nonetheless.

“Oh! That’s great sweetheart! I’m so proud of you!” Kotone found back her genuine voice, but strangely didn’t move an inch.

Aigis had assumed she’d jump in her arms by now. Congratulating her physically like she usually did, but Kotone showed no sign of moving. Even with all the previous flags, not getting her awaited hug was what finally alarmed Aigis.

“Is something wrong, mon coeur?” She asked again, in a tone that meant she knew something was up.

“Ah… Well… I guess I’m finished anyway.” She trailed off before realizing she had no reason to cover it any further.

“Sorry about that, baby, I’ll make sure to properly congratulate you later.” She said with a knowing lopsided grin, poking at where Aigis’ heart was, not failing to make the android blush at the unspoken promise.

“I wanted to surprise you tonight, but I guess we can do this now. Look what I made!” Kotone finally showed her girlfriend what she was hiding all this time.

“T-this is…” Upon laying her eyes on it, Aigis instantly recognized the item, letting out a small gasp in surprise.

“Hehe! I made it myself! I had the idea a while ago, I bought the chain, and followed a tutorial online. It was a little scary when I had to punch a hole into it, but I made sure not to damage it! I’m pretty happy with the result, if I do say so myself!”

It was, in fact, a makeshift necklace, using only a chain, the tools at her disposal and a very special item. It wasn’t anything overly complex, but it did the job right. The object used, however, was something Aigis was well acquainted with. And Kotone was well aware of this fact.

“Do you want to put it on me?” Kotone asked with a sweet smile, knowing her surprise had taken effect. Aigis nodded with a shy smile, full of appreciation for the kind gesture.

She did as she was told, making sure to watch out for Kotone’s ponytail. For most people, the necklace would look quite off-putting, but the meaning was not lost on the couple. For them, it was worth more than the most expensive of jewelry.

“There we go! Now it’s like you’re always next to my heart!” Kotone exclaimed, playing around with the charred screw dangling from her new necklace.

“I… I had almost forgotten I gave you this back then. It’s been so long…” Aigis murmured, reminiscing on the very special day the two women shared.

“I made sure to keep it safe, but it wasn’t really easy to carry around. Since it’s a part of you, I wanted to have it on me at all times.”

“I… I love you so much. This is really… This is really sweet, Kotone. Thank you.”

“You’re the one who gave it to me in the first place, silly! I just made it more portable, is all. I love you too, with all my heart, but I should be the one thanking you, my love.” With that being said, Kotone wrapped her hands around Aigis’ neck tenderly.

Aigis returned the embrace gladly, wrapping her own arms around Kotone’s back. Hiding her face in her shoulder, as she felt tears of joy prying in the corner of her eyes at the precious memory. She felt the screw pressing against her own torso, as if their hearts fused into one once again.

Chapter Text

“How are you feeling, Kotone?” Aigis asked, keeping her voice low as if to not bother her resting guest. Guest… Perhaps addressing Kotone as such wasn’t appropriate, given how much she wished for her to officially move in with her.

“I’m doing a lot better, Aigis. Thank you.” Kotone replied softly, her usual peppy tone wasn’t quite there yet, but her voice definitely was a lot more powerful than when Aigis found her.

“I am glad to hear. The last time I saw you this fragile, you-...” Aigis cut herself off, unsure if she should bring up the touchy subject, both for hers and Kotone’s sake. Nonetheless, the other was quick to reassure her.

“You can talk about it if you want. It’s alright.” Kotone told her sincerely, there was a lot she wished to discuss with the android. But she understood if the wound was still too fresh for her. Not only that, these last few days had been, understandably, very intense for Aigis’ state of mind.

As for Kotone, while her body clearly took a hit from the experience, her mental state was remarkably unharmed. Perhaps she still needed time to process all that’s happened to her, but above all, she was simply glad to be reunited with her friends and most precious.

Meanwhile, it took a moment for Aigis to gather her thoughts and courage. Eventually, she did find the resolve to start sharing her thoughts and fears. In the end, acting as if nothing happened would be wrong of her.

“Perhaps I have become too negative, but during the first few days after you came back to me, I was certain you’d leave again at any point.” Aigis admitted.

Kotone was more than aware of this fact, the first nights especially had been difficult. Between her being unbelievably exhausted, and Aigis almost breaking down whenever she fell asleep. At least, both of them were finally starting to adapt and accept that Kotone Shiomi was here to stay.

“Well… I’m still here, right? You don’t need to worry, Aigis. I would tell you if I didn’t feel okay.”

“Indeed, I’m happy to see you are telling the truth. When you left me back in February, your health was deteriorating day after day. Thankfully, I can see you’re doing a lot better already.” Aigis told her with a smile, but Kotone’s eyes only reflected sadness.

She was certain this wasn’t intentional, but she did feel a hint of blame in Aigis’ words. After all, not only did she leave her, she had been avoiding her during all of February. Suffering in silence. She didn’t want Aigis to see how hard she was fighting her own demise until the promised day. Of course, she should have expected that no matter what, Aigis would always be looking after her. It would seem that even after experiencing the answer to life, she still wasn’t perfect.

“I’m really sorry. I should have been with you until the very end.” Kotone apologized shamefully.

Of course, making her lover feel bad was the last thing Aigis wished for. Perhaps they would need to talk more seriously about this in the future. At this moment, she was simply glad to have Kotone back in her life again.

“We’re together now. It’s all that matters.” She told her kindly, as she took her hand in reassurance.

She really was too good for her, Kotone couldn’t help but think. To imagine Aigis thought the same about her. As a result, she decided to drop the subject, even if she didn’t forgive herself just yet.

“Yeah… We are.” The brunette smiled, bringing Aigis’ hand to her lips, kissing it gratefully. A few minutes passed in comfortable silence, until.

“I just realized, I don’t think I’ve actually thanked you for taking care of me all this time.” Kotone mentioned a little sheepishly.

“Do not feel as if you have to, it is my pleasure. Besides, you’ve done so much for me already, it’s only natural.”

“Still, you always look after me, Aigis. You’re my guardian angel.” Despite the kind words, Aigis’ smile faltered upon hearing them, the other girl noticed instantly. “What’s wrong?”

“… You will probably reprimand me for this, but… A guardian angel wouldn’t have let you die.”

“Aigis!” Kotone blurted out with a gasp, launching herself in a coughing fit in the process upon raising her voice. Aigis was quick to act, and provided her with a glass of water, as she held her back gently.

“T-thank you.” Kotone said shakily after downing her glass, she was quick to bounce back, however. “But you’re damn right, I’ll scold you! Don’t talk about yourself like that, Aigis! None of this is your fault!”

She wasn’t necessarily angry at her, but she needed her to understand she shouldn’t blame herself for this.

“I know.”

“You-... Huh?” Now this, Kotone did not expect.

“I’m sorry, this slipped out of me without really thinking. To tell you the truth, I used to truly feel this way for a very long time, especially after I lost you. And I’m well aware of how irrational it is. I also know that in the end, this was your decision, which I will always be grateful for. You and everyone else helped me understand all of this. But… Even then, I can’t help still feeling this way from time to time.”

As opposed to Aigis’ downcast gaze, Kotone could only look up at her in awe. Perhaps, she was still a bit too used to the old single-minded Aigis, but she was so proud of her. Even if she wasn’t alone in this journey of growth, and she wished she could have been the one to help her most. After all, if it wasn’t for her friends, she wouldn’t have saved the world.

“I… I guess you don’t need to hear me repeat exactly what you just said. But if it makes you feel any better, I can assure you, you’re taking great care of me right now. It’s like you said anyway, we’re together now, and we’ll always have each other’s backs.”

Aigis’ heart couldn’t beat, but somehow, she could feel it flutter at Kotone’s words. She looked up at her, and only found pure adoration in her eyes. Feeling the need to be close to her, she pointed to the small amount of space next to Kotone.

“Is it alright if I…” Aigis didn’t need to finish her question, Kotone scooted over to leave her some space on the bed, and patted right besides her.

Aigis followed suit and laid in bed, snuggling close to Kotone as she rested her head on her chest, which she began petting gently. Usually, the android would have expressed concern about being too heavy or uncomfortable for her, but for once, she allowed herself to be selfish and simply enjoyed this moment. Not that her lover minded one bit, of course.

“... I missed talking with you.” Aigis told her in a low voice, letting herself be vulnerable.

“Me too.” Kotone answered tiredly, letting out a small yawn without wanting to.

“Are you feeling drowsy?”

“A little…” She grumpily admitted, wishing to stay awake just a little longer. Aigis giggled at her tone.

“It’s alright, we can go to sleep together. We have our entire lives to catch up.”

“Our entire lives together, huh? I like the sound of that. Say… I didn’t realize you could sleep.”

“I’ve learned how to a few years ago. Which was a good thing, too, I really didn’t know what to do with my nights.”

Kotone was tempted so badly to tease her about all the nights she watched her sleep, but didn’t want to ruin the mood.

“How did you learn?”

“I’m not sure. I just… Did. Just like how I learned to feel sadness, anger, joy… Love.” She said as she squeezed Kotone’s idle hand.

“I guess we learned that last one together.” Kotone muttered nostalgically, closing her eyes as slumber was calling her.

“I’m really proud of you, Aigis… I wish I could have been there to see it.”

Aigis could feel herself doze off as well while the two chatted.

“Do not worry… I still have plenty to learn from you. I am still not well-versed in the art of kissing, for example.”

Kotone let out a small chuckle at that, it would seem Aigis still wasn’t the best at subtlety. She was glad to see some things never changed.

“You sneaky little scamp.” She said lovingly. “We’ll start training tomorrow.”

“I’m looking forward to it… As well as every day after.”

Kotone let out a heavy yawn now, ready to enter the realm of dreams. Of course, she didn’t forget to tell Aigis.

“Goodnight, Aigis. I love you.”

Whether Aigis whispered it back or not, she would never know. Thankfully, she didn’t need to, the presence of her guardian angel, looking after all, was all the proof she could ever need.

Chapter Text

Ren had gotten great news from Sae, his sentence was finally approaching its end. Thanks to his friends and allies, at last he could leave juvenile hall tomorrow. This crazy year was finally approaching its end. The feeling certainly was bittersweet, but at least, he’ll be able to spend a few weeks with his teammates before leaving.

However, his release was accepted under one condition, he would have to speak in front of two special agents. What exactly, he didn’t know, and it would seem Sae didn’t either. Ren, understandably so, wasn’t exactly fond of the police, nor interrogations given what had happened to him. Although, as long as it meant going back to a somewhat normal life, he could put up with it.

He currently was waiting in an interrogation room, completely alone. Sae had mentioned this was a strictly classified meeting, he had absolutely no clue what to expect. Until finally, he heard the door open, from which emerged two women, clad in black. The suits were rather unique and extravagant, the two looked more like spies than policewomen.

What was most surprising, however, was how young the two appeared to be. He’d assume they were about as young as him. Of course, given how him and his group of teenager accomplices were renown criminals, he was in no position to judge one’s career or accomplishments simply based on age.

“This, the guy?” The one with brown hair asked the other in a chipper voice, sounding almost incredulous.

“I doubt they sent in the wrong person, sweetheart.” The blond woman with headphones answered in an amused tone.

“I know, babe. Just didn’t expect some nerdy guy, he kinda reminds me of that art dude from Gekkoukan.” ‘Sweetheart’ told ‘babe’. Ren wasn’t sure if he should feel insulted from the comment, not only that, the two were talking as if he wasn’t even here.

“I’m baffled by your professionalism.” He said in his usual deadpan voice.

“Whoops! Sorry ‘bout that! I’m Kotone Shiomi! This is Aigis… Shiomi!” Kotone presented themselves, while Aigis sent her a look that was a mixture of both exasperation and pure adoration.

“Sweetheart, we aren’t married.”

“Yet! Anyway, don’t mind us. You’re the… Ghost Creep or something everyone’s talking about, right?”

“Phantom Thief.” Both Ren and Aigis corrected her.

“Did you not read the file, mon coeur?”

“We were all over the news for an entire year. Do you not watch TV?”

“Hey! Hey! Hey! This isn’t MY interrogation, you know?”

“And why exactly am I being interrogated?” Ren asked, feeling as if he’d have to be the one making the conversation advance despite the situation.

“Right. You, Ren ‘Joker’ Amamiya, have provided intel during your testimony against Masayoshi Shido which might prove useful for our department. Mainly, we are looking for information regarding Shadows, the Metaverse, and Personas. We would like to know more in finer details.” Aigis carried on professionally.

“I’m surprised you didn’t think I was just crazy from all that.”

“Nah, we’ve seen weirder stuff.”

Joker did tilt his head in surprise at this piece of information. Perhaps his group of friends weren’t so odd after all.

“This knowledge could be vital for our group. I would like for you to share as much as you can. Be as elaborate as you can, please.”

“Yeah, spill the beans, pal!” Kotone exclaimed, clearly trying to act like the bad cop, something which Aigis seemingly didn’t adhere to.

“I have discussed almost all I know with Sae Niijima, already. What more does the police need?”

“Oh, we do not work for the Police. Think of us more as something similar to a national security department.”

“Yeah, pinkie promise we’re not. And if we were cops, we legally wouldn’t be able to say we aren’t.”

“That is false information, sweetheart.”

“Alright, I trust you, I’ll tell you two what I know.” Ren cut off Kotone’s tangent before it could start. Given how the two acted, he had doubts they were lying to him. Besides, he doubted sharing this could harm his friends in any way.

“Hey! That’s my guy!” Kotone said while raising her hand, waiting for a high-five, which he returned, surprisingly feeling at ease with the two hopeless romantics.

Perhaps a few days ago, a little voice in his head would have given him a much too familiar speech upon reaching for her hand, one Kotone herself had heard many times before in another life.

Perhaps this similarity is what made him trust them so easily. Despite being complete strangers, Ren felt an invisible connection between him and the couple. One that he’ll figure out soon enough.

“See, Aigis. That’s how we know he’s a good guy. He didn’t leave me hanging!!”

“I thank you for doing so. She would have complained for days if you didn’t.”

Despite supposedly being the center of attention, Kotone and Aigis seemed to always be lost in their own little world. Quite some time had passed already, and it’s not like they were making a lot of progress. The constant interruptions, and frankly overly constant PDA would have been pretty annoying in most situations, but it’s not like Ren really had better things to do. Besides, the couple was fun to talk with.

Chapter Text

The Promised Day was drawing near, slowly but surely. Kotone believed she and her team were ready, at least, as ready as they could be. They couldn’t ignore the daunting thoughts of the inevitable plaguing their mind, still Kotone tried to enjoy each day as if they were the last. To her, it meant spending them with Aigis, whom she had just recently confessed her love to.

Some days they’d spend exploring the city, looking for a new activity to experience together. Some days they’d stay in their rooms, expressing their love through acts of passion. Others, like today, they’d simply talk in a safe place peacefully. Exchanging ideas, sweet whispers, concerns and fears, anything that crossed their minds.

Kotone felt she could tell Aigis everything, she was the first person to be able to fully remove her mask. Of course, it was a collective effort from all their friends and journey, but Aigis’ devotion allowed her to be herself.

As for the android, her head was torn between the pure bliss of being with Kotone, and the looming terror of losing her. Both girls were in a similar state of mind of utter chaos. A bittersweet symphony of pain and joy. Of course, this didn’t stop them from venturing to the unknown. Be it as saviors, or as people.

These uncontrollable feelings might be the push enabling them to be so close and honest with each other. Aigis had multiple concerns and questions regarding her relationship. It was understandable, she wasn’t meant to be loved this way. Kotone, of course, proved her so, so wrong.

The couple were cuddling on the rooftop, becoming their favorite dating spot. Kotone had just finished convincing Aigis to lay her head on her laps. The blonde had expressed many worries, be it her head being heavy, uncomfortable, any excuse she could find. Of course, Kotone was a devoted and persistent lover, convincing and letting her partner find happiness in the other’s touch.

Despite being an official couple, Aigis was still very much afraid of this relationship. A feeling of awe, mixed with both anticipation, uncertainty and attraction. Her leader was very much aware of how she felt, and tried as hard as she could to make Aigis feel supported. Helping her leave her comfort zone when needed, or comforting her in times of needs.

This adoration and attentiveness was, of course, deeply appreciated, and Aigis wished to give back just as much. Unfortunately, this proved to be an unintentional fuel to her insecurities as well. Aigis spent a lot of time wondering what she did to deserve her.

No matter how much Kotone tried to help her overcome these self-destructive feelings, be it with her words, actions or by simply being with her, Aigis’ newly formed human heart had trouble learning. Her self-conscious thoughts and contradictory emotions battling even in times of peace.

With her head rooted in her girlfriend’s lap, Aigis allowed herself to be vulnerable in front of her. Basking in Kotone’s soft touches, who petted her hair and played around with her head device. Amusing herself by spinning the rotors softly with her fingers, making sounds similar to scrolling a mouse’s wheel.

“Does it feel good?” Kotone asked.

She was unsure about the purpose of her headphones, but liked to imagine the scientists who built her girlfriend had trouble modelling ears. Despite this, she didn’t ask Aigis for their purpose, she liked a little mystery. All she needed was her permission for touching her this way, which the android gladly granted her a few days ago when she picked up the habit.

“Yes, very much so.” Aigis responded somewhat truthfully. She actually didn’t really feel anything from this motion, but loved that it came from Kotone. “Thank you.”

Kotone giggled at that, only Aigis could thank someone for something as trivial as her girlfriend caressing her. Of course, she was forced to admit the moment was special for her as well.

“Anytime.” She told her softly.

Aigis hummed in answer, she wished to simply relax and let a comfortable silence set in place. However, there was a question running around in her mind, but was afraid to ruin the moment by letting it out. Yet another one of her insecurities. When it wasn’t her fears about her body or gender, her inexperience and unique way of thinking built a wall between her and the person she loved. A wall which the both of them tried very hard to crumble.

“You wanna ask me something.” Kotone told her out of nowhere while Aigis was deep in thoughts. Deliberately not phrasing the sentence like a question.

“How can you tell?” Aigis wondered, knowing there was no point in arguing against Kotone’s deduction.

“You’re all tense, I can feel it. You’re gonna get gray hair if you keep things bottled up inside you all the time.”

Aigis decided against telling her she couldn’t, in fact, grow gray hair. She was certain she already knew. However, her companion was right, she had proved times and times again she could talk to her about anything. Aigis was the only one stopping her own self. She took a small breath, helping her gather courage.

“Kotone? Have you ever loved someone else before?” Aigis asked innocently, the simple query easing her into the deeper concern rooted in her heart.

“Mhhh…” Kotone only thought for a second before answering. “Nope. Only you, baby.”

“How can you be sure?” Aigis continued, aware of how close Kotone was with her other social links. A small, much too fixated part of her, also knew of how attractive she found Mitsuru, how handsome she found Akihiko, how pretty she found Yukari. Kotone wasn’t exactly a subtle person.

“Well… Sure, I’ve had a bunch of crushes before. I mean, a lot of my guy and girl friends are super pretty and just great people in general. But… As much as I love them, I’ve never been able to be quite myself around them. It’s only with you, that I can feel so… So free. It just ticked with you, Aigis. It’s like it makes sense.”

Aigis kept silent, letting what Kotone said sink in. She felt rather similar to her confession. Her being with Kotone, she felt like it was meant to be, even if her mind might suggest otherwise.

“And you’re also, like, the most gorgeous person I know by far, so you don’t gotta worry about that.” Kotone announced with a grin, fully aware of Aigis’ more jealous side. The statement and its implication making her cheeks flush.

“B-busted, as they say.” The android admitted sheepishly.

Kotone sighed in answer, all the while looking fondly at the girl laid on her. She really wished she could find the magic words to make Aigis understand, but all she had to offer was love and patience. Thankfully, when it came to her girlfriend, both were in abundance.

“You worry too much, you know that?” Kotone told her, patting her head playfully.

“I do…”

“I love you Aigis. With all of my heart.”

“I... I love you too, Kotone. I just… I wish I could be a better version of myself for you.” Aigis finally revealed what plagued her mind. When she wasn’t focused on her own happiness, she dreaded she would never be good enough for Kotone.

“Aigis… If a ‘better’ you is just you not being yourself. Then it’s a worse one by default.”

“But…”

Kotone cut her off before she could descend further into self-loathing. Kotone had heard Aigis’ chagrins before.

“You don’t have to be a meatbag or a man. That’s not who I fell for. The girl I love is named Aigis, she has gun hands and a heart of gold, and I adore both, very, very much.” She accentuated her point by raising her warm metal hand to her lips, placing a soft peck on it.

“I love you, and you only. Which means, I love ALL of you. Wires and everything. And I’ll repeat these words to you every single day of my life if they can make you feel a little better.”

At the kind and sincere words, Aigis could finally start feeling her nerves ease. She turned her head around, allowing her to gaze at her wonderful lover, who’s been seeing her all this time. A gentle smile adorning her features, which Aigis reflected with her own. Kotone reached down, and kissed her on the cheek, lingering there as she wiped off the small tears forming in the corner of her eyes.

“I love you too, Kotone…” Aigis let out in a whisper, cupping her soulmate’s cheek with her hand.

Perhaps, she’ll never be the person she believes Kotone deserves. But it didn’t matter, because she was the person Kotone yearned for. Their loved shined along with the sunset as their lips suddenly met. A silent but passionate thank you, from a woman who finally allowed herself to be loved.

Chapter Text

“‘Sup dude!” Junpei greeted Kotone cheerfully after she entered the dorms, reading his manga all alone in the biggest couch. Having the entire floor to himself.

“Hey man!” She answered, dropping on the sofa next to him. Despite her own energetic-sounding greeting, her heart wasn’t really into it.

Now that they knew each other for a while, Junpei sensed something was a little off-putting, but couldn’t really put his finger on it.

There was only one person who managed to clearly see through her. Unfortunately, she wasn’t here right now.

“Man, guess everyone else had plans today but us, huh? We’re both alone on Christmas’ Eve! How sad is that?”

Junpei gave Kotone a lot of shit, but she was the only one he was truly comfortable with when it came to this sensitive topic. He had lost Chidori not so long ago, but only with her, he could talk about it so casually.

Kotone envied him for this, he used humor when he actually felt comfortable, unlike her, who used it to hide how miserable she really was.

“Yep! Just a couple of losers hanging out together.”

Like how she was right now.

“You can say that again, I heard “Jingle Bells” on the radio and started getting all depressed.”

“More like ‘Single Bells.’” Kotone joked, though it came out a little harsher than she originally intended for.

“Yes, exactly! ‘Single bells, single bells! Single all the…’ Aw, man. You really got me there, Koto’!” He exclaimed as he punched her lightly on the shoulder.

Kotone wondered if he treated any other girls the way he does to her. She truly loved their friendship, it felt refreshing.

“Guilty as charged.” She admitted with a smirk, although for a second, she was afraid she took it a little too far.

“But y’know. I’m surprised you actually are alone, given how many fanboys you have.”

“Ugh… Don’t remind me. I still feel like I need a shower because of that photo creep.”

“Err… Sorry. But I’m sure not all of them are like that.” Junpei said, the small revelation Akihiko whispered to him in Yakushima fresh in his mind.

“Meh, I guess.” She answered dismissively.

“You don’t really seem interested in boys, huh?”

“...”

“Wait… Do you actually like someone?” Junpei’s eyes lit up like a child on Christmas’ eve, which she supposed he was.

“It’s a secret!” Was her trademark answer, whenever someone asked her about her love life.

“You totally are! Spill the beans, who is it! Akihiko? Right? It’s gotta be him.”

“What are you on about? I never said I liked anyone.”

“Not Akihiko, huh? Mh… Could it be the Student Council dude? I saw you hanging out with him a lot.”

“You’re not listening! You’re even worse than Rio and Yuko about this stuff!” Kotone was actually growing a little frustrated.

“No? Er… Wait… Don’t tell me? I-it wasn’t Shinjiro, right? I am so, so sorry! B-but I guess w-we’re in the same boat, ahah?” Junpei cringed at his own clumsiness.

“You’re not gonna drop it, aren’t you?” Kotone deadpanned.

“Oh thank god! Then who-”

“Oh my god, you are so annoying!” Kotone cut him off, actually feeling herself go crazy from the one-sided conversation.

“Fine! I’ll tell you! But you better shup up!”

Junpei raised his hands in the air, before zipping his mouth shut. Though, it couldn’t stop him from forming a massive shit-eating grin. Kotone sighed in answer, though if she were being honest, she didn’t really mind telling Junpei about it, she was his confident when it came to Chidori after all.

“I’ll tell you, but you gotta promise me, you won’t tell anyone.”

“Didn’t think you’d be the kind to be embarrassed about this kind of stuff.”

“It’s not that, it’s just… The one I like is a little… Special? I don’t want he- them to find out.”

“Special, huh? Like a special someone?” Junpei teased, wiggling his eyebrows. Which Kotone ignored.

“I also don’t want rumors to spread around, and I know how much of a blabbermouth you are.”

“Fine, fine. I promise I won’t tell anyone. So who is it? Akihiko, right?”

“...”

When Kotone made a move to leave, Junpei blurted out.

“W-wait! Alright, I’ll shut up, now! Geez!”

Satisfied with the little scare she gave him, Kotone instantly sat down.

“Seriously, though, what is up with you and Aki?”

“Err…. Nothing?”

“Alright, whatever…” Kotone sighed before admitting. “I… I think I like Aigis.”

“AIGIS?!” Junpei yelled aloud, Kotone blessed the fact they were completely alone in the dorms.

“Ouch! Turn the volume down, will ya?!”

“B-But… She’s a…”

“Yeah, I know. It’s weird for me, too.” Kotone let out yet another sigh, for once, she wasn’t smiling. It was rare for Junpei to see her more serious side.

“Never in my life, I would have imagined I’d fall for someone with gun hands, buuut here we are. Life’s just weird sometimes.”

“Tell me about it… But huh… I… didn’t realize you liked girls.” Junpei said somewhat awkwardly, unsure if he should have brought this up. Kotone didn’t mind, though. Aigis’ gender wasn’t what bothered her.

“I kinda learned it recently too. I guess I’m bi.” Kotone shrugged.

“You weren’t really wrong before, though. I never really cared for romance, doesn’t matter if it’s with a guy or a girl. I just didn’t think about it.”

“Mh…” Junpei had a somewhat similar experience, he wished for nothing more than to get a girlfriend. But after finding someone he truly cared for, he couldn’t care less about a superficial relationship anymore. Meanwhile, Kotone pressed on with how she felt towards the android.

“But Aigis she’s… I dunno. It’s… Special. It’s like… I expected to feel something when I’d find the ‘right’ person, and when I realized it was her, that ‘something’ was SO much more than I ever imagined.”

“I… I think I get what you mean. I felt the same way with Chidori.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah… She wasn’t exactly… My type when it came to girls. Still, she… She was the one, y’know?” Junpei felt tears prying in the corner of his eyes. Kotone comforted him by rubbing his shoulder.

“T-thanks… Err… Sorry, didn’t mean to make it about me.”

“Don’t worry ‘bout it, bud. You can talk to me about her whenever you want. You know that, right?”

“Hehe, thanks man. Same with you and Ai. But wow… What a bombshell to drop on me. I never would have thought it’d be her.”

“Now you know why I didn’t really want to talk about it.”

“Are you like… Ashamed about it?”

“... What do you mean?” Kotone eyed him suspiciously.

“You know… That she’s a robot and all.”

“Oh. Nah, it’s not that I’m ashamed but… Yeah, it’s what worries me. I fell for an actual robot. Who was made to kill monsters. But who is also super kind and sweet and also a weirdo?”

Junpei could definitely agree on the ‘weirdo’ part.

“And… I love all of that about her. But… I don’t even know if she can even feel emotions, let alone return my feelings. And you know how Aigis is, I don't want to take advantage of her either. But at the same time, I think she might like me, maybe? She did some crazy stuff for us these last few months. And at the very least, she’s definitely different from when we met her. So yeah... I don't really know what to do.” Kotone admitted all that was on her heart, torn between hope and uncertainty.

“You're not wrong about her having changed. To think, me and Akihiko tried to hit on her.”

“Wait, what? I mean. This isn’t surprising coming from you, horndog. But Aki???” Kotone asked incredulously.

“It’s… A long story… And you can’t judge me! You’re crushing on her even after you found out she’s a robot!”

“Touché. Metal or skin, Aigis is a total snack.”

“Ew.” He said jokingly.

“Shut up! You’ve said way worse stuff than this!” Kotone said in mock offense.

The two friends laughed together for a while. Enjoying the small moment where they didn’t have to think about their complicated love lives. Once the silence set in, their minds couldn’t help but wander again.

“I… I wish she was here. Even just as friends, I would have loved to celebrate Christmas with her. Prolly would have been her first time. I love it when she discovers new things. One time, I went to the festival with her. Every time we saw a stand, an attraction or whatever, her big blue eyes would always light up like everything was incredible. She’s so cute.”

“Huh… You got it bad, do ya?”

“Yep.” She said, popping the p. She had to admit, it felt good to talk about all this to someone. Especially someone who somewhat understood.

“Well, you still got next year, right?” Junpei was a little afraid mentioning this, given the potential doom awaiting them. Still, he was hopeful they’d live to see another day.

“Yeah… Yeah, you’re right. I… I think I’m gonna tell her how I feel when she gets back.”

“Hell yeah, you should! But you have to tell me how it goes.”

“Deal!”

They actually shook on that, there was no turning back now.

“You know, I was surprised at first, but I think you two would make a cute couple.” Junpei said genuinely.

“Thanks man. And… Sorry if I kill the mood, but Chidori was good for you. I wish you two got more time together.”

“Thanks… It… It still hurts but… I think I’ll be okay.”

“You will, buddy. Don’t worry.” Kotone said with certitude.

Without realizing it, the clock hit midnight, which meant the Dark Hour started. The feeling of stillness and dread settling in the dorm, despite the two students being unaffected.

“Huh… Since it’s the Dark Hour. Does it mean it’s Christmas, or Christmas’ Eve?”

What Junpei said, actually gave Kotone an idea. “Oh! Wait up!”

Kotone got up from her seat, and went to the kitchen to fetch something, as Junpei watched her in confusion. After getting a bottle from the fridge and two glasses, Kotone went back and served both him and her a drink.

“Hey… This better not be-”

“Chill, man. I know how you feel about booze. It’s just Chanmery. Plus, Mitsuru would have killed me for keeping alcohol in the dorms’ fridge.”

“Oh yeah, I didn’t think about that.” Junpei shuddered at the thought. Meanwhile, Kotone handed him his drink, before lifting her own glass to him.

“To us single losers. And a merry Dark Christmas!” Kotone said as she clinked her glass with his, which Junpei returned amusingly.

“Pfft! What kind of name is that! Oh, well! Merry Dark Christmas!”

The two friends downed their drinks and laughed throughout the Dark Hour. For once, enjoying the 25th hour of the day. Hoping they could finally get rid of it, and enjoy their life to the fullest. Perhaps, one day, with the two women they loved most.

Chapter Text

“Alright, everyone, the first step is to create your character. You can pick a class, race and a background story. We’ll calculate the stats later together. Oh! And if you have any questions, for the lore, abilities, anything, feel free to ask.” Fuuka explained to the people around the table, a table full of snacks, sheets, and dices.

Her tone remained shy and polite, but her close friends easily noticed the hint of eagerness in her voice. It was clear she loved the game, and wished for nothing more than to enjoy it with her friends.

“This is gonna be good! It’s been so long since I played!” Junpei exclaimed as he rubbed his hands together happily, to the surprise of everyone, he too was a big fan.

“I can’t believe you like this stuff, Junpei.” Akihiko told him with a chuckle.

“Me neither…” A very much unenthusiastic Ken added, a look of boredom mixed with embarrassment on his face. He couldn’t believe his supposedly mature friends had dragged him into this. He had pretty negative assumptions about Tabletop RPGs, and Junpei liking it didn’t really help. Though, it’s not like he refused the proposal anyway.

“How come you never suggested we play together?” Aigis asked him.

“D&D takes time, even during SEES we were always busy. Only now it feels like we finally got time to breath.”

“And I’m so happy we can do this every week! This is gonna be so much fun!” Kotone said, despite having never played before, bouncing around in her seat. Though, careful not to disturb Koromaru, who was peacefully sleeping on her laps. She honestly didn’t care what they were doing, as long as she was with her friends. She had missed out on too much during her time away.

“I agree, sweetheart. It’s just too bad Mitsuru can’t play with us.” Came Aigis’ voice, who placed her hand on top of Kotone’s.

“And that Yukari is a party pooper!” Junpei yelled out loud to the tablet sitting alone on the official ‘party pooper’ chair, which Kotone insisted on. The actor, meanwhile, was having second thoughts about agreeing to video call to spectate whenever she could.

“Hey! I’m here, aren’t it? It’s not my fault I don’t like this game.”

Her statement was met with boos around the room, with Kotone even throwing potato chips at her own device.

“Ummm…” Came from Fuuka, a small, but successful, attempt at gaining everyone’s attention again. “So nobody has experience with D&D aside from Junpei?”

“Nope!”

“No.”

“No…”

“Negative.”

“Oh! That’s okay! It’s going to be fun learning together! Creating a character will take a while, but take the time you need. Try to make a character you’ll like playing as. Be it during battles, or roleplaying. I also sent you links with a list of the available races and classes, feel free to pick whatever you want to be.”

“Thank you very much, Fuuka. I have a query. Are you not playing with us?” Aigis asked as she pulled out her phone.

“Good question, Aigis! I technically am, but I will be your Dungeon Master. I will not be in your party, but I will organize and plan everything that happens in the game.”

“She’s basically the nerd God of the world.” Junpei joked, which seemingly made Aigis help understand.

“Oooh.”

“That doesn’t really sound like fun.” Ken pointed out.

“Oh! Don’t worry about me, Ken. I always wanted to be the DM, but I wasn’t really confident I could do it before. I just hope I’ll be okay.”

“I am sure you’ll do great, don’t worry! It suits you, Navi.” Kotone winked, thinking back of the good old days.

As Fuuka thanked her old leader warmly, the group started researching for their characters. Some in deep thoughts, others without much care. Junpei however was clearly simply playing around with his phone, the obnoxious music from his mobile game getting on everyone’s nerves.

“Don't you have a character to create?” An irritated Akihiko snarled.

“Huh? Oh nah, I already got one in mind.” Always a fan of theatrics, Junpei turned the flashlight on his phone on, before turning off the lights. Flashing his head in a low angle while his friends groaned in annoyance.

“Our story begins with a young elf woman, by the name of Shiilovee Forsinor. Smart and beautiful, the girl spent most of her privileged childhood alone, her head stuck in her books. Despite her status and looks, the introvert had trouble making friends, all due to her uncanny fascination with the wicked arts.” Junpei’s voice boomed to the reveal, attempting to make his character’s tale sound scary.

“One fateful day, the loneliness and constant mockery from her peers consumed the young woman’s heart and mind. In her desperation, she finally found a way to make a friend. One who shared the same deranged fascination as she did.” Junpei paused for dramatic effect.

“Thus! An unholy pact was made! With an otherworldly being set on corrupting the world! Mwahahaha!”

Despite all his antics, the room remained rather painfully silent after this.

“Wow, Stupei, it was almost decent until you ruined it with the evil laugh.” Yukari said, clearly a little bitter at all the ghost stories she had to endure from him.

“Shush, you! Non-players can’t talk!” He said, tossing one chip towards the tablet, completely missing in the dark.

“Hey! That’s mine! Only me and Aigis can throw chips at the party pooper!” Kotone exclaimed, as revenge, she chucked another chip at Junpei this time.

“It is true.” Aigis confirmed her statement by firing a chip at the tablet.

“You guys do realize you’re wasting food, right? Oh, and have fun cleaning it up later.” Yukari said with an eye roll through the speakers.

“You can just pick it up and eat it. Not only is it not wasted, you don’t have to clean after.” Akihiko explained, weirdly proud of himself, as he did just that to one that landed near him.

“Can I get back to my story, please!” Junpei suddenly exclaimed.

“You weren’t finished?” Ken muttered in exasperation.

“Ugh! I’m gonna be SO annoying when you guys tell your backstories.” Junpei said before finally continuing his origin story. “Where was I… Oh, yeah! So Shilovee has been disowned by her family and now travels the world unaware the Fiend is trying to take over her mind and destroy the world, because she loves him so much.” The young man finished clearly done with presentation, finally turning the lights back on.

“That was great, Junpei!” Fuuka cheered, and despite the previous argument, the others did clap for Junpei.

“I didn’t know backstories could be so developed. I thought you just have to save the world and that’s it.” Akihiko added.

“That’s the fun part!” Fuuka said excitedly. “You can do anything you want! Your character could be evil if you wanted.”

“Evil, huh…?” Kotone said with a grin.

“Like Junpei’s character.” Aigis pointed out.

“Um, Shidolee is chaotic neutral, actually.” Junpei clarified, which earned him Yukari spamming the ‘Nerd’ emoji.

“Hey! Stop that!” The offended Junpei called out, about to start yet another food war.

“Oh boy…” Fuuka couldn’t help but let out amidst the chaos and confusion. Still, she was having fun, and it’s all that mattered.

Chapter Text

The night raged on as everyone researched and pondered in regard to their character. Some, admittedly, had an easier time than others. After all, they all had vastly different goals in mind.

“I’m definitely picking a monk.” Akihiko announced to the group after reviewing the classes.

“Dude, you can pick anything you want, and you still just want to punch things?” Junpei raised his eyebrows incredulously.

“What do you mean? It’s obvious their fighting style is completely different from boxing.”

“Whatever floats your boat, man.” Junpei raised his hand in mock surrender. “What about races?”

“I’m not sure just yet, but I’m leaning towards Goliaths. I have no clue what kind of backstory I should come up with, though.” Akihiko muttered, scratching his head.

“Don’t worry, Akihiko. You can start with something simple at first, and you can expend if we play again with different characters.” Fuuka stated kindly, right before noticing Kotone seemed done, along with a big expecting grin on her face.

“D-Did you finish, Kotone?” She inquired, a little scared about what kind of Pandora’s box she was about to unleash.

“Hehe! Damn right, I did!”

“What did you come up with, my love?” Aigis asked, though the whole table was curious as to what she of all people could have created.

“ME AM HAMFIST! ME BARBARIAN GOBLIN!” Kotone announced in a very stupid-sounding voice, trying very hard to not laugh at her own shenanigans.

“Why am I not surprised…” Akihiko sighed, stating was everyone was thinking; aside from a certain android.

“I like it.” Aigis said with a loving smile.

“Aww! Thanks babe!”

“A-alright. Hamfist…? What is your backstory?”

“ME GOOD KILL! ME LIKE KILL THINGS!”

“Dude…”

“What? She said to keep it simple!”

“You know, goblins aren’t actually that stupid in D&D?” Junpei pointed out, earning a few sneaky nerd emojis once again from the party pooper chair.

“Mine is!”

Fuuka giggled at her eagerness, at the very least they won’t be bored during this adventure. “Whatever makes you happy, Kotone. You came up with a great character.” She smiled kindly at her old leader.

A bit of time passed, as Fuuka helped apply the stats for these who were finished, and answered questions for these who weren’t ready. As for Ken, he’s been hesitating for a few minutes if he should voice his pick or not. But in the end, he supposed he’d have to at one point anyway.

“Um… I think I made my choice.” Ken announced to the group.

“Oooh! What you got cooking for us, little man!” Junpei told him, knowing full well how much the nickname annoyed the middle schooler.

Ken simply rolled his eyes at him and carried on, “Human male fighter.” He stated simply, his friends finding the choice a tad underwhelming to say the least. Even for these who never played D&D, a class simply named ‘fighter’ wasn’t exactly appealing.

“Oh! I saw the fighters got super cool subclasses like Samurais or Eldritch knights and stuff! What you gonna pick?” Kotone questioned, having been tempted by the Samurai subclass herself.

“… Champion?”

“Wow, champion, huh? Don’t tell me you gonna equip a spear too?” Junpei joked.

“Of course, I will?”

“O-oh, I-I guess that’s fine, Aki’s still the punching guy.” Junpei teased, lightly jabbing Akihiko in the shoulder, to which the boxer return the favor, making the slugger yelp.

“What did you pick for a backstory?” Aigis asked him kindly.

“Um… He wants to save the world, and fight the bad guys.” Ken said, starting to grow a little self-conscious.

“Oookay… What’s his name?” Kotone asked, forcing a smile.

“Please, don’t tell me he’s called Ken.” Junpei added.

“N-no!” The young man said nervously, quickly crossing out on his character’s sheet. “His name is um… K-Kamada?”

“Ah ah ah! Ah, ah… Oh, you’re serious.” Junpei’s disappointment was pretty measurable.

Feeling Ken’s discomfort from the lackluster atmosphere from even beyond the tablet, Yukari said. “Cut him some slack guys, it’s his first time playing, Fuuka said to keep things simple didn’t she?”

“Yeah, she’s right, it’s not like our characters are anything to write home about.” Kotone pointed out to the group.

“I… Yeah, sorry, Ken. My very first character was SO much lamer!” Junpei said.

“Let me guess, ‘Junpei Iori, super jacked and super cool dude, gets the girl and saves the day!’” Yukari said, doing her best macho voice.

“Honestly? Pretty accurate! I didn’t get the girl, though.”

“Some things never change!”

“Some things never change, as they say.”

Kotone and Aigis said in unison, laughing and high-fiving, while Junpei scoffed in mock offense.

“Oh yeah, Ai? How about you lay it on us? What’s your char like?”

“Mmh… I must admit, I am having trouble picking. There are so many options and combinations of races and classes. I feel as if I should pick optima-” Aigis cut herself off with a surprised gasp, one her girlfriend could only describe as adorable.

The android suddenly pointed at one specific race and hopefully looked at Fuuka straight in the eyes.

“I can be a cat person?” Her voice was filled with wonder.

“The Tabaxi? Yes, of course, you can, Aigis.”

Aigis’ smile could only be described as the definition of ‘pure joy’ at this very moment.

“I’m surprised it took you so long to find them, sweetheart.” Kotone giggled, gazing adoringly at her lover’s childlike enthusiasm.

“This is a perfect decision!” Aigis said as if an objective fact. “Ah. I have a question, Fuuka. Could a Tabaxi and a Goblin possibly fall in love?”

“Wait, you still want to date Kotone in game?” Akihiko commented, his eyes widening.

“Get you a girl that loves you even when you’re a dumb goblin, guys!” Kotone exclaimed, a little too proudly.

“Um… I think so?” Fuuka told her somewhat unsurely, this wasn’t the kind of lore questions she was really expecting. Aigis, meanwhile, seemed even more pleased, at the same time Kotone laughed at her girlfriend’s silly antics.

“You’d have to pick up Hamfist in your arms to kiss him!” Junpei chuckled, eliciting snickering from around the table.

“That is quite alright. I do the same in real life.”

This offhand comment, however, made everyone erupt into laughter, except for one person. Kotone’s laughs died down as quickly as they had started, her jaw hanging open in utter devastation.

Chapter Text

“Alright, I think we are nearly finished, everyone! We’ll be able to start playing soon enough. I think we just need Akihiko and Aigis’s final touches.” Fuuka summarized to the group.

“I’ve made my choice, Goliath for sure. I even thought of a story.”

“What did you come up with, Sanada?” Ken asked somewhat eagerly, he hated to admit, but he actually was curious as to what his personal hero created, even if he still found the game silly.

“Sure, um… Where to start… He’s a very strong but also undisciplined monk. At one point, he left his temple, arrogantly believing he had nothing more to learn there. This prompted him to travel the word, trying to find a real challenge and get stronger.” Akihiko explained to the group.

“Gee, I wonder where the inspiration came from.” Junpei commented with a grin.

“Fuuka said to keep things simple, and I never said I was very inspired.” Akihiko shook his head at him. “And sure, I based a lot of it on my personal experiences, but it’s not entirely copy-pasted.” He said before continuing his narration.

“For example, I liked the idea of making him cocky and immature. When he trained under his master, he never cared to listen to him, and already believed he was stronger than everyone else there, including him. But during his travels and challenges, he’ll learn and grow as a person. Finding the true meaning of strength.”

“Yep! Cocky and immature! Never seen that one before!” Kotone chimed in, winking knowingly at the boxer.

“H-Hey! Cut me some slack, I’m not that bad. I have a lot of respect for the person who trained me.” Akihiko blurted out, starting to grow a little red. Somehow, Kotone was the one who never failed to push his buttons.

“We know, Aki, don’t worry. We’re just teasing you. Your char’s really cool!” Kotone was quick to reassure him.

“As Kotone puts it so well, it is simply fun to mess with you.” Aigis provided.

“Yeah… Thanks a lot, Aigis.” Akihiko answered sarcastically, though he did feel a little better despite his tone.

“No problem!” Her candid answer was met with giggles from her girlfriend.

“This is really good, Akihiko! I was scared you might get bored playing with us, I’m glad to see you’re enjoying yourself.” Fuuka said truthfully. “And like Kotone said, I really like your character!”

“Well, I never said I didn’t like games. No point in playing if I don’t even try on my hand.” Akihiko said with a smile, not realizing his choice of words made their youngest friend feel a little sheepish. “Plus, I just like doing something with you guys, and the party pooper chair was already occupied.”

“Aww! Aki’s a big softie!” Kotone said, the rest of his friends followed with ‘awws’, while Yukari scoffed at the party pooper comment.

“Stop that.” The embarrassed boxer muttered.

Fuuka giggled at their antics, they hadn’t started playing and this already proved to be a great idea. “Oh! What name did you come up with?” She realized he never revealed.

“Oh… Right, I forgot about that.”

“Typical, as they say.” Surprisingly, this one came from Aigis. Her unexpected comments never failing to make her friends chuckle.

“You’re a real bad influence on her, you know that?” He told to Kotone, who simply shrugged and nestled her head on her girlfriend’s shoulder.

“But I’m kinda stumped for the name, what would be fitting for a Goliath?”

It was very hard for Junpei to not propose ‘Asanada’ as a joke, but even he knew the little guy deserved a break.

“Well, the thing with Goliaths is that they often have a nickname that they choose themselves and use on a daily basis. I think we can use a name generator for your first and last name, but you should pick the nickname yourself. What’s neat is that Goliaths are always trying to improve themselves, and in turn change their name depending on their goals and accomplishments.” Fuuka explained in great detail.

“I see.” Akihiko smiled, he didn’t think much when he picked this race, but he was starting to get really invested. “Well… He defeated his master and disrespects him, so how about ‘Master Beate-’”. Akihiko attempted to stop himself before saying it, in vain. Unfortunately for him, his mistake was done, and it did not fall on deaf ears.

Wild laughter erupted from the two certified dumbasses of the room, even his more mature friends couldn’t help but crack up at his poor choice of words.

“That one is on me…” He admitted with a shameful sigh.

“I can’t! I’m gonna die!” Junpei said between laughs, unable to stop himself from wheezing.

“Please! Aki! I beg of you! Keep that name!” Kotone joined in hysterically, having woken Koromaru up as she thrashed around, holding her sides. She’ll have to brush his fur to make it up to him later.

“I don’t think you two would survive if I did.” He said, unable to stop his own lips from curving into a smile.

“Akihiko, please. Stop killing my girlfriend with ‘Master Beater’”.

“OH MY GOD!”

“So we know have Kamada, Shidolee, Hamfist and… Agkein Anakalavi, also known as Mightseeker.” Fuuka told the group, unable to stop herself from smiling upon citing Akihiko’s character.

“I think you mean; ‘Master-'” Kotone mumbled giddily, but was quickly stopped by the boxer’s warning.

“Don’t.”

“N-now then, I think we only need you Aigis.” Fuuka told the android, making everyone turn to her expectedly. In response, the blonde cleared her throat and got up from her seat, taking a pose as if she were playing in theaters.

“Greetings fellow travelers!” Aigis’ voice boomed loudly, her expression remained somewhat passive, but she overacted with passion. Surprising the players and even startling Yukari who had been focused on another topic.

“I am Butterfly Wings, born and raised in the Azure Sand clan. But you may address me simply as ‘Butter’.”

The silly nickname made Kotone snort with laughter, which Aigis would usually see as an absolute victory, if she wasn’t too deep in the zone.

“As a Paladin, I have pledged my soul to the Oath of Devotion. By my sword and my shield, I have sworn to protect this enchanting world, to help the weak and punish those who dare threaten them!” Aigis finished, taking a power pose.

“Woah, she’s already in character.” Junpei let out with wide eyes.

“And super into it.” Akihiko chimed in with a chuckle.

“Woaaah! That was so cool, Aigis!” Kotone cheered from the side, getting up to hug her girlfriend. She adorned a small blush at the praise, but was happy with herself.

“Did I ‘roleplay’ right?” She asked, earning herself a smooch on the cheek as a reward.

“Butter?” Ken muttered in disbelief, unable to cope that his name choice of all things was the one being judged.

Fuuka giggled at Aigis’ presentation, her character was pretty basic all things considered, but her enthusiasm was unmatched. “Well then everyone, it seems we now have a full party! Hamfist the Barbarian, Butter the Paladin, Shidolee the Warlock, Kamada the Fighter and Mightseeker the M-”

“MASTER BEATER!” Junpei and Kotone yelled in unison.

“Oh, come on!”

Chapter Text

“Sit with me?” Kotone had asked her girlfriend, patting the space right next to her. However, the girlfriend in question was currently feeling quite awkward due to where Kotone had taken her.

And despite breaking and entering school grounds without permission, this wasn’t the issue here. Still, she followed through with her lover’s request and sat right next to her, with the brunette taking the opportunity to cuddle with her right away, sighing happily in the process. All of this happening on a very special bench, in a very special place.

She wasn’t sure if Kotone picked this specific spot to sit on purpose, or if she simply forgot and fate was playing tricks on the android. No matter which, where they were sitting together, is when the robotic woman had never felt more human and vulnerable in her entire life.

Aigis wasn’t even sure why the other girl had wished to come back here in the first place. If she were honest, she’d rather forget the promised day. Or rather, the way she felt after Kotone left her here. Of course, she was back in her life now, but the trauma was still rooted deep inside her.

Despite all this, the blonde could never say no to Kotone. Besides, who was she to deny a revived person’s rights to visit their place of death?

The two fell in a silence, though, not the comfortable kind Kotone had hoped for.

“How you doing? You’re all tense, sweetheart.”

“I am always tense. I am an Anti-Shadow Suppression Weapon.”

“Don’t play the robot card on me, Missy.” She said without any form of malice. “I know when my girl is ‘tense’ or when she’s ‘tense tense’.” Kotone stressed on the words, doing air quotes all the while.

“I… You’re right. I must admit, I am not feeling very comfortable at the moment.” Aigis admitted, realizing there was no point in lying to Kotone. Though, it was still hard for the truth to come out.

“You should try to relax, baby. It’s a beautiful day! And you’re on a date with a pretty girl, lucky you!” Kotoner nudged her side.

Aigis cracked a small smile at her lover’s antics, still the unease remained. It was as clear as day, there was an elephant in the room, and Kotone was in such a good mood, she didn’t really wish to address it. After all, she IS the one who died here.

Not only that, she was even starting to grow suspicious of Kotone. Was she really being oblivious, or was she playing games with her? It was always quite a challenge to tell with her. Kotone was incredibly smart and creative, but at the same time she really did not like to think.

“I am lucky, indeed. Especially consideting everything that has happened to us in the past.” Aigis tried her best to remain vague while hinting to her concerns.

“I mean, sure there were plenty of bad things, but plenty of good too, right?”

“I… Suppose. But this place… I can’t help but only think of the bad.”

“Really? But so many good things happened here.” Kotone said knowingly, Aigis was starting to pick up that she was clearly aware of what was going on inside her head. And this did nothing but fuel her growing frustration.

“Kotone… Why are we here?” She finally asked.

“Isn’t it obvious? It’s the perfect place for a date.” Aigis was seconds away from screaming, until Kotone actually followed up on the unhelpful answer.

“That… And I just missed being here. I love this place. So very much.” Kotone squeezed Aigis’ hand before adding. “And I want you to love it again, too.” Kotone admitted to her, locking her crimson eyes in hers.

“How… How could I love this place? This roof, this bench… This… This is the most painful I’ve ever felt.” Aigis poured her heart out to her, her voice growing shaky and emotional.

“Is this really the only emotion you have ever felt here? Is me dying really the one thing worth remembering?” Kotone asked rhetorically.

“W-what do you mean?”

“Because personally.” Kotone ignored her query, as she got up, taking Aigis’ hands in hers and making her follow after her.

“I remember a certain cute blonde high school girl standing riiight there.” She pointed to a specific spot. “Telling yet another cute girl how she wished to be closest to her. And her only.”

As Kotone explained, it was as if something clicked inside Aigis’ brain. One of the scariest and happiest memories she had. Confessing her love to Kotone. The android remained silent, as her nerves calmed down and her lover continued her story.

“And over there, on this other bench, I remember these two girls sharing their very first kiss. And their second… And third. Can you believe kids these days? What happened to shame?” She winked, making Aigis chuckled melancholically.

“Aaand right… There. I think this is where they had their first date. Comforting each other in a time of need. Laughing together to cheer themselves up. Sharing little touches that made the blonde one blush like a tomato.” Kotone emphasized her point by kissing Aigis’ cheek, still making her face flush after all these years.

“And over there…”

“Where we promised each other. That we’ll fight with all our might. That we’ll protect each other. And that we’ll do everything we can to live on. Together.” Aigis finished, a blissful smile adorning her features.

In answer, Kotone smiled in return and extended her arms towards her. Prompting Aigis to crash into Kotone, bear-hugging her gratefully.

“I know, Aigis… I know how painful this was for you. I’m sorry I had to leave, and I’m sorry I made you come back here. But… This rooftop is so much more than this. It’s not just a random rooftop on a building, or the place I died. Before any of this, this is OUR private little spot. And… I don’t want you to hate it.”

“I-I don’t… I’m sorry, Kotone… Y-You’re right… I-I was too focused on… On…” Aigis had trouble talking, Kotone continued as he rubbed her back soothingly.

“Shhh… Don’t worry, sweetheart… It’s okay…” She tried to reassure her before continuing.

“I… I like to think that if I left here specifically, with you, by my side until the end. It’s because it’s such a special place for us. Our story couldn’t have ‘ended’ somewhere else.” Kotone said, though, knowing full well their story together was only beginning.

“And I need to tell you. The way I felt, all these years ago about you, has not changed one bit. I love you, Aigis. With all of my heart.”

Aigis couldn’t answer her, as much as she wished to, the words simply wouldn’t come out. However, Kotone didn’t need to hear them. Between the girl in the present clinging to dear life, crying into her arms. And the one from the past, confessing her pure love to her. Kotone already knew the answer.

Chapter Text

Kotone and Aigis’ morning had started relatively normal. The two were taking a walk in a park, holding hands. Enjoying the small moment of peace together. At least, until the brunette dashed like a mad woman, right after noticing a jungle gym.

“Aigis! Check out my hand stand!” Kotone yelled at her lover.

“Kotone, please. You’re going to hurt herself.” Aigis said, feeling more worried about her young adult girlfriend, than the parents ‘looking’ after their children.

“Nah! Don’t worry, I got this!” Kotone did, in fact, succeed, making all the kids around her look in amazement.

“Hehe! I’m famous!”

“Kotone…”

“Oh! I bet I can walk on my hands!”

“Do it, miss!”

“Don’t!”

The words of her girlfriend were lost among the cheering of her adoring fans. Kotone took one step, and another, and…

“Woah!”

“KOTONE!”

“Aand there we go. Take it easy for the next few weeks, and it’ll heal without leaving a noticeable scar. Call me if anything happens.” The doctor explained, having finished applying stitches on to Kotone’s forehead.

“Thank you very much, doctor.” Aigis had replied on behalf of her girlfriend, in a tone that was quite passive all things considered, worriedly so even.

“Ouch! Yeah, thank you, doc’! Guess I’ll wear a helmet next time.” Kotone joked around, though her public clearly wasn’t in the mood.

“Next time?” She repeated incredulously, before turning to Aigis who remained silent throughout. “Keep an eye out on her.” The doctor whispered before taking her leave.

“I will.” The android answered.

“Well, that was rude. I was right there!” Kotone said, now that the two of them were alone, mostly to elicit a reaction from Aigis.

However, aside from an irritated sigh, no words came from her. Kotone was a bit surprised by this, she had expected her to rush by her side. Stressed out, with a voice and motions full of anxiousness and concern. Asking her a thousand times if she was comfortable, if her injury hurt or providing physical comfort. This was what Kotone was used to when she was injured during Tartarus at least, or in general. Not this uncharacteristic silent treatment. Surely, Aigis wasn’t mad at her, was she?

“Aigis? Is everything al-”

“That was a really stupid thing to do, Kotone.” The android cut her off harshly, the silent fury clear in her tone.

This was quite shocking to Kotone. She had never really heard Aigis be angry before, let alone towards her. The android was always so full of love and compassion. Even against Ryoji, her sworn enemy, she only antagonized him due to her wish of protecting her friends, and perhaps a small hint of jealousy. Needless to say, Kotone wasn’t really sure how to process this.

“I-I guess it wa-”

“Not only did you hurt yourself over nothing. I warned you, multiple times, to stop. But you didn’t listen. You NEVER listen.”

It would seem that, Aigis needed to vent. The brunette realized she could do nothing but listen and let her finish.

“Do you have any idea how scared I was for you? What would have happened if you truly did hurt yourself? Over something so pointless and ridiculous.” Aigis finished in an exasperated breath.

Kotone waited a few seconds, assuring herself Aigis had truly stopped before speaking.

“I-I’m sorry, sweetheart but-”

“Why are you always like this, Kotone? You are unbelievable.”

Never mind, then, Kotone thought to herself. Clearly there was more on Aigis’ mind.

“I’ve lost you once already. Can you imagine how I’d feel if… If…”

As the tears began to flow, Kotone frowned in shame. Angry Aigis was new but manageable. Sad Aigis, unfortunately, was much too familiar. And she hated being the reason to make her cry.

Aigis sank next to Kotone’s bed, sitting away from her as she covered her eyes, sobbing lightly. Tentatively, Kotone reached her hand out, laying it on her back. Seeing as Aigis didn’t reject the touch, she gently rubbed her thumb against her.

“Hey… I’m really sorry, Aigis. I-I promise I didn’t want to make you worry.”

Aigis didn’t respond, and Kotone wasn’t sure how to deal with this. Her girlfriend was in the right to be upset, and it was her own fault. It was a rare situation for the both of them. They weren’t strangers to negative emotions, but they never really were in direct conflict. Usually, they always had each other’s backs and supported each other.

But in the end, Kotone supposed that even if she was the cause for Aigis’ sorrow, this shouldn’t stop her from comforting her lover in a time of need. Like she always did.

“Lay in bed with me?” Kotone asked softly, almost making Aigis scoff in disbelief. “I really want to hug you but, doc said I gotta take it easy, you know?” She offered, while she couldn’t really tell due to Aigis facing away from her, she actually sensed a bit of hesitation from her.

“I understand if you don’t want to, of course.”

Right as she said that, Aigis shook her head, before turning around and laying against Kotone. Wrapping her arm around her torso, while the injured woman took her in her arms, feeling herself relax a little.

“I am still feeling angry towards you.” Aigis said with painful honesty, Kotone could easily tell she wasn’t particularly happy with this predicament. Still, even in this situation, she craved the comfort of her most precious.

“I know, and It’s okay. You have every right to be mad at me.”

“I… I don’t want to be, though. It feels very strange. Out of every emotion I have ever experienced. This is an especially ugly one. Especially if it’s directed towards you.”

“Yeah… I get it. I’ve been angry most of my life. You still need it from time to time, or else you’re just giving up on your sense of justice. But… You can’t let it cloud your judgement, either. It’s a weird balance to find.” Kotone stated, feeling the tension slowly exit Aigis’ body as she continued massaging her back. The android simply hummed in response, prompting Kotone to continue.

“I promise I’ll be more careful from now on, Aigis. And… I’m sorry I made you remember painful memories.”

“Thank you… But… Why did you do it in the first place? Perhaps, I am not human enough yet to understand the fulfillment of hand standing, but I simply can’t understand why you’d put yourself at risk like that.”

“It’s not like I wanted to get hurt. And… It’s not really that hand standing is all that great. It’s just that…” Kotone paused for a second, trying to find the rights words. “Taking risks, experiencing things even when you know it can be dangerous. It’s a part of life as well.”

“A part of life…”

“Yeah, like if all things in life had no risk whatsoever. If hand standing, or playing sports or any kind of activity was safe and without any consequences. Everything would be about as fun as breathing. It’s exactly like you said back then, we’d be functioning instead of living.”

“I see… I did not think of it this way.” Aigis said thoughtfully.

“But, you are still very much right about being angry with me. What I did clearly was stupid and I shouldn’t have tried it. Also, I think I was a pretty bad influence on these kids.” Kotone admitted, hoping she imagined the scream she heard right after Aigis grabbed her.

“There must be a balance as well in this case.” Aigis concluded for her.

“Yeah, exactly.”

The brunette agreed.

“I… I believe I understand. A part of me wishes to put you out of danger at all cost. To make sure you’ll live the rest of your life safe with me.”

“Y-Yeah?” Kotone muttered, hoping her girlfriend didn’t plan on locking her up in the basement.

“But, not only would this be impossible. It would make you unhappy, and in turn, I wouldn’t be as well. Because even if my most precious is still a part of this world, she wouldn’t be living anyway.” Aigis told Kotone, gazing straight into her eyes, her tears dried out and her frown having left her face completely.

Kotone smiled in return at the small realization the android did, sensing the mood was finally right, she leaned in and pecked her on the lips. Which the android, thankfully, returned.

“Kotone?”

“Yes, my love.”

“There is something I wished to try, but I was scared to. But now…”

“Ooh what is it! What is it!”

Aigis blushed at her eagerness.

“I-I wanted to try ice skating with you. It seems quite romantic.”

At her admission, Kotone gasped in answer, she could already picture Aigis clinging to her in dear life.

“Oh! I’d love to! I can’t wait to start!”

“...”

“Err… As soon as I heal up, of course! Hehehe!” Kotone laughed sheepishly.

“Good.” Her girlfriend smiled, nuzzling into her neck happily. Without a single trace of anger left inside her.

Chapter Text

The small party at Aigis and Kotone’s apartment was starting to wrap up. It was fairly common for the two women to organize get-togethers with their dear friends. At this moment, about everyone had left, all but Junpei, always the last one to leave. Right now, he was talking with Kotone, and her alone. Their respective partners had fallen asleep, tired from their long day and also a little inebriated. Aigis was in her own room, while Chidori was asleep in Junpei’s laps.

“Aigis was out quickly tonight.” Junpei pointed out, a tad concerned as the couple usually stayed up with him when the night was nearing its end.

“She’s been working super hard on a new case. Something big happening in Shibuya, apparently. Is Chidori okay, though? She drank more than usual tonight.”

“Oh yeah, she’s having an art block that’s been driving her nuts. I think she needed to lay off a bit. And drinking makes her sleepy.”

“Oof, I can relate to that. I’m in a pretty big slump, too.”

“Maybe you should try writing a song that’s not about death or how much you love your GF.” He teased with a knowing grin.

“Never!”

The two friends laughed lightly at that. It felt so great to have someone you could just be dumb with.

“It’s been a while since we talked like that, just the two of us.” Kotone brought up.

“Yeah… Life’s been busy. You dying didn’t help either, prick.”

“Pfft, sorry for saving your ungrateful ass.” She replied with a smirk, taking no offense whatsoever at his comment. Humor used to be her way to cope with her depression, but being able to use it genuinely about such a heavy subject felt so refreshing.

“Man… You’re the only one I can joke with about stuff like that. Aigis would kill me.”

“That, or you’d make her sad, and then I’d be the one forced to kill you.”

“Is it weird that I’m more scared of you than her?”

“Nope, it’s perfectly normal. You should be.” Kotone winked as she took a sip of her drink, marking a small moment of silence. One that Junpei broke a few minutes later, still debating with himself if he should bring up what was on his mind or not.

“Say, err…” He started hesitantly, before quickly giving up. “Nah, never mind.”

“Oh yeah, I’m definitely just gonna drop it. That would be so in character of me, especially after three drinks.” She replied sarcastically, before ordering. “Spill it, bud.”

“Weelll, I might be a little curious about a certain something…” The slugger trailed off.

“Sorry, man, I don’t really remember anything from when I was dead.”

“Huh? Oh, nah, I don’t care about that.” He said dismissively with a hand motion.

“Rude?”

“Nah, I wanna know the juicy stuff. What’s it like hooking up with someone like Aigis? We never got to talk mano a mano after you two started dating.”

Oh, so this is what it’s about.

“Dude, don’t be gross. Don’t you have other queer friends? You’re on the wrong side of history, my friend.”

“Wh- I was asking, ‘cause she’s a robot!” Junpei whisper-shouted in both offense and defense, having a mini-heart attack as he felt Chidori twitch against him, thankfully not waking up at the sudden movement.

“I know! I know! I’m just messing with you!” Kotone let out, attempting to suppress her giggles at his reaction. She took a small breath, before simply asking. “So, what do you wanna know?”

“Well, huh… What’s it like?”

“It’s… Good? I dunno what to tell you, man. I’ve never been in a relationship before her.” Kotone wasn’t really sure what to bring up.

“Seriously?” He said, the disappointment clear in his voice. ”You’re dating a super cute war machine who grew human emotions and that’s all you got?”

“What do you want from me, man! Nothing’s coming to mind! What did YOU expect?”

“I dunno! Like, err… Do you get zapped when you kiss her?” He blurted out, albeit a little embarrassingly, picking one of the many queries he had saved in store for her.

“Oh. Yeah, actually.” Kotone did suppose this wasn’t really a ‘normal’ thing. “It happened like once or twice before. But I think it was just static electricity… I liked it.” She admitted.

“There’s the hot gossip I’ve been waiting for! By the way, it’s totally fine if you wanna ask stuff about dating a human.”

“Dude, I’m not a toddler, I’m not gonna ask about the birds and the bees.”

“Errr… Fair enough. Soo, how does Aigis… Feel like?”

Kotone raised an eye at him, especially after this suspicious pause.

“What! I’m not being weird! It’s a legitimate question!”

Kotone rolled her eyes at him, before putting back in her mind all the times her hands explored Aigis’ body. She couldn’t really blame Junpei for his curiosity, dating Aigis certainly had a sense of wonder and discovery, as she couldn’t help but compare the android with her own figure. Unsure where to begin, she simply started listing the first things that popped into her head.

“Her face and lips feel pretty natural, I think. Her cheeks might actually be squishier than mine. Her hair too, it’s super fluffy. The more ‘human’ bits feel both real and fake, like it’s almost too perfect? I’m not sure how to describe it. Other than that, she gives off no heat whatsoever…” Kotone trailed off for a second.

“Most of the time, at least. Sometimes her hands can feel very warm, I’m not sure why. There’s a lot we can’t both explain, but it’s something I like too. Aside from that, only her metal bits are truly cold. The rest of her body has a layer of softness, but it’s rock hard underneath.”

“Doesn’t it get uncomfortable?”

“It was a little at first, but I didn’t mind ‘cause I love her. Eventually, I got used to it. Actually, when she’s not home, I take our toaster to bed and hug it to help me sleep. She hates it, I saw her give it the stink eye last time I toasted bread.”

“That’s! Fucking! Hilarious!” Junpei wheezed, having a lot of trouble not bursting out of laughter. It took him a while to get over his emotions.

“Oh man! Hey, I think it’s sending you some signals over there!” The young man joked, pointing to the kitchen.

Kotone snorted in answer, waving at the appliance from afar. “Sorry, Aigis Pocket Edition, you mean nothing to me when the real deal is here. Don’t tell her I called him that, I won’t ever be able to toast bread.”

“That sucks for him. But wow, you got no filter about all this.” He pointed out.

“Hell no, I definitely do. For starters, no bedroom talk allowed.”

“Aw man! That was my next question!”

“Too bad! It’s a secret! Buuut…” She drew out the ‘but’ for effect.

“But whaaat?” He chimed in eagerly in the same tone as her.

“Let’s just say unwrapping presents will never be the same for me.” Upon seeing the look on Junpei’s face, she quickly added with a pleased smile. “I won’t elaborate.”

“I have. So many questions.”

“All left unanswered… How tragic.”

“You’re the worst, you know that?” Despite his words of betrayal, he quickly bounced back. “By the way, I always wondered. Do you know what’s up with her ears… Thingies?”

“Honestly? I have no clue, and I’m too scared to ask.”

“Scared? Why?”

“One day I had a dream that she could remove them, and it hid actual ears. I don’t think my heart could take it if my dream comes true.”

“What the-! You can’t tell me stuff like this and pretend like your relationship isn’t weird!”

“Of course it is, dummy. It’s just normal to me! And it’s not like you can talk. You’re married to a chick that used to be our enemy, then you died, you revived, she died, she revived, forgot you AND fell in love with you again!” Kotone explained, actually starting to grow a little defensive.

“I know, I know, it’s not what I mean. Look, you guys are a great couple, and two of my best friends. But for the record, out of all of us, you definitely win the weird-out. You came back to life yourself, remember?” After the look Kotone sent her, Junpei was quick to elaborate.

“Anyway, what I’m trying to say is who cares if it’s weird! It’s not an insult. Weird is good! You two are great for each other, and you love each other. It’s all that matters.”

“Huh… Wow, that was… Actually kinda sweet? Thank you, Junpei.” Kotone said with a small smile. Sure, his best friend never failed to put his foot in his mouth, but his heart was in the right place.

“You sound surprised. They don’t call me Dr. Love for nothing, you know?” He boasted cockily.

“Aaand you ruined it. Good job, ace defective!”

“Wh- I can’t believe you remember this! Yukari will pay for this!”

The two friends continued their banter for a while longer. A few intrusive questions there, a dash of teasing here and a lot of laughing later, and Junpei was finally starting to get tired. With a yawn, he carried his wife in his arms and exited the apartment. Making sure to tell Kotone and her toaster goodbye. Perhaps telling him this story was a mistake.

Kotone, meanwhile, couldn’t shake off the grin from her face as she joined the love of her life in bed. She hugged her from behind, and squeezed hard. Needing to relish her partner’s unique shape and touch. The brunette sighed blissfully, ready to continue her beloved yet unconventional way of life.

Chapter Text

Another uneventful day came and went, resembling the past few Aigis had gone through. She had been taught years ago she should enjoy each as if they were the last. Unfortunately, reality wasn’t as idealistic. Once again, nothing interesting happened at work. Nobody had time for an after with her. No plans whatsoever this weekend. Aigis sighed in ennui as she walked down the street, her only purpose being to go back home. Her once comfortable routine now plaguing her with boredom and apathy.

Thinking on it, she supposed she shouldn’t complain. She had great friends, an usually fulfilling job, nice little hobbies and extremely fond memories. She couldn’t deny that she enjoyed the peace, but something was clearly missing. The robot could just go home and tend to her plants, or text her available friends, or simply watch one of her shows focused on pets. Turn off her brain, so to speak, and forget the hollowness in her life.

As tempting as this was, it was extremely disheartening. Aigis felt like she belonged with the masses who brought the Fall to humanity several years ago. Thus, she found herself in an uncomfortable spot, stuck between demotivation and guilt. This wasn’t how she would have wanted her to spend her life.

“I suppose it has been a while since I last saw her…” The android muttered to herself, the small realization giving her an actual goal today.

While she definitely wasn’t trying something new per se, still, this could do for now. Besides, this was about the only thing she wanted to do at this moment. No matter how bittersweet the course of action might be. With aim, the blonde woman traveled towards her new destination. She couldn’t visit her empty-handed after all.

“Good evening.” Aigis told her usual florist, working so diligently she failed to notice her entering.

“Ah! Miss Aigis! It’s so good to see you! How have you been?”

“Same old, same old, as they say.” Aigis found herself a little upset as to how easily the saying left her mouth. “How about you?”

“Oh! It’s been so long since I last saw you, I didn’t even get to tell you! Look!” Upon saying this, she brought her hand up and showed the engagement ring sitting on top of her finger to Aigis.

After congratulating her, Aigis listened patiently to the woman’s tale. During so, the single woman couldn’t help but compare the current state of her life with her interlocutor’s along a twinge of envy. A sentiment she despised but was much too familiar with. Though, despite this, she was truly happy for her and her fiancé.

During their chatter, Aigis was simultaneously looking for flowers to buy. Usually, she always picked the same ones. This time, however, she couldn’t bring herself to. Perhaps a desperate attempt to get out of her depressing routine.

“Looking for something new?” The florist asked kindly upon noticing Aigis took more time than usual picking. She was already aware the reason her customer bought flowers were a rather touchy subject, so she didn’t pry.

“Indeed.” She answered simply, still looking at the vast variety of bouquets.”I wish to give her something that shows how I feel towards her.” Aigis explained to the woman, whom she had shared but a select few fragments of her story.

She shot her a sympathetic smile, before showing her a specific bouquet. “I think I might have just the thing. How about pink bluebells?” She suggested, intriguing the android.

“They are quite pretty. What do they represent?”

With the bouquet pressed tightly against her chest, Aigis was protecting the flowers as if her life depended on it. As if she were preserving the everlasting love they symbolized. Simply entering the cemetery will be quite painful already, but leaving the flowers behind might be more difficult than expected.

Upon arriving at the gates, Aigis exhaled through her nose. This, was where her most precious resided. She wondered if, someday, someone will be there to bury her when her time comes, bringing her back to her side. She wasn’t really a woman of faith, despite having fought gods before, but she hoped she’ll finally get to see her again by then.

With a shaky breath, Aigis advanced slowly. The sense of sadness omnipresent as she passed through graves after graves. The android had accepted the finality of loss, but her heart could never forgive fate for what it took from her. This what was missing. What she wished for the most. To love and be loved.

Acceptance didn’t make matters any easier. Even if she yearned to live, she could never forget the person she had devoted herself to. Which meant, she could never stop grieving. Grieving what she lost, and grieving what could have been. A feeling of bliss and fulfillment she believed she could never able to experience in this lifetime. Now that her one and only soulmate was gone.

Most of her closets friends had strongly disagreed with this ideology. Yukari had told her multiple times she needed to ‘get laid’. However, with the many documentaries she watched about animal behavior, Aigis often related with the species which mated for life. Humans weren’t one of them, but besides her sense of self, she wasn’t exactly human to begin with.

Aigis was fine with this. For the most part. As much as she wished for more time with her. Time to create memories. The few she had, along with the few touches she shared. These could never be erased from her. To her, nobody could replace the one person who had access to her heart.

The everlasting love she held onto, this was what Aigis lived for.

“... Are these for me?”

This was the last thing Aigis heard before her mind went completely blank. No longer plagued with the bittersweet thoughts that had accompanied her all day. At this very instant, from the very depths of Aigis’ soul. Nothing else could be found, but pure, unadulterated joy.

The android ran towards the sweet voice calling for her. Without a second to spare, she embraced the young woman, both care and desperation driving her motion. Clutching her tenderly and never letting go, afraid she might leave her again.

Unsurprisingly, and despite everything. Despite the rushed and tight embrace. Despite the explosion of emotions. And despite the inconceivable yet tearful reunion. Aigis had never once let go of the symbol of her everlasting love.

Chapter Text

As it turned out, it would seem the world didn’t need the Seal for long. Kotone was brought back and reunited with her friends almost as quickly as she left them. Tearful and emotional reunions followed suite, only for a peaceful routine to settle.

One where SEES could enjoy their normal high school life without the burden of saving the world. As for Kotone, she was quite annoyed to discover she was forced to pass her second year again. Despite her sour mood, there wasn’t much anyone could do, though Mitsuru still made sure her enrollment would go without issues despite the sudden disappearance.

Kotone, while obviously glad to be back, was mostly bummed out about not being in the same class as her friends. Akihiko and Mitsuru had graduated, and the rest of her teammates and friends supposedly were all third years, aside from Ken, who still hadn’t finished middle school. Kotone wondered if it was a little lonely for him as well.

Despite this, she didn’t mind making new friends, and she could always see them after school. After all, they all lived in the same new dorms. With Yukari having moved out to another room, kindly letting Kotone be Aigis’ roommate. With her telling them with a wink, ‘No need to make Aigis sneak in your room every night again, right?’. The knowing line prompted the android to blush and for Kotone to hug her best friend gratefully.

Still, despite being in the same class and with the same homeroom teacher. Kotone resigned that school will be a lot more boring without her 2F classmates, at least it’s what she assumed until she read the class assignments, and noticed a very familiar name.

“Aigis?” She read aloud incredulously with widened eyes.

“You called?” A familiar voice answered out of nowhere, making Kotone jump and turn around to face her.

“Woah! A-Aigis? Why are we in the same classroom?”

“We’re in the same class?” Aigis repeated with a happy smile, reading the paper to make sure her lover wasn’t mistaken.

As Aigis was busy reading, her smile growing even wider when she noticed Kotone’s name in the same column as hers. Kotone’s eyes landed on the third year’s class assignments. Perhaps it was a little mean of her, but something inside her head clicked when she read Junpei’s name.

“Wait a minute… Aigis, did you fail your year?”

“Mh? Yes, I did.” Aigis confirmed, looking up from the paper to meet her eyes. “My results on every exam were all below average.” She explained a bit too nonchalantly for Kotone’s taste.

Now that she mentioned it, Kotone recalled reading her own results and noticing Aigis doing worse than Junpei. She even had a faint memory of offering her help back then, but they never really had the time.

“I-I’m really sorry, Aigis. I should have helped you with studying.” She winced, unsure if her guilt came from being the old leader, or her girlfriend.

“Nonsense, Kotone. We wouldn’t be in the same class if you had. It turned out for the best.”

“That’s not really the point…” Kotone muttered under her breath sheepishly. Scratching at her cheek in embarrassment due to Aigis’ sheer devotion for her.

“However, I would gladly accept your help from now on. Given your impressive academics, it is certain you will pass with ease. I would hate to be apart from you next year.”

“I… I appreciate it, Aigis. But you should want your results to improve for your own self, you know?”

“Does this mean you refuse?” Aigis asked, a cute pout forming on her lips.

Kotone couldn’t help but shake her head and roll her eyes at the display, in both disbelief and endearment. She smiled at her and reached for her hand before reassuring her, fondness dripping from her voice.

“I never said that, silly. Of course, I’ll help you.”

Aigis could only gently squeeze her hand in answer. The couple were lost in their little bubble, gazing into each other’s eyes lovingly. If it wasn’t for the public setting, Kotone didn’t doubt her lips would have met Aigis’ by now.

“Huuuh, you guys do realize you’re in everyone’s way, right?” Said Yukari suddenly, finally making Kotone realize students were complaining at them.

“Oops.”

Right when school ended, Kotone dragged Aigis by the hand towards their dorm. Junpei was already home and sent them a certain look when he saw the couple rushing towards their room, to which Kotone’s answer was but a middle finger.

When in the privacy of their room, the two settled on the desk. Aigis sat down facing her textbook and pencil case, while Kotone stood beside her.

“I did not expect we would start right away.” Aigis told her, looking up from her chair.

“The early bird gets the worm!” Kotone said cheerfully. “After all, we already know this year’s program.”

Aigis’ eyes widened at the prospect of already covering everything, first assuming they’d just go over what they learned today.

“Don’t worry! We’ll take it easy at first!” Kotone reassured after seeing the look of distress on her face. It was almost funny to see her lover, normally so strong and fearless, be a little scared of studying.

“Alright… I trust you, Kotone.” Aigis said with resolve, both the words of her lover and the hand on her shoulder comforting her.

“That’s my girl.” Kotone said sweetly, kissing her on the head, before getting back on the topic. “How about you show me your notes, first? I feel like it takes you a while to write what the teacher’s saying in class.”

Aigis complied with the request, and handed her notebook. It was very clean and seemed well organized at a glance. Perhaps she thought wrong and there was nothing wrong with Aigis’ notes, Kotone initially thought. At least, until she opened it and started reading its contents.

“...”

“Is something wrong?”

“Aigis… Why are there cats everywhere?” Kotone said as she showed her an especially busy page. Though, if she were being honest, all were quite similar.

Crude drawings of cats of all colors could be found on Aigis’ notebook among small phrases of encouragement such as ‘You can do it, Aigis!’, ‘Listen to the teacher, Aigis!’, ‘Kotone will be so proud!’.

Sometimes, Aigis even drew herself or her friends as cute animals as well, making sure to pick the right color and not forget any details. There even were pages of a cat Kotone and a cat Aigis squashed together with big hearts around them.

While all of this was very sweet and adorable, as for the teachings Aigis were supposed to actually note, if Kotone had to guess, she’d say about a quarter of it was present at best. Kotone had no clue how she even managed to write anything valuable with all the time this must take.

“I like them.” Aigis answered simply.

“I… I’m sorry, Aigis, I think the cats are gonna have to go.”

“Oh…”

Kotone couldn’t believe how dejected Aigis sounded over something so silly. Though, she also couldn’t believe how heartbroken she felt upon hearing it, either. But perhaps Aigis not being able to draw her little cats anymore being the biggest tragedy of the day really was proof of their times of peace.

“Hey, cheer up! You can draw in your free time, you know? I’ll buy you a proper sketchbook if you want.”

The small promise did seem to make Aigis cheer up a little. Upon seeing her reactions and if her own writings of encouragement are anything to go, perhaps positive reinforcement was the best way to go.

“You know, Aigis. Whenever I did well on my exams, Mitsuru always gifted me something nice. How about we do the same? If you do well, you can ask me for anything you want, how does that sound?”

“Anything?”

“Y-yeah?” Kotone couldn’t tell if she should be scared or in awe of the way Aigis’ eyes lit up.

“I will do my best!”

Well, at the very least, it seemed to work.

“That’s the spirit! I believe in you, Aigis!” Kotone exclaimed, hugging her from behind.

“Alright, back to work! I’ll give you my notes for today.” She said before handing her the notebook. Kotone’s handwriting wasn’t the best, and sometimes she missed a few things due to sleeping through classes, but it was still much better than the alternative. Meanwhile, Aigis began reading attentively, as if she was discovering what had just been taught today for the first time.

“Is there any subject in particular you had trouble with?”

“Well…”

As it turned out, Aigis struggled with… Everything. It’s not that the android was stupid, Kotone would demolish anyone who dared to imply so, it was more so she had no basics. Aigis actually was quite logical and weirdly creative, and when she understood something, even if it might take her a few, she could apply it effortlessly afterward. And whenever she did, Kotone always made sure to reward her by hyping her up or with cuddles and kisses, which definitely helped with her motivation.

However, Aigis was also very easily distracted, to the point where Kotone wondered if her creators had given her an ADHD protocol. At one point, she even started drawing her cats again. Of course, the fact that her girlfriend was her tutor certainly didn’t help with concentration.

But perhaps worst of all, Aigis had a very bad memory. Kotone always tried to not compare Aigis to machinery, and simply saw her as her own person, but she really wondered how this was even possible. Either way, there was no way the brunette could make her learn anything by heart, she was always forced to make her understand the process.

This was fine with mathematics or any scientific subject. For the rest, Aigis was already great at P.E and pretty decent in more creative subjects, though this highly depended on the teacher. However, unless she was intrigued by it, the blonde might be doomed forever to be bad at languages and history.

Still, Kotone could already see her making great progress and was extremely proud of her. Although, after a few hours…

“...”

Aigis couldn’t even speak, as her hands were the only reason her head hadn’t face-planted into the desk.

“I-I think we’re done for today. But you did really great, Aigis!”

“I did not know you could suffer head trauma without any physical injuries…”

“D-don’t tell me I’m the reason for your first headache?” Kotone couldn’t do much but try to rub her back soothingly, doubting any form of medicine could work on Aigis.

“How do people do this all the time…”

Kotone looked at her sympathetically, thinking more about it, it was impressive Aigis was decent enough to surpass some students despite having no prior knowledge related to what was taught in school.

“I know it’s tough, but it’ll be worth it, sweetheart. And I promise it’ll get easier every time.”

In this very moment, no matter how much she loved her, Aigis did not really seem convinced by her words.

“And since you did so well…” Kotone trailed off, making Aigis look up from her hands curiously.

In answer, Kotone sat on her laps, facing her and hugging her by the shoulders.

“I know I said you’ll get something only when your grades get better but… I think you deserve it. So tell me, my love. Is there anything you want?”

Aigis’ eyes lit up at that, clearly already having an idea in mind.

Meows filled the room as Aigis looked around in wonder. Meanwhile, Kotone sipped her ice tea with an amused glint in her eyes.

“A cat café, huh? I kinda expected something a bit more… Special?” Kotone admitted to her.

“What do you mean? This place is perfect.” Aigis said, carefully petting a Persian kitten resting at her feet.

Kotone giggled at her enthusiasm, it was always hard to believe this sweet and cute girl was designed as a one-woman army.

“You really love your cats, huh? You know you could have gone there whenever you wanted, right?”

“I could have but… It wouldn’t have been the same without you.”

“O-oh, Aigis, I’m sorry, I-”

“Please, there is no need to apologize, Kotone. This date is absolutely perfect, I could not be happier.” Aigis smiled sincerely, easing her lover’s worries.

Kotone returned her fond smile, before grabbing the hand of the girl she adored so much.

“You know… This could be a great place for studying. What do you say?” Kotone suggested, already knowing she was about to make her girlfriend’s day with this.

Chapter Text

Kotone had just finished her chores for the day and was now lounging around watching TV lazily in her living room. Waiting for Aigis to get home from work. Her girlfriend had been quite tense about today specifically, due to welcoming new recruits to the Shadow Ops that she’ll have to lead herself. Moreover, the recruits in question were complete strangers to her as well.

When Labrys and the Investigation Team kids joined, Aigis was already very nervous with the idea of being responsible for other people’s lives. And despite having proved herself as a capable leader with them, having to do the same with people she didn’t know was just as terrifying. Of course, Kotone made sure to reassure and support her, even if she was a little annoyed given how this meant Aigis would be home less often for a few weeks.

At least she managed to be extra productive today, not having her lover working from home to get distracted by. She even had time to go and buy her a cactus for her to take care of. Aigis loved plants, and loved taking care of them even more. For some reason, cacti seemed to be her favorites, thinking they are ‘cute’. Kotone supposed there was a certain appeal in liking something you shouldn’t even touch.

Either way, she had wished to surprise her to congratulate her once she got home. Confident that Aigis will do a great job. It was the least she deserved, really. The blond woman always had issues with self-confidence, and Kotone couldn’t do much about this part of her personality. It was just how Aigis was, but she’ll still try as hard as she can to prove it wrong.

The sound of keys unlocking her front door made Kotone jump expectedly, she got up from her couch and jogged to greet the love of her life. Upon reaching the door, she hid the cactus’ pot behind her back, careful not to prick herself, grinning ear to ear all the while.

However, the second she took one look at Aigis’ blue eyes, Kotone knew something was off. She had seen this before, this look of subtle dejection and self-loathing. A look that made her heart ache.

“Aigis? What’s wrong?” Kotone asked before her partner even took notice of her standing in front of her, clearly too lost in her own thoughts while going through the motions.

“Kotone? I did not see you there.” Aigis’ voice matched her eyes, lacking both joy and energy. She hadn’t answered her question, which made Kotone wonder if she even heard it.

“Did something happen at work?” Kotone asked worriedly, taking one of Aigis’ hands in her own, prompting her to speak while attempting to comfort her.

Aigis, having no reason to lie, simply nodded in answer, her eyes failing to meet Kotone’s.

“Do you want to talk about it?”

Aigis only hesitated for a second before nodding again, this time meeting Kotone’s eyes, a sense of gratitude mixing among the negative emotions they conveyed.

Kotone smiled sadly at her before gently guiding her towards their couch, prompting her to sit down before doing the same. She placed the forgotten plant she was still holding on the coffee table. Now free, her hand joined the other, squeezing the android’s gently. Waiting patiently for her to begin talking.

It took Aigis a few moments before she decided to share what happened. Torn due to feeling silly for acting like this in the first place, but Kotone’s patience and kindness reminded her that if there was one person she could share anything with, it was her. Aigis took a deep breath, and began explaining.

“The new recruits arrived today. Three men and two women, all young adults. Mitsuru and I greeted them and gave them a briefing regarding the Operatives and how l will be in charge of them.”

Aigis took a small breath, as Kotone gently rubbed her hand with her thumb, silently telling her she’s doing great.

“At first, everything was going well. After Mitsuru left me with them, I introduced myself, and we even shared small talk together. But then…” She paused, only for a second. “I decided to reveal that I was a mechanical maiden to them.” Aigis shared sadly, not even sure herself as to how she should refer to her own body.

Something clicked inside Kotone at the revelation. Her lover’s robotic body was so perfectly normal for her, it didn’t even cross her mind that this could be an issue to some. Unfortunately, reality wasn’t as kind as her. Both anger and sympathy fueled her soul as her lover went on.

“I… I could see it in their eyes. Disappointment, confusion… Disgust. I could tell right away what they were all thinking. The hateful glares and hushed whispers…” Aigis visibly cringed at the memory.

“And this continued throughout the day. Whenever I entered a room with them, nobody talks and everyone stares at me. I heard them talk about me as if I wasn’t even there. How they were afraid they might get replaced by machines or saying how they didn’t want to work for a tin can…”

“Oh Aigis that’s…” Kotone had no words, certain she was quoting them word for word. Nobody deserved this treatment, let alone her Aigis.

“A-and I spend all day trying to not let it get to me… Telling myself that I know what I’m worth. That I’ll make them change their mind, and they’ll see me as a good leader and even a friend… B-but now…”

Aigis couldn’t bear talking anymore, craving comfort, she lunged herself at Kotone. Hiding her face in the crook of her neck as they hugged, small tears prying in the corner of her eyes.

Kotone let her take all the time she needed. If Aigis wished to cry, she’d let her. If Aigis wished to stay in her arms all night, she’d be there with her. Rubbing her back soothingly, she gently rocked her from side to side as she returned the hug with force.

The couple stayed like this for a moment, before Aigis herself decided to pull away, feeling as if a weight had been lifted off her. While clearly feeling a lot better, a hint of sadness remained in her eyes, along with a hint of shyness.

“Thank you, Kotone. I-I’m sorry you had to-”

“I’m gonna have to stop you right there, Aigis.” She cut her off gently. “You have nothing to apologize for.” She reassured as she cupped Aigis’ cheeks with her hands.

The motion and kind words prompting a very small smile to form in the corner of her lips, a smile Kotone was so happy to see again.

“As for these little douchebags, you have no idea how much I want to punch their lights out.”

“I-I had a feeling you would.” Aigis snickered lightly.

“Still, punching is unfortunately not a viable solution.” She paused. “For now.”

Kotone winked before getting back on topic.

“For real, though, I really think you should talk to Mitsuru about this.”

Aigis’ only response was to glance sideways and grimace, clearly not enthralled by the idea.

“I know it’s scary, sweetheart. But Mitsuru can help you. She’ll hear you out over them.”

“I… I don’t want them to hate me more.” Aigis admitted. Her clear fragility making Kotone’s heart break on the spot.

“Then you should talk to them instead. Express that you’ve noticed and heard everything they said and did. Tell them how it made you feel and how it’s not okay. And if they still don’t understand, then they suck and they don’t deserve you. And now you don’t have to feel bad about reporting them to the big boss.” Kotone explained patiently.

“I-I suppose I could try… Do you think we could figure out together what I should tell them exactly?” Aigis asked in a small voice, somehow afraid Kotone might refuse her, prompting her girlfriend to chuckle endearingly.

“Of course I will. You know I always got your back, Aigis, no matter what.”

“Thank you… Thank you so much, Kotone.” The relieved android smiled, taking her girlfriend in her arms once again, in a hug full of love and thankfulness.

“Anything for you, my love.” Kotone smiled in the much softer embrace.

As the couple hugged, both of their moods clearly improved from before, Aigis slowly opened her eyes and finally noticed the plant sitting all alone on their table. She pulled away once again from Kotone’s arms out of curiosity.

Gently, she grabbed the cactus and brought it close to her, her thumb brushing against the soft fabric of the gift ribbon wrapped around the pot. Looking down at it with marvel before gazing innocently into Kotone’s crimson eyes.

“Did you… ?” Aigis didn’t need to finish her sentence as Kotone flashed her a toothy smile.

“I hope you like it, sweetheart.” Kotone told her, appreciating the pure joy returning in her lover’s eyes over receiving such a simple gift.

“I… I like her very much.”

Aigis said earnestly, a big smile finally gracing her face.

“And I love you.”

Chapter Text

“I will see you tonight, Kotone.” Aigis had told her girlfriend, embracing her before heading to work.

Kotone, like every morning, hugged her with all her might, as if she would never see Aigis again.

“I’ll miss you.” Kotone said in a muffled voice, silenced by her lover’s taller frame.

“I will miss you more.” Aigis replied matter-of-factly, before leaving the arms of her partner. And like every morning, the android pushed forward her cheek towards Kotone, closing her eyes as she awaited her daily smooch.

The action never failed to make Kotone chuckle, she delivered the awaited small peck to her girlfriend’s cheek.

As her lover’s lips left her skin, Aigis opened her eyes and smiled sweetly at her, clearly not wishing to leave her side so soon. The couple sharing the same thoughts as they shyly gazed into each other’s eyes as if they hadn’t been together for years. Afraid to break the silence and put their morning routine to an end.

“Well then… I am off.” Aigis finally said reluctantly, feeling as if her responsibilities were calling to her, facing away from Kotone and heading towards the front door. Even if she was friends with the boss, being late due to staring at your girlfriend probably wouldn’t sit right with her, even if this wouldn’t surprise Mitsuru in the slightest.

“Ooh, no you’re not, young lady. Wait just a moment.” Kotone called out to her before she could leave.

“Mh?” Aigis inquired as she turned around. “Did I forget something?”

In response, Kotone grabbed her by the tie, undoing it as she spoke. “Aigis baby, you can’t go to work dressed that good but have your tie in this state.” She kindly reprimanded.

“It is difficult…” The blue-eyed woman muttered with a slight pout as she let Kotone do her magic, not daring to move a muscle.

“Then let your adorable girlfriend do it for you, silly.” Kotone said, keeping eye contact with Aigis throughout. Making sure to take her time. Nice and slow.

“It does look a lot better when you do it.” Aigis pointed out, keeping her head high for her.

“See? I should do this for you every morning.” The auburn-haired girl concluded, somehow still not finished.

“Unfortunately, I also tend to arrive late when you tie it.” Aigis retorted wistfully.

“Slow and steady wins the race, as they say.” Kotone chuckled as she mimicked her lover, before continuing. "Thinking about it, I'm not sure if the ribbon or the tie suits you more... You look so adorable with the ribbon, but the tie makes you look so classy." Kotone pondered aloud.

"I could wear both for maximum appeal." The blonde suggested, prompting her girlfriend to laugh softly as she tightened the knot a final time. Her hands lingering on Aigis’ collar as they clearly did not wish to leave her just yet.

“Aand that’s that! You’re all pretty.” Kotone announced with a small hint of sadness in her voice, knowing the tender moment approached its end. And Aigis knew exactly just how she felt.

“Now that I think about it… Kotone, I just realized that I can work from home today. My presence should not be required.” Aigis told her lover, feigning innocence.

“Is that so?” Kotone grinned, giving her a knowing look. “How strange that you can always work from home the days when your tie’s undone.”

“It is quite the mystery indeed. We should investigate.”

Kotone let out a laugh as she pulled Aigis by her freshly tied tie in a loving kiss. Keeping a steady grip on the red fabric as the android embraced her lover. And as Kotone began untying her hard work, it would seem today will be quite unproductive for the Shadow Ops second in command.

Chapter Text

Hello everyone, sorry if you thought this was a new chapter, especially considering the last one was a bit short.
While I keep a google doc with all the ideas i wanna write for these ficlets, it's growing shorter and shorter and i'm kinda looking for something new atm.
So that's why I'm making this, to encourage you to write down any potential hamugis ideas you might have.
Ofc, i can't promise that i'll actually write them (even if I really like the base idea, inspiration might not strike me) and in the case that I do plan to write them, i can't promise it would be anytime soon.
However, it costs nothing to try, and if you'd like to see me tackle your ideas, now's the time :)
Theme and setting doesn't really matter, my only rule is just that it's gotta be hamugis related (even if neither of them are to be written in)
So yeah, feel free to send a comment, i always check out my inbox, so i'll be sure to read them
Hope you all have a nice day

Chapter Text

As the bell rang, Kotone had to say goodbye to her secondary group of friends, telling them she was off to visit another strange acquaintance of hers. Leaving Rio and Yuko all on their own.

“I swear, this girl has the weirdest schedule.” Rio sighed.

“Tell me about it. Feels like it doesn’t matter where you are on Tatsumi Port Island, you could just bump into her at any time.” Yuko agreed, both feeling a bit frustrated by their previous conversation.

As they often did, the trio of girls had spoken about their respective crushes, and as always Kotone made fun of theirs while keeping hers a secret from them. And despite being outgoing and friendly, if Kotone refused to talk about something, there is no way you could make her crack.

“Aah, she’s so annoying!” Yuko suddenly exclaimed, “‘It’s a secret!’, yeah right.” She scoffed after mimicking Kotone’s voice and usual phrase.

“I know right, and if she doesn’t want to say it, why does she have to comment on everything Kenji does?” Rio complained.

“I mean…” Yuko made a sound, clearly meaning she didn’t think Kotone was wrong there.

“Not you too! Well either way, the day we find out, I’m never letting it go.”

“Yeah, and there’s no way she doesn’t like someone, she wouldn’t phrase it like that if she didn’t.” Yuko speculated, certain Kotone was hiding something.

“Well… Knowing her, she could just be messing with us.” Rio muttered.

“I-... Yeah, maybe… Worst part is it’s working! She’s driving me nuts!”

“Still, I do think there is someone. I don’t know if you’ve noticed, she always seems a little sad when we talk about that kind of stuff.” Rio explained.

“Really? I didn’t see anything. That girl always looks happy to me.”

“I think she just hides it well, I’ve been picking up some stuff since we started hanging out a lot.” The tennis player said, a hint of genuine concern in her voice.

“Huh… Maybe…” Thought aloud. “But if she wasn’t so secretive, we could actually help her out with her crush.” And while what she said was accurate, getting back at her teasing certainly was her main motivation. “We have to find out who it is!” Yuko announced with resolve.

“How are we supposed to do that? She won’t tell us, and she’s friends with like half the town.”

“That’s it! We should ask one of her friends, someone from her dorm has got to know!” Yuko suddenly exclaimed after the idea popped into her head.

“Mh… I guess that could work? We should ask Takeba, I think they’re pretty close.”

“Err… I dunno, I know Yukari, and she hates dealing with stuff like that. And there is NO way in hell I’m asking Kirijo-senpai about this.” The two visibly shivered at the prospect of addressing the student council president to discuss Kotone Shiomi’s love life.

“I don’t think she’d be the type to talk about that kind of stuff anyway, and obviously we can’t ask any of the boys… There’s gotta be someone out there…” Rio ruminated, soon joined by Yuko.

The two friends were lost in thoughts until a very recognizable patch of blond hair came into view. As they laid their eyes on her, something clicked inside their head, knowing they had just found whom they were looking for.

“That’s it!” The two said in unison, before calling after the lone girl scurrying home, apparently being part of no clubs whatsoever.

“Hey! Aigis! Can we talk to you for a minute!” Yuko called out, who turned around slowly, a quizzical look on her mostly aloof face.

“Good afternoon. How may I assist you?” The blue-eyed girl answered politely, taking the two aback with how formal she was acting.

In all honesty, neither Rio nor Yuko knew Aigis very well, aside from her name and the fact that she and Kotone were presumably best friends, she was quite mysterious. As the blonde girl seemingly only hanged out with their common friend despite being very popular, mostly due to her looks. For a while, there even were a few rumors about the two being more than just friends. However, ever since the day Aigis transferred, these rumors died out rather quickly and most students had forgotten about them.

“Hum… Good afternoon to you, too, Aigis.” Yuko said sheepishly, almost forgetting her manners. It’s not like she was really friends with her, after all.

“Sorry, this is kinda out of nowhere, but we wanted to talk with you about Kotone.” Rio continued, clearly getting impatient and wishing to know as soon as possible.

“Kotone?” The mention of her name clearly piqued an interest in her. “Does she need protection? Where is she.” Aigis looked around in high alert, clearly concerned about the other girl.

“Oh! No, no, no! Kotone is okay, don’t worry!” Yuko blurted out, waving her hands nervously.

“We just wanted to ask you something about her.” Rio clarified.

“Ah. That is a relief. What is your query about Kotone?”

For a quick second, Yuko and Rio looked into each other’s eyes and fist bumped in the air, feeling as if they’ve hit the jackpot. Aigis meanwhile felt compelled to do the same as them, so she did.

“Cool! Thanks a lot, Aigis!” Yuko said cheerily, before her face flushed, realizing what she was about to ask. “So err… Ah, ah… It’s a bit awkward but… How should I put this…” She continued rumbling on, eliciting an exasperated eye roll from her friend.

“Oh, for crying out loud…” Rio muttered to herself. “Do you know who Kotone has a crush on?” She blurted out quickly, not wishing to be rude to Aigis, but her hot temper getting the better of her.

“A crush?” Aigis inquired, tilting her head to the side. The action making the two friends wince as they already assumed even she had no clue. However, their apprehension quickly turned to confusion once she spoke again.

“Given you both play volleyball, You should already know, Rio-san. Kotone-san is a very strong person.”

A moment of silence passed, neither of the girls really knowing what to say next.

“Y-yeah?” Rio muttered unsurely.

“There are a myriad people she could crush.” Aigis clarified.

“Multiple?!” Yuko burst out with a look of disbelief.

“No… Yuko… That’s not what she meant.” Rio sighed, assuming the white girl’s Japanese wasn’t exactly perfect. They would have to be, somehow, even more direct.

“Sorry about that, Aigis, we weren’t being really clear.” Rio apologized calmly, trying not to speak too fast. ”We meant, do you know if there is someone Kotone likes? And I mean, really, really like.”

“I see. I know Kotone-san really, really likes Koromaru-san. She said so last night.”

Both girls squealed, finally after so long, they had a name. Unfortunately, they had no idea who this was Koromaru person.

“Yes! I knew it wasn’t Sanada-senpai!” Yuko exclaimed happily.

“If only we knew who this was… Do you know, Aigis? Is he a student at school or something?”

“He is not, regrettably. For a reason I do not quite understand, dogs are not allowed to attend school.” Aigis explained, somewhat dissatisfied, although not as disappointed as the other two.

“Oh, Koromaru’s her dog…” Rio felt like screaming, closing her eyes in annoyance, though she knew she couldn’t be mad at Aigis for this.

“I’m starting to think she’s also messing with us… Maybe Kotone’s in on it.” Yuko whispered in her ear, though Aigis could easily understand what she said despite not hearing her.

“I sincerely apologize if I could not assist you in your query.” The blonde girl said, all too sincerely. Making her interlocutors feel pretty guilty in the process.

“N-no, sorry Aigis. It’s not you. Honestly, given Kotone, I guess that makes sense. She wouldn’t tell anyone about this, not even you.” Yuko let out.

“Not even me?” Aigis repeated, somewhat incredulously.

“Yeaah, every time we talk about who we like, she just keeps saying ‘it’s a secret!’” Yuko told her, badly imitating Kotone’s voice once again.

“Your impression of her is not accurate. Also, I have a question. Why would it be a secret?”

“W-well, you know. That kind of stuff is a bit private for some people. And Kotone’s usually so outspoken, we assumed her not wanting to share must be super embarrassing.”

“Why would you want to embarrass Kotone.” Aigis eyed them suspiciously.

“Because she keeps teasing us about ours! It’s not fair!” An indignant Yuko exclaimed.

Before Aigis could express her disapproval of causing harm to her most precious in any way, shape or form, Rio asked.

“Are you really sure, you don’t know, Aigis? Does she ever talk about loving someone in particular?” She explained, trying to use terms that anyone could understand.

“As in… The person she likes the most?”

“Yeah! I mean… Kinda? You know, like, wanting to be with them forever, being happy when they’re happy, h-hugging and kissing and… Stuff… Um… Long walks on the beach…” Yuko muttered, embarrassed as she rambled.

“Smooth. You’re lucky she’s not here right now…” Rio murmured, giving her a side glance.

“Shuddup! At least I don’t feel that way about Kenji!”

“Being together forever…” Aigis repeated to herself, looking at her own feet. The phrase clearly sticking to her.

Sensing that something changed in the girl’s demeanor, the other two kept on explaining to Aigis what it felt like to love someone. As if they were explaining it to a child. However, the more the two spoke about this, Aigis seemed to realize something.

“I… I do not think I have heard Kotone ever talk about someone this way…” Aigis concluded, her voice a lot shyer than before.

“Damn… Well, thanks anyway, Aigis. Sorry we bothered you.” A defeated Yuko said.

“Maybe, she really doesn’t like anyone…” Rio concluded.

“But…” Aigis continued, unsure as to why she was about to share something like this to people she basically just met.

“I… I really hope she feels that way about me…” The android blushed, very unsure what to do with her hands. Showcasing, for the first time at school, an emotion other than slight confusion.

The rollercoaster of feelings hit Rio and Yuko hard at the revelation, their jaws dropping as they let out a high-pitched scream. Tackling the blonde girl in a hug out of nowhere.

Chapter Text

Aigis was… Nervous. Very nervous, in fact. She and her two brand-new friends had stayed late at school yesterday, composing the perfect love letter for one Kotone Shiomi. Rio and Yuko technically didn’t help her with any of the actual writing, they simply advised her to be honest with her feelings, and pressed her to not chicken out of it.

In the end, Aigis managed to write a very passionate and intense confession, by simply following their advice and pouring her heart out on paper. In actuality, she wasn’t totally sure what she was experiencing towards Kotone exactly, the new feeling still just as perplexing as before. Although, according to the other two, there was but one explanation. It was love.

Aigis’ reactions and way of speaking about her made this obvious to them, especially after suggesting she should try to imagine her and Kotone as an actual couple. The imagery alone making the android’s still learning heart experience a whole new palette of emotion. Embarrassment, shame, jealousy, confusion but most of all, a profound sense of unadulterated passion burning her core.

And when Rio had mentioned the act of kissing… Despite not knowing much about the subject, the mere thought of performing it with Kotone had made her operating system nearly crash. With her prior knowledge, this was an act done between people who liked each other. She was even familiar with the theoretical process, having gathered data by analyzing many high schoolers, even being called names for it in the name of science.

The subtlety she didn’t initially understand was why despite being liked and liking a lot of people in return, she had never seen Kotone kiss anyone before. And now, with the notion of romance deeply implemented in her head, Aigis really, really hoped, she could be the only one allowed access to her lips.

Now, here Aigis was, once again close to overheating, standing in front of the girl of her dream’s locker. Grasping the fateful pink envelope in her shaky hands tightly. Its content being the only indication she were the author. Frozen in place when all it took for her destiny to change, was to simply let go.

Unfortunately, hesitation plagued the droid’s mind. A myriad of catastrophic scenarios playing into her head. Kotone rejecting her, refusing to be her friend anymore, even hating her. The mere idea of affecting their relationship negatively filling her with dread.

In a more rational state, Aigis would have known these were extremely unrealistic, and that Kotone would care for her no matter what. But rationality had left her body ever since yesterday’s epiphany. Afraid she was making a terrible mistake, partaking in feelings she could barely understand.

Rio and Yuko were watching from afar, hiding themselves for no reason in particular, aside from believing Aigis should do this on her own. Only supporting her silently, though not entirely sure as to why they rooted for a near stranger this much.

At this point, it certainly wasn’t about getting back at their friend anymore. Both girls easily noticed just how much the blonde cared for Kotone, and believed the two deserved each other. The clear adoration, making Rio reconsider her own choices when it came to a romantic partner. Perhaps her friends were right, she could do better than Kenji.

“Come on, Aigis! You can do it!” Yuko murmured, breaking the other’s line of thoughts.

“Do you think she’s gonna bail?” Rio asked her friend.

“She better not! Not after everything we went through yesterday!”

“Hey, this isn’t about us, you know?” She reminded her sternly.

“I-I know! But still, I don’t want to mess up my first time being a wingwoman.”

Rio rolled her eyes at that comment, though she supposed a part of her knew how she felt. However, the free-spirited feeling abruptly went away, as a certain someone suddenly came into view.

“Oh crap…” Rio let out, her eyes widening.

“Oooh, that can’t be good.” Yuko winced, biting her lips with trepidation.

Completely unaware as to what was about to befall her, Aigis still hadn’t moved an inch since then. Deep in thought and contemplation, a very familiar and warm voice calling out to her made her jump in surprise.

“Aigis! I thought it was you!” Came Kotone Shiomi’s chipper greeting from her side, happy to see her closest friend first thing in the morning.

The unexpected call of her most precious being the catalyst, finally forcing the android to drop the letter by mistake. Unable to stop it from sliding into the thin slot. Time had slowed down around her, watching helplessly as the letter slipped from her grasp and vanished into the locker.

“Watcha doing there?” Kotone asked, pulling her in a side hug, glancing up at her with her majestic crimson eyes in a carefree expression.

At this very moment, there was no chance in hell Aigis’ electric brain functioned well enough to come up with a valid excuse, so instead she just stood there silently. Trying not to convey the strife she felt.

Not daring to move and attempting to not freak out even more at the prospect of Kotone hugging her. Intrusive questions looping in the back of her head. Had she always hugged her like this? Did it always feel this weird? Was she the only one lucky enough to be graced with this physical attention? Somehow, Aigis couldn’t answer any of these.

“Are you okay, Aigis?” Kotone asked worriedly. “Do you have a bug?” She whispered into her ear, not because she was afraid of people discovering she was a robot, but more so as if this would be embarrassing for her.

“I-I am fine.” The blue-eyed girl let out awkwardly, stepping out of Kotone’s arms, instantly regretting how she unintentionally gave her such easy access to her locker, and missing her warmth.

Perhaps Aigis was dreaming, but she could have sworn she sensed a similar hint of disappointment coming towards her crush when she left the embrace. The line between reality and wishful thinking blurring together.

“You don’t really look fine to me…” The girl said, starting to grow increasingly worried at the girl’s odd behavior. “You know you can tell me anything, Aigis, right?”

“I… I am well aware. Thank you for your concern, Kotone.” Aigis answered, finally managing to calm down a little. Earning herself a little pat on the back from the brunette.

“No worries, I’m always here for you.” Kotone smiled kindly at her as she began opening her locker, still needing to gather her things for the day. The worry she harbored for the other girl remained, while failing at the same time to realize the turmoil she was causing inside her head.

The locker door began slowly opening and with it, Aigis’ processor came up with thousands of potential escape plans. She could have snatched the letter before Kotone even saw it. Or blasted the thing full of holes. Cast her most powerful spells with Athena. Run away and go live in the laboratory forever. Move away from Kotone and self-destruct. But in the end, Aigis found herself unable to do anything, a part of her clinging on to the hope that Kotone might, in fact, return her feelings.

“What do we have here?” Kotone let out after swinging the door open, catching the falling letter in her hands, unable to hear Rio and Yuko’s gasp from afar.

Upon further examination, Kotone noticed the heart-shaped seal and let out an exasperated sigh. “Another one?” She didn’t mean to sound arrogant, but she was genuinely getting tired of all these secret admirers, although, this one was pretty cute.

“I should probably throw this away.”

“Please, read it.” Aigis blurted out instantly before Kotone could even finish her sentence. Throwing away her golden chance at escape, accepting any potential outcome for the choices she made.

“Yeah?” Kotone asked, raising a suspicious eyebrow at the blonde, though amused by her weird interest in the letter. “You think I’m gonna find my soulmate?” The girl joked, still unaware of the implications. Despite this, she did listen to her friend and began carefully opening the envelope.

“I hope so.” Aigis said sincerely, making the other girl snicker at the other’s usual candidness.

“Alright then, ‘Dear Kotone’…” She read aloud, before deciding Aigis didn’t need to hear the rest of this. The playful expression on her face slowly disappearing, making place for astonishment and sudden realization as she continued reading the words, not believing they could belong to anyone other than the person standing next to her.

Her grip on the paper got tighter, her gaze flickering between the letter and Aigis, who remained impassive throughout as the other was unable to believe what was currently happening, all until she read aloud the final words.

“‘Yours forever, Aigis’…” She whispered to herself, lowering the letter, before focusing on Aigis’ face, mouth agape.

“W-would you go out with me, Kotone?” Aigis asked simply, in a low, shy voice.

Tears pried in the corner of the auburn-haired girl, who couldn’t help but let out a watery laugh. Before Aigis could assume anything, Kotone lounged herself at her, engulfing her into a what should have been a bone crushing hug.

“Oh my god! Of course, I would!” Kotone exclaimed happily, the happier Aigis had ever heard her.

As for the android, it took her a moment to process that yes, Kotone Shiomi had just agreed to become her girlfriend. Tears she wasn’t aware she had flowed as she hugged her back. Sobbing into her shoulder as all the negative emotions left her body, now only filled with pure joy and love.

Lost in their own world and happiness, it took the new couple a few seconds to notice the cheering occurring from behind the wall. When Kotone noticed the familiar faces, she felt herself blushing deeply, hiding her face in her new girlfriend’s shoulder, knowing she was in for a world of teasing.

Chapter Text

A lazy afternoon during the weekend, watching cartoons with her girlfriend’s arm pulling her close to her. Truly, what more could Kotone ask for in this situation? As snickering filled their living room due to the silly antics showcased, from an episode she had already seen before, the girl didn’t even need to answer the previous query.

Everything was simply perfect.

As for her lover, while nothing could make her happier than spend time with her, she couldn’t really understand the feeling of glee Kotone was currently experiencing. After all, just about everything in this TV show was confusing to her.

“Why does he live in a pineapple under the sea?” Was but one of her many queries.

“I don’t know, actually!” Kotone replied cheerfully. Not minding in the slightest Aigis’ constant interruptions. “I’m sure there’s an explanation, but I don’t think you’re supposed to really think about it.” She explained nonchalantly, her focus still very much on the TV screen.

Aigis simply hummed in answer, not being the first time she had heard this from her girlfriend. Kotone had expressed to her that she tends to overanalyze things during movie time. Not that she meant it as a critic, but simply as a quick remark. She had even called her cute for it, but Aigis did sense a subtle hint of bias in her voice.

Though, this particular comment about her still stuck with her. Was she really not supposed to think about these things? In theory, everything should be made for a reason, and everything shown on TV needed to be approved by a third party.

Who came up with a show about a sponge, and why would it air? Aigis just couldn’t help herself questioning it and had simply no clue whatsoever. Perhaps she still wasn’t human enough to understand the appeal. Although, seeing Kotone smile so innocently and freely, she most certainly couldn’t say she disliked the show.

“Hey, Aigis! Don’t you think he kinda looks like you?” Kotone drew attention to the main protagonist out of nowhere, breaking Aigis’ train of thoughts as she brought her focus back on the animation.

“I am not square shaped.” Aigis pointed out instantly after a quick analysis.

“I know but look! The red tie, the blue eyes and the blonde hair. It’s you!”

“That would be his skin, not his hair, seeing as he does not possess any.” Aigis explained before pointing out. “Besides, my nose is not this long.” Making her girlfriend giggle.

“That’s the second thing you focused on after the square body?” Kotone laughed, “But I guess you have a point, I only know one person with a nose like that.” She winked knowingly to her lover, before leaning against her affectionately.

“Indeed…” Aigis murmured, contemplating the mental image of her own face adorning Igor’s nose. Before she could start wondering if this could enhance her sense of smell, Kotone began speaking.

“Man, I just missed this so much.” Kotone reminisced loudly with a sigh full of nostalgia. “I used to love this show as a kid, I could just forget about everything when it was on.” Her tone grew a bit sad before shaking her head, and pecking her girlfriend’s cheek swiftly. ”Thanks for watching it with me, by the way, I know you’re not really into cartoons.”

“My pleasure.” Aigis blushed slightly, offering her a shy smile before saying. “However, perhaps that is why I am failing to understand the appeal. I was never a child.” Aigis offered, looking down at her lover.

Kotone thought about it for a moment, it was always tough finding out what to say to Aigis when she mentioned her ‘robot problems’. Not being able to really relate to situations similar to this one, despite the couple having learned to live life together.

“Well, there definitely isn’t a nostalgia factor for you, that’s for sure. But you can still like stuff for kids despite being an adult. I’m still watching it now, right?” Kotone explained.

“Yukari did once call you an overgrown child.” Aigis deadpaned jokingly.

“Yeah, well, here’s what I think about Yukari, pbbbt!” Like the mature adult woman she was, Kotone finished her jest by blowing a raspberry loudly.

“I shall make sure to relay the message.”

“As long as Mitsuru’s not in ear’s shot, feel free. And don’t forget the pbbbt!”

Both girls chuckled merrily, with Kotone’s own laughter growing tenfold at the strange noise Aigis made after attempting to replicate the sound.

Getting back on track once the moment’s passed, Kotone told her. “I think you’d appreciate the show a lot more if you went with the flow. That’s how I watch it, and how most kids probably do.”

“Shouldn’t people attempt to find meaning in things instead of taking the easy way out?”

“I mean… I agree, sweetheart, but it’s just a silly cartoon.” Kotone snorted. “You’re allowed to chill out once in a while, y’know?”

“Mhh… I see… Thank you for your input, Kotone. I will attempt to ‘chill out’.”

Kotone let out a small laugh once again at her lover’s antics. She didn’t have it in her heart to tell her she shouldn’t actively try to relax.

“Sounds good, baby. Of course, if you’re just not into the show, that’s okay too. We can do something else if you want.”

“Oh… No, no. No need to worry, Kotone. This… This is perfect.” Aigis smiled, squeezing her lover’s shoulder. Pulling her even more into her, wishing to be as close as possible.

Kotone returned her smile gratefully, knowing exactly what Aigis meant. Sure, she loved being able to feel like a kid again, one without worries at least. But being able to share this pure moment with the love of her life, not much could compare.

Chapter Text

Aigis sighed in annoyance, finally reaching her apartment after being forced to work during Christmas day. Of course, this had to happen the one year she and her fiancée had planned to celebrate just the two of them. Right as they had finished preparing everything, foods, drinks, and decorations alike, is when she received an emergency call from Mitsuru.

Aigis was absolutely livid at the idea of leaving her lover. Aware that despite her best efforts, having left in a flash without even changing her ugly Christmas sweater, she would miss the holiday due to the mission proving lengthy.

It felt as if they were cursed, this was supposed to be the one Christmas they could be together, dancing, watching silly movies, exchanging gifts and simply just enjoying each other’s company. They had planned and hoped for this night for weeks now. And even if they could always celebrate tomorrow, knowing this didn’t help with Aigis’ sour mood.

No excessive drinking with their friends. No world to save from destruction. And no Ryoji crying at their door all night about his latest heartbreak. She still hadn’t forgiven him for that. But of course, it was all too good to be true, and hostages just needed to be saved. Aigis didn’t even bother waiting for them to thank her after the endeavor. Rushing home in the hope of spending but a few moments with Kotone.

Her sweet, thankfully understanding Kotone who had told her to go and ‘save Christmas!’. Of course, the android could read her like a book, and the disappointment was palpable behind her smile.

She couldn’t even be mad at Mitsuru, as it seemed both she and her were in the same boat, given her grimace. Tho, she did wonder who had managed to convince her to wear reindeer antlers, which she clearly forgot to remove. The sneaky picture she took might help Kotone cheer up at least.

After an excruciatingly long drive home, Aigis dared taking a glance at her watch before entering, reading nearly 4AM. Her frustration turning into letdown. With a frown, she entered her home as silently as she could. The least she could do was not ruin her fiancée’s sleep.

However, the moment she closed the door behind her, the darkness quickly found itself replaced by bright red, blue and yellow lights. Adjusting her sensors to the now blinding apartment, the decorations remained, the food reheated, and joyful music filling her home. As for her lover, she was still nowhere to be seen. Although, Aigis swore she had heard a few giggles from around the corner.

Upon closer inspection, a few new items appeared before her. Mainly a crudely made calling card, replicating Kotone’s latest obsession, and what she could only assume to be every mistletoe plant you could find in Japan hanging from the ceiling.

Chuckling with glee, and wondering if Kotone had somehow planned this from the beginning. Kidnapping a few people to surprise her lover on Christmas would be pretty in-character. She picked up the card and began reading. The logo of the infamous Phantom Thieves completely butchered. As wonderful as she was, drawing never was Kotone’s strong suit.

“Madame Aigis soon-to-be Shiomi, the great sinner of love. You have deemed saving the lives of innocents and protecting the weak more important than spending a few hours with your fiancée. For this act of bravery and kindness, you must be punished.” Aigis couldn’t help but chuckle at that.

“Thus, you must now complete The Mistletoe Gauntlet. May God have mercy on your soul. There are A LOT. I will still your heart ❤️

From, the Dazzling Demon.”

Looking up from the card, an item she’ll more than likely cherish forever. Here her girlfriend was, right under the first phase of The Mistletoe Gauntlet. Still wearing her horrendous Christmas sweater with a brand-new mistletoe necklace. Eyes closed and pursed lips with her arms behind her back. Waiting for her.

It was rare for Aigis to initiate affection, but between the challenge up ahead and the adorable display, her inhibitions be damned. Not willing to make her wait any longer, Aigis took a few quick steps and pressed her lips against her lover, pulling her against her body.

Despite the many shared, it was as if Kotone had been waiting her entire life for this kiss. She brought her hands to her lover’s unnatural body, the hard and uncomfortable shapes bringing her nothing but warmth at her core.

The need for air finally calling to her, Kotone pulled back reluctantly, yearning for more. Even with the approximate knowledge of the amount of times she’d be experiencing such bliss tonight, without counting the many more afterward, she already missed the softness of her lover’s lips. With a small but genuine smile, Kotone bumped her forehead against Aigis’ own, giggling when the android seemingly expected another smooch already.

“If this keeps up, I think I’m the one who won’t be surviving the gauntlet tonight.” Kotone laughed, already feeling a little woozy.

With the couple seemingly incapable of leaving each other’s arms, as Kotone slowly guided her to the next challenge regardless of her words.

“I will make sure to accomplish my mission without any casualties.” Aigis said almost robotically, only the grin in her smile betraying the facade, making Kotone chuckle lightly. But soon, as she stared into the crimson eyes of her dearest, fondness quickly found its place in her tone and expression.

“Thank you for everything, Kotone. I love you, so much.”

Kotone’s smile widened, closing her eyes again, she lightly pressed her lips against her lover in a much more chaste kiss, murmuring softly.

“I love you too, sweetheart. Merry Christmas.”

Chapter Text

Like all things, the world, was coming to its end. Its last witness, being its most faithful resident. Limping across the crumbling remnants of a now lost civilization, attempting to reach her final destination. Soon to be reunited among the people she loved most.

From mere tool to hero, Aigis had protected and cherished humanity throughout her entire life. No matter the trials and pains. The wars and mourning. The, so, so many people she loved and lost. Aigis had never stopped trying to live and enjoy her life, no matter how long it was. Now, her duty had finally been fulfilled. But more importantly, as she slowly reached the end of her journey, Aigis was ready to go.

Even in the state of her devastated world, Aigis could find solace in knowing the end of humanity would not be by the hands of Shadows. Both her and her beloved made sure of that. Both their duties had been accomplished. One through a selfless sacrifice, another with a noble life. Of course, given everything, her dear leader must have been enjoying her gift for a long time now. Despite her current condition, a loving smile followed her memory.

Mirroring the Earth, the android was on the verge of breaking down. Missing limbs, impaired key functions, flashes of warnings blaring her system, and an aching pain accompanying her every stride. But despite this, Aigis was at peace. The radiant shine of Eurydice, her other self, was living proof of that. Helping her, step after step.

Despite her vision being nearly lost on her, be it from the eternally darkened skies, or her solar-powered energy tank running low. Aigis instantly sensed she was reaching her goal, the Tatsumi Port Island graveyard. Centuries ago, it took all her strength for her to manage to set foot in here for the first time. But after visiting them so many times, it simply felt like she was coming back home.

The eerie whirring noise her damaged legs made whenever she walked grew tiring on her. So Aigis disabled her hearing feature. She wouldn’t need it anymore. Besides, it had been so long since she heard another person make a sound. Let alone a pleasant one. And even though it still accompanied her, Kotone’s player had died down a long time ago.

As she walked through the dry land, Aigis soon shut down her eyesight next, she knew exactly where the graves of her family were lying anyway. Even without her eyes, she could visualize Junpei’s and Chidori’s, surrounded with their children’s. The remnants of the withered flowers of Yukari’s grieving fans. And despite being the last member of SEES to go, Aigis could perfectly picture how much Ken’s suffered from the passage of time.

Aigis had wished to tell them a few final words as she passed them. But even without being able to hear it, she feared nobody could recognize the voice coming out of these broken, old speakers. She would see them soon enough anyway.

As Aigis’ steps grew to a halt. Following only but her heart. She reached it. She reached her. The origin of her humanity. Her reason to live and her reason to grieve.

Her love through eternity.

Aware she’d never use her legs again, Aigis dropped to her knees. For the first time in years and unbeknownst to her, her voice came through perfectly.

“I missed you…”

A single tear ran down her cheek, the blue light leaving her eyes as it came and went.

Bringing her arms around the stone, Aigis embraced it gently. Resting her head against the damaged structured.

Taking one last final breath, as memories of her journey came and went. Aigis’ smile grew wide, now stuck on her features forever, realizing she never managed to forget the person who made it all worth it…

> sudo systemctl hibernate_

Checking energy level…..
…

[WARNING]: Energy level critically low!
Unit AIGIS will require external assistance to boot system back up!
Do you want to proceed? [y/n]

> y_

Locating nearby Shadow Ops. agent…..
…

[WARNING]: No agent found near unit’s location!
Please, confirm agent presence near unit AIGIS before proceeding.
Do you want to proceed? [y/n]

> y_

Entering sleep mode…..
Good night, AIGIS.

> good night_

Time marched on, while Aigis herself remained motionless.
It was only after a few months that she completely ran out of energy.
A few years passed until the rust completely overtook her body.
Decades went by before her body was no longer recognizable among the debris.
Eons had gone by, with her and the stone becoming one.
But it only took a few moments, for her soul to leave her body.

When Aigis opened her eyes again, unable to realize her self was no longer bound to her mechanical exterior. The miracle witnessed firsthand overshadowing her rebirth, marking the blissful debut of her afterlife. The stone she had held for so long cracking under her arms, releasing humanity’s savior.

The Great Seal, had but one person to look after before being finally set free. A person so very dear to her. The very first person she needed to see. The person with whom she will share her eternity with.

Woken up by the beating of her heartbeat, so new yet so familiar, she glanced up and giggled at the bewildered look in her breathtaking blue eyes. The only part of her having remained completely unchanged, a pure reflection of her marvelous soul.

Kotone Shiomi whispered but a few words, to the love of her life.

“Took you long enough...”

Chapter Text

Kotone had always been great at giving out gifts. She was thoughtful, creative, and knew her friends well. However, once you start dating someone for a while, between anniversaries, birthdays, Christmases, Valentine’s and just for the heck of it. Well, the well starts running dry at some point. This shouldn’t be that much of an issue, not all gifts can be grandiose or well-thought-out. Sometimes your partner simply wanted something, and you could get it for them. Although, if Kotone were to ever ask her girlfriend the gift she wished for, well…

“I wish to be by your side.”

“I would like a kiss.”

“I only want to be with you.”

“Nothing could make me happier than being with the love of my life.”

And so on… As heartwarming and sweet as this was, Kotone could NOT see herself not giving Aigis a present on an important date. It almost felt as if the android was touch-starved. As if the couple didn’t spend most of their days in each other’s arms already.

And now, Aigis’ birthday was coming, and Kotone had nothing for her and no ideas whatsoever. Having spent the last few days racking up her brain. Trying to come up with a gift she would like that she didn’t already give to her. She had spent so many hours window shopping just to come home empty-handed. Accessories, plants, clothes, jewelry, nothing seemed to click. She almost even considered adopting a kitten for her. Well aware she would absolutely love it, but saving this trump card for a future opportunity.

As for DIY gifts, Kotone didn’t like to brag, but it would be hard to top off the previous years. Serenades, trips around the world, grand games themed around their relationships, romantic gestures even the cheesiest movies would blush at, the works.

Needless to say, she was screwed. All because her sweet, adorable, metallic girl would prefer holding her hand for a few seconds than the most precious of diamonds. Kotone sighed as her head fell into her opened palms.

“What am I gonna do…” She muttered, thinking back to Aigis telling her she just wanted to cuddle and watch a movie for her birthday.

“She’s gonna be home any second now… I’m not just gonna kiss her cheek and move on with my day, am I?” Kotone asked no one in particular. Looking around their shared apartment, her vision focused on the pencil and paper they use to write down their grocery’s list.

Walking over to it, the brunette lazily examined the items splattered on the heavily decorated table.

“I could learn how to draw in 5 minutes and doodle something…” She scoffed sarcastically, a creative mind she was, but drawing was one of her few weaknesses.

The exasperated girl was this close to giving up, until a sudden idea popped into her mind.

“Wait… I got it! Oh, my sweet Aigis… I’m gonna give you exactly what you want!” She grinned as she sat down and got to work, sticking out her tongue as she began scribbling and writing on the many pieces of paper.

“Happy birthday, sweetheart…” Kotone whispered lovingly to her lover, caressing her cheek tenderly all the while. Her gaze lost in the ocean blue eyes, who were busy staring intensely back at her.

The both of them were sitting on their couch, leaned towards each other in close proximity. Allowing them to steal kisses whenever they wished. Plates clean of Aigis’ favorite cake on the table. The two of them wore silly party hats they both loved, while Kotone hid Aigis’ present behind her back.

“Thank you so much, Kotone… I do not believe this night could get any better.” Aigis told her earnestly, laying her head on Kotone’s shoulder and breathing in the scent of her perfume. Her hands grabbed her sides as she pulled her close, craving her warmth.

Kotone let out a low chuckle at the display of utter adoration, she really would have been more than fine with cuddling the whole night. But after so many years together, the blond really should know better than to expect nothing from her.

“Before we get to that…” Kotone tutted, pulling herself away from the android, unable to stop her smile creeping up at the genuine look of disappointment in her eyes.

“I got you a little something.” She teased, revealing the hastily-made package from behind her. As good as she was with the presents themselves, she didn’t really have the patience for wrapping them, though to be fair the clock was ticking!

“Oh… My love, you shouldn’t ha-”

“Of course I did!” Kotone cut her off with a smile, well aware of where Aigis was going with this. Handing her the small package before placing her hands on her legs.

“Don’t you like it when I get you something?” She asked her with mock offense, which of course, the other girl took much too seriously.

“O-of course not! I really love your gifts, Kotone. I-I swear.”

Kotone giggled at the visible panic on her features, so afraid she might have actually hurt her feelings.

“I’m just pulling your leg, sweetheart.” Aigis’ features visibly relaxed as quickly as they tensed upon hearing that. “Now come on! Open it!” She said, eager to see her reaction.

Despite being as excited as her, as indicated by her thousand-watt smile, Aigis took her time gently opening up the package. A complete opposite to Kotone always ravaging packages and wrappings like a little kid.

With the box finally opened, which Aigis planned on keeping for her collection, a strange habit she had developed. She slowly grabbed its content, a small look of confusion on her face as she examined the pieces of paper fashioned into coupons.

“Is my gift a grocery list?” Aigis asked with a puzzled but soft smile. Kotone wasn’t sure if she was making a joke or genuinely asking, but it got a laugh out of her anyway.

“No silly! Read it!” She told her between laughs.

“Understood, ‘This coupon entitles the bearer to one free Kotone hug. Redeemable anytime. Valid forever.’” Aigis read aloud, looking up at her girlfriend with stars in her eyes as if these were official documents.

“There are other kinds as well! There is a kissing coupon, a big and little spoon coupon, a ribbon one.” She said that one with a wink. “Doesn’t matter where or when, the house could be on fire for all I care, feel free to use them anytime!” Kotone explained.

“Well… Not like you’d actually need a coupon for any of that. But still, I hope you like it?” She said, rubbing her neck a little awkwardly, starting to feel a little self-conscious about her gift. While also realizing just how right their friends were when they complained about their PDA.

Almost as instantly as her words left her mouth, Aigis handed out to her one of the coupons.

“I would like to redeem one ‘Kotone hug’ coupon effective immediately, please.” She asked all politely, at the same time, almost bouncing up and down from joy and excitement.

Kotone let out a few sincere chuckles at her antics. Swiftly, she grabbed the coupon from her hand, before giving it back to her, and wrapping her arms around her in a loving bear hug.

“This one is on the house… Happy birthday, Aigis.”