Prelude || The Festival Of Light

[melodiesmods]

Characters: All the "Heroes of Light."
Where: Aqures Ixen.
When: The 3rd of August, final day of the Festival of Light. The Heroes of Light will awaken early in the morning.
Summary: The Heroes of Light awaken in Aqures Ixen and are informed by their assigned Moogles of what the situation and what their destinies are. This a log for them to react to the situation, meet each other and optionally participate in activities provided by the Festival of Light.
Warning: N/A

Where you were or what you were doing— It does not really matter. Not any more. Within an instant, the world around you collapses. Reality twists and shatters... Or maybe you are the one who is collapsing and shattering away from reality as you knew it. No matter what the answer is, it will only take a few seconds for you to find yourself sinking into a void, your world vanishing into the distance. There is nothing but darkness as far as the eye can see. Even you feel different: all the powers you might once have had, are now gone. It is silent, cold and it feels as though life itself is slipping out of you.

At this moment, when it looks as though nothing but a never-ending void awaits you, a red Crystal forms before you. In this void, its warmth compels you to grab it. Upon doing so, you can hear a soft, soothing voice speaking:


"Wake up."

Soon, the void itself vanishes and is replaced by distant noises of engines. Had it all been nothing more than a dream? The soothing voice repeats its call one more time, but is soon replaced with a much less graceful "Wake up, Kupo!" Hand clutched on your Crystal, the call of the Moogle may finally wake you up. But you are no longer in your world, nor in the void. You are before the Crystal of Fire, in the third district of a city called Aqures Ixen. At this point, you may realize the engine noise actually originates from an Airship flying low over the city and headed to dock beneath the castle. As if it wasn't strange enough, your clothes have changed as well. They are now a reflection of the Jobs you are wielding. Last but not least, you are surrounded by Moogles, small and fluffy creatures who are more than happy to tell you about everything you want to know, about your 'destiny' as a Hero of Light, about what awaits you.

Or at least, they will tell you everything they do know, which isn't much in the end.

Thankfully, there doesn't seem to be any citizens aside from Moogles in the vicinity. Indeed, the population of Aqures Ixen seems to be busy elsewhere in the city-- The Moogle will tell you there currently an event named the Festival of Light, which most people are attending. But you are not alone! It probably will not be long before you realize there are plenty of people like you all around, and if somehow you do not realize it, the Moogle who woke you up will be more than happy to inform you there are others like you around. Maybe with their help, you will be able to find out what is happening to you.






— Final Day —
The Festival of Light is a yearly event held at Aqures Ixen to celebrate the victory of the "Heroes of Light" over the "Calamity from the Skies" two thousands years ago, or so do the legends say. Whether people believe in the legends or not, this is an occasion for them to have fun and spend time with family and friends. The Festival is held from the 28th of July to the 3rd of August.

Unfortunately, most attractions and events are over by the third of August. Yet, there is enough to do, should the newly arrived Heroes of Light favor spending time looking at the attractions rather than panicking about their situation. The festival ends at midnight.


Theater Play
— Ninth District || 14:00 —

There is a large theater stage installed in the 9th district-- It is probably only temporary by the look of it. There is quite a crowd seated to watch the play about to unfold, as well as numerous people standing beneath the seats or sitting on the ceilings because they couldn't get a seat. After the audience grows quiet, a woman with long silver hair and green-ish skin steps onto the stage to address the audience.

"Ladies and Gentlemen! Tonight's performance is a story that takes place long, long ago! At the time when the Ancients reigned over the planet, when the Calamities from the Skies landed on this world and waged war against all forms of life. When our story begins, the Ancients are on the brink of extinction and gathering the last of their forces to fight. And now people of Aqures Ixen and visitors from distant lands, we proudly present 'The 4 Heroes of Light'!"

After this, the play starts and will last for roughly one hour and a half. The main characters appear to be four Heroes of Light, respectively dressed as a Warrior, Monk, Black Mage and White Mage. Other characters include the Calamity from the Skies played by the silver-haired woman, an Ancient scientist and the Princess of Crystallis. The story appears to be a highly romanticized version of the tale the Moogles told the characters earlier. As the play unfolds, there is a love story between one of the Heroes of Light, the Warrior, and the Princess of Crystallis. At the end of the play, the Heroes of Light successfully defeat the Calamity from the Skies, but the Warrior has to sacrifice himself and die in order to protect the Princess of Crystallis.


Culinary Attractions
— Fourteenth District || Anytime —
What would a festival be without free food and banquets? Not really a festival. In the fourteenth district, there is a banquet and many stands held by people from all over the world-- People from Balicea, Aerilon, Esdham, Flence, etc. There is even a stand held by former inhabitants of the Empire. All kind of food from all over the world can be found here-- Refined food, pastries, cakes, cooked meals, etc. It's virtually impossible not to find something to like in all of this, and it's all free until midnight!


Competitions
— Tenth & Eight District || 18:00 —

At 18:00, there will be a Blitzball match opposing the teams of Aqures Ixen and Balicea in the Blitzball Stadium. It is more of an exposition match, with nothing to be won aside from glory. Anyone is free to enter the stadium to watch the match. Following this, people - playable characters included - will be allowed to play some Blitzball Match on their own, if they want to try.

At the same time, a Triple Triad competition will be taking place in the eight district, in the campus of the university. Characters are free to enter the Triple Triad tournament, and if they do so they will be given very basic cards and explained the rules. With low level cards and whatsoever no experience, odds are that they may lose to much more experienced and competitive players, but what matters is trying, right? Whilst no characters may recognize him yet, it is notable that one of the NPCs, Wedge, is taking part in the competition. It's just a shame knowing he will lose in the semi-finals.


Trano Golsaucia's Stands
— Eleventh District || Anytime —
Specially for the occasions, stallholders from Trano Golsaucia traveled to Aqures Ixen and brought a few attractions to display what they can do. Noticeably, they brought Chocobos and will organize numerous races throughout the day, on an improvised tracks running around the houses. The Heroes of Light are more than welcome to try and bet, should they want to lose (or multiply) what few Gils they have. If they feel adventurous, they may even try to enter one of the races and ride a Chocobo-- At their own risks.

Aside from this, there are some more attractions worthy of attention. There is a shooting stand-- Coincidentally, all the targets are vaguely similar to the main antagonists of numbered Final Fantasy games. There is a treasure chest game, where characters are presented with ten chests and can open only one-- Prizes range from one Gils to gigantic plushie. There is also a fortune teller Moogle, it is notable that his predictions will always include either the character suffering hell or dying soon, in one form or another. Hopefully this moogle is just a scam.


Fireworks
— First District || 23:00 —

What better way to conclude a festival than fireworks? Fireworks will be launched from the Castle of Aqures Ixen starting 23:00, and will end at midnight, at the same time than the festival. No matter where you are in the city, anyone should be able to watch them easilly if they so wish. Unfortunately, it means falling asleep before midnight may be a bit hard with all the noise.

Comments

[no_dreams_for_you]

Luke’s face had turned red again, piquing the ninja’s intrigue. He did know that there was an alternate reason for people blushing, which happened to be the concept of embarrassment. But why would Luke experience that feeling, right at this moment? Was there something embarrassing about their current situation? Gaara started glancing around and analyzing every possible cause for it, in spite of his earnest confusion.

Looking down at their joined hands, he asked quietly, “Would you like to be released?” And then, to answer that question about his job class, “I have been assigned to the White Mage and Dark Knight Job Classes. My current appearance is that of the White Mage class. Your aptitudes must have changed as well, then.”

Streak o’ lean…? He had never heard of that dish. He knew what bacon was – commonly derived from pork meat. He didn’t particularly feel one way or the other, toward it. As Gaara was stepping closer to inspect it, he caught sight of another dish that drew his attention. Without announcing his intentions, he began to pull Luke over to that booth, where he placed an order for grilled chicken and vegetable kabobs.

She was quickly distracted by a certain item, and flitted to the booth with Ion in tow. After accepting the cone, she unfortunately had to let go of the other Moogle. Pulling off a piece of cotton candy, she attempted to feed Ion by bringing it toward his lips. “Try some, kupo! I love cotton candy!”

All smiles, she started licking at the fluffy candy herself. Some of it got onto her nose, but she didn’t seem to notice. Curiously, she peered at the people surrounding them, then commented idly, “Mmm… There are so many new Heroes!” Glancing back over her shoulder, she tilted her shoulder toward their respective human companions. “They’re still holding hands, kupo! Not all humans do that… It’s so interesting, kupo!”

[headfons]

Slowly tilting his head, slightly, at Gaara looking around, he was assuming it was nothing more than the ninja observing the area. He didn't have the faintest clue it was because of him, of course. He remained quiet until he heard that question; his brow tensed as he looked down, immediately afterward. O-oh...right. In spite of his face heating, he shook his head, "Only if it's...making you uncomfortable."

Nodding to the information, Luke smiled, "Ah, you're a mage, too, then! I'm also a Red Mage," he started, and then gave a nod before adding, "Yeah, I'm guessing so. I do feel different. Earlier, I was able to move incredibly fast. The...unfortunate thing, though, is I...think I'm a lot weaker than I used to be."

He let out a somewhat annoyed sigh. It was actually pretty frustrating to, not only be sent to a new world, but to also have all of his abilities stolen away. Of course, he wasn't as worried about himself, as he was about Gaara, "So, uh..." he started with the awkward scratch of his head, "...Actually, never mind. I'll ask you about that, when we're alone..."

A soft blink of surprise was given when he felt himself being tugged off to something else. Smiling softly as he watched Gaara place the order, he resisted the urge to chuckle. Well, if he liked it, at least it was something they both could enjoy later on...

Ion let out a soft squeak as he was tugged off to the booth. Once they were settled, he let out a soft breath. He wasn't looking when he suddenly caught a glimpse of her paw in his peripheral vision. Blinking twice, he looked up and glanced from her paw...back to her. After a very short pause, he leaned forward and accepted it, letting one paw rest on hers.

Oh, wow, that was certainly good. To her words, he nodded, "Yeah! There are a lot of them, aren't there?" Then, to the mention of Luke and Gaara still holding hands, he blinked and looked back, as well, "You're right, kupo...I don't see any other heroes doing that..."

Initially, he didn't notice the food on her nose, either. It was after several seconds that he glanced over and seemed to notice. He let out a soft sound and tapped his own nose, "Ah...you got some on you, kupo..."

[no_dreams_for_you]

“I don’t feel uncomfortable,” he admitted softly, despite a slight shift in his movement. “I simply don’t wish to inconvenience you.”

Or make Luke feel uncomfortable. It wasn’t as though Gaara himself understood all of the intricacies of a platonic or romantic bond. He didn’t know where the boundaries lied, even in friendship. Holding hands did seem to overlap in both friendships and relationships, which caused some uncertainties in his interpretation. Nevertheless, he continued keeping Luke’s hand in his grasp, and decided to let him decide when it was appropriate to let go.

“Evidently, a White Mage specializes in healing abilities,” he reiterated somewhat dryly. It would be an interesting adjustment, so to speak, considering his former capabilities. “What abilities do you possess, in the Red Mage class?” He made a mental note of the increased speed, and decline in strength. “I see. Perhaps a different class would yield a higher aptitude in strength. Regardless, I have confidence in your capabilities, Luke.”

He tilted his head a bit, in curiosity, at that trail-off. “Is it a personal question?” Because if not, then he saw no reason not to ask right now. What reason would Luke have to suddenly act shy… unless it had to do with the matter of their… personal relationship? That thought alone caused his cheeks to darken a little, but he didn’t turn away.

After receiving his order, Gaara began to eat, tentatively, as they resumed walking around. He felt an immense amount of relief that they wouldn’t have to be subjected to those tasteless food bars. Still, he was suspicious of the festival itself. Nothing was ever given freely, without consequence. The ones in charge of this city – this world – surely wanted something from all of the new Heroes.

The female Moogle giggled cheerfully when Ion set his paw over hers. He was so gentle and sweet. She hoped all of the other Moogles were just as friendly and kind! She wanted to make friends with them, to better help her new Hero. Their network would run much more smoothly with cooperation between the Moogles.

“We’ll need their help… after the other Heroes vanished.” The ending of the play had hinted at new Heroes arriving, to keep the peace. Maybe that meant their world would need to be saved again…?

“Hum… I wonder if it’s something human friends do, kupo…” she mused out loud, while offering more cotton candy to Ion. “Want to try it, Ion?”

When Ion brought that to her attention, she laughed gently and leaned toward him. “Oh! I must look so silly right now, kupo! Can you please take it off?”

[headfons]

His gaze softened on the other redhead at those words, and then he gave him a reassuring smile, "It's not an inconvenience."

Was it something he'd never done before? Definitely. The thing was, though, he'd seen other people doing stuff like this, back in Saeng Seong. He also recognized it as something that two people who...liked each other, did. Essentially, it was aiding in providing Luke with a cure for his doubts. A part of him still wondered about the extent of the ninja's feelings towards him, and he still couldn't help but question the entirety of his motives on that fateful night.

Luke gave an impressed blink at the mention of what White Mages could do, "Hey, that's a good thing! Being able to heal people's really important, you know," he said, and then continued with a light grin, "It likely means you'll have a lot of people coming to you, in the future, for help. Heh...better watch out, or you might become super popular!"

As for his own abilities, though, "Uh...apparently, I can use all sorts of magic. Ion said I'm kind of like a...'Jack of all trades', or something. I can wield a sword, while also using offensive and defensive magic. Right now I'm able to cast Fire, Blizzard, Water, Thunder, and Cure. I won't be specializing in anything, though. My magic skills will become mid-level, at best," he said, letting out a sigh, "Same for my sword skills."

The part about Gaara having confidence in his abilities had his face darkening, and then he quickly looked away. Reaching up with his free hand, he scratched at the side of his face, "A-ah...Well, I have a lot of faith in your abilities, as well, you know! You're really smart, so you'll have no trouble increasing your skills," he said as he looked back over to Gaara, face still red, "We should probably start training together, as soon as possible."

Anything to get the subject off of himself, really. Luke nodded at the question of whether, or not, he had something personal to ask, "Yeah. Actually...there's two things I wanna ask, though."

After watching Gaara, quietly, for a moment, he turned his head to begin looking around. The place was...considerably different from the other three worlds he'd seen. In spite of his being away from home for nearly half a year (in the time most people went by, as he'd now learned), he still dwelled on home, from time to time. Even with the distractions he immersed himself in, he still missed his friends.

Ion nodded to her words, giving her a tentative smile. He could only hope that he could make himself useful to Luke and the other heroes. Tilting his head, a bit, at her musing, he wondered the same thing. Maybe it was how humans showed their level of closeness. Blinking at her question, he responded in a curious tone as he took more cotton candy, "Kupo? Sure..."

He certainly didn't mind it -- he liked her. She was cute and friendly, and he felt comfortable around her. Eating the sweet, sugary substance, he glanced back over to Luke and Gaara. When she leaned towards him, he blinked over to her. Then, nodding to her question, he moved a paw to her nose and pulled the sticky substance off. Fortunately, it came off, easily.

"There you go, kupo," he said, while offering her a faint smile.

[no_dreams_for_you]

His hand felt warm… and it resembled the same tepid sensation resonating inside his chest. Was it nothing more than physical temperature, or…? He couldn’t be certain. He hadn’t experienced this emotion often enough to truly decipher it. Even then, the previous instance he could recall was… His facial features hardened, briefly, as he was helpfully reminded of the loose ends that he left untied. Like the red string Sai had been so insistent on keeping, even after they finally released each other, on the island of dinosaurs.

Popular? Gaara wanted to scoff in disbelief, but settled for a simple headshake. Others may come to need him for his healing abilities, but that was all. Of course, he would be willing to assist anyone that received injuries. It didn’t mean their bond would extend beyond the duration of battle.

“You possess a healing spell as well,” he reminded Luke, “in addition to your other abilities. Even if your extent is mid-tier at best, the elemental advantage should not be discounted. You are a much more useful ally, simply due to versatility.”

It didn’t matter that Luke might not be as powerful as a warrior that specialized in a specific area. Cooperation was a key factor in their new circumstances. Wherever they lacked in strength, they could form an alliance with someone to fill that void. When Luke mentioned having faith in his abilities, however… Gaara carefully avoided his gaze. He was formidable with his sand, but in this new world, having been stripped of that capability… He didn’t want to tell Luke how much weaker he had become. Particularly with regards to his aptitude in physical combat.

“Yes… we should,” he agreed with ease, “I intend to begin immediately… after conducting a thorough search of this city. Perhaps we could mutually benefit from training together.”

At the sudden reminder of the reason behind his search, a shadow passed over his expression. “I will keep your friends in mind as well, Luke.” He remembered, quite vividly, the physical appearances of Tear, Jade, and Guy. It was Anise and Natalia that he had never become acquainted with.

Meanwhile, his Moogle companion was looking at both of them from where she sat, with Ion. She was curious about why they were still holding hands, and made a mental note to ask Gaara, once they met up again. If that was something friends did, could she and Ion hold each other’s paws while they were walking along? Maybe even flying, if they were close enough? Something interesting to ponder over…

“Thank you! Kupo!” She tipped her head down toward his paw and lapped up the small bunch of cotton candy he had just pulled off. At least this time, she didn’t get it on her face. After the sugary substance had melted in her mouth, she brushed the cotton candy over Ion’s nose with a playful giggle.

[headfons]

He'd meant it when he said there wasn't an inconvenience from their hands remaining together. There was something...nice about the physical contact. It reminded him of the very thing he'd started to become incredibly used to, back in Saeng Seong. Even back on Auldrant, he'd never been hesitant about touching Tear -- Guy's pats on the shoulders had always comforted him, too. Hell, even when Anise hugged him, during the latter half of their journey...he'd felt a sense of happiness. During his years trapped in the manor, he'd become starved for attention, without even realizing it.

That...must have been why it'd been so hard to let go of Van, or to even let himself push away from Guy, after finding out he'd tried to kill him out of genuine hatred. Even after committing to his change, he'd been basing his personality adjustments on what everyone else approved of. He just...really didn't want them to leave him, again. It had a lot to do with making up for his mistakes, yeah, but that was only the larger percentage of the reason, wasn't it? In the end, part of it was because he didn't want to wind up...alone.

So, then...maybe that had been part of why he'd let what happen on the full moon...happen. A part of him had already started latching onto the person that made him happiest out of everyone else, to be around. It was different from that, by the current point, of course. They'd wound up on the same world, and so Luke was bound and determined to ensure he didn't risk having any more regrets. No more...

His thoughts were cut of by the other redhead's voice, prompting him to blink back into reality. Then, when he hears that part about being more useful as an ally, his face reddens. Shaking his head, "Y-yeah, well..." With a frustrated sigh, he reaches up and scratches at the back of his head, "Still, it'll suck not being about to really master anything combat-related..."

Because he was looking away, too, he missed the avoidance of Gaara's eyes. Folding his arms over his chest, he decided to let the topic drop, for now. Really, it was also because of the distracting thoughts that continued to prod at the back of his mind. There were a lot of things piling up in his mind that needed to be discussed or...faced, simply, but some...he wasn't ready to so much as acknowledge. It was his fault, however, for avoiding certain things, for so long.

"Ah!" He smiled, "Good thing I already planned to ask you if you wanted to train together, then."

With that, he gave the ninja a slight grin, folding his arms behind his head. As he shifted his weight onto one foot, just a bit, he glanced to the side. The mention of his friends had his eyes no longer matching the upturn of his lips. He...could already feel that doubt creeping in, that they'd be found, in that found, "Yeah...I'd appreciate that," he said, ignoring that faint pressure in his chest, "I'll be looking, too. I remember what Temari, Kankuro, and Sai look like."

After the light green-colored creature followed the female's eyes, he found himself studying the two humans, once again. He was curious, too, and really wanted to ask his hero...friend about it. Luke had already called him his friend, by that point, but it seemed like not many humans did that, either.

Maybe that was why they were holding hands, unlike the other humans -- Luke didn't like to follow the behavior of other humans! Kupo...but, then, what was Gaara's reason? Hmmm...well, there wasn't going to be any figuring it out, from where they were. He'd just have to wait until next time he was with Luke.

"You're welcome..." He offered her a small smile after she finished the cotton candy, "Kupo?"

He blinked after she brushed the stuff over his nose, but then let out a soft laugh. Namely, because that had tickled. She was...interesting, to say the least. Not in a bad way, of course. If anything he was fascinated by her cheerful demeanor. Reaching up, he brushed his paw over his nose.

[no_dreams_for_you]

The loneliness was something he had sensed, a number of times before, whenever he looked into Luke’s eyes. He had his doubts on occasion, wondering if Luke simply stayed with him because he wanted to replace the empty void in his life left by his friends and his roommate from the hotel. Would Luke ever allow his desire to not be abandoned, override his logical sense of mind? If his friends should arrive in this world, wouldn’t he naturally gravitate toward them? And then… he wouldn’t need to hold onto other unnecessary ties.

His appetite had suddenly began to diminish, but fortunately, he finished his food, by this point. There wasn’t a conscious reason for it, but he felt like gripping onto Luke’s hand tighter, and so he did. Now, if there was a stand around that served decent tea, he could cleanse his palette…

“Why do you hold that belief?” A serious question, because Gaara saw nothing wrong with being versatile. If anything, Luke was much better prepared than him, and he didn’t need to specialize in a particular area. Gaara felt all the more determined to overcome his weaknesses; he didn’t want to become a burden to Luke, or anyone else he might be fighting alongside. “Is it your contention that you must master a form of combat in order to be proficient at fighting?”

He replied without hesitation, “Yes. We have already begun training together. It would be logical to continue.” Without his sand abilities, he would need to rely on Luke to point out which areas he lacked in, since he could no longer be self-aware to that extent. Even if Luke couldn’t use the exact same techniques as the previous world, he hadn’t completely forgotten his sword skills. He wasn’t helpless or useless, in this new job class.

Gaara waited until they had walked further along, and then slowly eased to a stop, once they were far enough away from the general crowd. He turned to Luke and lifted his free hand, gently running the back of his fingers down one lone cheek. “Don’t relinquish hope, Luke. You possess more strength and resilience than you seem to realize.”

Well, now their Heroes had run off and disappeared together! Or maybe the crowd had just swallowed them up, when her attention was turned away? She wasn’t watching them the entire time, because she had been finishing her delicious cotton candy. Letting out a soft squeak of surprise, the pink-furred Moogle flitted up into the air, dragging Ion along with her.

“Oh, no! Where did they go??” Their companions had flutes to summon them with, but the reverse wasn’t true! They couldn’t just magically pinpoint where their Heroes had gone. It wasn’t fair, really.

[headfons]

The thing was, the redhead would never stop missing the friends that weren't with him. That wasn't to say, however, that he would have a shift in loyalties, should they ever appear. Even if his friends from any of the three previous worlds showed up, the replica would always hold on to the bond he had with the ninja. So, fortunately, Gaara would never have to worry about that -- even if Luke didn't realize he needed to reassure him, in that regard.

When he felt the tightening of that grip, Luke blinked and looked down. Expression turning just a bit concerned, he glanced back up to the other teen. Before he could ask, however, he heard those questions.

...As a means of stalling, he tugged Gaara over to a drink stand (sorry, seems this one doesn't have tea). He figured, since he was there, he could get one, as well. After getting a drink -- apparently it was something called lemonade, he let out a soft sigh, "Isn't...that how it's supposed to work, though? You figure out what you're good at, then you master it...right? I mean- it's not as though I'm...ungrateful for what power I do have. It could be much worse, and I could have arrived here with nothing. Besides, it's power I can wield," he said, before giving a somewhat dry laugh (after all, he'd arrived in the hotel with nothing), "I guess it just...feels weird, is all."

Nodding, he gave a smile, in regards to the comment about training together, "Not only that, but I...like training with you."

Once they were away from a majority of the other people, Luke blinked as Gaara suddenly came to a stop. Before he had a chance to ask what was wrong, however, he felt that hand brushing against his face. Instantaneously, his face began to heat as a soft sound escaped his throat. There was a short pause as the replica glanced to the side. Then, leaning forward, he placed a soft kiss to the other redhead's lips. Without pulling away, completely, he spoke, "Part of...the reason I didn't lose all hope, was because of the fact that you arrived, here, too," he says, his tone softening as he says the next sentence, "As...selfish as it is, I'm really...glad you're here, with me."

Then, he pulled away, his face completely red.

Ion's eyes widened as he looked around, realizing she wasn't the only one that couldn't see them, anymore. Aw, kupo. Brow tensing, he assisted her in the search, "Well, fortunately, they'll be able to call us if they need us..."

With that, he gave a sigh. A thought occurred to him, though -- what if they wanted to...be alone? It wasn't anything he could say, with confidence, so he left the thought where it originated. Nevertheless, though, it was something that popped into his head, just then. Really, kupo...humans were so very strange.

[no_dreams_for_you]

No tea? Off with your head!!

Fortunately, he was familiar with most of the drinks at that stand, and ordered pomegranate juice. He gave serious consideration to Luke’s words, but his ninja training had essentially taught him the opposite. Yes, some shinobi did specialize in one particular aptitude or element; however, even rarer were the ones that could utilize two elements. Rock Lee, in spite of his prowess in taijutsu, would be susceptible or even useless if the other attributes were required. Gaara had all but proven that by defeating him in their fight, years ago. Not to mention, he had needed to rescue his Leaf counterpart during combat against Kimimaro.

“You are accustomed to offensive means,” he easily recalled, from their training sessions together. “Your speed and precision were lacking, as a result of your focus on simply mastering your sword techniques. Consider this an opportunity to develop your aptitude in additional areas.”

He wasn’t entirely merciless toward Luke when they were training, but he had realized where he needed to improve, rather quickly. Not to say Luke wasn’t a skilled fighter, especially considering how little time he had spent out in the vast world. He was simply ignorant and unrefined, and rightfully so. Of course, Gaara wasn’t absent of critique toward his own skills either. He never had been very adept at taijutsu, and now, he would endure the consequences of his negligence.

In all honesty, he was surprised to hear Luke admit something of that nature. After releasing a blink, Gaara stared at him for a moment. Slowly processing those words until he could derive a reasonable explanation behind the meaning. “You enjoy training because you wish to improve, correct?”

And that… was certainly unexpected. Eyes widening, Gaara remained still, cheeks lightly flushing. Given the structure of their last conversation revolving around… the state of their bond, he didn’t feel utterly certain about how it should proceed. Luke had admitted to harboring romantic feelings toward him, but also confessed that he never experienced a relationship before. Gaara didn’t consider himself an expert on the subject, in the slightest. Wouldn’t it be more beneficial and sensible for Luke to seek this type of bond with someone that was… actually adequate?

He was in the midst of forming a response, when Luke pulled away. Gaara held onto his hand, facial features softening a little. Part of him still felt hesitant, because he had yet to officially sever his ties with Sai. Then again, nothing was set into stone. Luke didn’t apply any pressure on him, one way or the other. If he wanted to pursue a deeper bond, then they could address that at the appropriate time.

His gaze shifted to the side, taking on a thoughtful look. At the very least, he could reply to that meaningful declaration; “It’s… human nature to be selfish. If we are unable to return to our home worlds at present, then… I am glad to be in your company as well.”

The female Moogle continued to pull poor Ion around as she searched for them. Finally, she pointed a paw in the direction of their Heroes – and then saw Luke pressing their lips together. She had seen it before, as recently as the play that she watched with her Hero companion. Humans kissed each other when they were in love, right? Just like the Warrior and the Princess, from the story!

“Look, Ion!” She was bubbling with excitement, feeling happy for both of them. It would definitely explain the handholding, and why they wanted to wander off alone together. “They’re in love! …I think?”

[headfons]

...IT'S NOT MY FAULT!!! IT'S NOT! MASTER VAN DI-........Ahem.

There was a brief pause as he listened to Gaara's words. Then, after staring at the ground, a sheepish smile appeared on his own lips, "Heh, you're right. I should just focus on the benefits of this. Maybe...think of it as a learning experience."

The other redhead's confused expression and innocent words had Luke blinking. Head tilting to the side, just a bit, he gave his own, matching expression. Well...of course he loved training, due to the desire to improve. That was only part of it, however. Brow tensing as he allowed a smile to appear, he released a soft laugh, "It's not just that. I enjoy training with you, Gaara. Back in Saeng Seong, it had meant a lot, to me, that you were willing to help me get better, you know? It...gave me something else to look forward to, each and every week. It...wasn't just the training, though," he started as his face gradually reddened, "Hanging out with you...was fun, too...you know?"

He'd started to question whether, or not, it had been a good idea to kiss him. Which didn't help him in willing away the redness of his own face. While it wasn't as though they hadn't done more that just lock lips, at that point, there were still things that needed to be figured out. Considering they'd been dropped into a new world, together, before they could do that? Well, things were super confusing, at that point. Seeing Gaara's expression soften, however, Luke felt a little better about it. Gaze lowering, he let out a sigh; as the ninja began to speak, he looked up, again.

"..."

A soft smile crept back onto his lips. The last sentence was nice to hear, though those words didn't remove all of his uncertainty. Reaching up, he scratched the side of his head. In Luke's mind, they needed to...go ahead and figure out where they stood with one another. He'd already spent too long being frustratedly confused, in the last world. Still...there was a part of him that knew better than to jump to doing something like that, right then. He'd wait to let them get a little more settled. Their minds were still attempting to absorb all of the new information. But, that didn't mean he couldn't make one thing clear...

Face tensing, he tightened his grip on the other teenager's hand. He turned his head to the side and spoke in a low tone, "Before we...wound up here, I made it pretty clear to you how I felt," he said, and then gave a soft smile, "And...just so you know," he started, turning his head to look at Gaara's face, "...That hasn't changed, just because the setting has."

Meaning that he still liked him, in that way, obviously.

Seeing his human Hero pressing his lips to Gaara's, Ion could only blink a couple of times. He'd seen the plays, as well. From his understanding, that was something that...only people in love did. So, when he heard the female Moogle exclaim those words, he could only give a firm nod, "So that's why they wanted to go off, alone?"

There was a pause after he said that. A serious look appeared on his face as he thought it over. That...didn't make much sense, to him. Why would that be something they would want to hide? Shouldn't they be happy to express their feelings, for one another? K-kupo, he would just have to ask Luke about that, later, "Guess we should leave them be, kupo..."

[no_dreams_for_you]

The smile he gave to Luke in that moment was a little thin. Gaara wouldn’t think to claim that he was a very effective training partner. He preferred to be swift and efficient, often ruthless, if the situation called for it. He had to adjust his curriculum, in a sense, to match the level and needs of others. If Luke hadn’t been so attentive and willing to improve himself, the ninja wouldn’t have even bothered wasting his time.

Despite being in-sync on numerous matters, there was a great deal about Luke that he still didn’t understand. Was that… hesitation on his face? Regret? If Luke’s feelings hadn’t changed, then… what did that mean? Their bond remained that of friendship, as far as Gaara knew.

“......”

Frowning slightly, he was contemplating how to word his confusion, when his Moogle suddenly flew over to him and began tapping his shoulder. Ion was closely behind her; clearly, she had a magnetic influence that garnered attention. “Master! There’s someone you need to visit, kupo! It’s very important!!”

His gaze lifted, meeting Luke’s for a brief moment. In that short look alone, they were agreeing to meet each other after this… important visit. Whatever it happened to be. Nodding as a form of farewell, Gaara disappeared into the crowd, following his Moogle to the supposedly crucial destination.

It wasn’t until much later that he found himself alone, once more. Naruto had given him… quite a bit of information to think about. The war that was taking place, back in their world… it had escalated, of course. Hopefully, their forces would be skilled enough to defeat the enemy army. The mere thought of facing reanimated corpses was more than a little unnerving. Which specific individuals had gotten revived?

The fireworks had yet to stop exploding. Seated on a secluded rooftop – that he didn’t fall off of, this time – he only vaguely noticed his Moogle flying around him. Honestly, she seemed incapable of sitting still… But then, his mind soon shifted over to Luke. He wondered where he and Ion were, right at this moment… Had Luke been able to locate any of his friends, from his original or any subsequent worlds?

[headfons]

During the hours, with Ion, he met some interesting people. After the day's events, Luke paused to rest and grab another bite to eat. It wasn't until they finished eating, that Ion mentioned something about fireworks. Folding his arms over his chest, the replica recalled something like that, back in his world, "...Fireworks, huh?"

With Ion directing them, from his shoulder, Luke made his way to the designated area. Finally, he reached a place where he didn't need the moogle to direct. For just a moment, he was distracted. It took Ion pointing out that the view was much better, from up high, to get him to sheepishly laugh and continue on his way. After Ion flew on up, Luke easily made his way up to the top. It was then that he remembered it being pointed out that the Thief Class had agility going for them...

Maybe he wouldn't mind it, so much, after all...

Once he was on top of the roof, he stood there, for a moment. Arms folded behind his head, he wondered if Gaara had seen them, yet. Ironically, in that moment, Ion alerted him to the ninja's whereabouts. After looking over to the creature, he followed the direction in which the creature was pointing. Sure enough, not all that far away, was the one he'd just been thinking about and- ...ah, his moogle was looking as energetic, as ever. A soft chuckle escaped, at that, "Hey, uh...Can I ask you something, kupo?"

Luke blinked as he heard the question, but gave a nod. Then, again, maybe he shouldn't have...considering the next words out of Ion's mouth, "Are you and Gaara in love?"

Turning red, his arms dropped down to his side, and he was left giving a look of disbelief. It took him a moment to get even the broken up response out, "Wh-...?"

"...Don't humans kiss when they're in love?"

"Th-that's...It doesn't always have to be love. We can kiss one another for several reasons," he paused, folding his arms over his chest and looking to the side, "Sometimes, family members kiss one another! ...But, maybe that's a bad example, since that's another form of love," he let out a frustrated sigh, reaching to scrub at the side of his head, "Well, uh...sometimes, you kiss someone you care about in a way that's...more than friends, but not quite love?"

"Kupo...I don't think I understand, completely."

Luke wasn't going to give him a chance to try and understand, considering he was eager for his face to stop feeling so hot. With a frown, he managed to get out in a hurried tone, "We can talk about that, later, right? Come on, let's go see what Gaara and your friend are up to!"

Luke caught a glimpse of a soft smile playing across the furry being's lips as he hurried over. Once he was just feet away, he seated himself next to the redhead. After tossing a wave and 'heya!' up to the female moogle, he watched Ion flitter over to her. Smiling lightly, he glanced over to Gaara, "Hey..."

Almost immediately after, he was looking up. A short pause, later, he was speaking in a low tone, "...The last time I saw these, it was during the day. Gotta say, the view is a heck of a lot better, at night."

[no_dreams_for_you]

“Ion!”

His Moogle was the first to announce their presence. Starting a little, the redhead blinked and turned to glance their way. She was eager to rush up and greet them, completely invading their privacy without hesitation. In fact, she heard Luke’s explanation, and twitched her nose, feeling just as confused as Ion about the subject. They should definitely talk between themselves and try to figure things out…

“Luke, Luke!” She chirped cheerfully, laughing with delight as she pointed a paw at his face. “Your cheeks look like your hair, kupo! It’s so cute! Don’t you think so, Master?”

“......”

Gaara immediately averted his gaze at that question. Regardless of what his answer might be… he didn’t see it fit to tell his Moogle. Luke, cute? He found him attractive, yes… He had never thought of Luke in that particular context, however. Wasn’t such a description more commonly reserved for children? Though… Luke was technically a child, given his chronological age…

“Luke,” he greeted quietly, focusing his attention on him, now that his Moogle was pleasantly distracting herself with Ion. “…Ah. So you have watched fireworks before. However, explosive effects aren’t as easily viewable, during daylight hours.”

A logical, straightforward answer, but he didn’t have much experience with fireworks. Certainly, there was a peculiar beauty to such a wondrous display of shifting lights. Sai would have surely-

Briskly, the ninja cut off that train of thought, which led to him voicing in inquiry, “What did you want to ask me, earlier? Is it related to your kiss?”

Despite the nature of the memory, his face wasn’t flushed red with embarrassment. He had been curious about the reason why Luke kissed him… Did it mean more than a simple gesture of affection? He and Luke had already done far more than merely kiss. He still remembered that night, very vividly. And the day that had followed… until the pace of his breaths were coming out at a quicker rate, and he needed to change mindsets. The attraction was obvious, but what did Luke want, after their discussion?

[headfons]

"....." Wait.

What? His eyes widened, just a bit, at her words. Having his blush pointed out, somehow managed to cause it to darken. So, brow tensing, he looked away from the direction of the female moogle, "Y-yeah, right..."

It was then that he rushed over to sit next to Gaara, deciding not to push the matter any further. Ion didn't seem to understand what was so cute about the blush. Instead of questioning it further, however, he opted for glancing up at the fireworks. They really were pretty, kupo.

Scratching at the side of his head, Luke stared down at his shoes, for a moment. When he heard Gaara speaking, he looked over to the other redhead. Nodding, he responded to the remark about fireworks not being easily viewable, during the day, "Well, they weren't for looks. I don't even think they were real fireworks. Whatever the case, it was something being used, for the sake of keeping people away from the Dark Wings' base."

The inquiry that came next, however, had the replica looking a little...awkward. Shifting his gaze to the side, for a moment, he gave a soft smile, "There are a few things I want to ask you about. You're right, though. One question is related to the kiss," he looked back to Gaara, a soft laugh being given as he continues, "I'll start with the simplest one, though. Is...the full moon gonna be tough for you, here? I guess what I'm asking...is if the demon's sealed, in this world? I know you have separate powers, but..."

...He'd learned to never assume things, "As for...the next question," he started, eyes shifting downward, face reddening, "How do...you feel towards me?"

Reaching up to scratch at the side of his head, he paused. With a faint growl of frustration, he had to think about how he wanted to word the next part, "I didn't just kiss you for the heck of it. I did it because I still like you, in that way. Like I said...even winding up in a strange, new world didn't change that. But, before I ask the last question, I'd like to know the answer to how you feel."

Looking over to the other teen, he falls quiet, for the moment.

[no_dreams_for_you]

Huff! She scrunched up her nose at Luke, but couldn’t reply to him, since he was already going to her master’s side. Honestly, boys!

“Now his face looks more like Master’s hair!” She reported to Ion, while settling down next to him. Gaara’s hair color was darker… and the style was much, much messier. Then, her attention quickly turned to the firework display. “Oh! So beautiful, kupo! They should set off fireworks more!”

Not knowing who or what the “Dark Wings” were, Gaara gave him a blank stare in response. At least, he could understand the necessity of a distraction tactic. He nodded, and then moved onto the next topic of discussion… which had his brows creasing in an immediate frown. Not from the question itself, but because he had no intention of letting his guard down, when it came to the demon sealed within his body.

“I won’t know for certain, until it takes place,” he replied in earnest, “Though… the desires are not solely derived from the demon. I possess them as well… to a certain extent. I will understand if you would prefer to avoid my presence, during the next full moon.”

His desires weren’t necessarily as brutal and violent and callous as Shukaku’s, but he couldn’t deny that he… had them, in the first place. His bloodlust hadn’t instantaneously vanished, over the years. Sexual intimacy, he didn’t have any experience with, until his very first relationship at the facility. Now that he had gotten a taste of it, however… he realized just how much he enjoyed and enjoyed the act. As well as the emotional attachment that came with it, and the warmth of sharing a special, exclusive bond.

“......”

How did he… feel?

“…Conflicted,” he answered in his usual blunt manner, “I… harbor an emotional attachment to you. I believe there is mutual attraction between us.” His gaze shifted toward the ground, away from the explosion of lights in the sky. “However, considering the sins that I’ve committed against you… and the fact that you clearly feel concerned about them…”

Because why else would Luke bring that up, unless he feared being attacked again?

Not to mention, the apprehension Gaara felt, toward the concept itself, having had that strong of a bond severed once already… He wasn’t certain if his heart could handle being dealt yet another powerful wound, should these ties break as well.

“There was… someone before, that I possessed romantic feelings toward,” he started to explain, despite some of the words getting jumbled within his mind. He was usually a much sharper thinker, but when it came to matters he had little experience in, he became much more hesitant and uncertain. “They may not have been… reciprocated. There is a great deal of risk, associated with deepening a bond to such an extent.”

[headfons]

"..."

Ion glanced over and watched with earnest curiosity, after hearing her words. His human Hero was certainly a mysterious being, when he thought about it. Not so much as the other moogle's human, however. The other human was even more confusing, without a doubt. Of course, he assumed that had more to do with the fact that he'd spent less time around him, so far.

"Yes, kupo. I agree," he said with a light smile, "But...if it happened, more often, do you think it would cause it to mean less?"

Luke listened, and then frowned. Avoid his presence? What the hell made him think that? The replica only asked, because he wanted to know what to expect. It had nothing to do with being worried or afraid, "Avoiding you is...the last thing I'd wanna do, Gaara."

But the next words out of the ninja's mouth earned the strongest frown from Luke. Sighing, he leaned back on his hands and stared up at the sky. He was quiet as he thought about how to reply to that, in a way that didn't involve him calling his friend, there, an idiot. Before he had a chance, though, he heard the next part. His expression softened in understanding.

"I'm not afraid of you. Like I said, before, I trust you. Don't think, for once, I regret anything about what we did," he said, and then paused, "I had romantic feelings for someone back on Auldrant, but I never found out if they were mutual. I never told her how I felt. Also, I...still care about her, but it's not the same as it was," he said as he reached to scratch at the side of his head, "I guess that's got due, in part, to everything that's happened...since I left."

Releasing a sigh, he shook his head. There was a pause as he thought about that last sentence. Oh, and he could certainly understand the meaning behind those words, to an extent, "I never told her how I felt, because I knew there was a chance that it could only cause her more pain. In the end, though...Isn't life about taking risks? If you do everything with the intention of remaining unhurt, there are a lot of things you wind up regretting. Some things can never be undone, but there are chances that never return to you...once they're gone."

His brow tensed as he paused, a moment, before looking to Gaara. With a firm expression, he said in a serious tone, "I refuse to look back and regret the chance I didn't take, with you, as well. If it's mutual -- and we both care about each other -- then I don't see why we shouldn't move forward. Besides, would you really be okay with us pretending we only like one another as friends?"

[no_dreams_for_you]

Oh, she will definitely share all the gossip with him. Don’t worry, Ion! To be perfectly honest, her Hero companion was a little too quiet. She had to fill in the silence, most of the time. He behaved kindly toward her, with respect, but their personalities were very different. And there was also the small factor of him not giving her a name yet… She really hoped he wouldn’t call her something like “Pinky” because of her fur color.

“Nope!” She shook her head firmly, and then clasped her paws together. “Why? We have lots of reasons to celebrate, kupo! New Heroes are here, to help us! They’ll fight better when they’re happy, kupo!”

Yes, Luke. Calling him an idiot would be very effective and productive. Cue Gaara just shutting up and never discussing his feelings again.

“By trusting me, you are endangering your own well-being.” Blunt, but true. Though, to soften the blow a little bit, he reached over to rest his hand on top of Luke’s. He fell quiet as he listened, and wondered if time would be enough to help him heal as well. He… missed Sai. Thought about him constantly. Even if the feelings hadn’t been mutual, he… still cared for him.

“So you… regret not telling her.” His fingers lightly curled, applying gentle pressure to Luke’s hand. “What if the opportunity should present itself, in the near future? Your friends could appear in this world, at any given time. I don’t… wish to become one of your regrets.”

That last point Luke had made… it was very sensible and logical. Gaara could utilize manipulation when necessary, but to live a lie and deny his true feelings? He had already spent a number of years doing that, and it didn’t exactly turn out well. There was a possibility… he could find happiness with Luke. Was that… worth the risk of getting hurt again?

Lifting his hand up, he grasped a hold of the other’s chin, and turned him until they were facing each other. “Tell me what you want, Luke. How would you like to move forward?”

[headfons]

Ion would enjoy hearing all of it, no doubt. He's curious to learn more about humans, and that seemed like one of the best ways to do so -- hearing as much as possible about the one his human Hero was, clearly, closest to. And Ion would agree that wouldn't be a good name for her.

That response earned a soft smile, "You're right..."

Luke's brow tensed at that response. Before he had a chance to say anything back, he felt a hand on his own. His face heated, and he glanced at the other redhead. A smile appeared on his lips, "It's worth it..."

The question earned a thoughtful expression, that slowly fell. Honestly, while a part of him still hoped to see them, again -- frankly, he doubted they would show up. He would never, truly, wish them on that world. It felt...selfish, to do that. A part of Luke suspected he would be leaving Crystallis with the next couple of months, but he...wouldn't be voicing that. The fact of the matter was, though, that he hadn't spent more than two months on a single world, since he left Auldrant. Was he doomed to continue jumping from world-to-world? If...he did leave Crystallis, would Gaara be on the next world he arrived on? Or...

"You wouldn't be a regret, even if she showed up, here."

As for if the opportunity presented itself, in the near future -- he wasn't sure what to think about that. In the end, though, if he were...committed to Gaara, it wouldn't even be a question. Once a decision had been made, he would stick with it -- without regret. The ninja had already earned a special place in his heart, due to being several firsts, for him.

When he felt his chin get grasped, he blinked. The command, followed by the question, had him blushing. It was only thanks to the library, back in Saeng Seong, that he even knew as much as he did on that subject. He'd been curious, so he'd...done some reading on the matter of how romance was handled. Expression softening, he finally spoke in a serious tone -- in spite of the, still, red face and racing heart, "I want you to be my boyfriend."

[no_dreams_for_you]

Speaking of their Heroes, she was momentarily distracted from the fireworks and looked over to see what they were doing. Her Master was... holding Luke's hand! Kind of surprising, considering how he usually didn't touch other people. Luke must be really special to him! Were they going to kiss again?

"Foolish..." he muttered under his breath, but loud enough to be heard, at this close of a proximity. That usually led to the downfall of generous types, didn't it? People with big hearts, like Naruto and Sora, that trusted others unconditionally, and didn't spend much time worrying about what lingered in the darkness.

Then again, it didn't bode well to waste time worrying in excess, either. It was somewhat reassuring that Luke could answer with such confidence. He wasn't sure he could do the same in return, with regards to Sai. Gaara wondered if he would still feel that same exact way, should the girl he loved suddenly appeared in front of him. He was also curious to know her identity... could it have been...?

"......"

He had already expressed his concerns, and Luke countered them, for the most part. It wasn't a matter of feelings or attraction. There were so many unknown factors that could affect their bond. Action or inaction, either way - there was potential for a negative outcome. He didn't subscribe to the same light of optimism as a few of his friends, after all. The facility had done more than an adequate job at lowering morale and hope, on a weekly basis.

Exhaling slowly, he nodded and released his chin to link their hands together once again. "As you wish. Then, we will be."

[headfons]

Ion saw her glancing over to the humans, and blinked at the sight, upon following her gaze. He was wondering the same thing, as her. Watching intently, he turned towards them, fully.

Luke could only give a wry smile at that retort. It wasn't the first time he'd been called that, after all. He did make some pretty reckless decisions, but it wasn't as though he intended to be killed. He simply saw no reason to run and hide, every time something could be deemed scary or dangerous. Living a life, like that, was one he'd regret...more than any repercussions that would come with putting himself in danger. Plus, he...truly did consider it worth it, when it came to Gaara.

In spite of what the ninja thought, Luke didn't see him as a monster. The other teen had been there, for him, when he had nobody else. He was his only friend, as well as the person he'd come to like in ways beyond that. Not only that, but...he seemed to understand things that Luke thought nobody else could, in regards to himself. He wasn't about to let that go, if he could help it. He was going to latch on to the one shred of good he'd...finally managed to find. It was like finding a candle, after having been trapped in the dark for a long time...

He refused to let it go out, because he couldn't bare the thought of being in the dark, again...

Sure, he had his fears...and doubts. He was scared, too. The thing was, though, he wasn't letting himself sit and think about that -- just like he wasn't sitting and thinking about the situation regarding his other friends. Dwelling on that would only wind up bringing more negative emotions. He'd realize the full extent of how much he missed them, and he'd start to worry about how they're doing. He'd remember that promise he'd made, that he had no way of keeping. He'd think about Takasu, and realize that there was a greater chance that he'd been killed, than not...and because Luke wasn't there to protect him.

...But, immediately, a thought would remind him of how little good he'd done, considering they'd both been killed, at one point.

Gaara's words had him looking...surprised. Clearly, he hadn't expected that to be the answer. Opening his mouth, he attempted to speak. It...didn't work. All that came out, instead, was a sound that was a broken ah-like sound that was, clearly, the product of surprise. Just seconds later, though, the surprise faded into relief. Face turning about as red as his hair, he curled his fingers around the ninja's hand, tightly, and leaned forward. Placing a kiss to the other redhead's forehead, he let out a soft laugh. Almost as a thought, more to himself, he speaks in a soft tone.

"So, I have a boyfriend, now..."

[no_dreams_for_you]

Every once in a while, Karura would look off to the side to see what the other humans were doing. Most of them were sitting closely together as they watched the fireworks. Giggling softly, she scooted toward Ion and laid her head onto his shoulder. Was this fun? That must be why so many humans were doing it! Hopefully, Ion wouldn’t mind if she did this too.

...Poor Luke. It was akin to being delusional, if he truly thought that Gaara represented the light. True, he wasn't utterly trapped in the darkness anymore, like he had been, in the past, before Naruto showed him clarity. But he wouldn't consider himself to be on the complete opposite spectrum, either. He still had... certain urges and desires that set him apart from normal people. Even with Shukaku sealed, it didn't mean he was... suddenly human, now.

Luke, with everything he had experienced, his identity issue being the most prominent... he was much more resilient than he credited himself for. He had energy and optimism that could rival Naruto, Sora, and Ishtar. He was someone that Gaara could admire... and already did, in certain ways. Brave, too, considering his willingness to step forward and endanger his own life, on that fateful full moon... At the reminder, Gaara glanced up to look at the moon overhead, still feeling drawn to it, but not with the same strong primal urges as before.

That reaction amused him, and he openly smirked in return. He found it very intriguing that Luke could behave this shyly, given everything they had already done together. The first night, Gaara would have expected it from him, but then the following day, after Luke cooked a meal for him... they had succumbed to their physical desires again. And that time, there was no full moon to serve as an excuse. Both of them had been willing, and completely consented to it.

The laugh was endearing to hear, and the kiss made his own cheeks flush a little. But he was able to maintain his composure while asking in earnest, "Would you have preferred a girlfriend instead? You mentioned harboring feelings for a female." His head tilted to the opposite side, thoughtfully. "I've yet to ask you what your sexual preference is."

[headfons]

The male moogle blinked as he felt the head on his shoulder. Beyond that, however, he didn't react in...well, any kind of negative way. No, instead, he glanced over. He'd seen humans doing that, before, and he'd always wondered what it was about. It...felt kind of nice, actually. Mimicking something else he'd seen done, he puts a paw against her back, innocently curious what that would feel like, as well.

Well, Luke wasn't thinking Gaara represented the light, per se -- more like, he'd brought light into his life. While he wasn't a weak person, Luke had the ability to dwell on dark thoughts. He had the ability to feel sad, lost, empty, afraid, and...outright depressed, sometimes. Replica, or not, he was a human. A person. He had feelings, and they tended to hit him intensely.

Whenever he felt something...he felt it.

So, when Gaara had met him, Luke had just come from a place that had knocked him down, a few notches. He'd come from a place that was near-opposite to the place they met in. Really, they had met in a time in which the replica was recovering from a lot of things -- things he'd still yet to truly resolve or work out. There was no time for that, currently...at all. They had to figure out where they stood in Crystallis, and then figure out what they needed to do...

For the moment, though...just for a moment...

He wanted not think about anything, like that. As for him behaving shyly, he was kind of shy. It was because he was more insecure than he let on, at times. He doubted himself, more than he liked to admit. The smirk caused a faint fluttering in the pit of his stomach, and he glanced away. When he heard the next two sentences, Luke blinked. Green eyes shifted back to Gaara's face, "What? ...Well."

Reaching up to scratch at the side of his face, his brow tensed. He hadn't thought about that, honestly. Sure, he'd read up on things, in that Saeng Seong library, but he'd still been left with questions. After his short pause, he shook his head, "Gender...isn't what's important, to me. What matters, to me, is that it's a person that cares about me, as much as I do about them. I need someone who will stand by me, no matter what...and isn't afraid to tell me when I'm being an idiot."

He gave a soft laugh, at that last part...though, there was a tiny hint of a self-deprecating sound within it.

[no_dreams_for_you]

Karura cooed softly, and then immediately responded by putting her own paw against his back. This was kinda like a hug! It made her all warm and happy inside. Was this how her Hero companion had felt, when Luke hugged him? Did this mean Ion wanted to be her friend, too? He was quiet, but really nice! She just had to be careful not to move her head too much, or she would hit Ion in the face with the extension on the top.

"Loyalty... Devotion... Acceptance." Gaara nodded as he finished reciting the three words, to show his understanding. So, those were the qualities that Luke sought out, in a romantic partner. Regardless of gender.

Where this sudden instinct came from, he couldn't determine, but he was prompted to tease in a light tone, "That will be a rather frequent occurrence, then... Calling attention to your idiotic behavior, that is."

He didn't really think Luke was an idiot, but he could certainly be reckless. Too selfless, at times. For instance, he shouldn't have tempted the demon on the night of a full moon. Shouldn't have persisted after someone dangerous with no regard for his own safety, and yet he did. Shouldn't have been so damn stubborn about forcing contact on someone that would rather stay away from the general public...

Pulling his thoughts free of those thick webs, Gaara turned his attention back to the cool night sky. It seemed the fireworks show was reaching its climax, considering the rapid influx of explosive colors. They would need to retire soon, he supposed... and he had to learn how to sleep once again, since Shukaku was sealed now...

"I should warn you..." he began slowly, "there is still a great deal that I don't know, with regards to proper conduct in a relationship. I've conducted research in the recent past, but have yet to experience each aspect. I trust you will inform me of any corrections or adjustments that need to be made."

/ugly laughter as replies to this forever late................

[headfons]

Ion did...actually want to be her friend. She was incredibly nice, though he wasn't sure exactly how to go about doing so. He'd seen how friends interacted, before, but he'd never honestly gone about trying to make one. Work had always been his primary focus, in the past. Delivering letters and being just another employee.

Luke gave a nod to those initial words, only to find himself giving... a bit of a 'lineface' at the next, "Wh-...hey! I don't...make that many idiotic decisions!"

Okay, so he probably did- that didn't mean Gaara had to go and point it out! The jerk. Though, in all honesty? Luke didn't sound annoyed. In fact, he was giving and awkward pause...and then leaning to place a small kiss to the ninja's cheek. With that, he was slowly looking up to watch the finale. Leaning back on both hands, once more, his expression softened in brief awe.

Hearing those next words, he glanced back over to the other redhead. Initially, he almost wanted to laugh. That sounded so...serious and stiff. How very like the ninja. But, then his mind drifted back to focus in on one little detail: he'd conducted research on...relationships. Tilting his head, he was giving a long and quiet stare. After thinking it over, he finally just outright asked...

"You've uh... researched these kinds of relationships, huh? And...you had feelings for someone. Have you... tried dating someone before, then? Or maybe..." Actually dated someone...

*rejects your late ass tag* >T

[no_dreams_for_you]

His lineface could never outmatch Gaara’s, who stared back at him with… a bit of disbelief, really. Luke had already made a number of stupid decisions, in his opinion, and he didn’t even know him that long. One of said stupid decisions was… along the lines of what they just discussed. But if not for that, they wouldn’t be where they were, right now. So there could be some benefits for making… not-so-wise decisions, all the time.

The kiss to his cheek was probably meant to distract him, and it worked. Flushing slightly, Gaara turned away and intentionally didn’t call any attention to it, as the fireworks display gradually died down around them. Luke would be perceptive enough to pick up on his reaction, if given the opportunity.

Such as… this instance.

“Yes. As well as numerous aspects of sexual intercourse,” he replied bluntly. For reasons that he still couldn’t understand, people had reacted to his and Sai’s research with… shock? Horror? Was this subject truly taboo for discussion? He didn’t think it would be, since procreation was a crucial part of maintaining the population.

Ah… this question. He wasn’t prepared to talk about it… especially not mere minutes after he had agreed to become romantically involved with someone else. Over two months had passed since he last saw Sai, as well as everyone else from the facility. The wounds in his heart were… still fresh. But Luke deserved to be told a few facts, even if he wasn’t going to get the whole story, right at this moment. If ever.

After closing his eyes and exhaling softly, Gaara finally nodded in response. “It was… a one-sided bond. And it… never evolved beyond that.”