And, the next day, Akira returns.

After hugs from Bellona: "I'm not going to be able to do this right away - there's a lot of research, and I'll want to practice on Tucker's other chimeras, first."

Solemn nod. "Yeah, we figured..."

She rubs the back of her head. "Also: have you girls gotten outside at all since this happened?"

"...Not really."

"Why don't you two go find - something distracting, and I'll keep September company. I've got this for now, all right? And El at least needs occasional sunshine."

"Okay."

"I'm glad you're back."

"Glad to be back."

Out to do... something, then?

So far looks like they're just standing awkwardly. In the sunshine, at least.

"...I guess we could go to that park?"

"I suppose. Run around, and so forth. Act our age."

"Play fetch?"

"I think it's called catch when it's people playing."

Giggle. "Except I'm actually ten cats in a suit of armor. I thought you knew that, sis."

"I guess if you can cooperate enough to walk, you can cooperate enough to play fetch."

"We're talented like that."

"All right." She bends down to scoop up some dirt, and uses a flash of alchemy to make it into a solid ball. Straightening back up, she tosses it. "Off you go, then."

Bellona laughs, but gives chase. (Exercising is still fun.)

Playing with her sister is fun.

Someone seems to be watching them, as they reach a more deserted section of the park.

Okay? What's her problem?

She steps in front of them.

Silent.

Watching.

She seems angry.

"What."

"Hohenheim's latest get," she says, softly.

"How the hell do you know that name?"

"My name is Liliana van Hohenheim. Or was, long ago."

"Do you think a man like Hohenheim of the Light stays settled?"