"To be together, As a Fated Pair"

The July Massacre

Three long and exhausting weeks passed slowly, and today was the first of July— Fourth of July was right around the corner. Usually, for this holiday, Shukiyo and Death would choose to stay at their parents' vacation home to enjoy a business-free day (or two) with them. This time, however, both sisters noticed that Sarah and Zeniva were extremely busy lately. They barely had time to themselves anymore, and when they did have days off, they spent them with their daughters. So, this July 4th, Shukiyo suggested that she and Death let their parents have the castle all to themselves, claiming they would go to the vacation home alone— or at least that was what she told Zeniva.

Truth was, while they had chosen to go without their parents to give them some time together, Shukiyo made sure they would not be going on their own. But then again, that was to be expected from someone as extroverted as she was. Sarah knew of her daughter's plans, but Zeniva did not; and that was how it was going to stay. Before long, the castle was quiet. Shukiyo and Death were gone.

The wheels of the golden carriage swayed as it rolled down the sandy path. When the carriage came to a stop at a cozy beach house—neither too small nor as big as a mansion, just right—Shukiyo stepped out, gathering her belongings on her tail, while Death waved their driver goodbye. Once the carriage was out of view, Shuki quickly pulled out her phone.

"Okay, party time! Who's in for some beach shenanigans?" she said, grinning.

"Are you sure this isn't just a ploy to avoid cleaning the castle?" Death teased, rolling her eyes.

"Hey, I'm just here for the sand and sun!" Shukiyo shot back, already dialing her friends.

It didn't take long for everyone to answer.

"Haha! G'morning Shuki!" BingXiang was first to answer, her camera on and showing she was getting ready.

"Is this a beach party or a desperate call for help?" Yunari joked as he picked up.

"Both! But mostly beach party. Bring snacks!" Shukiyo laughed, imagining her friends arriving.

"I'm on it! I'll bring the sunscreen—try not to burn to a crisp this time, yeah?" Green joined in, feeling pleased with himself after insulting his younger brother immediately after joining.

"Note taken." Yunari said, rolling his eyes.

"Ugh, do you guys realize what time it is? Go back to bed, damnit!" Cross groaned upon picking up the phone, his camera came on to show pure darkness. Probably because he had been in bed when they called.

"Morning guys!" Heartbeat barked, adjusting his phone and turning on his camera.

"Why're you guys even up?" Green whispered, as if he'd be murdered if he spoke any louder.

"None of that matters, come to this address. We're spending new years together!" Death finally chimed in through Shukiyo's end of the call, and then she hung up.

As Death concluded her sister's phone call, Shukiyo began the task of meticulously unpacking and arranging the house to welcome her guest. She carefully positioned confetti, hung enchanting fairy lights on the porch, and adorned the couches with beautifully designed decorative cushions. Of utmost importance, she had brought along the spectacular fireworks for the upcoming Fourth of July celebration. Death, being a supportive sister, assisted Shukiyo wherever possible, and together, they worked tirelessly to completely revamp the once over-the-top shore house, infusing it with new life and character.

Shortly after, as if on cue, a line of cars started to make their way along the sandy shore. It didn't take Shukiyo long to recognize the familiar vehicles. Eagerly, she dashed out to welcome her friends. In sequential order, they arrived, each person stepping out of their respective cars with their luggage in hand: first Cross, then Green, followed by BingXiang, Yujin, and, surprisingly, Queen Kiska. Curiosity piqued everyone's interest about why she had chosen to join the vacation, but no one dared to question for fear of triggering a potential tantrum.