Tourn RP Archive

Celena hummed as she walked along, eager to find the others. She was more than happy to present Nora with the fish while it was still nice and hot. “I wonder if they’re somewhere around here,” Celena wondered out loud.

12:42 PM

@cult family

Yeonaixho returned to the farmland soon after Celena arrived there, though he didn't seem to initially notice her. He returned to the shaded area he and his family had been resting in, and waited for Jymaiyri. Jymaiyri arrived soon after Yeonaixho did, and waved to Celena before heading over to Yeonaixho. The two adults talked amongst each other for a bit, before Yeonaixho called out. "Celena! Is that you over there?" @cult family

Nora had returned here from her playtime, spotting her family and happily waving at them. She moved to sit with her parents. She stared at Celena with a smile, clearly hiding something behind her. @cult family

Oh, and there they are! Nathan was missing for the moment, but she had a feeling they’d pop up eventually. Excitedly, she made her way up to their shaded area. “H-hi, everyone!” She greeted with a smile. Celena turned to Nora and presented her with the fish. “Kian and I made this for you, if you’d like it! It tasted really good.” She then turned to face Jymaiyri, Yeonaixho, and Minerva. “It’s my first time meeting you- It’s quite lovely to meet you!” Celena offered her a little bow. A part of her was nervous. Would Jymaiyri even like her? Maybe. Maybe not. Oh, it was anxiety inducing! @cult family

"It's nice to meet you," Jymaiyri smiled. Minerva seemed interested in Celena, too, staring at her with her wide, dark eyes. "Yeonai was just telling me about you. It's good, that we have more healers here." "I've also got some crab burgers from Sovran," Yeonaixho said, and gestured to the area they were sitting in. "Come sit down, Celena. We can all eat together." @cult family

“Oh! Mm, th-thank you! Um..” She fidgeted for a moment before taking the fish in one hand, still hiding the other behind her back. “Umm… Celena, I have… s-something for.. for you too!!” She pulled out a stuffed toy. It was a light yellow bunny, with little stars on its ears and a star on its stomach, the same shade of purple as Celena’s hair. “I- I made it.. ffor you! Hee..” She smiled at her sister. @cult family

“It’s nice to meet you too, Minerva!” Celena greeted with a bright smile. She waved at the baby, and as she did so, she made her light shimmer in her hand. It would be entirely entrancing as it shifted between white, red, and yellow. “Mmhm, we can heal anyone who needs it. If you ever need any healing from me, let me know!” Celena smiled. She then turned to Yeonaixho and smiled. “Oh, those sound delicious! I would love to have some, thank you.” Then, her gaze rested upon the rabbit. Her eyes widened significantly as she began to tear up at the sight of the gift. “Y-you made this? For me?” Celena asked as she held out trembling hands to receive the gift. @cult family

Minerva perked up at the lights, trying to reach out to them as best she could. "Ah!" She exclaimed. Jymaiyri laughed. "I think she's happy to meet you. She likes the light." "Ah, here you go." Yeonaixho handed Celena one of the lettuce wraps, and smiled as Nora presented her gift. "She's been working on it all morning." @cult family

Nora handed it to her, smiling and rocking a bit. “Um.. do you.. do you l-like it?” @cult family

The little sparkles remained in the air. A few of them were lowered toward the infant, but disappeared upon being touched. "Well, she'll always have my light to play with, it'll never hurt," Celena giggled. She took the offered wrap with a free hand. "Thank you!" "A-all morning?" Celena looked at the bunny that rested in the pain of her hand. The material of it was soft, and the sewing was masterfully done. It was clear that this was made with a tremendous amount of care and love. The tears in her eyes slipped out as she gave a nod of her head. "I-I love it, I l-love it so much- I haven't been given a g-gift in- Well, ever, it feels like.." Sniffling, Celena lowered her voice into a whisper. "C-can I have a h-hug, Nora..?" @cult family

Minerva seemed even more entranced in the lights when she figured out they disappeared when she touched them, and kept trying to hold them. "You're welcome." Yeonaixho smiled, but otherwise remained silent with Jymaiyri. They let the two girls have their moment. @cult family

“Y-you.. love it! Ehee, yay!! Oh, a.. a hug, umm.. mhm!” At Celena’s request, she set aside the fish. She held out her arms, psyching herself up for the touch. @cult family

Celena immediately went to hug Nora, being cautious not to move too quickly as to not startle the other girl despite how Celena wanted to just run into the embrace. She hugged Nora tightly and whispered to the other girl through her tears, "Thank you, thank you so, so much." @cult family

Both Yeonaixho and Jymaiyri had nothing to say because i dont wanna interrupt this moment @cult family

Nora leaned on her a bit as she hugged her back. This was.. nice, actually. “Mhm.. you’re my.. my big sister.. I like.. making you things. Make you.. happy.. it’s nice.” @Vanessa| Sovran+Zora+Cansu (edited)

Celena let out a small, teary laugh. She squeezed Nora a bit tighter. "J-just you being my sister makes me happy. M-means a lot, and this- This means so much, s-so so much, thank you.." @Sauce | Nora🧶+Lykos🐺

(just @ me when parents are needed again)

2

‘Just you being my sister makes me happy.’ Nora could feel herself starting to cry too. “I.. I do? Mm..” She squeezed back, taking in her words. “..You make.. me happy too.. you’re.. a good sister.” @Vanessa| Sovran+Zora+Cansu

“You’re an even better sister,” Celena’s giggle was teary. “You made me a g-gift- I need to make you s-something, too. Soon.” @Sauce | Nora🧶+Lykos🐺

A gift for her? She was definitely crying now. “oh.. I- I would.. really like that..!” She sniffled, pulling away a bit to wipe away her tears. @Vanessa| Sovran+Zora+Cansu

"Th-then I'll definitely be sure to make it nice and special for you," Celena pulled away to wipe at her eyes. She was smiling brightly still and brought her new plushie close to her chest for a tight hug. A little friend deserved a big hug as well. @Sauce | Nora🧶+Lykos🐺

The search for Yeonaixho ended...pretty frickin' quickly, as Nathan soon came upon a little group in the farmlands. To his surprise, the farm was flourishing, absolutely vibrant with shrubs and greenery- not at all like how he last saw it after that awful storm. All familiar faces, all familiar friends. Nathan leaned against one of the trees as he watched the two kids hug, a small smile settling on his face. He already knew that the two of them were friends, but sister? That, he didn't expect- and in a really good way. They were both kinda lonely- most everyone was, here, but they were both pretty young too. It seemed fitting that the two of them would become friends. "Looks like the gang's all here," Nathan hummed, coming out of the shadows with a little wave. "I heard that th'two of you got swapped over during that last fight." @cult family

"Nathan!" Celena gasped as she looked over to him. For a moment, she felt a flash of embarrassment wash over her. Last time they had seen each other, it had been in a rather low moment for her. Bit of a yikes there. She hoped he wouldn't comment on that. "It's good to see you- Mmhm, we got switched over back." @cult family

"Oh, hello Nathan!" Yeonaixho waved him over. "We're just relaxing together, you're free to join us. There's crab burger to share." Jymaiyri looked to Nathan with slight scrutiny at first, before she realized who he was. Ah yes, the clay guy. Minerva was at least pretty happy to see him! @cult family

Nora smiled as Celena hugged the toy, her heart feeling warm. As Nathan arrived she waved, happy to see him. “Nathan!! I- I missed you!!” @cult family (edited)

"Haven't seen you guys in a good bit, either," they added, shifting to hold their bundle of jacket in the nook of their arm. "It's good to see you're all holdin' up pretty well and the like. This tournament's been pretty nuts with the side swaps." "So, ah...sisters, right?" Nathan asked after a moment with a light chuckle. "I hope I didn't ruin the moment or anything." @cult family

“Mmhm, sisters!” Just saying that made her feel happy. God, family. “No no, it’s perfect that you’re here! I was hoping that you’d show up.” Celena smiled brightly. “Have a seat, we’re about to eat!” @cult family

"Mhm, I'm glad we're all finally together. Far harder to be worried about everyone when I know exactly where you all are." Yeonaixho laughed. "It's good to be with family." @cult family

“Hee.. family.. is Nathan..?” Can she ask someone to be family? Everyone else asked her before, can she do the same? Nathan does feel important to her.. She sat down once more, staring at Nathan, thinking. @cult family

Yeah, us lot thrown to the winds," Nathan laughed, leaning his arm against the tree the group was seated at. "Who knows what sorts of shenanigans us three might get up to?" Family? The blinked suddenly at Nora's question, their gaze darting off to look at the ground or something. Family. Huh. That felt a bit...foreign, to him. Family. He knew these guys. Cared for them. But was he family enough for them? Friends, maybe. But family? He didn't really know. "Hm...am I?" he asked after a moment, shrugging a little lopsidedly. Staggered shrugging. "I'unno. I mean, we're friends, ain't we? We did stuff together, y'know? But I haven't really...been here, y'know? Well, I've been here. On this side, but y'know, not...here, here." They settled down closer to the edge of the group, the bundle of fabric in their lap. "But hey, yo, food sounds grrreat," they suddenly said, desperate for a little shift in conversation, "and this place looks a much better than it was last time, too." @cult family

She continued to stare at him. “... You…mm..” She finally looked away, seeming a little sad. She picked up her fish, smelling it. @cult family (edited)

"You're welcome to stick by us, either way." Yeonaixho offered with a smile. "You're welcome." Jymaiyri said to the farmland comment. "There's about any fruit or veggie you could want. And if there isn't, just give me a shout and I'll grow it for ya." @cult family

Celena's smile, along with Nora's, had faltered slightly at Nathan's comment. "Th-that.. Doesn't stop me from viewing you as family, though.." Celena had whispered quietly, hugging her bunny close. 'But I haven't really been here.' He was right, in a way. The same could be applied to Celena, who hadn't been with the others as long as Nora had. That didn't stop Celena from seeing them as family, as wanting so desperately to be included in this family- She had a plushie from a sister, and the approval to call Yeonaixho 'dad.' Surely, that could be enough to be included, right? Everything would be okay? There needed to be more. She had to feel worthy of being apart of this family. Gently petting the head of her bunny, Celena took in a deep breath. She could already feel her cheeks beginning to burn as she directed her statement to Yeonaixho, Jymaiyri, and Nora. "There's been- Something I've been w-wanting to speak to you all about.. I-I-.. I would really like to b-be included i-in your family, f-for real life, if you'll h-have me.. I kn-know you don't know mu-much about me yet, but- I'd like to tell you, because I-I'd like to trust you, and th-that's what you do in a family, right? Trust each other?" @cult family

oh no. She said something wrong, didn’t she? Weren’t they already family? “I- I wanna be ffamily! You… you’re.. mm, important.. t- to me! I- I trust you..” There was a sudden desperation in her voice.

9:16 AM

@cult family

"If you want to be part of this family, Celena, you're already in it." Yeonaixho reassured. "But if there's something you feel like telling us, of course we will listen." He placed a hand on Jymaiyri's shoulder. "All of us will." @cult family

Nathan had fallen silent, fiddling with the edge of their jacket. There was a certain sadness around him as he quietly considered their words- family. Family. That word felt...wrong. Off. Undeserving. His silence continued, not wanting to ruin this precious little moment between the five of them. @cult family (give me a headsup whenever nat's needed again!) (edited)

Celena started to panic a little when Nora raised her voice. Oh, fuck, did she phrase something wrong? "I didn't mean for it to sound like that, I just-" She began to pace a little. "Y-you guys- I just really wanna open up to you, and th-then- B-based on that, if you still want me, th-then- I wanna be part of your family so badly and I already do consider you like family and trust you but I just-" She struggled to find the right words to say what she wanted to say. Her shoulders slumped slightly. "I j-just need to tell you things a-and if you'll still w-want me, a-and want to trust me, then- Pl-please, allow me to continue to be in your family.." @cult family

She frowned, confused. “I.. you.. you’ll always… be ffamily, I- mm… I want..you to..” @cult family

"Celena, I want you to know that you could say anything and I'd still welcome you into our family," Yeonaixho said, "but at the same time, I understand how important it can be to share something with those you care about. Whatever you would like to tell us, I will gladly listen." Jymaiyri nodded. "You can trust us, kiddo." @cult family

“W-well- First off, I-I’m immortal- Which sounds crazy, but-! I’ve been e-eighteen for a good while now, a-and I’ve seen- A lot- And I’ll stay e-eighteen, even as Minerva and y-you all grow older- I-I’ll stay eighteen..” Celena shifted on her feet. “I-it’s complicated and I know some people c-can find it scary, b-but- So far, nothing’s changed it..” @cult family

She tilted her head. “Immor.. umm.. you- so you’re… eighteen.. forever? You don’t.. get old?” She thought for a moment. “Mm… okay. Umm, you’re.. still my sister.” @cult family (edited)

"I had already figured that was the case, given what you have told me." Yeonaixho admitted, and put a hand over Jymaiyri's to reassure her. "It's not something that makes me care for you any less, I promise. If it ever causes any sort of problems, those are things we can work through. Together." @cult family

Celena looked slightly reassured by their words, but she still looked anxious. “I don’t get older, I-I aged to e-eighteen, and then stopped..” “Th-there’s the case of- How I became immortal, though, th-that might make you feel a b-bit- Thrown off..” @cult family (edited)

Nora quietly fidgeted with her cat, waiting for her to continue. @Vanessa| Sovran+Zora+Cansu

Immortal? If Nathan was surprised by that reveal, he didn't seem to show it. They shifted to settle their chin in their palm, watching Celena through the hair in their eyes. She'd been alone for a while, huh? "There's nothin' wrong with immortality," Nathan quietly reassured, clearing their throat a little. "It's not common, I guess, but it's just another power or...side of it, yeah. It's just another factor to account for in terms of, like, day to day stuff." He was back to being silent after that, stewing over some thoughts. @cult family

Yeonaixho chose his words carefully. "If you would like to share how you became immortal, we will listen. No matter what the reason is." @cult family

“I-I want to tell you guys..” Celena took in a deep breath. “I-it’s not another power, i-it’s a curse, a side effect.” Celena took a seat. She hugged her bunny close to her chest as her gaze softened. “I-I had a really good and beautiful life, before I was ever immortal. I aged normally, I was normal and had my light powers. I l-lived in a small village with my father, a-and- Things didn’t go well.. That village was raided, burned, and pl-plenty of people w-were killed. They were a-after my father, for his h-healing abilities, and myself because I had that power. H-he had me run away. I w-was ten.” She took in a deep breath and glanced at Nathan for a moment. “It didn’t happen there. I f-found more family members, m-my uncle Lou and my cousin, Cole. C-Cole was- Great, a wonderful person. Strong, comforting, powerful, gentle, and loving. H-he always made me feel safe. He was li-like what I imagine a big brother to be like.” “Cole was apart of a team, a team of protectors who fought to keep Ninjago safe. They were the Ninja. I j-joined when I was thi-thirteen, I was just a kid, but I did my best t-to fight and n-not be a burden.” Her grasp on the bunny tightened as she became desperate for comfort. Tears filled her eyes. “Th-then Cole was k-killed.. A-and-” Her voice broke. “I d-did something I sh-shouldn’t have done..” @cult family

Yeonaixho's expression of concern only deepened as Celena described her life. "Oh, Celena- that's awful. It's always difficult to loose family, and you've lost so much..." He sighed. "Take your time, and cry if you need to. We're here for you, now." @cult family

Nora listened quietly, able to feel as Celena hugged her bunny tighter. She moved the doll so it would hug her back. “Mm… I- I’m sorry.. you, um.. that’s sad..” She was all alone and.. her family was dead. Nora looked at her sadly, that loneliness was familiar. @cult family (edited)

Nathan's brows only furrowed together more and more as she spoke, something churning in the pit of their stomach. She talked about her dad before. He did farming stuff. He figured her powers might've come from him, too. And while he couldn't empathize with the losing family part, he knew how awful it was to lose someone close to them. Someone they cared about. "Aw, Celena," he mumbled. She was ten- ten- that was really, really young, especially for all of this to happen at once. At least she had family to go- my cousin, Cole. -to. They bit down on their hand a bit, just barely- not enough to hurt, but enough to make them shut up for a second. Cousin? Was? Cousin? She fought with the Ninja? Cole was her cousin? He listened, wide-eyed, recognizing the telltale sign of tears near instantly. Thirteen. Young. Kid. Really a kid. Cole was dead? "That..." he quietly said, forcing his jaw to unlock and stop biting down on his damn hand. Shit. "I'm sorry, Celena. That- that...Hades, that's just...you're a kid, Celena, that's awful. Yeah, we- we're here for you, alright? Um...deep, breaths, alright?" He couldn't wrap his head around any of this. It kind of made sense from what she had told him- but it was just...dizzying. @cult family

“I-I was a kid,” Celena choked up. She pulled her knees close to her chest and wrapped her arms around them, curling into a tight ball. “I-I was young and- And scared and- Foolish, s-so foolish.” Tears rolled down her cheeks. “H-He- Cole was all I had. H-he was a-all I had left, I co-couldn’t handle the thought of l-living without him- I d-didn’t want to l-live in a world without him, s-so-..” She squeezed her eyes shut, nausea washing over her. “I tr-tried to reverse time. My Master, our teacher, had scrolls of spells and information, s-so I snuck in a-and found o-one that could reverse time, s-so- I did it. I reversed time. C-Cole was alive, h-he didn’t f-fall, he didn’t die, h-he- That tragedy was avoided.. Things were fine for a while..” A sob left her lips. “I d-didn’t th-think of any consequences.. Th-there were plenty, and it’s all my fault..” @cult family

"It's not foolish to want to be with a loved one after they die," Yeonaixho said, "especially when one is so young, and has lost so much. The grief you felt was only natural. I promise, Celena, it wasn't your fault. If it's anyone's fault, it's whoever gave you access to such dangerous spells in the first place." @cult family

(Okay Yeonaixho go off about wanting to be with someone after they die)

"You were a kid, and you were hurting," Nathan softly said. "You were a kid, and you went through. Hell and back. You wanted someone you cared about back, so you- you did. You brought him back- you didn't see the consequences of it, you do now, and that's alright. Hindsight's twenty-twenty, y'know?" After a moment of hesitation, Nathan carefully shuffled closer to Celena before offering an awkward one-armed hug. Something to provide comfort, hopefully. "It's not your fault, you didn't do anythin' wrong; you saved his life, man." @cult family

(tw: does a bit of self hurty and yearning for death) "I-it is my fault! Everything got worse! S-so much worse!" Celena suddenly cried out. She made her way out of the one-armed hug and clamored up to her feet. The bunny was still in her grasp as she began to pace. "I didn't save his life, I made him die AGAIN!" "I was dumb! I sh-should've just- Grieved him like I grieved everyone who I've ever lost!" Celena sobbed. Her free hand grasped at her hair ad began to tug before she hit herself in the side of her head a few times. Her breathing began to race as the pacing grew faster. "Th-the consequences- I-I ruined everything! I literally ruined everything!" "Th-the world began to change- It began t-to fade away! It started with p-people and parts of the world a-and then it became Ninjago th-then- The people I loved- It all got erased! Everything and everyone got erased, but me!" "I b-became immortal, I just- It's my punishment! I'm forced to live with these memories and I c-can't do anything about it! I e-even ch-changed my name because I'm s-so sick of myself- I'm-" Celena, childishly, stomped her foot. "A-and- I can't! I can't do it anymore! I don't wanna! I can't!" The girl gripped her head tightly. She was practically hyperventilating now as her vision darkened. Burning could be felt at her fingertips as her powers began to act up, and immediately, she let the bunny drop so it wouldn't get burned. Celena dropped to her knees beside it. Her burning fingers grasped the grass desperately for something, anything to ground her.

8:21 PM

"Th-the earth d-disappeared, and I fl-floated- I floated in sp-space for- Years-" She gasped out. "F-for so long, a-all I c-could do was cry- T-time reversed, and there was nothing I could do! N-nothing and no one, I a-aged to eighteen, I stopped aging, th-the world- Nothing existed except for me and the stars, a-and- I c-can't do it again! I c-can't- I w-won't float again! I'd r-rather die th-than be se-sent out there again t-to float a-and be forced to live *again among th-the stars I-I refuse- I can't! Y-you can't make me! Y-you can't!"* Her whole body was shaking. She was beginning to feel detached from her body. The burning sensation was fading away. Everything was beginning to feel like she was floating again. Everything was becoming scary again, and she- Wasn't sure if she was strong enough to pick up the pieces herself. "E-everyone was- Every- I-" She stuttered, stumbling over her words. The detached feeling was growing stronger. "Th-the world returned, a-and- No one knew m-me, th-the- Everyone ca-came back b-but- The world- I d-didn't ex-exist- I didn't-.. Mmmatter I didn't- N-no one- No one kn-knows me- Th-they're b-better wi-without me, j-just as y-you all m-might be-" Celena wept. All she could do was squeeze her eyes shut, try to breathe, and just cry. @cult family (edited)

Yeonaixho remained silent for most of what Celena said, though he became alarmed once she started to panic. "Celena- Celena, please, let's take some deep breaths." All the talk about space and timelines and immortality- he didn't have the capacity to really think about that in depth, not right now. They could all think about this when they weren't in crisis mode. "Celena." Yeonaixho repeated, hoping her name- even if it wasn't her birth one- would ground her. His hands found her shoulders, and he pulled her close to her, wrapping his arms around her body. "It'll be alright. Let's take some deep breaths." @cult family

Shiiit. Shiiit, mistake, mistake. Nathan managed to catch himself a little before he fell, watching Celena with a wince as she began to panic. He had no idea what to do- he just knew Celena was spiraling- and spiraling hard. There was just so, so much to take in at once- the world fading away, everyone getting- getting erased, and Celena had to endure it all. All because she cared to help. Wherever Wu was now, he was gonna have words with him. He followed Yeonaixho's movements, hugging her carefully. "Hey, hey, we're here," he quietly said, rubbing her back reassuringly. "Deep breaths, alright? In...and out..." he guided, breathing deeply. "You got this, alright? You got this, we're here for you." He continued to repeat this pattern for her. Familiar. @cult family

As Celena spoke, Nora squeezes her cat, trying to take comfort in it. Celena’s cries made her feel sad, she sounded so scared. She watched helplessly as her sister cried and hurt- it was so much, what would she say? How could she fix this? Everything that happened to her was sad, she didn’t deserve that sadness. All she wanted was her family. All she wanted was to be happy, just like her. Her heart ached with each sob. Nora stood, shaking as she walked over to her. “C-Celena.. I- I’m sorry.. I’m sorry.. I.. I’m here..” She kneeled down with her, bringing the bunny over and offering it. “I don’t.. want you t-to.. to be alone anymore. We don’t have to- to hurt anymore.. or- or be sad.. lonely.. w- we’re here..” @cult family (edited)

The world began to feel grounding again. Everything wasn't fading around her, the people she cared about weren't vanishing before her eyes. The sensation of warmth wrapping around her didn't feel suffocating, no, no, it didn't; It felt liberating. She didn't feel quite alone anymore. Things were fine, this- Was a whole new chance at having a family again. They still wanted to comfort her after all of that. They still wanted her. Celena, with trembling hands that no longer burned with her light, gingerly took back the bunny. She hugged it desperately and continued to cry. "Y-you st-still- W-want me?" She managed out through her quickened breaths. "H-how? I-I did a l-lot of b-bad.." @cult family

"I told you I would take you in no matter what," Yeonaixho said, his arms still around Celena, "and that is a promise I intend to keep. And, if it matters, I don't believe any of that was your fault. You were a grieving, impulsive child, who had lost more in a few years than many loose in lifetimes. I can't fault you for wanting someone back, and using tools you were given. What I can fault is, again, whoever gave you access to such dangerous tools in the first place." @cult family

Nathan continued rubbing her back as Celena took the plush rabbit, feeling a pang of grief at her words- 'You still want me?' "We care about you," he quietly chuckled. "Of course we'd want you, you're a great kid. You're nice 'n caring and you wanna help people. You've been through hell 'n back, but you're still here, yeah? You're doing great." "'N yeah, like Yeonaixho said- you were a kid. You wouldn't fault a kid for being upset they lost someone, eh?" A playful little shake of the shoulder at that- "so don't blame yourself." @cult family

Nora shuffled a little closer to her, trembling but trying to be strong for her sister. “I- I did… a lot of.. bad th-things too.. but I- I never.. wanted to. Y-you’re… like me. You just… wanted to be- be safe.. n-not alone.” She smiled at her weakly, holding out a hand for Celena. “W-we’re… okay. We can.. we’ll keep each other ssafe.” @cult family

Safe. Loved. Wanted. Even after all of that, they still wanted her. She couldn’t believe it. As her breathing began to calm down, Celena tentatively took Nora’s hand into hers. The other girl’s hand was soft and warm, comforting and grounding. Familiar, yet in a way, new. The shaking of her body slowly began to fade, leaving her completely drained. Now, she trembled from exhaustion. If Celena simply let herself fall back, she’d be asleep in an instant. Yet, if she tried to fall back, Yeonaixho, Nathan, and Nora would keep her up. They’d keep her upright and balanced, just as family would. They’d support her, just as she’d want to do with them. She repeated their words in her mind. ‘We’ll keep each other safe.’ ‘Of course we’d want you.’ ‘I would take you in no matter what, and that is a promise I intend to keep.’ Celena took all of their words to heart. As tears continued to roll down her cheeks, she whispered, “Thank you.” @cult family (edited)

Yeonaixho tried to keep Celena supported, even as she trembled. "How about we sit down? Do you want anything to eat? Drink? You're probably dehydrated, from all that crying." "I can get her some fruit." Jymaiyri offered. She'd been lingering by the sidelines, simply because she didn't feel like it was her place to step in. She didn't know Celena very well yet. But she could get the kid some fruit. @cult family

Celena definitely seemed to be doing better now, but Nathan kept a careful hold on her. He didn't wanna let go of her just yet. "Food's pretty good," Nathan agreed, silently thanking Yeonaixho and Jymaiyri for being here. Adults- helpful adults, they knew what to do better than he really did. And Nora too- while she wasn't an adult like them, it was doing wonders having her sister here with her. "Fruits too- hey, which reminds me..." He rummaged around in the bundle of jacket, and carefully presented an otherwise perfect white peach he'd been storing away all this time. "Remember when y'said you wanted to try some peaches?" he asked, some faint smile on his lips. "Here- eat. If y'wanna, that is." While he wasn't part of Yeonaixho and Jymaiyri's little family like they were, he still hoped he could keep helping Celena. @cult family

Nora held her hand gently, moving the bunny so it could hold her and nuzzle close. “I- I’m here… mm, y- you’re okay. You’re okay…” She squeezed her hand lightly, focusing on doing her best to comfort Celena. @cult family

"S-sitting sounds n-nice.." Celena sniffled. She heavily shifted from her knees and took a seated position in the grass, still trembling from how tired she felt. "Fr-fruit sounds nice, too, a-and ma-maybe something to drink, please.." When was the last time she had a meal? Did strawberries count as a meal? That was more of a little snack. The fish with Kian was a good little meal. Yeah, that counted. Man, when was the last time she had anything to drink though? She was parched, and the humidity wasn't help. Celena stared at the peach that Nathan presented her. She stared at the white peach. "Y-you remembered? Y-yes, I'd- Like to try it.." The entire time, Celena held onto Nora's hand. Her hand could be felt shaking, but slowly, it was becoming steady. @cult family

"She likes strawberries." Yeonaixho informed his wife as he sat on the grass with Celena. He kept his hand over his shoulder, both so he could reassure her and so he could keep track of her wellbeing. Jymaiyri nodded, and left to the farmland with her baby. She returned a while later, with some strawberries all wrapped up in the leaf of a larger plant, and a hollowed-out gourd filled with water. Jymaiyri set it before Celena with about half of one of the lettuce wraps. "Here. Eat your fill, there's more where all of this came from." @cult family

"'Course I did," Nathan reassured, shifting a bit to sit as well. "It was, uh, before the storm, though. But, y'know, it's fiiine, it's all good." He considered setting the white peach on the ground, but just decided to keep holding onto the thing in the case she wanted it; it seemed like her hands were full, anyways. "Um, the rabbit plush looks really nice," they said after Jymaiyri had left, trying to fill the silence. "Really cute. Really well made." "Dang, nice," he hummed when Jymaiyri had returned with the strawberries and water, "thanks, Jymaiyri." @cult family

Nora gave her hand one more squeeze before letting go. She fidgeted, watching Celena carefully. She smiled a little at Nathan. “Oh, um… I- I made it.. ffor her.” The little toy waved at him. @cult family

“Th-thank you..” Celena looked slightly overwhelmed with all of her options. It was nice just to have options, because it showed that they cared immensely. Tearfully, Celena reached for the water first and took a few sips. It felt cool and refreshing. Definitely made her throat feel better and made her feel a bit more grounded. “A-and thank you for th-the peach..” She whispered to Nathan. She took it from their hand and stared at it for a few moments before she looked to the strawberries. Celena could recall fields of fruits that she grew up alongside. She had always ran toward the strawberries, eager to taste their natural sweetness and present a basketful to her father. His thankfulness and pride in her always was felt in his smiles, his hugs, his touch, his reassuring touch to her shoulder. Similar to Yeonaixho’s touch right now. ‘“Thank you, __.”’ The simple use of her name always brought a flutter of love and warmth throughout her body. She truly was loved. She was cared for. She was wanted. This new family wanted her. They cared for her. They loved her. Surely, they were deserving of knowing. They had to know of her real name- “Zora Avalos.” She whispered. “Th-that’s my n-name- Zora Avalos..” @cult family

"Zora Avalos..." Yeonaixho repeated, the syllables soft on his tongue. "That's a beautiful name. Would you like us to start calling you that?" @cult family

"It's really well made," Nathan repeated, smiling a little at Nora. He waved a little bit at the doll as well. "Thank you, Nora." Zora Avalos. "Like the dawn," he breathed, fondness in his voice. "Zora Avalos is a great name. Just like the dawn." @cult family

Nora smiled at her sister. “Zzora… Eehee that’s- that’s like mmy name! Zora and N-Nora! Eehee..” @cult family

“Mmhm, it’s k-kinda like if you flipped th-the N of your name, and you get my name,” Zora attempted a weak smile. “Y-yeah, I-I’d- Like you to call me th-that.. B-but only you guys, please..” It felt strange to hear the name be used after decades of it not being used anymore, but it- Oddly felt right and comfortable. Zora had long since forgotten who she was. It was tricky to find the line between Zora and Celena, but- She wanted to be Zora with them. @cult family

4

1

"Then we'll do just that, Zora." Yeonaixho smiled, with nothing but love in his voice. He patted Zora's back gently, lovingly, with all the care of a father. @Vanessa| Sovran+Zora+Cansu

"Of course we will," Nathan hummed, reasurring and light. He shook her shoulder, lightly, playfully, a smile sitting on his lips. "It's your name, it belongs t'you, Zora." "And Avalos is a wonderful last name- Avalos, αυγή. Like the dawn, too. It's perfect. It's yours." @cult family

She smiled at that. “Zora Nora.. heeehee…” At her request, she looked a little confused. “Huh? Umm… why just… us? Mm.. if- if I say.. Zora, others will.. do I just… um.. what do I say?” @cult family

Warmth spread through her chest at the use of her true name. This time, Zora managed to smile genuinely. “Thank you, Papá,” Zora whispered. “W-would that be okay to call you..? I u-used Dad for my birth father, b-but-.. Would that be okay..?” “Y-you’re pretty smart with names, Nathan,” Zora smiled. “Y-you know a l-lot of meanings..” “A-and- You can just say Celena around others,” Zora took another sip of water to steady herself. “I-I just- Don’t think I’m r-ready for o-others to use that name yet, but-.. I-if it’s just you, people I consider f-family, then- It feels comfortable..” @cult family

"You can call me anything you want," Yeonaixho reassured. "But Papá is more than acceptable." @cult family

"It's just similar words," Nathan shrugged, like some sense of an older cousin. Completely chillin' and relaxed. "Greek, Latin, Spanish, it's all words. I can teach you some Greek if you'd like, too." @cult family

‘Thank you, Papá’ …why was that.. familiar? It felt like home. Not that house, but a real home- one with love and a family. “Papá..? Papá..” It felt more than dad in a way she couldn’t understand. Couldn’t remember. She wanted to. Nora tugged a little on Juno’s sleeve. “I- um.. c- can I say… call you.. papá too? P-please.” @cult family (edited)

“Th-then thank you, I’d like to use Papá then,” Zora smiled. She looked to Nathan and gave a nod of her head as she took another sip of water. “I’d like th-that, if you don’t mind. To learn some Greek, that’d be- Fun. I’d enjoy it.”

12:47 PM

@cult family

Yeonaixho turned towards Nora. "Oh, of course you can use it! With you and Zora, anything like that applies to the both of you." He smiled. "You two being sisters and all." "I'd be up to learn some greek, too, if you're offering," He said to Nathan. @cult family

"Oh, for sure. Wouldn't be offering if I didn't wanna teach it, y'know?" Nathan lightly laughed. "You guys are such a sweet family, y'know?" he said after a moment, something fond breaking across his face. "Couldn't help it. You guys are just all so sweet and- and you guys just care about each other so much, man." @cult family

She smiles, a warm feeling in her heart. “Hee.. papa.” She looked at Nathan. “You, umm…. I care.. about you too. Um..” She pulled out a bit of string, that same purple color of Nathan’s hair. “Umm.. I- I read.. about these, um.. ffriendship.. braces. I- I wanna.. make them. F- for.. you all.” @cult family

"I care 'bout you too, Nathan," Zora hesitated for a moment. "Y-you've got- Older cousin energy.." At the mention of friendship bracelets, Zora perked up. "Oh- Friendship bracelets! Th-that'd be really cute and fun!" @cult family

"Oh, thank you, Nathan!" Yeonaixho smiled. "I care about you, too. You're always welcome with us." "Friendship bracelets! That's a great idea, Nora!" @cult family

They cared, too. "...That's nice," Nathan quietly said, feeling his ears start to burn. "Older cousin energy, huh? That, that's cool, I like that. Yeah." They coughed into their fist as they leaned their elbows against their knees, watching Nora start to form some string. Purple. "Hell yeah, friendship bracelets are sick. Haven't made them in years, though. It's gonna be funnn." @cult family

Nora smiled brightly. “Eehee yay!! Um.. I- um.. do you.. all w- wanna.. mmake them? I- I can.. make a buncha s-string and.. you pick colors?” @cult family

“I haven’t ever m-made them, but it would be a lot of fun to!” Zora gushed with excitement. “That sounds like a good idea, Nora. We can each choose colors! I like that.” @cult family

"You three can pick out whatever color you like for me," Yeonaixho smiled. "I don't have much of a preference. And don't worry, Zora, we'll be able to teach you. It's not hard." @cult family

"Oh, they're super fun to make," Nathan reassured, pointing a bit at the color Nora already had in her hands. "I'll choose that color, good, solid, fun purple." @cult family

“Eeee, um, okay! H-here!” She pulled out a bit of the purple, handing it to him. She looked to Zora. “Um what.. color do you.. want?” @cult family

“W-well.. ‘Celena’ is more of a purple name..” She fiddled with the tips of her hair slightly as she spoke. “But- Zora’s a yellow kind of name. I-I’ve always loved yellow, it-.. It’s a happy color..” @cult family

"Both of those sound lovely." Yeonaixho nodded. @cult family

"Yellow's a nice color, pretty bright 'n sunny, too." "What color d'you like, Nora?" Nathan asked, carefully taking the string from her. "Uh...red? Just a hunch, though." @cult family

“Y-yellow.. mm, okay! Um, like- like um.. your bunny?” She made more of that soft yellow string, showing it to Zora. She smiled at Nathan. “Mhm! I- I really.. like red, mm- mom.. mom said it.. ummm.. is..vitalitty! I r-really like it.” She called over to Jymaiyri. “M-mom? Um.. do you.. want a brace- a bracelet.. too? Y- you can.. pick a- a pretty color!” @cult family (edited)

"Mmhm, like my bunny!" Zora nodded her head. She gave her bunny a big ol' hug. At the mention of Jymaiyri, she also looked over in her direction. Mamá. @cult family

Jymaiyri was busy rocking the baby in her arms, but glanced up to Nora when she was addressed. "Oh, you don't have to make me one, it's so nice of you to offer..." She laughed. "How about a nice green for me?" @cult family

"Figured- red is a pretty lucky color for a lot of people," Nathan agreed, gesturing a bit at her cloak and general red witchiness of it all. "And you are pretty decked out in red, too." "Green's a pretty nice color too, Jymaiyri," he added. "Very earthy- planty. Green." @cult family

Nora handed the string to Zora, smiling as she hugged her gift. Looking back to Jymaiyri, she thought for a moment. “Mm.. um.. what color green? Like, um… coconut tree.. leaf green? Or.. um.. a- another.. leaf? Oh! Um, w-would.. Minnie, um- she want one?” She seemed to care a lot about this. @cult family (edited)

Zora took the string as she continued to hug her bunny close. She took this moment of silence from herself to wipe away the remaining tears on her cheeks. With the peach in one hand, she tentatively took a bite from it and lit up with a smile. Mm, delicious! She listened to Nora, content with being silent for a moment. Her throat was still aching from all of her crying. @cult family

"Any shade of green is good," Jymaiyri reassured. She looked to the baby, who was chilling at the moment. Almost asleep. "Yeah, we can make one for Minnie, too. How about pink, for her. I'll make it, so I can measure it to her tiny little wrist." "Then we'll all have bracelets! The whole family." Yeonaixho smiled. @cult family

"How's the kiddo been doing?" he quietly asked, not wanting to disturb her. "She's been pretty quiet through all this, huh?" With everyone focused on their own thing, Nathan carefully reached behind him, trying to feel around for his jacket- and what remained hidden inside. (Despite the minimal amount of dye around, Nathan had successfully managed to incorporate some sort of color into the handmade planter- the background had been carefully detailed with a diamond pattern, and was a little more orangey than yellow- thanks to dye not setting properly. Along the bottom of the pot was a pattern akin to strawberry bushes and vines, with small little strawberries stained red. Between fights, he had kept the pot with him- just to ensure he wouldn't lose it in the switch- and had nearly forgotten to poke a hole in the bottom of the pot to let the water drain. Hell yeah. Smartie guy time.) Nathan very carefully (and very, super, totally discreetly) set down the clay pot near Zora, and immediately focused their attention on some far point in the farmlands. @cult family snf

Pink and green.. she could make it like the peach tree! That would be very cute. …the color she ended up making was.. not very cute. She went to try again before being distracted by the colorful pot Nathan set down. “Ooh..” @cult family

Bracelets for the whole family. That sounded fun and perfect. Very cute. She was definitely too distracted by her peach and the thought of bracelets to notice the pot. Homegirl was in her own little zone at the moment. @cult family

"She's doing alright. I think she almost asleep, now." Jymaiyri hummed. "She's probably all tuckered out. It's been a long day." @cult family

"Shh," Nathan whispered to Nora, playfully putting a finger to his lips. "It's a surprise." "Sounds like it's been a long day, too," he agreed. "Hopefully, that uh, goat-ness didn't scare her too bad. Um. Sorry about that, too." @cult family

“Oh! Mhm..” She nodded along, then looked at him confused. “Goat…ness?” As she spoke she pulled out a nice leafy green string! She showed it to Jymaiyri with a little smile. @cult family

“Honestly, some sleep s-sounds pretty good right about now,” Zora admitted with a small chuckle. “I’m pretty sleepy, too.” She finished up her peach and went on to one of the crab wraps. Yum!! Sustenance!!! Homegirl still hasn’t noticed. @cult family

"Thank you, Nora!" Jymaiyri smiled. Turning towards Nathan, she added. "Mhm, I don't think she was all too bothered by it, honestly. It's alright." "All that crying probably wore you out a bit." Yeonaixho said to Zora. "Maybe once we're done with the bracelets, we can all take a nap." @cult family

"At least she wasn't startled by it," Nathan sighed, a little relieved. "That's good, that's good, yeah." "Uh- y'know how my powers let me like, transform parts of my body, right?" Nathan asked Nora, gesturing a bit as his arm. "I can, uh, kinda do that with like, animal limbs and stuff. I just never...tried? I guess? But hey, I can give myself ram horns and goat legs, so that's fun." @cult family

“Mhm! H-here! Then um.. pink..” ….that was NOT pink. It was a sort of… yellow-green. Not great. She was quickly distracted from her mistake by Nathan. “Y-you.. you made, um.. t-turn into a- a goat?!” @cult family

“Y-yeah, a nap sounds nice,” She chuckled. “We can all t-take one and get some rest.” Zora was definitely feeling exhausted. A part of her wanted to just knock out right now. As she leaned back, her hand gently brushed against the small pot. She looked to it with widened eyes before picking it up gently with her hand. “Th-this is for me-..?” Zora asked Nathan softly. Tears were once again filling her eyes at the generosity of his gift. @cult family

"Oh, Nathan, that's adorable!" Jymaiyri smiled, and said to her husband, "Yeonai, it's this cute little pot, perfect for a flower or something, with these beautiful little strawberries on it." "Oh, that sounds adorable!" Yeonaixho smiled. @cult family

"You got it," they encouraged, watching Nora fumble a little with the string again. "Y'got it, no rush. And uh, yeah- I can turn into a goat- well, at least, I tried to. It was weird. It came out super weird and strange, and honestly, I'd much rather stick with...the. Horns..." His voice steadily trailed off as Zora spoke- teary and quiet, and he couldn't help but feel his chest swell a bit with warmth. Speaking of... Nathan messed with his hair, definitely feeling his face start to burn from all their kind words. "It- yeah, who else?" he mumbled, a little embarassed from all of the attention. "You can plant strawberries and other stuff in it. I'unno. There's a hole at the bottom for the water and stuff. Yeah." @cult family

“Ohh.. mm, that would… ffeel weird, mhm..” She lit up as Zora noticed the pot, seeing how happy she was. Now she could say nice things! “It- it’s really cute!! Um, I.. I really like the.. the strawberry!” She tried once more to make pink, and it worked! It was a nice peach pink. She made the string a little smaller than the others, since Minnie was mini. @cult family

"I-it's beautiful, Nathan- Th-thank you.. I c-could plant a little strawberry in my st-strawberry pot, now," Zora smiled brightly. "Thank you, i-it's perfect." For a moment, Zora paused. "W-would it be okay to give you a hug as a th-thank you..?" @cult family

Yeonaixho and Jymaiyri sat back, letting Nathan and Zora have their moment. @cult family

"It's your pot now, yeah- you can grow whatever y'want in there and, and transfer it, yeah. It's your own pot now." At the mention of a hug, their face lit up near instantly. "Hell yeah," Nathan quietly said, a lopsided little smile on his face. "Of course y'can hug me, hell yeah." @cult family

Nora clasped her hands, watching the two happily. @cult family (edited)

With a bright smile, Zora scooted closer to Nathan and held out her arms for a hug. As soon as they were embracing each other, she squeezed Nathan tightly. "Th-thank you," She whispered softly. "I love it.." @cult family

Nathan hugged her back as soon as she was ready, gently setting his head atop hers as they held each other. He gently squeezed her back, humming, "m'glad y'like it." "I uh, didn't know when the next chance was to give it to you," he admitted after a moment. "Since y'went o'er to the other side. But, uh, m'glad you're here, y'know? Like- here on this side- and- uh. Yeah. Probably not the fight, but y'get the point, right?" @cult family (edited)

"L-love it a lot," Zora spoke softly. Being held so tightly and so dearly made her feel all warm and squishy on the inside. This was a safe embrace. Nathan was someone that she could be safe with. Truly big-sibling-big-cousin energy. "I-I'm glad to be on this side with you- W-with all of you.." She squeezed Nathan a bit tighter. "I-it's nice to b-be with people I l-like and trust a lot.." @cult family

(Count your hours celena)

1

"We're glad to be with you, too." Yeonaixho echoed the sentiment. "I'm- just so glad we're all on the same side, finally. It was kind of hectic for a moment..." @cult family

“I- I’m happy we’re… t-together too! I… I don’t feel.. sscared. It, um.. it’s nice..!” She fiddled with the little pink string as she spoke, smiling at her family. @cult family (edited)

"Kinda hectic? You could sure say that," Nathan laughed a little, patting Zora a bit. "It...was. It just was, y'know?" "It's not really scary when you're with people y'know and trust," he hummed. "It's nice, yeah. It's nice." @cult family

“Mmhm, it was- Freaky being a-away from everyone.. I was glad that I had Nora on the other side, but- I don’t want a-any more side switches to happen..” She gave Nathan another squeeze before she let go. A hand reached up to wipe at her eyes. Today’s been very emotional for her. “Mhm, it’s nice. Really nice.” Zora wanted this safe feeling to last forever. A part of her felt as though it wouldn’t last that long. @cult family

"Mhm... I guess, all we can do is wait for the next fight and hope." Yeonaixho said. My man you have no idea. "There's not much use worrying about it right now." @cult family

4

A bit of dread creeped over her, but Nora pushed it down. They were together, nothing bad will happen, it won’t. “Mom I- I made.. Minnie’s sstring! Umm.. d- do you.. um.. anyone.. want another color?” She pulled out her own red string and started measuring her wrist. @cult family (edited)

Right. Right. All they could do was wait and hope. It seemed like the Fates had something in store, but it was a fuzzy little feeling Nathan showed down into his stomach. "That's a nice color," Nathan said, trying to fill the silence. He squeezed Zora's shoulder a little bit, reassuringly. "How exactly do you make friendship bracelets again? I forgor." @cult family

Zora smiled at Nathan and turned to the others, waiting patiently for someone to explain. She definitely had no idea how to make it. @cult family

"Oh, it's pretty easy! You just start like this-" Yeonaixho explained, demonstrating how to make the bracelet as he did. Pretend there's an explanation here I don't wanna waste time with instructions lmao. @cult family

Nathan watched intently with the instructions yes yes. "Oh, dang, nice. I just remember those like, boxy, vinyl-y ones from summer camp and stuff," he quietly said, watching Yeonaixho work his magical friendship bracelet skills. @cult family

Zora paid attention to the epic bracelet making skills. She was entirely enraptured by it. “I’ve always seen people in movies make them, but it’s even cooler seeing it in person,” Zora beamed. “I can’t believe it’s that easy!” @cult family

"I think I'm a bit too old for the vinyl ones, but my mom taught me how to make these when I was a kid. I'd make them from the scraps in her shop." Yeonaixho explained, then added. "She was a seamstress." @cult family

Nora tied her own bracelet, adding everyone else’s colors onto her own bracelet. She arranged it in a rainbow order! Red, pink, yellow, green, blue, and purple. “Eehee.. th-this is so.. nice. I.. I really.. I’m really happy..” @cult family

Zora began to put her bracelet together as well. She put it in a similar order to Nora's, and she smiled brightly at the sight of it. Happiness welled up in her chest and fluttered all around inside of her. "M-me too," Zora put the bracelet on and beamed before hugging her bunny close to her chest. The bracelet rested against her heart, just as the rabbit was as well. "I-I haven't b-been genuinely happy in- So long.." Tears welled up in her eyes and fell. Compared to earlier, these tears were different; They were happy tears. "I-I'm so happy.." She whispered softly. @cult family

And just like that, just fucking like that, something went wrong. It was Juno's- Papá's turn to fight, right when they were being a nice and happy little family. "No- No no no no no no-" Zora whimpered. Her entire body was trembling as she raised her hand. The happy tears became tears of terror. Papá would have to fight, or else he'd float in space- She couldn't witness that, but she couldn't not attend his fight. With a quiet sob, she disappeared into the stands.

Nora feels as if she’s been plunged into frigid water as Juno was suddenly taken away from them. She stared at where he once stood for a moment, trembling. Once Celena raises her hand, Nora follows her big sister. Dread gnawing away at her.