Chapter Text
“A-are you sure you’re alright?” The android asked with a shaky voice. Barely able to handle herself after the rollercoaster of emotions she had just experienced. Still, she forced herself to remain strong for her… Friend. They would need to discuss the state of their relationship after everything that has happened, although, Aigis’ feelings for her remained just as strong.
“I’m okay, Aigis… I’m just tired, is all. Thanks for everything.” Answered the woman who had just left her own grave. If anything she was understating her exhaustion, the last time she felt this weak, she died. A piece of information she shouldn’t share with the worried blonde girl currently carrying her. Gently leading her to her guest room, being particularly careful not to hurt her.
Even after all these years, Aigis remained as sweet as when she left her. Time changed neither her physical appearance nor her big heart. Kotone, however, couldn’t deny just how much she blossomed as a person. How she wished she could have been there to witness it. However, it was also thanks to her sacrifice that Aigis got to experience living life. And now, it would seem Kotone could finally enjoy her own gift as well.
Her role as the Great Seal was completed, despite not knowing why, she still felt serenity in her soul. She couldn’t explain it, but she was certain everything would be alright. Even so, being deceased for years took a toll on her body. She could barely stand when Aigis found her on top of her own grave. The poor girl couldn’t believe her eyes, how she cried when she took Kotone in her arms. And even if the Messiah herself did not feel the passage of time, she cried too. It felt as if she simply went to sleep, and yet, she still missed her Aigis.
After a much too brief tearful reunion, Aigis didn’t fail to notice just how worn out Kotone seemed to be. Naturally, she proposed to take her to her apartment and let her rest. As much as Kotone wished to catch up with Aigis, and the rest of SEES of course, she simply couldn’t. Finally reaching the destination, Aigis helped her get ready to bed and tucked her in. Despite feeling her own eyes closing, Kotone wanted to remain awake just a little longer for the woman she loved.
“There we go… Um… Is there anything you need? A glass of water, maybe? Or food? I could order a beef bowl, I know you like those. Or perhaps-”
Kotone let out a soft giggle as the robot girl rambled on.
“You haven’t changed a bit…” She whispered softly. “You’re still my favorite person in the whole world.” Kotone said, removing her hand from the covers, she wished she could have cupped Aigis’ cheek but didn’t possess the strength. Instead, the android grabbed her waiting hand in hers.
“A-and you have always remained my most precious… I-I missed you so much…” Aigis felt the tears coming back.
After all this suffering, the world had brought her Kotone back. To think she almost rejected her gift back then. She was glad to have made the right choice. Life truly was beautiful, nearly as beautiful as the woman in front of her.
“I know… I’m sorry, Aigis. I didn’t wish to leave you, or anybody. But… I’m here now. I promise, I’ll remain by your side.” Despite the overwhelming feelings, both women could feel Kotone peacefully slip into the realms of dreams. Her eyes closed slowly, as her voice became but an inaudible whisper.
Her drifting to slumber would have been peaceful, if it wasn’t for the tight grip on her hand. Waking up from her half sleeping state, Kotone noticed Aigis’ sorrow, crying not tears of joy but terror. Her beautiful features crisped by anxiety and fear.
“A-Aigis? What’s wrong?”
“I-I am so sorry, but it’s just that… Six years ago, when you fell asleep like that…” Aigis couldn’t manage to finish her sentence.
“Oh Aigis… I am so sorry, I didn’t realize… But I swear I’ll be okay.”
“I-I want to believe you, but… I-I am scared I might lose you again. I can’t help it…”
Kotone felt terrible for her, she really wished she didn’t have to sleep right now. At the very least, her brain was still working enough to come up with ideas.
“Aigis, climb in bed next to me.” She told her firmly, taking her leader voice. Aigis was a little confused, but complied nonetheless. She got into bed next to her, laying on her back, stiff as a board. If Kotone had the strength, she’d laugh at the cute display, it seemed she’ll still be able to learn a thing or two to Aigis.
Kotone then reached for Aigis’ head, wordlessly guiding her. Still confused by what she was planning, the android complied without thinking, shifting her body and lifting her head as to where Kotone was guiding her. Until Aigis’ head reached its destination, right on top of Kotone’s chest.
“K-Kotone? W-what ar-” Her embarrassed query was quickly cut off.
“Can you feel it, Aigis? My heartbeat. My breathing.” She explained in a soothing voice, her hand having never left Aigis’ head, petting her hair gently as she explained.
“I… I do.” Aigis said, as the slow rhythm of Kotone’s heart soothed her worries away.
“I want you to focus on it. I am not going anywhere, Aigis. I promise you. You don’t have to worry anymore. We’re together again… I… love you…”
Once again, Kotone’s voice drifted away. Aigis didn’t need to worry this time. Even if Kotone’s hand stopped moving, she felt the reassuring rise and fall of her chest. Aigis didn’t shed tears again, she simply smiled and closed her own eyes. Ready to embrace the rest of her life, with her most precious.
“I love you too…”