Wow. Thank you for the feedback. You guys are great. Here's part 2 and all of its overly fluffy glory...

Hera-

When you get back to your place John is moving around the kitchen, blue eyes still glazed over with sleep and black hair even messier than Karkat's. He smiles at you, waking up a bit more in your presence. "Good morning Vriska! Want some eggs?" He's trying to cook you realize, scrambled eggs to be exact, but he's left out the container so you may have some the way you like. He's the best.

"Thanks John," you say smiling back. You gather up a couple of eggs before hopping up onto the counter. "Soooooooo…" You purr, reaching out to cup his cheek with your free hand, guiding him to look at you. He blinks up at you as you lean in, lips brushing along his jaw and then his ear. His skin is hot and soft, nothing like Tavros' or any other Troll, you're sure. He stutters something; stiffening and skin growing hotter against your own that's icy in comparison, but you ignore it. "Blush for me." You murmur though you know he already is.

You pull back to find him looking up at you, eyes wide and cheeks flushed gold. You frown; everyone's the same now. "Uh… Vriska?" He murmurs uncertainly.

Your first kiss with John Egbert is a chaste little thing that only lasts seconds but it leaves him smiling for the rest of the day. It's soft; just rough, warm, skin that's splitting apart pressing against your own, smooth and icy. It's not like the kisses in the movies; it's not a desperate, open-mouthed, thing that ends with you both staring at each other with sparkling eyes and declarations of love being thrown about. It's simple and sweet. You think you like it that way. It's not like your first kiss with Eridan, fueled by an anger you had struggled to conjure up, or like the kiss with Tavros, that time anger had come all too easily.

It doesn't surprise you that you were the first to initiate it. But at the same time it does. You weren't planning on doing it, you weren't setting out to kiss him and really this isn't the best of times. The eggs are still clutched in your one hand, John's still holding his silly spatula, and you have to lean down while he stretches up for your lips to meet. It surprises you, too, that he responded, leaning up to meet you half way. But you're glad he did. It's much better than the alternative.

He pulls away blushing but there's still a grin on his face. You grin back, hesitantly, but you hope he can't tell how nervous you are yourself. He goes back to cooking and you pick at your eggs, but the silence that falls over the room, occasionally broken by a giddy laugh from John, is surprisingly comfortable. John does not stop smiling. You try not to blush every time your hands brush and fail miserably. That afternoon when he leaves to go hang out with the human Dave he stands on your doorstep stuttering and blushing gold till you give him another kiss. Then he shuts up and just grins at you stupidly before leaving.

You don't know if this makes you Matesprits or dating or whatever it is humans call it. You're tempted to call Davesprite to talk to him about it like an excited little girl but at the same time you're anxious to build your army of pawns. You decide that locking yourself away in your room with a bowl full of sink water and some branch that looks close enough to Rose's is the best choice.

You see a lot of things you don't want to. You see Karkat's people again, sacrificing so many of their own in his name and then painting his sign on their chests with the dead's blood. It's nasty and a bit disturbing, and that's saying a lot coming from you, the girl who watched her lusus wrap up the dead bodies of her own kind for years. Maybe that's exactly why you find it so disturbing. Rose's people, at least, you suspect they are Rose's, are all very intelligent. They don't dress oddly, they have very simple shrines and prayers, their buildings are simple, too, but growing quickly. You guess it's nice. You don't pay much attention to any other civilizations you come across, most are simple and barbaric and boring, and all around the same level when it comes to development.

Lalonde's is farther along and you're going to have a hard time catching up but Karkat's is lagging behind for the most part, you think. Well, maybe not. They have some strange language that's like Alternian just slurred and mispronounced, they've built some wicked buildings, and they seem pretty good with math. When it comes down to it they're barbaric and cold though. So maybe you're going to have to go back farther.

That's when you find her, the girl you saw the first day, the one bearing your sign. At least, you think that's what she could become.

She lives in one of the more developed towns but doesn't have any home herself. She's skinny and bony, her ribs stick out and her face is gaunt, but she could be beautiful. She's a survivor, if she wasn't she would be dead by now and her eyes wouldn't shine the way they do. She steals from the open stores that line the streets and picks scraps from their waste bins when it turns dark. She has gathered together all of the children who curl up in the alleyways or beg out on the streets. She had taught them who to target and where, whether it be begging or stealing.

The smallest and the quickest are ordered to pickpocket and snatch fruits from stalls when the owner has turned his back while the most pitiful go out to pull at the legs of the rich, looking up at them with such sadness that they must give in. She has talked them into banding together and bringing their turn out to her in the building on the far side of the town.

It's old and abandoned, falling apart on the inside and out, surely not stable but it is a safe haven, there they are free to do as they wish.

Slowly the scrawny sixteen year old abandoned by her mother and father, a girl, they do not need a girl, blossoms into a beautiful young woman, sleek and sharp on the inside and out. Her army has grown and her home of ruins now avoided like the plague, a reputation that has been earned.

As she becomes bolder you become more amused. She slips into a fabric store filled with silky things fit for royalty and one of her boys follow, a tiny little thing eager to please and wreak havoc. He darts in after she's wandered towards the back, fingers trailing against the rolls of colorful fabric, all soft and expensive. The owner looks away from her just in time to catch the boy snatching up a brilliant blue silk that has been carefully folded on one of the dark wooden tables at the door.

It's a brilliant cerulean, just like your blood when you were mortal, and the edges sparkle with gold. It makes his icy blue eyes shine even more, shockingly light against dark skin layered with dirt.

The owner cries out and an impish grin overtakes the boy's face. He's out of the room as quickly as he came and the owner scrambles after him, other concerns, like the suspicious poor woman in the back, momentarily forgotten.

Your lips pull into a grin, pleased with the woman and her subjects. She's brilliant and wicked in the best of ways. She knows it too, you can see it in her face as she loads herself down with rich fabrics of purples, golds, reds, and, most importantly, blues.

And then she's gone.

The shopkeeper doesn't even notice; he spends the rest of the day grumbling angrily over the loss of his single cerulean silk.

Your star sells most of the fabric and makes a good amount of money. The boy is allowed to keep his prize and she keeps one of a darker shade for herself. She's beginning to look more like the woman she's going to become already. You're going to make sure this woman has the right to bear your sign; you expect nothing less than the best.

"Nefertari…" You murmur curiously and can't help but be delighted when her head jerks to the side, eyes narrowing as she searches for you in the dark. This is going to be so much fun. "Oh no, you cant see me…" You say as seriously as possible, trying not to giggle. "I'm your goddess."

At first she doesn't believe you. She's paranoid for the next few days, staying inside while her little children perform her dirty work. But that doesn't keep her from you. Finally you get her to believe you. Only through helping her, of course, but you wouldn't accept anything less from her, really. You tell her to send her little boy, Meryatum or something, their language is really too complicated for you to remember, to steal from a certain store, promising that he will be fine. He's obviously her favorite, the little one who still ties the faded blue scarf around his head and at first she's reluctant to comply. She gives in eventually.

You haven't attempted to talk to anyone else yet but it's surprisingly easy, all you have to do is convince the shopkeeper to look away for a few moments, fill his ears with whispers, and the boy easily sneaks past him to load himself down with fruits and herbs.

When he returns to her she's obviously relieved but still shocked. She listens to you after that.

You don't stop whispering to her, guiding her along, until Davesprite shows up and drags you away. You aren't sure how long you've been talking to her, it's been a month in her time though, and you don't really care. Davesprite scolds you and feeds you, oranges and eggs because those are pretty much the only things you keep in stock besides mint chocolate chip ice cream, popcorn, and sometimes a bottle of apple juice just for him. While you eat he goes on a little rant about being a giant gaming geek or something and taking this to extreme godly levels or whatever. You ignore him; you really don't care.

You show him Nefertari and he just gives you this exasperated look that could rival Karkat's. "Vriska."

"Yeeeeeeees?"

"You did not listen to a word I said."

"Nope!" You chirp, grinning at him.

He sighs, dragging you away again. He forces you to stay in the living room and watch some of his stupid movies that he likes just because he can make fun of it. You would have gotten up again but it's kind of hard when you have him wrapped around you.

"Oh," you say thoughtfully, finally remembering the thing you were going to tell him.

"Oh?"

"Me and John kissed." You explain and he pushes himself up to look at you, brows raised above his golden shades. "Twice." You decide to add.

"And you're just now telling me this? I'm hurt. I thought I was your BFF, your go to gal. I bet you already told Kanaya, didn't you?" He gasps and you punch his arm weakly.

"Shut up! You're the first person I've told! Like I would actually go to Maryaaaaaaaam!" You scoff, rolling your eyes.

"So… you two are finally dating then? Wow, I feel so gay, I don't think you understand."

"Dave!"

"Sorry, sorry, tell me all your problems, later I can do your nails, I expect some Mani-Pedi action too now, deal? I mean, despite not having any feet to Pedi-"

"Daaaaaaaave!"

"Okay, okay, I'm really done now."

You huff, pulling him down once more. "Okay soooooooo… Like, we were in the kitchen."

"Right."

"And he was cooking."

"Uh-huh."

"Shoosh let me finish." You grumble, paping his cheek. "So, we were in the kitchen, he was cooking, and I told him to blush because, you know, I was curious if his blood was gold too. Rose's is so I wasn't surprised when he blushed and his blood was gold and crap. But then… I just… leaned down and he stepped forward… so… we kissed."

"Wow, you're acting like a cute little school girl with her first crush. What is this? You aren't Vriska Serket, you aren't the crazy killer who takes what she wants." He teases but it still gets under your skin. Because he's right.

"Because taking what I want has gotten me so far…" You hiss.

He falls silent once more, stroking your back and kissing your forehead, an apology. "Okay, so, John and you-"

"I don't know…" You grumble, nuzzling into the crook of his neck.

"Hey, he likes you. He's… weird and horrible with girls but he likes you." Davesprite assures making you snort. "You just have to be the one to initiate these things."

"Yes, thank you for your expertise Mr. Strideeeeeeeer. I really need your help with boys."

"Girl, I am the Master when it comes to boys. It is me." He scoffs and you can't help but giggle.

"Nope, I am the Master. I have everything under control. All of these irons in the fire are being handled." You reply, crossing your arms. "John is fine and Nefertari is on her way."

He rolls his eyes but settles down once more.

The next morning you go right back to Nefertari to find that she's been busy in your absence. This girl has proven herself; if you wanted a descendent it would be her. She's turned into a woman and her eyes are sharp, her skin dark, and her cheekbones high. It strikes you that maybe she doesn't look so much like the woman you first saw like you thought but that is quickly brushed off. She's become the lover of a handsome man with golden eyes and dark skin, he's not as powerful as you would like him to be, she could do better in that field, really, but he's beautiful and strong. He's noble; he aids the person who has taken the throne. He's intelligent and brilliant, clueless to her past.

That's when you grow curious, how did she get to this point? How did she grow from her little empire of beggars to being a noble woman in her kingdom of fools?

You do not doubt that she reached this point easily and quickly; you had been pressing her to for quite some time now. What surprises you is that she was able to give up the silly notion that the children she used actually needed her. If she left her little boy would probably take over, continue leading them forward. They would be fine without her. Besides, she couldn't remain among the young forever; there is no such thing as Neverland. They would soon question her like they do all adults, no longer looking up to her as an older sibling but as a parent, demanding and annoying, something that holds you down. She would be overthrown.

It's a good move to detach herself. The only problem is that she's obviously in love with this man; it's not just lust or greed that prompted her to be with him. She's become attached again.

You go back through what has happened while you were gone. It seems like years to her are only a few hours to you. Perhaps she no longer thinks you're real. You'll have to whisper to her again.

You pause your little review of her past few years when you catch a glimpse of glassy blue being covered by silk.

The boy, his death was the turning point. He was taken from her by an unnamed disease that made him pale and scrawny, that drained the life from those blue eyes, it took others too but you know his death was the one that meant the most. You're almost a little disappointed yourself; you had high hopes for the boy.

After that she left, just disappeared leaving them a good amount of money and supplies. She took all of their jewels and clothing though, made herself look presentable so she could catch her new lover's eye.

You whisper to her about gaining more power, tell her she could do better, tell her that if he was gone she could continue up. But this doesn't have the desired effect. She looks horrified; screams for the voices to leave her head. You withdraw and watch, disappointed with her for the first time. You have to wait for her new child to grow into someone you can take under your wing just like you did with her mother.

Perhaps Nefertari isn't the one you saw that first day.

You start to take notice of the other empires when Eridan's tries to attack.

They're sea trolls, all of them, and their blood, surprisingly, is all bright pinks and dark violets. On Alternia there was a very small and very elite group of trolls with blood like this, certainly not enough to make up an army. But that's not what you're worried about, not right now.

The first person to catch your eye is the head general; for a human he's strong and very attractive, thick with muscle and eyes a deep blue, like most of your people. His name is Menes and he's absolutely gorgeous, you could drool over this boy all day. You think your heart almost stops the first time you see him take out a troll with only a bow and arrow. If you and John don't work out you'll know where to go, no doubt.

You whisper to him telling him of all of the glory and honor he deserves and can get if he listens to you, after he's off the battlefield, trying to help care for the wounded but they're of no use, he should learn that right away. But you know how humans are so you keep that thought to yourself, at least for now.

Your people, all of your people, are very superstitious. Whispering to this man that you are his god is easy and he is immediately convinced. He follows your orders but not blindly, he reasons with you when he sees a problem, perhaps a hole in your master plan or even a better way, something you find impressive. He quickly rises to the top and soon has more followers than the king.

Your people are fantastic.

Your next move is to go to Eridan.

"What?" He deadpans, stumbling over the word like usual in his little warble. He's got his scarf wrapped loosely around his neck, high enough to hide most of his fluttery gills and his chin. It's late, dark out and the wind is blowing, no doubt he's uncomfortable. You are too, you're regretting not putting on some actual pants instead of the pair of shorts borrowed from Jade.

"Your people are attacking mine!" You bark, baring your fangs and he does the same.

"How are you so sure they're mine?" He snaps back in that whiney way of his. Perhaps all of your hatred for him was not forced.

"Oh, I don't knoooooooow…" You gasp with as much snark and sarcasm as possible. "Maybe it's all of the golden statues of you they have in their little underwater city!"

"Oh," he says, suddenly bored once more. "Those aren't mine."

"What do you mean they aren't yours?" You cry, fists clenching as you lean forward. Stupid violet-blood. Why does he have to be so tall?

"They didn't like how things were being run so they left."

You bark out a laugh in response. "Yeah riiiiiiiight! They're attacking my people for you!"

He rolls his eyes behind his silly little glasses, pulling farther into his scarf and crossing his arms. "No, I assure you they are not. Those are the peasants." He explains with a scowl, the word spat out as if it tasted fowl.

"'Peasants'?" You echo, brow furrowing. "Liaaaaaaaar! Their blood has been painting my streets, you know, my people being more badass than yours and all, so I should know!"

He pinches the ridge of his nose, grumbling like he's trying to deal with a small child. "Yes, I kept the caste system exactly the same. That makes complete sense, their god being a violet blood and all."

"What?"

"The caste system isn't the same! My caste is at the very top! Not Fef's!" He cries like it is so very obvious and you're tempted to smack him. But that would be giving him the wrong idea and no way in hell are you going to go through that right now.

"Yes, I should have guessed!" Truthfully you are a bit surprised, you figured Eridan would want to keep things the way they were, not switch things up even if it did mean he would be on top. Perhaps he had no choice; they could have decided such things amongst themselves.

You wonder if that's how it happened with your own.

"Are we done here?" He hisses back, reaching to close the door.

"If we're still allies you better get your people under control, Ampora." You huff before turning to leave. He doesn't respond.

You have his people almost completely crushed by the time more come in. But these wear gold and have weapons more advanced than the first and, most importantly, they bare Eridan's sign. They fight with tridents, all gold and jewels, more for looks than anything else. It's so typical of him it's not even amusing.

At first there is a misunderstanding but you assure Menes, your perfect follower who does without asking, that they are good. He speaks with Proteus, Eridan's general and king, and once the small issue of confusing accents and twisted words has been solved they seem to become good friends. The last of the rebels are beaten into submission with ease and your people have a strong ally who offers both power and protection as well as new items for trade and curious creations.

Menes rises to power, much to your pleasure, but Proteus falls. He was too volatile of a ruler, cruel in some ways and kind in others, good but still corrupt. Triton, another violet blood, talented and popular in the army, takes his spot at the top. This places your kingdom in a bad position. Your ties are wavering; your humans are too different from Eridan's trolls.

You're impressed when Menes suggests it before you. Very impressed. You know how humans are, they believe in love and whatnot even though your men marry many and have even more lovers on top of that; they simply don't make sense. He has recognized what he must do and he knows he must do it. He knows he has no choice and he does not care, no, he seems eager.

You chose well.

So you go to Eridan once more.

"Oh for cod's sake Vris! What do you want now?" He grumbles, Feferi on his back, legs around his waist, arms around his neck, and chin resting atop his head. She gazes down at you curiously after your usual little greetings.

"Someone powerful in your kingdom that can be married off to Menes." You reply quickly.

"What?" She asks, pout coming to her lips.

"Nofin Fef, don't worry about it." He grumbles but there's a shine to his eyes that you recognize. He's interested. "Menes, your king?"

"Something like that, he's got aaaaaaaall of the power so it's close enough." You're eager to get this done, then your civilization will be shooting ahead once more.

Eridan grunts in response, adjusting Feferi on his back and blowing a strand of hair from his face before continuing on. "Fine, there's a gill."

"Girl Eridan, stop with the puns for eight seconds man." You snap and he grumbles in response but doesn't object.

"There's a girl, little miss hypocrite." He growls. "Her name's Eidothea. She's powerful enough an' has got a reasonable followin'. An' she's a pretty little thing." He adds thoughtfully, cheeks turning violet. Feferi giggles in delight, teasing him about it, but you don't stick around to hear much more.

It turns out that when Eridan says "pretty little thing" he means a little fuchsia blood that looks like she could be Feferi's ancestor and-or descendent.

You give her name to Menes and trust that he will be able to take care of himself. You have other things you need to deal with.

You haven't seen John in a while and after the other day it's making you nervous. You didn't screw up right? He wanted to kiss you a second time so it must not have been horrible or something. Right?

It doesn't help that when you get to John's cabin he's doubled over a bowl watching some pretty girl swim in a river.

"Oh my god, does she even have clothes on?" You gasp and he just about jumps out of his skin, bowl knocked to the side.

"V-Vriska!" He chokes out, cheeks golden and blue eyes horribly wide. "What are you doing here?" He manages to get out between awkward laughs that are so forced it's painful.

"John," you huff, crossing your arms and narrowing your eyes. "Why are you watching some pretty girl bathe herself?"

"Oh my gosh, no, no! It's not like that at all!" He says hurriedly.

"John, it really looks like that." You say and your voice is flat, thankfully. Because it kind of hurts to think of him wanting to look at another girl like that; you don't know how your women do it.

"No! She's like, oh god, she's like my priestess or something? And like, she was performing a sacrifice and wow, it was super creepy! But then before I knew it she was…" He laughs nervously, blush growing.

You're the only one who should be allowed to cause that blush.

"Whatever you say John…" You sigh but you're growing eager to change the subject. "C'mon, we should watch a movie." You tell him but it's a demand more than anything.

Once your snuggled together on the couch, his arm around your shoulders and your head on his chest, you can't focus on what your watching, Thirteen Ghosts and the first few minutes of blood and gore, all you can think about is the fact that John was watching that girl.

The warmth of John by your side does nothing to the icy feeling growing in your chest, the little spasms of pain. How could any woman bare to have her Matesprit want another? It feels like ice and pain and hate, so much hate. It's even worse than Rose, you think. He never spied on her like that. Well, you don't think. God, this is stupid and you feel so weak. You are putty in this boy's hands, like the wind, you bend to his will. It's not okay. You are strong and fierce; no man should have this much power over you.

When you leave he can tell you're still mad; he tries to apologize but you brush it off, leaving with only a cold farewell.

Needless to say, as soon as you get the chance she's assassinated.

Maybe that's putting it a bit dramatically. Menes has been married to Eidothea; everything has once again been stabilized. This means you can easily spare a few lives, spread your army out a bit. But it mustn't be obvious that her death is your only objective, then John might realize and you don't want that. So you're forced to wait. Taking her out so soon would be foolish.

You suppose it's a bit hypocritical of you, not long ago you were drooling over Menes. But then again, you never watched him bathe.

You're tempted to tell Menes your problems but it's a ridiculous thought. You've grown so used to speaking with him and you haven't even noticed until now. It's strange for you to trust him the way you do, you've never even met him in person, he's in none of your quadrants and your feelings for him are nothing more than a childish flush-crush. He's not your actual descendent of course but he feels like he could be, perhaps that's why.

You go to Davesprite instead, like you should, but Jade is already with him, holding him close as he shakes and whimpers in his little nest. When she sees you, you can see her indecision; she seems uncomfortable, as if she has been caught and doesn't belong here, but if Davesprite needs his Matesprit you understand, it is you who does not have a place here. You duck your head, taking a step back, but Davesprite's sense are better than the other humans', he catches you. You start to apologize, the awkward words getting caught in your throat like usual, and Davesprite easily orders you to shut up and he takes you in eagerly, holding you both and murmuring to you about his nightmares.

You realize it's not all that different from your selfish desire to keep John and him all to yourself; he just needs this, unlike you. Davesprite has plenty of issues. You know he doesn't really mind being part bird, when it's shoved in his face and treated as if it were a disability he does. He was prepared to die, he knew he was meant to and it's a complete accident, simply his luck, that he is still here. You think that does bother him. That his life is not meant to be, just an accident, that upsets him and really, no one can blame him. The fact that he is not theDave is something he can't let go of, the fact that he could have done more, in his opinion, will always haunt him, and then, of course, watching his lusus die twice.

You all have nightmares, it's not abnormal to walk in on anyone shaking and wide eyed or to even hear one of Gamzee's screams despite the sopor that sedates him and the distance separating you. It has become more than necessary for you all to find someone who will support you, a Matesprit or even a Moirail. You have Davesprite and John while they both have you and Jade. An entire web has formed between all of you, something that can't be called romantic, no, you were afraid it was that human disease friendship but then you realized it's something much worse, something that runs deeper. And it frightens you.

On more than one occasion you've found yourself in an awkward situation with Eridan sleeping on your couch and then slipping away once more in the morning, sulking or trying to keep his pride. Once even Kanaya showed up though she really needs no sleep. At least, you don't think so. You don't know.

You are more than happy to sandwich Davesprite between the two of you, the two people he trusts the most, and help him feel safe once more. You shift so you're behind him and pull him back so he can lean against you. Jade shifts with you, giving you a smile that you think is appreciative. Davesprite's hand finds yours, knocking his head into your own when he gives you a fleeting, awkward, little kiss on the cheek. Showing affection towards you around Jade always makes him uncomfortable but you suppose he feels he should show you some sort of reciprocation for trying to help him. You smile at him, giving his hand a squeeze, and he leans back against you, looking back to Jade. You press kisses to his head, stroking his hair and his feathers while Jade brushes kisses along his brow and holds his hand.

It doesn't take long for the words to come tumbling out, shaky little breaths stopping him every now and then. He's been dreaming of his brother again. Crimson pooling on the ground and the mask of the man who raised him stiffening even farther, becoming permanent, never again going to grow cocky with a smirk or show any amount of warmth he ever did release. He's been reliving the days without his best friend and the girl he loves, fighting with the decision to leave his ex-Moirail behind over and over again, watching himself die more times than he can count. He's been dreaming of you both, the two he trusts the most and has turned to in his time of need, being taken from him.

You both hush him, promising him everything is fine and that you are still here with more little kisses and squeezes of his hand. He finally quiets and his breaths grow slow and deep; he falls asleep once more but is not awakened by horrors.

"Thank you…" Jade murmurs softly so he won't be roused, tanned fingers dancing across golden skin to find the grey of your own. She smiles brightly at you and you find yourself smiling back, your free hand tangling with her own on Dave's stomach.

You lean your head against his and Jade has already tucked herself into the crook of his neck, legs tangling with his tail under the sheets. "Is this normal?" You ask, keeping your voice low but now he's starting to snore softly and you know you have nothing to worry about.

Jade hums thoughtfully, taking a moment to answer. "No, not really. From what he's told me you're like… a sister to him. Do you understand that concept or…?"

"Like your equivalent of a Moirail, yeah, he's told me about it."

"Right!" She chirps and immediately shrinks back with a little squeak. You snicker at her, fighting to keep your voice down yourself, and she's soon grinning at you once more. "So, in our culture, I'm pretty sure it's kind of weird to be so close to your sister! But I didn't really have anyone around growing up; if I had a sister I'm pretty sure I would have wanted to be as close to them as possible! Like I am with John now, we cuddle all the time. And Rose too, Rose is like a big sister and the other Dave, as weird as it may sound, is like a big brother. John says it's weird to be all cuddly buuut, it's nice having someone there when…" She trails off with a little sigh.

"The nightmares." You finish dryly, running a hand through Davesprite's feathers once more, earning a soft little noise close to a chirp. "I'm beginning to think he may be the most screwed up of the bunch."

"Yeah… both of the Dave's…" She murmurs, picking at some of his feathers herself. "Eridan and Sollux both seem pretty…"

"Eridan has no friends, Sollux's brain is at war, you get the idea…"

Jade pouts at the golden feather she holds in her hand, green eyes trained on it as it sparkles in the fading light. "I thought you and Eridan were friends…"

"He's my ex-Kismesis," you reply stiffly.

"Oh, uh, I didn't mean to offend you or something!" Sometimes she really reminds you of John, not just with how she looks so similar to him without looking like him at all, she sometimes wrinkles her nose the same way and says similar things.

"It's fine," you reply. "Just surprised you thought me and Hipster-Fish were friends or something."

"But, I mean, I just figured that we all are? After the game and everything… I mean, I've never really talked to Eridan much but I'm sure he's not as bad as everyone seems to think he is! And I'm sure Gamzee isn't as crazy as everybody claims!"

"That's because he's stoned," you deadpan.

"Still!" She giggles, muffling the noise in Dave's ruff of feathers. "Vriska," she says, suddenly somber and gazing up at you with too-big green eyes. "Some people told me you weren't the nicest…"

"The other Dave? Terezi? Aradia? Nepeta?" You inquire but she bats at your hand with a huff.

"I'm not telling you that! The point is that they were wrong! So I'm sure you're wrong about Gamzee and Eridan and stuff. Even if you did… hate… love Eridan before, I wouldn't think that that would matter. Everyone else is fine now."

You don't respond.

It doesn't take long for the two of you to nod off and you aren't awoken until you feel something messing with your hand. You crack your eyes open to find that it's now dark and Davesprite has awakened once more, carefully running a clawed thumb over your hand that is still twined with Jade's on his stomach.

"She's sweet," you murmur groggily and the only sign that he is surprised is the sudden flutter of his wing against you.

"I know…" He replies. He sounds small and lost, uncertain. You know this voice, it comes whenever he begins to question his right to have her, something that he believes should belong to the other Dave.

"She loves you so much Davesprite," you continue, recognizing the need to use the title that belongs to him and him alone. "She would do anything for you…" You add, wriggling your arm around him from its place captured between the two of you.

"I know…"

"And you would do anything for her, you two are perfect." You finish, pressing a kiss to his hair.

He bats at you, the sign that he does not need anymore coddling. "Yeah but I've been such a moody ass to her, not even the hot vampire sort of moody-"

"'Hot vampire sort of moody'? No moody is hot Davesprite. Don't listen to Kanaya's stupid books and Karkat's even stupider movies." You huff and he snorts softly.

"I don't…"

"I swear to god if you say you don't deserve her I'll smack you." You say a little louder than you should and Jade shifts about with a soft little grumble.

"Wow, can you please refrain from waking up the entire island? That'd be nice, great, thanks." Davesprite huffs.

You're tempted to pinch him but you restrain yourself. "Not my fault you're being stupid."

He quiets, pressing his face into her nest of black hair. "Why'd you come over? Not that I'm complaining or anything, just doubt your Moirail-Senses were tingling or some bullshit like that. Unless aliens really do have some sixth sense dealing with Moirails, then I'm so sorry for being a culturally insensitive ass." He grumbles.

"Moooooooody…" You hum but don't mean it, not really. "John was watching one of the humans bathing."

He stares at you for the longest moment with those golden eyes of his before grinning. "Oh really now?"

"I don't see how this is a time to be happy…" You growl and the shit-eating grin is gone once more.

"Right, right, just thinking of innocent little John being a godly Peeping Tom." He replies. "So he was spying on some chick taking a bath? So what? Not like he can actually meet her or some shit."

"Is spying on pretty women bathing some norm for humans?" You hiss back.

He snickers in response and you swear to god sometimes you hate this boy as much as you hate the other Dave. "Not exactly… but the point is it's not that big of a deal Vriska. Just make him pay, that's what you're good at, right?"

You blink owlishly at him. Make him pay? You may like the sounds of that a little too much.

John is in the main cabin talking with Dave and Terezi, who is cackling madly, like usual. Davesprite snorts and you pinch him again, making him grumble before you're winding your arms around him and giggling, a sound so fake you almost want to smack yourself. "I don't think you understand how stupid this is." You hiss to him and he snorts.

"Nah, I'm feeling pretty stupid right about now."

"So stupid."

"All of the stupid."

You scoff at him. "Don't even say that about such a thing."

"But darling Moirail whom I pity so dearly and want to pamper and mother over," he gasps. "Would you not agree that this situation has aaaaaaaall of the stupid?"

"Don't use up all of your sarcasm, save some for later." You huff back. "Darling."

"Aren't you so sweet? Concerned about my reserves of sarcasm. I have enough of that shit stockpiled to last me through a zombie apocalypse. I'm like one of those nuts convinced that any day now the world will end." He replies calmly.

"Guess they were right." You point out.

"Yeah, guess they were…" He murmurs after a moment. "Not that it helped any, right?"

Suddenly you both are somber once more and the true stupidity of this sinks in. "What the hell are we doing?" You snap and he laughs pulling back out of your grasp.

"You were making him pay, remember?" He responds with another chuckle.

You grin wickedly, standing on your tiptoes and leaning against him so you may reach his ear. You make sure to run your hands up his chest and into the fluff around his neck, dragging your lips along his jaw the way you did John. "Would Jade shoot me if I kissed you?" You murmur in his ear.

"This is creeping me out on so many levels. All of the levels Vriska, you are freaking me out on all of the levels." He replies and underneath the cold, even, tone of his voice there is a twinge of discomfort that only you can catch.

You pull away with a bark of a laugh and grin at him. "Thank you darling, I believe I have been successful when it comes to operation 'Make Him Pay'."

"Do I get a code name? Can I be Golden Eagle? Not like Charley Parker, I ain't from Thangar or some shit."

"Dave, I have no clue what the hell you're talking about."

"Pretty sure I just fucked up a DC reference." He responds making you stare at him. "You know… the comics? Okay, whatever, I still want to be the Golden Eagle."

"Yes Agent Golden Eagle, thank you for your cooperation." You chirp.

"Sweet. See ya' later Serket." He replies easily and slips away once more.

You're very pleased to find John staring at you when you turn back around. You grin at him and he smiles nervously back as you bound over. "Hey Joooooooohn…" Your voice is sugar sweet, suffocating and annoying to your own ears, but it's better than the alternative. You are still frustrated, still angry that he would kiss you then turn his eyes on another.

"Hi Vriska!"

"Dude, you were just feeling up my other self. Do you know how creepy that shit is?" Dave demands as soon as you've come up. He's not your Strider but you can still catch that bit of discomfort; they have the same habits and patterns. Maybe you don't blame him for being disturbed.

"Daaaaaaaave, it's not that big of a deal! He is my Moirail." You reply leaning against John and gripping his arm. He scrambles to find your hand, and gives it a nervous squeeze. You wonder what that means.

Terezi scowls but remains quiet, letting Dave continue on. "You totally felt my other self up."

"Yes, I do believe that's a thing I did."

"Twisted version of Moirallegiance you've got there." Terezi murmurs, making you narrow your eyes.

"Someone needs to learn to keep their nose out of other people's business…"

"Okay! I'll talk to you later Dave! Bye Terezi!" John says way too loudly and steers you away. "Gosh Vriska, what has gotten into you?" He grumbles, partially to himself, it seems.

"I don't know John…" You purr back, all too pleased with yourself.

Now to make the girl pay properly.

Menes attacks John's people for you, making sure the woman is dead and not asking any questions about why. His people are becoming stronger; they've become allies with another nation on their own. It could be called an empire, taking over kingdoms weaker than their own and forming ties with those too strong. Even better, it's close to John's people too. An entire sea separates your kingdom from his while this new ally's territory wraps around it. Their land is more arid, their kingdom fueled by gold, a great king, and freedom of religion. An oddity in your mind. You don't understand how that is necessary but it seems it is, the humans and all of their little beliefs. So, together, Menes and their king, Cyrus, invade John's kingdom.

You're surprised when it doesn't fall easily. His people fight back with a fury that impresses you; they are not as great and mighty as you but then Rose's people aid them as well and it seems that neither of you will be falling with ease. Rose's people are all pale and blond while the rest, yours, John's, and your ally's are all dark skinned and dark haired. They are talented with traps and plans and they have technology that you are not familiar with. But this is where omniscience comes in handy. You follow their plans even more than you do Menes'.

The war lasts for a year, two years, and eventually three to the humans. Finally a girl rises the ranks of your military, a girl named Arachne who challenges all others and, much to your delight, is as brilliant with her tricks as Rose's people. She dares to openly challenge them and that is, sadly, both of your downfalls.

Your bowl is kicked away, water spilling across the marble of your floors. "Hey!"

"Ms. Serket, why are your people attacking my own? Oh, and your Arachne girl has paid for her pride, just like her namesake. I hope you are happy." You have little Rose Lalonde towering over you, purple eyes narrowed and sharp. "Please explain why you would make such a foolish move. Really, I thought you were brighter, my fellow goddess. Thinking that I wouldn't realize it was you, such an immature thing."

You sneer up at her, rising to your feet so you are standing over her properly once more. "Ms. Lalonde, tell me why you have to get involved with something that is none of your business?"

"Why are you targeting John's people?" She demands and for the first time you are slightly afraid of a human. Her voice is sharp and cold like diamond, her eyes stormy but beautiful, her lips, the black of night, twisted into a scowl. Her voice carries like Gamzee's once did, making you stand a little straighter, a little stiffer. She's small and dainty, in no way intimidating, but something about her is dangerous. There's something about her that reminds you of a high blood. But you've never been one to bow down to those higher than you, not so easily. She is in no way intimidated by you, not from what you can tell. She's not backing down either.

"It's not that big of a deal," you hiss. "They're just pawns."

Her eyes flash dangerously and you barely have enough time to react, to block the strike that would have sent her needle right into your eye. Her wrist is thin and so very breakable in your grip; you find yourself staring Lalonde in the eye, the black of her needle blurry so close to your face. You're shocked and you're sure she can tell, your mask not being as strong as the one that runs in her family. Hers does not falter more than her brow furrowing, her lips tightening into a thin line. The air is electric, your senses sharpening once more.

The next strike is blocked without having to even look. It sends a thrill down your spine, being able to fight like this once more, your senses coming to life. The world seems a little brighter. You wonder if this is true Kismesissitude. You've been missing this, this beautiful thing, for all this time?

Her wrists, you could snap them in half. Her skin, so pale and smooth and beautiful, you want to turn it black and blue, you want to see it painted with crimson; you want to make this girl feel pain.

And then her mask cracks. Her grip on her weapons falter and they clatter to the floor, the noise breaking the silence and freeing the air of its weight. Her brows are drawn tight and her eyes suddenly not so stormy, just dark. "'Just pawns'?" She hisses and her voice quivers with strain. "Vriska, we cannot do this. We cannot become them…" And suddenly the way she has been pressing forwards to attack turns into her slumping, you becoming the only thing holding her up. You don't know what just happened and you have no clue what she's talking about. Suddenly she just seems very small and very broken. You think she may cry. You remember how much Davesprite and John love this girl, this tiny, delicate, human girl, and your stomach roils with discomfort, with disgust, at the thought of ever hurting her. "Vriska… You cannot think of them like that."

"Uh…" Your eyes flit about, suddenly uncomfortable with this situation. You're confused and uncertain and you feel as if you are doing something wrong on top of the fact that you feel this is a side of her you really shouldn't be seeing. "Rose, I have no clue what you're talking about."

"You cannot act like this!" Her anger is back with a vengeance, giving you whiplash. You jerk away from her, tearing your hands from her wrists as if you have just been burned but keeping them up between you, acting as a shield. "Do you know what the horrorterrors thought of us? Do you know how we were only seen as their pawns? What if it were you, what then? What if you were those humans? Do you not remember our darling Doctor Scratch? Do you not remember being a pawn?"

Faced with her fury your mind blanks out on you, leaving you staring at her with wide eyes and an open mouth.

"We have no right to be using them to play games; no right." Her voice is rising once more, ringing loud and clear. "You have wasted three years of their lives on some frivolous thing that should have stayed here, in this world, did you not? What right do you have to do that?"

You feel like a small child being scolded by her Lusus and your first instinct is to shrink back but you realize how stupid this is and stand straight once more, letting your arms fall to your sides. "I'm sorry." It's come out before you can think about it and, you're surprised to say, it feels real. "I'll withdraw."

She looks a little shocked. Perhaps she was expecting this to be harder, it doesn't surprise you. She takes a step back, looking a little embarrassed, maybe even a little dejected. "Yes, I'm sorry for acting the way I have. It's really very childish of me. So, for that, I apologize."

You snort, words coming from your mouth before you can stop them. "Yeah, maybe you deserve to act a little more childish sometimes." She looks alarmed by your words and you find yourself chuckling at her expression. "Loosen up Laloooooooonde!" You insist with a grin, only half forced. You bend down to gather up her needles. They are smooth and cool to the touch despite the way she had been gripping them not long ago. They are like her, you realize with a fraction of amusement, they are sharp, dark, and grim but at the same time they are delicate and small, something you would think could not truly harm, something you could not see as dangerous. In her hands she can use them to create and she can use hem to destroy. You straighten up, offering them to her as if they would confirm the peace between you.

Her eyes don't leave yours as she lets her hand slide over yours, the needles lying between them. "I do not know why you did what you did, but if it is about John…" She trails off, the way you bristle being answer enough. "You know I have no desire to take him from you, do you not?"

"It has nothing to do with you," you answer, trying not to snap. "It has nothing t do with him. It's nothing."

She doesn't look convinced. "You should not be starting a war over nothing."

"It's complicated."

She stares you down for a moment more before nodding her head, fingers curling around the needles to take them from your hand. "Thank you, Vriska."

"Yeah…" You murmur uncertainly, watching as she leaves the room, trailing little footprints of water behind her.

You gather up your bowl and leave the room to get more water, digging through the cabinets till you find a towel before heading back, you dump it on the floor and lazily use it with your foot to mop up all of the water that had been spilled. When you've gotten the majority of the floor dry you leave the towel where it is, honestly not caring if it starts to smell nasty, and then climb in bed to curl up around your bowl. The image comes to you quickly; Arachne has fallen, just as Rose said, your men are growing tired of their battle, and, the most shocking event yet, Menes' wife has given birth. A female of your kind has given birth. And, on top of this, with a human.

The little creature the woman holds close, looks at with such love, swathed in a fabric the color of her blood and tucked against her chest so she may drink shocks you. You watch with a sick sort of fascination as the woman croons at her daughter, the odd little creature with a mess of inky black hair, skin the color of the dead, and eyes the shocking blue of her father's. You realize she has horns, tiny, nubby, little horns even less impressive than Karkat's. She is a freak of nature but her mother loves her like nothing you've ever seen.

It's not like a Lusus, a Matesprit, or a Moirail. You cannot explain it but in a way you think it's beautiful, other than that it's just strange.

This reminds you of your first human, Nefertari, and you go to check up on her and her daughter to find that the child is nothing special. She is being taught to be a proper little wife and her brother has just been born, automatically meaning she will inherit practically nothing. She'll just be married off to another noble for politics. You are not impressed.

You go back and tell Menes he must pull out, he must get home to his child, and he readily complies, telling you he was about to suggest the same with a lopsided smile that shows how worn he really is. He comes home to his child and looks at her with the same sort of curiosity you did but he holds her close, cradled in one arm while he uses the other to hold his wife, whom, despite being married for other reasons, he still seems to love.

The war settles, neither side truly winning. But you got what you wanted, did you not? The girl that John was fascinated by has fallen and that is all that matters.

You watch this new child grow, as captivated with her as you were when you first saw her. She has teeth as sharp as Eridan's and they grow in quickly, making it necessary for her to start eating proper food instead of relying on her mother. Her hair grows even faster, falling in pretty little ringlets around her face that's round with baby fat. Her horns remain small but not orange like they should be, they are like ivory, like human bone. Her mother has taken to giving the child a little wig of thick black braids but then, then she does something that makes you gasp, she makes the child a small pair of horns. They are shiny and golden, smaller than the ones you remember, but made of the same material. This is the girl you saw the first day. This is the girl that will bare your sign.

She's been brought into the world with ease, she had no struggles, no challenges, and now she is treated like a little princess despite how odd she is. You need to change that. You tell Menes that his child is destined for the throne, that she must be raised to be strong and wicked and brilliant and that she must know sacrifice and pain, not just the safety of her castle. He nods along with that knowing smile of his and tells you he already knows.

He comes to your temple and sits among the others who pray to you, always asking for such silly things that you don't know how to provide. He's always looked at oddly for murmuring and smiling to himself but it's just seen as a little inside joke between the two of you. And there he sits now, surrounded by people doubled over with their heads pressed to the floor, but he sits leaning against the wall, relaxed.

When you asked him why he always sat, doubled over, that way he had opened his eyes, blinking owlishly at the floor, and then explained that sitting up straight is rude to you; you're in the sky so pressing themselves to the floor shows that they are below you or something. You told him that was nonsense and with a chuckle he rose, moving to instead sit where he does now. The others think he's a bit off his rocker but he's still respected as the great king who has brought them into a golden age.

He asks you what he should do and, after a moment of thought, you tell him to take her to the house on the far side of the city, the one that is falling to pieces and remains the home of those children who are poor and pickpocket and steal like they were taught. He looks alarmed, telling you, under his breath, that such a thing would be dangerous. That she is different, special, and they would realize such. You tell him that you have not led him astray yet and you don't plan on letting that happen now. 'But why the beggars?' He asks and the people close enough to hear tilt their heads to the side.

"Look at them!" You laugh. "They think they're so pure, worshipping the way they believe to be proper and as soon as they hear their king speak something secret they're trying to listen in."

He chuckles along but insists to know. So you tell him the story of Nefertari, a name he recognizes, you can tell from the amused look on his face. When you are done he throws his head back and laughs, earning strange and, in some cases, resentful looks from those around him. He tells you he should have known.

Later you find Davesprite again, bringing his payment, apple juice, some of the finest Alternian rock you have to offer and, of course, some of the stupidest because he likes those too, just for another reason, and, finally, some Troll Ben Stiller. Although you think he's stupid, you'll deal with it for your Moirail.

He tells you that Troll Nirvana sucks as bad as human Nirvana but he admits that Troll Pink Floyd is just as good as its human version. You tell him that the death of Troll Kurt Cobain was a huge loss to society, "A huge loss Dave! His music was the beeeeeeeest!" He stares at you like you've just said that you're converting to Gamzee's creepy ass voodoo religion before shaking his head and continuing on.

You watch the movies together and halfway through alchemize some pizza and soda, not Faygo, before curling back up on your couch to snuggle. What Davesprite has to say is way better than these stupid shows and their crap.

You spend the night with him and in the morning curl up in his nest to check on Menes.

He has done as you ordered, his child, Sekhmet, no longer clad in robes of fuchsia and cerulean but tattered rags like the other children. Her golden horns are gone as well as her little wig so that her horns stick out, the little nubs of bone just peeking out of her curls of hair. Her mother isn't happy, she's furious and uncertain, the light of her life being put in danger, the threat of it going out too much for her to bear. But little Sekhmet, only reaching her seventh summer, she is overjoyed to be released.

She is bright and eager and you laugh because this girl is about to be crushed, to be shocked by the real world, all of her little fantasies wiped out. But you are very wrong.

Sekhmet creeps into the building, eyes sharp and pointed ears catching every little sound, and when an older boy spots her, a bigger boy who tries to grab her, she snatches up a rock and hits him. You like this girl already.

It's a testy act, one that can be paid for or one that can be seen as evidence of her potential. She is accepted in begrudgingly, some claiming that she is deformed and useless, others claiming that she must be a demon, but as time goes on she manages to enrapture the boys and makes friends with the girls, touching those much older than her with her radiance.

She isn't wicked; she isn't a liar, a manipulator, let alone a thief. She doesn't understand the concept of dishonesty; she doesn't understand what a pawn is, she doesn't understand why anyone would need, let alone want, to steal. So she is put under the wing of an older boy, a bit of an outcast, and he must teach her. She questions everything, partially out of confusion and partially out of curiosity. The boy grows frustrated and, finally, you take pity on him.

You whisper to the girl, telling her you're her goddess, that she is special, your chosen one. She lights up, asking if you are the one who talks to her father all of the time. You take her under your own wing; you tell her that to be a queen she must be sharp and strong, that to be at the top she must know what it means to be at the bottom. She tells you she understands and she embraces her role in this new world of hers; she learns to steal, she becomes a thief, she learns to deceive, she becomes a liar, and she learns to control, she becomes a manipulator.

She can pickpocket, beg, and those younger, sometimes even older, will listen to her. You tell her that you can't always save her, but you assure her that you will not let her be killed, not that her father would let that happen either. She promises to be careful and that she will make you proud, and then she adds on some twisted word that comes out tiny and hesitant and you don't realize what it is until later, when your laying in bed, staring up at your ceiling, unable to sleep. She called you mother.

The next morning you barge into Rose's library as soon as you think she may be awake. You didn't sleep at all the night before without the comfort of John or Davesprite and having that one word haunting you on top of your nightmares. The sun is barely up, turning the sky a soft grey and painting the horizon with a golden glow. And she's not there.

So you curl up on the couch to wait and the next thing you know you're being awoken via pillow to the head. You jolt, eyes immediately trained on Sollux who has positioned himself between you and a very un-amused Lalonde. Stupid, overprotective Captor. You scoff, sitting up and running a hand through the nest you call hair.

You hear Rose telling him just that and prodding him from the room so she may come sit beside you. "Vriska, is there something wrong?" She asks, purple trained on you out of the corner of her eye.

"Is it possible for us to go to that other planet or some shit?" You demand.

"Is it possible for us to go to the other planet?" She echoes, pulling back to study you openly, blond brows knit together and sharp eyes probing. "Why on earth would you want to do that? No pun intended, but really? Is being the divine force shaping them into what you want not enough for you?"

"Fine, then is there a way to bring a human here?" You ask, growing a bit desperate and you cannot truly explain why.

She doesn't know how to take your strange behavior, obviously, and she quickly gives up on trying to figure it out by herself. "Vriska, bringing a human here does not sound like a good idea. Besides, I have no clue how we would manage such a thing."

You groan, wiping roughly at your eyes and clawing through your hair. You're exhausted and you don't want to explain, you really don't, you're having trouble explaining it to yourself.

"Vriska, have you made a mistake? If that is the case can you not simply go back and fix it?" She asks.

"No, not a mistake…" You mumble, rising to your feet. "It was a stupid question; I shouldn't have asked. Later Lalonde," you tell her, heading towards the door.

She calls for you to wait but you ignore her, instead slipping out into the hall. You bump into Sollux and immediately you both are ready to strike, a deep, rumbling, buzz humming in his throat and a low hiss slipping from your own. His teeth are bared as well as your own, his head dipping so he looks like an animal, poised to attack, but you are in no mood for a fight, choosing to shoulder past him and continue on instead.

You are left, mulling over that tiny little word with all of the strings attached, for the rest of the day. Your concentration is broken by a message from Davesprite telling you 'best be prepared Serket somebody is in for a surprise'. You don't know what he means and you really can't bring yourself to care. Not until John comes over, freeing you from your unpleasant reverie, and you are thankful but curious. He's loud, the door banging shut behind him, and enters the room with a toothy grin on his face but he seems to have a purpose so you wait, watching him as he laughs nervously, eyes flicking to the side, and fingers batting at each other. Finally he gulps, his Adam's apple that suddenly appeared in the three years you were apart bobbing along. He gets that look in his eyes you recognize as determination and you find yourself waiting with an amused smile.

"Vriska Serket, will you be my Matesprit?" He demands, standing stiffly and blush of gold curling all the way up his neck and into his cheeks.

You grin like a fool. "Do you even know what that meeeeeeeeans John?" You ask with a giggle and he blushes even more.

"Well, duh! It means like… oh gosh…"

"What did Karkat tell you it meant?" You ask, grin growing with the gold.

He looks even more flustered by this and stutters out gibberish until finally calming enough to make a complete sentence. "How did you know I talked to Karkat?"

"Joooooooohn!" You laugh, running a hand through your untamed hair and grinning up at him. "I'm not stupid! You probably asked Dave or Karkat and somehow the other one figured out or Dave was teasing you and said something to Karkat or Karkat was just too loud, whatever. Then Dave tried to tell you to do something stupid and him and Karkat bickered and you were embarrassed so insteeeeeeeead you went to Jade and she told you 'Geeeez John! Just do it the way that feels right! Man up!' Because Jade is smart, she has all of the smarts! All of them John! Then Jade told Davesprite and he was enigmatic jerk and sent me some cryptic message. And here you are about to be kissed by a pretty girl."

He stares at you, dumbstruck, finally getting out a "What?" But you don't answer; instead you climb off of the couch, slipping up to wind your arms around his neck and to press a kiss to his lips.

"That was a yes, John." You provide and he grins against your lips before gathering you up in a bear hug and spinning you about. You laugh, burying your face in his hair.

You think you love this boy.

The rest of the afternoon is spent sharing lazy kisses and too high giggles over nothing at all, simply to release some of your bubbly happiness. You both remain curled up on the couch like one being, hands twined and maybe even your tongues, but John is messy and inexperienced and every time his teeth clink against yours you find yourself having to pull back to giggle, making him flush with embarrassment, but you apologize with more kisses, guiding him along until it's a dance you both know.

Davesprite may or may not get a ':::::::;D' sent to him in response.

You're awoken by another kiss and a giggle; you don't mind the title of Princess, in fact, you may be a little too happy with it.

Days pass quickly, filled with bad movies and commentary, weird double dates, more kisses, and the struggle to avoid speaking to your heir without letting your empire fall.

Finally, Rose comes to you once more. This time she does not barge in and there is no bowl to kick away, only a John to distract, and things are smooth. You suddenly have an understanding that you cannot explain and, as he leaves the room, you catch John eyeing you strangely. You ignore it, it can be handled later if he insists, looking to Rose expectantly instead to find her hesitating. "Come on Lalonde, I could be making out with a cute boy right now!" You insist in a pointless effort to hide how anxious you are.

"Vriska…" She begins only to hesitate again. "Tell me why you want to go to our planet."

"Does it matter?"

"Vriska, do not forget-"

"I know!" You snap, a little too loud, and quickly correct yourself. "I know, Rose. They aren't pawns. I just want to talk to my…" What is she to you? Really? An heir? The descendent you were never meant to have? A pawn? "I want to talk to one of my humans. Just for a few minutes."

"Let me guess…" She sighs and the words are a bit too dramatic for her to be serious. "Eight minutes?"

You grin impishly at her. "Something like that."

"Really though, who is it you're wishing to talk to and why? I don't want you causing any more trouble."

"No, I just want to meet her in person," you insist. "She's… like my…"

"Oh," she says, eyes flashing. "I understand; this human, you want to talk to your pupil. Actually… would you be objected to another joining you in your endeavor? I have a lovely human named Minerva who really is brilliant that I would enjoy meeting in person, you see."

Some days you really love Rose Lalonde.

When you try to drag her from the house, though, John stops you. "Guys? Where are you going?" He asks, pouting slightly.

"Don't worry! We'll be right back!" You insist but Rose digs her heels against the ground, stopping you in your tracks.

"Calm down Vriska, it's only fair that he knows where we are going, it will take more than a while, really." Rose chides gently, proof, you think, that you two are no longer acquaintances or even enemies but you have formed one of those dangerous, unnamable, connections that have tied you all together in one way or another. John looks a little shocked himself, blinking those big blue eyes owlishly. "John," she continues with one of those knowing smiles. "I have found a way to travel to the other planet-"

"What? You mean – like – we could live there? Almost like Earth?" He asks so eagerly that you feel another little twinge of pity knowing that he misses his planet more than you miss your own.

"Oh no, John." She says, frowning slightly with her brow furrowed. "We are still immortal and, honestly, have no place there. Their culture is very different from our own, sure, in some ways it is similar to our kingdoms of the past, but think about it John. Would you want to live in Rome? No video games, no more junk food, but don't fret, you'll have unsanitary conditions and plenty violence instead."

He rolls his eyes. "Okay Rose, I get the idea. Jeez! But I would still like to go! It would be cool!"

"Lets go, lets go!" You insist, pulling on Rose.

"Goodness Vriska, someone's excited." She grumbles but allows you to pull her from the room. "You don't even know where we need to go yet."

"The library, duuuuuuuuh!"

"That is where you are wrong, we need to go to Aradia's home." She replies with a chuckle.

You groan in response but still follow.

You've never really been to Aradia's home, precariously placed on the side of the hill; you've passed by with John, confused, at first, by the ruins. Crumbling rocks with green sprouting between them, tall archways wearing down, a series of pillars, and a strange statue of three women. You hadn't spotted Aradia's home, tucked against the hill and surrounded by trees.

When you arrive she is waiting, much to your disappointment, with a bright smile on her face, all pink cheeks, dimples, and sharp little teeth. Behind her stands Eridan and Sollux, glaring at each other but, much to your surprise, not going for the other's throat.

"Lalonde…" You grumble, frowning at her.

"Sollux heard and decided to be a pain about it, same as Eridan, and Aradia had to be told so that I could use her land." She replies with a shrug. "I don't think anyone else is aware, though, and I want it to stay that way."

"Oh!" Aradia squeaks as soon as the words pass from Rose's mouth. "We weren't supposed to tell anyone else?"

You groan, pinching the ridge of your nose harshly, and Rose only sighs heavily.

In the end, when Rose opens the gate, all of you step through, all twelve trolls, all four humans, and one sprite, Nanna staying behind to hold down the fort with a sad Jaspers, mewling pitifully. You're irritated and John can tell, smiling at you sheepishly, as well as Davesprite who continues to tease you and be melodramatic about the whole thing. He's such a pain in the ass sometimes.

You find yourself in a town, the air quiet and heavy, filled with the scents of fresh bread and the sea, the streets are paved with grey rock and the buildings around you are made of a similar material, painted with reds and blues. It's much nicer than your city, at least, in most areas, but it could be the same way in Rose's, she may have just taken you to a more pleasant part of her city. Everyone milling about the streets has frozen to stare at you all, voices suddenly rising, a sea of whispers. This you recognize as Rose's city and you are immediately frustrated.

"Rose," you hiss, fingers curling around her forearm, restraint barely strong enough to keep your nails from biting at her skin.

"Hush, I know, I know, I'll get you to your girl soon enough." She replies in a hushed voice.

Before you can object a woman comes bursting through the crowd, breath coming fast, cheeks flushed red. She's not one who should be running, not built for physical exertion, tiny and skinny and porcelain white, this is obviously a woman of intellect, her clothes simple, but most of Rose's people do wear simple things. Her eyes, a sickly color like the combination of brown and purple, wide as saucers, almost comical on her gaunt face. Rose chuckles softly, pulling from your grasp so she may weave through the others to meet her. This must be her pawn, no, pupil.

"Minerva," she greets, dipping her head to the human, and the woman is immediately on her knees, head bowed and prayers spilling from her lips, the others following her one by one.

Rose stands there calmly while the rest of you shift about uncomfortably, all of you but yourself, Sollux, Karkat, and Eridan, you think. Eridan, like the pompous fool he is, strides forward with a huff, demanding to know where the closest port is. "Hush," Rose scolds, batting at his arm in a way that is dangerously close to being a pap. "Be patient, we just got here."

Minerva looks up at them like a deer caught in headlights while all of the others peek up with equally wide eyes. Suddenly you understand what Rose said even more; these people are in your hands, bending to your will. You are revered here; creatures of stories just like your ancestors, just like the humans' gods. You suddenly feel wary, a little sick to your stomach, the way you felt when your blood first changed almost.

Your hand finds John's, fingers twining with his until you get it right. You can feel his eyes on you but you look straight ahead, not wanting to face the questioning look you know he's giving you. After a moment though he gives your hand a squeeze and that's that.

Minerva guides you all to the main building in the center of the city, a large structure of white rock, all very simple, which you aren't surprised to find is full of books just like the one at home, and a group of women, all in the same clothes as Minerva. They greet you like you're something unreal, little bows and hands clutching at you; eyes wide and mouths open just enough to let out their never-ending murmurs of prayers. It's freaking you out but when you glance at Karkat he's holding his head a little higher same as Eridan. Both Daves shy away from the touches, you aren't surprised to say, and John and Tavros continue to laugh nervously, not exactly pulling away but obviously more uncomfortable with the whole thing.

You are given rooms and exotic foods, it's all very strange to you but, luckily, most of you are able to take it in stride. Rose giving you a pointed look that means just as much as any words.

You have to keep an eye on all of these idiots while she's off doing the thing thatyou're supposed to be doing. Karkat, of course, is acting like a smug asshole same as Eridan, and even Dave, to some extent. Jade seems uncomfortable, being used as a shield by Davesprite so the humans can't get too close. Nepeta and Feferi are both excited, their happiness seeming to help assure her this isn't all that weird. Sollux is calm about it, not abusing his new power but not turning it down, he, next to Feferi, seems to be taking it the best. Feferi you can understand, she's had this treatment her whole life, Sollux, not so much.

You leave John with Jade and Davesprite, slipping to the side to stand by Sollux. "This is ridiculous," is the first thing out of his mouth, making your eyes flicker from John up to his face for a moment. He doesn't look frustrated exactly, something closer to disappointment but yet not that, it's like he expected this to happen, like it grates on his nerves but he didn't expect any more out of all of you. You didn't consider this factor. You didn't think that the power might go to your heads and, really, you think that if you didn't have the image of Rose, weak and so very small and broken, in your mind, a constant reminder just as your little Sekhmet's words, you might be just as bad.

"But," he says with a wry sort of smile. "I'm a little surprised you aren't living it up."

You grunt in response, the beginnings of anger forming in the back of your mind. Stupid Sollux Captor and his stupid expressions. "When is Rose coming back?"

"She said she'd be back later tonight," he replies with a sigh.

There's a pause as you both frown at Eridan who is whining about some of the food, fish you think. Such an ass. "So, you two official Matesprits or…" You prod, looking away from Eridan once more.

"No, we were just kissing in the library for the hell of it."

"Well excuuuuuuuuse me," you snap back. "How am I supposed to be able to tell with all of your red shenanigans?"

He snorts, all nasally and annoying, giving you that smug smile of his. "Well, you know, it's hard being so handsome…"

You scoff, punching his arm weakly. He stiffens in response and it occurs to you what you've just done but then he's chuckling some more and he shoulders you gently in return.

You need to stop forming these creepy, complicated, bonds.

You and John share a room. The little human trying to guide you to separate rooms looks shocked when John's hand finds yours and you follow him into the room assigned to him. She starts to stutter something out and you hear Sollux's nasally chuckle before John closes the door and somehow you know he'll explain for you.

John lets out a weary little sigh before slumping against the door. "Oh my god, this is sooo weird…" He mumbles, blue eyes big behind his glasses.

You give him a little smile, moving forward to press a kiss to his lips. "Don't worry about it John…" You twine your fingers with his, pulling him over to the odd little daybed set up for him.

"Why weren't you going to tell me?" He mumbles, pout coming to his lips and brow furrowing.

"There's something I need to do alone…" You tell him, feeling open and raw in an odd sort of way.

"Vriska you know you can tell me anything, don't you? I mean, I thought that Matespritship-ness was based off of trust or something?"

You snort, tucking yourself against him and stumbling over each other's feet. "Stop listening to Karkat. He's an obnoxious tool who doesn't have a clue what he's talking about."

John giggles in response, pressing a kiss to your cheek. "What about Davesprite?"

"He can be a tool, too. What did he say?"

John only laughs some more, gently laying you back when your knees hit the side of the daybed. He grows quiet; leaning over you and brushing the hair from your cheeks, blue eyes flickering over your face and your body. Your breath stutters, gulping as you take him in, bathed in the light of the setting sun. He looks older all of a sudden, older and calmer, his jaw defined and his hair thick and where were you when he became so handsome? It suddenly feels possessive how he's curled over you and you like it, you like that he wants you to be his, you like that you aren't the only one who wants the other.

"I love you." He sounds breathless but somehow the words are still strong and a little husky. "I know you don't know what that means but I still wanted to tell you."

This isn't the giggly nerves from when he asked you to be his, no, this is asking you to be his, that wasn't anything compared to this. He's right; love is not a concept you are familiar with. But you think you are beginning to understand.

Love is the thing that makes your women stay with a man who hungers so many others, love is the thing that makes Davesprite want so much more for Jade, makes him feel so unworthy, love is the thing that makes you grow jealous when John's eyes fall on another.

"Sorry," he gives you a crooked, awkward little smile, eyes searching.

"No, don't apologize," you murmur, hand finding his once more. "I'll try." There's a flicker of confusion across his face and you smile. "I'm trying to learn."

He smiles back, slow and sweet, not the broad one that shows his too-big teeth, it's something different that only you get to see. He kisses you and you kiss back. You don't go to sleep until long after the room has grown dark and your minds fuzzy with sleep and happiness.

The next day Rose and Minerva come to you and tell you that they will be opening a gate to John's kingdom. Minerva, it seems, has used some sort of magic to get a message to the more humane leaders. Menes, Eridan's king, Sollux's, Equius', and Nepeta's too, you think, as well as others. You aren't familiar with most of the names; you do recognize Menes, of course, Cyrus, and Triton. You don't recognize the name Solomon, Themis, or Diana.

So Rose says goodbye to Minerva, surprising you by taking the woman by the hand and smiling before pressing a kiss to her cheek with a bit of a struggle due to her size. It makes Sollux chuckle, earning a sharp look. Minerva smiles back though.

Rose thanks her followers for their help and then you all are slipping into another city, not very different, larger, maybe, and there is the same reaction as before only now the people are clutching at John and he looks absolutely horrified.

"This should be good," Sollux murmurs, loud enough for both you and Rose to hear and he gets two elbows to the gut.

"Come John," Rose murmurs, taking him by the arm to gently pull through the parting crowd of dumbstruck people. She glances back at you, raising a brow, and you smile, locking arms with Sollux. She rolls her eyes and he chuckles. The noise no longer makes you want to smack him. This is getting weird but somehow you can't bring yourself to really care anymore.

There's a heavy silence that falls over the city, it may be more unnerving than the hum of prayers. The people keep their hands to themselves for the most part, some eyeing you with funny looks and some doing the same with Eridan. It doesn't take a genius to know why and it, for whatever reason, gives you a little pang of guilt.

You just want to find Sekhmet and get this over with.

John guides you all down the streets and it's not long until you are standing before a temple, almost as extravagant as your homes, all gold and ivory and marble, and a woman comes rushing out. As soon as she sees you all she slows, brushing back her curls of brown hair and smoothing the folds of her odd dress, the fabric twisted and knotted in odd ways around her waist and chest. She gulps, making her way down the steps to greet you all with her head held high and a wavering smile, one that wants to be like Rose's, knowing and superior, but doesn't quite make it.

You narrow your eyes uncomfortable with her resemblance to a woman you only saw a handful of times, all of them being unpleasant.

"My God," her voice is high and lilting and you have to bite your tongue.

Sollux's hand squeezes yours and you realize you're gripping his arm a little too tight and finally withdraw, not meeting his puzzled gaze.

The girl slowly lowers to her knees before him, clasping her hands together and ducking her head. "We are so very pleased to have you grace our simple city with your presence, we are honored to have you here."

Rose looks back at you and you don't recognize the look on her face but Sollux seems to, ducking his head to whisper in your ear. His breath is hot and the action is odd enough to make you stiffen. "What am I missing here?" He asks.

"What do you mean?"

"You know what I mean."

You glance to your right to find Nepeta eyeing you curiously, quickly looking away when you catch her. You look back to Sollux and shake your head. Now is definitely not the time. You seem to get this across but you know he's not going to forget; Rose isn't either.

The girl, Semele, guides you inside, smiling at John and acting all around like a little girl with her first flush-crush.

You may or may not want to stab her in the throat and drain out all of that pretty red blood of hers.

You're beginning to notice an unfortunate pattern. Rose is small, curvy, and beautiful. She acts like a "lady", she's intelligent and quick witted, and she's human. Semele is a tiny little thing, a few inches taller than Lalonde but still smaller than you. She's skinny but her curves are still there under her loose fitting dress. Her skin is a strange olive brown and her eyes a shock of sky blue. She moves with a purpose and it's obvious she thinks she is more powerful, but as soon as she's in any of your presence she's reduced to a tiny girl with no power and no knowledge, a creature not deserving of your gifts, unsure of herself, relying on you all for guidance.

It's annoying.

John has done better than you expected, though. His people follow him without question, they provide you all with only the best, they respect you. But, like his position of power among his fellow gods, it makes him uncomfortable. When Semele gets down on her knees before him he grows anxious, laughing nervously and quickly telling her she doesn't need to do that. She thinks that it is a test so she only bows lower.

They give you more than Rose's people, taking you into a room full of riches and silks and bringing you even more exotic food, you are waited on like royalty, which, you suppose, you're considered even more powerful than. You are the kingmakers after all. The people wait on all of you but hesitate when they see you, especially when you curl up next to John on the odd little couch, but then they bring you a goblet of wine as well as Eridan and it all is okay. But Rose still notices.

Your people are not only offered riches and food but, at least in the boys' case, women. John turns a brilliant gold as soon as they enter the room, all dressed in too little that make up for it by shining too much. You regret leaving his side, but you're sure it will be fine.

That's a lie. You feel the flare of jealousy, hot and sharp, and you know this won't turn out well unless you can keep yourself under control.

Their movements are smooth and enticing but it doesn't have the desired effect on any of the boys but Sollux it seems. It's actually comical and you find yourself biting back laughs, not insults. Equius starts to sweat, eyes flickering to Aradia for help but she remains where she is, sitting at the table with Terezi, watching with an amused little smile. Tavros blushes and stumbles over his words as one of the girls slips behind him to rub his shoulders. Karkat just freezes, eyes as big as saucers and golden blush flooding his cheeks. Davesprite slips backwards so he can practically hide behind you and Jade, becoming his shield once more, both of you roll your eyes. But you're happy he did and you know she is too, you don't want those girls all over your Moirail. Eridan tries to turn his nose up at the long-legged woman trying to sit on the arm of his chair and fails miserably. Gamzee is sitting between Aradia and Nepeta at the table, officially safe from any of the women. And Sollux, well, Sollux lets out one of his nasally laughs that make you scowl and pulls a girl into his lap.

His fun is quickly over though.

"Mr. Captor, if you want to return with us to our kingdom, and remain capable of sight, you will remove that girl from your lap immediately." Rose snaps from her seat at the table to your right.

Sollux turns his head to pout at her but she does not give in. He sighs heavily, releasing the girl so she may stand. She looks a little alarmed herself and you don't blame her, Rose isn't someone you'd want to cross. When Sollux pulls his hand back to smack the girl's backside Rose is ready and flicks an olive at him, hitting him in the back of the head.

You howl with laughter, absolutely delighted with your fellow goddess of light, and Terezi is quick to join in with her own cackles.

The women don't seem to know what to think about this, especially little Semele still standing in the corner, uncertainty written all over her face.

"Semele, darling, as much as we appreciate the gesture I think it would be best if your dancers left." Rose tells her and she doesn't have to say it twice.

John is given a more extravagant room this time, a bed with more space so that you both can curl up more comfortably together, silky curtains and warm blankets. When you wake up in the morning to his soft breathing, the morning light slipping through the curtains you forgot to close properly and dancing across his pale skin, you're afraid that moving will ruin something; that getting up will destroy the moment. But he soon stirs, blue eyes blinking at you groggily, and he smiles at you, that beautiful, simple, little smile that is for you and only you. It makes your insides warm and your heart flutter.

You wonder if this is love.

When you get breakfast, not bothering to change out of your simple pajamas, Rose is there to pull you to the side.

Her tiny fingers curl tightly around your wrist, dragging you to the side. You let her, knowing that this was coming. "This is why you started the war?" She hisses once you're in a dark little corner of the hall. "Jealous of a human? Vriska-"

"He watched her bathe." You snap back, cheeks cool with embarrassment. You feel sick telling her this, like it is yet another show of your weakness. But for once you feel like letting her go on thinking something about you would be bad. You feel like you need to explain to her why.

She stops, frowning at you slightly, but then her grip loosens so she may slip her hand into yours instead. "I'm sorry. I understand why that could be… frustrating…" She murmurs and your mind flickers back to the other day when Sollux had that girl in his lap. "But it is still an…" She flinches slightly. "Bad word choice," she murmurs before beginning again. "It is still not a good way to handle the situation. You could have gone about it differently."

"I know," you reply, looking away.

"It is how your culture is, I understand, but we need to start going about things with a bit more thought and patience, more finesse." She continues, hand squeezing your own. "You are not the only one who needs to learn, I do as well as many of the others… most of the others."

You smile a little but your mind is already moving on to other things.

"Do you love him?"

"Who?" She asks, pulling back. "Sollux?"

"Yeah," you reply and watch how her cheeks flush in the dark. You grin. "Is that a yes?"

"Goodness, Vriska," she huffs before leaving you in the hallway.

You only laugh.

They arrive the next day in a carriage pulled by two black horses, followed by what could only be described as a small army. You could hear it, the thud of feet and the clank of metal, for a good while before they actually arrived. The carriage is made of wood that has been dyed a dark blue that reminds you of your old ship. The men in line behind it are all clad in armor from this kingdom that has been decorated with even more blue. And when Menes steps out of his carriage you are struck that he may be even more handsome in person. He steps down but instead of coming up the stairs where you wait he turns, taking a delicate grey hand in his own, one that you recognize.

Once again you have succeeded with one of your creations, the only question left to ask is if she, too, will cause you pain. She looks like she did the first time you saw her, discolored skin painted slate grey, blue eyes as striking as your own, tall frame laden with jewels and silky fabric. You bear the same symbol, her wearing a sapphire in its shape and you wearing one of the many white dresses provided to you with it stitched into the breast. You are one and the same, two girls who have done what it takes to stay alive, liars, manipulators, thieves.

Your fellow gods hang back, allowing you to sweep forward and start down the stairs. She stares up at you for a moment but she doesn't stay frozen for long. She's soon climbing up the stairs to meet you halfway with Menes lagging behind a bit, smiling calmly. She tries to bow before you but you grab her hand, holding her up. She looks puzzled, maybe even a little shocked, especially when you smile.

"My Goddess, it is an honor to meet you in the flesh." She says but still has this wide-eyed look of shock on her face. She hesitantly twines her fingers with your own and continues to blink owlishly down at you.

"Sekhmet," you reply. "I have been wanting to meet you since I first saw you."

Your flattering doesn't help. She obviously doesn't have a clue how to respond.

You laugh at her expression, as does Menes. "Don't look so surprised! You're my chosen one remember? You're stronger and better than some of the other gods I have to put up with!"

She blinks owlishly but returns your smile now. You turn to Menes and he bows to you a bit, jokingly. "Vriska," he greets, grinning, and you laugh, pulling him into a hug. You can feel the others eyeing you but you ignore it. You snatch up Sekhmet's hand once more and drag her up the steps refusing to release her.

Rose does not look surprised by your connection but John continues to eye the tall man warily, he is a bit opposing, you suppose. You introduce them quickly and this time they both bow, not jokingly but seriously, puzzling you, but you do not object.

Semele is wary of them and they are wary in turn but they are still invited in and served. Menes is as fantastic in person as you thought he would be. He's charming and funny and, although he remains respectful, he is not as meek around your friends as everyone else has been. He does ask to talk to you in private, eventually, and you comply.

You speak of different political and military issues that he must solve and you joke about Semele and some of the others but soon the real subject that is worrying him comes about. "She is of the age she must be married," he sighs, pinching the ridge of his nose. "Cyrus has an heir about her age but-"

"'About her age'?" You repeat, narrowing your eyes.

"The boy is twenty," he explains.

"No."

"Then who do you suggest?" He looks tired and for the first time you really notice the grey in his hair, the crease between his brow, the bags under his eyes. Menes is aging and you are frozen here in time.

"Let me talk to her," you reply, the image of her in her youth, her little voice saying that word that convinced you to come here, stuck in your mind's eye.

He sighs but nods.

Back in the main room she is laughing along with Jade about something Davesprite said you think but when she spots that you have returned you are the center of her attention once more, giving you a sweet little smile, one that you remember from her youth. You motion for her to follow and she complies instantly.

"Yes?" She asks brightly as she trots behind you down the hall.

"I just want to talk to you."

"Are you… are you angry, Goddess?" She asks hesitantly and you quickly shake your head.

"No, I just…" There's a sick feeling in your stomach and you can't get rid of it. It's not exactly guilt but it's close enough. "Menes says you're to be married soon." You say, turning on her.

She smiles at you but she cannot take back the little twist that came to her mouth only a second before. "Yes, to Cyrus' son possibly, or maybe even Themis' or Solomon's. If I married Nemesis or Ometeo it would probably be for the best, since our ties with Cyrus' kingdom are already so good." You frown at her and she blinks, biting the inside of her cheek. "Am I incorrect in that assumption, Goddess?"

"You shouldn't marry either," you say slowly and she nods quickly in response, eager to please. "You should marry someone you love, Sekhmet."

Her brow furrows ever so slightly. "Someone I love…"

"Yes." You insist, trying not to frown yourself.

"But… Goddess, what if who I love is not royal?" She asks, peeking up at you warily.

"It doesn't matter, marry him, marry whoever makes you happy and will treat you right."

The thought of a man who will not appreciate her, who will not dote on her the way she deserves, a man who would take her as well as many others, makes you sick.

She smiles at you, a sweet, content, little smile. "Thank you, mother." You cannot explain why her words make you calm. But then her eyes flicker from you to a place somewhere behind you, smile fading ever so slightly. "Oh…"

You turn to find John standing there, staring at you, and you immediately flush. "John, is there something you need?" You ask, voice a little to high and cheeks golden enough to shine in the dim light, you're sure.

He smiles at you, that smile that he saves just for you, and ducks his head. "Sorry, I was just heading to the other room, I didn't mean to listen in." His eyes flicker up to meet your own once more and his lips curl into a more mischievous sort of smile. "But… I do hope Vriska is speaking from experience…" It's almost a question, the little twinge of hope in his voice not missed.

"That's safe to say," you reply and that smile turns into something bright and excited.

"Good," he says with a nervous little laugh, hurrying on, but he stops by your side, pulling you in for a kiss that makes Sekhmet gasp. You smile against his lips, returning the kiss. He pulls back with another nervous giggle. "Love you," he whispers but you're sure she can still hear.

"I love you too," you reply softly, feeling giddy like a child when the foreign words pass through your lips.

He grins at you and finally leaves, glancing back before he turns the corner to give you another toothy grin.

Sekhmet smiles at you; filled with her childish glee once more. You roll your eyes, looking away but she can still see your flushed cheeks. "Thank you, Goddess… I can only hope we are as sweet of a couple as you."

"Oh good grief…" You sigh trying to hide your face in your hands.

She giggles turning to leave herself. "I hope you will have many beautiful children!" She adds making you sputter before turning the corner too.

You take a moment to collect yourself, taking a deep breath and willing away your blush, before heading after the two of them. You walk in just in time to hear "I want to be the best man John! It is my right as a sister!" and to find Jade glaring at John, who, the spiteful part of you is happy to find, is blushing, with her hands on her hips and her lips stuck in a pout.

Davesprite glances over at you with a smirk, giving you a thumbs-up that makes you blush harder. "Don't expect me to be your maid of honor or something. Jade's just a little cuckoo for cocoa puffs if you know what I mean."

"Dave, I literally do not know what that is." You huff.

He smiles. "Good. Can't have you going cuckoo, too."

"I know what that is! The maiden of honor thing!"

"You, Miss Egbert, have a lot to learn before your wedding."

"Davesprite!" John whines, face flushing darker.

Jade giggles and bounds over to lock arms with you, smiling brightly. "We're just messing with you, don't worry about it."

John and Dave continue to bicker over pointless things and you can't help but feel all warm and stupid over it. You lean a little closer to Jade, enjoying her warmth, both from her red blood and from the bright smile she gives you. You've formed an odd bond with her as you have with everyone else, something that you think you can name now, but that's not the point, the point is you don't care about it anymore.

When night finally falls and you all have had enough rich food to quiet your hunger, a dinner filled with laughs and smiles and more embarrassment, and are now tired, you take John by the hand, heading for his room once more. He smiles, twining his fingers with your own and pulling them up to press a kiss to your grey skin. You bump into his side, resting your head on his shoulder as you walk. "I was very wrong about you." You murmur and he laughs a little, meeting you halfway in a kiss.