#isat jinn

[vulpixisananimal]

Intermission

(There was something satisfying about the feeling of your boots hitting soft earth. Maybe it was the crunch of dry leaves and twigs. Maybe it was the occasional stone you'd kick down the road. Or maybe it was simply the satisfaction the family who walked behind you wouldn't be tripping over a particularly unsafe branch.)

(You were all on the road again.)

(It was a couple days since you all left Jouvente, things had moved fast once you recovered. Isabeau was getting sick of the place, and Mirabelle was itching to go on another adventure.)

("But where do we go next?" "How do we get there?" "What about Siffrins health?" "What ABOUT my health?" And these were just the questions asked out loud. Is Siffrin really ok? Are his headmates ok? Who caused this whole mess with mind craft? Can we trust Ramos?)

(Ramos. . .)

(The day before you all left Ramos accepted your offer to join. Said that they're going to pause the Defender training and go home. Since you all were headed there, Ramos was joining you. You still didn't know how to feel about that. Your family's opinion was split too.)

(Mirabelle was sceptical, but wanted to give them a chance. Isabeau insisted they're a good person. Odile was as wary as you were, and Nille thought they were alright. Bonnie said they were a "crabbing idiot" and left it at that. That made you smile.)

(So, that's where you were now. Leading the pack just like before. You, Mira, Isa, Ramos, Odile, Bonnie, and Nille in that order. Your group was getting sizable.)

"What do you think, Sif?" (You hear Mira call from behind.)

"Huh?" (You turn.) "Sorry, was zoning out."

"That's ok!" (she smiles.) "I was just asking if here's a good place to stop!"

(You shrug.) "I can go a few minutes more."

"Can you?" (She asked suspiciously.)

"I can! Look! I'm still fine from-" (You turned back to the road ahead and stopped. Holding up an arm.)

(There was a figure in the middle of the road, on the ground.)

(Mirabelle stopped, having long ago learned when you spotted something dangerous or peculiar. Isabeau on the other hand was as oblivious as ever and was walking right past you. You grab his arm.)

"Whuh-? What's-"

"You really suck at follow the leader." (you say, sticking your tongue out.)

"What is it, Sif?" (Mira asks, now looking ahead.) "Is that. . ."

"I'll check. All sneaky like, just in case~" (You start creeping towards the figure, careful and quietly, the loud clump clump of your boots before becoming nothing but a faded dream. You were good at this.)

(Step, step, step. . . It got clearer what the figure was as you got closer, lump of clothes? Someone in a lump of clothes, someone passed out! Oh! When you get to its side, you wave your family over. No danger.)

(Mira was there first and knelt down besides the stranger.) "O-oh! Oh no is, is it alright?"

(Next was Isa, going to check for a pulse and breathing.) "Well it's not dead? Just passed out."

"Does it not have a pack? Perhaps it was robbed." (Odile comments.) "After all, it's a long walk from the next rest."

(You shook your head.) "I didn't see one."

"No wounds or anything either." (Isa tapped his chin.)

"Maybe it. . . Didn't have one?" (Ramos comments from the sidelines.)

"Who'd be traveling without food and water?" (Nille kneels down, taking off her pack.) "Here, I'll give it some of mine."

"So kind Petronille." (Mira smiled.) "I'll try waking it up first."

(Mirabelle put a hand to the strangers heart, then up to its forhead. After a moment, the strangers yawned, eyes still closed, and smiled.)

"Good morning!!" (It says.)

"O-oh!" (Mira said surprised.) "U-uh, Good morning? Really it's good evening now, b-but!!"

"Are you alive?" (Bonnie asked, bluntly.)

(The stranger sat up.) "Oh! Yes! Yes I'm alive! Haha, I was just taking a nap! I think."

"You think?" (Said Odile, suspicious.)

"Yep!" (The stranger rubbed its head.) "Oh, oooooh stars what was I doing agaaaaain."

(Your ears perk up, stars? Ramos glanced over at you, and then asked.) "Are you, from that Island?"

"Huh?" (It looks up.) "Am I. . Oh! Oh! Oh that Island! I dunno, maybe." (It shrugs, and smiles.)

"Here, drink water." (Nille passes her water to it, it chugs it down.) "Try not to choke on it."

(The stranger coughes, and giggles.) "T-thank you! Haha! Oh right! I'm Jinn! (it/its)!"

(You all introduce yourselves. Huh, how'd we know it's pronouns already?)

(Don't question it.)

"I guess now is a good time to set up camp then!" (Mira says.) "T-that is if you're ok with it Jinn!"

"Oh! Oh no that'd be great!!" (It smiled. Did it ever open its eyes?) "I love meeting new people!! And I'm in no hurry!!"

>>>

"It's ready!!!"

(Bonnie yelled from the makeshift fire pit you helped prepare. Bonbon, Nille, and that stranger Jinn were all making a tasty dish while the rest of you were setting up. Everyone had a tent except you. You liked sleeping under the stars. Jinn was the same way, aparently.)

(You were very hungry.)

(Aaaaaaand who's fault was that~)

(You roll your eye. How could you forget, your favorite annoying star had shown up while making Isas tent. Listen, you THOUGHT you were fine.)

(You can think a lot of things Stardust~)

(You shake your head as you stepped over to the fire- WAIT-)

"IS THAT-"

(Bonnie held up a plate to you triumphantly.) "MALANGA!!! FRITTERS!!!"

(YES!!!)

(YES YES PLEASE STARS YES.)

(You take the plate from Bonnie and ruffle their hair.) "Thank you SO MUCH!!"

"Hehe!" (They were smiling so big and wide.)

(Stardust if you don't start eating RIGHT NOW-)

(Oh you didn't even wait a SECOND. You were scarfing down your food so fast. Yummy!!! Oh so so SO SO GOOD!!!)

"S-slow down Sif!" (Isa says, worried.) "I don't want you to choke!!"

"No I wanna see how far they'll go." (Nille counters.)

(You take bite after bite, finishing your food waaaay before anyone else. You put down your plate.)

". . . You 'aight, Siffy?" (Nille asks.)

(You burp.)

"Eeeewwwww"

"HAH!"

"Hehe"

"Manners, Siffrin!"

(You smile, and sink down in your cloak a little.) "S-sorry, it was really really good."

"Really? I couldn't tell." (Odile says sarcasticly. You all have a laugh at that.)

(Conversation ensues, mostly around Jinn. Who it was, where it was going, why it was passed out. The answer for all of them was the same:)

"I dunno." (It shrugged.) "I'm just going, forgot where I came from, forgot where I'm going."

"Doesn't that, worry you?" (Asks Ramos.)

"Haha, nope!" (It smiles.) "I end up where I end up, The Universe guides."

"And all we can do is follow." (You mumble, stupid Universe.) "So you remember that, at least."

"Of course!" (It tilts its head.) "I don't think I could ever forget that!"

(You shook your head.) "Well the Universe owes me after everything it put me through."

(You glance at Jinn, it looks, sad. It speaks up.) "W-well, you never really know what, what's going on with The Universe, right?"

"So?" (You question.)

"T-there, could have been some reason, o-or. . ." (It trails off and looks back down at its food. Looking at your friends, the awkwardness had spread. They knew what you had been through, and that The Universe was connected to it.)

(Stardust please, we nearly ended the world~)

(You sigh.) "It's fine. Done now, isn't it?"

"G-guess so. . ."

(. . . There's a long, uncomfortable pause before Mirabelle finds a way to break it.) "O-oh! Uh, I wanted to ask about The Universe, actually."

(Jinn perks up, looking happy as can be again.) "Oh!! What is it??"

(Mira rubs her hands together, nervous.) "W-well, I know it hurts to talk about, litteraly, but what does that phrase mean?"

"The Universe Guides? We Follow?" (Jinn replies.) "Just as it sounds! Everything happens for a reason! We learn to live with any hand we're dealt, adapt to difficulties, to rules or, or. . ."

"Or memories forgotten." (You say. Jinn nods.)

(. . . Why were your thoughts coming so easily when it came to home?)

"O-oh. . ." (Mira ponders for a second.) "It, sounds like a very strict God, if you can only follow what it guides."

"Yes and no?" (Jinn thinks for a moment.) "The Universe guides, yes, but how you take the path is up to you! To get from here to the ocean, you could follow the road, or go through the woods, or fly above them! It's about adaption! I guess it is more rigid than Change, though."

"O-oh r-right!" (Mirabelle nods excitedly.) "And!! Change tells us to seek change in ourselves, but lets us find our own way!! B-but also Change is. . W-well. ."

"A lazy God?" (Jinn giggles.) "That's ok! Change is nice!"

(You don't say? You note the earrings, one wish, one change.)

(What a strange person.)

>>>

(You wake up.)

(Why were you awake? Why were you around? It was midnight. No, probably far past midnight.)

(You can hear music.)

(You sit up. You were in your sleeping bag. That's right, you all were traveling again. It was a miracle you didn't need to front while you were on the road, you hated it. The sun. The dirt. The noises. The Heat. Ugh.)

(You look around. Everyone else's tents were set up. You could hear snores from some of them. There was another sleeping bag layed out nearby. It was empty. Who's was that again?)

(That was the stranger.)

(Ah. The stranger. It was less a memory of what happened, more just the knowledge that it did, in fact, happen. Jinn. Stranger. Islander. Where did it go? Wander off?)

(No, no you could see it. It was lying in the middle of the road. You got up, and walked over. The music got louder.)

(It didn't acknowledge your presence. It was staring up at the sky. You raise a hand-)

Nice night, isn't it?

(Your hand freezes. It spoke to you. You open your mouth, you ask how it did that.)

Lie down with me, it's a nice night.

(You hesitate, considering the now much more intimidating stranger. You decide to join it.)

(You ask-)

Relax. We have all night.

(You hush up, annoyed, and stare up at the skies. The night sky.)

(The Stars where alive, tonight. Alive and beating like hearts. You want to hold them. Grip them until they-)

That's not very nice.

(You wince. Do you mind?)

Sorry, but it's hard not to overhear your conversation.

(. . .)

Come now, there's two of you, aren't there?

(There is. You were in denial still, weren't you. That would mean you're not in control. . .)

(We're actors. Aren't we?)

(You huff. To you, maybe.)

What's your names?

(You wince again. Not used to it. Your name is Mal Du Pays.)

Vaugardian dialect meaning "Homesickness." Well not exactly Vaugardian but we don't have time explain all that. What a tragic name, do you like it?

(. . .)

. . . What about your friend?

(Name?)

Yes! You must have a name, right?

(. . . I don't really have one. Not yet, at least.)

(You need a name. Choose one.)

Now now Mal, give them some time. A names a big thing!

(I, don't know. I didn't think-)

Here!

(You look to your side. The stranger was holding something in it's hand. You take it, it was. . . A small stone? The stranger had one, and put it in it's ear.)

Go on, like I do.

(. . . You put the stone into your ear.)

(You hear music.)

Nice, isn't it?

(It was nice, the music sounded familiar, but you couldn't place it. You breathe in. . . And out. . .)

(. . . Lost one was what you called yourself, if you needed to acknowledge a self.)

Lost one?

(You don't want that name. . . . You'll go with Null.)

Null?

(A nothing.)

But you're not nothing! You're speaking to me now, aren't you?

(Perhaps. . . But you want that name. There's a phantom memory, of a play, one of the characters was called that, Null, a nothing.)

I know that play! Well, not exactly a play, but it's still a story! Swordsman with the gift of clairvoyance looking for a past he doesn't remember. Like you!

(You nod, it sounded familiar, it was familiar.)

I just hope your story ends better than his.

(You turn back to the stranger, it's smiling at you. There's stars in it's eyes.)

. . . Do you like the music?

(Yes. Yes you do. You both do. You look back to the sky. It helped you focus. Find yourself. You could count the stars, you could even remember the constellations.)

(You weren't being bothered by the hard ground beneath you.)

(You finally felt like the play had stopped for intermission.)

(You feel. . . Content.)

Do you want a pair?

(You do, you really do.)

Then you know what to do.

(. . . You did.)

(You look to the night, and wait. It might have been minutes, hours. You watched, until you saw a small streak of light slice the sky in two. You close your eyes.)

(Music to help you focus. Music to help you focus. Music to help you focus. . .)

(. . .)

(You open your eyes. Why did we do that? Why did we do that?)

(Why did you lie down next to a stranger, you didn't Even know who it was! You sit up. This wasn't right, there was something wrong. You turn to the stranger. You open your mouth.)

(Who. Are. You?)

Oh! Sorry, I should have introduced myself! I'm-

(You. You stare at the stranger. You knew that word. Your. Your hand is shaking. Your breath, quickening. You, you.)

(You're-)

You should go to sleep.

>>>

"'Friiiiiiin."

(You are being shaken awake.) "Mmmmrrrmmg five minuuuuutes...."

(Whoever's shaking you stops for a moment. Then you feel a very small body jump on you.)

"GWUH--"

"WAKE UP 'FRIN!!!"

(You clear the sleep from your eyes. Bonbon was waking you up. You were sleeping in the middle of the road, your sleeping bag was nowhere near you.)

"Uh, hhhheyy."

"Sleepwalking?" (They ask smugly.) "Ground taste good or something?"

"Haha! No I, I dunno actually!"

(You get up and dust yourself off. What WERE you doing last night? You don't remember. Maybe someone else does. Bonnie goes back to camp, your family is packing up.)

(. . . Jinn is nowhere to be seen. It must have left early in the morning.)

(You feel something in your hand. You open it.)

(A pair of small stones, there's the engraving of a crescent moon on them.)

(. . . Weird.)

[livesworthlivingau]

Behind the Vale 16

Spoilers for ISAT/Two Hats!

Also got a cameo this time around! Readers of the Sifstem AU will likely recognize it~.

"Nille? Where are you going?" [You call out, noticing she had left your side and started walking towards the tree line off the path.]

"Oh... I don't know really, something was just, calling to me I guess?" [Nille said somewhat absentmindedly, still walking towards the thicket before her. You start after her once she vanishes into the woods.]

"N-Nille?!" [Oh stars, why is she the one vanishing now? Doesn't she know that's our job? You grumble to yourself and chase after. You start to notice a strange feeling as you grow closer... familiar yet unpleasant.]

"Vale! Over here!" [You hear her shout in the distance, passing through several trunks and bushes before finally stumbling into an opening beside her. You grumble even more and brush the leaves off yourself... then you notice the favor tree in front of you, and an odd stranger sitting at it's base. It sat in the exact same pose you used to... It perked up as it noticed you.]

"Huh? Oh! Oh oh hello!! Hello hello! Are you traveling too? I think I'm traveling. But I like this tree so I decided to stop! For now, at least."

[It spoke strangely, polite, deliberate, but also very scattered. It had hair like the night sky, a sea of black with white dots. Constellation lines dotted across it's face.]

"Yeah, we're looking for the saviors, my little sibling's been travelling with them." [Nille explains while you remain a step or two back. You stare cautiously at this stranger and the odd sensation they keep radiating.]

"Saviors? Saviors saviors. . . . Oh! Saviors! Of Vaugarde! Oh yes I remember them, or, a them, anyway. Were they the same saviors? No, there's only one set of saviors isn't there! Haha, silly me. Oh! You must have been walking a while, want to take a break? This tree is very good for taking breaks under."

"That sounds nice! Are you okay though? You seem a bit... discombobulated?"

"I really think we should be heading along actually, busy day and all!" [You try to excuse yourselves, almost dragging Nille away before she elbows you in the side.]

"Don't be rude, Vale!"

"Oh! Yes, sorry! I'm just a bit of a forgetfull mess, haha! Vale's the name? I like it! You should sit down and relax, it really is a nice tree, y'know. Oh! And what's your name!"

[You don't know what compels you, but you suddenly find yourself taking a seat opposite them.]

"Wh-How did you blinding do that?!"

"What are you going on about?! I'm so sorry about them, I'm Nille, what's your name?" [She says, taking a seat beside you, still giving you a confused and annoyed look.]

"Do wha- oh! It's quite alright, I'm Jinn! It's a great pleasure to meet you both!! You're looking for the saviors, right? Yes you said that, it was. . . Oh! You're looking for that kiddo Bonnie right?"

[Nille lights up at the mention of Bonnie.]

"Yeah! I guess the resemblance is pretty obvious, have you met them?!" [You continue to stare cautiously at this stranger, everything about it gave you pause... especially somehow knowing 'its' pronouns inherently now that you think about it.]

"Yes? No? I think so! Forgive me, my memory is hazy, haha. Oh! I do remember they are an amazing chef!! Who were they traveling with, again?"

[Nille looks to you expectantly, to which you roll your eyes and comply.]

"There's the fighter, the researcher, the house maiden, and the traveler." [You say with your arms crossed. Nille gives you another annoyed look.]

"You know you can use real names, right?"

"Oh! Oh of course! Haha of course you would know that. I think. I think?. . . . Names. . No middle name. . . No last name. . ."

"Wh-What did you just say?!"

"Yes, names, names, it was, was. . . Something, someth- Oh! Siffrin! That was it, yes! Oh! I'm remembering now, thank you! How could I forget! Oh dear, Vale, I'm so terribly sorry, it took me so long to recognize you! It really is a pretty name, you know. Picking out a third new name for yourself? Well it's just so. . . Vaugardian of you!"

"SHUT UP!! WHO ARE YOU?! HOW DO YOU KNOW ALL OF THIS?!" [You shout as you jump to your feet, you try to summon your dagger, but you don't seem to have access to it anymore...]

"Vale, what the crab's gotten into you?!"

"IT KNOWS SOMETHING! IT KNOWS AND IT'S PUTTING ON THIS STUPID ACT!!"

"Oh Vale! Please, stop yelling. I'm trying to piece my own sentences back together and it's really not helping. And I'm sorry, Pétronille, for causing such a scene."

[You grab at your throat as you try to scream once more, though nothing comes out. You start to panic which only makes you wish to shout more.]

"... I don't think I told you my full name..."

"You didn't? Oh! Oh of course you didn't! I have so much to remember I forget that I don't remember! Ah, no, it's coming back to me, I am sorry. My name is Jinn! But, well, that's just a name. A name I like to go by. Most who know me know me as Keaoholo'oko'a. Sorry if that causes a headache, by the way."

[The word cuts through you like a knife. It doesn't hurt but it takes all the fight out of you. You slump back down to sitting and stare in awe at the 'stranger'.]

"Y-You're... oh stars..."

"Uhhh... What?" [Nille winces some as the word affects her a bit more negatively, shaking off the light pain.]

"Yes, stars indeed. I know it might be strange for me to say, but, truly I have as bad a memory for such things as you do. It's wonderful to finally meet you, in honesty, I was building up the courage. Although, I don't think I planned on meeting you per-chance like this."

"C-Courage?... Y-You were afraid to meet me?..."

"Okay someone's gotta explain to me what's going on. Who is this, Vale?"

"This is... uhhh... The Universe?..." [The words fall out of your mouth in disbelief, you could hardly believe it yourself.]

"... Riiiight..."

"Oh! Yes! Vaugardians do not know of my existance do they. A shame, the culture exchange used to be so vibrant! What a thing to see. . . Truly, Change can be so welcoming and nice. . . Hmm. . . How to explain. . . I would ask Vale too but, I'm not sure they would be much better."

"I am. . . Hmm. Everything that ever was and ever will be, everything in the night sky, the stars, and all of ones willpower and desier. Such as your Change God is a manifestation of entropy and change, I am that of all that currently is. Oh, oh I am really remembering things now."

"... Why do I actually believe that?"

"Because it's the truth, Now about you being scared to meet me?" [You ask almost excitedly. The universe had crabbed us over plenty in the past, and now it was scared of us?]

"A-ah, yes, well. . . . . . I'm sorry."

[As the sincere apology escapes its lips, you want to feel smug. You want to rub it in its face. You want to scream and smack them for everything they put you through... Yet that all just melts away, hugging yourself after a moment.]

"... I can assume what it is you're apologizing for, but honestly I'd really like to hear you say it..."

"R-right. . . I'm sorry, for being a terrible guide. A terrible god. I am to lead you, lead you all. To teach you, to help you grow as a person. I am the shepherd and you, and all from our home, are to follow."

"In return, I grant your wishes. If I do my job right, then such wishes will be trivial and easy things. Things that will not cause grief. But, I have failed. And three time's now a wish has nearly ended it all."

"... That... That means a lot to hear from you... Thank you. And hey, that last wish didn't turn out so bad, all things considered~!"

"You mean the one that crabbing killed you, Vale?!"

"Oh it's not like that's anything new for me~." [Nille seems unimpressed by your response.]

"I couldn't mess this one up! If I did I'd never live it down!! Do you like the new face? I can't claim credit for it, but, I do hope you don't feel. . . Wrong?"

"I couldn't be happier with it~."

"Definitely beats that torch light you were sporting before." [She chuckles out, causing you to smirk a bit.]

"Well that face served it's purpose anyway. Much as the one I'm wearing is now. . . . What do you plan to do, Vale? When you meet them again? Or do you plan on avoiding them forever."

"... I don't want to keep avoiding them, but I don't know what I'm going to do." [You admit, looking away rather ashamedly.]

"Perhaps, if you talk to your new companion about your deeper situation, she could help."

"Is it talking about your first two wishes?" [Nille asked, cautiously placing a hand on your shoulder. You allow her but still look away as you respond.]

"I'd rather we just leave that all in the past..."

"You and I both know it's going to come up. Wasn't the whole lesson of that misadventure to talk to those important to you?"

"Oh come on, you have to admit I'm miles ahead of how I was even just a couple weeks ago!"

"Wait... You're telling me they were worse than this?"

"Impossibly so! I truly am proud of how far they've come, but yes. They were much, much worse. I thought you would have talked to at least one of your companions before hitting the triple digits, but. . ."

[Nille grips your shoulder a bit tighter at that, though you only wish to escape this moment even more.]

"Those days are finally over, I'd greatly appreciate if we just move on..."

"Of course, of course. I am sorry. I will not push you to explain such things, although, it will come up in your future. It's up to you how it will."

[You just sit in uncomfortable silence, waiting for the topic to change. Nille takes the hint and sighs.]

"Well, if you're not gonna talk about it, then lets just move on. I don't suppose you can help me find Bonnie?"

"Hmmmmmmm well I coooould~ if you ask right. That's the issue with my existence, I'm bound by simple things. Changey is lazy, yes, but if they want to give you a gift they can just, do it. I have to wait for, well, the proper paperwork, in essence."

"Well that sounds easy eno-"

"NO! I'm sorry Nille, but you're not making a wish!" [You find yourself back on your feet, you leapt out of your seat before realizing it with your protest. She looks to you in shock and confusion.]

"Well why the crab not?! I need to find Bonnie and we're just going in circles at this point!"

"Wishes aren't just something to play with... I don't want you getting mixed up in all of this, you've seen how they can go..."

". . . I will admit, my ability to properly grant such things have only deteriorated since our home. . . Well, well I was proud I was able to grant your latest one correctly."

"Gruesome methods notwithstanding, it did turn out well in the end I guess... Alright, it's decided then~." [You say with your chipper mask slipping back on. You get up and start to look around the base of the tree.]

"What's decided? What are you doing?"

"Looking for a leaf, to make your wish~!"

"Wishing ritual, Pétronille, they are quite important for the craft. I imagine Vale can show you how. . . . I'll do my best not to. . . Ruin it."

"No, I'm taking this burden, I don't want Nille taking any risk over this."

"You don't gotta protect me Vale, I can handle myself."

"Well too bad, it's not happening and that's final~." [You tease with a confident grin. She rolls her eyes and crosses her arms, but does nothing more to object.]

"Now, any suggestions on the exact wording, Jinn?"

". . . Be true to what you want, try not to let other thought cloud what you truly want. Be honest. I. . . Cannot give much more than that. The intent and emotion behind the words matter as much as the words itself."

[You nod, finding a leaf that reminds you the most of Nille. You clear your mind before whispering softly into it thrice.]

"I wish for Nille to find Bonnie safe, sound, and soon." [You then fold it delicately and drop it at Jinn's feet.]

"You didn't need to do that... but thanks, Vay..."

"Anytime, Nille~."

". . . . . You are a very kind soul, Vale. You had both best be off, you'll see what I have for you soon enough. Oh! And before I forget, Pétronille. You are a wonderful sister, and Boniface cares for you very much. I'm glad I finally got to meet you after Changey got all gushy about you a while ago~"

"W-Wait, Ch-changey?... A-As in...." [Nille stammers out, looking like she just saw a ghost nearly.]

"Changey! Change god! Your god! The earings aren't for show, dear. They're just the absolute cutest. And with how brave you were when your home was frozen, to save your little sibling, oh it must have struck a chord."

[You only now realize it's wearing a pair of bonding earrings, one shaped like a star, and one shaped like the change symbol. Nille whispers to herself giddily.]

"Holy crab the change god was watching!!!"

"Well, it's been a surprising pleasure but I think that's enough god stuff for today!" [You remark, starting to push Nille along before anything else happens on this insane day.]

"I can use my own legs, Vale!"

"Good luck out there! If you need me, well, you know what to do~."

Thanks so much to @vulpixisananimal for helping me plan/write this out and Jinn's lines! Absolutely adore how all this went!~

[vulpixisananimal]

YES THIS WAS ABSOLUTLY IT

@vulpixisananimal this is what happened in the intermission, right?

[itstheval]

Memory of Visitation

A @livesworthlivingau Side Story

"Oh Stars, I remember this town! This place sucked!"

Siffrin said it with a laugh as they entered Wolworth, but everyone else simply glanced strangely at him. The realization hit them at the same time it did Mira, from the look on their faces. "Time travel s-" "NO SPOILERS!"

Mira half-pulled her rapier, but the look on her face was one of jest that kept a smile on Siffrin's face, even as they raised their hands up defensively. "Okay, okay! I just…There were a lot of memories wrapped up in this town. So, uh…" His eyes flickered around to the others, looking for help, and getting only amusement at his plight.

"Hmf. I believe, I will go take a walk. To explore. Bonnie, would you come with me? You have the shopping list." "Aw, Crab, I wanted to hear!" Mirabelle harumphed her way away, frills spinning as she twirled on a heel and walked into town, leaving Siffrin staring helplessly as Bonnie rushed to catch up with her, hat bouncing with every rushed step. Vale's laugh broke the tension, and Siffrin turned back to look at them. "Oh well DONE, Stardust! We can really see the skills it took you thirty years to hone!"

The flush darkening their cheeks was matched only by their urge to snap back, and they managed to find their voice. "Don't laugh too hard, Vale, not until you find out WHAT happened here. Besides, I might make sure it happens to you…"

"We got here…I want to say a few months, after the King? We'd met you, Nille, but there was a lot you didn't know. I hadn't even opened up to everyone yet…I'd say I'm sorry, but you know. Wrong people to apologize to. But you, Odile! You're always too clever, and you'd noticed, by now."

"I'll take that as a compliment." Odile managed, smiling wryly. She recognized an Old Man Ramble by now, but Siffrin's stories were always worth the listen.

"Noticed what, precisely?" Vale's question was colder, but from the look on their face, the queasiness in their expression, they already knew.

"Well…Back then. Before I knew any better. And I want to make it real clear, I know better now! But back then, I would…Punish myself. With my dagger. For things that…hadn't happened, to any of you? And I'd hide it with my Craft, which…I learned way more about the limits of Healing Craft than I should have."

Siffrin didn't bother looking at everyone's faces. He knew what they looked like. He'd seen them before, and they broke his heart the first time, when it was Odile revealing this. Even so much later, thinking about those expressions hurt.

What he wasn't expecting was the sudden enfolding of arms around him. Isabeau's warm body against his, enfolding him, and a moment later Odile's hand on his head, patting it gently. Even Nille joined in on the hug, and a glance up showed Vale nearby, looking in. This was…different? This was nice. Until, on some unspoken signal, everyone stepped away.

"I'm sorry Sif, just…the look on your face. I don't think anybody could see that and NOT want to give you a hug! We know it's alright, but the way you looked…"

"Like a crab just pinched your puppy." Nille confirmed.

"Yeah, or like…I dunno, like someone ate your favorite treat you were saving for later!"

In that moment, he was loved. In all moments, he was loved, but it was nice to see it so clearly, and the smile Siffrin let onto his face was genuine. "Thanks…I don't like thinking about this stuff. But, no bottling myself up, not to my family! That's what I promised."

"Promised who, precisely?" Odile's voice was wry, in the way that came when she was trying to not show affection.

"Well I was getting to that! Before everyone decided it was group hug time! Anyway! Odile noticed, and she…told everyone, when we were here. I'm not ashamed to say, I ran off. I was stupid…I thought none of you would care about me if you knew how much I hated myself."

"You're absolutely right, Stardust." Vale finally decided to add their two cents, and everyone's heads snapped towards them, making them glad that looks couldn't kill - they'd be dead four times over, at least! It was Odile who found her voice first.

"Explain?"

"He WAS stupid!"

Vale's laugh cut the tension that their statement made, and Siffrin was the first to join into it, before everyone else allowed themselves to be part of it.

"Right! Right, where was I…Running away. Right. Well, Odile was too smart again." A glance to her showed a smirk that showed she agreed. "I ran and hid in the House…and her letter had gotten there first. And when people showed up expecting me, and bringing me to an appointment? I wasn't going to tell them they had the wrong person. Whoever's appointment it was, I could hide there until you all forgot! And that's how I met my therapist."

The sharp bark of laughter from Odile showed just what she thought of that, but Isabeau was quick to follow, as Nille shook her head in exasperation. "That actually worked?" She said, around a smile, and Vale nodded with mock seriousness. "It would have worked on me. Smart."

Siffrin decided then to start walking and talking, as he explained the rest of it. "Doctor Jinn was…strange. Even for Vaugarde. It/its pronouns, with lightless hair with darkless spots in it, like the stars. I'd have almost thought it was from home, except that everyone I've seen from there had darkless hair…and Doctor Jinn was a housemaiden. Or…I mean, it was working in the house, and it wore a change symbol on a necklace? And one of them for a bonding earring? Anyway, it had its own office set up, and was ready for me and everything. It wasn't until it addressed me by my name that I realized what happened. But Odile, why did you tell it my name was 'Siffrin Nomiddlename Nolastname'?"

"I couldn't begin to imagine." Odile allowed, walking the crowded streets, Isabeau pushing ahead and the others walking in the wake of the broad man like wakesurfers…Siffrin briefly wondered where he'd heard that term, then remembered they were telling a story.

"Well, that's what it called me. Like that, like 'Nomiddlename' and 'Nolastname' were names themselves. It was a great listener, I'll tell you that…It seemed to accept the Wish Craft stuff pretty easily, and didn't blame me for…" a light cough. "Any of it." Siffrin glanced to the side, and when the others followed their glance, they saw Bonnie at a stall, haggling with a zit-faced teen about the price of tomatoes.

"The interesting thing was…Well, when we got there, we were sort of wandering wherever we felt like, just seeing the world? And it turned out that Jinn was traveling anyway, so we wound up joining it…or it joined us, but we just wound up going where it led. It was convenient, and it meant I couldn't get away from it, either. So…we wound up talking a lot. Almost the whole time we were in Wolworth, and even on the roads." Sif took a turn, but kept up his memories. "About the Loops, about what I could and couldn't remember, about…well, everything, really. How I felt about Isa, how I felt about touch, home, why the Universe granted wishes like it did - it really didn't have much to say there, but it was great to just get it out of my system."

Vale was starting to look uneasy as they walked along, and Siffrin knew it was now or never, time to strike and hope everyone else was on board. "It was so useful, in fact, that I felt like visiting again. I sent a letter ahead myself this time, since…well, you didn't have a reason to, Madame. And don't worry, Vale, I told them all about you!"

Siffrin's grin was shameless, and watching the look on Vale's face was worth the entire time, as they realized how close they were to the opened doors of the House. And how Isabeau was blocking them off to the side…Vale couldn't escape that way, maybe…no, Nille was over there. Maybe through the Madame? With that look on her face, no way. That was the Path of Pain.

Vale's shoulders slumped, as Siffrin stepped aside and gave a sweeping bow. "After you, my friend!" Vale muttered oaths under their breath as they marched to the doors, only to find a Housemaiden waiting for them.

"Siffrin and Vale Nomiddlename Nolastname? I'm Housemaiden David…I got your letter, but I'm afraid no one here's ever heard of a 'Doctor Jinn'. Would you like to come in anyway?"

[vulpixisananimal]

One day Jinn will grant a trauma free wish, it just needs more practice... which may lead to more trauma

It's learning

[vulpixisananimal]

(Siffrin) {Mal Du Pays} <Null> |Asterion| [Loop] [(Saffron)]

[Market day!]

[You and the party were staying in a little town on your way to Wolworth And as luck would have it, it was market day! So, what better a time to have a lovely little date with your wonderful Red Giant~]

[You and Isa were running through the crowd, laughing, smiling. The sun was bright, the day was perfect.]

[(Then why are you so anxious?)]

[Ignore it, you squeeze Isabeaus hand.] "See anything you like~?"

"Hmmmm. . ." [He puts a hand to his chin.] "I mean I like a lotta things here! What about you?"

"Me?" [You pull him closer.] "Oh I have all I need right here~"

"H-heywait!!" [He's blushing, and you were already laughing.]

[You kept walking, (trying to ignore what happened at the Jouvente market), looking around, enjoying things. There were honey sticks, homemade cookies, some nice wood carvings, it really was a bananza of creativity.]

[(And you're still going to ignore what you read this morning?)]

[It's ALL you could do!! STARS!! You wake up all nice and ready for a perfect day with your Red Giant, you look at the journal and there!! A brand new voice to add to the chorus. And none of us have even met him!!]

[(And so you'll ignore it like a coward.)]

[Yes! This ASTERION can wait for later!]

". . . Oh!" [Isa stops, looking at one stall.] ". . ."

"Oh?" [You mimic,] "Find something you like~?"

"Aaaactually, doooo you know that person? I think I recognise them but. . ." [He replied, pointing in a direction.]

[You move next to him and try and look over the crowd, who was he talking about. . . There were a lot of random couples, groups, strangers, and. . . A stranger by one stand Isa was pointing at. You didn't recognise, but, no you. . .]

[(YOU.)]

[You almost jump in place, do you mind?!?]

[(You Don't remember who that is?? Are you a blinding idiot?!?)]

[The prompting of lovely Saffron jogged your memory. Stranger, on the road, talked about stars, universe, had food, and- universe, Universe.]

[(THAT. BASTARD.)]

"H-hey what's-" [(Isabeau starts, but you were already pushing your way through the crowd, step by step, untill you finally got to the tall figure with lightless hair.)]

". . . Oh!" [(The Universe smiled.)] "Hello again!"

[(You grab it and pull it around to look at you.)] "YOU!"

"What are you doing here!" [(Every hair on your head bristled and anger filled your eyes.)] "What are you BLINDING doing here!"

"L-loop what's gotten into you?!?" [(Isabeau caught up, trying to get you to calm down.)] "P-please, maybe just, calm down a bit?"

"No I will NOT calm down, Fighter!!" [(You glare at him, then back to the Universe.)] "You, y-you come here, after everything, to, to, to MOCK me?!? Haha, hahahahAHAHaha--"

"That's enough, now." [(The Universe huffed and wagged its finger.)] "Your ruinning Loops date. Leave us alone, Saffron."

[. . . You blink a few times and shake your head. That, what- STARS. You let go of Jinn in disgust. You didn't want to make a scene but your mind is YOUR BUSINESS!!]

"Oh! Sorry! It did look like he was giving you some trouble." [It replied.]

[Isabeau was looking confused between you and Jinn.] ". . . I feel like I've just missed a whole conversation."

"Oh! Yes!" [Jinn does a little curtsey.] "I'm Jinn, you remember me, yes?"

[Isa taps a finger on his chin, then snaps his fingers.] "Traveler we found on the road!"

"Yes!! You'll be happy to know I've kicked my passing out habits-"

"JINN-YYYYY" [A new, high pitched, energetic voice joined the conversation, shortly followed by a smaller figure crashing into Jinn. Their outfit was either a fashion disaster or fashion masterpiece. Everything was clashing and felt like your eyes couldn't focus on one thing for long. Which was weird because the outfit was just a very simple shirt, dress, and such.]

"Nebby!!" [Jinn giggled and ruffled their hair.] "Wandering off again? You're almost as bad as I!"

"Nuh uh!" [They giggled and kissed Jinns cheek.] "I sensed danger and came running- YOU!!!"

[You were surprised by the accusitory finger pointed at you.] "M-ME?!?"

"YOU'RE THE MEAN ONE!!!" [The stranger, named Nebby, tried to wiggle free of Jinn, but was unsucsessful.]

"W-whhhaaaatisgoingon-" [Isa was looking confused between all of you.]

"Please, Nebula, relax!" [Jinn lets go.] "Loop just has a lot of anger, and it's not like they can hurt me."

"I know that! But it's, it's the, theeeeee-"

"Principle?" [Isa offeres.]

"It's the PRINCIPLE of it!! THANK you Zaza!!" [Nebby moved quickly and booped Isa on the nose.]

". . . Okay, what's going on, who are you?!" [You ask, since Isabeau was too confused to.]

"Aww, don'tchya remember me?" [Nebby says with a pout.]

"Loop never met you, dear. Siffrin did, would you like t-" [Jinn was cut off by Nebbys enthusiastic nods.] "Alright, come on out, Siffrin."

(WhhUHHUH!?!!??!)

[?!??!??!?!?!??] "H-how, how, d-did you-" [You hold your head, you had a MASSIVE headache.]

(Nebby was practicly vibrating on the spot.) "HiSif!! Hiiii it's sooooo so good to see you again!!!"

(You look up, you, could recall some of what you did today. But, uh. .) ". . I, do, I know you?"

"Whaaat?!?" (Nebby looked shocked, then smiled!) "Oh RIIIIGHT! I have to do the THING!!!"

(The thing?)

[The thing?]

"Y'know! The thing! (｡•̀ᴗ-)✧"

"The thing?" (Isa asks.)

[. . . . . Is that-]

"O-OH!" (T-THAT'S-)

"YAAAAY!!! ※\(^o^)/※" (The Change God flapped their hands excitedly.) "You remembeeerrred!!"

"Siffrin, Loop, why don't you introduce us?" [Jinn leans down and asks you politely.]

"FINE." [You hunch down, frustrated, but, you had to, for Isabeau.] ". . . . Jinn, Nebby, ttthhhhiiiiis is Isabeau. And, Isa, this is. . ." [You take a breath.] "Nebby, the Change God. A-and, Jinn, The Universe, or Ke- k-keao--."

"Oh!! Oh no need for the full name please!!" [Jinn frantically clarified as you massaged your throat, stars, that hurt.]

". . . . . ." [Isabeau was, completely silent for exactly thirteen seconds.] ". . . O-OH!"

"You're bigger in person!!" [The Change God stepped up to Isabeau, and poked him.] "Sooo much bigger!! Wow I should get out more!!!"

"Nebby, dear, let the mortal have his existential crisis for a moment."

"Awww, but he's so cute!! AND cool looking!!! And a real go getter with changing things up, too!!" [Nebby turned back to Jinn excitedly, then back to Isa. Who, at this point was still processing everything.]

(What the, the stars is going on.)

"Myself and my bonded are just taking a trip together! A little, 'date' you could say~" (Jinn giggled into its hand.)

"YEAH! 'Cause you OWE me, Jinny!" (Nebby pouted and teased their bonded.) "With the whole timey freezy timey loopy thing?"

"Y-yes, ah, I, did. . . A-anyway! What about you two!"

[You squint.] "Don't you know?"

"It's called being POLITE, Loopert!" [Nebby stuck their tongue out.] "YEAH I remember that cute widdle nickname, heheh."

[STARS.] "Fine! Just, we're on a date too. I wanted a nice, relaxing day at the fair. Clearly that's not what the Universe had in mind!" [You say, momentarily forgetting just who you were talking to.]

"Oh no, your day will be far from spoiled, dear." [Another small giggle from Jinn.] "It's your day with Isabeau. You all like him, don't you?"

"YEAH!! You and everyone in that head of yours!!" [Nebby interrupts.] "All uh, one.. Two.. Seve-"

"Don't spoil it, love!" [Jinn bapped Nebby on the head.] "Let the mortals figure that out by themselfs!"

"I- wait." [Seven-]

"Would you like to go on a walk with us, you two?" [Jinn interrupts.] "We would enjoy the company.

". . That sounds good to me!" [Isa finally speaks up again. His expression was one you had never seen before; some mix of horror, curiosity, confusion, and disbelief.] "Double date with two gods? Why not!"

"Dawww Zaza!! That's suuuch a good idea!!" [Nebby was still flapping in glee.] "Y'get all those confused thoughts outta your head yet?"

"Uh, I-"

"Didn't think so!! That's okay c'mon lets go!!!" [Nebby interrupted Isa, then grabbed Jinns hand and started excitedly pulling it in a new direction.]

[Despite your absolute disgust and horror, you were compelled to follow. Isa holding your hand. You look up, he looks pale as a ghost.] ". . . Are you. ."

"The Change God knows about me?" [Oh he was deffinatly not over any of this.]

"I, y-yeah."

"The Change God is dating your god and knows about me?"

"It's okay, just get it out of your system."

". . . . . . Okay!" [He laughed nervously.] "I'll try and be normal about all this!"

"Stars, my wonderful Red Gaint you have no need to be normal about THIS!"

"OH!!!" [Nebby pointed excitedly at one stall.] "Let's look at that one!!"

[They ran over, Jinn, and by extention you both, running to catch up. Nebby had found a setup from a craftsman who was showing off all kinds of nicknacks. Statues, masks, clothes, a scouple swords, art, the style looked familiar.]

"This is SO COOL!!!" [Nebby was taking in every little detail, and started talking to the person running the stand. Oh if only they knew just who Nebby was.]

"It is pretty good craftsmanship. . ." [Isabeau, naturally, had gravitated to some of the clothes, you could have sworn the style was familiar.]

[You wander over to the few swords on display, they were-]

"A curved Ka Buan blade!" <Your eye widened.> "And that's Ka Buan calligraphy, did you make these?"

"Aye!" <The Craftsman answered.> "Ma 'Nan was from Ka Bue and they taught me a lot and I kept it up!"

<You beamed like you hadn't before, looking over the arts and crafts. Such intricate and delicate work, masks with little details that a fine eye was needed for. You joined Isabeau in admiring the clothes, Nebby looking at the small statues, Jinn at admiring the art. You were too absorbed in admiration to remember just who you were next to.>

[?!?!?!?!?!??!?!!???!]

<Ah. Sorry.>

"Everything alright, both of you?" <Jinn asked. It took you a second to realize it's talking to you.>

". . Yes." <You looked away. Take front back, Loop, please.>

[Of course~] "Just got surprised, is all~"

"I understand. . ." [The two of you stood quiet. You look back to see Isa was getting over his shock, since he was talking casually with Nebby.]

<. . .>

[. . .] "Jinn. . . Why."

"Why? Why what?"

"You know why."

". . . I'm. . ." [It looked at you for a moment, then away.] ". . . I have no excuse, Loop. I'm. . . I'm sorry."

<What.>

[What.]

[From the back of your mind, you could hear echoes of others saying that one, simple word.]

". . ." <It, took Jinn a moment to continue.> ". . . I am bound as a God to grant any wish if done right. And all I remember of our home is that whatever wish I granted to cause. . . That, was one where there was no other option."

"What you remember?" [Shouldn't it-]

"No. I don't." [It looked, sad.] "My memory of it is gone. And many of those who followed me no longer do. . . Do you know a gods existence is tied to those who believe in them?"

". . . No. . ?" [Your eye widens.] "Then, wouldn't that. . ."

"Oh they still believed." [Jinn nodded.] "But they knew not that they did. Directionless, nameless. If it weren't for the strong cultural ties to Vaugarde, I would be naught but dust. . ."

". . ." <Your mind was clicking things into place.> ". . . Let me guess. After all of that, it left your skills of wishmaking in tatters?"

<You glance at it and it has its head in its shoulders, embarrassed?> ". . . . Y-yes, that, yes. . ."

"Buuuuut it's getting better!!" [In a flash Nebby was back by Jinns side nuzzling up to it. It had a statue from The Craftsman in their hand.] "Sooooo much better considering the LAST few wishes!!"

"I-it wasn't for anything so major!" [It reassures your horrified face.] "I, I-I am trying my best to not cause, more grief."

"Right. . ." [You think back to Wren and his wish, Vixul, Polaris-]

"Oh I'll keep him in mind!" [Jinn interupted your thoughts, smiling.] "All of them, actually. You'll see them again in time."

". . . . ." <You sigh.> "It's. . . Fine."

"Hey Loop!" <Isa calls to you, he was looking at the sword. You lift up your eyepatch.> "O-oh- Null you weeeere interested in these?"

"Maybe. . ." <You go back to the swords, one of them called out to you. You turned to The Craftsman.> "May I pick it up. . Thank you." <At their nod, you pick up the sword. Or TRY to.>

"Too heavy?" <Isa says at you struggling a little.>

"Blind it all-" <You scowled, why did this body have to be so, frail. So weak. So. . . No, it had some of its own upsides, at least. But. . .> ". . . Where it not for the weight, and price, I'd. . ."

<Isabeau glances from you, then to the duo of gods, then back, to you.> "I mean, if-"

"Shall we move on?" [Jinn stepped forward and out of the stall without waiting for an answer. You set the sword down and followed, of course.]

[It stops right outside of the stall, and turns back to you. You squint.] "What are y-"

[It cuts you off with a hug.]

[It's, it's an impossibly warm, comfortable hug. A hug that felt like one only a parent could give. One that, that was saved for those who needed it most. The kind of hug that could fix a person. . .]

"I'm. . . So proud of you, Loop."

[The words hit you stronger than any of the Kings attacks.]

[. . . It lets you go, and curtsies.] "Even with my blunders, you did so, so well, I'm proud of you."

"Uh huh!!!" [You felt Nebby punch your shoulder, then walked to Jinns side.] "And look at you now!!! Going on a DATE!!! You!! On a date!!!"

"Even sharing a body as you are, you're still finding ways to survive, no, thrive."

"Thrive is right!! You should have fun while you're here!! Maybe ask your new boyfriend about Vaugardian Culture!"

[They both giggle at that, what? What does THAT mean?!? You stared at them both in disbelief. The God of Change and Entropy, time, and decay. The God of the Universe, of everything that ever was, and ever will be. . . And they're. . . You're, you're crying. Isabeau's at your side, taking your hand.]

". . . . Until next time." Take care, Siffrin.

"Bye bye!! See you around!!" I'll be watching, Siffy ♡⸜(ˆᗜˆ˵ )⸝♡

[In a blink, they dissapeared. The crowds around you moving on like nothing ever happened. You were left standing there, trying to understand what, just, happened. . .]

". . . . I uh. . ." [Isa starts, then coughs into a hand.] ". . . Heading back time?"

"Y-yes please." [You mumble, the two of you heading off-]

"Aye!! You two wait up!!" <You turn, The Craftsman had walked up to you and shoved that sword into your arms.> "Can't be forgetting this, aye? Those friends of yours got it for ya!"

<What. The Craftsman walked back to the stall and now you were left dumbfounded. They, BOUGHT it for you?!?>

[Weren't we struggling to lift it earlier???]

<I- You're holding the sword easier. You unsheeth the blade a little and, no, it's a real sword. A well crafted, well made sword of steel yet, it was, light.>

<You look up at Isabeau, squinting. He's looking away.>

". . . Isabeau?"

"Y-yes, Null?"

"Did you make a wish?"

"N-no!! No I didn't- I, uh-" <His head sinks down.> "I-Iuh, just, asked, N-nebbyforafavor--"

". . . . . . ."

[He's gone mad, how could-]

<You walk up to him and tug on his shirt untill you're face to face.> "If you wanted to get my attention, Isabeau, a sword is the perfect gift."

<You give him a small kiss, then let go. You can see his mind break in real time. You take his hand in one of yours, your new weapon in the other, and head back to the inn.>

[. . . You got the AIRY KATANA!]

[Lowers speed, increses attack, and gives a chance to reflect some attacks!]

[. . . Just like you remember it. . .]

[vulpixisananimal]

THAT IS SO COOL!!!!

Oh my god that Universe design is absolutly AMAZING I'm so in love with it just, SO PRETTYYYY THE STARS AND THE WISHES AND, AUGH.

AND JINN!!!! MY CREATURE!!!! MY :3 ASS CREATURE!!!!! SO CUTE,,,,

isat month day 14 change god

ft the universe! both my take(right) and vulpixisananimal's sifstems design (left)! the change god sort of became secondary in the prompt cuz all of my ideas relating to them require comics and i don got time for that right now.

[vulpixisananimal]

maybe im reading this wrong but i LOVE the implication that the universe has bonding earrings and is bonded to the change god. makes the change god making subtle jabs at the universe in canon 10x funnier

They're bonded, your honor.

[vulpixisananimal]

Yeah.

[vulpixisananimal]

But if you wish now not only will you get Forbidden Knowledge BUT ALSO A Free Narrator! So wish now to the universe for this once in loop deal!

(The universe is not responsible for any lasting trauma, extra levels, memories of snapping, or difficulty hugging)

This will end well!

[vulpixisananimal]

This feels Jinn-core

---

Yeah, yeah it is

Textiles version here:

[vulpixisananimal]

I know I am

[vulpixisananimal]

For your consideration, related to the post about Jinn's wish granting needing practice:

LMFAOOO ASDGJHNASDGJBSAHND

GOD. TRUE THOUGH. Might redraw later when i dont have 37 asks to answer

[vulpixisananimal]

SIFSTEM AU PLOT MASTERPOST

This doesn't contain every post, but the ones that I think are more important to see if you want a catch up on what's going on. This post will be updated over time!

Also, if you wanna see other ISAT Aus and writing, look HERE!

Some of this was also planned out/made in colab with @neoncityrain. Check him out. He's so cool.

THE MAIN EVENT:

[YOU CAN ALSO FIND ALL THESE UNDER THE "#sifstem main story" TAG]

ACT 0: [0] [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9]

ACT 1: [10] [11] [12] [13] [14] [15] [16] [17] [18] [19] [20] [21] [22] [23] [24] [25] [26]

ACT 2: [27] [28] [29] [30] [31] [32] [33] [34] [35] [36] [37] [38] [39] [40] [41] [42] [43] [44] [44.1] [44.2] [44.3] [44]

ACT 3: [45] [46] [47] [48]

INTERLUDES:

Something about Wishes

Fine :) [1] [2] [3] [4] [5]

Make A Wish, Bonnie [1] [2] [3]

The First real kiss. [1] [2]

Forgot the Taste of Fear

LESSON [1]

People of Vaugarde [1]

RANDOM LORE AND STUFF

Who's Who

Nille reference

Ramos reference

Misc Refs [And Jinn thing]

Sifstem Headmate References

[CALL LOOP]

Snacks [1] [2]

A gentle touch [1] [2] [3]

Suspicion [1] [2]

[livesworthlivingau]

Lives Worth Living Chapter 25

Isat/Two Hats spoilers below! CW: Light pining I guess? I'm sorry it's not heavier pining 😔

(You sit awkwardly in the common area with Nille and Vale, having asked for some privacy today to have a conversation alone with them. The other's all left to take care of some errands or personal activities they'd like to get done, Bonnie sticking around in the kitchen to prepare snacks for the next leg of our journey.)

"So... you already know about the loops and all, huh?" (You finally break the awkward silence with your mostly recovered voice, glancing over at Nille. She responds with a comforting yet bittersweet smile.)

"Yeah... Vale told me about their time in them, and in turn yours." (She explains, reaching out to place her hand on their fidgeting ones. Their tension seeming to fade away just a little.)

"So you know we've uhh... kinda already met then?"

"What?... What do the loops have to do with us meeting?"

"I may have forgotten to mention that part, Stardust." (Vale finally chimes in with a nervous chuckle.)

"Oh... Well... I'm kinda, still in the loops sorta?..."

"What's that mean exactly?" (She asks with a cautious tone, recognizing that it's a touchy subject. You let out a sigh, deciding to rip the bandage off.)

"... In 30 years, Odile dies of old age... I was there for it, and when it happened I... I got yanked all the way back here, the day after we beat the king..." (Her expression looks horrified for a moment, just staring in shock as she processes it all. You give her all the time she needs, looking away. You hate how that stare feels, but you can't blame anyone for doing it.)

(You perk up as you notice her moving out of the corner of your eye, before you know it her strong arms are tightly wrapped around you again. You slowly raise yours to place onto her back.)

"Sorry, I just... Wow... How are you holding up?" (She says as she releases the hug slowly, realizing she may have overstepped a bit.)

"N-No! It's fine!... Your hugs were always really nice." (You say with a little chuckle, it's so weird to tell a 'stranger' things like this.)

"It helps a lot having everyone for support... and having Vale back." (You admit giving a little smile before glancing over at them. They don't allow themself to meet your gaze...)

"Back? Wait, I'm lost now." (She asks, glancing between the both of us before Vale starts to explain.)

"After the loops, my job was done... I didn't need to exist anymore... So I simply ceased to be. I guess once the loops began again, I was plopped right back down... 30 years missed and it was merely a blink of an eye for me." (You all sit in an awkward silence yet again, unsure how to continue from there at first. Nille finally decides to break it.)

"Alright, well what's our next step then?"

"Uhh... Next step?"

"Well yeah, we gotta end your wish, right? So what next?"

"Oh... I hadn't really thought about that yet." (You blink, realizing this was so far from the top of your list you kinda just forgot all about it.)

"Maybe we could ask Jinn for help!" (She says, turning back to Vale, who immediately tenses up at the name.)

"Jinn?"

"Yeah! We met-"

"I think it may be best of we don't go spouting that information about freely!" (They interrupt, clearly unsure about the topic.)

"Oh come on, what's the harm in it? Besides don't you kinda wanna brag about it~?" (She asks with a grin and chuckle. They simply sigh and sit back in their seat, arms crossed, nodding begrudgingly for her to continue. She turns back to you, beaming excitedly.)

"We met the universe!"

"... Y-... You what?..."

"Yeah! It was just some traveler basically, but it knew things it couldn't possibly know otherwise! It was kinda spacey and weird, but what can you expect from a god really?" (You take a second to process all of this, chuckling a bit in disbelief finally.)

"I'm surprised Vale didn't try and take a swing at it."

"Oh trust me, the temptation was surely there... until it apologized for everything."

"It... It apologized?"

"Yes, we had a lovely chat actually. It's been just as affected by the island nonsense as any of us have been. That's why the wishes have gone so haywire."

"So it really was just... an accident?"

"More or less..."

"Heh... Well I guess that makes us even now!" (You joke playfully, the other two looking at you in confusion.)

"I met the Change God during the loops, remember?" (You ask, looking to Vale. They then let out an annoyed chuckle as it hits them.)

"Right, I think I tried my best to forget that little detail."

"Change, y'all have really had some wild lives, huh?" (Nille trails off, shaking her head some with her arms crossed. This was all really insane to say out loud now that you think about it. Everything's been so crazy that it almost feels normal at this point.)

(You continue chatting, filling each other in on what's happened. A few topics are avoided, mostly the future as to not mess with it too much, the topic of your nightmare feels oddly tense to Vale, and neither of you can dare bring up the topic of how you last looped...)

(Vale gives a yawn and leans back on the couch, rubbing at their good eye.)

"Didn't sleep well?" (You ask, though you're sure you know why.)

"No, not especially..." (They respond before Nille playfully nudges them.)

"Hey, you're doing great Vay. I'm glad you stuck around." (She remarks with a proud, bright smile. They look away but smile the tiniest bit in response. Before long they've wound up passing out, their head lazily drifting to rest on Nille's shoulder, which she allows happily.)

(You smile, happy to see them looking so relaxed for once... You can't help but pry a little, looking back to Nille and asking.)

"You really care about them, don't you?" (She perks up, realizing she'd been staring at them as well.)

"... Yeah, I really do. Poor thing's been through so much, and they're such a kind soul deep down. I just want them to see that too, y'know?" (She starts to explain, laying her head against theirs after a moment.)

"Heh... I commend your efforts so far, you've made a lot more progress than I ever could."

"Thanks. It helps I've had to beat myself up plenty about getting in my own head, learned the signs to spot I guess?" (She explains, giving a tired sigh herself.)

"It might be weird to hear but... Thank you. You helped me out a lot too... I don't think I'd be handling all this as well as I have been if not for all the times you've helped me..."

"As an expert on time loop shenanigans, I can confirm you're allowed to, yes~." (You both laugh at that, trying to keep it down as to not wake Vale.)

"Hah, man this time loop stuff is so crabbing wild. Am I allowed to accept thanks for something I haven't done yet?" (She asks with a chuckle.)

"Thanks again for taking care of Bon, I'm glad they were in such good hands."

"I can only take so much credit for all that, but I'm glad I could help with it~."

"SNACK TIIIIIIIME!" (Bonbon shouts from the kitchen, marching in with a big tray of various treats prepared, grinning proudly as they display it for you all.)