Day 75
Gneisenau's piercing blue eyes widened as I gently laid the map onto the sand, my spectral fingers barely disturbing the grains beneath. "How are you doing this?" she asked, her voice a mix of awe and disbelief.
I smirked, my translucent form shimmering in the fading sunlight. "Magic," I replied cryptically, watching her brow furrow in frustration.
Over the months since my arrival in this world, I had honed my ability to manifest as a spectral entity. It seemed to be a form of astral projection, allowing me to interact with the physical realm to a limited degree. Recent experiments had revealed intriguing capabilities: macro weather manipulation and a type of tactile telekinesis that let me manipulate objects with ghostly precision.
Gneisenau's lips tightened, her fingers drumming against the metal hull behind her. "Whatever. Keep your secrets," she sighed, a hint of resignation in her tone.
I stepped closer, my ethereal form casting no shadow on the beach. "Soooo, moving on," I prompted, gesturing towards the map with a translucent hand.
"You said the new fleet will be ready in three days' time?" Gneisenau asked, her piercing blue eyes fixed on me as she leaned against a fallen enemy destroyer. Its beached body shone a tarnished gray under the sky—where scorch marks and blast craters pockmarked it like sores on a dead carcass left to rot in the sun.
I nodded, my fingers tracing the contours of the map spread before us on the beach, helpfully procured from the destroyed ship in question. "The resources should be gathered by tonight, and the gestation period will last 72 hours." I paused, studying her face for any signs of concern. "How are things on your end? Any issues?"
Gneisenau's lips curved into a slight smile. "Surprisingly, no. The Japanese are largely content to leave us alone as long as we stay away from any cities." She gestured towards the coastline on the map. "They send the occasional rocket our way, but it's no issue to concern ourselves over. Our defenses have proven more than adequate."
I furrowed my brow, considering the implications. "They must be evacuating Yokohama City and Yokosuka prefecture. Probably Tokyo as well, since it's not too far north from here." My eyes scanned the map, searching for potential safe zones. "I cannot imagine where else they would be," I deduced, a hint of frustration creeping into my voice.
"You're likely correct," she agreed with a shrug. Gneisenau reached into her pocket, pulling out a silver cigarette case. With practiced ease, she extracted a cigarette and brought it to her lips.
I frowned, caught off guard by the unexpected action. "Since when did you smoke?"
Gneisenau paused, the unlit cigarette dangling between her fingers. A wry smile played across her face. "Since about ten minutes ago," she admitted. "Found these in an abandoned shop during our last reconnaissance. Thought I'd give it a try." She flicked open a lighter, the flame dancing in the dim light of the war room.
I raised an eyebrow, a mix of amusement and concern washing over me. "I'm not sure that's the best habit to pick up, especially given our current circumstances."
She took a long drag, exhaling a plume of smoke that curled towards the ceiling. "Perhaps not," Gneisenau conceded, her eyes distant. "But in times like these, one finds comfort where one can."
I nodded, understanding the sentiment all too well. The weight of our responsibilities, the constant threat of danger, and the uncertainty of our future weighed heavily on us all. "Just don't let it interfere with your duties," I cautioned, my tone softening.
"Of course not, Princess," Gneisenau replied, stubbing out the cigarette in the sand. "Now, shall we discuss our next move?"
I turned back to the map, my mind already racing with possibilities. "Yes, let's. We need to prepare for every contingency once our new fleet is operational..."
Hours later, I materialized behind Ruby without warning, causing her to yelp in surprise. Her startled reaction sent a flock of seagulls scattering from a nearby pile of rubble, their cries startling a nearby turtle into diving back underneath the water.
"Hey," I said, raising a hand in greeting. "I thought I'd check in. No danger, right? It's not as if the humans can see me like this."
Ruby composed herself quickly, straightening her posture. "No, Princess. Everything is fine," she replied, bowing deeply. Her crimson hair caught the fading sunlight, shimmering like liquid fire.
The ruins of Yokosuka Naval Base loomed behind her, a stark reminder of our recent conquest. Twisted metal and shattered concrete stretched as far as the eye could see, punctuated by the occasional flicker of still-burning fires. Enemy surveillance drones buzzed overhead, their silent vigil a constant presence in the war-torn sky.
Beyond the devastation of the base lay the urban sprawl of Yokohama prefecture. Once-bustling streets now stood empty, a ghostly silence hanging over the abandoned buildings. Those structures that hadn't been leveled by the conflict stood as hollow shells, their windows dark and lifeless.
"Not a very interesting sight, huh?" I prompted, my gaze sweeping across the desolation.
Ruby shook her head, a look of melancholy falling over her features. "Not in the least," she murmured. "I thought I might have a chance to see what the city is like, but Tokyo is farther north in the bay." Her voice carried a hint of disappointment, tinged with curiosity about the human world we were gradually conquering.
I nodded, understanding her sentiment. "Perhaps we'll have a chance to explore it soon enough," I offered, trying to lift her spirits. "For now, we must focus on consolidating our position here."
As if to emphasize my point, a distant explosion rumbled across the landscape, sending tremors through the ground beneath our feet. Ruby tensed, her hand instinctively moving to her weapon.
"Relax," I assured her, placing a ghostly hand on her shoulder. "It's likely just our forces clearing out the remaining pockets of resistance. We've come too far to let our guard down now."
Ruby nodded, her posture relaxing slightly. "Of course, Princess. I won't fail you."
As we stood there, surveying the ruins of what was once a thriving metropolis, I couldn't help but wonder about the future that lay ahead. The world was changing rapidly, and we were at the forefront of that change.
Mana emerged from a jagged hole in the beached destroyer's hull, her emerald hair shimmering like seaweed in the sunlight. A sly grin played across her lips as she surveyed the scene before her—her eyes narrowing as they adjusted to the dimming light. A gust of wind ruffled her vibrant locks, carrying with it the acrid scent of smoke and gunpowder that still lingered in the air. "You two look like you're having a blast," she quipped, her voice laced with amusement.
Ruby turned, her crimson locks swaying in the salt-tinged breeze. "Hey, Sis," she greeted, offering a small wave. The gesture seemed almost incongruous against the backdrop of twisted metal and smoldering debris.
"Sup, Sweetbun," Mana shot back, a chuckle escaping her lips. She sauntered towards them, her boots crunching on the sand and scattered shrapnel.
Ruby's cheeks flushed, matching her hair. "Stop calling me that," she protested, her lips forming a cute pout. "It makes me feel all bubbly and tingly inside."
"That's just sisterly love, you little dummy," Mana retorted, her eyes twinkling with mischief. She reached over, ruffling Ruby's hair with playful affection.
Ruby ducked away, her indignation evident as she attempted to smooth her tousled locks. "Cut it out!" she grumbled, though a hint of a smile tugged at the corners of her mouth.
I watched their interaction with quiet interest, noting the easy camaraderie between the two despite the grim surroundings. It brought joy to my heart that even in the midst of war and personal loss, bonds of kinship persevered over hatred and self-recrimination.
I'd heard of too many stories where soldiers with PTSD withdrew from their loved ones and relied on drugs to deal with their painful losses. I don't know if I could survive seeing one of my own wasting away like that.
Mana's gaze shifted to me, her expression growing more serious. "Any word on our next move, Princess?" she inquired, her tone respectful but tinged with curiosity.
Before I could respond, a distant explosion echoed across the bay, causing all three of us to instinctively tense. Ruby's rigging activated, while Mana's eyes narrowed, scanning the horizon for any immediate threat.
"At ease," I commanded softly, my voice carrying despite the lingering rumble. "It's likely just our forces clearing out the remaining pockets of resistance."
Mana nodded, her posture relaxing slightly. "Never a dull moment, eh?" she remarked, a wry smile returning to her face.
As the echo of the explosion faded, replaced by the gentle lapping of waves against the shore, I contemplated our next steps. The ruins of Yokosuka Naval Base stretched before us, a testament to our recent victory, but also a reminder of the difficult challenges that lay ahead.
However, those challenges could wait for another day. Today was a time for celebration, a moment to savor our hard-won victory. As the sun dipped lower on the horizon, casting long shadows across the war-torn landscape, an idea began to form in my mind.
"How would you girls like to see a movie?" I proposed with a hint of mischief tinging my voice.
Ruby's brow furrowed in confusion. "A movie?" she echoed, the unfamiliar word rolling off her tongue.
"Yes, a movie," I explained patiently. "Moving pictures on a big screen. You've never seen one since we lived in the middle of the ocean. I believe there's a theater not too far off in Yokohama City."
At least, I hoped there was. Most medium-sized towns and small cities boasted a movie theater. If worse came to worst, I mused, we could always commandeer a television and jury-rig a generator with some DVDs for an impromptu movie night.
Mana's eyes widened with interest, though her voice carried a hint of hesitation. "That sounds... intriguing," she admitted, her curiosity piqued by the prospect of experiencing this human form of entertainment.
Ruby, on the other hand, burst into a bubbly laugh. "I'm down for anything!" she exclaimed, her enthusiasm positively infectious.
I smiled, pleased by their reactions. "Excellent. Go fetch your sisters, and we'll make an outing of it."
An hour later, the group had assembled, a mix of excitement and apprehension evident on their faces. Gneisenau, ever the dutiful second-in-command, volunteered to remain behind with a detachment of destroyers. Someone had to secure our makeshift forward operating base, after all – even if it was just a sad, half-destroyed ship beached on the shore.
As we prepared to depart, I found myself pondering whether the Japanese resented us for repurposing their fallen destroyer. The thought flitted through my mind like an errant fly, only to be swatted away just as quickly. Of course they did – but such was the nature of war.
The journey to Yokohama City was mercifully brief. We hugged the coastline, the gentle lapping of waves against the shore a stark contrast to the destruction we'd left in our wake. Eventually, we came upon a vacant dock, its weathered planks creaking under our feet as we clambered up.
The large seaside town sprawled before me, a maze of abandoned streets and silent buildings. I couldn't help but marvel at the eerie beauty of the deserted town. Warning sirens blared loudly in the distance, a dire message to run from the encroaching abyssal forces. The fading daylight cast long shadows across the empty avenues, creating a surreal tableau of light and darkness.
As we ventured deeper into the town, I found myself studying the streets with a feeling of nostalgia. I remember this place, it was different back then.
“Look at this place,” Ruby exclaimed, her emerald eyes wide with curiosity. “It’s like we’ve stepped into a forgotten world.”
I nodded, feeling a mixture of nostalgia and sadness. Yokohama had surely been a lively place before we attacked Japan, full of energy and life. Now, the empty streets and silent buildings created an almost surreal atmosphere.
“Alright, girls,” I said, trying to lighten the mood. “How would you like to see the sights before we head to the movie theater?”
The group nodded eagerly. Ruby’s shining personality was contagious, and even Hisui, usually so silent, seemed more animated. Mae was already looking around with excitement.
"Oooh, I want to explore the clothing shops. Human clothes fascinate me," Mana remarked with her usual impish smirk, seeming to relish the opportunity for some mischief.
Morrigan and Nephthys huddled close together, their introverted natures drawing them to the periphery of our group. Despite their reticence, I caught glimpses of curiosity flickering in their sickly green eyes as they trailed behind their older sister. The twins' matching midnight-black hair shimmered in the waning sunlight, creating an almost ethereal aura around them.
"Let's venture into town and see what treasures we can unearth," I suggested, my voice carrying a hint of excitement. With a collective nod of agreement, we embarked on our urban expedition.
As we meandered down the deserted streets, the once-familiar landmarks loomed before us like specters from a forgotten era. The fading daylight cast long shadows across abandoned storefronts and silent alleyways, painting the city in hues of amber and deep purple. A cool breeze whispered through the empty boulevards, carrying with it the faint scent of the ocean and distant memories.
My mind drifted back to a time when these same streets bustled with life and energy. I had visited here once, on a carefree tourist trip with friends, their laughter echoing in my mind like a bittersweet melody. A pang of nostalgia tugged at my heart as I wondered about their fate in this new world, if there were indeed a doppelganger equivalent. Were they safe? Did they think badly of me?
For a moment, I saw the streets as they once were, bustling with life, before the vision faded away. I reached out with a translucent hand as if to grab hold of that fleeting memory, seemingly more real than I was.
No wait. Don't leave!
The memory vanished as the world returned to washed out tones.
A painful feeling prickled the inside of my chest and I sighed. I looked to the side and no one seemed to notice anything wrong. I need to get my head in the game. I can't start losing it before my journey is even to the halfway mark.
Shaking my head, I began walking again before I fell behind the others.
Despite their abandonment, the buildings retained an undeniable charm, standing as proud sentinels of a once-vibrant town. Art deco facades mingled with sleek modern architecture, creating a visual tapestry that spoke of the location's rich history and lost potential.
A gleaming vehicle caught my eye, its attention-grabbing aerodynamic silhouette a stark contrast to the pedestrian surroundings. The Lamborghini's midnight blue paint reflected the dying light, transforming the car into a work of art.
Beautiful. I will need to remind myself to take it with me on the trip back.
My gaze swept over the various storefronts, searching for signs of recent activity. Mannequins stood frozen in shop windows, modeling fashions that now seemed like relics of a bygone era. A bookstore's display featured bestsellers whose titles now held an unintended irony. A gourmet restaurant's menu board still promised culinary delights, its chalk-written specials faded but still legible.
The eerie silence that enveloped us was occasionally broken by the distant cry of a seagull or the rustle of dour heavy boots skittering across the pavement. Each sound seemed amplified in the absence of the usual urban cacophony, serving as an unnerving reminder of our solitude in this abandoned cityscape.
As we continued our exploration, the weight of my actions settled upon my shoulders. The empty streets and shuttered businesses were a testament to the impact of our presence. Yet, amidst the hushed journey, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for what we might discover in this urban playground that now lay at our feet.
"It's so... quiet," Ruby whispered, her voice barely audible above the gentle whisper of the wind through the empty streets.
Mana nodded in agreement, her eyes darting from one vacant storefront to another. "I never imagined a city could feel so... lifeless," she murmured, a hint of awe and sadness coloring her words.
I refrained from speaking, my mouth suddenly dry.
As they rounded a corner, Ruby's eyes lit up. There, nestled between two towering office buildings, stood their destination – a modest movie theater, its marquee dark but still promising the escapism they sought.
"There it is, girls," I announced, feeling relief set in as a smile played across my lips. "Ready for your first cinematic experience?"
"I want to explore more first," Mae voiced.
"Does anyone else share Mae's desire to explore further?" I asked, my gaze sweeping across the group. Ruby bounced on her toes, barely containing her excitement, while an uncertain look flashed over Mana's face. The twins, Morrigan and Nephthys, exchanged a silent glance before nodding in unison. Hisui remained stoic, but the subtle tilt of her head betrayed her interest.
"I'll go for it," Mana declared finally, her eyes glinting with unbridled curiosity.
The twins stepped forward, their matching green eyes fixed on their older sister. "We will follow big sister," they announced in perfect synchronization, their soft voices carrying an undercurrent of boredom.
Ruby nodded eagerly, her crimson hair swaying with the motion. "Oh yes! There's so much to see!"
Hisui remained quiet, but her subtle nod spoke volumes. The group's collective energy seemed to crackle in the air, a palpable force urging them forward into the unknown streets of Yokohama.
I surveyed my eager children, a smile tugging at the corners of my mouth. "Very well," I conceded, gesturing towards the abandoned storefronts lining the street. "Let's see what this city has to offer before our cinematic adventure."
Onwards to a shopping trip!
We walked along the main street, the sound of our footsteps echoing in the silence. The absence of people gave the city an almost serene quality, the kind of peace that’s rare in the bustling world I'd come from originally.
We passed by a small café, its chairs and tables neatly arranged as if waiting for patrons who would never come. The scent of old coffee lingered in the air, mixing with the salty tang of the sea breeze. Further down, a bookstore caught my attention, its window displays filled with books of all genres.
Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.
"Let's explore this place," Mae suggested, her eyes gleaming with unbridled excitement.
The brass bell above the door jingled melodiously as we crossed the threshold, its cheerful tone a stark contrast to the eerie silence that had enveloped the abandoned city. The musty aroma of aged paper and dried ink enveloped us, a comforting fragrance that transported me to quieter times spent lost in the pages of a captivating novel. Dust motes danced in the slanting rays of late afternoon sunlight that filtered through the grimy windows, casting long shadows across the worn wooden floorboards.
We meandered through the narrow aisles, our footsteps muffled by the thick carpet runner that stretched down the center of each row. Towering shelves loomed on either side, their contents a menagerie of colorful spines and well-worn covers. The weight of countless stories and accumulated knowledge seemed to press in around us, creating an atmosphere of reverent silence broken only by the occasional rustle of pages or soft exclamation of discovery.
Mana's fingers skimmed along the spines of books in the military history section, finally coming to rest on a leather-bound tome. She carefully extracted it from its snug place on the shelf, a small cloud of dust billowing up as she did so. "The Art of War," she read aloud, her voice barely above a whisper. Her lips curved into a vicious smirk as she traced the embossed lettering on the cover. "This could prove quite useful," she mused darkly, tucking the book under her arm.
Nearby, Hisui stood motionless before a shelf of poetry collections. Her delicate fingers gently pried open a slim volume, its pages yellowed with age. As she silently perused the verses within, her usually stoic expression softened, a hint of wonder flickering in her eyes. The gentle cadence of the poems seemed to resonate with something deep within her, and for a moment, she appeared lost in a world of rhythmic language and vivid imagery.
Morrigan and Nephthys, ever inseparable, huddled together in a cozy reading nook tucked away in a corner. Their pale heads bent close as they pored over a large, richly illustrated book of fairy tales. Their hushed whispers and occasional giggles created a bubble of warmth in the otherwise silent store. The twins' matching green eyes widened with each turn of the page, drinking in the fantastical scenes depicted in vibrant watercolors.
Ruby, her crimson hair a splash of color against the muted tones of the bookstore, bounced excitedly from section to section, followed by a beaming Mae. Her enthusiasm was infectious as she pulled out book after book, exclaiming over their covers and flipping through their pages with unbridled curiosity. "Look at this one!" she called out, holding up a cookbook filled with mouthwatering photographs of exotic dishes. "Do you think we could try making some of these?"
"I'll help cook anything you find," Mae declared loudly.
I chuckled at their byplay, smiling as an excited Ruby shook Mae like a salt shaker after the diminutive girl promised to help cook her food.
So cute. I wish I had a camera that worked on abyssals. This is too precious.
After a few minutes of watching the comedic duo, I returned to my idle wandering, lasting until I found myself drawn to a small alcove dedicated to local history. My fingers trailed along the spines of books chronicling the rich past of Yokohama and the surrounding area. A pang of melancholy struck me as I realized how much had been lost in our conquest. The weight of our actions settled heavily on my shoulders as I gazed at black and white photographs of the naval port in its prime, bustling with life and energy.
As we explored, the creaking of the old wooden shelves and the soft rustling of pages created a soothing ambiance. The fading daylight streaming through the dusty windows cast long shadows across the store, lending an almost magical quality to our surroundings. Time seemed to stand still in this sanctuary of knowledge and imagination, allowing us a brief respite from the harsh realities of our war.
Mana's voice broke through my reverie. "Princess, come look at this!" she called, waving me over to a display near the front of the store. As I approached, I saw she had discovered a collection of maps and travel guides. Her eyes sparkled with curiosity as she spread out a large, detailed map of Japan on a nearby table. "Maybe we could use these to plan our next moves," she suggested, her tactical mind already at work.
I nodded, impressed by her initiative. "Excellent find, Mana. These could indeed prove invaluable."
As we gathered around the map, each of us pointing out areas of interest or strategic importance, I couldn't help but feel a sense of unity among our diverse group. Despite the circumstances that had brought us here, in this moment, surrounded by the accumulated wisdom of countless authors, we were simply a group of curious explorers, eager to learn and discover.
The bookstore had become an unexpected oasis, a place where the lines between conqueror and conquered blurred, if only for a little while. As we continued our literary expedition, I made a mental note to return here, to preserve this treasure trove of knowledge and stories. For in these pages lay not just information, but a culture, civilization.
The loss of humanity's cultural heritage would be a tragedy beyond reckoning, a void that could never be filled. As an Abyssal, I felt this truth keenly; our fledgling civilization paled in comparison to Japan's rich tapestry of history and tradition. The weight of this realization settled on my shoulders like a heavy cloak, urging me to preserve rather than destroy.
As the sun dipped lower on the horizon, casting long shadows across the abandoned streets, we reluctantly decided to move on.
The city's silent buildings loomed around us, their windows reflecting the dying light like countless watchful eyes. A cool breeze whispered through the empty alleyways, carrying with it the faint scent of sea-salt and burning oil from the bay. The gentle rustle of leaves and the distant cry of a lone seagull punctuated the eerie stillness. Yokohama still had so much to offer, its secrets waiting to be uncovered in every shadowed corner and silent storefront. We couldn't bear to miss a single moment of discovery in this urban playground that now lay at our feet.
As we continued our exploration, a clothing store caught Ruby's eye. The large display window showcased mannequins dressed in the latest fashion, their frozen poses a stark contrast to the deserted street outside. "Let's go in here!" Ruby exclaimed, her voice echoing in the empty thoroughfare. "I've always wanted to try on some new outfits."
The glass door creaked as we pushed it open, a small bell tinkling above our heads. The musty scent of fabric and lingering perfume enveloped us as we stepped inside. The polished wooden floor caught the light perfectly as I walked through the doorway to the brightly lit interior.
The store was a treasure trove of fashion, with racks of clothes in every style and color imaginable. The sight of the vibrant fabrics brought a splash of life to the otherwise muted cityscape. Silk blouses in jewel tones hung next to distressed denim jackets, while flowing summer dresses swayed gently in the breeze from a forgotten fan whirring quietly in the corner.
Ruby and Mae immediately began rifling through the racks, their excitement palpable. The soft rustle of fabric filled the air as they pulled out garment after garment, squeeing over each discovery. Ruby held up a crimson cocktail dress against herself, the sequins catching the light and throwing tiny rainbows across her face.
Hisui, always the quiet observer, drifted towards a section of more subdued clothing. Her fingers trailed over the fabrics, pausing on a simple yet elegant dress in a soft shade of blue. The material whispered as she lifted it from the rack, a small smile playing at the corners of her mouth.
Mana, meanwhile, had discovered a section dedicated to traditional Japanese clothing. She pulled out a kimono, its intricate pattern of cherry blossoms and cranes standing out against the deep indigo background. The silk made a satisfying swish as she held it up to herself, her eyes gleaming with mischief in the store's dim light.
"This suits me, don't you think?" she asked, her voice dripping with playful sarcasm. The kimono's long sleeves brushed against the floor as she struck an exaggerated pose.
I couldn't help but laugh, the sound bouncing off the walls of the empty store. "It's perfect for you, Mana," I replied, shaking my head in amusement.
Morrigan and Nephthys, inseparable as always, had gravitated towards a rack of matching outfits. Their pale fingers sorted through the hangers with quiet efficiency until they each pulled out identical sundresses. The soft, floral print complemented their dark hair and green eyes, giving them an almost ethereal look in the soft light of the store.
As they disappeared into the changing rooms, the rustle of fabric and muffled giggles drifted out. Moments later, they emerged, twirling in their new dresses. The skirts flared out around them, creating a mesmerizing show of colors.
"You two look great!" I gave them a glowing review.
The sound of laughter filled the air as everyone tried on different outfits, a stark contrast to the eerie silence that permeated the abandoned city outside. The joyous atmosphere was overwhelming, and for a moment, it was easy to forget the circumstances that had brought us here.
As I wandered through the store, my fingers trailing over the various textures - smooth silk, rough denim, soft cotton - I found myself drawn to a section of evening wear. A beautiful gown caught my eye, its deep amethyst fabric glittering under the fluorescent lights. I carefully lifted it from the rack, marveling at how the soft material flowed like water through my fingers.
"Wow, I didn't know you could touch stuff," Mae chimed in, regarding me with awe.
"As expected from our princess," Nephthys said from behind me.
"You should try it on, Princess!" Ruby called out, her voice muffled as she struggled with a sweater that seemed determined to trap her.
The others chimed in with encouragement, their voices creating a chorus of support. With a smile, I slipped into a changing room, the heavy curtain rustling as I pulled it closed. The cool fabric of the gown whispered against my skin as I put it on, the zipper's soft purr the only sound in the small space. I hope this contrasts well with my hair.
As I stepped out and looked at myself in the full-length mirror, I felt a sense of normalcy return. The gown hugged my figure perfectly, its sweeping neckline and flowing skirt creating an elegant silhouette. My vibrant snow-white hair cascaded over my shoulders, shimmering under the store's flickering fluorescent lights, while my golden eyes, luminous as polished amber, contrasted strikingly with the deep amethyst of the gown. The soft fabric whispered against my translucent skin with each subtle movement, its rich hue accentuating the otherworldly pallor of my complexion. In the dusty, full-length mirror, surrounded by racks of abandoned clothing, my reflection seemed to glow with an ethereal radiance, a beacon of light amidst the dull colorless background.
The others gathered around, debating over the dress. Their reflections in the mirror created a tableau of contrasts - Ruby's vibrant energy, Mana's high-pitched laughter, Hisui's quiet grace, the twins' ethereal presence, and Mae's boundless enthusiasm. For a moment, I could almost imagine we were simply a group of friends on a shopping trip, not invaders in the midst of a war.
After our impromptu fashion show, we made our way to the movie theater, my eyes searching the streets for hints of movement. The light of dusk shone down upon us as we traveled the lonely roads.
The theater loomed before us, its art deco facade a testament to a bygone era. The large marquee still advertised the last film shown, its once-bright letters now faded and worn, barely visible in the waning light. Movie posters fluttered weakly in their display cases, frozen moments from stories that would never reach their conclusion, at least not until the humans returned here.
The sight of it stirred something within me, evoking memories of better times when an evening at the movies was a common treat. I could almost hear the excited chatter of moviegoers, the rustle of candy wrappers, and the hum of anticipation that used to fill the air.
Unconsciously, I looked down at my arm, frowning at the too-pale ghostly flesh that gleamed faintly in the twilight. That was a long time ago, I reminded myself, pushing aside the bittersweet nostalgia.
With a gentle creak, I pushed open the heavy glass doors, wincing at the loud squeak that shattered the eerie silence. We stepped into the lobby, our heavy boots leaving faint imprints in the polished floor. The faint smell of stale popcorn lingered in the air, a ghostly reminder of the crowds that once filled this space.
Ruby bounced ahead, her auburn hair a vibrant splash of color against the muted tones of the abandoned theater. Her excitement once again spread to the rest of us as she led the procession to the concession stand, its glass display cases still filled with candy bars and boxes of popcorn, preserved like insects in amber.
"Look, they still have popcorn!" she yelled, her voice booming in the empty space. She grabbed a bag, the cellophane crinkling loudly in her hands as she passed it around. The kernels inside rattled, a hollow sound that seemed so loud in the emptiness surrounding us.
The others eagerly grabbed snacks from the stands, the rustle of wrappers and soft exclamations of delight breaking the stillness like a rock tossed into a frozen pond. Mana discovered a cache of chocolate bars, their labels showing dietary information that was promptly ignored. Hisui carefully selected a box of gummy candies, while the twins shared a bag of colorful jelly beans.
Sensing an opportunity, I vaulted over the front counter, my boots landing with a soft thud on the other side. The smell of popcorn and old grease grew stronger as I made my way to the back, navigating around cash registers and hastily discarded snacks left to rot on the floor.
I appraised the hulking shapes of the pretzel and popcorn machines, waiting for someone to bring them back to life. With a tightness in my jaw, I began to fiddle with the controls, hoping to coax these devices of human entertainment back into service for my curious Abyssal family. Work, you piece of scrap. How hard can this be? It's just buttons and dials.
"Can I help?"
I startled, whirling around to find an enthusiastic Mae standing behind me, her small fingers fidgeting with the hem of her new short-sleeved purple shirt, a cartoonish kitty adorning the front. The dim overhead lights from the aged ceiling cast long shadows across her tilted face, accentuating her eager expression. Her amethyst eyes, luminous in the semi-darkness, gazed up at me with a pleading look.
"Mae? You scared me," I said, pressing a hand to my chest to calm my racing heart. A soft chuckle escaped my lips despite my efforts to stifle it. The sound echoed in the cramped space behind the counter, bouncing off the stainless steel surfaces of the dormant popcorn machines. "Why aren't you with the others?"
Mae shuffled her feet, the soles of her boots scraping against the gritty floor. The air around us was thick with the lingering scent of stale popcorn and artificial butter flavoring. "I saw you going back here and thought maybe you might need help, Princess," she answered, a sweet smile spreading across her face. Her voice, usually so boisterous, was hushed in the quiet of the theater kitchen.
So adorable, I thought, warmth blossoming in my chest.
I reached down and ruffled her hair, my fingers sliding through the silky strands. This little tyke was really worming her way into my heart. Such a precious child.
"No, I don't need help with the controls," I lied, gesturing to the complex array of buttons and switches on the nearby machines. "But you can help prepare the food. I think there are some burgers and other things further back in the freezer."
Mae's face lit up, her excitement palpable in the stuffy air. She bounced on her toes, sending small puffs of dust swirling around her feet. "Really? I can help?" she asked, her voice rising with enthusiasm.
I nodded, smiling at her eagerness. "Of course. Come on, let's see what we can find."
Together, we made our way deeper into the back of the kitchen space. The industrial-sized freezer loomed before us, its stainless steel surface dulled by age. I grasped the handle, the cold metal biting into my palm, and pulled. The door opened with a groan, releasing a burst of frigid air that carried the faint smell of preservatives and frozen meat.
Mae peered inside, her breath forming small clouds in the chilly air. "Wow," she whispered, her eyes wide with wonder. "There's so much food in here!"
I couldn't help but smile at her amazement. "Let's see what we can use to make a feast for everyone," I suggested, reaching into the frosty interior. "How about you start by grabbing those burger patties?"
As Mae eagerly set to work, I found myself marveling at the simple joy of this moment. Mae was one of the children I knew the least about. Her kind nature and desire to help was a quality to be carefully cultivated in a cruel world like ours. I am truly blessed to have her. The thought warmed me more than any victory ever could.
As Mae and I rummaged through the freezer, the sound of laughter echoed from the lobby. I glanced over my shoulder, catching glimpses of the others through the kitchen doorway. Ruby twirled in her new dress, the sequins catching the fading light. Mana lounged against the concession counter, munching on a chocolate bar with casual grace.
"Princess, look!" Mae's excited whisper drew my attention back. She held up a box of frozen mozzarella sticks, her eyes sparkling. "Can we make these too?"
I nodded, suppressing a chuckle. "Of course. Grab those and anything else that looks good."
We emerged from the freezer laden with our frozen treasures. The smell of popcorn filled the air as the machine whirred to life, drawing curious looks from the group.
"Dinner and a movie?" Mana quipped, peeking inside the kitchen through the doorway.
"Precisely," I replied, setting down our haul. "Mae, why don't you start preparing the meat while I get these machines turned on."
With a nod, Mae set to work, her small hands deftly arranging burger patties on the grill. The sizzle of meat filled the air, mingling with the buttery aroma of popcorn. I turned my attention to the other appliances, coaxing them back to life with practiced ease after finding the instruction manual tucked inside a drawer.
As the kitchen hummed with activity, the others drifted in, drawn by the enticing smells. Ruby perched on a nearby counter, swinging her legs as she watched Mae cook. Mana leaned against the doorframe, her eyes scanning the room with quiet amusement. The twins hovered near the popcorn machine, their matching green eyes wide with fascination.
"This is quite the operation you've got going," Hisui remarked softly, appearing at my elbow.
I smiled, surveying our makeshift kitchen. "It's not every day we get to enjoy human cuisine. Might as well make the most of it."
As the food cooked and the excitement built, I couldn't help but feel a sense of normalcy wash over us, a brief respite from the war outside.
As the aroma of sizzling burgers and melting cheese filled the air, I remembered that the food would get cold quickly if we didn't eat fast.
"Mae, hold down the fort. The food will take time to cook. The rest of you, let's get the projection room running."
"Got it!"
As Mae scurried back to the stove, I made my way through the lobby and way up the narrow stairs to the projection booth. The projection room door creaked open, revealing the projector waiting to be brought back to life. Ancient film reels lined the shelves, their metal cases gleaming dully in the low light.
"How does this even work?" Mana asked, stepping into the room behind me and running her fingers along the projector's cool surface.
I paused, memories of a past life flickering through my mind. "Let me see," I murmured, examining the machine. With a few deft movements, I threaded the film through its intricate path.
The projector hummed to life, casting a beam of light into the darkened theater below. As the opening credits rolled, I couldn't help but smile at the surprised gasp from my daughter.
The theater itself was a grand space, with plush seats and a large screen that dominated the room.
"Now all that is left to do is finish cooking the food and we can rock the night," I cheered, nearly shaking from excitement.
As we descended the stairs, the aroma of sizzling burgers and popping corn grew stronger. Mae's excited voice echoed from the kitchen, announcing that the food was nearly ready. We gathered the steaming plates of food and snacks before making our way into the darkened theater.
The projector's beam cut through the dust motes in the air, casting flickering images across the massive screen. We found our seats, the familiar creak of the chairs bringing a sense of nostalgia from another life. I settled into the plush seat, balancing my improvised feast on my lap. The opening notes of the film's score filled the air, mingling with the rustle of wrappers and soft exclamations of delight.
As the lights dimmed and the movie started, I glanced around at my family.
Ruby sat with a wide smile on her face, her eyes glued to the screen. Mae and Hisui shared a bucket of popcorn, their expressions relaxed and content. Mana watched the opening commercials with a keen eye, analyzing every scene. Morrigan and Nephthys sat close together, their usually guarded expressions softened by the comfort of the moment.
As the movie unfolded, I found myself swept up in the story, momentarily forgetting the world outside. The flickering light painted shadows across our faces, transforming us into just another group of moviegoers enjoying a night out.
Laughter echoed through the theater at the film's comedic moments, while tense scenes drew collective gasps. Ruby clutched my arm during a particularly suspenseful sequence, her eyes wide with excitement, her nails digging into my skin.
Between bites of burger and handfuls of popcorn, I stole glances at my daughters. Their expressions of wonder and joy warmed my heart, reminding me of the simple pleasures we'd been missing.
The soft rustle of wrappers and the occasional whispered comment created a comforting ambiance in the otherwise silent theater. Ruby leaned over, her crimson hair brushing against my shoulder as she whispered, "This is amazing, Princess! I've never seen anything like it."
I smiled, watching the flickering emotions play across her face in the dim light. Her eyes sparkled with childlike wonder, reflecting the dancing images on the screen. "I'm glad you're enjoying it," I murmured back, careful not to disturb the others.
Mana, seated on my other side, snorted softly. "It's just moving pictures," she muttered, but I caught the hint of fascination in her voice. Her fingers drummed restlessly on the armrest, betraying her engagement with the story unfolding before us.
A particularly tense scene gripped the audience. Mae gasped audibly, her small hand clutching Hisui's arm. Hisui, usually so stoic, patted Mae's hand reassuringly, her eyes never leaving the screen. The twins, Morrigan and Nephthys, huddled closer together, their matching green eyes wide with anticipation.
The surround sound system rumbled through our seats, adding depth to the cinematic experience. I felt the vibrations in my chest, a physical manifestation of the story's emotional impact. The smell of buttered popcorn mingled with the faint scent of dust and old upholstery, creating an oddly nostalgic atmosphere.
As the movie reached its climax, I found myself leaning forward, caught up in the narrative despite myself. The characters' struggles and triumphs resonated with our own experiences, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. For a moment, we weren't Abyssals in an abandoned human city – we were simply an audience, sharing in the universal experience of storytelling.
The film's score swelled, filling the theater with a crescendo of emotion. I glanced around, taking in the rapt expressions of my companions. Even Mana, who had affected an air of disinterest, was now fully engrossed, her lips parted slightly as she watched the unfolding drama.
In that moment, surrounded by the warmth of shared experience and the magic of cinema, I felt a profound sense of connection. This simple act of watching a movie together had brought us closer, creating memories that would linger long after the credits rolled.
As the scene faded to black, preparing for the final act, I settled back into my seat, savoring the anticipation that hung in the air. The theater may have been abandoned by its original occupants, but tonight, it was alive with the power of imagination and the bonds of family.
Ruby's fingers tightened around my arm, her eyes wide with excitement. "What do you think will happen next, Princess?" she whispered, her breath warm against my ear.
Before I could respond, Mana leaned forward, her voice low and teasing. "My bet's on the hero sacrificing himself. It's always the predictable choice with these types, human or kanmusu."
Hisui shushed them gently, her eyes never leaving the screen. "Let's just watch and see," she murmured, a rare smile playing at the corners of her lips.
The twins, Morrigan and Nephthys, exchanged knowing glances, their synchronized movements casting eerie shadows in the flickering light. Mae, meanwhile, fumbled with her popcorn, sending kernels scattering across the floor with a soft patter.
As the final act began to unfold, I found myself holding my breath, caught up in the story alongside my unusual family. The surround sound swelled, enveloping us in a cocoon of cinematic magic, momentarily shielding us from the grimdark realities that awaited outside these walls.
I closed my eyes, feeling my heart slow down as I relaxed. The plush seat cradled me, and the familiar scent of artificial butter mingled with the lingering aroma of grilled meat. This was the feeling I had been chasing for so long. That feeling of belonging, of being loved.
This was the dream.
Which is why the tank that flew through the movie screen surprised me so much. The deafening crash of shattering glass and crumbling concrete jolted us from our reverie. Debris rained down, and the acrid smell of smoke filled the air.
"FUCK YOU ROB!" I shouted, my voice barely audible over the chaos. The dreamlike moment shattered like the screen before us, leaving us once again face-to-face with the grimdark reality of our world.