#☾✩�� Such is the Will of Casualty ----- IC Gundham Tanaka

[phantasmalnightmare]

Continued from thread

Gundham's expression turned downcast, at her words, the endless stacks of paper on her desk taking on another meaning. He could piece her unspoken words together, that her week had been no different than his: throwing herself into her work to drown her sorrows, taking little to no respite along the way. By the hint of the whiskey on her breathe, he could tell that she'd had even more assistance in numbing herself than he had, and the guilt immediately hit him.

He tried to brush it off. Surely, she wasn't as bothered by their fight. He knew she cared for him, but there was no way she felt as deeply for him. It was probably just her day to day life as a remnant of despair keeping her down. They all had enough remorse. He didn't quite believe that their quarreling hadn't made things worse for her though. “I quite know that you mean. Since I've woken up, there is much to do, and no time for idle thoughts. Fear not. The Dark Lord needs no rest. Fuhahaha!” The breeder tried to sound confident, not wanting her to know how hard it had been since he'd woken up. He tried to stay busy non-stop, or the flashbacks would start. He would work till he couldn't anymore, his body wrought with exhaustion, but even then when he lay in bed, sleep wouldn't take him. All he could hear were the screams. He wondered if he should remind her that she was a queen and that this crying was unbecoming, just like in the simulation, but in this case, he wasn't going to be executed. He'd been hard on her because he didn't want to die, and he thought he could ease her sorrow at the end at least. He wanted nothing more than to give her the courage to survive the rest of the game and to live on. This time, he wasn't going anywhere. He was able to give her comfort, and he could continue to do so, because he had no intention of leaving her side. Despite his being a Dark Lord, even he needed a good cry from time to time. He'd been doing so more times than he cared to admit after waking up.

He was so sure that Sonia wouldn't want to hug him, that his body tensed, ready for the rejection likely to come. However, not only did she allow him to wrap his arms around her small frame, but she also put her arms around his shoulders. His face turning crimson, he was thankful that she had her head buried into his chest. Although, as she was so close to his heart, surely she would be able to hear how erratically it was skipping. He thought it might beat straight out of his chest at the rate it was pumping, which only added to his embarrassment.

What kind of miscreant was he? Here his friend was, crying. He shouldn't be feeling so elated that she was hugging him like he'd always dreamed of. The Queen smelled of whiskey, tea, and some kind of lavish shampoo, but the smell was nice. Her skin and hair was softer than he'd imagined it would be. As anxious as he felt, he also felt warm and content, as if he belonged right there. “Hah! I did not trust humans long before the simulation, or even as a remnant. I imagine that is how that woman was so easily able to manipulate me.” Between the constant bullying he received throughout his childhood, as well as his abusive father, it was hard to remember ever trusting in people in the first place, though his Mother at least had been loving. That was part of the reason he'd had a preference for animals. “You are different though. Your aura is virtuous. You are also immune to the poison secreted from my body. Otherwise I could never embrace you in such a way.” He tried to explain why he trusted her above the others, suddenly feeling self conscious. “In time, perhaps I will grow to depend on the others as well.”

He wished they could sit like this for the rest of the day. Despite hating to be idle and living a workaholic lifestyle since awakening, for once he felt calm just sitting still. The screaming was quieter than normal, and he suddenly could feel how exhausted he was. All good things come to an end though, and she finally pulled back a bit, her tears now dried for the moment. The feeling of sadness returned a bit as her warmth left him, although she kept her arms around him still, which was unexpected, but he was secretly grateful. He was the type that usually hated physical contact of any kind, so why was it that her touch soothed him so? Gundham thought he'd regained control of his emotions, until she stated with such sincerity that she would open herself to trusting him more. Especially him.

He was suddenly all too aware of how close her face was to his, her eyes peering into mismatched hues. As hard as he tried to reign in his feelings once more, he was certain that his face had reddened to some degree yet again, much to his chagrin. “Y-yes I would like that.” He managed to stammer out, trying to stay focused on the conversation, instead of letting his gaze wander to her lips. He finally pulled his arms away from her, as much as he didn't want to, but he was finding it hard to focus on anything else. “Yes the movies.” He cleared his throat a bit awkwardly, before frowning. There was no way he could take Sonia on a date looking and smelling like he currently did.

“I… uh… I haven't quite finished at the farm for the day.” It wasn't a lie, and as much as he wished he could just take the day off, the animals needed the care he provided. “If time is a construct here, I shall simply arrive back at your abode when the sun dips into the horizon!” He proclaimed. “The theaters seem like a sound location.” He doubted she wanted him in her cabin for so long anyway, just the two of them. It gave him the time he needed to get ready anyway. He stood and headed for the door way. “I shall return, Queen Sonia.” He then headed out of the door and to the farm.

[phantasmalnightmare]

@more-than-a-princess

Literally them

happy valentine's day💌(ᴗ͈ˬᴗ͈)ഒ audio by kawaiivocalo!💝

[phantasmalcalamity-a]

What type of ‘I love you’ are you?

i love you, i've always loved you, i will always love you

it's commitment, it's devotion, it goes often without saying, but is felt nonetheless. it's accepting that you would travel to hell and back for them if they asked and knowing that they would do the same for you. it's an old ache, long after they've burrowed deep into your chest and settled there like a weight- grounding, an anchor point. even when you're apart, you can still feel the shape of them, it's like phantom pain. neither of you can help but succumb to the other's gravity, yet neither of you fear the collision. it means that you trust them, that they make you feel safe, that they feel like home.

Tagged by: @more-than-a-princess​ (Thanks and sorry for taking so long!)

Tagging: You reading this. Yes you. And @bloomingtalent​

[phantasmalnightmare]

Starter for @mechatiqe

Gundham frowned as he sat as his desk in class. He'd been trying to attend classes more since their teacher had put in so much effort in strengthening their bonds, but it was unusual for her to send a notice for a mandatory class. He wondered what it was about, as Yukizome made her way to her desk.

"Okay class, today you're going to be assigned your partner for the science fair." He blanched at her words, suddenly feeling anxious. The only thing he feared more than group projects, was an assigned group. "I've picked students that I think need to improve their relations, and I've high hopes for this."

He was sweating bullets, as she began to call off their partners. His four dark devas poked their heads out in concern for their master, sensing his unease. He hoped that he'd be partnered with Sonia, but he knew it couldn't be that easy, and as she called out "Tanaka and Soda," his heart sank. The mechanic and him frequently butted heads. Nevertheless, he made his way over to the other male's desk.

"Kehehehe.. It would seem that one such as you has been blessed upon this day. Even mortals such as yourself have not been entirely forsaken it would seem. Rejoice, for the Supreme Overlord of Ice and Snow, Gundham Tanaka, shall complete this quest with you!" He exclaimed proudly, his devas standing on his shoulders, looking smug. "This will be child's play, if I create a display using some of my familiars."

[phantasmalnightmare]

“Hey, dicklord. You have sunflower seeds on you for your hamsters, right? Give me some. I’m hungry.”

"I... beg your pardon?" He should have been used to the mechanic's quips by now, but dicklord was a new one. "Kehehehe... You do know what they say. Do not say the Lord's name in vain, lest you be sent to the sixth layer of hell for an eternity of damnation! Even I shall not tell my brothers to spare the likes of you. Fuhahaha!" Gundham proclaimed dramatically, covering part of his face with one of his hands.

"My Four Dark Devas have consumed all of their sustenance. In fact, I was on my way to procure some more. I do not think that a mere mortal such as yourself would be able to handle the raw energy of a sunflower seed that has not been tainted by mortal processing!" Most humans wanted them roasted, and/or with salt, he'd noticed. "The school has one such area where I might collect them, but I needn't divulge the hidden location to a human with a mere five mp. Begone." Maybe if Kazuichi had asked nicely he'd show him where they kept the plants, but instead, he'd demanded them in such a rude manner.

[phantasmalnightmare]

Well, he supposed Teruteru did flirt with anything that moved, so it wasn't exactly shocking that the chef had flirted with either of them, not that Gundham had noticed. Kazuichi wasn't exactly wrong about his flirting going over his head. The breeder was dense when it came to picking up on other's feelings and emotions, which made it extra hard to deal with the mechanic and his relentless torment. He didn't know why he felt the need to pick on him so much, but he knew the two of them would most likely always get along like oil and water.

"Ah, so you fear pythons then? Such ignorance. They are not poisonous, although she could very well take a pound of flesh for payment, in offending her master." The snake hissed and coiled down his arm, sliding down onto one of the desks. She seemed to glare at the pink haired boy, but then picked up the rag with her tail. She moved it across the desk, seemingly assisting Gundham with the cleaning.

"Time is ticking. I am afraid she is even more ravenous than you are at the moment, and you are looking like quite the snack. She won't bite you for now, but she does not posses infinite patience, so I suggest you get to assisting. Kehehehe." He continued to push the broom around, gathering all the dust and hair into a pile in the corner. Nagini went from desk to desk, wiping the rag across the surfaces with her tail.

“I-I did!! I was friends with the popular guys too!! You’re— you’re just saying that because you’re jealous! And Teru does joke-flirt with me sometimes… er, not that that means much. That guy flirted with everyone in the school at least once…” His determination was kind of amazing, in a way. “He definitely flirted with you at some point too but it probably went over your head.”

The mechanic seemed unfazed by the other’s empty threats. What did faze him, was the flash of hurt in the other’s expression, causing him to freeze for a moment. While his intention was to piss the other off, he hadn’t really… considered that it might actually hurt him. Yeah, okay. In hindsight, maybe that was a step too far.

He didn’t know how to apologize for it, though, awkwardly lowering the spray bottle, before the color started draining from his face at the sight of the python. “H-hey now… N-no need to take it that far!! I just sprayed some water at you!!” He quickly backed away, having no clue how venomous this type of snake would be. The size made it look lethal. “T-take your snake away, man!! I don’t have the money to afford the medical bills if it bites me!!”

[phantasmalnightmare]

"T-Tanaka!!" Mikan greeted with a small grin. She headed over to his desk and set a small bag wrapped in a pretty pink ribbon down. Inside the bag were homemade shortbread cookies decorated with pink and red sprinkles and dipped in chocolate. "I made everyone some cookies. H-Happy Valentine's day!"

Gundham was ready to leave as soon as the bell rang. He hated this day of the year, as any loner did. Seeing all the happy couples only served to remind him that he was quite the social pariah. That's why he was startled when the nurse approached his desk, and she placed some nicely decorated cookies in front of him.

"C-could it be? Kehehehe... But it is! The Ultimate cookies of legend! I must admit.. I did not expect such a gift from you." He nodded sagely, as he picked up the cookies, admiring the detail she'd put into them. "You have my gratitude. Even though these appear to be a gift out of some unfounded pity, as you bequeathed them to all the other mere mortals as well. Nevertheless, the others will not realize what a gift they have received. Fuhahahaha!" The breeder exclaimed, posing.

Since he wasn't expecting to get anything though, he had no return gift. Panicking, he checked his pockets. Pellets, a rubber band, some coins. Unless... "Alas, I do not have a gift of equivalent exchange. I do have this though." He pulled out what his hand had brushed against, a tin of handmade salve, and offered it to her. "I created this concoction to heal injuries since my minions tend to bite whenever they fancy. Perhaps it may interest you, as a healer."

[phantasmalnightmare]

A  VALENTINE’S  APPLICATION. 

(For one (1) Gundham Tanaka, while attending Hope's Peak Academy)

your  name: Sonia Nevermind

your age: 17

your perfect date: There are so many options! A twilight picnic might be lovely, perhaps in a cemetery with a walk after eating. Or perhaps a visit to a museum or a zoo, followed by a cafe? Of course, there are plenty of wonderful films to watch: something like Dracula or Crimson Peak might be fitting for the romantic nature of the holiday. Or we could try to summon a demon of lust! (She'd be happy with chocolate and Gundham's company honestly but Sonia got creative)

make out in private or in public?: Private, please. It is unbecoming to indulge in most affection in public: it rather reflects poorly on my family, and I am discouraged from doing so.

do you like to cuddle?: I adore cuddling! (Note: sharing a bed with Sonia means she will wrap all four limbs around you like an octopus and you will only be allowed to go free when she deems it so. Or when she wakes up in embarrassment)

tell me something about you: I recently discovered there are no less than three dozen unsolved murders in Towa City over the past ten years! Is that not fascinating? I did this research in my free time whilst rewatching all of Sun Witch Esper Ito!

why do you want to be my valentine?: I have been in love with you since the day we met and I do not know how to tell you I think we get on very well and on such a special day, I would like to spend it with you, someone I feel wholly at ease to be myself around. I hope you might feel the same. We should not leave out the Devas and the rest of your beasts, too: perhaps we could offer them treats suitable for their culinary palates?

Gundham couldn't help the red hue that took over his features. He was speechless, and yet, he knew he had to respond. He tried to collect himself as best as he could. She'd stated that the reason she'd chosen him was only because she felt comfortable around him after all. Valentines? He never thought that he would ever have someone ask him to be such. And it was her of all people...

He cleared his throat, looking away, before finally responding. "Those ideas sound quite lovely. But of course I will accept your proposal, for you are the Dark Queen, and the only one who can withstand my poisonous touch. N-not that I would touch you in such a manner." Unless she wanted it.

"Even a Dark Lord such as I cannot set foot in the fourth layer of hell known as a zoo, however. To hear their cries as they are enslaved... It is too much to bear." He clenched his fists. "A moonlight cemetery challenge sounds much more entertaining anyway. Kehehehe... Perhaps the spirits will come to greet us." His devas scurried into his cloak at the ominous words. "I thank you for choosing me."

[phantasmalcalamity-a]

📜 how about some gundham & hajime ?

Gundham: .. .----. -- / ... --- .-. .-. -.-- [translation: I’M SORRY] Hajime: What's that? Gundham: Remorse code. Hajime: I'm even angrier now.

[phantasmalnightmare]

At her words, the real Cham-P emerged from within the confines of his cloak, scrambling to the top of the breeder's shoulders. Once perched safely, the hamster began to flex in a comical manner, as if proving that he could protect her wherever she went. It was a nice distraction from the shade his cheeks were undoubtedly turning, as he reached for the necklace.

Of course, he missed her dazzling smile because he was being too bashful as usual. He was certain that she would reject such a gift from someone as dark and brooding as him. Even though they were friends, she was bright, beautiful, and literally royalty. He was only a self proclaimed Lord, came from a poor background, and he was constantly bullied.

Therefore, he did not expect to hear the words that followed. "Truly!?" Gundham couldn't help the warm, and very not Dark Lord, smile that etched his features, nor the amazement that lit his gaze. It was an expression reserved for only one that he felt truly comfortable around, and he felt ecstatic that Sonia didn't turn down his gift. No, she actually loved it.

His gaze met her own, and he suddenly found it hard to breathe, as he realized what she'd asked. He pulled his scarf up tightly around the bottom of his face, not that it did much to hide his now scarlet cheeks. "You wish to wear it right this instant? Surely... your attendants would assist you. I fear that my poison may shorten your life span, even though you are the Dark Queen." He stammered, knowing that he was making nonsensical excuses. Even Cham-P looked at him with an annoyed expression, gesturing to the blonde as if egg him on.

Being a coward was not befitting the Supreme Overlord of Ice. Besides, he knew that she would leave for her home land soon, and that it would be awhile before he would see her again. If not this moment, when would he get another chance like this? "Kehehehe... You have always been quite fearless. Even the Leviathan would break under your gaze. Very well. I commend that bravery! The almighty Gundham Tanaka will assist you in this endeavor!" He proclaimed loudly, trying to cover up the deafening sound of his own heart beat.

He closed the distance, and he was glad that he was facing her back, so that she couldn't see how deeply red his face was. Calloused fingers took the necklace, and he carefully pulled each side around her neck, the places where his fingers brushed against her bare skin feeling like a shock throughout his body. He fumbled with the clasp a couple of times, partly because he was unaccustomed to jewellery, and partly because he wanted his hands to linger upon the back of her neck just a little bit longer.

He finally managed to close the clasp on one of the loops, and the necklace fell gently into place. Taking a step back, he turned to face her, and his breathe hitched in his throat. Seeing her wear something he'd given her like that(and something he'd helped place upon her too) made him feel happy, but also other.. more bestial instincts that were much too inappropriate to feel for a friend.

"I am all too familiar with the inner workings of royalty. As one of the Lords of Hell, I know that traditions must always be honored. I thank you for wish that I could accompany you, all the same." He held onto her words, not trusting himself to do more than he was allowed to, but there was one last thing he wished to do. "I do hope you will think of me when your gaze falls upon the grand cursed artifact I have bestowed upon you. But... you best be on your way."

Before he could over think things, he allowed his body to move. He closed the distance between them, and wrapped his arms around each of her sides, pulling her into a warm embrace. She smelled nice and felt so soft. He held her like that for a bit longer. "I will miss you, my friend." He whispered softly, not wanting to let go.

All things come to an end though, and he eventually had to let her go. Taking a step back, he gave her a bittersweet smile. She would be back at least. "Happy Birthday and safe travels, my Dark Queen." He left the classroom at last.

Gundham knew that Sonia's birthday was today, and he had spent no small amount of time fussing over what kind of gifts that she would like. He had to get her something. After all, she was one of the few people at school that treated him with kindness, although there were certain other motivations at play. Like his feelings for her. He'd been working at a vet's part time after school, all so he could save to get her something, since his family didn't have much money.

As the school bell rang, and the others cleared out of the classroom, he called out to stop her. "Ah my Dark Queen! If I may but request a moment of your time." The Dark Lord cleared his throat, suddenly feeling jittery and awkward. He'd never gifted someone something before.

"It is your day of birth, is it not? Friday the 13th... Kehehe how befitting for one such as you." He pulled out a decently sized golden hamster plush from his jacket, that looked similar to Cham-P. "I.. have something for you. A replica of Invading Black Dragon Cham-P. He will watch over you and protect you from the unseen calamity that threatens us all."

He lingered for a moment longer, his cheeks tinged red. He had one last thing to give her after all, but he was trying to work up the courage. "One final piece for you.." He pulled out a small wrapped box. Inside was a beautiful silver necklace with a diamond encrusted crescent moon and star pendent.

"Beware, this is actually a cursed artifact! Any other that would touch it would meet an untimely demise! However, your special abilities will protect you. I believe you would enjoy an occult piece such as this." He couldn't seem to make eye contact. "If you do not wish to accept it, I understand. My evil eye will be able to keep the curse at bay for some time! Whatever the case, I do hope you enjoy this special day. Fuhahaha!" Despite the grandiose words, he was feeling very flustered, certain she wouldn't want jewelry from him. Such trinkets were usually exchanged by significant others... and despite his insistence that it was an occult object, it really was just a normal necklace.

Sonia's Birthday Asks 2023 - No Longer Accepting (unless you have spoken with me already about a delay!)

It was one of her more unusual birthdays. To be fair, it was perhaps the first one spent overseas. On her actual day of birth, Sonia Nevermind's plans included breakfast in the cafeteria, attending class, and finishing the very last of her packing before taking a night flight home on the jet. Her assistant, the beacon of kindness that she was, had at least arranged with the security and flight staff for the Princess of Novoselic to be served a piece of her favorite chocolate cake in the air, a secret that would be kept from her parents before landing. With a few days until the annual masquerade ball and plenty of ceremonies and appearances before then, the last thing anyone needed was for the Queen of Novoselic to throw a fit that her daughter's gown did not fit her.

That, and a few horror movies streamed from the comfort of her seat or the queen-sized bed in the back of the plane. Even if she wasn't having a real, normal birthday party, she could still celebrate in her own way.

Her schedule did not, at any point, involve Gundham calling out to her as she got up to leave the classroom. That was something she hadn't planned for, from the genuine surprised look that she hoped masked the panic in her eyes. Despite the fact she adored his company and preferred it over all others (something she kept a secret, if only to not make their friendship awkward), she hardly knew what to say most of the time. Or at least, not until she went over it in her mind to ensure it didn't sound naive or silly: she was well aware that plenty of Hope's Peak students considered her to be uninformed, sheltered, or just stupid to the ways of the world, due to her upbringing and tendency to mix up common phrases. It was why she wanted to take care with her words yet be genuine towards him. It wasn't hard to be open-minded and friendly to Gundham Tanaka: he so often spoke of grand occult rituals, powerful gods, and of course, the variety of feathered, scaled, and furry friends in his care, who often showed up to class (to Sonia's delight. She never minded a bear sitting at its own miniscule desk, it was very well-behaved). 

"Y-yes it is!" She half-affirmed, half-squeaked through her smile. Friday the 13th, whether it was due to pure superstition or one of her favorite film franchises, was meant to be dark and foreboding. Sonia was, at present, neither of these things, as she tried not to look too long at his multi-colored eyes or his carefully bandaged hands that had just disappeared into his jacket. Surely he'd notice, she thought, and he only meant to wish her a happy birthday. Thankfully, she was pleasantly distracted from inappropriate thoughts with a soft plush placed in her hands, made to resemble Cham-P's orange, fuzzy image, complete with chubby cheeks and loving, beady eyes. 

"Oh! It truly is Cham-P, how delightful!" Sonia exclaimed, bringing the small toy up to her face, just as she would the real hamster, and brushed her cheek against its fur. "I feel very much protected already before my journey. He shall keep me safe and in good company during my travels." And after the travels in particular, when she had to set herself on a shelf to be the princess everyone required and expected her to be. It was more challenging every time she went home, now that she'd had a taste of what a normal life was like. What real friends were like. And then...well, what Gundham was like. He was in a place in her heart all his own, one that beat a little faster as he produced a second, smaller gift. 

She might have been sheltered in the ways of navigating a grocery store or using a washing machine (to the point her clothes were now always sent out for cleaning), but Sonia was not so naive to misunderstand what sort of gift could possibly lay within a velvet box. Her breath hitched in her throat as, shifting the weight of the plush to one arm, she opened it with her free hand. It was delicate, beautiful, and according to Gundham, a cursed artifact destined to protect her. He couldn't look her in the eyes for some reason, but if he'd had, he would've seen the soft smile that spread over her lips. Different from the bright and cheerful expression she showed everyone, this one, warm and wistful and wanting, was one she reserved for him. Only for him, though often only when she was alone and couldn't be caught dreaming. But there, in the empty classroom, she couldn't stop herself as she turned over the small pendant in her hand.

"It is perfect, I love it," She breathed, tracing over the tiny crescent moon. With a pink flush spreading over her cheeks, she raised her own, shy gaze to Gundham again. Swallowing, she had one chance to reenact the sort of scene she'd always watched in dramas but never had the opportunity to happen in real life. At least, not with anyone she wanted. "It is just...it is just that my hands are rather occupied by the protective powers of Cham-P, and I would very much like to wear this today, right now. Could you please assist me with putting it on?"

Setting the necklace back in the box and placing the box into his hand, she took a deep breath and moved her hair to one side, letting it fall over a single shoulder to expose the back of her neck. "Thank you, Tanaka-san. I will treasure it dearly. It will be a great comfort while I am at home. I wish I could have invited you to the seasonal festivities, but, my family...well, they insisted that this was an important royal event and I needed to give my duties my full attention."

In short: so Princess Sonia of Novoselic wouldn't eschew her royal ball duties for the solitary goal of asking Gundham Tanaka to dance with her. She certainly spoke of him enough at home and the staff, much to Sonia's dismay, couldn't keep her crush a secret. Within the castle walls, at least.

[phantasmalcalamity-a]

“ words are powerful things. ” (➝Gundham)

The self proclaimed Dark Lord nodded at Makoto's statement. He knew that truth all too well, after he'd been bullied so often at school. As much as he tried to brush the other's cruel words off, they hurt him deep down. It was part of the reason he'd fallen to despair in the end. However, Naegi hadn't given up on him, or any of the others, and for that, he was grateful.

"Indeed they are. However, I find the words you tell me hard to believe still. It is hard to find hope for the future, nor to believe I even deserve such." The breeder looked down. He was trying his best to channel that grandiose personality of his, but it just felt flat ever since he'd woken up from that pod. "Why is it that you even believe that we deserve salvation? I was quite content to ascend my throne in Gehenna. Kehehehe..."

[phantasmalcalamity-a]

@more-than-a-princess​ said: I thought throwing coins in a fountain was supposed to grant my wish of asking for you to be happy and prosperous, so I suppose it came true! I didn't trust that temple bell.

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“Yes the God’s have forsaken us, but the Sea Dragons shall grant wishes! However, they only come true if you spit the coins into the fountain, for these beasts are known to be into that kind of thing.”

[phantasmalnightmare]

It was somehow easy to talk about the past, despite the stabbing pain that came with it, if only because Sonia herself was so easy to talk to. It was hard to imagine her Father, the King of Novoselic, being an Otaku on the side. "I.. I am afraid I missed out on the mecha side of animations. I must confess, I have not seen any of the Gundam arcs. Perhaps, they have them here, and we could watch them together on another day. Only then will I know which is my favorite."

If only her father could watch them with them. It would be a great way to bond with him, despite him coming from an impoverished background. He had no fantasies that the King would allow him to ask for his daughter's hand in marriage, due to his upbringing, yet, perhaps, he would allow him to be her friend: To live out his days in the castle, stealing glances and laughs from the princess. He told himself that would have been enough, but there was no way to know now. Just like there was no way to learn why his Mother had named him 'Gundham' in the first place. As far as he knew, she hadn't been a closeted otaku.

As Gundham ate, he couldn't help but notice the furtive glances that the blonde kept sending his way. He hoped there wasn't something on his face, and he quickly wiped it with his napkin, yet her blue hues continued to drift towards him. He began to look more closely at her as well, his heavy glance drinking in her features. From her beautiful eyes, to her cute dress, his mismatched hues wandered, finally resting upon her luscious lips. Perhaps it was the alcohol, but a sudden need had him sitting straighter in his seat, pinching his leg to keep himself rooted to the spot. Softly, he bit his lip, as his gaze lingered on her mouth.

Just when he thought he couldn't take it anymore, she asked quite an intriguing question, one that caught him a bit off guard. He'd finished eating by then, and he pushed his plate to the side, reaching across the table, and taking her hands in his own. "It matters.. more than you will ever know. That you were the one to befriend me, to see me for who I was. Out of the billions of mortals in existence, I would not want anyone else." Still consumed by that impossible urge to kiss her, he drew her hand towards his mouth, brushing the soft skin of her knuckles against his lips in a chaste, yet all consuming manner.

It was enough. He tried to convince himself, as he let her take her digits back. Yet, he knew he wanted more. He wanted to know what her lips felt like against his own. Surely, they would be even more soft than the back of her hand had been. He wanted to kiss her everywhere, and learn what every part of her felt like with his mouth and hands. He pulled himself out of his reverie, realizing how shallow and deep his breathing had become. Damned wine. At this rate, she would think he was a creep.

"Why yes. Kintsugi is beautiful." And so are you. The fact that she was referring to him as beautiful in her own way, went far above him. He had never thought of himself so much as handsome, let alone beautiful. His gaze darkened and he finally looked away, as her words struck something dark and sorrowful inside of him. "I.. do not have a home any longer. There is no home for me to return to in Japan. I did not have friends there, or close family. So, no, I would not miss it. You.. are the only one left that I care for." He stood, collecting the dirty dishes. "I believe you told me that the Makango are endangered as well. With my powers, I can lend a hand, and fight to save them. Kehehehe."

On his way to the kitchen, he stumbled a bit, and one of the wine glasses toppled over and shattered. It had been so long since he'd had a drink, and he was definitely more than buzzed after the few glasses of wine he'd had. "My apologies. It seems I have have lost myself in my cups." He opened the closet nearby, hoping to find the broom.

Maybe it was inappropriate, considering the circumstances: former Remnants of Despair, imprisoned on an island while the world decided their fates, and Gundham talking about a past he could never return to. And yet Sonia smiled as he described what little he could remember of his childhood. Truthfully, it was exactly how she'd imagined him: a little boy who befriended all manner of creatures great and small, from the soft, sleek cats to skittish squirrels to the animals most children wouldn't try to befriend: non-venomous snakes and lizards, for example. She imagined a boy who felt more at ease around animals than other children, and a gentle, loving mother who encouraged his interests instead of badgering him to conform to some society standard.

How different they were, her imagination of their childhoods. Sonia couldn't profess to remembering much warmth from her mother, but her father was a different story. He benefited from flitting in and out of her life at his and his title's convenience, but when he wasn't teaching her about the monarchy, he was teaching her about the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon. "He did," Sonia replied, a smile and accompanying chuckle escaping her before she even realized it. It seemed so strange, to think of happier times after everything that happened. But in Gundham's company, and the presence of a warm meal and a cozy dining room, it felt natural. Something she probably should've felt guilty for. "So many of his advisers, the Royal Council, and other aristocrats found his hobbies silly but he adored mecha anime, kaiju films, and rock music. But in Mobile Suit Gundam's case, I think he liked the combination of robot battles and space politics. I am sure he would have asked you about the origins of your name, and if you had a favorite Gundam series."

Her smile faded a bit with the realization that that time would never come. Her father would never show interest in his name, her mother wouldn't even give him her usual look of derision, the expression she wore towards anyone she didn't think was good enough to associate with her daughter. As much as she'd lamented it years ago, Sonia would give anything to see it now. That she still had some semblance of a family, that she hadn't destroyed them all.

They'd quieted some as they both were too famished to ignore the food in front of them, but Sonia gave him a cautious glance in-between bites. And once she was temporarily satiated, she set her fork gently down to give him her full attention. "Does it matter," She began, her voice wavering. Even if she hadn't helped cause The Tragedy, Sonia doubted that her self-confidence would have been any different. Something about his gaze, especially when fixed upon her, caused her heart to skip a beat every time. "If I am the only one who never thought you to be poisonous?" Did you need someone else, anyone else, besides me to be immune to your so-called venom, Gundham?

A strange question, one she hoped he wouldn't dwell on but she couldn't stop herself from asking. Maybe it was to comfort him. Maybe it was to comfort herself. Sonia was thankful the candlelight remained low: he couldn't see the color in her cheeks.

"I think..." Sonia replied after a sip of wine. Liquid courage. "That some of the most beautiful things in the world are flawed. Broken and put back together again. Like kintsugi." Like you.

Her eyes widened at his wish to be by her side, forever. Her heart leapt but her mind told her not to read into it. He wanted to offer her his friendship forever, that was all she could be certain of. "I cannot return to Japan, though," She pointed out. "Or anywhere else besides my country. Do you not want to return home one day?" It was possible he didn't trust his talent for anything more than the animals he took care of at the farm, but Sonia believed that a part of him would always want to help rehabilitate them. Something rather difficult in Novoselic, when she was supposed to be confined to royal residences for the rest of her days.

[phantasmalnightmare]

Gundham grit his teeth as he realized that he could not, in fact, remember most of those things that she so desperately wished to know. Although as to why she wanted so many useless facts concerning his childhood, was beyond him. "I have but one of those answers I am afraid. The first creature to earn my friendship, was our house feline. His name was Onyx. Soon to follow, was a squirrel and a crow that I had started sharing some morsels with." Luckily, his Mom caught him feeding the critters scraps not long after he'd started, and she'd bought Gundham some nuts and seeds to offer them instead.

"Your Father enjoyed Gundam? That is a rather interesting choice for a King." It was hard to imagine a member of royalty watching the mecha anime, but Sonia's father seemed to be anything but a normal King, at least from what he'd heard about the man.

Once again, the breeder expected her to step away when he hugged her, to flinch, for her body to tense, for anything, but her returning his hug. Surely, earlier had been a fluke: A momentary weakness because she'd been crying. Yet, she wrapped her arms around his torso, even going so far as to rest her head upon his shoulder. It was almost as if she desired the touch as much as he did, but that was impossible. Right? His heart raced loudly as her skin touched his own, sending small shocks throughout his body. He could smell the shampoo she used, the underlying hint of wine and.. spiced whiskey. Something he could tell that she relied on much too heavily since they'd woken up. He wished he could replace her dependence on the alcoholic beverage with himself: With his embrace, his warm kisses, and his body on top of hers.

His cheeks reddened as his thoughts drifted. What was he thinking? He was simply comforting a friend when she needed a hug, nothing more. "Perhaps to you I was never poisonous." He muttered, trying to pull his thoughts away from the devious path they'd been on. Gundham didn't deserve to heal, to be with the woman he loved in that way. The words he spoke to her felt almost hollow, as he himself couldn't imagine moving on from what he'd done, even though he wanted her to. It was incredibly hypocritical, he thought as he reluctantly let go of her, and he supposed he should try and follow his own advice. Yet it was so hard, when the screams of the past constantly broke through whatever little peace he made.

His body stiffened as he set down the plates, the only indication he'd heard her. "I... am sorry too." Was all he managed to get out in response. For helping to kill her parents... Something he'd had a much more involved role in then his Mother's death. He took the seat across from her, trying to take his mind off of the past, if only for a bit. The wine helped, as he took another sip, and he found himself anxiously awaiting her response as to whether she liked the spaghetti. He didn't quite understand the French she spoke, but he got the message more or less. "Itadakimasu." He agreed.

He knew he was rusty, as he hadn't cooked in quite some time, so he hoped that it came out decently. He took a bite to give it a taste, and he was pleasantly surprised to find that it had come out just the way he'd used to make it, despite the wine and many distractions. There was something so intimate about sharing a candlelit dinner with her, especially since he'd cooked for just the two of them. He'd thought the whole night had felt like a date, but this took the cake. He was suddenly aware that he was probably over dressed in his suit. Maybe the candles had been too much? But hadn't she suggested them?

Gundham's cheeks turned more red as she spoke of a side only she got to see. "Thank you." He suddenly felt the urge to pull his scarf up, just as he'd used to do, except he wasn't wearing one. She could likely see how red he was, but the wine was making him feel just a little bolder. "I have always shown you many more sides, that no one else can see. You, who have always accepted me for who I am, flaws and bravado and all. I hope to stay by your side forever, showing you new sides of who I am. The good and the bad."

As if he could eat his embarrassment away, or just to hide his face perhaps just a little bit, he took a slow bite of garlic bread. "I.. am glad you enjoy the dish. It is the first time I have cooked since before... the Tragedy I believe." He didn't remember cooking as a Remnant. His animal army had to eat of course, but he couldn't remember if he'd prepared them meals, or they'd simply ate their fill of flesh. The latter seemed more likely. He downed the rest of his wine and continued to eat, suddenly feeling too bashful to say anything else. What had he been thinking? The wine was making him so sappy, and much more forthcoming about his emotions than usual.

Sonia smiled, as much as she could under the circumstances. Mrs. Tanaka, like so many others, had died. "Oh, what your favorite toys and books were, and what you liked to eat the most, and most likely what animals you befriended as a child," She replied, listing all sorts of things that she suspected he might not remember but surely his mother would. She seemed like an attentive, loving sort of person: in contrast, her own mother couldn't name a favorite movie of her daughter's, when she'd been alive. And had often stated only 'pleasant and highbrow' books were the sort her daughter read: limited to the classics and important biographies only, practically a list to be respected by the old money upperclass. And while Sonia had read everything on that list, she adored horror, mystery, and romance the most, all things that had once been inappropriate dinner conversation.

Now, that inappropriate dinner conversation was how they'd committed murder and how they remembered each other's atrocious actions. "I am sure he would have loved to meet you too," She swallowed, trying not to picture the last time they'd both seen him in her mind. "Admittedly, I rather expect he would have been fascinated by the origins of your name. He enjoyed the Gundam mecha series greatly, knew all of the fictional political factions, the spacecrafts, and the mobile suits themselves." To that end, she'd seen far more of the space war politics show than most Novosonian children: those and the Godzilla movies had been her father's way of spending time relaxing with his daughter, when he wasn't teaching her the necessary skills of a monarch.

Maybe she'd said too much about him anyway, babbling on about her father while Gundham saw to the garlic bread. He insisted that she saw through him and understood him, and yet Sonia hadn't thought that he'd reach out to hold her afterwards. The morning had been an apology, possibly a fluke, but this one...this one Sonia couldn't explain. All she could do was what her heart wanted: to be pulled into Gundham's embrace. Warm, for the former Supreme Overlord of Ice, and with the gentle fragrance of cologne. In the simulation, he'd always smelled faintly of the Dark Devas who lived in his scarf, but they were gone. "Oh Gundham," She murmured into his shoulder, her arms falling away from her torso and finding their way around him instead. "You were never poisonous, not then and not now." She couldn't agree with him about becoming a better ruler: Sonia wasn't sure that was possible. But in that kitchen, with her arms around him and her head against his shoulder, she could at least say with absolute certainty that nothing about him could kill anyone anymore, especially her.

It wasn't until he let go that she realized just how healing his embrace had been. Maybe he was right, in part: if they spoke of their lives before The Tragedy, they could begin to move forward in their future by acknowledging their past. She wasn't sure what to say: of course it was good that he didn't have to hold onto the shame of his mother's death by his own hands, but that likely didn't make it any easier. "I am sorry," Sonia replied, "For your mother's death, and your part in everything afterwards." Acknowledging his father sounded horrible and gave Junko Enoshima the perfect opportunity to manipulate him seemed counterproductive: arranging the proper tableware, however, was the opposite. Between the two of them, everything had been set quickly and Sonia sank into the chair Gundham had pulled out for her. "Thank you, I am eager to try it," She replied. It was an abandoned island with a mostly-forgotten hotel filled with traumatized former murderers and their caretakers, but she couldn't rid herself of the feeling that, with the set table, the candlelight, and Gundham reappearing shortly with plates of food and refreshed wine glasses...it felt rather like a date.

Sonia felt her cheeks grow hot and was thankful for the low lighting in the hotel's dining room. What an outlandish thing: a date, after everything she'd done in The Tragedy. After everything she felt for him, it was ridiculous to believe he could feel similarly about her. Still, she looked at him with something she hadn't felt in ages: hope. And gratitude. And longing.

"Oui, merci beaucoup et bon appétit," She said in return, utilizing one of Novoselic's primary languages for once. She hardly ever did anymore: speaking in French or Italian only reminded her she would be returning home and likely not speaking much Japanese ever again. Eager to not consider that likely future, she followed suit with the spaghetti, twirling it on her fork and carefully taking a bite.

It wasn't complex, but it was cozy, garlic and basil and tomato filling her mouth alongside a hint of parmesan cheese (when had the island gotten a shipment of that? Still, she was happy it had). Sonia chewed, swallowed, and smiled across the table at him, her fork twirling another bite around the tines. "It is warm, and delicious, and flavorful, and comforting," She told him honestly. "It is like being in your kitchen. It is greeting a side of you I did not know existed until tonight, and I am so very lucky to meet it."

[phantasmalnightmare]

"You would ask her.. embarrassing questions? Such as what, pray tell?" He couldn't imagine what Sonia would ask his mother, or why she would have such an interest delving into his secrets with her. Of course, Mrs. Tanaka would have been happy to comply, divulging all of his humiliating childhood stories, before bringing out the photo albums with all of his baby pictures. He could imagine the scene in another life, the two women he loved more than anything ganging up on him in such an innocent way, even as he tried to prepare them a meal lest they poison themselves.

"I, too wish I could have met your Father. Besides... besides.." He trailed off, the look of despair stark upon his features, for the only time he'd met the King of Novoselic was when they had executed him. The two of them had spoken about the potential of him visiting her country back in highschool, before they'd met Junko and everything had gone so wrong. Would the King have told him similar childhood stories, that would fluster Sonia? Or was royalty beyond childhood photo albums?

His mismatched hues widened in surprise at her insistence that she still would have befriended him, and his cheeks tinted a bit. Brilliant and compassionate? Him? It was easy enough to blame it on the wine, yet he couldn't deny how happy the compliment made him feel. Despite the seriousness of their conversation, he couldn't help the small smile that appeared on his face. "I.. am glad. You have always been the one that saw through my disguises and valued me. My guise as a mere mortal was no match for your all knowing abilities. Kehehehe."

Gundham turned around after placing the bread in the oven, frowning once more at the sorrow in her voice. She stood there, hugging herself. Since he was nursing his second cup of wine already, he found it easier than normal to close the distance between them, wrapping his arms around her if she'd allow it. "When I am here, you needn't embrace yourself. Since you are capable of withstanding my poison, I do not mind if you touch me." Didn't mind was an understatement, since he actually wanted her to do so.

He stood there, holding her in the kitchen, trying to take the pain away as best as he could. "We all made mistakes that we can never take back. All we can do is try and atone now. You can still become a better ruler then they were." She would certainly have her work cut out, since her country hated the remnants and their Queen, but he knew that if anyone could do it, she could. "I suppose it is good to talk about our past before the tragedy. After all, the simulation in a way was to relive such a thing in order to heal us."

It had worked to some extent, in the way that they at least had curbed their urge to murder. Yet, they were broken shells of their former selves, with enough PTSD to last a lifetime, and the body parts of a mad woman swapped for their own. He supposed he should try as well, so he took a deep breathe, before continuing. "My mother... I did not kill her. It is the one thing I am grateful for. I only killed my Father after he was the one who... killed her. It is how that woman was able to manipulate me and turn me to despair."

He still hadn't let go of the former Princess, but he knew he had to return to cooking at some point, and that the tender moment they were sharing would eventually come to an end. "But, of course. It would be quite the shame to not use the dining room." He reluctantly, let go of her, and followed her to where the utensils were kept. He grabbed a couple of place mats, silverware, and a nice candle that smelled of vanilla, before setting the table and lighting the candle.

"Have a seat. The meal should be done relatively quickly." He said, pulling a chair out for her, and then pushing it in after she'd sat down. Once back in the kitchen, he served a good helping for them both, before bringing it out and setting a plate in front of her. He returned for the drinks, bringing them both full glasses of wine. Satisfied, he sat down across from her. "Bon appetit." He twirled some of the spaghetti on his fork and took a bite, praying that it came out good. Luckily, it tasted great, at least to him. "W-what do you think?" He asked nervously.

In another life. For all of the times her heart had wandered towards the supernatural, towards ghosts and demons and all manner of spookiness, Sonia hadn't once considered another life. Or a parallel universe, one exceedingly similar to their own but with the most minor differences.

Mrs. Tanaka couldn't cook, that much Sonia knew. But imagining her, Sonia conjured up a woman who smiled, who had warm hugs and allowed Gundham to bring any and all animals in need of care into their house. She'd guessed her to be a woman who encouraged all of her son's interests and wanted to know all about his life, from when she woke him up in the morning with (a likely terrible, as Gundham had previously explained) breakfast to when she tucked him in at night.

Sonia's chest felt tight, and in that moment, as he looked away, she was glad he couldn't see her face. Sadness for him for what he'd lost, anguish for what could have been. For someone who had raised him, she pictured Mrs. Tanaka to be the antithesis of Queen Valentina of Novoselic, in all of the best ways. In every way she'd imagined and wanted a mother to be. She didn't want to pry and ask how her death happened, but from the way Gundham couldn't face her, it seemed like he'd had a hand in it. Just like she'd done with her own parents.

"That would have been wonderful," She finally decided, admitting something she truly felt. "I would have been most honored to meet her. I am sure I would have had many questions of my own, as long as I did not embarrass you with them."

She swallowed deeply, imagining the scene in her head. Maybe burnt biscuits and hot tea, and Sonia asking about Gundham's first pets and what he was like as a little boy. She believed his mother would have excitedly told her everything, perhaps to Gundham's dismay. Maybe he would even blush, like he'd done so easily back in high school when she'd given him a compliment. All well-deserved, and yet she couldn't fathom why he was so flustered by them.

It was easier, in a way, to speak of her own family rather than to wonder what might have been. But Sonia was quick to respond to his analysis: for as much as she just began speaking with no real answer to his question, she now worried he misunderstood quite a few things. "Of course I would have!" She interjected, with an amount of passion that surprised her. Enough for her own cheeks to redden from her spot on the kitchen counter: it was her turn to look away for a moment, wondering how to make the situation less uncomfortable for them both. "Th-that is, I would have certainly befriended you, no matter what. You are brilliant and compassionate, Gundham: I could not possibly ignore you, no matter the circumstances. And you...you are never lowly or common. Not to me."

She exhaled deeply, hopping off the counter with care, at least for her wine glass. She had a feeling she'd need it filled again at least once more by the end of the night. "My father...wasn't perfect," She said, her arms folded over her torso. A hug she gave herself, when she wanted to keep herself away from vodka, whiskey, and tears. "I only understood it too late, I think. Just before his...demise. My mother wasn't either, but that was far more apparent to me as a child. And neither am I. I grew up not wanting to repeat my parents' mistakes, but I suppose I just made new ones with The Tragedy. It would be ironic, maybe, if I didn't help cause mass genocide."

The smell of butter, of garlic, of tomatoes and meat, all served to relax her some. Sonia even managed to give him a smile, a real one, though the intensity of his multi-colored gaze made it difficult to resist. For all that had changed, that was something that had stayed the same. "Do not apologize for your curiosity," She told him, "I should try to be more open about my past before The Tragedy. I want to try, at least: that is what Naegi believes. The more we come to terms with what we have done and understand why, the better chance we will have to move forward with our lives."

He was finishing the meal and she needed to stay out of the way for both their sakes, but that didn't change the fact that she wanted to reach out for him. To hold him there, in the kitchen, surrounded by the scent of bread and bolognese and tell him to never apologize to her again. Not even for what had happened during the fourth trial: she forgave him. She'd always forgive him.

Instead, she took a breath and nodded. "Another glass of wine would be great, thank you," She replied, holding out her glass. "Shall we sit in the hotel dining room? It seems rather a waste to eat in the kitchen when you have made such a delicious meal. I remember where Teruteru keeps the linens and tableware." And, if she remembered correctly, at least a candle or two. If it wasn't too much of an imposition.

[phantasmalnightmare]

"It was simply a jest. I do not wish to lose our facilities either. Ushi and the others need sustenance just as much as we do." While there was plenty of hay and various feeds at the farm, the raw food that needed to be refrigerated was stored in the large walk in, in the back of the kitchen. Fenrir would be a lot more apt to eat the others if he ran out of fresh meat due to the building burning down.

"She was. I am... glad you would not have minded. Perhaps, in another life, the two of you may meet." His expression was so sad and wistful then, that he needed to turn away from her. He was glad that the food preparation was a good distraction from the sudden pain. Gundham was a bit surprised that she hadn't picked up on his blatant statement about "his feelings," but his chest began to expand once more as he calmed down a bit. It seemed he hadn't ruined the whole night after all.

He listened quietly as Sonia began to speak of her parents. He stirred the pasta, before turning back to the sauce, giving it a quick taste. More spices were thrown into the pot, and then he began to chop some garlic. He added it to butter and mixed it well for the garlic bread. Her father sounded like a great King from how she spoke of him.

"I...see." He spoke softly as she finished her various stories about her family. He noticed that she had plenty of tales involving her father, but she hardly spoke much about her Mother. It was not unlike himself, having not spoke about his Father earlier either. He had a feeling that she hadn't been close to her Mother at the very least, and at the worst, she may have even been abused by her. That wasn't a topic he wished to pry into over dinner, however, just as he was glad she hadn't asked about his Father.

"It sounds like your father was wonderful. If he had not raised you as such, to spend time with the commoners and even love them, I wonder if you would have ever befriended one such as I." As if realizing what he said, he cleared his throat awkwardly. "I am a Dark Lord, but in the gaze of mere mortals, I am not but a lowly commoner." Especially since his family had always been poor. He set the timer on the stove as he spoke, after placing the garlic bread inside.

"It does sound like it should have been harmonious." He could tell there was a 'but' in there somewhere, yet once again, he didn't want to try and coax too much out of her, and ruin the mood entirely. "I cannot think of something specific I wished to know. I was simply wondering how they raised someone like you." Mostly he'd been trying to change the topic, so she wouldn't catch on to what he'd said, although he had been curious about them. Thankfully, it seemed to have worked. This time, he managed to keep a lid on his mouth concerning his emotions for her. Even if he was tipsy, he'd have no more slip ups.

"I apologize for prying." Since she wasn't used to opening up unless for paparazzi, the moment somehow felt even more intimate. "Dinner will be ready shortly." The breeder eyed her now half empty glass. "Would you care for some more wine? Or a different refreshment?"

The real risk wasn't burning the place down or even harming herself: it was poisoning him, if not the rest of their friends, by her valiant attempts at preparing a meal. She hadn't committed murder in the simulation, but she would've been terribly effective at it if she'd served self-prepared food to anyone, whether she intended to kill them or not. "While a fire would be impressive, I am not sure it would be glorious," Sonia countered with a concerned look. "If we did not have the kitchen in the Hotel Mirai, we'd have to live off whatever rations we have in our cabins until a ship brought in more food supplies that do not require cooking."

And besides, the wine would likely be sacrificed to the flames and she couldn't have that. The alcohol, or what was left of it on Jabberwock Island, was essential for her getting through the day without nightmares, or overwhelming feelings, or feeling much of anything at all. Alcohol dulled her senses and emotions and now, Sonia relied on it: some things hadn't changed with The Tragedy after all. She accepted her glass with a smile: maybe that was the smallest of benefits of what they'd experienced. Coupled with age (or at least, Japan and Europe's legal ages, though aristocratic families hardly put any stock in either), Gundham didn't seem to be bothered by pouring her alcohol. A part of her wondered if the Gundham before the Tragedy, the one who had attended Hope's Peak with her, would have been scandalized to know just how much underage imbibing she'd done back then. A larger part of her felt compelled to stay silent, in fear of anything attributed to her person that might make him despise her.

But all of her hesitated when he did: when prompted about his parents. And when he'd asked her in turn about hers. The corners of Sonia's mouth twitched: this was no royal ball or important party full of politicians she needed to be both effortlessly charming and intimidatingly intelligent in front of. No amount of beauty and brains would erase the fact she'd caused mass genocide. But nevertheless, it felt awkward to be so open, so raw, about her family in front of Gundham: as a teenage girl, living a life as normal as she could muster, she'd spent plenty of time daydreaming of what it would be like if Gundham Tanaka was her boyfriend. And if she took him home to Novoselic Castle to meet her family. And if, just maybe, one day he'd ask her if he could stay.

"Your mother must have been a wonderful person who loved you very much," She began, taking a long sip of wine. Beyond that, she could not presume anything. But he could have said nothing of her and Sonia would have guessed as much: if only due to the fact that most mothers on Earth were likely kinder and gentler than her own. Queen Valentina of Novoselic had once, after all, been Valentina Borghese, the youngest of five children of one of the country's most prominent Dukes and had, according to her uncle Lorenzo, a desire to prove herself since she was in her mother's womb. "And I would not have minded questions: I do not doubt she would have been respectful about it. She did raise you, after all."

But what to say about her parents? Sonia watched Gundham add a variety of spices to a pot from her seat on a nearby counter. Surely he'd asked in earnest, and without knowing what it was really like to be royal. He never put her on a pedestal though, and she kept that in mind as she exhaled, setting her half-empty wine glass beside her.

"I think my father hated parties," She began. It seemed wrong, somehow, to just say he was nice and handsome and he shared the same color eyes as she did and they only lit up properly when he was with his daughter. "He'd greet everyone and pose for the photos of course, but I think a lot of the gossip and conversation topics between aristocrats and overly greedy politicians bored him. And ceremonies, well, he was either invested in them or wished he was elsewhere. I think he was happiest, as King at least, visiting the various cities and towns in Novoselic and just talking to people. Everyday people, about their lives and what brings them joy and what they wished they could do or have to improve upon it. It didn't matter of their manners weren't immaculate or they were unrefined: I think he liked it that way."

"When I was young," She continued, idly rambling as Gundham continued to cook. Food took time to prepare, and it wasn't as if there was anything else to entertain him with. "If he was taking me along for work, he insisted on bringing me to hospitals, to orphanages, to homeless shelters and schools. He thought the most important things for me to learn were to understand that Novoselic was only as strong as its most infirm and struggling citizens, and that the children of Novosonian orphanages and schools would one day be my peers in governance and leadership. Listening to and supporting them was more important than perfect posture, or how to pour a cup of tea, or how to waltz without stepping on my partner's toes."

And those weren't even the fondest of her memories with him: he'd taught her both refined and unrefined hobbies, and the only times she'd ever broken his heart was the day he'd accepted the fact that she had zero musical aptitude, and the day she'd aimed a pistol at his forehead and fired. He hadn't needed to say anything, Sonia thought as she fiddled with the stem of her wine glass. His eyes had revealed the depth of his pain.

"My mother, in turn, was in many ways his perfect complement," Sonia said as the pot of water began to boil. "She adored being the center of attention. She loved tradition, and perfection, and maintaining a standard of royal life that the world expected of us. Appearances mattered, and first ones more than anything to her. My father ran the country and she ran the family. In theory, it should have been harmonious."

She sighed, setting down the glass once more, this time just one swallowful left as she watched him add the dry pasta. "I guess I'm a bit rubbish at talking about my family. I think I am so used to doing it with the intention of being overheard and published. It is odd, to do so without anyone besides you listening. But was there something specific you wished to know?"