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Chapter Text

"I hate angels." Bayonetta muttered to no one in particular as she and her best friend and fellow witch, Jeanne strolled down the sidewalk.

Bayonetta had lost a second dress this month to those naughty angels and she was very annoyed. At least she got to punish them, but she still wasn't happy.

"As I said, another day in the life Cereza." Jeanne repeated, keeping her eyes on the shop windows for any clothing that stood out.

"But I liked that dress... Sometimes, I think they just like ruining things for me."

Jeanne chuckled a little, "Maybe. But we'll never know."

Bayonetta glanced back at the short, foul-mouthed Italian waddling behind them, carrying all of their bags.

Jeanne was right about the sales. The amount of clothing that they had purchased was nothing less than astonishing and Enzo had to carry it all.

Bayonetta sighed at the sounds of traffic, "I guess Luka and Rodin are still driving around."

"They've probably crashed by now." Jeanne smiled a bit as Enzo stopped behind the two Umbra Witches to take a breather.

Bayonetta and Jeanne hesitantly stopped for him and waited impatiently. Jeanne was clearly annoyed by the broke-wise-guy-turned-family-man being with them, but she did find him carrying all of their bags slightly amusing.

"Enzo! Hurry along now dear. We have more things to buy." Bayonetta didn't sound very patient anymore.

"Didn't you mention some heels without guns?" Jeanne changed the subject as they began to move again.

Enzo caught back up with the two, while they navigated through the civilians still shopping even after the jet incident earlier.

"Oh yes... And now that I think about it, I'll definitely be needing a new dress."

Enzo finally spoke up, "Why don't cha use your hair? Ya do any other time..."

"That's too easy, Enzo. I like challenges." Bayonetta cooed with a victorious smirk.

"A dress is a challenge?! Since when?!" Enzo exclaimed, taking it all in as a joke.

"Finding one that matches your shoes is..."

Jeanne stopped in front of a clothing store named 'Valley of the Gods', and stared intently at a pair of blue stilettos.

"Ooh! What about these? Cereza, they seem your style."

"I don't know. I don't like buying things on sale..."

Jeanne rolled her eyes. 'These aren't a pair of guns...' She thought as she dragged Bayonetta into the store for a better look. Bayonetta did like them but she didn't have something to match it. Sure her earrings did, but she needed a matching dress or something.

"Ah! They would go great with this..." Jeanne pulled out a dress, similar to the pink one Bayonetta had worn earlier, but without the white fur.

It was a sleek black dress, with a neck that dipped fairly low. Around the trimming it had blue vine-like patterns; the same blue as the shoes.

"Oh my!" She picked up the dress and shoes together, "Jeanne, what would I do without you?"

Enzo scoffed in the nearby aisle, "Girls... Always after clothing..."

Bayonetta and Jeanne poked their heads over the clothing racks to glare at him, "What was that, Enzo?"

"Nothin'! Nothin'! I ain't said nothin'!"

"That's what I thought." Bayonetta and Jeanne laughed as they browsed for more clothing, spending time as best friends like they never did as children.

Chapter Text

"I'm surprised that you're even here, Rodin. I thought that you would still be driving around, handing out these ghastly flyers." Bayonetta mused as she kicked her feet up upon Rodin's bar, as Jeanne finished another glass of alcohol while watching her friend.

"A man's got to get business somehow. If Enzo would pay his tab, I wouldn't need to do this." Rodin eyed, the already drunk, Enzo who was lazing around.

"I'll pay when I get there..."

Rodin scoffed, "You've been saying that for years."

Bayonetta glared at Enzo over her shoulder. Catching her glare, he immediately sat up, before he fell off his chair like usual.

"He's right, you have. If you weren't so busy buying toys, you might have paid him back by now."

"Hey! You don't have ta deal with Ed and Edna! Those little fuckers always want shit, I tell ya!" Enzo slurred before downing another glass of scotch.

"The thing I don't understand, Cereza, is how he managed to have children with a woman." Jeanne spoke up, holding back a laugh.

"Maybe she was blind?"

"Blind, deaf and dumbstruck." The two witches laughed as Enzo grumbled in self pity.

"Ladies," Rodin drew back their attention, "We've got more pressing matters to attend to."

"It's your party Rodin, so it's your problem."

Rodin's eye twitched behind his black shades. The devil's temper flaring, but he calmed down instantly

"Luka! Did ya hand out the rest of those flyers?" He shouted out, distracting himself.

"GHAR~!" Luka, the journalist extraordinaire, seemingly appeared from nowhere, tripping over something hidden from Bayonetta's view.

As quickly as he stumbled, he cleared his throat and acted like nothing happened, "Uhh... Yeah, yeah I did. Bayonetta's right though. Why could you do it? You can drive can't you?"

"We've been through this. It's almost like you want your anonymous source to go down." Rodin almost smiled as he continued to wipe glasses.

"No- no! Now let's not get too hasty!"

"Buy him a penguin toy and he won't make you drive him anywhere..." Jeanne laughed, starting to appear drunk.

Her few dozen drinks had finally caught up with her and Bayonetta wasn't very happy. She hated with Jeanne in the mornings when she had a hangover.

"Eh?" Everyone was puzzled.

"I've seen his stash. He loves his penguins, and yet he's still afraid of birds..." Jeanne narrowed her eyes on Rodin with a smirk.

"Jeanne...!"

Everyone, including Bayonetta started to laugh. Rodin wasn't exactly denying it, and he was definitely annoyed with them laughing at him.

"Is it true Rodin? Are you really afraid of little birdies?!" Bayonetta teased, before she finished drinking her Mysterious Destiny.

They continued to laugh at him. It was one of the rare times that Rodin was happy that no one else drank here. But he wasn't earning any money this way, and his weapon-smithing business wasn't going any better.

Rodin let out a sigh, "I don't get paid enough for this..."

Chapter Text

"I don't know what to wear..." Bayonetta stared at the clothing that lied before her on the bed.

It was a few hours before Rodin's party, and neither Jeanne or Bayonetta were ready in the slightest.

"You're over-thinking this." Jeanne droned, searching the closet in assistance, "It's just one of Rodin's stupid parties. He throws them all the time, and still, no one goes."

Bayonetta chuckled, "He's not a popular chap, is he?"

"I think he is, just not with a partying crowd."

Bayonetta inspected the outfits further, before thinking out loud, "You think Dante will go?"

"Maybe... Do you plan on playing another game of strip poker with him again?" Jeanne hinted, her eyebrow raised.

"It's no fun. I always win. Every game, and I'm not even good at poker!"

Bayonetta decided on some clothing, causing Jeanne to spin around, a bored look on her face, "Okay, what about these? Casual..."

The witch motioned to her current attire. Her regular battle suit weaved by the threads of her own hair.

"Formal..." She lifted up the black and blue dress that she had bought yesterday from her shopping bag.

"Or... maybe I should wear something Asian themed... I know Rodin's been raving about Japan lately." She pointed out, motioning to the blue Umbran Gekka on her bed.

"What about me?! I have nothing to wear? My most elegant outfit was cut to shreds yesterday morning!"

Bayonetta snickered under breath, recalling Jeanne's embarrassed face.

"Oh, shut up you!" She sneered, not needing a reminder.

"You have another in your closet, Jeanne. You're so forgetful." Bayonetta reminded her, as she settled on the Gekka, moving the rest into her closet again.

She wanted Rodin to think that she actually listened to him, in hopes that she won't pay for any drinks. A devilish plan indeed.

"That's ironic coming from you."

The white-haired witch moved into her room, beside her best friend in search for her clothing. She shuffled through her mess, silently wishing she had Bayonetta's clean-freak ways, before opening her own closet.

"You know what, I think Loki would have loved you." Bayonetta randomly called out to her, smiling fondly at the thought of the little ruffian.

"Really?"

"Yes... I can see it now. You'll both be arguing so much! Two aggressive personalities don't really go together well, my dear."

They both continued to get changed into their party attire, while continuing their conversation through the wall.

"You'll? Oh, I see. When do think you'll see him again?"

"I have the strangest feeling that I already have..." Bayonetta leaned on Jeanne's doorway, while her friend gathered her makeup from the dresser buried underneath her other clothes.

"The party is two hours, so hurry up. You take all day with your makeup."

"I do not!" Jeanne scoffed in disbelief, throwing a pillow at Bayonetta's head, who scowled at her childishness.

"The ones you love most are the hardest to live with..."

Chapter Text

The two witches stepped into the bar, completely unaware of how many actually showed up to Rodin's party. It was the busiest that either of them have ever seen Rodin's bar.

There was music coming from somewhere in the room, playing some sort of pop music at a low volume. Nobody was dancing, just drinking and talking.

A fair few of the people were in cosplay, much to Jeanne's distaste, "I wasn't aware that this was a costume party."

Rodin didn't seem overly busy, mainly because he was ignoring customers to talk to his two favorite witches.

"It's not. Some idiots just felt like hiding their faces." Rodin joked, taking a drag of his cigar.

"Sometimes that's a good thing." Bayonetta scoffed, while Rodin proceeded to make them some drinks.

"If I had known, I would have come dressed as Cutie J. My outfit would have blown them away."

Bayonetta deadpanned. Jeanne wasn't even drunk yet and she was already talking like she was.

Rodin placed two Mysterious Destinies on the bar; Bayonetta's was made especially with an olive. Jeanne reached out, but Bayonetta confiscated her drink before she could get it, "That reminds me," Bayonetta downed her own drink; swirling Jeanne's tauntingly in her other hand "You shouldn't be drinking. You'll be teaching children tomorrow."

"That means I need it more. You have no idea how annoying high schoolers can get." She tried to snatch it back, but Bayonetta was too quick and still managed to not spill any of it.

"I don't care. I don't like dealing with your hangovers in the morning."

"But Will can take my class; I can take a day off." She continued to whine like a child, amusing both Rodin and Bayonetta.

"Will? Ah... Mr. Wedgewood. Isn't he that teacher you don't stop talking about?"

"What?!" Jeanne inwardly scolded herself for nearly shrieking, "No!"

Luka joined in, taking Jeanne's drink and finishing it in front of her, but she was too distracted to care. She couldn't believe that her friends were saying that she had a thing for Mr. Wedgewood. She felt nothing for him... Sure, he was nice, a bit shy, but that was it.

"I though he dealt with elementary school children." Luka chipped in.

"He teaches classes at the high school too." She huffed, turning to face away from them.

Bayonetta knew all too well that she was getting annoyed, but she also knew that there was something Jeanne was hiding from her in the terms of Mr. Wedgewood, so she continued to joke hoping she would open up, at least a little bit, "Ahh... So you get to keep an eye on him after-all?"

Jeanne felt a little betrayed, even if they were just having a bit of fun, "Cereza! I have no feeling towards Mr. Wedgewood. Our relationship is strictly business. Understood?!"

"Is that what you say when you're in the janitor's closet together?" Luka snickered, making everyone burst out in laughter.

Jeanne wasn't as amused, "I give up."

Rodin and Luka started to converse, while Jeanne had shut herself out of the group, drowning her embarrassment in alcohol. Bayonetta simply sat and watched, occasionally with a drink in hand.

As it became later and later, the bar filled with more people and the music became louder. Everyone was dancing, having some sort of rave in the middle of the bar, while Bayonetta and the others lingered on the side-lines.

She was well-aware that she could go into the group of dancers and blow them all away with her moves, but she wasn't in the mood. She was concerned about Jeanne, since she had taken all of their stupid jokes pretty hard.

"Hey, Bayonetta..." Luka snapped her out her thoughts, "I was wondering if you wanted to..." He continued to fiddle with his trademark scarf, "Dance?"

She smirked, "Oh, I can dance, Cheshire. I just don't think you can, my dear."

A flash of confidence appeared in his eyes, "Pfft, I can totally dance. After all I am the-" Bayonetta stopped him before he could ramble.

"Remember what happened last time you rambled on?"

"Got it." He replied almost instantly, straightening up as she had scolded him. He wandered away, merging into the crowd of people.

Bayonetta couldn't help but to frown. She didn't say no...

"He's a nervous little thing, isn't he?" Jeanne slurred, moving beside her friend once again.

She had been watching them, and the thing that was bothering her the most, was the fact that her best friend was frowning. She was a little confused; she had never seen Bayonetta strictly frown to something as juvenile as Luka leaving.

Bayonetta noticed Jeanne's stare and forced a chuckle, "Not when it comes to stalking."

"Go and dance with him. Just this once."

"If I do, he'll never shut up about it." Bayonetta denied, despite her earlier thoughts. But Jeanne didn't need to know that.

"You're afraid that he'll pester you with it? Okay, where's my fearless Cereza run off too?" Jeanne nudged her with her elbow.

She was also a little afraid that Jeanne would pester her with it, but it wasn't like she didn't want to, and she didn't strictly say no to him.

She sighed, "Fine. I'll do it. But you owe me for this, Jeanne."

"I can live with that." Jeanne smiled up at her friend, slightly surprised that she didn't technically say no. She had the feeling that Cereza was thinking about doing it all along.

Bayonetta stood up from the stool and scanned the crowd for Luka, but it seemed like he had completely merged into the mass of dancers.

He could have left.

She frowned again at the thought that she had driven him away without even trying.

That's when she saw it, a flash of gold. A strange feeling of nostalgia and sadness enveloped her as she spotted the golden flash within the crowd again.

Then she saw it in full, or so to speak. It was unmistakable. A golden mask, bearing a symbol of the sun. The markings were a little off- two wing like indentations on the mask. They also wore a white and gold outfit, but it was blur.

She couldn't be seeing things, she thought. But how?

"Jeanne, did you see that?" She needed reassurance, even if Jeanne was drunk.

"See what?"

"It was a... Never mind, my mind must be playing tricks on me." She felt a little hysterical, "I've had too many drinks..."

She had never seen a... mask like that before. But it did resemble Balder's mask in a way. Maybe it was her mind, using the memory of Balder, which created that figment of imagination.

At the thought of her father, she felt the same feeling of sadness wash over her as when she saw that mysterious masked man. It just had to be her imagination, she tried to convince herself.

She spotted it again, staring at her through the crowd. It was on the other side; still a slight blur to her eyes but it was enough to convince her that the impossible has happened yet again.

"Jeanne we have to go!"

Jeanne glared at her, but she was too tired to retort back. She mustered enough strength to stand, instantly regretting all of the drinks she had.

Rodin appeared from the back of the bar, no glass in hand for a change, and stared at Bayonetta, completely aware of what she was leaving because.

"You noticed it too?" He spoke, and Bayonetta knew that she was kidding herself by thinking it was all in her head.

"We're getting of here. Hopefully it's nothing. But I'm not willing to take that chance." She took hold of Jeanne's arm and led her out of the bar, supporting her friend so she could walk.

It wasn't her guilt getting to her, it wasn't her imagination.

If Rodin could sense it too, it had to be real.

It had to be a Lumen Sage.

Chapter Text

The music was still pumping from a few blocks away. Bayonetta didn’t really care. Right now she had two concerns: Getting Jeanne home safely and their masked pursuer. Occasionally she would spot it, a golden glint or sparkle along the rooftops. It was his, well she was guessing that it was a he, his mask reflecting the moonlight.

The more she thought about it, the full moon tonight seemed a little eerie with its usual soft white glow. It was also a stroke of luck, because if they had to, she and Jeanne could use Witch Walk to get home.

“What’s the big rush?!” Jeanne scowled at her, alcohol on her breath.

“Never you mind, dear…”

It may not have been one of Bayonetta’s best ideas, but keeping Jeanne in the dark about the situation was all she could do. Jeanne was drunk, a bad drunk. If Bayonetta told her that a Lumen Sage was on their tail, Jeanne would cackle like a mad woman for all of New York City to hear. It was a sad contrast between her ordinary reserved self and her horribly loud, drunk self.

Her eyes flickered between Jeanne’s head lying on her shoulder and the rooftop of a nearby building. A blur of white and gold flashed once again…

Surely he could not be following them still, Bayonetta sighed.

Jeanne was still blissfully ignorant of what was going on. She pulled her along the path, taking a longer route home, still with an arm wrapped around Jeanne to keep her on her feet.

Their pursuer moved across the rooftops with such grace. He did not falter or stop for a single moment.

"He's following us..." She breathed knowing that it was unlikely that he would not leave them alone.

Jeanne lazily lifted her gaze to her friend’s, a tired look on her face, "Who?" She slurred, still under the effects of the alcohol, “Is something wrong, Cereza?”

Bayonetta sighed once again, seeing no point in running away. Their little stalker needed to be dealt with, and she wanted to do it herself. Jeanne was clearly in no condition to fight, but she could get herself home- Hopefully.

"Go on without me. I'll catch up."

"Cereza...?!" Jeanne was frazzled, having to stand up with her own strength. With what little remained of her own strength.

Her friend gave no time to explain and leapt away, on to the rooftops and out of sight.

~~~~~

Bayonetta

The Sage-Imposter stood before me, wearing a garb eerily similar to Balder’s. I knew Sage’s had bad taste in fashion but wearing the same uniform was a bit… distasteful. It’s almost like Sage’s didn’t even try to look good.

"Look, the last thing I need is another stalker, so run along before you lose your pretty little mask."

He didn’t react, standing there dauntless and determined. I couldn’t help but to think of Balder, he was the only Sage I ever knew, and how he was when he was young. It was only a few weeks ago we were fighting each other in Noatun, but at the same time he was dead. Brain-warping, isn’t it?

The imposter wasn’t giving me much of a choice. I summoned Love Is Blue using my magic and aimed them at him.

He still didn’t budge.

"At least you’re the silent type. But I’ve had enough of you lot to last a lifetime. Let’s rock!"

~~~~~~

Jeanne

I should go back, I need to go back.

The sound of gunfire echoed throughout the city, louder than the traffic or Rodin’s Bar in the distance. I was worried, even if I would never admit it out loud. Cereza was always rushing into battle, beaming with her source-less confidence.

How did she do it? How did she wear that smile of hers all the time? Cereza has been through so much and yet she’s so happy.

I stole a glance at the reflection of my drunken self in a store window, taking note of my perma-frown.

I can’t help her, not like this. Cereza was probably ashamed of me when I was drunk like this, or maybe she was ashamed of me all the time. I never really helped much, I’ve been more a pain than a friend. Sure, I was brain-washed but I was still tried to kill her once.

But she came after me when I found myself trapped in the Inferno… Only a friend would do that.

I’m just being an idiot, that’s all. Everything’s going to be fine. Cereza can handle herself, I just need time to rest my head.

Chapter Text

Bayonetta

"He ran off!"

Knowing all too well where Jeanne would be at this time of the morning, I had entered Rodin's bar blind in rage. I had spent all night chasing that Sage, who at first, seemed so eager to follow me which easily translated into 'I wish to fight.' Upon cornering him on that rooftop, aiming my weapons at him, he did not summon his own and instead, fled. Leaping from rooftop to rooftop.

I had tried to shoot him down, I was in need of answers after all, but he was fast for a coward. I followed him to the outskirts of the city where he simply vanished.

"Who did?" Jeanne wasn't drunk just yet, but the bags underneath her eyes told of how she was last night.

More alcohol does not cure hangovers. She should know that by now.

"That Sage. I can't believe he just fled like that!" I was still fuming as I took my usual spot, the bar stool beside Jeanne as Rodin readied a drink for me.

He knew me too well.

"Wait, what do mean be 'Sage'? You aren't saying-" Jeanne was in utter disbelief.

"Yes, I'm talking about a Lumen Sage."

"I knew something was kind of funny last night." Rodin smirked, "It's not every day one of your angelic buddies walk into my bar."

Jeanne snorted rudely, slamming her palms down on the bench, "Are you listening to yourselves? The Lumen Sages are gone, dead."

"Jeanne... Believe me. I know a Sage when I see one."

"You could have be imagining one. God knows we need a little more excitement around here." Rodin served us our drinks before returning to dishwashing duty, as he usually did.

"He's real." I finished my Mysterious Destiny before taking Jeanne's and downing hers as she pouted, "And shouldn't you be at work?"

"Will is covering for me. I swear that guy is a godsend-" Jeanne, immediately realizing what she had said, straightened up in her seat and shot everyone a glare, " Say anything and I will kill you."

The door creaked open behind us, revealing a dishevelled Luka as he waltzed in and crashed at a nearby table. He kicked his feet up, not minding how his hair was a mess and that his shirt was on backwards... I raised an eyebrow at his ruffled attire. He had clearly been... busy this morning.

"What's the Bullet Brigade up to today? Drinking, I see, as per usual."

"Bullet Brigade?" I questioned. Now he's coming up with nicknames...

"What? I couldn't think of anything better." Looking over to Jeanne beside me, his eyes widened. He must have clearly noticed how hungover she looks, even behind her glasses, "What the hell happened to you last night?"

"I got drunk, as per usual." She sneered, turning back around.

"And I chased a Lumen Sage, who was a coward and ran away, thanks for asking. In fact, he kind of reminded me of you, Cheshire." I teased, crossing my legs.

"Oh, how thoughtful of you, Bayonetta."

Jeanne chuckled under breath, "Girls, please! Keep it in the schoolyard."

"Jeanne, you need to learn how not to get shitfaced. I can help." Luka bragged, resting his hat on the table.

"Is that what you do for the community?"

"No, my job in the community is to show the ladies a good time."

So... That is what he was doing this morning.

I felt something twist in my stomach, rendering me speechless. No, I refuse to be jealous of his encounters. I just wish he could keep his life in the bedroom or wherever he does it.

Jeanne laughed, "How have you not met Dante? Honestly..."

"Whatever sets your fancy, kitty. I have bigger problems." I shrugged, looking over to Rodin for his input.

"That Sage must have a plan for you. From what you've told me, they don't generally run from a fight."

Accepting another drink, I stared into the pink, almost red liquid, "And neither do I."

Jeanne sounded hysterical about it all, "You are all crazy, I tell you."

Luka sounded just as mad, "A Lumen Sage? I don't want another maniac to throw me out a window, not to mention that I'm running out of family members for him to kill." He spoke grimly toward the end.

I understood what he was talking about. Balder had ordered angels to kill his father, and he nearly did the same to him. I remember being so angered and disgusted with him. Balder was my father, and I didn't understand why he wanted to do all those horrible things. My feelings were forgivable seeing how it all makes sense now.

Luka should be blaming Loptr for everything that has happened to him. Balder was merely a pawn, a tool that corrupted by Loptr's very soul.

Luka's grim scowl faded into laughter, "You know I could have totally reached your hand. I just wanted to keep you hanging. Keeps the ladies wanting more."

He sounded far too pleased with himself. Did he derive some sort of joy from my worry? Maybe it made him feel loved, but it was still wrong. I feared that he had died as he plummeted through that window. I felt the guilt for his death, despite it all being my father's doing.

I felt the guilt, because he did for me.

"Luka... I thought you died..." My voice sounded weak and hurt, surprising Jeanne and Rodin.

"That was the idea. I was convincing. I should take up acting..."

It seems he still did not understand. I was clearly upset and he didn't even care in the slightest.

Standing from my seat, I stormed out of bar without another word.

I needed to distract myself for a while. And I knew just how to do it,

I need to vent my anger on some angels...

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Jeanne

"Nice going." I muttered, turning back around to face Luka.

With a stern look, I crossed my arms as he continued to stare at the doors, confusion on his scarred features.

"Was it something I said?" He sounded dumbfounded, his eyes flickering between the doors and us.

I sighed as I tucked some of my hair behind my ear, "I know that she seems to be invulnerable to everything, but she does have a heart. She can feel guilt and sadness."

"Shit." He placed his feet back on the ground, suddenly realizing the reality of the situation.

What do people see in him? He's isn't a bright spark, that's for sure.

I personally don't think that I would care about him being thrown out a window. Imagining it makes me want to laugh. But this was a grim moment. Cereza was a very emotive person, and her storming out was something new. I have seen at her at her best and her worst, but this definitely makes the list.

Rodin broke the silence, "Get your ass out there and apologize before she busts a cap in it."

Shooting up from his seat, Luka charged out the doors himself. Something possessed him that as for sure. Luka was never particularly serious, except when it came to her.

"They aren't even together and they bicker. Heh, it's almost like they're married or somethin'." Rodin laughed at his own joke, earning an eye-roll from me.

"They aren't together yet."

Chapter Text

Luka was cautious as he followed the black clad witch around. Surely she knew that he was following her- She should know by now- Not that he was a stalker, it was just a part of the job.

She turned a corner, vanishing from his sight. Luka sprinted after her only to find an empty street, she had truly disappeared. He slumped his shoulder, kicking a stray rock onto the road before turning back around, dragging himself back along the path, back to Rodin's bar.

Then he heard the gunshots.

The blast of a firing gun behind him, even though there was no one to be seen. Bullet-holes spontaneously appeared along the road and path, and the brick walls. Luka felt a little stupid for not thinking back to her little disappearing trick.

He pulled his glasses from his jacket pocket, putting them on without delay, as he stumbled into a nearby alley to avoid the invisible bullets flying through the air. There, he watched as Bayonetta seemingly prancing around the road, slaying any divine being in her way. She danced, all guns firing, without a care in the world.

Luka

It was hard to tell if she was taking her anger out on these poor bastards, or if she was just taking them out for a bit of fun. I knew her enough to know that sticking it to the divine was her idea of entertainment- Even if it seemed like a horrible idea to me.

I mean, I wouldn't want to piss off those... things. They're just too creepy to have to take out every day. But Bayonetta, that's what she has to do. Sacrifice angels, or be dragged to hell. Enzo had told me that, when he was too busy drinking to be paying back his debt to Rodin. For an undertaker, he sure knew a lot of things- Not as much as Rodin, who closely guarded his information.

Unless you had a good bottle of Japanese Shinshu Sake.

He has a soft spot for the stuff.

Snapping back into reality, I watched as Bayonetta summoned some sort of demonic guillotine, abruptly beheading an Affinity, I think that was what it was called. It was hard to keep track of the names of angels. You can only learn so much from sneaking into Bayonetta's apartment and reading her books.

I wasn't very sure if Bayonetta even read her books, but I wasn't going to steal her books just in case I incurred her wrath.

I've already done enough in that case.

The battle seemed to pause, giving Bayonetta enough time to take a quick breath before some smaller, flying angels joined the party. They looked like winged heads, just adding to the creepiness. God, how I hated looking at these things.

Bayonetta did not delay with her retaliation. With two blue guns in hand, she shot the flying targets down with taking a step. Bullets flew through the air, blood exploding from the angel's wounds before they abruptly combusted with their death. These ones were weaker than others I had seen Bayonetta face.

When the battle seemed to be over, a golden seal, glowing with brilliant light, appeared on the road before her. There was a roar, the ground trembling as some great flaming beast, adorned with gold and flame. It kind of resembled a dog, in some twisted way.

Although a part of me feared on Bayonetta's behalf, I was sure she would be able to kill it, no problem.

Jeanne

After Cereza had stormed out, I returned home. It was for the best, Cereza probably needed alone time- but then again, how would I know?

Cereza have only had months to reconcile our friendship, so I wasn't entirely sure of how to deal with her moments, she rarely had them.

When we were children, and through to out adulthood among out fellow witches, she was an easy read emotion wise. She cried when she was sad, fuming when she was angry. Now she was a bit of a blank slate.

Five hundred years at the bottom of a casket can do that you, not to mention her amnesia and twenty years to rebuild a personality.

With one of Cereza's random books in hand, I wasted my time while the television blared opposite of me. I wasn't actually reading it, just skimming through while taking nothing in. I was bored, unable to thinking about doing anything, I felt somewhat brain dead. I should have gone to work, but...

Gunfire echoed through the city, roaring through the open windows.

Raising an eyebrow, I placed the book on the table, standing from the lounge. Somehow, I just knew that it was Cereza. She wasn't really in any trouble, she can handle herself in any fight but I hated how she was having all the fun while I was here, finding everything such a bore.

Cereza has left me no choice, I must join the fight.

I changed from my casual attire to my usual battle suit, clad in red as per usual. With my goggles on, I let my motorcycle purr a moment before taking it into action, dangerously driving through the streets and over cars as I closed in on the gunshots until I finally saw Cereza shooting down a few Decorations.

She seemed to be enjoying herself.

I stepped away from my motorcycle, turning the engine off, and walked toward her, talking note that Luka was hiding in an alley nearby.

He doesn't quite know how to stay away.

The battle had seemed to pause as I stepped in. I hoped I hadn't missed anything special.

"You have all the fun without me."

Cereza rolled her eyes, "You just always seem to miss the parties."

It's good to see her back to her old, cheerful self. She must have cleared her head before I got here. It was the right choice giving her space.

A golden seal of the sun appeared before us, stagnant for a moment before a Beloved, average in size, raged its battle cry as it leapt from the portal. It waved its axe around, instantly aggravated at the sight of us. Although its size was rather hulking, it wasn't a threat in the slightest.

"I don't think we'll even have to shoot a bullet at this one." I boasted, as the angel seemed insulted.

Cereza seemed to agree, "It's not even a challenge."

"ARGEDCO!"

"OXEX RACLIR!"

The ground trembled as two more portals opened, and from the depths of Inferno arose two demons that more than equalled the Beloved's size. Cereza had Labolas, while I had Gomorrah who both eyed the lone angel like a piece of meat.

Each demon took a bit of the Beloved, playing a game of tug of war as the angel cried and roared in agony before it was slowly ripped apart and devoured, it's blood staining the road as it pooled.

With the demon's having sated their hunger for divine flesh, they descended back from whence they came, while Cereza and I made sure to eliminate any remaining stragglers who were hanging back from the big fight.

"Are you done?"

Cereza shot down the last angel, an annoying straggler. A stray Decoration to be specific.

"Yeah. I am now." She seemed pleased with herself.

We both flinched at the sound footsteps, jumping and aiming our guns at the source. It was only Luka, being the little stalker that he was- According to Cereza anyway. He raised his hands in surrender, his eyes flickering between the barrels of our guns behind his stupid, round glasses.

I'm amazed Cereza can take him seriously.

"Woah, ladies! It's just me!"

He adjusted his glasses, turning around to study the bloody mess we had made. It seemed like he was admiring our handiwork. "Nice."

I snapped, watching as Cereza silently fumed at the sight of him, "What do you want?"

"Uhh..." Luka scratched the back of his neck, "Bayonetta, I want to talk."

Cereza smirked, "About what?"

This seems awkward...

"I should go."

Bayonetta

"What is it, Luka?" My tone sounded a bit more aggravated than necessary.

Luka's eyes darted away, as he began to scratch the back of his neck. He seemed nervous, and afraid. "Look, I'm sorry about what I said back at Rodin's. I was kind of being a jerk about it all when you were probably freaked out when I, you know, flew out the window."

I stood back for a moment, unsure of what to think. The apology sounded sincere, well, as sincere as Luka could. I was surprised with this... humble side of him. He had always been a tad outgoing and annoying. He had three visible emotions: Anger, annoyance and flirtatiousness - For the lack of better word. Luka rarely apologized for anything in his life, or for as long as I had known him.

"... Apology accepted."

Luka sighed happily, relieved that this was behind him, "Good to get that over with-"

I shot him a glare, stopping him in his tracks. Visibly he changed his attitude, knowing that if he continued, he might get a bullet between the eyes. Not that I would do that.

"N-Not that this was an issue- I mean it was, because I felt guilty and... Yeah." He rambled, gripping his tattered scarf.

I don't think I've ever seen him without that horrid scarf...

"Calm down, Cheshire." I took his unsightly hat from his head and put in on, strolling away. "I'm not mad at you."

Chapter Text

A FEW DAYS LATER...

"You know, this wasn't necessary."

Bayonetta shot him a glare, "Luka, I will hear no more of it. This is to say sorry for taking things too far."

"Yeah, but-"

"Luka." She was overly serious, "Shut up."

Luka sighed, staring emptily at the round table lined with flimsy cloth. The sun broke through the yellow curtains, the sounds of New York traffic coming up from the streets below. It was ten in the morning, and everyone had already scurried off to work but there was still an ungodly amount of traffic.

It was a mad rush to get here. Bayonetta had invited him to 'morning tea', her way of apologizing. To him, it wasn't necessary at all. He saw himself as the jerk who needed to apologize, not her.

"It must be nice to be invited inside for a change." Bayonetta caught Luka off guard as she slaved away at the stove.

"Yeah..." then he caught on, "Wait, what? How? Huh?"

She glanced back at him, "We all know that you sneak in here."

Luka flushed in embarrassment, cursing at himself. He felt like a child who had been caught with their hand in the cookie jar. It wasn't a nice feeling, thinking that Bayonetta must see him as a creep. At least she was kind enough to not treat him like one.

"Do want any chocolate chips in pancakes, Cheshire?"

Luka deadpanned at the stupid nickname. No, instead of treating me like a creep, she treats me like a pet- Stupid pet names and all, he thought back to the plush toy cat that shared the name Cheshire, I don't see the resemblance between it and I.

Bayonetta quickly fixed her mistake, "I-I mean, Luka."

"Sure, why not."

Bayonetta added the extra ingredients, stepping away so it would cook, and placed the readymade tea on the table. Luka thought she needed a break, she had been non-stop cleaning and cooking since he had arrived- and of course she blamed Jeanne for the non-existent mess.

As soon as Bayonetta had sat down, there was a knock at the door. Oh what now, she thought, trying not to curse in front of her guest. Not that Luka would even care.

She stood from her seat and moved to the door. It would have been nice if Jeanne wasn't in her room, probably making a mess of it all. At this rate, Jeanne can start cleaning her own room. Bayonetta pulled the door open to find a red-clad devil in her doorway.

What could Dante possibly be here for?

And what's with the guitar case?

"Dante?!" Bayonetta tried not to sound so surprised, "Well, this was certainly unexpected..."

As usual, he remained cool, "I'm here to pick up Jeanne."

Pick up Jeanne? Since when were these two dating...?

Jeanne never tells me anything... but at least I know why she is taking forever in her room.

"You have a car?"

"...No..."

Then why is he picking her up? Unless... he wanted to go on a romantic stroll with her... No, that wasn't his style and Dante was all about his style.

Bayonetta rolled her eyes, "Come in. I think she's still getting ready."

With Dante in tow, Bayonetta lead him into the kitchen where she went back to the stove, tending to the pancakes. Luka and Dante reunited as if they were brothers.

"Hey Luka!" Dante and Luka fist bumped, "How are you man?"

"Dante! I've been great. So you and Jeanne huh?" Luka was surprised as anybody else.

"Yeah, random right?" He seemed uneasy on the subject, "Enough about me, what about you and uh...?" Dante motioned to Bayonetta.

"No, we're not a thing."

"Shame. If you don't act soon, I will."

"But what about Jeanne?"

"She asked me out. Seemed kind of desperate, but hey, I'm not one for turning down the ladies."

Bayonetta put in her two cents, "You don't get 'the ladies'."

Bayonetta returned to the table with plates of pancakes for Luka and herself. Jeanne would have probably wanted some, but she wasn't here and that meant she missed out. Dante kept himself occupied by studying the assortment of selfies on the fridge.

"You boys done talking about your 'ladies'?"

Dante retorted, his tone dripping with sarcasm, "Never."

Luka took the first bite of his pancakes and was surprised, "Wow, these are great!"

It wasn't like he doubted that she could cook. It seemed as if there was nothing Bayonetta couldn't do.

"Thank you. But you'll have to do more than that to get me before Dante." She shot him an unimpressed look.

He shouldn't have doubted that she couldn't hear him.

"Y-You heard that?"

"Yes, I-" She froze suddenly, eyeing the floor like a frightened cat.

Then she leap onto her chair, squealing, "OH MY GOD! KILL IT! KILL IT NOW!"

Luka and Dante were caught off-guard, "What the?"

Without any delay, Dante drew his sword, Rebellion from the guitar case, ready for any demon to appear... Even though he couldn't see one. Luka was just as surprised, and didn't have a clue on what she was so afraid of.

Then he spotted it.

"A cockroach?"

"JUST KILL IT! PLEASE!" She was practically begging.

A little brown pest, smaller than his thumb, was scuttling around in circles beside Bayonetta's seat. It seemed harmless... he just couldn't get his head around how terrified Bayonetta was of it. Luka wished he still had his camera so he could capture this moment forever.

Seeing that Dante was confused with the situation, Luka took it upon himself to settle this once and for all, stomping on the bug- That seemed to be minding its own business. He cleaned up its remains, placing them as Bayonetta moved down from her seat but remained vigil.

Dante felt disappointed. All this over a cockroach? Dante laughed to himself, settling Rebellion down, into the tiled floor far too easily.

Bayonetta didn't miss a beat, noticing how Dante had damaged her floor.

"Hey!" She fumed, "These tiles is worth more than that dilapidated shack you call a business."

Luka laughed, "Burn!"

"Nice one."

"I'll make sure to add this Lady's bill. She always gets money out of you, eventually."

Before Bayonetta could sit down and enjoy the rest of her, now cold, pancakes and tea, another knock at the door had her up on her feet- Annoyed more than ever. What could it be now?! What else could go wrong? The floor is damaged, and there are still cockroaches in here... The only thing that could top it all off would be a...

A crying baby.

Damn it.

There, bundled up in blankets at her doorstep was a small baby, wailing. It was small and frail, barely a few weeks old. As much as really didn't want to, she took the baby into her arms and studied it, finding that the baby seemed a little too familiar with its caramel skin and icy blue eyes. The baby seemed to settle down in her hold.

"Jeanne...!" She called out to her friend after seeing that no one was nearby, and entered the house again.

"What...?" She rushed out of her room, dressed in one of her usual French designed suits and her bold makeup on her face. She gave Dante a nervous wave, "Hey Dante."

He gave her a small smirk, enough to make her blush, "Hey babe."

"Oh what the-" Jeanne finally spotted the small bundle in her friend's arms, "A baby?"

At the word 'baby', everyone had crowded around Bayonetta, surprised and confused with the spontaneous baby appearing.

"Have either of you guys left someone pregnant?" Luka asked, somewhat awkwardly.

Bayonetta and Jeanne both glared at him, "We're girls."

"Right..."

"Is it yours?" Jeanne replied.

He shook his head, "I hope not."

The trio all turned to Dante.

"I don't want to know."

Bayonetta gazed down at the baby again and sighed, "We're stuck with it anyway."

"Give-" Luka lifted the blanket for a moment, "Him to an orphanage."

"No."

Everyone was stunned, "No?"

"He should be able to grow up with a family looking out for him, like I never had."

Everyone suddenly grew silent. While Dante had nothing to say, Luka and Jeanne knew that family was one of Bayonetta's more sensitive subjects. Jeanne especially knew that Bayonetta didn't really have anyone when she was growing up with the Umbra. Bayonetta was only able to visit her mother occasionally, and there wasn't much her mother could do for her daughter behind bars.

Jeanne was okay with Bayonetta wanting to keep care of the baby, she was just worried if her friend could do it.

Dante spoke up after being unusually silent, "Never pictured you as someone who cared for kids."

"Any other time you would be right." Bayonetta said quite honestly. Crying babies were something she couldn't stand in this world, alongside cockroaches. But there was something about child, who barely cried, that Bayonetta couldn't get past her.

"You know that you're going to have to feed it, clean after it and keep it occupied."

"I know."

"A baby isn't a cat. It is a big responsibility."

The Umbra duo didn't own a cat, but they were thinking of getting one. Clearly, that wasn't going to happen now.

"I know. I can handle it."

Everyone took a second look at the baby. Luka noticed how he looked slightly familiar, Jeanne too while Dante was simply stupefied that she was going through with keeping the kid.

Luka smiled, "What are you going to name him?"

"Loki."

Chapter Text

"There's nothing on!" Jeanne sighed, tossing the tv remote beside her as she pouted. She wasn't one for boredom.

Bayonetta took it upon herself to find something to shut her up, so she wouldn't hear any more complaints- She had heard enough for the day. For a moment, she wondered what was the difference was between a wailing Loki and a bored Jeanne.

The answer was nothing, they were far too similar for their own good.

"Ooh, Dancing with the Stars!"

Jeanne groaned into her hands, "No... Please, anything but this!"

"I could so be on this show."

"Don't start this again...!"

"I would win it too. With my dancing skills, I could totally destroy the competition." She boasted before a grin spread across her face, "I should enter! It's decided, next audition round- I'm in it to win it!"

Jeanne rolled her eyes, hearing it all before. She was afraid that her best friend would actually worm her way onto that stage. She had her heart set on it after all.

Loki erupted in cries and wails from his cot. Jeanne couldn't sleep with that thing constantly screaming at all hours of the night. She hadn't returned to Rodin's for a drink for what felt like forever because she was afraid of what a hangover and that baby's screams all at once would do to her.

Bayonetta had been handling herself however, not tired in the slightest. Loki was a distraction, a good one. While Jeanne had her job as a school teacher, she would keep care of Loki for a job. Today was a Saturday so Jeanne didn't have to work- All though she had seemed to be attending less and less recently- and she simply refused to mark any tests or prepare any work as this was her 'me time'.

Bayonetta gently rocked the cot, humming a tune until Loki calmed down again. She had worked out that all he wants is attention, like usual.

"Are you really going to keep care of that baby all day?" Jeanne's eyes were on the tv as she spoke.

"Yes, I am."

"He seems like a handful. What happens if I'm at work and you have to attend some 'nun-ly' duties? Who keeps care of him then?"

"I'm only a nun when I need to be." Bayonetta smirked, "Still, a nanny wouldn't be a terrible idea. But I wouldn't want a stranger in our apartment."

"I'm sure someone we know would do it."

Jeanne thought for a moment, "What about Rodin?"

"He's not that great with kids. Apparently he ruined Ed and Edna's Christmas."

"What about... Enzo's wife?"

Jeanne snorted, breaking into snide laughter, "She's probably blind, deaf and stupid but at least she has experience dealing with three children."

"Don't you mean two? Ed and Edna?"

"No, you're forgetting the short, fat one."

Bayonetta sat back down on their couch, "What is your problem with Enzo anyway?"

"He's terribly annoying. Always drunk, bad Italian-American accent and constantly complaining or cursing... It gets on my nerves." She shuddered, "I've been to Italy and met other Italians- Some quite personally- so I'm not going off a stereotype but still... I just can't stand being in the same general area as him."

Bayonetta raised an eyebrow at her friend. This was the first time that Jeanne mentioned these 'personal' experiences before.

"Not to mention, he still has quite the debt to Rodin. I think he owes everybody money in fact."

"Right." Her friend rolled her eyes, "'Not going on a stereotype.'"

"I'm not."

"So, exactly how many men did you meet in Italy?"

"A fair few. I had to keep myself busy, apart from teaching, while I was waiting for you to bust out of that casket."

Her friend rolled her eyes, returning to the book in her hands. 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland.' Bayonetta wasn't entirely sure why Jeanne owned this book, but it was the only one remotely suitable for a child, let alone a baby. Her best friend had a strange taste in books ranging from History books- Which seemed a bit useless knowing how old Jeanne is- to more...shady books.

"When the procession came opposite to Alice, they all stopped and looked at her, and the Queen said severely, 'Who is this?' She said it to the Knave of Hearts, who only bowed and smiled in reply.

"'Idiot!' said the Queen, tossed her head impatiently; and, turning to Alice, she went on, 'What's your name, child?'

"'My name is Alice, so please your Majesty,' said Alice very politely; but she added, to herself, 'Why, they're only a pack of cards, after all. I needn't be afraid of them!'

"'And who are THESE?' said the Queen, pointing to the three gardeners who were lying round the rose tree; for, you see, as they were lying on their faces, and the pattern on their backs was the same form the rest of the pack, she could not tell whether they were gardeners or soldiers, or courtiers or three of her own children.

"'How should I know?' said Alice, surprised at her own courage, 'It's no business of MINE.'

The Queen turned crimson with fury, and after glaring at her for a moment like a wild beast, screamed 'Off with her head! Off-'"

"Doesn't that book seem a little violent?" Jeanne chipped in, taking control of the remote once again, flicking through the channels.

"Have you ever read this book?"

"No."

Bayonetta deadpanned. How could she own the book but not read it? It seemed horribly pointless to her, but she continued to argue nether the less, "Even so, Loki doesn't seem to care about the book. He's quiet and entertained."

"Cereza, take a look at this," Jeanne motioned to the breaking news on the TV screen, "Another earthquake, in Canada – that's different."

Bayonetta turned her attention to the screen as images of several devastated homes and buildings, "It shouldn't be happening. The Eyes of the World are gone altogether, there's no disruption in the balance of things..."

Jeanne noticed her friend's distress, "Maybe it was a normal one. I doubt that they would be anymore or any aftershocks since Canadians are so quiet and polite to deserve any more damage."

"You're going on a stereotype again." Bayonetta replied, setting aside her book.

She stood from their couch and moved into Jeanne's room. She sighed at the sight of the mess, not really surprised by it at all. She wanted something to take her mind of the disaster. Jeanne tried her best reassure her that it didn't have anything to do with the Eyes of the World, but how could they possibly know?

She rummaged through Jeanne's collection of books, attempting to tidy the scattered books only for the piles to tumble and fall. Once again trying to put them back together, a history book about Europe fell from her hands, opening to a bookmarked page. She picked it back up. So she does read some these things, she thought. Bayonetta went to close the book and put it back but stopped when she spotted the bookmark.

A white peacock feather?

That's not from her guns, it's too small. She was reminded of the feather-shuriken that Balder used to throw. In fact, they were almost identical but instead of purple there were shades of pale blue. They weren't his... they couldn't possibly be from the new Sage... right?

She felt hysterical. Jeanne couldn't possibly have anything to do with that Sage?

Chapter Text

"You know something, Jeanne," At the sound of her name, the blonde-haired witch popped around the corner, "You never did get the caviar for our little birthday bash."

Jeanne let out a blunt laugh, "I didn't think you would let this go." She rolled her eyes before returning to folding her clothes. Her friend had complained endlessly about the mess that was her room and Jeanne had finally gave in, cleaning it for what seemed like the first time in forever.

As the house returned to a soft silence, the television barely audible from Jeanne's room. She grunted as she took in the sight of her room- It was going to take a while to have this place as spick-and-spam as Cereza wanted it to be.

Bayonetta, however, sat contently on their lounge as the TV played some sort of cartoon that seemed to put little Loki at ease even if he couldn't see it. She didn't pay too much attention to it, as she pondered whether to read a book and stay at home or head out today. She didn't need to go out hunting angels, as she had slaughtered many during her time in Noatun and it was keeping the demon's hungers sated for now. She could relax, though it was rather boring. She loved the thrill of battle, and sitting still didn't come naturally. Even with little Loki to keep her occupied, she found that she was still quite bored.

Jeanne felt the same way. She started using more and more of her sick days when it came to teaching as she was tired of dealing with children- it was more of a pain than a bore. Keeping herself occupied without being annoyed by whatever it was seemed impossible. She wanted a fight, a new challenge or at least something fun to do to kill some time.

Then it came to Bayonetta so suddenly that she just seemed to freeze- They forgot their birthdays. And Christmas.

"Jeanne!" Jeanne trudged down the hall at the sound of her name, yet again, and listened to what her friend had to say.

"What is it, now?"

With a certain spark in her eyes, Bayonetta shot up from the lounge. She had formed a plan to alleviate their boredom.

"We are having a late birthday-slash-Christmas party!"

One Week Later...

"Rodin, could you move the table a little to the left."

"No... now it looks off. Move back to the right."

"Nope, that's it. It just isn't working, I've had enough."

"Speak for yourself." Rodin grumbled as he returned to his usual spot, behind the bar.

Jeanne was caught off guard when the door opened, a strong gust blowing in from the outside ruffling her hair. Enzo waddled in with Bayonetta in tow as she impatiently waited for the little man to move out of her way.

"It's bad enough you drive slow, now you have to walk at the same pace!" Bayonetta complained, barging past him to meet up with her friend. Enzo dropped the boxes of decoration on the table and moved over to the bar, in desperate need for a drink.

"It's surprisingly too hard to find Christmas decorations in late January. We're going to have make do with what Enzo had left in his attic." Bayonetta wasn't exactly pleased, having visited every store to find nothing on available or on sale either.

Jeanne sighed, "It would have been nice to have tree."

"The least we can do it overdue it with the tinsel and flashing lights. Maybe if we get everyone drunk enough, they'll never notice the miss tree." Bayonetta motioned to the assortment of glasses on the table before her, somewhat off centre in the room. "Anyway, we're supposed to be celebrating my late birthday rather than Christmas."

"Six hundred and four years, huh?"

"It's been quite a ride."

The door was thrown open again, by Luka this time, as he pulled a large tree through the doorway all on his lonesome. Jeanne smiled half-heartedly, seeing that her wish was granted, while Bayonetta had become dumbfounded by how Luka managed to acquire this tree.

"Is that real?" Jeanne seemed to love it, going to Luka's aid and dragging to the tall, pine tree inside, "It certainly feels real."

"Yep," Luka seemed proud of himself, "Straight from a forest- One-hundred-percent legally acquired." He winked- Legally acquired, right...

"It's straight from a forest? Wouldn't that mean it would be covered in-"

"BUGS!" Bayonetta yelped, jumping onto the table, smashing few glasses in the process, as large cockroach scuttled from the tree toward her.

Jeanne was slightly irked when she and Cereza entered the party, fashionably late due to few reasons even though it was mainly her indecisiveness. Her birthday wasn't quite like this, though she really didn't like being around too many people at once. Her party earlier this month was between Bayonetta and few close friends- Trish, Lady, Mariana (Wonder-Pink) and Silvia and held in her shared apartment. They had watched movies and drunk to their hearts content, and it didn't help at all when each of her gifts was a different bottle of alcohol.

Bayonetta, however, loved it because she always fancied a bit of attention- and parties of course. Since she missed her actual birthday due to unforeseen circumstances, she just had to make up for it and this late Christmas/Birthday party was perfect.

The moment the two witches, both wearing expensive gowns they had purchased just to be the talk of party, stepped inside the Gates of Hell, all eyes were on them. Everyone kept on dancing to the blaring music and socializing while having a few drinks. Bayonetta was met with many happy birthday wishes from both strangers and friends. Throw the mass of people, she made to the other side of the room, to see Rodin dressed in a tuxedo of all things. Immediately he had reminded Bayonetta of a penguin- A brooding, soul-reaping penguin.

"Everything seems to be going well."

Rodin nodded, "No problems yet."

"If Dante decides to show up, no ordering him any pizzas. I'm buying him anymore since he now owes me as well as Lady." Jeanne announced, while Bayonetta managed to slip away since she knew that she would end up ranting as usual.

Ironically, she ran into the half-devil himself as he paraded through the door with his little troop of friends with pizza boxes in hand. "I knew J would try to stop me so I got these earlier." Was his excuse, although it turned out that he now owed Trish money because of it. They all wished her happy birthday and kept on moving. Bayonetta had moved to the wall and watched as everyone mingled, waving occasionally to people she recognized but none of them came over to talk. She didn't really mind.

Jeanne had found her lingering in the shadows alone. She was confused why she would pull herself away when everyone wanted to talk to her, and come to think about it more, she had noticed that Cereza had not been herself lately. Instead of questioning her, she brought over a tall glass of champagne and stood with her.

"Thank you for the party Jeanne."

"It was your idea, not mine." Jeanne smiled, but didn't believe that her friend was enjoying herself at all. Then an idea popped inside her head and she excused herself before ducking away only to return to her friend with a gift box in her hands.

"Happy late birthday, Cereza."

"Jeanne, you didn't have to." Jeanne still handed her gift. With a sigh, Bayonetta pulled off the lid to find- "Caviar?"

"I know it's a bit late, but don't say I didn't get it."

Bayonetta grinned, giving her friend a hug, "Thank you."

As the night progressed, Bayonetta had somehow been brought back into the party. She was talking to people again, and endured being sung 'Happy Birthday'. Jeanne revealed the layered cake, simple but covered in what appeared to be hundreds of candles. Jeanne boasted that she had counted them to be six-hundred and four. Her colleague Will (Wonder-Red) counted them also, finding them to be a few candles short, embarrassing her- By her own crush no less.

Gifts were given, pizzas were eaten and Rodin was close to running out drinks as the party was slowly coming to a close, just after midnight.

It was then that Luka had decided to appear through the doors, earning glares from Jeanne and the others while Bayonetta was a little more forgiving. She approached him as he failed to adjust his scarf and hair as he seemed to be a mess.

"Luka, are you okay?" She asked, concerned.

"No, I'm fine. Just ran into a bit of trouble with this dog a few blocks from here, but I'm okay now." At least that explains why he looks like he's been ruffed up, Bayonetta thought to herself.

He pushed a large box into her hands as he keeled over to catch his breath, "It's for you."

Bayonetta was surprised that he had even bothered at all, but she pulled the ribbon and opened the box to find a toy she didn't recognize at first, as it was bright, colourful and clean as it had been tended to well. Then it clicked as she pulled it out of the box, squeezing the ragdoll to see if it was real- It was.

It was Cheshire.

A gasp escaped her lips as she examined the patchwork cat, all in one piece with some stitching repairs, rubbing some dust off its button eye, "Luka, where did you find him?"

"I've been chasing him up for a while now. I found him after you destroyed that rocket in Vigrid, amongst some ruins of that tower. I was planning on giving to you on your birthday but well, this will do too I guess."

Bayonetta's gaze moved from Cheshire's lifeless eyes to Luka as he blushed. She found his nervousness cute but the fact he had bothered to keep Cheshire for her, and clean him up was touching. He must truly care about her to do something like this. Her eyes crept up to the hanging plant above their head and she smirked as Luka had not noticed yet.

Under the mistletoe, which Luka was still yet to notice hanging above their heads- what he did notice was Bayonetta slowly leaning, a smirk on her face. Before he could realize what was going on, she pressed her lips onto his. Luka melted into the kiss with a passion that Bayonetta didn't expect from him. Although she enjoyed it herself, she pulled away, a triumphant smile on her lips as Luka was left dazed and confused.

"Thank you, Luka." She winked at him before moving back into the crowds, Cheshire firmly in her grasp.

Only now did Luka gaze up to see the mistletoe. He smiled, even knowing that it was the only reason she had kissed him. But still, he finally kissed her and made her smile and that was the best late-Christmas gift ever.

Chapter Text

It was another dreary, uneventful day in New York City.

Jeanne was left with no other alternative other than to watch the news while her best friend was busy tending to little Loki- Who seems to be getting bigger every day. She shouldn't have been so shocked; he was once half of a god. He was still half a god, she corrected her thoughts, that was a truth that could never change.

As the news droned on about how dreadfully uneventful the day was around the world, Jeanne could feel herself being to fall asleep on the lounge. With her hand propping up her head, she started to doze off only to snap herself awake knowing that her make-up would smudge. Even on her days off, which were more frequent as Jeanne hated the idea of going back to work, Jeanne would still make the effort to dress herself up with a designer outfit and make-up even if she didn't leave home.

Suddenly the news cut the footage of small aliens flooding some city- New York City. The words 'BREAKING NEWS: GEATHJERK INVADE NEW YORK' covered the bottom of the screen as more amateur footage played, showing the destruction the aliens caused. Why attack here instead of Blossom City? Did the GEATHJERK think it was time for a change? Jeanne mentally questioned the motive, while Cereza wandered into the living room and laughed. She thought the idea of aliens was ridiculous in itself. It was ironic seeing how she faced off with equally absurd being nearly every day.

Jeanne took a moment to glance out the window to see a vague symbol shining on the clouds above. She quickly excused herself from the room, gaining a suspicious look from Cereza, as she moved into her bedroom. Within the blink of an eye, she had changed from her ordinary clothes into her battle attire and leapt from her window- Darting through the city as the miraculous hero - and her alter-ego- Cutie J!

She reached the fight soon enough, having used her Lynx form to sprint there. Times Square was littered with small, almost insignificant GEATHJERK minions trashing buildings and terrorizing civilians. Admittedly, the aliens were more cute than terrifying, but that was Jeanne's opinion. With All For One attached to the back of heels and her trusty sword- Bloody Moon in her hands, she began to dispatch the threat. It didn't take long, considering that she was not working alone. A fellow member of the Wonderful 101, who had recently been transferred here from Blossom City, took to the fight with blazing fists of justice- As he liked to believe. Jeanne believed that the Vulcan Knuckles, his preferred weapon of choice, were a primitive-stylish weapon yet never told him.

Wonder-Red, clad in his tight red and black suit and the majority of his face concealed by his Wonder-Mask, through the last punch and cleared the remaining GEATHJERK from the area before circling back to speak with Cutie J. He hadn't seen her for a week or two at work- Of course he knew her identity, he knew the identity of every Wonderful One by memory- and decided that now was a nice time to chat. He was most confident in his gear, because when he was Will Wedgewood, he would stumble and stutter his words.

"The city is safe once again. Thank you for the help, Cutie J."

Always so formal, Jeanne smiled at the thought. "Help? I believe I did most of the work."

Wonder-Red opened his mouth to reply, but failed to think of a reasonable response. Having hit a dead end with their short conversation, Wonder-Red tried to muster up enough courage to ask what he wanted to ask. He was nervous wreck underneath his mask, and Jeanne could clearly see.

"I, err, was wondering Jea- I mean, Cutie J..." He stumbled over his words, "If you wanted to uhh..."

Jeanne was quickly irritated by his constant stuttering, "Well? Out with it." She didn't mean to appear so assertive, it was just her personality. Most of her early life was spent being training to be a leader- She was the heir to the Umbran throne, and was supposed to be the bearer of the Left Eye until her best friend alleviated her of that duty.

"I was wondering if you would like to go to dinner with me." With a flushed face, Wonder-Red had gushed out the words with slight embarrassment. Jeanne barely caught the words coming out of his mouth, and once she pieced them together, she was painfully aware of the heated tint of her cheeks. She didn't expect him to ever ask her out, but she was not surprised with how he asked with such nervousness.

"I would love to."

With his face still as red as his Sentinel Suit, Wonder-Red replied calmly- and at a slower pace- "O-Okay. I'll pick you up tomorrow at seven o'clock."

"I'll be waiting." With a teasing response, Jeanne went the extra mile to wink at his flustered form before leaping away as night was beginning to fall upon the city and she knew that Cereza would already have a million questions for her.

It was the dawn for a perfect morning. Bayonetta had woken up to absolute silence for a change. With the slightest worry about Loki, she checked on the infant to see him resting peacefully. It would be a while before he would cry for her attention. Until then, Bayonetta, being the morning person that she was, relaxed in the living room by catching up on her favorite television shows and treated herself to a sweet breakfast.

If Jeanne was awake, she would have received a lecture about how unhealthy her breakfast was and that would have ruined her morning. Jeanne was caught in a dieting health craze- despite drinking far too much when given the chance. Jeanne's unnecessary diet influenced the household food supply and revoked Bayonetta of her lollipops and other sweet-tooth foods. Luckily she had a hidden supply that Jeanne would never find- This was Bayonetta's house first before her friend moved in.

It was around seven o'clock, when Jeanne emerged from her room. Bayonetta greeted her before turning around to find a surprise. It was known that Jeanne was not a morning person, so it was a rude shock to find her fully prepared for work- Make-up, attire and school work ready. While Bayonetta was in a quiet shock, Jeanne hummed a sprightly tune to herself as she blended herself an all fruit beverage, and sorted through her work papers at the same time.

Bayonetta opened her mouth, ready to question what had made her best friend buzz with energy and happiness until Loki began to cry in another room. A little annoyed, she moved from her seat to go deal with the crying baby while her curiosity burned. Jeanne was completely oblivious from the questioning stare she received from her friend, and as soon as she poured her drink into a bottle, she was out the door and off to work.

The school bell sounded for lunch, but Jeanne didn't really care. She still had another two lessons after the break with the younger years which just screamed fun. Then again, she didn't care about that either. Her mind was completely focused on her date tonight. Sure, it was never labelled as a date but why else would they go to dinner together? Because they were such great friends? They barely talked out of uniform. He must have been secretly admiring her for a while then. The thought made Jeanne glow with even more happiness, if it was even possible.

As the last few students left her classroom, Jeanne cleaned the chalkboard of her notes and collected her things before locking the door behind her. The corridors were swarmed with teenagers, all chatting away or staring at their phones. Any other day, Jeanne would have hated the claustrophobic atmosphere and would have barged through the crowds to the staffroom as quickly as possible. Instead she waltzed through the crowd, ignoring the stares and glares from the students.

She was calm and collected, until she spotted Will heading her way from the other end of the corridor. She couldn't tell if he had seen her- His blocky glasses were covering most of his face. She paused for a moment to tell herself to act casual before proceeding down the hall. Once they were close enough, Will finally glanced up from the floor to see Jeanne. He was surprised she actually showed up to work, it explained why he wasn't given her classes for the day. He didn't mind covering for her since he was only a casual teacher and didn't have any classes of his own.

Feeling like a little flirt, Jeanne playfully winked at Will as she strode past. This caused Will to nearly trip over his own feet, but he managed to drop all the books and folders he was holding onto the floor. Jeanne smiled and kept on walking, knowing what had happened. Something told her that tonight was going to be different, but fun.

It was around half-past-five in the evening when Jeanne finally returned home. Bayonetta watched as she completely bypassed her and disappeared into her room with so much as a hello. It didn't mean that's he wasn't obviously happy- Bayonetta could tell that she was distracted. Time flew by and it was six o'clock and she still hadn't left her room. Bayonetta watched Cutie J's latest escapade in the news - The news always seemed to be focused on the city's beloved hero even if the last thing she did was from a week ago, they'd still discuss and applaud it. Loki was in a high chair within her sight, making a mess of his food.

Bayonetta couldn't wait to hear him finally speak. She had no idea how old a baby had to be before they began to say their first words, or if Loki was anywhere near that age. Even so, she waited patiently to her him talk again, and wondered if how long it would take for him to develop his snappy, sarcastic personality again.

Speaking of talking, Bayonetta had a few questions for Jeanne. Which she was going to get answers to, whether Jeanne wanted to talk or not. She stood up from her seat and approached Jeanne's bedroom door, finding it unlocked and slightly ajar and entered.

"Alright. We need to talk."

Jeanne was too busy messing round in her wardrobe to look at her friend when she replied, "Talk? About what?"

"About-" Jeanne cut her off.

"Is this dress too flashy? I just think it's too red, you know what I mean." Jeanne had revealed herself from behind the wardrobe doors wearing a red sequined dress that Bayonetta couldn't believe she owned, or even wore. She couldn't decide what was stranger- The fact Jeanne owned a sequin dress or the fact she was wearing a dress?

"What?" Was all Bayonetta could say, trying to understand what was happening.

"Should I wear a sweater? No, that would just be a little awkward." Jeanne had dived back into the wardrobe in search for an ideal outfit, "A cocktail dress? No, too short." Suddenly she snorted in disgust, "That is a pantsuit and I'm so not wearing that."

"Jeanne, what is going on?"

"I'm picking out an outfit." Jeanne stepped out of her wardrobe again with a completely different dress- although it was the same shade of red. Jeanne didn't exactly wear any other colors than red, black and white. The dress had tight fitting bodice, no sleeves- in fact it failed to cover her shoulders and collarbone entirely- and a long flowing skirt with black roses lining the waist as a sort of belt. It was nice, fitting really, but Bayonetta still had no idea why she was wearing it for. "I think this would look good on me. What do you think?"

"Why are you picking out an outfit? Where are even going?" Bayonetta's question was ignored as Jeanne admired herself in the mirror.

"Oh, this is just perfect. I knew I bought it for something." With a content sigh, she smiled at her friend beside her, "It's decided, I'm wearing this. Now run along while I do my make-up and hair." Before Bayonetta could stop her friend, she was pushed out of the room before the door was closed behind her.

Frustrated yet again, Bayonetta cleaned up after Loki and read to him for a while before the doorbell sounded. Resting Loki down on the lounge for moment, she stood up and was about to answer the door while muttering to herself, "We have a doorbell?"

Jeanne rushed out of her room, and yelled, "I'm coming!" as she grabbed a matching black handbag and moved to answer the door herself.

Bayonetta managed to stop her friend for a second, taking note of her make-up and her hair tied back into a bun with loose strands framing her pale face, "Okay, now will you tell me where you are going?"

"I'm going on a date." Jeanne simply smiled, stepping away and taking her leave, "I'll be back later."

"A date? With who?" Bayonetta had asked too late, as Jeanne was already out the door.

The car ride to the restaurant was far too awkward for Jeanne's liking. They had been sitting in silence, having only spoken when he greeted her at the door, and were still unable to speak to each other as they entered the doors of the restaurant. Will did hold the door open for her, which was very sweet, but a conversation would have been better. The pair were welcomed by a well-dressed man would said that he would be attending to them tonight. Jeanne had no idea that their waiter was member of the Wonderful 101, trying to help a friend.

Momoe Byakkoin- better known as Wonder-White, lead them to their seat, while giving a curt nod to two other waiters as a signal to begin. Jeanne, who was busy admiring the interior design of the establishment, was about to sit down. Momoe quickly whispered to Will, who suddenly pulled Jeanne's chair out for her and let her sit down before pushing her forward. She thanked him for the gesture- It had been the second time they had spoken.

While Momoe left the pair, Jeanne found that the restaurant had a distinct French feel to it. She failed to learn the name of the place, nor read the menu, but she didn't need to just to know that she would dining on French cuisine. Having lived in France for a large part of her life, she could easily pick up on these things. She also knew the language, and wished she taught that instead of history for her work. After all, a French language teacher sounded more romantic than a History one.

As Jeanne's eyes wandered from the expensive-looking furnishings to the artwork, she soon spotted a familiar face. A Wonderful One that she did recognize, Wonder-Pink AKA Mariana Kretzulesco seemed to also be on a date with a man who looked uncannily like her date. What Jeanne didn't know was that Mariana's date was a very reluctant Prince Vorkken in disguise. He had been talked into this date by his sister who was nowhere to be seen, probably out doing intergalactic police work. He was left listening to Mariana's crazed ravings, a reason why Jeanne was sympathetic with the stranger, knowing how she can be.

Mariana spotted Jeanne behind her dearest Vorkkie, and they exchanged a wave, before turning to the alien pirate-slash-prince with a dreamy look in her eyes.

Yet another Wonderful One joined in to tonight's event- Wonder-Blue AKA Elliot Hooker was playing a waiter for the couple as a favour to Red. It wasn't because they were friends, though friends they were, it was because Blue liked the idea of having someone owing him a favour. With his light blue hair tied back into its usual ponytail, he had donned a classic waiter-style attire of black and white and approached the couple after watching them stare at their menus in silence for too long. He had hoped Will might have made some sort of mood, or to spark a conversation, but he hadn't leaving Elliot to take matters into his own hands.

"Good evening dude, dudette. I am Elliot, your waiter this evening. Are you ready to order?"

The pair cringed at how casual he was, but for different reasons. Jeanne saw it as unprofessional, and very suspicious. Will found it embarrassing. He turned to his date, suddenly unable to speak a coherent sentence. He was annoyed by it himself, only wanting to ask if she was ready to order. Luckily, Jeanne understood what he meant to say and nodded with a smile. Will had gestured to what he wanted- though he was guessing because he had no idea what any of these meal were. Together they agreed on a baked camembert entrée, and macarons for desert. Will had unknowingly ordered escargot for his main course, while Jeanne ordered something much nicer- Pot-au-feu.

With click of his tongue and a wink, Blue left the couple as he had found them- in silence. He returned to his post within the kitchens and watched on as the two had failed to speak for another few minutes. Will glanced at him from the table with a pleading look in his eyes. Elliot mouthed to him 'Compliment her' and continued to watch.

That was until Will cleared his throat and mustered all of his confidence, "You look uh... lovely this evening."

"Thank you." Jeanne nodded, thankful to whatever had gotten to talk. It was up to her to keep it going. "This place is very beautiful."

"It was recommended by a friend." That friend being Mariana, who had known about Will's intentions for a while. She only cared because she wanted to have a double date with her friend.

They had managed to engage in a bout of small talk before a large, burly man approached with their entrée in hand. Wonder Yellow AKA Ivan Istochnikov, another Wonderful one trying to help Will, trudged forward with shaky hands. The plates were rattling, the camembert jumping around on them. Yellow knew he was shaking, he couldn't help being nervous- he always was shaky- and tried his best to keep the food on the plate. He placed the meals down, nearly dropping them off the table before saving them. arrives with the entrée, nearly dropping it. Despite his size, he was a big softie and couldn't help but to apologize to the pair constantly before Elliot had to pull him away from the table, "Alright big guy, we've got work to do."

Ivan nearly dropped their main meals when they have been prepared and the camembert was finished. Behind Jeanne's small smile was pent up frustration. This wasn't interesting at all; it didn't meet the vision she had in her head when she imagined what this date would be like. Fun, unpredictable, hilarious but instead it was awkward and quiet. She did pick up on a few familiar faces that were working at the restaurant, making her very suspicious, but it was all in vain the night continued to drag on. The bulky waiter, speaking his apologies in a distinct Russian accent, removed the cloches from the dishes and revealed what they had ordered. This was what Jeanne had been waiting for, a spark of humor. She had known exactly what Will ordered the moment the word 'Escargot' left his mouth. He had no idea, meaning his face would be priceless.

All color drained from Will's face at the sight of the cooked snails on his plate. Jeanne was laughing at his shocked face, as his cheeks began to burn with embarrassment. "Snails?" His voice was quiet, incredulous.

"I was going to warn you, but I really wanted to see your reaction."

With a disgusted frown, he picked up a fork and poked at his meal, "I don't know how to eat this."

"Just put in your mouth, or whatever. I don't know- I've never eaten that." Nor will I ever, she thought.

"Here goes everything." Having stabbed the cooked snail onto his fork, he quickly put in his mouth before he had to look at it anymore. He was immediately retching, then he took a bite. The crunching sound of the shattered shell - which he wasn't even sure if he was supposed to eat- made them both cringe. Will could taste garlic within the foreign flavour but it was no source of relief. Once he managed to swallow it down, he reached for his glass of wine and downed it quick to get the taste out his mouth. Jeanne had returned to laughter at the sight of his contorting face.

"How is it?"

Jeanne could tell by the look on his face that he wasn't enjoying it- and probably regretting every decision that ever landed him here. With a shaky hand, he gestured with a thumbs up matched with a forced smile before he downed another glass of red wine.

"Silly boy. We can share my meal." She moved her Pot-au-feu between them, "I assure you there are no snails in it."

He smiled at her gesture, finding her meal to look much more appetising than his, "Thank you."

As they dined together while engaging in a pleasant conversation, everything finally seemed to heading in the right direction. Both of them were happy with how the date was going. Will was regaling Jeanne in a story about how he and the Wonderful 100 had saved the Earth from a GEATHJERK invasion a few years ago, "So Blue rushed off on his own against Vijounne and got himself turned into a dog." Jeanne laughed, picturing Wonder-Blue as a dog in her head.

Their laughter fell short as a sudden scream brought them out of their happy state. They glanced back to the source of the scream to find Mariana standing over two younger boys at a nearby table. As it turned out Wonder-Green AKA Jean-Sebastien Renault had been spying on her date, with the help of Wonder-Black AKA Krishna Ramanujan. Having lost her temper, Mariana drove the pair of giggling yet terrified boys out of the restaurant before returning to Vorkken.

Will and Jeanne looked at each other in confusion, before they both shrugged and laughed away their surprise. They returned to their shared meal, Will taking it upon himself to start another conversation, "How are you finding the meal?"

"J'aime les légumes. La viande... La viande est bonne." Jeanne had replied in French, a smirk plastered on her face. She just wanted to show-off.

"Uhh, pardon?"

"I love the vegetables, and the beef is good."

"I didn't know you could speak French."

She winked at him, "I'm full of surprises."

He suddenly choked on his drink a little, caught off guard by her double meaning. But Jeanne had no double meaning, she was just toying with him. It was his mind that wandered to something it shouldn't have obviously.

Soon enough, Elliot had returned from the kitchens with their desert - macarons. He set them down on the table, and left them before returning almost immediately with a single red rose in his hands, "Ah, dude- I mean, sir. Here is the rose your requested."

Will had requested no such thing, it was just Elliot doing his best to help him. What could be better than giving her a rose? As he approached the rose suddenly slipped from his fingers and dropped it. With a sense of déjà vu, he continued to kick the rose- on accident- and chased it. With an annoyed sigh, Will picked the rose up himself and presented it to Jeanne with the most confident smile he had ever made.

"For you."

She accepted the gift, before leaning across the table to give him a kiss on his cheek, "Merci, mon amour."