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Chapter Text

¨Yangyang, you alright down there? are you coming or what?!¨

Chixia’s loud voice resonated on the walls of the small passage, shaking the Outrider out of her stupor. Yangyang had been acting weirdly since they entered the Gorge of Spirits for their patrol, so much that she lagged behind the cheerful redhead, who had already climbed the rocky walls to get a better look of the Bell-Borne Ravine.

The streams have been trying to tell her something for a while now, but she couldn’t pinpoint what, exactly, as they rippled unusually through the wind.

¨Yes, I’m coming, give me a moment!¨

Yangyang moved to follow her friend up, but as she put her hand on the rock wall, the streams shook once again, and Yangyang perceived their meaning: ¨Right¨.

She turned her head, and there she saw a cave opening. Once her eyes fell on the entrance, she felt the streams again. ¨Fast¨.

¨Where are you going? Hey, wait for me!¨ exclaimed Chixia, as she saw her friend run to the mouth of that cave.

Yangyang ran in without thinking, and the urgency on the streams became clear when she laid eyes on what was inside: A small body of water, but big enough for someone to drown if they couldn’t move. And someone was inside it right now, doing exactly that.

Chixia caught up to Yangyang in the cave. ¨Chixia, call Baizhi, someone needs help!.¨ Exclaimed Yangyang, and as she ran in, Jinzhou’s Speedster ran out, yelling at the top of her lungs for Baizhi.

Yangyang herself was quick to pull the individual out of the puddle, and what she saw shook her heart a bit, mostly for good: A strapping, young, black haired man. Of course, dutiful Yangyang wouldn’t let the throb of her agitated heart prevent her for helping this man, if anything it made her moves even quicker.

As the man laid on the cavern floor, Yangyang checked for his vitals. Or tried, because as soon as she laid her hand on his chest to feel his heartbeat, the man’s arm shot to hers, gripping it with immense strength.

He’s strong!. Thought Yangyang, as his hand compressed her wrist. Her eyes immediately searched for his face, and she saw his open eyes. Beautiful, dark gold in color. Yangyang felt a pang of fear, his eyes were cold, and looked at hers like a predator assessing his prey, the eyes of a hardened warrior. Yet they softened after a brief moment, along with the grip on her arm, giving way to a kind look. A nurturing look. Not the eyes of a killer, but of a fierce protector.

¨Sorry¨, the young man muttered in a deep voice, and slipped back into unconsciousness.

Yangyang was perplexed by the whole exchange (if one could call it that), seeing the man figuratively return to life only to go back to sleep after a couple seconds. Yet she had a duty to fulfill, and turned back to what she was trying to do before, and started investigating the man through the streams.

His heartbeat is steady, he doesn’t seem to be hurt anywhere on his body, his mouth is free of obstruction, his breathing is rhytmic, calm, almost soothing in a way. He’s in good form, Yangyang thought, which was reinforced by the damp clothes clinging to his body, hard abdominal muscles marked through his gray shirt. Maybe she admired his strong figure a bit more than it would be strictly needed, as evidenced by her flushed face. But who could blame her?.

By the time she finished her preliminar checkup on him, Chixia arrived on the open cave again, almost dragging Baizhi by her arm. She managed to brake on time before falling on the puddle herself, and turned to look at the young man on the floor, and her expressive eyes widened ¨Woah, he’s hot!¨

¨Chixia!¨ Exclaimed Yangyang, embarrased to hear her own thoughts said out loud so easily, her face redder than her friends hair.

¨Hey, can you blame me? I think you agree with me, I can see it on your face, hehe¨ Said the Patroller, sporting a mischievous smile. Yangyang couldn’t help but blush even more.

Baizhi, clearly being the sole beacon of reason in this situation, decided to just proceed on examining the young man.

Seeing Baizhi do her duty snapped Yangyang out of her embarrasment, going to help her friend while Chixia kept laughing.

And so started the story of the Outrider and her love for the Future Savior of Jinzhou.

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Yangyang was mystified by the young amnesiac, who had taken to the nickname of Rover as soon as she suggested it. He didn’t know who he was, where he was from, or where he is. But he could fight, and he was a kind man, quick to offer help, with an easygoing attitude that made it easy to like him. He didn’t seem to be someone that would need much guidance, yet…

¨If anything feels unfamiliar or unaccommodating, you can always ask me for help, Rover. This isn't only because you are our guest. It's just... you have no memory or any friends here in Jinzhou. I think there might be moments when you'd need me¨.

Yangyang noticed some slight confusion on his face when she finished talking, but it disappeared as quick as it came, and gave way to a warm smile that made her heart skip a beat, or maybe two.

¨Thank you, Yangyang… It’s nice to meet such helpful people in a situation like this. If you need my help for anything, I would be glad to do it, it’s only right after what you and Chixia have done for me¨ he answered, with his deep, soothing voice that Yangyang had come to appreciate very quickly. He offered his hand for a handshake, which Yangyang was quick to reciprocate. His hand was big and strong, reminding her of the pain of his grip, yet she could also feel his warmth through the slightly damp glove.

They smiled as they shaked hands, but Yangyang couldn’t let but let her eyes wander for a moment while being so close to him, what little could be seen of his arms was hard with muscle, and his shirt still clinged to his body, letting her see everything she wanted to see. She quickly snapped back from her trance, but when she looked back up, she could see that she was not the only one, his eyes roving lower, a very slight tinge of red present on his face. She could tell he was admiring her, the way her dress hugged her curves, the way her leggings clinged to her thighs, the way her attire left the upper part of her breasts uncovered... He was interested, very interested, which made her tremble for a small moment, her breathing quickening, which in turn made his eyes go back to her face, red as a ripe tomato.

Both quickly let go of each other’s hands, in an awkward moment that was thankfully interrupted by Chixia’s voice calling them from up ahead

¨Come on you slowpokes, Baizhi is waiting for us!¨

This made them regain their bearings. Yangyang turned half around ¨Um, she’s right, we should get going¨

Rover regained his easygoing attitude, and with his quick smile on, just said ¨Yeah, let’s go, together¨

That last word made Yangyang flush again, and they got going, to where their speedy friend was making a fuss.

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¨Yangyang, get back!¨

She didn’t notice the moment that powerful creature clashed with her new friend, the shockwave from the impact knocking her from her feet.

She was thunderstruck. Never in her (admittedly not too long) career as one of the Midnight Rangers had she faced a Tacet Discord of this strength, the streams bombarding her with ominous messages.

Fear

Horror

Impossible

Strong

War

Destruction

Death

Death

Death

She was overwhelmed with sensation, unable to move. She hadn’t been this affected by the streams in a long time. Yet, their message wasn’t happening. She wasn’t dead. And it was thanks to Rover, fiercely protecting her, clashing with the monster, fighting for his life… and hers.

That thought spurred Yangyang to action, unsheathing her sword and joining the battle, but she couldn’t keep up with the two combatants in her current state, only being able to sneak a couple hits here and there. Yet that was enough for the TD to focus its attention on her, who feinted Rover before thrusting its spear directly at her chest, the blow too fast for her to parry or dodge. Yet death still didn’t come, as Rover moved directly to intercept it, and managed to deflect it with his blade... but he couldn’t avoid the heavy punch from its other hand, aimed directly at his face, the force of which propelled them both to crash painfully against the barrier that separated them from Chixia and Baizhi.

Crumpled on the floor, Yangyang could hear her friend gasping. ¨Keep it together¨ she heard him say, more to himself than her. His brow was bleeding, breached from where the nefarious fist hit him, but he didn’t seem to pay it any mind as he got up immediately and launched himself back into the fray, sword clashing against spear, grunts of effort coming from her friend’s mouth, mixing with Chixia’s unending barrage of bullets against the barrier, and the the monstruous roars coming from the depths of the fearsome destroyer that was that TD, creating a cacophony that assaulted Yangyang’s keen senses. The fight was even before this, but Rover movements became sloppier, the injury having rattled his brain, and it made him slowly but steadily lose ground against the fiendish warrior.

She was desperate, he got hurt because of her, would it have been better if she didn’t do anything? If she let him do all the work? Was she really that useless?

No, there must be something I can do. Yangyang recovers her sword, gripping it with intent. That TD is way more focused on Rover than her. She must find the best moment to strike and aid him, not just go in guns blazing, that’s more of Chixia’s thing.

Yangyang let her senses sharpen, taking in everything that was happening in front of her. It wielded a spear with its right hand, left hand free to grab and punch and block. Its covered in armor, plating most of its being, yet it was still devilishly fast. Tends to fly back to the left when dodging. Its wings and joints were uncovered.

That’s it!

Waiting for the adequate moment, Yangyang prepared to move.

CLINK sword parries thrust

SMASH Monstruous fist shatters the floor

Rustle Wing flaps, dodging a sword strike

Now’s the time!. Yangyang steps swiftly and slashes the back of its knees, making it fall on them, and with a precise move, unleashes an upwards cut at the monster’s left wing, separating it from its body. An inhuman roar filled the battlefield, but it was immediately silenced by Rover grabbing the TD’s head and slamming it to the floor, breaking the rock and burying its face in it, which he followed by plunging his sword on the center of its back, with it being enough damage to disperse its presence completely, leaving behind only the golden echo of the frequencies that composed the war hymn of the Crownless.

Rover fell to one knee, using his sword as a crutch not to fall, panting hard, drops of blood falling to the cracked stone beneath him. Yangyang immediately dropped her weapon and ran to him, wrapping him in a strong hug, staining her face with the blood that poured from his brow. ¨I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry!...¨ she repeated, her voice breaking.

¨Sorry for what?¨, Rover asked, geniality back to his voice, even if it sounded tired.

¨You got hurt because of me!¨ Yangyang exclaimed, tears about to burst from her eyes. She was kicking herself, if she couldn’t even protect one friend, she knew she wasn’t strong enough to protect the citizens of Jinzhou, strong enough to shield them from misfortune, and give them hope for a brighter future.

¨Yes, I did¨ his words broke her heart, even if true. ¨But I… no, we won because of you. You were the one that created the opening for me to finish that monster, when you crippled its movement. Do not worry about this¨ he said, pointing at his lacerated brow. ¨Mistakes in the heat of battle must be avoided... but we aren’t infallible, and that’s what comrades are for, to cover them when they happen, and to share in victory when the enemy is vanquished. You are stronger than you think, Yangyang¨.

¨Rover...¨ Yangyang couldn’t help but start crying, and hugged him harder. The barrier finally dispersed, and Chixia and Baizhi were able to get to them, with You’tan ready to heal their wounds.

Rover could hear Yangyang’s whisper ¨I will become stronger... This will never happen again. I will do it… for you¨. The young man lifted his arms, and wrapped them around her, Yangyang could feel his strength, and she felt safe, as she felt safe when he protected her from that monster.

She would treasure this feeling.

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And so, time passed, Rover made a place for himself in Jinzhou, working for the Pioneer’s Association, helping the Midnight Rangers and doing odd jobs here and there, mostly involving fighting or bodyguarding. He and Yangyang where often seen together around the city, strolling, shopping, dining, training. Chixia liked to tease her Outrider friend for how cozy she got with Rover so fast, which she couldn’t deny, she really took a shine to the man, she herself noted, as they conversed about it on one of their patrols.

And so her mind wandered to her fond memories with him…

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Part 1: A Pleasant Dinner

She remembered a time she had dinner with Rover at Panhua’s restaurant.

¨So¨ he said, after swallowing a piece of chicken from his skewer. ¨What are these streams you talk about sometimes exactly?¨

Yangyang put her hand to her chin, deep in thought. ¨I've been able to hear what the Streams have to tell me for as long as I can remember, since I was a small child¨

He listened intently. She loved that about him, he would pay attention to her every explanation of any minute detail of any topic she talked about. And she talked a lot. She really needed someone like him, she was feeling a bit bad about herself after hearing rumors of people calling her Yapyap for talking too much.

¨They are not sounds produced by the vibrations of air, nor sentences spoken in any known language. They are signals carried by the wind, tangible to me whenever I focus myself to feel those incorporeal, rippling airstreams¨ She said, forming a small smile.

¨Those signals led me to you, passed out in that puddle¨. Rover finished drinking from his cup and raised his brow, questioning. ¨Huh, you hadn’t told me it was because of that. Chixia told me that you just ran really fast to that cave without paying her any mind, I thought you just saw me from the outside. Guess I really ought to thank the streams for being me being alive.¨ He said, as he smiled and scratched the back of his head.

Yangyang thought back on the situation of that day, sipping from her drink. ¨Yes, it was quite weird, the streams had never behaved that way before, they were unclear and dispersed when I first got to the Gorge of Spirits, but as soon as got close to the cave entrance, the message was clearer than ever¨.

¨Man, it sounds like a really useful ability. Thought now that I think about it, isn’t an ability like that overwhelming? I can only imagine the amount of information you receive at any given second

Yangyang thought back to her old life, at the times with her parents and older sister. ¨Yes. My senses are sharper than most, it used to cause me severe distress. Various stimuli seemed to come at me from all directions, slamming into my mind at once. I felt like a lone feather...¨ She pointedly caressed one of the feathers growing from her hair. ¨...tossed around in a wild storm. Don't worry... I am okay now. I have found a way to stabilize myself in the Streams... and it was the Stream's message that led me to you¨. Both smiled at that last part, their eyes meeting, gentle gold meeting bright grey in a display that would fool anyone into thinking they are a couple. One could almost hear the envious whispers telling them to get a room already.
¨Anyway, they can also be used for other purposes, like receiving information from my immediate surroundings. At that time, I listened to them to examine your body for injuries¨. Yangyang said easily.

¨Yeeeah, I remember Chixia told me you were redder than a belle poppy after you did that, did you enjoy the eye candy, hmm?¨ Said Rover with a teasing grin, knowing he had a quite nice body.

Why, Chixia!. Yangyang thought. She had to come up with a response, before she got as red as she was back then, opening herself for further teasing. Got it!.

¨You’re one to talk, I’ve seen how you look at me too, I know you appreciate this dress, how it hugs my hips and chest? I’ve seen your eyes roving me, Rover¨ Mother, forgive me. Thought Yangyang. I’ve become an indecent woman. But I enjoy his attention. That talk was a like a precision missile aimed to Rover, but one that also exploded on Yangyang’s backyard, making both of them turn beet-red with embarrassment. They couldn’t help but laugh loudly after it. Making all single men and women in the restaurant green with envy.

After finishing their moment together, Rover got up to pay for the food, as it was his turn tonight, as they had accorded after making this dinner together an almost daily occurrence. Yangyang waited for him near the slope down to Jinzhou’s main street. ¨Come on, let me walk you home¨ said Rover as he got near her. Yangyang smiled ¨Yes… let’s go¨

And so they walked away, together, their hands brushing as they walked, until one of them finally decided to make the move, and the other reciprocated without a thought.

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Part 2: A Chance Encounter

She remembered a time when she met with Rover on the street fortuitously.

Rover was entering Jinzhou through its western gate, coming back from cleaning a herd of Tacet Discords that emerged near the city walls. He was thinking on his pay for the job, which he wanted to use to get Yangyang a nice gift, for all the help she gives him on the daily. Maybe a sword, a good one. He could only smile dumbly at the thought of making her happy. But he was snapped out of his daydreaming by a sweet sound, a beautiful hum, coming from one of the walkways near the city’s main street.

He followed the sounds, bewitched by its sweet tones, and to his surprise, he found Yangyang, leaning forward on the railing, gazing at the lake. A couple of birds chirped sweetly together with Yangyang’s humming, completing this beautiful image. He would carve this moment on his mind, he would get a canvas and paint it right here, right now. But the humming suddenly stopped, and when he realized, Yangyang was looking at him, with her usual sweet smile. One sweeter than the ones she put on for everyone else.

¨Rover, it’s good to see you¨ she said, voice high.

He smiled his most gentlemanly smile, the one she put for her, and not the dopey one he puts when he’s thinking of her. ¨I knew you have a sweet voice, but I didn’t know you could sing¨ he said while situating himself at her side.

She blushed slightly at his praise, tucking some hair behind her left ear ¨You flatter me, Rover, I would’t call humming singing, thought I think I could do well in karaoke night¨. She laughed after saying that, more musical tones inundating Rover’s ears and making his heart flutter.

¨Now that I think about it, I remember you mentioning once that your family is a family of music, no?¨ he said looking up, trying to recall.

Yangyang smiled at that, glad that he remembered something she said once in passing. ¨Yes. Well, more accuratelly, it used to be. ¨One Instrument for Life¨. That is the most important principle in my family’s teachings. Originally, it meant that every family member could strive to excel in everything, but they must choose one musical instrument to specialize in and practice continuously throughout their life to become a master. As circumstances changed, the principle gradually evolved into dedicating one’s entire life to one pursuit, striving for excellence to make this life worthwhile.¨

Yangyang thought back fondly to the time with her family, thinking she had finally started to excel at her job since she met Rover. She had indeed become much stronger than before, and she knew her family would be proud of her for it.

Rover was a bit confused. ¨Not to question your dreams, but why would someone with your background decide to become a soldier? As far as I’ve seen, you can do anything you set your mind to¨ Rover said, praisingly, praise Yangyang was happy to receive, coming from him.

¨My pursuit to be a Midnight Ranger? It became my desire after I had to spend some time in a desolate settlement... after a bandit assault separated me from my family for a time. There I witnessed truths of the world I couldn’t even fathom as the daughter of a rich family. The suffering of the people. And so I desired to help in a more tangible way.¨ Yangyang said, her eyes lost on the horizon, reliving the memories of her past.

She looked back at Rover, and then to the main square of Jinzhou, tinged with the late afternoon’s red light, bathing the children playing on it. ¨We all have an appreciation for beauty, but life isn't always full of it. I don't want to always rely on the comforts and safety others provide me with. I must be brave to face the ugly truth. I must be one that guards and gives.¨ Yangyang said, her voice steeled with resolve.

Rover’s mind was hazy, he didn’t think he could like her more than right now, after hearing what she said. He may not know who he is or where he came from, but he knows that his feelings on life are the same as hers, being the one that protects and provides, that is his purpose.

Yangyang knew what he was thinking, she could see it on his eyes. They didn’t kneed to exchange words. They just basked on that moment of shared resolve in comfortable silence.

After a while, Rover finally decided to speak up ¨But you can sing, right? Mind giving me a private performance sometime?¨ he said with a cheeky grin.

Yangyang laughed, more used to his occasional teasing. ¨Maybe some other time¨. She smiled. ¨Speaking of performances, I heard they’re staging a new play on the theater tonight, want to see what is it about?¨ she asked him.

¨Of course, let’s get going!¨ he said, grabbing her hand with no shame at all, which she allowed unthinkingly.

¨Wait, is it a Hero Play?¨ he asked, after they started making their way to the theater.

¨I don’t know, thought if it is, we’ll probably know before we even get there, we just have to watch out for Chixia’s red hair among the crowd¨ Yangyang said with a laugh.

And so, hand in hand they went to the theater, only to be caught by Chixia and subjected to their Speedster Friend’s lighthearted teasing. At least they knew it was indeed a Hero Play.

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Part 3: Anguish and Relief

She remembered a time when Rover visited her home

Yangyang had talked to him about it, wanting him to come visit her house to try her cooking. She also wanted to give him a gift, One of her hand crafted wind chimes, one specially made for him, using materials from the strongest Tacet Discords she had slain. One would think it macabre from the outside, and maybe it was, but for her, it was an expression of thanks, and proof that she had become stronger thanks to him.

Yet she found herself waiting for him, waiting, and waiting, and when she noticed, it was night. Her house was pitch black. She got up from her chair in her little workshop to turn on the lights, but they didn’t work. She was scared. Why was she scared? It was just the dark, surely a soldier like her wouldn’t be scared of the dark inside her own home?

Yet she was scared.

She walked through her home, hand constantly feeling the wall to situate herself. She had to reach the fusebox near her main door. But she had to pause. She heard voices.

Jeering voices

¨Have you heard? About that chicken-hair Outrider? She found a passed out man in the outskirts, yet he died on her a little bit later. If she couldn’t even protect a single man from the Tacet Discords why is she even part of the Midnight Rangers?¨

Contemptuous voices

¨She thinks she knows so much, the walking encyclopedia, trying to show us off. All she’s doing is flaunting being from a rich family, playing at being a soldier¨

Sad voices

¨Daughter, it’s fine. You can come home. Sometimes a pursuit doesn’t work out, you can always try something else¨.

The sympathetic words of her mother’s voice hurt her the most. It was the utmost acknowledgment of her failure.

Voices she held dear

¨Yangyang¨

She was nearing the main door. She could see a familiar figure through the piece of frosted glass in the upper part of her door. The fusebox was just there, she only had to open it a flick a switch.

Yet...

¨Rover?¨ She said, voice cracking

¨Yangyang!¨ His voice sounded angry. He only heard him sound like this while battling the Crownless.
The Crownless

¨Rover!¨

She opened the door with a fast swing, and saw him standing there. Half of his face caved in, caked in blood and meat and pieces of bone, clearly from a blunt blow. She remembered it, the punch he took from that monster to protect her during their first battle together. She started tearing up. Eyes itchy, her head hurt, her knees knocking together.

¨Rover...¨ she cried piteously

¨Yangyang¨

¨Yangyang!¨

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Rover was walking to Yangyang’s home. He couldn’t wait to try her cooking. He got caught up in some shenanigans with a flying gulpuff and was arriving a bit late, but he got some ingredients in hopes of making it up to her by cooking together. Yangyang liked doing things together.

She also said she wanted to give him a gift, she mentioned it offhandedly during a field lunch on top of the Giant Banyan, which they got to climb after felling that enormous TD that inhabited it. That was a dangerous one, so much that the Huaxu Academy had collaborated with the Midnight Rangers to attach a bracelet to its arm to keep track of it’s movements and avoid it. Yet with him and Yangyang working together, they managed to destroy it, adding another notch to their belts. He was very proud of her, of how much stronger she had become in such a short time.

Before realizing it, he found himself near her front door, a house in an alley near to the main square, with enough space for a small garden, filled with multiple plants that Yangyang maintained lovingly. He noticed a couple of new flowerpots, holding Pecok Flowers. Those weren’t here the last time he saw the garden. They look healthy, these are his favorite flower among the ones he had seen around Jinzhou.

He turned back to the door with a smile, ringed the doorbell, and waited. And waited. And waited some more, before ringing again. And still nothing.

¨Yangyang?¨ He said as loudly as he could without disturbing the neighbors. Someone could be taking a nap in the late afternoon, after all.

No response.

He shrugged. Maybe she fell asleep, she always worked herself to the bone. That’s another reason she needed him, he thought, she always put everyone’s wishes over her own, it’s only fair he put hers over everyone else’s. Rover reached up to the top of her doorframe. He had been here before, he knew where she put her spare key. After a bit of skulking, he found it, and opened the door with it.

He could hear whimpering.

Rover quickly left the groceries on the nearest table and searched for the source of it, worry wrapping his heart in a vise.

The house wasn’t big, so after a little bit, he found it. It was Yangyang, asleep, her head resting on her arms, face down. She fell asleep while working on something. She seemed to be having a nightmare, and a bad one, at that. She was mumbling with a cracked voice, a tone that he didn’t ever want to hear from her.

He put his hand on her shoulder and shook her slightly.

¨Yangyang¨ he said softly.

¨Rover...¨ She replied piteously, still asleep

¨Hey, Yangyang¨

¨Rover...¨ a soft cry.

¨Yangyang, wake up!¨

The feather-haired Outrider woke up, her head snapping up, yet still resting on her arms.

She looked dishevelled, tears staining her face as she looked at him in immense sadness. ¨Rover...¨ she cried.

Rover leaned down and wrapped her in his arms, bathing her in his warmth ¨I’m here with you, Yangyang. I’m here. I’m real. It was just a nightmare, I’m here. With you.¨

Yangyang sniffed. ¨I’m sorry… I’m sorry. It’s too much. Just remembering that... time¨

He instantly knew what she was talking about. ¨Yangyang. My dear Yangyang¨. Her heart jumped at that. ¨You’ve become stronger. I too have become stronger. We can overcome anything together. Something like that won’t happen again. Remember what you said to me after we destroyed that Big Ape? After we did it together?¨

¨I… I...¨ Yangyang stuttered

¨You do remember. Those were beautiful words, my Yangyang. Please, repeat them to me, I want to hear them again.¨ he said, his deep, soothing voice reassuring her, calming her agitated mind.

That spurred her to remember. She couldn’t refuse a request from him. ¨I... dedicate my song to brilliance... braving the raging storm¨ Her hug on him tightened ¨The skylark in me... has never soared higher into the heavens¨

Rover was happy. She sounded calmer. Yangyang felt his arms climb from her back to her shoulders, and then he leaned back, and put his hands on her face, wiping away what remained of her tears. ¨We are in the real world, Yangyang. Don’t let a nightmare drag you down. We have each other, and nothing will change that¨ He leaned closer. ¨Let me show it to you¨. And then he closed the distance completely, his lips touching hers. Yangyang offered no resistance, for she there was nothing she wanted more than this.

She whimpered sweetly at the kiss, which spurred Rover to deepen it, and she felt his tongue prodding at her lips, which she reciprocated, tangling their tongues in a sweet dance of pure love and lust.

The kiss deepened and deepened, until they both had to come out for air, gasping and panting.

They looked at each other.

¨Rover… I love you. More than anything in this world¨

¨You already know my answer, Yangyang¨ he said, his slightly teasing tone back to his voice.

Yangyang pouted cutely ¨But I want to hear you say it¨

The face she made was a fatal blow to Rover’s heart, one which spurred him to action. ¨I love you too, my sweet Yangyang. You are the sun to my moon, the song to my dance, you are… well, you get it, I can’t get any more embarrased than now¨

Yangyang laughed sweetly. Rover was glad to hear her laugh again, to hear her melodic tones. ¨Yes, I can see it, my love.¨ She punctuated it with a quick peck on his lips, after which she got up from her chair. ¨Come on, let’s get cooking, I fell asleep waiting for you, you know?¨

¨Well, there was this situation with a gulpuff...¨

The conversation continued, the lights of the house turning on. No one would come out of it until the next day.

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Yangyang finished her reminiscing, still walking with her fiery friend.

¨Well, I wouldn’t call it cozying up to him. I myself think it was rather natural. Like it was just meant to be. Speaking of, are you free this weekend? We’re going to move his stuff from the City Hall to my house, and then we wanted to have a little reunion with our friends. You know, you, Baizhi, maybe a couple more...¨

Chixia whipped back in a dramatic gesture straight out of one of her favorite plays ¨You’re moving together already?! Aw man, you snatched him up so fast. I don’t know if you noticed, Yangyang, but half the city’s bachelorettes were after him!… Some of the bachelors too, now that I think about it¨

¨I did notice. Too late for them, now they will know, he’s mine, and I’m his¨

Chixia was the one blushing this time ¨Yangyang… You’ve become bolder! Taking what you want just like that, you’re making me feel shy!¨

¨Well, it’s all thanks to a certain someone¨ Yangyang said, her tone of voice implying things.

¨Whaaaaaa… alright, enough of that, I don’t want to hear more about it, or I’ll get envious. Yeah, I’m free this weekend. Dang I’ll even help you two move the stuff, just give me a call and I’ll be there faster than you can say Chixia, Jinzhou’s Heroic Speedster!¨

Yangyang smiled at her dear friend. ¨Thank you, Chixia¨

She kept thinking. This is the start of a new chapter. A beautiful new chapter of my life.

Chapter Text

A high-definition map of Desorock Highland was being projected from Yangyang’s terminal. ¨We cannot follow the regular routes, Rover, as they will be swarming with TDs summoned by the retroact rain¨ Yangyang spoke firmly, slipping completely into her Outrider role. Rover was fascinated, watching her talk so seriously. It was something he didn’t get to see very frequently.

¨...so we might have to pass close to this Tacet Field, which could spell trouble. I have no doubt we won’t have any problems handling anything in our way, but we need to conserve our strength¨. Praise be, his dear Yangyang was so beautiful, he really loved his girlfriend.

¨Um, Rover? Are you listening?¨

¨Oh!, yes, yes I am, sorry, I was stupefied by how cute you are is all¨

¨Hmm, is that so?¨. She fluttered her eyelashes at him. ¨Then how about this, recite what I said to you just now, and I will show you just how cute I can be after we return victorious¨ Yangyang said, enticing her boyfriend, winding him up for action.

Rover, not wanting to risk not seeing ¨super cute¨ Yangyang, pulled on every single synapse he had, one would think he was trying to literally flex his brain like a muscle.

¨We can’t get there normally so we need to do some zig-zagging here and there, and we might need to pass close to a Tacet Field so we have to be careful. As we need to save our strength to be use in the field base to aid the General in the frontlines. Did I get the gist of it?¨. He asked, hopeful.

Yangyang was impressed, even while unsubtly admiring her body, Rover was a man capable of multitasking. The dreaded man who can think with both heads at the same time. ¨Good enough for me, you will get a big, big dose of ¨Your extremely cute girlfriend Yanyan¨ once we get back, hehe¨

Yanyan?!. He thought. He might be in over his head!. Maybe his heart was at risk. Or maybe he would go blind. Diabetes does that to you, right? It’s so over for him.

¨But lets get going, they’re waiting for us. By the time this is over, everyone will know your name¨. Yangyang said, always adoring of her boyfriend.

Rover looked the tiniest bit miffed. ¨Our names, Yangyang. We are a team, don’t forget¨

¨Oh, I, Uhm… sorry, I know you told me to hold myself in greater esteem, but it’s a bit hard still. I am aware of our accomplishments thought. You are right, we will be heroes by the time we’re back¨

Rover smiled. ¨That’s more like it, let’s get going, my heroine¨

And so they went. Moving through the sandy terrains like ghosts, not alerting a single TD, ducking between ruined building and dark caves, the streams aiding Yangyang to feel her way around. But her head wouldn’t stop spinning. Me? A hero? That can’t possibly be.

Her beloved could almost read her thoughts, her expression said it all: She wasn’t sure. And he had to make sure she was sure, overthinking things and letting it distract them could mean death for them, no matter how strong they might be.

So as soon as the chance presented itself, he pulled Yangyang inside a ruined building, and proceeded to corner her against a wall. ¨Rover?¨ A whispered word. His behavior didn’t bother her. If anything it made her get a bit too eager, rubbing her leg against his.

He too started to get in the mood, yet it was not the time for that, and a single look at her made her stop, understanding the unsaid.

¨Yangyang, I can see it in you when we walk. You’re nervous, you’re not sure, you’re not confident right now. Tell me the why of that.¨ He said, his deep voice serious.

Yangyang deflated, all the horny gone from her. ¨Uhm.¨

¨Don’t uhm me, my dear, tell me your thoughts. Please¨

¨It’s just… You said we will be heroes, but… how can I compare with you? I know I’ve become stronger, much, much stronger. But it’s all because of you, it’s not my own merit...¨. She let out, in a low voice.

Hearing her put herself down like that hurt him. He always wanted to see the happy Yangyang, the cheerful Yangyang, the one that always gifted him a beautiful smile every morning, when they woke side by side.

Yangyang let out a sigh, seeing he wasn’t satisfied with that answer. She dug deeper inside her mind, trying to bring out what he wanted to hear.

¨...Since I became an Outrider, I've met people from all walks of life. Some always seemed in such haste, yet remained unsure where they were heading, and often ended up lost. On the other hand, those who had a clear destination in mind usually did make it, despite arduous roads and occasional stumbles. You are different.¨ A soft breath.

¨You don’t remember anything, yet you are not lost. You are like a beacon in the storm. Unyielding. Powerful. You are special.¨ A gentle smile. ¨The Streams make an unusual ripple whenever they flow beside you, as if they are being drawn to you once they come close. I don't know what that implies, but I'm sure I won't settle for standing aside and watching, no matter the implications. If circumstances permit, I want to face everything with you. I can only be but grateful at you accepting me as your partner, inadequate as I am¨

¨Enough!¨ Rover exclaimed, uncaring of their current situation.

Yangyang shrinked back instinctively at her boyfriend’s anger. He had never gotten like that with her before.

¨Yangyang, why do you think I am strong? Why do you think I keep going despite everything?. Do not use your mind, use your heart¨ He immediately wrapped her in a hug, putting her ear to his chest. She could hear his heartbeat. Calm and soothing. Feel his warmth, keeping her safe. Yangyang opened her senses to the streams.

Love

Love was all she felt. His whole being was emanating love. Love for the world, love for the people. And the most of all, the most intense of all. love for her. Love for Yangyang, the Outrider of the Midnight Rangers. Yangyang, the Walking Encyclopedia. Yangyang, whose voice soothed his ears. Yangyang, the one who he laid with. Yangyang, his comrade, his partner, his love.

¨I can see it in your eyes, you’ve already grasped it, right?¨ Rover smiled at her, the most sincere smile she had seen in him just yet, a smile full of affection. ¨I have also become stronger since we met. You have made me stronger, Yangyang. You have become the center of my world. If I do something, I do it for you. Don’t put yourself down. This magnificent hero you describe is only what he is due to your unfailing support, ever forget that. Remember, partners, there’s not Rover without his Yangyang.¨

Yangyang couldn’t help but laugh. Sometimes things just escaped her reasoning, even with all the knowledge she had accumulated. Humans are not something you can quantify, after all. ¨I love you, Rover. I get it.¨ She smiled beautifully. ¨No more self-conscious Yangyang. I’ll believe in myself. Because you believe in me¨

¨That’s my girl¨ He finally let her go, with a light slap on her rear for good measure. ¨Keep yourself focused, we need to be at the top of your game. Besides, I can’t get my dose of tremendously cute girlfriend Yanyan if you get hurt, right?¨

Yangyang reciprocated the slap with a caress on the low of his back. He squirmed. She knew he was sensitive there. ¨The same goes for you, I will be wanting my own dose of gallant boyfriend Rover when we get back, so you better keep yourself safe too¨

A dorky smile shared between them, they went back to face the world once again. Together.

Chapter Text

The road was arduous.

Of course it was, Norfall Barrens was already the frontline, but with a Threnodian’s influence, the Tacet Discords had multiplied and permeated the whole area.

Yet, the hardest fight was still ahead of them.

Yangyang, Rover, and General Jiyan had arrived to the highest point in Norfall Barrens, the floating debris in front of Ovathrax’s Statue, a grim reminder for Jinzhou.

Yet trouble followed behind them. ¨This amount of enemies... We cannot fire the Disruptor again...¨. General Jiyan said, his voice tinged with a slight bit of worry he couldn’t disguise with his regular temperance.

The Taced Discords from their back were getting closer and closer, one could count almost 50 of their number. Yet even faced with such odds, Yangyang stepped forward. ¨Yangyang, you...¨ Started the General. ¨The Threnodian is only going to summon more of them as we go. We need someone to keep them away and let the others get safely into the statue.¨ Yangyang interrupted him. ¨I understand you're planning to do it yourself, Qinglong, but I think I am better suited for this task.¨

Yangyang let out a tired sigh, yet she stood tall. ¨ I understand you don't want to leave anyone behind. But we all know you and Rover have the best chance against that monster.¨ She looked pointedly at her beloved, who was speechless. ¨Now that our shared goal is within hand's reach, I... I do not want to let it slip away.¨

Rover stepped towards Yangyang. ¨No, Yangyang! They’re too-.¨ His chastisement was silenced by a kiss, a deep kiss filled with all of Yangyang’s love. When they separated, Yangyang put a finger to his lips. ¨Rover. Let me do this. Weren’t you the one who said that I am strong?. I believe in myself, you showed me how. Please. Go on. Only you and the Qinglong can take care of an enemy of that caliber. Leave these to me. I will do my part here. And I will do it, because I love this world. And I love you. I will be waiting here for you. Give that monster hell, let it know the strength and resolve of Jinzhou, and of our love.¨ Rover was speechless. He could only step back slowly, back to the General’s side.

Yangyang exclaimed. A declaration to the world. ¨I will stand guard here. The Threnodian will not be able to draw more power from the monsters here!¨. She unsheathed her blade, a blade of icy blue metal. A dear gift from Rover. ¨The skylark's song is about to sound¨

General Jiyan and Rover moved on, leaving Yangyang to fend off the horde of TDs. ¨... I'll leave the rest to you¨

Facing them, Yangyang threw herself into battle.

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

In the Threnodian’s statue

¨Yangyang...¨. Rover said, worry more than clear in his voice.

General Jiyan looked at him, and put a reasurring hand on his shoulder.

¨Rover. Yangyang’s resolve is unshakeable. She decided to do it, and that’s what she’ll do¨. A moment of silence. ¨I remember a couple of years in the past, when Yangyang arrived to Jinzhou. I met her while she was in training under Instructor Yhan. A young girl from a rich family, with nothing but her ribboned cap, a sword, and a wish to protect, she joined the Midnight Rangers¨

Jiyan smiled warmly. ¨She always looked cheerful, but I could tell she was unsatisfied, she seemed lost, even if she desired to be the one who guides. Yet, she has changed a lot since I last saw her. Love is a powerful thing, Rover.¨ Jiyan let his hand drop, and grasped his blade. ¨Now, show her your love too, for your partner. Let’s defeat this Threnodian, and let you come back to her.¨

Rover’s gaze steadied. ¨Yes… No hesitation¨.

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

Yangyang found herself in battle. It was hard. None of these TDs was as fast as the Crownless, none was as brutishly strong as the Feilian Beringal, but the sheer number of them was overwhelming.

That’s what the streams told her. Yet Yangyang wouldn’t let that cloud her mind. She had to do this. She sweept the battlefield with her gaze, analyzing.

The big ones are slow, the multiple small ones shoot projectiles, can use the big ones as cover, manouver around the traffic light TD to use its power to her advantage, redirect arrows using the wind, throw them to the whisperins to make them explode, taking others with them.

No more time for planning. It’s time. ¨Let the winds roar!¨. And so they did.

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

She’s hurt. The battle is still raging, waves of resonance energy releasing from the threnodian’s statue on irregular intervals.

She couldn’t tell if it was a good thing or a bad thing.

But she can not give up the fight.

A thunder arrow hit her right shoulder. It hurts like hell. It hurts so much.

But she can not give up the fight.

The enemies had thinned, but the ones left were fierce. The waves stopped, but the statue didn’t change, or fall, or anything. Yangyang started to despair. What if they lost? What if they died? What is she going to do? How could he leave her alone?

The enemies approached.

Twenty, Yangyang thought, despairing. She had no chance against twenty, she knew. No chance, and no choice. Yet she pushed the doubt out, she had to believe in him.

She launched herself into battle once again, yet she was instantly repelled by a punch from one of the big ones. Leaving her crumpled on the floor, slowly being surrounded. She couldn’t see the enemies anymore. The blow rattled her senses, all she could see was unending black. Taking her back to that terrible nightmare.

It’s over. ¨I should... Give it my all...¨. She can do no more.

She didn’t want to be useless, she didn’t want to be a know-it-all. She just wanted to help. She just wanted to be with him.

She whimpered. ¨Sorry, I didn't...¨

Yangyang heard a loud sound, and the telltale noise of the frequencies of Tacet Discords being unraveled. ¨Down with the curtain.¨ It’s him, I can hear him!, but my eyes… I cannot see him. I’m too tired.

She felt his strong hands lift her from the floor. ¨You did amazingly, my beloved¨. She felt his hot lips on her forehead, right on her tacet mark. Her eyes finally worked, and she could finally see him. A couple bruises on his face, but mostly unharmed. General Jiyan seemed worse for the wear, yet he was still on his feet, using his spear as a crutch. ¨Rover… Qinglong Jiyan… Did you win? Did you defeat the Threnodian?...¨ Yangyang’s voice was weak, tired from the long battle, hurting from the blows and the puncture the arrow left on her flesh. ¨We did it, Yangyang¨. Yangyang knew Rover didn’t mean him and the General. ¨It’s over, we are victorious¨. Yangyang couldn’t help but cry. She felt as if all she had done since meeting Rover was cry. Yet these were tears of happiness, shared with her dear.

¨Let’s go back¨. Rover said, voice full of happiness.

General Jiyan straightened. ¨Indeed. They’ll be waiting for us¨.

Chapter Text

Of course, after winning a war, one needs to celebrate right?

At least, so it did the city of Jinzhou, bestowing the highest honors on the pertinent individuals.

This was new for Yangyang, finding herself the target of constant praise and adoration from the population. She enjoyed it, not because of the adoration itself, but because seeing the smiles of the people she protected made her feel that her effort had been worth it.

Well, that was half of it.

The other half was being able to share in it with her beloved…

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

Before...

The medical building of the Midnight Ranger’s frontline base was as any medical building is, clean and sterile. Yet, there was an individual room that was full of life.

Yangyang and Rover’s wounds were treated by General Jiyan himself, but as much as a medical savant the man was, he couldn’t just make necessary rest time disappear, so they had to stay a couple of days in the base to wait for an adequate healing resonator to arrive, before going back to Jinzhou. Well, Yangyang had, but Rover wasn’t about to just get up and leave his girlfriend.

She was all battered, bandages covering her shoulder where that arrow hit her. Some turning-purple bruises dotted the rest of her body, she even had a bit of a black eye. She dressed in blue pajamas, an old favorite of hers that a certain speedster brought from her home, along with a couple other select items.

¨Ow¨. Whined Yangyang when she tried to move her right arm. The shock that came from that Electro Predator’s arrow had left the muscles in her arm in serious pain, one that wasn’t completely eliminated by the painkillers. ¨Take it easy, dear¨ Said Rover, helping her put her arm back on the bed. ¨What did you need?¨

¨A big cuddle from my big boyfriend would be just the thing¨. Yangyang said in a mix between cuteness and sensuality. She had already forgotten what she even wanted to do with her arm.

Rover squirmed in his chair. He had created a monster. He got up and went to get in the bed with her. It was bigger than a regular bed, but smaller than the queen-sized bed they had at home. He had to move carefully to not hurt Yangyang. She winced, moving herself a bit to a side so he could slide in the bed. He managed to get in, scurrying a hand behind Yangyang’s back to support her as she let herself slip lower on the bed, to plant her head on his hard chest, ear to pec, ending up in a weird half spoon.

¨Hmm¨ she cooed sweetly. ¨I love you¨

Rover wouldn’t ever get tired of hearing that. ¨And I love you more¨

Yangyang just smiled, basking in her dear’s warmth. She reflected on her situation. How the choices she made on her life had taken her to this position. And she didn’t regret a single thing. Not even that goddamn arrow that’s still hurting her today. Being with Rover, like this, made it all worth it. But something else was going on.

Rover’s hands started to, well, rove, caressing her body softly, dextrously avoiding the bruises. Yangyang just pulled closer to him. Right hand to her back, rubbing in circles, left hand giving attention to the front of her body, artfully tracing her curves, fondling her breasts carefully and leaving them with a squeeze that left her breathing hard, wanting to ask for more. His hand came to rest under her navel, lightly pressing and stroking, making Yangyang lose herself in desire. His hand slid lower, the tip of his fingers going past the hem of her pajama pants.

¨Please...¨ Whined Yangyang needily, looking him in the eye with those bright greys, melting his heart. ¨Of course¨ he said, his hand going lower. He lowered his head, whispering on her hear ¨Let yourself go, little Yanyan¨. She felt his tongue on her ear.

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

Yangyang was thankful that the soldiers were still celebrating noisily outside, or they would have heard some strange sounds coming out of the Very-Important-Pacients room. Rover was back on his chair, shirt off, cleaning his hand. Yangyang was splayed on the bed, still breathing heavily.

¨Why… here...¨. Yangyang asked, getting her bearings back little by little

Rover raised an eyebrow, throwing the towel he used to clean his hand to the side. ¨Why, you didn’t like it?¨

¨I loved it...¨. Yangyang turn her head to hide her face with the pillow.

¨Alright alright. I just wanted to make you feel a bit better.¨ He smiled. ¨I can almost feel your pain by looking at you.¨ He looked at her empathetically. ¨Also, I remember how you got when I dragged you into that building yesterday, I know you were pent up, what with me going on that business with Aalto and Encore just before the Retroact Rain started¨ His smile turned into his teasing smirk as he said that.

Yangyang could just sigh. The sound of the soldiers still celebrating inundated the ambient. She wished she could be out there along with Rover, drinking in those joyful sounds. That reminds her…

¨Dear, can you do me a favor?...¨

¨Whatever you need, Yangyang¨.

¨Can you search for a my sound recorder in the bag? The one that Chixia brought early today¨

He went for the dark blue bag and looked inside, quickly finding the small gadged amidst some clothes and other effects.

¨Got it, what do I do with it?¨ He asked, looking at the small thing.

¨I want you to go outside and have some fun, to record the streams that I cannot witness right now¨

¨But I would be leaving you alone, my love¨

¨Don't worry so much, I’m not gonna curl into a ball and die if you’re not with me for a couple hours. Go on, share in the victory with the rest of the Rangers, I’m sure they’ll welcome you. Besides, as I said, you’ll be doing me a favor, recording what you can of those sounds. I would like to hear the joy of the people, which I cannot do cooped up in here¨

¨Hmm¨ he still seemed doubtful, it both warmed and hurt Yangyang’s heart to see him conflicted over her. She could see it in his expression. He was feeling the exact same guilt she felt once before.

¨Rover, my treasure, listen to me. I know seeing me like this hurts you¨. He looked down, knowing he couldn’t hide anything from her. ¨I know you don’t want to leave me alone for even a second, I know you want to… make it up to me for leaving me behind. even thought it wasn’t your fault, and it was necessary for victory. I know exactly how you feel, for I felt the same before, when you got hurt protecting me from the Crownless. It’s a desolating feeling, I know it well, and you know I know. And you helped me face it. And not let it control how I feel and think.¨

Yangyang extended her arms towards him, beckoning him to a hug, which he corresponded immediately.

Yangyang whispered on his ear. ¨Rover, you have already done so much for me. From now on, I want to be the one taking care of you. Please... will you let me? I hope I can be the one to embrace all that you are, and share with you all that you carry¨

He tightened his embrace. The sweet whispers continued.¨Once I am recovered, our journey will continue, my love, and when that happens… call my name whenever you need me. From desolate lands to vibrant cities, from the beginning prologue to the final epilogue... no matter what awaits us in the end of this journey, no matter what kind of storm you are about to bring, I want to witness everything, together with you,.¨

Yangyang felt a bit of moisture on her cheek. She opened her eyes to see her beloved crying. It seems it was finally his turn. ¨Yes… Yangyang… we will… we will¨.

This embrace, this sensation… it reminded them that their life together was only beginning. They still had much ground to cover, who knew what awaited them in the future. Yet as long as they faced it together, they knew they could overcome everything.

Chapter Text

"We could take care of these by ourselves". Rover grumbled, flicking a bug crawling on his arm, disgust clear on his face.

Yangyang looked at him reproachingly. "Our task is just to observe, dear"

"Doesn't mean I have to like it. Your turn, by the way". He got up from the chair near the crack on the wall and went back to sit in the ruined couch, Yangyang taking his place.

He stewed in his anger. Having to accompany his girlfriend to a mission less than a two weeks after she got injured fighting a Threnodian had him fuming. Hasn't she earned some rest?

"Why so grumpy, dear heart?". He was angry, but he couldn't be angry at her terms of endearment.

"...Sorry, I just wanted to spend some quality time with my gorgeous girlfriend after she finally recuperated from her injuries, only for her to be sent out of the city for three days on an observation mission that could be easily replaced by elimination". He wanted to make a little quip but ended up spilling the beans completely.

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

"What do you mean you have a mission?". He sounded angry, not at her, of course, but she didn't like hearing him like this, no matter the reason.

"It's urgent, dear, the Midnight Rangers are shorthanded after the last battle, and I'm the best outrider avaliable...". Yangyang spoke apologetically.

"Yes, I know that, I know you're the best... I just wanted to spend the free time we were supposed to have together."

"...I'm sorry". Yangyang looked down.

"No... It's not your fault…"

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

You could have stayed. She thought, but deep down she knew that wasn't the problem. "Rover, these exiles are just smugglers…"

He raised his eyebrow questioningly.

"They're not killers or kidnappers... I just feel like killing them would just be too much...". She didn't want to see her beloved be so merciless.

"...". He contemplated her words. The memory of that one Midnight Ranger came to his mind, how she used her blood blades to dispatch that whole exile camp without thinking twice. The memory was a bit terrifying. Not because of the blood and death as on themselves, but because he was thinking just like that girl.

Yangyang wouldn't want me to be like that. And I wouldn't want to be like that.

"I think you understand, right?". She looked at him, one of her beautiful smiles brightened her features.

"...Thank you, Yangyang"

"No, thank you, dear. You grasped it immediately. I feel mercy is... Vital, to being human."

To being human

"Maybe it's because of the streams, but... People have lots of worries, lots of problems, lots of circunstances... I can feel how it affects them... Even some of the most hardened exiles I've confronted... Even they have feelings, feelings that drive them, feelings of sadness, of powerlesness¨. Her expression made clear to him that it was as if she’s feeling all of that herself.

¨...Rover, some exiles are born as exiles, through no fault of their own, but because of the proverbial sins of the father. Just slaughtering them is... I feel that's evil"

Some of these people are evil. Very evil. Some by choice, some because of the lack of choice. Others have been forced into being exiles, and just try to make the best of their circunstances. I have met multiple of those. She's right, as always. I shouldn't think of killing them without thinking just because I'm frustrated. Some of them could be turned around, some just try to live in peace... Being human is complicated.

Yangyang snapped her fingers, taking him out of his thoughts. "And their supplier just appeared, now that we know what we have the information we need, we can take a rest". She talked cheerfully, lifting his mood immediately. She moved to the couch, planting herself in Rover's lap, face to face.

"Hmm? What's this?". He asked, his tone teasing.

Yangyang hugged him, smushing his face to her breasts. "A little reward for you... For being so good…"

"So my reward is something that is already mine?". His voice was muffled by her flesh, but his amusement was clear.

"Hmm, you don't like it? I'm a bit hurt". She played along, making a sad little voice.

"Don't misunderstand me, I could never not like you". He wrapped his arms around her, caressing her bare upper back with his hands.

"But if this is my reward for this, what was that you did to me before we left Jinzhou?". His tone was teasing.

"Ah, umm... That's for... Being you?". She stammered, remembering what she did in that alley.

Rover looked up at her. "Heh... I love you, Yangyang"

Her smile could light up a room. "And I you, sweetheart!". They shared a brief kiss, Yangyang stopping him before he could get more handsy.

"Nope, not here, dear, let's go home, then we can do anything we want...". Her voice was full of promise.

"I can't wait... hold on, we haven't been in the house for like a week!"

Yangyang looked confused. "Well, yes?"

"We're going to have to clean before doing anything...". Rover said despondently.

"Oh"

Chapter Text

Rover lifted the couch with from one side with both hands, letting Yangyang sweep the floor under it with the broom. ¨Hey, I found that button you were searching for the other day¨. Yangyang crouched to pick up the item, a silver button that had fallen off from his favorite jacket. Maybe we should go get some new clothes. Rover thought, looking down and his and Yangyang’s current wear. Some wore down clothes that they used when cleaning the house. Both of them were already sweaty, with all the work they had done for the day.

¨Heh, I guess it’ll be a replacement now, just after getting the new one, too¨. He said, putting the couch down with ease. ¨Well, what’s left to do?¨.

Yangyang looked at the ceiling, thinking about it. ¨Hmm… oh, the bathroom sink! I bought the stuff to fix it the other day, but then all of that happened and we couldn’t do it¨.

Rover suddenly remembered, a bit of anger coming to him when the memory of getting soaked by the sink exploding came back to him, he was even wearing his nice clothes. ¨Right! let’s get to that¨

Rover moved to the bathroom, taking out the cleaning products from under the sink. Well, one more cleanup before leaving for Mt. Firmament. I hope it doesn’t take long… I wish Yangyang could come with me…

Yangyang arrived to his side, carrying the toolbox and the replacement parts for the sink. ¨Well, let’s get to it, dear¨

¨Yeah, time to fix some pipe!¨. He almost screamed, not thinking about he was going to say, distracted as he was. The weird statement left Yangyang blinking confusely. ¨...heh… hahaha!¨.

Well, she’s laughing, at least.

¨Heh… hah, what was that?¨. She asks him, struggling not to drop the toolbox, her face a bit flushed from the laugh. ¨I have no idea, let’s just get to it¨. He answers her, blushing a tiny bit from the embarrassment as he crouches, taking a look at the pipes before getting to work.

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

¨So… how much was the time dilation in Mt. Firmament again? I seem to recall it being about 10 days in Jinzhou for every day inside, but I might be wrong¨. Yangyang asked him as he worked on the sink, tools clinking as he did.

¨Sanhua told me it’s supposed to be like that, yes, but that recently there have been problems with it. She told me that it has been chaotic. So it could be more, it could be less, or it could even be completely paused. Or all of them at the same time¨. He kept working as he talked, sitting on the floor, leaning forward.

¨That… doesn’t sounds good… I don’t want to be apart from you...¨. Yangyang sounded sad, they had grown very attached. And for good reason, after all the have gone through together, and experienced together.

¨Me neither, dear… but it’s important¨. Rover left the wrench to the side and leaned in to look.

I know it is, but still… I don’t want to wake alone again...

¨Alright, can you let the water run?¨ Yangyang reached beside the toilet to turn the key.

And water exploded from the pipe, soaking Rover once again. ¨...Dammit¨

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

¨Well finally!¨. The water was running without leaking.

¨Good job, dear!¨. Yangyang sounded very enthusiastic for something that was relatively simple.

¨Come one, don’t say it like that, you’ll make me feel like a kid showing a bad drawing to his parents or something like that...¨. Rover answered her, rubbing the back of his head.

¨Well, it was difficult for us, so why not be happy it’s done?¨. Rover sighed, tiredness clear on it. Yangyang felt bad, so she decided to cheer him up. ¨How about this, let’s fill the bathtub and open one of our good bottles, we deserve a rest after all the cleaning we did today!¨. She told him, excitement clear in her voice. It was clear she wanted to do it too.

¨Yeah, that would be good. Good thinking, honey¨. Rover smiled at her, making her beam back at him. ¨I’ll go get the bottle and glasses, you get the water running¨

¨Sure thing!¨. She turned to do her thing, while Rover walked out of the bathroom, yet he saw something out of the corner, turning to find a stain in the ceiling, product of their vigorous activities. It can’t be… I guess I’ll just ignore it.

Yangyang said one of our good bottles, but they had all of two bottles, and the finest was some cheap white wine. None of the two were alcohol connossieurs, after all. He pulled the bottle out, and turned to fetch the glasses, walking back to the room with the items on hand. When he got in, he caught a glimpse of himself in the full body mirror. He looked ragged. I haven’t worked that much today, have I… or am I really that anxious to separate from Yangyang…

He entered the bathroom, Yangyang waiting for him unclothed already. ¨Come on dear, the water is warm!¨. The sole sound of her voice comforted him. Dear, honey, beloved. All her words made him feel like there were no worries in this world.

"Here, let those soggy clothes go". Yangyang walked towards him and took the glasses and bottle off his hands and put them on the bathtub’s small side table, and helped him take off his wet hoodie and sweatpants, taking his underwear with them, leaving him as naked as her. He made his best effort to contain himself, at least for now.

"Yeah, let's get in, honey". He moved to the filled bathtub, steaming with the hot water, and tested it with his hand before moving inside, hissing slightly as he sit and sinked more of his body in it. He turned to look at Yangyang, who had taken her terminal from somewhere and was taking a photo of him. "What's this? Material for when I'm gone?". He teased, voice filled with amusement.

Yangyang put the terminal aside and smiled sweetly. "Heheh, you know it". She moved towards the bathtub, hips swaying and breasts bouncing, getting inside too, settling with her back to Rover's chest. He wrapped his hands around her, the position she loved the most. She moved her arms to the little table on the side and poured the white wine on the cups, taking one to herself and giving one to her dear. They clinked glasses. "To us!" Yangyang said cheerfully. "And to our clean house!". Rover added, making Yangyang laugh with mirth.

They drinked from their glasses. "Hmm, was it this sweet the last time we opened the bottle?". Yangyang asked, looking at her half-full glass.

"Maybe, or maybe we sweetened it even more with our love". Rover kissed the top of her head after saying that. She nuzzled closer to him, laying her head on his chest. "...I love you, dear heart".

"Me too, Yangyang... I'll make sure the trip to Mt. Firmament is as short as possible. I don't plan on spending much time away from you... I don't think I could bear it...". He hugged her harder, letting her feel the strength in his arms, along with his affection for her, purer than snow.

Yangyang put her glass to the side and hugged his arms back. "I'll hold you to that, beloved..."

"But before you go... want to make some use of that theater box you got?". She asked, hunger clear on her voice.

He looked down at her. "Got any ideas already?"

"Do I? Heheh..."

Chapter Text

She awoke slowly, the familiar sound of chirping birds out her window helping her shake the want to go back to sleep. She swept her arm backwards, trying to grab ahold of her dear, only to find the bed empty of anyone but her, reminding her that he was already gone. She felt a twinge of pain in her heart, even if she knew that it was only temporary.

Yangyang rolled to the side, laying supine on the bed, looking at her familiar ceiling. She rubbed her eyes, clearing her blurred vision. Her eyes focused on something in the ceiling. Is that a stain? Did we miss it yesterday?… where did it even come from? Don’t tell me it was us…

She got up from the bed, feeling the cold floor on her soles, and moved around the room to get some clothes to cover her naked form. She catched a glimpse of herself on the mirror. She looked dirty, her legs stained by dried fluids. Oh, right…

She walked towards the bathroom, seeing the wine glasses and bottle still on the side table. A quick bath later, and she was ready to actually clothe herself. I’m going to miss his touch dearly...

She didn’t have to work today, so she chose a relaxed outfit. She looked at some of Rover’s stuff on top of the nightstand. Some coins, a couple pills, his echo projector, some landscape photos he had taken. He didn’t bring much with him when he moved with me, did he…

She noticed her hairbrush on her own nightstand, reminding her she had to fix her hair. Normally she wouldn’t even think about it, Rover would do it for her. He would carefully remove her fallen feathers and brush her hair, using her favorite oils, while she finished waking up. He would hug her from behind and kiss her neck reverently, telling her how much he loves his little bird.

But he wasn’t here.

...I really am alon e

She moved outside the room, she instinctively walked to to the kitchen, only to realize she wasn’t hungry yet. If he was here, she would have cooked for him. She found herself at a loss of what to do today. Only a couple months living together as a couple with Rover had completely changed her way of doing things. They would always discuss it and go from there. Or just do nothing, and laze around together. But she was on her own now. And for who knows how much time, with Mt. Firmament’s time jumble.

¨Well… he wouldn’t want me to feel like this, I think...¨. Yangyang talked aloud, alone in her house.

She wondered how he would be feeling right now. He must have left only a couple hours ago, he may still be in the mainland.

She hoped he would be fine. Yangyang remembered last night…

¨You’ve made me addicted to you, to the happiness you give me… ¨

A smile played on her face, but she was worried about him. ¨Well, I can only trust he’ll be alright, just how he trusts I’ll be alright.¨

She decided to just take it a day at a time. She knew Chixia and Baizhi would be busy all day, so she decided to stay at home today. She moved to her workshop, picking up some books she had borrowed, they covered a wealth of different topics, from culture to strategy to cuisine. She would use the day to expand her knowledge even more. Maybe give him a surprise when he comes back. She placed them on the low table of her living room in a neatly organized pile, and moved to her big music player, to get some nice ambiance.

But something caught Yangyang’s eye when she was about to press the buttons of the device. A rolled piece of paper placed over it. Yangyang picked it up carefully, undoing the little string that kept it rolled and opened it, something falling from it at she did. It was his necklace, the little piece of golden metal shining on the morning light that came in through her window.

¨Don’t worry, Yangyang, I’ll knock this out in no time and come back to you before you can even think of feeling lonely! No Tacet Discord and no Fractsidus is a match for me, you know that.

Heh

I know you’ll be missing me, and I’ll be missing you, but we all have to do our best. I’ll come back to you as soon as I’m able to. I love you, dear, so very much, more than the world itself.

Yours. Always.

Rover¨

She could almost hear his voice as she read the words on the little piece of paper.

She picked up the necklace, a wide smile playing on her face. She brought it to her lips, giving it a small kiss, before putting it on. ¨And I adore you too, dear heart. I do...¨

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

Rover sat on the slowly rocking boat, listening to Changli’s hums as he admired the beautiful sights of Mt. Firmament, the great mountain in the shape of the Sentinel appearing through the mists.

¨I wish she could see this...¨. He mumbled under his breath.

The beautiful woman in front of him stopped her song. ¨Hmm?¨

¨Oh, sorry, it’s nothing...¨

¨...She’s lucky to have you. You haven’t stopped thinking about her since we left. I can tell¨

Rover flushed a little bit. ¨Was it really that obvious?¨

Changli let out a little melodious laugh. ¨Love is a wonderful thing indeed… you can take some photos and show her later¨. She smiled at him.

He laughted at the obvious solution, taking out his terminal to capture the landscape to show her beloved later.

Well, she was right, she read me like a book… only correction I would make is that the lucky one is me. So much.

Chapter Text

¨So what was the thing that drew you to him so much at first, Yangyang?¨. Chixia asked her friend.

Yangyang looked up at the starry sky, surprised by the question. What drew me to him?

Baizhi quietly munched on her cold salad, watching Yangyang ponder the question. Chixia continued. ¨I mean, we all know him and we’re his friends too, but you were glued to him by the hip the moment he woke up in that crevice! Did you predict he was gonna be a big hero?¨.

Glued at the hip…

¨It was… his eyes¨. She answered simply. The Patroller swallowed her food, signaling to Panhua for another serving. ¨Not to be rude, but that’s it?¨.

Baizhi interrupted. ¨Chixia, it has been observed that human attraction is fundamentally irrational, and romantic and sexual desire can be triggered by the smallest of stimulus, as-¨.

¨No, no! I mean yes, but I’m talking about the first thing I noticed of him… that first made me want to know more about him¨. Yangyang interrupted her friend before she could get into the nitty-gritty of the subject while in a public setting.

This week and a half that they had spent apart let Yangyang really reflect on her relationship with Rover, their numerous ups and minimal downs.

¨I never told you two about this, but when we first found him, he woke up for a couple seconds and looked at me, before passing out again. His eyes then...¨. Yangyang supressed a shiver, recalling the memory.

¨…They were cold… and menacing. He really scared me for a second, but then… they turned kind, gentle, caring¨. She recounted, getting her fiery friend’s full attention, while Baizhi kept eating her salad, mildly annoyed by the interruption.

¨I can’t explain why, but… it was like I knew exactly who he was the moment that happened. A wonderful, kind man, fiercely protective with the ones he cares about, merciless against evil...¨

Yangyang blushed deeply, realizing what she was saying. ¨I-I mean it sounds like I’m just talking him up because he’s my boyfriend, but… that’s what I really felt at the moment. I just knew he was good. And that he cared. That’s why I was so affected when he got hurt because of me¨.

Yangyang remembered the image of her bleeding beloved, but quickly banished the bad thoughts out of her mind, shaking her head before fixing her feathery hair with her hand.

¨Yeah, I remember. When you told us about the nightmares. But he helped them go away, right?¨. Yangyang nodded, a smile on her face.

Chixia smiled sincerely at her. ¨heh, I can’t blame you for liking him so much. He IS pretty great, a hero to the core, he’s been an inspiration to me!¨.

Baizhi cleaned her mouth with a napkin. ¨I am inclined to agree, he has helped me immensely on progressing my investigation, bringing novel perspectives to old topics that I considered all but lost. Besides, it's been a great chance to study the phenomenon known as love as first sight¨.

Yangyang giggled joyfully, happy to hear her friends praise her dear so sincerely. ¨And look at you, he just makes you so happy, it makes me happy too!¨. Chixia mirthfully laughed.

¨Indeed, joy can be contagious, so to say¨. Baizhi smiled too, in a more subdued manner, befitting her.

¨And then we just… I don’t know, we just were together all the time, I didn’t think much about it at first...¨. Yangyang blushed a bit, remembering the first time he held her hand, and the first time they kissed. It was pretty simple by itself after the things they’d end up doing together, but they’re some of her most cherished memories.

¨But then, you ended up establishing a romantic relationship with him. I’ve been observing you since that started, and while happiness isn’t something that can be measured objectively, yours has grown exponentially, I would say… and Rover’s too¨. Baizhi explained, like she were giving data for some experiment.

I love you, dear, so very much, more than the world itself

I do make him happy too…

¨Heheh, I’m starting to think it was all just meant to be, like in a story!¨. Chixia snapped her fingers.

A pink blush crept up Yangyang’s cheeks. ¨Well, I… that would be...¨

Meant to be?…

¨I just wish...¨. She murmured.

Chixia tilted her head. ¨Sorry, I didn’t catch that?¨

¨I just wish… his happiness could last forever...¨. Yangyang thought about it. About being able to always accompany him, always comfort him, always soothe him.

¨Hmm, the Moonchase Festival is approaching...¨. Baizhi muttered. ¨I am not one for wishes, but...¨

¨You could wish for that in the festival!¨. Chixia exclaimed, finishing Baizhi’s thought.

A wish...

It was a bit silly in her mind, but she found herself wanting to do it. ¨Maybe… Maybe I will...¨. She smiled gratefully at her friends.

¨Or, you could take the logical approach and just get married¨. Baizhi spoke, logic dictating her train of thought as always.

¨M-m-married?!¨. Yangyang stammered, never having actually contemplated the idea.

She was so close with her dear heart that any way of ¨upgrading¨ their relationship just didn’t enter her mind. As far as she was concerned, they were already married, even if she wouldn’t call it that.

¨Well, yeah, Yangyang. That’s the logical conclusion, honestly!¨. Chixia shrugged, finishing her second serving.

¨Umm, emm, well… you’re not wrong...¨. She blushed furiously, imagining herself in a beautiful wedding dress, accompanied by her groom in black, dashing and handsome like always. Chixia could swear steam was rising from her head. And then she imagined the honeymoon and got even more heated.

Chixia noticed something over Yangyang’s shoulder, but kept quiet, deciding to take the chance to tease her feathered friend. ¨Well, when is the wedding then, we have to prepare for it!¨

Somehow, Baizhi joined in with the teasing. ¨Yes, planning an itinerary for important events in advance is a good practice in life¨. Or maybe she was serious.

¨I err, umm, I don’t know, I would have to… consult with him?¨. Her mind kept running, thinking about it again and again.

Her vision was suddenly obscured. ¨Well, guess who¨. A deep voice startled her, taking her out of her daydreaming.

She leaned her head back, feeling his abdominal muscles with the back of her head. ¨Dear heart...¨. Rover leaned down to give her an upside down kiss, but they kept it mostly chaste, for the sake of the public.

He removed his hands, letting her grey eyes take his figure in. He was the same as always, tall and strong, a gentle smile painted on his face. He saluted Chixia and Baizhi before sitting down with them. ¨So, what did you want to discuss with me?¨. He asked, smiling at her.

Chixia almost opened her mouth but Yangyang cut her out. ¨Oh we can save that for later, dear...¨

She derailed the conversation to other topics, avoiding the marriage situation for now.

I’ll think of that later…

She looked at him, laughing and smiling together with her again.

I want to live in the present a bit longer.

Chapter Text

Taoyuan Vale still shined with festive lights late at night, though most people had gone home by that time. Not Rover, he had been busy all this time helping fulfill the wishes of the people.

He didn't have much time to spend with Yangyang, thought she had been feeling sick recently. Normally he would be right by her side, but Baizhi volunteered to take care of her, and that gave him enough peace of mind to be able to focus on his task.

Meeting so many people together with Xiangli Yao had been an experience... Getting to listen to what people think exactly, he thinks it helped him understand Yangyang a bit better, who was always listening to the Streams.

As he ascended the long steps up towards Moontree Lodge, he wondered... Did Yangyang wish for something? Xiangli Yao knows that they're together, so if she made a wish, he would know. Would it be innapropriate to ask? Maybe... Maybe.

He had a wish of his own, one that he hadn't made. He didn't want to send it to Moontree Lodge and have his friend resolve it, no. He wanted to do it himself, and was just looking for advice from him. Having gotten closer to the man of science, and having helped him with his own problems, he knew him to be a wise and considerate individual, one worthy of calling his friend.

He finally finished ascending the steps, letting out a tired sigh. It was late at night, after all. He walked forward, towards the small pavillion that contained the Moontree Lodge. Xiang-LEE flew around, looking in circles, until it caught him in its sights, the screen showing its smiley face.

"Rover. Xiangli Yao. Is. Waiting". The small robot spoke, and waited for Rover to get close, before floating slowly towards the peak of the cliff, where his friend waited for him, looking to the horizon.

"Yao!". Rover called, waving to him as he turned around, a smile forming on his face, framed by his brown hair.

He raised his robotic arm in salute. "Hello, my friend. I'm here, as you asked".

"Heh, thank you for coming here this late. Oh, take this". He extended his hand, giving Xiangli Yao the coffee can he had gotten for him. It was the least he could do, he thought.

"Oh, thank you!". He opened the can, taking a swig of the warm beverage, his smile widening as he gulped the liquid.

They passed some time, talking about this and that, as friends do, until a certain talking point innevitably arose. "Are things well with Yangyang? I'm sure they are, but it doesn't hurt to ask".

Rover smiled, as he always did when her name came up. "Amazingly... Though actually, I would like to talk about her just in general, if you don't mind".

"I'm all ears, my friend". He answered, always happy to help.

"Thank you... So, to start...".

[...]

"And then she jumped in to fight together with me! I know she's a Midnight Ranger, but she was paralyzed with fear just moments before... She's amazing". Rover recounted, gushing over his girl's bravery.

Xiangli Yao couldn't help to keep smiling at his enthusiasm, happy to see someone so honestly in love. "And what did you feel, fighting such a strong opponent as the Crownless so little time after waking up?"

He looked up to the dark sky, raising his hand as if almost to try and touch it, before placing it on his forehead, remembering the pain. "To be honest... I wasn't scared at all... Not for me at least. All I could think at that moment was of protecting Yangyang, plus Chixia and Baizhi, but they were just outside the barrier...".

"That's good...". Xiangli Yao answered. He had his motives to ask.

"Then, after we arrived to Jinzhou... We just spent a lot of time together, doing, well, most of everything. Naturally we ended up in this relationship". He spoke, reminiscing on the day they got together for real, her nightmare, and what came after that.

"We have a very healthy relationship, in all respects, socially, physically, sexually...". He blushed a little bit when he said that, but he felt it was necessary.

Xiangli Yao let out a little smirk at his embarrasment. "Well, she is indeed a very attactive woman, Rover".

"She is, isn't she?! Absolutely smoking hot!". Xiangli Yao had to try not no laugh at his enthusiasm.

"Erm, well, back to the point... We're happy. She's happy, and that makes me happy... So, I have a wish, you know?". He spoke more seriously.

"I want... Her happiness to last forever. I want to fulfill it myself, but I wanted your advice... As my friend, not as the wish-granter of Moontree Lodge". He looked at Xiangli Yao, who seemed pensive, lost in thought.

"That is... Very curious...". He spoke in a low voice.

Rover was confused. "Ehh? How so? Isn't it only natural?"

"Oh, sorry, it is, I meant your wording. But let me tell you, as far as I understand, her source of happiness is you, just as yours is her. So you only need be together to be happy. Quite simple, I think". He started transmuting his robotic arm, opening a little compartment on it and taking something small out of it, hiding it in his regular hand.

"But it doesn't hurt to have a symbol". He opened his hand, showing him a couple of silver rings, each with a small blue gemstone embedded on it.

Rover was flabbergasted at what his friend offered him. "I-isnt that expensive?".

"Not for me, just take it". He placed the rings on Rover's hand and closed it, not giving him a chance to protest.

"Besides... I'm just fulfilling a wish". He thought back at a certain wish Patty had stored.

I wish that my beloved's happiness lasts forever

"But I...". Rover still hesitated.

"Not yours, my friend... Now, I should be going, I have to work tomorrow, after all. And you have something to do too. Be seeing you!". Xiangli Yao got up and walked away, and his robots followed him, in direction of Jinzhou.

He stayed up there for a while, looking at the rings. Well... He's not wrong, it's the only logical next step, we're married in all but fact already

"Hmm...". He let out a heavy sigh, getting up from the chair, and returning it to the pavillion. Time to go home

The walk to Jinzhou went fast, his mind pondering the prospect of marrying Yangyang over and over, and with every repetition, he liked it more and more, that dumb lovestruck smile of his adorning his face by the time he arrived to the northern gates.

He waved at Qingxi, standing guard, who told him to say hi to Yangyang for her, before continuing on his way, moving quick throught the streets and alleyways, until he stood in front of their house, smelling the scent of the fresh flowers, key already in hand, and opened the door, finding the lights on.

He closed the door behind him and locked it, leaving his keys on the little wooden hanger beside it, flowers and birds carved on it. "Yangyang? Dear, are you awake?". He said softly, not wanting to wake her up in case she wasn't.

He walked slowly, getting to the living room, to find Yangyang lightly snoring in the couch. She had been waiting for him. He felt bad about it, but she knew he'd be late. He got close to her, enjoying her cute sleeping face, removing a single fallen feather from her lap.

She was holding something in her hand, some folded -more like crumpled- piece of paper. He tried to take it from her hand, but to no avail, she was clutching it like it was her destiny. It was more probable he would rip it than prying it from her hands.

Rover gave up, and tried to put his arms under her to carry her to the bedroom, but as soon as he knelt, he realized she had awaken. "There's no need, dear heart". She spoke, a smile on her face, her voice filled with anticipation.

"We'll save the princess repeat for another time, then...". He said, getting up from the floor and looking down at her, gaze full of obvious affection, his happiness almost palpable at seeing her.

"Err, well... I have something to tell you...". He spoke, taking out the silvery ring from his pocket and hiding it in his hand.

"That's funny, me too...!". She sounded nervous, fidgeting with the paper in her hands

He scratched the back of his head. "Hmm... Who goes first?".

"I assume yours is very important... And mine is too, sooo... At the same time?". She almost bounced in place, excited.

"Hah, you betcha... Three...!". He let out, preparing to say the words.

"Two...!". She breathed, smoothing the folded paper on her hands.

"One!". They said in unison, and then the words.

Rover opened his hand, showing the silver ring to her. "Yangyang, would you marry me?".

Yangyang herself opened her mouth and let the words out. "I...!"

Rover gasped at her words, almost dropping the ring, before his heart swell with happiness.

Chapter Text

¨Little Bird? Time to wake up, dear...¨. She heard his deep, gentle voice, softly taking her dreams away from her. Or trying to, at least. She had been sleeping in a lot lately.

¨Yangyang, dear, it’s time to wake up¨. She felt his hand on her face, combing her hair out of it, making her finally open her eyes.

¨Hmmm… Good morning, dear heart...¨. His face showed her that he knew exactly what was on her mind right now.

¨Are you feeling ill, Yangyang?¨. He asked her, looking down at her with concern clear on his face. Her tone of voice did nothing to assuage his worry.

She was feeling completely smashed, as if she had ran ten laps to through the city without pause. ¨I’m not feeling ill, just… fatigued¨. This had been a common occurrence lately, her waking up feeling tired. This didn’t use to happen before, no matter what long mission they ran before, no matter how intensely they had laid together the previous night.

¨Should I stay with you today?¨. She knew he was immensely busy during these days, what with his secret job for the Moonchase Festival. And she knew it was important, so she shouldn’t be selfish and make him stay. Even if I really want him to…

¨No, dear, don’t worry about me...¨. She tried to get up, but she found herself dizzy, laying back on the bed again.

Rover looked mortified, but he knew that she could be stubborn when she wanted. ¨At least let me call Baizhi before I go...¨. He pleaded.

Yangyang sighed. ¨Alright… Please do¨.

He quickly got ready and set off, leaving Yangyang alone at her own insistence. She looked at the ceiling, grappling with the knowledge of what she was hiding from him. She moved her arms up her body, clad only in her panties and a tank top, stopping her hands over her breasts. Using a bit of strength, she squeezed, letting up a small sigh from the pain. They felt sore, and she just wanted to puke her guts out.

She stayed like that, waiting for her friend to arrive, her mind racing over what to do, until she heard the door to her house open and close, two pairs of footsteps walking through her wooden floor. She easily recognized the cadence of both with her trained ear, one fast and loose, one slow and measured.

Of course, quickly her red-haired friend’s head poked in her bedroom door. ¨Yangyang!¨.

¨Yeah, that’s me, it’s good you noticed...¨. She answered from the bed, covered up to her waist.

Chixia affected a mock-worried face, turning her head back. ¨Baizhi! Yangyang is sassing me, she’s really sick!¨.

Baizhi passed the door’s threshold a couple seconds later, her expression impassive, holding a clipboard in one hand and a glass of water on the other. ¨She’s not sick, Chixia, she’s just pregnant¨. She said matter-of-factly, missing her friend’s joke.

¨Of course she’s s-wait, pregnant?!¨. Chixia’s jaw would have fallen to the floor if it was able to, but as it was, she still didn’t work on cartoon physics.

¨I thought you knew¨. Baizhi shrugged, taking a chair on a corner and moving it to Yangyang’s bedside, helping her sit and giving her the full glass, motioning her to drink from the clear liquid.

Yangyang put on an apologetic smile. ¨I’m sorry… I forgot to tell you¨. She drinked from the glass, along with a pill that Baizhi deposited in her hand.

¨But… But that’s great news, isn’t it?!¨. Chixia half-screamed, pacing around the room. ¨Does Rover know?¨.

Yangyang put on a pained expression that told her all she needed to know. ¨I… forgot to tell him that the Midnight Rangers mandatory birth control was relaxed while he was in Mt. Firmament. So he thinks I’m just feeling sick...¨.

The conflict was plain on Yangyang’s face, she had gotten pregnant with his child without talking about it with him. Questions surging on her mind every time she pondered it. What if he wasn’t ready? What if he didn’t want it?

Baizhi rolled her eyes at Yangyang’s darkening mood. ¨Stop thinking silly things, he would not be angry at you at all, just the contrary¨. She kept writing on the papers she had brought.

Chixia sat on the bed, beside Yangyang, and put a hand on her shoulder. ¨She’s right, you know? Besides, forgive me for saying it but if something is wrong here is that you didn’t tell him sooner...¨.

Her friend’s words hit her like a sack of bricks, but she knew she was completely right. It wasn’t good to keep him in the dark about his own child. But I am just so afraid…

She sighed, letting herself fall back on the bed. ¨You’re right… completely right. I am just… I’m scared, this is just so new to me, I’ve never...¨. She started curling up in the bed, arms posed over her belly protectively as she thought about the tiny life that gestated inside her body.

¨Hey...¨. She felt her friend’s hands pose over her shoulder, bringing her back to reality. ¨Yangyang, you are not alone...¨. Baizhi’s voice sounded chastising, yet gentle.

¨Yeah! We’re here with you. And there’s Rover too, you just need to tell him, he’ll understand what happened, and he’ll be happy! You have nothing to worry about, you can count on it!¨. Chixia gave her a thumbs up, always encouraging of her friend, and Yangyang couldn’t help but smile, thankful at their presence.

¨In any case, let’s talk about the results. According to my tests, you’re about three weeks along, just early enough. I’ll need you to check up...¨. Baizhi’s words blended into a bunch of instructions that quickly got Chixia falling asleep where she was sitting, but Yangyang hanged into every word, intending to heed her friend’s advice for taking care of herself.

Of course, the best part was her saying that the morning sickness would soon go away, for which she would be immensely thankful, already done with feeling like a dying slug almost every morning, making her beloved worry for her.

¨..And don’t worry, we can stay with you today, we should make you something to eat...¨. That perked Chixia right up, who jumped off the bed immediately.

¨Something to eat? I know just the thing!¨. And so she bolted of the room, right towards the kitchen, while Baizhi helped Yangyang get out of bed. She didn’t have to help her groom herself too much, Rover had already cleaned off the fallen feathers and left her some folded clothes to wear before leaving.

And so she passed the day in the company of her friends, who prescinded going to the festival to spend a girl’s day with Yangyang. She would always be thankful of being surrounded with so many good people. She considered herself blessed, by her friends, and her beloved. She wanted them to be as happy as her too.

Happy

She had made a wish in the Moontree Lodge in the first day of the festival, in a day on which she wasn’t feeling too sick. She hoped it would come true, she wanted to make it come true, her mind drifting towards him immediately. He would arrive late, he had told her so. It was already about nine at night, so maybe she could wait for him awake.

She turned on her expensive music player, and listened to some of her favorites while reading a book, quickly dozing off without even realizing…

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

(...)

She woke up in a small daze, exchanging quick words with her beloved, her mind racing with excitement at the announcement she was going to make. But he had one too, she could hardly imagine what it could be.

¨Three!¨

¨Two!¨

¨...One!¨

The kneeling Rover opened his hand, revealing the argent ring hidden in it. ¨Yangyang, would you marry me?¨.

At the same time, Yangyang spoke the words, two simple words to announce probably the most important thing that has ever happened to her. ¨I’m pregnant…!¨.

Rover scrambled in place, almost dropping the rings, his expression confused. ¨P-P-Pregnant??!!¨. He yelled, completely flabbergasted.

¨A-Are you angry? I’m sorry!!!¨. Yangyang was already preparing a slew of apologies, dew forming on her eyes as she looked at him, a… smile forming on his face.

¨Oh I’m so happy…!¨. He jumped forward, wrapping Yangyang in a hug with his strong arms and lifting her off the couch, almost bounding in excitementent.

¨Pregnant! You!¨. He let her down again, almost not able to process the situation. ¨We’re going to have a child!!!¨. He grabbed her hands, holding her, a wide smile occupying his face.

I’m such a worrywart

¨I-I can hardly contain myself…!¨. And it showed, what with him almost quaking with excitement and happiness.

And his words finally were processed in Yangyang’s mind, along with the ring he was still holding in one hand. ¨W-Wait, what did you ask me?¨. She cried, the waterworks starting on earnest at his question.

¨Oh, yes, sorry, ehem… Yangyang, will you marry me?¨. Seeing him try to act all gallant after jumping like a kid made her own heart jump too.

And of course, she had a single answer to give.

¨Of course, Rover… I love you¨.

Chapter Text

Preparations were already well underway for their wedding, the appointed date only a couple of weeks away, three more having passed since Yangyang revealed her pregnancy to Rover.

Yet as the day approached, a certain problem started to show.

¨It doesn’t fit anymore¨. Baizhi stated plainly.

Yangyang looked at her, consternation clear on her face. They got her wedding dress only two and a half weeks ago, how could it be possible it didn’t fit anymore?

¨Yeah Baizhi I think she figured that one out by herself...¨. Chixia grumbled as she helped Yangyang get out of the beautiful but simple white dress that was supposed to accentuate her figure, a modest affair for a modest woman, yet no less beautiful for it. Yangyang didn’t need a thousand frills to flaunt her beauty anyway. A smile was enough, Rover would say.

¨I couldn’t have grown so much in so little time, could I?¨. Yangyang murmured, looking at herself on the mirror, wearing only her underwear after getting out of the dress. She scanned herself, up and down, analyzing just what exactly had changed. She turned around, looking at her back over her shoulder.

She could swear that her backside was even bigger than before, and that her hips had widened somewhat. Confusion was all she could feel, wasn’t it too early?. She turned to the side, noticing that her belly was already showing. ¨B-But I’m only six weeks along…!?¨. She hadn't been paying much attention, after all, you're not supposed to show until later than six weeks, she thought.

Baizhi walked behind her, posing her hands on Yangyang’s hips, almost making her jump out of her own skin in surprise. ¨This is indeed unusual...¨. Baizhi moved her hands to Yangyang’s belly, softly touching, before sighing. ¨Your ecography was schedule to a week from now, but maybe we could do it earlier...¨

She walked back, her heels clicking on the floor while Chixia handed Yangyang her regular clothes. ¨You should call Rover, he won’t want to miss this, I think!¨.

The mention of his name brightened Yangyang’s worried mind somewhat. ¨...Yes, of course!¨.

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

¨Wow, I didn’t realize before…!¨. Rover looked surprised as he observed Yangyang’s belly, a baby bump starting to show. He was knelt in front of her, pressing his cheek to her warm middle, a beatific smile on his face as Yangyang caressed his head, chin posed on her thighs.

He’s really like a cat…

Her train of thought of her boyfriend being a cat only got stronger once he opened his eyes to look up at her, his golden eyes and black clothes and hair really reminding her of a black cat she had seen when she was a child. Or a panther, seeing just how big he is and how fierce he could get in battle.

Panthers like eating birds, after all...

¨Something on your mind?¨. Rover asked her, a mischievous smile on his face.

¨Oh, I… heeeh, I was just thinking, you remind me a bit of a… Cat?¨. Yangyang spoke in her quiet voice, but her amusement was clear on it.

Rover made a face of mock-offense, but he couldn’t hide his smile. ¨Comparing your handsome husband with a mischievous feline, are you? I guess you won’t mind if I behave like one and paw at this cute belly of yours?¨.

Rover moved his hands up, from Yangyang’s thighs to her warm, small baby bump, quickly caressing her pale, silky skin, running his uncovered palms on it before tracing lines with his short fingernails, making Yangyang start to tremble. ¨Heeheh… hahahah!! Rover, that tickles!!¨

¨That’s what you get for being so precious, dear!¨. He continued with his humorous assault, relishing on Yangyang’s laughs as he tickled her, her hands playfully trying to bat him away and failing, almost certainly on purpose, letting him continue until he was satisfied, a tear falling from one of her eyes from the laughter, a couple feathers having fallen on the couch from her wriggling.

¨Ohh, satisfied with your payback, dear?¨. She asked him, his hands still posed on her belly, but only holding at the moment.

He smirked, climbing on the couch with her and laying himself sideways, placing the back of his head on her thighs, getting a lap pillow from her. Rover closed his eyes, he could barely look at her face from this position with her breasts on the way, anyway. ¨More than, Little Bird...¨.

Turning his head to the side, Rover faced her middle, planting kisses on it. Yangyang felt happy, the happiest she had even been in her life. Sometimes this world could be cruel and unrelenting, looming disaster being a promise rather than a possibility.

But looking down at her beloved, seeing his smiling face, feeling his warmth, Yangyang knew that no matter what happened, she could face it all, as long as they were together.

Yet she wondered. ¨Dear, not that I’m complaining, but why did you call yourself my husband? I know we’re getting married in no time, but…?¨.

Rover smiled. ¨Simple, there’s one single reason. I feel like we’ve been married all this time already, and we’re just making it official and throwing a party for it¨.

Yangyang felt her heart start to beat faster. ¨Heeeh, that’s funny, beloved… I felt just the same. Then I’m your wife, your Yangyang…¨.

Rover breathed heavily. ¨Hell, I love you so, so much, you don’t know what you do to me, Little Bird…¨. He got up from the lap pillow, placing his palm on her cheek, her own hand placing itself over his. Her silver eyes looked at him adoringly as he got closer, and closer, their lips brushing together.

Until an alarm sounded, ripping them from the moment. ¨Oh… It’s time to prepare for the appointment...¨. Yangyang sounded disappointed, her body already preparing itself for what was supposed to come.

¨Haahhhh...¨. Rover exhaled, a bit of frustration clear on his deep voice. ¨We’ll continue later...¨. He said, getting up from the couch.

Yangyang smiled and pulled her camisole down, covering her belly again. ¨You can be sure of that, beloved¨.

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

¨Well, that’s two beans I’m seeing right there...¨. Rover looked at the ecography screen along with Baizhi and Yangyang, observing just how perfectly delineated the two black spots showed on it, making very clear the reason why Yangyang got big so fast.

Baizhi took a breath, smiling as she moved the transducer over Yangyang’s belly, the cool gel feeling like pinpricks on her skin. Baizhi used her other hand to press a button on the console, taking different photographies of what the ultrasounds detected. ¨Congratulations, you two. You’re having twins...¨.

Rover moved down to kiss Yangyang as she silently cried tears of happiness, strongly holding her hand, her mind occupied just thinking of how precious their children would be, and how busy their lives would get.

¨Maybe I should investigate on how the vigorousness of a couple affects the chances for multiple gestation...¨. Baizhi muttered under her breath.

Yangyang looked at her, consternated, and Baizhi blinked, confused. ¨...That was a joke¨.

¨Oh...¨. Yangyang looked sheepish, even though she couldn’t have guessed that Baizhi would ever joke on something.

¨Heh, well, I for one found it pretty funny¨. Rover spoke with a wry smile on his face.

Baizhi smiled in relief. ¨I’m glad you think so, Rover. You two should have a rest, it’s already late. I wouldn’t recommend any extrenuous activity for you, Yangyang¨. The subtext was clear.

¨Alright. Thanks a lot, Baizhi, I… I’m glad you’re my friend...¨. Yangyang let out, not even thinking the words before they left her mouth.

A small blush infliltrated the stoic woman’s face, making Rover have to contain a little laugh. ¨I-I feel the same way. You go now, take a rest. I’ll take the photos to you tomorrow after I do some analysis...¨.

Having been evicted by the embarrassed Baizhi, the couple had no choice but to go home… Yet, feeling lazy, they went to get some food from Panhua to take with them first.

They quickly arrived home, turning the music and having a meal together, before taking a quick bath and heading to the bedroom, just resting on the bed, feeling each other’s warmth.

Rover took a deep breath. ¨Twins, huh...¨. He said for about the fourth time since they found out.

Yangyang pressed herself harder to him, resting hear head on his chest, laying herself halfway over his supine form. ¨I was not expecting it either, but… I don’t think I could be happier than right now...¨. Her voice trembled as she said the words.

¨Me too, Little Bird… Me too...¨. Rover caressed her back with his hand, feeling her smooth skin, before moving to her shoulder, feeling the mostly-faded scar of that arrow that hit her months before.

¨Hmm, but I’m kind of sad that we can’t do it in the same way as before...¨. She spoke as she touched his chest, feeling his marked muscles over his shirt.

¨Not in that way, but we can still do it, after all, I promised you we would today, didn’t I…?¨. His hand roamed lower, posing itself on Yangyang’s hips, before passing to her bountiful behind.

She looked up at him, her chin on his chest, a small smile on her face. ¨Heeeehhh, I can’t wait...¨.

Rover smirked, placing a hand on her cheek. ¨I’ll show you how gentle I can be…¨.

Chapter Text

"Hey, it's bad luck to see the bride in her dress before the ceremony!". Chixia yelled as Rover entered the room where the usual duo was helping Yangyang prepare for what was to come.

"If bad luck ever tried to come between me and Rover, I'll cut it to ribbons". Yangyang said half-laughing, a wide smile on her face.

"I was going to say I'd punch it in the face, but I like your idea better". Rover added as he got close to where his wife-to-be was sitting, wearing that beautiful white dress that he had stripped from her at least twice already, but they decided to omit that detail.

"I just came to tell you that everything's going smoothly, the guys are setting up stuff already and people will start arriving in a couple hours...". Rover stood near them as they helped Yangyang with her makeup.

"Did you need to come yourself for that, Rover? I'd have thought you'd be busier...". Baizhi interjected as she applied lip gloss to the feathery bride.

"Maybe I just wanted to see Yangyang...". He spoke easily, his words immediately making her get up from her chair and run at him, planting a quick kiss on his lips.

"And there goes the lip gloss...". Chixia lamented as Baizhi nonchalantly prepared herself to apply it again.

"Hmmm, I love you...". Yangyang almost whispered as they hugged, her noticeable baby bump pressing to his hard middle, letting him feel its warmth even through the layers of cloth.

"I love you more...". Rover responded as he removed a fallen feather from her shoulder, before planting many more kisses on her smiling face, making her giggle.

"Ghaaaaa!!!". Chixia stepped back, dazzled by the brightness of the couple's absolutely sappy love.

"Do you need some privacy?". Baizhi asked as she prepared herself to drag Chixia away, who got up from the floor, dusting the backside of her shorts.

"Oh, don't worry, I'm going now...". Rover spoke, and Yangyang made a little cute frown, which went away immediately as he kissed her nose.

"As Baizhi said, I still have some things to do. The flowers should be getting here in a little bit... See you later, love. See you later, Chixia, Baizhi". He saluted the pair too before getting out of the room.

Yangyang could barely hear the other two talking as she walked back to her chair, sitting herself and placidly cradling her belly as she let them work again.

"Hey Yangyang, you there?". Chixia's snapping brought her out of her little trance.

"O-Oh, sorry...". Yangyang whispered as she looked at her friends.

"Well I guess you wouldn't be getting married if you weren't that in love, so don't worry about it, just look up so I can fix your hair!". Chixia fussed all over her friend as she removed some more feathers.

Yangyang was still in a small daze, wondering to herself just how she got to this point, where she would be married in just a couple hours to the man of her dreams. The only thing she lamented is that her family couldn't be here for it, but she promised that she would visit them later, to let them know the lucky man who married their daughter and sister.

"Not that we did it ourselves, but your makeup and hair look great, Yangyang!". Chixia laughed as she spoke, turning the mirror towards her.

"Indeed". Followed Baizhi, arms crossed and nodding twice, proud of their work.

Yangyang looked at herself, awed by what she was seeing. She asked them not to go too heavy, and they fulfilled her request perfectly, the makeup only highlighting her natural beauty, her blushy cheeks, full lips, big silver eyes, and cute button nose making for that perfectly kissable face that her man loved so much, the lip gloss and light eyeshadow just adding a nice touch to it all.

And her hair was just perfect. For someone that just ties her hair in the exact same practical way every day, Chixia knew how to use a comb, even the vane of Yangyang's feathers perfectly straightened, and her afterfeathers were rounded like a dandelion.

Before Yangyang could respond, the door opened again, this time the interrupter being a little girl with blonde hair, wearing a cute white-and-yellow dress with both floral motifs and actual flowers as decoration.

"Verina!". Yangyang happily called her name as the young girl quickly walked towards her, a gentle smile on her cute face.

"You look amazing as a bride, Yangyang!". Verina compliments the woman on her special day. "You do good work". She nodded at Chixia and Baizhi.

"Speaking of work, we should get going so we can prepare ourselves too. We'll be back before the ceremony begins". Baizhi dragged Chixia away before she could complain, leaving Yangyang alone with Verina.

"...How are you feeling, Yangyang?". Verina asked, curious.

"Like I could pass out at any moment, I'm so excited...!". Yangyang answered, almost bouncing on her chair.

"Heehee, try not to get too excited now, better save it for later, there's still a couple hours before it all begins. Rover and the other guys are still preparing everything outside. I'm sure you'll love my flowers". Verina spoke with a smile on her face.

"Oh, did he pay you for the flowers?". Yangyang asked her.

"Of course! I gave you a discount and all!". Verina affirmed.

"Oh no that won't do, I'll make up the difference!". Yangyang insisted, not wanting to short-change her friend even if she herself was the one to offer the discount.

"Nope! Rover said the same, by the way... Just relax, Yangyang, today's your day, yours and his, don't worry about things like that!". Verina tried to make her relax, furtively making some flowers with relaxing smells sprout on her back-vine.

"I noticed that, Verina". Yangyang said simply.

"Whoops. Sometimes I forget you can just read the wind! But seriously, no need to worry so much, here, take this...". Verina reached for Yangyang's head, putting a flower on it.

"There's a little gift!". Verina mischievously laughed before walking away. "I'm going to help outside! See you later!".

Yangyang was left alone with her thoughts, looking at the mirror to find out that Verina had put a heliotrope on her hair, blue in color instead of its regular purple.

Yangyang knew the meaning of that flower. Wishing everlasting love was something proper of the caring little girl.

"Thank you, Verina...". Yangyang whispered under her breath.

Finding herself with not much to do, she looked out the window, seeing everyone working outside. She couldn't help even if she wanted, nobody would let her when she had two babies inside her belly. She could see how Rover passed floral arrangements to a couple of floating robots before Xiangli Yao ordered them to place the arrangements according to Verina's plan.

Some of his and her other friends helped set chairs and tables, everyone chiming in for them. She couldn't believe how lucky she was to have such good friends, and such a dear husband-to-be. Especially when Rover noticed she was looking, and winked at her before blowing a kiss, his brown-haired friend letting out a laugh, at his lover routine.

Yangyang did just the same, before observing how the very Magistrate of Jinzhou made act of appearance along with counselor Changli, and lady Sanhua, the trio of women dressed up for the occasion, leaving everyone in awe.

And then came Panhua with the food truck, the redhead having decided to ignore her own rules and take the catering for their wedding.

Yangyang decided to finally relax. She'd just play some music in her terminal and read a nice book in the meantime. She sat on the couch and kicked her feet up, and before she could even open the book, she was already asleep.

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

"Hey the makeup didn't get messed up". A cheerful voice resounded.

"Nor the hair, seems she didn't move at all". A colder tone followed.

Yangyang would recognize those voices anywhere, opening her eyes to see her two best friends looking her over. "D-Did I fall asleep?".

"We have ten minutes before the ceremony commences! Steel yourself, Yangyang, you'll be a married woman in no time at all!". Chixia dramatically exclaimed, her crimson dress somehow billowing with no wind at all present.

"Now seriously, put your shoes on, we have to go out". Baizhi continued, smoothing a wrinkle on her own black dress.

A whirlwind of activity took the room, and before she noticed, Yangyang was just behind the door that led to the aisle, a little window letting her see both Rover and Magistrate Jinhsi waiting on it, Xiangli Yao waiting a couple paces behind him. She had no idea that the Magistrate would officiate it herself, and now she was nervous, but seeing Rover's smiling face immediately calmed her down.

"Are you ready, Yangyang?". Chixia asked her, a wide smile on her face as she prepared to open the wooden door.

Am I ready?

She always asked herself that question, and the answer was almost always, unequivocably, no.

And today was no different.

Yet she acted anyway. Like always.

"As ready as I'll ever be... Let's do this". Yangyang spoke, and the door finally opened.

And all she could feel once the wind blew in her direction was the soft caress of the Streams, all around her body and mind.

Streams of Love.