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A few weeks have passed since Tari and Belle revealed they were an item to the world at a major tournament, causing their popularity to skyrocket not long after. While the two agree their newfound fame is a bit overwhelming, the two have managed to deal with it as they've continued forward in their lives, becoming lovers along the way. Morning has risen for the two cyborg gamer girls with Tari waking up first.
Tari: Mmm...
Tari then let's out a yawn as her tired vision adjusts, looking over at the clock on the bedside table and seeing it's seven in the morning. Tari then let's out a small groan before she readjusts her head on her pillow, not feeling like properly waking up just yet. Soon after, Belle subconsciously pulls Tari closer as she continues to sleep, which Tari can't help, but smile at.
Tari: It's hard to believe it's been a few weeks already since she revealed she had feelings for me. Where does the time go?
Tari then presses herself more against Belle as she goes back to relaxing, patiently waiting for her girlfriend to wake up so they can properly start their day. Tari gently places her hand onto Belle's as she makes herself comfortable, feeling Belle's breath tickle at her neck as she continues to slumber, thinking back to the tournaments they participated in. Tari then looks over to the photographs sitting up on their shelf showing their tournament victories, the two with smiles on their faces.
Tari: Belle has honestly helped me feel happy again after what happened all of those months ago. Even before she confessed to me, I felt much happier in her company. She always managed to make me smile and feel better about myself.
Tari then gently clasps Belle's hand with her own, smiling at the close contact she currently has with her girlfriend.
Tari: Belle, I can't thank you enough for all you've done for me. You've managed to brighten up my world so much since we got together.
Belle: And I can't thank you for all you've done for me, Tari~
Belle then plants a kiss to the back of Tari's head, causing Tari to blush.
Belle: Good morning, babe~
Tari: Morning, Belle~
Belle: How'd my sweet blue jay sleep last night?
Tari: I slept well thanks to you. How did my wonderful phoenix sleep?
Belle: Never better thanks to you~
Belle then gives Tari a tight hug before releasing her.
Belle: Hopefully I didn't keep you waiting too long.
Tari: Only a few minutes tops.
Belle: That's good~
Tari then turns around to face Belle, soon after going in for a kiss that Belle happily returns, pulling away a few seconds later before pressing their foreheads together while staring into each other's eyes with smiles on their faces.
Belle: Because I love waking up to the sight of your smile each and every single day.
Tari: That feeling is mutual.
Belle then pulls Tari into another hug which Tari happily returns before the two pull away from it.
Belle: Ready to get the day started?
Tari: Always ready.
The two then sit up onto the edge of their shared bed, stretching to loosen up before standing up and getting into their daily routine.
Belle: I'll let you freshen up first. I've got some things to take care of before we get our day properly started.
Tari: Alright. I won't take long.
Tari then gives Belle a kiss on the cheek before heading into their bathroom to freshen up for the day, leaving Belle by herself.
Belle: I think the two of us have earned a day to ourselves, alongside the others too. I think a fun day at the arcade would do well to help us unwind while having fun at the same time.
Belle then looks up when the nearest arcade opens up, finding it to open at ten in the morning.
Belle: Looks like we'll have some time to pass before it'll open up. Guess this means we'll just have to find a way to kill the time until we can actually go.
Belle then looks over to the photographs sitting on the shelf that contain the memories she's made with Tari since restarting their E-Sports careers, thinking back to each of them with a warm fondness.
Belle: Tari never had this level of excitement during her time at TASCORP. Seeing her so happy was honestly refreshing. Far better than what Evelyn had to offer...
Belle then shakes her head of the thought.
Belle: But that's in the past. Last I heard, that witch is getting what she deserves. Rotting in a prison cell after losing her trial. I honestly hope I never see her again... If she got out and hurt Tari, I would never forgive myself...
Belle then looks over to the most recent photograph, having been taken at the tournament where Belle confessed her feelings for Tari.
Belle: It's already been a few weeks, and yet it still feels surreal... Can't say I wasn't nervous that day. I had no idea how she would react to me kissing her on the lips. Guess I should consider myself lucky that she developed a crush on me as well.
Belle then smiles at the memory, chuckling to herself as she remembers how Tari reacted to when they won just before they shared their first kiss.
Belle: She always manages to brighten my day, no matter what. I never thought I'd fall for her, and yet here I am. We've been dating for a few weeks now and she's made me happier than I could possibly have imagined.
Belle then looks over and spots the photograph of Lucinia.
Belle: Luce... I know we'll see each other again someday. I just hope you won't mind that I've moved on with my romance life. Tari means a lot to me, and I genuinely love her. I can tell she loves me as well, and I am not going to let her down.
Belle then looks over to the logo she and Tari created for their E-Sports team. A purple phoenix with the wings of a blue jay.
Belle: And neither of us will let your legacy die either. We made a promise to keep it alive, and we won't let you down on that promise.
Belle then closes her eyes, recomposing herself and opening her eyes again. Belle then sits back on the couch and patiently waits for Tari to finish so she can hop into the shower and freshen up herself. As she waits, she decides to call up Sofia, whom answers within moments.
Sofia: Hey Belle! You need something?
Belle: Just making sure the plans for today are still in motion.
Sofia: The plan is still to go to the arcade, yes.
Belle: Sweet. It's been a while since we all just got to have some fun as a group.
Sofia: Tari doesn't know yet, does she?
Belle: I've kept tight lipped about it. She has no idea where we'll be going today.
Sofia: Awesome! Well, we've still got a few hours before we can even leave, so feel free to do whatever you two want until then.
Belle: We should be able to find something to do until then.
Sofia: Well, we'll see you soon!
Belle: See ya, Soph.
Sofia then hangs up, letting out a sigh while turning her head to face Masa.
Sofia: Masa, do you really think this whole observation plan is necessary?
Lamar: This feels like a serious invasion of privacy, man...
Masa: I just want to make sure my suspicions are wrong. We just need to make sure that neither of them notice, and we'll be fine.
Lamar: Alright, but don't say we didn't warn you...
Sofia: And that we didn't agree to this without protest.
Masa: Everything will be fine. Trust me. I just hope that I'm wrong...
While the members of MD-5 mull over their plan, Belle hears the water to the shower turning off while relaxing in her room.
Belle: Sounds like Tari's just about done.
Belle then checks the time, finding ten minutes have passed since Tari started her shower.
Belle: She wasn't kidding when she said she'd be quick. Hopefully she didn't rush herself.
About five minutes later, Tari comes out of the bathroom wearing a white tank top with the Project Blue logo on it along with tan colored pants and socks with sandals. Tari then walks over to Belle and takes a seat right next to her.
Belle: Everything alright, babe?
Tari: Oh yeah! I just didn't want to keep you waiting for too long is all.
Belle: Well, as long as you're alright, that's what matters to me.
Belle then pulls Tari into a hug, which the blue haired cyborg returns.
Belle: I just care about ya, y'know?
Tari: I do, and I really appreciate that you do, Belle.
Tari gives a warm smile to Belle with Belle giving Tari a warm smile of her own.
Belle: Well, I'd better hop into the shower myself so I can properly freshen up for the day.
Tari: We'll be spending it with the others, right?
Belle: That's right.
Tari: I can't wait to hang out with everyone today!
Belle: Neither can I. It'll be nice to just hang loose and not worry about things.
Belle then stands up and heads over to the bathroom, stopping in the doorway before turning around and facing Tari.
Belle: Oh babe~
Tari: Huh?
Tari then turns around and finds Belle blowing a kiss at Tari, causing her to blush.
Belle: Cutie~
Belle then steps into the bathroom, shutting the door behind her and disrobing before hopping into the shower herself. As Belle begins to freshen up, Tari settles back into the couch and looks around her, taking a look at each photograph on the shelf and thinking back to each event that the photos were taken at.
Tari: I honestly never believed I would ever compete in E-Sports again after what happened, and yet Belle managed to convince me to keep going regardless. I can't say I regret it, though. She's helped make it absolutely worth it.
Tari eventually comes across the photo from the last tournament they had, the one where they managed to score victory in Hidden Heroes shortly before Belle confessed her feelings to Tari.
Tari: I still can't believe that she and I are dating now. I'd be lying if I said I didn't have a bit of a crush on her, even before she and I became friends.
Tari blushes at the memory of the first time Belle kissed her, doing so in front of thousands of fans and spectators.
Tari: It's one memory I will certainly never forget. She honestly makes every single day worth waking up for.
Tari then moves to the last photograph and her smile slowly disappears, seeing the photograph of Lucinia right next to the trophy that Tari and Belle won in the Hidden Heroes tournament.
Tari: Lucinia... My intention was never to replace you as Belle's lover... It's just something that happened... But I love Belle with all of my heart, and as long as she loves me back, I will never stop loving her. She's truly an amazing person, and I fully understand why you fell for her.
Tari then feels her heart skip a beat as she thinks to the days that followed after the two became a thing.
Tari: She really does make me happy... I just hope I make her happy as well...
Tari then decides to lean back on the couch and simply relax, patiently waiting for Belle to finish her shower. A few minutes pass until Belle finishes freshening up, soon after drying off and getting dressed in her usual outfit before rejoining Tari, taking a seat next to her and wrapping her arms around her lover's shoulder.
Belle: Hopefully I didn't keep my girlfriend waiting too long.
Tari: Not at all~
Belle: Good, because I hate keeping my babe waiting~
Belle then pulls Tari into a kiss, which the latter happily returns before they pull away moments later.
Belle: Seeing your smile always makes me happy. It tells me I'm being a good girlfriend.
Tari blushes at the sentiment and smiles sheepishly back at Belle.
Belle: You're absolutely adorable, you know that?
Tari: Only because you remind me each and every day.
Belle: Well it's true~
Belle then pulls Tari into a hug, which Tari happily returns. Soon after pulling away, Tari's expression slowly turns into a frown, which Belle takes notice of.
Belle: Is something wrong, Tari?
Tari: Do I... Make you happy?
Belle: Of course you do! Why would you think you don't?
Tari: A part of me feels bad that I replaced Lucinia as your girlfriend... I know what she was like, and I couldn't possibly even come close to how important she was...
Belle: Babe...
Belle then lifts up Tari's head so the two are looking each other in the eyes.
Belle: Lucinia was the kind of person who wouldn't have wanted us to worry about any of that. You didn't replace her, I simply moved on from her and fell in love with you a few months later. Lucinia's gone now, and I know for a fact she wouldn't have wanted me to keep staying in the past.
Tari: How do you know that?
Belle: Because she told me herself one time. She said that if she were to theoretically pass on, which ended up happening, she wouldn't want me to obsess over losing her and she would fully understand if I were to fall in love with someone else. Of course, I...didn't really do any of that until after I lost her for real...
Belle then gives Tari a serious look.
Belle: Tari, I mean it when I say I love you, and as much as I'm going to miss Lucinia, my heart belongs to you now, and I will do everything I possibly can to be a good girlfriend to you. It's what Lucinia would have wanted and I'm not going to let her down, even if she's gone. I would be dishonoring her memory if I didn't do what she wanted me to do.
Belle then pulls Tari into a kiss, which helps Tari calm down.
Belle: We still have some time before we head out today, but if there's anything you want to do in the meantime, we can do something to help pass the time.
Tari: Could we hang out with the others?
Belle: Of course!
Belle then stands up and holds her hand out to Tari, whom gingerly takes hold of it and pulls her up onto her feet.
Belle: Shall we?
Tari: Yes.
Belle then leads Tari out of their room and down the hall into the main area where Masa, Sofia and Lamar are currently situated.
Sofia: Tari! Belle!
Lamar: We were wondering when we'd see you two come out.
Belle: Did you guys wake up super early or something?
Masa: Not really, but we already took care of things.
Sofia: So what's new with the love birds?
Belle: Not much honestly. We're still getting tons of praise from fans. And sometimes a few messages from upset fanboys, but that's to be expected.
Lamar: I've seen some people react negatively to you two being a thing, but I honestly don't believe you two are in any real danger.
Masa: Considering most people love them being together, they'd be stupid to try and harm either of them, especially in public.
Sofia: Hopefully none of them do try anything stupid. I'd hate to see anything bad happen to you...
Belle: We know how to handle ourselves out in public.
Tari: That, and at events, we always have security to back us up.
Lamar: Well, we won't worry if you won't worry.
As Tari and Belle go to grab themselves some food to fill their stomachs, Tari inquires what the others have planned.
Tari: So what's the plan for today?
Sofia: We're all going to hang out some place and just have the entire day to ourselves.
Tari: Ooh!
Lamar: We figured it would be best to just hang out somewhere nice and not have to worry about anything for a day.
Masa: It's also been a while since we got to just enjoy ourselves and hang out together. It's been even more difficult since you two got your E-Sports careers up and running again.
Belle: Being popular Meta Runners isn't something you can easily tiptoe around.
Tari: It hasn't been easy, but I can't say it hasn't been worth it either.
Belle: It is how we're keeping Lucinia's legacy alive, you know.
Lamar: Oh, we know.
Masa: We're just saying it's been difficult for you two to get a moment to hang out with us.
Belle: We know, and believe me, we're really looking forward to this.
Sofia: It'll be some time before we have to leave, though. Perhaps we could use this chance to discuss things together?
Belle: I don't see why not. How about you, babe?
Tari: I don't mind.
Lamar: Don't forget to get some grub first.
Tari: Might be best if we ate first.
Belle: Yeah, you're right. Nothing's worse than talking on an empty stomach.
Lamar: Go right ahead and grab yourselves some food!
Belle: Thanks, Lamar.
Sofia: Go ahead and fill up. Then we'll get to talking about things.
Tari: Thanks, Sofia.
The two Meta Runners then prepare themselves a morning meal, taking their time to eat before finishing up about twenty minutes later. Soon after, Tari and Belle sit down to properly settle in, facing the other members of MD-5.
Belle: So what is it you've wanted to talk about?
Masa: A little bit of everything, honestly.
Lamar: Mostly just catching up on things, but there's also been some things we're curious about.
Tari: Like what?
Sofia: Well, first off, how have things been between you two since you got together?
Tari: Things have been good.
Belle: Well, for the most part anyway. Aside from the busy scheduling and interviews we've had to do.
Tari: It's... a bit overwhelming, but we make do with what we have.
Belle: We're doing this for ourselves and Lucinia after all.
Sofia: It is nice to see you two making something big with your lives.
Lamar: Speaking of which, we've seen your logo. What was the inspiration behind it?
Belle: Well, it's three things honestly.
Tari: My signature blue, Belle's signature red, and Lucinia's signature purple.
Belle: It's a combination of Tari's Blue Jay, my Phoenix, and Lucinia herself. It's a purple phoenix with a blue jay's wings and crest. It's symbolic of Lucinia, but it also serves as symbolism for me and Tari being an item.
Masa: I kind of figured that's what it meant. Though that brings us to the final question before we just catch up on things.
Tari: That being?
Masa: Is there a reason why you don't warp into games anymore?
Tari's expression changes from inquisitive to pensive as she tilts her head down. Soon after, Belle places a hand on Tari's shoulder, causing her to look up at her.
Belle: It's alright, babe. I'll handle it from here.
Tari: T-thank you.
Belle: There's two reason why Tari doesn't want to warp anymore, and they are completely valid reasons.
Sofia: What would those be?
Belle: She's afraid that if she warps, there's a chance she might not come back.
Lamar: Honestly, after what happened with Sheridan, I can't blame her... That sounds really risky...
Masa: What is the other reason?
Belle: The other reason is because she doesn't want to risk bringing anyone else back if she can leave, like what happened with Coconut Boy.
Sofia: Yet another valid reason. Honestly, I didn't even consider that possibility...
Belle: I don't blame her at all for not wanting to do it for those reasons. It's been hard on all of us, and the last thing we need is to lose someone else or bring someone else into the world only for them to suffer...
Sofia: Theo kept glitching out when in the real world... I can understand why she wouldn't want to risk it again...
Lamar: Same...
Masa: Those are both very valid reasons for not wanting to do it.
Tari: It's for the best that I don't do it anymore... I don't want more people to be hurt...
Belle: And I won't force you to do something you don't want to do.
Sofia: Neither will we.
Tari: T-thank you...
Lamar: All of the sad stuff aside, how have your careers been going?
Belle: Really well all things considered. Again, we're super busy, but it has been wonderful all the same.
Tari: How about with you guys?
Lamar: You know me. Still enjoying life and being a massive weeb at the same time.
Sofia: Marco waved the debts I owed him, so I don't have to worry about him constantly asking for money anymore. He's actually asked me to help him out a few times since then. Mostly about fixing up the tech his own band of Meta Runner's have. Nothing too crazy.
Masa: I'm living life as best as I can with just one arm. While I do hope to have it replaced, I'm not going to resort to cheating anymore. I owe you for showing me what it means to be a true leader, Tari. Honestly, all Meta Runners could learn a lot from you.
Tari: That's... Actually another reason why I wanted to revitalize my career. I wanted to show people that I could move forward with my life and not let the past affect me.
Belle: And I intend on fully supporting her in that mission. It's what Lucinia would have wanted me to do.
Sofia: Seems like she had a far greater impact on you two than I initially thought.
Lamar: It's great to see you two honoring her memory.
Masa: What do you two planning on doing next?
Belle: We do have more tournaments planned, and with that, more interviews, but there's also some events we plan on showing up to.
Tari: Mostly as ambassadors more than anything, since we're pretty popular all things considered.
Belle: Of course, for now, we just want to rest. Not have to worry about anything for a few days before getting back into the fray.
Sofia: Well, we have an hour before we can head out, since the place won't be open until then. If there's anything you wanna do, go for it!
Belle: I think just relaxing for now will do us just fine. What do you say, babe?
Tari: I wouldn't mind just relaxing.
Belle: Then we'll do just that.
Lamar: Do you want us to leave the room?
Belle: Nah. We aren't going to get intimate yet.
Belle then winks before wrapping her arm around Tari and holding her close with Tari resting her head on Belle's shoulder.
Belle: Comfy?
Tari: Very comfy.
Belle simply smiles and relaxes as her girlfriend rests on her shoulder, simply enjoying the moment as their friends watch in amusement.
Sofia: You two are honestly adorable together.
Belle and Tari simply blush in response, choosing to just continue to rest as time passes with the other members of MD-5 doing their own things in the meantime. Meanwhile, Evelyn Claythorne has been sitting in a prison cell for about two weeks, having been found guilty of conspiring with Sheridan during the events that led up to Lucinia's death.
Evelyn: That stupid little science experiment... She showed up and ruined everything... Her and that stupid team of hers... I wouldn't be in here had it not been for them... Even my own father hates me thanks to them...
Evelyn then touches the scar on her cheek, having been caused by Belle punching her so hard it caused a tear in her skin that required stitches to seal.
Evelyn: And that red-haired bitch... Lucinia got what she deserved... I hope Belle remains miserable for the rest of her existence...
Soon after, the sound of knocking is heard on Evelyn's door.
Evelyn: What do you want!?
Warden: Your daily food, plus the paper for this week. Since you aren't allowed to browse the internet, this is how you'll be kept up to date on the world's events.
Soon after, a small opening in the door opens up and a tray is slid through consisting of a single bread roll, a small bowl of rice, and a small container of juice. Moments after, a single newspaper is slid through alongside the food before the slot in the door closes again.
Warden: I should also mention that your request for parole was denied. Your poor behavior certainly didn't help your case. I don't know what drove you to intentionally harm others, but was it honestly worth it to wind up in a prison cell?
Evelyn simply glares at the warden from inside the room, clearly not interested in talking and fuming from what she's just been told.
Warden: You know what to do once you're finished eating. The paper is yours to keep.
The warden then leaves the area to check in on other prisoners, leaving Evelyn to eat her meal in silence.
Evelyn: I hate them both... I hate everyone in MD-5 too...
Evelyn eventually finishes eating her food, soon after sliding the tray back out into the hall in a huff, her thoughts still on the events from a few months prior.
Evelyn: I hope everyone in MD-5 is still miserable... That'd be the only good thing to come from all of this...
Evelyn then sighs and takes hold of the newspaper, simply looking through the articles to see if anything catches her eye.
Evelyn: Nothing of note... Not surprising... It's all the same boring news...
As Evelyn turns to the last page, she glances over an image, turning to read another article before snapping her attention back to the image she glanced over.
Evelyn: Wait what...?!
Evelyn then takes a closer look, seeing the image is a photo of Tari and Belle kissing with the caption reading 'Top Meta Runners confess their love at major tournament.'
Evelyn: THEY'RE DATING NOW!?
Meanwhile, everyone in MD-5 has simply sat around waiting for the hour to arrive where they can head out until the time eventually arrives.
Lamar: Looks like we can finally get going. The place opens very soon.
Masa: Hope you guys aren't too relaxed. It's time to head out.
Sofia glances over at Tari and Belle, the former of whom appears to be asleep on Belle's shoulder.
Sofia: Belle! Tari! It's time to go!
Belle: Time to leave already, huh?
Belle then glances over at Tari, noticing she's fast asleep on her shoulder. Belle then gently nudges Tari, whom begins to stir before opening her eyes.
Tari: Mmm... What's going on?
Belle: It's time to go.
Tari: Oh, already?
Sofia: You fell asleep. It's been almost an hour since the conversation we had ended.
Tari then blushes and gives a nervous chuckle before she stands up on her feet with Belle standing up moments later.
Belle: Time for us to head out and have a day all to ourselves.
Lamar: Come on! I'll get us all there in no time!
Masa: As long as there's room in the back seat.
Lamar: Oh come on, Masa! It's a day for all of us, not my side chicks!
Belle: Whichever one of you wants shotgun, you're more than welcome to take it.
Tari: Belle and I are fine sitting in the back seat.
Sofia: You want shotgun, Masa? It's yours if you want it.
Masa: Guess that settles that then. I'll take shotgun.
Sofia: Then I'll take the third seat in the back.
Lamar: Come on, let's get going!
The members of MD-5 all head out of their hideout, all hopping into Lamar's car, eager to make their way out to their destination for a day of fun.
Tari: So where are we heading?
Belle: It'll be a surprise for when we get there.
Sofia: But we promise it's a place you'll enjoy.
Lamar: It's been a while since we got to go here.
Masa: That's what happens when you're busy spying on others to expose them later. But with all of that being over, we shouldn't have anything to worry about.
Lamar: I'll have us there in no time!
Belle: Do obey the speed limit, Lamar.
Lamar: Don't worry, I won't go above it or drive recklessly.
Masa: Good, because we're not being pursued.
The rest of the drive goes by in relative silence until they pull up to a building, parking outside and stepping out of the car.
Tari: What is this place?
Belle: It's called the Retrocade.
Sofia: It's an old arcade!
Tari: Ooh!
Lamar: Come on! Let's head inside and enjoy a day of arcade games!
Tari: Woohoo!
The members of MD-5 then all make their way into the building, walking up to the receptionist desk.
Receptionist: Ah, you're here right on time. The arcade is open now. Just obey the rules and have fun, and there won't be any problems.
Masa: Don't worry. We won't cause any problems.
Receptionist: Then go on in.
Masa: Thanks.
Belle: You're in for a real treat, Tari.
Sofia: This place has a little bit of everything!
Soon after, everyone in MD-5 steps into the main area, with Tari's jaw dropping at the sight of all of the arcade cabinets and games they have on display.
Tari: Woah...
Belle: Impressive, isn't it babe?
Tari: Quite impressive... There's so much in here!
Sofia: It's why we wanted to bring you here. We figured it would be the best way to surprise you!
Masa: Today, it's just going to be us and a day full of fun in this arcade.
Lamar: Others might show up though, so be mindful.
Belle: Don't worry. We'll keep ourselves in check.
Tari: Where do we even start?
Sofia: Wherever you want to start!
Tari: There's so much to choose from... I don't know where to start!
Belle: Need a recommendation?
Tari: That might help at least give me a starting point.
Belle: Follow me.
Belle takes hold of Tari's hand and leads her over to a game called SEGASONIC THE HEDGEHOG.
Belle: How does a co-op platformer sound to you?
Tari: Looks fun!
Belle: This game's control method is rather bizarre, but still fun. Movement is controlled through the use of trackballs.
Tari: How old is it?
Belle: This game came out all the way back in the early nineteen nineties. It's quite old.
Tari: And it still works?
Belle: There's entire communities dedicated to keeping old games up and running, even in the modern age.
Tari: Wow!
Tari decides to select Sonic the Hedgehog while Belle chooses Mighty the Armadillo.
Belle: Ready babe?
Tari: Ready, Belle!
Belle: Here we go!
The two Meta Runners begin their game while the other three members of MD-5 watch from a distance.
Sofia: That honestly perked Tari right up. It's nice to see her happy.
Masa: Seems like your plan worked like a charm.
Lamar: I'm glad too. It really seems like we have nothing to worry about with those two.
Sofia: I'd say the mission was a success.
Masa: Well, since we're here, we might as well enjoy ourselves as well.
Sofia: Right. Come on!
The other three members of MD-5 all head out to have some fun of their own while Tari and Belle continue to play together. Time passes by until Tari and Belle eventually finish the game they are playing, both clapping each other's hands before embracing in a hug.
Belle: So what'd you think of it?
Tari: It was wonderful!
Belle: Glad to see you enjoyed it.
Tari: What's next?
Belle: There's an entire plethora of games both old and new here. Whatever one looks fun to you, we'll play it.
Tari: Woohoo!
Belle then leads Tari throughout the arcade, each playing various games together with the hours passing by. As the two continue to play, Lamar, Masa and Sofia have all been hanging out together, all enjoying themselves while playing various games of their own.
Lamar: Not gonna lie, this is the most fun I've had in a loooong time.
Masa: Gotta agree with you on that. I forgot what it felt like to just...let loose and have fun for once.
Sofia: Being a leader must have taken a toll on you.
Masa: Yeah... Though honestly, Tari is still a better leader than I am.
Sofia: I feel there's still a lot we can still learn from her.
Lamar: Speaking of which, where did she and Belle get to?
The three scan the area, eventually spotting the two in a corner between a wall and arcade machine where Belle is kissing Tari's neck, causing the blue-haired girl to blush as Belle leaves lipstick marks all over her neck.
Tari: Belle, we're in public~
Belle: Hey, there's no rules against kissing in this arcade, and I'm going to take advantage of that~
Belle continues to kiss Tari's neck as the two hold hands, causing Tari to keep blushing as Belle continues to kiss her.
Tari: T-that tickles~
Sofia: Looks like they're having an intimate moment together.
Lamar: I can't say I've ever seen Belle this intimate before.
Masa: Same here. It's rather unusual for her.
Sofia: It's strange, but I can't say it's a bad thing either. At least it seems to confirm that those two love each other and it's genuine.
Lamar: In the end that's all that matters I guess.
As the other members of MD-5 continue to talk, Tari and Belle eventually end things off with a kiss to the lips before the two pull away with Tari visibly blushing and a bit flustered from Belle's kissing to her neck.
Belle: You enjoy that?
Tari: Yes. Very much~
Belle: Only the best for my girlfriend~
Belle then takes hold of Tari's hand again.
Belle: Shall we meet back up with the others?
Tari: Yes.
Belle then leads Tari over to where the other members off MD-5 are hanging out.
Sofia: Did you two enjoy yourselves?
Tari: Yes!
Lamar: From the look of it, I'd say they absolutely did.
Belle: Oh, you bet we did~
Masa: Well, if you're done, we should probably head on out of here, since it's starting to get late.
Lamar: That, and we could really go for a bite.
Belle: You ready to head out, Tari?
Tari: I am.
Belle: Then let's get going.
Lamar: Time to take you guys to a great place to chow down!
Tari: Ooh!
Belle: This is news to me.
Masa: We found out about this place a while after the falling out we had. We wanted to show you this place to surprise you too.
The five all gather into Lamar's car and drive their way to a local place that is unfamiliar to Tari and Belle.
Belle: What do they serve here?
Sofia: It's a burger joint.
Lamar: Best burgers I've ever had!
Masa: It's not part of a major chain. It's entirely local.
Sofia: The food here is really good. I'm sure you two will love it.
Belle: Guess we'll find out.
Lamar: Come on in!
Everyone follows Lamar into the shop and the five all walk over to a place where all of them can sit together.
Tari: It smells nice here.
Belle: At least it doesn't have that typical fast food smell.
Lamar: It's gonna be great. Trust us.
Lamar then grabs a menu and hands it over to Tari and Belle.
Lamar: Choose whatever you want. It's our treat!
Belle: You sure?
Sofia: Of course we are!
Masa: We were the ones who suggested to come here after all.
Belle: Something seems off... I'll have to confront them about this later...
Tari: Belle?
Belle: Hmm? Oh, sorry. I was just lost in thought for a moment. You wouldn't mind sharing half a burger, would you? I'm... Trying to watch my figure.
Tari: Oh, s-sure! I wouldn't mind.
Belle: Then it's settled. I'll let you choose what you want and we'll split it.
Tari then look through the menu and spots a simple burger with lettuce and tomato.
Tari: I'll go with this burger.
Belle: Then we'll get that.
Lamar: Looks like we've all got our orders ready.
Soon after, a waiter comes by to take their orders, with Lamar giving everyone's orders to the waiter before the waiter then takes their leave to give their orders to the chef.
Belle: How long have you known this place for?
Sofia: We've known about it for about two years now.
Masa: We found it soon after we defected from TASCORP.
Belle: I still wish I had listened to you earlier on and joined up with MD-5 when you guys defected from Lucks... I was just too stubborn to accept that you guys were right...
Sofia: Hey, in the end, you discovered the truth for yourself, and in turn, chose to join our cause to take down TASCORP, and we succeeded in doing just that.
Lamar: Sofia's right. In the end, you saw the error of your ways and made up for it.
Masa: Don't let the past get you down, Belle.
Belle: Believe me, I'm trying to not let it get me down. I just... Wish I could have done some things differently, you know?
Tari: You and me both...
Belle then looks over to Tari, seeing her with her head tilted down. Belle instinctively pulls her into a hug.
Belle: Hey... That's all in the past now...
Tari: I'm sorry... I...still haven't fully recovered from everything...
Belle: Neither have I, but I'm not going to let you suffer alone either... We will pull through this... I promise...
Tari then returns the hug, simply allowing herself to be held by her girlfriend as Belle helps Tari regain her composure.
Belle: I really do hope I can keep her happy... She means a lot to me...
Sofia: If this isn't proof that they do care for each other, I don't know what would be. I told Masa he had nothing to worry about, and yet he insisted that this happen anyway.
Masa: Seems like I misjudged Belle again... I was worried she saw Tari as a replacement for Lucinia, and yet, that clearly isn't the case...
Lamar: I tried to tell him we had nothing to worry about. He worries too much.
Soon after, Belle manages to calm Tari down, giving her a quick kiss on the cheek before wrapping an arm around Tari's shoulders, keeping her close to provide her girlfriend with comfort.
Belle: Feeling better?
Tari: Y-yeah. I am. Thanks Belle.
Belle: You're welcome Tari.
Tari then shows a small smile, telling Belle that she's calmed down and is happy again.
Sofia: You two alright?
Belle: Yeah. We will be.
Tari: We'll be okay. Even in spite of the hardships.
Lamar: As long as you two are fine, that's what matters most to us.
Soon after, the waiter comes back with the group's orders, giving everyone their orders with Tari and Belle getting a split burger.
Lamar: I told the waiter to let the cooks know to split the burger for you in advance. Figured it'd make things easier on you two.
Tari: Thanks Lamar. It means a lot to us.
Lamar: No need to thank me, Tari. I'm just doing what any good friend would do!
Belle and Tari then take a hold of their respective halves of their burger and each take a bite.
Belle: Woah... This is actually really good.
Tari: Really good...
Belle: Honestly, this is best burger I've ever eaten by a massive margin.
Tari: Same here.
Sofia: Looks like we have ourselves two winners.
Masa: Seems that way. I'm glad we have a place they like.
As Belle and Tari continue to chow down, the other members of MD-5 have a silent conversation with one another as they themselves begin to eat, which Belle notices, but doesn't speak up about.
Belle: Once we get back, I need to confront them... Something fishy is going on with them, and I wanna know what it is...
Eventually, every member of MD-5 finishes eating their meals, paying for their meal and hopping back into Lamar's car to drive back to their hideout.
Lamar: So, did you two enjoy yourselves?
Belle: I'd say we did.
Tari: I did.
Sofia: I'm really glad to hear that.
Masa: We planned this out for weeks. We really wanted it to be fun for you two.
Lamar: I'd say today was a great success, wouldn't you?
Belle: It at least didn't end with us getting harmed, so I can't complain.
Tari: I had fun myself, so I would say it was a success.
Masa: We should plan more of these in the future.
Tari: I wouldn't mind, as long as Belle and I can find the time for them.
Belle: Same here. I would love to just be able to unwind every once in a while and just enjoy myself with you guys.
Lamar: Then we'll plan accordingly, assuming we can manage to find some time to fit it all in that is.
A few minutes go by until the members of MD-5 arrive at their hideout, all heading inside as the sun outside begins to set, bathing Silica City in a golden glow.
Lamar: Today was a good day. Felt like the good old days where we didn't have to worry about anything.
Masa: I don't know about you, but I feel like turning in.
Sofia: Yeah, it is getting pretty late. We should all get some sleep for tomorrow.
As the three try to make a hasty retreat, Belle then stops them in their tracks.
Belle: Where do you three think you're going?
Lamar simply shrugs with a nervous expression.
Lamar: To bed?
Belle: I don't think so.
Sofia: Belle?
Belle: You guys have some explaining to do.
Sofia's expression suddenly turns into one of panic.
Sofia: Guys? I think she figured it out...
Lamar: Guess we weren't as subtle as we thought we were...
Masa: I guess we should explain ourselves...
Belle: You'd better. You guys had an ulterior motive, didn't you?
Sofia: Yes... We did...
Tari: I think we should all take a seat.
Belle: Yes. This might get lengthy.
Lamar: Everyone into the main area...
Everyone in MD-5 walks out into the main area and take a seat with Belle and Tari taking a seat right next to each other, with Belle keeping her eyes on the other three like a hawk.
Belle: So do you want to tell me what this is about?
Sofia: We didn't entirely plan this whole thing out because we wanted to hang out with you...
Lamar: It was largely Masa's idea, but we went along with it, because he insisted on it...
Belle then glares over at Masa.
Belle: Well? You wanna explain yourself!?
Masa: I was worried that you saw Tari as a replacement for Lucinia...
Belle: What?
Lamar: Masa over here thought you might have only starting dating Tari due to wanting to replace Lucinia...
Tari: What...?
Sofia: Lamar and I tried to convince Masa he was overthinking it, but he wouldn't back down...
Masa: I wanted to be sure!
Belle: How dare you...
Everyone else looks at Belle, noticing that she's got her fists clenched with a look of anger on her face.
Belle: How dare you assume that...?
Sofia: Belle...?
Belle: Do you honestly think I started dating Tari because I wanted to replace Lucinia...? How dare you!?
Everyone then flinches back at Belle's outburst.
Belle: Lucinia was irreplaceable, and I would never attempt to do that to her!
Tears then begin to form in Belle's eyes as a sense of betrayal hits her heart.
Belle: Not only would that be a disgrace to her, but it would also be an insult to Tari!! Dating someone because they remind you of a previous lover is one of the worst things a human could do!! I love Tari for who she is, and her connection to Lucinia has nothing to do with my love for her!!
The tears welling up in Belle's eyes begin to fall down her cheeks as the pain stabs her harder.
Belle: I love Tari for who she is... I would never have done something as cruel as date her to replace Lucinia... I never wanted to replace Lucinia... I wanted to find love again... As Tari and I spent more time together following Lucinia's death, the more I began to realize I had developed feelings for her... I love her for who she is, and I only want to be the best I can be for her and make her happy...
Belle then hangs her head low as the tears continue to fall, with Belle breaking down completely as the others watch in sadness and shock. Soon after, Belle stands up and runs off to her room, her eyes full of tears.
Tari: Belle, wait!
Soon after, the sound of a door slamming shut is heard down the hall. Tari then looks over to the other three, an expression of disappointment on her face.
Tari: I'm very disappointed in all of you... Instead of just asking, you set us up just to observe us...? Some friends you are...
Tari then stands up in a huff, walking down the hall to her shared room to comfort her girlfriend, leaving the three other members of MD-5 to themselves.
Lamar: Way to go Masa... Thanks to your genius plan, we're now in this mess...
Sofia: I shouldn't have agreed to doing this... Now I feel like those two hate us...
Lamar and Sofia then stand up and make their way to their own rooms, both angry at themselves for going along with Masa's plan and disappointed that despite their better judgement, they caved in and agreed to it. Masa is soon the only one left, his head tilted down in shame.
Masa: Dammit... Why couldn't I have just asked her directly...? Do I still not trust her?
As Masa begins to question himself, Tari has arrived at her and Belle's shared room and slowly enters, seeing Belle on their bed, crying with her face in her hands.
Tari: Belle...?
Belle then slowly lifts her head up to face Tari, her eyes full of tears that are streaming down her cheeks, her eyes becoming red and puffy from the hard crying.
Tari: Belle...
Tari then walks over to their bed and sits down next to Belle, placing a hand on her shoulder.
Belle: Tari...
Tari then coaxes Belle into lying down on her side with Tari following suit moments later, pulling her into a hug.
Tari: Belle... I'm here...
Belle then slowly pulls Tari closer, wrapping her arms around Tari and holding her tightly as tears continue to fall down her face. Tari simply stays silent while Belle continues to cry while holding her tightly, rubbing Belle's back in an attempt to help calm her down.
Belle: I can't believe they would think that... I've done my best to prove that I genuinely love you... Have I not done enough...?
Tari: Belle... You've done more than enough...
Belle: Huh...?
Tari: You've done more than enough to prove you love me... I feel and experience it every single day I wake up to the sight of you smiling down to me... If anything, I feel like I haven't done enough for you...
Belle: What...?
Tari: I feel like I don't do enough to prove I love you...
Belle: Tari... That... That's not true... Every single day I wake up to your smile, that's proof enough for me that you love me...
Tari: Belle...
Belle: Ever since we started dating, I've wanted nothing more than to make you happy each and every single day... I didn't start dating you to replace Lucinia... I started dating you, because I genuinely love you... I would never date anyone to replace another... Even though I lost Lucinia, I moved on from her, and when we became a thing, it was because I wanted to feel love again... I didn't want to make the same mistakes I did with Lucinia, and I wanted to prove myself that I could love again while making sure the person I loved felt loved...
Belle then looks down at Tari, a sad and pained expression on her face.
Belle: I don't ever want to lose you...
Belle then closes her eyes as her heart fills with emotional pain, causing Tari's own heart to break from the sight of her girlfriend suffering.
Tari: You won't ever lose me, Belle... I love you with all of my heart, and I would never leave you... Not after all you've done for me...
Tari then pulls Belle into an emotional kiss as she begins to cry herself, the two breaking away several seconds later as the two slowly calm down from their crying, simply hugging one another as they both end up falling asleep in each other's arms, both still feeling emotional from the day's events. Meanwhile, Sofia and Lamar are both in their own rooms, having done their own fair share of crying, feeling a strong sense of guilt for their actions.
Sofia: We were supposed to be their friends, and yet we ended up doing so much damage in one day... How can they even forgive us for this...?
Lamar: I can't believe I let Masa convince me to help him... I shouldn't have listened to him... How can Tari and Belle possibly forgive us for this...?
As the two eventually cry themselves to sleep, Masa has still been in the main area, feeling guilt and shame from his actions.
Masa: I really am a failure as a leader... I should've just asked them directly... Why don't I trust Belle, even though she's more than proven herself...?
Masa eventually retires to his own room, disappointed in himself and his actions, with a chilling silence spreading throughout MD-5's hangout as night comes, with the trust between most of them shaken by the revelation that Masa was using the whole thing to simply confirm Belle wasn't using Tari with Sofia and Lamar regretting having ever followed along with his plan. Everyone in MD-5 is shaken up with uncertainty filling everyone's minds about one another. Everyone simply hopes that in due time, they can forgive one another and move on from everything.