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Yogi x Reader

Chapter 4: Next Step

"Take a deep breath, __(y/n)." Akari instructed as he turns on a machine which emits a low humming noise. "Whatever concerns you have at the moment, I want you to disregard them. The sound I have on now will help slow your brain activity so that we can access your subconscious mind."

You exhaled quietly, hands folded over your abdomen. You clear your mind, leaving it blank and waiting for the next step.

"Just relax and concentrate on your breathing. You may begin to feel sleepy in the next few minutes and thar's all right. Keep yourself as comfortable as possible."

Yogi watches your respiration become deep and unlabored, your head eventually falling to the side and your fingers loosening their hold on one another.

"__(y/n), I'm going to ask you some questions, that's all right, yes?"

"Yes." you answered quietly.

"Tell us what happened before Yogi recused you."

"I...I was locked up in a basement with a lot of other women." Faces of the auction victims flash in your mind. "Every day someone would leave and they never returned. If we cried or screamed, our captors would get angry. It was...scary."

"Yes, the auction incident, but you're not there anymore. How long have you been at the auction? Have you always-"

"But there was something more scary." You cut him off unconsciously.

"More scary? Please elaborate."

"I...I can't remember."

"Please try to."

"A fire. Someone pulled me out, but I don't know how the fire started. But there's people still inside, I don't know if they got out. I'm in another dark place, it's bigger, but so much darker. There's more people. Boys and girls. There's people coming! I want to go home! I don't know what's going to happen." You whimper quietly, shaking your head slightly as your hands gripped your top.

"__(y/n), do you know who took you?" He was trying to redirect your mind to focus on one part of a memory at a time.

"I don't want to look. Please get me out!"

Yogi got up from his seat, about to say something, but Gareki held him back. He placed a hand over his mouth, shaking his head in a strict manner. Gareki was feeling uncomfortable with the situation, but this was suppose to help you. Akari glances at the two boys, giving them a silent warning to stay put.

"But we need to find out what happened before you came to Circus. Don't you also want to know?"

"No. It's too scary! I want to go home. I don't want to go back."

"No one is sending you back. We want to help you remember."

"Please, help us..."

Akari knew to end the session now, not wanting to further distress you.

"All right, __(y/n), listen to me. I'm going to count from three to one and I want you to follow my instructions, understand?"

"Yes, I understand."

"Three, inhale deeply through your nose and exhale from your mouth." Akari watches you complete the simple task before moving on, "Two. I want you to think about your home right now, which is Circus."

Images of your new family appear in your mind, but the person who you think of the most was Yogi. You feel calm at his smiling face and the bright aura around him, remembering how grateful and happy you were to have met him.

"One. Take three more breaths before opening your eyes."

As you follow the steps, Akari watches the signs of discomfort on your face start to reduce. Instead of forcibly waking you from your stupor, he brought you back to reality slowly. You see a few monitor screens and Akari seated in his chair before sitting up slowly. You sniffled quietly then felt something on your cheeks and jawline. You touched your face, realizing they were tears.

"__(y/n)-chan!" Yogi is by your side, concern written all over his face.

"I'm fine, don't worry. Did it work? Did you find anything?" You only recalled a few pieces of today's session, but your heart felt so distressed.

"Not much, but it was only the first try. Anyway, I'll prepare a ship to send you back home. But before that," Akari glances at the tall, young male, "I'm going to need to do one more examination before I send you off."

"Eh? Ehhhh? Noo!" Yogi cries loudly, attempting to hide behind you.

--

In two weeks you'd return for another session, Akari working on making the hypnosis more effective. You also did your own research to help, not wanting to put all the pressure on the pink doctor. But for now, you were participating in tonight's parade that Circus was hosting.

"This is your first time marching in a parade, ne. __(y/n)-chan?" Yogi asked, walking beside you as you follow the long line of Circus members waving to the crowd.

"Hai! It's nice that you guys get to do this." You remembered Yogi mentioning how Circus would display performances after their raids as an apology for scaring the citizens.

"Mhm!" He nods, but almost trips in his step. You caught him before he fell anymore forward, giving him a concerned look.

"Are you all right? You've been tripping a lot. Is the Nyaperowna costume too big?"

"A-ah, no, the costume's fine! I'm just clumsy, haha, but I'm all right! Thanks for asking." He blushes beneath the headpiece, knowing his reason behind his clumsiness. He couldn't stop staring at you for the past hour! What Iva made you wear had been distracting him! Not that he was complaining or blaming you. He actually liked it, but there was one problem. There were other guys staring at you, too! You weren't doing it on purpose though. It was natural for them to look. You were so attractive!

"Oof!" There he goes for the 10th time almost meeting with the ground.

"Yogi-kun, what's got you so distracted? Did you see someone you like in the crowd?" You giggled playfully, but hoped it wasn't true. You didn't mean to be selfish, but your crush for Yogi was developing more.

"O-o-of course not! There isn't anyone I see in the audience! The truth is that I think you're very gorg-"

"__(y/n)-chan! There you are! I've been meaning to ask you something!" Jiki ran up to your side, walking next to you.

"Hmmm, what is it?" You turn to him after helping Yogi straighten up.

"First off, I'd like point out how stunning you look tonight. I can't take my eyes off you for even a second!"

"Oh, thank you! Everyone looks beautiful tonight." Your cheeks become dusted with pink at the compliment. You felt him encase his hands over yours, the two of you stopping momentarily.

"Also, I'd like to ask if you want to watch the fireworks with me alo-oouh!" Jiki feels himself being pulled by the back of his shirt, becoming further from the woman he desired.

"Help me hand out balloons to the children." Iva commanded.

"I-iva! Can't you see I'm busy?"

"Yeah, busy not doing your job! And I know your intentions! Don't corrupt my sweet imouto-chan!" She then sends a wink your way. "Onee-san is here to protect you!"

"__(y/n)-chaan! I'll come back!"

"No you won't!" Iva retorted, shoving a handful of balloon strings into his chest.

Yogi lets out a sigh of relief when Iva intervened. He wanted to be the one to watch the fireworks with you!

"There's fireworks?" you asked out loud as you resumed your walking.

"Yep! It's near the end of the parade! W-would you like to watch them with m-me?" Yogi knew he had to ask before Jiki returned.

"I'd love to!" You beamed brightly at him.

"Great!" The blonde boy's grin continued to grow with excitement.

"Nyaperowna!"

"Nyansuke!"

A group of children run up to him, hugging around his waist and legs.

"Hello there, little ones! Would you like some candy bars?"

"Yeah!"

"Yosh! Now line up, okay?"

The kids did as they were told, Yogi and you delivering the treats to the children.

"Hmmm? Who are you?" One of them asked, looking up at the girl beside Nyaperowna.

"I'm __(y/n), what's your name?"

"Yume! Are you Nyasuke's girlfriend?"

"E-eh?"

"Nah uh, they're married! Look at the crown in her head! Nyaperowna's the prince and __(y/n)-nee is the princess!"

You blinked a couple of times, forgetting that Iva had placed a small, tiara accessory in your hair.

"T-that's right! She's my one and only princess!" Yogi played along with the kids placing an arm over your shoulders. "So, everyone, I want you to give her a big and warm welcome!"

"Konbawaaa!!" They shouted with great enthusiasm and suddenly tackled you with hugs.

"It's nice to meet all of you." You giggled at their embraces and returned the gestures.

"Play with us, hime-san!" Half the group surrounded you.

"Nyaperowna, lift us up!" And the other half jumped around Yogi.

"Can you do the sparkling prince?"

While you and Yogi entertained the children, he stole a glance your way and smiled softly at the sight. You were sharing laughs and carefully lifting one of them up, spinning around once. Then a small, very, very quick thought passed through his mind. He wondered what it would be like to spend the rest of forever with you. He suddenly shook his head forcibly, becoming conscious of his thoughts. He was feeling as if his mind would be infiltrated and he was afraid of scaring you! The two of you were only friends and he was having this kind of thinking? What would you think of him? You would definitely think he was creepy!

"Nyaperowna? Are you okay?" His focus returned to the kids and instantly changed his demeanor.

"Oh! Yep yep! I'm all good! Now, are you guys ready for the sparkling prince? Who wants to do it with me?"

"Me!"

"Me!"

"I do!"

"I want to!"

--

"Hai! Your drink." Yogi handed you a beverage from a stand near by. The two of you finished entertaining the kids a few minutes ago, now free to roam around.

"Thank you!" You uncapped the bottle before taking a sip. "When do the fireworks start?"

"In a few minutes! We've been to this town before so I remember a spot that we went to that had a really good view." He holds out his hand for you to grasp. "C'mon, let's go there now before they start. Getting there is a little complicated, but I'll make sure to guide us there safely!"

You receive a wink from the Circus fighter before leaving your hand in his hold. He gives it a small squeeze before leading you through a large and busy crowd of people. Yogi found it difficult to navigate without constantly bumping into someone. He looked back, about to ask how you were doing, but found that you shared the same problem.

"Sorry, I guess I didn't realize how busy it was, but I'll still get us there!" He moved closer to you and you watch him bend his knees slightly. You felt your balance become thrown off as Yogi's arm is tucked beneath your legs and his other behind your back.

"Ready? Here we go~!" He jumps high into the air, activating his bracelet to levitate above the audience. You look down to find them stare in amazement, giggling quietly at their expression. You arrive at an open, grassy area with a few, surrounding trees and various flowers beautifying the spot. You heard a loud, whistle noise, eyes focusing to the sky. Bright lights bursting into a star like shape glowed against the dark background making your mouth open slightly.

"Is it starting?"

"Hmmm, not yet." Yogi sits closely beside you, opening his phone. "I think they're just doing a few tests. The real thing is even better! Anyway, how was your first parade experience?"

"Amazing! It was a lot of fun. Please invite me again."

"Of course! We were going to even if you didn't say anything."

"Thank you."

"Mm!" Yogi nodded then placed his phone in his pocket. Once his hand was free, he settled it on the ground to position himself properly. Instead of his palm pressing against a cool, soft texture, he felt something warm, smooth, and solid. He looked down to find his hand over yours and immediately pulled back, stuttering out an apology.

"It's all right. It's not like you hurt me." You then gave him a shy smile, "Y-you can keep it there if you'd like. I don't mind..."

"O-okay." He nodded in response, carefully returning his hand on top of yours.

"Ne, __(y/n)-chan." You took your gaze away from the tested fireworks to the 21 year old male. "I...I have something to tell you."

He couldn't hide it anymore. Yogi's feelings were begging to be known and he wanted to know if you would reciprocate those feelings.

"Hmmm?"

"I...w-well, __(y/n)...I r-really...I really lik-"

"___(y/n)-nee!" You both shared a startled look, not expecting a third voice to be heard.

"Nai-chan?" Yogi notices the white haired boy running towards his way. He waves happily at you and embraces you from behind.

"I knew you'd be here." Tsukumo and the rest of the gang appear.

"We were looking for you so we could all watch the fireworks, but I had feeling you already knew where to go."

"A-ah, right." He felt slightly disappointed that his alone time with you would be interrupted, but being with everyone else wasn't bad. It was just...wrong timing.

"Look! We bought some sparklers! We have enough for everyone so don't be shy." Iva handed everyone their own box. Gareki was in charge of lighting the fire sticks, you and Nai letting out happy gasps at its effect.

"Oi." Yogi hears Jiki from the side. "Sly move you pulled there. Taking her alone here...just what were you planning?!"

The first ship points at him accusingly like a child having his toy taken away.

"E-e-eh? I wasn't planning anything! I just wanted to give her a nice view of the fireworks."

"Heh. Seems I have underestimated you, but next time, I won't lose." He pushes up his glasses, Yogi unable to give him a proper response. Yogi had a feeling that Jiki was a bit upset about stealing his chance to being alone with you, but he didn't think he would become so competitive. Then again, you were someone worth fighting for.

'I can understand what Jiki-kun means and I also hate to fight, but that doesn't mean I'm gonna give __(y/n)-chan to him! Jiki-kun is so unfair! I fell in love with her first!'

"Everything all right?" Your voice distracted their conversation, Jiki immediately sending you a big smile.

"Yes! Everything is all right, my dear __(y/n)-chan!"

"Okay, just making sure. You two looked so serious." You held up your now lit sparkler. "You don't want to join us?"

"Y-yeah! I want! I just need to light it." Yogi looks around for a source of fire.

"I got it!" You let your sparkler touch his and watched the chemical reaction. After you did the same to Jiki's, you heard Iva call the three of you for a picture.

"Ready? One, two, three!"

A flash of light makes you blink a few times to regain your vision.

"Sorry! One more! The flash messed up the lighting." Iva signals that the three of you move back to your position, standing in between Jiki and Yogi. The sparkling prince notices Jiki placing his arm around your waist, pulling you a bit closer to his side. Yogi pouts, but takes a side step towards you, just so the space between the two of you wasn't so great. You suddenly notice the lack of distance between the two boys, your cheeks now pressed against theirs.

"Oi! You two! Let the poor girl breathe! You're too close!" Iva scolds slightly. Finally, you were able to take a decent picture with the two rivals and then moving onto the next set of people. You continue to take pictures even during the firework presentation, finding that it made to be a wonderful background. The small Circus family finally settles down before they would miss too much of the show.

"Oh, you were trying to say something before? What was it?" You asked Yogi, remembering he was interrupted when the others came.

"A-a-ah, it's just...ummm...I-I'll tell you next time so don't worry about it now. It's nothing too serious or bad anyway."

"Okay." You smiled, not pressuring him into discussing the matter with you. Yogi suddenly felt afraid when you reminded him of his almost confession. He had this burst of courage before, but now, it had completely diminished. He would eventually do it soon since he didn't want to wait too long, but he couldn't do it now. The scene, timing, and situation wasn't perfect.

'Sorry, Jiki-kun, even though we're friends, I won't lose to you either!'

--

'__(y/n)-nee?'

'__(y/n)-nee? Are you okay?'

'__(y/n)-chan?'

'Oi, wake up.'

'Gareki-kun! Don't wake her up so roughly.'

You heard various voices calling to you as you also felt a shake of your shoulder. You woke up immediately, realizing that it was your friends trying to get your attention.

"Huh? What happened?"

"You fell asleep. If you're tired then you shouldn't have come." Gareki sighs. The five of you went into town for light shopping and although you felt exhausted, you pushed yourself to go. You wanted to spend time with your friends and you didn't want them to be concerned about your restless nights. This was your third day taking random naps in the middle of the morning or afternoon.

"S-sorry."

"W-we love it when you come with us, but don't be shy to tell us if you want to stay behind. We'll understand." Yogi quickly fixes Gareki's words.

"I know, but I like being with you guys." You let out a small smile.

"Well, we're done now, so you can rest when we get back." Gareki wonders why you look like your energy was being drained. You slept early at night and woke up on a decent time so why did you feel the need to still take naps? Ah well, maybe it was just one of those days...although it's been a few days, but it'll probably pass.

Once back to the ship, everyone helped the sheep set up tonight's dinner. You would shake your head once in a while, trying to fight off that sleepy feeling.

"__(y/n)-nee, what else do we-"

THUD.

Nai turns around to find you on the floor, the boy running and kneeling beside you. He holds you in his arms, gently shaking you and calling your name.

"Help! Gareki! __(y/n)-nee fell!"

Gareki came rushing when he heard Nai's frantic voice, aiding the boy in better positioning you.

"What happened?"

"I-I don't know. S-she just fell!"

Gareki picked you up, knowing where to bring you. Yogi and Tsukumo returned to the dining area and gasping quietly at the sight of your unconscious self in Gareki's arms.

"Where's that old man?" Gareki referred to Ryoushi. Yogi and Tsukumo immediately lead him to the medical room, the doctor ceasing the paperwork he was trying to finish. The four friends left the room to let Dr. Ryoushi deliver the proper care needed.

You felt your head against something soft and bright lights staring down your closed lids. You opened them slowly, blinking repeatedly to allow your eyes to adjust to the brightness.

"How are you feeling?" Ryoushi asked, having walked over to you when he noticed you awakening.

"I'm fine...what happened?"

"You fainted."

"Did I?" You slowly sat up.

"Yes, your body is over fatigued. I heard from the others that you seemed tired these past few days?" He rolled his chair closer to the bed.

"H-hai." You nodded, looking down on your lap. "I've been having these dreams. Well, not dreams, I think they're my memories."

"Oh?"

"Yeah, I keep finding myself in the same place and it's almost like a story? I would either pick up from where I left off or it'd be a different scene but same place. It's always in some big basement kind of room? It almost looks like a...hospital? But it also looks like a jail."

"What else do you see?"

"I'm in a small room with a lot of people. That's where we would sleep. I can also hear people screaming. Then I see monsters? They're coming after us. There are also people giving out orders, but I can't make out their faces. It's...scary." You sighed, tangling your fingers in your hair.

"I see. Maybe it has something to do with Akari's hypnosis. It probably triggered something in your mind."

"I guess so. I started having these after I visited him."

"I'm not sure what I have on hand that can make it stop, but I can call Akari-"

"No, it's fine. I want to know everything."

"I understand, but if it's exhausting you then I'm not sure if this method is recommended."

"Just a little bit more? Maybe something will make sense."

"Okay. Shall I let the others know?"

"Not yet. I don't want to say anything until I actually get something from my dreams."

He nods before letting the others into the room, watching them flood to your side.

"I'm fine. I didn't sleep well last night so I guess my body decided it was time to crash. But I'm okay, I promise." you responded before they asked questions. You knew that would be the first thing they would ask. Still concerned for your health, they stayed beside you and had dinner brought to where you were. You all headed to your respective rooms after a couple of hours, the others feeling tired and wanted to rest for the night. Your body didn't feel weary, but because your mind was occupied with many thoughts, you felt like you had no energy. You got yourself into bed, taking a deep breath, knowing you'll go back to that unknown place.

--

Yogi opened his eyes abruptly, a heavy weight impressing on his chest. He pushed himself upwards, rubbing his eyes and momentarily pushing aside the need for sleep. There was something he wanted to check. Yogi walked out of the room, looking left and right then heard a noise coming from your room. He moved closer to your door, hearing loud, distressed sobs. He frowned deeply, knocking before entering. He sees you tangled in your sheets, your pillows all over the bed and on the floor. The side of your face was buried in the mattress, your shoulders emitting a series of spasms while torrents of anguish gush from your tightly closed lids. Yogi immediately took his place on the bed, gently rubbing your back.

"__(y/n)-chan, what's wrong?" He then gave your shoulder a light squeeze to wake you from your nightmare. You suddenly inhaled sharply, opening your __(e/c) eyes and grabbing onto Yogi's arm. When you felt your hand grip onto something solid, you looked up, no longer noticing yourself in your memories.

"Are you all right? Do you want me to call Gramps?" Yogi becomes concerned with your panting and the light coat of sweat on your face and neck. You released Yogi from your hold, sitting up slowly with the boy's aid.

"I'm fine...just a nightmare. Don't call Gramps." You managed to gain control of your breathing, momentarily closing your eyes before getting out of the bed. "I...I'm going to shower."

You felt disgusting, feeling as if whatever you dreamed of, you experienced it in reality. You crossed your arms when a shiver shakes your bones as you thought of what happened before Yogi woke you.

"O-oh okay. I'll go then." Yogi was about to push himself off the bed, but you stopped him.

"S-stay." You didn't want to be alone for the rest of the night. "Please? I'll be back."

"Of course." He nods, his mind formulating many questions on your behavior. He watches you grab your things from your drawers and closet before locking yourself in the bathroom.

What was going on? What could he do to help? Before he could find his answers, you returned from your quick shower.

"Thank you." you said after being surprised from finding him assembling your bed neatly.

"You're welcome. Do you feel better?" You both sat on the edge of the bed.

"A little." You nodded before bringing your legs to your chest and resting your forehead against your knees. "My memories are coming back."

"R-really? How do you know?"

"I've been dreaming about them. I know that they aren't just regular dreams because it feels real and familiar. It's still not clear, but for me to be seeing the same thing in my sleep for three consecutive nights, I know that means something." you pause momentarily, "but I'm scared."

"Why's that?" Yogi frowns at your confession, placing a hand on your back.

"As much as I want to know what happened before I came here, I'm not too sure if I can handle it. I keep finding myself in some kind of prison and there's always these people holding you down. No, not people...monsters. And my body is in so much pain and I can't escape. When I try to, it always fails. But I'm not the only one there. I can see others, but I end up seeing most of them die. I'm scared constantly and my heart feels like someone is squeezing it tightly. I can barely breathe, my chest hurts, my arms....everything. Just what happened before you found me? I have had two terrible things happen. That jail scenario and then the auction. I can't help but think...was I a bad person? For me to experience all that, I must have been terrible and I'm getting what I deserved."

"Take that back!" Yogi surprised you with his demanding tone. You lifted your head when you felt his hands planted on your shoulders so that you could stare directly into his purple orbs. "Take all of that that back, __(y/n). You aren't a bad person at all and you deserved NONE of that."

He embraced you tightly, his body shaking at what you said. Your past sent chills everywhere and how you were talking, it frightened him. "Those experiences mean nothing about your personality and what kind of person you are."

"How do you know?" you whispered, doubtful of his proclamation.

"Because I can see it. The way you act, I know you have a good heart. If you were truly bad, you wouldn't be acting the way you are right now. You always put people before you and you're always there to help. And it's not like you do it because you feel like you have to, you do it because it's natural. And whether you get back your memories or not, my perspective and feelings for you will never change. You are you. You're someone who I care deeply for and the person I'm falling in love with. And I know I'm not the only one who loves you. Nai-chan, Gareki-kun, Tsukumo-chan, Hirato-san, Akari-sensei, Jiki-kun, Iva-neesan...everyone! We all love you and we're here to protect you. I know your memories are scary and you're afraid to know the rest, but I won't let you go through it alone. I'll be right here." He holds you a bit closer when you're shaking with tears again and then kisses the top of your head.

"I...I love you, too, Yogi, you and everyone else. You're all so kind to me. I'm truly grateful to have everyone as a part of my life."

After a while, you calmed yourself down, Yogi handing you a box of tissues to wipe away the rest of your tears. You give him a small smile then laying your head on his shoulder.

"Can you stay with me for the rest of the night? Just for tonight only...if that's okay?"

"I'll stay with you every night for however many times you need me to." He snakes an arm over your waist. "Is that why you've been tired? Because of your memories?"

"Yeah, I've been trying to stay up because I didn't want to keep seeing them. I'm not ready to know everything right now."

"We'll face them together when you're ready. But you should rest. I know you don't want to, but I don't want you to get sick. If I see that you're troubled, I'll wake you immediately, so don't be afraid, __(y/n)-chan. I'm here for you."

"Thank you." You let out an exhausted sigh, hugging him around his torso. You feel his fingers brush up against your arm lightly, the touch soothing your body. Within minutes he feels your hold around him loosen and your head beginning to slide down his shoulder. He grabs a pillow behind him, placing it on his lap and guiding your head on the soft cushion. He attempts to stay as still as possible to avoid disrupting your much needed rest.

--

As the week continues on, your memories begin to fade away from your dreams, but your relationship with Yogi grew much stronger. Yogi has been staying in your room, following the routine of waking you when you whimpered or cried. Though you wish to know a little more before your memory loss, you didn't want to continue burdening Yogi. You did mention to Akari about your memories no longer appearing in your dreams and he assumed it was a short term effect after the hypnosis. He assured you that there are more methods to retrieving your past, but that could wait until you were fully prepared.

You and the others were in Hirato's office, you and Nai looking through the books on his shelves while the second ship fighters were giving report of their previous missions. Gareki was seated with the fighters, listening to outcomes of their assignments. Tsukumo was the first to present, Yogi's eyes and mind wandering elsewhere. His eyes target the girl whispering to the young, white haired boy and pointing to a page from a book. Your gazes finally meet and his heart beats heavily at the contact, but beams brightly at you. You shoot back a blushing smile and your eyes automatically look away for a moment before glancing back at the blonde prince to see if he was still staring. He was and you tried to suppress your lips from curving upwards too much. You lift your hand slightly, wiggling your fingers as a greeting. He grins happily at your motion, copying your gesture as yours and his eyes continue to communicate. Everyone, minus Nai and Tsukumo, observe Yogi's lack of attention, glimpsing between you and Yogi.

"Yogi, how about you?" Hirato calls out to said individual. Yogi's attention is still on you, even when your focus is now with Nai. It seems that there were red hearts all around him and a light seemed to be emitting all around him. Hirato sighs, saying his name once more, but still receives no answer.

"Oi, stop staring at __(y/n)-chan and pay attention." Iva smacks him over the head.

"Ow, Iva-neesan." Big tears form at the corner of his eyes.

"Is there something much more interesting than this meeting? If there is, please share with us." Hirato gives a close eyed smile.

"A-ah, n-no. I mean, yes there is...no wait, I mean...s-s-sorry! I'm listening."

Hirato lets out a small chuckle, letting Yogi begin his report. The captain dismisses the group when the trio finish, standing up to leave the room.

"Hirato-san, may I borrow this?" You held up a thin, maroon colored book.

"Of course."

"Thank you!" You left the room to put the item away in your room before you'd lose it.

"Ne, Hirato-san?"

"Yes?" He hears the sword wielder.

"Are we going to stay in this town tonight?"

"Yes. We'll leave in two days. Why?"

"Nothing...I was just thinking if maybe...me and __(y/n)-chan could go to the city later?"

"I don't see why not."

"All right! Thanks so much!"

"You seem really happy today, Yogi." Nai points out his feelings.

"Mhm! Super happy!"

"But how come you're also...scared?"

"A-ah, well, you see...I'm going to ask __(y/n)-chan out on a date tonight."

"What's a date?" He tilts his head.

"It's when you ask someone to spend time with you alone. You'd go to places and talk and just have fun! You'd usually do this with someone you really like."

"Hmmm, I get it!" Nai tugs on Gareki's arm. "Let's go on a date!"

Everyone's facial expressions falter and Iva and Hirato attempt to control their overwhelming laughter.

"Aw man, this is just too good." Iva embraces herself, trying to relax her breathing. Tsukumo giggles quietly, finding Nai's innocence adorable. Gareki's eye twitch at his suggestion, pulling his arm away from him.

"Hell no! Do you even know what you're asking?" His face his bursting with red.

"But I like Gareki and I like to go where Gareki goes."

"Baka! You're not understanding it correctly!"

"Nai, when you ask someone out on a date, it's sometimes between people who love one another. Or people who like each other as more than friends. It's hard to explain, but I think you mean that you like hanging out with Gareki, not dating him. Dates are usually for couples." Tsukumo explains calmly.

"Hmmm...okay, I think I understand?"

"Anyway, I've gotta prepare for tonight, ja!" Yogi rushes out of the room to find you.

--

He spots you exiting your room, waving an arm to get himself noticed.

"Yogi-kun, what's up?"

"__(y/n)-chan, I was wondering...if you're not busy tonight, if you'd like...to g-g-go on a d-d-date with me?" He could feel something thumping rapidly against his ribcage, his stomach twisting around itself.

"Y-yeah, I'd love to!" You responded immediately.

"Really? That's great! I'll go to your room around 8?"

"Sounds good!"

You were getting ready up to the very last minute, constantly changing your mind about your appearance. You didn't know why you felt the need to care so much to impress him. If he truly liked you, then he wouldn't focus so much on your physical attributes, but that didn't mean you would walk out in public without fixing yourself. Finally...FINALLY you chose tonight's attire and hairstyle, nodding your head in approval when you looked in the mirror.

"I'm coming!" you said when you heard a knock. You opened the door and quietly gasp at the bouquet of flowers being presented to you.

"Thank you. They're lovely." You leaned up to peck his cheek. You placed them on your nightstand so that you would remember to place them in a vase later.

"Let's go?"

"Mhm!" The two of you begin to walk to the exit portal of the ship.

"Y-you look really nice, __(y/n)-chan. You look so cute."

"R-really? Thank you. You look nice also."

You see the others by the exit, wondering if they were tagging along.

"Don't worry, we aren't going with you." Iva could see the confusion on Yogi's face.

"We just wanted to see you off." Tsukumo smiles.

"Have fun! Stay safe!" Nai embraces you before you leave.

"Yeah, yeah, just go already. I don't see why I have to be here..." Gareki mumbles and you playfully rolled your eyes.

"Bye, see you later!" You and Yogi say before phasing out into the city. It was crowded today, but you didn't mind. The lights and noises made it seem like it was still daylight. You walked through the people, Yogi leading you to a restaurant where you two could have dinner. After you had eaten, he brought you to where most of the stores were located incase you wanted to do some light shopping.

As you idly walked by the boutiques, Yogi kept eyeing your hand. His fingers were longing to be connected with yours, but he was afraid of rejection as well as making you uncomfortable. He wouldn't know if he didn't try, right? The second ship fighter grasps your hand and carefully laces his fingers with yours. You blink at the touch, looking at your hands and then at him. He laughs nervously, rubbing the back of his head and you give him a gentle squeeze. You take a step closer to him, pointing at an item that caught your interest.

He takes you to the park last, guiding you through a pathway that lead to lake. There were a few other couples scattered on the grass in each other's arms, talking or gazing up at the sky. Yogi brings you to where there was a small boat, carefully helping you on. He sits across from you, taking the oars and rotating them to maneuver the vehicle towards the middle.

"Fuwahh." You admire the night scenery, holding out a hand in hopes of a firefly landing on your palm. There were so many of them out, their lights pushing away the dark and enhancing your beauty. He carefully moves to your side, adjusting himself behind you. He seats both of you on the floor of the boat, leaning against the mini bench-like seats. His hands are folded over your abdomen, Yogi sneaking a kiss on your cheek. You lay your hands over his, gazing up at the tiny, white dots sparkling across the black background.

"What's so funny?" Yogi asks when he hears you giggle.

"Nothing. I was just thinking about the parade."

"What about it?"

"Well, I was just remembering when the kids were calling me a princess. I was thinking to myself how nice it would be if I was a real one."

"But you are one."

"Silly, no I'm not. Even if my memories aren't all that clear, I'm sure Hirato-san would have mentioned it by now."

"Just because you don't have royal blood doesn't mean you aren't one. You have all the qualities and characteristics of a princess."

"What do you mean?" You raise a brow at his statement.

"You're beautiful, loving, and caring. I know not all princesses are like that, but in a general sense, that's how most of them are. You have a lot of people that love you and would do anything to keep you happy. You're reliable and smart so that makes people want to depend on you. You're very friendly so it makes approaching you easy. Everyone wants to protect you and anything or anyone that is precious to you. Doesn't all of that sound like a princess to you?"

"Hmmm...I guess. It is a nice thought though."

"It's not a thought, it's all true."

"You're sweet."

"I try." He chuckles lowly, a brief moment of silence settles in between the two of you. He feels you stroke his knuckles lightly, Yogi wondering if you could hear the loud pounding of his heart.

"Ne, __(y/n)-chan?"

"Hmmm?"

"Can I be your prince?"

"Eh?" You turn your head to look directly at him.

"I really, really like you, __(y/n)-chan and I want to be yours. I want to be your prince. So...can I?" You detect the nervousness in his purple eyes and you wish to make him feel at ease. You place a hand on his cheek, a thumb rubbing over his soft skin.

"Yes."

"Really?" He whispers happily, slowly inclining his head towards you.

"Really." His lips touch yours lightly, holding himself back. His emotions wanted to express themselves badly, but he refused to let his feelings burden you. He has never felt this way about another person and he didn't want to ever feel like this with anyone else.

Not that he could.

You were the only one who made his heart swell with happiness. As if sensing his cautiousness, you tilted your head up, permitting him to kiss you more. Your mouths moved against one another, tongues lightly brushing at your lips. Your body shivered with pleasure, finding it hard to stop even when your breathing was compromised. Yogi forces the kisses to stop, allowing air to enter your lungs more easily. You start again after your breathing has calmed, ending only when needed.

Yogi returns after an hour, tying a rope between the boat and dock. He suddenly sweeps you off your feet, activating his bracelet and flying up.

"Kyah!" You grasp tightly around his neck, but left enough room for him to breathe.

"Don't worry, I won't let you go. I just want to show you something." Yogi stops when he felt like he found the right spot, holding you close to him.

"Look down."

You follow his instructions and your mouth opens in a silent gasp at the view. The city was below you, its lights still burning brightly and beautifully. It looked different from where you stood, as if it was a secret place that only few had the opportunity to see.

"Wanna fly around for a bit?" He grins.

"Definitely!" You feel him accelerate, moving in a straight path. He begins to fly in random patterns; forward, backward, up, down, and circular. You were laughing when Yogi slowed down, clearly enjoying the ride. You return to the ship when Yogi didn't have any more activities for that night, surprised that the others didn't greet you at the entrance. He checks the time and realizes that your friends have already gone to bed.

That night, you stayed with Yogi in his room, finding that you two didn't want to let each other go yet. He was embracing you from behind, stroking your arm lightly a few times before slipping his fingers over yours. Your prince realizes that you have already fallen asleep, smiling at your cute form. He presses a kiss to your shoulder before joining you in dreamland.

--

Yogi has been so happy ever since he became your boyfriend. You felt the same, if not, you were probably more happy than he was. After what you have been through, you deserved a bit of bliss in your life. Other than your boyfriend occupying your mind, you have been trying to find ways to unlock your memories. It was time to know everything or maybe you felt courageous because of the fact that you knew Yogi would be there for you. You walked to Hirato's office, knocking before being permitted entrance.

"Oh, __(y/n). Anything I can do for you?"

"Yeah, there is, but if you're busy then I can ask another time." You noticed the thick piles of paperwork.

"Well, depends on what you ask me. What do you need help with?"

"My memories. I wanted to try something. I noticed that when I fight, it's when varuga are around. I can't seem to bring up my fighting skills on a normal basis. Gareki-kun noticed it, too. He said that around varuga, I'm different. I'm aware of it also, but at the same time, I'm not? Like my body moves faster than my mind could register. I know it doesn't make sense. None of this does, but I think observing my reaction to varuga might help. So, what I'm thinking is that I should fight some varuga."

"I don't believe that is wise. We still don't know much about your reasoning behind your combative skills. It's too risky. What if we do let you fight varuga and it goes wrong? People could get hurt or die."

"I...I guess I didn't think of it like that." you sighed. "Then...how about I fight someone? Maybe you or Yogi? Or even Gareki-kun? I think as long as my body thinks it's being threatened, it might trigger something. And if it's one of you guys fighting, the situation can be controlled, ne?"

Hirato stays quiet, a chin resting between his thumb and forefinger as he reflected on your proposal.

"We're never going to find anything if we don't try something." You attempted to convince the captain.

"Fine, but let me handle how we are going to approach this."

"Thank you!"

--

Hirato took the rest of yesterday to think over your idea and decided to implement your plan this afternoon. Everyone was gathered in one of the training rooms, the gang, minus you, confused as to what Hirato wanted them for.

"You're here, too?" Yogi blinked at the sight of the first ship crew.

"W-w-wait, what is this?" Jiki points at yours and Yogi's hands.

"Oh, I'm her boyfriend now." The blonde takes a step closer to you.

"Since when!?"

"I asked her out a few weeks ago."

"B-b-but, I'M suppose-"

"Looks like we're all here." Hirato interrupts him, walking towards you and the others. "Good, I can start now."

You feel Hirato stand behind you, placing his hands on your shoulders. "We're going to help our dear __(y/n) try to remember her past." He then explains the method you came up with.

"What? You want us to fight __(y/n)-chan?" Yogi is the first to express his worry.

"Don't you think that you're risking a serious injury here?" Akari disapproves.

"Yes, someone is going to get a few bruises here and there, but like what I told Hirato-san, one of you guys can control what's happening. This is the only lead we got."

"Isn't there another way?" Jiki asks.

"Yes, but let's just say if I were to tell you my other idea, you would choose this one." You gave everyone a pleading look. "Please, I know nothing terrible will happen if I'm with you guys. I really need your help. Think of it as a...sparring session! All I just need is to feel threatened."

"Fine. Then let's start." Gareki is the first to volunteer.

"Let's just get this over with. I just gotta scare you, right?" Kiichi summons her scythe, pointing it at you.

"Kiichi! That's dangerous! Don't point that at her." Yogi pulls you away from the blue haired girl.

"You're too soft! She's asking for this anyway, so let's just give her what she wants." Kiichi begins to walk towards the middle of the training room. One by one, the fighters join Kiichi, reluctant to fulfill your request, but they understood what needed to be done for your sake.

"I'm sorry, __(y/n)-chan, but I can't fight you." Yogi looks to the side.

"I understand. I'm putting you in a bad position. I'm sorry." You cupped his face, turning his head back to you. You moved your weight to your toes, kissing his lips lightly.

"Come, we'll be watching from there." Hirato nods to a large, thick glass window where there was a room for others to watch safely. You give Yogi a small smile, watching Nai, Hirato, Tsukitachi, and Akari enter the observation room.

"You may begin." Hirato says through the speakers and you turn to face the group. They activate their weapons, except for Gareki, but none of them make a move. You can see the hesitation in their eyes, but Kiichi is the first to overcome it. She slams down her scythe at you and you gasp, stumbling back and falling on your bottom. The blade is embedded a few inches from where your feet were and you hear Yogi's voice through the speakers.

"Kiichi! Why did you do that?! You could've hurt her!"

"Urusei! I can't work if you're going to make comments!"

You hear Hirato and Tsukitachi fight Yogi over the microphone, pulling him away from the instrument. While you become distracted, Gareki attempts to stomp over you. You quickly rolled away, your heart racing at the sudden attack. Kiichi and Gareki are the only two out of the five assaulting you, the blue haired girl with her blade and the boy with his fists. Eventually the others joined them, being careful of where to hit and how much force was being used. Beams of light shoot from Tsukumo's hand and target you. You pushed yourself away from the lights, but escaped with a small cut on your arm.

--

"It's going slow." Hirato crosses his arms, noting how different your abilities were compared to when you were approached with varuga.

"Maybe we should stop this." Yogi is anxious watching the entire scene.

"__(y/n)-nee!" Nai shouts suddenly, seeing Gareki use his shoulder to tackle you to the wall.

"I think she needs just a little bit of a push." Tsukitachi begins typing on one of the computers.

"Wait, why are you putting them at that level? __(y/n) and Gareki won't be able to defeat them!" Akari read the monitor that the first ship captain was utilizing.

"Relax. The others are there, as well as me, Hirato, and Yogi."

"What's going on?" Nai asks.

"I released a few simulation varuga robots. Don't worry, they aren't real. They're just machines programed to act like them."

--

Random doors in the walls began to open and monsters pour from the entrances. You sat up against the wall, holding your shoulder where Kiichi had cut. It wasn't deep, clearly holding back when she sliced you.

"Why did they send out the varuga?!" Jiki asks, your friends frowning at the growing enemies.

"Does it really matter? It's just more things to cut down." Kiichi says.

"It's not that. We're failing at our objective." Tsukumo understood why the varuga cyborgs were released.

"Then I guess we need to try harder." The young fighter flies towards you and kicks at your face. Your eyes widened at the hit, but you were more worried about the varuga. Were these things...real?

Gareki throws a fist to your abdomen which you failed to avoid. He did lower his strength when it made contact with you, but enough to stun your body. Your body was hunched over slightly, an arm over your affected area. You suddenly hear a loud crack-like noise beside your feet, standing up straight and looking ahead. You look up to see Jiki floating with his whip in his hand.

"Don't let your guard down."

"C'mon, you haven't landed a single hit on any of us." You were shoved against the wall by Iva, her arm pinned over your upper chest. Your eyes widened when you see a varuga grab Gareki's leg, pulling him roughly towards it. She glances at where your attention was diverted to and calls out the boy's name. She releases her hold on you, running to save Gareki since he lacks the strength and weapon to defeat the robots. Your friends become occupied with the varuga, your body shaking at their unexpected arrival.

You are slammed hard to the ground, a large, spider-like varuga weighing down on you. Its head consisted of a human's, but had multiple eyes similar to the eight legged creature. The main body was of the insect's, but two human arms protruded from its torso area. The rest of its body was surrounded with long legs, four on each side. It let out a loud screech before opening its mouth wide.

Your breathing becomes labored at the sight of its teeth and its scream while pieces of memories flash in your mind. The spider's head plunges towards your face and your body automatically reacts by grabbing its top and bottom jaw. While you push its head away from you, you begin to pull apart the creature's mouth. You exert more force against the monster and finally rip its bottom jaw off. You kick the varuga off you, running to your next target.

--

Nai and Yogi jump at the sudden varuga being thrown against their window. While its body slides down, you look curiously at the five with your now illuminating ice blue eyes. Akari is surprised and intrigued by your eye change, being that this was the first time to see you in a heightened state. Seconds pass and you are already destroying your fifth varuga. Your body still doesn't notice that they were only fakes, too concentrated on eliminating them.

"Wait, what is she doing?" Yogi moves closer to the glass window, seeing you jump high to Jiki's level and round-house kicking him to the floor. As soon as you were back on the ground, you kicked yourself in Tsukumo's path. You grabbed her by the arm and threw her when you saw Iva heading your way.

"Her body is remembering from when they were trying to attack her." Hirato replied as you didn't seem to recognize that your friends were helping you even while they were destroying the robots.

"We should stop her!"

"Let's just wait and see for a little bit more."

After killing another set of varuga, you stop in front of the short, blue haired girl. Your hands grip themselves onto her scythe while kicking her hard in the stomach and sending her into a pile of destroyed cyborgs. You break the stem of her weapon, throwing them to the side. The only one standing was Gareki, who managed to evade major attacks thanks to Tsukumo and Iva. You grab him by his hood, hurling him to the ground. You sit on top of your black haired friend, forming a fist and punching him once. You were about to try again, but a bandaged woman ceases your assault.

"Ma, ma, that should be enough for today, ne?" Tsukitachi decided to be the one to end today's activity. Your blank expression doesn't falter as you bashed your head against the banshee woman. You changed your mark to the first ship's captain, squatting low and attempting to side sweep his feet. He jumps before you could do so, but you grabbed his leg, spinning once before letting go. You followed where his body was, appearing over him and clasping your hands together then bringing them down on his shoulder.

The rest of those in the observation room are shocked at how even leveled you and Tsukitachi were. However, there were signs of your stamina decreasing quickly and noticeably. You still continued to fight, planning to bring down the older male. Yogi doesn't wait any further, wanting his girlfriend to return to her calm state. He activates his weapons, aiming a collection of vines to wrap around your body.

"__(y/n)-chan! You gotta calm down!" He yells to you as you struggling against the green binds. You managed to break one arm free, but another set of vines quickly cover the opened spot. You growl lowly at the constant amount of restraints, still wrestling in attempts of rendering freedom.

"__(y/n). It's me! No one is trying to hurt you anymore." He approaches you with caution, holding one hand out.

"Everything is all right now. It's okay, ___(y/n). There is no more threat." Yogi continues to soothe your slight panic. Your resistance begin to diminish, your eyes picking up on Yogi's voice. He moves closer when he finds that his words were reaching to you, slowly retracting the vines back to his sword.

"I'm here, __(y/n)-chan. Everything is okay. You can relax." You were staring in Yogi's direction, but your mind wasn't focused on anything in particular. You still heard your boyfriend's voice and your body was slowly reverting to its original condition. Yogi embraces you tightly, kissing your shoulder once as he continues to talk to you. You blinked away the indigo glow, whispering his name when you were back to your conscious self.

"Guys!" You gasp, remembering that the varuga weren't the only ones you fought.

"We're fine! Don't worry!" Jiki groans slightly, giving you a reassuring grin and wave.

"I want a rematch." Gareki pushes himself to his feet.

"You really don't hold back, do ya?" Iva jokes, helping Tsukumo to stand.

"I-I'm sorry. I didn't mean to! I just-"

"We understand. We all expected this. If we managed to help you, then there is nothing for you to worry over." Tsukumo smiles.

"So embarrassing! I can't believed I got my ass kicked like that!" Kiichi pouts, questioning her battle skills.

"Did you remember anything?" Tsukitachi has his banshees return to a hat form, placing it back on his head.

"I....no, I'm sorry. I still can't remember anything. I'm so sorry. I made all of you do this and-"

"It wasn't all in vain. We were able to observe your combative abilities and limitations." Akari was clearly interested in your strange case. "I also believe that you can control your movements without putting stress on your body and mind."

"R-really? How?"

"I don't have a solid answer, but I think your body was conditioned to respond naturally in threatening conditions, conscious or not. If your memory returns, you can gain back that control."

"Then...can we try my second method?"

"What is it?"

"It's based on what we first tried. You're not going to like it, but just don't panic, okay? I'm going to need all of your support. I really want to try this and I believe it can work if done right." You knew that they were going to reject the idea, but you had to tell and convince them. You were determined to try anything to remember what happened before meeting Circus. You felt that it was very important and it would be dangerous if you continued to ignore it.

"Well, what do we have to do?"

"Stop my heart from beating."