ZZZ:Through the Frosted Mirror

Hey it's me so I went back to the other chapters and made sure that the things related to Ellen's arm and hand makes sure to show that she is using and has only one arm and hand. Obviously I'm not that good at looking back and checking so thanks to the people who said something. There are probably some that I miss so make sure to let me know. But besides all that enjoy the Chapter!

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The evening air was cool, a gentle breeze slipping through the open window of Ellen's room. She sat cross-legged on her bed, absentmindedly twirling a small object between her fingers. The room still carried the remnants of her earlier play session with Mira—scattered pillows, a half-empty bottle of water, and the lingering sound of laughter in her ears.

But now, silence settled around her, and with nothing to do, boredom crept in.

Ellen exhaled and let her head fall back against the pillow, staring at the ceiling. "Guess I'll just entertain myself then."

She let her mind wander, conjuring up little scenarios in her imagination—fights, victories, ridiculous what-if situations. Her thoughts flitted from sparring techniques to the absurd idea of Mira trying to wrestle Von Lycaon. But eventually, her mind drifted elsewhere.

Miyabi.

The shift in her thoughts was slow, but undeniable. The image of Miyabi standing across from her, crimson eyes focused, lips parted as if about to say something—it took root in her mind. The scene played out naturally, an imagined conversation turning softer, the space between them narrowing.

She could almost feel the warmth of Miyabi's hand reaching for hers, the slow pull of something inevitable. Their breaths mingled, the unspoken tension pressing between them, and just as their lips were about to—

A knock at the door snapped her out of it.

Ellen bolted upright, heart pounding against her ribs. "Shit." She ran a hand down her face, trying to shake off the ridiculous flustered feeling creeping up her neck. "Yeah, yeah, I'm coming."

She pushed off the bed and swung the door open, only to be met with a sight that made her pause.

Miyabi stood there, uncharacteristically fidgety. Her hands were clasped in front of her, and for the first time, Ellen noticed the slight nervous energy radiating from her.

Miyabi cleared her throat, avoiding Ellen's gaze. "Would you… join me for dinner tonight?"

Ellen blinked. "Huh?"

Miyabi shifted on her feet, looking anywhere but at her. "My father wishes to meet you."

Ellen tilted her head, a smirk forming. "You nervous, Miyabi?"

Miyabi shot her a sharp glare, but the redness creeping up her ears betrayed her composure. "This is important."

Ellen raised her hands in mock surrender. "Alright, alright, let me get ready."

Miyabi gave a short nod, stepping back as Ellen shut the door.

A family dinner, huh? This would be interesting.

After changing into something a little more presentable, Ellen met Miyabi outside her room, where the rest of Section 6 had seemingly gathered, clearly having caught wind of the plans.

Yanagi leaned against the wall with a teasing smirk. "Well, well, so it's happening, huh?"

Soukaku folded her arms. "A family meeting already? Didn't think you'd move so fast, Ellen."

Ellen groaned. "I hate all of you."

Miyabi let out a small sigh, rubbing her temple. "We're leaving now."

Harumasa waved a hand. "Have fun, don't mess it up."

"I'm not gonna mess anything up!" Ellen called back as they started walking away.

"Come back safe!" Yanagi yelled out.

Ellen huffed but couldn't hide the small smile playing on her lips.

Miyabi walked beside her in silence, her pace steady. Ellen snuck a glance at her, noting the way her hands tensed slightly at her sides.

"Relax, Miyabi," Ellen said, nudging her gently. "It's just dinner."

Miyabi exhaled, eyes flickering toward Ellen before softening just a fraction. "For you, maybe."

Ellen smirked. "Well, guess I better make a good impression then."

Miyabi hesitated for a second, then nodded. "Yes… You should."

And with that, the two of them headed toward the Hoshimi family home, the weight of the evening settling in.

Something told Ellen this dinner would be more than just a simple meeting.

The Hoshimi estate was nothing short of breathtaking. As Ellen and Miyabi stepped past the grand entrance, Ellen felt as though she had entered another world—one of elegance, tradition, and quiet reverence. Lanterns lined the stone pathways, their soft glow illuminating the delicate pink of the sakura trees that swayed gently in the evening breeze. The faint trickle of water came from a series of serene ponds, their surfaces reflecting the moonlight like fragments of silver.

Miyabi walked slightly ahead, her demeanor composed yet carrying a faint edge of nervousness. As they moved deeper into the estate, she gestured toward various parts of the sprawling home, speaking in a hushed voice. "The east wing holds the family shrine, and over there—" she pointed to a beautifully maintained garden, the pathways weaving between stone lanterns and koi ponds, "—is where I used to take myself to meditate."

Ellen listened quietly, taking it all in. The place was overwhelming in its beauty, a stark contrast to the chaotic energy of New Eridu. It was clear this estate was steeped in history, every structure and plant meticulously arranged. She was so entranced by the scenery that she almost forgot the weight of why she was here—almost.

As they approached the central building where Miyabi's father awaited, the air grew heavier. Ellen's senses sharpened as they entered a grand, traditional room, the sliding doors parting to reveal an imposing figure seated at the head of the chamber.

Hoshimi Souichirou was a man of great presence. His dark eyes, sharp and calculating, flickered with warmth the moment he saw Miyabi. "Miyabi," he greeted, his voice rich with affection. "Welcome home."

Miyabi bowed her head slightly. "Father."

Then, his gaze shifted.

Ellen felt it instantly—the change in atmosphere was almost suffocating. Gone was the warmth he had shown his daughter. Now, his piercing stare settled on Ellen with an intensity that made the hairs on the back of her neck stand on end. His sharp eyes, filled with scrutiny, bore into her, stripping her down layer by layer as if he were assessing every fiber of her being.

Ellen had faced dangerous foes before, but this? This was something else. This was the gaze of a man who had spent a lifetime mastering the art of control, of power. She felt naked under his stare, her muscles instinctively tensing.

Slowly, he stood. The sound of his footsteps against the wooden floor was deafening in the silence as he approached. Ellen forced herself to remain still, to meet his gaze without wavering.

He stopped just before her, his height adding to the weight of his presence. Then, without breaking eye contact, he placed a firm hand on her shoulder.

The silence stretched. A long, unbearable moment where all Ellen could do was endure the sheer force of his judgment.

Then, just as suddenly, his expression shifted. A slow smile spread across his face, the tension in the room breaking like a snapped string.

"I'm happy Miyabi has found a capable partner," he said, his voice no longer cold but oddly approving. "Even if she is a girl, as long as she is happy, I will be happy." He gave Ellen's shoulder a firm squeeze before stepping back. "And I must say… you would make a fine daughter-in-law."

Ellen barely had time to process the words before she felt the heat radiating off Miyabi beside her. A strangled sound left Miyabi's throat as her entire face turned red. "F-Father!"

Souichirou chuckled, clearly amused by his daughter's embarrassment. "Come, let us eat."

Ellen exhaled, finally allowing herself to relax—just a little—as they moved toward the dining table. As they sat, she couldn't help but glance at Miyabi, whose face was still flushed as she glared at her father. A smirk tugged at Ellen's lips.

This dinner was going to be interesting.

The dinner had started off peacefully enough, but it wasn't long before the true chaos began. Hoshimi Souichirou, ever the composed and dignified head of the family, had decided it was the perfect time to reveal one of his greatest weapons—baby pictures of Miyabi.

Ellen leaned forward, eyes twinkling with mischief as she gazed at the old photographs. "Oh, this one's a classic," Souichirou mused, holding up an image of a tiny Miyabi dressed in an oversized kimono, her fox ears twitching as she pouted at the camera. "She used to get so upset when her ears wouldn't stay hidden under the fabric."

Miyabi groaned, covering her face with both hands. "Father, please."

Ellen grinned. "I think this is the best thing that's happened all night."

Souichirou chuckled, flipping to another photo—this one of a young Miyabi clinging to a large stuffed fox plush. "Ah, this was her favorite toy. She wouldn't go anywhere without it."

Miyabi shot Ellen a warning look, but Ellen only smirked. "I'm learning so much."

The teasing continued through dinner, though Ellen had another challenge to face. With only one arm, she struggled to cut the meat on her plate. Before she could even attempt it, Miyabi, still slightly pink from embarrassment, took her plate without a word and began cutting the meat into bite-sized pieces.

Ellen blinked. "You don't have to—"

"Just eat," Miyabi muttered, quickly spearing a piece of meat and holding it up for Ellen.

Ellen arched a brow, leaning forward to take it from the fork. "You're really taking responsibility, huh?"

Miyabi huffed. "Someone has to."

Souichirou observed the interaction with an amused expression. "Ah, such devotion. You really are like newlyweds."

Miyabi nearly dropped the fork. Ellen, for once, was caught off guard, choking slightly on her food as she tried to stifle a laugh. The rest of dinner continued with lighthearted teasing, Miyabi's usual composure crumbling little by little under the weight of her father's knowing smirks.

Once dinner was finished, Miyabi set her chopsticks down and exhaled. Then, she turned to Ellen. "Come outside with me for a second."

Ellen blinked. "Sure."

Miyabi stood, turning to her father with a sharp glare. "And you—we're going to have a talk about manners."

Souichirou chuckled but raised his hands in mock surrender. "I'll be waiting, then."

Ellen followed Miyabi outside, stepping into the crisp evening air. The estate was even more breathtaking under the night sky. The sakura trees swayed gently in the wind, their petals illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns. A peaceful quiet settled over the space as they walked along a stone path leading to a secluded garden.

Miyabi finally stopped near a small pond, gazing at the rippling water. Ellen stood beside her, hands tucked into her pockets. "So," Ellen started, "you really giving your dad a talking-to?"

Miyabi sighed. "He means well, but he enjoys embarrassing me too much."

Ellen chuckled. "That much is obvious."

A comfortable silence stretched between them. Ellen watched as a petal landed in Miyabi's hair. Without thinking, she reached out and brushed it away. Miyabi turned to her, her red eyes soft under the moonlight.

"Thanks," Miyabi murmured.

Ellen smirked. "No problem."

Miyabi shifted slightly, her gaze turning toward the stars above. "It's been a while since I was home like this." Her voice was quieter now, almost hesitant. "Everything feels so familiar, yet different. I thought coming back would make things clearer, but instead, it's just…" She exhaled, shaking her head. "I don't know."

Ellen studied her for a moment before speaking. "I get that. When everything changes around you, sometimes you're left wondering where you even stand."

Miyabi turned to her, surprised by the understanding in her voice. "Yeah."

Another breeze passed through, ruffling Ellen's scarf. Miyabi reached out and adjusted it, smoothing the fabric with careful fingers. Ellen stilled at the gentle touch, watching Miyabi's expression soften.

"You're always looking out for me, even when I don't ask," Ellen said quietly. "You don't have to, you know."

Miyabi sighed. "Maybe not. But I want to."

Ellen's heart skipped a beat. She swallowed, forcing a smirk. "You really do take responsibility."

Miyabi huffed a laugh. "Someone has to."

Ellen chuckled before letting the moment settle. The night stretched before them, endless and still, as they stood side by side in the quiet serenity of the garden, their bond growing ever stronger in the moonlight.

The night air was cool as Ellen and Miyabi finally returned to the Hoshimi estate. The quiet stillness of the house was a stark contrast to the warmth of the evening they had shared. After bidding each other a soft goodnight, they each retreated to their respective rooms.

Ellen lay on her futon, staring up at the ceiling. The exhaustion from the day should have knocked her out instantly, but her mind refused to settle. Miyabi occupied her thoughts—the way she spoke, the way she carried herself, the way she had looked at her tonight under the moonlight. Ellen knew she liked Miyabi, that much was certain. But love? That was something she wasn't sure of yet. However, she did know one thing—she wanted to be more to Miyabi than just a good friend. The idea of simply staying as they were felt… incomplete.

A quiet sliding sound pulled her from her thoughts. Ellen turned her head, blinking in surprise as the silhouette of Miyabi appeared at the door.

"Can I… sleep with you?" Miyabi's voice was soft, hesitant.

Ellen smirked, shifting to the side. "Yeah, sure."

Miyabi stepped inside, gently closing the door behind her before settling onto the futon beside Ellen. The warmth of her presence was immediate, pressing into the cool night air between them. They lay in silence for a moment, facing each other in the dim light filtering through the shoji screens.

Miyabi's deep blue eyes studied Ellen's face, searching for something unspoken. Ellen hesitated, caught between the weight of her thoughts and the intensity of Miyabi's gaze.

Miyabi spoke first. "What's on your mind?"

Ellen exhaled slowly. This was it—go big or go home.

"I like you, Miyabi." Her voice was steady, but her heart pounded in her chest. "A lot. And I don't just mean as a friend. I don't know if it's love yet, but I know I want to be with you. I want to be someone important to you—not just an ally, not just someone you trust. I want to be more."

Miyabi's breath caught, her expression momentarily frozen. Her lips parted slightly, as if she were trying to find words but couldn't quite grasp them. Ellen felt a flicker of nervousness—had she said too much? But then, as the weight of her confession settled, Miyabi's expression softened, and a wave of emotions washed over her.

"I… I feel the same way." Miyabi's voice wavered, but her sincerity was undeniable. "I've spent so much time trying to make sense of what I feel for you. Every time we fight together, every time you stand beside me, I realize more and more that I don't want to imagine a future without you in it."

Ellen swallowed, something deep in her chest tightening at Miyabi's words. The air between them crackled with an unspoken electricity.

Slowly, Ellen leaned in, pressing a gentle, tentative peck against Miyabi's lips. It was light, fleeting—but enough to send a shiver down her spine.

Miyabi let out a quiet gasp, her cheeks darkening, but there was no hesitation in her response. Her hands came up, cupping Ellen's face delicately, and she leaned in, capturing Ellen's lips in a fuller, deeper kiss. It was slow, unhurried—a silent conversation between them, an affirmation of everything they had just spoken.

The kiss deepened, building gradually in intensity. Ellen's fingers found Miyabi's waist, pulling her closer as their lips moved in sync. Miyabi's fingers threaded through Ellen's short hair, sending sparks down her spine. Every motion was deliberate, a slow unraveling of tension and longing that had been held back for too long.

Ellen gently pulled Miyabi into her lap, her lone arm wrapped securely around her. The kiss grew more fervent, their breaths mingling, hands grasping at fabric as they melted into each other. Every touch was filled with something unspoken—something neither of them had been able to put into words until now.

But then, a quiet realization slipped into Ellen's mind. If they went any further… Miyabi's father would definitely hear them.

Reluctantly, Ellen slowed the kiss, pulling back slightly despite the way Miyabi clung to her. They were both breathless, flushed, their foreheads pressed together.

Miyabi let out a small, breathless chuckle. "We should probably stop here, huh?"

Ellen smirked, rubbing slow circles on Miyabi's back. "Yeah. Don't wanna risk your dad hearing in on us."

Miyabi hummed in agreement, nestling into Ellen's embrace as they lay back down. The warmth between them lingered, and as their breathing steadied, Ellen felt a quiet peace settle over her.

Just before sleep claimed her, Miyabi pressed a soft, lingering kiss to Ellen's cheek, her voice barely a whisper. "Goodnight, Ellen."

Ellen smiled, holding her close. Maybe she wasn't sure if this was love yet… but whatever it was, she never wanted to let it go.