fic: I'll Be Home For Christmas

[bonnefois]

Title: I'll Be Home For Christmas
Series: Ace Attorney
Character/pairing: Nahyuta/Ema, hinted at Lana/Aura, ensemble
Rating: PG-13
Word count: 13205
Summary: Ema returns to L.A. for the holidays, with Nahyuta in tow. Along the way, Ema attempts to explain the concept of Christmas traditions to her boyfriend, survives holiday parties and learns something new about her sister.
Author's note: OTP's first holiday season together. In a recent artbook you can see Ema flicking snackoos at Larry. (for the record, I love Larry, faults and all, but he really needs to drink that respect women juice.)

For Seta Suzume as a holiday gift. I tried to actually finish this earlier, but between holiday travel and the fact it kept refusing to be short, it ended up finished now.

Also, much inspiration was taken from my new love affair and valiant journey for Twisted Peppermint body spray. (I was successful, for the record.)

Pahpul Boljhig hell: A special hell where the more you struggle, the lower you fall into the abyss, and at the bottom of the abyss, there's a vicious beast.

Ema drinking a lot at holidays actually comes from an AA4 illustration of a New Year's gathering.

Oh, and set post-series so AA6 spoilers.



Ema glanced out the windows of the massive L.A. airport. A plane lifted off above them, disappearing up into the sky. An announcement came over the system about a flight to Georgia leaving soon. It'd been quite some time since Ema had been back in the states. She'd made the request for a vacation a full six months ago, gotten the tickets five months ago. What she hadn't expected was a second person on her trip to see her sister after nothing but phone and video calls for a year. (Lana was still getting the hang of Skype.)

She'd known he'd give her some time off. Hell, he'd give her whatever she wanted. If she asked for a pony in her next wages discussion, he would've gotten it for her before the next day. But, as giving as Nahyuta was, she had to twist his arm--often literally--to get him to take his lunch breaks and get to bed at a decent hour.

Which was why it'd been such a surprise when she'd found a fully packed white suitcase next to hers, and another set of tickets. Khura'in was temporarily left in the hands of Queen Amara, though Rayfa was proving more capable every day. To be in an airport with him was a strange luxury she'd almost forgotten.

Though she could've done without the 17$ airport sandwiches.

Nahyuta glanced over a paper itinerary he'd made. Since ascending the throne as regent, Nahyuta's addiction to to-do lists had gotten a bit out of hand. She'd tried to upgrade him to the digital age, with the wonders of Google calendar and productivity apps, but he was fine with his scrolls and mini-scrolls and occasionally, notebooks with glittery cats on them.

(Said notebook was her gift to him earlier this year. It was a bit of a gift to herself, too, considering she had to fight back laughter every time she saw him calmly write down things while holding a glittery cartoonish cat notebook meant for little girls. It definitely made her work day go better just to see that hint of sparkly rainbow cats.)

"Before we head out, I've really got to hit the stores first and get a present," Ema said.

Nahyuta glanced towards her. "You didn't bring her something from Khura'in?"

Ema puffed out her cheeks. "What should I have gotten her? A prayer book for a religion she doesn't practice?"

She'd thought about getting her a magatama, but that'd only remind her of Mia Fey. Not exactly the best gift she could think of.

"Besides, I'd have to pay an import fee, and if it was considered too sharp or liquids, it would be confiscated. Last time, they took my eyelash curler. Like I could do any damage to anyone with that?"

"At least they did not take you off the plane for being a knock out, thus dangerous to passengers," Nahyuta said with a completely calm expression.

Ema glanced back, with a smile. "Did Datz teach you that one?"

"I am capable of learning things on my own time." She glanced down at his notebook. He'd gotten into the habit of carefully detailing all the television he watched as research, in case he ever needed to cite it for official cases. Lately, the list was full of incredibly old episodes of some trashy MTV reality show. Apparently he'd taken a look at the title Real World and assumed it was a documentary.

At this rate he'd put 'tubular' and 'gnarly' in his repertoire, right alongside with utterly deadpan notes of 'what's crackalackin', homie?"

She stood on tip-toe and kissed his cheek. So she'd skimped on lipstick sealer because it wasn't around in Khura'in. At least it was a whole lot less awkward than when his assistants came and his was covered in her lipstick.

"You're such a dork. Come on, let's get our luggage before someone else takes it."

The last thing she needed was her forensic chemicals to be mistaken for a bomb again. She may have been on vacation--but if Ema had learned anything over the years, it was a crime could pop up anywhere. Besides, the intense cold in Khura'in around this time of the year made wary of leaving her precious implements with people who would try and protect her bottles with sweaters and prayers.

*

A half an hour of booking and luggage gathering later, Ema had a rental car and a plan. She pulled into a mall about a mile away from the airport. While a part of her wanted nothing but a nap and a shower, she wasn't about to come empty handed. This close to the holiday season, and she'd likely come back to empty shelves and locked doors if she waited any longer.

(Even though she knew Lana wouldn't have cared, she wouldn've felt like she failed sisterhood.)

Nahyuta glanced around, drinking in the details of the mall as if he'd never seen anything so magnificent.

"You've been all over the world and you've never been to a mall?" Ema said. "Wait, wait, let me guess--lecture incoming on consumerism, or you were too busy in libraries?"

"No, there was a case once. I was wondering if they served Jalapeno Southwestern Burgers here," he said.

She checked her phone and did a quick location check. "Nope. But there's one about a half mile down. Right after we're done, we can grab a snack," Ema said.

Nahyuta nodded. "Fasting is training for the soul and mind. I will focus upon the emptiness within myself, and fill it with sutras."

Ema puffed out her cheeks. "Come on, it won't be that long."

She stepped into the white boutique, with body products on every available brilliant shelf. She always got it mixed up with Bed, Bath and Beyond when it had a totally different name. It'd left her with some awkward moments at the cash register having to switch coupons along. It'd been so long since Ema had been on mainland, that the perfume she'd packed was almost completely gone.

Really, it brought back memories.

"You know, it's funny. My first sale here, and it was a big sale, I thought I was just going to waltz in and get the limited edition fragrances. Not literal waltzing, mind you. The competition was so fierce, I was surprised I wasn't called in to help solve a murder. And it wasn't even Black Friday."

"No wonder the lawyers of your country are so busy, if mere shopping evokes such wrath," Nahyuta said.

She glanced over at the crowd of mild mannered middle-aged ladies. "At least they don't look too homicidal. But if my job has taught me anything, it's that you can never tell. People don't exactly have I'm a murderer written on their foreheads. At least, not most of the time."

She went straight for the winter fragrances. She was a day late, but to her relief, there was a heaping bin made of pink cardboard was filled with Twisted Peppermint, all at seventy-five percent off. She shoved a few into her bag.

Now, something for Lana. She pulled up a green, glittery full sized body spray and looked it over. Nahyuta glanced across at the store with his usual unreadable serenity. She sprayed a bit of perfume on her wrist, and lifted for him to smell.

"Coconut, mint, with a faint undertone of basalm and is that....shea butter?"

"That's rig---Hey, did you just read the package?" Ema said.

Nahyuta smiled. "To be a prosecutor is to be always observant."

"I thought you were meditating," Ema said.

"Now is not an opportune moment to gather my thoughts. A lovely detective keeps spraying me with things."

Ema grinned. "That's a lovely forensic expert to you, buster."

She put the Mint Drop Coconut in her mesh bag. Would that be enough to make up for years of prison, and the years when she'd been too broke studying overseas and could only manage to send a card? Okay, maybe she'd get her two.

Shipping overseas had been ridiculous, but it wasn't like Ema could just live without smelling like a pumpkin spice cupcake. She'd already withstood cold, questionable internet connectivity and Khura'in's mob mentality. There were just some things she couldn't give up. Ema pulled out her phone to check for a coupon. There always was one if she looked hard enough. Bingo, 10$ off 30$ purchase.

She tried to think back to better years. She'd been in high school and had to use her allowance to even get her sister something. She'd settled for a #1 Sister cup, because it was all she could afford with how much her constant buying of science kits cut into her cash supply. She could never tell whether Lana actually liked it, or just liked being remembered. She always so hard to read. Even more so when she closed down whenever something went wrong. And for the past ten years, it'd been nothing but bad news for Lana Skye.

Ema glanced across the walls of potions and perfumes, all arrayed in near rows. Marshmallow Shea was a bit too faint, Strawberry Picnic was too light and airy. She tossed Magic In The Air body spray in. It was mysterious, vaguely floral and ancient, and most of all, it was on sale.

She paid, and turned around to figure out where her boss and boyfriend had gone off to. She found him at the doorway, staring out at the decorations.

"Phew, that was a long line. You ready for lunch? Because I sure am."

Nahyuta, however, couldn't take his gaze away from the display at front. A mechanical lit Santa which spoke and robotically waved his gloved hand at the people. At least it wasn't the Blue Badger.

"Who is this red man? Is he some kind of guardian deity? Or is he like those cats..."

"Those cats?"

He held up one hand. "Like nyan," he said in a very deadpan voice. "Lucky cats. Sellers keep them in parts of Asia. Not Khura'in, however."

Ema laughed. "That's Santa. You don't have him over in Khura'in?"

"No, we do not put some strange old man in red at our doors," Nahyuta said.

"He lives at the North Pole, with a bunch of elves. He keeps track of kids, watches them all the time, and if kids are good, he comes with flying reindeer, enters their house through the fireplace and leaves presents, all in one night. If not, they get a bunch of coal."

His brow furrowed. "Flying reindeer? Elves? The North Pole? He---watches the children and enters the house without your permission? You revere a man who breaks and enters on an incredibly large scale? He sounds most suspicious. Tell me, does he...stalk these children?"

She laughed. "You're too much. It's just an old kids story. Realizing Santa doesn't exist is just another part of growing up. So what do you do in the winter? I mean, for holidays."

"There is the Week of the Vision of the Holy Mother. We fast for seven days to remember her own winter fasting and the doctrine she wrote while meditating up in the mountains during a terrible snowstorm."

"It's always fun, fun, fun festivals at Khura'in," Ema said dryly.

She shifted the blue gingham bag to her other arm. "Really, I'm surprised you missed it, considering you've been all around the world."

"Winter is a hard time in Khura'in. As a monk, I have many things to officiate. Many...last rites to be read. If famine comes, or the heat fails, then there will be many more."

"Oh," Ema said. She couldn't really make a snappy comment with that harsh reality. She pulled out a red and white striped body spray with a polar bear design, and took off the cap.

"Uh, try this one. It smells like peppermint," she said.

He inclined his head in the most polite and graceful way. Only Nahyuta could turn randomly checking perfume samples into something so elegant.

"It smells delicious," Nahyuta said.

Ema gave him a sly side glance. "You think you can pull any strings to let me take some home on the flight, and not have to pay a ton of import fees?" Ema said.

He lifted his pale eyebrows teasingly at her. "Ema Skye, are you trying to bribe me?"

"I'm just saying, you'll definitely get to enjoy these deals. I'll smell so good, you won't even notice the chemicals and smell of death on my lab coat," Ema said.

He laughed. "I'm sure certain things may be wavered within Khura'in. And if not, I will give you a bonus for your hard work to cover the expenses."

Dating a prince sure had its advantages.

As they walked out, Ema headed towards the coffee shop right across. The walls were a warm orange, with murals of jazz musicians.

"Before we head to the burger joint, I need a latte. They may make good burgers, but that joint's coffee is awful. You want anything, or you just want me to choose?"

Nahyuta stared up at the chalkboard listing of the many options. Seconds ticked by as he read through the names in meditative contemplation. Behind her, someone muttered. She looked back at the line of impatient professionals in dark suits, all waiting for their jolt of caffeine.

"How about I pick out for you this time?" Ema said.

He nodded gravely. "I will trust in your choice."

"Jeez, it's just coffee, not the last life jacket," Ema said.

She turned back to the green-smocked barista. "Two Peppermint White Chocolate Mochas, and two slices of Gingerbread loaf, please."

A few minutes later, she carried out their orders to a set of chairs by the back.

He drank with one pinkie out. She had no idea where he'd learned that one, or how he'd figured to implement it to Starbucks coffee. She couldn't help but smile, though.

Nahyuta looked down at his coffee like he'd discovered the meaning of life. He took another drink, and murmured, "Truly, a miracle."

"You think that's good? Wait until you try the Pumpkin Spice Latte," she said. She opened up the menu on her phone. "Oh hey, they've got Pumpkin Spice Chai Lattes. I bet you'd like that even more."

Nahyuta cut the treat into a small piece and took a delicate bite. She always had to wonder at his manners. Here she was liking relateable memes about how fitness, I'd rather fit dis whole pizza in my mouth and downing carbs by the handful the minute she got too stressed.

He looked shocked at the first taste.

"Excuse me a moment."

Nahyuta rose, and strode with purpose towards the barista.

Ema chuckled. That barista and their manager sure wasn't prepared for his speech of I am the Prince Regent of a country overseas and would like to bring your store over here post-haste. If I could put it in my suitcase and return with it, I would. Let's make a deal right now...

*

Between their Southwestern Jalapeno Burgers, Ema got several texts. Nahyuta emptied the tray when they'd finished. People gaped as he walked by, like they'd experienced a vision of holiness right amid the bright booths and flat formica tops of the fast food restaurant.

Which was pretty funny, considering L.A.'s prosecutors included a samurai wannabe, a rock star and a very intelligent and impressive man with suit tastes that tended towards the magenta and ruffly. Which was to say nothing of the phantom thieves, and magicians who could give the fop a run for his money in the foppish department.

"You'd think they'd get used to flashy people already," she muttered.

Never mind that she'd looked at him the same way when he first came to L.A. Or that she looked at him the same way when he came out of the shower, looking like some divine being in myths. Like those stories of the type of creatures trapped to wed via loss of their fur or instruments--it varied between the cultures. Sometimes they were seals or swans, or simply heavenly.

Nahyuta let out a happy sigh. "Truly, the Holy Mother Herself has blessed this burger."

"I'm sure that'll be a great campaign slogan in Khura'in," Ema said.

Nahyuta opened up his glittery cat notebook and took down a note. That was the thing with Nahyuta: half the time he'd make her sarcastic remarks and turn them into reality. Sometimes she really thought it was just to spite her. Or maybe he just didn't get the sarcasm when it was relating to very specific cultural cues.

Or maybe both.

"Lana asked that we head to her place later, so she can roll out the extra futon. We also got an invite from the Wright Anything Agency to some kind of lawyer holiday party," Ema said.

"Phoenix Wright will be there? I must discuss some things with him."

"As long as someone doesn't get murdered while he's out. That's how his outings usually end. Though if you're trying to headhunt more of his lawyers right out from under him, I doubt he'll take it well."

"Rest assured, I won't take any more of his staff. This time, at least," Nahyuta said.

"I'm sure he'll be so relieved," Ema said.

*

It wasn't like Ema had a great track record with holiday parties. There was the time she went to a small New Year's thing at the Wright Anything Agency and drank too much and Trucy got it on camera, then the time when she was working under Prosecutor Gavin when she went to the office party and drank too much and someone else got it on camera and she'd accidentally become a Youtube sensation, with calls of a start of a channel called drunk science, then there was the one in Khura'in where she drank too much, but Nahyuta had been kind enough to lift her up and not let her given the usual drunken science lectures that would inevitably follow.

Ema had to admit, she had a bit of weakness for free samples. She could never take just one cookie or offered mint, and if there was an open bar and someone else was paying, she'd be reciting the Periodic table backwards before the night was through.

(And the Youtube channel was tempting. She had to admit listen up, bitches, I'm going to teach you about sc-iiience may not have been as catchy as the Bill Nye theme, but it definitely was memorable.)

But catching up with old friends would be worth it. Ema made a mental note to avoid the punch this time. And especially the eggnog.

Phoenix and Maya stood near the door of the lobby. Someone had covered it with little wreaths and tinsel. Maybe Detective Gumshoe. He was the one who loved to toss the confetti, after all.

Some of the tinsel had fallen over Phoenix's blue suit and his spikey black hair, and Maya's kimono. So either Maya helped with the decorations as well, or she'd tried to throw them at Phoenix at one point.

Did Hallmark sell a sorry I tried to prosecute you for murder, I didn't realize you were being framed card? If not, they really should. They'd sell out in Khura'in and L.A. on a daily basis, that was for sure.

As she came closer, she heard the last few snippets from a conversation they'd been having.

Maya chuckled. "I can't even remember the times I've been pulled in on false murder charges. Ey, Nick. Do you remember?"

"Too many," Phoenix said with a sigh.

"They should give me a frequent trials card at this point. Get ten and you get one free acquittal." Maya laughed, and clasped her hands together. "It'll be a real hit."

"I'm sure the judge will be thrilled," Phoenix said.

Nahyuta bowed, and made that traditional Khura'inese greeting which she'd only just gotten the hang of. To be fair, it wasn't that it was complicated. But the line between the gesture for 'hello' and the gesture for 'fuck your mother and every line of your generation' was surprisingly thin, and she'd rather not accidentally flip off the former queen in an attempt to do a Khura'inese greeting again.

"Apollo could not come. But he sends his greetings," Nahyuta said.

Maya was all smiles.

"Now, if you will excuse me a moment, I must attend to this punch," Nahyuta said.

At the far right was a long table of various 'festive' snacks llike snowman sugar cookies that were likely boughten at the nearest store, and a big bowl of punch, as well as a line of eggnogg glasses beside it.

He lifted the little plastic cup and filled it.

"Watch out, it's spiked," Ema said. That was what got her last time. At least Chief Prosecutor Edgeworth had destroyed the evidence and left the case sealed.

Nahyuta glanced into his drink.

"Right, slang. It means someone put alcohol in it. And I bet I know just the culprit," she said, as a familiar and very unwelcome face appeared in the crowd of lawyers.

She'd had to flick him with her snacks the few times he'd tried to make a pass at her. It was still hard for her to believe that guy was friends with both Phoenix and Chief Prosecutor Edgeworth. She'd personally put his picture under loser on wikipedia once when he'd pissed her off enough. Of course, it'd been deleted, and then locked when it happened too much. Still, it'd been screencapped and passed around the office more than once.

She motioned towards Larry.

"He'll be hitting on all the women around. Probably hanging around the mistletoe all night, hoping to get lucky."

Nahyuta furrowed his brow. "And the women--they do not wish this attention?"

"Considering that it's Larry? Probably not," Ema said.

"Excuse me a moment," Nahyuta said.

He stalked over towards Larry, whose grin disappeared once he saw Nahyuta's intense green-eyed gaze.

"A word, if you will. We need to speak about your respect of women, or lack thereof," Nahyuta said tersely.

Ema grinned as she heard that familiar sutra--the one that got any defense lawyers going against him sweating. Ema opened her Snackoos, and took a few bites. It was quite a show. Watching Nahyuta bring out some brimstone was always an amusing sight. Even more so when it was someone she didn't like.

Maybe she should start buying bagged popcorn, just for when she got to watch Nahyuta give someone else the third degree.

After the unexpected show, Ema spent her time reconnecting with lawyers and prosecutors she'd worked with for some time. But after a good half hour, she began to search for Nahyuta. She'd assumed that he would simply appear behind her, like he usually did. But as the night went on, he didn't show up.

She pushed through the crowds of lawyers, prosecutors and detectives, both familiar and unfamiliar. Athena chatted avidly with a rather surly looking Prosecutor Blackquill, but that was his default state. Ema had never worked a case with him. The official reason was he was too dangerous, but Ema had a feeling that Chief Prosecutor Edgeworth was wise enough to understand that this much snark in one place would probably destroy the courthouse.

By the time she found him, he was nodding off on a bench near the door. Someone had put a crown of tinsel in his silver hair, and replaced his earrings with Christmas ornaments. A wrap of tinsel also surrounded his gold brocade clothes, all the way down to his boots. Ema had a feeling Maya was involved. Somehow, he pulled it off.

"How much Eggnog and fruit punch did you drink before I came back?"

"A few cups. One, no, two."

Oh damn. He was a complete lightweight.

She smiled, and swayed a little as he looked up at her with a glassy expression. "Did you know, to be drunk is to is referred to as 'being in ones cups'? You see, I took the liberty of research. The day was supposed to signify a birth of an actual deity, thus the name. It is actually an issue of the coalescing of several saints. There was a figure from Asia Minor known as 'Saint Nicholaus' a man who was rewarded for sharing his wealth with the needy. However, within Austria and Germany, it was changed to the deity, Christ. They called this figure Christkind. This was translated as Kris Kringle by immigrants, and then the two figures were conflated. It does not explain the elves, the strange magic reindeer, his shameless breaking and entering and alarming stalking tendencies, or his proclivity for wearing so much...red."

"So, what you're telling me is you get drunk and study stuff? Somehow, I'm not surprised," Ema said.

"Impractical things, yes. Completely useless....tri....trivia. Though sometimes, I return to my rooms and organize my things. Never has my suitcases been more neat than when I have been in my...cups," Nahyuta said.

"I'm still surprised you get drunk, period. It sounds like that'd be the kind of thing that Khura'inism doesn't allow," Ema said.

"Wine has flava.." He stretched out, like a cat, and yawned. "Flavonoids. It's quite healthy in moderation. And some of the customs of the places I've been are deeply insulted at any refusal of food. That reminds me... I researched this mistletoe, too. It killed a god, and yet it now becomes something we kiss under."

"Let's get you back before you start preaching the doctrine of how Swiss cheese is the worst thing ever created."

Nahyuta grimaced, like he'd just sucked on a lemon. "Loathsome to the mouth, nose and eye. It is truly the worst. Oh...did you know, a group of peacocks is called an ostentation? I like this mistletoe, though. It sounds like a fascinating custom. Do you kiss to mourn the death of a god?"

So much for putting on a good impression of Lana tonight. She figured she'd let Nahyuta sleep it off before the big meeting happened. Ema sent a text Lana's way. Finding a motel. Catch you in the morning. We're both really tired. We'll probably show up pretty late. She left out the whole drunk part.

"Come on, Sir In-His-Cups. We've got to go home before you start on sermons and ruin my record for being the worst member of the prosecutor staff at Christmas parties," Ema said.

She helped him up. He nuzzled her a bit, as she put his arm over her shoulders for support. Through it all, she never owuld've guessed he was a cuddly drunk.

"Your...in your cups science lectures are fascinating," Nahyuta said.

"Good, because you'll hear them a lot," Ema said.

"Mmn," Nahyuta said, and buried his face against her. Of course it was a bit difficult to walk out like this, her and Nahyuta dressed like a walking drunk Christmas tree, but as far as she was concerned, it was worth the effort.

*

Far be it from sleeping in, Nahyuta woke up early as usual. He didn't even have a hangover, which had to be illegal somehow. It was enough that he woke up without any make up or product looking supernaturally gorgeous. The fact that he was apparently hangover immune made it just the more unfair. Nahyuta stood up from the bed barely mussed, and set to his morning routine of prayers and meditation as if he hadn't turned into the human form of trivial pursuit after two cups of spiked punch last night.

Leave it to Nahyuta to still be determined to do his morning routine, even in a beige Econolodge. She pushed the beige (or were they taupe?) covers back.

His silver hair hung down his back, wavy from his undone braid. She'd peeled the tinsel and ornaments off him last night. The shirt and boots had come off too, until it was just his white and gold pants, which were a little wrinkled now. He might have been flexible, but even she couldn't get a drunken Nahyuta into pajama pants.

"You needn't get up," he said.

Ema propped herself up in bed. "Nah, I can't sleep anymore. Too much on my mind."

She stretched out. He was still there, quietly waiting for her response. He always seemed to know. "We're meeting Lana today. Aren't you worried?"

"A coward dies a thousand deaths," he said.

"Yeah, you're doing that monk thing where you're being enigmatic again," Ema said.

"To worry needlessly is to go through a thousand hells. The only way is to--"

"Let me guess, 'let it go and move on?'" Ema said.

He nodded, and smiled.

"I sure didn't see that coming," Ema said. "Well, I definitely died a thousand deaths before you brought me to your family."

He continued to stretch. "You already knew my family, and had worked with them extensively."

"All the more reason to worry about the meeting! Your people aren't too fond of lawyers or people outside of their religion, you aunt was really execution-happy, your dad is the literally definition of poking the dragon, and your mom is practically considered a god in your country. Oh, and Apollo, who saw me during when I was stuck working as a detective for Prosecutor Gavin. Nuff said."

"And yet, there was nothing to worry about. No petition or riots. Mother was completely unsurprised. Ga'ran had no part of this, exiled to the dungeons as she will surely be forever. Apollo had already guessed. And father..." Nahyuta broke off.

Running into a complete roadblock of sorrow was an all too common thing in talking with Nahyuta. She'd just be trying to share a quip, or a food, and run straight into the wall of how deeply tragic so much of his life had been. She couldn't exactly tell a pun or a bad joke and help heal over a decade of his aunt manipulating and abusing him and trying to destroy his family, all for a twisted game. She couldn't hug away what had happened to his family. But she could damn well try.

She climbed out of bed and wrapped her arms about him from behind.

"I'd like to say it gets better, but I still miss my parents. Mother's day and Father's day are always hard days to get through. It was harder in school, when everyone would just so casually talk about how angry they were with their moms and dads for not getting them something. It would piss me off so much. They didn't even realize how lucky they had it."

He reached up and rested his hand over hers.

"I never got to say goodbye. Even his last words were to Apollo. I think to myself he must have understood what I was forced to do, the terrible choice I made for both of us. And that he would have understood that I was doing this for him. He would not want mother or Rafya to be harmed anymore than I. And yet....I still do not know if anger drags down his soul. If I have damned my own father to a hell of grudges by my hubris, by thinking I could fight Ga'ran by myself."

He bowed his head. She couldn't tell if it was in shame or in prayer.

"Well, I'm not a mind reader. And I only met him once or twice. Why don't you ask your mother or Maya to help?" Ema said.

"You suggesting spirit channeling as an answer?" Nahyuta said.

Ema puffed out her cheeks. "I can't exactly deny there's evidence anymore. It comes up in my job twenty times a day."

"...Your sentiment is appreciated, however...I cannot face it. Not now."

So much for letting it go and moving on. She rested her head against his back. "One day, then. You have to use all your energy to meet my sister, after all."

"You think I'll have a hard time impressing her?" Nahyuta said.

She chuckled. "I thought humility was supposed to be a tenet of Khura'ism," she said.

"So is honesty," Nahyuta said.

Okay, she had to give him that. If most people hard heard I'm dating an incredibly handsome foreign prince who also is a genius and completely appreciates my work and treats me better than anyone else has, be it prosecutor or boyfriend they would be impressed. But her sister had never much been impressed with any of her boyfriends.

She let go, only long enough shift positions, and kiss him on the cheek.

Of course Lana would be charmed by him. Who wasn't? She pushed all her anxious thoughts aside. As he'd said, there was no use in worrying. He'd somehow find a way to win Lana over.

*

Lana left a key out for them. Ema's heart clenched as she opened up the apartment. The apartment was bare of decorations. Of course Lana wouldn't take the trouble to get ready for the season.

Ema was filled with memories of coming home to a quiet house, and doing her studies while she waited with one ear towards the door, for when she'd hear the door opening, and her only family returning.

Their mom used to get so into Christmas. So many lights to the point of being garish, a big tree cut from a local farm. This was long before they'd moved to L.A. for Lana's job, when Santa had been a reality and she'd still had them both.

Lana followed after their father. She had his darker hair, his habit of clamping up whenever something bothered her. And Ema followed their mother's side, in the science love and sharp tongue, as well as snack cravings.

Lana also had a fairly functional apartment. Largely beige and white, with A basic coffee pot, barely enough dishes for more than one person. Even the pictures on the wall didn't look to her taste--like she'd bought it furnished. They'd have to either share plates or eat out. And considering how much Ema liked to eat, she figured the latter was best.

"Is she absent?" Nahyuta said.

Ema pulled out her phone and sent her sister a text. No response.

"Maybe she's in the shower. We are pretty early."

Ema had thought they could all meet together for some great breakfast at one of the local restaurants. Pancakes, eggs, bacon, with a side of sausage and waffles--and that'd just be her order. Her stomach clenched just at the thought.

She hadn't even had coffee before she left, figuring she'd get it on the way. But at this point, she could barely keep her eyes open.

"Make yourself at home. I'm going to get a cup of coffee. Want some?"

"I will wait for the blessed Starbucks, and their Pumpkin Spice. Truly, it is a treasure from heaven," Nahyuta said.

Ema smiled. She soon wouldn't have to worry about her latte fix. She'd already gotten him addicted to Snackoos, Starbucks, and several types of burgers. All she needed was a Cheesecake Factory store, a Bath and Bodyworks outlet, and better public wifi and she'd be set.

Ema fussed with the coffee machine, and pulled down one cup. Just over the stream of new, steaming coffee, she heard a voice.

"Good morning. Or perhaps I should say 'good afternoon.'"

Lana came in like a shadow. Ema hadn't even noticed her.

"Geez. You scared me. I almost dropped the cup--and you really don't have cups to spare," Ema said.

"Sorry. I wanted to catch you alone," Lana said.

Her expression was grave. Uh oh. Had some part of her previous incarceration come back to haunt them?

Lana's hair was shorter, still damp from the shower, and she definitely had more fine lines than before. None of them were from smiling. Even on an early weekend morning with no work, Lana still dressed professionally, with a suit, and her ever-present red scarf.

"Are you sure about this, Ema?" she shook her head. "It's all so reckless. Running off to Asia with some man you'd just met. You barely speak the language."

So much for Nahyuta impressing her sister. Sure, she'd gotten this third degree when she'd first left. But for Lana to still feel this apprehensive months later was something else.

"This isn't anything new. I moved over a year ago, so you can hardly say we don't know each other. Besides, I'm getting better at Khura'inese."

Lana let out a sigh. "I figured you'd get it out of your system. But you stayed. Are you really happy over there?"

Ema puffed out her cheeks. "Do I look unhappy? Trust me, Lana, I've never been remotely shy about my bad moods. Everyone knows when I'm ticked off. You've been talking to me on the phone for months. Did I sound unhappy?"

Lana stared down at the coffee maker. "That's not the point. Just because you're happy now doesn't mean you might not regret it later."

Ema lifted the coffee cup to her lips and took a sip. Black coffee wasn't usually her thing―Ema specialized in coffee which tasted like they'd shoved a whole bag of candy bars inside, then covered it with whipped cream and sprinkles―but she wasn't going to have this conversation without something caffeinated. "Sure, it wasn't what I had planned. But it's only a few years. After Princess Rayfa ascends to the throne, we'll be traveling all over the world together again. And when we get tired of that, we'll find somewhere to settle down. Maybe we'll end up in Europe, or L.A."

"You're really serious about him? I just don't want you to get lost in the romance and throw away your dreams," Lana said.

Ema gave her sister a harsh side glance. "I flew halfway around the world to an extremely religious country, and I stayed through ridiculously cold temperatures and temperamental people who love their pitchforks and torches. They didn't even have a Bath and Bodyworks, Lana."

"The horror," said a voice behind them.

A woman was tinkering with a lighted cube. She resembled some kind of sci-fi heroine, with her visor, minidress and ponytails that almost resembled a pair of antenna. She looked up with some disdain as Ema came into the room.

"This is--" Lana cleared her throat. Was that the hint of a blush?

She seemed faintly familiar. Ema racked her brain. Where had she seen her before?

"The toaster should be working fine again," she said coolly.

"Thank you. You're always so handy," Lana said.

She glanced towards Ema. Her eyes narrowed for just a moment.

"This is--"

"Don't bother, I was just leaving," she said. She left without a goodbye to either of them. Ema was left in stunned silence. "It wouldn't matter anyways."

"Regardless, she's my sister," Lana said.

The woman lifted one eyebrow. "I guess I see a resemblance."

She didn't bother with introductions, or even a goodbye as she left. It was only as the woman walked away that Ema remembered where she recognized her. The woman was definitely Prosecutor Blackquill's sister. She'd taken Trucy and several people hostage when Prosecutor Blackquill's execution came near.

And she was just about as rude as Prosecutor Blackquill himself. Apparently it ran in the family.

"What on earth was that all about?" Ema said.

"Nothing," Lana said. She busied herself with making another cup of coffee.

"A strange woman who just got out of prison for kidnapping charges comes into your house randomly and it's 'nothing?'" Ema said.

"She isn't an intruder," Lana said. Lana took a deep breath, and faced Ema. "...I joined a program. It's to help women who've been to prison rebuild their lives. I know you don't like talking about this part of my life or remembering the memories, but every day my time in prison is still with me. This is...helping me work through it."

An awkward silence fell between them. As Lana moved, she saw a hint of peach across her collar.

"Hey, Lana. You accidentally got lipstick on your blouse. Right--"

Lana didn't wear that color. Or at least, she hadn't when Ema had last seen her. Ema pushed it from her mind. Things changed. But Lana's behavior--that wasn't something she was just going to drop.

Lana's cheeks flushed a bit as she took a paper towel from the almost-empty roll, wetted it and started to quickly dab at her shirt.

Ema crossed her arms across her chest. "You're doing it again. Shutting me out of your life. Don't tell me you're involved in--"

"In what?" Lana said slowly.

"Something shady again," Ema said. "Like before."

"No. Nothing shady. She--She isn't anything," Lana said.

"So you invited a former kidnapper into your home just to fix the toaster? You could've just bought a new toaster. They're like ten bucks," Ema said.

Lana didn't respond.

"Is it like that with all the women from this group?" Ema said. "I mean is it really safe to bring them home? You did what you had to. You shouldn't have even had to go to jail for what he made you do. You aren't a criminal."

"I deserved it, even if you can't see it," Lana said. She turned away. That's how she was whenever she got stressed. Lana closed down and Ema emptied bags of snacks.

"And it's not all of them, no," Lana said. She busied herself with something else. Her eyes did not quite meet Ema's.

Lana let out a sigh. "We aren't anything. I didn't tell you because there's nothing you would want to hear. We were both a bit...lost after prison, and ended up talking. And well..." Lana cleared her throat.

It was only then that Ema realized that lipstick had been natural color peach. Just like the sci-fi woman had on.

Ema blushed bright red. This wasn't the territory she expected to run into with her trip home at all. "Oh. Oh."

Well, talk about a foot in mouth moment. Ema had just stumbled into her sister's female fuck buddy. She didn't even know her sister swung that way (though looking back at how she talked about Mia, and had never had a boyfriend because she was 'too busy being focused on work,' it made sense.)

Lana silently filled up her coffee cup. The quiet drew on. Ema cleared her throat.

"Jeez, you think I'd stop talking to you because you were gay?" Ema puffed out her cheeks. "That's illogical. Homosexuality is pretty common in many animal types like lions, rams and swans. In fact, the famous swan pair Romeo and Juliet in Boston were a pair of female swans. If anything, the true abnormality is making religious campaigns based on unscientific views of humans and animals and fitting them into scientifically false and harmful gender and sexual roles."

"That's a relief, I suppose. Still, there's very little I wish to discuss with you about this."

Ema sure didn't want to hear the details of her sister's sex life, either.

Lana set down the coffee mug resolutely. "He makes you happy?" Lana said.

"Most of the time, yeah. He drives me up the wall sometimes. But from what I can tell, that's completely natural in relationships. Honestly, I'm surprised we don't fight more, considering how different our cultures are. He really appreciates my work. He's always saying how he couldn't do his job without me. He goes out of his way to show how much he cares all the time. Even if his workaholic tendencies mean we don't spend as much time together as I'd like."

Ema smiled to herself at the memories.

"And you promise that you won't stay in a place which makes you miserable?" Lana said.

"Not a problem. He's going back to traveling in just a few years."

"That won't be delayed constantly?" Lana said.

"He wouldn't put it off. He loves traveling as much as I do. Okay, I'm not too fond of the jetlag. And when it's constant it isn't too great--but seeing new places is great. I hear Europe has some really neat new forensic science prototypes that I'm dying to see."

Lana nodded.

"....Fine. It's your life. But only if you're happy."

Ema let out a sigh of exasperation. "For the last time, Lana. Yes, I'm happy. I know it wasn't what I planned, but I'm okay with this. Sometimes life goes in ways that you don't anticipate."

Her stomach let out a loud gurgle.

Lana raised one eyebrow. "It isn't like you to skip breakfast. Are you feeling ill this morning?"

As if it couldn't get any more uncomfortable, she had to bring the pregnant talk up. "Jeez, I'm not pregnant. Yet, anyways," Ema said.

Lana raised her eyebrows.

"We haven't even had that kind of talk! Seriously, we were just coming here to invite you to breakfast. Then it turned into the awkward family talk hour."

Come to think of it, this made much more sense why Lana never showed any approval towards her boyfriends. That and once a prosecutor, always a prosecutor. She couldn't help interrogating anyone who got close to her only sister.

"Anyways, we can all get introduced over breakfast," Ema said.

When she returned to the living room, Nahyuta was serenely perched on the couch. His green eyes fluttered open as she stood before him.

"Ready for breakfast?"

"Of course. It's far too long since you've eaten. If I may, I suggest a small Snackoo break to prevent you from becoming―I believe the term is 'hangry?'"

"I suppose he's picked a up a few things about you," Lana said.

Ema smiled. "That he does."

*

Despite the holiday, or maybe because of it, the diner was packed. But, Ema managed to score a red corner booth right near the window. The plate was laid before them. Ema's, unsurprisingly, took up a large section of the table. Lana rarely ate breakfast, but had acquiesced to get some black coffee and eggs with toast.

Just from the sudden expression, like he'd found enlightenment, Ema knew that pancakes would be up there on the food considered 'blessings of the Holy Mother.'

Despite their talk, Lana moved her scarf back, and glanced coldly at Nahyuta, the same stare she'd used back in her Chief Prosecutor days. Nahyuta, however, gazed serenely back.
"As her sister, I'm obligated to ask: what exactly are your plans?"

Ema set down her fork with a clatter. "Lana, you said you'd be nice and let it be. In what world is this being nice?"

"I may not be a prosecutor anymore, but I'm still your older sister. I may have heard your side of the story, but and I can't rest until I hear it from him," Lana said.

Ema rolled her eyes. "I'm almost thirty, sis. He's not a flake. He's responsible enough to take care of a country, a legal system and a monastery. You make it sound like I brought Larry Butz home."

"Age doesn't stop you from being my little sister. You'll never grow out of that," Lana said.

Nahyuta smiled. "Do not worry. I have stared down into the very pits of Pahpul Boljhig. I have faced a prosecutor who has ordered the deaths of thousands. I was almost among that number, when Apollo started to untangle her betrayal. A sister-in-law can hardly compare to the feel of the gallows so close."

He set his fork aside, and put his hands in a meditative stance. Ema was still learning the names, though one sounded something like 'mud.'

"My plans... do you mean today? Or is this the future tense? I suppose I will address both.
Today, we are to exchange gifts because of the strange conglomeration of traditions pushed together. If you meant the future, then the answer is-- to Cherish her as long as I still draw breath."

Lana took a long sip of coffee before she spoke. "Good answer."

"If I may, Ema is a remarkable woman. Spirited and intelligent. She brings out the best in me, and hopefully, I in her. I have been foolish to her in the past, but that was my heart speaking before my head."

Ema lifted one eyebrow. Really, now was not the time to bring up 'I dragged you to a country ruled by a tyrant personally dedicated to destroying me, everyone in my family and everyone I loved because I wanted to spend more time with you and show off. And by doing that I accidentally put you in danger.'

Ema forgave him long ago. He'd been touch starved, desperately lonely and carrying a burden alone which no one should carry. Besides, she hadn't been harmed. Apollo and Phoenix had stopped the queen before anyone else could be sent to the gallows. But Lana wouldn't see it that way.

"He means things lost in cultural translation," Ema quickly cut in. She gave Nahyuta a meaningful glance, and hoped he knew the exact disapproving eyebrow lift which mean you really need to shut it before you really see what kind of a prosecutor my sister was.

"I could tell Ema's feelings, but his...I couldn't read his emotions at all," Lana said. She cleared her throat. "Every time he spoke in on those―video call things you made me do--I couldn't tell his intentions or feelings on anything."

Ema nodded. "He's like that. Drives me up the wall half the time. I can never figure out what he's thinking."

"Is it cultural?" Lana said.

"Not even remotely. Trust me, some of the Khura'inese people are really expressive. Like Datz, and Dhurk---" she broke off. Of course, the last thing Nahyuta wanted to talk about over the holidays was his dead father. Ema cleared her throat. "And um, the Princess is a real spitfire."

"I got it from my mother," Nahyuta said softly.

Before the subject could go back to his family circumstances, and just how tragic his life had been, Ema changed the subject.

"How about more coffee? I could use some, let's get decaf this time," Ema said.

"Good idea," Lana said.

Ema flagged down a waitress, and put in their order.

She glanced over to Nahyuta. "When our parents died, I raised her myself. She's my only family. And she's been through far too much sadness already. Treat her well, or you'll see why I was feared as Chief Prosecutor years ago," Lana said.

"Lana." Really, Nahyuta was not the person to talk about losing and agonizing life events.

"Of course. I would think nothing less of making her as happy as I can manage," Nahyuta said.

The coffee arrived, cutting them short.

They sipped their coffees in silence. It almost felt like a battle had been waged. She couldn't tell if it was won, or this was just a truce. Finally, Ema broke the uneasy quiet at the table.

"Anyways, can we put the prosecutor part aside and just go home and exchange gifts after this? Maybe watch some sappy Christmas specials?" Ema said.

"I'm afraid there's something I need to take care of alone first, but it won't take long," Lana said.

"Fine, Nahyuta and I will find something to keep ourselves busy until then," she said.

"Not in my bed; the comforter is hard to clean," she said.

Ema blushed bright red. She hadn't meant it like that. "I meant with television," Ema said.

Nahyuta glanced from her to Lana, though he said nothing. Of course he'd have enough intuition to know when to sit a battle out.

"Fine. I can't claim to have many channels as I don't watch much, but I'm sure there's some movie specials going on anyways."

Ema left a $5 tip on the table. With her, there were always lots of crumbs and plates to clean up.

*

Ema had already finished two cups of hot chocolate, and Lana still hadn't come back to her apartment. She went out to the sparsely furnished living room, where Nahyuta intensely gazed on at the television. Ever so often, he would pause the movie and take notes in a little notebook covered with big-eyed sparkly cats.

Ema glanced at the television. She expected some kind of documentary, but what she actually saw was some cheesy made for TV Hallmark Christmas romance.

"What exactly are you doing?" Ema said.

"I am studying your culture," Nahyuta said.

She glanced back to make sure he hadn't just accidentally switched it from the Discovery channel or something. But, no. It was still a low-budget made for cable romantic comedy that he studied so intently.

"That's a Hallmark movie," Ema said slowly.

"Indeed. It's most elucidating."

For what?

He paused the movie, where a white couple stood underneath some wreaths and said some sappy, borderline snappy dialogue to each other.

"When I asked Maya, she told me to watch this channel, and the secrets of the holiday would be revealed. She also told me that I must watch all episodes of Steel Samurai as soon as possible, because that is the path to enlightenment."

He motioned towards the television.

"No reindeer or elves have come up as of yet, but I have started to understand this 'spirit of Christmas.' I asked Ms. Maya how to understand, and she pointed here. As far as I can tell, this 'magic' is family, commercialism, charity, and many decorations of this red man who should be tried for breaking and entering."

She sat down on the couch beside him. She'd tried to explain before that Maya was, to use some internet lingo, a bit of a troll. She'd play mischievous tricks, and sit back at the results. He only saw her as the master of Kurain, not the mischievous girl who did cases with Phoenix Wright.

"Within these 'Hallmarks,' there is always this 'magic of Christmas.'"

"They're just cheesy movies," she said.

"They have a point."

"The Magic of Christmas?" Ema laughed mirthlessly, "It's called having a family. Really, that's all. It's not about having the presents or the treats. It's about being able to spend time with your parents and siblings. It's about being able to still hug them and not having to send cards through prison guards. It's not having to worry that you'll forget what they looked like and sounded like a little more every year they're gone."

There was so much she missed. Her parents, the innocence of not knowing what it felt like to have to see her sister pulled in on a false murder charge.

Even when she'd finally passed her test. when Lana had finally gotten out of jail and gotten her life back, she still missed that girl who woke up to snowy days and never even imagined things like blackmail and failure and loss could ever happen to her.

She fell silent. Memories of the past, and the morning weighed on her mind. Nahyuta inclined his head.

"I am sorry for the hardships you have endured in this life. I, too, have known many. I would offer sutras of my religion that have given me comfort, but they would be no comfort to you. So instead, all I can offer is this," He held out his hand. Ema took the warmth he offered. It didn't still her mind, however.

"Your religion..." she said.

"Something troubles you?" Nahyuta said.

She tried to figure out a way to formulate those words.

"I ran into my sister's, er, lover earlier. I didn't get a chance to talk with you before that whole cross-examination in the diner," she said.

Lover seemed too much a word, though maybe one day it would fit. But like hell was she going to explain the concept of a 'fuck buddy' to Nahyuta.

"It doesn't seem to be awkwardness which bothers you. Was the lover rude, or crass towards you?" Nahyuta said.

"She was pretty rude, but that's not the point," Ema said.

She waited for any response for him, but he serenely waited for her to finish the story.

Ema took a deep breath. "I just needed to know that this would be okay and I wouldn't be forced to choose between supporting my sister and my boyfriend. I haven't seen anything in Khura'in against it, but you're always talking about fire and brimstone, and some religions are really stupid about this stuff. Your religion doesn't have anything against lesbians, does it? Because one of these days, My sister is going to bring a girl to dinner with us. Or, I hope she will, instead of hiding it away and pretending like that little scene I just saw didn't happen."

"Is that what worries you?" He smiled. "The sinners I speak of are one which would so cruelly harm a person, take, destroy a life, or disrespect women so shamefully. Lady Keera was said to have had a female lover at some point. The Holy Mother spoke of love in surtra 153: and so, let them come together one and all. Love is the highest law, and let no one break asunder what has been brought together."

"Well, that's one worry off my mind," Ema said.

"If you have any concerns about the religion of Khura'ism, I will be glad to lay them to rest.," Nahyuta said.

"It's how much they like the torches and pitchforks which worry me, mostly," Ema said.

"That is a reflection of the influence of Ga'ran, not the Holy Mother. Khura'ism is a religion of peace and love. But when they thought mother was killed, the people mourned, she turned their mourning into calls for revenge. Ga'ran used that to destroy the courts, and execute all who opposed her."

Nahyuta closed his eyes. "There are very few who remember what it was like before she began to destroy the country, and our family. Even I have only heard it spoken about by father and others born before the DC act. Going back to what Ga'ran destroyed is difficult...but not impossible."

"For a religion of peace and love, you do talk about hell a lot," Ema said.

"Those who murder, rape, pillage and corrupt deserve what they have given tenfold. That is the law of karma," Nahyuta said.

Ema had to give him that. She couldn't exactly feel bad if Gant ended up in those hells of eight hundred thousand years for all he did to Lana and her.

Ema shook her head. "Great, more heavy family talk for the holidays. Just what I needed."

"Would you prefer we talk of something else?" Nahyuta said calmly.

"Yeah, I would. I just really needed to get that settled. I didn't want to have to...." Ema couldn't bring herself to finish the sentence, to say the words say goodbye to another person.

"Then perhaps focus upon the holidays instead. I must ask, is there a specific time when we exchange gifts? From what I studied, most children are discouraged from getting up too early to get presents," Nahyuta said.

"That's just because their parents want to sleep in," Ema said.

"Does this mean we can start now? Or shall we wait for Lana?"

Ema smiled mischievously. "Maybe we've got some gifts that aren't for Lana's eyes."

"Oh, she will see when she comes," Nahyuta said.

Not the lacy kind of gift, then.

Nahyuta let go of her hand and bent down to pull back his filled almost to bursting brown messenger bag. Tinsel spilled out as he undid the zipped. He lifted out a set of new lights, and a small tree air freshener which he hung above the television.

"I could not fit a whole tree within my bags, although I tried. If only it was like that game upon your phone you showed me. The crossing one--"

"Animal Crossing," she said.

"If only such things could turn into tiny leaves and be carried everywhere," he said.

"Tell me about it. I was really wishing I had that power when I was moving overseas."

"Here, let me help you," Ema said.

With a little tinsel and lights, the apartment looked a little less like a divorce depresssion special. All the old times of rushing out to open presents while her parents came out, still in their pajamas and robes came back to her in waves. Ema let out a little sigh. "Even things are good now, do you ever wish you could just step into a time before? Before everything went bad."

He nodded.

"Stupid question. Of course you do."

"I cannot turn back time, but some things are not lost forever," Nahyuta said.

"That's sweet, but--"

"This isn't all," he said.

A knock sounded at the door.

"That must be Lana," she said, before Ema stopped herself. Why would Lana knock at her own door? Maybe her hands were full of gifts. But as she opened the door, it was Pearl and Maya who stepped in.

"Sorry we're late―the traffic was awful," Maya said.

Pearl glanced down in shame. "Isn't it bad to lie to a monk, Mystic Maya?" Pearl said.

"Which was it, puppies or burgers?" Ema said.

Pearl hung her head. "Both."

"Hey, I'm not judging. I'd stop for both, even if I was late," Ema said.

"I as well," Nahyuta said.

Maya smiled. "Well, good to know. Shall we?"

They slowly made a gesture of their hands and closed their eyes. She glanced back to see Pearl and Maya disappear into the form of her mother and father.

"You...."

She rushed into their arms. It felt so real. Not like an apparition, but actual flesh and blood. Her father's dark hair, little stubble and angular jar. Their mother's bright hazel eyes and smile. All the features which had started to become so blurred. Even their voices which she couldn't quite memorize fast enough to keep the memories pristine, locked inside her forever.

"Mom, dad..." she choked back tears as they hugged her together. For these fleeting seconds, it was like the car accident that took them from her and Lana's lives so many years ago had never even happened.

He'd given her the Christmas of her childhood back, if only for a moment.

Keys jingled, and the door opened again. The bags fell to the floor with a great crash of something metal within them.

Lana looked in alarm from her to Nahyuta. "Wh―what is this? Some kind of sick joke?"

Ema couldn't exactly use science to explain how their parents were here, because it was beyond the realm of science. One day, maybe when Princess Rayfa had outgrown her moody teenage years, Ema would find some way to measure the Divination Seance and spirit channeling. But for now, it was slated in one of those things which was hard to explain, but all too real.

"I think you'll have to tell this one, Nahyuta."

He nodded serenely. "Many, many years ago, The Holy Mother was born. And from her--"

Leave it to him to start at the very beginning. He went on, listing the history of the Holy Mother, but Lana didn't look like she was listening. She couldn't seem to look away from their parents.

Lana looked so pale, like on the verge of fainting. "Maybe we need to skip to the part about Kurain," Ema cut in.

"They're dead," Lana said. "Is this a hologram? Or some kind of.... horrible prank..."

"Lana, dear..." Their mother said with concern filling her face.

"This can't be... She looks... just like then," Lana said.

"Look, I don't know how it is, and I know it sounds completely fake, but some people can like---bring back the dead. For a while."

"This is....unreal..." Lana said.

"Yeah, it feels like that for a while, but you'll get used to it. Come on. Family hug," Ema said.

Lana slowly stepped forward. Ema grabbed her sleeve and dragged her in.

"It feels real. But it won't last. I'll wake up soon enough. Just like so many times before," Lana said softly.

Ema reached out and pinched her cheek. Lana flinched.

"See? You're wide awake."

"I'm sorry for the many years I lost. I love you both so much," their mother said.

"You've both grown so much," their father said.

"Did you...see everything?" Lana said. The pain was palatable in her voice.

"We were always watching over you both," their mother said.

"I'm sorry I failed in taking care of Ema," Lana said.

"Dear, neither of you ever truly failed. You just...had a bit of a detour. That's all," their mother said.

"Lana, stop. You always did a good job. What he made you do wasn't your fault," Ema said.

"It won't take away the years, or the people who I had to try," Lana said.

They become more transparent, and began to flicker and fade.

"It's time," their father said.

"Don't go..." Lana said.

"It isn't forever. We'll see you again," their mother said.

With a bright light, their parents faded, and it was Maya and Pearl who stood before them again.

"I knew I would wake up eventually," Lana said.

"This won't be the last time you'll see them. I'm sure I'll be able to find someone in Kurain or Khura'in to help," Ema said.

Lana could only stare down at her hands, that had for a short moment, touched their long lost parents. She closed her eyes. "That's....I....I need to put the groceries away."

She bent down and started to shove the errant apples―now bruised―and a tin of something, maybe chocolate or cookies, back into the plastic bag.

Ema knew she only wanted to break down in peace. She let Lana have this. It was the least she could do.

*

Maya and Pearls had gone, though to where, Ema couldn't say. She had plans of thanking them, but first, she had one little thing she needed to do.

Out from her pocket, she pulled something she'd gotten the party the day before. A little sprig of white. Or, as Nahyuta had put it a plant that killed a god that people now kissed under.

She leaned in, kissed his cheek, and whispered: "I got you another gift, but it's something I don't want to open with my sister around. Also to help that mental image, my boobs are going to smell like peppermint tonight."

He shifted just enough to kiss her lips. She could still taste the wamrth and sweetness of syrup on his lips.

"There, you wanted to have a bit of mistletoe. But you were too drunk last time."

"I cannot say I understand your many customs towards this holiday...but I like this one," he said.

"I bet you do," Ema said.

"Speaking of which, I haven't even given you the rest of your gifts yet," he said.

"You brought my parents back for Christmas. Hell, you brought back Christmas, period. I can't think of a better gift."

"That isn't all," he said.

He held out a little black velvet box. "Your culture dictates that I get on my knees for this?"

She gasped, and clutched her cheek. "Nahyuta, you--"

"I had hoped to speak to your parents about this, but when your sister came, she needed to be
comforted. Unfortunately, there is no orchestra, or snow," he said. "Though perhaps, that can be fixed."

He looked beyond her. It was only then she realized he was looking for some romantic theme to put on behind them, just like the movies.

She laughed. "Don't worry if the moment doesn't match the movies."

"It must be remarkable and unforgettable," Nahyuta said.

"You already are," she said. Still, she switched on spotify from her phone to some incredibly long study playlist of epic movie instrumentals. She couldn't find any snow projecting apps (someone should really write one) so the Christmas lights and dollar store tinsel he'd found would have to do.

He continued, with a shy smile. "You have always been beside me, supporting me. You taught me happiness I did not know I could possess. I would be honored if you were my partner and love for all my life."

"Get up here off your knees—don't want them to be too sore, considering how much time you'll be spending on them tonight."

With a chuckle, Nahyuta rose up, and took her hands. "Then, that is a--"

Before she could say anything, a large hand settled on his shoulder.

"You did good, son. She's a real catch."

Nahyuta flinched, unable to speak or turn around to face who had appeared from beyond the veil of death, right in the middle of his proposal.

Ema clutched her cheek as she gasped. "D-Dhurke!"

He burst into laughter. "I couldn't let something so important happen without. I made Maya promise to channel me if anything interesting with my family happened. Sure, I kicked it, but with her help, I'll be bothering you all for every holiday."

"Father... One day, I will be able to look you in the eye. But now..."

"Oh, stop that. I'm stealing your fiance for a second," Dhurke said. He pulled Nahyuta into a big bear hug. For many long moments, Nahyuta remained tense. But finally, he allowed himself to relax into the embrace.

"You're my son and you always will be. Stop it with this guilt nonsense."

Nahyuta still didn't meet his eyes.

"Your soul--it is well? I was not there to preform your last rites. At least Apollo was there to do it--"

"No son should have to say the last rites for his father, least of all Apollo. I couldn't very well expose your mother, and get you in trouble, with you in Ga'ran's claws. I could only talk to him, and guide him through those last rites. It was a huge burden for both of you. I knew why you did it. Ga'ran gave us a raw deal, and you did what you could with it."

"Y...you aren't angry with me?"

"Hell no. You got that stubborn streak from me. That's how I ended up like this. I never could stop rushing straight into things, damn the consequences. Just like when I rescued your mother the last time, and Rayfa was born. I'm proud of you. I'm lucky, I have three strong, pigheaded kids." He burst into a big smile.

Nahyuta finally chanced a look up into his eyes. "I'm sorry I could not rescue them alone."

His apparition was faint, but his smile was big. Long black hair, tied up in a knot fell down his back. His bright blue tunic faded into nothing at the edges, and his coat fell into shadows about him.

"It would've been some story, but she's an ornery one, so I'm not surprised. You did what you could."

Nahyuta nodded. "I tried. But this failure is a burden I will carry for all my life."

"Khura'in is free, and your sister is now on the throne. That isn't any failure. I knew there could be casualties when I started this revolution. If anything, I'm glad it was me. I'd never know any rest if it was you, your sister, or your mother who Ga'ran ended up killing."

"There shouldn't have been any," Nahyuta said softly. "Had my plan worked, it would've been a bloodless revolution."

"She got the better of you. It happens, boy. She cornered me about three times, stole your mother and sister away for twenty years. But we beat her in the end."

"We did," Nahyuta said softly. "But at what cost?"

"And we couldn't have done it without you taking her out from the inside," Dhurke said.

"Father. I know that's a falsehood. I was more of a liability than a hero. Forced to go along with her
twisted game."

"What's past is past. Let it go, Nahyuta. Move on and forgive yourself. They're safe now," Dhurke said.

"I will try... but my soul is still heavy with regret," Nahyuta said.

"I trust you'll put some sense into him, then?" Dhurke said, glancing towards Ema.

"On it. I'll flick snacks until he stops being so hard on himself," Ema said.

Dhurke chuckled. "What a great addition to the family."

His image flickered, as he began to shudder.

"What is it, father?" Nahyuta said, his voice cut through with concern.

"Phew--Maya's getting a little weak now, with all this summoning. She told me she did three more before she even came over here today. She's quite the trooper. Remember to invite me to the wedding, or I'll haunt you for all eternity."

Dhurke laughed. Slowly, his form faded back into Maya. She smiled, and clasped her hands together. "Consider it a Christmas gift. ….Now, I need a major fuel. Say, thirty burgers and a power nap? Mind if I can borrow your phone? I think I need a pizza, too."

"Go ahead; it's the least I can do," Ema said.

Maya waved her hand. "Oh, any time for a friend of Nick's."

She moved back towards the door, and quickly began to dial a number she had apparently memorized. "Hello? Domino's pizza?" Her voice faded as she stepped out into the hall.

"Ahem...I did not finish our important conversation," he said.

Ema wiggled her fingers. A beautiful cut diamond, with silver filigree like lotus leaves was proudly displayed on her finger.

"Not just yes, but hell yes," Ema said. "Plus, I have Snackooing rights, straight from Dhurke. If you start to hate yourself again, I get to flick these right at you until you start taking your own mantras seriously."

Ema winked. Nahyuta's response was cut off as Maya stepped back in.

"I ordered extra for you guys. Also, you're paying," Maya called as she stepped back in the door.

"It would be my pleasure to buy you a meal as thanks," Nahyuta said.

"All right! I'll go tell Lana what happened. And that we're having pizza for dinner."

As she went back to show her sister, Lana overheard Nahyuta speaking to Maya. She glanced back to see what Phoenix's mischievous former assistant had to say this time.

"So it's true, you will share the secret to enlightenment?"

"Yup! Two combo specials with fries, and marathoning all the seasons of Steel Samurai in a weekend. That's how I became the master of Kurain!" Maya started to hum along to the theme as she fiddled with the dvd player.

"Truly remarkable, that you would share your secrets. I knew when I tasted the Jalapeno Southwestern Burger I had tasted a bit of heaven. Still, I am honored by The Master of Kurain's honesty," Nahyuta said.

Maya grinned. "If you want another secret, have I got a a truly powerful meditation stance for you. All you have to do is this: push your face into your elbow, like you're trying to hide a sneeze. Now put out your arm, like you're trying to balance yourself. Nope, just a little higher. There, you got it! A meditation position like no other. Oh yeah! Make sure you do it in court. It'll help balance your energy for cases like nothing else."

"I am humbled and grateful for your instruction, Mystic Maya, Master of Kurain. If it is all right with you, I shall teach these sacred ways to the rest of the monks. It will help Kurain and Khura'in finally become united," Nahyuta said.

"Maya chuckled. "Of course it's all right."

Ema knew she wouldn't be able to tell him otherwise, or tell him that Maya had actually just made him dab. She'd just have to enjoy all of Maya's pranks. And get them on camera to laugh later.

Lana held up her hand. "He gave me a little something for Christmas."

"I heard everything," Lana said. She still looked pale, and a little shaken. Ema didn't blame her. She'd been the same in her first channeling, and that hadn't even been her family.

"I guess congratulations are in order." Lana shook her head. "I missed a lot of your life because of that man. And now you're getting married."

Lana could never bring herself to say Gant's name after prison. It hung about her, like a ghost which couldn't be banished.

"It's marriage, not a death sentence. Besides, I'm sure it won't happen for quite a while, due to how busy he is as Prince Regent. Maybe once Princess Rayfa has ascended to the throne officially we'll have enough time."

"Maybe," Lana said.

"Of course you'll be the maid of honor. And--I know we're not supposed to talk about this, but are you going to bring your---" Girlfriend didn't seem the right word, and she wasn't about to speak the word 'fuckbuddy' aloud to her sister.

"Aura--to the wedding? Because if you want to, I'll make sure to send her an invite personally." And hope she didn't blow up the whole party with her killer robots in the process.

Lana sighed. "It's years into the future. I can't tell what she'll be to me by then... Regardless, I've hit my limit to awkward family talks for one day. Let's just watch television, and exchange the rest of our gifts later. Whatever happens in the future can be dealt with another time."

"Here, here," Ema said.

She curled up on the couch with Nahyuta. Her legs draped over his, providing a perfect desk for him to write down all the important notes of wisdom from a children's show.

With a little smile, she nestled closer, until her head rested against him. She'd already seen the episode plenty of times. But his eagerness was amusing to watch.

He hadn't just given her closure, he'd given her forever. Just because they'd passed, it didn't mean the holidays—or any time of the year—had to be without her family. One day she'd figure out the science behind spirit channeling. For now, she was content to just sit with her family and watch Steel Samurai together.

Comments

[suzume]

Thank you, thank you, thank you again :D

Also, I think I forgot to say last time that:
1) I'm glad to hear your Twisted Peppermint body spray search was successful!
2) Yes, Maya, Domino's Pizza would be my choice too~ ^^
3) I really like the way you write the interactions between Lana and Ema. They were both hurt by the situation with Gant/the blackmail/etc...but they were sisters and they are again (and I was going to say 'even when it's awkward,' but maybe I should say 'especially when it's awkward')
4) ...Ha ha, I don't think I would have wanted to be one of Ema's past boyfriends who had to meet Lana...