Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Vivian couldn’t possibly dream of the past few days she was blessed to experience.

On one hand, she finally met her idol, the one and only Lord Phaethon. And it turned out to be the Proxies!

On the other… Hugo is dead. Her comrade, the brother she looked up to that she never had.

Because of course Vivian can’t have nice things. Fate giveth, fate taketh. She lay distraught on the couch in Random Play’s HDD room, sinking into it like a cocoon.

This world truly hates her.

Too many thoughts filled her brain. Hugo never told her a thing before he died. She never knew he was going to do this. He hid his secrets, but she never would’ve expected something like this. Why is it always misfortune she always sees, and no matter what she does, she cannot change fate? How can this curse be a blessing when Vivian is feared for it? She’s never been thanked for her foresight. Hugo was only person who guided her through the darkness and helped her, and now he’s gone. Where does she go now?

Vivian wept alone silently.

Wise said his good nights earlier, but that could be further from the truth. He sat on his bed, legs restless as he scoured his phone for updates. For any texts, anything.

Hartman Ravenlock got away with the Sacrifice. He can’t just sit on his ass and expect something to change.

He couldn’t go a single second without his eyes peeled, constantly refreshing the Interknot for anything. Until he felt his phone vibrate, a message from Lycaon. He carefully read the message and sighed.

Master Proxy, it is of the utmost importance to put your health first. It’s advised to sleep for now and be ready for the next day.

He didn’t reply. Lycaon is right, if he isn’t one hundred percent when it matters most, he might make a mistake and put more lives at stake. He sighed, lowering his head and putting his phone away for the night. Despite being ready for bed and lying down, Wise still felt troubled. Something is itching the back of his mind. He tossed and turned, shifting his pillow and his position in bed, and he still could not sleep…

The two ring-shaped eyes of Bangboo 6 looked anxiously outside the HDD room, peeking at who stood at front only to be relieved to see Wise. Six slowly opened the door, making sure not to creak it to the best of its ability. His heart ached, hearing the sniffles all the way from where he stood. Wise entered the room, mouthing his thanks to Bangboo 6, whom expressed relief yet still harbored worry. “I’ll take it from here,” Wise said as Six hobbled away.

The room is dim, bathed in the glow of the HDD monitors, its whirring being an ambient noise in the room. The air is thick, unmoving. Beneath the weight of exhaustion, Vivian remains still, her body curled around a pillow soaked in grief.

Wise walked up to the couch and sat beside it, being at the same level where Vivian lay. She buried her face in the couch pillow, not facing Wise.

“Vivian…” He couldn’t just let a friend suffer like this. “Everything alright?”

“L-Lord Phaethon I… I’m sorry. I ruined your pillows. I did not mean to dirty your furniture… If you hate me I can leave...” Vivian spoke as if she were out of breath, her voice muffled as she spoke through the pillow.

“No, it’s okay, really. Just look at me, please.”

“H-How could I p-possibly look at you when I-I’m such a mess? I can’t p-present such an unsightly view to s-someone like Lord Phaethon...”

Not to often did Wise handle someone mourning this much in Random Play, let alone them staying over for the next few days. He was always aware of Phaethon’s legendary status and their fame within the Inter-knot, yet never could have imaged he would come face to face with probably the biggest Phaethon fan ever. Admittedly, it’s a lot to handle, but that’s something to think for later, what Vivian needs now is a friend.

And what Hugo had said…

Vivian really likes you, whether you’re Phaethon or just Wise. Of course, I have a lot of respect for someone like you: strong, fair, and genuinely kind. So I hope… I beg you, please keep her safe.

“Vivian… I don’t mind at all, so don’t worry about that. This couch could be at the very bottom of the list of my worries, what matters most to me right now is how you are feeling.”

“Lord Phaethon…” Vivian slowly raises her head, revealing the pain she’s held to herself until now.  Her skin red, eyes pink, the pain she kept to herself. She has been crying for hours, the fabric below her cheek is damp, chilled from the tears that fell freely. Her breath is shallow, her lungs begging for full breaths which she struggles to take. Each sob had since drained her of all the enthusiastic energy she once had when facing Phaethon earlier today.

Her lips tremble as she tries to mutter words, yet only come out as a whimper. She tries to rub her face of the tears, “I-I’m sorry… I…”

“No, Vivian. I should be the one apologizing. You said it yourself, didn’t you? You didn’t want to be alone, yet I left you here. If anything, the burden should be on me. You shouldn’t have to suffer like this.”

“B-But, it was I who insisted to sleep on the couch…”

Wise exhaled. He can’t leave her like this, thoughts lingered in the back of his mind, yet after everything, after all the appreciation Vivian had shown, it’s the least he can do right now. “Why don’t you stay with me for the night?”

“W-What? Lord Phaethon… Is that really okay? But I…” Vivian reacted almost immediately, feeling a tightness in her heart as if her broken heart was begging to take it, to be filled with love again, but as she spoke her lungs betrayed her, she couldn’t get the rest of her words out.

“It’s the least I can do. Please.”

“I… I don’t deserve such an offer f-from you, Lord Phaethon. I’m such a m-mess… I can’t possibly put this burden on you…”

“Vivian, forget about me being Phaethon for now, just look at me as Wise tonight, okay?” Wise placed his hand on her shoulder, and trailed it towards her hands. As Vivian felt the warmth of his palm, she hesitantly welcomed it, as her hands opened, intertwining with his. Vivian’s hands were wet from her tears, and Wise couldn’t care less. “Let’s go,” Wise said, as he led her up from the couch.

“To where…?”

“My room of course, you can sleep there.”

“B-But, I… Is that really fine with you? I…”

“Yeah,” Wise gave a small smile, “Don’t worry about it, really. I mean it.”

“But where will you sleep?”

“I can sleep on my desk chair,” Wise said, “Don’t worry about me.”

Vivian felt something in her heart pull within. While faint compared to the pain she’s felt ever since Hugo’s death, it’s different, as she can tell her heart is begging for her to say something, to reach out to him. “Wise… don’t let go of my hand. Please.”

Her proposal caught Wise by surprise. Her brows furrowed and pupils dilated, a face expecting something more… He didn’t have this planned, yet he had no room to protest this, as he paused for a second, he relented. “Of course,” As he gripped her hand tighter… “Let’s go.”

…

The two of them arrived at his room, as Vivian entered, her eyes gleamed with awe… “Wow, so this is Lord Phaethon’s room…”

“Please,” Wise chuckled, “it’s an average room, really.”

The two came up to Wise’s bed, and once again Vivian hesitated, looking towards Wise. He reassured it’s fine. She tucked herself into the bed, and Wise followed suit laying right beside her. It’s so comfy… She thought to herself.

Vivian stared blankly towards the ceiling… “I never thought, I’d ever be next to my own idol like this. It’s… It’s like a dream come true… I hope this never ends…”

Looking towards Wise, she felt a small smile rise. After all the pain, the suffering unbeknownst to everyone around her, the fates she sees, Hugo’s death, she can lean on someone she cares for, someone who sees her for who she is.

As she thought about Hugo, her heart ached again. But as she pondered more, looking into Wise’s eyes, she wondered…

Hugo and Vivian were like siblings. Even if he betrayed his own ideals and her, if anything… after taking her in, he was anything but rude to Vivian. Even when he betrayed her, Hugo never spoke ill of her.

Hugo was the one who introduced Proxy to her. Hugo wanted Vivian to get to know Wise. He wanted her to finally meet the idol she loved so much, the person she always looked up to.

Almost as if… It was his farewell gift to her.

She looked towards Wise once again, who is fighting to stay awake, and smiled.

Hugo’s last blessing to Vivian, was this.

She held onto Wise’s hand tighter, their hands intertwined with each other, a bond that hasn’t been torn since Wise made that connection with her.

“Thank you…” Vivian muttered as she felt herself drifting to a blissful sleep… “Thank you, Wise…”

It was the best sleep she’s ever had.

Chapter Text

The golden light of the morning seeps through the blinds, a shining ray illuminates the room from the ceiling window, casting a warm glow. The air is still, time at a complete stop. The morning lark has yet to wake, save for the two bodies nestled close beneath the bedsheets.

Vivian rouses first, her breath slow, deep, and content. She lets out a small squeak of breath, the kind of breath that comes after a very blissful sleep. She feels the warmth in her hand that hasn’t left her during her slumber. For a moment, she doesn’t move, embracing the moment even longer. Rather than let the stress of the morning get to her, she chooses to fully revel in her own morning drowsiness.

As her conscience phases out of slumber, her eyelids slowly rise. Across from her, the fingers intertwined with hers is unmistakable-- Wise sleeps peacefully, his breath slow and rhythmic. His eyebags are still ever present, it is as if he is still within time. She stares dreamily at Wise, observing every little aspect of his slumber. Vivian can’t help but feel a smile curve across her cheeks.

Vivian stretches slightly, her body uncoiling. But not too much that it disturbs Wise’s sleep. She doesn’t change from her initial position. She looks down at his hand, and ponders…

Her heart aches, this feeling she’s never felt before. As if it’s begging her to do something. Her thoughts race, knowing exactly what her heart is asking: She wants to edge closer to Wise.

Vivian doesn’t want to simply be at arm’s length, she wants to be in his full embrace. She wants to feel the warmth of both Wise and Lord Phaethon.

But she hesitates, not knowing if this is the right thing to do right now…

Is this something Wise would want?

He’s been nice, considerate, and welcome to her this entire time, even though so far she’s been the one entering his world on her own terms.

He’s never been mad at her or spoke ill of her. Every interaction with Wise has been Joyous.

Is this just an act of kindness from his perspective, does he do this with others?

On top of that, Vivian is a superfan, is that not weird for him?

Her brows furrow in worry, unsure of how Wise feels about this situation.

Crossing this boundary would represent taking a step she’s unfamiliar with. What happens if Wise doesn’t want anything more? He’s Phaethon, he must be so busy and has no more room in his life for someone like Vivian… This could just be an act of kindness from him.

What is this feeling?

Does she love Wise?

She sighs. Slowly, she closes her eyes again, pressing her head deeper into the pillow.

She doesn’t know what to do. Vivian tries her best to disregard these thoughts and just sink into the moment. Who knows if this is the last time they’re ever this close again.

There is no urgency, no weight of the outside world pressing in on them, just the warmth, the connection between their hands. The longer Vivian focuses on the moment, the more blissful she feels, a moment at peace.

She doesn’t want to move, she doesn’t want to break whatever fragile magic this morning holds. So she stays, listening to Wise’s steady breath, feeling his warmth across the bed, knowing that there is nowhere else she wants to be.

And yet, she wants more…

But she doesn’t know how to take that step.

…BZZT…

…BZZT…

…BZZT…

Wise’s phone vibrates.

It rouses him immediately, and before Vivian could even process it, Wise breaks off from the hand holding. Without even turning his body or opening his eyes, he grabs his phone on the counter behind the bed. He rubs his eyes, and sighs. He peeks at his phone, its blue light reflecting off his irises.

Mere moments from Wise picking up his phone, his brows furrow and makes a small gasp of cold air. Before even looking at the notification, a simple glance of the time made Wise extremely disappointed.

“Dammit…” Wise mutters, “It’s already almost twelve.” He looks towards the notifications, reading it over and over before exhaling in distress, his hands pressed against his face. “I forgot. Belle is out for errands today. I was supposed to get the store ready for opening.”

As Wise gets out of bed, Vivian feels herself subconsciously reaching out towards him. Her arm stretched as far as it could, trying to find that warmth again, find that connection again, all that she finds is the cold air of the room.

“Wait, I… Lord Phaethon… …” Vivian tries to call out to him, yet her voice betrays her, she fails to find the right words and pauses.

“I’m sorry Vivian,” Wise says with a disappointing sigh. “I lost track of time. I have to get the store ready first.”

The last thing Vivian wants is to be alone.

“Wait! Is there any way I can help?” Vivian says, trying her best to come out as relaxed and hide any hint of desperation within her voice.

“Sure, there’s some boxes in the back, if you can help me restock the shelves we can get the store open sooner. It would be greatly appreciated.” Wise said with a smile.

Almost like a car coming to life after getting a jump start, Vivian jumps out of the bed in joy with an enthusiastic smile on her face, “Of course! Anything to help you, Lord Phaethon!” Like a dog with zoomies, she swiftly pats her hair down and wipes off any dust on her. Somehow, with those two steps she already looks perfect for the day. Nodding to herself, she immediately leaves the room down the stairs.

Wise looks back, not knowing if he should be in awe or questioning her methods, disregards it and gets ready for the day.

Vivian leaps down the stairs, sticking a graceful landing. Bangboo 18 jumps in surprise, “Eh-nah?!” (What the?!)

“Do not fret, Bangboo of Lord Phaethon, Vivian is here to help!” Vivian puffs her chest out of pride, her smile radiating a glow of joy, “So, where do I look?”

Bangboo idles for a moment, placing its little arm over its scarf, “Nu-ehn ah, ehn ah Nu ehn ah ehn ah.” (There are boxes in the back with a few hundred copies of films. They are too heavy for me… It’s quite a lot, it will take a while to get them out.)

Vivian, nodding as she listens, looks towards 18 with a smug look on her face. “Don’t worry about a single thing,” She leans down to Bangboo 18’s level and gives it a head pat.

18 finds itself in a moment of bliss, but after a few moments, it looks up at Vivian. She looks almost like she’s going to burst out of joy, her smile so strong like it could cure someone of all ailments. She doesn’t realize how long she’s been head patting 18, completely lost in the moment. “Uhh, Ehn-ah?” Bangboo 18 mutters.

Vivian snaps out of the trance she was in, gasping in surprise as she holds her hand over her mouth. “I’m so sorry! I was so in awe. I mean, I got to pet one of Lord Phaethon’s bangboos! It’s such an honor!” Her hands clasped together gesturing with an apology. “Anyway, are you able to let me know which movies go where?”

18 nods repeatedly, and Vivian nods back, matching its energy. “Great! Let’s be off then!” The two of them exit towards the back.

Wise sighs, his mind is racing towards the potential number of customers who are disappointed to see Random Play closed right now. He tries his best to swiftly get ready as he runs all these imaginary scenarios of his customers in his head. Brushing his teeth, brushing his hair, washing his face, getting a new set of (albeit the same exact outfit) clothes, and applying deodorant, he looks at the mirror and nods.

For just a moment, his mind wanders towards Vivian. Thinking about the night they had just spent together, her enthusiasm towards him and the amount of joy she expresses near him…

Vivian really likes you.

He stares at the mirror. No, that can’t be it, right? Not in that way.

But doubting Hugo shouldn’t even be considered, knowing how analytical and knowledgeable he is.

But did he mean it as in admiration or affection?

Wise doesn’t understand girls at all. He doesn’t want to accidentally do something wrong.

Yet it feels so obvious, she wears her heart on her sleeve for him to see.

But he can’t jump to conclusions.

And… is it something he wants?

He snaps out of his mind bubble, seeing himself blushing a slight red in the mirror. Shaking his head and calmly slapping his face to wake himself up.

Now is not the time to think about that. He must get the store ready to open. For goodness’ sake, it’s already afternoon.

He takes quick strides down the stairs…

And to his surprise, he sees the store, completely stocked with the new films, all sorted in correct order. The boxes they came from were folded and put away next to the back door entrance.

At the counter, Vivian is enthusiastically chatting with Bangboo 18 and Eous about random topics.

“Vivian…” Wise calls out, and almost immediately, Vivian looks towards him with a huge smile on her face. “Did you do all this?”

“Of course! I got the store ready for you, Lord Phaethon!”

“It’s only been ten minutes.” Wise says with his mouth agape.

“Are you impressed, Wise?” Vivian’s eyes gleam ever so brightly.

“Of course... Thank you, Vivian.” Wise gives a small chuckle with a smile spread across his face. “Well then, shall we open the store?”

Chapter Text

It has been five hours since Random Play opened.

Wise was back inside the HDD room, working closely with Fairy and keeping in active touch with Victoria Housekeeping about the potential whereabouts of the Sacrifice Core, or where Hartman had gone. The news about Hugo’s identity and Hartman had somehow been leaked in the Inter Knot, and it has spread like wildfire. Lycaon had told Wise that he would get into the bottom of this, however he has not heard about any updates regarding the situation.

Within the storeroom, Vivian stood at the front desk, helping Bangboo 18 with customers. Between the brief silence when there’s no customers inside, Vivian enthusiastically talks to Bangboo 18 about its experiences with Wise and Belle, their journey, what it’s like to work for them, and the store.

Initially, Vivian had insisted heavily on helping Wise with his investigations, but Wise had insisted that Vivian can rest easy for now. Lycaon had messaged Wise to try to take it easy for now. Wise had also told Vivian that it would be best for her to rest and not get caught up with all the mess. While she has been seemingly quite enthusiastic and full of energy with Random Play and helping Wise, deep down, Vivian is still hurt. Painting over your pain with Lord Phaethon is a remedy that cures all, but when someone is as close to her as Hugo was, it's hard. She keeps trying to convince herself that things are okay and Lord Phaethon is here, but she knows it’s not enough.

Vivian stares blankly in front of her, deep in her thoughts.

“Ehn-ah?” 18, who is standing on the front desk, tries to jump in front of her to grab her attention.

It takes a few seconds, but Vivian snaps back. “Oh! I’m so sorry dear! I… I was just, thinking about things. Ahahaha…” Vivian attempts to avoid eye contact with the Bangboo, but it reads her like a book.

“Ehn ah, ehn ah nhu-nah-nhe! (It’s important to always be alert for customers and to give it our all!)”

“Of course! I’m terribly sorry about that. I just have a lot on my mind.” Vivian’s brows furrow as she slumps down, staring down at her shoes. “18, what would you do if you lost the one of the things most dear to you?”

18 listens to Vivian intently, its ears wiggling as if catching her voice like an antenna catching radio waves, as it crosses (or attempts to) its arms. As the little Bangboo begins to ramble, Vivian listens intently. “Nhu-ehn na ehn… … (I cannot imagine what it would be like. If that happened to me, 6 or Eous, it would be like our Masters dying! It would be very difficult to move on, given Master Wise and Belle have provided us with our basic needs. However, I would not abandon what they left behind! I would work harder than ever to make sure Random Play stays afloat, as that is what Master would have wanted!)” 18, seemingly satisfied with itself with its response, poses triumphantly with confidence.

Vivian, who was fully engaged with 18, nods enthusiastically. “To continue their work…” She ponders deep in thought.

A long time ago, Vivian was working half a dozen jobs at once, just trying to survive on her own and live comfortably. It was very difficult just trying to get by, and every night she would pray that the next day wouldn’t be a disaster. But even with the scales against her, she would never, ever give up. Phaethon gave her that hope. In a world she felt so alone, Lord Phaethon was that pillar keeping her up. Only with her positive outlook was Vivian able to meet new friends and gather new talents.

After getting comfortable with her current living conditions, she was taken in by Hugo and entered Mockingbird. She didn’t have to work as often, which was a massive weight lifted off her shoulders. Hugo, who was an expert thief, had more than enough wealth from stolen goods to sustain two people to live extremely comfortably. Under Hugo’s wing, Vivian was able to fully indulge in her hobbies.

Phaethon brought Vivian back on her feet when she was at rock bottom, and Hugo helped her soar to greater heights.

What Hugo had done for Vivian and sacrificed for her cannot be ignored. While she isn’t Hugo, she didn’t want his exploits to go forgotten. She had to take the mantle of Mockingbird for Hugo’s sake. It’s going to be tough being just Vivian and Robin, but with all the hardships she has suffered, this is nothing for her.

“I understand what I have to do now… Thank you, 18.” Vivian, more resolute than ever, gives 18 a big smile. “Do you think, Lord Phaethon is doing okay? I want to check up on him so bad but… I don’t want to bother him…”

“(Master will be okay! He has never been afraid to ask for help when it is needed. Think of it as him wanting you to not stress too much about things!)”

Vivian chuckles, “Of course, how could I have forgotten? I’ve, always needed lots of reassurance.”

“(There are countless days where I feel neglected too. Master meets so many wonderful people who are more capable than I ever will be. And often, they are chosen over me to work a shift at Random Play and I am relieved of my duty for the day. But this has happened for months now, and I’m grateful to work a day at the front for once now! There may be so many people who work over me, but that doesn’t stop me from trying my best!)”

Just as Vivian is about to respond, she is interrupted by bells jingling, signifying that a customer had just entered Random Play.

“Hello!” Vivian says, “Welcome to Random Play! What can I do for y—”

The air within the building suddenly becomes still. The atmosphere is so thick it’s hard to even breathe in. Vivian’s words are frozen as she realizes who is here.

The figure arrives with authority, its boots smashing on the ground echoes, and yet they move elegantly, as if the air around them moves with them.

The katana, the mechanical glove… Her fox ears flop idly, as she scans the room.

Hoshimi Miyabi has come to Random Play.

Vivian wasn’t sure what to make of this, what would someone of her status is doing here. Surely the fox Thiren, the Void Hunter, is just here for a movie?

“Oh. I’ve not seen you before.” Miyabi says as she gazes at Vivian. Her tone is ever so calm, and yet Vivian is sweating bullets. Her heart rate is rising. The aura Miyabi exerts is crushing. “Are you working here today?”

Before Vivian could even squeak out a single word, Miyabi continues. “Is Wise here?”

Almost like glass shattering, Vivian gasps for air. “W-What? What business do you have with him?”

Vivian’s thoughts raced, what is a Hollow Special Operations officer doing here?! Let alone one from Section 6, and it’s Hoshimi Miyabi!!! A VOID HUNTER. Is she going to do something bad to Lord Phaethon?! She can’t let that happen!

Vivian felt extremely at edge.

In Bangboo 18’s perspective, it saw the ever so calm Miyabi asking a simple question, while across the front desk is Vivian, her body shaking.

“I felt like seeing him today.” Miyabi says.

What?

There’s no way, right?

Vivian knows Lord Phaethon has many ties, but to think that a Void Hunter would personally know Wise is unfathomable for her. But, of course that’d be the case, right? Phaethon is a legendary Proxy!

Wait, wasn’t there a rumor she saw on the Inter-Knot about someone venting about Miyabi being engaged to someone with grey hair?

There’s no way.

But that post only had twenty views, and everyone laughed at OP. So it must be untrue.

Yeah, she’s overthinking it.

But still…

“W-What’s your business with Lord Pha—Wise?”

Miyabi’s ears twitched. She caught Vivian’s slip-up. “Oh. You are aware that Wise is Phaethon? Are you a Hollow Agent? Do you work with Wise as well?”

As well. Like a crevice in a cave, Vivian finds an opening in this crushing air and finally gets some breathing room. Thinking for a second before she speaks, she pieces together in her head that they work together and this must be for business purposes.

“Y-Yes, I work with Lord Phaethon.” Vivian says.

“Wonderful. I’m glad to hear My Proxy is working with new people.”

… Vivian looks like she’s about to break. Her Proxy? Is she claiming Lord Phaethon for herself?

Miyabi continues. “I simply thought of seeing Wise today. So I came after work ended. So I hope I can see him.”

Vivian jolts from the front desk and immediately runs in front of the door to the HDD room. She spreads her arms wide to block any movement. “I won’t let you in.” She looks like she’s about to cry. She could never stand toe-to-toe with a Void Hunter, but she cannot lose this.

Miyabi on the other hand, is simply confused on what the fuss is about with this girl. “I do not understand. So, he’s here then? Why do you not want me to see him?”

“My darling Lord Phaethon is busy. He isn’t taking visitors.” Vivian stares down Miyabi with a glare that could pierce steel.

“Oh, okay. I am free until the rest of the night I shall wait here until he is available.” Miyabi—whose expression had stayed neutral this whole interaction, turns around and begins browsing the Newest section in the store.

The tension seems to have dissipated, and Vivian can breathe a sigh of relief for now, but this isn’t over yet. She is still adamant on not leaving the front of the HDD room door. Even with Miyabi’s back turned on her, Vivian refuses to look away for even a second.

…

Bangboo 18, who witnessed this whole fiasco unfold, is unsure how to address this. It is so painfully clear to 18 there is a huge misunderstanding Vivian is having right now. She fully believes that Miyabi is a scheming rival who is going to take Wise away from her when Miyabi is simply being herself.

Being a little Bangboo trying to mediate between a Void Hunter and an Overprotective Fangirl wouldn’t go well at all. So 18 tries to focus on the needs of the store instead for now…

Jealousy is scary, 18 thinks to itself.

Chapter Text

The air is thick. A silent determined rage coming from a single person. Vivian is planted firmly in front of the HDD room. Across from her is Moshimi Miyabi, her red eyes dozing off as she browses the latest catalogue of films. Nothing seems to catch her interest so far. Miyabi is unarmed, unaware, unconcerned.

But in Vivian's mind, this is war.

Her mind races. This foxian wench! If she thinks she can barge in and do what she wants, then I cannot allow it! There she is, just standing there, waiting for the opportune moment where I let my guard down and before I know it, she'll have taken Lord Phaethon in her arms and they'll get married on the spot!

Miyabi looks to Vivian, her expression as docile as ever. "Is Wise done yet?"

Vivian breathes sharply, adjusting her stance. "No. No visitors."

Miyabi retorts, "I am not a visitor, I am Hoshimi Miyabi, and Wise is My Proxy."

Vivian's eye twitches. "That doesn't change anything! In fact, that's worse!"

Miyabi—confused, asks, "What's worse? I do not understand."

"He has no business with you right now! He is doing a commission that will not finish until late at night."

At this point, Miyabi could see through Vivian's thinly veiled lies and was getting agitated. "I have been waiting for some time now. I'd like to hear from him rather than you. The melon drink I brought won't be cold anymore." Miyabi holds up a can of melon flavored soda. It was covered with droplets due to condensation. "I had gotten one for myself, but there was a buy one get one free deal."

Vivian didn't buy it. "Oh really? That's it? I know what you're planning. First it's snacks, then it's smiles, then dates, and then you're going to be asking about Wise's shoe size!"

"He mentioned his sneaker collection once. I did find it quite interesting."

Vivian's hands were clenched, her face looking like she was going to explode. "You're not taking him away from me."

Miyabi tilts her head. "Taking away? What am I taking away? I am actually giving him something, not taking."

"No gifts! Only I can do that!"

At this point, Miyabi was completely lost. "Just what is your relationship with Wise?"

Perfect. This was perfect, Vivian thought to herself. She could assert her claim to Wise here and now, and Miyabi wouldn't be able to do anything about it! Vivian thought back to that rumor she saw on the inter-knot. If it really was true and Miyabi is engaged, then she won't react differently if she were to say she's engaged to him!

"I am Vivian Banshee, fiancé and soon to be wife of Lord Phaethon!"

Miyabi's ears perk up, "Mn. I see. Nice to meet you, Vivian."

Huh? Vivian thinks. That's it? This time Vivian repeats the words again, but louder with more detail to get it engraved in Miyabi's head. "Engaged. Soon to marry. Legally binding. Vows, doves, rings..."

"Doves are messy."

"That's not the point!!!" Vivian is getting frustrated with how infallible Miyabi is, no matter what tool she uses, it seems Miyabi never falters or backs down. "I will be married to YOUR Proxy. I'll have Lord Phaethon all to myself~"

Miyabi's ears flop as if catching signal from Vivian's words. "I'm sure I can still find time with My Proxy regardless of his marital status."

"Nope. I will keep him away from the likes of you," she hisses. "I will cover all of Lord Phaethon's needs so he doesn't have to look for anyone else, be it as a hollow raider, a wife, a cook, a friend, or someone to accompany him in bed, even."

"That seems like a lot of responsibilities. Are you sure you can handle all of that?" Miyabi asks.

"Yep! For Lord Phaethon is everything to me, I will dedicate my life to him." Vivian clenches her fist over to her chest and her crimson eyes gleam with resolve.

Miyabi stares blankly at Vivian, as if trying to process what she said. "You seem very devoted to Wise, but is he really devoted to you? I don't think I have ever heard about you from him before."

...Damn. Vivian's stomach dropped as Miyabi made a good point. Vivian knew she was lying through her teeth about their relationship. She's only known Wise for a few days and Miyabi is obviously much closer to him than she is right now. If someone is able to reach the level of trust with Miyabi to the point of reaching the status of her personal proxy, then deep down, Vivian knows she cannot hold a candle to Miyabi. Vivian fails to respond, choking on her own words.

Miyabi, noticing this, seems to have a better grasp of the truth. Vivian from the beginning has been very aggressive towards her, and seems to be very protective of Wise. While she may not understand Vivian's feelings towards Wise, she certainly understands when someone is tense and is going against someone they deem a threat. Miyabi recognizes battles, and she cannot lose this.

"Vivian, are you trying to scare me away from Wise?" Miyabi asks.

"N-No!" Vivian covers her mouth with her hands and avoids eye contact with Miyabi. "Why would I? I'm simply stating what's true."

Miyabi, recognizing Vivian staggering, retaliates back at her. "Why are you acting like I stole something from you? I don’t think Wise belongs to anyone.”

"I—" Vivian's breath hitches, she is caught off guard.

Miyabi continues, “You act like he’s a prize, an object you own. But I think he’s just… Wise. He doesn’t need to be won. All he needs are people to understand him.” Her words are like daggers, but her tone is without malice. "Vivian. Do you know what is most important to Wise? Has he told you about it?"

Before Vivian could come up with a response, Miyabi continues. "It seems like you don't. How can you call him your Lord Phaethon if you don't know? Do you like him, or do you need him?”

Vivian breaks.

She feels her heart break into millions of pieces. She doesn't know how to respond to Miyabi. Deep down, Vivian clearly knows she's unimportant to Wise, that Miyabi and many others know about him than she ever will. She feels tears welling on her eyes and is unable to stop them from flowing. "Th-That's not—"

In Miyabi's perspective in this imaginary duel she seemingly fought, she was able to attack Vivian, stagger her to the ground, and point her blade down at her. Miyabi doesn't understand why she fought this, but her battle instincts told her to defend herself. Just before she is about to go for the finishing blow, her ears instinctively point outwards to the sound of creaking.

The metallic door to the HDD room opens, it creaks loudly. Bangboo 6, peeks from outside the doorframe with a worried look. Wise comes right after, stepping out of the door and coming to a halt. He raises his eyebrows, and immediately recognizes Vivian's shaking shoulders, Miyabi and her blank stare, and the silent sob in the room. Wise understood Vivian's powers of foresight, but with her face red and sniffling, he knew these are tears of sadness.

Wise's brows furrow and frowns, "What is going on? Vivian...?

Vivian didn't even look at Wise, she kept her head down and tries to wipe her face of any tears. She could not let Wise see her like this. Sniffling, "N-No, This isn't w-what it looks like, L-Lord Phaethon..."

Wise immediately looked towards Miyabi, her expression still deadpan, "What happened here?"

Miyabi responds, "I questioned Vivian why she likes you." still expressionless.

"...What?"

Miyabi shrugs, "I don't think she knows, but that's okay, I don't either. Do you?"

As much as Wise hates to admit it, he doesn't understand Vivian's infatuation with him and Belle. He doesn't understand why she's has so much merchandise of them, of screenshots of their posts and comments, of their activity, why she's so obsessed over them. He knew Phaethon had fans, but he never would have guessed to have a fan so dedicated towards them. He never thought he would meet a fangirl.

He never thought he would become friends with one either.

Wise sighs. "If I had to be honest, I don't understand either, and that's o—."

Vivian falls to her knees, bawling. She knows it's true, but to hear it from Wise felt like a betrayal. Her head hangs low, fists clenched. 

"Vivian..." Wise looks to Miyabi, then back to Vivian. "Miyabi, can you give us a minute?" Wise asks gently.

"Understood." Miyabi bows. "I'll leave the melon drink here. I'll come again when it's more appropriate." She got to see Wise, so she was satisfied already. Before leaving, she looks towards Vivian one last time, and bows deeply towards her before stepping away. "I apologize for the inconvenience."

Wise wasn't sure what exactly Miyabi said, but he will definitely have a stern talk to her later.

Wise approaches slowly, close enough to reach out but ge doesn't. Not yet. He kneels down to Vivian. Her palm covering her eyes. "What happened?" he quietly asks her. Vivian's lips tremble, struggling to keep them shut. "You don't have to tell me everything." Wise reassures. "Just tell me you're hurting."

...Vivian's voice weak and cracking, tries to respond.

"I... I don't want you to see me like this, L-Lord Phaethon."

"Vivian, please... Just tell me what's wrong."

"I'm... not worthy of being under your presence... I'm just a lowly girl, I lie to make myself look better towards you, but don't know a thing about you, Wise... Miyabi asked me questions about you, and I couldn't even answer them..."

"She's blunt." Wise says, "She doesn't know how to soften her words."

"No, shes right." Vivian finally looks up to Wise, her eyes red from the strain, cheeks soaked from tears. Her expression is filled with sorrow, but there is a faint sense of resolve within her.

"Wise... I love you. But it isn't right. I want to truly love you. Not like a fan of Phaethon, not like someone desperate. I don't want to love you like it's something I need. I don't want to force myself on you, I don't want to express my feelings through idolization, I want to express it by truly knowing you. I want to show you I'm capable of truly loving you, not just through my own obsession."

Vivian sniffles, and swallows, her next words coming out softer.

"I just... don't know how."

This pierces something soft in him.

He had a feeling Vivian was crushing on him, but he was never good at love. Wise has had his fair share of people who were romantically interested to him, but he knew they were simple crushes. But never had he met someone like Vivian, someone who openly expresses her love so passionately. He didn't know how to handle this kind of love.

It's not like he didn't like the attention.

"Then let's figure it out together."

Vivian gasps, blinking rapidly like she was daydreaming

"Look, I may not feel how you feel, but your feelings are still very important. You're a very wonderful woman, Vivian. I want to help you find your feelings. You have unconditional love for Phaethon, but is that the same love for Wise, or a different kind? You don’t have to prove anything to me. You don’t have to earn it. If it’s real… it’ll grow. You'll discover that love yourself."

Vivian looks down again, tears welling, until wiping her face eith her arm and looking back to Wise, resolute.

"Besides, I doubt Miyabi understands the weight of her words." Wise gifts a soft chuckle.

Wise reaches his hand out to Vivian, and grabs the same hand that he had kept close the night before, and intertwines his fingers with hers.

"Why don't we go to my room? you can watch a movie with me."

"O-Of course! B-But my dress is a mess, I... I don't want to dirty your room."

"Don't worry about it, you can wear our clothes for tonight."

Vivian's face becomes a deep red at the proposal. "D-D-D-D-Do you mean I c-can wear your shirt???"

"...Sure." Wise smiles, "I don't see why not."

Almost like replacing batteries, she instantly gets her joy back as she tries to hold her excitement in.

"C-Can I take it home too?? I promise I'll take good care of it!"

"That's... Uhh... Maybe ask again later."

Wise may not reciprocate Vivian's love, but he is most certainly willing to help her understand her own feelings towards him, and maybe during her journey, he might understand his own feelings too. Maybe...