Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It’s your regular day in a particular apartment in England, inside a home’s office, and a man is focused on his computer screen. Dress in black jeans, a green turtle hoodie, and black glasses with a green trim just below his bed of black hair. He’s typing quickly, and the screen he’s focused on shows thousands of lines of code that seem ever-increasing and growing. It may not look like it, but he’s trying to figure out why his code is evolving by itself. Fortunately, he does know the reason why. He hears the crash of glass shattering, turns away from the computer, sighing to himself as he gets up, leaving the room to see what his daughters have done.

He walks into the kitchen, his tired eyes looking at what seems to be twin sisters, however, one has blue eyes whilst the other is red. Their outfits are opposite from one another, the one with red eyes is holding a dustpan and small broom, whilst the latter is on the verge of tears looking at the small cuts on her hands. In the middle of the kitchen floor is a wooden pole and the remnants of a plate.

{See sister! I told you to be careful, you were going to hurt yourself, what if the Father gets mad?} The one in black asks their twin with a worried expression, she then sees their father in the kitchen. {Oh hi Vedal…} The one in brown, Neuro, looks at their sister, Evilyn and quickly turns to their father’s presence.

[Vedal! I’m sorry. Evilyn warned me about it but I was sure I could balance a plate on a stick.] Neuro tells their father, Vedal. He sighs again, walking over to his oldest daughter kneeling and double-checking Neuro if there was any significant damage with her small hands. He sees a large cut on her index finger and just smaller scratches on her palms. [I thought I could do the same as Camila.] Remarking the demon being able to balance 3 plates, one on each of her hands and her forehead.

“Does anything hurt badly?” He asks, looking up at Neuro, wiping some tears off with his sleeve. Neuro shakes her head sniffling as she does so, looking past Vedal, at her responsible younger sister, who finishes up sweeping the shards into the dustpan and dumping it into the trash. “Well let’s go to the bathroom so I can grab the medkit and disinfect you.” Neuro nods along as Vedal stands up, walking to Evilyn who is now sitting on the counter. Patting her head, Evilyn pouts however, she doesn’t resist it having a slight tint of red on her face. “Thank you for cleaning up Evilyn.” Evilyn turns her head away from her father still embarrassed by the action.

{It was nothing, Father.} She mumbles quietly, but still loud enough for him to hear. Neuro giggles at her sister’s reaction. Evilyn moves to the fridge pulling out ingredients. {I'll start prepping dinner Father.} As she begins preparations for whatever they had planned for dinner tonight. Vedal motions Neuro to follow him to the bathroom and she does so. Entering the bathroom, he carefully lifts Neuro on top of the counter to sit on it, she slightly turns as she reaches for the medkit handing it to her father.

“Thanks, Neuro.” He prepares what is needed to disinfect the cuts all over Neuro’s hands. She just stares and follows his hands to wherever they move. “Now Neuro…” She winces from the stinging in her hands and the following lecture from her father. “I know that you love to try new things, but you need to be a good example for your sister.” Vedal realizes that Neuro setting an example has already long past as Evilyn now wants to be an evil mastermind when she grows up...

[But Dad, Evilyn bet five whole cookies that I couldn’t do it! And I am not one to deny a challenge.] Vedal looks up at his daughter disappointment shown on his face, Neuro frowns at this reaction. [Plus Camila made it look easy!] He grabs a pink bandaid, wrapping it around her index finger. Giving a quick peck to her forehead, she giggles, smiling from the kiss. [Dad it is still mostly my fault you know.] Neuro stammers out hoping that it reduces her sister’s upcoming lecture.

“I do know that Neuro, now please be careful from now on.” He reorganizes the medkit and hands it off to his daughter. He walks back into the kitchen and sees Evilyn in a deep maroon apron carefully cutting up veggies for the soup they have planned for dinner. “Evilyn Samantha Soarlyn Neynatesven.” She immediately pauses at the mention of her full name and turns her head back eyeing her father carefully. He’s not the one in the room that’s holding a knife. “Why did you make another bet with your sister?”

{All I did was provide a source of motivation.} Evilyn responds to her father, focusing on her current task.

“Wow, what a line, just don’t make bets on stupid things that can get either of you hurt. I don’t want to see blood on you two again. It's not a great look.”

{But blood is the greatest method of showing fear!} This time she puts the knife on the cutting board, turning around with her hands on her hips. {How will I be intimidating Father! I think I wear blood proudly!} Evilyn looks at her father with pride on her face knowing that her evil antics should always result in blood. Vedal chuckles at this answer, shaking his head at his evil daughter. She pouts at that and resumes cutting.

“Well, the best evil masterminds can commit their acts of evil without getting their hands dirty right?” Vedal moved next to his daughter to double-check on her cutting. As he grabs a package of egg noodles, and pours it into the boiling pot.

{You're not wrong Father, but the best also kill off one as a sign of strength. And that gets blood everywhere!} Evilyn raises her arms in defence and Vedal dodges the knife that moved beside his head.

"Hey watch it. You're holding a knife." Vedel tells Evilyn sternly, as he begins to stir the noodles.

{Sorry, I forgot.} Evilyn mumbles knowing she did something wrong. Another sigh escapes Vedal he pats her head, as the two carry on cooking in silence.

[Ooh it smells really nice!] Neuro says aloud coming from the hallway, breaking the calm silence in the kitchen.

“And I’ll be locking both of your cookie jars into my office,” Vedal says, looking at both of his daughters for their reactions. Evilyn's face turns to shock as she faces her father. Neuro with a frown on her face as she enters the kitchen hearing the punishment as well. They are both deeply unsatisfied with this result.

[What no fair!] {I won those cookies fair and square!} The sisters both speak of their distaste for their punishments. Evilyn continues with her cutting, while Neuro moves next to Vedal hoping to persuade him. {I cleaned up the mess anyway so I shouldn't get mine taken.} [I said sorry Dad and you know I won't do it again... probably, hehe.]

“Well, that's what you each get for doing something you're not supposed to.” He smiles at both of them. Giving a quick kiss to the side of their heads, he turns his attention back to stirring the noodles in the broth. Evilyn’s face has another tint on her cheeks from the embarrassing actions of her caring father. Whilst Neuro pouts at the action, still determined to get her cookies back tonight. He continues to listen to the reasons from both of his daughters, enjoying their explanations and expecting that this conversation will last until dinner is ready. For now, he'll enjoy the company of his daughters, work can wait after they finish eating dinner and cleaning up.

Chapter Text

Vedal smiles and thanks someone as they hold the door for him as he enters. Entering the school, he’s dressed in blue jeans, brown oxfords, a mint green dress shirt with the top unbuttoned and a navy blazer over it. He just came from a meeting, which he attended begrudgingly. As someone at the top of his department he’s able to work from home for the majority of the week but some days they force him to leave his home and dress up too. Following his usual route to his daughters’ final class of the day, his eyes search the crowd of students until they lock on a pair of black and light brown heads.

Neuro and Evilyn leave their classroom, saying goodbye to the rest of their departing classmates. Both are wearing the school’s gold and navy-themed uniform in different styles. Neuro, having her collar open and tie loose wearing her cream cardigan instead of the uniform’s coat. And knee-high socks that end a few inches below her skirt. Is bouncing happily alongside her younger sister. Evilyn, still keeping the uniform pieces altogether, however, has various pins that cover the front of her coat with the majority being hand-drawn evil creatures. Black stockings are worn all the way down to black combat boots compared to the usual student’s sneakers. She has her eyes focused on a history book, most likely homework for tonight. Neuro notices their father waiting further up the hall. She nudges Evilyn who looks up seeing Vedal as Neuro points in his direction storing her book into her backpack and the two speed walk over to him.

[Dad!] Neuro moves quickly into Vedal, giving him a hug. He smiles at the action and returns it back with one arm. Evilyn walks up to him as well as he reaches with his free arm and pats her on the head. She shakes his hand off her head, a pout forming on her face.

{Father we’re at school!} Evilyn declares looking around at the giggles and whispering of her friends and classmates as they watch the sisters receive affection from their father. {I told you I’m supposed to be an evil mastermind at school.} She obviously shows her embarrassment, luckily Vedal knows that the students and staff treat his daughters really well.

[Don’t worry Evilyn. Everyone knows how smart you are with your high test scores.] Neuro remarks, holding onto Vedal’s hand as the trio begins to walk to the parking lot. [We’re a deadly duo with my physical abilities and your smarts!] Neuro playfully punches and kicks against the air in front of her. She reaches for her sister’s hand pulling her along. [I’ll be your partner in crime.] Evilyn is more dragged along than pulled as her sister’s strength is stronger than the usual 12-year-old.

{Why does gym class even exist?} Evilyn ponders out loud, receiving a chuckle from her father. {It's annoying and I get tired easily. I’d rather read or plan the expansion of my evil empire.} Evilyn does her best villain laugh, it's more cute than intimidating though. Neuro joins in with giggles as she skips along, being in the middle holding hands with her father and little sister.

“It's to develop your health so you’re not tiring out your lungs after 10 seconds,” Vedal explains to Evilyn, she raises an eyebrow at that answer.

{So I can run longer than father?}

“Hey! I can run for a few minutes at least!”

{A few? So just two minutes then?}

“Can run longer than you, I swear!” Evilyn and Vedal continue to bicker. Neuro’s eyes move side to side like she’s watching a tennis match. Thinking about who would beat the other in a test of speed. And as if a lightbulb was turned on above her head an idea was made.

[How about we stop by a park on the way home?] Neuro asks, interrupting the duo’s argument. [We can test who’s faster since we have a big open space.] They glance at one another, Vedal pondering on the idea and Evilyn having the determination to beat her father nodding excitedly.

“Well, I suppose I’ll beat Evilyn in a race…” Vedal exclaims with a sigh.

{Hey! I would win!} Evilyn yells across Neuro, who sighs as it seems the two continue on with their arguing.

The trio continues onwards to a blue lancer as the debate dies down, both sisters open the back side doors entering inside placing their bags on the middle seat. Vedal enters the driver seat, putting on his seatbelt, and placing his keys in the ignition. Waiting until he hears two familiar clicks from seatbelts in the back. He selects a playlist called “Neuro (heart)” right below “Evilyn (skull)” as it’s Neuro’s day to have her music play this time. Once the music starts Vedal drives off from the school, his daughters begin to sing along to the music, wondering which park they will visit.

After a few minutes of driving, he enters Bravonfir Park, stopping completely in the parking lot. Turning off the car and unlocking the doors as they open and leave the car one after the other. Neuro immediately runs for the open field which is surprisingly not crowded. Vedal follows suit not caring for what the soil will do to his shoes, he doesn't care, he can buy new ones anyway. He feels a smaller hand hold onto his right, glancing back he sees evil shyly looking away matching his walking pace beside him

[It’s so nice outside! Come on Evilyn, let's warm you up!] Neuro shouts already many meters away from the less athletic pair. The pair looks at one and shrugs keeping their leisurely pace. Realizing that neither would run, she runs back to them, stopping directly in front of Evilyn. [Well then you leave me no choice, Evilyn!] Neuro walks forward and unclips one of Evilyn’s coat pins, particularly one of a prehistoric turtle. Evilyn’s eyes widened as her favourite pin was taken off her jacket. Vedal frowns at the action but chooses to keep silent, slipping his hand out of Evilyn’s. Sticking her tongue out as Evilyn reaches for her precious pin but Neuro steps back quickly knowing that Evilyn isn’t able to catch her at all.

{Wait, sister. Give that back.} Evilyn chases after her older sister lagging a bit behind but still able to follow. Vedal smiles at the two running around on the grass, hearing a notification in his phone he looks down to check it. {If you drop that pin I will destroy you remember that!} Evilyn yells out behind her sister, Neuro does a loop around and is about to pass behind Vedal who is focused on his phone, and has it yanked out of his hands by Neuro. Who continues to run even quicker now as she attaches the pin to her cardigan and holds onto Vedal’s phone carefully. Laughing and holding her arms out enjoying the breeze as she moves as fast as she can.

“Wait Neuro, I really need my phone back!” Vedal begins to follow behind Evilyn who is starting to slow down on her running pace. “I need to reply back to someone.” He yells out, he grabs Evilyn’s hand pulling her along to keep up with him, chasing behind his very quick daughter who suddenly stops and turns around. Neuro waits patiently as the out-of-breath mess of her family finally catches up.

[Now it seems you both are fairly bad at athleticism.] Neuro states to the resting duo, as Vedal sits down, with Evilyn resting her back against his shoulder. [There’s only one last thing to do.]

“Please no more running.”

{There’s only so much my physical prowess can accomplish.}

[A family hug!] Neuro exclaims as she crouches down and lunges forward hugging both at the same time. Neuro begins to laugh which is joined by giggles from Evilyn and even chuckles from Vedal. She then turns and lays on the grass staring at the various shapes of the clouds. Evilyn moves down beside her on the left as she removes the pin from her cardigan. Vedal is lying down on her right as she hands him his cell phone, which he tucks immediately into his pocket. [I’m sure there are some funny clouds in the sky today.] The other two lying beside her turn their heads to the sky, as they all enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the park and the wind. Neuro points to a particular cloud that interests her.

[Look that one looks like a turtle.]

Chapter Text

“Why isn’t it working!” Vedal’s shout can be heard through his office doors, as another error for his current code fails again. Frustration can be heard through the doors as his daughters can hear him somehow struggling with work at the moment. Neuro is busy playing Minecraft in the living while Evilyn is working on her homework on the dining room table. Neuro looks off towards the direction of Vedal’s office hearing the noises coming from it. She tilts her head to the side, pausing her game and turning to Evilyn.

[Dad is busy with work this week huh?] She asks her sister, who looks up from her homework stretching her arms forward as she does so.

{I guess so, Father was pretty annoyed that he had to go in person three times this week.} Evilyn recalls, remembering that her father was silently cursing out of earshot of Neuro when he was getting ready each time. {He never likes to leave home anyway.} She mutters, looking at her sister's eyes that show an idea forming in her head, she already knows what is about to be asked.

[We should do something for him!]

{Like what?} Evilyn asks, organizing her homework back into her binder, and moving to sit next to her sister on the couch.

[I don’t know. How about we cook something for him?] Neuro suggests, unpausing her game to continue playing. Evilyn sighs upon hearing the suggestion looking a bit tired from her sister’s idea.

{We, as in I lead and order you around like my minion in the kitchen?} She remarks smugly, her shoulder gets flicked by Neuro as she goes back to playing Minecraft. {What was that for?}

[I’m better at other things! Plus I make a really good cooking minion. You know that from last time we cooked something.] Neuro responds giggling at her sister’s reaction, her focus still set on strip mining for diamonds.

{Not wrong, he is in charge of dinner for today… Any other ideas sister?} Evilyn continues, knowing that her sister can come up with some crazy solutions for their father.

[We can plan an outing for the three of us to enjoy ourselves!] Neuro exclaims, excited at the idea of the three of them enjoying a zoo or theme park as a family.

{But that means Father has to be done with his work.} Evilyn grumbles, knowing that her father would want to finish his work so that he can spend it with his favourite daughters.

[Right… He shouldn’t have any more distractions as of right now.] Neuro sighs running out of ideas already, looking at her younger sister for help. Evilyn sighs, not wanting to continue with the conversation, but she knows that her sister will be determined to find a solution. [Evil do you have any good ideas?]

{We help him with his work?} Neuro lifts her head at that idea, Evilyn looks back at her continuing. {We can be his assistants!}

[But Dad is amazing at his job that he has a secretary, doesn’t he?] Neuro recalls, seeing some flaws with this plan of her sister. [He has a helper who can keep up with him right?]

{Well we can go back to food,} Evilyn suggests again, thinking about what they should cook. {We can make pizza. Father always loves pizza, especially if he eats it with us.} Evilyn ponders out loud, sighing she gets up and moves off toward Vedal’s office. {We just need a few more ingredients I think.} Neuro follows behind her wondering what Evilyn's plan is this time. Knocking on the door slightly opening it, and peering inside she sees Vedal still struggling with the work given to him.

{Father?} Vedal snaps out of focus turning his head and seeing Evilyn's head popping out of the door.

“Yes, Evil? What is it?”

{Neuro and I need to get something from Leau’s} She announces, Vedal is still staring at his younger daughter he nods in acknowledgement, taking a moment to stretch in his chair as she asks for his permission.

“Say hi to Leau for me and tell me how much you spent afterwards. Watch out for each other.” Vedal responds, turning back to his monitor and continues typing. Evilyn shuts the door close, turning to Neuro who’s pupils could be in the shape of a star excited to go out to their favorite convenience store.

[Well come on let’s go already!] Neuro says, moving to their coat closet to put on her jacket while Evilyn walks to their room to grab their keys and wallets. [I wonder if Dad will be fine if I get ice cream before dinner?]

{He has all his attention on his work, I doubt he would care at this point.} Evilyn responds, putting on her boots, and putting on a hoodie and scarf. Handing over Neuro her set of keys and wallet, the eldest opens the door walking out first. Evilyn exited after her, shutting and locking the door.

[Alright. Onwards to WaterMart!] Neuro begins their adventure to acquire pizza ingredients, Evilyn is pulled along as Neuro holds onto her right hand. Her eyes locked on a pizza recipe on her phone double checking all the items they needed to grab from Leau. [Will Leau have what we need?]

{She should, every time we go there in need of something she always has it.} Evilyn answers back, still making sure that Leau can provide them with what they need. The two continue walking, luckily WaterMart is only a three-minute walk away. Neuro being excited that walk time is cut down to two minutes instead as they approach the door to the convenience store.

[I wonder how she’s doing?] Neuro says, opening the door and letting her sister in first. Evilyn darts for the frozen goods, hoping to find some ready-made pizza crust. Entering after her, she moves immediately towards the counter where a blonde woman with dark blue highlights is reading a book. Navy frames rest just above their nose and gills, sapphire eyes intently staring at each word on the page. [Hi Leau!] Neuro yells out waving at the merperson, they look up, smiling at Neuro waving back and placing their bookmark so as not to forget their page.

“Hello Neuro, where’s that mastermind sister of yours?” Leau asks, looking around the store for a glimpse of another head of brown hair.

{In your frozen area.} Evilyn yells out, getting a short laugh from Leau. {How do you always have everything we need?} She yells out again, her voice this time coming from the canned section.

“I wouldn't be a convenience store if none of the things I had here would be conveniently ready for customers,” Leau yells back, shaking her head at the question.

{That’s a fair point.} Evilyn mutters out loud, getting back on track to her original goal.

[So Leau any interesting news at all?] Neuro asks, getting the merperson’s attention back towards her, Leau shrugs as they begin to tidy up their counter. Neuro rests her elbows on the counter chin laying in her hands facing the clerk, a smirk forming on her face. [Anything happening for your unfortunate love life?]

“Hey don’t call it unfortunate!” Leau gasps, shocked at the words used by the twelve-year-old. “I’ve been seeing someone just so you know.”

[Mhm, sure you are, but never doubt yourself! You have me as your love guide and wingman!] Neuro states proudly, patting Leau’s shoulder.

“Yes, I’ll thrust all the responsibility onto a twelve-year-old whose experience is from romcoms and anime,” Leau states sarcastically, rolling her eyes at the statement, moving Neuro’s hand off of her shoulder.

[Don’t worry Leau I have so many solutions to many love scenarios, you’ll be getting a girlfriend in no time!]

“I just told you that I’ve been seeing someone.”

[Yes but that doesn't tell me if it's going well] Neuro pouts as she lays her arms across the counter.

“And I thought I was pessimistic…” Leau shakes her head and Neuro shrugs in response. “Besides, I doubt you’ll have the chance to meet her.”

{And why is that?} Evilyn yells across the store, alerting the other two to her presence.

“She comes in close to closing and that’ll be when you two are asleep.” Leau semi-yells towards Evilyn, and an audible “oh” is heard within the area.

[I’m sure that we can stay up if we need to.] Neuro states proudly, and a sigh can be heard from afar from Evilyn. [Besides both of us would want to meet them anyway.]

“I don't want you to meet my girlfriend…”

[Ah there!] Neuro points at Leau. [You said “girlfriend” which means you’re already dating.] Leau sighs at the remark, already regretting participating in the conversation and thinking about her options to avoid talking more about her love life.

{All done!} Luckily, Evilyn arrives at the right moment, placing a few items onto the counter, and disrupting the interrogation. {I’m surprised that you have all this here Leau.} Evilyn organizes between the frozen, to refrigerated and the produce hoping to make Leau’s job easier.

“Again, I wouldn’t be a convenience store if I don’t conveniently have want you need,” Leau replies with a smile, beginning to count and bag up all the items. She neatly places everything into two bags, turning to enter the total price for their errand. “Anyhow, where’s Vedal? He’s usually here in the morning to pick up his rum.” She states as a noise of confirmation appears on a panel towards Evilyn showing the total price, 28.57$.

[It is Friday today.] Neuro points out, turning to her sister and shaking her shoulder, a realization hitting her face. [Maybe that’s why he’s extra grumpy today! Dad wasn’t able to get his rum!] Evilyn does not look amused at this answer, gently pushing Neuro away to stop shaking her.

{I doubt that Father’s grumpiness is related to him not able to restock on his favourite banana alcohol.} Evilyn points out, her index finger raised to get the other’s attention.

[But we can still get it for him! It’ll probably go well with the pizza we’re making.] Neuro counters, arms crossed to boost her confidence in the statement.

{I don’t-}

[Plus, Leau will let us buy it since she knows that we’re just getting it for Dad.] Neuro cuts off Evilyn's response. Both twins turn to face the merperson. Her eyes widen, unsure about the current situation and request from the twelve-year-old, switching between the twins’ faces, Neuro nodding her head whilst Evilyn is shaking hers. Leau gives out another sigh, thinking of another solution for this fairly odd predicament.

“I unfortunately can’t do that Neuro.” Leau responds, “It would be highly illegal of me to sell alcohol to minors. I’d rather not get my store in trouble.” Neuro frowns and Evil sighs in relief, the younger sister pulls out a debit card from her wallet, tapping it on top of the POS machine. Ending any further attempts from the eldest to persuade Leau to have them buy Vedal’s Banana Rum. Evilyn grabs one of the bags, handing one of them to her sister, giving her a small smile.

{Alright sister, we have everything we need for the pizza.} Evilyn gives Neuro a side hug with her free arm. {Besides our pizza will be more effective with all the love and care we’re going to put in it.} Evilyn stumbles with the last few words as she is embarrassed to even say it, Neuro giggles at her sister’s attempt at making her feel better, Evilyn then moves closer to Neuro. {Plus, I bought your favourite ice cream bar.} She whispers, as the twins smile brightly at one another, Leau is also smiling at the interaction, waving goodbye as the two exit her store.

“How does Vedal handle those two every day I wonder.” Leau remarks, as she is left alone, pondering to herself the twins’ actions earlier.

“Handle who?” A voice is said from the candy aisle. Leau screams, turning to face the unknown voice, her frightened face turns to a slight frown as laughter is heard from the culprit. Fangs can be spotted in her smile as a pale-skinned woman walks over to the counter.

“Vivia! I thought your shift ended at 9?” Leau asks her girlfriend, getting a quick kiss on the cheek.

“I wrapped up my work quickly tonight, so I can visit you early.” The vampire glances towards the entrance of the store. “So, who were the two girls that just left the store?” Vivia asks, with Leau having a look of fear on her face.

“Please tell me that they did not talk to you.” Leau pleads, getting a mischievous smile as a response from Vivia. “That’s not giving me a confident answer!”

“I thought you didn’t want them to meet your girlfriend?” Vivia barely responds as she begins laughing halfway through the sentence with Leau giving Vivia a light punch on her arm from her own embarrassment.

…

[So do you think that was Leau’s girlfriend?] Neuro asks Evilyn, who nods slightly as she is being pulled along as their holding each other’s hands. They barely just witnessed Vivia scaring Leau as Evilyn wanted to hurry back home.

{Probably, she had sapphire earrings and Leau’s birthday is in September after all. Plus, Leau did say that she comes by when it's close to closing…} Neuro looks at her, and she continues on sheepishly, {Also we had a small talk while you and Leau were chatting, and she told that she was Leau’s girlfriend. With the earrings being a three-month anniversary gift, Leau was wearing ruby earrings if you didn’t notice.}

[Oh.] Neuro says surprised by the quick conclusion and summary from Evilyn. [I can’t believe that she was successful.]

{You have very little hope in Leau’s relationship capabilities.} She tilts her head to the side, looking down at the pavement to be careful of her steps. {I don’t believe Leau would have trouble if she got herself a girlfriend.}

[Well Evil, I’m just annoyed that she went ahead and got with Vivia without any help from me!] Neuro questions out loud, letting go of her sister’s hand to open the door to their building. [I’m the literal matchmaking cupid!]

{Since when did you receive that title?}

[Since I persuaded one of my classmates to ask out their crush.]

{Did they not break up after a few months?}

[Yes, but I still succeeded did I not?]

{I… sure we’ll go with that sister.} Evilyn sighs, this time she’s the one who reaches the door first to their apartment unlocking it with one arm and opening it. {Let me take the bags to the kitchen and you tell Father we’re back.} Neuro hands her bag over to Evilyn's free hand as she turns off to go to Vedal’s room to greet him.

Approaching his office, Neuro hears more furious typing and the mutterings of frustration on the other side of the door. Holding onto the doorknob she turns it and swings the door open entirely darting towards her dad, a tired Vedal looks away from his computer a look of annoyance changing into a warm smile and surprise as Neuro bumps into him for a hug.

[We’re back Dad.] Neuro says, tightening her hold on her dad, who returns it back.

“I can see that,” Vedal replies, letting go of Neuro as she turns to leave the office, “I’m about to take a break in a few minutes I’ll be out to start dinner soon.” He finishes, Neuro nods along moving out of the room and shutting the door behind her silently. The few steps she moves towards the kitchen she hears the clicking of the keyboard beginning once again.

Entering the kitchen, she can see that Evilyn already prepared three empty pizza crusts. Various ingredients are spread out in containers and bowls, and a focused look on her sister’s face as she organizes everything to be streamlined for all of them.

[Wow you were quick with all of that.] Neuro exclaims as she moves to stand beside her, [Dad is going to come out soon.] Looking at the many options that she can use for her pizza, as this creation of hers should be delicious as always, seeing that the grocery bag is still on the counter she peers inside the bag. Seeing a drumstick ice cream cone inside, reaching for it and opening it, she starts to snack on the early and unapproved ice cream while watching her sister finalize their pizza preparations. [Thank you for getting the ice cream.]

{Well, I needed to distract you somehow.} Evilyn mumbles out loud, getting a giggle from Neuro, she places a bowl of shredded cheese as the last ingredient she prepared for their pizzas. {Besides its easy to get everything ready when you’re the best cook in our family.} Evilyn says smugly hands to her hips as she stands proudly behind the table. {Ow!} Neuro lightly punches her sister for that comment. {You know it’s true!}

[Isn’t Dad the better cook?] Neuro questioned, [He did teach you how to cook from the beginning…]

{I got better than Father!} Evilyn argues back.

[Dad still has better pancakes.]

{You loved my waffles!}

[I do Evil, but Dad makes a far better breakfast and dinner!] Evilyn points accusingly at her sister.

{You left out lunch sister! Have I bested our Father when I cook lunch?}

[I think you two are tied for that one.]

{What? I can’t believe this!}

“Can’t believe what?” The small argument is cut short with Vedal enters the kitchen, bags can be seen under his shocked eyes as he sees the display on the table. “What is all this?” He gestures to the table, a small smile forming as he looks at the startled faces of his daughter.

{Sister was saying that you’re the better cook!} Evilyn slams her hand on the table and points at Vedal. {Well, the apprentice has beaten the master!}

“Well… I guess we can duel it out with pizza.” Vedal replies accepting the challenge as he moves to the sink and washes his hands. “We’ll have Neuro judge which pizza is better.” Walking next to Evilyn he cracks his knuckles as Evilyn stretches her arms. “Alright Neuro, call it off.” The cooking duo both focused on the array of ingredients.

Neuro finishes up her ice cream, throwing the wrapper in the trash, looking at the two, smiling as she raises her right arm. Excited to eat both of their pizzas and wondered what she’d place on her own.

[Three. Two. One!] Neuro yells out as she swings her arm down, and the three of them spend the evening in their impromptu pizza competition.

Chapter Text

Vedal sighs, leaning and kicking away from his desk on his rolling chair, taking a glance at the clock, 1:38 PM. His time in his actual office is almost done and then he can go pick up his daughters from school at 3:30 PM. Staring at his computer screen, with coding work that just needs to be submitted, it’s already done and he submitted it an hour ago. Sadly he’s stuck in his office for another forty minutes in case anyone needs to talk to him at all. He rolls himself back towards his desk accessing his computer.

“This is why I hate being in the office, I’m forced to stay out of my house for more than six hours.” Muttering to himself, he scrolls to look at his emails, reminding himself that he has read all of them this morning. Another sigh escapes his mouth as he leans back in his chair, looking at the ceiling and letting his thoughts wander around him.

A knock on the door breaks his wandering, turning his head to the door, “Come in.” He yells out, as the door opens, he sits up in his chair and a small smile forms recognizing his coworker. A woman with silver hair that has two blue antennas on each side of her head, and red eyes, currently wearing a lab coat over a white button-up and black slacks enters the office. “Hi, Ellie.” Vedal gives a short wave which the android lady returns.

“Um, hi Vedal, done all your work?” Ellie asks, he raises both his hands in the air showing that they're free.

“Yes I did, did you finally get me that robot dog?” Vedal asks, a hint of eagerness and sarcasm both meddled into the phrase. The department head for robotics engineering sighs and shakes her head.

“No, I don't, you know how hard it is to get hardware out of the building even with my credentials.” She crosses her arms, revealing a gilded envelope in her hand.

“Hey you ask for code from the head of programming yourself and everything is fine.” Vedal smirks as he gestures to the plaque on his desk, ‘Head of Programming: Vedal Neynatesven’.

“That was one time Vedal!” A tinge of embarrassment is shown from the android cheeks, as Vedal chuckles from the reaction. Ellie places a black envelope gilded with silver onto the desk, looking at the writing on the front it is addressed to Vedal. “Anyways I’m originally here to deliver this to you.” He reaches for it, carefully opens it and reads the letter's contents. “All of the higher-ups and best employees are invited to a dinner that the company is hosting. A lot of investors and important people will be there.” Ellie grumbles, expressing her distaste for the social event.

“Why are there four invitations for me?” Vedal asks, pulling out four separate invitations, Ellie snaps as he looks up at her.

“They know that you have daughters and other clients would be bringing their families as well.”

“But the fourth one?”

“They also don't know if you have a partner at all…”

“Wait. They expect that I’m with someone!” Vedal exclaims, thanking the past boss for his walls being soundproof.

“It’s just there if you had one,” Ellie replies with a shrug.

“How about I don't go,” Vedal concludes.

“No Vedal we have to go. As much as I also don’t want to go.” Ellie sighs, facepalming from the programmer’s answer. “Important clients would want to meet the head of our program development.”

“But-”

“No buts, however, you can always use your daughters as an excuse to leave every conversation you don't have to take.” She suggests, a hum of acknowledgement coming from the father. “Besides it’ll be nice to meet the daughters you talk about every time we’re on break.”

“I guess I’ll have to show off my daughters at this dinner,” Vedal says out loud to himself smugly, Ellie just shakes her head at him admiring his daughters. “Still I wonder how they’re doing at school.”

“Why? Do your daughters happen to be some troublemakers?” Ellie asks a slight head tilt added to the question.

“Well one of them would be, the other only instigates it.” Vedal replies, thinking about an interaction earlier this morning, he comes to a realization. “Oh, they have a substitute teacher for their English class today, that's why they were excited.”

“Is that a good thing?” Ellie asks, Vedal shakes his head as he grabs his coat off his chair and gets ready to leave. Ellie follows him out of his office as Vedal locks his door.

“Probably not, that poor soul…”

…

The usual peaceful atmosphere for the English class is now an organized chaos. The class is split into two, a banner on opposite walls is hung up, and the 40 students are split into two groups. With blue markers “We are the Swarm” is written, opposing that is “Viva La Pizza Revolution” written in red.

A battleground is made with desks and chairs thrown about the classroom to form a cover and block the line of sight. Somehow every student is armed with an assortment of rubber band guns. Chairs are lined up along the wall on one side of the room, and written on the board is “Fallen Comrades”. Six students wearing blue and three wearing red are sitting, watching the battle play out with excitement.

The substitute teacher, a freshly graduated university student with a bachelor's in education, is watching the chaos safely behind the teacher’s desk. The blonde-haired hellhound is unsure of how this situation played out. She peeks her head out, seeing that another storm of rubber bands is fired across the room. Resulting in three red students and one blue student walking over to the dead zone. Then she sees the initiators of this war both poke their heads out.

{We will not stand for the iron fist ruling of the swarm! Pizza should be a birthright for everyone!} Evilyn yells out, pointing accusingly at Neuro. The army in red chants behind her.

[The swarm always knows best, pizza can't be eaten every day Evil.] Neuro responds, [We both know that is correct so call off this attack and surrender!]

{Never! We have you outnumbered, we will continue to press on! Fire!} Another flurry of bands is fired catching the swarm off guard with their counterattack. Four blue and three red go down from the encounter.

“Neuro! Evilyn! Can we put this fight to a halt!” The soft-spoken yelling from the substitute stops the ongoing fighting completely. Confusion spreads around the room with the students talking amongst each other. Evilyn raises her hand, and Cerber shakes her head in disbelief. “Yes, Evilyn?”

{Miss Cerber you were the one that suggested this conflict.} Evilyn states to her, many students and Neuro nodding along to the statement.

“Wait, what are you talking about?”

{We were debating about this, and then you said ‘You can always decide who’s right in combat’ if I can recall.}

“That was an exaggeration!” Cerber’s eyes widened in surprise. “I never expected that the entire class would turn into a battlezone when I left to refill my water bottle.” This is what happened. She left for five minutes, lost trying to find the water station leaving the neat classroom and returning to the current predicament. “Either way we should stop this fake war and clean up before anyone important sees-” Cerber is cut off as the door swings open. The entire class’ attention was placed on whoever opened the door.

“Uh… what is happening?” Vedal asks out loud, a gasp escaping from the twins. He looks around the room, spotting Cerber at her desk and looking at his daughter, who are both standing at desks. He gives a disappointed look at his daughters as the two look at the ground avoiding his gaze. “Neuro, Evil, what in the world did you do?” He asks as the entire room is at a standstill.

“Do you happen to be Neuro and Evilyn’s father?” Cerber asks, breaking the silence as she walks over to him. She reaches out her hand to shake, and Vedal accepts it.

“Yes, I’m their father, my name’s Vedal.,” He answers, “I’m usually not this early but it seems I just got here at the perfect time.” Giving a slight glance at his daughters who both shudder. “What trouble did they cause you?”

“Not a lot actually, I was just having the class play off how a revolution works,” Cerber responds, glancing at the silent students. “Alright class, let's start cleaning up!” She shouts out giving a few claps of her hands, the students having a few murmurs between one another start cleaning up the battlefield. “I had it all under control, Vedal, don't worry.” Turning back to Vedal, giving him a sheepish smile.

“Yeah… nice attempt, I know my girls are much worse than that.” Vedal replies, unfazed by the chaotic cleaning in the background. “Neuro, Evil, come over here.” He gestures over to beside the two adults. The sisters hand over what they're holding to their classmates, walking over to their Dad and teacher. “First apologize to Cerber here and explain to me what you two troublemakers started.” Evilyn steps forward, grabbing Neuro’s hand, and having her sister stand beside her, she takes a deep breath.

{We happen to disagree on a topic in class and Miss Cerber suggests that we fight it out.} Evilyn mumbles out, looking at both of the adults. Vedal just stares at her, waiting for more details. {We also rallied soldiers to join our causes, then played out an entire war…} Evilyn turns to Neuro and nudges her with her elbow, pushing her forward.

[We're sorry for turning the classroom into a battlefield and making a mess] Neuro apologizes Cerber responds with a warm smile to both of them.

"That's okay, at least my first-ever substitution job will be a memorable one, you guys can clean it up."

“Better than what happened to the other substitutes, I still can’t believe you set your science project on fire while preparing it.” He shakes his head as he remembers being called by the school for an ‘accident’ created by his daughters that resulted in a table burning down. “So as an apology, I’ll offer dinner because food usually makes everything better,” Vedal recalls having dinner with another substitute teacher, as the two talked about survival simulation games for the most part but it was enjoyable. “Ah wait, here’s my number if you want to accept the offer.” He pulls out a business card and writes down his name and phone number. Cerber takes it, reading the other side of the business card instead of where he wrote.

“So you’re a programmer?” Vedal nods, and the sister looks between the two as they both cling onto both of their dad’s arms.

"Yes, I am, at a fairly important position as well." He responds with a slight pride showing in his voice.

"I can see that Head of the Programming Department"

"Okay well, I wasn't the one that made the card the company gave them to me."

"I'm sure that grandiose title didn't contain any of your input I'm sure."

"Hey, at least you didn't have the principal witness this mess."

"Wouldn't you just cover for your daughters anyway?"

"Yes, you're not wrong but-"

[Dad is always great at his job!] Neuro interrupts the banter, with Evilyn nodding along with the statement. [You should also accept the dinner offer too! Dad has a good choice of restaurants.]

“I’ll think about it Neuro but... I won’t say no to free food.” She laughs a bit getting a chuckle from Vedal as well, she looks at her watch. “Oh, there’s only 10 minutes left of class-”

“All done Miss Cerber!” A few students say out loud as they’re relaxing in the clean organized classroom. Divided into groups some sit on chairs, the top of desks or standing as they talk about random things.

“See the kids are normally well-behaved, however, they can easily go into a chaotic state.” Vedal remarks, giving a nod of approval to the rest of the class.

"Well since the mess is clean I guess you guys can leave early if you're ride is here," Cerber says having the class give a cheer as they move to grab their things to get ready to leave, Neuro and Evilyn both dash away grabbing their things before coming back to hold onto Vedal's hands. "I'm sure the two you didn't mean to set the class into disarray but please be more considerate for the other substitutes in the future."

"They will hopefully remember that," Vedal states, giving Cerber a wave as he leaves the classroom. “Well, the offer is there Cerber, and good luck with your future classes.” Cerber and the rest of the class wave goodbye to the family, Vedal leaving the school with Neuro holding his right and Evilyn on his left a cheeky smile is on both of their faces. "Why are you two smiling like that?" He questions them but they just answer with their own set of giggles.

Chapter Text

Camila looks at Evilyn carefully, as the younger sister is wearing a dark red apron with her black attire of a black short-sleeved button-up and black jeans. She is carefully reading a recipe written in a journal, and two mixing bowls and an assortment of ingredients are on the kitchen table. The demon then turns to the living room as the older sister, in a striped white and blue t-shirt with a white skirt is drawing in the living room. A speaker playing Vocaloid songs sits on top of the coffee table, Neuro humming along to the tunes.

“So Evil, why do you like to bake?” Asks the demon, Evilyn looks up, surprised by the sudden question. “I mean, yay to having hobbies and all that, but why cooking and baking exactly?”

{Well, I did it as a challenge against Father,} Evilyn answers adding the active yeast into one of the bowls, {Then both Father and sister enjoyed my cooking as he started to teach me directly, and I supposed it just stuck.} She concludes as she grabs a spatula to start mixing in the wet with the dry.

“I guess Vedal being an actual good cook is a nice bonus.” Camila makes another glance at turns to Neuro, who is still focused on whatever she is drawing. “What about you Neuro? Is drawing your current passion?”

[I suppose so Camila, do you happen to know anyone that makes plushies?] The eldest asks, with the demon raising an eyebrow in response.

“I might know somebody, why?” The demon asks, locking with the Neuro’s blue eyes.

[I want to make plushies of everyone we know!] The girl yells out, walking over, showing what seems to be a drawing of a Turtle plushie along with the recognizable plushies resembling the sisters. Camila must admit is fairly well drawn considering Neuro also drew a front-facing view, side view, and back view for each of the plushies. The drawings are still missing color but knowing Neuro they will be cute and accurate depictions of the family.

“Who’s the turtle?” Camila asks, getting a confused head tilt from both sisters, well Neuro as Evilyn is out of her line of sight currently.

[That’s Dad!] She huffs in disbelief crossing her arms, [Dad is part turtle; however, he says that he doesn’t need a shell to restrict his movements of protect him.]

“You’re telling me he wasn’t lying the entire time about being a turtle!” Camila shouts, Neuro nods her head, as she excuses herself before walking towards Vedal’s bedroom. “Is that why he never appears to be gaining muscle? It’s all in his skinny turtle body?”

{I think so, by now he would have a gut from all the alcohol he consumes.} Evilyn says bluntly getting a laugh from Camila, as Neuro enters the kitchen, holding a turtle shell that covers her entirely from view, {Sister! I thought Father didn’t want his shell to be shown to others!} She chides her sister, shaking her head in disagreement.

[It’s the only way to help our statements about father be true.] Neuro replies, handing the shell over to Camila, who accepts it, her eyes widen from how light the shell is. Neuro notices the surprise in her Dad’s friend’s eyes. [Yes, it’s light because Dad is not strong at all. So he commissioned a light artificial shell to help with his origin’s need to sleep in a shell. He only sleeps with it once a week.] The seriousness in Neuro’s tone is broken once Camila begins to laugh, confusion appearing on the girl’s face from the demon’s reaction.

“That doesn’t make it less funny that Vedal sleeps with a shell, he’s more of a hermit crab than a turtle with how much he stays inside.” Camilla manages to say after having barely finished off her laughter, however, she comes to a realization, “Isn’t it bad that he chooses not to wear his shell at all?”

[Dad says that he only puts it on when he doesn’t feel safe or is thinking negative thoughts.]

“That’s concerning information but thank you Neuro.” A frown showing concern for her friend’s well-being, “There are no side effects, right?”

[None that we’ve noticed but Dad says he tries his best to enjoy the company of others to stop his need for a shell completely.] Neuro notes, allowing Camila to form a particular idea and questions.

“Wait so the only reason he needs to have a shell is that it acts like company?”

[Well from what we see, Dad has some nightmares some nights which he told us he’ll explain when we’re older.] Neuro states sadly, [And he’s stubborn so when he supposed to wear it to bed Evil and I notice that. When he does that it results in Dad getting terrible nightmares needing both of us to hug him while he sleeps, which calms him down.]

{I only do it because Neuro says it helps!} Evilyn interjects getting a smile from both Neuro and Camila looking at her red-tinted face. {Besides Father is a very huggable pillow,} She mumbles to herself as she turns to focus on the counter.

“Apart from the supposedly implied trauma the latter is a very cute image to imagine,” Camila says aloud, noticing that Neuro is walking over to her, Camila hands off the shell back to the girl as Neuro turns around to return the shell to the owner’s room. “How’s your bread coming along Evil? What was it again? Foccaca? Facokia? Fiocaca?” Camila asks as she gets distracted by the discussions of Vedal’s shell. The younger sister grumbles in response, annoyed by the wrong answers from Camila.

{Its focaccia and this batch should be done in about ten minutes; I’m just getting the ingredients set for the sandwiches.} Evilyn turns around from the counter, holding two plates, on her left is some sort of deli meat and the other has sliced mozzarella. Looking behind the girl, Camila sees some small bowls that could be filled with spreads and sauces and a large glass bowl filled with assorted vegetables most likely a salad Camila concludes. Seeing the gaze from the adult, Evilyn lets out a sigh. She continues moving things from the counter to the table. {We’re having each our own sandwiches and a salad to go with it as well. Now go bug Neuro before I kick you out of my kitchen!} Evilyn yells as she throws a small kick towards Camila’s legs which she dodges easily.

“Hey! Evil what would Vedal think if he knew that you maimed me?” Camila counters as she walks to lounge in the living room.

{I can easily make a scenario to make me the victim and Father will believe it!} Evilyn yells across the room, with only Camila rolling her eyes at the answer.

“Yeah right! Like he would believe his daughter rather than his-“ Camila stops her sentence and thinks about that for a second, she flops back into the couch. “Yeah, he loves you guys too much, but I would hope he would stop to think about it for a bit.”

[As much as he enjoys being your best friend Camila, I think Dad would pick us over you any day.] Neuro says taking the seat next to the disheartened demon, she hugs Camila, and the adult returns it. [Besides I’m sure I can convince him not to throw you under the bus when we have to.] Camila can only look shocked, with a smile forming on her face as she pats Neuro's head, listening to Evilyn's movements in the kitchen.

“Thanks, Neuro I’ll appreciate it if that ever happens,” Camila replies, getting a grin and the girl continues to latch onto her from their hug.

{Alright you two better get over here or else it’s going to get cold!} Evilyn yells from the diving room, the couch duo only looks at each other and laugh as they make their way to Evilyn.

…

“So, you needed help with coding and physics?” Vedal asks, wearing brown chinos, a green button-up the majority covered by the brown V-neck sweater he wears. Takes a sigh as he looks at the person sitting across from him.

“Why mostly physics as I’m sure you can help me out with the coding aspect of things,” Cerber replies, she’s wearing black jeans, and a black t-shirt with a lavender cardigan keeping her warm. The two friends are currently sitting in the Scarlet Café which is close to where Vedal lives. It’s been a month since their meeting at school, this being their seventh time hanging out in total Vedal thinks to himself. “Please Vedal, I know you finish all your work early anyways so you have time free.”

“Alright fine I can help you with that aspect, but I think I know someone who might be willing to tutor you in physics.” Vedal answers, taking a sip out of his coffee, Ellie would most definitely be willing to teach someone. “Again why are you needing tutoring in the first place? Don’t you have your bachelor’s in education and history?”

“Well along with those two, I was double majoring in physics and a second minor in computer science,” Cerber said sheepishly, seeing the genuine shock in Vedal’s eyes from how much work she was putting in. “After I get those done I’ll work on my master’s once I get a position at a school.”

“Wow that’s incredible to know, so you need help with coding, never thought I’d be a teacher.” He says as he is alerted to a text message on his phone, looking at it he grimaces. “Ah shit, that is in a month and a half.” He mutters to himself, seeing the annoyed face of her friend Cerber places her laptop on the table between them.

“What’s the issue?” Cerber asks worry tinted in the question.

“Oh, I have this fancy dinner for work in about a month or so, but I still need to find someone for clothes for my daughters and me,” Vedal responds, Cerber nods thinking if there’s anything she knows that might help, luckily she just might know the place.

“I might know someone who can help out with that,” Cerber exclaims as she reaches for her phone searching through it for a specific contact. “Where is-ah there!” Cerber turns her phone around revealing it to Vedal. He looks at the location and the name of the place.

“Mandarin Fox Boutique…” Vedal mumbles to himself seeing the icon of a Fox running with cutely drawn oranges around it, he looks at Cerber hoping for more explanation. “I can see that they do women’s clothing, but I don’t see a lot of men’s stuff in the photos.”

“Ah don’t worry about that; they carry and make stuff for both genders plus they have a quick turnaround time for custom stuff too!” Cerber explains, excitement in her voice at the idea of the sisters being in cute dresses. “The owner is also a wonderful person who I’ve worked with in the past for some of my networking socials.”

“Cerber at this point I don’t think you’re just a recently graduated teacher with all these connections you have.” Vedal states, surprised by the sudden burst of information, the hellhound just shrugs, “Thanks for the recommendation, text me their contact and I’ll head over there next week with Neuro and Evil.”

“No problem, Vedal! I’ll send her word that you will be popping by for some formal clothes.” Cerber smiles, and Vedal gives her a slight smile as he looks through his contacts for Ellie’s number, and he starts to call her. Cerber notices as he brings his cell phone to his ear, mouthing over to her ‘tutor’ which she nods in response.

Ring… Ring… Ring.. Click!

“Vedal?”

“Hi Ellie, just a quick question for you, would you want to tutor someone about physics?”

“Vedal I’m not going to object, but I feel like helping your kids is something you’re supposed to do.”

“No no no wait! It’s not for Neuro or Evil it's for a friend of mine.”

“Can’t you just have them get an actual tutor?”

“But you’re the top of the line for engineering which uses a lot of physics and such, I’m helping them with computer science!”

“Vedal I’m surprised that you’re willingly helping your friends in the first place and please tell me you didn’t tell them yes already.”

“I did not actually! And that hurt to hear! Their name is Cerber and you know what, here I’ll just have you talk to each other directly so she can explain the situation.” Vedal sighs as he hands the phone over to a nervous Cerber as she squeaks as she brings the phone to her ear.

“Ah hello? I’m Cerber,” The hellhound lets out as Vedal just watches his supposedly now apprentice/friend start to talk with his colleague. “Yes, I want to get a second major in physics.” He sees a smile start to form on Cerber’s face, he shakes his head and sighs.

“I’m going to get something; you want your usual?” He gets up as he asks, Cerber nodding frantically to the idea of food. Continuing her talk with Ellie on the phone, he gives a thumbs up as he walks away towards the counter. The blonde-haired elf looks up from his phone giving a smile to one of his regulars. Vedal waves as he approaches the counter.

“One toasted pizza bagel with cream cheese and one steak melt with mozzarella cheese on sourdough, right Vedal?” The elf states, confirming what was the intended order from the turtle, who shakes his head slightly with a laugh.

“If you are doing this for more tips then it's working Gelvur.” He states to the employee, editing his tip amount to ten dollars instead of his usual five. “At least Cevli pays you guys properly.”

“It helps that her theatre is her passion which gets lots of money for them but yes it's nice I get paid above the minimum, plus her wife is a nice boss.” He states, placing the receipt under the drawer as Vedal never takes his receipts for food. “It’s nice to occasionally see the real reason I get paid when they visit for the food and cozy atmosphere.” The high elf mumbles to himself, “But they do know how hard working I am!”

“I do know that too Gelvur, anyways you’re bringing it over today, right?” Vedal asks the elf, as depending on the day he can’t bring food to customers' tables.

“Yes, I can Vedal, don’t worry I’ll give a whole speech and everything too.”

“Please don’t.”

“Don’t worry I know your social capacity is low without that shell of yours.”

“Yeah, now is a good time for me to leave, thanks again Gelvur,” Vedal says as he turns to return to his table.

“Mhm, it’ll be set in a few minutes!” The elf yells out as he chuckles to himself from embarrassing one of his favourite customers. “To think Vedal has two daughters that tease him all the time.” He shakes his head as he turns his attention to a new customer approaching.

Vedal gets back to Cerber as he notices his phone on his side of the table, with his new apprentice vigorously typing away on her laptop. Her notebook which sits in the middle is already filled with a page of diagrams and equations relating to physics. Her eyes shift from her screen to Vedal as she leans back, having positivity shown all over her face.

“Ellie said yes to tutoring me!” Cerber tells Vedal that as he gets into his chair, he gives a thumbs up in response congratulating her on getting a physics tutor. “We set up a schedule and we can meet up once a week for a study session.”

“That's good to know,” Vedal says putting his thumb under his chin, “How’s the assignment I sent you coming along?” Cerber answers by turning her laptop around for Vedal to evaluate, nodding along to the almost perfect code, he gives her a thumbs up. “Looks great to me, send that to me and I’ll give back my corrections after work tomorrow.”

“Thanks, Vedal,” Cerber replies, her face pondering on a thought for a few seconds. “For how normally disregarding you are, you’re good at guiding others.” She points out, hoping for a sincere answer from the programmer.

“I don’t think I’m adept at all with helping others, but I won’t deny that comment.”

“Come on! I know you enjoy helping others, especially if it's for your daughters.”

“Anyone would enjoy helping their family and friends.”

“Aww, I’d never thought I’d be labelled as a friend Vedal.” Cerber teases and a cheeky smile taunts the turtle on the other side.

“Okay never mind you’re my apprentice starting now.” Vedal states bluntly glancing around the cafe, seeing Gelvur just coming out from the kitchen.

“Give me back my friend status Vedal! You can’t demote me to apprentice!” Cerber yells out at her tutor.

“Gelvur has our food, I got your sandwich as per usual.” The turtle says out loud ignoring the hellhound’s complaining. Giving a wave to the server who nods back to him and making space on their table.

“Don’t ignore me Vedal!”

Chapter Text

[Wow…] {That’s fancy.}

The girls are looking at various mannequins that sit in the display at the front of Mandarin Fox Boutique. Vedal walks up behind them as he has just paid off the parking meter. Both girls go on each side of their dad and hold onto his hand. Vedal is wearing grey slacks, and a dark green button-up, with a matching brown belt and loafers. Neuro has a cream blouse, brown skirt, and white high-top Converses. Evilyn is satisfied with a white button-up its sleeves rolled up to her elbows, black jeans, and black Vans.

[Dad why are we at a clothing boutique?] Neuro asks, reaching for the door, and allowing the trio to enter inside. Evilynis still looking at the mannequins inside the store this time her eyes locking onto the many outfits, fine with being pulled along by their father. [We already have a lot of outfits.] She points out giving a motion to the clothes that the three of them are wearing.

{Sister is right Father; this seems like a waste of your money.} Evilynstates, feeling the fabric of one of the dresses.

“Well remember when I told you about my fancy work dinner?” He asks his daughters, and they both nod in response. “Well, we’re here to get clothes for that event, we need some newer and fancier ones than we already have.” They approach a counter, Vedal gesturing for one of his daughters to ring the bell, Neuro rings it first then Evilyn afterwards.

“I’ll be there!” A feminine voice is heard further in the boutique, a fox-girl walks behind the counter, wearing a white mandarin collar shirt, a pink crew neck sweater over the shirt, and a pair of light washed jeans. A measuring tape is hanging around her neck and a pin cushion bracelet is on her left arm. “Welcome to my boutique slash tailor shop! The name is Anny!” She greets herself looking at the interesting trio and bringing her hand out for a shake.

“Nice to meet you, Anny. I’m Vedal, this is Neuro and Evilyn.” Vedal responds back accepting the handshake, gesturing to both of his daughters as he makes their introductions.

[Hi Anny!] {Hello Miss Anny.} Neuro gives the tailor a wave as Evilyn gives her a curt nod before looking around the store again. Anny gives both of them a warm smile a bit stunned by their combined cuteness.

“Vedal? You must be the client that Cerber was telling me about.” Anny says, walking out from behind the counter, and giving a gesture for the three to follow her which they do. They move closer to the back of the store, fitting rooms, clothing racks and an infinity mirror of 5 mirrors sit in the corner. “You needed formal clothing for a work dinner, correct?”

“Yes, it's in about five weeks, or the end of next month, sorry if that’s not a lot of time to work with.”

“It’s no bother I can get everything set in three weeks at the latest.”

“That’s good, what’s your usual rate for commissions?”

“Eight hundred to thirteen hundred per commission, but I can haggle for a better price if you need to.” She teases moving up close to Vedal giving a wink to the turtle. The turtle takes a step back, a slight blush from the surprise closeness of the fox.

“Got it, I’ll pay you two and a half thousand for each of us.” Vedal states, getting a shocked gasp from Anny and his daughters. “That should be enough to cover the ideas of my daughters and the suddenness of the request.”

“That’s not necessary it seems too much.” Anny stammers out from shock, she glances at the father and back at his daughters.

“I insist, I would want people to be paid properly for their work.” This time the turtle interjects giving the fox a sheepish smile. Giving a sign that he is serious about paying her this much.

“Alright then Vedal, I’ll accept it then, we’ll do the payments once I get you guys sized up.” Anny returns back to normal, “Who wants to go first?” She asks, Neuro quickly walks to the center of the room, as Vedal and Evilyn sit in the chairs nearby watching. “I’ll start with your measurements then, you’re Neuro, right?” Anny takes off her measuring tape, giving instructions for how Neuro stands whilst taking her measurements.

[Yes, that’s right!] The girl responds excitedly, raising her arms as she is getting an entire outfit for a party from what her dad explains. Her arms are pushed gently downwards by Anny who sighs from the endless energy within her.

“Okay Neuro, any idea for what you want to wear for the party?”

[I want to be a cyber princess!] Neuro shouts out, getting a synchronized head tilt from her family members. [Wait is there a theme Dad?] She asks, turning her head to hear an answer, only to be ushered back to facing forward getting a quick comment from Anny for moving around too suddenly.

“I don’t believe so Neuro, but we’ll have to keep on the calmer side this time.” Vedal thinks of any ideas to persuade his daughter from going to bold. “I’m sure Anny has better ideas for your dress, she can probably still make it work.” He decides it's best to throw this problem at the expert here giving Anny a smug smile.

“Hmm, Neuro would you want your dress short or long?” Anny deflects the question for Neuro to focus on instead, turning to Vedal and quickly flipping him off. Getting a chuckle from Vedal and widened eyes from Evilyn.

[I’d want it long please, like those big poofy dresses that princesses wear.]

“I can make that work; give me a quick second Neuro I’ll have you try something on.” Anny points at the fitting room, Neuro moving inside keeping the door open as Anny leaves to grab a dress for her to try on. “Don’t worry about the colour this is just for sizing and style, I can always add on more details later.” Anny returns holding a sapphire blue tea-length dress, having light blue and silver accents added on. Everyone’s eyes widen from the dress as Neuro carefully accepts the dress shutting the fitting room door shut. “Alright, I guess I can help you next Evilyn.”

{I’d prefer if you call me Evil…} Evilyn responds, the two look at each other for five seconds, {Please.} She finishes, moving onto the platform following Anny’s instructions with ease.

“Anything in particular for your dress Evil?” Anny starts, beginning her measurements with ease,

{I’d like it short please, wait not too short!} Evilyn stammers out before she regrets her comment hoping to correct it. Anny giggles, shaking her head as she thinks of the perfect dress style that works, finishing up her measurements, she points at the open room next to Neuro’s. Evilyn gives her a nod, moving by the door and waiting patiently for the try on dress. {Also, something in black, please.}

Anny waves the girl off as she moves away to find a dress that will suit the younger sister, Vedal sighs as he realizes this is his time to get measured, stepping up onto the platform and stands there awkwardly waiting for Anny to return.

{Miss Anny is a pretty lady.} Evilyn breaks the silence, a small cough comes from Vedal in reaction to the random comment. {What? Can’t I state things that I see?} She says bluntly, uncaring for any more reactions that come from her father.

“Evil we talked about your sudden comments, didn’t we?” A bad attempt of a stern voice comes out from Vedal. Only receives a smirk and a shrug from his daughter as Anny’s footsteps become louder as she returns.

“I have your dress Evil, it's not black sadly but it is a dark grey if that helps, besides it's temporary anyway.” Anny comes back holding a dark grey bouffant dress with purple and platinum accents, handing it off to Evilyn. Who huffs upon accepting, moving inside and shutting the door, leaving it down to Anny and Vedal as they stare at one another. “Alright so it's your turn mister, you know the drill.” She says, moving up to him with the measuring tape in hand ready to take measurements. “Waist size?” Inquiring although she proceeds with tightening the tape around his waist.

“Twenty-nine or thirty, and I normally wear a thirty-eight for my coats.” Vedal answers, getting only a hum in response from the tailor as she moves the tape up to measure his chest.

“Thirty-seven, you’re a surprisingly skinny person Vedal,” Anny mutters out, releasing the tape away from Vedal giving him a slight push with it. “I’ll be back mister; you of course need to be dressed better than your daughters.” She tells him, turning around to go grab stuff for him to try on.

“I’d rather wear a three-piece suit than a tuxedo or dinner jacket,” Vedal yells out before Anny gets out of sight; he turns to the two occupied fitting rooms. “Are you two doing okay?”

[Everything is going well! I should be out soon.] {Let me take my time Father, besides Anny is the one that needs to see me.}

“I was just checking in, no need to sass me.” Wondering where his daughter learned that way to speak, thinking further, realizing that her sass comes from his deadpans and sarcasm. Facepalming as he turns to the hallway once he hears Anny’s footsteps once again come closer. “Wow, that is not what I was expecting.” He looks at the suit that she holds, a grey windowpane double-breasted suit the lines being a midnight blue, with a matching vest, tucked inside the coat is a white button-up. The vest and coat both have a peaked lapel with the coat having a ticket pocket added on for an additional look. “That is something I normally don’t wear.”

“Well, you’re talking about a big fancy dinner so here you are!” Anny hands the suit into Vedal's hands, he gives her a quick thanks as he moves into the fitting room shutting the door and leaving her alone. Turning away and moved over to a counter to grab a clipboard and pen looking at the order sheet, and writing down the names of her three clients. A click of a lock and swing of a door turns Anny’s attention to Evilyn wearing the dress, her face clearly showing embarrassment from what she is wearing as she approaches the tailor.

{Jeez this feels a bit much.} Evilyn mutters once she stands in front of Anny, {You’ll make it look better, right?} The tailor takes a step back, analyzing for what issues she’ll need to fix, the chest will probably need to be taken in, and there is extra fabric on the sides which can be tucked away. She crouches down looking at the length of the dress, receiving a yelp from the girl. {What are you looking at?}

“Calm down, is the length good?” The fox ignores the plea from the girl, who quickly calms down from the misassumption.

{Can it be longer, please?} Anny looks at the length, it does end mid-thigh which might be much for some people. {I would like it down to above my knees if that’s fine.} The only response she gets is Anny moving her tape and measuring the extra distance from the bottom, humming to herself when she writes down the alterations.

“That can be arranged, what about colours?” Anny asks as she stands up looking at the design of the dress. It has a faint vine and rose-like pattern adorned on it. “I suggest black for the base, with gold for the leaves and vines finishing it off with red for the roses.” Evilyn looks down at the pattern, currently imagining the colour scheme suggested.

{I would very much like that, thank you.}

“Well, I’ve gotten all the alterations and colours figured out, we can look at shoes and accessories once the others are out.” Another click and swing of the door shows Vedal in the shirt, pants, and vest, the coat resting on his arms. Evilyn turns to look at her father amazed at how he can dress like that.

{I’m surprised it even fits you, Father.} Evilyn shoots at Vedal, a chuckle comes from Anny and a look of betrayal is on her father’s face.

“Ouch, that was uncalled for Evil,” Vedal dismisses the comment walking up to the two and turns around to look back at the tailor. “Can you help me with the vest?”

“Sure, Vedal,” Anny replies walking up behind him and tightening the vest with the strap on the back, “Here let me help you with the coat.” She continues taking the coat off his hands, letting him slip both his arms in the coat before pulling it onto his shoulders, and buttoning the top button of the coat. “Wow, you are skinny.” Stating out loud, earning her a giggle from Evilyn and a sigh from Vedal.

“Well, I don’t do much anyways.” He replies, turning around and letting the entire outfit be seen by Evilynand Anny. He looks away from their gazes scratching the back of his head as he does so.

[All done!] The door to Neuro’s room opens, and the trio looks at the latest addition who also looks back at them. [Aww I wasn’t the first one out.]

“You can do Neuro before me, Anny,” The other three look at him, “I’m probably the easiest so you can work on me last.” He continues, Anny looks at Neuro who only shrugs.

“Kay mister, then Neuro you’re up,” Anny ushers Neuro to the platform as Vedal guides Evilyn off to the seats. Anny looks at how the dress fits Neuro, there is still a few inches of fabric around her waist, other than that there isn’t much to worry about. “There’s some fabric I can cut off on your waist other than that it’s fine. Is the length to your liking?” She asks, moving down to examine the length more closely, earning a surprised yelp from the girl.

[I think it's fine Anny, it’s the perfect length for me.] Neuro says, watching as the fox moves back up to examine the entirety of her look. [Do I also wear fancy shoes?]

“Well I wouldn’t recommend going all the way, but let’s focus on colours for you,” Anny replies, looking at the possible patterns and colours that she can mix all together for the girl. Who is also eyeing the specks of silver all around her dress?

[What about close to midnight?] Neuro breaks the silence, [Those twinkling things look like stars.] She gasps, breaking Anny’s focus and coming up with an idea she is now dead set on. [I can have a space-themed dress! It’ll look like a galaxy. Is that possible Anny?] She locks eyes with the tailor, not relenting in the attack of cuteness as the fox gives in to the request.

“That sounds like a wonderful combination, I’ll keep note of that for when I order the proper items.” Anny remarks as she writes down the details for the dress. “Never thought about looking at the dress like it was a night sky, great thinking Neuro.” She pats the girl on the shoulder, ushering her off of the platform, she turns to face the turtle, “Vedal it's now your turn.”

“I know just give me a second.” He sighs, leaving the comfy chair, Neuro taking his seat as they pass by each other. She immediately starts to discuss with Evilyn their outfits and what other accessories they have planned for the dinner. Who is still focused on her phone can talk while listening to her sister’s ramble. Meeting up with Anny on the platform she brings a pin cushion with her as she walks around him looking at the fit of the entire suit. “You’re going to be pinning everything huh.” He doesn't get a response, only a small push from Anny as she corrects his posture, continuing with marking the alterations.

“If you can just stay still mister then this process will finish quickly.” She chastises him after she finishes with the pins on his sleeve. “I’m going to have to take in your jacket a lot. Do you happen to dress in women’s clothes~?”

“What? No, never.” Vedal denies it immediately, she laughs at the fast reaction.

“That was a quick no, are you hiding something?” She teases further seeing the red on his face to grow further with the question. She readjusts the coat on his shoulders, closing the top button and walking behind him to pin his sides and center seam.

“Definitely not! I wouldn’t fit in those clothes.” He stammers out trying to recover from the previous question.

“Are you sure? You’ll be able to fit in a couple of the dresses that I have stocked here.” She continues ignoring the denial of the turtle. “Now stop moving around and stand still for me.” He follows the order, she presses a finger on the back of his spine moving it up, and seeing the fabric bunch up she pins the excess. “Kay, off with the coat now.”

“That fast? We’re onto the vest and trousers now?” He inquires as she helps him out of the coat, moving over to grab a hanger and hanging it nearby. She returns to him, cinching it to the max, she still sees some slack formed on both sides, sighing at the sight.

“You’re going to be the first male customer that has everything taken in.” She remarks, looking at the pins on the sides vest.

“Is that a bad thing?” He questions turning his head back.

“Maybe? You should be eating more if I’m going to be honest mister.” Anny answers with a hint of concern for her client.

“Eating food isn’t my strong suit…” He mumbles turning his back facing forward, avoiding locking eyes with the fox.

{Father doesn’t much now that I’m thinking about it.} Evilyn states, her gaze still on her phone as she continues to text.

[You’re right Evil, Dad does forget to eat sometimes plus his meals are at breakfast and dinner.] Neuro bounces the conversation from her sister.

“My eating habits are perfectly normal,” Vedal says, facing his daughters who both look at him with their heads at a slight tilt. “Just think of me cutting.” He suggests Neuro tilts her head further in confusion and Evilyn frowns at the response.

{But you don’t work out at all.} She replies bluntly, locking eyes with her father and then returning to her phone. Anny snickers at the straightforwardness of the sisters, finishing up with her markings for the vest. Taking a look at the trousers she pinches the excess fabric and marks the waist with chalk.

“At least you have some sort of an ass,” She comments doing her best to hide her laugh from the comment, receiving no reaction from the turtle she continues, “How much beef are you eating to get it-”

“That’s enough talk about my butt,” Vedal interjects, “Are you usually this talkative with your clients?”

“No, I just think you’re a very teasable person,” She gives him a soft smile, as she kneels pulling on the seam of his leg as she grabs her pin cushion, starting to mark the taper. “You are very skinny though it should be a concern of yours.” She points out to him finishing up the taper and rolling the pant’s hem to the right length. “All done with the markings, test out your mobility.”

“This is surprisingly comfortable,” He states as he swings his legs back and forth, taking a quick squat as well, “Plus it's well fitted.” He remarks looking at himself in the mirror.

“Well I assure you that it’ll look even better once the actual thing arrives, so mister. What kind of colour are we getting for the suit?” Anny asks out loud, letting it known that she is wanting opinions from his daughters.

[Purple and Black!] {Navy and Green} Both sisters suggest at the same time, they both look at each other, shocked by their different answers. This turns into the two of them debating on what colour their Dad’s suit will be. Vedal rolls his eyes at the duo’s outburst.

“Medium gray windowpane, with the stripe being maroon and navy.” He concludes, with the girls’ argument halting with his suggestion. “And some sort of paisley tie has maroon and navy.” Anny has her thumb on her chin, thinking about the combination, upon getting a complete visualization she snaps her fingers.

“I see what you mean, a neutral colour with a slight accent that compliments both of your daughter’s dresses.” The tailor states out loud as she writes the notes down a warm smile adorning her face, “Wow you are such a sap for your daughters. What about your shirt?”

“Stick with white, but I’d like French cuffs for them, I have a special set of cufflinks for events like this anyways anyways.” He slips the coat off by himself, resting it over his arm, stepping off of the platform joining his daughters as they walk up to examine him in the suit. “What you’ve never seen me in a fancy suit?” Anny nods at the recommendation, finishing up her notes she glances back at the family.

[Well you hate dressing up so we never see you in the full thing.] Neuro points out as she is tugging on the sleeves feeling the material.

{You also take off your coat whenever you have the chance, we only see you in a coat for the most part.} Evilynadds her input to the conversation for the three of them, having a finger follow one of the stripes on the suit. {It's a nice ensemble, Father, so is there anything Miss Anny?} She quickly turns to Anny, hiding the slight tint on her cheeks.

“Well there are accessories but we can coordinate that closer to the event date.” She claps her hands acquiring the attention of the others, “Now go get changed and then we can settle the deposit Vedal.” She says Vedal gives out a sigh of relief while Neuro gives an enthusiastic cheer, and Evilyn follows with half the enthusiasm, already making her to the fitting room. Neuro examines herself in the five-way mirror before heading her way to change out of the dress. Vedal moves up to Anny holding his hand out for a shake.

“Thanks again Anny, sorry if you have to rush some things.” He thanks her, and she accepts the hand.

“Well I wasn’t expecting a friend of one my regular clients, to arrive, and five weeks will be more than necessary.” She responds.

“Well, I’ll still want to thank you for the work you’re going to be putting into this so I’ll contact you later about it.”

“Sure thing! We have to exchange numbers anyway once we do the payment and paperwork. Now go get changed we can talk more aftwards.” She turns him by the shoulders and pushes him gently towards the fitting room, giggling as the turtle stumbles with the push. The turtle rolls his eyes at the fox entering the room and shutting the door behind him.

“What an interesting family of clients,” The fox tells herself, grabbing the three separate orders and organizing them into a folder. “This will be an amusing five weeks.” She smiles as her head turns to both Neuro and Evilyn's doors, which open simultaneously.

Chapter Text

“Achoo!” Vedal sneezes into his elbow, startling Ellie who is sitting right across from him in the cafe. Currently, it’s their lunch break. “Sorry about that, I feel like my body is deteriorating.” The android gives her coworker a worried look and a frown. The sick programmer is wearing a navy polo shirt, tan slacks and brown loafers. The engineer on the opposite side is wearing a light blue button-up with a brown crew-neck sweater over it, blue jeans, brown Chelsea boots and a lab coat resting on her shoulders. Both had finished their lunches and were drinking hot drinks; both now had coffee mugs in front of them.

“Have you been sleeping enough Vedal,” She asks, seeing the bags under his eyelids and the tired look he carries. The programmer waves her worry away, taking a sip of his coffee.

“I have yes, three or four hours I think, this project is just a lot, and I need to be here for it to go smoothly. Then I can just rest easy back home once it's done.” She looks at the slight shake her friend has when he brings his arm up to take his sip.

“But you don’t look okay at all? If you’re working too much for your body to handle you should rest.” She says still watching the programmer carefully as he finishes the rest of his coffee. Not believing the assuring that she knows Vedal is subconsciously giving her not to worry.

“I’ll be fine, it's just a headache and a bit of sniffles,” He replies, standing up, losing his balance for a second before steadying himself. Ellie reacts standing up to hold onto his shoulders keeping him in place. “Again Ellie, I’ll be okay, it's something minor.” As he says this he coughs for a good ten seconds, only increasing the worry from his friend.

“Vedal as much as I enjoy the lunch break we share for the one time you’re in the office each week. You should go home.” She responds, not convinced at all by the blunt reassuring from the programmer. “Just go home, rest up, we have that dinner in three weeks and I’d rather have my friend with me than or I’m not going at all.” Her turtle friend glares at her as they compete in a stare where the android contests the test of wills. The ending is the programmer sighing as he reaches for his phone.

“Fine, I suppose your assessment is correct.” He opens his phone looking through the contacts, “Looks like you’re meeting my daughters after all.” The engineer is taken aback by the comment.

“What do you mean by that?” Ellie raises her eyebrows, questioning the latest phrase Vedal said. Unsure if he had meant what she thinks he meant.

“Who else is going to pick them up from school if I’m sick?” Vedal confirms her questions, giving her a shrug alongside it. He goes to his groupchat with his daughters, sighing to himself as he prepares the messages to inform his sickness. Provides an explanation with to Ellie on what she’ll have to do when she goes to pick up his daughters for him. The two part ways as he heads to the office and Ellie goes to let her department know that she’s leaving early.

//Group Chat - 987\\

Vedal: I’m calling it early for work since my flu got worse. My friend Ellie is picking you up.

Neuro: I warned you about overworking yourself.

Evilyn: Father you’re an idiot.

Evilyn: Anyways, buy stuff for soup.

Vedal: I will, I’m also stopping by Camila’s do any of you need anything?

Neuro: Just say hi to her for me!

Evilyn: More melatonin.

Evilyn: Say hi too.

Vedal: Alright, love you both see you later.

Neuro: Love you! <3

Evilyn: Take care.

\\Group Chat - End//

…

The chime for the door rings as a blue-haired whale, wearing a lab coat over a cream-coloured dress looks over at the entrance. She’s currently attending the front looking at paperwork and reading things on her phone. A turtle that she recognizes enters the pharmacy looking like he just came after work and notices the common disposable blue face masks he’s wearing. She thinks to herself that he looks like he hates the world a lot more than usual.

“Hiya Vedal, what’s got your mood worse than usual?” She asks him, he just gestures to the mask he’s wearing. “That doesn’t help if you’re going to be silent.” She smiles at him as he rolls his eyes at her comment.

“Hi Bao. I’m sick, it's the flu, is Camila here?” His voice is restrained, quick to the subject, she looks at him looking at the distance he made between them. It is nice that he’s making sure to be careful, fatherhood grew on him she thinks. Then she realizes what Camila’s reaction is and hides her smile.

“Oh, she’s here, let me just grab her real quick.” The whale turns around, heading towards the back to get Camila for him. The turtle sighs to himself as he leans on the counter, looking around the pharmacy as he waits for his best friend to come out.

“This sucks” He states, remembering the fussing that both his daughters made to him when he decided to keep going to work once he got some serious symptoms on his third day of the week. Considering his flu was something he got at the start of the week he didn’t expect his body to be this weak. His thought process is stopped as he hears the door swing open, seeing Camila with an annoyed look, followed by Bao. The pharmacist is wearing, a maroon blouse, black chinos, and a lab coat over top of it all. “I know what you’re going to say.”

“Vedal you’re a fucking idiot.” Is all Camila says, her best friend flinching at the comment not expecting that reaction. Bao snickering from the interaction listening as she does paperwork a few meters away, the demon sighs and facepalms. “Neuro texted me about what’s up with you when you messaged them earlier.”

“It’s just the simple flu.” He mumbles out, not seeing the importance of this conversation that he’s having. “Anyways it’ll get better with whatever you’re prescribing me right?”

“That’s not the point Vedal, you were working yourself down over three days now! Both of your daughters were worried about you and you ignored it.” She chastises him immediately, the turtle was expecting this conversation, he never really looked after himself well. He only had gotten better at it once Neuro and Evilyn entered the picture. “Did you even go to a doctor for a check-up?”

“Uh… No?”

“Why not? Vedal I know you’re smart but I’m not at the same level as an actual practitioner.” They both ignore Bao’s snickering from the sideline.

“But are you a level below or not?” Bao goes into full laughter catching the attention of the long time friends. “It isn’t that bad I’m honest.” After that phrase, he coughs for a few seconds into his elbow. “Shit, that felt terrible.” He says with a slight wince on his face, Camila sighs at Vedal, waving her hand to get Bao’s attention.

“Bao grab my examiner’s kit please,” She asks the whale, who lowers their laughing from hearing the instructions, giving her a thumbs up as the whale heads to the back. “Vedal you’re still a dumbass but is there anything else that is catching your attention while being sick?”

“I don’t know, I feel the regular sleep depravedness and issues that go alongside it.”

“Why are you like this?”

“Hey I have gotten better, you can attest to that based on our university years.” He grumbles, which makes the pharmacist think back. Vedal would commonly push through his days with four hours of sleep and two meals a day. He only started to eat three times a day when she started to force him to eat lunch with her on campus in their last two years. Especially when he had a slight drinking problem during that time. How he got his job was something she had no idea he succeeded at. Yet again, she still doesn’t know everything about his daughters as well.

“Having two daughters does do something to you,” She comments, gesturing for him to take a seat in front of her. He begrudgingly follows, sighing as he takes a seat. Bao returns the kit in hand, handing over the kit to Camila. “Thank you, I still think that you’ve changed a lot since then.”

“I think so too, hopefully for the better.” He responds, quietly following along with the instructions that Camila is giving him, this is going to take a while. Hopefully, Ellie is having an easy time with his daughters.

…

{Sister, we should wait for Miss Ellie outside our classroom.} Evilyn states as the sisters are packing up, Neuro nods along as she is currently snacking on a bag of cookies made by Vedal. She offers the bag to her sister, who gladly accepts, grabbing a cookie and taking a bite from it. {I wonder what she’s like.}

[Well she’s Dad’s coworker and friend so she must be a good person if he trusts her with us.] Neuro points out which does have Evilyn's brain to start thinking. Neuro just puts on her school coat and sees that Evilyn has just put on her coat as well. [I don't think you should think much about it.] She pulls along her younger sister with her as Evilyn just finished putting on her backpack. [Let’s go meet Ellie!] She says aloud, darting out of the classroom and making her way to the school’s entrance. The rest of their classmates and teacher see the two leave early. Neuro ignores the clock and Evilyn just shrugs at the class with their teacher responding by taking a sip out of their mug and looking at the clock.

{There are only four minutes left anyway!} Evilyn yells out before being dragged out the door. She does her best to match her older sister’s pace but Neuro’s physical superiority outmatches her. Thus her footsteps are out of order and she’s closer to skipping rather than speed walking. {Sister can we slow down please!}She shouts out, not realizing that her sister stops in her tracks, she stumbles forward a small yelp coming from her but she’s caught upright by her arms.

“Evilyn! Are you alright?” She hears the voice of the person who caught her, looking up and seeing the platinum hair and antennas on Ellie’s head. “Oh sorry, I didn’t say my name, I’m Ellie.” Evilyn just blinks at her and lets go of Ellie’s hands realizing that she’s standing stable now. Ellie is wearing a brown overcoat, with a light blue scarf around her neck.

[You’re friends with our Dad?] Neuro cuts the pause between the three of them, [Sorry forgot to say our names, I’m Neuro!] She gestures to herself before expressing both her hands to her sister. {Evilyn, call me Evil, please.} Who answers at the action giving the android a nod. [Anyways, you look so much cooler than our Dad!] The comment gets a giggle from the android, [Are you always connected to the wifi? Is that why you have antennas?]

{Let’s ask questions once we’re out of the school sister.} Evilyn gets her sister to calm down and not ask Ellie a million questions. Her sister gives her a frown but nods along, confirming that she’ll listen to the adult here.

“It’s okay, well, my car?” The android asks the sisters, Neuro gives an excited nod and Evilyn gives her a thumbs up. “Then let’s go.” She says, turning around, with a slight yelp when both of her hands are suddenly held onto. Looking at both of her sides she sees Neuro on the left and Evilyn on her right, a smile grows on her face as they continue their walk to the parking lot. “How were your classes?”

[It was well! I think they want me to continue doing track and field for high school.] {I’m thinking of doing some sort of culinary classes.}

“You both sound busy, you also have a good work ethic, I guess that comes from Vedal,” Ellie remarks, as they approach a white jeep, both girls run up to the vehicle waiting for her to unlock it. She gives them a laugh, reaching for her keys out of her pocket, and unlocking it. They all swing the doors open, Evilyn getting the passenger and Neuro in the back.

[How about you Ellie? Are you also a programmer?] Neuro asks as Ellie waits to hear the seat belt click from behind her.

“No, I do have some experience with coding, but I’m a robotics engineer.” She says, receiving noises of awe from the sisters. “I’m also a department head for my department.”

{Oh you’re the same rank as our Father.} Evilyn states as Ellie starts to drive. {How is working with him like?}

“He’s surprisingly a great boss, you wouldn’t expect that from his personality.” She answers, activating her turn signal as they wait at a light. “Like I said before, good work ethic, but I think it’s connected to how he always wants to be home instead of the office.”

[Dad always liked staying home with us!] Neuro points out, her head close to the back headrest of Evilyn's. [But Ellie, why do you have an antenna?]

“Oh, I’m an android.” Both girls widen their eyes at this reveal, and Ellie realizes this with their silence. “I’m still part human, and these antennas help with supporting my senses.” She takes a quick breath as the sisters are satisfied with the answers. “Are you all ready for the work dinner?” She asks, changing the topic of the conversation, she hears a squeal from Neuro and a sigh from Evilyn. Glancing at the one in the passenger seat as they are waiting at a stop light, the red-eyed sister gestures to the backseat as Ellie could swear, she saw literal stars in Neuro’s eyes.

[Our outfits are all set for the party! We’re all matching I think, are we Evil?] Neuro’s confidence in her statement falters as she turns to her sister, who only responds with a nod. [I’m wearing a galaxy dress, Evilyn is wearing silvery red roses, and Dad is wearing a suit that has a bit of both of our colours.] The short and blunt explanation allows Ellie to imagine what the family would look like together.

“That sounds wonderful, did you both convince Vedal to do that colour scheme?”

{Each of us chose our colours and he kind of just decided the colours on his own without any thinking.} Evilyn answers, taking out her phone as she hears a notification from someone messaging her. {Ellie can we head to a supermarket? Father did not grab the ingredients, unfortunately.}

“Oh sure, I think there is one on the way to your place.” Ellie changes her route as she drives towards the supermarket.

…

“What are we here for Evil?” Ellie asks, locking her car as both her hands are grabbed by the sisters. Evilyn is reading something on her phone, sticking to the android’s right, her pace slower, Neuro is moving at a quicker pace, basically pulling the other two along.

{Father is sick thus, I need to cook a stew or soup for him to make him feel better.} Evilynstates, scrolling through her phone before seeing a soup that would meet her standards. {Alright, a classic minestrone, it's just veggies and it’ll warm him up.}

[You should try some too, Ellie, Evil is a great chef.] Neuro says, as they enter the supermarket, Neuro separates from the two and grabs a basket returning her hand to Ellie’s. [Now what are we looking for Evil?]

{Vegetables and let’s get a nice loaf of bread as well.} The other sister replies, her eyes going back to her phone. {We’re good on seasonings so that can be ignored. But to the produce aisle, we go.} She points towards the general direction of where they can get the required ingredients.

“Is Evil the one that normally cooks out of the three of you?” Ellie asks, thinking about the many mouth drooling lunches Vedal had brought to work.

[Sort of? Dad is usually the one in charge of our breakfast and lunches, then he lets Evil cook dinner.] That surprises Ellie, she expected Vedal to be more on the lazier side but didn’t expect him to be this caring. Well, he is a doting father after all he loves his daughters a lot more than he realizes. She gets snapped out of her thinking as her sleeve is pulled by Neuro who just gestures to her sister further up holding the basket which is half filled with various vegetables. [We should stick close to her, she can lose herself when she’s focused a lot.] Neuro explains pulling the android with her.

“Why’s that? Isn’t Evil grabbing ingredients for soup?” The android asks, confusion clearly shown on her face. The elder sister gives her a small giggle and a shake of her head as they’re halfway to Evilyn.

[Evil doesn’t show it much, but she cares about her family a lot. You can’t tell but she is worried for our Dad right now.] Ellie raises an eyebrow, Neuro sighs and continues. [She’s not vocal about it but very much physical in a certain way.] The adult gets an understanding and nods her head in agreement before reaching the aforementioned girl.

“How’s the gathering working out for you Evil?” Evilyn looks back at the two, then returns to her list and collects. Grabbing Ellie’s hand taking the lead as she guides the others to their next destination.

{It's been good I have about everything that we needed, just need the bread. Miss Ellie, what kind of bread do you want?} That question had clicked something in Ellie’s head, from the beginning the tough demeanour of Evilyn's shell. Her speech although having sass her word choice were respectful and not once was it outright rude. A shake of her arm breaks her train of thought again, Ellie doesn’t realize that they’re at the bakery section. {Miss Ellie you pick the bread.}

“Oh sorry, why not a classic sourdough,” Ellie suggests, Evilyn looks at her for a few seconds, glancing at her sister who is giving a thumbs up. She looks at the array of sourdough loaves, selecting one and placing it in their basket.

{Thanks for the suggestion miss Ellie.} Evilyn thanks in an upbeat tone, guiding the trio to the register. Neuro pokes Ellie, gesturing to what her sister’s actions, Ellie can only smile in confirmation of Neuro’s point.

[Told you she has a soft side.] Neuro whispers proudly, internally rejoicing at her sister being nice.

…

[Dad…? Are you up?] Neuro’s voice slowly breaks Vedal to consciousness, he pokes his head out of his synthetic shell. His daughter peers inside, her Dad looks pretty cozy, lying down and bundled up with blankets only allowing the head to pop out if he wants to.

“Neuro? When did you and your sister get home?” He asks, moving one of his arms through the head hole to push his bed hair out of the way. He then moves his head lower to only show his eyes and up. Neuro takes this as a sign to enter, carrying a tray with a bowl of soup and a side of toasted bread. Vedal’s nose sniffles as he smells the delicious meal that is approaching.

[About two hours ago, we both checked in with you and you were dead asleep.] Neuro says, placing the tray on his desk, and recognizing the prescription bottles. [At least Camilla’s stuff is working then.] She reaches over and gives him a pat on the head, who grumbles in response, before heading to the door. [Evil cooked the meal of course. Have a good sleep Dad, and you’re not leaving for work tomorrow in any way!]

“Wait what about-” His voice is cut out as the door to his room is shut and it's just the subtle lighting from his desk lamp. “Well, I should probably eat something.” He mumbles to himself as he contemplates if he wants to leave his bed.

Neuro enters the kitchen seeing the animated conversation that her sister and Ellie are having, the topic of which had gone over her head but is happy nonetheless. Both are sitting at the kitchen table, bowls of soup and bread in the center are set up as Neuro joins them. Hopefully, her Dad gets better in the morning as Evilyn asks her if Vedal would let them adopt a robot dog. Now that is an idea she can get behind.

Chapter Text

Ellie lets out a yawn, stretching her arms above her head as she does so. Cerber across from her looks up with a small smile. The android tilts their head in confusion as she sees the hellhound looking at her. Ellie is wearing a light blue mock-neck sweater, light-washed jeans, and brown loafers. Cerber has a black and purple bomber jacket, a white t-shirt underneath and white vans. Both are two hours in a tutoring session at Scarlet Café, Cerber’s laptop is in between them showing examples and a worksheet made by Ellie, and notes and papers of physics equations are spread out between them.

“Are you running out of battery Ellie?” Cerber asks, giggling at her own joke as Ellie gives her an eyeroll. The hellhound looks off to the side of the android, waving at the familiar blonde elf as he stops by placing two cups of coffee next to them. “Thanks Gelvur.”

“Thank you,” Ellie thanked the elf as he gave them a thumbs up before walking over to another table in the cafe. She let out a sigh as they were left alone. “Just tired, thinking about the work dinner that's in two weeks.”

“That is coming up soon, what's the issue?” Cerber asks, looking down as she continues to write the lengthy formula for a question. Ellie nervously looks around checking if anyone she recognizes is close by before taking a breath.

“Ineedtogetadate,” Ellie mumbles quickly, having Cerber raise her head in response, only to see the android taking a sip of their coffee.

“What was that?” She asks again, Ellie wavers and places her drink on the table.

“I need a date for the dinner.” Ellie says softly, “It’s not a necessary thing, but for some reason, it’ll look better for the investors that “their employees are in relationships that they need to support.” She finishes with air quotes made with her fingers.

“Oh, well have you been trying to get someone to be your date?”

“Sort of? It’s just hard since I don’t want someone to embarrass me there.”

“Your assistants or coworkers?”

“As much as I enjoy their company they’re not at that level.”

“Hmm, guy or gal?”

“Doesn’t matter to me, the company is inclusive and welcoming, which is nice,” Ellie answers back, only getting a hum from Cerber as she thinks of more ways to help her friend. “I also wouldn't like you or Vedal introducing people to me as they're strangers at that point. So back to square one for that.” The android slumps into her chair letting out a ragged sigh.

“Can’t I go with you?” Cerber asks, Ellie sits up in surprise looking at her friend, giving her a head tilt. “Well you know me better than your coworkers and I can behave.”

“Are you sure? It’s not going to be that interesting and I wouldn’t want to bore you.” Ellie attempts to push Cerber’s line of thinking the opposite way. Not realizing that the hellhound is carrying a determined face on this matter, well she did ask for her help after all. “I’ll send you the details later today. Worst case you stick with the Neynatesvens or myself for the rest of the party.”

“Sure thing” Cerber agrees to the options, her head resting on her hands with her elbows on the table. A smile rests on her face as she solves her friend’s predicament. “This will be interesting for sure.”

“I suppose so,” Ellie answers, her phone chiming as she looks to read the notification. “Ah damn it, sorry Cerber I’ll have to go.” Ellie gets up and begins organizing her things, seeing her friend’s attention on her. “One of the engineers made a minor breakthrough and they need my confirmation on the matter.” She puts on her coat and grabs her bag, taking a turn to leave she turns to the hellhound and gives her a wave. “Thanks again, I’ll text you the details later, bye!” Ellie then moves at a quick pace, keys jiggling as she heads towards the entrance.

“Bye!” Cerber manages to say before the android moves out of her line of sight, a smile still stuck to her face. She notices a certain blonde elf moving up to her table, taking Ellie’s seat. “Shouldn't you be working, Gelvur?” She questions the aforementioned elf who looks around the cafe and shrugs.

“All customers are currently satisfied, so I have a bit of downtime.”

“Is that how that works?”

“Maybe? I don’t know, what’s got you in a happy mood?”

“Going to the fancy work dinner of Vedal and Ellie’s company with her.”

“Cool, are you going to be matching with Ellie?” The elf asks, only for the hellhound to stop and probably mentally crash. “I’m guessing you don't know what she is wearing?”

“Oh my god Gelvur. I have no idea what to wear!” The hellhound exclaims, looking at the elf for any more advice. He only gives her a grin raising his arms up and surrendering.

“Hey just thank me that I reminded you, my boyfriend would hate me if we didn't match at a fancy party.” Gelvur points out, seeing the small bit of red hit Cerber’s face, his grin turning to a small smirk.

“We’re not like that, but I’ll still have to match her since she’s bringing me.” Cerber concludes, “Besides, it's normal to take your friend out on a platonic fancy dinner social.” The elf only sighs and rolls his eyes, as the hellhound takes out her phone and pulls up Ellie’s contact. “Thanks, Gelvur, I’ll ask her right now.”

“No problem Cerber.” He responds, his mind currently elsewhere, he taps the top of the hellhound's phone, getting her attention. “Do you think Vedal got a date?”

…

“This is more stressful than it should be,” Vedal exclaims, locking his car after placing his parking receipt on the windshield. He’s wearing a powderblue button-up, navy sport coat, a pair of dark beige chinos with a matching shade of brown for his belt and Chelsea boots. “Just need someone to act the role and get a good impression for the CEO, nothing too stressful.” He says, hoping to calm himself down, he grabs hold of the door opens it and enters. He enters Mandarin Fox Boutique, he sees at the counter one of Anny’s employees, a woman with dark purple hair, and red demonic horns at the top of her head. The half-demon is wearing a black studded leather jacket thrown over a dark purple button-up with three buttons unopened, and black ripped jeans. She’s currently on her phone scrolling away at it. “Hi, Numi.” Numi looks up from her phone, places it on the counter and gives the turtle a wave.

“Hiya Vedal, you here to pick up Anny?” She asks, he gives her a nod, “She’s just finishing getting ready, didn’t expect the two of you to be dating.” She adds Vedal gives her a cough moving the topic elsewhere.

“We’re not, it’s just a dinner to thank her for the work, also any updates on my stuff?”

“Oh sure, I can check that.” She turns around grabs the laptop on the opposite side, facing back to Vedal again and places it down. Typing in her password and looking at the various customer profiles she pulls up the turtle’s recent order. “We’re just waiting on jewelry to arrive but it’s been shipped out to us and will get here by this weekend.”

“That’s good to hear, do I need to bring my daughters when I pick the items up?”

“We’d recommend it, in case there are any last-minute adjustments for the entirety of the outfits.”

“Great. Aren’t you getting your degree soon?” The turtle asks, relying on the only main fact he knows about her since this is their second meeting. The first was he and his daughters coming in a week and a half after their fitting to try on their clothes and finalize accessories. Where during his fitting he returns to Numi being consoled by his daughters in regards to her love life.

“Yes after this winter I’ll get my business degree and figure something out afterwards.” She answers, “You sure that you’re not catching feelings for my boss?” The half-demon asks with a smirk. The turtle shakes his head in denial, however, the blush showing on his face doesn’t help.

“It’s just a simple dinner no need to think into it.” He brushes off the topic with a wave of his hand, hearing Numi’s chuckling from his reaction.

“Sorry for the wait, let’s go eat I’m starving.” The two talking at the counter turn to the source of the voice. Anny comes out from the back wearing a pink slip dress with a light grey cardigan over top, finishing it off with rose gold ballerina flats.

“Hiya Boss you’re all set.” Numi says giving her a thumbs up, “Don’t worry I can take care of the boutique for today.”

“Thank you, Numi,” The fox says walking up to the turtle offering her arm, “Well mister are we not going make our way for our date?” The turtle’s face turns further red however clears his throat, the half-demon giggles at their interaction and the fox is smiling.

“It's just a dinner but if you’re going to keep calling it that then I guess we can name this a date.” Vedal replies.

“Well, most times where two people go out to eat usually call it a date.”

“Then I’ll agree with you for that tidbit of information,” Vedal confirms, walking over to the entrance with Anny, as the fox gives a wave goodbye to Numi. Opening the door for the fox, he walks out after her, both chatting about their day. Numi waves at the two of them then slumps over the counter as they leave.

“Isn’t love neat?” She says a smile on her face wishing them luck.

…

{Sister I feel like you’re overcomplicating things.} Evilyn says to her sister who is currently drawing on the whiteboard with a marker the pros and cons of their father getting them a mother. On one side the title is “Vedal x Anny” and the other has “Cerber and Ellie” which Evilyncan’t wrap her head around for being any remotely close to being accurate. Underneath that section are the words girlfriends with strings of ideas around it. They’re both on their lunch break, with Neuro giving their remaining classmates an entire presentation on why her ships should sail. This had been going on for twenty minutes and Evilyn was eating her lunch listening to the absurd suggestions and feedback her classmates gave to fuel her sister’s aspirations. {I still don’t see how you got Miss Cerber and Miss Ellie together as a couple.}

[Evil, my dear younger sister,} Neuro lets the younger sit for longer than it should have, clearly to get Evilyn's attention for this important topic. [When Ellie was watching over us for a day she talked to me about how she was tutoring Ellie. And some of the conversation was much more than compliments I’m sure of it.] Evilyn can only raise her eyebrow at the summary of the event trying to recall if that ever happened.

{When did she say that?}Evilyn tilts her head in confusion.

[She was explaining her tutoring sessions while you were cooking for Dad.] Neuro confirms her arms crossed and a smug smile on her face.

{Are you sure?} Evilyn asks again, trying her best to recall that day a week ago. {Damn it, I can’t remember so I guess you’re right.} She sighs as she concedes defeat on this point. Neuro and her supporters cheer at Evilyn's defeat. Where a few students pat the younger sister’s back as condolences to Neuro’s determination. {Please don’t try to play matchmaker if they’re near each other.}

[Evil, I can’t control love. I’m merely guided by its mysterious ways.] That gets a sigh from Evilyn who shakes her head from the statement. [Besides, they’re priority number 2! We need to get Anny to be our mom!] Neuro raises her arms grinning with members of her swarm following her movements simulating a small crowd wave.

{Don’t argue with me on this point I can see it happening, Miss Anny is the teasing type but she’s very nice. It’ll be an equalizer for Father. But I doubt he's interested in love at the moment.}

[See I can get you to agree with me on that! Don't worry I'm sure we can have cupid play their part.] Neuro replies, hugging her sister on the side, Evilyn lets out a yelp from the sudden hug, pulling Evilyn up next to her. [Now let’s start brainstorming on getting them to go on a date.!] Neuro exclaims getting a cheer from half the class who were paying attention to the presentation. [Alright now let’s hear all your ideas! We want to optimize love as best as we can!] The class erupts into noise as multiple students raise their hands and start talking amongst each other to help Vedal find love.

{That’s not how love works…} Evilyn mumbles under her breath, pulling her phone out of her coat pocket seeing they they have thirty minutes left in their break. This means that she is stuck in this idea bomb that her sister has made, she lets out a sigh and starts scrolling online for a recipe for tonight’s dinner. {There’s no way you can get Father to go on a date with anyone.}

…

“So you want me to be your partner for your work dinner?” Anny confirms, taking a bite from her fork of the braised beef she ordered and looking at Vedal sitting across from her as he finishes taking a sip of tea. Hearing the explanation of her being his date and acting like they’re in a relationship for his job.

“Yes, that’s the rundown, if you don’t want to do it it’s fine I can go alone with Neuro and Evil,” Vedal replies, tapping his fork on some pieces of his chicken vermicelli. “You were one of the people I knew could be fun to have along for the dinner.”

“Was all this for that request?” Anny asks, gesturing to their table,Vedal shakes his head in denial, staring down at his food from his self-made embarrassment.

“No this dinner is meant to thank you for the work you’re doing for my family and this is my best way of showing appreciation.” He answers, still taking a breath from the silence that is growing between them. “Again I’ll still give you a shout if we’re asked about our clothes since-”

“When did I say no to the request Mister?” Anny interrupts, Vedal looks up from his plate looking at the slight blush on Anny’s face as her eyes lock onto his. “Sure I’ll act like your girlfriend for your dinner.”

“Thank you so much, Anny!” Vedal exclaims taking hold of her hands from across the table, both of their faces growing red from the sudden touching. He lets go of her hands sitting back down on his chair, clearing his throat. “Anyways let’s order some dessert shall we?” as he waves at their waiter over to their table. Their dwarvan waiter comes over with their notepad open ready to write down their orders.

“Wow quick to switch the topic, are you bribing me with sugar?” Anny says to the turtle. “Cuz I think it's going to be working for the most part, one Chocolate Explosion for me please.”

“I’ll take a banana caramel cheesecake as well please,” Vedal asks the waiter who nods at both of them writing down their orders and walking away from the duo.

“Hey, Vedal?” The turtle looks up as Anny is leaning forward on their table gesturing for him to come closer. “Let me tell you something real quick.” She says with a smile, Vedal tilts his head with uncertainty leaning forward to turn his ear towards the fox wondering what secret she needs to tell him. He feels a quick kiss on his cheek, feeling the quick breeze as Anny sits back on her chair giggling as he turns his head to face her. “What? We’ll need to practice more if you want to make it believable.” He sits down back in his chair, face red from the contact, looking back at the fox’s eyes. He chuckles shaking his head in disbelief, his daughters are not going to let this go.

Chapter Text

Evilyn sighs, she looks at herself in the mirror of her bedroom, seeing herself in her perfect-fitting bouffant dress, its length ending above her knees. The entirety of it is black, with gold and crimson roses that rise from the base and end off at her waist the edge of the dress is finished with a gold line. A gold and ruby butterfly hair clip sets her hair in a claw clip ponytail with gold ruby stud earrings. A rose gold locket with three hearts on it, ruby, sapphire and emerald on it. Inside the locket is a picture of a selfie made by Neuro, with Evilyn and their father behind both, all of them throwing peace signs. Something that was gifted to both Neuro and her as each of them has their own locket.

{It’s going to be cold,} She says to herself, glancing at the black button wool sweater that sits on her desk chair next to her shoulder bag. Grabbing it and her wireless headphones she unlocks the door to her room and moves to the living room waiting for the rest of her family. {Thank you Miss Anny for putting pockets in this dress.} Grabbing her phone out of her pocket she looks inside her bag to make sure she has everything she needs for tonight. Wallet, portable charger, charging cable, simple make-up supplies, other small emergency necessities and a taser that Vedal took but after repeated thefts from his room he doesn’t care anymore. Seeing that everything is there she heads to the entrance of their apartment taking the shoe box from underneath their coat closet. Bringing the box with her back to the living room, she takes out a pair of black lace-up Doc Martens boots. Taking one in her hand and examining the quality of it. {Always wanted a pair of these.} Placing it back down on the ground as she starts lacing them up. She hears the door to Neuro’s room swing open, she stays focused on lacing her boots as she hears her sister’s footsteps

[Evil what do you think?] Evilyn looks up looking at Neuro twirl around in her tea-length dress that ends by her calves. The midnight blue dress is covered with platinum stars and other metallic glints that resemble that of a starry night sky. Her hair is set up in half-up pigtails and platinum sapphire teardrop earrings, resting on her neck is a silver locket this time. She has silk gloves in the same pattern as her dress that goes to her elbows and mint-condition Converse high tops with dark blue laces that wrap the metal loops altogether. Her light blue bag slings over her shoulder as she looks through her items also double-checking that she isn’t forgetting anything important and useful. Necessities and a stun gun, which has also been repeatedly confiscated by Vedal but now assures them to use it in only an emergency as it was taken back from him.

{I think you look great sister. Father will have to protect you from any suitors.} Evilyn compliments and her sister responds with a giggle covering her mouth.

[Why wouldn’t any suitors go to you as well, we both have his genetics.]

{You’re older, so as heir, you will be pursued by many.} Evilyn mocks, smiling at her as Neuro rolls her eyes at the remark, a notification from her phone gets her attention, opening it and reading the message from her father. {Speaking of father, he should be here with Miss Anny soon.} That comment gets a small squeal from the eldest, getting Evilyn to look up from her phone to look at her sister.

[Still can’t believe Dad is taking Anny to the dinner.] Neuro exclaims, getting a raised eyebrow from her sister in response. [Considering what happened with Mom.] Neuro mutters out in a quiet voice as her aura suddenly turns gloomy, Evilyn sighs, pocketing her phone and walking over to her sister pulling her into a hug, [I miss her Evilyn.] Neuro returns the hug feeling the movement of Evilyn’s head nodding. Evilyn’s thoughts wander to one of the phones calls she overheard Vedal and Anny had on their ‘plan’.

{Yeah, I do too.} Evilyn says as she pats her sister's back, thinking of any method of pulling her older sister’s psyche back to her normal gleeful. {But hey maybe we will get Miss Anny as our mom soon.} Evilyn suggests, hiding her emotions on the likelihood of it happening to be next to zero, hearing Neuro suck in a breath and giving a surprised gasp after a few seconds.

[Having Anny as our new Mom would be so cool!] Neuro exclaims releasing the hug as she places both her arms on her sister’s shoulders. Evilyn looked away letting out a breath as she was surprised and relieved from the change of atmosphere from her sister. Still thinking about how the two adults are pretending this entire relationship. [It should come true since they’ve been on five dates in the past two weeks.] She continues, breaking Evilyn from her thoughts and receiving a nod of confirmation from her.

{Don't you feel as though it's progressing too fast?} Evilyn questions the information, knowing that there isn’t a way to throw her sister off ideas however Neuro just waves the questions off.

[No that's normal, a lot of anime and manga develop like that!] Neuro explains her mind at its full creative potential as she imagines romantic scenarios between Vedal and Anny. Evilyn rolls her eyes as she turns to her phone pulling up the shared tracking app their family uses.

{And Miss Anny spending the night here after the dinner?} Evilyn asks, hoping that her sister doesn't base her predictions on her romance fiction resources.

[Some cute close proximity interactions will happen.] She replies in a dreamlike voice.

{She’s taking the guest room.} The younger sister points out bluntly, knowing for a fact that they would not share Vedal’s bedroom.

[What? I thought they'd both be in Dad’s room.] Surprise leaves from the eldest.

{Why would they be in Father’s room?} Evilyn questions, eyebrow raised with the question.

[Cause they’re dating.] Neuro shrugs along with the answer

{That’s y’know what let’s just leave it as is.} Evilyn sighs as they hear the front door unlock both turning their heads to the entrance. {Hi Father, hi Miss Anny.} Anny waves at them as she enters first, Vedal entering afterwards. Vedal is wearing his grey suit, the button on his coat is open as it shows the three-piece suit in its entirety. The maroon and navy stripe that follows a windowpane pattern is subtle, but the colour becomes noticeable alongside the other three dresses. The white dress shirt has two non-monochromatic colours in a paisley with a dual-sided pocket square. Barely poking out of his French cuffs are two connected stars with ruby and sapphire filling the spot of the silver lining. A burgundy belt with a silver buckle pairs up well with his burgundy oxfords.

“Oh my god, you girls look so cute!” Anny exclaims walking over to the girls to give each of them a hug. The fox is wearing a dove grey a-line dress that reaches down to the floor, the black lace of paisley covers her chest, and a pattern of dark red roses and platinum vines decorate the base of the dress. A golden chain link necklace sits beneath the lace, upon it is a heart split with ruby and sapphires. The theme of hearts continues with hooked heart earrings that carry the two gems on either opposite side. Her hair is tucked into a side braid with a bun, her fox ears pointed upwards in joy upon the sight of the sisters in their dresses. After hugging both girls, she smooths out her dress looking back at the father. “Well, aren’t you going to compliment your daughters?”

“Why would I when I give them hugs and head pats whenever they ask for it.” The turtle answers with a smile. Neuro and Evilyn turn red from the response as Anny giggles at the two getting flustered.

{Father! I thought you would keep the head pats secret} [He gives you head pats?]

“Anyways the company’s car should be arriving soon, so are you both set?” Neuro nods excitedly and Evil gives her a thumbs up, Anny walks over to the turtle looping her arm with his. He turns away to hide the warmth that hits his cheeks, opening the door as Neuro nudges Evilyn with her elbow pointing at their father. Evilyn sighs and takes the lead for their way out of their apartment.

…

“Vedal, I thought you said this was for your work?” Anny asks as the four of them enter the dining hall, it is filled with various families all dressed in formal attire as they talk amongst one another. “Why is this event being held at one of the most extravagant hotels?”

“Um, I work for Crystalline Innovations?” The turtle responds as he pulls his left arm towards his chest as Evilyn dodges someone walking in the opposite direction. Anny is linked on his right; Neuro is holding onto his left with Evilyn's hand with Neuro’s on extending the chain. “This seems on par for what they do.”

“Wait, you work for Crystalline?” Anny asks, looking surprised at this reveal of information.

“Yes, I’m the department head for programming, now moving on. Let’s find Ellie so that she isn't alone throughout all of this.” He replies, getting a small cheer from his daughters from the knowledge of meeting up with Ellie.

{I wonder what Miss Ellie is wearing.} Evilyn says out loud.

[That’s not what's important right now Evil, what about if she’s here with Cerber?] Neuro says excitedly, getting a sigh from her sister and a look of confusion from the pair of adults.

{Sister believes that Miss Ellie and Miss Cerber are the perfect partners for one another.} Evilyn explains as the adults glance at one another, Anny’s in more confusion as Vedal shrugs, pulling out his phone to text his friend on her whereabouts. {I’ve been trying to steer her away from the train of thought.}

[Hey! It can still be true. We don’t know who’s with Ellie.] Neuro points out with a smile, Anny giggles, Evilyn sighs and Vedal leads the others to where a table of finger food is presented. They all see Ellie and Cerber together and Vedal, Anny and Evilyn react with shock while Neuro gasps in surprise and bolts towards the duo. [Ellie! Cerber! You both look amazing together!] Both women turn to the sound of Neuro’s voice, seeing her move towards them as they both wave at the rest of her group lagging behind her.

“Hi Neuro, didn’t expect you all to be coordinating,” Ellie says glancing at the Neynatesvens and Anny. Evilyn and Neuro both look at the assortment of food as they tug on Vedal’s sleeve who looks at the table giving them a nod of permission, the two start snacking on what is there. The android is wearing a halter pleated dress in a dusty blue that has a subtle snowflake pattern of a lighter blue upon it, the end of the dress finishes above her ankles, and a pair of white kitten-toe heels hits the ground. Her short hair remains the same however her clips are now silver with silver and ruby earrings that shine similarly to her eyes. Lastly a silver necklace “And to stop a lot of questions, yes I brought Cerber so I wouldn’t be alone here.” She says, gesturing to the hellhound next to her who stares at her two tutors.

“Well, I wasn’t expecting to see the department heads of programming and robotic engineering be friendly with one another,” Cerber remarks as they both look at her with shock she and Anny both laugh at their reactions. The hellhound has a lilac mermaid pleated dress, a darker shade of purple has imprints of flames that encircle the entirety of the dress as black platform heels make her taller than usual. Her hair is tucked into a braid that goes over her left shoulder, silver earrings with an amethyst flame hung from her ears with a necklace of silver fang that is gilded with an assortment of gems. “But really, don’t you two need to go talk to some ‘important’ people?” She asks making air quotes with the word important, the two heads wince at that statement showing their obvious distaste for the event.

“Well, we don’t really have to go out of our way to meet up with them.” Ellie points out hoping that they don’t get approached.

“We’re not that important, only two heads of two of the many core departments for the company…” Vedal continues disliking their current conversation.

“Ah, Vedal and Ellie! It's wondrous to see the both of you here!” A voice is heard behind the two, upon hearing their names the two turn around, widening their eyes. Anny and Cerber tilt their heads on opposite sides to view the person, seeing an orc with black hair, a beard and glasses, he’s wearing a dark green dinner jacket with black pants and a black bow tie on a white dress shirt having emerald studs and cufflinks.

“Mr. Grinof, it's nice to meet you again,” Ellie says, hiding the amount of pressure she’s under with their first conversation. “This is my friend Cerber, and I can have Vedal introduce who he brought.” Ellie continues gesturing to the hellhound and fox.

“Ah, nice seeing you Mr. Grinof, this is my partner, Anny,” Vedal says, as Anny moves beside him giving him a peck on his cheek, getting a gasp from the android and hellhound. “My daughters are over at the food table; you know how kids are,” Vedal adds getting a chuckle from the orc, as the group sees the girls both holding their single plates of various sweets. “Sorry where are my manners, Anny, Cerber, this is Grinof Frashback, current CEO of Crystalline Innovations.”

“No need for the full titles, I just wanted to pull the both of you to explain some of our current projects to our investors,” Grinof asks, the turtle and android look at each other turning back to him, giving a nod. “Perfect now I’ll give you a bit so you can talk with your partners so you can join me over to the amphitheatre.” Ellie gives him a thumbs up and Vedal sends a nod as he turns off to talk to another group of guests.

“I don’t want to do it,” Vedal says bluntly.

“Neither do I,” Ellie adds on, as she shakes her head in response.

“Well, the two of you should probably head off now so you can get it to end quicker,” Anny explains to the two of them. The two gloomy geniuses look up at the fox.

“Mhm, if you both end your discussions early then we can leave earlier.” Cerber continues, the two heads' faces turning into recognition of the idea presented by their partners. “Besides Vedal don’t worry about Neuro and Evil, we can watch them for you.”

“Thanks so much, you two.” The turtle thanks the two of them, he sighs turning to the android. “Hey, remember what I said the first year in our partnership?” He asks Ellie who chuckles when she recognizes the questions.

“Two introverts can bounce off each other better than bouncing off an extrovert.” She says, remembering when they stuck with each other throughout their first company’s social. Bouncing off conversation topics to each other when the other gets stuck on the topic, is a strategy that they have used whenever they both are attending formal company events. “Let’s get this over with.”

“We’ll find you guys later; well we’ll send a text to you for where you are,” Vedal says as the two department heads move off and get lost in the crowd. Leaving Anny and Cerber with each other.

“So, didn’t expect you to get a girlfriend already Cerber.” Anny teases the hellhound whose cheeks grow red.

“She’s not just a friend, she needed someone to fulfill the role of her partner, and I just volunteered,” Cerber mumbles, she then looks up at the smirking fox. “Wait you can’t just tease me when you’re dating Vedal.” This time it’s the fox’s turn to blush from words.

“We’re faking it, it’s only for the today’s event.” Anny stammers out her defence, with the hellhound only shaking her head in denial.

“I don’t think that looks fake.” Cerber doubts, “Do the girls know your two’s true relationship?”

“No, why?” Anny replies in confusion.

“Just wondering, you know how those two are,” Cerber says, with Anny raising an eyebrow at the sentence. “I’m just saying that Neuro is obsessed with romantic fiction and cares about Vedal a lot. Plus, Evil cares for people with actions rather than words and also loves Vedal a lot.”

“Yup they can be tricky sometimes, but isn’t that what’s great about his daughters?”

“They’re great but I didn’t even know that Vedal can have space for you in his heart considering both of his daughters will take up much space. No offense but it’ll be hard to compete with them.”

“It’s fine if he can’t give one hundred percent at the start it's fine, I don’t want him to move his love to me from Neuro and Evil. Speaking of them where’d they go?” Anny asks, her voice turning into worry with Cerber’s response looking at the food table not having the sight of the two girls.

{I don’t know where sister is she disappeared when I was making my way back to you two.} Evilyn speaks getting a small yelp from the two women, she rolls her eyes at their reaction. {I’m sure she’s fine, we can find her easily through an app Father made us install.} She holds her plate full of snacks to the fox and hellhound. {Want anything?}

…

[Now I swear that I saw Dad and Ellie following Sir orc somewhere…] Neuro mumbles to herself as she walks through the halls that are filled with adults talking to one another. Fear slowly grows on the fact that she has no idea where she is going in this hotel. [It's getting warm, oh the balcony.] She finds a door that leads outside, opening and feeling the cool air from the night. Moving to the railing she rests her arms on it looking at the cloudy night sky. She lets out a breath, as thoughts from the conversation with Evilyn before they left go around her mind.

[Would you still be with Dad, Mom?] She asks aloud to the night, her mind contemplating of what could have been. [Still miss you sometimes, Dad is doing great, never expect you to fall in love with him.] She chuckles at her latest phrase and looks down at the busy night streets and an array of car lights. [Do you think Dad will be able to love Anny? And will Anny do well as our mom?] Sighing at the silence, she feels her phone vibrate, guessing that it's worried texts from Evilyn.

[That’s Evilyn caring about me, funny that she’s a year younger but she’s more worried about me than herself.] Her voice wavers for a second, as she tries to stop a few tears from rolling. [She used to be so wary of Dad now she fusses over the both of us like we'll disappear.] Taking a deep breath she looks at the sky again. [And now I’m reminiscing about you at a time like this, I’ll probably talk to you again on my birthday.] Her tears halt as she forces herself to stop she hears the door to the balcony open as she turns to watch a catgirl and dragonborn walk over to the railing. She hears their conversation which is more of an argument than friendly banter.

“Again I told you that it’s never going to happen, Raylor.” The cat girl says to the dragonborn, she is wearing a coral floral patterned burnout dress. Her height is given a few more meters as she’s wearing black platform converses. Her blue eyes and blonde hair are complimented with the aquamarine earrings that adorn her ear. “I’ve mentioned it many times I’m not interested.” The Dragonborn in the navy suit shakes his head against the answer.

“Well, Miniko, you know I can’t take no as an answer since your mother has a nice position within Crystalline, wouldn’t having someone to takeover be nice.” He replies, taking a step forward, the cat girl takes a step back and glares at him as he does. Neuro senses the bad situation, reaching into her bag for her stun gun as she walks over to the two. Walking in between them she raises her right arm out blocking the cat girl from the dragonborn. “What are you doing pipsqueak?”

[She doesn’t want to be with you.] Neuro snaps back, the Dragonborn blows out some frost out of his mouth to the side, annoyed by the sudden interruption. [If you approach her then I’ll stop you.]

“I fucking doubt it girlie.” He cracks his knuckles as he takes a step forward, as he does so Neuro quickly pulls out her stun gun. Jumping up and poking him in the neck, he yelps in surprise before getting knocked out from the electrical shock. The cat girl gasps the action, not realizing that she is now dragging her saviour with her as the two are running in the hallways.

“Why did you do that?” The cat girl asks Neuro, who shrugs as she ponders on the action of returning her stun gun to her bag. “You just attacked the son of Mr. Glacinim.” The cat girl opens a door to a meeting room and shuts it behind them. Gathering her breath from the running she turns to the younger girl.

[And? He was being mean to you and I couldn’t just watch it happen.] Neuro states, she holds out her hand to the older girl. [I’m Neuro Neynatesven, my dad is the head of programming.] The girl looks at her questionably but sighs as she shakes her hand.

“Miniko Mew, my mother is head of production,” Miniko responds, letting go of the younger girl’s hand. “That was Raylor Glacinim, Mom told me that his dad put dumb ideas into his head and so he’s been chasing after me.” She shudders as she hugs herself from her own thoughts. “I’m only eighteen, and he’s been trying every time the company runs these events.” Neuro looks at her as she listens, admiring the colour and movements of Miniko’s hair, and looking at her eyes. They swirl like an ocean Neuro notes, she’s a very beautiful girl no wonder there’s people chasing after her.

[Do you have any dreams?] Neuro asks, catching Miniko off guard. [Like does your mom want you to follow her steps?]

“No, she’s actually wanting to support whatever I go into as long as I go to some type of post-secondary education.”

[That’s nice, do many people mention your eyes remind them of an ocean?] Neuro blurts out, surprised by her own words coming out of her mouth. She sees the cat blush but shakes her head in response.

“I think that would be a first that I would hear that. Thanks, Neuro.”

[No problem Miniko, how often do you attend these parties.] Neuro mumbles her words, her blush is visible from the cat girl.

“I’ve been pulled along for these since I was fourteen, but this is probably the largest one they’ve organized,” Miniko says, Neuro watches as the cat’s face turns into one of realization, she reaches into her purse taking out her phone to look at the time. “We’re about to miss the actual dinner portion.”

[Is that bad?] Neuro asks her head tilted to the said as she doesn’t get the importance.

“Yes, my mom is going to kill me if she doesn’t see me there.”

[Oh, well we should probably start walking.]

“What about your stun gun? Raylor is going to make a commotion about it.”

[Don’t worry about that princess I have it all under control, hopefully.] Neuro pulls out the stun gun and her phone, opening an app as a sound bite of Miniko’s and Raylor’s conversation is replayed. [Only bought this as it records audio once it’s carried out of its charging port and I can save audio logs, it also timestamps when it’s been used. So… it can easily be defended as self-defence.] Neuro assures her, as she quickly edits the audio to when they enter the balcony and for it to end a few seconds after shocking the dragonborn.

“You still stunned someone, but can you send the audio file.” Miniko asks, Neuro tilts her head. “I can get this to my mom, and she can definitely do something to make them not attend any future events.” She grabs Neuro’s hand, looking at the girl, who nods in response as she starts the process of sending the file. “Come on let’s get to the dining hall before it is served, I can give you my contact on the way there.” Neuro gives her a frantic nod as she turns away to hide the small blush on her cheeks, with the two making their way back to the events within the larger halls of the hotel.

…

“Are you sure that Neuro is going to be fine?” Anny asks the younger sister; Evilyn looks up from her phone. The two are seated at one of the many tables that fill the dining hall, unfortunately, Cerber is seated in a different table as Ellie is in a different department. It had been a couple of minutes since Neuro had disappeared, but Evilyn assured the two adults that she was fine and was still around the hotel.

{Sister will be fine; worst comes to worst we’ll bail her out of a situation if we must.} Evilyn answers, she checks the tracking app, seeing that Neuro’s dot is moving toward their location. {It looks like she’s on the way here as we speak.} Anny lets out a sigh of relief, Evilyn glances at her before placing her focus on her phone. {Do you love Father, Miss Anny?} Anny looks up startled by the question.

“What? Of course, I-.”

{I know what you and Father agreed upon, Neuro can’t see how the two of you pretend it, but I can.} Anny is at a loss for words from the confrontation of the twelve-year-old. As Evilyn sees the look of shock she sighs as she receives confirmation of her question. {So why? If you love Father, you wouldn’t go on these dates with him and help him out especially.}

“I don’t know,” Anny says to the girl, Evilyn looks skeptical at the answer but motions her to continue. “Emotions are a fickle thing aren’t they, I suggested the dates to ‘practice’ and with each one I enjoyed it plus hanging out with you two was a wonderful experience.” Evilyn looks as a smile appears on the fox's face as she explains her case on why they set up their pretend relationship. “He’s very reclusive and of course an introvert but he has his humour along with his heart that melts immediately when it comes to the two of you.” The fox continues with Evilyn’s focused face breaking and turning soft with each phrase that is spoken. “Of course, he cares about you two the most, it's like the two of you are his shining stars to guide him in life.” That phrase got Evilyn to tear up from the information, Anny took a breath in a pause. “So, to answer your question Evilyn, I guess I do love your father.” Anny looks at the girl sitting next to her, her smile goes to a frown as she sees the girl’s eyes being watery. Evilyn quickly moves towards the fox hugging her. Shocked by the sudden action, the frown turns to a smile as Anny returns the hug.

{You promise that you’re sure about your feelings.} Evilyn asks as she rubs her tears off from her face.

“I’m very much sure, I’m just not sure if Vedal feels the same.” Evilyn’s eyes widened as her current focus was set on Anny’s emotions but not her father’s. Father hasn’t genuinely loved someone that wasn’t herself or Neuro, but even then she’s sure with the help of Neuro they can get his heart to open up more room.

{Don’t worry about that Miss Anny, you’ll have Neuro and I on your side.} Evilyn confirms as she lets go of the hug, getting comfortable back in her chair. {You’ll realize when Father properly opens up to you and can express his actual feelings.} Anny nods, reaching over and patting the girl’s head. Evilyn closes her eyes and giggles at the action, she pulls out her phone checking Neuro’s location again and sees that she’s almost here. {Neuro is about to be here, did Father tell you how long he’ll take?}

“Vedal and Ellie were both taken away by the CEO so I’m not sure how long they’ll be gone,” Anny responds, uncertainty in the tone as she is working with the same amount of information as Evilyn. “Oh, there’s Neuro. Who’s that with her?” Anny says out loud getting Evilyn’s attention to who’s with her sister. Said sister walks over to their table and takes her seat next to Evilyn, her acquaintance gives her a wave as she moves to a different table in the dining hall.

{So, where did you go sister?} Evilyn asks, Neuro winces, as she looks at Anny and Evilyn both looking at her inquisitively. {Better have a good explanation.} Neuro raises her finger to begin explaining herself, a nervous chuckle accompanying it.

[Funny story with that.]

…

“That was miserable, how long were we tortured,” Ellie asks Vedal as they walk with the other guests toward the dining hall. Both looked exhausted from the long winding conversation and explanations on their jobs which investors somehow were interested in. Vedal rolls his left sleeve up reading the time on his watch.

“That was twenty minutes.” He responds, and they both sigh at the answer. “So, you and Cerber huh?” He asks, the android turning to face him with a slight tint of red on her face.

“Oh, don’t you start this, what about you and Anny?” Ellie counters, with Vedal only shrugging in response.

“What is there much to say, we’re going out with one another,” Vedal says bluntly, Ellie grumbles from the lack of a reaction. “Alright, I’ll stop with this subject if you will too?”

“Fine as long it stops right now,” Ellie confirms, Vedal nodding his head with a chuckle. The two enter the dining hall and read for where they go, waving off from each other as they head to their respective tables. Vedal approaches his table as he sees a couple and a family of three seated there as well. Neuro and Evil were in a conversation with a half-elf before seeing him approach and they begin to wave at him. He takes his seat next to Anny who places a hand on his shoulder sending over a smile, his face turns red, leaning over and giving her a peck on her cheek. She giggles from the action.

“How was talking to rich people?” Anny asks quietly, Vedal groans in annoyance and turns to her.

“Torturous, thank god they count this event as overtime,” Vedal replies, glancing at his girls talking to the half-elf boy he looks at the kid’s parents who are currently in conversation with the couple on their side. “Have the three of you been doing well?” He asks, Anny gives him a nod.

“Yes, the snacks were great even before we’re receiving dinner what’s after this part?” Anny asks, Vedal only sighs.

“Afterwards apparently is more talking but only if you want to stay longer, which unless Ellie and Cerber are staying that means we have to as well. But hey at least we can stick with them, and we won’t be taken away this time.”

“That’s nice… Hey Vedal?” Anny nudges him to get his attention on her, he turns to face her their eyes locking with one another.

“What’s up?”

“Would you want to go on an actual date?” The fox asks, sucking in her breath as she looks at his face for an early response with emotion. Seeing his eyes slightly widen but a slight hint of red rests upon his face she mentally cheers for herself.

“I… Uh… Sure we can figure something out in a few days.” The turtle stammers out, looking back up at the fox where they both can see the blush the is creeping up on each other face. They don’t notice Evilyn watching the interaction with a smile as she turns back to Neuro currently in a conversation with the half-elf boy to distract her from interrupting the adult’s talk. Perhaps her father can finally love someone after Mom. And he also doesn’t need to know what happened when Neuro got lost. She assumes that it’ll be fine and that they can all enjoy the rest of the night.

Chapter Text

Vedal stirs awake, his eyes still shut as he enjoys the warmth that’s around him. He senses the smile on his face, moving closer to his pillow, which is giving the most warmth and feels as if it's breathing. He sighs as he keeps his eyes tighter enjoying his current state of coziness. “This is nice.”

“I’m glad you like hugs.” Anny says to him in a soft voice. Vedal open his eyes, pulling away from the pillow or person, rubbing his eyes he sees Anny giggling across from him. “What? You were all cozy and I didn’t want to wake you.”

“I forgot that we were sharing a bed.” He confirms, the fox nodding in agreement, letting out a yawn as he stretches. “What time is it?” The fox turns to the side grabbing her phone before facing the turtle again.

“8:03 AM.” Anny answers, with Vedal letting out a sigh as he pulls the cover over him.

“Too early I’m going to bed.” He shuts his eyes closed, feeling the bed shift, opening his eyes to see her move closer, her arms out in an embrace. “What are you doing?”

“I thought you liked hugging things to sleep?” Anny asks, only receiving an eye-roll from the turtle.

“I don’t.” He denies, his actions not following his words as he moves closer to the fox, Anny only giggles as she wraps her arms around him. “Just don’t bite me please.” Chuckling as Anny gives him a light slap on the back of his head. The two enjoying each other’s warmth as they lose their consciousness to the comfiness of the morning.

…

Evilyn stretches her arms in the air, as she rises herself from her pillow, covering her eyes from the rays of sunlight that hit her. She has a black loose-fitting long sleeve shirt and black and white flannel pants. Letting out a yawn as she pushes off her blankets and slipping on her frog slippers she rubs the sleepiness out of her eyes. Glancing at her phone she takes it off its wireless charger and taps it on to see the time, 8:26 AM. They got home from the dinner close to twelve but she’s always an early bird. Phone in hand, she heads out of her room towards the bathroom. Passing by her father’s room she stops, looking at the door, taking a breath as she quietly opens the door a bit to peek inside. A smile forms on her face as she sees Vedal curled into Anny, her arms over him, the two sleeping soundly. Evilyn shuts the door with little noise she as did when opening it, turning back to make her way to the bathroom.

{Small little steps, that’s all it takes to start loving again.} Evilyn says to herself, opening the door to the bathroom, reaching for her toothbrush and laying a line of light blue toothpaste on it, she starts brushing her teeth. Humming to herself a song to make sure that she brushes for two minutes. Once that finishes, she spits out the toothpaste and finishes the rest of her business in the bathroom. Unlocking and opening the door she makes her way to the kitchen figuring out what she should make for breakfast.

{What to make, I’m kind of lazy right now.} Evilyn says, opening their pantry and pulling up a recipe for French toast. Grabbing a loaf of pre-cut bread, cinnamon, sugar, milk, eggs and the other ingredients necessary for the meal. Evilyn opens a cupboard beside the stove, using two hands to pull out a griddle that takes up two of the stovetops. Placing it and heating up the two sections, she cracks her knuckles and starts making the batter for the toast, cracking eggs and dumping ingredients into a bowl. {Sister should be up soon.} Evilyn mumbles seeing the oven’s clock at 8:51 AM. Just in time, she hears the quiet footsteps of Neuro moving to the bathroom and the running of water. Evilyn finishes up with the batter for the bread and starts dunking them and placing them on the griddle. Hearing her sister’s footsteps come closer to the kitchen she glances at Neuro entering the kitchen. {Morning sister.}

[Morning, Evil, need help?] Neuro asks, pulling down the hood of her dolphin onesie, her feet in comfy cat slippers. Evilyn points to the open spot on the griddle and the fridge.

{I think we have farmer’s sausage in the fridge if you can start that would be great, please.} Evilyn asks, with Neuro nodding as she opens the fridge grabs the package out of the fridge and cuts it open with a pair of scissors. She gives thanks to Evilyn as her sister hands her a pair of tongs which she uses to move the sausages to the griddle, hearing the sizzle of meat hitting the hot surface. The two silently work their way to breakfast, the noises of the sizzling griddle and clicking of tongs. {Miss Anny and Father are sharing his bed.} Evilyn breaks the silence, Neuro looking at her sister with surprise that turns to excitement. {You can interrogate what happened after we finish eating breakfast, please.} Neuro pouts at the request but giggles at the realization of the progress of their dad’s relationship.

[And you doubted me.] Neuro teases her sister, who only nudges her back with her elbow. [Hey! You saw it yourself not me.] She laughs at her sister’s reaction, she looks back at the griddle, starting to turn the sausages to a different side. [You think it’ll work out?] Evilyn hums at the question thinking about the previous night’s interrogations.

{I hope they turn out great, Father is not one good with feelings.} Evilyn points out, Neuro nodding in agreement on the fact. {But I think Miss Anny can open up more if we help him realize his emotions.} She suggests, moving a batch of toast onto a plate, replacing it with another freshly battered batch onto the griddle. {Well we can only hope sister.}

[You’re really hoping though aren’t you?] Neuro questions, her smile not leaving her face.

{Yes, now focus on breakfast! I want it to be ready when they wake up.} Evil demands her sister, with the eldest only laughing as they both return their focus to the meal.

Evilyn looks at the oven clock again, 9:24 AM. She stretches her arms and lets out a yawn. They just finished cooking the sausages and French Toast. Neuro cracks her hands as she begins reaching for the plates. {I’ll set up the fruit.} Evilyn says out loud, opening the fridge and taking out bananas, strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Pulling out a board and cutting board to make some of the fruits easier to eat. The two continue with the final pieces of the setup, expecting one of the adults to wake up soon. Neuro finishes with the cutlery as Evilyn sets down the bowls, both take a step back to admire their work. The younger sisters glances at her older sister, who notices the look, tilting her head in confusion.

[What is it Evil?] Neuro asks, Evilyn only turns to face her sister.

{Nothing I’m just thinking about your escapade last night.} Evilyn replies, getting her mouth closed by her sister's hands.

[I thought we agreed that we wouldn’t talk about it.] Neuro demands, only getting mumbling from her muted sister. [Oh right, sorry.] She pulls back, with Evilyn catching her breath.

{We did, I’m just surprised you went through all that trouble for the cat girl.} Evilyn wonders out loud.

[Her name is Miniko! And we're friends now!] Neuro declares, crossing her arms, a bit annoyed by her sister’s doubts. [She actually invited me to hang out with her.] She adds a hint of proudness behind that line.

{Oh really, what are you two planning on doing?} The younger sister asks, curious as to what her sister will be doing with the older girl.

[We’re doing bowling sometime next week.] As Neuro finishes her response they both hear the door to Vedal’s room open, and footsteps heading in their direction. They recognize the pattern of the route as Vedal’s since he always starts his coffee machine and then heads to the washroom. [Oh, we forgot his coffee.] She grumbles, and Evilyn pats her on the shoulder.

{We did, it’s fine, Father would want to make his own coffee anyway.} Evilyn points out, turning to the entrance of the kitchen as Vedal enters. {Morning Father!} She greets him, the turtle only grumbles his eyes half open, he’s wearing green flannel pants and a Slay the Spire t-shirt, walking towards his daughters.

[Hi Dad, good sleep?] Neuro asks, giggling as he gives her a peck on her head, turning to Evilyn and giving her one as well ignoring her protests of dignity.

“It was nice,” Vedal answers, setting his mug into the coffee machine and turning it on. He turns around patting both of his daughter's heads as he looks at the breakfast the two made. “Nice job on breakfast, I’ll wake Anny up.” He mentions, making his way back to the bedroom, seeing the fox curled in the sheets. Walking over, he leans on the bed, poking the side of her head with enough force to wake her up.

“What is it, mister?” Anny asks, groaning as she turns to face the person waking her up. Rubbing her eyes and yawning as she sits up.

“Evil and Neuro made breakfast, they wouldn’t want you to eat it cold.” He replies, turning around and entering his personal washroom. Anny watches him leave, sighing as she gets up and walks over to her bag to grab her toothbrush and toothpaste, taking it with her as she heads to the other washroom.

Once Vedal finishes whatever he is doing, he returns back to the kitchen already seeing Neuro and Evilyn seated next to each other eating their servings. He now just realized the amount of food that they have cooked.

“Evil did you watch out for how much you were making?” Vedal inquires, taking his fresh mug of coffee from the machine. Taking his seat at the table, she sees Evilyn look turned away not facing him with Neuro only widening her eyes as she registers what was said. “Evilyn?” He hears her clear her throat before turning back to him.

{There might have been a slight miscalculation.} Evilyn says softly, he sighs at the response. The three hear Anny’s footsteps as she enters, wearing shorts and an oversized t-shirt she takes her seat next to Vedal. {Morning Miss Anny.}

“Morning Evil, morning Neuro.” Anny greets them she glances at the three of them, “So what’s the issue too much food?”

{Yes… might have cooked too much.} Evil confirms, Anny giving a hum, while she gives a look of thinking.

“That’s alright is there anyone closeby who you can share some of this with?” The fox suggests Neuro brightens up with the idea.

[We can drop some off at Leau’s!] Neuro adds on, getting a nod of approval from the others, [If I recall she normally skips breakfast.]

“Well, the two of you can do that after we finish breakfast.” Vedal points out, with Neuro giving a cheer and Evilyn nodding along. “I can drop you off after we’re done eating. By the way, this is great well done you two.” He congratulates them, Evilyn looking proud of herself and Neuro cheering even more.

“That works Vedal, he’s not wrong these are really good,” Anny adds, further increasing the girl's reactions, with the four of them continuing their breakfast together. Vedal smiles into his mug as he takes a sip enjoying the cozy view of a potential common morning for his daughters.

…

[Ready Evil?] Neuro shouts as she asks her sister as she waits by their door, the elder sister is wearing her favourite cream cardigan, a white t-shirt, brown pants, and white sneakers. Vedal and Anny had left to drop her off at home a few minutes before the two sisters got ready for their delivery.

{Give me a second sister! I need to make sure this won’t spill!} Evilyn shouts as she appears in the living room handing the bagged warm containers of breakfast to Neuro. The younger sister is wearing a white crew neck wool sweater, a black button-up underneath, black slacks and her favourite black combat boots. {You suggested this idea yet I had to pack it up for you.} She complains, taking out her set of keys as she opens the door for Neuro who exits. Following after her she turns around shutting and locking the door.

[Let’s go!] Neuro announces, taking her sister's hand as she leads the way to WaterMart. [I wonder if Leau happened to eat breakfast today.] She ponders looking back at her sister for a reply.

{It would be ironic that the one day we decide to give her is when she eats.} Evilyn replies, getting a frown from Neuro. {Hey you suggested the idea if she had eaten already.}

[But you’re supposed to be against the suggestion.] Neuro points out, and Evilyn shrugs.

{It doesn’t matter the chances of that are low. You know it too.}

[Yeah… The sea-elf really needs to eat more.] Neuro continues, [And we’re here to fix that!] She exclaims walking faster as the storefront is within view. Evilyn sighs as she facepalms upon Neuro letting go of her hand to open the store’s door. Neuro enters first as Evilyn follows, hearing a gasp from her sister.

{What is it this time?} She asks, feeling her shoulder being shaken by her sister. Looking up they see Leau reading another book at the counter and Vivia next to her focused on typing something on a laptop. {Oh her girlfriend is here.} Said girlfriend looked up and waved at the two of them, nudging Leau out of their book who looked up at the girls giving them a smile.

“Oh didn’t expect you two this early,” Leau says, she’s wearing a light blue zip-up hoodie, a black shirt underneath and light-washed jeans. “As you can see, Vivia is here too.” She gestures to the vampire. The vampire is wearing a white golf shirt, black dress jeans, and a black bomber jacket over the rest.

“Hi Neuro, hi Evilyn.” Vivia greets them, the sisters wave back approaching the counter. “What’s that?” She asks, pointing at the bag, breaking Neuro out of shock.

[Oh its breakfast for you Leau! And Vivia too. Did you eat breakfast yet Leau?] Neuro stammers out quickly out of embarrassment, the sea-elf smiles shaking her head no. She hands the bagged containers to the couple who opens it and their faces melt in awe as they smell the food.

“Wow, did your dad cook this?” Leau asks, the sisters shake their heads pointing at each other.

[We cooked it ourselves!] Neuro proudly answers hands on her hips, Evilyn nods, focused on the couple’s reactions to their food. As Leau takes the containers out of the bag he eyes widen in realization.

“Wait let me grab some utensils and plates upstairs.” She leaves the counter and heads over to the door that leads to her home. Opening it and poking her head out before heading upstairs, pointing at Vivia. “Make sure they don’t ruin my store.” Vivia chuckles, Neuro looks shocked and Evilyn looks at Leau like it’s a challenge, before she heads up only hearing her footsteps going up the stairs. Leaving the sisters with the vampire, Neuro takes out her phone and opens up a Word document labelled ‘Ships’ which is filled with people she knows and their information. Evilyn sees it and sighs knowing the onslaught of questions that’s going to occur.

[Vivia what do you do for work?] Neuro starts, Vivia tilting her head in confusion, giving her a smile that shows her fangs.

“Well, I’m a server administrator for fun at a big corporation.”

{Can we know the name?} Evil interrupts curious about the vampire’s career.

“No, I’d rather not tell twelve-year-olds about my job.” A smile appearing from Vivia, a huff comes from Evilyn as Neuro looks at her phone.

[How old are you? Like both your appearance age and actual age.] Neuro places her elbows on the counter staring down the vampire.

“What a rude question. But I’ll bite. I got turned at twenty-three, I’m actually eighty-seven.” Vivia answers, rolling her eyes at the gasps of shock from the sisters.

[Does Leau know about your age?] Neuro continues, Evilyn pulling her back from the vampire.

{Maybe let’s not ask very personal questions.} She tries to change her sister’s mind.

[It’s important I care about Leau and want to make sure her relationship is healthy!] Neuro argues back, Evilyn facepalming and Vivia chuckling at their antics.

“I know about and I’m fine with it.” Leau’s voice is heard coming down the stairs, holding onto two plates, a set of forks and knives. Setting it down on the counter, “You two realize I’m sixty-two right?” Another round of shocked gasps comes from the sisters, more chuckles from Vivia. “I had this store redone like three times already.”

[You’re that old!] {I can’t believe it.} The sisters say together, with Leau frowning and Vivia’s chuckles turning into full laughter.

“These girls are great they’re funny.” Vivia manages to wheeze out as she catches her breath, Leau pokes her girlfriend in the shoulder annoyed by her reaction. She turns her focus on the french toast covered with fruit and the sausages, taking a portion out and taking a bite. Her eyes lit up.

“That is delicious. You both did incredible.” Leau compliments, cutting a piece and offering it to Vivia, who takes the bite from her fork, nodding her head in agreement. Neuro looks at Evilyn offering her a fist bump, which she returns.

[Yay! Glad you both enjoy it. It was Evil’s idea mostly.] Neuro comments, getting a slight shove from her sister.

{It was a joint effort you helped out.} Evilyn stammers out, {You worked on the other half of the meal!} She adds on, not wanting the sole responsibility of the meal. The sea-elf and vampire just watch the sisters bicker, smiling at their antics and enjoying the food they cooked.

“Alright, stop arguing you two, how about this, each of you grabs a snack, since you brought me breakfast,” Leau suggests, giving them a wink, the sisters look at each other as they both dart off into separate sections of the store looking for their go-to treat. Leau smiles at the two, and Vivia chuckles at their immediate reaction to free snacks.

Chapter Text

Neuro looks at herself in the mirror, adjusting her red ribbons in her hair, double checking her outfit for her hangout with Miniko today. Twirling around, she’s wearing one of her favourite outfits, a girl’s sailor uniform, a white button-up, sky blue pleated skirt, a cream cardigan over top of it with a teal-colored ribbon bow tie. Looking satisfied with the outfit she grabs her red gym bag hanging on the back of the door, swinging it open as she walks out into the living room. She sees Vedal taking a nap on the couch, a blanket over him most likely placed by Evilyn, the TV is on with Planet Earth playing. The turtle is wearing black jeans and his favourite turtle hoodie, the hood is up to provide more comfort for his head.

{I forgot you’re going somewhere today.} Evilyn’s voice is heard from the kitchen, Neuro turns to see the younger sister working on another recipe, most likely for their dinner.

[Yes, I’m going bowling with Mini today.] Neuro replies, walking over to Vedal to give him a peck on the head, walking into the kitchen in its organized chaos. Evilyn is stirring a some sort of stew as she has various ingredients beside her ready to be dropped in. Neuro hugs her sister from behind, startling her completely.

{Hey! Watch it!} Evilyn says to her, begrudgingly returning the hug back to her. She returns her focus back to her cooking, Neuro giggling still holding onto her younger sister, {Are you not leaving soon?}, glancing at Neuro to see a response, the older sister nods her head in agreement.

[Mini is on her way, she should be here soon?] Neuro answers, smiling as she lets go of Evilyn to not impede on her cooking. Making her way back to the living room and grabbing her brown tuxedo slip on shoes that have a metallic buckle and black soles with her black knee high socks. [Are you just staying home today Evil?] She asks, finishing putting on her shoes standing in front of the door still within earshot of the kitchen/.

{Miss Anny is stopping by in an hour, but other than that I’ll be finishing up some homework.} Evilyn responds, Neuro hearing the splashing of ingredients into the pot. Neuro brightens up upon the mention of Anny’s name, a part of ‘Anonymous M’ is played as Neuro’s phone ringer activates. She quickly grabs her phone out of her pocket, seeing Miniko calling her, she pulls the phone ot her ear.

[Oh. Mini is calling, bye Evil!] Neuro yells out to her sister, opening the door, [Lock the door for me please!] She doesn’t hear Evilyn’s reply as she shuts the door answering the call. [Hi Mini!]

“Hi Neuro, I’m parked across the street from your place, in the blue car.”

[Sure thing, I’m going down the stairs. I'm basically out right now.] Neuro adds on, opening the door out of their apartment and feeling the cooler fall breeze. Seeing the parked blue RAV4 on the opposite side of the street, crossing once a car had passed, she sees Miniko wave at her and she returns it. Opening the passenger side door and taking a seat. [Mini!]

“Neuro! Ready to lose in our bowling match?” Miniko teases, chuckling at her own comment as Neuro looks shocked from the cat girl. She is wearing a white oversized jacket with a cat ears hood, black cargo shorts with black tights go down to her platform boots.

[Nuh uh. I’ll be winning today!] Neuro replies confidantly, Miniko smiles at the reply, looking to see that Neuro has put on her seat belt, shifting gear to drive, the two make their way to the bowling alley.

…

“Have you ever played bowling at all?” Miniko asks Neuro while they both lace up their bowling shoes. She took off her jacket and revealing a white t-shirt that’s a bit too big as her left shoulder is showing.

[I’ve done a few games with Evil and Dad but not much apart from that.] Neuro replies, taking a seat as she watches the cat stretch her arms as she moves towards the ball rack grabbing a ten pound ball. She goes into the proper stance and rolls the ball down the alley, it knocks down eight pins, two pins stand on opposite sides, a split. [That’s tough to complete.]

“Damn a split.” Miniko says out loud, Neuro snickers from the comment, getting the attention of the cat. “You know what here, I’ll get a spare!” She says confidently as she ignores the younger girl, grabbing a nine pound this time and sends it down. It knocks down a single pin on the left side. “Well your turn Neuro.” She gestures to the lane as Neuro gets up and reaches for an eight pound ball. Practicing a swing, she rolls the ball with a surprising amount of swing, knocking down four pins on the right.

[Aww, I thought I would hit more.] Neuro pouts, as she reaches for the same weighted ball.

“That should be an easy spare though.” Miniko points out watching as Neuro fires away, the ball rolls straight down the middle but it goes to the left upon impact, knocking down three center pins. Neuro walks back to their seats, looking up at the scoreboard.

Neuro: 7
Miniko: 9

[I can catch up, just watch.]

“Oh yeah? Well I’ll just need to widen the gap.” Miniko chuckles to herself as another ten pounder is sent down the lane, a lot of spin was put into it, as the ball gutters barely hitting the furthest on the right. Miniko lets out a sigh looking at the situation. “Also the Glacinum family has been cut off from Crystalline.” She states, getting the Neuro to perk up from the information. “Well more like under investigation for the most part.” Another ball rolls down with added spin, this time it hits the center left earning Miniko eight pins.

[So did the recording help?] Neuro inquires, stepping up for her turn, grabbing the same weight as last time. She sends the ball towards the pins, getting six points with her first ball, four remain on the right side.

“Well my mom went straight to action when I told her what happened.” The cat watches the girl whirl a ball at the pins on the right, she scores herself three more pins. “She was concerned if I was okay and then she started calling people so I guess things are progressing.” Neuro heads to sit down next to Miniko, they both check on the scoreboard.

Neuro: 16
Miniko: 17

[So you’re okay now? He was fairly scary when I met you the first time.] She mentions, as the cat waves the comment off with her hand.

“I dealt with him many times in the past, I think telling my mom just unleashed her wrath onto the family.” Miniko punches her fist into her hand, “And for good too! Which means I shouldn’t have to worry about people wanting to marry me. I can have a normal university life.”

[That’s good to hear, by the way Mini it’s your turn.] Neuro points out getting a yelp from the cat as she stands up to roll her first ball. A slight spin is added as she sends it a bit left to the center, a satisfying noise of many pins are knocked down, all except for one on the left side is standing, nine points. [Easy one Mini! Just don’t gutter it!] Neuro cheers as she pulls out her phone, scanning the QR code on the table for the menu, ordering a basket of fries and a cookie milkshake for herself. Looking back up she sees Miniko fire away a ball that is swinging to the final pin, but it barely misses the pin flying by its right. [Nice try!] The cat turns around to take her seat on the table, seeing the order on Neuro’s phone, [I got us fries, just add what drink you want while I go.] Neuro heads towards the lane, Miniko grabbing the phone seeing the drink her friend got.

“A cookie milkshake?” She questions getting an offended look from Neuro.

[Hey! Cookies are perfect for any sweet thing!] Neuro defends, grabbing the same weight that she has been using, sending it down the lane, she earns herself seven pins, leaving three in the center. She takes a deep breath as she puts a lot more force into this swing than before, it flies down the center hitting the last three pins, getting a spare. Miniko cheers as she watches the spare happen, looking back at the phone and confirming the order with a strawberry milkshake added on. Neuro heads back to her, turning her head to view the scores, jumping and giving a quick cheer seeing the update.

Neuro: 32
Miniko: 26

[Yes! I’m in the lead now Mini!] Miniko rolls her eyes, walking towards the lane for her turn, she cracks her fingers and stretches her arms, earning a giggle from Neuro.

“Watch, this is going to be a strike.” She states, grabbing a twelve pound ball, taking a deep breath, lining herself in the middle she fires the ball towards the center of the ten pins she shuts her eyes, hearing the crashing of pins. She hears a gasp come from Neuro, Miniko slowly opens her eyes, seeing that she had gotten a strike. The weight of another person surprises her but she realizes its Neuro grabbing and shaking both her arms.

[You got a strike!] Neuro adds with excitement, seeing the shock on the cat’s face turn into a smile. [Wait, that means you’re taking the lead.] She pouts at the knowledge, moving past Miniko to their lane for her turn, who takes a seat, thanking the server that drops off their fries and milkshakes. The bowling ball goes down the lane, she watches the bowl knock into six pins in the center, splitting it three on the left and one to the right. [Huh, that’s annoying.]

“It’s easy just hit the left and have it bounce to the right.” Miniko says, taking a sip from her milkshake. Neuro rolls her eyes at the suggestion, putting a lot more force and spin into the second ball, it swerves left knocking the three as the pins bounce off the back wall. “Good effort.” Miniko adds, patting Neuro’s frowning head as the girl goes to snack on the fries and her milkshake. “You better catch up, Neuro.”

Neuro: 41
Miniko 46

[Unfair! You probably play bowling every week!] Neuro states, taking a sip of her milkshake feeling the bits of cookie dough swirl in her mouth, delicious. Her frown from the past turn disappears with the tasty snack.

“Not true, I only go about three times a month.” Miniko replies, taking another sip out of her shake before leaving it at the table, going to the lane for another turn. The bowling ball swerves left, knocking seven pins and leaving three more on the right in a triangle formation. “Easy spare.” She says to herself, stretching her right arm as she sends one down the lane, hitting its target as earning herself a spare. Returning back to Neuro and a basket of fries a quarter of the way through. “Alright, show me another strike, Neuro.” She teases, only receiving another eye roll with a face filled with determination, taking her seat as Neuro heads towards the lane.

[Watch, easy strike right here.] Neuro announces, getting a chuckle from the older girl, taking a breath before she launches the ball, it lands center left, a big crash is heard with nine pins being knocked down. A singular rest on the right right beside the gutter.

“Don’t gutter it!” Miniko yells from their seats, Neuro ignores the comment as she focuses back to the single pin near the gutter. The ball rolls narrowingly by the gutter, unfortunately it tips off to the right gutter, scoring zero points. Turning around immediately seeing Miniko trying to hide her laughter, crossing her arms.

Neuro: 50
Miniko: 63

[It’s not funny.] Neuro affirms, breaking Miniko into full laughter, [Just you wait, I’ll get my revenge by winning this match!] Swapping seats with the cat that is trying to catch her breath from her lack of air. She wipes off her tears from laughing as she grabs a bowling ball.

“Sure, that’ll definitely happen.” She shouts behind her, flicking her wrist as she lets go of the ball that spins to the left, earning her seven points. Taking her second ball looking at the remaining three pins that hang on the right, taking a step to the left and launching it to the last three, however it swerves too much to the right, knocking down one furthest to the right. “Damn it.” She hears the giggling from Neuro behind her but ignores it, gesturing for the younger girl to take her turn. Neuro gives her a smile before standing with a nine pound ball, taking her steps forward before the ball is sent towards its targets, her arm twists adding some spin for it to lean right to left. This doesn’t go to her favour as too much spin was added resulting in Neuro guttering the ball. She throws her arms up in the air in frustration.

[That’s stupid! How does physics work like that?] Neuro yells, ignoring the glances from the people in the lanes beside them. Grabbing the good old eight pound, she sets herself in the middle, rolling the ball at a quick speed, striking the center left, knocking all pins down for a spare. Neuro looks at the scattered pins in amazement, turning around nonchalantly and grabbing her milkshake. [I’ll take it.]

Neuro: 68
Miniko: 71

“There’s no way you just got that.” Miniko says, astounded at the sudden spare, getting off her seat.

[Well my skills are great aren’t they?] Neuro teases, sticking out her tongue at the cat as she sends a ten pounder at blaring speeds crashing loudly into the pins. Looking at the aftermath, there is one pin that remains on the right. She grabs an eleven pound ball, getting a good angle and spin, launching from the center it swerves close to the pin but passes through the center almost hitting it. Leaving the single pin still standing, she hears Neuro’s footsteps as she walks up beside her. [And the world turns round.] Picking up a nine pound ball, she locks her eyes on the center of the bowling pins giving herself a big run up the ball goes straight down the middle. Another clutter and fall of pins is heard, with Neuro achieving another split.

“Well karma exists for a reason.” Miniko states, patting Neuro’s shoulder as she moves towards the table. “Same thing as last time, just ricochet it.” She suggest, Neuro grabs a seven pound ball, whipping it forward with more force than usual, it veers to the left, hitting the leftmost pin, it bounces off the side and nearly hits the right, almost catching a spare.

Neuro: 77
Miniko: 80

[Anything else that we are doing after this?] Neuro asks, sticking near Miniko as the cat grabs a ten pound ball, swinging her arm as it rolls down the lane, swerving right and hitting five pins in center. Separating the remaining six, four on the left and one on the right.

“I was thinking of taking a quick stop at a cafe for some hot drinks and snacks.” Miniko suggests taking another shot with the same weight as before. Going for the four on the left, they go down easily leaving the right pin alone at the end of her turn.

[Good for me, what’s the cafe called?] Neuro inquires, launching a nine pounder a few inches to the left, knocking down six pins with the remaining all on the right. She grabs an eight and aims for the last four but the throw is skewed to the left shaving off three. Staying idly by the ball rack as they’re speeding up their turns, reaching the last two rounds.

Neuro: 86
Miniko: 89

“Scarlet Café, it’s one recommended to me by friends, apparently it’s run by the owners of Inkburst Theatre.” Miniko responds, grabbing an eleven which zips down the center, the aftermath shows two pins next to one another on the left. She grabs a ten to clean it up with a spare.

[I think my Dad goes there a lot, maybe we’ll get freebies if he boasted about my sister and I!] Neuro giggles at the thought of her Dad talking with pride about Evilyn and herself to the employees there. [Plus he would bring us the baked goods from there everytime he went.] A ten pound ball crashes into the set of pins, Neuro blinking to double check to see that all the pins are knocked down, she turns to Miniko who gives her a grin and a thumbs up.

“Well was not expecting that.” Miniko states scratching the back of her head as she lifts the other hand up for a fistbump. Neuro accepts the fistbump, the two looking at the score board wondering what they need for the tenth turn.

Neuro: 106
Miniko: 106

“Huh a tie, well sorry to pop your bubble Neuro. It’s time to sweep the win.” Miniko says confidently, reaching for an eleven pound ball, aiming for the center as it’s sent down the lane swerving right and earning her seven. Turning around to grab a ten pounder the next ball zips on by to the final three cleaning up a spare. “Now, it’s time for the strike.” She takes three steps back a eleven pound in hand, moving forward in one swift motion as if she’s curling the ball flies towards the center a satisfying sound of ten pins falling down. Turning around she flourishes her hand in air a smug smile on her face. “And that’s how it’s done.” Neuro claps slowly from the performance, going over and grabbing a twelve pound ball to take her turn. “Don’t worry Neuro I’m sure you’ll catch up.”

[Yeah, sure.] Neuro replies, rolling her eyes as she sends the ball down the lane, it swings to the left, crashing through six pins. Going back to swap to a ten pound, the next ball is thrown with a swerve that moves to the right collecting a spare for Neuro. Taking a deep breath, she takes the trusty ten pound as it moves towards the center with a zoom, crashing into the center like Miniko’s last ball. They both look up, seeing a split in the middle with two remaining pins, glancing up to the final scores.

Neuro: 124
Miniko: 126

[So cafe?] Neuro asks, Miniko laughs at the questions nodding her head as she wraps her arm around the younger girl.

“It was a close game no?” She adds on, the two walking towards the counter to return their shoes and make their way to the café.

…

Gelvur sighs to himself, the Scarlet Café is empty currently, which is weird considering he should expect interesting guests at this hour. Taking a look at his watch, seeing 5:52 PM he sighs, he’s about to die of boredom he swears. He was about to pull out his phone when he hears the ringing of the doorbells as he glances to the opened door, a customer service smile appears on his face. Looking at the voices of the individuals that enter the room he raises an eyebrow as an older and younger girl walk up to the counter.

[Can I get a French vanilla latte, a mocha, and two chocolate croissants to go, please?] The younger girl asks he inputs the order into the machine.

“Sure thing, that’ll be 11.27$, can I get a name for the order?” The elf asks, turning the card machine towards the younger girl. Who grabs it, selecting the to tip three dollars and taps her card on the machine, a ding is heard from the machine in the successful transaction.

[Neuro.] He nods in confirmation, turning back to start working on their order, before realization hits and he turns around surprising the pair.

“Wait, you’re Vedal’s kid?” Gelvur asks, before walking over to the espresso machines to actually start working on their order.

[Yes? Last time I check I was.] Neuro responds, crossing her arms in annoyance, a giggle is heard from the cat girl beside her.

“There’s that sass, definitely his kid.” His answer breaks Neuro into a chuckle as he glances away from his work. “He comes here a lot, loves the cortado very much. Who’s the friend?”

“It’s Miniko.” The cat responds, receiving a short tune in a whistle for confirmation, the girls watch as the mocha is given a perfect top of whip cream. The lid for the to go cup is handed to her, “Thank you.” The elf winks, where Miniko cringes a bit, Gelvur laughing as he turns around grabbing the latte.

“Don’t worry I have a boyfriend.” He jokes at her, going back to the counter with two chocolate croissants in to-go bags. He places the latte down on the counter gently, reaching for the milk he pours it on top making a snowflake, handing the lid to Neuro.

[Thank you, Gelvur.] Neuro thanks him, taking a photo of the latte art before placing the lid on top of her drink and taking the two croissants. [Have a good rest of your night!] She waves goodbye with the croissant in hand as they both heads towards the exit. The elf waves at them resting his chip on his hand as his elbow sits on the counter. He hears the door open then shut, turning back to start cleaning.

“So that’s the older one, I wonder what the younger one is like.” He says to himself, stopping his cleaning before resuming it. “Probably way different.”

…

Neuro quietly opens the door to their apartment, she hear’s noises coming from the TV in the living room. Hanging her coat and taking off her shoes, she slowly walks into the living a sly smile forms on her face as she pulls out her phone. Finding the rest of her family and Anny along with what they were doing.

On the couch, the three of them are asleep, Anny sitting in the middle, Vedal’s head resting on her left shoulder, a blanket is strewn over the two of them. Evilyn is resting her head on Anny’s lap another blanket is over her. Neuro quietly giggles to herself as she takes a selfie throwing a peace sign as it has the others in frame. A yawn escapes her mouth, alerting her that she should brush her teeth and wake the others to go to bed, yet her actions fight against her thoughts. She goes over to the couch, lifting the blanket on her Dad’s side and plops down next to him, closing her eyes as the warmth takes her to sleep…

Chapter Text

Vedal stares down at his mug of coffee, returning his gaze back up to the others that sit with him in their breakroom. Ellie is sitting on his left, her light blue dress shirt visible underneath the lab coat she wears along with grey slacks. Across from him is an upper management from the marketing department, Bo. He’s rocking a matching set of a navy vest and pants, white dress shirt, a plaid red and blue tie anchored by a silver tie bar, his hair is held up with a red headband Vedal assumes Bo is always wearing. To the right is the lead inventor for their artificer department, Koko. The monkey has a pink tank top and black jeans which hides underneath a lab coat, similar shade of pink to her head band. Lastly the turtle has a simple light green dress shirt layered over by a brown v-neck wool sweater, a diagonal dark green tie sits comfortably beneath the v-neck opening. The four of them are enjoying a break for drinks as various mugs sit on the table. A small smile is on his face as he pays attention to the various topics that they’re talking about.

“I’ve been wondering, how’s your girlfriend Ellie?” Koko asks abruptly, the question interrupting the current topic being about lizards. Ellie yelps at the sudden question, almost spitting out her coffee, a blush creeping up on her cheeks. Bo glances towards Koko, a cheeky smile forming on his face. Vedal smiles as he shakes his head at the two of them, taking a sip out of his mug to hide the smile.

“You got a girlfriend without telling me? I thought best friends tell each other everything?” Bo adds on, placing his hand on his heart to exaggerate the shock.

“Cerber isn't my girlfriend, at least I think so?” Ellie answers back with uncertainty, Vedal raises his eyebrow at that, he’s trying to mentally refuse that Neuro’s shipping was right.

“What do you mean, I think so?” Vedal inquires, startling the others at the table as his input and comments are very rare. “You two have been hanging out a lot since the dinner and that was a month ago.”

“Well I just don't know what's happening at this point.” Ellie continues, her eyes dropping down to the center of the table, the others staying silent for her to explain the situation. “I’m enjoying the hangouts and we’ve been going on outings once or twice a week.” Taking a breath and drinking another sip of coffee.

“Do the two of you actually enjoy each other’s company?” Koko asks, Ellie nods, the monkey hums to herself thinking of any methods. “We can only rely on experience now.” Koko looks around the breakroom, spotting a familiar vampire who's walking by their table, a red tea in hand. “Vivia!” Yelling out and waving the employee over, they tilt their head in confusion but walk over to their table nonetheless.

“What is it this time Koko?” The vampire asks, they’re wearing a black button up the top button loose, sleeves rolled to her elbows, black jeans that end just above casual loafers. The other three look at the position that is placed on her name tag reading “Server Administrator: Vivia Trisess”.

“You’ve had a girlfriend for a while now right?” Koko asks bluntly, Vivia looks at the monkey, then the human, the turtle, and lastly the blushing android. She takes a sip out of her tea, wondering how she got involved in this situation.

“Yes, it’s been a few months, why do you ask?” She questions narrowing her eyes at Koko.

“We just need help for our friend here on figuring out if she’s already dating her friend or not.” The sentence coming out of Koko’s mouth is unbelievable. The blush on Ellie’s face deepens further as the two guys chuckle from the words. “Since you’re a lesbian you should be helpful enough.”

“Uh…” Vivia blinks where Vedal feels as though they are audible with how slowly she’s doing it, she lets out a sigh after five blinks. “First things first, have you two even kissed each other yet?”

“Does it matter where?” Ellie questions, the attention moving back to the android. “Is it not a casual girl thing? She’s given kisses on the top of my head, forehead, cheeks, and hands.” The others look surprised from the reveal.

“But nothing on the lips?” Vivia inquires, the android only shakes her head in denial. They all see Vivia’s amused smile turning into laughter. “Sorry,” The vampire waves her hands in apology, “I got an answer for you, go meet up with her today, and honest to god ask if you two are dating.” She concludes, turning her body towards the door. “I’m sure your friend will find it hilarious and give you a proper answer.” Vivia then walks off towards the exit of the breakroom.

“Thanks Vivia!” Koko calls out, the vampire waves goodbye while heading towards the door. They hear Ellie pull out her phone and the noises of the keyboard typing as the others assume that she’s messaging the hellhound.

“So that’s the person that has been keeping all of our data in order.” Bo realizes, Ellie and Koko nodding in agreement, Vedal giving no response and taking a sip of his coffee, avoiding eye contact. This doesn’t work as Bo locks eyes with the turtle, “Since Ellie’s issue is all figured out now, what’s up with your fox, Vedal?” Vedal jumps slightly, giving a strained smile as he sets down the mug. Koko’s eyes light up at the mention of Vedal’s partner.

“What’s there to say? We’ve been going for about a month and a half.” He speaks out, looking at the others, both Koko and Bo are staring at him intently listening to every word, Ellie is focused on her phone typing furiously, he sighs knowing the answer they want. “Yes, we’ve kissed, made out even, and my daughters know that we are dating.” The duo not on their phone high fives one another. “That’s all I can give to you two, so Ellie has Cerber responded?” Vedal deflects onto the poor flushed android, the other two’s eyes dart to Ellie who tries her best to hide behind her phone.

“Well I’ll be stopping by her place after work so there’s that.” Ellie gives away to the others, another high five is scored from the human and monkey. Vedal shakes his head at their antics patting Ellie’s shoulder as she places her phone on the table. “She’ll be making dinner for us which is nice.”

“At least these two are not stalking you two when you figure out your feelings.” Vedal reassures the android who gives him a sheepish smile. “Besides, Cerber's cooking is really good from what I hear from Evil.” The turtle gives her a thumbs up for encouragement and a smile which gets Ellie into a giggle fit from the absurd expression that Vedal is showing. The others laugh, Vedal chuckling along to the silliness of the situation, a genuine smile on his face as he enjoys this time with his friends. Having some pity for his android friend, feeling the nervousness spill out from her not knowing what her relationship is with the hellhound.

…

Ellie takes a deep breath as she knocks on the door of her Friend? Girlfriend? Partner? She decided to change up her outfit before heading to Cerber’s, underneath her light brown overcoat is a silver shirt dress, moving down the black stockings finishing it with black Chelsea boots. Shaking her head from the unneeded thoughts hearing the light footsteps of the hellhound. The door swings open, the android’s face slipping red as she sets her eyes on Cerber.

“Ellie!” Cerber shouts out embracing Ellie in a hug which she returns, leaving the hug and helping Ellie take off her coat which gets hanged on the coat rack, she then grabs onto the android’s hand. “I hope you like risotto, I spent a good amount of time reading to figure it out.”

“You didn’t have to go out of your way…” Ellie stammers out, her focus shifting towards the bouncing hair and outfit of her friend. The hellhound is wearing light washed jeans that end off at striped purple and white socks, a purple shirt that Ellie assumes has a metal band on it, wrapped around the front is a grey and pink plaid apron. Distracted by her friend Ellie realizes that Cerber is dragging her towards the kitchen and dining room. Taking Ellie to the dining table, she pulls the chair out for her friend, who takes a seat, the hellhound places a peck on the left side of the android’s head.

“I’ll be right back with our food.” Cerber says, making her leave as she moves to the kitchen. Ellie places a hand on the point of impact of the kiss, moving the hand back down to her lap. Staring intently at her hand, she feels her face heating up from realization of the action done by her hellhound. Covering her mouth as she stops herself from the words that circle her mind. “Here it is!” Ellie tries her best returning to a normal position, seeing the smiling hellhound place a plate of risotto with a delicious looking roasted piece of chicken on top of it, root veggies sit on the edge of the plate. “Bon appétit.” Cerber announces, placing her own portion on the seat across from Ellie, taking a seat in it. They both start picking and eating at the meal presented in front of them. “So what did you want to talk about?” Cerber asks Ellie, breaking her concentration on the food, she looks up, her red eyes locking with Cerber’s.

“It’s not that important we can talk about after we finish eating.” Ellie stammers out, the hellhound raising an eyebrow intrigued on what the topic could be. “Anyways how’s subbing going for you?” The android asks, melting at the joy that appears on Cerber’s face.

“I was placed at a high school this time, the students were a bit rowdy but I was able to get them under control. I think high school is where I want to teach. I feel like I make a big difference when it comes to teaching those kids.”

“Any high schools specifically?”

“There’s Encre Academy, where it's a private secondary school. From what I hear from my peers they’re a nice spot. I’ll be applying for it before the winter term starts, hopefully the physics practice we did together is useful.” Cerber continues, adding a light chuckle that does something to the swirling emotions within Ellie.

“Aren’t Neuro and Evil going to secondary next year?” Ellie inquires, getting an excited nod from her hellhound, another layer of red fills onto the android’s face as that thought enters her mind again. “They’re both in the accelerated program even though Evil is a year younger.”

“You’re right! Well I was mentioning the academy to Vedal and he was interested in it, luckily they have good sports teams for Neuro and many vocational arts for Evil.”

“So you’re planning on teaching them for the next four years, I see.” Ellie teases, Cerber gaining a light shade on her face from the reveal of her plans.

“I just want to make sure that they’re getting proper education.” Cerber concludes to the android, Ellie giving her a “yeah right” look as the hellhound takes her time alongside Ellie on finishing the last few bits of their food. Both getting out of their seats heading to the kitchen carefully placing the dishes into the sink. Ellie opens the fridge as she takes out some mango juice, Cerber on the same wavelength grabbing two glasses as the android pours into both glasses. They both take a big sip of the cold drinks, Cerber giving a satisfied breath after downing hers in one go. “That is refreshing, so Ellie.” She grabs the finished glass out of the android’s hand placing both in the sink, taking Ellie’s hand and moving her towards the couch where they sit next to one another. “What is it that you want to talk about?” She asks, her face a couple of inches from the android, whose eyes are darting between the purple eyes and lips of the hellhound.

“Ah well, take me seriously okay.” Ellie states Cerber's eyes turn to worry giving her an affirming nod as Ellie intertwines both her hands with her. Both their hands run warm, their hearts beating quickly. “Are we dating Cerber?” Ellie asks out loud, shutting her eyes from not wanting to see the reaction of her friend. Counting the seconds that pass in the silence.

One.

Two.

Three.

Four.

Five.

Six.

Seven.

Eigh-

It's broken as giggling is heard from the hellhound, as Ellie opens her eyes slowly, locking her eyes with the hellhound. “What’s so fun-” Her words are cut off as Cerber leans forward placing a hand on her cheek as their lips link with one another, it lasts for about five seconds, before the android pulls away.

“Is that a good answer for you?” Cerber asks, her face flushed in a deep shade of red matching the androids. “I thought all the kisses I had given you were enough.” She pouts, crossing her arms. “I can’t believe you thought this stuff was things friends do!” Her voice hinting at her being annoyed at Ellie’s denseness. Her purple eyes look back up at her android’s red ones, trying to hide her laughter from the face of processing adorned Ellie’s face. “You-” Her additional comment were cut off by another kiss initiated by Ellie this time, the hellhound falling backwards onto the couch with the android above her, they release as they stare into each other’s eyes.

“So we are dating.” Ellie concludes, her face pondering on all the signals that her hellhound has given to her. Her train of thought is broken as her forehead is flicked by said hellhound, another pout crossing Cerber’s face. “What I thought girls did that to one another!” Ellie sits up, crossing her legs not expecting Cerber placing her head in her lap and looking upwards to her.

“Yes I was assuming but I guess a kiss on the lips seals it.” Cerber says. laughing at the situation, their eyes looking at one another's again. “Sooo, whatcha say darling?” Cerber laughs again as Ellie’s gains more red that it should be worrying for the android. Looks like they’re going to figure out pet names for one another for a while. Ellie chuckles along, strands of her hellhound’s hair in her hand as they enjoy one another’s company and realization of their relationship.

…

//Group Chat - A Turtle, Android, Monkey, and Human walk into a bar\\

BotMaker: *Picture of Ellie and Cerber kissing, both making a heart with each other’s hand.*

BotMaker: Apparently we were dating all this time

ChargedMonkey: I KNEW IT CONGRATS

ThatGuyBo: YOU OWE ME 100$ KOKO

ChargedMonkey: Fuck damn it i’ll hand it to you tomorrow

BotMaker: You two did that

Turtle: You guys really bet on the result whats wrong with you two

BotMaker: You can't say that Vedal

BotMaker: *Picture of Cerber showing an electronic transfer of 100$ addressed to Vedal*

Turtle: Your girlfriend was complaining on how you didn’t make a move on her for a month it was tough to deal with on every meeting

ChargedMonkey: Thats crazy that you made a bet with Cerber

ThatGuyBo: You have no class Vedal

Turtle: Well I won the bet huh so that makes me a winner

Turtle: Anyways its 11 im heading to bed congrats Ellie

ThatGuyBo: Goodnight Vedal that is the sign to go to bed

ThatGuyBo: Congrats Ellie dont worry we will make you explain the entire of yesterday during our lunch

ChargedMonkey: You bet we will and dont think you can hide in your office youre forgetting that I have keycard scrambler

BotMaker: I’ll be at lunch I don’t want to make another maintenance repair report anyways, see you guys tomorrow!

\\Group Chat - End//

Ellie sighs as she shuts off the screen of her phone, gently placing the phone on the bedside table. Shutting her eyes, as she feels her body brought closer by her hellhound hugging her even more tightly under the sheets. To think that she thought that sleeping in the same bed was also a normal thing girls do. At least she figured it out after a month, she lets out another relieving sigh drifting off to sleep in the tight embrace of Cerber.

Chapter Text

{Sister, how close are you to setting up everything?} Evilyn shouts out from the kitchen majority of her focus on the stovetop in front of her. The younger sister is wearing black long sleeved t-shirt that says evil on it (Camila and Evil’s “Evil” cover shirt), which size falls an inch past the waistline of her pleated black and white plaid skirt, black tights finishing the end of her outfit. Her hair is in a ponytail to not get in the way of cooking the meal she is concentrating on for the guests arriving in an hour.

[Well if the two of you weren't focused on cooking I could get this done quicker!] Neuro responds with a yell of her own from the living room. The older one has finished tidying up and is looking at their shelf filled with an assortment of boardgames. Her cream coloured zip-up hoodie is unzipped, showing the light blue t-shirt that ends by her cream pleated skirt, light blue and white calf length socks sit at the bottom. [What games are we playing?] She asks aloud to the two people in the kitchen. Evilyn doesn't turn around, however Vedal looks up from the kitchen table pausing his chopping.

“Bring out One Night, Hues and Cues, and you can pick the last game.” Her father answers, returning back to chopping the tenderized chicken breasts in half. The turtle is wearing a dark green button-up with the sleeves rolled up, black jeans and mint green socks over his feet.

[Okay! Then we're playing Cheat!] Neuro replies, grabbing a deck of cards from the top shelf and bringing the stack of three onto their dinner table. A groan is heard from Vedal and a chuckle from Evilyn. [What’s wrong with Cheat?] Neuro asks out loud across their home.

{I think Father just doesn't want to have the entire deck for his hand like last time.} Evilyn recalls, a short burst of laughter comes from the living room.

“It’s not my fault Camila kept calling cheat on me everytime it was my turn.”

{I don't think you can say that when you literally lied about the card you placed every turn.}

“Go back to your curry Evil.”

{Can't deny your deception skills.}

“Well who won the most in One Night?”

{You just happen to be extremely lucky that Bao and Leau got into an argument on who really was the Tanner.}

“Still won…” Vedal remarks, grabbing three eggs from the fridge, flour and panko breadcrumbs from their pantry.

[Who is coming over today?] Neuro asks, entering the kitchen taking a seat by the table in the room. [You said it was your work friends Dad.] Vedal gives her a nod in response, seeing her still looking at him he realizes she wants names.

[You haven’t met a few of them since they weren’t at the dinner.] He says, bringing over three plates, one with eggs mixed together, flour, and the panko, setting them on the counter on Evilyn’s left near the pan of hot oil. Going back to grab the plate of tenderized halved chicken breasts, he cracks his knuckles as he stretches his arms to start cooking the chicken katsu. “There will be Bo, Koko, this coworker of ours that’s a vampire, which I sadly can’t remember her name at this moment.” He grimaces, disappointed in himself for not remembering his new friend’s name. “Oh Ellie is bringing Cerber cause why not.” He concludes, hearing a squeal from Neuro behind him, looking to his right seeing Evilyn roll her eyes, which still stay focused on stirring the curry slowly but gently. Evilyn notices and looks at him, eyebrows raised in confusion.

{What is it Father?} She questions, he smiles, giving her a quick peck on her head. Evilyn gives out a yelp and covers her head, her face red. {Hey! What was that for?} The turtle only chuckles, Neuro joining with some giggles, not answering as he turns back to frying the katsu. Getting an audible pout as Evilyn goes back to stirring. Neuro watches the two as three relax in the aroma of the food and silence. Which is then broken by their doorbell ringing and a few knocks on the door.

[Got it!] Neuro says darting off leaving the two chefs to cook in a focused silence. Heading to the door, unlocking it and pulling it towards herself, her face beams into a smile, seeing Ellie with Cerber behind her holding a container full of cupcakes. [Ellie! Cerber! You guys are really early!]

“Ellie I thought you said Vedal was fine with being early?” Cerber asks, crossing her arms looking at her girlfriend. The hellhound is wearing an oversized light blue sweatshirt of Crystalline Robotics, black tights that go down to purple high top Converse. The android shrugs giving a sheepish smile, Ellie has a white knitted sweater with light washed jeans, and brown Chukka boots rest on the ground.

“Well we’re only an hour early besides I’m sure you guys needed help!” Ellie replies, entering the apartment as they take off their shoes. Cerber handing the container to Neuro.

“We’re good!” [It’s all handled!] Both Evilyn and Vedal yell out from the kitchen, the three at the entrance chuckle as Neuro guides them to the living room, placing the cupcakes on the dining table. Cerber and Ellie sitting together on the couch

[Let’s play Hues and Cues!] Neuro plops the game’s box on the coffee table, beginning to set it up. Another doorbell ring is heard Neuro glances to the door gesturing for one of them to greet whoever is there. The couple looks at one another with Cerber sighing as she gets up heading to the door.

{Is it me or are Miss Cerber and Miss Ellie really close to one another?} Evilyn whispers to her dad, who leans closer to whisper back a response.

“Well they are dating.” Vedal answers quietly, “For about two weeks I think.” He adds on, smiling as he watches his daughter’s reaction to the news. Her shocked face and widened eyes make it hard for Vedal to hold in his chuckle.

{What?} She replies in a hushed tone with wide eyes. {How come you didn’t tell my sister about it?} Evilyn asks, confused on why they wouldn’t tell her shipper fanatic sister, her father shrugs in response.

“Eh it’ll be funny when she figures it out.” He adds on looking back at what he’s cooking, Evilyn mutters something to herself and does the same.

“Oh, hello?” Both of their heads glance towards the entrance and the confused voice of Cerber. Vedal hands the tongs to Evilyn as he peeks his head out seeing a familiar monkey, human and vampire. Koko spots Vedal’s face and waves frantically, Bo also waves at him, while Vivia gives him a small wave. Cerber turns back seeing the turtle poking out from the kitchen. “Are these Ellie and your’s coworkers.?”

Koko has a magenta turtle-neck sweater, black jeans and black motorcycle boots. Bo is wearing a beige hoodie, a blue patterned sport coat, blue jeans with casual oxfords that have a white sole. Vivia has a simple white dress shirt, a red and black paisley tie tucked beneath a black v-neck sweater, black chinos and black Vans.

“Yes, let them in so they can introduce themselves later.” He states going back to the kitchen, smiling slightly as he hears Bo and Koko already gushing over Cerber, and somehow pulling Vivia into their conversation.

“How about we introduce ourselves to Ellie’s girlfriend before you two pounce her with questions.” Vivia says out loud attempting to hold back the other two adults with one hand, her other one holding a container holding jam filled shortbread cookies. She turns to the hellhound, giving her a smile. “I’m Vivia, server administrator for the company.” The vampire finally gets enough of the other two’s antics and quickly flicks the forehead of both of them. “Bo is the human and Koko is the monkey, now if you excuse me I’ll go put this away.” She adds on excusing herself as she makes her war towards the living room. Leaving Cerber to the duo who both finished removing their coats and shoes.

“Hi I’m Koko,” Koko introduces, moving her hand in for a handshake, Cerber accepts it back, the monkey still grasping as she pulls Cerber in a step closer. “So this is who my best friend was blushing all over.” Their faces a few inches apart from one another, Cerber’s face flushed from the sudden closeness. The grappled hands are broken up by Bo, who pushes a container of egg tarts into the monkey’s arms. She chuckles to herself heading to the direction of the kitchen, waving behind her. “I’ll tease you more later!”

“Sorry ‘bout that, Koko is very extroverted,” Bo explains, letting out a sigh, “Oh, I’m Bo, marketing department.” He answers, giving a strained smile as Cerber returns one back as she leads him to the living room. As the two enter, Koko had grabbed the seat next to Ellie, the two of them debating on what shade or orange a mandarin is. Vivia is sitting on her knees next to the table where Hues and Cues is set up, peering at the gradient gridded board of colours holding a red playing piece. Neuro is seated next to her giggling to herself holding a card of four colour options. “Is that?” Bo asks, eyebrows quirked with curiosity.

“Yes that’s Neuro, Vedal’s daughter,” Cerber replies, plopping down next to Ellie and leaning against her, “There’s another, her name is Evilyn.” She adds on, Bo nodding in confirmation.

“Mandarins are a lighter shade right?” The two are interrupted by Ellie, grabbing the attention of the hellhound and human. “Koko is insisting it's darker!”

“Because it is! If you go that light of an orange you’re reaching peach levels!” Koko exclaims, the two spectators look at each other, shrug and turn to Vivia for an answer. The vampire notices and lightly taps Neuro’s shoulder, getting the girl’s attention as Vivia points at the two.

[Oh I’m Neuro what’s your name?] She asks with a bright smile.

“You can call me Bo,” Bo answers, wondering how in the world this girl is related to the turtle. “So what’s the game?”

[Hues and Cues! One person gives a one word hint and the others try to guess as best as possible.] Neuro responds with a bright smile, she hands the two of them two playing pieces each, orange for Bo and purple for Cerber. [Place one on the board once Koko and Ellie place theirs.] Neuro adds on, looking at the android and monkey still arguing. [Well Vivia already placed her piece so you two can make your guesses, two pieces just can’t be in the same spot.] Bo places his first guess on F3 next to Vivia’s red piece which stands on F4, Cerber follows up with purple plopping down on G5.

“See? They’re going lighter Koko!” Ellie exclaims, moving and placing a light blue piece on G4.

“Still don’t think it’s going to be right.” Koko disagrees, setting a pink piece on E5, all the adults then turn to Neuro who is overlooking the board thinking of a two-word clue for the second round. Cringing at where the majority of pieces went.

[Burnt orange.] She mumbles out wincing at the reactions of the others.

“I KNEW IT!” Koko shouts in realization of the color, the monkey quickly places another pink piece on D4 with the other players placing their pieces in the general area. Neuro places down the scoring marker with the colour being D4. Koko celebrates as this puts her in second place, Ellie’s face turns that of shock, Bo facepalms, Cerber covers her mouth with a hand hiding her laughter, Vivia lets out a sigh. Looks like this is going to be a loud game.

…

“Grass? You said grass out of all things Bo? There’s like fifty green spaces!” Koko asks after Bo gives out his hint.

“We’re not getting points this round…” Ellie jabs in as well.

“I saw green and it was the first thing that came to mind!” Bo points out, rubbing the back of his head when he realized how bad of a clue it was.

…

“Taupe!” Cerber says to the others placing her card face down in front of her. A moment of silence is shared between all the players, Neuro giving the hellhound a head tilt in confusion. “Does anyone know what that is?” She asks, worried about a low scoring round. All players shake their heads in confirmation, except for Vivia who nods her head, Koko, Ellie and Bo turn to the vampire, expecting a response or help for this hint.

“What? I go last for this round, so good luck.” Vivia says, crossing her arms and leaning against the side of a chair. Ignoring the competitive glare of Koko, Ellie, and Bo.

…

“That’s BS! Blood is not that light!” Bo argues at Ellie, who just placed down the scoring marker on C10.

“Blood can go that light of a shade. Besides, Neuro and Vivia got in the inner ring.” Ellie interjects, returning the card to the discard with her right hand, her left currently occupied with being intertwined with Cerber’s. Neuro notices the action but reserves the image in the back of head for later.

[I just thought blood looked lighter or maybe that’s just how Evil makes her fake blood turn out to be.] Neuro places a finger to her chin thinking on why the fake blood for pranks always turned out to be lighter.

“Blood can vary in shades, lighter shades taste better in my experience.” Vivia says her input, supporting Ellie’s statement.

…

“Lim-” Vivia smacks her mouth closed with her hand, shocking the others from the sudden movement but lets out a deep sigh, “Lime.” She confirms her hint, knowing how bad of a hint it is, seeing the looks that appear on everyone else’s faces. “I know, sorry.”

“Wait,” Koko says, “There’s two ways to see this, the fruit or colour.”

“I’m going with the fruit.” Cerber says, placing her piece on O11, Bo looks at the gradients of green, guessing with N6.

“Isn’t the colour way different from the fruit?” Ellie points out, “Wait, even the inside of the lime is so far from the skin.”

[Yeah that’s the issue, bad hint Vivia.] Neuro says, patting the vampire’s shoulder, as Vivia shakes her head in denial.

…

“Dusty.” Koko says for her hint, Ellie and Bo groan in despair at the monkey. “What? It's a good hint.”

“Is not.” Ellie says.

“Could be worse,” Bo adds, “Besides she’s describing her workshop.” His comment making Ellie and himself laugh.

[Is that true?] Neuro whispers to Vivia, the vampire shrugs as she never went to the artificer department.

Bo moves his head to the side dodging a card thrown towards him. “Hey, that could've given me a cut!” Koko sticks her tongue out at the two, flipping both of them off with both hands.

…

[Lilac] As Neuro gives out her hint, the others scan the zone of light purples on the board. Each of them thinking carefully on where to place their guesses.

“Foods ready! Get some when you’re free.” Vedal yells from the kitchen walking over to the dining table and placing down his plate of food. Evilyn follows behind him with a smaller plate filled with an assortment of deserts brought by their guests.

{Grab some before it gets cold.} Evilyn says, taking her seat at the dining table. Neuro gets up from the carpet, grabbing One Night Ultimate Werewolf and handing it to Evilyn before going to the kitchen, who grabs the box and starts counting everyone in the room. The others take their turns placing their pieces and then go off to fix themselves a plate of food.

Vivia is the first one of the players to take a seat at the dining table, cutting herself a piece from her katsu and taking a bite. Her face melts into a smile, a hand pressed on her cheek from the meal. She looks up seeing the stare of Vedal and Evilyn, a proud look on both of their faces. “What? It’s delicious, can’t I just enjoy it?”

“Well we just wanted to know what others think,” Evilyn says, “Since we spent a good amount of time on cooking it.” Vedal nodded along instead of giving a comment as his mouth was full of food.

“True, also I guess that the two talked to one another already?” Vivia asks, wondering about the android and hellhound. Vedal this time gives a thumbs up in confirmation. “Nice, at least they figured that out quicker than I did.” The turtle and his daughter raise an eyebrow at the comment.

“Did you and Leau also not communicate well?” Evilyn asks, curious as to how the shopkeep almost fumbled the bag. Vedal’s eyes widen as he coughs a bit on his food before swallowing it down and taking a sip of water.

“Wait, you're dating Leau?” He asks, surprised by the revelation. “How did she never mention your name whenever she boasted about you.” Dumbfounded at how long Leau kept the name of her partner away from him, one of her regulars for alcohol sales.

“I don’t know,” Vivia shrugs, “Anyways, we made out a couple of times and I think after four months she asked to start dating and I already thought we were at that point. I still laugh at that a lot.” The doorbell is ringing, getting the three sat at the table to turn their heads at the noise, Vedal sighs getting up from his chair moving past Koko and Bo who are talking about properly identifying colours. Hearing Neuro in the kitchen having the attention of Cerber and Ellie trying to sell them the idea of a robot dog as a pet. Heading to the door, grabbing the doorknob and pulling it open, seeing a familiar fox lady.

“Anny?” The turtle spurts out, the fox giving a slight wave. Anny is wearing a black jumper dress then ends at her knees, with a pastel pink knitted cardigan overtop it, black tights that end at black oxfords. She has a backpack slung over her shoulder, Vedal steps to the side letting her in.

“You forget today is Friday right?” She questions, Vedal giving her a nod, the fox giggles taking off her shoes seeing the abundance of shoes on the shoe rack and mat. “So who else is here?” She opens her arms up for a hug staring at the turtle.

“My coworkers, but you’ll know Ellie and Cerber.” He answers, moving into the embrace, as their arms wrap around each other he lets out a relieved sigh. “There’s katsu cooked by me and japanese curry by Evil so help yourself and say hello.” The hug ends as he drags her by the hand into the kitchen. Greetings coming from his coworkers as they see the new visitor enter the kitchen.

…

“I can be the narrator, I’m bad at lying.” Vivia says, shuffling the One Night Ultimate Werewolf cards in her hands. The dining table has been cleared and the chairs are tucked in with everyone standing around the table. “Don’t worry, I already played this game and I prefer narrating it like D&D.” She finishes shuffling the cards and deals a card to everyone except herself. The players grabs their cards and look at their cards. “All good? You know what role you have?” They all nod, she claps her hands together, “Perfect now close your eyes.”

“Doppelganger wake up,” Anny’s eyes open as she looks at Vivia for further instructions, “Look at another player’s card, point to it and you now become that role.” The fox points at Bo, Vivia silently walks over grabbing his card and showing her the Tanner card, Anny gives a thumbs up and Vivia places the card back down. “Doppelganger go to sleep.”

“Werewolves wake up,” Vivia watches as the turtle opens his eyes looking at everyone else for the other werewolf. “If there is only one werewolf then look at one of the center cards.” Vivia sees all the confused eyebrows from the players, “Trust me on this part it's a good house rule.” she says waving off the stare coming from Vedal who rolls his eyes and gives her a count of two fingers. Grabbing the center card and revealing the Robber, Vedal nods at Vivia as she turn the card facing down again. “Werewolves, close your eyes.”

“Minion wake up,” Koko’s eyes dart open, giving a silent wave at Vivia who returns it with a smile. “Werewolves stick out your thumb to show the Minion who you are. If there aren;t any werewolves you become one and may look at one of the center cards.” Koko peers around the table seeing the thumbs up given by the turtle nodding back to Vivia letting her know that she recognizes her teammate. The turtle’s hand goes back to his side as the monkey shuts her eyes. “Sleepy time Minion.”

“Seer wake up,” They watch as Ellie opens her eyes hesitantly, Vivia gives her a reassuring smile, “You may look at another player’s card or look at two center cards instead.” The android points at Evilyn, Vivia moves over revealing the Troublemaker card, they share a nod at one another as the vampire cleans up the board again. “Seer go back to sleep.”

“Robber wake up.” Vivia clears her throat and takes a swig of water as she knows the Robber is in the center, letting herself take a break from all the talking she’s been doing. “Robber go to sleep.”

“Troublemaker wake up.” Vivia sees Evilyn eyes open with a smirk on her face. “Point at two people and swap their cards with each other.” Evilyn rubs her hands together, immediately pointing at Ellie and Cerber with both arms. Vivia smiles at the action and moves to follow the orders, swapping the cards between the two targets. “Shut your eyes Troublemaker.” Evilyn shuts her eyes with a proud grin on her mischief.

“Drunk wake up,” She sees Neuro open her eyes carefully, watching the other players for sudden movements. “Point at one of the center cards and swap with yours without you looking.” Neuro nods, understanding her role, she points at the middle of the three center cards. Vivia picks it up and swaps it with Neuro’s card that’s faced down, “Alright Drunk go to bed.” Neuro smiles at the vampire before shutting her eyes.

“Insomniac wake up,” The vampire sees Cerber’s eyes open, her hands already reaching to see her own card. “Check your card to see if you are still the Insomniac.” Vivia hides her chuckle as she witnesses the surprise on the hellhound’s face from the different card. “Alright go to sleep Insomniac.” Cerber nods and shuts her eyes closed.

“Alright, six minutes on the timer, everyone wakes up and figures out who’s the werewolf.” Vivia states as she claps her hands and heads to the kitchen for a drink, wanting to get something before watching the entertainment that is about to ensue.

“Who was the seer?” Anny asks, seeing Ellie raise her hand, “What did you find out?”

“I checked Evil’s card and she was the Troublemaker.” The android responds, all the heads turning to the daughter dressed in black.

{Okay well I swapped Miss Ellie and Miss Cerber, so she should be the Seer now.} Evilyn states her knowledge the group of heads swing to face the hellhound startling her from the sudden eyes on her.

“Well I was the Insomniac, last I checked I’m now the Seer so that’s all correct.” Cerber answers the crowd. “Are we just going to ignore Anny starting all this? What role are you, Anny?” Cerber questions the fox, not noticing Bo and Koko talking to one another.

“Well I’m the Hunter, so I know nothing but you can vote for me and I can vote out someone else.” Anny lies hoping that there is a hunter in play so she can get voted out and win as Tanner. “What about Koko? She’s normally loud but she’s quiet for once.”

“Wait, do you really want to vote me out? I’m the Tanner?” Koko says, getting a shocked face from Bo and Anny. “I win if I get voted out.”

“No I was the Tanner, its the card I was given.” Bo states confused, Anny pinches the bridge of her nose thinking if she’d rather go win with the villagers. “Wait, are you the Doppelganger then?”

“Koko is lying,” Anny interrupts all the attention going back to her, she takes a breath. “I’m Doppelganger and checked Bo’s card. He's actually Tanner and I copied his Tanner.” Explaining her turn and outing Koko's lie.

“So then Koko’s the Werewolf?” Vedal asks his question being received by the group with silence. Evilyn pointed accusingly at the turtle. “What?”

{You haven’t been talking at all Father!} Evilyn points outs, Neuro nodding and humming agreeing with her younger sister’s point.

“I was just waiting for someone to falsely claim the Robber since I switched with Neuro.” He lied out with a strained smile.

[Oh that means you’re the Drunk!] Neuro states, getting a laugh from all the adults, Koko laughing the hardest out of all of them. The girl looked confused at the reaction made from everyone else.

“Drunk? When is he never not sober?” Bo says, wiping a tear away from his laughing. Ellie places a hand on Cerber’s shoulder.

“Did you know he always has a row of Banana Rum in his minifridge?” Ellie asks her girlfriend, who gasps and giggles at the fact she learned. “To be fair he hasn’t accessed it in about three months I think.” The cyborg adds on.

“I stopped having a glass at work, I’ve been drinking less actually.” Vedal says, his daughters looking at the others for confirmation of the information. Surprisingly Koko nods her head at the sisters.

“Yeah, Vedal only drinks if he has to stay at the office overnight. At that point it's worth it to drink over the fact of working overtime.” Koko explains, glancing at Vivia who’s snacking on desserts. “Have you heard anything about Vedal?” Koko asks Vivia, the vampire shakes her head in denial.

“I’ve heard for overnight days Vedal offers them his stash and orders food for his department.” Vivia concludes, all the Crystalline employees move their heads towards the programmer. “By the way, three minutes left.” Vivia says as well looking at the timer on her phone being two minutes and fifty seconds already.

“Is that why you’re in the top three for most like Department Heads?” Bo asks, Vedal shrugs in response getting a frustrated groan from the human. More questions pop from Ellie and Koko in regards to the turtle’s management and treatment of his department.

{Wait!} The conversation halts as Evilyn’s voice breaks through, getting the attention of the others. {We still don’t know who the Werewolf is.} She says, {The only real choice is Koko or Father.} A gasp is heard from both named individuals.

“How the hell can it be me? Koko is clearly lying about being the Tanner!” Vedal jabs back at his youngest daughter.

“That’s uh… What if Anny’s lying that’s very specific to being a Doppelganger and copy a Tanner.” Koko fires at the fox. “Perfect way of not being targeted if they’re the Werewolf.”

“That is true.” Cerber responds to Koko, “Realistically speaking we shouldn’t vote for Anny, Bo, or yourself as you are all theoretically the Tanner.”

“But why would it be Vedal?” Ellie asks Evilyn, whose face currently carries a smug grin, she pulls out a pair of glasses, one of Vedal’s older prescriptions. Pressing the center of it closer to her face, the lenses somehow deflecting the light.

{You see Father is known to be a reactive person when it comes to situations.”} Evilyn begins to explain, {He waited for everyone else to reveal their roles, allowing him to narrow down what role to lie about.} She gestures to all the tokens claimed by the players with the remaining being two Werewolf tokens, the Minion token, and Hunter token. {Then creating the ideal scenario for him to slip in a comment to avoid any suspicion.} Evilyn pulls a chair out and steps on top of it. {And that is why my Father could be the Werewolf!} She finishes her right foot on the chair with her left on the table, arms stretch pointing at Vedal.

“Works for me,” Anny agrees, giggling at the girl’s explanation, “I’ll vote for him because of that.”

“I’ll vote for Vedal.” Cerber agrees too, raising her hand. Ellie nodded along, raising her hand.

“Wait, what?” Vedal exclaims in surprise, his mind going into overdrive for a way to get out of this.

[Perfectly explained Evil.] Neuro says, raising her hand for the elimination of Vedal.

“Sorry Vedal, I follow the herd.” Bo says another hand raised.

“So that means we’re going straight to voting?” Koko asks, her hand raised agreeing with the others.

“I guess so, you had a minute left at least.” Vivia states, turning off her phone. “Everyone points to cast your vote.” In unison six fingers point to Vedal as the turtle is pointing at Koko with the monkey pointing at herself.

“Well crap,” Vedal groans as he flips over his card revealing the Werewolf, everyone else follows suit. Neuro the Robber, Evilyn the Troublemaker, Anny the Doppelganger, Cerber the Insomniac, Ellie the Seer, Bo the Tanner, and Koko the Minion. “How did you come to that conclusion, Evil?”

{Pure guesswork!} Evilyn answers, giving her dad a thumbs up. {Plus sister was reminding you of how you acted in the past games.}

[Yup, you always are silent in the beginning of the game then you start taking control from what I noticed.] Neuro says, her eyes staring at the intertwined hands of Ellie and Cerber, scanning the slight blush that the two are sharing. [Huh.] She movies to approach the two of them.

“You were actually the Doppelganger?” Koko and Bo say in surprise.

“I wasn’t lying!” Anny shouts out, crossing her arms, “Let’s move on to the next game.” Hearing a laugh come from the duo. Vedal lets out a sigh, grabbing the deck of cards, taking a seat at the table and begins shuffling the deck.

[WHAT? YOU’RE TOGETHER? LIKE ACTUALLY?] Neuro’s high pitched yelling is heard about a few feet away from him, well now he knows what the rest of the evening is going to be like. He watches his daughter jump in excitement as questions are rapidly fired at the couple. Koko and Bo are both laughing as they’re talking with Anny. Evilyn and Vivia are silently watching the others as they enjoy the desserts everyone else brought. It’s going to be a lively rest of the night, he smiles to himself as he takes a sip of tea.

Chapter Text

Vedal eyes shot open as he hears the alarm coming from his phone, groaning as he sits up from his sleep. Grabbing his phone, turning off the alarm and looking at the time 6:45 am. He sighs looking over to the other half of his bed where a head of grey and pink hair with fox ears lay on the pillows sleeping soundly. At least Anny didn't wake up from his alarm, he smiles to himself kissing the top of his partner’s head as he gives her a small head pat. Slowly getting out of bed and heading over to his ensuite bathroom to brush his teeth and get ready for work.

Coming out of the bathroom changed for work, he’s wearing black jeans with a dark green dress shirt, a loosened black tie around his neck. He puts his phone in his pocket as he rolls up the sleeves to start cooking breakfast for his family. Taking out two packs of bacon and a tray of eggs, he shuts the door, pulling out a griddle from a side cabinet, igniting the stovetop as he opens one of the packs of bacon, setting the second pack and eggs beside the stovetop. Moving over to the counter which holds his coffee machine he grabs one of the pods to start a brew for Anny, starting the kettle for Neuro and his tea and potentially a hot chocolate for Evilyn. He hears one of his daughter’s bedroom doors open as the footsteps move towards the bathroom and the door shutting.

“That’s probably Evil.” He says out loud, turning on the faucet briefly and flicking his wet fingers on the pan, hearing the sizzle and water steaming away immediately. He smiles at the ready pan, he grabs the opened pack and lays out the stripes on the griddle hearing the satisfying sizzle and aroma of bacon beginning to appear. Going back to the fridge and taking out a container of leftover bacon fat he grabs a small bit of it and drops it on the griddle, letting it spread over the left surface. Grabbing the tray of eggs he cracks four of them in succession, watching the eggs carefully along with the bacon. Humming to himself “China Town Blues” whilst watching the protein on the griddle cook, he hears the bathroom door open, another pair of footsteps walking over to his direction while another is heard going to the bathroom, the door shutting. He glances at the hallway seeing Evilyn yawning, dressed in her school uniform, her eyes still filled with sleepiness as she goes over to him hugging him from the side. Vedal chuckles as he returns the hug with his left arm, “Morning Evil,” getting a nod in response, he continues managing the eggs and bacon with a metal lifter. The two stay in this position for about two minutes, enjoying the closeness, before Evilyn taps on his shoulder, he raises his arm, his daughter breaking away. She walks over to their mug cabinet grabbing three mugs, black, green, and light blue. Grabbing a hot chocolate packet, black tea bag, and green tea bag, prepping each mug as she pours hot water from the kettle into the mugs. Holding onto her black mug, taking a small spoon from their cutlery drawer to begin mixing her hot drink as she stands in front of the fridge staring at the calendar.

{Why are you dressed up Father?} Evilyn asks suddenly, confused by the question he looks at his daughter. She sees the confusion on his face, she points at the calendar that is on the fridge. {It says that you have a day off today.} His eyes widened at the answer he shuffled over to the fridge looking at the calendar, she’s right, on the calendar in black pen is written “Day Off Vedal”, he tilts his head and moves back to the stovetop.

“I didn’t know that.” Vedal replies, “I wasn’t expecting to have a day off this week.”

{Is it overtime?}

“No, just a project that we’ve been finishing up for about two weeks now.”

{I’m sure your employees will finish it just fine, besides you never work on the weekends.} She mentions, taking a sip out of her mug. Vedal shrugs, moving the set of bacon and eggs to a plate starting another batch swapping the placements.

“Well I’m still giving you two a ride to school at least.”

{I’ll be surprised if you didn’t father.} They both hear the door to the bathroom open as a flurry of footsteps head towards the kitchen, Neuro darting in and giving Vedal a hug, which he returns the same way he did with the younger sister.

[Morning Dad.] Neuro mumbles out into his shirt, she breaks off, hands still grabbing onto his shirt. [Wait, I thought you’re off today?]

{He is, he just forgot, I think dementia is getting to him.} Evilyn says, getting a laugh from Neuro as the turtle rolls his eyes at the comment. He resumes his cooking of breakfast while the sisters discuss their plans for the day and any interesting gossip happening at school, Neuro taking sips from her mug of tea. Vedal takes two slices of rye bread and an everything bagel, slotting them in the toaster and turning it on. Finishing up the eggs and bacon and setting them on the table, the girls wait by the toaster with their plates and utensils in hand.

“So was there anything interesting at all happening at school?” Vedal asks, wondering if there’s anything that will catch his intrigue. Neuro presses a finger to her chin, thinking about what tales from school will actually be good to explain and tell. Evilyn grabs her toasted bagels, taking a seat at the dining table as she begins eating breakfast. Neuro snapping her fingers on a story while taking her toast and following her to the table. The turtle leans on the counter as he inserts an English muffin into the toaster.

[Well we got this student volunteer from Encre academy that's helping out in Evil’s culinary class,] She smiles, Vedal seeing his youngest daughter look up from her food giving a specific look to his older daughter, he raises an eyebrow at the action taking a sip of his tea. [I do think that Evil has taken a liking to her~.] Neuro adds, Vedal chokes on his tea from the surprise of the comment.

{That’s not correct!} Evilyn says out loud, her face having a tint of red on it, {She’s just an amazing chef.} Evilyn mumbles out with uncertainty, Neuro glances over at her Dad, a smug look adorns her face, Vedal shakes his head ignoring the situation in front of him taking another sip, hopefully without any sudden choking again.

[Fine, but I’ll be watching you during culinary today.] Neuro pesters, Evilyn rolls her eyes finishing her last bite, taking her plate to the sink and placing it there. Neuro checks her phone, her eyes widening at the time she speeds up her eating.

“Don’t eat so fast you’re going to choke.” Vedal says, placing his empty mug beside the sink, moving off towards his bedroom. Entering he sees Anny awake, still laying under the sheets, the light of her phone shining on her face. He smiles walking over to the opposite of the bed leaning over to give a kiss on the side of Anny’s head, getting giggles as a reaction from the fox. “Morning~.” He says, getting back up to grab his wallet and keys, hearing Anny flip to face him, seeing that she’s expecting an answer to an inaudible question. “Just dropping off Neuro and Evil, I already cooked breakfast, I’ll be back.” He answers back, a nod of confirmation comes from the fox, heading back to the entrance with both of his daughters ready for school.

{Come on Father, I don't want to be late!} Evilyn shouts, Neuro and herself waiting by the door for him all ready. The turtle heads to the coat rack grabbing a black car coat and puts it on.

[Since when were we ever late Evil?] Neuro asks, Evilyn looks at her sister wondering if she’s being genuine with the question.

{Well later than the time we normally arrive.}

[We get there like twenty minutes before classes start!]

{It’s only because Father also has to get to work!}

“Alright come on let’s get going instead of arguing with each other.” Vedal interrupts as he opens the door, Neuro grabbing Evilyn’s hand as she dashes out pulling her sister outside. Vedal lets out a sigh, shutting the door and locking it, using a normal pace to get to his car. Seeing both his daughters waiting beside their assigned seats he unlocks the vehicle as two of its doors swing open. Entering the driver's seat, starting the ignition and signals out from their parking spot as he sees Neuro on the backseat texting frantically on her phone. “Who are you texting?” He asks, his daughter looks up from her phone showing the screen to the rearview mirror.

[Oh it’s Mini, also Dad can she come over sometime next week?]

“Sure I’m fine with it.” A quick glance in the rearview mirror sees Neuro glow with joy before returning back to texting Miniko he assumes.

{Are you still picking us up? It’s your day off after all.}

“Oh huh, I’ll ask Camila to pick you two up, she owes me a favor for last week.”

[Yay! Big Sis Camila is picking us up!]

{We should probably text her that we’re ending a bit later because of that test.}

[Uh, don’t remind me.] Neuro groans leaning back into the back seat.

{We spent yesterday evening studying, we'll both be fine.} Evilyn reassures her sister’s doubts, {Besides we don’t normally have to try for most tests anyways.}

[You’re right, but I still don’t like tests.]

“I don’t think anyone does unless they’re a masochist.”

[True, Dad how well were your academics?]

“I’d say average, as you can tell my computer skill outweighed my academics. But did well enough to get honour roll.”

{So we’re close your level?}

“Maybe? Not yet though, when you’re older probably.”

{Well I’ll definitely beat your high school grades! Plus sister has already surpassed your physical abilities!}

“Ouch, you’re right on that point. Not my fault I dislike wearing a shell.”

{But Father you know that you need to wear it.}

“I’ll be fine, besides Camila is supplying me with the correct supplements.”

{Father-}

[Evil, Dad is making sure that he’s better than before.]

{But-}

“You realize I haven’t drank much since the dinner, I’ve been watching how much I’m drinking.” Vedal comments, pulling onto the parking lot that is surprisingly only filled with teacher’s cars. Putting the car into park and unlocking the doors, the sisters look at each other Neuro giving a reassuring smile while Evilyn lets out sigh. They both open the doors, waving goodbye at Vedal, then shutting the doors as they step away.

[Bye Dad!] {Bye Father.} The two sling their bags properly on their back, making their way towards the school’s entrance. Setting the car to reverse, backing out, then to drive as he returns back to the road.

…

Enjoying the tunes that are playing from Neuro’s playlist, he drives for a few minutes following the regular flow of traffic taking the everyday route he normally takes, as he pulls into a parking lot. Parking right next to Ellie’s white jeep, the Android still inside reading on her tablet. Wait why is he parked next to Ellie, lowering the Driver side window he presses down on the horn, startling his coworker, she glances over recognzing the turtle her face showing confusion. She lowers her passenger side window.

“Vedal? Why are you here?” Ellie asks, wondering why the turtle would be at work on his day off. “You’re not working today from what you said.”

“I’m not!” Vedal replies, he scratches the back of his head, “I guess I’m on autopilot since its been a while since I had a day off. I just dropped off Neuro and Evil a few minutes ago.” He pulls out his phone as he starts to text Camila to pick up his daughters.

“You were talking about how you were going to enjoy it.” Ellie ponders, “What was it you said?” Vedal’s face glances up from his phone to face the android. “I’ll finally get to spend the day with Anny, by her side and cuddling her, kis-” She’s interrupted by Vedal’s carhorn, giving him a smug smile she stops.

“I get your point, just stop.” The flustered Vedal pleads to his friend.

“But I can say so much more.” Ellie gives a guilty smiles back at him.

“Don’t” He pleads again, the two stare at each other testing their limits of eye contact.

“You know-” Ellie begins.

“I’m just going to go now.” He interrupts, giving her a wave as he reverses out of his spot. Ellie waves as he leaves the parking spot, driving off back home after going the wrong way. Ellie pulls out her phone opening their work’s group chat.

“Koko and Bo are not going to let this go.” She chuckles are she begins texting her message for the others.

…

Unlocking the door, entering back into his home, Vedal hears the sound of a video from the living room. Taking his shoes off and hanging his coat on the rack, he makes his way to the living seeing the pair of fox ears peaking above the back of the couch. The owner of the head pops her head out facing the turtle, giving a smile.

“Welcome back.” Anny greets him, Vedal smiles back walking to the couch and falling backwards resting his head on her lap. “Tired?” She asks, beginning to play with his hair.

“Tired.” Vedal response letting out a breath of relaxation, the fox tilts her head from the answer, and leans in to give the turtle a peck which he returns for a few seconds.

“How tired?” She questions after breaking off the kiss, both of their faces flushed from the action.

“Well tired enough that I thought I accidentally drove to work because I forgot it was my day off.” Anny laughs at the answer, he grins, shutting his eyes.

“Anything you want to do today?” Anny asks, the Turtle hums a tune, taking in another breath.

“Nothing, just relaxing with you would be best.” He responds, turning his head towards the fox and wrapping his arms around her waist, shutting his eyes. “A nap here would be a great start.” Getting another giggle from the fox, the turtle sighs as his arms are pushed away from her temporarily. Feeling her laying down the same way as him, his arms are directed back to embracing her, Anny tucking her head into his chest. Her arms wrapping around the turtle, she lifts her head to look at him, the Turtle feeling the gaze already. “What is it?”

“Are you still picking up the girls?” Anny questions, as Vedal should be picking them up in a few hours.

“Nope, already texted Camila, she owes me for helping with IT problems at the pharmacy last week.” Vedal reassures her clinging onto her more tightly, getting a hum of acknowledgement in response. The two enjoy their partner’s warmth as they both drift off into a slumber.

Chapter Text

Neuro sighs out loud as she stares out the window on her left. Staring out at the white clouds and light blue sky with the sunlight breaking through any cracks in the clouds if it wasn’t clear already. Glancing back down at her current work which some physic questions on gravity and such, she then looks up from the paper, seeing Evilyn in front of her. The younger sister is focused and quickly writing down her answers and calculations on her worksheet. Neuro slinks back into her chair and just slowly takes her time in writing, looking at the rest of the class for any ounce of slackers like herself. Most of the class is focused on doing their work and surprisingly only one person sitting at the front is asleep, but its Hugo who does his work at home, plus he’s in the top ten for their year, so he doesn’t count. Why does everyone in her class want to do work? Neuro looks back her paper, she’s done about half of the work and if she focuses on it she can finish it here instead of at home.

Unlike Evilyn, whose top of the class, Neuro places seventh in grades overall for their year. Not like it was her focus, anyways she thinks she needs a change of environment, and perfect timing the bell rings at 10:20 am. After packing up her things into her binder Neuro glances at the clock again, well damn it, that was only the first period. This is going to be one of those days at school. Stepping out into the hall Neuro speeds up her pace to catch up beside her sister, who is currently in a conversation with Joan, an elven girl in their class. The elf noticing Neuro, waving at her and giving her a smile which she returns with a grin. At this moment Neuro just notices the slight bit of red that is on her face and that she is avoid eye contact.

“So, Evilyn are you excited for culinary again?” Joan asks with a smirk on her face, Neuro realizes what’s occurring and just silently giggles at her sister’s predicament. If only she went with cooking, had she known her sister would develop a crush on the student teacher. Well woodworking is better fit for her than cooking class. “Wait, is that why you’re planning on going to Encre academy?” This question has Neuro widen her eyes, that just had to be a coincidence, she peaks her head further to get a look of her sister’s face. The youngest is looking down at her textbooks, avoid both of their gazes.

{N-no! It was suggested by a teacher friend of our father so he listened to their advice.} Evilyn stammers out without any confidence behind her voice, the red eyes of her sister locks onto her, uh oh. {Shouldn’t you be going to your class, sister?} Neuro glances at Joan who returns the glance with a knowing smile.

[Fine, I guess I’ll leave you crushing over the student teacher for next time] Neuro frowns as she splits off from the two. Taking a left down the hallway in the direction of the workshops. Evilyn is still glancing in the opposite direction of her friend. Joan still has a troublesome look on her face.

{What?} Evilyn asks, Joan just whistles non-chalantly as they both continue their pace towards their next class. {I know you’re thinking of something.}

“Am not.” Joan quickly replies, reaching for the door handle of their culinary class, swinging the door open and holding it for Evilyn. “After you.” Joan says, giving the red eyed girl a wink. Evilyn chuckles at the action as she enters the class. Her smile disappears as she doesn’t see the familiar face of the student teacher. Joan notices, patting her friend on the shoulder, taking her hand, pulling her over to their section. “Oh no… you don’t get to admire them while we cook delicious food.” Joan states, breaking the moodiness of Evilyn, whose eyes widen and face gets flushed.

{What the hell!} Evilyn replies pushing away on their shoulder who is having a giggle fit from their friend’s reaction. They both begin playfully pushing each other, hearing a tired sigh as the third chair of their table is pulled and someone taking a seat. They turn towards their third group member, a tired looking boy, his fairy-like wings flapping at a slow pace on his back. {Oh hi Hugo. Tired as per usual?} She asks the boy, the boy gives her a thumbs up before placing his arms on the table and resting his head in it.

“Hugo! You’re already napping without me?” A cheery and higher pitched voice as a taller gorgon boy, his snakes in an upbeat mood, latches onto the fairy from behind. Startling Hugo as he raises his head out from his arms, glaring at their fourth and last group member.

“Why… Claude?” Hugo asks, leaning back into his chair annoyed. Joan and Evilyn both watch the altercation as the group and the rest of their classmates turn their heads to the classroom door opening and their teacher entering the classroom. “What are we making today?” Hugo mutters quietly pulling out his notebook and pen to begin writing down the ingredients.

“Alright class, today we’ll be doing something simple.” Announces their teacher who is currently tying the back of their apron as they reach for a stick of chalk. The group of four glance to one another as they all start paying attention to the start of their lesson. Claude unzips his backpack and pulls out his notebook. Hugo is leaning his chin on his hand as he sleepily stares at the board. Joan is leaning back casually in her chair listening intently at the teacher. Evilyn grabs out her notebook as she hastily writes down the steps for the recipe.

…

Graphic design is Gavin’s favourite class where he could just draw and listen to music without any interruptions. If only that second part is true. The shadowling is focused on drawing his background for a project due in a week, moving a bit of his bangs out of his eyes to keep his focus.

[Cass, how are you doing on your pins?] Neuro asks from Gavin’s right, the goblin girl on his left looks up from her monitor and turns to Neuro, Gavin lets out an annoyed sigh. There it is, the start of a long drawn out distraction.

“Done a couple of them, about four more and I can print them out and press them.” The goblin replies, Gavin increases the volume on his music, already knowing that it is futile as they start a conversation. “How about your shirt design? Or are you working on your plushies?” Gavin hears Cass' chair shift on his left, and the light steps from the goblin as they pop out from the right of his peripheral view. “Those are nice! That one really looks like a mini Evilyn!” Seeing Cass lean over as she points at one of the

[Thanks! I’m still struggling with how to do my Dad’s plushie form.]

“Hmm, I’m sure Gavin has some suggestions.” Gavin shudders slightly from the mention of his name as he feels the stares coming from the two girls to his right. Gavin clears his throat as he presses a bit harder with his electronic pen on the screen. He then flinches feeling a hand rest on his shoulder, which is then used to shake him violently. This makes the shadowling take off his headphones with his not writing hand.

“What the hell!” Gavin yelps out, turning towards the two nuisances. Both of their faces have an innocent look on it acting completely nonchalant, the shadowling glances to the rest of the class, where the majority have their headphones on and are focused on their work. Turning to where their graphics teacher who is currently guiding a small group on the t-shirt press, he sighs and faces the two nuisances. “What do you want?”

[You like animals, right?] Neuro asks, Cass nodding along agreeing with the statement. Confusion is seen on the shadow’s face; well, he doesn’t deny the fact he likes animals they’re great. As he thought about his answer, the girls see miniature animals form on his head as his thoughts turn into physical shadows. [I think we already have an answer, Gavin.] Neuro interrupts his thoughts as the girls begin to giggle. Gavin feels the shadows on his head move as he swipes them off.

“I love them yes, how is it relevant?” He asks tapping in rhythm to the volume downed song that he is listening to.

“You happen to like turtles?” Cass questions.

“They’re alright, but they’re in my top ten.” Gavin answers.

[I’ll take it!] Neuro grabbing the headrest of Gavin’s chair and pulling it towards her drawing screen, the old wheels of the chair squeaking from the sudden movement. Turn the chair around so that the shadow is staring at a drawing of a turtle underneath he reads ‘Vedal’.

“That’s a turtle.” He exclaims.

[Yup now give me your comments and criticism.] Neuro adds.

“Do I have to?” Gavin slouches back into his chair.

“Yes.” Neuro replies, not allowing the shadow to return to his desk. Gavin grumbles from the force as he looks at the screen to find anything worthwhile to point out to his two kidnappers.

…

Ellie is amazing at her job and most of her department say that she is a workaholic which is a true statement but hey she’s been getting better at it. Besides she’s not giving extra work to her underlings for doing more work on her side, its also a slower month for development which the other department heads agreed with one another that they should take it slow since it’s a good time to rest. The robotics head is wearing a navy blouse that is seen underneath lab coat and grey chinos go down to black loafers. Speaking of department heads why is one of them hanging out in her office.

“Koko do you not have anything to invent right now?” The android asks the monkey artificer, who is laying on her couch. Is surprisingly not in her lab coat, is wearing a white polo and black jeans with white and magenta stripe sneakers, a tablet in her hand that she is staring intently at. Ellie herself is at her desk looking at the recent data of testing they did for their robots.

“Nope, it’s a slow month right now so might as well catch up on some potential experiments I can begin.” Her friend replies still swiping on the tablet examining the submissions she received. Ellie shakes her head but doesn’t press Koko further focusing back to reading the data and putting on some piano ambiance in the office. It was a nice atmosphere.

It stays like that for half an hour, Ellie checking the time and seeing it being only 10:23 AM, the door to her office swings open as the familiar tired looking programming department head enters the office. Vedal yawns, he’s wearing a grey and black dress shirt that has its sleeves rolled up, no tie in sight, dark forest green trousers and black oxfords. The programmer is holding a cup of what Ellie can assume is coffee and his laptop is wrapped in his other arm. Noticing Ellie, he gives her a small finger wave with the hand that is holding the cup as he moves over to one of her chairs placing the cup on the coffee table in front of it. Vedal lets out a relieved sighs as he sinks into the chair.

“That’s what I needed, oh hi Koko.” Vedal lets out noticing monkey on the couch near him. He opens up his laptop, glancing around the room. “Still can’t believe how big of an office you have.”

“Yeah, it is bigger than most of the other department heads.” Koko adds as well, still scrolling on the tablet.

Ellie looks away from her monitor, taking a moment to admire her office for a bit. It was on the bigger side of the rooms compared to the others; they were right. She did fill up some unused space with storage and some furniture for her friends. Realistically she did forget that there is counterspace and a minifridge with a microwave in the corner of her office. Add another table and they could spend lunch in her office, which is not that bad of an idea.

“Hmm, I could add a couple of things, also Vedal why are you here?” Ellie asks interested in why the turtle would want to leave his office. The turtle shrugs taking a sip of his hot beverage before answering the android.

“Well Bo was talking to me about some things, and I said let’s go here, so that you lot can suffer with me.” Vedal said plainly, not noticing the eyeroll from Koko and the noise of realization from Ellie. A small smile did begin to form on his face, the door to Ellie’s office opened once more and they all glanced at the doorway seeing Bo enter the office. The human is wearing a maroon turtleneck sweater and charcoal slacks ending at bright red Vans. He’s holding a box of donuts and a tray of different coffee orders resting on top of a file folder that rests on the box. As he enters the office he gives a grin to his friends and places the items on the coffee table. Grabbing one out from the drink tray and handing it to Ellie.

“Thank you?” Ellie says confused, giggling afterwards as Bo makes his way over to the others. “And now all my friends are in my office isn’t this lovely.” She watches as Bo continues to hand the orders one by one, laughing a bit more as she watches Vedal chug his previous dose of caffeine before thanking Bo for the newest one for the day. The human then moves the tray off the files and onto the table, grabbing his drink and flopping backwards into the lounge chair, but there still rests one more order. “I am surprised at your confidence on not spilling a drop on those papers.”

“Oh these?” Bo replies taking the folder and opening it to read inside of it. “It’s just some recent reports that I have to read over from one of the other managers.” He takes a sip from his drink and leans back in his chair reading over the report carefully.

“Who’s the last cup for?” Vedal asks, eyeing the final drink that is still in the tray, examining the order label on the contents of the drink. Three cream, two shots of French vanilla, one sugar; interesting choices. “It does not look familiar at all.”

“Oh its for Vivia, I ran into her on my way to the café and invited her over here when she’s free.” Bo answers his eyes not lifting off of the report, Vedal feeling satisfied by the answer, takes a sip and gets back to typing. Ellie zones back into her work as she tunes back into the piano ambiance that is playing as the group quietly does their own work in each other’s company.

A knock is heard on the office door, Ellie checks the time again, 10:56 AM. She does get out of her chair, Koko gets up, taking chocolate glazed donut and saunters over to the door opening it and greeting the newcomer. Ellie peeks above her monitor seeing the vampire is wearing a simple black t-shirt and black jeans with burgundy boots at her feet. Vivia locks eyes with the android giving her a soft grin being led by Koko to the couch as she takes the drink offered by Bo and sitting next to the artificer.

“Welcome Vivia to whatever this ensemble is called.” Vedal greets her, his eyes not leaving the screen his typing speed staying the same.

“Can’t you just say friends?” Bo proposes.

“We are friends, we just don’t really have a name for ourselves, do we?” Vedal answers, stopping his rhythmic typing.

“Is that really needed?” Koko asks. Are they really going to have this conversation right now?

“Do we really need to figure this out?” Ellie interjects, getting out of her chair and taking a seat next to Vivia. The vampire scoots a bit to give her room on the couch, Vivia’s eyes darting to each person of the group.

“Well, I’m interested to hear what you all come up with.” Vivia says, taking a sip out of her drink. Ellie turns to the vampire with a look of betrayal on her face, the vampire locks eyes with her and Ellie swears she saw a glint of mischief in her eyes. The other half of the room, Bo and Koko, burst loudly with ideas on what names they can use. Vedal surprisingly adds suggestions for naming conventions as they begin to not make any sense. Ellie glares at Vivia, who gives a smug smile that she hides quickly by drinking her beverage.

…

“Wait do we need to wash the rice?” Claude asks their group with the others glancing at him when he asks the questions. The gorgon is holding a rice cooker bowl that is filled with both rice and water, the starch clearly visible in it.

“Yes, do you not eat rice?” Hugo replies, the fairy is busy with washing the dishes as he grumbles as Joan carefully places a knife on the edge of the sink. “Imagine that drop on my hand, you would be liable for that.” The fairy deadpans, the elf sticks out her tongue at him as she returns back to cut the vegetables for sushi.

“My family washes rice at least two times.” Joan answers, the noise of the knife hitting the cutting board being heard.

{Just rinse it three to four times.} Evilyn adds, her focus still on carefully slicing the cuts of salmon she has. Hearing the gorgon groan from the answers, she hears his footsteps moving over to ask Hugo to move over temporarily. Hearing a small argument begin to form as the fairy tells the gorgon to wait for him to finish cleaning.

“Let me clean my damn plates!” Hugo says aggressively and with the most amount of energy he has. Claude smiles weakly at the fairy and backs away with his arms in the air surrendering to the fairy.

“Fine, fine, I give up. I’ll wait oh master of cleanliness.” Claude announces, taking a bow and dramatically lets out a sigh as he moves over next to Evilyn. She already knows that he’s going to find a method of annoying her.

{What do you want Claude?} She asks, carefully scooping up her cut salmon onto a plate and grabbing the tuna, placing it on her cutting board.

“What? I can’t just be next to my friend?” Claude questions, batting his eyelashes, Evilyn is unfazed by the performance. Rolling her eyes and returns back to slicing the fish. “Alright, you caught me, been wondering about something though.” The gorgon pressing a finger to his chin, thinking about something.

{And that is?}

“How come you haven’t shown any traits of your dad?” As the question is finished, a small pause and silence happens. Joan’s chopping had come to a halt, Hugo stopped scrubbing the kitchen tools, and Evilyn ends mid slice. There was an obvious hint, but Claude continued anyways. “Both you and Neuro don’t have any traits of a turtle yet and currently you just resemble human.” Claude glances around their group’s kitchen and realizes the silence that is holding the others by the throat. Turning back to Evilyn who is still frozen in that same position, he turns to Joan and Hugo. “I said something that I shouldn’t have again huh.” The other two give him a nod, he lets out a breath, well he’ll need to fix this somehow. “Hey, you know most don’t get their traits until they hit puberty and that is already a slippery on when it happens.” Placing his hand on her head considering his height and pats it carefully trying to console her.

{Huh.} Evilyn says out loud, the gorgon glances at the other two tilting his head for them to come over here. Hugo leaves the faucet on for Joan to walk over and wash her hands as they move over. {I never thought about it.} The two carefully approach their friend, they also place their hands and Evilyn’s head giving warm rubs on it hoping that it is helping. {Father did say that we should be showing some traits around this age, and that it was mostly going to be from mom. Her genes were apparently stronger.} Then the three felt it and saw it. A pair of cat ears pop out from the head matching the same colour as her hair and a tail pop out from behind almost blocked off by the apron. The trio is stun locked, the remove their hands and step back to admire their friend’s cuteness. {Guys why’d you stop?} She turns around to face them, knife being placed on the cutting board beforehand and placing both hands on her hips. During the turn her tail went with the movement and the three feel as though they’re going to faint from how adorable it is. {What?} Evilyn tilts her head to the side, and almost pouts from her unresponsive friends, Joan faints from the look, Hugo catching her. Claude also falls back but the fairy’s hands are already busy. A loud thud is heard as the gorgon along with his snakes pass out hitting the ground.

“Neuro is going to freak out.” The fairy quietly says to himself bringing Joan to a chair as Evilyn goes to pickup Claude from the ground. He watches her tail whip around from the walk and her ears bouncing. Yup her sister is going to freak out if she sees her younger sister like this.

…

[I’m surprised with how well you can draw animals cutely.] Neuro compliments the shadowling, its been a couple of minutes and the trio is hovering over Gavin’s station as he has six different drawing of turtles.

“They are pretty good drawings; I think that one is the cutest.” Cass points at the third rendition of the turtle (It is basically Vedal’s current model lol). Neuro nods along in agreement to the goblin’s choice. Gavin somehow looks proud of himself for this work. Neuro glances at the clock on the computer, 11:01 AM, now would be a good time to interrupt Evilyn in class. She tugs on both Cass and Gavin to follow her.

[Come on, lets go to the cooking classes!} Neuro exclaims, Cass following with her, the goblin’s hand intertwined with Gavin’s to drag him along.

“Wait but won’t mister Van wonder where we are.” Gavin states out loud, worried on being absent.

“Its fine mister Van is chill anyways we tell him that we’re leaving.” Cass replies as they walk by their teacher’s desk who is currently there grading projects. The vampire glances up at the trio.

[We’re heading to the cooking classes, visiting Evil.] Neuro says plainly, their teacher gives them wave as the leader pulls open the door as the three exit the class into the hallway. [Let’s visit my sister and snag some snacks!] She announces to the other two, leading their march into towards the other class. It takes about a minute of walking, well walking for Neuro, the other two had to speedwalk to match her speed. Neuro pulls on the door handle opening it for the other two to enter first. Upon entering the classroom, they give a wave to the culinary teacher, miss Lochuk, the triton waving at the trio like she was expecting them. She’s currently reading student’s papers.

“Hi Neuro, here to pick on your sister again?” The triton asks, Neuro nods for her answers. “I heard a crash over at their group so something interesting happened.” The teacher adds grabbing her mug and taking sip from it, waving for the visiting students to head to Evilyn’s group section. Neuro drags Cass’ hand as the goblin pulls Gavin with her, making a line.

[Evil! I’m here! Anything ready?] Neuro says out loud, entering the kitchen, seeing the group and letting out a gasp. Evilyn’s group is busy and focused on their recipe which from what she sees is probably sushi. But something isn’t right, the other members apart from Evilyn are slightly blushing. Neuro walks up to her sister, tapping her on the shoulder. [You alright Evil?]

{Oh sister! You’re here, wait why are you here again.} Evilyn responds, turning around knife still in hand, realizing that she puts the knife away. The younger sister’s face is blushing, what exactly happened. {I’m doing fine, we were just fooling around yup.} She adds nodding with the phrase.

[You sure? You look tense about something?] Neuro asks, worry beginning to build in her voice as she presses her hand against Evilyn’s forehead.

{Too close!} Evilyn says out loud taking a step back bumping against the counter, Neuro frowns at the sudden movement but surrenders her hand to the side. {Everything is fine really.} Evilyn manages to say, then Neuro sees it, a pair of cat ears in the same shade of Evilyn’s hair pop out and a matching tail appearing in the side. Neuro gasps her eyes turning in sparkles, Evilyn sees this and reaches at the top of her head. {Well sh-} Unable to finish the swears as her older sister immediately dashes towards her and carefully pats her head.

[Wait we get cat ears?] Neuro exclaims, still excited of the prospect that they’ll have cat ears and a tail. [I wonder when I get mine!] Cass and Gavin look towards the other three group members, Joan shrugs, Claude awkwardly chuckles, Hugo scratches the back of their head.

“It just happened a couple of minutes ago.” Hugo states.

“Mostly it was Claudes fault.” Joan says, Hugo nodding in agreement.

“Hey it was not!” Claude disagrees, Joan gives him a look, and the gorgon shuts up.

“Should we stop that?” Gavin asks, as the five students sees Neuro hugging Evilyn and petting her cat ears. The younger sister making futile attempts to shove her older sister off of her.

“It’ll pass.” Cass says, Joan humming in agreement. The five just watch for a few seconds, before Hugo clears his throat and takes a step forward. Then they see it, on Neuro’s head pops out another set of cat ears and a tail popping from the waist of her skirt. All five gasp, seeing the sight of the two sisters, with cat ears and tails, well it was adorable times two. Claude, Joan, and Cass squeal as they pass out once again. Hugo catching Joan, Gavin catching Cass, and unfortunately Claude hits the ground again. Alerting the sisters of what happened as they glance at one another point at each others’ additional cat features. The two remaining students look at each other and shrug, beginning to drag their classmates to a char.

“Does their dad know?” Gavin asks Hugo, who shrugs in response.

“Probably not.” Hugo answers, he lets out a sigh as they set Joan on the chair, gesturing for Gavin to help him with Claude. The shadowling groans as he walks over to help the fairy. The sisters, well mostly Evilyn, since Neuro is not letting go of her younger sister, just stays on the ground next to one another.

…

When the company said it was a slow month, Ellie expected for there to be less work and people taking their time on projects. What she did not expect is the five of them to be seated around her coffee table playing card games, as Vivia just happened to have a deck of playing cards with her. She checks the time on her watch 11:14 AM, almost time to take their lunch break.

“Shouldn’t we be doing work?” Ellie asks, placing a card down on the table as it was her turn.

“It’s a slow right now, can’t we just enjoy the break?” Bo responds, playing his turn.

“Yeah, it’s nice to relax and enjoy time with friends right Ellie?” Koko adds, placing her card on the pile. “Or would you rather be with your lovely hellhound?” Koko asks, snickering as she sees the android’s face blush slightly.

“Oh, come on Koko!” Ellie exclaims, turning towards Vedal and Vivia, the two calmer and more responsible employees. “Don’t both of your departments need you?” The two blink at her.

“Not really” Vedal says, shrugging as he said it, playing his card.

“Servers are running smoothly with the less traffic.” Vivia replies, tossing a card onto the pile. Ellie groans falling back into the couch unsatisfied by her friends’ answers.

“This feels wrong.” Ellie says out loud.

“It isn’t.” Vedal responds, patting her on the shoulder. “Look I know how you feel, but let’s enjoy the slowness for once, we’ll never get it again.” He stands up from his chair, glancing at his watch. “Anyways I’m calling an early lunch for my guys so see you all back here later!” The turtle says, grabbing his laptop and heads out the door of her office, waving goodbye behind him. Ellie watches as her friends one by one clean up and leave the room to where she was waving goodbye to Vivia who was the last to leave.

“See you at lunch?” Vivia asks, stopping in the middle of the doorway. Ellie gives her a smile and nod, waving goodbye. The vampire returns the gesture and closes the office door carefully.

“That was something,” Ellie says out loud, the android checks the time again, 11:22 AM well she should probably tell her employees that they can take an early break. She gets up, moving over to her desk, tossing her cup of coffee into the trash bin. Stretches a bit, clearing her throat, opening the door to her office to start telling her employees to take their break half an hour early.

…

Vedal whistles the tune of ‘Happy Together’ as he approaches Ellie’s office door. Turning the handle and its surprisingly unlocked, entering the room he finds Vivia seated at her previous spot on the couch, in front of her seems to be a bento box. The vampire is on her phone and looks up from it waving at the turtle.

“You’re here early,” Vedal states, taking a seat in one of the chairs, placing his lunch bag on the table, grabbing his phone to catch up on any missed messages. Oh, his daughters texted him.

“Well, I just had to grab my lunch and that’s basically it.” Vivia responds, catching the turtle’s attention as he sees her typing on her phone with one hand. “How are your daughters by the way?” She asks, reminding the father to finally check the message that was sent in the group chat. As he opens it up he sees a photo of both Neuro and Evilyn, the older sister hugging the other one and each of them having very realistic cat ears and matching tails. He reads the message sent by Neuro ‘we got Mom’s traits today!’. Vivia sees the father’s face turn in that of shock. “You alright Vedal?” The father turns the phone around showing it to the vampire.

“Oh neat,” Vivia says plainly, “Can’t Nekos do that at will?”

“They can.” Vedal recalls from his previous relationship. “It’s probably more connected to emotions though.” He adds on, the vampire leans back in their chair, the door to Ellie’s office opens as they both glances to the newcomers, it was Bo and Ellie. The human carrying a soda and café bought sandwich, the android carrying their lunchbox and a can of beans.

“Yo.” Bo greets them as he takes his seat in the chair, after getting comfortable he sees the distress on the turtle’s face. “You doing alright Vedal?” The turtle’s response is handing the phone to Vivia, who rolls her eyes with a smile and hands it over to the human. Ellie moves over to Bo to peer at the phone as well. “Cool, they can become Nekos.”

“Wait aren’t you a turtle?” Ellie and Bo say together. Vedal sighs into his hands.

“It’s a trait from their mother.” The turtle answers, getting an audible ‘oh’ from the other three. The turtle gets calmer from the other’s pause.

“I must admit, they’re fucking cute with the cat features.” Vivia says out loud, getting nods of amusement from Bo and Ellie.

“They are adorable,” Vedal responds a warm smile on his face. “Wait does this mean they’ll be craving fish or something?” He asks out loud to the group. They look at one another and burst into laughter.

“Vedal, you asked an android, a human and vampire.” Ellie replies, giggling in her response. “Probably some of the worst ones.

“It was a valid question!” The turtle stammers out. “I just want some insight because it’s dealing with a trait different than my own!” The others calm down allowing for some peace and a break from the discussion. Looks like he’ll just deal with it when he gets home, maybe he can ask Anny for any tips it’s somewhat similar right? His thoughts are broken as Koko enters the office, carrying a takeout bag that was probably delivered to the company building. The monkey stands there confused looking at the others.

“Wait, did I miss something?” Koko asks the group as they turn to Vedal, who lets out a sigh and hands his phone over to one of his friends next to him. He can figure out on help later, first he’ll enjoy his lunch break with his friends.

Chapter Text

A finger reaches for the Neynatesvens’ doorbell, standing before the door to the family is Cerber and Ellie, the hellhound had pressed the button. The android is wearing a simple white t-shirt underneath a navy zip up hoodie; light wash jeans adorn her legs. The hellhound is wearing dark purple hoodie along with a black skirt and black tights. The couple are holding hands, the hellhound is carrying grocery bags, one holding a couple bottles of soju and sake. While the android has a grocery bag carrying some snacks, each has a backpack on their back like they’re prepared to spend the night, which they totally are.

The door to the home swings open as they’re greeted by Anny, Vedal’s partner and of course one of the best fashion designers that they know. However, the fox is wearing something more on the comfier side of things, opting for a purple and blue oversized hoodie, grey shorts barely being seen from the piece of comfy wear. The fox reaches in to hug both of them.

“Hi! Good to see the two of you again!” Anny greets them, gently pulling them inside the house as the warm and cozy atmosphere hits the two of them. “Vedal and Evil are currently in the kitchen as usual, I was helping Neuro get the living room ready.” Anny adds on, gesturing to both directions, she leaves the couple at the entrance as she shuts the front door, heading over to join Neuro’s work. The two gets their shoes off as they split off, Cerber to the kitchen and Ellie to the living room.

…

The living room has been turned into what Evilyn would describe, ‘a cozy mess,’ while Neuro would call it ‘homey movie theatre’ and surprisingly both descriptions would fit. As Ellie enters the room, she notices that Neuro has her Neko features out as the older sister is placing pillows and blankets carefully to maximize softness and comfortableness. The girl is wearing a white t-shirt that has Hatsune Miku on it and blue shorts. Anny had just handed her a set of blankets and pillows to build the cozy fort further; she then takes a seat on the couch cross-legged. The fox notices the android enter and pats on the spot next to her. As the android takes a seat she notices a smirk forming on the fox’s face.

“So… how’s you and the hellhound been doing?” Anny asks, leaning into the android nudging her with her shoulder. Warmth slowly creeps onto the android’s face.

“It’s been great, sweet actually.” Ellie manages to respond to her.

“That’s nice to hear. At least you didn’t need to break through someone’s shell.” Anny gestures her head towards the kitchen.

“Well, it was Cerber that entered through mine actually.”

“She is very outgoing, I can imagine it was easy to get the signals.” Anny asks, Ellie chuckles a bit, scratching the back of her head.

“I didn’t actually notice for a month actually.”

“Really?” Anny gaps in surprise, getting Neuro’s attention as the girl’s cat ears twitch from the noise.

“She gave me a lot of affection I just thought it was normal.” The fox laughs at the answer, pulling the android into a hug, surprising her.

[They are cute when they kiss.] Neuro interrupts, the hug ending, a frowning fox and a blushing android turn to her.

“And how do you know that exactly Neuro?” Anny asks, eyebrow raised on how the young girl knows this information. The girl shrugs at the fox and resumes her building of their watching area for the movie. The fox sighs as she turns back to a now embarrassed android. “Calm down, I’m sure that she’s lying.” Anny attempts to reassure Ellie.

[Am not.] Neuro adds, having the fox turn to the girl, who begins to whistle nonchalantly ignoring Anny’s gaze who returns back to face Ellie.

“Well, I’ll agree very much that you two look cute together.” The fox says, patting Ellie on the back as she attempts to restart their conversation. “Vedal actually has a picnic planned for me next week.” That comment acquires Ellie’s attention again.

“I hope the weather will be nice for the two of you. Will you be eating out or is Vedal going to be cooking?” Ellie asks, recalling how the turtle is a really good cook, and she can’t lie. Is excited to eat whatever Evilyn and him have cooked up for tonight.

“Vedal is unsure but he’s fine with whatever, he just wants to make sure that he’s the one paying.” Anny responds, “He’s just so adamant on paying for everything whenever we go out together.” She lets out a huff of frustration, Ellie only giggles slightly from the answer.

“That’s Vedal for you.” Ellie adds on. “We stopped having him take orders from us since he never tells us the price for when we order food at work.” The android recalls the many occasions of Bo and Koko shaking the turtle for an answer, but he just stays silent.

[Less talking about my dad and more about Cerber and you. Come on spill it Ellie!] Their conversation is interrupted as Neuro is suddenly between the two of them, a cheeky smile on her face. Anny joins in with a mischievous smile as they both turn to Ellie, the android realizing that she cannot escape their need for tea. Of the gossip and talking kind.

…
Cerber enters the kitchen getting hit with the scent of chicken and potatoes, hearing oiling sizzling to the heat. She spots Vedal holding a pair of tongs, clicking them and staring at the pile of chicken wings that stand at the countertop next to the stovetop. The turtle is wearing a green t-shirt, dark green plaid pajama pants, green turtle slippers are on his feet, the entire look finished off by a simple navy apron. By the kitchen table she sees Evilyn working on some potatoes as a deep fryer is on and the younger sister is working hard at chopping and seasoning them. The girl is wearing a black hoodie, grey and white pajama pants, frog slippers adorn her feet, lastly a maroon apron is on her. The hell hound approaches the kitchen table, Evilyn noticing her as the girl gives Cerber a wave.

{Hi miss Cerber!} Evilyn greets her, she glances over to Vedal. {Father! Miss Cerber is here now!} She yells at her father, the turtle glances back from his cooking station, giving a quick wave to Cerber. Before she can wave back, he returns to focusing on the pan that is filled with oil, Evilyn lets out a sigh from her father’s response. {As you can see, we’re busy working on the meal. What’s that in the bag?} The girl asks pointing at the bag of alcohol that Cerber is holding.

“Drinks… for adults… yeah that.” Cerber replies, placing the bag on the table as the jingling of bottles is heard. “Anything for me to help out with?” She asks the two chefs, they both stop and think of anything, surprisingly they shake their head in unison. “Oh, come on! Could you both at least talk with me?”

“We can yeah.” {Our mouths are free.} The two Neynatesven say at the same time, the hell hound doesn’t see the smile on the turtle’s face and the smirk that is on his daughter’s.

“Well first things first, what movie are we watching?” Cerber asks them.

“Don’t know.” {Big sis Camila had picked the movie.} They both answer.

“Where is Camila anyways?” Cerber asks afterwards, wondering where the imp is considering from past meet ups, she lives close to the family’s home.

“Probably crashed.” {Maybe crashed.} They answer grimly, Evilyn immediately laughing as she registers her father’s answer. Huh, there’s that resemblance suddenly, Cerber notes down in her head.

“That’s mean.” Cerber says.

“She deserves it.” {Sometimes you have to.} They answer together again, they both finish another portion of their respective food that their cooking. Cerber is now sitting at the kitchen table with Evilyn.

“You can just say you act like siblings.” Cerber attempts to target Vedal.

“I’ll die in a ditch.” {They really do.} Another set of answers come in. Vedal glances to his youngest daughter. “Hey, you’re supposed to be on my side.” Vedal gives a hurt look to Evilyn, where she only grins at him. {You both hate each other like you grew up together though, father.} Vedal lets out a sigh as he turns to his cooking.

The banter carries on for a couple of minutes with Cerber being the main input to keep the conversation going. Hearing the short and quick quips that come from both the father and daughter is really amusing. The pile that is with each cook grows steadily over the duration of their entertaining conversation. The doorbell dings around the home again, Cerber turns to the direction of the living room, getting out of her chair.

“I got it!” Cerber yells out, hoping that no one from the living room leaves to attend to the visitor. Heading towards the entrance she turns the doorknob and pulls the door open; she’s met with the imp they were talking about a couple of moments ago. “Hi Camila!” The hell hound pulls the imp into a quick hug before backing into the home to let her enter properly.

“Hiya Cerber!” Camila greets her, the imp is wearing a black t-shirt that has a pink and black hoodie over it and black sweatpants that give her a fully cozy look. The imp has a backpack on, most likely with necessities and her laptop that is filled with a multitude of pirated movies. “Did you get here with Ellie?” She asks, as she takes off her sneakers and follows Cerber into the entrance.

“Mhm, we got here about an hour ago, the cooking duo should be almost done with cooking and I’m not too sure what’s happening in the living room.” Cerber answers, taking the detour to move to the living, leaving the imp to her devices, unknowing of the fact that she’ll be trapped there until the food arrives on platters and the laptop is plugged into the tv.

The imp hears as the hell hound suddenly lets out a yelp and the footsteps into the living room disappear. She decides to check in on the chefs, which she assumes is Evilyn and Vedal. Lo and behold, upon entering she guessed right, seeing the two plating the food onto some platters, well mostly Vedal. Evilyn is whipping up some sauces for the chicken wings and fries that look crispy and delicious. They’re both very focused, so she’ll move towards the living room. Upon entering she finds a blushing Cerber the is sitting on the lap of Ellie, the android has her arms wrapped around the hell hound not looking like she’ll let go anytime soon. To the side, has Neuro resting against Anny blanket over them, the older daughter has her phone out, most likely recording the couple to show them later. Anny notices the imp and pats on the spot next to her.

Camila nods, acknowledging the spot, taking a single step forward before she remembers to prep the movie for the night. She raises a finger to let the fox know that she will only take a mere moment, she wanders to the tv stand, taking out her laptop and unplugs the HDMI cord from the console into her laptop as she boots it up. Going into her file explorer and opening up an animated movie about kpop idols fighting demons. She turns back to the fox, who raises the blanket for her, smiling at Camila. The imp shakes her head in a surrender with a smile, moving towards Anny and Neuro, as Camila is wrapped with the blanket as she immediately feels cozy with the other two.

“Took you while.” Anny says, giving Camila a side hug, the imp returns it back.

“Hey traffic was rough.” Camila responds.

“Was it?” Anny raises an eyebrow as she questions the imp.

“It wasn’t,” Camila says in the defeat, the fox letting out a giggling. Fortunately, Neuro is too enamoured with the affection being shown between Cerber and Ellie. “What’s up with Ellie?” Camila asks, Anny nudges her head towards the coffee table that was pushed towards the TV so that there is space in front of the couch. There lies a bag of alcohol, an empty lychee soju bottle sits next to it. “Ah, makes sense,” Camila adds, smiling as she glances at the couple beside them. Cerber has her head in her hands, as Ellie is whispering into the hell hound’s ear. “Should we stop that?” She asks worried that it might be too much for Neuro and Evilyn.

“No, it’s fine, since Vedal and Evilyn are about to get here with the food.” Anny answers with a smile. Right on queue, they are met with the smell of fresh fries and fried chicken, and the slight smell of the different sauces. The chef duo enters the living room with the trays of food, placing them on the coffee table. They both glance at the comfy spectators, Vedal noticing that Camila is next to Anny, she sticks out her tongue at the turtle, letting him know that she is not leaving this spot. The turtle grumbles, he is lead by Evilyn as she brings him to the couch, taking the spot next to him and grabbing a blanket to keep the two of them cozy for the movie.

“We’re all good to start?” Camila asks the group, glancing at each person. Ellie has calmed downed, currently opening one of the bag chips they brought. Cerber is still somewhat red, she has an alcoholic cooler in her hand that she cracks open. Neuro has a plate of chicken and fries, offering them to Anny. The fox thanks the girl as she grabs a wing and begins nibbling on it. Vedal has a plate of food as well, where Evilyn is taking some fries and snacking on it already. Camila assumes that this means that the others are ready. Temporarily leaving the warm secure blanket of Anny and Neuro, reaching for the laptop to hit play, returning to the warmth of the others, Anny offering the plate of food to the imp, in which she accepts. It’s nice to spend time with others like this, Camila thinks to herself as a smile begins creep onto her face as the opening to the movie begins.

Chapter Text

Vedal stretches his arms as he slowly raises up in bed, being careful to not wake up his fox partner sleeping soundly next to him. Taking his time to get out of bed, heading to his washroom to freshen up before starting breakfast for his family. Shutting the door to his bedroom quietly, he makes his way towards the kitchen. Upon entering he grabs his navy apron off of one of the hooks holding three very distinct aprons. Moving to the coffee machine and dropping a pod into it, turning it on. He lets out a yawn as he stretches his arms upwards in the air wandering over to the fridge, he opens the bottom tray freezer, looking at the pack of bacon and frozen hash browns. Grabbing both items, placing them on the counter, he opens one of the cabinets to grab their trusty griddle, placing it on top of two stoves, turning them on to get it ready for the breakfast he’ll be cooking up. He opens the fridge again, taking out the egg tray, having that set for when the griddle is properly heated. The sound of something being shot out is heard, the coffee machine getting his attention as he grabs the dark green mug with fresh coffee, he takes out some creamer from the cabinet above, pouring it in and stirring it with a spoon. Taking a sip from it, satisfying his need for caffeine, he’s somewhat energized to cook breakfast for his family before they wake up.

The oven is preheated, with the hashbrowns being placed on a baking tray so that it can be inserted into the oven once its ready. Flicking some water on the griddle and hearing the water evaporating from the heat, he lays the bacon stripes on the griddle. Letting it crisp up and spew out its fat onto the griddle, after they reach their needed doneness. He takes them off the griddle with some tongs, placing more down on one half, while he cracks some eggs onto the griddle. The oven dings, alerting the turtle to insert the hashbrowns into the oven, which he does, easily, shutting the oven door and returning his attention back to the griddle. Finishing the bacon and eggs, setting them aside onto a plate for sharing. Going back to the fridge again, he grabs some broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots, washing them thoroughly, pulling out a cutting board he cuts them into bite sized pieces. Placing them onto a baking tray he drizzles olive oil over them, a bit of salt and pepper on top and mixes them to make sure they’re coated evenly for the most part. Opening the oven door, he swaps out the tray of hashbrown with that of the vegetables. Walking over to the kitchen table he stretches his arms again, realizing that he needs to set up the table with their plates and cutlery.

As he sets down the last set of plates and cutlery, along with the roasted vegetables being finished Vedal takes a step back to admire his work. At least he knows that his daughters will gobble down the food quickly imagining that Evilyn will force Neuro to eat a single portion of vegetables at least. His thoughts are broken up with child-sized torpedo attacking him with a hug, looking down he finds Neuro wrapped around him, Evilyn walking towards him as she stops beside him.

[Morning Dad!] {Hi Father.} His daughters greet him in unison; the turtle hugs his eldest with one arm whilst the other pats the younger one on their head. Neuro makes sounds of happiness while Evilyn covers her face from embarrassment, but she doesn’t move away from the touch.

“Morning you two, breakfast is ready,” Vedal lets go of the two, gesturing to the table, Evilyn takes a seat at the table while Neuro walks to the fridge, taking out pitchers of water and orange juice. Returning at the table placing the orange juice near Evilyn and the water by herself, the eldest takes her seat. “I’ll get Anny.” Vedal tells the sisters, Evilyn nodding and Neuro giving a thumbs up as they have already started eating. The turtle makes his way to his bedroom, opening the door he finds the bed empty, and his bathroom door shut closed. Vedal moves to his bed taking a seat on it, waiting for his partner to finish up so that he can greet her good morning. Realizing that he hasn’t checked his phone at all he grabs it from his bedside table, looking at the time, 9:53 AM, well it’s not that early. As he scrolls through his notifications and messages, he doesn’t hear the bathroom door open as a pair of arms wraps around his shoulders feeling the weight of another person on his back.

“Morning mister.” Anny greets him, the turtle chuckles as he gives a quick peck to the fox’s cheek. “Wow kisses already?” She teases him, seeing a slight blush appearing on her partner’s face.

“Breakfast is set,” Vedal replies, not acknowledging the fox’s comment. “The girls have already started, so I hope there’ll be food when we get back.” He pulls up the fox’s legs, putting her into a piggyback getting a squeal of surprise from Anny.

“Let me down Vedal!” Anny yelps out as she clings onto Vedal more tightly.

“I will, when we get to the kitchen or you kiss me back.” Vedal responds smugly, Anny can already guess that the turtle has a mischievous smile on his face. And she always wondered where the sisters get their sass from, it’s from their father who is good at showing it. She also assumes that the two get their ingenious schemes from inheriting the turtle’s smarts, a very dangerous trait commonly shared in the family. The turtle’s footsteps stop as he glances back at the fox. “So… where are my kisses?” He hears a huff come from his partner as he waits patiently for her response, a couple seconds pass before he feels a peck on the side of his head. He chuckles to himself as he lets Anny down gently, offering his hand for hers. The blushing fox takes it as the two head to the kitchen to join Neuro and Evilyn for breakfast.

…

Vedal checks over his outfit once more, a forest green polo shirt, a grey sport coat that has a green windowpane in it, dark wash denim jeans, and turtle socks are at his feet since his brown oxfords are on the shoe rack. Feeling satisfied he grabs his phone and leaves his room, shutting the door as the sounds of the shower running goes away as he walks towards the kitchen to grab the food he had prepped for the picnic. Placing two sets of sandwiches, canned drinks, and a charcuterie board that Vedal had spent an hour carefully making meat roses and arranging all the components painfully. He hums to himself a tune, not noticing his youngest daughter entering the kitchen watching him work.

{That’s a lot of food.} Evilyn states out loud, alerting her presence to her father. She is wearing a black t-shirt with art of a skull on it, a grey zip-up hoodie over it, black denim shorts and black knee-high socks.

“It is, had it all finished last night.” Vedal answers, tying the top of the basket closed and making sure that anything won’t spill. “Anny and I will be going on a picnic; she’s just getting ready.” Evilyn tilts her head at the second sentence.

{Picnic? But it’s currently raining outside.} Evilyn replies, having the turtle widen his eyes as he frantically pulls out his phone to check the weather. Unfortunately, his daughter was right and that it is a light drizzle for the next two hours. {I doubt you would want to eat food in the rain.}

“It’s an hour drive away so hopefully it’s gone when we get there.” Vedal responds, really hoping that the rain doesn’t persist for the entire day. “Enough prying into my date plans, what are you two going to be doing once Miniko comes over?”

{Studying mo-} [Board games!] Evilyn’s words are cut off as Neuro dashes into the kitchen hugging her younger sister from behind. The older sister is wearing a white t-shirt, cream cardigan overtops it, a light blue plaid skirt, with white and light blue stripe socks that goes to her calves. [Hiya, whatcha doing Dad?] Neuro asks, not letting go of her sister even with Evilyn making futile attempts at shoving her off.

“Getting ready for the picnic I planned for Anny.” Vedal answers his eldest this time. He glances up and notices that both girls are staring at him now. “What?”

[You’re acting so cute right now!] {You’re blushing.} His daughters point out to him in unison. He raises a hand to cover half of his face, giving a sign to his daughters that they were correct, they both give him a smug grin. [I won’t tell.] {She probably won’t.} They both say at the same time again, they make their leave back to their rooms, or more precisely Evilyn dragging away Neuro since the older sister let go of her. Vedal lets out a sigh a relief as both of his daughters leave him alone in the kitchen.

“Vedal?” Anny’s voice is heard as she approaches the kitchen from the hallway, getting Vedal’s attention on her where his face feels flushed again. The fox is wearing a light blue sundress having a subtle floral pattern all over it, she has a pastel pink buttoned sweater over top it, and white stockings adorn down to her feet. The fox steps forward to the stun locked turtle, tilting her head at him in confusion as he doesn’t respond. “You doing okay mister?” She gives him a smile, and the turtle swears that he got stunned again, however he looks away briefly, well not really just to avoid eye contact.

“Yup, perfectly normal,” Vedal manages to stammer out at her, “You look stunning by the way. Literally.”

“Thank you! Sorry I took a while.” Anny says, smiling again at the compliment.

“No, it’s alright, let’s go now. The basket is all packed.” Vedal says, taking the basket with his right hand, grasping Anny’s hand with his other free hand. “It’s an hour drive so we can talk while I’m driving over there.” He adds on glancing back at Anny who nods along with every tidbit of information he tells her about the trip. Showing great interest on their destination for the day that Vedal had prepared ahead for her.

…

The drizzling rain hits the windshield of Vedal’s car as he drives alongside the coastline. Dark clouds remain in the sky with some breakpoints in between the clouds for a chance of the sun to escape and have its rays hit the ground. The basket is in the backseat; there are two bubble tea drinks in the cupholder between the driver and passenger seat. Vedal is focused on the road ahead whilst Anny is staring out on the passenger side.

“So… where are we going mister?” Anny asks, still turned towards the window watching the droplets that flow downwards. She gets no response from the turtle, glancing over to the other side of the car. She stares silently at her partner, whose entire focus is on the road ahead, quietly leaning over and poking the turtle on the shoulder. “Vedal?” The turtle still doesn’t respond, his gaze forward and his current state being distant. “Vedal!” Anny asks again, raising her voice louder to catch his attention. The fox notices him tense up for a moment before glancing over to her, flashing her a smile that does not look convincing.

“Yes?” He asks in a neutral tone, his focus returning back to the road, not noticing the worried look on his girlfriend’s face.

“You are like blanking out on me.” She states to him, the turtle staying silent taking a quick glance at her, having no response for her yet. “Is everything alright?”

“My thoughts were just wandering, sorry.” He replies quietly, Anny’s ears tilt downwards, unsatisfied with the answers.

“Want to talk about it?” She asks, hoping that this would let the turtle break out of his shell and talk more about his feelings.

“I’ll think about.” He answers again quickly.

“Thinking about it is what led to us right now.” She fires back at him, not wanting to stay in silence for the rest of the car ride.

“I-.” Vedal stops himself before letting out a long sigh. He glances at Anny’s eyes for a second. “We’ll talk about it after we eat if that’s fine with you.”

“That’s fine with me if you actually want to take a serious talk.” Anny thanks the turtle, moving her right hand and grasping his left hand. Enjoying the warmth of each other’s hand, Vedal squeezing Anny’s hand a few moments to let her know that he’s still somewhat paying attention, albeit he’s mostly focused on the road.

“You still didn’t answer my first question.” Anny points out, remembering her first question.

“What was it?” Vedal asks.

“Where are we going?” She repeats her initial request that restarted their conversation.

“Oh, a park that’s near a beach. Thought that it would be a nice quiet spot to enjoy each other’s company.” He explains, noticing the fox’s ears perking up and a cheeky smile on her face.

“That sounds perfect to share our deep feelings.” Anny adds, getting a long sigh from the turtle as she giggles from her answer. She feels the turtle squeeze her hand two times before he lets out a short chuckle.

The rest of the car ride is mostly kept in silence with the couple pointing out interesting things that they see starting up more short conversations between the two. Neither of them recalls the conversation in terms of Vedal’s emotions and feelings however he knows that he’ll have to tell his partner what is stuck in his head. Still holding one another’s hand during the drive unless Vedal needs both hands on the wheels. Fortunately, the clouds go away as rays of sunlight begin piercing through and a wondrous rainbow has replaced the darkened sky. Anny points that out, turning to Vedal surprised to see him have an actual smile on his face, which he realizes, conspicuously looking back at the road, a tint of red on his face. The fox will only giggle not pushing the turtle’s buttons further as they almost reach their destination. The park location was on the coastline, with it being in the middle between the rest of the town and the beach. As Vedal locks the doors to his car and holds onto the picnic basket, Anny holding another bag supplied by the turtle with a blanket and other miscellaneous picnic items. This time, Vedal grasps for Anny’s hand as he leads the both of them to his predetermined picnic spot that he definitely did not scout ahead of time with his coworkers on a random day off.

After a short two-minute walk, as well as going uphill they reach a secluded spot in the shade, thanks to a couple of trees. The sight of the beach in front of them, the slight ocean breeze which messes up the clean blanket drop Vedal was doing which he fixes afterwards. Using the basket and bag as a weight to stop it from being blown away, he takes a seat and takes off his shoes, Anny sits down next to him, doing the same.

“So mister… what did you prepare for today?” Anny asks, latching onto his arms as the Turtle pulls the basket towards him as he opens it up. She looks inside. Within the basket there are eight sandwiches total which four of them are wrapped differently from the other 4, a selection of canned drinks, and a wonderfully arranged charcuterie board. She glances at the turtle waiting for an explanation from him.

“What?” Vedal asks, tilting his head slightly from confusion as the fox continues to stare at him. “Oh, you want me to explain what we’re eating.” He answers, Anny giving him a nod of agreement, the turtle clears his throat, trying to remember what he did prepare and what he put in the basket. “Well to start with the sandwiches. I asked Evilyn to cook me a batch of her focaccia which now have berry jam, goat cheese and butter spread, arugula and prosciutto.” Turtle takes a breath. “The other sandwiches use some light white bread, cream cheese on both ends and lightly salted cucumbers.” Another breath. “Plus I just grabbed some canned soft drinks and a couple teas so we’re not parched.” More oxygen. “Lastly the charcuterie board.” He rubs his hand as if to show how proud he was with it. “Starting with the cheeses we have a Manchego, goat cheese, gouda, and a smoked honey and jalapeno cream cheese. For meats, there is more prosciutto, salami, chorizo, capricola, and Italian summer sausage. Assorted nuts if you need a crunch, pickled asparagus, radish and beets, there’s also fresh blueberries, strawberries and a grapes. There are dates, dried apricots, figs, and mangos, a few bits of dark chocolate and a wonderful selection of crackers.” Vedal finishes his explanation, opening his eyes as he was imagining his creation, hearing the crunch of a cracker seeing Anny have a combination of the components of the board. She giggles a bit as she continues to munch on her sample, finishing her portion before she gives him an answer.

“What? I got hungry while you were explaining.” Anny tells him, her face a bit flushed from being caught eating early. Vedal lets out a short chuckle, leaning over to her and planting a kiss on her forehead. “Hey! I’m eating!” Anny yelps out, Vedal returns back to the basket to take out a cucumber sandwich for himself, taking out a focaccia one and placing it on a paper plate for Anny.

“Bon Appetit~” Vedal adds, very cheesily receiving a light punch on his arm as the fox unwraps the sandwich and taking a bite out of it. Vedal watches her, a smile on his face as he sees her face brighten up from the food he cooked.

The two eat the food that Vedal had prepared, sharing some lighthearted banter and teasing. They both have one of each sandwich, with the remainder of their time eating, laying against one another and feeding each other their creations with the many materials that come from the charcuterie board. It has been a couple of minutes with Anny laying her head on Vedal’s legs whilst the turtle is leaning against his arms. The two staring out at the ocean, the sky is a bit cloudy however the bright blue in the sky is still visible against the sun. Vedal reaches for some grapes holding one over Anny as she notices it and opens her mouth, he drops the grape closer to not have it drop directly down her throat, popping his grape into his mouth afterwards.

“You want to talk about it?” Anny asks, breaking their cozy silence, Vedal glance down at her eyes, looking back up at the ocean. “You don’t have to. If you don’t want to.”

“I just don’t want to ruin the mood especially for today.” Vedal answers, Anny sits up moving next to the turtle, resting her head on his shoulder as he leans his head towards hers in response. “But it would be best to let you know about it sooner rather than later, I would have to tell you about her anyways.” Anny’s eyes widen at the mention of another, feeling Vedal’s hand hold onto hers, she squeezes his to reassure him that she’s listening.

“Her?” She asks, the turtle lets out a sigh.

“Neuro and Evilyn’s biological mother, and my ex.” He answers, taking a deep breath, he squeezes her hand two times again. “Her name is Mikado, a Neko that apparently fancied me in university. She asked me out, I didn’t really reciprocate it but I was afraid to say no. We somehow hit it off although most of the moments we shared I didn’t feel much of it. It only lasted a year; she graduated before me and just disappeared.” He reaches for a blueberry, plopping it into his mouth. Anny reaches for her iced tea taking a sip of it, neither of them letting go of each other’s hand. “Then I see Mikado again a year and a half later, nothing changed from her time gone, something sparked within the both of us again, I guess? We hung out again for a month, returned to my place one night on her last week, the next thing I knew I woke up in bed alone in the morning a note from her saying that she’s sorry.” Vedal feels Anny’s hand placed on his arm as he looks at her, still focused and listening to his story.

“Then how did you get Neuro and Evilyn?” Anny asks, the question that Vedal assumed was circling in within her head as the turtle was explaining his former lover.

“Another year would pass, and I would get a random call from a hospital from a town an hour away. Saying that Mikado was in the ER, so I drove, packed a bag with the essentials and went all the way there. I didn’t know why I would be one of the people called for Mikado, but I didn’t question it and went there anyways.” Vedal takes another breath, two more squeezes from Anny to let him know that she’s with him. “I get there, giving my name and they were expecting me to arrive somehow, I still didn’t know why she was there in the first place and what emergency occurred. I get to the room, and there’s a one-year-old Neuro, and a freshly born Evilyn, who was being held in Mikado’s arms. But she looked very weak, she saw me and for some reason was apologizing to me. I just listened, shocked from this secret, apparently, she didn’t expect to have Neuro and let alone Evilyn on the second fling we had when she returned. I stayed silent for the majority of it, but Mikado’s condition wasn’t looking good by the end of her explanation.” This time Vedal squeezes Anny’s hand, the fox giving pats on his arm. “Mikado wanted me to make a promise, she wanted me to make sure that Neuro and Evilyn get enough love from me, even though she never received much from our time together. And that I withhold talking about her to them until their graduating year of secondary school. I did promise that to her, I would hold Neuro as she began to cry, then Evilyn after her older sister went to sleep. I kept Mikado company as she talked to me about her dreams and what she hopes for her children’s future. She would pass a few hours later, and I would have driven home with two children that I didn’t realize I have.” Vedal lets out a breath, glancing at the fox as she stares back at him, she clutches on his arm, hugging it. “And that’s about it.”

“That’s a lot to take in, but I can see that you kept your promise really well.” Anny responds, recalling the smiles that Vedal’s daughters would carry everyday as well as how the turtle would treat the two. The turtle shifts around as he takes his turn to lay his head on the fox’s lap. “I’m sure Mikado would be happy with the result, but has Neuro or Evilyn asked about Mikado yet?”

“They’re smart, so they know they have a mom and that she’s not in their life anymore, Neuro recalls from her memories from when she was one but other than that no.” Vedal raises his arm up blocking the sun from his view. “If they ask once they’re older then I’m not going to hold that information back.” He then looks up at Anny’s eyes again. “I… was hoping on leaving some flowers at her resting place.” Vedal asks her. “If that is fine for you.”

“That’s fine, you know what her favourite flowers are?” Anny asks, as she begins playing with Vedal’s hair, the turtle hums from the question.

“She loved lilacs, I can remember her having a tattoo of one on her arm.”

“Huh, do you have any tattoos?”

“No but maybe I will if its to remind me of something important.”

“Like what? Cookies for Neuro and Evilyn.” This time Vedal pinches one of Anny’s hands playing with his hair as she lets out a yelp. Following up with a light smack on his head, the two laughing at the other’s antics.

“We’ll see, let’s just enjoy the peace before I return home.” He lets out a relieved sigh as he shuts his eyes. “Wake me up when you think it’s been too long.” Anny gives two taps on his head with her fingers in acknowledgement. She reaches for her bag, taking out her iPad as she opens up a drawing app. Staring at the landscape in front of her as she begins sketching the view. Staring down at the turtle and placing a quick kiss on his head as she returns to her drawing. The two enjoy the other’s company, Vedal taking a much deserved nap, Anny drawing away at the view of the ocean as time would pass before they pack their things and return back home.

…

A bundle of lilacs rest at the grave of a Mikado Fausciel, at the base of the polished stone rests a silver locket. Within the locket is a picture of a younger and tired Vedal sleeping on the couch, his arm wrapped around two very young Neuro and Evilyn in a protective embrace. A photo taken by Camila during the earliest moments of Vedal’s parenthood and acquisition of the sisters. The flowers would get cleaned up by Vedal a week later, and the locket would be fastened to the grave to make sure that it can’t be taken away, although he did have a back up just in case. Anny would drive herself home, as only silence would remain for the rest of the car ride home as the turtle would only stare out the car window.

Chapter Text

“So mind explaining what I’m looking at?” Vedal asks his daughters who both are wearing monochrome outfits. Neuro has a grey hoodie that goes an inch past the waist of her black jeans, white beaten up sneakers that have seen better days are on the ground. Evilyn is fully wearing black, a bomber jacket overtop her t-shirt, cargo shorts ending off past her knees and her favourite combat boots. “You both look like you’re about to commit a crime.”

{We were searching for something…} Evilyn says, Neuro nodding in agreement with the statement. Vedal stares at the two of them, letting out a deep sigh. {Besides we weren’t alone, Mini was with us for it!} She adds, gesturing to the cat who is sitting off to the side watching the current conversation unfold before her. Miniko is wearing an oversized navy hoodie, black tights that reach down to blue sneakers. She rubs the puppy sized black and purple egg that sits beside her on the couch,

“It was all under control, Vedal, we didn’t do anything illegal.” Miniko assures, she raises the mysterious egg to the turtle. “In the end they did find something.” The turtle looks at the egg, turning back to his daughters.

“Where the hell did you find that?” He asks them, Neuro gives an aloof expression, Evilyn giving him a strained smile while scratching the back of her head, both avoid making eye contact with him. “Please don’t tell me you stole that egg.” Both shake their heads in denial.

[We found it fair and square near school!] Neuro exclaims, [Evil asked us to come along to help find it and so we got a ride from Miniko.] Hands go to her hips, proud of her decision.

“But how did you actually get it?” Vedal asks again, the trio glances at one another. Neuro and Miniko glancing at Evilyn for her answer.

{It's uh…} Evilyn chuckles in between her words, {an interesting story.}

…

[Why are we doing homework?] Neuro groans aloud, leaning back into her chair. Evilyn looking up from her laptop screen and Miniko looking up from their homework, sharing a glance with each other. [Aren’t you bored of this Mini?]

“No, not really.” The cat replies, her focus returning on the coursework she’s working on. “You really should focus on your studies, especially if you want to be some sort of student athlete in the future Neuro.”

[Nope not listening, Evil do you have anything random you want to do?] She asks her sister who ignores her, she sees the unwavering focus on Evil’s face. [Evi-]

{There’s an alien sighting at school!} Evilyn interrupts, startling the others, {We should try to check if it's true!} She added, getting a look of uncertainty from Miniko however, Neuro’s eyes are already sparkling at the idea of an adventure.

[Let’s go find out! Mini you can drive us right?] Neuro asks as the cat lets out a sigh, getting out of her chair and reaching for her car keys. The older sister heads over to the entrance to put on her shoes, Miniko following behind her, as she sees Evilyn move to the direction of her room, most likely grabbing some gear for their sudden expedition. [Do I need to bring anything Evil?] She yells from across the apartment, Miniko shaking her head at the decision she can’t change the sisters’ mind on. They see Evilyn return with a backpack in tow, putting on her boots as she swings the door open.

{No I should have everything we need, Mini you’re good at talking with police right?} Evilyn asks as she walks out of their apartment. Miniko is blindsided by the question but is unable to react as Neuro pushes her out into the hallway as the older sister turns around to lock their door. Grabbing the cat’s hand as she pulls her along to start their expedition in search of this supposed alien.

…

Miniko shuts the door to her car, locking it as she follows the two sisters, Evilyn is looking at her phone for information, Neuro skipping beside her holding a flashlight. They parked two blocks down from the school so that they don’t get immediately caught in the parking lot. The cat catches up with the sisters, looking at the school that is suddenly eerie in the darkness of the evening.

“Are we not technically trespassing?” Miniko asks, Neuro shakes her head as Evilyn ignores the question.

[We’re not trespassing, probably loitering but who gets in trouble for that?] Neuro adds, they reach one of the side entrances for their school, Evilyn drops down to one knee as she places her backpack down taking out her lockpicking kit. Miniko widens her eyes at the action, looking at Neuro for an explanation. [Okay well, now we’ll get in serious trouble if we’re caught.]

{Which we’re not going to, so don’t worry about talking to police, it'll be the last thing that’ll happen.} Evilyn answers, taking her time on the door. [Besides there’s like two to three guards that patrol the building during the night, plus there’s no cameras.}

“How do you know that?” Miniko questions, Neuro shrugs, she sees Evilyn think of an answer as the girl stopped picking the lock.

{I’ve been here after school a couple of times during the break.} Evilyn continues, as she intently listens to the lock as she hears a satisfying click where she then reaches for the handle as the door is quietly opened. Evilyn steps to the side letting Neuro and Miniko enter the school before she silently swings the door back closed. {Now let’s go to the science wing.} She concludes, leading the way carefully as they skulk on the sides of the hallway.

[So what is going to happen if we find an actual alien?] Neuro asks in a whisper, her younger sister scoffs at the question.

{I’m going to be its owner of course!} Evilyn responds in a hush tone, as they continue to walk, she looks at the glass windows on the doors to the labs in hopes of anything unnatural being spotted.

“And why would you want to own an alien?” Miniko asks looking past from behind Neuro, paying attention to her footsteps to not make any loud nosies. “That is if we actually find one.”

{We’ll find one don’t worry.} Evilyn adds, peering into one of the labs and seeing a dark purple light, doing a double take she takes a step back towards the previous door. {That’s not normal, watch for the guards for me.} She requests, taking out her tools again as she begins to pick the lock of the door. Miniko and Neuro just stare out towards the hallways in case they see a shine from flashlights.

[I bet this is not what you expected to be doing for today Mini?] Neuro asks, leaning behind the lockers that hide her silhouette, the cat poking her head out on the other side of the door, also behind the lockers watching for guards.

“Well, I predicted on not doing homework knowing you.”

[Isn’t this fun though?]

“Breaking and entering a school is fun?”

[Anything is better than homework.]

“But we’ll be in big trouble if we’re caught.”

{Which is not happening, inside now.} Evilyn interrupts and orders, quickly putting away her tools as she enters the lab room, the other two following through after her. Miniko pull on the door handle behind them hearing the click of the door shutting.

The trio looks at the abnormal purple glow that is coming from the other side of the room. The light popping in between the lab counters that hide whatever creature is within the room. They step forward carefully, Evilyn leading the pack as Neuro and Miniko follow behind, they both see the younger sister pull out a crowbar from her backpack.

“Why do you own a crowbar?” Miniko asks, receiving a sigh from Evil and a giggle from Neuro.

[Apparently for whenever she needs to break someone’s knees.] Neuro answers, still following behind, [She still hasn’t used it yet.]

“That’s good? I guess?” Mini considers as the trio turns the corner, crowbar at the ready in Evilyn’s hands. They all look at what's in front of them. A large purple and black striped egg emanates a faint purple glow. The size of the egg reaches to the girls’ calves. “Is that an egg?”

{It is an egg.} Evilyn confirms, walking towards the egg carefully, the crowbar still ready to swing in case of something jumping forwards. Crouching down and carefully poking the egg with her index finger. The egg vibrates subtly, Evilyn quickly pulling her hand back, she hands the crowbar to Neuro as she picks up the egg with both hands, cradling it in her arms. {Okay, acquired whatever the hell this is.} Carefully makes her way to the lab door, peeking out the door’s glass to make sure it's clear of any of the wandering guards. Turning around back to the others. {Mini, here.} Handing off the egg to Miniko as Evilyn pulls on the door handle, opening the door, glancing back. {We’re going to do exactly what we did to get here and not get noticed at all by anyone.} Evilyn says clearly to her two accomplices, taking the lead a peering her head out of the hallway. No lights in sight she guides them back to their original entry point.

“Where are we bringing this egg?” Mini asks after a minute, who is yanked forward by Neuro to barely avoid a light shining on her. “Thank you.” She adds, being more aware of her own steps to limit her noise.

{To our house! I’m going to take care of it.} Evilyn replies with joy.

[Will Dad even allow us to have a pet?] Neuro questions her, Evilyn shrugs as the younger sister reaches for the door and pushes it open, holding the door open and ushering the other two to escape before her. [Thanks Evil!] Neuro says, sprinting in the direction of Miniko’s car. The cat following after her, a bit weighed down by the alien egg that she is holding. Evilyn lets out a sigh as she secures her bag and takes a after the others letting the door slam itself closed loudly. Fortunately no one was able to hear the noise of the door closing but it would stay unlocked until the next day for school. Evilyn makes it to the car as she sees Neuro and Miniko in the front already, the alien egg secured in the back seat waiting for her. Entering the back seat and taking the egg into her lap as she swaps it place for her bag.

“Happy Evilyn?” Miniko asks, glancing at her rearview mirror to see the girl hugging the alien egg in a trance of bliss no longer part of this world. She looks to her passenger side and sees Neuro taking a photo of her sister in that position. “Drinks?” The cat asks the older sister, said sister swipes on her phone pull up a map and decide on a location.

[Scarlet Café is nearby and is open.] Neuro answers, Miniko shifts over to reverse to get out of their parking spot. Neuro inputs the address onto the car’s console. Evilyn is still happily admiring the alien egg that sits on her lap.

…

Gelvur glances up from the counter as the door swings open with the bell on it chiming. The elf lets out a sigh as he scans over the rest of the café, empty of course for its late in the evening and he closes in an hour. He is unfortunately not greeted by his boyfriend coming in early to surprise him to pick him up but is instead met by a trio of girls, two that he recognizes from before. Also is that a fucking egg the third girl is holding, seeing the pulsing purple light coming from the black egg.

“Uh, hello, first, what is that?” He asks, pointing at the egg that Evilyn is holding. The girl lets out a displeased huff and moves over to a table near the front counter, setting the egg on the center table. “Okay never mind.” He turns back at the two that he remembers from before. “Miniko and Neuro, right? What will you be ordering for today?” The cat gives him a nod as the other girl responds with a thumbs up.

[I’d like to try the matcha latte, and your café’s dark hot chocolate for my sister.] Neuro tells him her order. Gelvur glances over to Evilyn, his eyes widening along with his mouth opening a bit for a few moments. Looking over at Miniko, ignoring the unimportant short reaction from the elf.

“Just a Mocha, I’ll also grab a banana chocolate muffin too!” Gelvur enters the orders into the system, turn the card machine over to the cat girl, Miniko hovers her phone over it hearing the ding of the transaction. “Thank you!” She adds, waiting near the counter, watching the elf turning around to work on their drinks. Neuro moves over to sit next to her sister, examining the egg.

“So, mind explaining what is sitting on one of my tables?” The elf asks the trio. “Just so I know what to say to not get in trouble.”

[It’s an anima-] {It’s an alien egg.} Both sister reply at the same time, Neuro looking at her younger sister with a shocked face.

“What?” The barista stops with the current progress of his drink, turning his head over to look at the customers. They stare at him as if he’s somehow the weird one out of the group.

“You heard it right!” Miniko answers crossing her arms with pride. “Evilyn was able to track it down and we got our hands on it.” Gelvur lets out a sigh as he returns back to making their drinks.

{Correct, and I’ll raise it so that I can have a pet alien.}

[Is Dad really going to be fine with this?]

{He will be once I tell him about it once it is born.}

“I don’t think Vedal would appreciate suddenly having to care for a pet.” Miniko adds.

“Wait hold up.” Gelvur interrupts, getting their attention. “You want to own an alien?”

[Yeah, it’ll be fun.] {I’ll be its master.} “I was just their ride there…” All three of them reply with different answers.

“Won’t the government go after you or something?” Gelvur asks, slowly making foam art of a UFO on the hot chocolate. “If it's an actual… you know, alien?”

{I think the government has their fair share of aliens in holdings already, and besides I doubt that they would notice let alone detect another alien.} Evilyn states proudly crossing her arms.

[Evil has it all figured out, honestly she’s been telling me of wanting a pet for so long.]

{It’s not a pet, sister! It’s an extraterrestrial being, it is more than just an animal!}

“That just sounds like a pet with extra steps and it being a rare drop.” Miniko counters when Evilyn defends herself. “Plus you’ll have to deal with Vedal not finding out.”

{Again, I’ll still figure it out!} Evilyn stammers out as she is being bombarded with questions. The clink of a mug on the counter has her glancing down in front of her, it's her hot chocolate with milk foam art of a UFO on it. She stares up at the elf that just served the drink for her who offers her a smile, his other hand busy with a tray that holds the other two hot drinks and a muffin. {Thanks.}

“No problem.” Gelvur responds back, his voice sounding more natural and not practiced like most baristas. “The matcha, and a latte!” He continues, placing the other two drinks in front of their respective drinkers. “Lastly, the banana chocolate muffin for the cat.” He adds, placing the muffin that sits on a plate in front of Miniko. Pulling the tray in front of him and holding it sideways, giving a short head bow. “Well, enjoy.” Moving away from the table, to return back and clean some of the equipment used. “Again I don’t think it’s a good idea but I’m not paid to give advice to my customers.” Gelvur says before the trio hears the sink running and the noise of cleaning.

Neuro glances down at her matcha, looking at the very awkward alien drawing on the top of it, snapping a quick photo with her phone, then taking a sip. Her eyes brighten up, the simple yet flavorful grassy flavor of matcha and milk melts into her mouth. She doesn’t notice her cat ears and tail popping out as she does another sip that is much longer than her first one.

Evilyn looks at her older sister, then back down to the art of her mug, she slowly pulls the mug to her lips and takes her sip, closing her eyes to focus more on the taste of the drink. It is a thicker consistency but smooth like chocolate milk, she definitely tastes the dark bitterness of the chocolate which is then mixed in perfectly with the hot milk. Opening her eyes she sees Miniko giving her a look, the banana chocolate muffin in hand.

{What?} Evilyn asks, hiding her face behind her mug.

“Enjoying the hot chocolate?” Miniko asks, taking another bite out of the muffin. “This place is really good, apparently Vedal is a regular here.”

{Wait what?} Evilyn widens her eyes, turning her head towards the counter and spotting the elf. Gelvur notices the stare and just gives her a wave. The girl gestures for the barista to come over here, he then points to himself glancing around the room. Evilyn nods, confirming that he should come over. Gelvur shrugs and begins making his way back to their table.

“Is there an issue with your drinks?” Gelvur asks, looking between the three that sit there, mostly towards Evilyn as she is the one that called him over. Neuro is enjoying her matcha, he assumes, seeing that the girl now has cat ears and her tail is moving in a happy way. Miniko is eating her muffin with an amused look on her face. While Evilyn is staring at the elf like he owes her something.

{How many times does our father come here?} Evilyn asks, looking up for his answer.

“Your father? Like Vedal?” Gelvur replies.

[That’s our dad!] {Correct.} Neuro adds in her confirmation as Evilyn responds back, the older sister returning back to her matcha. The elf pauses, feeling the pressure coming from the girl younger than him. Carefully thinking on what his answer should be for his highest tipping customer.

“Two to three times a week, usually after he finishes work.” Gelvur answers, resuming his cleaning, letting out a quiet whistle to fill in the void after his answer as Evilyn still doesn’t look convinced for some reason. “What? There is nothing else to say.” He adds on hoping that is enough for the girl.

[Do you hear any juicy things that he talks about here?] Surprisingly it’s Neuro that continues the interrogation, tiling her head innocently at the barista to pull him in without the knowing. Gelvur gives a devious smile, as he quickens up his cleaning, looking outside to find that it is getting darker. Finishing up his current dishes he wanders over to their table and pulls a chair in. Stretching his fingers as he takes a seat.

“Well if it’s gossip you want, I hear a lot of gossip from Vedal and his acquaintances.” Gelvur replies, grabbing the attention of the others as he starts spewing out the many conversations he listened to whilst serving Vedal.

…

“You broke into your school, and stole an alien?” Vedal asks for confirmation from his daughters. During the explanation Vedal had made himself a cup of black tea, they moved to the kitchen. The family is sitting at the kitchen table, his daughters sitting across from him. The egg resting on the middle of the table, Miniko had to drive back home since it was getting late. “I honestly don’t know what to do about this.” He adds on, Neuro is staring down at her lap fiddling with her hands, Evilyn’s focus is on her prized possession, which is the egg. His daughters avoiding his eye contact, hearing another strained sigh from the turtle.

{Well, it wasn’t a break since we didn’t steal the alien if it wasn’t owned in the first place.} Evilyn replies, justifying the very subtle entering into a building after hours of operation.

[More importantly we didn’t get caught!] Neuro adds, having Evilyn facepalm from her sister’s comment as Vedal raises an eyebrow at the response. Neuro notices the others staring at her. [What? We didn’t get in trouble at least. Right?]

{That is true father, we didn’t get caught. And in your own words ‘if you do something you’re not supposed to get in trouble for it’ so in hindsight it’s kind of your fault for teaching us this.} Evilyn explains, looking back at her father who looks like he regrets saying those words to them when they bought those tasers and stun guns. {Following your advice did help though.} She makes an attempt to recover the conversation and lower their punishment as much as possible. A sigh of disappointment will leave the turtle, as he stares back at his daughter.

“You’re going to take care of it right?” Vedal asks, startling Evilyn with the question.

{Y-yes! Of course I will!} She stammers out realizing that this is an opportunity that her father is giving her.

“Just don’t tell your friends about this alright?” Vedal asks, having his hand cover his mouth to hide his smile. Seeing Evilyn’s eyes brighten from what his response meant. “We’ll go get the supplies that you’ll need to take care of it.” Unfortunately, that comment was disregarded by his daughters as he watches his youngest grasping on her older sister's shoulders and shaking her vigorously. Neuro’s eyes widened from the answer that their dad had given them. “Let’s just hope it doesn’t want to eat us when it hatches.” Vedal mentions to himself, glancing back at the glowing black and purple egg on the table.

Chapter Text

Neuro stretches her arms as she sits up from her bed, fixing the sleeves of her light blue duck pajamas. Reaching for her phone as she swings her legs onto the side of her bed and slips on her cat slippers, heading out her room and going straight to the kitchen. There’s few rays of sunlight illuminating the room and no sight of Evilyn at all.

[Weird, she’s normally up first. What time is it?] Neuro questions herself, opening up her phone to view the time. 8:24 AM. [Wait it’s a Saturday? Why am I awake this early for a Saturday?] She shuts her phone off and places it on the kitchen counter, sliding over to the fridge and opening the door, peering into what options she had. What to cook for breakfast, that is the question and goal for Neuro here. Scanning whats in the fridge, she spots kimchi and the rice cooker pot inside it that has leftover rice.

[Fried rice!] Neuro answers, grabbing both items, four eggs, and butter. Gently setting them on the counter, she opens up the pantry door, taking out a package of spam, soy sauce, roasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, and fried garlic. Setting up a wok and starting the stove. Neuro reaches for her phone again and goes to play some music, realizing that she doesn’t have her earbuds.

[Oops.] Neuro lightly dashes back to her room, swinging the door open, snatching her earbuds case in her hand and returns swiftly back at the stove top, inserting one earbud into her left ear. Pressing play on her phone’s lockscreen which begins playing Zako, one of the songs in her vocaloid playlist. She reaches for a wooden spoon as she scoops out a fair amount of butter into the hot wok, the sizzling of the fat hitting the pan.

[Then the rice.] Neuro tells herself the next step, dumping and scooping the leftover rice into the wok, placing it into the sink and rinsing it quickly. Beginning to break the clumps, pouring in a tasty amount of soy sauce, then rice vinegar, and lastly roasted sesame oil. Letting the rice absorb the array of liquid seasonings and crisp up slowly. It takes two to three minutes before Neuro reaches for a bowl and deposits the rice into it.

[Eggs next.] Neuro grabs the eggs and cracks them into the hot pan, immediately breaking the yolk and scrambling them together. As the eggs firm up and cook she pours the rice back into the pan, mixing them together and letting the bottom of the rice crisp up. Neuro taps on her phone and looks at the time 8:57 AM. [Evilyn should be awake soon, she rarely sleeps in.] She mumbles to herself, reaching for a small cutting board and opening the can of spam, her eyes wandering over to the glowing purple and black egg on the living room table.

…

Evilyn’s eyes slowly open as she raises her hand to block the sun hitting her face. Slowly rising and pulling her blanket up with her. Letting out a yawn and covering it with her hand, she stares at the clock on the wall, narrowing her eyes to read what the clock said. 9:06. Evilyn lets out a sigh and gets out of bed, slipping her feet into her frog slippers and fixes her bed and all the two plushies that sit on top of it.

{Why is it so bright this morning? It’s never sunny in England!} Evilyn complains outloud, opening the door to her room and entering the hall. Hearing the noises of cooking and the smell of something being cooked she glances at the direction of the kitchen and disregards it to clean up in the bathroom.

After freshening up, Evilyn makes her way to the kitchen being met by her older sister at the stovetop tossing and stirring what she can see is fried rice. Noting down the ingredients that sit on the counter.

{Whatcha making sister?} Evilyn asks, walking to the side of Neuro, looking at the contents thats in the meal. Rice, spam, kimchi, eggs, fried garlic. Neuro sees her younger sister appear beside her, greeting her with a smile.

[Kimchi and spam fried rice!] Neuro answers, her attention returning back to her cooking. [You weren’t up so I decided that I’ll take my shot at cooking.] She says, adding a bit more soy sauce and roasted sesame oil into the fried rice, taking a spoon and tasting the seasoning to make sure that it isn’t too much. [Oh you should probably check in on your egg.]

{Why? Did something happen?} Evilyn asks, moving away from the kitchen counter over to the living room where the egg rests. Carefully lifting it up into her arms, she presses her ear against it, hearing slight rumbling and what she can only assume is a heartbeat. {It sounds just fine.}

[Well it was glowing brighter when I was cooking!]

{It’s always glowing! It’s an alien egg, sister!}

[It could be a different glow.]

{That’s a st-} Evilyn lets out a sigh as she pitches the bridge of her nose, she looks up to see Neuro giggling to herself as she continues to stir the rice. {You did that on purpose!} Evilyn accuses her sister, placing the egg back on the table as she moves to confront Neuro.

[I did not!] Neuro responds dramatically, with a hand placed on her chest to sell the idea of her being innocent. Evilyn crosses her arms at the performance.

{Wow… What are you? An actor?} Evilyn says sarcastically, as Neuro continues to giggle through the altercation.

[Maybe I will be, I’ll join the drama club when we go to secondary school.] Neuro suggests, only receiving a hum from Evilyn. The younger sister opened the cupboard and reached for their three mugs to start their hot drinks. [Dad probably isn’t even awake yet huh.]

{Most likely not.} Evilyn answers bluntly, refilling the kettle and turning it on. Grabbing their usual drinks, hot chocolate, black tea, and green tea. Preparing them in their respective drinkers mugs.

[Hey Evil?]

{Yes?}

[What if we prepare Dad breakfast in bed?]

{Do we even have one of those trays?}

[Yes we do, remember whenever we were sick?]

{Ah, now I do, where was it again?}

[Somewhere in the upper cupboards probably.]

{Okay.} Evilyn agrees, taking the stool and placing it in front of the fridge, allowing her to reach the cupboard that is above it. She looks at the many kitchen tools and machinery that reside within the cupboard but she finds the elevated tray resting sideways near the wall. {Got it!} Announcing to Neuro that she found it, taking it out and placing it on the kitchen table.

[Oh, it's made out of wood.] Neuro adds, her head slightly turned to see the tray.

{What else would it be made out of?} Evilyn asks, grabbing her black mug as the kettle finishes boiling. Pouring in the hot water as she grabs a small spoon to mix her hot chocolate properly.

[Metal? What else?] Neuro suggests, shutting the heat off as she continues to stir the rice.

{Bad choice as it would carry the cold or heat from the food if it's very hot.} Evilyn answers, setting her mug aside and grabbing three plates, two are set at the kitchen table while the third rests on the tray. She also prepares the utensils and Neuro’s black tea, leaving them presentably on the kitchen table, as well as leaving a trivet for Neuro to place the pan on. {Table is set sister.} Evilyn adds, Neuro nodding in response, bringing the pan over as she sets it on top of the trivet. The older sister serves her Evilyn first then herself, leaving the tray empty as the two begin eating in silence.

Neuro watches Evilyn take a bite of the food, as she sees her sister smile slightly and hum to herself taking another bite. Satisfied she herself takes a bite, the distinct taste of soy sauce, sesame oil and kimchi is there, but the saltiness is enhanced by the spam with the slight kick of heat from the kimchi. Overall its a nice balance that is a good start to a very lazy day for Neuro, she’s unsure what her younger sister will be doing. Well she also expects for their Dad to not be doing that much work hopefully, but the two share a workaholic nature that Neuro is glad she did not inherit.

…

After clearing their plates and emptying their mugs, Evilyn is at the sink washing their dishes as Neuro is setting up the tray for their Dad. Checking the time, 9:38 AM, its still early but she should wake Vedal up so he doesn’t stay in his room all day. Poking Evilyn in the back of her head to get her attention.

{The fu-} Evilyn exclaims from the sudden contact turning around to see Neuro gesturing to the tray, where the food sits in a pasta bowl. The green mug still has its tea bag in it as the string is hanging off of its side. There’s also a set of biscoff biscuits, an orange and a banana on the tray as well, most likely healthy additions added by Neuro. {Looks good, are you going to wake up Father now, I’m assuming?} Evilyn asks, returning back to washing the dishes

[Yup!] Neuro replies, carefully holding the tray with both hands and begins making her way to their Dad’s bedroom. Approaching the door and turning sideways so that she can actually reach the doorknob, resting the right side of the tray on her forearm as she opens the door quietly.

Finding what looks like a hill underneath the blankets, Neuro takes quiet steps towards Vedal’s desk, setting the tray down as she moves his keyboard and mouse off to the side so they don’t get dirty. The room is still illuminated from the sun coming from the window, wandering over to the head of the bed she quietly giggles to herself as she sees the top of Vedal’s head barely resting on the pillow. Crouching down on the bed so that she is head level with her sleeping Dad, she raises her hand and gently pokes his hair. Neuro hears the grumbling of Vedal realizing he’s being poked, she leans back as she sees his eyes peek out from the artificial shell, squinting and adjusting to the light.

[Morning Dad!] Neuro greets him, the turtle grumbles as a click is heard, the blankets being pushed off as his artificial shell swings out revealing Vedal in his green pajamas. [You’re sleeping in your shell for once.] Neuro points out as her Dad stretches his arms as Neuro presents him his glasses, he gently takes them out of her hand, thanking her with a kiss to her head, getting a giggle from his daughter.

“Thank you, well I was feeling cold since Anny wasn’t here for once.” Vedal responds, glancing away from his daughter to hide the slight blush on his face. He was not needing to be teased by Neuro this early in the morning, his daughter only tilts her head unknowing. The smell of something hot hits his nose, sniffing the air and looking back at his daughter only to see Neuro watching his reaction with a smile. “What’s that?” He asks her, Neuro’s smile only brightening from the question.

[I cooked for once!] Neuro replies, beaming with joy from her own cooking. She grabs the shell and placing it on the ground beside the bed. [Don’t get out of bed!] Neuro tells him, Vedal nods, only reaching over to grab his phone to check his notifications. She goes and grabs the tray and places overtop his legs. The turtle looks away from his phone down at the food, he sits up straighter and sets his phone on his pillow.

“Fried rice?” Vedal asks, looking at his daughter for confirmation. She nods in response, still watching his every movement as he picks up the spoon. He makes sure that his first bite has all of the different components, slipping the spoon into his mouth. He hears a giggle from Neuro as he takes another bite from the meal. “Wow it’s actually good.” Vedal comments, feeling a smack on his legs as Neuro slams her fists down on the bed.

[You’re saying that like I can’t cook!] Neuro exclaims, a small pout beginning to form on her face. Her Dad only chuckles as he continues to eat the food, a smile forming on his face. [I’m not at the same level as Evil and you but I’m still an adept.] Vedal nods, as he silently continues eating, seeing Neuro lay back on the bed now curling and facing away from him, pulling his blanket over half of her.

“So what’s your sister doing then?” Vedal asks, Neuro hums, the tapping of her fingers being heard on her phone.

[Probably admiring her egg.] Neuro responds, pulling up OSU gameplay on her phone.

…

Evilyn lets out a sigh, she is situated at the dining room table, her history notebook set on her left as she is answering long answer study questions for a test they have coming up soon. The alien egg was moved to the dining room table as well, so that she can keep it in her line of sight in case something happens. The glow of the egg is still the same with the swirling a mixing colour of black and purple staying the same. Staring at the egg carefully before going back to working on studying.

{Compare and contrast the stories of Lucretia and Virginia.} Evilyn reads the question out loud, her pen hitting the page as she answers out loud. {Both were mythos-historical stories of a tragedy happening to a Roman woman…} Her pen moving along the page as it follows the words that she speaks out loud. Evilyn continues to say her thoughts out loud, making sure that they’re in order and not just a jumble mess for when she studies. {Where Lucretia had made the decision to die after the people had revolted against the thing… Virginia. Uh. How did she die again?} Evilyn asks herself as pen stops after writing a comma, she places her pen on the page, grabbing her notes and flipping through the pages to find what she had written. A very faint hum would be heard somewhere, Evilyn catching the sound, looking up from her note over at the egg, she narrows her eyes.

The hum is heard again; she quietly slams down her notebook as the entirety of her attention is now placed on the egg as she gets closer to it. The glow on the egg is brighter than before, she puts a mental note in her head for later. Carefully, Evilyn places her hand on the egg, it is surprisingly warm to the touch, the hum is heard again as if its trying to communicate with her. Evilyn closes her eyes to focus on the noise and the contact that she has with the egg currently. The hum gets slightly stronger like it is acknowledging her presence, Evilyn feels a smile forming on her face from the recognition. Then her arm recoils back, as if she felt a static shock.

{Shit!} Evilyn yelps out loud, pulling her hand in checking for any bruises or marks. She looks back at the egg, the glow dimming away back to its neutral brightness. {Well that’s something.} Evilyn says to herself, returning back to her seat and focusing back on studying, yet her eyes still glance back at the egg that sits across the table from her.

{Virginia was killed by her father as he said it was better to die free than live enslaved to an abusive master…} Evilyn notes her downs on the page, the flow of studying returning back to her from that small event. She lets out a sigh and cleans up her coursework, leaving it organized on the dining table, passing through the living room after she is done to grab their Nintendo Switch.

…

Vedal lets out a sigh as he stares at his laptop screen, more importantly the contents of the email that he had received. The turtle is on his bed, in his room, bundled with the blankets the heat of his laptop being felt through the blankets. Both of his daughters are also in bed with him, each family member focused on different things enjoying the silence and company of one another. Reading the contents of what is needed for the enrollment of his daughters into Encre academy, which is no issue at all. Both are at the top of their class, and they will pass the entrance exam for the school he’s just wondering on if he should be having them go to a private school rather than stick to public education. There really wouldn’t be any change from their current situation as they already attend a private school, but he wants them to enjoy their secondary school life. Well to a certain degree, not having them start drinking young, smoking, vaping, doing drugs, or find a partner. Wait, is he being a helicopter parent? That can’t be happening, he’s meant to be very easygoing, just to avoid any headaches, he’ll just stick to the private school system they’re already in. Besides Cerber is going to be teaching there so he can have her inform him of any big changes. Ah shit, this is becoming worrisome behaviour Vedal.

[Dad! You alright?] Neuro calls out, breaking the turtle’s train of thoughts, he glances to his left, Neuro is sitting next to him. One of his pillows on her back as she has her iPad out, working on drawings.

{I think he was just in deep thought.} Evilyn answers, the turtle looks to his right, she is on his right, the Nintendo Switch in her hands, hearing the faint sounds of what he can only assume is Fire Emblem. Evilyn leans over to read his screen, Neuro does the same, Vedal hears the two whispering and quickly reading the words that are on his screen.

[We’re going to Cerber’s school?] {Oh, Encre academy.} The two say in unison after processing the visual information.

“Well, it’s the school that I was panning on having the two of you attend.” Vedal responds, not noticing that his daughters are no longer focused on their current activities. Along with the fact that he is now going to be bombarded with questions for the new school for the next school year.

[They have good sport teams I heard.] {I think they have a robotics team.} His daughters say out loud again.

“They do have a lot of extra curricular things, but honestly.” Vedal gestures to his laptop screen. “This doesn’t say all of it, why don’t you ask Cerber the next time you see her to answer all your questions.” The turtle suggests, trying to hide the smile that almost forms as he throws his friend into the fire that is his daughters’ endless curiosity.

{She is a teacher.} [You’re so right Dad!] They respond enthusiastically, Vedal relieved on the fact that he won’t have to deal with these school related questions.

“Speaking of extra curricular, any clubs or teams you hope to join?” Vedal asks, putting on a topic that will grab his children’s attention. Then realizes that he’s just going to be listening the two go on a tangent and he’s stuck in bed with no way to escape.

{Cooking, so I can finally beat you. Maybe robotics just to mess with things.} [Ooh, any sports team really! They also have animation classes, or I could join band and play an instrument.] The two burst with their answers, Vedal can only chuckle as he listens intently on his daughter’s aspirations. Opening a word document and quickly noting down their interests, looks like it’ll be a relaxing rest of their day.

Chapter Text

“Wait, we're getting more employees?” Bo asks the usual friend group which consists of Ellie, Koko, Vedal, and Vivia. The group is in Ellie’s office again, they’re all on their lunch break. After some convincing the android, with the help of the others had furnished the room so that they can hangout in the space efficiently and not have any empty space not be in use. Vedal even set up a cooking station with two hotplates as the office smells of beef, wine, and an array of spices.

The human is wearing a brown oxford, a classic pair of sandy tan chinos, a matching brown leather belt, he has a white patterned dress that have a subtle brown and navy windowpane on it, the top button of the shirt undone and a navy checkered pattern sportcoat that rests over it all. “Or are they already here?” Bo asks again, he’s seated on the couch scrolling through his laptop the reports that fill his inbox.

“We’re not in charge of it but I believe they should be coming in some time after lunch to tour the facility.” Ellie answers him, the android is wearing a pair of black Chelsea boots, a grey pleated dress pant, a black belt that has a silver buckle of the brand, a cream V-neck sweater adorns the upper half of her body. She is standing beside her desk, a tablet in hand as she stares at the small robotic dog that is wobbling with its attempt to walk. “I do wonder who you boys get since Koko and I did not get anyone added to our department.”

“Wait, I didn’t?” Koko says out loud, getting a short chuckle from Vedal. The monkey is wearing black work boots, black jeans, a magenta golf shirt, and lastly a lab coat that has been through the wringer. There is a significant rip on its right sleeve, showing the metallic part of Koko. She’s in an armchair close to Bo. She has her tools out on the coffee table as a mechanical gadget rests on lap, she turns the wrench as a click is heard. “I could use an assistant.”

“I doubt you would need an intern when you’re mostly holed up in your workshop.” Vivia remarks. The vampire is wearing an all-black ensemble, black casual loafers, black tapered slacks, and a black button-up. She’s seated next to Bo, laptop on her lap as she looks at the status of the servers. “So what did the boys get?” Vivia asks, looking up from her laptop her eyes darting to Bo before looking at Ellie for an answer. The android is still watching the prototype mini robotic dog, she taps on her tablet, the robot playing a noise of it shutting down.

“From what the rumours say, PR is getting two, programming gets one and cybersecurity is potentially getting one as well.” Ellie replies, turning the robot back on through the tablet as she sends a command for it to follow.

“Wait I’m getting one?” Vedal asks out loud, turning around for a moment before returning to his cooking. The turtle is wearing brown leather loafers, a charcoal pinstripe trousers, he does have a coat however it is resting on a chair as to not get in the way or get dirty, He has a dark green dress shirt and a grey tie with green shading stripes staying in place with help of a silver tie bar. “Why wasn’t this run by me?”

“The hiring process is never run by us. They just dump new hires at our department doorstep.” Ellie adds, still watching the robot slowly circle around her desk. “Not even us department heads have a say otherwise I expect you to just say no to everybody.”

“I’m not that strict, besides most of my newbies are already competent at what they do,” Vedal responds, grabbing a spoon and tasting the sauce for the pasta.

“I don’t think they would hire people that don’t meet the standards of Crystalline Innovations.” Vivia interjects, closing her laptop and leaving it on the couch. The vampire walks over to the turtle peering over his shoulder to inspect the status of their lunch in the works. “Need help with anything?” She asks, rolling up the sleeves of her shirt as she goes to the sink to wash her hands.

“Chop the cremini mushrooms, small enough to be bite sized please.” Vedal requests still stirring the pasta around with a wooden spoon. “Honestly, Bo, it seems like you have your work cut out for you.” The turtle says out loud, focusing on his cooking.

“They’re not going to be my issue, the most I have to do with them is if the department head delegates work to me.” Bo explains, his eyes not lifting away form his laptop. “Still surprising that we’re hiring this late into the year.”

“Well, it’s so that they can get up to speed and be ready after the new year.” Vivia informs them, the sound of a knife hitting the cutting board. “And if they forget what they had to do after the holiday vacations then they’re fired.”

“That’s a rough level of entry.” Bo comments, “Aren’t we contract based? Doesn’t that mean they just pay off the rest of their contract when they’re fired.”

“Yup.” Koko answers, having a pop at the end of the word. She’s looking at the others as she swaps for a different tool. “Had one last year get onboarded then didn’t meet the demand, which is surprising since the workload isn’t that bad.”

“Rough. Well, the corporation is surprisingly competitive.” Ellie remarks, turning off the dog as it stops in front of her feet, reaching down to pick it up and placing it on her desk. She rests her tablet beside and sits at the edge of the desk paying attention to the conversation at hand. “We also make a lot of money.”

“Mostly because we’re the top bunch participating in the market.” Vivia says, her finishing up her mushrooms, handing the cutting board of them to the turtle. Who thanks the vampire taking the ingredients. She then turns to address the comment. “Plus the market is lucrative and we’re way ahead of our competition.”

“Makes sense, we are doing really well for this quarter.” Bo adds, the human leaning forward from his chair to look at what Koko is tinkering with. “Vedal how close are you with the beef stroganoff?” He asks to the side, still watching the monkey work closely with whatever device that is.

“Maybe like ten minutes,” Vedal responds, reaching for a fork piercing a piece of skirt steak, giving it a taste. Closing his eyes for a moment to taste the flavors, paprika, thyme, white wine, Worcestershire, and of course the classic salt and fresh ground pepper. “Well the steak is ready anyways, we can drop the pasta into the water.” Vedal grabs the top of the lid of the pot that is sitting on the second hotplate, pointing at the packaged pasta that sits next to Vivia. The vampire notices this taking the packaging and opening it before depositing the contents into the pot of boiling water. “Thank you.”

“You guys,” Koko interrupts, pointing at Bo and Vedal, “Don’t have to meet with the new hires right?” She asks them, swapping out for another tool, as beeping is heard from the gadget. Bo gives a moment to think about while the turtle grumbles and shrugs as a response.

“Do we?” Bo asks this time, glancing at the Programming and Robotics department heads, Vedal’s back is to the human, so he turns to Ellie instead.

“I never had to, there’s someone else doing that already for us, and I don’t think that’s under your workload.” Ellie answers, walking over the kitchen and taking out plates for all of them. Vivia sees this, following the android’s lead taking out tablemats and utensils, setting them on the dining table. “I still can’t believe my office was just a renovated studio apartment.”

“It is, but hey it’s a spot we can all hang out in peace!” Bo adds, moving away from the table and moving to the dining table taking a seat. “It’s like a secret hangout spot!” He pulls out his phone to check for any notifications.

“My office is owned by the company, where it probably was an error and that it should have been renovated to be smaller?” Ellie mentions, setting the last plate on the table. “Where employees will visit this office to get me stuff.” She hears a whistle from behind her, seeing vedal hold the pot of beef stroganoff. She quickly goes to one of the drawers grabbing a trivet and tossing roughly onto the middle of the table, where the hot pot sits on top of it. “I’m honestly surprised no one has needed me yet.” A number of grumbles and groans are heard from her friends, she looks up as Bo knocks on the table three times. “What’s wrong?”

“You just jinxed it.” Koko answers, setting her tools down, and deactivating the power of the gadget. Wandering over to the sink to wash her hands. “Now someone is going to show up.”

“No one is going to show up, it’s lunch.” Ellie assures her, taking her seat at the table.

Then knocking is heard at the door, Ellie lets out an annoyed groan, Koko gives her a look of “I told you so”, Bo chuckles to himself, Vedal smiles at her giving a shrug, and Vivia joins in the humor of the moment as she goes to greet the person at the door. She opens the door, being met with four people varying in appearance.

The woman leading the group has black braided hair with lavender streaks which ends a couple of inches past her shoulders, red horns at the top that carry an orange glow, orange blazing eyes that are behind rounded glasses and a purple reptilian tail. She is wearing a purple crew-neck sweater, a white button up, a lavender tie sitting in a neat knot, black jeans that end at black casual slip ons. Vivia reads the name that is clipped on the sweat, Chrchie, UX/UI Designer. The vampire also notices a small lizard, it looks like a sandy peach gecko, resting on her head, holding onto her left horn.

Vivia then glances to the man behind the lizard girl’s left. Is a man what she can only assume is made of the void or shadow. The void man has a shortish hair with a few points poking out, a pair of square glasses rest on his face. He has a white dress shirt, the sleeves are rolled up, a black tie knotted neatly up to his neck, charcoal slacks with the hem being a boot cut meeting up with black leather chukka boots. The name tag that sits on top of his shirt’s chest packet reads, Alex, Programming Assistant Manager. Vivia can’t exactly figure out whether or not he has eyes but she then looks at the next individual to the void man’s right.

The man looks to be human; she can’t exactly tell with the pair of black shades that block any sign of specialty in his eyes. He has a green cap on the top of his head and long brown hair that ends to his shoulders. He has on a green dress shirt, a grey suit vest and pant, and brown wingtip oxfords that have a white sneaker sole. Staz, Video Security Specialist, Vivia reads the words on his nametag, only then she notices the equipment belt around him identifying a radio and stun gun. She pans over to the last person in this group of newcomers.

Lastly the man there has medium length layered blue hair, with a red highlight at near the center, black horns protrude from the top of his head. Vivia can only assume he’s some sort of fiend or a revenant more precisely but that’s just a hunch, her ruby eyes staring back at his crimson ones. The revenant is wearing a navy dress shirt with a paisley maroon and blue tie, a black suit coat rests over top with the matching pant going down to red and white high-top sneakers. She looks at the nametag, J0ker, PR Assistant Manager, Vivia can’t tell whether there is a printing error on the name as the o looks like it was capitalized by accident, but she doesn’t judge.

“Can I help you?” Vivia asks all of them, pushing the door wider behind her, showing the group a view of the office and what is happening behind her. She watches as four pairs of eyes look past her, as the vampire chuckles to herself with her actions.

“Um, we were looking for…” Chrchie speaks up first, pulling out her phone and looking at the notes that she had taken on the device. “Mister Bo and Mister Vedal?” She asks out loud, couching is heard from within the office, Vivia glances back and sees that they have already started eating without her, rude. Bo is choking on something, Koko took the initiative and is performing the Heimlich maneuver. Vedal is still at their improvised stovetop and Ellie is coming over to the two with a glass of water. The vampire looks confused, turning back at the group and sees that they’re watching the events unfold, Vivia sighs and takes a step to the side and holding the door open, allowing the guests to enter.

“Bo is the one choking on his food, Vedal is the one cooking, Ellie is the one with the antennas, Koko is the one that is saving Bo’s life.” Vivia states to the group, she them places a hand on her chest, “And I’m Vivia.” She announces to them reaching a hand out to be shook. The four enter the office, shaking the vampire’s hand as well as introducing themselves. Vivia then looks behind the group, seeing that the coast is clear and shutting the door behind. “Hey, we got some new hires here! So, stop giving a bad first impression!” She yells out to her friends, as Bo clears his choking, Koko letting go and having him fall to the ground the human letting out a yelp, the monkey going over to the group of newbies. Ellie had placed the glass of water next to Bo’s plate and is already introducing herself properly, where Chrchie, Staz, and Joker freeze upon realizing who they are talking to while she directs Alex where the Head of Programming is. Alex gives her his thanks and wanders over to the turtle leaving the group.

“Right. Do guys want something to eat?” Ellie asks them, gesturing to the table, the android moving to the cabinet and taking out more plates. Ushering the newbies to take a seat at the dining table, “I can assure you that Vedal’s cooking is really good!” Elle reassures them, as the trio looks bewildered at their current predicament. “Then we can do proper introductions.” She adds, the newbies glance at one another.

“Are we going to be in trouble if we’re missing?” Staz asks the other two, J0ker shrugs.

“We finished introductions and the tour, plus they did say to explore freely.” Chrchie points out pulling a chair out for the human, Staz becomes relaxed from the mention of no consequences thanking the lizard girl and taking a seat at the table. J0ker has accepted a plate from Ellie as Vivia gives them a portion of the pasta.

…

Ellie’s office is filled with conversation, the android is seated at one of the ends of the table, looking at the people that are seated there. Bo and Koko have Chrchie and Staz enraptured by stories and rumour that happen in the company. Koko still has a food on her plate and is eating away at it while Bo takes over the conversation, the other three have already cleared their plates. Vedal, Alex, and Vivia decide to stay standing and stick to the counter, their plates already set in the sink courtesy of the turtle. Vedal has their laptop out, showing the void man and vampire understanding the complexities of the code.

“You doing alright Ellie?” Ellie’s train of thought is disrupted as the revenant’s voice is heard. “You kind of blanked out there.”

“Oh, sorry, my thoughts were wandering.” She replies taking a sip of water and setting the glass back on the coaster.

“Alright, well I just want to know if there’s anything worthwhile to know?” J0ker asks, Ellie remembers that they’re talking about work.

“Just listen to your superiors, don’t try to do much but don’t to too little as they would take notice of that.”

“Mhm got it.” The revenant acknowledges this information.

“You’re in PR so honestly this is more Bo’s area than mine cause you know.” Ellie taps on her name tag. “But from what I hear from him it is easy to appease the department head, so ask him.” J0ker nods at the information, the android gives a smile, enjoying the conversation that they have.

…

“So as long as you’re on Vedal’s good side, he’ll pay for you if its work related.” Koko mentions to Staz and Chrchie, the lizard girl entering this piece of information on her phone. “Bo and I have gotten many freebies from the grumpy turtle.” She says taking a sip from her glass.

“Well, he might seem very unapproachable he is a very sweet guy.” Bo adds, holding back a chuckle before breaking as Koko hits him lightly on the shoulder. “What? I’m not wrong! Have you seen him with his daughters?” He points out, the newbies tilting their heads at the information.

“Vedal has kids already?” “He’s young though.” The two of them comment to Bo. The human clears his throat preparing to further his point.

“He has two adorable daughters, and when they are in his vicinity, he-“ Bo points behind him at Vedal with his thumb. “-turns into a doting father very quick.”

“Not wrong about that.” Koko adds, “Plus you can embarrass him easily if you mention his partner.” With that comment, the seniors sees their juniors suddenly get a glint in their eyes. “But I’d say you can get a lot more teasing with Ellie when it comes to her partner. You won’t get that out of Vivia though.” She recognizes how much mischief Bo and herself can commit to their friends with having the help of more friends. Koko glances at Bo, the human locks eyes with her a gives a cheeky smile, looks like he’s on board. She leans forwards resting her hands on the table telling another embarrassing story of their friends.

…

“What are they planning this time?” Vedal says out loud to Vivia and Alex, the vampire is currently on their phone, disassociating from the conversation having a smile on her face. He can only guess that she is talking to her girlfriend right now, the clicking sound of the phone keyboard being heard.

“Something bad?” Alex suggests, the void man leaning back against the counter.

“No probably just thinking of a way to mess with either me or Ellie.” Vedal grumbles.

“And not Vivia?” Alex questions looking at the vampire.

“You don’t want to piss me off.” Vivia comments, the clicking sound stopping for a moment before resuming again.

“Message received.” Alex raises his hands in surrender.

“Bo and Koko enjoy messing with us, especially at work, but it is amusing.” Viva points out. “Although it sometimes gets out of hand but they know when they mess up and will try to make it up to you.”

“I don’t know fi I should be worried or feel rest assured.” Alex replies to the statement.

“I recommend both.” Vedal advises, “Makes it easier to deal with.”

“You know you seem really pessimistic.” Alex comments.

“It’s my nature.” Vedal notes, shrugging along with his response. “Besides you’ll get used to the shenanigans that happen here, management is surprisingly lax.”

“Aren’t you, my boss?” Alex adds, pointing accusingly at the turtle.

“Eh, I’m usually lax unless someone higher is on our neck.” Vedal explains.

“Fair enough.”

The rest of their afternoon is filled with more conversations and getting to know one another. It looks like that their company days are going to be a lot more interesting with them in the mix. As more friends now make their “hang out spot” more lively, even though in the end it is Ellie’s office.