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Chapter Text

Emma fell on her knees as she tripped over a root. Norman stopped in his track to run back to her side. They’ve been running for hours and both were extremely tired, but they couldn’t stop, not yet. They were exhausted.

They had managed to lose their pursuers for now, but it was just a question of time until they catch up to them. Especially since they were slowed down by this.

« Emma, we- we need to continue- they’re going to catch up so-soon. »

They were both panting and could barely talk. Emma raised her head to look at Norman.

« I-I know- but I- I can’t anymore. »

Norman kneeled by her side and took her in his arms. He felt her wrap her arms around him as tight as she could. They tried to calm their breathing down. 

They started hearing loud footsteps coming their way after a moment. Both looking towards the noise, Norman felt Emma’s breathing accelerate. They forced themselves to get up despite their aching legs and started running again. 

Running was all they’ve been doing since they escaped this place. When they heard the slashing sound, they both turned around. None of them noticed the roots, making them trip over it. Norman managed to grab Emma and to protect her from the fall.

The next thing he knew, a sharp pain at the back of his head and everything going black.

*_*_*

When he woke up, Norman was in a dark place. He took a look around to see a little bell, a candle and a cup full of water by his side. Someone had put a blanket on him.

« Oh! You’re finally awake! She’s going to be so happy! »

He whiped his head to look at the unknown figure. The person, who was clearly a woman, was small and had a cloak hiding her figure.

« Come, follow me. I’ll bring you to her and diner his ready. You must be hungry. »

Norman followed her in silence. He took the time to analyze the strange woman. His eyes stopped on her feet that came out of under her cloak. His eyes widened but he didn’t say anything as his mind started asking questions.

Where were they exactly? Were they underground? Well, of course they were but, why? Who was that woman- demon? What did she wants from them? Emma. Was Emma alright? Is she safe and sound? What did this woma- demon meant by diner is ready??

« We’re here. »

The woman’s voice broke him out of his thoughts as they entered what looked like a room. As he raised his gaze that was staring at the ground, Norman got crushed by someone as arms wrapped around him. It took him a moment, but his mind ended up registering who it was. The wild ginger hair tied in a messy bun was the only thing he could see. He wrapped his arms around her.

« Emma. You’re alright. »

« You’re awake. I thought I had lost you again. »

He never liked hearing her say this.

« I’m sorry. »

« It’s okay, the important is that you’re awake and alright. »

They kept the other in their arms for a moment until the tallest figure that was sitting in a corner got up and approached them.

« I think you already know that you shouldn’t make her worry too much in her state, right? »

Emma and Norman backed away from their hug to look at the tall man. Norman put himself in front of Emma in a protective way. He heard her let out a sigh.

« Norman. Calm down, please. They’re friends. »

« What?! But they’re demons? »

« I know. I was talking with Mujika and Sonju earlier before she left to go see how you were doing and they told me they know our family! »

Frowning, Norman’s gaze went from the tall figure and the small one that had put herself beside the tall one before looking back at Emma. 

« Demons and friends don’t normally go well together. And they know our family? »

Emma let out a sigh as she went back to sit on the ground, dragging Norman behind her so he could do the same.

« I know what you mean, Norman. But Sonju and Mujika saved us! Sonju saved us from that wild demon that was chasing us. And Mujika took care of you until you woke up. »

It was Norman’s turn to let out a sigh. The smaller demon, the one called Mujika, came to him and handed them both a bowl full of soup.

« Here, eat up. »

Emma gave her a thankful smile before digging in her food. Norman was more careful than her as he sniffed it first and, not detecting anything weird, he started eating as well. 

« You two met our family? »

Mujika and Sonju both looked up from their meal to look at the white-haired boy. Mujika was the one to answer him.

« Yes! We met them a few years ago a bit after they escaped Grace field. Just like for the two of you, we saved them and helped them reach their destination. We can guide you to them if you want! »

By Emma and Norman’s smile, the demons knew they were accepting their help.

*-*-*

Norman was out with Sonju. It had already been two days now since both him and Emma were staying in the underground tunnels with the two demons. Norman still wasn’t too sure with them but, if Emma was trusting them, he could give them a chance too.

Norman was out with Sonju because he wanted to learn how to hunt. He knew Emma would’ve like to be the one to go instead, but in her state, it wasn’t the best idea to let her go.

They had just hunted down some birds and Sonju was teaching him to do the Gupna. Norman felt his heartbeat accelerate as he raised his arms in the air, staring at the bird in front of him.

Suddenly he was eleven year old again. Him and Emma had left the house at night, without permission because one of their little sister who had just gotten adopted had forgotten her bunny plushie.

When they reached the gates, there was a truck. Inside of the truck, their little sister. Their little sister Conny with a bloomed red flower going through her chest. That same flower he was holding over his head right now.

The bird had become Conny for a moment. A moment long enough to gave him the urge to puke and to make him start to shake. He hold it back, closed his eyes and lowered his arms.

The flower bloomed.

*-*-*

Norman and Sonju were sitting near a small river. Norman was staring at it before looking at Sonju when this one started to speak.

« Emma was supposed to become a mom, right? »

Norman’s tired gaze stared at the demon before going back at staring in front of him.

« Yeah, she was. »

« Aren’t moms suppose to have that device in their chest that would kill them once they get out of the area? »

« Yeah, but I manage to deactivate it. It took time, but I did it. But not fast enough, apparently. »

« Why do you say this? Is it because she is currently pregnant? »

The white-haired young man let out a sigh as he closed her eyes to reopen them right after.

« I wanted us to escape before they have the time to do this to her. I wasn’t fast enough. »

Sonju stayed silent as he nodded. After a short silence, the demon looked back at the young man.

« She sure is lucky to have someone like you with her. Someone that will take care and protect her. »

Norman looked back at the demon, a soft smile appearing on his lips.

« Thank you. »

« Always take care of her and your baby. They’ll need you. But don’t forget to take care of yourself as well. »

Norman looked back in front of him, his smile never leaving his lips.

« Will do. You don’t have to worry about that. I have no intention to leave their side. »

With a satisfied smile, Sonju looked back in front of him as well.

*-*-*

Emma was helping Mujika sorting out her different herbs. She wanted to go out with Sonju to learn how to hunt but Norman had insisted to be the one to go since, in her state, she should be resting.

« So, Emma. »

« Hm? »

The ginger-haired girl hummed as she raised her head to look at the demon. Mujika was kneeling and facing her.

« I was wondering, are you pregnant? »

Emma’s eyes widened a little in surprise. Mujika noticed.

« I mean that, your scent is different than, how can I say it, a normal woman? Like, a pregnant woman’s scent isn’t the same as one that isn’t pregnant. »

« Oh! I see. »

Emma let out a chuckle.

« Yes I am. That’s why me and Norman had to leave the facility. I didn’t want my child to be taken away from me as soon as they were born. Even though they’re not the main reason why we left in the first place. »

« Why did you wanted to leave then? »

Emma crossed her legs so she could be sitting properly on the ground and be facing Mujika.

« We wanted to live. We don’t want to be associated with them. We don’t want to be committing those… those atrocities the moms and scientists have been doing for years now. We wanted to leave before I become pregnant. Deactivating the device on my heart took more time than we thought. But, here we are! Alive and well, waiting for a child. »

Mujika nodded as she stared at Emma.

« Is Norman the father? »

Emma shrugged as she placed a gentle hand on her belly.

« I don’t know who the father is, actually. »

« Oh… that’s quite sad. If it can reassure you, your current scent is a mix of, I guess, yours and Norman’s. »

« Really? »

Mujika nodded.

« Yes! The scent of a pregnant woman will always be a mix between the mother’s and the father’s scent! So my guess is that Norman is the father of your child. »

Emma looked down at her hand that was still on her belly.

« I don’t know how that would be possible though but, I want to believe that it’s him. I don’t want anyone else to be the father of my child. »

As a soft smile appeared on the young woman’s lips, Mujika soften as she looked at her.

*-*-*

Emma and Norman stayed with Sonju and Mujika for a good week. The two demons taught them how to survive in the wild as they brought them towards where their family was. 

Emma, despite Norman’s protest for her to keep resting, still learned how to hunt and use the Gupna with Sonju. Mujika taught Norman all the medicine herbs he could use and for what he could use them.

They separated at the entrance of some wastelands. Emma and Mujika were holding hands as they were saying goodbyes.

« Please take care of yourself, your baby and him. They’ll both need you. »

Emma let out a chuckle as the two girls hugged each other.

« Will do. »

« Once you’re reunited with your family, find the Seven walls and reforge the promise. »

Emma’s eyes widened a little in surprise as they both backed away from the hug. Mujika put something in her hand before backing away, tenderly smiling. 

The ginger-haired girl looked at the object in her hands. It was an amulet made of an eye shaped with a turquoise gem in its middle and attached with a golden chain.

Norman approached her as she was putting the amulet around her neck. Emma looked at him as he stopped beside her.

« Hm? What’s that? »

« Mujika gave it to me. She said to find the Seven walls and to reforge the promise. »

Norman nodded. He took her hand in his.

« Ready to go then? »

Emma soften a little as her expression filled itself with a newfound determination.

« More than ready. »

*-*-*

They finally reached the point Minerva had indicated to them all those years ago at the end of the day. Norman took out a pen he had and opened it.

« It’s here. We just need to find the entrance to the hideout. »

Emma was about to sweep the ground a little in search of any sort of entrance when they heard a click. They looked at each other before going towards it. They found a door they immediately opened.

Norman went down first so he would be the first to welcome any danger. Once both were inside, the door closed behind them, they entered what looked like a bunker.

They navigated through the dark corridors, hands in hands. They helped themselves with the walls since they couldn’t see a single thing due to how dark it was. They were about to turn around a corner when they heard footsteps.

Once whoever it was was right around the corner, Emma punched.

Chapter Text

Emma had been wandering these hallways for some years now. Dead gaze. Dead inside. There was no more life in those once bright green eyes. 

Becoming a mom really wasn’t in her plan.

Memories of that fateful day comeback crashing in her mind at night when she tries to gain some sleep. The fire was more than real in her dreams, nightmares. The screams of pain were more than real in her nightmares. The pain was more than real in her nightmares. Losing him was more than real when she was awake. 

The realization that they both were gone forever was more than real when she was waking up.

At least she wasn’t waking up screaming. She was completely drenched in sweat and felt like her lungs were being crushed inside of her ribcage. She was always surprised to see that she still had some tears remaining in her. But at least she wasn’t waking up screaming. Not anymore.

The day of their escape, Emma had talked to Ray in the dining hall. Ray had let the match fall. Emma had tried to catch it.

Emma hadn’t been fast enough.

The flames raised and burned her. She screamed Ray’s name with a desperation mixed with pain.

It hurt. It hurt. It hurt. It hurt. It hurt. It hurt. It hurt! It hurt! It hurt! It hurt! IT HURT! IT HURT! IT HURT! IT HURT! IT HURT! IT HURT! IT HU-

Arms grabbing her made her vision all blurry and the cold of the grass against her burning skin made her foggy mind wake up. She stayed lying on the ground, shaking out of pain, fear and anger. And sadness. She couldn’t move.

She felt a tiny hand on her shoulder and she looked up. Emma saw Phil looking at her with tears in his eyes. She’s not sure what happened after this but, she’s sure she was praying for her family to be able to escape as everything around her went black.

*-*-*

When she had woken up, she was in the infirmary. Her eyes shot opened as she quickly raised in a sitting position. Which she regretted as soon as she did. A sharp pain went through all her body, making it start to shake uncontrollably.

« Don’t move too much, Emma. Your injuries are still quite fresh. »

She turned her head to see Isabella standing beside the bed. She didn’t know if she should be feeling fear, anger, sadness or whatever it was she was supposed to be feeling at the moment. Right now, all she could feel was numbness. 

Which was normal after all, she had just lost her second best friend. The last one she still had. Plus her family had escaped. At least she hopes they did.

Mama took care of her injuries as they both stayed in complete silence. Emma wasn’t too comfortable. She wanted to get out of here as fast as she could but… would she ever be able to do so? She could barely feel her hands clench into fist by her side!

Isabella stopped in front of the door as she was about to leave, hand on the doorknob and not turning around.

« They all escaped without any problems. »

That made Emma whip her head toward the older woman. Isabella was already exiting the room.

Her family escaped? Her family… escaped… Her family escaped!

She couldn’t believe it! Their escape had worked! She felt relieved to know that they had escaped without any problems. She could only hope now that they’ll be able to reach their destination.

She let out a sigh of relief before bursting into silent tears. Her family ha escaped… but not them. Ray and Norman were suppose to be with them too. And herself too.

*-*-*

Phil was the one who came to visit her the most. He cried a lot too. Not because Emma was injured, but more because he was scared. Scared for her. He knew what was waiting for her now. 

Phil would come visit her at night when he couldn’t sleep. Like right now.

He had snuggled closer to his older sister, careful to not hurt her as she gently wrapped her arms around him.

« Emma? »

« Yes, Phil? »

« Do you think the others reached a safe place? »

It had been a few weeks now that their siblings had escaped.

« Yeah. I think they did. »

Phill nodded against her as he scooted closer to her. Both let sleep take over them.

*-*-*

Emma would always answer that she had no idea where the others were when the younger ones would ask her about them.

She could finally go outside after a month of resting. Even if she was being observed all the time, she would go back to the wall just to look at it. Emma knew it was useless to try to run away now.

Mama constantly had her eyes on her.

Emma couldn’t blame her. She understood why the older woman would keep an eye on her.

Emma could often be found sitting under the tree or even playing with her little siblings when she was feeling good enough. Phil would always be to her side.

Carol loved her a lot. The small girl could often be found in her big sister’s arms or side. Sherry would also come from time to time make sure Emma was alright.

*-*-*

Today was March 21th.

Norman’s birthday.

It was the first time Emma would be celebrating it without him. She had asked to be left alone that day. She didn’t want anyone to come bother her.

She went into the forest to the fence. Emma stared at the fence before taking a deep breath.

She jumped over it and walked toward the wall. She stared at it. She looked up and stared. 

Her neck hurt. Emma stared at it until mom rang the bell to tell them that playtime was over. She didn’t move.

She didn’t move either when she heard the footsteps behind her. Not even when they came closer to her to stop right behind her.

« Emma. Let’s go back to the house. It’s getting late. »

Emma heard Isabella’s voice say, but if she was completely honest, it sounded all fuzzy. 

She let the older woman drag her back to the house as all she could feel right now was numbness. That same numbness she felt a few months ago.

Emma missed the way Isabella sadly looked at her as they entered the house.

When Emma was in her bed, she only stared at the ceiling.

*-*-*

The days passed. Then the weeks. Then the months.

Emma was feeling herself drift away more and more as the days went by. She knew the other children noticed as well. Especially Phil. She tried to keep her smile in front of them, but some days were just harder than others.

She never noticed the worried look Isabella would give her sometimes.

The fact that her birthday was coming closer and closer was scaring her a lot. She had actually accepted the fact she was going to die in some weeks now. 

What else could she do other than accept that fact?

Her last week passed too fast to her liking. She would’ve loved to be able to find a way for her to escape during that time. But nothing ever came to her mind.

She will always remember Phil’s destroyed expression when Isabella announced her "adoption" to the others. She will forever remember it and she hated it. 

Now she knows what Norman must’ve felt when he was being shipped out.

She was buttoning her vest as she let out a sigh. She stared at her reflexion in the mirror. The scar on the left side of her face was a nasty one. Going from her left cheek to both her arms and a bit of her hands. It still hurt sometimes. They’re especially itchy and Emma was scared to rip off her skin if she was to scratch it.

She finished getting ready and went to join everyone in the dining hall. She told her goodbyes, telling Phil she counted on him to take care of their family. 

« I’m sorry, Phil. Please take care of our family for me. »

Emma hadn’t cried. She wanted to stay strong for him as she kept him in her arms to comfort him. Isabella put a gentle hand on her shoulder to tell her it was time.

After a last goodbye, the door closed behind them. 

Emma took a last glance at Grace field. Her home. She’ll miss it that’s for sure. But at least she would be reunited with Norman and Ray.

Her and Isabella walked in silence toward the gates.

« Your suitcase is empty. »

Emma didn’t look at the older woman.

« What’s the point to bring anything if I’m just going to die in the end? I guess… it was similar to him, right? »

Isabella stared at the younger girl for a moment before looking back in front of her.

« Indeed. »

Once at the gates, Emma stayed in front of the truck, waiting for that flower to pierce her chest.

But it never came.

Instead, an old woman came to greet them with a demon behind her.

« 63194, Emma. One of Grace field’s premium. I have an offer for you. »

That took Emma by surprise. A memory came back to her mind. The memory of when Mama had proposed her to become a Mom, just after Norman’s shipment.

The older woman extended her hand.

« Would you like to survive and become a Mom? »

Chapter Text

« HUMPH!- »

Someone gasping for air was followed by someone falling to the ground. Right after the person collapsed to the ground, running footsteps were heard.

Emma felt someone grab her by the wrist to bring her closer to them. She panicked a little until she realized it was Norman.

The footsteps stop right in front of them when the lights suddenly opened. They both blinked, letting their eyes get use to the luminosity.

They heard some gasps, making them finally open their eyes completely. Their eyes widened and Emma felt hers getting watery.

« Gilda… Don… Anna… everyone… »

« Emma? Is it… really you? »

The green-haired girl slowly made her way toward the ginger-haired one. Gilda cupped the older girl’s face, like to make sure it was really real.

« I’m here, Gilda. »

The younger girl jumped on the older one, trapping her in a hug. Emma let out a chuckle as she looked at the others. She opened one of her arms and they all ran to her, all hugging her back. They all cried, telling her how much they had missed her. Telling her how scared they were to lose her as well.

« I’m so happy that you’re all doing alright. »

Jemima raised her head to look at Emma when a white spot caught her attention. Her eyes widened as her tears came back even stronger than before. 

« N- Norman? »

Catching everyone’s attention, they all turned around to look at the young man standing behind Emma. All their eyes widened as they all went to trap him in a hug. Norman hugged them all back, feeling is own eyes start to itch due to his own tears.

After the reunion, they remembered the person Emma had just punched a moment earlier when they heard them let out a grunt of pain.

Emma and Norman put themselves in a defensive way when they saw the old man get up. 

The man was clearly older than all of them. He had black with white strands in it hair. A messy beard and grayish grumpy eyes. He was glaring at Emma.

« Aren’t you suppose to be on a farm taking care of kids to send them to their death? »

Emma glared back at him.

« No I’m not. Just so you know, mister, it was never my intention to become a mom like this. »

« You were forced to? »

Emma looked at her younger siblings that were all worriedly looking at her. She gave them the most reassuring smile she could.

« Don’t worry, you guys. I’m fine! And Norman is fine as well! So why should you worry about us? »

« So that’s the two geniuses you guys told us about huh? »

Emma and Norman turned around to see some new faces. The one who talked was a girl with really short violet hair and eyes. She was accompanied by a couple of more new faces that neither Emma nor Norman had seen before. Just like the older man actually.

The violet-haired girl noticed their questioning gaze and let out a chuckle.

« I’m Violet. I’m from Grand Valley. Maybe you heard of a place called Goldy Pond? »

Emma shook her head before looking towards Norman who seemed to be lost in his thoughts. 

« Goldy Pond? Like the demon’s hunting ground that Ratri gave them? »

« Exactly that one. »

« So you were all… »

« We were all there? Yup! But thanks to some members of your family, we managed to destroy that place. »

Violet then turned around to look at someone who was hidden by all the others from Goldy Pond.

« You were right. She did manage to get here all by herself. Although you were wrong about the fact she would come here alone. »

Emma and Norman’s eyes widened when they heard the familiar voice making its way toward them. A voice they never thought they would hear ever again in their life.

« I told you. This idiot would do anything to be with her family. As for this idiot. »

Green and purple eyes locked into green eyes and blue eyes. 

« Welcome back, Emma, Norman. »

They couldn’t believer their eyes. He was right there. Right in front of them. Was he an illusion again? An illusion from their mind playing tricks on them again? No, he couldn’t be. Violet had talk to him. And everyone had looked at him make his way towards them.

Both Emma and Norman took some careful steps closer to the raven-haired boy. His expression was more tired but his smile was softer. His hair were still the same, with his bangs hiding his left eye. Although they were a bit longer as he had tied them in a small ponytail. He was taller. Of course he was. But her that thought that Norman was tall. He was even taller than the white-haired boy.

Emma slowly reached her hand toward his face and…

And slapped him.

She heard the gasps from her family and the others, Norman included, but she didn’t care as she took the older boy in her arms. Oh how she had missed holding her dear best friend in her arms like that!

« R-ray… I thought… I thought you were dead. I- I saw you- I saw the flames- I heard… your screams. »

« I know. I’m sorry. »

Ray raised his gaze to look at his other best friend. Norman was staring at him, clearly not knowing what to do. Ray gave him the softest smile he could as he opened his free arm. Norman crashed them both into a hug as Ray hold them both close to him. They let themselves fall to the ground.

Both boys that thought the other had died were finally reunited. Reunited the three of them, just like before.

Emma suddenly bursted into tears. Norman and Ray tried to comfort her as much as they could but her tears seemed to be unstoppable.

« Stupid! Idiot! »

Emma started punching Ray in the chest. Not too hard so she wasn’t hurting him, but hard enough for him to know what she was feeling.

« Idiot! I thought you were dead! I thought I had lost you too… »

Norman had backed away to let his best friends together. He still kept a hand on Emma’s back to also try to comfort her, just like Ray was trying to do. The ginger-haired girl had hid her face in her best friend’s chest.

« I’m sorry, Emma. It never was my intention to make you worry- »

« Liar! You’re just a- a liar! Stop lying for once! Please! I don’t want you, either of you, to die… »

She continued hitting Ray’s chest, her punches getting weaker and weaker as the tears streamed down her cheeks.

« Stop hitting Papa! »

Emma and Norman turned their head to look at the little girl that was frowning and clearly mad at them. She clearly wasn’t from Grace Field or Goldy Pond as she simply seemed to be too young to come from there and due to the fact that she didn’t seem to have any identification numbers on her.

The girl had shoulder length dark, almost black, brown hair with two strand of blond in them. Her eyes were a mix of blue and purple. They heard Ray let out a chuckle.

« Revna. I thought we told you not to yell like that. Plus your suppose to be in bed right now. »

« But! »

« No buts young lady. »

« Humph! »

The little girl, who was named Revna, crossed her arms and pouted. Emma was too focus trying to understand who was that little girl. Norman was the one to look back at Ray.

« Who’s that little girl? »

Ray got up, helping his two best friend do so as well, before taking the little girl in his arms.

« Emma, Norman, may I present you, Revna. She’s mine and Anna’s daughter. »

« … »

« … »

« Wait- YOU AND ANNA’S?! »

« YOU AND ANNA GOT A DAUGHTER?! »

Both Emma and Norman exclaimed at the same time, making their best friend and everyone else bursted out into laughters. Anna had approached Ray.

« Yes, she’s our daughter. »

Emma and Norman were too stunned to talk. 

« Wow… »

Emma said as she crossed her arms against her chest.

« I guess a lot happened while we weren’t there, huh. »

« Yeah… If it’s alright with you, we’d like to eat something, you’ll tell us everything whil we eat, sounds good? »

Everyone agreed with Norman’s proposal.

*-*-*

« So, you managed to save Ray at the very last minute. You all escaped because, despite me not being with you all, you knew that it was what I would’ve wanted. You then met Mujika and Sonju who taught you how to hunt and survive before arriving here at the bunker. »

Everyone nodded at Emma’s summary of their family’s journey. Norman continued.

« You met the man you all called Mister at first because he was never in the mood for anything and never told you his name. Ray and Don went to that place called Goldy Pond. You then met everyone from there and helped them out with their revolution. »

Everyone nodded once again. Emma continued.

« You destroyed Goldy Pond, rescued everyone from there and, since then, you’re trying to find a way to go to the human world. In the mean time, we’ll, two years ago, Don and Gilda got a son and Ray and Anna got a daughter. »

Everyone nodded. Ray let out a scoff.

« That sums up pretty much everything that happened during the last few years. »

Gilda pushed back her glasses as she asked something everyone wanted to know.

« You were about to become a mom, Emma. But how did you manage to leave that place? Doesn’t Moms have a device on their heart that will… you know? If they leave the area? »

Emma put down her fork to answer.

« Norman found a way to deactivate them! He got inspired by the device you made to deactivate the trackers, Ray! »

« Really? »

Norman nodded.

« Yeah. That’s all thanks to you Ray. Without your inventions, we wouldn’t be here today. »

They continued to talk about everything and anything until Ray voiced out everyone’s concerns.

« Say, Emma. I get it that you two were outside for a while and probably had not much to eat, especially in the wasteland. But that’s like, what, your fifth plate now? Even Norman has a normal appetite. Well, similar to what he used to have if not less. »

Emma suddenly became aware of the fact that Ray was right. She had just finished her fifth plate and was about to go take some more. She suddenly felt embarrassed.

« I-it’s just that the food is really good. You know. »

She pushed her plate a little before putting both of her hands under the table. A sudden nausea came over her. 

« Hum, if- if you’ll excuse me, I need to go to the bathroom real quick. »

She noticed the worried look Norman gave her. She gave him a reassuring smile, silently telling him she would be alright before leaving.

Everyone looked at her leave before looking back at Norman.

« Is she alright? »

Norman gave them all a reassuring smile. Which for Ray, wasn’t reassuring at all.

« Don’t worry everyone, Emma is fine. Anyway, shouldn’t we all go to bed? It’s quite late and me and Emma are quite exhausted. »

« What about what happened to you two during the last few years? »

Under the younger ones’ protest, Norman smiled.

« We’ll tell you everything tomorrow. »

Ray was about to protest as well but Anna was faster than him.

« Norman’s right. Everyone should go to bed now. Especially you Revna. »

« I’m not tired! »

« Revna. Listen to your mother. It’s late and you should’ve already been in bed since a good three hours now. »

« Noooooooo! Don’t want to! »

« Revna. »

Watching his best friend being a dad to his daughter, Norman couldn’t help but to soften at the scene. He wonders if it’ll be similar for him?

*=*=*

Everyone was ready to go to bed. The younger ones had went to ready a place for Emma and Norman. Noticing how the ginger-haired young woman wasn’t there yet, Norman decided to go see her. 

He easily found the bathroom and gently knocked on the door.

« Emma? Is everything alright? »

Not hearing anything, Norman slightly opened the door.

« I’m coming in. »

Not hearing any protest from Emma, the white-haired young man entered the bathroom to find her sitting on the ground beside the toilet, her back agaisnt the wall and her face hidden in her hands. He came to take a seat by her side.

Emma looked at him from the corner of her eyes before fully turning her head to look at him. She layed her head on his shoulder, closing her eyes at the same time.

« Should we tell them about… you know? »

Emma reopened her eyes when Norman started to speak. She let out a sigh.

« They’ll end up finding out on their own anyway. I’m sure they already have some suspicions. After all, it’s not the first time they see someone pregnant. »

She heard a small chuckle coming from Norman, making a small smile to appear on her lips. His laugh always manage to calm her. 

« You’re right about that. I know at least Ray, Anna and Gilda have suspicions. I’m not sure about the others tho. »

« Yeah… I’m so tired. Do you think those nauseas will ever stop at some point in my pregnancy? »

« Hmmm, good question. I’m not sure. If someone knows about pregnancy in the shelter, we should be asking them. »

« I will, but not today. I’m exhausted and I want to go to sleep. »

Norman let out a chuckle as he got up, helping Emma up to her feet as well.

« Let’s go to bed then. »

They exited the bathroom hand in hand before Emma tugged a little on his hand, making him look at her.

« Can you bring me to our bedroom? »

« In my arms? »

Emma nodded.

« You know I’m not that strong, remember. I don’t want to fall with you, especially in the state you’re in. »

Emma gave him a cute pout.

« I saw you bring some way heavier stuff than me when we were still in the facility. »

Norman was about to protest when Emma threw herself in his arms. He let out a sigh and, with all of his strength, took her in his arms in bridal/princess style. He heard her let out a giggle as he lifted her up the ground.

« Happy now? »

« Really happy. »

A smile was visible on both of their faces. Norman was about to go toward where Ray told him to go earlier when they both heard their names.

« Norman! Emma! The bedrooms are that way! »

Norman turned around and they saw Chris, Domi, Jemima, Alicia, Rossi, Mark and Yvette standing a bit further in the hallway. Their eyes widened when they noticed the white-haired young man holding Emma in his arms.

« Be careful! »

« Yeah! We don’t want Emma to fall. »

« Now’s not the time for anyone to get hurt. »

« Yeah! We don’t want you both to get hurt! »

Both Emma and Norman let out a chuckle.

« I’ll be fine guys. Believe me, Norman became a lot stronger than last time you saw him. You guys should show us our room. »

 Still amazed by their big brother’s new strength, the younger one brought them to where they would sleep.

« Ray said you’d like a room just for you two! »

« And Gilda said it was a great idea since you are both really exhausted. »

Norman went to delicately put Emma on the bed before turning to the younger ones. 

« Thank you, all of you. If you see them, can you Thank Ray and Gilda for us? »

They all nodded before jumping on him to crash him in a hug. Taken by surprise, Norman almost fell backward but was able to catch himself before falling. Emma looked at them hugging. She couldn’t help but to soften.

Once the younger ones left, Norman went to join her in bed. They changed themselves with the spare clothes there was on the bed first of course.

Once both in bed, they immediately fell asleep in each other’s arms.

Chapter Text

Emma has been staring at the ceiling of her room for hours now. She knows she should be resting but, she just can’t. Everything is too fresh in her mind it hurt.

Her arms still hurts. She still can barely feel anything in her hands. And that numbness she’s been feeling since that day had come back to haunt her even more stronger than before.

Since her first day in the facility, she’s been crying herself to sleep nonstop. She wished she had just decided to join Ray and Norman instead.

Emma doesn’t want to become a mom or a sister just to give birth to her child and be separated from them right after. If she was to have a child, she doesn’t want them to grow in that corrupted world.

She decided, once she becomes a mom and get assigned to a farm, she’ll just leave the area. She knows what it means of course. Of course she knows. That’s exactly why she wanted to leave it.

Like that she’ll join them and she’ll finally be happy.

*=*=*

She’s been wandering mindlessly in the hallways of the facility. The other trainees all hated her. She couldn’t blame them, she too hated herself. If she was them, she too would hate herself. She can’t bring herself to care about that tho. She wouldn’t be surprised if one of them tries to kill her one day.

The first few days and few weeks were really hard for her. Emma only got accustomed to her new routine a few years later. 

And still, even after a few years, she was still feeling the same.

She was currently wandering around the hallways of the facility. She wasn’t really paying attention to where she was going when she suddenly bumped into someone, making them let go of everything they were holding.

« I’m so sorry! I’m sorry, I wasn’t looking where I was going. »

Emma kneeled down at the same time as the person as they started picking up the stuff that had fallen to the ground. Judging by the piles of different files and all, that person was most probably a part of the scientist. She froze when she heard his voice as she slowly raised her head to see if she was imagining stuff again.

« No, no! It’s alright! I wasn’t looking where I was going either. So we’re both at fault here, don’t worry. »

Not hearing anything from the young woman, the young man raised his head to lock eyes in two familiar emeralds. Those emeralds were staring back at him, eyes wide open as tears were starting to form in them. His own eyes widened as well as he whispered.

« Emma? »

Hearing her name being said by him made Emma tear up. How many years as it been since the last time she’s seen him? Seven years? Ten? She doesn’t remember for sure anymore. Was it still her imagination playing tricks on her again? She sure hopes not. 

Emma slowly and carefully extended her hand toward him until her fingers were brushing his cheek.

« Norman… »

Like to see if he really was real, Emma cupped his face with both of her hands. Norman let out a chuckle as he took her hands in his.

« Emma… »

Emma couldn’t contain it anymore. She bursted into tears as she launched herself on him, threatening him to lose his balance. Norman caught her just in time, right before they could both fall, as he wrapped his arms around her.

The two stayed hugging in the middle of the hallway. They were lucky no one ever passed in here and that they were in a blind spot of the cameras.

« Emma… what are you doing here? »

Norman backed away from the embrace to look at her, keeping his hands on her shoulders. He wiped away her tears as he cupped her face. If he noticed her burnt scar, which he should since his hand was on it, he didn’t mention it.

« I’m sorry… »

Seeing as she was about to cry again, Norman wrapped his arms around her, bringing her closer to him.

« Don’t apologize. You did nothing wrong. Whatever happened, it’s not your fault. »

« Yes it is. I promised… I promised to protect all of them and to escape. I didn’t escape… and- and Ray- »

Her voice cracked as a sob interrupted her. That didn’t make her miss the frown on Norman’s face.

« It’s- it’s my fault Ray is- Ray is… is dead- »

Norman’s eyes widened. Ray… dead? No, he wasn’t, right? He had managed to escape with the others and he was safe and sound, right? Emma’s crying snapped him out of his trance as he took her back in his arms where she hid her face in his chest.

« I wasn’t fast enough. I didn’t stop the match in time. The fire- the fire killed him- I heard his screams- his pain... »

Norman cupped Emma’s face so she would look at him only as he put their forehead against the other.

« Emma, listen to me. Whatever happened back at the house wasn’t your fault. Like you said, you weren’t fast enough. You know that Ray was planning that for years now. Maybe… maybe we were never meant to save him in the first place- »

Emma cupped Norman’s face as it was his voice’s turn to crack. They put their forehead agaisnt each other’s, staring into the other’s eyes. Norman took a deep breath as he took her hands in his., keeping them on his cheeks.

« And… if it should be someone’s fault, it wouldn’t be yours, it would be me. It was my escape plan after all. »

« No. Don’t say that. It was me that wanted to escape. Me that wanted to escape with everyone. »

« But I’m the one who brought the idea to escape… »

« Maybe, but I’m the one who insisted. »

Norman was about to answer but stopped himself before letting out a sigh.

« I’m just happy to see you alive, Emma. You have no idea how relieve I feel right now. »

« How do you think I feel? I’m so, so happy to see you alive and doing well, Norman. I’m the one who thought you were… dead. »

« I’m sorry… »

« That’s okay. It’s in the past now. »

They finally both got up.

« We should try to meet up somewhere where there is no cameras. »

Emma nodded, agreeing with Norman.

« What about the top of the stairs! This is going to the last floor. I never saw any cameras there so we could discuss peacefully. »

« Go for the top of the stairs then. I’ll see you there tomorrow? »

Emma gave him a pout.

« Already? »

Norman sadly smiled at her. He didn’t want to leave her too. He wanted to stay with her longer! But they couldn’t.

« We can’t right now. I’m suppose to bring these documents to Smee and you should be in the refectory eating your diner. »

Emma was about to protest when Norman leaned toward her ear and whispered in it.

« We’ll leave this place soon, I promise. I still need to work on some stuff, but I promise, we will leave this hell soon. »

Emma’s eyes widened before she looks at him raising up. Norman smiled at her before leaving. The ginger-haired girl didn’t move for a moment before coming back to her senses. 

"We’ll leave this place soon."

That gave her a new found determination.

They will leave soon.

*=*=*

Everytime they would meet in the hallway, Emma and Norman could only give each other a quick glance. 

They wanted to hold each other really badly, but they knew they were being watched. At the end of every day, they would meet up at the top of the stairs where they could talk freely and hold the other as long as they wanted.

They would tell each other about their day before discussing their escape plan. Their plan was almost complete when Emma brought up an other problem.

« What about the bomb device they implant inside of us? »

Norman had looked at her a moment before looking back in front of him.

« We’ll definitely need to get rid of it without hurting you. I sadly don’t know how that device works but, if I could get a good look at it, maybe I could try to do something. »

« I can show you mine if you want. »

« What?! »

Norman looked back at Emma, his eyes wide open in surprise.

« Not here and not today. It’s already late. Tomorrow, try to come to my room. There’s not many cameras and we’ll be able to talk in peace. »

« Ok. I’ll be there. »

With a last smile and hug, they parted ways.

*=*=*

The next day, Emma avoided every cameras until she reached Norman’s room and knocked in a specific way. It wasn’t long before the door opened, revealing the white-haired young man. They greeted each other with a smile before Emma entered the room.

His room wasn’t too different from hers except that his was a bit bigger and had a desk full of files and papers on it. She took a seat on his bed as he went to his desk.

« I’ve been trying to find a way to destroy the bomb device. So far, I can’t find anything. »

Norman turned around to look at Emma who was looking at him with so much curiosity in her eyes. 

« I told you, Norman. You can take a look at mine. »

« I don’t- I don’t want to… you know. »

Emma let out a chuckle as Norman’s face redden as he hid it in his hand.

« Norman. »

He raised his head back to only feel his face even more on fire. Emma had unbuttoned her collar and her collarbone was now exposed. The scar of the operation was clear and visible. Norman felt his heart squeeze at the sight of it. He also wanted to see something else.

Emma looked at Norman as he silently made his way towards the bed before kneeling in front of her. He looked at her in the eyes, never breaking eye contact as he extended his hand toward her chest but stopped himself before he could touch it.

« Can I? »

Emma nodded. Norman’s fingers were cold as they brushed over the scar. She only noticed herself holding back her breath once Norman’s fingers wasn’t touching her anymore. He then grabbed the collar of her dress and looked at her, silently asking for permission.

Emma knew what he wanted to see, so she gave him a reassuring smile as an answer. Norman slid her sleeve a little, exposing her left shoulder. 

Norman had seen a bit of her burnt scar already. He had seen the one on her left cheek but, he never thought it was going all the way to her arms.

« Did… did it hurt? »

« Hm? »

« When the fire… you know? »

Emma saw the way his expression saddened as his fingers gently brushed over her damaged skin. She could barely feel his touch.

« It did. It hurt a lot. I couldn’t move or use my arms and hands for weeks without them hurting. I couldn’t feel anything in my hands. I dropped a lot of stuff because of that. It’s still like that. I can barely feel anything in my hands and arms. It’s… weird. They just feel kind of numb all the time. »

« So you can’t feel my touch? »

Emma shook her head.

« No. I can’t feel it on my arm. And even on my cheek. I’m slowly starting to feel again in my hands but, I don’t think it’s going to get better. »

« I see… So if I take your hands… »

Norman took her hands in his, intertwining their fingers together.

« I can feel them a little. I can feel how cold, yet how warm, they are. But not as much as before. »

Emma gave a squeeze to Norman’s hands and gave him a smile to which he responded with one of his own. After a little while staring at each other, Emma layed her head on his shoulder.

Norman wrapped one of his arm around her, bringing her closer to him.

« I think I may have an idea on how to deactivate your bomb device. »

« Really? »

« Yeah. It’ll take some time to make but, it’s not impossible. »

Emma’s smile softened as she snuggled closer to Norman. 

« We’ll escape in two weeks from now. »

Emma’s smile soften as she wrapped him in a hug where Norman hid his face in the crook of her neck. She gave him a kiss on the head, making him smile.

« I trust you. In two weeks we’ll be out of here. »

Chapter Text

Norman was woken up by Emma rushing out of bed to run to the bathroom of their room. He got out of bed as well before joining Emma in the bathroom. Her morning sickness was back and stronger than ever.

Norman stayed by her side until she would calm down. Emma immediately cuddled against him as soon as she was finished puking into the toilet.

« I can’t wait for those morning sickness to be over. »

Norman was rubbing her arm in comfort. He was about to answer her when a knock was heard.

« I’ll go see who it is. Stay here, I won’t be long. »

Emma nodded as Norman gave her a kiss on her temple. He then got up to go open the door, revealing the younger ones accompanied by Revna and Loid, Ray and Anna’s daughter and Don and Gilda’s son.

« Good morning everyone. »

« Good morning Norman! »

« What brings you here this early? »

He saw the way they all arched an eyebrow. Revna even rolled her eyes.

« It’s eleven in the morning, uncle! It’s not early! »

Norman frowned and took a look at the clock inside of the room and it was indeed 11am. He gave them all an apologetic smile.

« Sorry. We didn’t see the time. I guess it’s almost time to eat? »

They all nodded.

« Yeah! Ray said he’s waiting for you and Emma before serving dinner! And we’re starving! So please hurry up. »

Norman let out a chuckle.

« Alright, alright. We’ll try to be there in a minute, okay? »

They all nodded before running away, happily laughing. Norman looked at them leaving before closing the door. He saw Emma already changing herself in new clothes. He turned around to let her time to finish changing.

He felt arms wrapping themselves around his waist, making him smile when he felt her place a gentle kiss on the back of his neck. 

« You should change yourself. The younger ones are right, I’m starving. I should even say, we are starving. »

Norman let out a chuckle as he turned around, wrapping his arms around Emma to bring her closer to him. He gave her a kiss on the cheek before going to change himself.

*=*=*

They entered hand in hand in the dining room where everyone already was. They were indeed all waiting for them. Emma flashed them an apologetic smile.

« Sorry, everyone. We didn’t see the time. »

Emma and Norman went to sit near Ray, Gilda, Don, Anna and Nat. 

« Hey, so. You two said you would tell us what happened during the last few years. »

Emma swallowed a spoonful of her breakfast before answering.

« Oh, right. We said that. » 

She heard Norman let out a chuckle beside her. They then proceeded to explain what had happened to them, letting the information about them waiting for a child for later.

« Wait, so you still don’t know, to this day, what they did to you when they called you to that room and put you both to sleep? »

« Weeeeell, we don’t know what they did to us exactly but…»

Ray arches an eyebrow at Emma as he waits for her to continue her sentence. Norman was silently asking her if she wanted him to continue but Emma slightly shook her head before continuing.

« But we know why they did that and what the result of whatever they did to us was. »

« And? »

« What was it? »

« What’s the result? »

Their family started asking questions. Feeling her starting to get nervous, Norman and Ray silently told them to stop asking questions. Everyone stopped after seeing their older brothers’ stares. Emma took a deep breath as she felt Norman grab her hand in his.

« The results are… they… because of them I’m… I’m pregnant. »

The entire room stayed silent. 

…

…

…

« WHAT?! »

« PREGNANT!? »

« WAIT- »

Everyone exclaimed at the same time, startling Emma in the process. Norman and her looked at each other before chuckling. Not waiting for that kind of reaction would be a lie.

« Auntie Emma has a baby inside of her?! »

« You’re waiting for a baby?! »

« You escaped while pregnant?! »

« Now that explains why Emma ate a lot yesterday. »

« Wait a damn minute. You’re the father? »

Everyone looked at Norman as Ray pointed at him. He gave them a nervous smile followed by a nervous chuckle.

« I’m.. I mean… according to what we know. »

« And if we take into consideration whatever they did to us at that moment. »

« Then yes, I’m the father. But we have nothing to confirm it… nor deny it. »

Emma nodded, agreeing with what Norman had said. 

« According to Mujika, he would be the father. »

Everyone stared at them, eyes full of questions. Emma let out a sigh.

« Go on, ask your questions. »

Everyone bombarded them with questions from the rest of the diner.

*=*=*

Once dinner was over, Anna and Gilda, followed by the girls and the younger ones, 

dragged Emma to the infirmary to make sure the baby and her were fully alright.

Norman, Ray, Don, Nat and the Goldy Pond kids had stayed in the dining room. The others were all bombarding Norman with questions. 

« One at the time, please! »

Everyone calmed down and they let Ray ask the questions, knowing full well he would ask what everyone wants to know.

« Tell me what happened when you went to that room. I'm trying to understand what could've happened. »

Norman looked at Ray before crossing his arms as he leaned against his chair.

« Well, I remember I was busy talking with Smee when a sister came to find me,saying that mister Ratri wanted to see me. I followed her and she brought me to that empty room. »

« An empty room? »

« Yeah. The room was completely empty. Well, not completely empty. One of the walls was one way windows where only the people on the other side can see through it, but those inside the room can't see them. There were two operation tables in the center of the room. They only told me to wait. »

Everyone was silent as they listened to Norman's story.

« After a while, Emma arrived and that's when I understood what they were planning. I could see she was scared. I was about to go to her so we could leave this room when they started. We instantly felt dizzy and what happened after is all fuzzy or I just can't remember anything. »

« They put you both to sleep to do whatever they wanted without any of you fighting back. »

« That's what we think, yes. I woke up in my bedroom with my entire body hurting. »

« What about Emma? »

Norman looked at Nat. 

« I managed to see her only a few days later. She said that, just like me, she woke up with her entire body hurting. She was scared, I could see it. We continued meeting like nothing happened. »

« When did you discover that Emma was pregnant? I guess it took more than two weeks for you two to escape, right? »

Norman nodded, his gaze dropping to his hands.

« Yeah. We were working on the device to deactivate her bomb device when she suddenly got sick. She was crying. She was so scared. I couldn't do anything. »

Everyone noticed Norman's expression saddening. Ray knew how much it actually affected the white-haired boy to not be able to help Emma more. 

« What happened after that? »

Norman raised his gaze to look at the raven boy.

« After that, we learned the reason why she was often sick like that all of the sudden. I had to finish the device alone. Emma did manage to sneak out of her room a couple of times to come and help me. »

« How long did it take you in the end to escape? »

Norman let out a sigh. 

« It took us a month. I proposed to leave once the baby was born, but Emma didn't want them to take it away. She insisted on running away no matter what. That's what we did and here we are now. »

« Did they send someone after you? »

« They did. We ran and tried to hide. I lost consciousness at some point because I can't remember what happened before waking up in Sonju and Mujika’s tunnels. »

« You lost consciousness? »

« I think I hit my head while trying to break our fall. »

Ray slowly nodded.

« Well, the important thing is that you're both alright. I mean, you three. »

Norman chuckled as Ray got up from his seat.

« You're right. »

« It's already late. I'll go prepare the food. »

Everyone looked at Ray leaving for the kitchen. Norman was about to get up to go help him when the girls entered the room.

« Hey guys! What did we miss? »

Everyone's eyes widened when they looked at Emma. Ray had come out of the kitchen to see what was happening. Norman was the one to approach her. He took a lock of her hair in his hand.

« You cut your hair. »

Emma let out a chuckle as she took his hand in hers.

« Yes, I did. Long hair was annoying me. I didn't like it. »

Emma gave a squeeze to his hand before going to the kitchen to go help Ray.

*=*=*

Once supper was over, every adult stayed in the dining room for a while to chat before all going to their bedroom. 

Once Norman was settled in bed, Emma scooted closer to him and wrapped her arms around him. Norman hugged her back.

« You know, Anna and Gilda made me think of something. »

« And that is? »

« A name for our baby. »

Emma had a tender smile on her face, making Norman smile as well.

« Do you have some ideas? »

The ginger-haired girl nodded as she scooted closer to the boy. 

« I might have one for a girl. »

« And? What is it? »

« Mujika. Since she helped us and saved her life. I don’t know for a boy though. Do you have one? »

« Let me think. »

A short silence settled between them. Emma had closed her eyes. She reopened them when Norman started talking.

« What about James for a boy? »

« James? Why that name? »

« Without James Ratri, no one would be here today. James is William Minerva’s real name. »

« James… »

A radiant smile made its way to Emma’s face before she gave him a kiss on the cheek.

« I like it. James it will be if our baby is a boy. »

Norman gave her a kiss on the forehead before both went to sleep.

Chapter Text

It’s been a week now since they started working on the device that would deactivate Emma’s bomb chip on her heart. 

Emma was busy right now, so Norman had to work on it alone. He was almost done. Almost! He just had to-

A knock interrupted him. He hid everything before going to open the door. It was Smee.

« What can I help you with, Smee? »

« There's something we need to discuss about… the escape.

Norman frowned before nodding.

« Alright, I’m coming. »

*=*=*

Norman and Smee were discussing when a sister came to them. She looked at Norman.

« Mister Ratri want to see you in the test room 263 in five minutes. He says it's important and that he'll explain once you're here. »

Norman let out a sigh before nodding.

« I'll be there. »

The sister gave a small nod before leaving. Smee and Norman exchanged a last glance before the younger man leaves. Norman did notice the worried look in Smee’s eyes.

Once in front of the room, he took a deep breath before entering.

The room was empty, except for two operation tables in the middle of it. On one of the walls, there was a mirror. Or more like those one way windows. Norman could only see his own reflection and that made him realize how tired he looked. He let out a sigh and waited.

*=*=*

The door opened a couple of minutes later. Norman got up from his sitting place on the ground to see who was coming. 

His eyes widened when he saw Emma enter. She immediately locked eyes with him. Norman could see her fear behind the determination in her eyes. 

Norman took some steps towards Emma to go comfort her when they were both suddenly dizzy.

« Norman- »

Emma grabbed hold on one of the operation tables to help herself stay on her feet. Norman was about to do the same, but wasn't fast enough. He crumbled to the ground, his body refusing to move. 

« Emma… »

His voice came out in a whisper before everything went black. Emma let go of the table to go to his side. She tried to wake him up until her body was too heavy for her. She crumbled beside him, her eyelids heavy and struggling to stay open.

Some scientist followed by a man in a white suit entered before Emma completely lost consciousness.

*=*=*

Norman woke up in his room, his entire body on fire. He was panting and sweating. Like it wasn't enough, nausea invaded him. Now was not the time to have one.

Not able to hold back his urge to puke, Norman rushed to the bathroom, wobbling the whole time. He had to help himself with the wall to stay on his feet. 

Once in the doorframe of the bathroom, he started coughing. He managed to reach the toilet to vomit everything in his stomach. 

Once it was over, he sat down beside the toilet. He waited a bit for himself to calm down before taking out a handkerchief from his pocket to clean up the blood on his hand. He was shaking so much he doubted he would be able to get up any time soon. 

*=*=*

Emma woke up in her room with her whole body shaking due to pain. She wasn't able to move. She was too dizzy and nauseous anyway. 

She stayed in her bed until her nausea became unbearable. She ran to the bathroom and vomited everything she had in her stomach. She never heard the door open.

Once she was done, she felt a hand on her back. She turned her head around to see Isabella crouching beside her. 

« Mom… »

Isabella welcomed the young woman in her arms where she bursted into tears. 

« It hurt- »

« I know. »

« It hurt so much- »

« I know. »

« I want to go home- »

« I know. »

« I want- I want to see Norman- »

« I know. »

« I- *hiccup* I don't want to- »

« I know. »

A sob interrupted Emma as she buried her face more in Isabella's chest. The older woman only tightened her hug around the younger one.

Isabella wished she could ease her children's pain.

*=*=*

It was two days later that Emma managed to go see Norman again. She was feeling a bit better and she wanted to make sure he was alright. 

The door of his room opened right after she knocked. 

« Em- »

Emma didn't let him time to say anything as she was already hugging him. Norman immediately wrapped his arms around Emma before closing the door behind her. They stayed like that for a moment, not wanting to leave the other’s warmth.

« Emma… »

« Can we stay like that for a moment? I need this. »

Norman sat down on his bed, always keeping Emma close to him. He gave her a kiss on the forehead.

« Of course. »

They stayed in a comfortable silence, just enjoying the other’s warmth. After a couple of minutes staying like that, Norman gave some gentle tap of Emma's shoulder. Seeing as she wasn't reacting to the taps, most probably because of her burnt mark which had taken away her sensation at that place, Norman gave her a kiss on the forehead, making her stir.

Emma raised her head to look at Norman. He gave her a smile to which she answered with one of her own.

« We should get to work. I'm sure we can finish the device soon and leave this place. »

« I really can't wait to finally leave this place. »

« Yeah. Me too. »

They both went to Norman's desk to start working on the device. They were almost done!

« Hey, Norman? »

« Hm? »

Norman hummed to let her know he was listening.

« What about we start a family once everything is over? »

Norman wiped his head around to look at Emma. The ginger-haired girl could see a faint blush on his cheeks, making her chuckle.

« T-together? »

« Of course! I can't see myself having a family of my own with anyone else than you. »

Norman softly smiled at Emma. 

« Let's do that once we're in the human world. »

Emma gave him a nod before kissing him on the cheek. She didn't notice the way Norman's blush deepened as she went back to the device.

*=*=*

The device took longer than intended. It took a few more weeks as it was starting to get harder and harder for Norman and Emma to meet up. And today was the day that would change their plan.

They were working on the last touches on the device when Emma was taken by a sudden wave of nausea. She tried to hold it back in, but it soon became unbearable. 

She rushed to the bathroom, ignoring Norman's call, where she puked into the toilet. Norman rushed to her side and immediately knelt by her side. He stayed beside her, rubbing circles on her back.

Norman didn't know what else to do except staying beside her as emotional support. 

Once she was done, Emma let herself fall against Norman. The young man wrapped his arms around her and let her cry on his chest. Emma gripped his shirt like he would disappear at any moment.

Norman kept whispering reassuring words and gave her kisses on the head to try and calm her down. Nothing seemed to be working. He felt useless.

Suddenly, he heard the door open. Oh no…

Please let it be Smee. Please let it be Smee-

« Norman? »

His eyes widened when the woman entered the bathroom.

« Mom? Wh-what are you doing here? »

Isabella knelt in front of her two children.

« I went to see how Emma was doing but she wasn't in her room. I figured she was with you so I came here. Tell me what happened. »

Norman still didn't know if he could fully trust Isabella or not. She was their enemy after all, but she looked so genuinely concerned right now. Maybe just now… 

« Emma suddenly got sick. I- I don't know what to do. Mom… »

Isabella took a quick look at Emma before getting up. 

« Just stay here. I won't be long. »

Norman didn't have time to protest as Isabella was already out of the room. He let out a sigh before bringing his attention back to Emma. 

She had stopped crying, but her hold on him was still tight. 

Norman kept comforting her.

*=*=*

Norman was waiting outside of the bathroom. He has no clue of what's happening inside. Isabella had asked him to stay outside for a moment.

His leg was nervously bouncing as he stared at the bathroom's door. 

He instantly got up once the door opened. 

Emma looked like she had cried again, which worried Norman. She stopped in front of him before wrapping her arms around him. The white-haired young man hugged her back. He raised his gaze to look at Isabella. She had a sad and worried expression.

« You’ll need to modify your plan if you two wants to escape. »

Emma turned around to look at the older woman.

« They won’t let you leave your room that easily anymore, Emma. There will always be someone to watch over to make sure nothing happens to you or your baby. There- »

« Wait. Baby? »

Isabella and Emma both looked at Norman who was more confused than anything. His eyes widened when he understood. He looked down at Emma. She silently nodded. Norman looks back at Isabella.

« How do you know we want to escape? »

Isabella tenderly smiled at them.

« Because I know you. I’m the one who raised you after all. I’m here to help. And yes, Smee knows I’m on your side. »

« That… that feels good to know that we have someone else on our side. »

The older woman’s smile softened. 

« It might take some more time, but I promise to get you both out of here. »

It was Emma’s turn to softly smile at the older woman.

« Thank you, mom. »

*=*=*

« What if we wait for the baby to be born before escaping? »

« What?! »

Emma raised her head from its resting place to look at Norman. She gave him a gentle punch on the arm.

« We’re not leaving without my baby. Our baby. We will leave with them no matter what. Pregnant or not, we’re still leaving. »

« I know. That’s why we’ll bring your baby with us once we escape. I’m just scared that something might happen to one of you two if we escape while you’re pregnant. And why did you say our? »

Emma stared at Norman for a moment before laying back down against him. They were currently cuddling while discussing their new escape plan. 

« Mom said that my baby had a father. She told me "you remember that day when they made you and Norman come into that room before you both lost consciousness? That’s when they made you pregnant." That’s our baby. I don’t know if I should believe her or not, but still. That makes me a bit less scared to know that my baby is yours. »

Norman softly smiled before giving her a kiss on the head, making Emma smile as well.

It has been a month and a half since the news. Norman had managed to complete the device and now they just needed a plan for their escape. It was one of those rare days where Emma had managed to leave her room to come see him. Just like Isabella had said, as soon as the other sisters learned about Emma’s pregnancy, there was always someone to keep an eye on her. 

But right now they were both laying down on Norman’s bed and cuddling, per Emma’s demand. 

« I want to leave this place before our baby is born. »

« We’ll figure out something then. I’ll have to talk to Smee and mom about this. We’ll find something and get you both out of here. »

« You’ll come with us too. »

« Of course. »

« Good. »

*=*=*

The alarms went off in all of the facility as soon as someone noticed their absences. 

Tonight was the night they would escape. 

Emma came to Norman's room where he deactivated her chip on her heart. Isabella had given him her tracking device so he could check if it had really worked. And it did work!

They had left as soon as they heard Smee's knock on the door telling them the way was clear. 

They had almost reached the exit where Isabella was waiting for them when the alarm went off. Emma had grabbed Norman's hand and started running.

They managed to avoid every Sisters and guards to finally reach the exit. Isabella was waiting for them. Once she saw them, she gave them a soft smile.

« We'll take care of things here. Go. Go and join the others waiting for you. »

Emma and Norman gave her a similar smile.

« Thank you, mom. Please, survive. »

« You too. Now, you better get going before someone arrives. »

Isabella gave them a backpack with supplies before opening the exit for them. Norman gave her back her tracking device. Emma gave Isabella a last hug before taking Norman's hand in hers.

And that's how they escaped that hell.

*=*=*

Emma fell on her knees as she tripped over a root. Norman stopped in his tracks to run back to her side. They’ve been running for hours and both were extremely tired, but they couldn’t stop, not yet. They were exhausted.

Chapter Text

« * Sigh * When are they coming back? »

« We told you countless times already, Emma. We don't know. Now can you please sit down and rest? »

« But Anna- »

« No buts! You're not in condition to be working yourself out like you are doing. So please sit down and rest. »

Emma let out a sigh as she obeyed Anna. It has now been a good five and a half months since Emma and Norman reached the bunker. Emma was now a good seven months pregnant and still wanted to go out to hunt. At least Anna, Gilda and the others were there to keep an eye on her.

Norman, Ray, Don, Violet and Zack had left to go find a place called Cuvitidala. They had learned that this place could help them reach the human world. They were going from demon village to another to try and find some clues that could lead them to Cuvitidala.

It's been a couple of weeks since they left the bunker now. Emma just wanted Norman to be there by her side. She wanted to spend some time with him. He was always too exhausted when he was coming back. Just like right now.

The moment she heard the door of the bunker open, Emma rushed to the entrance to welcome them back. She ignored Anna and Gilda's sigh as her and the younger ones rushed to the entrance.

Revna was the first one to jump on Ray when he turned around. 

« Dad! »

« Hey, little monster. I hope you didn't give your mother too much trouble. »

« I did not! »

« Good. »

Emma softened at that. She wonders if it'll ever be like that for them. 

Norman was the last one to enter. Once he turned around, Emma wrapped her arms around his neck and gave him a kiss on the cheek, earning a chuckle from him. 

« We're back. »

« You're back. And I know a little someone that is more than happy to see you back. »

Norman chuckled before putting a gentle hand on her belly bump. He could feel the kicks of their baby.

« They sure are full of energy today. »

« It's been like that since this morning. »

Emma hid her face even more in the crook of his neck while Norman wrapped his arms around her.

« You stink. »

Norman chuckled before bursting into laughters, making Emma laugh as well.

« I'll go take a bath once you let go of me. »

Norman heard Emma let out a grunt before finally let go of him. 

*=*=*

« Can I try something with your hair? »

« What? »

Norman turned his head around to look at Emma who was simply excitedly looking at him. He sighed before tenderly smiling at her.

« Just don't shave anything. »

« Ah, don't worry. I'll never shave your hair, I love them too much for that. »

Norman let out a chuckle as Emma went back to her hair cutting job.

They were currently in their bedroom. Everytime Norman came back from their expedition outside, Emma would always insist on being the one to take care of his hair. They were also profiting of some silence without the others.

Not hearing him anymore, the young woman took a look at him. Emma let out a chuckle when she realized Norman had fallen asleep. 

She finished cutting his hair before giving him a kiss on the cheek, waking him up. He looked at her before giving her a smile.

« Want to go to bed now? Or do you want to eat first? »

« I'm not that hungry. You go eat. I'll just take a nap. »

« You need to eat more, Norman. »

Norman gave her an apologetic smile as he climbed on the bed. He gave her a kiss on the cheek.

« I know. But I'm really not hungry right now. I know you are though. »

Emma pouted. 

« Alright. But I'm bringing you something to eat and you better eat it once I'm back. »

« Okay. »

*=*=*

When Emma came back to their room, Norman was sound asleep. She let out a chuckle before putting his plate on the nightstand beside the bed.

She sat down on the bed before leaning to give the sleeping young man a kiss on the cheek. When she was backing away, Norman suddenly wrapped his arms around her neck, making her let out a yelp and bringing her closer to him. 

« Norman! »

Norman let out a chuckle before releasing her. They both took a sitting position. The white-haired boy put his forehead against Emma’s. Emma cupped his face with both her hands, never breaking eye contact. Their faces started leaning towards the other. 

Their lips were brushing when they heard a knock on the door, making them back away. Emma gave him a quick kiss on the cheek before getting up from bed. She opened the door to see Ray.

« Hey, Ray! What brings you here this late? »

« I just wanted to check on you both. »

Emma’s smile softened.

« We are both doing just fine. Thank you for worrying. »

Ray let out a scoff before ruffling Emma’s hair.

« Of course I worry for you two. You’re my best friends. »

Emma saw Ray’s expression softened.

« How is he holding up? »

Emma glanced over her shoulder to see that Norman had once again fallen asleep.

« He’s exhausted. I noticed he keeps waking up at night just to make sure I’m alright. I know he doesn’t sleep much at night and he still doesn’t eat properly either. I know it’s hard for him, but that’s what worries me. »

Ray let out a sigh.

« Once we’re in the human world, believe me that we’ll make sure he sleeps and eat properly. »

Emma chuckled before hugging Ray who hugged her back.

« I can’t wait. »

« Yeah, me too. »

*=*=*

Emma was woken up by Norman getting out of bed in the middle of the night. He had gotten up a bit too fast for him to just be going to the bathroom, in Emma’s opinion.

And just like she thought, it wasn’t to use the toilet that he went to the bathroom. The ginger-haired young woman got up and went to the bathroom door. She heard him coughing. Norman’s coughing didn’t seem to want to stop. Emma knocked on the door.

« Norman? Is everything alright? »

She heard him cough a little before he answered.

« Y-Yeah. Don’t worry- *cough* don’t worry about me. I just swallowed saliva incorrectly. »

That didn’t help ease Emma’s concerns.

« I’m coming in. »

« No! No need really! I’m fine Em- »

Norman let out a sigh once he heard the door open. He heard Emma let out a gasp before going to his side. 

« Norman! Wh-what happened?! Why is there blood everywhere? »

Emma grabbed a towel and started helping him clean up. She then noticed he was shaking. She looked up to look at him and saw silent tears rolling down his cheeks. She finished cleaning up the blood before cupping his face to wipe away his tears. She wrapped her arms around his neck and brought him closer to her. She felt him wrap his arms around her as he was silently sobbing.

« Shh! It’s alright. I’m here. I’m here now. »

Emma gave him a kiss on the side of the head as she started rubbing his back.

« I- I don’t want to die… »

« You won’t die as long as I’m with you. I’ll make sure of it. It’s a promise. »

They both sat down on the bathroom’s floor. Emma waited for Norman to calm down before asking him why there was blood and why he suddenly started coughing. Norman hesitated at first but ended up telling her everything.

Lambda. The experiments. His sickness.

He made her promise to not tell anyone. He didn’t want to worry the others for nothing. Emma agreed to not tell anyone unless she judges that it’s getting worse. They both went back to bed after that.

But not for long.

*=*=*

« Intruders! There’s intruders outside of the bunker! »

Everyone turned around to see Pepe entering the rooms in a hurry to wake everyone up. Everyone immediately started packing important stuff once they all woke up and realized what was happening. Ray, Yuugo and Lucas grabbed weapons while the others grabbed backpacks.  

They went through one of the secret passages, thinking they would be alright. They knew they were wrong the moment two of them were shot and Chris was injured. 

« Secret passages, who would’ve thought. »

A man’s voice was heard from the other side of the metal door. Emma kept Chris close to her, clenching her fist at the same time. She was about to shout when she felt Norman’s hand on her shoulder. She looked at him and he signaled her to stay silent.

« The cattles are still alive even after all those years. That’s actually surprising. But not that surprising if we take into consideration that some of them are from Grace Field. »

Zack, Anna and Sandy came to Emma’s side to treat Chris’s wound. Once they were done, Zack took the younger boy in his arms before Norman and Anna helped Emma get up. Yuugo and Lucas then approached them to whisper.

« We’ll distract them. You go and leave this place. Lucas and I will hold them back. »

« But… Yuugo- »

Yuugo only gave her a reassuring smile.

« We promise we’ll be right behind ya, alright? »

Emma nodded before hugging the older man. Yuugo was a bit surprised by the hug, but that didn’t stop him from hugging her back. 

« Please be careful. »

The older man let out a scoff.

« I’m the one who should tell you that. Be careful while you’re escaping. You gotta promise me that you and the baby will be fine. Give birth to a strong and healthy baby, you hear me. »

Emma gave him a nod.

« And you. »

Yuugo then looked at Norman.

« You better take care of them both. Understood, Beansprout? »

« Understood, sir. You don’t have to worry, they’ll be safe as long as I’m here. »

With a satisfied smile on his face, Yuugo gave some taps on Norman’s shoulder.

« Good. Good. Now go before they destroy those doors. »

Despite not wanting to, everyone left, leaving Yuugo and Lucas alone in the tunnel.

*=*=*

They all managed to leave the bunker without any trouble. They took shelter inside one of Mujika and Sonju’s tunnels. 

Emma took a seat between Norman and Ray after checking on everyone. She had a bad feeling that something was going to happen. She didn't want to know what it was. 

Emma never realized when she fell asleep. Norman wrapped his arm around her to keep her close.

She woke up, startled, a good hour later. She was sweating and panting, which immediately alerted Norman. 

« Emma? Is everything alright? »

Once he was right beside her, Emma immediately grabbed into him. Norman wrapped his arms around her and started comforting her. They were trying to stay quiet so as to not wake anyone up.

« Yuugo… Lucas… »

Norman looked at Emma before giving her a kiss on the head. Seeing someone move, he raised his gaze to lock it in Ray’s. Ray approached them before joining in the hug. 

« I’ll go check on Chris. »

« You should rest, Emma. »

Emma looked at Norman before giving him a small smile. She got up and left towards the injured boy. On her way there, she noticed something.

« Hey, Norman, Ray. »

The boys looked at her and saw her staring somewhere. They tried to see what she was looking at, but there was nothing. 

Wait… There was nothing!?

They both got up and joined Emma.

« Where are Domi and Alicia? And some of the others? »

« Oh no… »

« Don’t tell me they went outside! »

« There’s bags missing too. »

« God damnit! »

Ray’s shout woke up some of the older ones, making them approach the trio to come see what was happening.

« Hey. What’s wrong? »

« Dominic, Alicia and some of the others left to go outside. »

« We need to find them and fast. »

Oliver, Ray, Norman, Don and Zack  all grabbed weapons and left the tunnels. Emma wanted to come with them, but Anna and Gilda made sure she would stay and get some rest. That didn't stop her from stressing out for the others though.

*=*=*

They followed the footprints until they heard a gunshot. They hurried to where they heard the sound and immediately stopped.

The man from earlier, Andrew, was standing there, a terrified Alicia in his arms and an injured Dominic in front of him. 

But that's not what shocked them the most. It was the state the man was in. Half of his face was ripped off and one of his eyeballs was hanging. He was barely standing and only madness could be seen in his eyes.

They all raised their weapons and pointed them at Andrew. The man did the same, but instead of pointing it at them, he pointed his gun at Alicia’s head.

« One movement and I'll blow this cattle’s brain out! »

Alicia was crying and they could all see the fear in her eyes. Norman noticed Ray readying himself to shoot. He also noticed Oliver and Zack in the back, behind Andrew.

« Don't you go think I didn't notice you behind. »

Andrew laughs at everyone's surprised expression. 

« You really think you could fool me?! Haha… hahaha… HAHAHAHA! »

The man burst out laughing. Ray noticed Norman readying his weapon before pointing it towards the man. 

He was about to stop him when Norman shot the man in the leg, making him let go of Alicia all while letting out a scream of pain.

Norman threw his gun to the side before running towards Dominic. Alicia helped him get Domi to safety while the others were keeping an eye on Andrew.

Andrew let out a screech before jumping towards Norman and the younger ones. Ray and the others were about to shoot when a wild demon came out from the bushes.

Oliver and Zack took that distraction to jump out of their hiding place to go help Norman and Alicia with Dominic. Ray grabbed Norman's gun from the ground.

They all ignored the last scream of Andrew as the demon ate his meal. They didn't stay to see if the beast liked its dinner or not as they left to go back to the tunnels.

Sandy and Anna immediately took Domi to go take care of his injury while Gilda checked on Alicia to be sure she was alright. Revna ran to hug Ray who took her in his arms and kept her close. The poor little girl had been terrified for her father. Loid also ran to his father who immediately took the little boy in his arms. Don then went to see Gilda to reassure her.

Emma went towards Norman as soon as she saw him.

« Norman! »

The white-haired young man turned around and smiled as he welcomed her in his arms. 

« I was so scared. I heard the gunshots. I thought one of you had been shot. »

Norman gave her a kiss on the head.

« Hey, I'm fine. We're fine. How are you feeling? »

Emma backed away from the hug. She kept her hands on his arms and locked her gaze in his.

« I'm fine. Hey, Domi and Alicia are fine, but… what about the others? »

She saw the way his smile dropped at the question and how his gaze dropped to the ground.

« We were too late for them. He had already killed them. »

Emma stared at him a moment before nodding. She layed her head against him, wrapping her arms around him. Norman hugged her back.

« I hope you made him pay. »

Norman let out a scoff.

« A wild demon appeared and took care of him for us. »

« Good. That's what he deserved. »

Norman let out a chuckle before giving her a kiss on the cheek.

« Let's go get some rest. We'll have to leave early. » 

Emma only nodded as an answer.

*=*=*

They're been walking for days now. Emma was more exhausted than ever right now. They have been walking nonstop since they left the tunnels. 

They were currently taking a break for the night when they suddenly heard screams. Those were human screams! 

Norman and Ray both grabbed a gun and Emma grabbed her bow and arrows. The trio went towards the screams. To their surprise, there were two humans surrounded by two wild demons. 

Emma shot an arrow in one of the demon’s eyes, killing it. Ray killed the second one. Once the demons died, one of the two boys immediately jumped on Ray. 

« Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Oh my god! I thought we were dead! »

« Huh, you’re welcome? Can you… let go of me, please? »

The second boy grabbed the one on Ray.

« Excuse him. But thank you so much for saving us. »

« Yeah! Thank you so much! »

« It’s normal. Don’t worry about it. »

The two boys looked at Emma. The smaller one let out a gasp.

« Woaw! Wait! You’re- »

« Pregnant? Yeah, I know. »

Emma let out a chuckle.

« I’m Emma. This is Ray and this is- »

« BOSS!? »

Both Emma and Ray frowned before looking at Norman. The white-haired young man let out a chuckle.

« Hello, Hayato. Jin. I’m happy to see you two doing alright and to see that Vincent followed the plan. »

« Wait. Wait. Wait. You know them? »

Ray crossed his arms.

« Yes, I know them. They’re from one of Lambda’s facilities. I helped them escape without anyone knowing. »

« Just like that Vincent you just mentioned? »

« Yes. »

« Let’s go back to the others before continuing that conversation. My back is about to explode. »

As they made their way back, Ray and Emma started arguing about the girl coming with them just now. Once with the others, Emma went to see how Chris was doing.

Norman was discussing with Hayato and Jin when Emma suddenly shouted Chris’s name.

Chapter Text

« Chris? Chris. Chris! »

Emma’s shout alerted everyone. Anna, Zack and Sandy rushed to the boy’s side while Ray, Norman and some of the older ones came closer.

« He's burning up and his breathing is weak. »

Norman came to Emma's side to comfort her while he thought of something. There was no way they would lose anyone else, especially Chris.

« There's an intensive farm near here. We could go steal some of the medicine they have. I'm sure there's what you need. »

Everyone looked at Hayato.

« Hayato, you're a genius! »

Norman gave Emma a quick kiss on the cheek before getting up. Emma got up as well.

« Norman? »

Norman looked at Emma. He could see how worried she was. He gave her a soft smile before trapping her in a hug.

« I'll be fine, don't worry. »

Emma wrapped her arms around him. 

« Please, be careful. I don't want to lose you. »

« I will. You stay here and rest. We won't be long. »

Norman felt her tighten her hug before backing away. Their faces were close and their lips were almost touching when they heard someone clearing their throat.

They looked to the side to see Ray looking at them with a not impressed at all expression. 

« There's children here. »

A deep blush appeared on both of their cheeks.

« Ray! »

« We better get going now. »

Norman let out a sigh before giving Emma a quick kiss on the cheek. He then followed Ray and Hayato. Anna had decided to follow them as well, saying she'll be able to recognize what they need for Chris.

*=*=*

« I got it! »

Anna turned around to face Norman. She put the medicine and a few more stuff into her bag and they left to go towards the exit. Ray and Hayato had gone to take a look around to make sure no one would disturb Norman and Anna. 

They made their way towards the exit. Norman climbed the ladder first. He was telling Anna how they would wait for Ray and Hayato before going back to the others when he opened the door of the passage. Anna let out a gasp.

Norman looked up and saw demons. Five of them were waiting for them.

Norman quickly closed the door and they started going down the ladder. But they were stronger and faster than him.

Anna let out a scream when the door opened and a hand grabbed Norman by the backpack.

«His smell- »

« He's mine! »

« No he's mine! »

« I SAW HIM FIRST! »

« I'M THE ONE WHO SAW HIM FIRST! »

« THERE'S ANOTHER ONE DOWN THERE- »

Norman was being handled by every demon, not able to move. If they continue like this, they're going to rip one of his limbs. 

He was going to die here! 

But he can't die… not now.

Emma was waiting for him to come back. He had to come back! He wanted to see their child. He wanted to see their baby before leaving for good…

The sound of something crumbling to the ground made him reopen his eyes. A figure passed over him and killed the other demons.

Oh no… Norman was about to fall on the ground!

Before he could touch the floor, someone grabbed him. 

« Norman! »

He reopened his eyes to see Anna running towards him. 

« Are you okay? »

« I'm fine, Anna. Thanks to- Huh… »

Norman raised his head to see a familiar face.

« Oh! Zazie! Could you put me down Buddy? »

« Norman! Anna! »

The trio turned around to see Ray and Hayato running towards them. 

« Zazie! You found us! »

« Aruuuh! »

Norman let out a chuckle.

« I'm fine, Zazie. Don't worry. »

Norman looked at Anna and Ray to see them looking at him worriedly and with a lot of questions. Norman was about to talk, but Hayato was faster.

« This is Zazie! One of the boss’ team members! »

Ray looked at Norman, an eyebrow arched.

« The boss' team members? You've got some explaining to do, Norman. »

« I will, Ray. But once we're back with everyone. Let's go. »

Ray let out a sigh, Anna a small chuckle, before they all left.

*=*=*

Emma was about to jump on Norman to hug him when Zazie put himself between them. Norman giggled before putting his hand on the boy's arm.

« It's okay, Zazie. They're all allies. They're my family. This is Emma. You have to be careful with her. »

Zazie tilted his head. Emma was a bit nervous, but was more curious as to why Norman seemed to know him. 

Zazie put himself in front of her, his head still tilted to the side. He then pointed at her belly and looked at Norman. 

« Awa! »

Norman let out a chuckle as he went beside the boy.

« Yes. That's one of the reasons why we need to get to the hideout quickly. »

Zazie nodded and went to Emma's side. Emma let out a chuckle as she gave the boy a smile before looking back at Norman.

« How is it that you know Zazie, Hayato and Jin? Is there something you never told me? »

Interested by the conversation, Ray came to join them. He was curious to know why too. The trio all sat down.

« Before becoming a scientist, I was sent to Lambda. »

Norman saw the way Ray frowned and how Emma became more worried. He had told her about Lambda already, but he didn't want to worry Ray more.

« Don't worry about me, Ray. They did nothing to me. As I was saying, I got sent to Lambda. I managed to communicate with Vincent and we discussed an escape plan. With Vincent and Smee's help, we destroyed Lambda. Smee stayed behind, saying he wanted to keep an eye on one of the sister trainees. »

Norman saw the way Emma was frowning. Ray and Emma looked so similar just now it made him chuckle.

« I understood later that he was talking about you, Emma. »

« How would you become a scientist if you had escaped? Why did you go back? »

Norman looked at Ray.

« We played comedie. We knew they would find us eventually. We knew how important I was to them, so we used it to our advantage. So we brought all of the other children to the hideout before doing diversions. We went from one intensive farm to another, destroying them. »

Both Emma and Ray's eyes widened.

« What about the children from these farms? Couldn't you have saved them instead? »

Norman's expression saddened.

« Sadly no. They would've died not so long after being freed. They need the machines to be able to properly function. »

« Oh… »

Noticing how sad she was, Zazie scooted closer to Emma and put his hand on her head. Emma looked at him and smiled.

« Thanks, Zazie. »

She heard Norman let out a chuckle and Ray a scoff.

« He likes you. »

Emma looked at Norman. He was smiling softly at her. She smiled back before looking back at Zazie.

« I like you too, Zazie. »

« Aaruh! »

Emma chuckled before bringing back her attention to Norman so he could continue his story

« Just like we thought, they eventually caught up to us. That's where the comedie started. I was Vincent and the others’ hostage. »

Ray let out a scoff as he crossed his arms.

« I should've guessed. »

Norman smiled.

« We played hostage and they negotiated with them. It had been a while since we had any news from Smee and we wanted to know why. »

« So you made a deal with the guys. You in exchange for their freedom. »

Ray and Norman exchange a satisfied smile.

« Exactly. They brought me back and formed me to become a scientist. A few years later, they sent me to Grace Field headquarters where I'm assigned to keep an eye on the sister trainees and a few days later, I ran into Emma. And you know how the rest of the story went. I kept contact with Vincent and the others during that whole time. »

« And here we are today. »

Norman softly smiled at his two best friends.

« Yes. »

« Welp! I’m glad you’re both alright and with us now. »

Emma and Norman let out a chuckle as Ray got up. The raven young man stretched himself.

« I’m taking the first guard. You two get some rest. »

Norman went to Norman’s side. Zazie had left to go see the others.

« Why didn’t you tell him what you told me about Lambda? »

« I don’t want him to worry for nothing. »

« Norman… »

« I’ll tell him, but not now. Once I’m sure everyone is safe. Now, let’s go to sleep, okay? »

Emma let out a sigh.

« Yeah, let’s get some rest. I’m exhausted. »

*=*=*

It took a few more weeks of walking before they finally reached the hideout. Hayato had gone ahead to warn the others of their arrival, surprising everyone by how fast he ran. 

« Hayato is so fast! Is it because… »

Norman looked at Emma. He felt her hold on his hand tighten a little.

« …Of Lambda? Yes. Lambda gave some of them special abilities. »

« Ooh. I see. »

They entered the hideout and were welcome by a bunch of children. They all looked surprised to see Norman. They went to the infirmary first.

An older man was standing there. He was bald with stitches on his head and wearing glasses. His eyes widened when they landed on Emma. Norman noticed and let out a chuckle, scratching his cheek.

« Hey, Vincent. We didn’t escape in time. »

« I see. You can bring the injured over here and I can check on her later. If she wants to, of course. »

Anna entered the room and smiled at Vincent.

« I can take care of her, don’t worry. »

Vincent’s eyes widened in surprise when he saw the little girl following Anna. He looked at Norman who let out a chuckle.

« This is Revna. Ray and Anna's daughter. »

« Oh! I see. I'll take care of those injured now. »

« Yes, we'll let you work. We'll talk later. »

Vincent gave Norman a nod. After a last hug from Emma, Norman left the infirmary. Ray and the others were all waiting for him. The white-haired young man smiled at them.

« Let me show you where you’ll stay. »

*=*=*

Anna let Emma go out of the infirmary once one of the younger ones came to find them for dinner. She was starting to get hungry. Anna took Revna in her arms and they both left the room. They met Ray and Norman on their way.

Emma, Ray and Anna did notice how all of the Lambda escapees were looking shocked to see Norman with them. Emma made it her mission to ask Norman later.

After eating, Norman went upstairs. Emma had stayed with the others since they wanted to show her where they would be staying. It was getting late and everyone was starting to go to bed.

Norman went to his office, at the top of the hideout. He was doing some paperwork he had to do when a knock was heard.

« Come in. »

The door opened before he could finish his sentence. He raised his gaze from his work to see Emma closing the door before turning around to smile at him.

« Emma. What are you doing here? »

« I came to see how you were doing. »

Norman let out a sigh. 

« You shouldn’t had climbed all the way up. Not in your state. »

Emma playfully rolled her eyes before taking a seat on one of the couches.

« You know that’s not a couple of stairs that will stop me from coming to see you. »

Norman playfully shook his head, a smile on his face.

« What really brings you here? »

« It’s late. I want to go to sleep. I want you by my side. Now. You’ll continue your paperwork later. »

Emma then approached Norman, grabbed his hand and dragged him to his bedroom. Bedroom that was connected to his office.

Once inside the bedroom, Emma grabbed some change of clothes and gave them to Norman. 

« Now go change. I’ll wait for you here. »

Norman did as Emma told him. Once he was back to the bedroom, Emma was already sound asleep. He couldn’t help but let out a chuckle as he settled himself beside her.

*=*=*

A few weeks passed and everyone was settled. Emma would always come up to sleep beside Norman, saying that like that, she’ll be able to keep an eye on him. 

According to Anna, their baby should be coming any day now. Emma would not stop talking about how excited she was to meet their child.

Emma and Ray had gone up to hopefully talk with him about something. But instead of finding their friend, they had found the rest of his team. Norman and Zazie were out of the hideout.

Vincent, Barbara and Cislo had told them how the boss they knew wasn’t the same as the Norman they knew and how different he looked when he was with Emma.

« I hope it won’t make him change his mind on the plan. »

Barbara took a bite from the meat she was eating. She looked at Emma and handed her the food.

« Want some? »

The smell alone made Emma feel nauseous. She smiled and shook her head.

« No thank you. »

The older girl just shrugged before taking another bite.

« What’s that about a plan you were talking about? »

They all looked at Ray. Vincent arched an eyebrow.

« You don’t know? The boss didn’t tell you about the plan? »

Both Emma and Ray shook their heads.

« No, Norman never told us anything about a plan. »

« The boss didn’t tell you about his plan to exterminate the demons? »

« What? »

Vincent, Barbara and Cislo then proceeded to explain to them the plan their boss had. They of course noticed Emma’s distressed expression. Barbara became angry.

« Don’t tell me you don’t agree with the plan?! »

« N-no! That’s not it… That’s really nice what he’s trying to do and I understand why he wants to do it. I hate demons, but… they’re not all bad. »

« Not all bad?! They eat us!! »

« Just like we eat some animals! It’s to survive- »

« Survive my ass yeah! »

Barbara continued to yell at Emma, getting angrier and angrier by the second. Ray noticed how stressed Emma was getting and was about to intervene when the ginger-haired girl suddenly got up before exiting the office.

He let out a sigh before getting up.

« Please stop stressing her out like that. She’s already stressed enough, no need to add more. »

« She’s the one- »

« She’s right though. Not all demons are bad. And your boss knows that too. »

And Ray left the office as well. 

He found Emma going down the stairs. He managed to catch up with her quite fast.

« Hey, how are you feeling? »

Emma let out a sigh.

« I don’t know. »

Ray only nodded before they both made their way down the stairs. 

They were about to enter the kitchens when a pain went through Emma’s entire body. Ray turned around when he heard her let out a yelp.

« Emma? Hey! What’s wrong? »

« I- I don’t know- »

Recognizing the signs, due to having seen them two times, Ray helped Emma reach the infirmary before settling her on a bed. 

« Stay there, don’t move. I’ll go find Anna. »

« O-ok- »

She was interrupted by a grunt of pain. 

Despite not wanting to leave her alone in the room, Ray ran out of the room to go find Anna.

*=*=*

Norman and Zazie came back to the hideout hours later. The sun was already setting and both were exhausted. Exhausted, but happy. At least Norman was happy. He hopes the others will be happy with what he brought back with him. More like who, he brought back.

The white-haired boy was about to go up to his office when Revna, Loid, Yvette, Jemima, Alicia and Mark came running to him.

« Norman! Norman! »

Norman quickly noticed the worried look on their faces.

« Hey! What’s wrong guys? »

« It’s Emma! »

« It’s auntie Emma! She’s hurting! »

« What? »

« She’s in the infirmary with Ray, Anna, Gilda, Zack and Sandy! »

Norman didn’t let them say anything else as he ran to the infirmary. He didn’t notice the younger ones looking at those who were behind him.

« Emma? »

« Finally you’re here! Took your damn time. »

Norman gave an apologetic smile to Ray before taking his friend’s place beside the girl. He grabbed Emma’s hand before looking at her. He gave her a reassuring smile to which she answered with one of hers before she crushed his fingers as well as letting out a grunt of pain.

« What’s happening, Ray? »

« What’s happening is that you two are becoming parents. »

« She’s giving birth?! »

Norman wiped his head to look at Ray. The black-haired boy almost wanted to laugh at his friend’s panic, but he controlled himself. They both looked at Anna when she spoke.

« Push, emma. You’re almost there! I can see the head. »

Norman then put all of his attention on the ginger-haired girl. He started whispering encouraging words to her the whole time.

*=*=*

It was another couple of hours that they started hearing the baby's cries. Both Emma and Norman let out a sigh of relief when they saw the little being in Anna’s arms. Even Ray let out one.

« It’s a boy. »

« Congrats you two. »

Zack took the baby from Anna to go clean it up so the blonde could go rest a little. Zack and Sandy were taking care of the baby while Gilda was checking on Emma. 

Emma looked at Norman. She let out a chuckle when she saw the way he was looking at the two boys taking care of their son. 

She gave him a squeeze on his hand, gaining his attention at the same time. They both smiled at each other. 

« Here, Emma. »

Zack handed the new mother her son all wrapped up in a blanket. Emma took him carefully, her smile only widening. 

She was completely exhausted, but she was so happy. She felt a hand on her cheek, making her look at Norman. He wiped away some tears that were silently rolling down her cheeks. She saw his expression soften as his eyes were getting glassy. 

« Want to hold him? »

His eyes widened a little before he nodded. Emma handed their son to him and Norman took him carefully.

Emma softened when she saw his own tears silently start to roll down his cheeks.

Ray had to hold back his own tears as well. Seeing his two best friends happy like that was like a dream coming true. 

Everyone started leaving the room to leave the new parents alone. 

« Did you think of a name? »

Emma frowned.

« I thought we agreed for James. »

Norman let out a chuckle.

« I know, but we never know with you. »

« Hey! What do you mean by that? »

« I mean that you are always so unpredictable. »

Emma gave him a pout, earning another chuckle from Norman.

« Norman… »

« Oh! Emma! »

She was surprised by the sudden excitement of the young man.

« On our way back to the hideout, Zazie and I met two people. I didn't want to believe it at first because we saw the bunker explode, but- »

« Are you talking about us, Beansprout? »

They both turned around to look at the two older men entering the room. Emma's eyes widened before watering. 

« Yuugo… Lucas… but- the bunker… we saw the explosion. »

Yuugo let out a scoff before taking a seat.

« Yeah. We thought we were dead too. But for some miracles, we survived. Don't ask us why or how, we have no fucking idea. We were walking for a couple of weeks now when we fell on Beansprout and his giant. »

Emma let out a chuckle.

« Language, Yuugo. There's a child here. »

« What? That one? »

The older man pointed at the baby in Norman's arms before letting out another scoff.

« That's just a baby. He won't start cursing around. Not yet at least. »

Emma playfully rolled her eyes, a smile on her face.

« Do you want to hold James? »

« What, me? »

Emma nodded. Yuugo didn't have to say anything for them to know he was agreeing. Norman then carefully handed the little boy to the older one. No one remembers ever seeing Yuugo this careful before. They heard Lucas and Emma let out a chuckle.

« It's like you have never held a baby in your entire life before. »

Yuugo looked at Emma, frowning.

« Well actually, I never held one before. That's my first time. »

« Oh… Wait. What about Loid and Revna? You never held them? »

« Nope. Didn't want to and now I regret it. »

Emma let out a chuckle before looking at Lucas.

« Want to hold him too, Lucas? »

« Oh, I don't want to drop him. »

« You won't drop him. Norman and Yuugo are there to make sure you don't. »

It was Lucas' turn to let out a chuckle.

« Alright. »

Lucas took Yuugo's seat who had gotten Up. Yuugo then gave him the little boy that he took carefully. 

Norman came to sit beside Emma on the bed. She immediately put her head on his shoulder. Norman wrapped his arm around her before giving her a kiss on the head.

« Emma? »

« Hm? »

« I love you. »

She reopened her eyes that she didn't realize she had closed to look at him. He had a smile on his face. She smiled back at him before giving him a kiss on the cheek.

« I love you, Norman. »

Chapter Text

Emma had been resting for a couple of weeks now. They had built a cradle for James and they had put it in Norman's bedroom. Norman's bedroom that was now Emma's as well.

Norman was currently working in his office with James. Emma was about to join him with Ray. They needed to talk to him about something important.

Emma knocked on the door before opening it. Norman signaled them to not make any sound. Emma and Ray quickly understood when they saw the sleeping baby in his arms.

Emma let out a chuckle before approaching him. Norman handed her James that she immediately took before going back beside Ray.

« What brings you here, you two? »

« There's something we wanted to talk to you about. »

« What is it? »

« Your plan. Why didn’t you tell us before? »

They saw Norman’s expression become serious before he got up to come sit on the couch in front of them.

« I had the intention to tell you, but the occasion never presented itself. »

« Do you really think exterminating all the demons is the only solution? »

Emma was looking at James sleeping in her arms.

« Yes. »

« You came with us to Cuvitidala. You saw that there was a way to reach the human world. We have everything. We need to reforge the Promise. So why? »

« What if we never succeed at reforging the Promise? I know there's a way to reach the human world, but what if we don't reach it in time? What if they kill us all before it? »

Ray and Emma stayed silent for a moment.

« What about Mujika and Sonju? They're our friends. They helped us. »

Norman stayed silent for a moment. That was enough for Emma to start worrying. 

« Norman… »

« I don't know about them yet. But… you can't stop me from completing my plan. It's already in motion. »

« What do you mean? »

« The day James was born, Zazie and I went to meet with Geelan to make a pact. They help us with our attack on the capital, and we help them get on the throne. »

« Who's Geelan? »

« A former noble. He's a demon. »

« Norman… »

Norman didn't like the look of worry on Emma's face. Ray had crossed his arms.

« Don't worry. We won't let him climb on the throne. Geelan and his men have no chance against the queen. »

« You intend to use them and sacrifice them. »

« Exactly. They intend to kill us once they get what they want. »

« I don't want to kill all the demons… »

The two boys looked at Emma. Norman let out a sigh before getting up.

« Emma… »

« I don't want to kill all the demons! Mujika and Sonju are our friends. And you're the one who saw them! I only know the stories of what Ray and the others told me. They're just like us in a way. »

« They're not- »

« They are, Norman. They eat to survive. That's all they want!  They have families, friends. They care for each other. Just like us. »

Emma handed James to Ray before getting up. She stopped in front of Norman. She cupped his face with both her hands. Her voice came out in a whisper that only the white-haired boy heard.

« Please… I know what you're thinking and you know I won't let that happen. »

Norman took her hands in his.

« I know. I don't want any more of our family to die because of demons. We need to put an end to all of this while we still have time. »

She knew exactly what he meant. And she did not like to hear him say this.

She wrapped her arms around his neck, bringing him closer to her. He did not hug back.

« Please, Norman… You don't have to play God. You don't have to be one… »

Ray saw Norman's eyes widened a little, but the white-haired boy did not hug back. He made Emma back away from him, keeping his hands on her shoulders and gave her a reassuring smile.

« Don't worry, Emma. Like I said, I'll be fine. »

« Norman… »

A silence settled in the room. Norman's hands slid down Emma's arms and, before he could take them away, Emma grabbed them. Norman could see determination in her eyes. 

« Give us time then. »

« What? »

« Give us time so we can go to the Seven Walls and make a new Promise!»

« Emma, we don't even know for sure how to reach them! We don't even know if we can come back from there. »

« That's why we need time. So please, postpone your plan and give us time. »

Norman stared at her in silence for a moment. Ray was observing them in silence, waiting for Norman's answer. He felt James stir in his arms. Norman let out a sigh. 

« I'm giving you a year. If after a year there's still nothing, you know what will happen. »

Emma gave him a bright smile before giving him a kiss on the cheek.

« That's more than enough. Thank you. »

Norman only let out a sigh before avoiding eye contact.

« Just… come back safe and sound. »

« I promise. »

They both smiled at each other before Emma went to Ray to take James back. 

*=*=*

Norman was watching as Emma was packing her backpack. She was getting ready to go search for the Seven Walls. It was a few days after their discussion.

He was holding James in his arms who was sound asleep.

« Are you sure about leaving now? »

Emma turned around and saw how worried Norman looked. She softly smiled at him.

« Yes. The earlier we leave to find the Seven Walls, the less time you have to plan your own sacrifice. »

She saw his eyes widened a little. She wrapped her arms around him.

«  Whatever they did to you in Lambda, it touched your health, right? »

« I- »

« You're not including yourself when you talk about going to the human world. You think you'll die before reaching it. That's why you made that plan. Am I wrong? »

Norman didn't say anything. He only wrapped his free arm around Emma. 

« I'm sorry… »

« Don't apologize. Just promise me you won't die while I'm away. »

« Promise me you'll be careful and you'll come back safe and sound. »

Emma softly smiled as she wrapped her arms around him.

« I promise. »

They backed away from the hug when they heard James start to cry. 

« Someone is hungry. »

Norman chuckled before handing Emma their son. Norman sat down while Emma took care of little James.

« How long? »

« Hm? »

« How long do you think you have left? »

Norman let out a sigh.

« At least a year and a half… » 

Emma nodded as an answer.

« I see… that explains a lot actually… »

« You think so? »

« Yeah. That explains why you're so sure about executing your plan now. Thank you for delaying it by the way. »

A small smile made its way to Norman's face.

« That's the least I can do with the time we have. »

*=*=*

It was the middle of the night when Emma got up to go ready herself. Their first try to reach the Seven Walls was now or never. 

She took a last look at her two sleeping boys before going to change herself. 

When she came back from the bathroom, Norman was up and all dressed up, ready to start his day. He had a sleeping little boy in his arms.

Emma smiled at him before stopping in front of him.

« Do you really have to leave? »

The ginger-haired girl wrapped her arms around the white-haired boy’s waist.

« We talked about it, Norman. And now that I know for sure that you weren't planning to survive all of this, it's only giving me one more reason to hurry up and find the Seven Walls. You better wait for me like you promised. »

Norman let out a sigh.

« I promised you, Emma. I'll wait. I still have to convince the others though. »

« I know you will. They'll listen to you. »

Emma took her two boys in her arms.

*=*=*

Emma and Ray had left two hours ago. The hideout felt empty without them. Norman had managed to convince the others about delaying the plan. He had just sent a letter to lord Geelan to tell them about a small inconvenience making them delay the plan. 

James was sleeping against him while Norman was taking care of some paperworks. He let out a sigh before hearing a loud sound coming from his bedroom. It sounded like someone fell down the bed. He got and carefully went towards the bedroom.

Before he could grab the doorknob, the door flung open, revealing Emma.

« Emma?! Wh- what are you- »

«  Where’s Ray? »

« Ray? I don’t know? What’s happening? »

Emma started making her way outside the office, Norman following her close.

« I don’t know what happened. We were- we were in Grace Field and before we could enter the house, everything went black before I woke up on the ground of our bedroom. »

Norman frowned. 

« Grace Field? »

« Yes. How long have I been gone?l

« Two hours? »

Emma didn't say anything else as she made her way downstairs. 

« Emma, can you slow down please? »

As if to agree with his father, little James started crying. Emma stopped before turning around to take James from Norman.

« Hey, baby. It's okay. Mama is here. Mama is here now. No need to cry anymore. »

Norman softened at the sight of his treasures.

« Emma! »

They both turned around to see their best friend exit the infirmary. They both exclaimed att the same time.

« Ray! »

« Emma! You're back too!? »

Emma gave him a nod and they started talking about going back. Which made Norman stress even more than he already was.

« W-wait- Hold on you two. You're already thinking of going back?! »

Both Emma and Ray turned to look at Norman. They approached their best friend. 

« We have to. I know you would do the same. »

« Let me come with you then. »

« What? No! »

« Why not? »

Emma let out a sigh before handing a now sleeping James to Ray. She came closer to Norman before cupping his face with both her hands.

« You stay here and make sure our family is doing alright. I don't want you to put yourself in any more danger than you already put yourself in. If there's only one of us that has to survive, I want it to be you so our son has his father with him forever. »

She could see the pain and fear in the white-haired boy's eyes. Norman put one of his hands on hers that was still on his cheeks.

« What about his mother? James will need his mother more. »

« Norman… »

« Okay, love birds. If it can reassure you Norman, we'll stay until the next moon. We'll have time to think of another solution at the same time. »

Both Emma and Norman looked at Ray. They both nodded, agreeing with their best friend.

*=*=*

Emma spent her free time with her son and Norman. She was glad to see that Norman was forgetting his work for a while. They could both watch as James grew up. 

Emma and Ray would go back to try and reach the Seven Walls. But everytime it would be for nothing. They would be sent back to the hideout every single time.

They would always reappear in the same rooms everytime. Ray in the infirmary and Emma in Norman and her bedroom. The only progress they made so far was how long they would be gone.

Now, they would be gone for two weeks before suddenly reappearing.

It was night when Emma came back. She still doesn't know if Ray came back too yet. She stared at the ceiling,

She heard movement coming from the bed. She looked up to see James smiling at her. The little boy had started to crawl recently. He let out a happy gasp. Not too loud to Emma's surprise.

« Ma! Ma! »

Emma let out a chuckle at her son’s whisper-shout. She took a sitting position. 

« Hey, baby. How are you doing? Aren't you supposed to be sleeping, little boy? »

The little boy gave her a pout. Emma got up to kneel beside the bed. She then noticed Norman behind James. He was sound asleep. He looked so peaceful when he was sleeping. She couldn't help but smile.

She looked at James.

« Mama will go change herself. She'll join you two soon. »

She gave her son a kiss on the cheek, earning a laugh from him.

Once changed and ready for bed, Emma went to join her two boys. She was completely exhausted right now. So it wouldn't hurt anyone if she gets some sleep tonight, right? 

She cuddled close to Norman, wrapping her arms around her two boys. James nuzzled himself close to her, gripping her shirt and unwilling to let go of her. She felt Norman scoot closer to her.

The little family all fell asleep, close to each other.

*=*=*

A year had passed. Emma and Ray still hadn't made progress with the Seven walls and Norman's deadline was coming closer and closer.

Vincent had told him multiple times they should go ahead with their initial plan. Norman had still insisted on waiting for them. But even he could see it was better to move forward with their plan.

Everyone in his team of course noticed how distracted their boss would be everytime if was about the mini boss. They all adored James, so they weren't better in terms of concentration.

Norman was finishing some paperworks in his office with Vincent. They were reviewing their plan.

« Boss. You know what we need to do now. »

Norman let out a sigh.

« Yeah… I know. »

The white-haired young man got up, put on his cloak, and left the office.

« We don't have a choice anymore. »

*=*=*

Ray had been welcomed by his daughter jumping on him. 

« Revna! »

« Dad! »

Ray got up, taking Revna in his arms.

« Did you see your aunt Emma? »

The little girl shook her head.

« Aunt Emma isn't back yet. I didn't see her. »

« Okay. So she made it. »

« Uncle Norman left though! »

« What!? »

Revna nodded.

« I don't know why. Mom knows though! She's putting James to sleep because he doesn't stop crying. »

« I see. »

Ray went to find Anna. He found her in the kitchens alone. 

« Anna! »

« Mom! Dad is back! »

Anna turned around and smiled.

« Ray! Emma isn't back yet. I went to check at the same time as I went to put James to bed. »

« That means she managed to reach the Seven Walls. We can just wait for her and hope she doesn't come back once it's too late. »

*=*=*

Emma woke up on the ground of their bedroom. This time, she was smiling. She let out a laugh before quickly getting up.

It had work. It had work! She managed to forge a new promise! She had to go tell Norman! And make sure Ray was alright.

She stopped at the bedroom door when she heard a baby crying. Her mother's instinct kicked in and she turned around to see James crawling and crying towards her. She immediately went to him to take the boy in her arms. She gave him a kiss on the cheek.

« No need to cry, baby. Mama is here now! »

« Pa… pas. »

« Papa? Let's go see him! Mama has some great news to tell him! »

Emma exited the bedroom with James in her arms. The office was empty. Maybe Norman was already with Ray? She did stay longer there. 

She made her way towards the infirmary, but was stopped when she heard voices coming from the kitchens. She made her way towards them.

« I'm back! Where's Norman? »

Ray got up and went towards her. He looked mad.

« Ray? »

« Norman left. We reached his deadline, remember? He left with his team to go to the capital. »

« Then we have to go after him! »

Ray gave her a nod. Emma went towards Anna and handed her James. After the goodbyes, Emma and Ray got ready.

« He's probably already far away. How can we catch up with him? »

« Someone asked for a ride? »

Both Emma and Ray turned to look at who had talked. A smile found its way to the girl's face.

« Oliver! »

Oliver and some of the Goldy Pond kids were mounting horses, ready to leave.

« Come on, get on. We don't have much time if we want to catch up with them. »

Once everyone was ready, they left the hideout.

*=*=*

« Norman! »

The young man had his back turned to them, surrounded by dead demons. 

« Emma. Ray. You're too late. »

Norman finally turns around, a smile on his face. Emma could see the sadness and exhaustion in it. But she could also see the fear in his eyes.

« Norman… »

A new determination in her eyes, Emma made her way towards the white-haired young man. 

« We did it. We forged a new Promise. »

She saw the way his eyes widened.

« You did it? »

« Yes. »

Her expression changed to a soft one once she stopped in front of him.

« You don't have to sacrifice yourself anymore. You can live. You don't have to die… but that, I already told you that. »

Emma took his hands in hers.

« I want to walk alongside you. I want you by my side for the rest of our lives. I want you to be by James' side as long as he'll need you. »

Norman was staying silent. He didn't know what to say in all honesty. Because she was right. 

Emma saw his stoic expression crumble. She wrapped her arms around his neck, bringing him closer to her. She felt him hide his face in the crook of her neck, earning a chuckle from her.

« I'm sorry… »

« Don't apologize. You were only doing what you thought was good for your family. »

Norman raised his gaze to look at Ray behind Emma. The black-haired young man gave him a smile. Ray went toward the rest of the team to tell them how they would leave this place.

Norman was about to hide his face back on Emma's shoulders when he saw something moving. 

Emma let out a yelp, catching everyone's attention, when Norman suddenly pushed her. As she was falling, she saw it.

Legravalima, the demon Queen. She wasn't dead! And she was jumping towards Norman!

Emma felt her back hit the floor. She raised herself as quickly as possible. But…

« NORMAN!! »