Archive of Our Own

"Lara!" Mari called out, waving through the crowd of people at the train station. She was met with joyful sparkling blue eyes that noticed her, and she watched as Lara's braid swished through the crowd. Lara stood in front of her now, a small duffle bag in her arms that Mari took from her, much to Lara's displeasure.

"It's heavy, Mari," Lara pouted, and Mari just smiled.

"I told you I've been putting more reps in," she said, holding the bag with one hand and flexing with the other. Lara shook her head, following behind until the both of them were out of the train station and making their way back to the Otsu's. Lara had spent a few months living alone, getting a recommendation from Mr. Seta and working at another bakery by her new place. In those few months, she may not have had Mari right next to her to hold her hand, but Lara had learned so much from being by Mari's side. She had grown familiar with the current human society. She had properly learned the language, and become someone who could say what she wanted, never looking away. Mari had gently carried her until she could walk by herself, and Lara could now truly choose to walk towards a future she chose, no longer dragged down by anyone else's expectations.

That pure and utter fact was something Mari understood. So even if in that moment that Lara had to leave, she felt those lonely feelings bubble up, she knew she could not just cling on to Lara. She had been her first friend, and the girl she so deeply loved. Keeping her beside her, when Lara could finally be free, would have been Mari's own selfish desire to keep her close. It was a desire born from the fear of being left behind by people she loved, even if they did not mean to say goodbye. But, now, Lara had only said 'see you later.' All those video calls and text messages between the two of them as Lara got accustomed to her new apartment were proof that Lara was still right there, just like any individual. There had been no need to be so afraid. So, even though she would miss always having Lara right next to her, she knew Lara needed this. She had seen the past that Gon-chan showed her. Lara's past self foaming up from an unfulfilled love, one that had been so cruelly expected of her. As if, she could not exist for anything else but a single decided love. But, now, in this moment, Lara could be the Lara she always wanted to be, but was not allowed to be. And Mari knew that did not mean the love between them would suddenly disappear. Lara was only a train ride away after all. And now, here she was back in Shiga. All because Mari had asked her to accompany her for a little favor.

The two of them rang the doorbell, and as soon as Yoshiya opened the door, Mari shoved the bag in his arms and walked past him, holding Lara's hand as she entered.

"Huh? Wait, let me at least say hi!" he whined, pulling the bag inside with both hands, grunting and locking the door behind him. Mari's dad sat by the kitchen table, helping her grandma with getting dinner ready. He had a few tears in his eyes as he chopped at what looked to be the third onion in the pile.

"Lara!" he said, getting up but her grandma dragged him back in his seat, grumbling.

"You're going to have her smell like onions if you get any closer," she said with a scowl, but turned towards Mari and Lara with a bright smile. "You two go upstairs before the smell sticks to you. Hurry, we'll call you down for dinner."

Lara felt her face warm and her body relax. It felt nice that grandma Otsu treated her all the same. She admittedly felt a bit worried that being apart would somehow lessen their connection. That she had to prove that the time they spent together still mattered. So getting to visit again and being treated as if she never really left, eased her. Mari's grip on her tightened comfortably, and she pulled her along and up to her room.

The first thing Lara noticed was the crystal clear new tank. It looked even bigger than the last one. Lara walked up to it, her finger poking at the empty glass.

"You set everything up already. It looks even better than what Lady Witch had," she said, turning to Mari who was pulling out Lara's futon and fluffing it up to put beside her bed like it used to be.

"I used the money I got from work to get something fancier. New aquarium decorations too and a better filter. Gon-chan…" Mari said, trailing off. She grabbed a pillow and set it down on the futon.

"She liked her space to be nice and clean. So, I bet any other fish would."

Lara hummed, letting her finger trace down the glass with a squeak. She looked to Mari.

"Will you really be okay? Getting another fish?"

Mari paused, staring at the photo she had by her bedside. One of a younger her and Gon-chan. Somehow, she always seemed to have that irritated scowl on her face even if she was a fish for the majority of the time that Mari knew her. Her head hung low, bangs covering her eyes.

"Mari…"

Lara stepped closer, her footsteps creaking against the wooden floor. Mari met her gaze, not hiding the tears in her eyes, a soft quivering smile on her face.

"That's why you're here with me, isn't it?" she said, wiping her tears. Lara nodded, her hands rubbing at Mari's arms, and slowly pulling her into a hug as she rested her head against Mari's shoulder. She hummed.

"I'm sure she wouldn't mind if someone used some of her old stuff," Lara said, and Mari giggled.

"No," she sniffled. "Gon-chan would mind."

Lara laughed, hugging Mari tighter. They stayed like that for a moment, relaxing in each other's embrace, before Mari softly pulled away, sniffling and looking up at Lara.

"You're good at picking the perfect clams. So, help me pick out the perfect fish tomorrow."

"Even though that's usually for eating purposes, I'll do my best!" she said, hands on her hips and Mari chuckled.

The two settled on the bed, and Lara perked up, her eyes widening as she looked towards the window.

"The daisy," she said, looking to Mari. "You still have it?"

Mari glanced to the chocolate can, the white daisy still beautifully blooming. She grabbed the can gingerly, turning it in her hand and noting the slightly faded letters and the tinier daisies that seemed to sprout out of nowhere. Her finger ever so softly traced against the petals, and she handed it to Lara to hold too.

"It's still blooming. It had wilted over the winter, but came back all the same, with a few more too. I thought about putting it in a proper pot, but I think maybe it likes it there?"

Lara giggled at the absurdity of that, but finding it cute nonetheless. She held the can up in front of her, carefully wobbling it around as if puppeteering it.

"I love being with you Mari. You're the best ever. Please don't put me in a different pot," Lara said with a squeaky high-pitched voice, as if she were the daisy. Mari played along, a faint blush spreading across her cheeks.

"Of course, Ms. Daisy. I promise I'll take good care of you, and if you ever change your mind, I won't be mad," she said, bowing politely. That just made Lara cackle, her eyes shut tight as she held her stomach with her free hand. Mari pouted, grabbing the can from her and lovingly placing it by the window.

"I didn't think you were going to take it so seriously," Lara said, and Mari huffed.

"Idiot," she said, her ears burning though she smiled nonetheless.

Lara let the giggles empty out fully, before eventually calming down and sighing. Her eyes darted around Mari's room. It looked the same as when she had left, though she noted a bigger pile of books and papers on Mari's desk.

"Have you been studying a bit more?" she asked, and Mari nodded sheepishly.

"Dad said I've gotta keep my grades up if I really do want to go pro. So, I've been trying to do that while looking up gyms to join after I graduate. There's even levels of licenses I have to work through and a test I have to take. So, I'm going to do it all."

Lara leaned back, her arms balancing her as she stared up at the ceiling, her braid sliding from the side to dangle in the back.

"It's wonderful thinking about the future," she said, an airiness to her voice. Mari stared at her, the familiar sight of Lara in her room comforting her. And the different change to her leaving her hopeful. Lara would always be that ditzy idiot to Mari, but she still recognized her growth. She felt more sure of herself, and more willing to take a step forward, even if it was scary.

"You're thinking of applying for pastry school, aren't you?" Mari said, and Lara nodded, head craning to the side to look at Mari.

"Mhm. I've been going to the library by my place and doing some studying of my own. Work's been really fun too. Even if all I did at the start was wash dishes again, I could feel how a team got together. Sometimes, my coworkers would give me a few pointers. And the boss let's me use the kitchen on certain nights for practice, as long as I promise to have him try what I baked the next day. Then he critiques it, which is scary but also great for me."

The smile on her face as she spoke left Mari's heart beating. Happiness seemed to surge out of Lara, and it could not help but rub off on Mari too. She smiled, watching her.

"I'm glad you're meeting such kind people," Mari said, drawing closer so her hand set over Lara's knee. "That you're getting to do what you want."

Lara giggled, her voice soft and gentle. "Me too."

Suddenly, Lara leaned in close, eyes curious and sparkly. "Say, Mari…"

Mari held her breath, freezing in place. "Yeah?"

"You think you can teach me some moves?" Lara asked, and Mari blew in her face.

"Mari," she whined, blinking from the sudden air in her eyes. "I'll teach you how to bake cookies in exchange!"

Mari crossed her arms and glared at her. "No, I only accept cake."

"But, Mari," Lara said, wrapping her arms around her waist and looking up at her from where she laid her head on her lap. "You can get cookies and cake."

Mari made little 'shoo shoo' noises as she poked at Lara's cheeks with her fingers, pretending to be punching. Lara's eyes followed her fingers. Then she chomped.

"Ow!" Mari squealed, pulling away suddenly. Lara smiled, all teeth.

"Sorry, it's a habit," she said, rising up and sticking her stitched tongue out at her. Mari scowled.

"So…boxing?"

Mari grabbed her pillow and held it up as she got to her feet. She beckoned Lara over, who grew excited. She began to bounce around, mimicking the little jumps Mari would make whenever she was in a boxing match. She punched at the pillow weakly, and Mari did not budge. She swung the pillow in Lara's face then pulled back, smiling at Lara's shock-stricken expression.

"Hey!"

"Focus. Your feet look like jelly. Keep them flat on the floor. Have both your chest and your toes point in the same direction. Keep your head straight."

Lara listened, though a bit unsure if this was right. Her form lacked confidence, and Mari smacked at her back lightly to get her to straighten up, and she grabbed her arms up and placed them tucked in her chest.

"Okay, now, jab at the pillow. Hit with your dominant arm and just pull right back," Mari said, holding the pillow up. Lara tried it and Mari shook her head.

"You're too stiff. Your fist needs to be pointed so your palm faces down. And stop moving your other hand so much," she said, voice all serious and instructive.

"There's too many rules," Lara groaned, trying again and doing it better his time. Mari chuckled. She set the pillow back on her bed, then turned to face Lara.

"That's why I don't want your cookie offer. I want freshly baked cake when I'm pro, and free cookies for this lesson."

"Huh?!"

Mari tilted her head. "Huh what?"

"How was that a lesson? It was one thing!"

"That you could barely do," Mari reminded her, and Lara let her arms swing sadly by her side. She laughed, looking at Mari.

"I don't know why you make it look so easy."

Mari squeezed Lara's cheeks, stretching them as Lara just let her. Then Mari leaned in to her ear and whispered.

"Because I'm Mari."

Lara felt her ears burn at that. "Hmm, I guess that makes sense."

"Of course it does."

Grandma's voice projected throughout the house.

"Dinner's ready! Hurry before Yoshiya eats your share!" she said, and Yoshiya's muffled protests followed.

"Grandma!"

The two girls' eyes widened as they looked to each other and giggled.

"Coming!" they said in unison, racing down the stairs, the familiar staircase creaking with their combined weight. As if even the house was greeting Lara.

—

Dinner had been as warm and gentle as each meal Lara had shared with the Otsu's before. If there was one thing she missed from living alone, it was getting to share a meal with someone. Though, she only realized how much she loved it because she had given herself the chance to experience something different. Still, it felt good to be here again.

The evening continued with casual conversation on what Lara had been up to, and a few lectures from the Otsu's on how to best live alone. Grocery advice and laundry and the like. Things they have already told her extensively, but their reminders were all the more proof of their love and Lara nodded along as grandma Otsu had her write down another recipe. Though it mostly consisted of 'some of this' and 'a bit of that,' and 'just stop when it looks right.' She shared a look with Mari and smiled, nodding when grandma asked her if she got all that down.

Eventually, the house grew quiet, settling in the night as Mari and Lara bid everyone goodnight and headed for Mari's room. The moonlight slid through the slivers of the fluttering curtains, a gentle light that traced from Mari's palms folded atop her stomach as she slept, to Lara's cheek.

"Mari," Lara whispered in the night.

The girl hummed. "What?"

"Why did…" she started, then paused, turning to her side, her palm open and engulfed in the gentle light. "Why did you suddenly want to get a new betta fish?"

Mari was quiet, but Lara heard her soft breaths. She shut her eyes, waiting for Mari. She heard rustling, and she opened her eyes to find that Mari had turned her back to her, cuddled further beneath her blanket.

"Mari?" Lara asked, lifting herself up by her elbow. "What's wr-"

"-ly."

"Huh?" Lara said, not fully hearing her. She leaned closer.

"I was lonely," Mari admitted, pulling the blanket over her head. "I knew you had to go. And, I knew it was so you can get used to yourself. I'm not mad about that. Promise. But…"

She sucked in a breath, her voice muffled beneath the covers. "But, I missed Gon-chan. And, I didn't know how to explain to dad, or grandma, or even Yoshiya that Gon-chan wasn't just a fish to me. I don't think I'll ever be able to explain to them what happened."

She clutched her chest, feeling a phantom pang.

"Why didn't you talk to me about her?" Lara asked, sitting up now, her eyes glimmering in the dark.

"I didn't want to bother you."

"But, Mari…"

Mari hummed, though it was more of a whiny croaking from the back of her throat, urging Lara to stop talking.

"When I was looking for you, Gon-chan helped me. And…she showed me something. In the mirror."

Lara's heart skipped a beat, nervous as it rattled against her rib cage.

"What did you see?" she asked, though she was afraid of the answer.

"When the prince rejected you," Mari said, and Lara's breathing faltered. "And when you turned to foam."

The room grew silent, a slight breeze knocking on the window curiously.

"I didn't want that to happen to you again."

"But, I'm human now. I-"

"I know that. I know. But, I thought you might really disappear if I tried to burden you with the past. You don't have to be connected with that stuff anymore. You don't have to care about Gon-chan."

Lara was standing up now, her feet digging into the softness of the futon. "You care about her! I didn't get to know her much even if she was my aunt, but if you loved her, Mari, then I knew she was good. I would never think anything you feel is a burden."

Mari began to sniffle, her nose stinging. "But, Gon-chan's gone now."

Lara clenched her fist, and stepped closer until she was pressing her knee at the edge of Mari's bed, climbing in with her. "It doesn't mean the love you felt for her is gone too."

Mari's shoulders began to shake, and Lara gently held the blanket, pulling it away ever so softly to reveal the crying Mari beneath.

"In my time on the surface, I've learned so much. Like how there's so many different kinds of love. How there isn't really a true single love," Lara said, her hand now softly resting on Mari's back, rubbing up and down as she cried. "I loved the hot cocoa you shared with me. I loved talking to Himeka. I loved watching all those sappy dramas with you next to me. I loved learning how to bake. I loved messing up. I loved eating a meal with everyone. I loved learning how to ride a bike, and how to walk and run. I loved learning to box just earlier, and I love the creak in the stairs, and the firmness of this futon, and how I know you're right next to me when I'm asleep."

Mari continued to cry. Lara felt her lips tremble.

"And, you know Mari, I learned I love living. I love being alive so much. Even when I'm an idiot. Or clumsy. Or I make mistakes. And, even when I miss you, I know I can give you a call. I know I can come visit like I am now. And, when I think about my sisters and my father, I think about our good times. I think about swimming in the ocean, before I knew anything about anything. And even if I know they're wrong. And that they have to let go of their hatred, there was a time when it was all okay and all we felt was love. And that's not gone now either. I still felt that love. And, with Lady Witch too. Even if our time together was short, it was still a lot of fun, wasn't it?"

"Mm."

Lara smiled, sliding her hand up to rest on Mari's shoulder.

"I guess what I'm trying to say is, it doesn't matter if those good times suddenly disappear. Or if a person changed and you no longer feel the same way about them. Or maybe you think you can't feel that way because they're not right there in front of you. But, there was a version of you that loved them a whole lot. And no matter how much you want to regret it or pretend it didn't happen or that maybe it would be better if you stopped loving someone, you can't. Because, I think…I think that love is all yours, you know? It's your light. Something precious that shines deep inside your very being, no matter what. Because all of us are made up of these big and little loves that change shape all the time."

Mari wiped at her tears, and slowly sat up, still not turning to face Lara. She stared at her open palms, her fingers wriggling in the air as the moonlight danced on them. Lara was right. She knew that. And she knew it must have taken a lot of soul-searching for her to realize this, when before, all she would do when she got up all the way until she went back to sleep was agonize over finding her supposed "true love."

"You've become all poetic since living alone."

That made Lara snort with laughter. "I guess so. I just hate to see you so upset."

Mari sighed, facing Lara, puffy eyes and all. "Sorry for all this serious talk when we were supposed to be having fun."

Lara shook her head. "Don't be sorry. Honestly, I don't think I would have been able to learn all this without you."

"What do you mean?"

Lara smiled brightly at her, soft hands reaching for Mari's and intertwining their fingers. Mari noticed the creeping blush that dotted her cheeks, glowing in the gentle night.

"Hmm," Lara said, tilting her head to the side, her smile ever so gentle on Mari's eyes. "Probably because you're dumb."

"Hah?" Mari scoffed, brows furrowing. That only made Lara giggle. She leaned in, her arms wrapping around Mari's waist and pulling her into a gentle hug. Her hands softly caressed her back, her head resting on Mari's shoulder as she tried to pull her even closer. Mari's hands remained frozen in her lap, suddenly unsure how to react, which was weird given all the trophies on her wall.

"I like funny characters too, you know?" Lara whispered into Mari's ears, feeling her own ears burn crimson as she said those words.

"What's that supposed to mean?" Mari said, going red. Lara just smiled as she nuzzled against Mari's neck. Slowly, Mari ever so carefully slid her arms around Lara' waist too, her fingers gripping on to her as if she were afraid she would slip through her fingers. "Lara, what do you mean?"

Lara moved back just a little, so her face was right by Mari's, taking in her terribly flustered features. Her blushing cheeks, and soft eyes, brows drawn like an arch as she patiently waited for Lara's answer, though Lara knew from her expression that she knew what she was referring to. Lara's hands gently grabbed on to Mari's removing them from their place by her waist and bringing them into her lap as she gingerly fiddled with her fingers. Mari's hands were coarse, circles of calluses at the top of her palms, right beneath each finger. Lara gingerly rubbed at them, then hesitantly, she brought them to her lips and left a gentle kiss. One and two and another and four. She reached for the other hand, but Mari had abruptly pulled away, as red as her boxing gloves and thoroughly nervous, sweat trickling down the side of her neck. Lara suddenly realized what she was doing, and stared up at her, mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water, unsure what words to say.

"Do..do you…" Mari bit her lips, picking at the skin, before huffing and staring right at Lara. "Do you like me?"

Lara reached for the hand Mari pulled away, tenderly pressing her own palm against Mari's, and she pushed back too, the two of them playing along until Mari folded her fingers over Lara's knuckles and Lara really looked at her.

"I thought that was a given," Lara whispered, her lips moving ever so subtly but Mari heard. "Though, it's more of a love."

Mari giggled, softly smacking her forehead against Lara's, making her groan just a bit. "Of course."

A mellowness drifted between them along with the serene silence, until Mari spoke up again.

"Me too. I.." she began, voice quieting down as she continued. "I love you too. A whole lot."

"Yeah?"

Mari hummed, and Lara sighed in relief, centuries of worries melting away. The both of them grew comfortable, holding each other as they fell to their sides on Mari's bed, cozy and cuddled together. Their soft breaths intermingled, bodies warm and tangible, and alive. So alive.

"Mari," Lara whispered, her eyes half open, lashes fluttering.

"Mm?"

Lara swallowed, then took in a slow deliberate breath as she tried to speak.

"I want to kiss you," she said quietly.

Mari tensed, blinking at Lara who still had her eyes mostly shut. Lara continued.

"But, I'm scared."

Lara felt her insides swirl, partially from the relief of finally admitting her feelings to Mari, another from the nostalgia and comfort of being in the Otsu home again, and another from this familiar ache of uncertainty. She loved Mari more than anything. If she could give a shape to the love she felt for Mari, she would imagine a swirling glittering wave, constantly raging and cycling, bubbling with affection. The sort of wave that guides turtles back to their resting grounds, or the one that swirls the ocean together with warmth, or that diffuses new life across its endless bounds. Something enveloping and guiding, and so pure and gentle. That was who Mari was. Her guiding light, her flowing love.

But, each time she had tried to kiss someone she had loved in some capacity, something would go wrong. She would hurt them, and hurt herself. She was so horribly afraid of feeling that way with Mari, even if logically she knew that Mari made her feel safer than anyone or anything in the world. Even if it was just a kiss. Just a simple thing, really. But, it had become so tainted that its implications frightened her. She wanted to show Mari she loved her. She wanted to let her know that she really, really, truly loved her. But, the idea of actually doing it, regretfully left her feeling sick. She could not look at her. It must have been disappointing to her. Surely.

"We don't have to then," Mari said simply, and Lara felt her heart stop, eyes widening and staring down at where Mari's scar would be. She could not find her voice.

"I can show you I love you in a whole lot of different ways than just a kiss," she said casually, her hand reaching to cup Lara' cheek in her own, wiping at the drops of tears that Lara had not noticed were falling.

"We…don't?"

Mari shook her head. "Nope. Don't gotta."

"Don't gotta," Lara repeated, nodding once to herself, then looking to Mari. Lara's hand reached to rest atop Mari's scar, pressing softly over it, her pajamas separating their touch, but the warmth seeping through nonetheless. Her other hand cupped Mari's cheek too, her ocean eyes sparkling with soothed tears, as she drew closer. Delicately, she pressed a kiss beneath Mari's eyes, softly blowing a warm breath until Mari shut them, and then she kissed her soft eyelids too, feeling the nervous trembling of her lashes.

"You're my light, Mari. The brightest light I see," Lara said, and Mari's eyes reflected the beautiful smile on Lara's lips. She could not help but bring Lara's hands to her mouth, kissing her finger tips and raising her hand to her forehead, pressing Lara's soft fingers against her warm skin, held so high in her mind.

Mari grinned, toothy and happy, and oh so flustered. They held each other so closely, each other being the last wonderful image they saw before their eyes fluttered shut, and they were lulled to a blissful sleep. To be together like this, an understanding between them that no one else could ever fathom or dare define, broke any mold. They would figure out what this love was about. They would navigate it together, bit by bit. They were only sixteen after all. And, finally, both of them had the time to live again. For themselves and no one else.

—

The pet store Mari and Lara went to specialized in just fish, so it was moreso a fish pet store than anything. The moment they entered, the smell of salt and that uniquely fishy yet somehow clean stench so tied with aquariums greeted them. They shuffled inside, Mari taking a look at all the dashing fish, big and small, colorful and dull.

"How about this one?" Lara said, pointing to a flat gray fish, lazily laying at the bottom of the tank. "They're pretty docile."

Mari took a look at the fish, then at the sign. It was a type of flounder, and she hummed in thought.

"I don't know. I want someone a bit more vibrant in personality," she said, walking away.

Lara looked to the flounder and pouted. "Sorry, she likes funny characters."

A few bubbles floated in the tank. The flounder looked somehow offended.

Lara followed behind Mari, pointing at a few other fish species, though Mari did not seem to be satisfied with any of them. Not the guppies, or the minnows, or the goldfish or the angelfish. Not even the cute little crabs or shrimp. Lara whispered her apologizes as they walked past, earning a few odd looks from the other customers.

Mari only stopped by the section of betta fish, walking slowly then and spending much more time reading the descriptions as she tried to identify each swimming betta. This particular tank was much much larger than what Mari had at home, which made sense considering it had a sorority of what Mari counted as six bettas. They were quite colorful, with bi-colored ones, or marbled. But there were also single colored betas, white and black with glistening scales. They swam across the tank energetically, while a few others lazily rested among the leaves. Mari smiled, thinking of Gon-chan. She felt Lara's hand slip in hers, as if she somehow sensed her thoughts. She relaxed.

One of the employees approached them.

"You two looking for anything in particular?" she asked, a welcoming smile on her face.

"A betta fish," Mari said, looking at the tank. "But, it's hard to decide."

"Well, how about trying to get to know them a bit? Here. One moment," she said, running behind the counter and grabbing some fish food then coming by to Mari and Lara. They offered their open palms, and she sprinkled a few pellets in their hands.

She pulled out a stool, and Mari and Lara took turns feeding the fish. Lara went first, though she ended up dropping the whole bunch straight in, watching the fish swarm, though a few very elegantly swam up to bite at one or two then return to their resting spots. Lara smacked her hands against each other over the tank, then stepped down and let Mari climb up. Mari just shook her head at her.

"Lara, you need to do it slowly and sprinkle it all over so everyone gets some," she said, using her free hand to pick up some of the pellets and drop them bit by bit. She smiled as she watched their little mouths pop up to grab a bit, then splash back down. She remembered when Gon-chan would violently rip at some cake. These fish wouldn't be able to handle something like that though. Gon-chan wasn't a fish after all. She was a mer-

Mari froze, the pellets dropping from her hand into the water, the sound of the splashing fish deaf to her. Her eyes had widened, making eye contact with someone on the other side of the tank. The other person was stocking supplies, her hand stopping in midair, gripping onto a container of fish pellets. Mari knew those golden eyes. She could not ever forget them.

"Farewell, Mari."

"Mari?" Lara asked, concerned as she gripped the back of the girl's shirt. Mari jumped off the stool, surprising both Lara and the store clerk, who stepped back, then watched in awe and confusion as Mari dashed across the aisle, to make it to the other side of the aquarium. Lara apologized quickly, sprinting after Mari, feeling a slight ache in her knees, but running anyways. Then, she too, paused behind Mari. Everyone remained silent, eyes wide and unblinking, unsure what to say or how to say it or if any of this was even real.

"Ah, Grace!" said the store clerk, walking up from behind the girls. "I was just having them feed the fish. Could you bring those up to the other side for me please?"

Grace blinked, setting the fish pellets down on the shelf, her hands smoothening down her white uniform, the red and blue betta fish embroidered by her chest bearing her name.

"Yeah, yeah, I'll get to it," she said dismissively and the woman just waved at her, as if used to her attitude. Mari felt tears prick her eyes.

"Alright, well, sorry about that girls. She must have surprised you at the back there. But she can help you out with your fish shopping, won't you Grace?"

Grace hummed, continuing to line the shelves with the remaining containers. With that, the store clerk left. Mari and Lara remained standing there, staring at her. Grace sighed, clapping her hands together, and watching the two girls startle from the sound. She walked over to them, grabbing Mari's hand then Lara's, and pulling them behind her into the break room. She locked the door, and leaned against the counter, ushering the girls to sit down. They just lingered by the chairs, standing and staring ahead in utter confusion.

"Gon-chan…" Mari croaked out, and Lara held on to her hand with both of hers, as if anchoring her. Or anchoring herself.

Lara stared at the woman, with her dark blue hair, and streaks of red. Nothing like that massive bubbling tar-like form she last saw. Nothing like the dulling glow of her eyes, and the sizzling end of her fate. Somehow, she was standing here. At an aquatic pet shop. As an employee?

"How?" Lara whispered, and Grace massaged her temples. Her hands were normal. Not webbed or scaly.

"It's hard to explain. Honestly, meeting you like this is a bit of a shock. Mari. Lara. How about we talk af-"

Mari began to wail, loud sobs escaping her alongside a stream of hot tears down her cheeks, reddening with her gushing emotions. The sound and sight made Lara's lips quiver, her brows furrowing and a deep frown overtaking her. She too began to cry, the both of them hiccuping and sniffling as they held each other's hand.

"Gon-chan."

"Lady Witch."

Grace felt her heart clench, and she stared at them, nervous, with trembling hands. She took a step closer, their childish gasps painful against her ears and her soul. She stepped again, her legs shaking and her breathing faltering. She had to stay away. She was supposed to get things in order. She was going to see them eventually. But, right now. Right now, none of her excuses mattered.

She ran to them, pulling the two in her arms, her hands gingerly cradling their little heads as she kissed their foreheads as they cried.

"It's alright. I'm here. We're okay. We're all okay," she whispered so gently, wincing as her legs gave out and the three of them spilled onto the floor, hugging each other so desperately. Mari's fingers dug into the back of Grace's uniform, wrinkling the fabric. Lara gripped onto the back of Mari's shirt, sniffling while leaning into Grace's shoulder. All while Grace wrapped the both of them in her tender hold, humming and rubbing their backs softly, whispering gently.

"Grace is here."

And, in that tender embrace, it was as if they were back during those carefree days with Lara and Mari laughing and chatting as Grace watched them lovingly. Now, they were together again, their touches real and warm. Love cradled them, keeping them afloat in this little bowl called life.

—

"You want anything to eat? Drink?" Grace asked, holding up a menu. The three of them were huddled by a table in a family restaurant. Thankfully, not many people were around and it was a good place to talk freely.

"Hot cocoa," Lara said.

"Me too," Mari said.

Grace chuckled, calling the waiter over and asking for three hot cocoas. He scribbled it down and walked off, taking the menus with him. The three of them were cast back in an awkward silence, Lara and Mari looking at Grace who sat in front of them. Grace tapped the table, each of her nails clacking against the wood before she eventually sighed, rolled her shoulders, and began to talk.

"I'm not sure where to start with this," she said, clenching her hands together as she looked at the two girls. "But, I think this had to do with your light, Lara."

"My light?" she asked, brows furrowing a bit in question.

Grace nodded, and looked to her hands. "I remember feeling my own light extinguish, but I left one last remanent in the mirror I showed to you, Mari."

Mari flinched. "Yeah."

"From then, it had gone dark. Then the next thing I knew, I was in a hospital. Someone had found me washed up and unconscious. And, human."

Her fingers softly pulled her hair back, revealing her ears. Lara gasped, a mixture of confusion, relief, and joy rippling through her.

"Then, you won't have to worry about foaming," she said, hands by her mouth.

"But," Mari said. "But, how is this possible? Lara said she watched you die. You spoke to me for the last time."

Mari's nails were digging in her knees, her head facing down.

"Do you two know how Lake Biwa is sometimes called the mother lake?"

Lara nodded, but Mari kept her eyes down. Grace glanced at her, her eyes softening as her shoulders dropped in what only she knew to be shame.

"Somehow, right when your new light burst forth, it must have mixed with the pieces of me that melted away into the mother lake. I think, somehow, it sparked up the once extinguished light in me. It brought me back together, and listened to my dream. It's the only explanation I can give."

"That's…" Lara muttered, unsure how to take this in. In a sense, she had saved Grace's life. The sheer idea made her eyes water. "That's wonderful."

Mari frowned, finally looking back up at Grace, with tears in her reddening eyes. "Why didn't you come look for me right away? Why did you leave me alone, grieving you for all these months?"

The tears dropped one by one down Mari's cheeks, and she sniffled as she looked at Grace. "I was lonely, you know?"

Grace stared at her, remembering that young child that saved her all those years ago. The one that comforted her, denying death and replacing it with the hope of a new life.

The waiter came back with the drinks, setting them down in front of everyone. Mari turned away, wiping at her tears, and managing out a polite "thank you," alongside everyone else. The comforting smell of hot chocolate enveloped them, a bittersweet nostalgia that tugged at their heart strings, like a child on their mother's dress.

"I didn't know how to face you after saying goodbye like that. I wanted to be a good adult to you, given all I've done is trouble you."

"I don't care if it was a lot of trouble," Mari replied, rubbing at her face. "I just wanted you to stay here with me forever."

Grace reached her hand over the table, gently holding Mari's in hers. "Mari. You understand I couldn't show up at your house like this, don't you? If Makoto or Ema saw me, they would be concerned for your safety and weary of me."

"You could've just said you're Lara's aunt."

"Yes, and then what? Her strange aunt they were on call with once who basically dropped Lara in their lap and has no name in this country, or a job, or anything? It would have been too odd. So, I've been making a name for myself. I planned on coming to see you eventually. Though I…I was admittedly a bit afraid."

Lara patted Mari's back gently, pushing the cocoa towards her. Grace held Mari's hands and set them around the full mug. Mari sniffled, and took a big chug, letting the comforting sweetness calm her. When she set the mug back down, she had a wonderfully prominent brown mustache. Lara giggled, pulling her phone out and snapping a picture of a confused and teary-eyed Mari. Grace grabbed a napkin, smiling as it melted against the froth on Mari's mouth.

"You don't have to be afraid anymore, Gon-chan. You can come home with me again."

Grace rested her head in her hands, laughter shaking her shoulders as she looked at Mari.

"Is that right? And where would you have me stay? The tank?"

Mari pouted, looking crestfallen. Grace reached over and poked at her forehead.

"You silly girl. I've missed you," she said, and Mari could not help her tears again.

"I missed you too," she cried, blinking the tears away. "So, can't you come back home with us?"

Grace sighed, nodding. "Maybe just for dinner. Then we can see."

Mari brightened, and Lara smiled as she watched her.

"Don't worry, Lady Witch, we can share a futon," Lara said, and Grace chuckled.

"Oh, please. I like my own space."

Mari and Lara exchanged a look, then burst out laughing, confusing Grace. They refused to elaborate when she questioned them.

The three of them drank their hot cocoa in peace, idly chatting about what everyone had been up to. As Grace watched Lara and Mari talk about their boxing and baking, she felt herself get all misty, and inconspicuously wiped at her eyes as she listened to the girls vibrantly explain. She never thought she would be able to enjoy such a simple thing with them like this. Just three people having a warm drink together, carefree and not having to worry about laws, or foaming, or a true love. She could bask in this loving warmth, letting it wash over her and cleanse her of the past. She could live for herself. She would live for herself.

The three of them walked outside, the sun shining brightly in the sky, as the shadow of the moon glimmered, awaiting its turn. The walk back home felt longer than usual, filled with gentle laughter and the girls chasing after the other. Grace lingered behind, taking in their smiles, and feeling such an intense happiness, that it scared her. The last time she felt this way had been so, so long ago. She looked up to the sky, her eyes noticing the faint outline of the full moon amidst the shining sun.

She whispered to herself. "Rigmor, our dream came true. Do you see it?"

A gentle breeze kissed Grace's cheek, and she shut her eyes tight as she walked on.

"Lady Witch, hurry up!" Lara called out, beckoning her over, the sun glowing behind her and Mari. For a moment, Grace swore she saw her twin sister there, waving at her with a gracefully soft smile on her face, as if saying goodbye. Grace's hand rose up, swishing from side to side as she looked on towards that benevolent light, her fingers curling as her hand rested back by her side, a guilty weight dripping off her shoulders, setting her free. She walked faster, catching up with the girls, her arms resting on the back of their necks as she pulled them close, leaving their gait wobbly.

"I wonder what Ema's cooked up today," she said, and Mari grumbled.

"Gon-chan, you really shouldn't call grandma by her first name like that."

"Huh?"

"It's rude," Lara said with a nod. Grace laughed, booming and tender.

"Do you know how old I am, you little brat?" she said, holding on to the girls even tighter. They giggled and wriggled in her grasp.

"Should I introduce you as grand-auntie Grace?" Lara asked, all seriousness. Mari snorted.

"Please don't," she said, loosening her grip and ruffling their hair. "Grace is fine."

"Not Gon-chan?" Mari asked pitifully as she looked up at her.

Grace smiled at her. "Gon-chan is fine. Just maybe not in front of anyone else. They might start noticing a bit too much of a similarity."

Mari nuzzled against her, relaxed as they walked on, the three of them all jumbled up. "I'm so happy you're here."

"Don't get all sappy on me again. I already ruined my mascara and I don't have the magic to fix it anymore."

"Eh? Then, you're not Lady Witch anymore?" Lara yelled. "That's too boring."

"What did you say you-" Grace said, arms tightening as Lara yelped, laughing.

"Gon-chan is Gon-chan," Mari said, and Lara and Grace looked to each other then to Mari, bursting out into a fit of giggles. Mari's ears burned red, but she smiled nonetheless.

Their laughter echoed in the street, as they huddled together, teetering from side to side. Lara and Mari's smiles were bright and comforting, their smaller forms nestled beneath Grace's gentle embrace as they walked towards a brighter future. To a life where they could now simply live.