#UUUUUUUGH I WENT ALL OUT FOR THIS!!! I HOPE YOU ENJOY IT!))

[epitomees]

[Happy birthday Sumi!]

It had taken him a bit to figure out something to get her… and to be honest, he still wasn't sure if he had made the right call… but he'd already put it together, so he might as well see if she likes it.

“Hey, Sumi!”

He greeted the girl with a smile, before handing her two carefully wrapped boxes, both somewhat flat, though one was more of a large square, while the other was a long thing rectangle.

“I made you something for your birthday. It's not much, but… I hope you like it.”

The first somewhat larger box had a leotard inside. The fabric was a vibrant purple with an intricate pattern of flowers made up of thin red-ish pink lines, wrapping around it almost like a sash.

“I've been looking into light, stretchy, aerodynamic materials for a completely different project, so I thought I'd try my hand at making this… though Ann helped with the sewing and making sure it was the right size.”

Seriously, the way Ann could just eyeball the exact size someone wore was almost like a superpower of hers.

Inside the second thinner box was a modified rapier, a rather powerful one at that, as well as a long ribbon that seemed to glimmer in the light.

“I got this idea after seeing your routine. By itself it's just your standard rapier, but if you attach the ribbon like this-”

He picked up the sword and ribbon, looping a thin wire through the tip of the blade to attach it to the hidden mechanism inside.

“-then press the button on the hilt-”

The ribbon suddenly came to life, glowing a bright blue as the fabric surged with electricity.

“-and BAM! Now you got an electric whip sword!”

He tapped the button again to turn it off, before removing the ribbon and placing them both back in the box.

“It'll take a bit to get it right, but now you can have a little bit of practice for your routine, even while we're in Mementos!”

Probably not an efficient form of practice, since she's not really supposed to hit things with her ribbon, but it's the thought that counts.

It's difficult mustering up a faux excitement in order to appease family members and close friends, even though the vast majority hadn't bothered showing their ways of appreciation towards today's birthday girl. Parents aside, Sumi didn't expect any extravagant celebrations or overzealous enthusiasm since the majority of immediate family kept to themselves for as long as the red-head can remember. They never bothered sending a simple card, either, just to acknowledge today's importance. It became the norm when the end of March came around again, and it always ended the same. No joy, no elation, nothing different happened.

Just another, unimportant day.

This most recent year, however, presented a slight change in the usual routine. Not only did Sumi's most recent friends spam her phone with text messages, or several cake emojis courtesy of one infectiously energetic blonde delinquent, but her Senpai came prepared with several gifts in tow. As per the Aaron usual. Surprises and spontaneous benevolent gestures were her Senpai's specialty. She couldn't count the numerous times a steamy, hot cup of fresh coffee suddenly appeared by her side when depression took the reigns. Or when they found each other window shopping at the same mall and he kindly offered to take her out for a light lunch. His treat, of course.

Aaron always put her needs, her problems, and her well-being above his own. Though it may sound selfish, Sumi admired how much time he dedicated towards her overall happiness. Even when she fell into recession...

"..oh, you...made these?" It wouldn't matter what Aaron gifted her, be it something handmade or a rushed gift he bought before their planned meetup. Since it came from her senpai, it was rather important to her. No less after the first present rested in her hands did Sumi open up the beautifully wrapped gift, briefly pausing to stare in awe at the first item in his presentation. A brand new leotard, colored in bright cool colors complimenting the elegant floral design. "...you...made this?! For me!?" He stitched this altogether? By hand!? Entirely crafted, sketched, and planned to be used just for her!?

The second present was going to KO the poor girl in an instant. Not only a brand new weapon specifically for her usage, but one that catered towards Sumi's personal interests and abilities. The rapier appeared rather unique and alluring on its own, however the additive ribbon extension sealed this gift as the gymnast's own personalized blade. A weapon to be used by the one and only Violet. That's what Aaron must have had in mind when creating these customized gifts. Something to be used by her.

Something gifted, and made for Sumire. Not Kasumi.

"I'm...I'm not...exactly sure what I should say, Senpai..." His overall excitement, in both preparation for handing over these presents and in explaining their usage, stood out the most. Having someone so thrilled to properly acknowledge today's importance was not a common occurrence in her life. It was welcomed warmly, coupled together with a grateful smile and sprinkles of happy tears. She quickly brushed them aside though, so the moment wouldn't be ruined with a mixture of worry. "This...these are...incredible. Just knowing how much time, effort, patience, and diligence you must have poured into creating something so...remarkable..." Something with her in mind.

"I truly...can only offer you my eternal gratitude." Her arms gingerly wrapped around Aaron's taller frame, embracing him close enough so the newly-formed tears dripped behind him. They were happy tears, paired with a truly happy smile.

"...thank you for making my special day feel special to me."

[hunterbahamut]

This is a story I’m calling “Timely Romance”. Zech returns to the past, only to face something new he had never anticipated.

This is a one shot that is a bit more lengthy than i was anticipating. I hope you enjoy!

--

Rosalina's was a small restaurant on Union that was a favorite hangout spot for the team whenever they would have time off the station. They would stop there for food as well as visit Sparks' sister Koral, who was the manager there.

The place also had some interesting ties for Zech and his parents; it was where Gene first heard of the team and got to meet them, allowing him a chance to try and 'apply' for work.   For Zech it was definitely one of the best hang-outs and a great place to get some comfort food, which he really felt like he needed right now.  His last jump to the past felt really rough and he had ended up sleeping the entire day away, so he was eager to have something to help with that.

There was an eerie feeling of deja vu as he headed down to the planet to meet with Sparks and seeing not seeing the others, but at least he knew there wasn't anything to worry about: Tero was staying in his lab, Phineas and Nix were off to Techkanis for a job, and Gene and Lan were busy with another one.  Still, it was still kinda eerie, and another reason to head down.

There was the usual bustle in the city as the two walked down the street.  Sparks was busy catching Zech up on what they've been doing since he was away as they walked into the restaurant where they found Koral at her usual station behind the counter.

Sparks waved over to her. "Hey sis!"

"Hey bro!" Koral replied back, smiling to him as the two came over to the counter.  "What can I get you guys?  The usual I suppose?"

"Yup!  The usual for me!" Sparks said, grinning widely.

Zech rubbed his head, taking a while to reply. "Uh, yeah, usual too." He said.

"Geez, you okay there?" Koral asked the hybrid, "You look kinda rough."

"Just had a bad trip back to the station." Zech said, "I feel like I could sleep for another week, but I'm hoping it will go away soon."

"Man, I hope so too."  Koral nodded, "Well just relax, I'll be right back!"  She smiled and headed off to prepare their order.

Sparks looked over to Zech as she left. "Hey, you know that if you ever need us to come get you from wherever you make these jumps, we'd be more than happy to!"

Zech sighed, rubbing his head. "I know, been thinking about that actually. I've just been worried about covering my tracks and making sure no one else finds the planet." He sighed, "These are really starting to feel rough though, so I think I do have to ask for some help now.  So long as Wart doesn't have a problem with that."

"Oh I don't think he'll mind that," Sparks grinned wide. "Anytime we're out he usually has a job for us lined up already!"

"What's all this then?" Koral asked as she came back, setting down a large smoothie for Sparks and a milkshake for Zech. "Business talk?"

"Nah, not really!" Sparks said, picking up the large cup.  "Just offering to help Zech out whenever he has to make his long trips out.  They're tiring him out so I figured we could help pick him up so he's not doing everything himself."

"Aaaah, I see.  Good on you." Koral said and smiled to her brother, "Speaking of long trips, that does remind me; there's someone here that I thought you would like to meet!"

"Oh yeah?" Sparks asked, "Anyone we know?"

"I wouldn't want you to meet them if you knew them already." She teased, grinning and snickering.  "She's an Aqualine friend that wanted a chance to travel before before she heads back to Restoria.  Another friend of mine mentioned that she was coming here, so I offered her a place to stay until then."

"Ah, that's real nice of you!"  Sparks said, "Well when do I get to meet her?"

"Pretty soon actually," she said,  "She should be on her way over now."

A new voice suddenly spoke up. "If that's me you're talking about me, I'm already here!"

The three twitched their ears and they turned to face the newcomer. Koral smiled wide. "Nova!  Wow you got here fast!"  She went around to greet the other Aqualine.  "Glad you could make it!  Lemme introduce you to my brother and one of his friends."

"Nice to meet you!" Sparks said, smiling wide and waved.

Zech was quiet, his straw in his mouth as he looked at the Aqualine with bit of a wide-eyed look. Nova stood just under Koral in height, her fur was a two-toned purple color and with dark orange eyes.  She had a crest much like Sparks did, only a bit thinner and pointing up a bit higher.  She had longer, almost lynx-like ears and a long, fluffy tail split in two. He was struck dumb; she...she was very pretty.

"I've heard quite a bit about Team Prototype," Nova smiled warmly to Sparks, "and Koral told me quite a lot about you guys! It's great to finally get a chance to meet you!"

Sparks smiled wide, "Oh yeah?  That's great, thank you! Sorry you can't meet the others, but this is here is Zech!"

The hybrid was quiet, unable to say anything until he realized that they were looking at him now. "...hi." He finally managed to say.

"Hi!"  Nova smiled over to him, "It's nice to meet you."

Zech stammered a little. "N-nice to meet you too..."

"Oh, sorry!" Sparks said, hoping to help cover up Zech's odd responses. "Zech here's had a long trip to get back home, so he's a little groggy!"

"Oh that's okay, I understand completely." Nova said, "Been doing a lot of travel as well!  Jet lag is a killer, it's one reason why I'm really grateful for Koral's help."

"She said you were staying with her for a while?" Sparks asked, taking a slurp from his smoothie as they all moved over to an empty booth.

Nova nodded, "Yeah, I wanted to do some traveling before I have to head back to the homeworld. She's been really nice and willing to let me stay with her in the meantime."

"Oh it's been my pleasure!" Koral said, "It's been great having a guest at my place after so long!"

As the three Aqualine chatted away, Zech was mostly quiet, twitching quite a bit. He did his best to stay a part of the conversation, but he kept falling silent.  He felt really weird, even though it wasn't an unfamiliar feeling, just one that he hadn't felt in a long time.

After a while, Nova checked her mobile and noticed the time. "Aw man, sorry to cut this short but I have to go and take care of something before it gets too late!"  She smiled, "It was great meeting you two! I would love to hear some stories of your adventures next time!"

"Oh yeah!  Would love to tell you some!" Sparks said. "It was great to meet you!"

Zech managed to nod, "It was...it was great to meet you too!"

"Take care guys!" Nova waved to them as Koral got up and walked her to the door.

Sparks waved as they headed off.  "That was fun!" He said, smiling, though he paused when he looked over at Zech, seeing the look on his face. "Hey, you okay?"

"Huh?" Zech blinked, "Oh yeah, yeah I'm fine."  He rubbed the back of his head.

"You sure?  You look kinda funny, don't think I ever saw you like this before!"

"What's up?" Koral asked as she came back over, looking at the two. "Are you feeling okay there Zech?"

"I'm fine!" He said, twitching his ears when he realized he raised his voice, "Sorry, didn't mean that. I'm just fine, no worries."

Koral gave him a look, a faint grin appearing on her face. "Sooooo, what did you guys think of Nova?"

"She's nice!" Sparks said, "I think she's really cool, no wonder you two are friends!"

Koral nodded, "Zech?"

"Huh?"  Zech seemed to repeat and he blinked again, "Oh! Oh yeah, yeah she's cool."

"Just cool, hm?"  Koral started to smirk a bit wider.

Zech twitched, "Yeah...?"

Koral couldn't help but giggle a little. "Oh man, you're too adorable!"

Sparks raised a brow, "Uh, sis?  What's up?"

"Can't you see it?" She asked him, "I think Zech's got a crush on her!"

Sparks blinked and looked over to him. "Whoa, really?"

"What?!" Zech's ears shot up. "What gives you an idea like that?"

"I've seen that look plenty of times!" Koral said, teasing him a little, "You look love-struck, and I think it's cute!"

"I..." Zech just twitched, trying to think of a reply, "I...I mean..."

Sparks started to grin himself, "Hey!  Nothing wrong with that!"  He said, trying to offer some encouragement.  "Why not try and ask her out?"

"What?!" Zech jumped, "N-no way! I can't do that!"

The two looked at him with a confused look, "Why not?"

"I-!" Zech looked at the two, realizing that he couldn't give a full explanation with Koral here.  He looked to Sparks and twitched, "I...I just... There's...there's no way that it...could work."

"Oh pish!" Koral said, "I don't believe that for a second!  If you're nervous, then I'd be more than happy to help-!"

"No!" Zech jumped up, "I mean...I mean...I just..." His mind was racing, "Could you not? ...at least not right now?"

Koral couldn't help but giggle, "Okay, don't worry your fluffy tail about anything!" She said, still grinning and winking at him before she rushed off to help with customers.

Zech let out a sigh and he flopped back into his seat and plopped his head on the table. "uuuuuuugh..."

Sparks looked at him, "You okay Zech?  You seem really freaked out about this."

"I am!" Zech said, his voice in a hushed tone. "Nova is...she's...really pretty and she really cool! But I just...I really can't risk it."

"Why not?" Sparks asked, "I really don't see what the problem would be!" He raised a brow. "Is this because of your time tra-"

"SH-sh-SH!" Zech hurried to cut him off. "Yes!  That!"  He whined a little before he started to get up, "L-look, this isn't the place for this...can we just drop it for now?"  He got up before Sparks had a chance to reply and he headed out.

Both Koral and the green Razorwing, Crenshaw, watched as Zech headed off and they went over to Sparks. "Hey, is everything okay bro?"

"Oh yeah, I think so." Sparks said as he got up from his seat, "Zech is just feeling kinda off I guess."

Koral smiled a bit, "Oooh, I see. And it's about Nova, yeah?"

Sparks nodded, "Yeah, pretty sure."  He said, not wanting to include the reason why he thought that.

Koral grinned wide and she patted his shoulder, "Well, say no more!  I think I can help with that!"

"You think so?"  Sparks twitched his ears.

"Uh oh."  Crenshaw said, leaning in a bit. "I know that look, you're scheming."

"I am not." Koral said, still grinning as he poked him.  "I'm just considering lending a hand."

"Uh-huh." The Razorwing snickered.  "And by that you mean setting them up."

Sparks twitched his ears. "You sure it's a good idea?"

Koral just smiled and patted him on his back,  "Leave it to me! I'll see what I can do!"

--

Zech was in the station's lounge, flopped out on the couch and staring up at the ceiling.  It had only been a few days, but he couldn't stop thinking about Nova.  He really wanted a chance to try and get to know her better, but that idea just terrified him too much.

"Whatcha thinking about?"

"GAAH!"  Zech let out a yelp and jumped, looking over at Sparks as he poked his head up over the back of the sofa. "Don't do that!"

"Sorry!" Sparks gave him a wide grin. "Buuuuut, whatcha been thinking about?"

Zech didn't answer right away, his ears drooping down a bit.

"Still thinking about Nova?"

"Hrrmmnn..." Zech grumbled and he crossed his arms across his chest. "...maybe."

"So why don't you call her and ask her out?" Sparks asked, jumping up over the back of the sofa and plopping down beside him.

"I can't..." Zech said, "I...I just can't."

"Why not man?" Sparks asked. "It can't just be because of your time traveling."

Zech twitched his ears, "That's exactly why!  I'm afraid of what might happen!"  He let out a heavy sigh, "I dunno if I might...do something that could really change things!"

Sparks gave him a curious look, "But that's why you're here in the first place?"

"That's different!" Zech said, "I was trying to change things for the better for you guys!  Nova...Nova's..." He paused, rubbing his head, "She's not a part of that!  I...I'd hate to think that my involvement might alter her history!"

Sparks twitched his tail and poked at him, "Zech, this is just a date!  I don't think one date is gonna cause some kind of world-shattering changes!"

The hybrid looked down, "But what...what if we...I dunno...hit it off?"

"So what if you do?" He smiled,  "I don't think it would hurt to have another friend while you're here!"

Zech rubbed his head, "But...but I'm-"

"C'mon man." Sparks said, reaching over and putting an arm around his shoulders, "You know all about taking risks, I mean that's why you're here!  I don't think you're gonna change something just by asking a cute girl out! I think it'd do you some good!  And we've got some free time for now while the others are out, so what's the harm?"

Zech looked down again, rubbing his neck. "...I guess..." He hesitated, "But that's the...other thing..."

"What's that?" Sparks asked, watching the hybrid before he realized something. "Wait...you've never been on a date before?"

Zech sighed out. "No I haven't!" He finally admitted, "With everything going on, that was...never on my mind."

Sparks smiled wide, "Well that's no problem!  Just be yourself!"

"Be myself while hiding my biggest secret from her..."

"Well you did that with us?"

Zech groaned and rubbed his hands over his face. "...have you ever dated anyone?"

"Oh heck yeah!" Sparks said, though he rubbed his head, "Juuuuust...some things didn't go as well as I would have liked!"  He laughed but he quickly shifted the subject back to him, "So whadda say?  Gonna ask her?"

"I...I don't know.  Maybe?"  Zech sighed, "I...guess I could try asking next time I see her..." He muttered quickly, "If there is a next time..."

"That's the spirit!" Sparks grinned and smacked his shoulder. "Don't worry so much, you'll do fine!" He jumped up to his feet, "Come on!  Let's head to Rosalina's, I dunno about you but I'm hungry! And Tero asked us to grab one of those frappu-thingies for him while we're down there!"

"Oh, yeah. Sure."  Zech sighed and he rubbed his head as he got up.  It was weird realizing that he forgot the others after everything; was Nova really occupying his mind that much?

It was already late in the afternoon when they made it down and they headed back to the restaurant, now looking busier with the evening crowd coming in.  As they walked in, Koral was no where to be seen but Crenshaw was behind the counter.  He waved at them as they came over, grinning a bit. "Hello guys, how's it going?"

"Fine, just hungry!" Sparks said, grinning. "Where's Koral hiding?"

"Oh she's around, probably in the back." He said, still grinning. "Dinner crowd, ya know?  Sit tight and I'll take care of you guys!"

Zech rubbed his head, taking a look around. "It doesn't seem that bad to me, no worse than it normally is."

Sparks just let out a small laugh. "Ah, yeah, I guess? Maybe they're being slow in the kitchen, Koral always did say that Wake can be a perfectionist!"

"Oh he can be!"  Crenshaw said as he came back out, "You guys haven't seen it when it gets really bad!"  He let out a laugh and leaned up against the counter.  "That does remind me actually.  We've been playing around with some ideas for new items to stick on the menu, maybe you two can help out with that?"

"Oh sure!" Sparks said rather eagerly as he hopped up on one of the counter stools.

Zech seemed a little confused by that.  "I guess?" He said, sitting down next to Sparks.  "What do you guys have?"

"Oh you'll like this." Crenshaw said as he pulled a notepad; something that seemed really strange to Zech since he never used one before.  "Let's see here, we have an Almond-Kiwi-Passionfruit smoothie."

"YEEEEUUUUCH!"  Sparks reacted immediately, sticking his tongue out.

Crenshew couldn't help but laugh. "Oh you big baby."  He said, "Then we have a vanilla-yellow cake with sprinkles milkshake."

"Ooooh, Tero would love one of those!"  Sparks said, immediately shifting demeanor at that.

"Probably made with twenty pounds of sugar." Zech commented on that.

"Only ten pounds." Crenshaw laughed.  "Then there's this double-chocolate cookie dough milkshake idea that I'm personally a fan of."

"Oooooooh!  That might be one right up your alley!" Sparks said, nudging Zech.

"Uh?  I guess?" Zech rubbed his head, "I mean, I like my chocolate milkshakes, but-"

Before Zech could finish, Koral came rushing out from the kitchen with an order of food, serving it before coming back over.  "Hey guys!  Sorry, one of those nights I guess!"

"I guess?" Zech asked, raising a brow.  "Honestly I've seen it worse than this before."

Koral laughed, "Yeah, well, things have been slow in the kitchen. Wake can be a perfectionist!"

"No worries." Crenshaw said, "I've been asking the boys for their opinion on some of the new menu items."

"What ne-" Koral started to say before she nodded, "Oh! Riiight, those new items!"  She grinned wide, "I forgot we talked about those earlier!"

"Not really surprised." Crenshaw laughed, "You have been kinda busy, which reminds me, you did put in 'that order', right?"

Koral nodded, "Oh yes, 'that' order is in and should be up very soon!"  She looked over to Sparks and Zech, "You guys got some time to spare, yeah?  I'm sure it will be good!"

"Well-"  Zech started to speak up before Sparks spoke up. "Oh yeah! Sure do! Got nothing happening tonight! Right Zech?"

"Well I guess-"

Crenshaw snickered, "Well I definitely wouldn't mind having someone help judge some of these as well as my skills in making them.  All just depends on when that 'order' is coming in."

"Which shouldn't be long!" Koral said.

"It's all good!" Sparks grinned.

Zech was kinda stuck in the middle and he was starting to grow a little annoyed.  "Look, guys, I really don't-"

"Hey guys!"  

Zech froze, his ears shooting up as his annoyance suddenly evaporated into nervous terror. "Nova-!"

The purple Aqualine came in and she walked up to the group. "Hey, I hope I'm not late!"

"Nova!" Koral smiled wide and she stepped next to her, "What a surprise seeing you here!"

Nova blinked, "But you asked me to-"

"You remember my brother and his friend, right?" Koral grinned as she spun Zech's stool around so he could face her.  

Zech froze, looking right at her and forgetting how to speak for a few moments. "...h-hi."

Nova waved, "Uh, hi again!" She said, offering a small wave.

The other three were grinning at the sight, though Crenshaw spoke up. "Oh well, that order's done and up now!" He said, nudging Koral, "Means we're gonna be busy now, right?"

"Oh right!" Koral said, nodding emphatically.  She took both Nova and Zech and started to push them towards the main door.  "Tell you guys what, how about you go off and do your own thing?  Sparks can stick around here and help us out if things get to be too much, yeah?"

"Uh...uh!"  Zech was worried, turning a bit and giving Sparks a 'Help me!' look.

"Doooon't you worry about a thing!" Koral said, trying to reassure the both of them. "Sparks can help us out if we get super busy, right bro?"

"Oh! Uh, yeah, sure can!"  Sparks said, grinning wide while giving Zech two thumbs up to him.

Koral managed to usher the two out and she waved at them.  "Now go on you two, go and have some fun! My treat!"  She was still smiling as she waved at them before the door closed, leaving the two to stare at the doors blankly while watching the three inside all gather up and head into the kitchen.

The two twitched their ears, staying quiet for a few long moments. "You know..." Nova spoke up first, "It might just be me, but I think we've been set up."

Zech flattened his ears. "Oh, I know we have."  He was extremely nervous and actually kinda upset at the fact that the three of them had to have planned this.

Nova let out a huff before she turned towards him. "So...uhm..."

It slowly started to dawn on Zech that Nova actually looked just as nervous as he was!  He had to think fast and he turned to her. "Well...you hungry?  I do know of a few other good places around here.  It's not Rosalina's and it's not really anything fancy..."

Nova smiled at that, "Oh that's fine, I'm not one for fancy.  The best food usually comes from the smallest of places!"

Zech smiled a bit to her and he nodded, "Then I know of a pretty good and small place!"

The two headed off toward an area called Tri-Point, a small park area where two rivers met to form into a third. Zech told Nova about a food truck that usually hung out there.  While a name like the 'Crust Bucket' really didn't sound appetizing, he assured her that their food was really good, and as they got closer, she could smell it in the air and understood what he meant.

They ordered their food from the Narth and headed over to a secluded area of the park near the large center fountain; slowly the uneasy tension between the two started to ease up as they got to talk and started to learn more about each other. Nova asked quite a few questions his adventures with the team and Zech was all too happy to tell her what he could; though she didn't know that some of his stories spanned across two different timelines.

"-but just as I started to warn him, he ended up drinking the whole thing down!"  He let out a laugh, "We both were kinda stunned at how we both ended up messing up, so he just gave up right there and headed back into the club."

"That's unbelievable!" Nova giggled at that, smiling wide as she listened, "Man, you guys have had such incredible adventures!"

Zech laughed, "Yeah, but there have been plenty of dangerous ones as well!"  He started to rub his arm, "I've gotten quite a few scars from some of those."

Nova nodded, "Oh, yeah I guess so!"  She paused and looked at him and the arm he was rubbing.  "Did you end up getting that glove on one of your adventures too?"

Zech looked down at his gauntlet and he laughed.  "Yeah I did, though it was during one of the safer adventures!"  He held his arm out for her to get a better look, "We were exploring some ruins on a planet that were owned by this other group that allowed explorers and researches to visit.  I ended up getting separated from the others when I found this secret tunnel and fell into this completely undiscovered chamber and, well, found this amulet!"

"Oh wow!"  She twitched her ears, "And you were able to keep it?"

"Yeah!"  Zech nodded, "The group had this set up where if anyone found anything inside could keep it. It was kinda meant for small things really,  they never expected anyone to find something like this!" He couldn't help but laugh, "They even offered us a lot to buy it!"

"But you wanted to keep it instead."

"Heck yeah!" Zech grinned, "My first real treasure!  I wanted to keep it just for that, but after a while I started to discover what it could do."

He paused, looking at Nova and giving her a sheepish grin. "I can't help but feel like I've been doing all of the talking so far! I've barely given you a chance to tell me anything!"

"Me?"  Nova twitched her ears and she gave a small laugh. "That's okay, I really don't have much to tell, nothing as fun or interesting as you do!"

"Well that's not really a bad thing I think!"  He said, hoping he was encouraging her, "Why don't you tell me something about you?"

"Thanks, but really there's not a whole lot to tell. " Nova smiled a little, "I've spent most of my life on Restoria, but I always loved exploring the area around our home, checking out the different caves and tunnels and sea colonies nearby.  I've always wanted to go out and travel around the galaxy and visit all of the different planets and just explore whatever I could." She swayed her tail, "That's why I'm here now actually, I wanted to do some traveling before I headed back to the homeworld."

Zech twitched his ears, noticing something in the way she said that.  "You don't really sound too thrilled with that idea though."

She sighed quietly, "My family line have been water elementalists for generations, but I'm actually the first one to be an electric element. They were really excited so they really want me to attend one of the elemental schools back home to really try and master it."

Zech felt his ears drooping a little; he actually felt a little sad.  "Do you have to go back?"

Nova nodded, "If I didn't, I think my folks would be heartbroken."  She sighed, "Union is actually my last stop, I'm gonna need to leave for home soon."  She swayed her tail, "I've been really happy to have met Koral, she's helped me a lot with my stay here, and finding out that her brother was the leader of your team...well, I was just super excited!"  She let out an embarrassed laugh, "I guess I'm a bit of a fan?   I'm just really excited hearing about some of the stuff you've guys have seen and done!"

Zech rubbed his head, smiling a bit. "I can understand, I've been with them for...uh...a while now, and I'm still kinda in awe of them."  It was a little strange to think that they had 'fans', but it was incredibly flattering as well.  Especially one who was so cute... That thought made him twitch, but thankfully Nova didn't seem to notice.

She looked over to him and she smiled, "Even though I think Koral...uhm, had a hand in setting this up, I do still want to thank you for being cool and hanging out with me.  I really do appreciate it!"

Zech's ears shot up and he let out a nervous laugh as he smiled wide. "O-of course!  I had a really great time hanging out with you!"  He twitched as he looked at her, "I have to thank you too! I..."  He found himself trailing off, trying to think of the best thing to say here. 

However the pause was pretty obvious and Nova gave him a curious look. "You...?"

Zech froze, scrambling to try and think of something to say. "Well I j-just...I was thinking about...you know...asking you out- I mean!  Asking you to hang out!"  He felt himself getting hot under his fur in embarrassment.

Nova twitched as well as he looked a bit surprised. "...really?" She asked, looking away for a moment, her tails swaying a bit behind her. Zech was actually worried that he may have upset or insulted her and he looked over to her, unsure of what to say at first but then he saw her...smiling?  He gulped and looked back down, twitching his tail and feeling really kind of lost. 

The two were quiet for a while before they tried to speak up at the same time, stopping at the awkward moment before Koral spoke up. "So how are you two doing?"

Both Zech and Nova jumped up and turned to see the smiling Aqualine behind them, giving them both a small fright.  "Koral!  What the heck?!"

Koral couldn't help but giggle, "Sorry, didn't mean to scare you two like that, just walking by when I heard my name."  She was grinning wide, "But don't let me stop anything~."

"What are you doing here...?" Nova asked, doing her best to hide her own nervousness.

"Well I'm certainly not spying on you!" She said, laughing and holding her hand up. "Shift's ending soon and I wanted to grab something real quick from Sean's truck before then.  I figured you guys..."  She trailed off, sticking her tongue out and laughing. "Eh, but that's none of my business!"  She smiled and winked at the two, "Sorry to butt in like that, you two have fun!"

The two stood there and watched as Koral ran to the Crust Bucket truck, eyeing her before they looked at each other. "She...wasn't really spying on us..." Nova asked, "Right?" 

"Of course not!" Zech said, letting out a nervous laugh. "She...she wouldn't do anything like that! ...right?"

They looked at each other for a quiet moment before the two of them started to grin and then start laughing, the absurdity of the situation really starting to dawn on them. Zech rubbed his head, "Well...I would offer to show you around, but you probably did a lot of that already.  Would you like to maybe go off and get some ice cream?"

Nova smiled and nodded, "That would be great!"

They headed back into town to visit a local ice cream shop and just spent the time talking and enjoying the rest of the evening.  Time seemed to fly by for them and soon they were in front of the complex Nova was staying in, standing out in the plaza.

"I had a lot of fun tonight." She said, smiling to Zech. "I really can't thank you enough."

Zech smiled, “Th-thank you too!  This was a lot of fun!  And thanks for putting up with me!"

Nova smiled and laughed a bit, swaying her tail a little. "Well...I don't have to leave until tomorrow night..."  He paused and started to shuffle her feet.  "Would you..uhm...do you think you would like to come hang out until then?"

Zech's ear shot up for a moment as he tried to keep his composure. Was she...was she really asking him that?  He had no idea how to reply, "Ah! Uh...w-well...i-if I can, sure!"  He rubbed the back of his head, "I...well I don't think we have any jobs lined up at all yet!  K-kinda depends on our boss, heh..."

"Oh, right."  Nova sounded a little disappointed there, but she nodded in understanding. "Well...I do hope I can see you before I leave."

Zech felt himself blushing underneath his fur, nodding. "I...I can try...!"  He smiled and laughed hesitantly, "Well...if I can't...I hope you have a safe trip."

"Thank you."  Nova smiled, twitching her ears as she looked at him before she suddenly leaned in and gave him a small kiss on his nose. "Have a good night!" She said as she hurried for the front doors.

Zech was left there in stunned silence, his ears had shot up and he was left standing, watching Nova run inside as he felt hot under his fur.  "D-did...did...did she...?'  He was stunned, he didn't think...

He was quiet the whole way back to the station.  He had no idea what to think, his mind was just an amazing jumble of thoughts.  What...what was he going to do?

--

Zech was in the station's lounge, laying on the couch and staring at the ceiling. He was hiding.  He knew he was hiding, but he didn't know what to do.  Last night was a blast, he honestly had a lot of fun with Nova, and that small kiss...that...that left him speechless.

But...now what?  He wanted to go and visit her...he wanted to see her again, but the harsh reality of his situation hit him hard.  She was quite literally from a different time, he just couldn't just be a part of her life in this kind of way. Still...it was tearing him up inside.

Sparks came rushing into the lounge and he looked around before he spotted him. "Zech!  What are you doing here?  I thought you were gonna be meeting up with Nova!"

Zech groaned and he out his hand son his face. "Sparks...I can't..."

Sparks twitched his ears, "What?  Why not?  I thought you guys hit it off!"

"We did..." Zeh groaned and whimpered as he sit up. "But that's the problem..."

"Oh come on!"  Sparks said, sitting down on the arm of the couch, "We talked about this already!  There's no harm-"

"Yes there is!"  Zech said, letting his temper flare a little, "She's from a different time Sparks!  I can't...I can't just be a part of that!  I don't want to admit it, but that's the harsh truth!  She's gotta go back home to attend one of the elemental schools and I...I'm gonna be either here or back in my own home time!  As much as I want it to work, it just can't!"

Sparks frowned, "So you're just gonna leave her hanging like this?  Dude, she -likes- you!"

Zech frowned, "...that's what I'm afraid of."

Sparks let out a sigh and he looked at him, "Zech...come on, give yourself a break.  You two like each other, and I think having another friend would be great!  I'm not saying that this was meant to be or anything, but you're gonna end up hurting her if you just disappear.  I mean, c'mon, you’re already a part of her life now."

Zech twitched; he actually never thought of that.  He's already done so much, now he really was a part of his life, or her history.

Sparks sighed and he stood up. "Well...I'm gonna be heading off here to meet with them, you can come with if you want." He left the lounge, leaving Zech alone with his thoughts.  Everything was racing in his head and he twitched, realizing that there really was only one thing he could do.

"Sparks!" He said, getting up, "Hold up, I'm coming!"

--

The two hurried along on Sparks' jet bike towards the spaceport.  The whole time Zech felt a knot in his stomach, realizing what he was going to be doing, but now he was going to be committed, he was going to do this.

They finally reached the port and rushed inside. "Crud, crud!  Where are they gonna be again?" Zech asked, sounding really worried.

"Gate C3!" Sparks said, looking around at the signs, "Uhh...this way!"  He pointed down the crowded hallway and the two rushed off.  Zech was very tempted to start teleporting around people to get going faster, but he tried his best to refrain from doing that; last thing he needed was to cause a panic with a crowd like this.

Finally, they were able to catch sight of both Koral and Crenshaw standing by one of the waiting areas next to the large glass wall looking out. Koral turned when she spotted the two rushing towards them.  "Sparks! Zech!  Geez, I was wondering if you two were gonna get here at all!"

"S-sorry..." Sparks said, grinning as he caught his breath, "We got a little delayed!"

Zech nodded, "W-where's Nova?"

Koral frowned, "Sorry guys, you missed her, she's on her shuttle now."  She said, pointing towards the shuttle outside.

"What?!"  Zech said, looking at her in disbelief then out to the shuttle.  His ears started to droop down as he watched, "I missed her...I..." He stepped up to the window and just stared out, starting to tear up; he felt absolutely devastated. "I screwed up..."

The three watched him as Koral spoke quietly to Sparks, trying to find what what happened.  She let out a sigh, looking at Zech again before she approached him.  "I'm really sorry."

Zech whined and he thumped his head up against the glass. "I screwed up..." He repeated. “I really screwed up-!”

"Hey, it's okay." She said, trying to reassure him.  She reached into a pocket and she pulled out a disk, "Nova asked me to give you this."

Zech's ears twitched as he lifted his head up and he looked over at the disk she was handing him.  "W-what...?"  He sounded surprised and he gently took it. "...what is it? Did she..."

"I don't know." Koral said, "I didn't ask since I figured it was kinda private."  She patted him on the shoulder, not really saying much else for a moment and she left to give him some space.

Zech just stared at the disk for a long silent moment, almost afraid of what might be on it.  He swallowed hard and found an empty seat away from everyone and he pulled out his computer, pushing the disk in. There was only one file on it; it was a message.  He shivered again, hesitating for a long moment before he opened it up.

The screen popped up, showing the purple Aqualine's face. "Hey Zech," it started, though he could tell that she seemed a little nervous.  "I hope that this message gets to you.  Well I mean...I know it will, but I mean..."  She let out a small laugh, "What I mean is that if I don't see you before I leave, that you'll see this." She sighed, "I hope you're doing okay.  I...I wanted to say thank you again for the time we spent together, it was really great and it made the last day really feel...great.  I just...I mean I hope I didn't do anything to...scare you or anything, I guess I shouldn't have...you know..."

Zech started to feel himself blush under his fur, shaking his head.  "N-no...no it was fine..."

Nova continued, "I really do want to see you again, but I guess with my going back home for school and your time adventuring kinda makes that difficult.  But I..."  She hesitated, "I still really want to stay in touch with you.  It's gonna be kinda hard given everything on both of our ends, but...if you're okay with it, then please stay in touch.  I've left my contact info in this message so feel free to send a message my way." She smiled, "It was great meeting you Zech, I hope I to see you again soon.  Take care."

Zech was quiet, staring at the screen as it went out, feeling weird.  He was so upset at himself for not getting down here sooner, but...but she still wanted to see him!  He didn't know how hard it would be for her to stay in touch at these schools, but he knew that he wanted to try at least!

Sparks was right; having another friend would do him some good.

He took in a deep breath before letting out a soft sigh and he got up and rejoined the others.

"Hey, you okay?"  Koral asked him.

Zech nodded, "Yeah...yeah everything's okay."

[cefstickles]

Hour Game Night

This fic is for @ticklyfandoms as they were the one to suggest the prompt: “Maybe something with Virgil and Thomas? Like they're having a bonding night while the other sides are busy, and somehow it leads to tickles.” 

I hope this fic turned out alright. I’m beginning to cut down my drabbles. Again, with all the story elements. Even though they help, they really stretch my word count. Ugh. But, I hope you all still enjoy:

Hour Game Night  

Ships: (None)

Words ~ 1,570 ~

“Do not pass go, do not collect two hundred dollars.”

“You said that about as sassy as Roman. Have the two of you been hanging out more or something?”

“Heck no! I’ll die before I start acting like Prince Ed Sheeran.”

Thomas chuckled as he moved his game piece to the jail square. Him and Virgil were playing a game of monopoly while the other sides went to go see a Disney movie. If Virgil was honest with Thomas, he would have rather gone with them, but the human wanted to spend some alone time with his anxious side.

Anxiety knew this was supposed to help their friendship, still this sort of ‘bonding’ experiment was outside of his comfort zone. Not that going to a movie was any better, but at least there were more people around and less chances for awkward silences. Speaking of which, there was one happening right now.

Virgil picked up the dice as the sound of them crashing onto the game board startled Anxiety out of the awkward silence. He shuddered in surprise and moved his game piece the correct number of spaces. He huffed in satisfaction as he was able to buy Park Place.

“Virgil. How are you feeling?” Thomas was worried for his anxious trait. He seemed more jumpy than usual.

“I’m not okay.”

“Is there any way I can make you okay?”

“Pffffahahahaha!!! That’s an even better joke than one of dad’s puns!” Thomas looked at Anxiety as if he had just kicked a puppy. Virgil sighed. “Look. I’m glad I can help some, but I harbor your negative thoughts and fears. There will never be a day in that brain of yours when I’m okay.”

“Well if maybe not a day...then how about an hour?”

Virgil looked back at Thomas to see a smile almost as bright as Patton’s had formed on his face. The anxious trait couldn’t help but reflect it to some extent. He felt a wall he had put up for so long begin to fall down.

“Heh...you win...you can try to make me okay for one hour.”

“YES!!!” Thomas threw his fist up in the air. The human stood up and sat next to Anxiety to which the latter just scooted away.

“Woah woah woah! Personal space!” Virgil fell on his back and put his hands up defensively.

“What?” Thomas cocked his head at him and out stretched his arms. “I was just gonna hug you.”

Virgil raised an eyebrow and slowly got off the floor. He felt himself lean into Thomas’s hug as the human’s arms wrapped around him. Slowly but surely, Virgil returned the gesture.

Okay, it had been about five minutes and the two were still hugging. Virgil was beyond done with the hug.

“You gonna let go of me?”

“Nope.” Thomas stated defiantly.

“You’re really gonna make me do this aren’t ya?”

“Do what?”

“You’re not an idiot Thomas. Don’t play dumb.”

“I’m not. I just thought you’d have seen the bad position we were both in and not try anything that would come back to bite you.” Virgil felt Thomas’s fingers wiggle close to his sides.

He suppressed the smile creeping onto his face. “Oh...it’s on.” Virgil attacked Thomas’s sides instantly bringing laughter forth from his mouth, but Thomas retaliated back slightly poking Anxiety’s sides testing the waters. With each poke Virgil shuddered and suppressed his chuckles, still tickling Thomas’s sides. Seeing as how the darker aspect didn’t intend on stopping soon, Thomas began to scuttle his fingers up into Virgil’s armpits, scratching at his tensed hollows.

It was at that moment Virgil gave the cutest snort, before moving his hands up to Thomas’s ribs! “Snrk! Uuuuuuugh! You’re gonnna paaay for that!!”

“Awww Virgil. That was so CUUUHUHUHUHUTTEEE!!!” Thomas’s movements were slowing as Virgil tickled harder and faster, getting an advantage over the human. He began to stand up and break out of the hug only to be pulled back down by Thomas.

Virgil lost his footing and fell on top of Thomas, but not before kicking out accidently with one of his legs, knocking the monopoly board and all the pieces everywhere.

“AAAAHhhh darn it Thomas! Look what you made me DOOOOHOOHOO!!! NO! NOT THERE!” Thomas was holding one arm over Anxiety’s back keeping him from moving while the other snaked in between their forms and was tickling his tummy.

Virgil instantly reached out and grabbed at Thomas’s neck, tickling as fast as he could manage through his laughter. The purple-haired human burst out laughing and his hands flung up to try to protect his sensitive neck. Virgil, in response, grabbed them and spread them out to the sides.

“Thihihihihs looohohohks WROOOOHOOHOHOHNG!!!” Without warning, the darker trait buried his face into Thomas’s neck and gave him a couple soft raspberries, sending the human into hysterics. “STAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHPPP!!” After a couple more, Virgil was able to pry himself off of Thomas and sit back while the other lay back tired, happy laughter still bubbling out.

Virgil saw how exhausted Thomas had grown so he let the human use the short break as he moved down to the guy’s feet. He was beginning to untie his shoes, when Thomas surprisingly tackled the side to the ground. The positions had reversed.

“Hey no fahahahir!” Virgil was smiling, trying not to enjoy himself, but failing.

“You left me wide open Virge. You forget how easily I can recover.” He grabbed both of Virgil’s hands and held them above his head.

“ARGH!! NO!!!” The darker trait jerked around, trying to free himself of his captor.

Thomas reached a hand down and began to re-tickle the darker traits belly. “Hehehehe! Good kitty.”

Virgil hissed in between laughs. “IHIHHI Suddenly HAHAHAHAHTE YOUHOHOH!!!”

“I’ve decided! I like it when you laugh!!” Thomas chuckled as his hand found its way underneath Virgil’s shirt. The sound that escaped Anxiety’s lips as his bare skin was tickled resembled that of a school girl.

“Well Good for YOUHOHHOHOHOHOOO!!!” Virgil’s thrashing became more violent as he desperately tried to get away from Thomas’s hand. “STAHAHAHAHAHPPPP!!!” Eventually, Anxiety gained enough strength to roll out from Thomas’s grasp, and kick him in the stomach, sending the human back to the ground. Before he could react much, Virgil quickly flipped Thomas over, sat on the backs of his knees, and resumed the removing of Thomas’s footwear.

“No no no no no!!!!! I don’t want it!!!” Thomas thrashed, but could not buck Virgil off for the life of him.

“Hehe.” Virgil was as breathless as Thomas was. “There’s a lot of things in life that we have to do, but don’t want to. So deal with it.” Anxiety grabbed a foot and began to scutter his fingers over the sole. If Thomas wasn’t in hysterics before, he was now. Very shrill squeals escaped his mouth, when Virgil stroked his fingers under the bottoms of Thomas’s toes.

But soon the squeals were transferred to the darker aspects mouth as Thomas’s hands somehow reached behind and found their way to his sides once again, utterly surprising him. Virgil was now chuckling so hard he fell off of Thomas’s legs and curled up into a giggly ball on the floor.

The human only found enough strength to roll over on his back. Try as they may, neither the human nor the aspect could get up for the life of them. They laid there cackling their heads off, even though no more tickles could be dished out on either side. Finally, Virgil turned his head towards Thomas, wearing the brightest smile the Human had ever seen on his face. This in turn made Thomas smile wider too. As time passed, their giggles became less and less frequent. Finally, for what seemed like an eternity, only panting could be heard.

Thomas was the first to get on his feet. After stretching, he offered a hand to Virgil to which the darker aspect cautiously took. The twinkle in each other’s eyes just screamed “this isn’t over!!”, but the understanding look they exchanged confirmed the nonverbal truce they had made. Once Virgil was on his feet, he made his way to the kitchen and grabbed out two water bottles, handing one to Thomas. The human accepted the water bottle and the two drank together like thirsty dogs that hadn’t been quenched in months.

After they had their fills and their heart rates had slowed, Thomas was the first to speak.

“So...how do you feel?”

Virgil smiled at him. “Heh. I think I’m okay.”

Bonus:

The door opened and the light switched on in the living room to reveal Thomas and Virgil sleeping. Of course Logan would only be focusing on the huge mess they made with the monopoly pieces, while the other two were beaming at the pair on the couch. All of them knew that they needed the alone time and they were happy to provide it.

It took a couple shouting whispers, but they managed to stop Logan from picking up the pieces and making noise.

“Logan! Stop! You’re going to wake them.” Roman tried to restrain him.

“That does not matter. They need to get up anyway. It is bad for your spinal cord to continuously sleep in an upright pos-”

“Seriously Logan! Let them have their moment together. This is important!”

“What could be more important than proper sleep?”

Patton put a finger to the logical trait’s lips and uttered a single word.

“Friendship.”