We took Olivia everywhere to figure out what was wrong over the week as she briefly withdrew from school. To every doctor, to every one of their referrals… to every referral of those referrals. And they all knew jack shit about what was afflicting Olivia. The only conclusive summary that they could give was that it was a neurological disorder, affecting the nerves that controlled the lower half of her legs… Which of course meant that there was no cure, just speculation and advice on how to live her ‘new’ life. We exited the doctor’s office. … With Olivia in her new wheelchair. Dad pushed her forward from behind as we filed out into the hallway, my mother speaking up as she came up beside the baryonyx. “... Do you feel comfy, dear?” Although I couldn’t fault Mom for asking, it was definitely not the right thing to say. Of course Olivia wasn’t comfortable. How could anyone ever be comfortable with this? But it seemed like it didn’t matter, as the baryonyx barely appeared to have heard or registered Joan, simply staring at the metal doors of the elevator, her distorted reflection staring back with that same exact look… The one Olivia gave at her parent's funeral, knowing her life had irrevocably changed. When we got back home, we had to help Olivia up the small steps into the house, giving us the sudden wake-up call of just how inaccessible our home would now be for the baryonyx unless some alterations were made. And even then, I doubted our staircase was wide enough to fit a wheelchair lift, meaning that the entire upstairs was now blocked from her… Including her own room, which was now being discussed. “Anon and I can bring your bed downstairs, and then move all your things to replace the computer room.” Dad tried to offer only for Olivia to shake her head. “It’s fine…” She then wheeled herself away, “I’ll use the bed in the guestroom...” “Are you sure?” He asked, “Then how about we at least bring your artist board and penc-” Olivia was already out of earshot, having rolled into the hallway, opening the door to the guestroom and shutting it behind her. There was a short pause before Mom slowly rested her against Dad’s shoulder gently nuzzling her snout into him as he held her close. “What are we going to do?” Joan softly asked. “... Everything we can.” Dad answers. They move on to schedule another appointment as I look to the guestroom, considering for a moment before bowing my head down, approaching the door. I then give a small knock. “Olivia?” I ask, “... Can I come in?” She gives no answer, but I take her silence as a ‘yes’, opening the door to peer inside. Her wheelchair was empty, the baryonyx having pulled herself onto the bed, staring up at the ceiling with that blank expression, reminding me of the first day she had arrived at our house. That’s what this all felt like… Everything was back to square one. I don’t say a ‘how are you feeling’ or ‘how are you holding up’, knowing just how pointless those questions were. Instead, I stay silent, simply sitting close to the foot of the guest bed as I remain there, eyes peering at her. A few seconds passed before she slowly rose up to sit. “... Guess the car crash finally caught up…” Olivia murmured. I knew what she was referring to as she continued. “... Should’ve known… that I was too lucky to get out with a scraped knee. Now I know why…” Another few seconds… And then Olivia slammed her tail against the bedside desk, bending the wood and cracking it down the middle, releasing all her pent-up rage and frustration into the piece of furniture, her snout curled into a silent snarl. She didn’t yell, she hardly ever yelled, but somehow this was scarier. Not that I could ever be scared of Olivia. Instead, I simply placed a claw on her shoulder, letting her know that I was there. And she seemed to take definite note of that, maw quivering. “I-... I-” I gently pull her into a hug, closing my eyes as she seethes into my shoulder. “I-I’m just going to be a burden from now on.” Olivia murmurs. “You won’t.” “How do you know that?” I hear her ask, her voice so soft and so weak. … Because- “Because you’re my sister, Olivia.” I speak unfiltered, “And I will never stop loving you.” … I reopen my eyes, noticing Mom and Dad standing at the doorway, the former holding a claw at the end of her snout to hide her quivering maw while the latter giving the two of us a saddened but proud smile. Olivia took notice of them as tears began to fall from her eyes, trailing down her freckled scales, and staining my camo jacket. “E-Even if I’m never able to walk again?” My parents stepped in, coming up beside the bed to kneel as Dad rolled an arm over her back. “Then we’ll never give up, one way or another.” “And you won’t ever be alone, Dear.” Mom adds, blinking her wet eyes. “We’ll always be together.” Olivia’s breath hitches with a hiccup, sharp teeth gritting to contain a sob before giving up, crying as my parents quickly sat on the bed to join in, wrapping their arms around her as we formed a tight group hug. After a few moments of releasing her sorrow, I finally felt Olivia let out a shaky sigh into my chest… having found the first comfort ever since losing her legs. Despite the cruel and fucked up world we lived in… We were here for her. Olivia finally returned to school after a month of being away. I was given permission from the office to be allowed out of classes earlier to be with Olivia before the end of the period, just to make sure she was able to get to her next session. And when lunchtime arrived… well… Almost the entire table of the B clique was occupied, barring the spot where Olivia and I usually sat. Billy and the boys, Jeremy, Isaac and his girlfriend Stacy, Doe and Worden… all of them taking notice as we arrived, rising from their chairs to reveal gifts and posters, most signed and scrawled by other students around a great big ‘WELCOME BACK’. “Olivia!” Doe was the first to speak up, rushing forward to hug the baryonyx, Olivia blinking. “You’re finally back w-we-” She began to tear up, “We missed you so much!” “Yeah.” Worden agreed as Doe separated, “It really wasn’t the same at the table without you here.” Olivia peered down, resting her claws on the armrests of her wheelchair. “... Sorry…” She apologized, “... Bet you didn’t expect to see me like this.” “What are you saying sorry for?” Doe asked with a smile. “You have nothing to apologize for Olivia, we’re just so happy that you’re finally back.” “And no matter what, you’re still our friend.” Worden added, “Nothing will ever change that.” Olivia paused before slowly nodding with a smile, the others at the table rising up to greet us as Billy approached, a container of something held between his tiny arms. “Hey, Olivia. I made my favorite cookies to give to you when you got back.” He then pointed to a nubby claw, “They got peanut butter cups in them.” “Billy’s cookies are like… crack.” One of the groupmates hyped. “Thanks, Billy.” Olivia said as she accepted them, “Though, I don’t think I can eat all of this by myself… I’d prefer sharing them with everyone else, including you if you want some.” “R-Really?” Billy asked, clearly fond of the idea of eating his own baked cookies before shaking his head, “I-I mean, sure, that’s cool.” Isaac and Stacy approached, the former speaking up. “Your return was something of a red letter day to us all.” Olivia nodded her head to the rest of us. “Yeah… I’m starting to feel that.” She looked to the rest of us, “Pretty much everyone I know at school is here.” “You are the resident artist after all.” Jeremy spoke up, Stacy bringing her claws together. “Speaking of which, do you have any great works that are in progress?” “I…” Olivia paused, “Not while I was away but… now that I’m here… I-...” She then peered at me, an unsure look on her face. It took me a moment to realize that she was looking at me for a go-ahead, something she hadn’t done since first grade. And to that… I simply gave her a warm smile. Olivia paused before nodding, a small smirk creeping onto her snout as she tapped a claw against her forehead as if having realized the obvious. Of course it was up to her. “Guess I’ll get started then.” The baryonyx said, wheeling past everyone toward the table. Worden seemed slightly concerned, “I mean, don’t feel like that you have to for us.” Olivia shook her head, slotting beside the table as she reached into her backpack strapped to her wheelchair. “It’s okay, I kinda got an idea in my head anyways.” She then bought out her notebook and pencils. I sat beside her with that same smile still on my snout as she began to sketch, everyone watching quietly. Even if Olivia couldn’t walk… It hadn’t gotten in the way of what she loved. “Peanut butter cup!” “I recognize those glasses!” “Is that me and Dad?” “Aw… is that Worden?” Once Olivia was done, she held it up, a quick but pleasant drawing of all of us, contained and straining the boundaries of a red envelope… Doe and Worden were hugging each other, Isaac and Stacy trading cards, Jeremy backhanding a punching bag as Bily and the boys cheered from the front. And then there was me. Headbutting against the ground after having attempted to exit the envelope. “Oh god damn it.” I say with a chuckle, everyone else bursting into laughter as Olivia smiled before I took notice of the delicate calligraphy at the top. ‘頑張って’. … I had no idea Olivia even knew Japanese kanji, much less knew how to write it as Worden asked. “Is that… Japanese?” The baryonyx nodded, “Ganbatte.” Olivia said, “It means ‘do your best’.” She then shrugged, “To be honest, I only know how to write that word and another one… I just thought it was cool to have.” “Do your best…” I then nod, slowly getting of my seat to grab a soda, “Words to live by-” The cuff of my jeans was then caught on the chair, causing me to fall forward and headbutt against the floor, picture-perfect to how Olivia had drawn it as everyone… now including herself, bursted into wild laughter. By the time lunch ended, I followed Olivia to her next class, walking beside her as she rolled herself forward. I could’ve pushed the wheelchair for her, but I knew I didn’t have to, nor would she have wanted me to. Olivia wanted to do things for herself, and I was all for it. But unfortunately…- The two of us stared at the many steps that led to the next floor. -stairs had to exist. I desperately tried to recall for a moment if there was an elevator in this building… hell, in this entire school, only to come up blank, looking at Olivia as she blinked. “Maybe I can try and-” She wheeled forward, pressing up against the staircase and actually managed to make it up a few steps with the sheer strength of her arms pushing against her wheels. Only for her wheelchair to slip upon the sixth step, her eyes widening as she began to fall back. Luckily, I was there. I pushed her wheelchair back upright before it tilted back any further. “... Thanks.” Olivia murmured, “I’ll try aga-” “Hang on tight.” I simply say, reaching for the bottom and picking both chair and Olivia over my head with a grunt, slowly walking upstairs as I slightly swayed from side to side. She stuttered, “R-Raptor Jesus.” We arrive at the top floor, placing Olivia back down as the baryonyx looked at me with wide eyes. “Since when were you able to do that?” I look at my own claws, briefly balling it to see the musculature in my forearm flex, looking back up. “I have no idea.” I fully admit. “But I guess picking heavy things up and putting them back down helps.” “Heavy things…?” Olivia narrowed her eyes, giving that suspicious gaze. “... You calling me fat?” Oh fuck. I immediately freeze up, eyes blinking. “N-No I mean-” “Pfft.” Olivia let out an amused snort, barely able to contain her laugh. “I’m just fucking with you Anon. I know what you mean.” She then peered down in thought. “... Maybe I should try those leg exercises that they recommended…” “It might help.” I encourage, “I’ll also ask Coach Mikhail for some equipment if you need it.” Olivia nodded before pausing. “... Thanks…” She then peered at me, “For that, and helping me up the stairs.” She clarified. “No worries.” I say with a smile, “Like I said in first grade… if anything goes wrong, we’ll be together.” The baryonyx blinks, “I do remember you saying something like that.” She then raised an eye, “How do you even remember all this stuff?” I smirk, tapping the side of my scaly forehead. “This noodle is a steel cage.” I then cross my arms, “Speaking of remembering, shouldn’t you be going to art class now?” Olivia seemed to realize that, eyes widening as she turned herself around, wheeling away as she waved. “I’ll see you later!” I nod with a smile, walking back downstairs. It was good to see that despite everything… Olivia could still continue doing what she loved. Or… so I thought. It was the middle of tenth grade, both of us now 16 when I watched her exit the class, a frown on her face as she held an important-looking award. Yet before I could even ask what it was, she placed it into her bag, zipping it up. I blink, about to ask what that was before Olivia answered. “Some award…” She mumbled, “Not because my art was good but just because…-” The baryonyx then looked at her legs, not even needing to finish to know what she meant. “... Someone else should’ve gotten this, not me. I didn’t even put that much effort this time…” “You sure about that?” I ask. Olivia rolled her eyes, bringing out a large piece of paper and unrolled it, showing it to me. It looked nice, but incredibly simplistic, just a barebones forest landscape, even lacking color or thought in some parts… it definitely did not hold a candle to her other works, or even doodles. “I made it look bad on purpose.” She confessed, “And I still won the class award for the quarter.” Olivia then scrunched it up. “I-” She then paused, closing her eyes. “... I just sound ungrateful.” “It’s fine, Olivia.” I reassure, the two of us moving side by side, Olivia rolling as I walked. “You can at least tell me what’s on your mind before we find Mom and Dad.” A few moments of silence passed as we made our way down the hallway. “It’s just that-” She scowled, “Don’t get me wrong, I still love art, but now I’m coming to realize that my art’s not getting the award, it’s my disability… and that's just- I just-” She shook her head. We approach the staircase, Olivia pausing at the top to prepare as I get into position… I stepped up onto the anti-tip bar before using my other leg to push us forward. Both Olivia and I then went right down the stairs, wheelchair rattling as we both nonchalantly stared forward, reaching the bottom with a bump as Olivia immediately began wheeling us forward. I’d help her upstairs, but any time we had to get somewhere that didn’t require stairs, Olivia would ‘drive’ me. She had insisted on it, and knowing it would make her more comfy, I accepted. … Besides, Olivia could gain some real speed when she wanted to. “I just wanna be recognized for my art, something that I actually love doing, is that-...” Olivia continued as she rolled us both through the hallway, her next words spoken in a quiet voice. “-is that too much to ask for?” I could understand where she was coming from, but I had no answer for her. This was Olivia’s battle… and I prayed that it wouldn’t be like that for the rest of her life. We arrived at the school office, just as Joan and Edward exited. Over the past couple of months, my parents had been petitioning to make some parts of the school more accessible for Olivia and potential future paraplegic students, but it had been pretty much an uphill battle, not because the school refused to do it… but rather, because they literally could not. The buildings were old, so elevators were pretty much a no-go, or would take years to build in and renovate. Granted, they had made some progress and alterations, such as a few changes to the cafeteria layout, and a few of the lower staircases having built in ramps, about over 85% of the school was pretty much inaccessible for Olivia unless I was there to help, and even, those accessible parts like doors and such, required so much effort on her part. Something had to be done… But what? “Anon, Olivia.” My dad greeted us in the hallway. “Ready to go home?” We both nod, making our way to the exit. Eleventh Grade came way sooner than I could ever anticipate, already back from the first day. Tonight’s Dinner? Shrimp jambalaya made by yours truly. “Delicious!” Dad said with a smile on his snout, his plate already cleaned off to show how much he loved it. “You thinking of becoming a chef when you graduate, Anon?” “I dunno, Dad. To be honest with you, there’s not a single original element in my cooking.” I admit, “I’m just really good at following instructions online.” Come to think of it, how the fuck did I make a railgun in science class…? Mom smiled up from her plate. “Instructions or not, it was made with heart.” She then tilted her head, “So how was your first day, Anon?” “Pretty good.” I reply, “But that was because it was pretty lax, y’know, first day and all?” Mom nods, silence over the table as Olivia and my parents looked at one another. I blink. What was going on here…? “Well, that’s great to hear. We-...” He looked to Olivia and Mom before looking to me, “... We have some news to tell you.” Dad then rested both claws against the table. “Remember when one of the doctors said she’d notify that company regarding Olivia.” “Yeah?” I recall, “InGen I think it was?” Dad nodded before producing an open letter. “Well, InGen got back to us last month, and they said they were interested in providing a weekly program for Olivia, not only to help them understand the nature of her condition…” He then handed me the letter, “But to also find a way to help Olivia walk again.” I was unsure for a moment if I heard that correctly, slowly reaching my claw to see the letter itself. “I-” I look up, a smile growing on my snout. I didn’t even know how the hell we could’ve gotten so lucky, since the doctor had said it was a low chance that they’d consider… Then again, seeing as Dad was possibly a former Spook… Maybe that wasn’t that crazy to believe that they’d give us the benefit. “This is awesome!” I then look at the baryonyx. “Olivi-!” Her silver eyes looked at me before looking back down, unable to meet my gaze as I paused, looking back at the letter… And saw the address at where it had come from. 1975 Jurassic Way… Volcaldera Bluffs. 2 hours from Janoga Park if I remembered correctly. That would be incredibly hard, even on a weekly schedule for Olivia and whoever was driving to make that trip. Which likely meant that…- “Your mother and I have been planning on moving for a while now, just unsure of where until now.” Dad explained, “Mezosoic Private isn’t very accommodating for Olivia, and neither is our own house. Volcaldera Bluff is a nice city barring a few parts, and my company has a branch that I could work at while we live there.” “And we’ve also been looking at a new school for you and Olivia to go to, not as big as Mezosoic Private, but it has a proper elevator for every floor.” Mom backed him up, “We’ve even had the pleasure of speaking to the principal already, he said he’ll make accommodations for you and Olivia, seeing as we’ll be moving in halfway through the year.” So in 6 months then… I then pause, realizing something. “What’s the school?” Mom gave a comforting smile, “The place where your friend Naser had been, or may still be attending-” … … … “Volcano High.” The words had come from my own snout, not my Mom’s, reality setting in. I was coming back, back to where it had all begun… I-... My look of shock doesn’t go unnoticed by my parents, Dad saying something as I briefly close my eyes for a moment. How long had it been since then? 17 years? … Would I see her again? … … Could I…? I breathe in. Was I the Anon of before, the Anon who had wanted to squander every opportunity, the Anon who wanted to remain a nobody, the Anon… who wanted to be nothing… I would have rejected this chance in a heartbeat because I knew I was a fuck up, someone who would never amount to anything. I breathe out. That wasn’t me anymore. A smile grew on my snout as I reopened my eyes. And all I knew is that wherever life took me and my family… I would happily be along for the ride. “-at’s why we know this is a hard decision for you, Anon and that we know it’s cruel for us to-” “Cool.” I cut Dad off with a smirk, “So when do we start packing?” My casual acceptance literally caught everyone off guard, Mom and Dad taken aback as Olivia’s eyes widened, Edward coughing. “A-Are you sure you’re okay with this?” “Yeah, I’m sure.” I shrug, “I know this is a big change and everything…” I eat the last of my shrimp jambalaya. “But I think you guys are making the right choice. Just uh-” I then rub the back of my neck, “I kinda wish you guys included me in the conversation earlier, y’know?” Dad and Mom paused before peering down. “Yeah, we should’ve…” Dad nodded as Mom spoke up. “We’re sorry, Dear. We were just afraid of how you would react to the news, knowing this was a choice that we had to make.” Mom said sadly. “Even Olivia was reluctant to accept the offer, knowing how it would affect you.” I peer at the baryonyx, her eyes drifting between me and the floor as I give her a reassuring smile. “It’s fine, you don’t have to worry about me.” I then stand up, holding my empty plate. “I’ll put this in the dishwasher.” “Oh, don’t worry about that, Dear. Just leave it on the countertop. Your father and I will clean up the kitchen.” Mom said as I walked past, my parents beginning to discuss. “Then… should we go for that house by that restaurant… what was it called again?” “Dino-Moe’s you mean?” “Yeah. It seemed accessible if we just-” … Heh, it wasn’t even subtle at this point… the world really was coming full circle. But that was fine, because this time… I was ready for it. Dad and Mom entered the kitchen shortly after I left, and with nothing much else to do for the night, I got ready to head back upstairs… potentially shitpost too and manage my Snoot Coin. It was still on the down low, but I knew it would be blowing up very soon... Yet I paused upon hearing Olivia wheel behind me before feeling her arms wrap around my waist, resting her head against the small of my back. I blinked, silence between the both of us as I peered behind, noticing her eyes closed against the side of my shirt. “... I’m sorry.” I smile warmly, “For wanting to walk again?” “It’s…” She reopened her eyes and loosened her grip as I turned around to fully face her. “It’s such a minuscule chance that this might help me, a-and I’m asking you to give up so much for it.” Olivia frowned, “Doe… Worden… they’ll be heartbroken to know that you’re leaving.” “And you don’t think they won’t miss you too?” I ask. Her snout tightened in frustration, “That’s not- You always do this Anon. Always put yourself last just so I can-” Olivia then paused before sighing. “... I just don’t want to sacrifice your happiness for my sake…” … I pause at that… before kneeling down to her level. “My happiness?” I place both claws on her shoulders. “Granted, change is always hard and challenging… but it’s not going to make me unhappy.” I then nod, a smile on my snout. “In this life, I’d be happy… just pursuing that ‘miniscule’ chance alongside you.” Olivia freezes up before letting out an unsteady breath, opening her arms out as we both embrace each other. A few seconds passed before she finally spoke up. “Anon…” “Yeah?” “Thank you.” “... For what?” I ask, genuinely curious. “...” She was silent for a moment before answering. “For being my brother.” Separating, I blink in surprise as Olivia’s snout closed shut, perhaps thinking she had said something wrong. I give her a reassuring smile… yet not able to contain the tears from my now wettening eyes, simply nodding as I turned away. “I’ll… see you at school tomorrow, Olivia.” “Same.” We both head to our respective rooms. … Who knew, that providing support, care, and love to others… would have it come back to you in spades? “So… you two are gonna leave after the semester exam?” I sadly nod alongside Olivia, looking up at Doe and Worden, human and allosaurus respectively. It was surreal to realize that they had grown and matured alongside us, Doe having gone from this tiny girl to a beautiful teen with wavy short black hair… and Worden. God, the sixteen-year-old actually had a beard now with his blonde combed hair, distinguish fuzz over his snout that made him look like a Nordic gamer. These two had been with us ever since grade one…which came as no surprise that they looked devastated by the news. “... Damn…” Worden sighed, “That’s… hard to hear.” Olivia peered down before looking back up. “... I’m so sorry you guys.” Doe shook her head. “Don’t be Olivia. If this can help you, then we want you to try it.” She then closed her wet eyes. “J-Just promise you won’t forget about us.” The baryonyx nodded, both claws grasping at the table. “I promise.” She smiled, “Every time I draw, I’ll always think of you two.” “Yeah.” I agree, “We’ve been with each other since first grade… I don’t think it’s possible to ever forget you guys.” Doe managed to smile, Worden doing the same as he peered to the side. “... You guys wanna hang out in the field?” He looked back, “For old times sake?” Olivia and I look at one another with a smile before nodding, “Sure.” Olivia agrees before smirking. “Race you all there.” Before any of us could even say ‘Wha-’, Olivia was already gone, zooming forward toward the end of the cafeteria as the rest of us looked at one another before bursting into a sprint, Worden picking up Doe as she laughed out. I smiled, running outside to join them. “Heard the news from Worden.” Jeremy said with a sad smile, “So it’s really happening, huh?” The giganotosaurus had already graduated from Mezosoic Private a while back, now actually working at the school alongside Coach Mikhail as a proper paid assistant coach. “I’ll miss you man.” I looked at him, placing a claw on his shoulder. “I’ll miss you too.” Jeremy paused before letting out a muffled bit of amused hair from behind his snout. “... Crazy to think that when we first met, I tried to bully the shit out of you. Now look at us.” “Heh.” I chuckled before pausing, “... We really helped each other out over the years.” “... Yeah.” Jeremy agreed. “So, you planning to take Coach Mikhail’s place one day?” I ask. The giganotosaurus shrugged, “I dunno maybe.” He then smiled, “I was also thinking of going pro.” My eyes widened, “Seriously?” I then nod, “I could totally see you being a literal ‘hit’ there.” “... That was a shitty fucking pun, Anon.” Jeremy said as he chuckled, “The only problem is finding a manager, someone who’s not only smarter than me, but trustworthy too. I’ll see to it at some point, or maybe I won’t. The thing about life is-” Jeremy shrugged. “You always got options.” I pause before nodding, “True.” There was a bit of silence before Jeremy slowly stood back up, prompting me to follow suit, both of us standing in the ring. He then smirked, “So… you wanna spar?” I nod, snout curled in a smile as I put on my gloves, facing off against Jeremy. One last time. We circle each other for a few tense seconds. And then both of us lunge, Jeremy throwing the first punch, much akin to how he did during the first day of boxing club, a powerful punch aimed directly at my guard. 死- … Except…- He never even got the chance. 竜落とし … I don’t know how I came up with it, but I know what I did, launching a body jab that was so fast and so ferocious, it looked as if everything had happened almost instantly. Jeremy got sent back, almost flying from the floor, eyes wide as he landed against the rope of the ring and remained dazed for a few moments before blinking. “... That’s rad.” He then laughed, managing to stand off the rope, the two of us pausing for a moment before he spoke up again. "Keep up the good fight, Anon.” “... I will.” I promise, readying my fists. “Another round?” “Sure, as long as you teach me what the hell you just did!” He exclaimed enthusiastically. We both continue sparring with a smile. On the last week before the semester ended, we had a big going away party. Most of our family and our neighbors were over, standing around the backyard to enjoy the drinks and snack food. I hung out nearby, talking to Grandpa and Grandma, Mike and Melissa respectively. “You’re probably tired of hearing me say this, but you’re on a fast track to being taller than me!” The old therizinosaurus chuckled. “Grown or not-” Melissa pinched my cheek, a smile on my snout as she wobbled my scales. “He’s still my adorable grandson!” “Glad to know you two are happy.” I then pause, “Do you know if Granduncle Frank is coming?” “He should be on the way.” Melissa answered, turning to a peering away Mike. “And this time, he’s going to play some wonderful music for us all.” “... Fine, fine.” Mike gave up, “Long as the cops don’t come, we’ll be golden.” I pause for a moment before hugging the two of them, my grandparents briefly surprised as I separated, patting their backs. “I’m gonna check on Olivia.” “You do you, Kid.” Mike said with a smile. “We’re not going anywhere, Sweetie.” I turned around, moving toward the outdoor pool that was set up as Olivia swam inside, making use of her powerful tail and arms to easily traverse the water while wearing her purple bathing suit. Tapping on the side of the material, she briefly rose up to listen. “Everything good?” Olivia gave a thumbs up before we both noticed a new figure enter the party, a familiar therizinosaurus with a packed guitar. “Frank!” I greeted with a smile, my granduncle returning the gesture. “Sup, Lil’ Man.” He then gestured at my height, “Or… jeez, Big Man now.” The old therizinosaurus then looked past me, “And I see nothing’s holding you back, Central Scrutinizer.” Olivia smiled while in the pool, “Hey, Frank. It’s been a while.” “That it has.” He then reached for a pocket on the packed guitar, “I, uh… got something for you both since you’ll be leaving Janoga Park.” He then bought out an art book, “Got this for you, Olivia. It’s a book of vinyl covers you might want for inspiration. I’d give it to ya now but you’re in the pool so…” The baryonyx nodded in understanding before smiling, “Thanks, just leave it on the table there Frank.” “Yep.” He then looked to me, “And... Anon.” He then handed me the entire packed guitar as I blinked, accepting it. “This is for you.” I look down at it, looking back up at Frank as the therizinosaur smiled. “Well, go on.” I oblige, unzipping it. And then freezing up at what was inside, slowly bringing it out. It was a beautiful electric guitar with a mahogany wood finish and softly glistening lacquer beneath the bright sunlight. Vintage tone knobs were integrated on the bottom, as well as a built-in phase switch and a preamplifier that made it a work of art. To call it ‘just’ a guitar was doing this godly instrument a disservice. “Anon, Roxanne.” He gestured to the gifted guitar, revealing its name. “Roxanne, Anon.” He then patted my shoulder. “She’s yours now, Kid.” I blink, “W-Wait, Frank. Are you sure you want me to-” “Super sure.” He answered nonchalantly. “She’s done me good service… now it’s your turn to keep her.” Frank smiled, “... I got a feeling you’ll take her far.” I pause for a moment before nodding, putting the sling over my head to hold ‘Roxanne’ before looking up at Frank. I then embrace him, “Thanks… Uncle Frank.” “Heh, no problem.” We then separate, “I’m just glad I got to be a cool uncle to not only your mother, but you as well.” I nod at that, Olivia watching the exchange from the pool with a smile as I spoke up, inspecting Roxanne. “What brand even is this guitar?” “I dunno.” Frank shrugged, “To be honest, I actually bought her for 500 from a shady-looking dude who managed to somehow sneak backstage after one of my shows, but I’ve been using her since the 70s, modified and got her customized too.” That was a total ‘Uncle Frank’ thing to happen as I looked up, remembering where I saw other fine-looking guitar’s in my previous life. “Heh, kind of reminds me of one of Stygy Moldrix’s guitars.” Frank froze up, snout curdling as if he had just tasted spoilt milk. Olivia and I immediately took notice as the therizonosaur spoke up. “Stygy Moldrix?” He seemed to visibly retch, “Aw, dude… fuck that guy.” “You… don’t like Stygy, Uncle Frank?” I ask, granted I didn’t know much about the artist, only that he was a big deal… And that Fang liked his work. “You can say that again.” Frank grunted, “Had a collab with him back in the 80’s, but we had to delay our entire afternoon waiting for him to arrive after he had almost OD’d on something.” My snout dropped open, realizing what he implied. “Wait, you played with Stygy Moldrix?” “Yeah.” Frank waved, “Now here’s the bad part… after we played a couple of songs me and my band had written, we all agreed to use them for our own purposes.” He then shook his head, “Stygy released an album and added our song to it, but he had changed name of the song, muted our voices, and claimed full writing and publishing credit for it.” My eyes widened at that, Olivia speaking up. “Wow, what a piece of crap.” “You got that right…” Frank grumbled, “And you wanna know something else that’s fucked up? He wasn’t even left-handed… that’s right, Stingy was a righty just like the rest of us. So anytime you ever see that ‘famous’ re-strung guitar of his, just know that it was all a lie to make himself ‘unique’ in the business.” Raptor Jesus, that was probably the most extreme red-pill I had ever swallowed as Mom and Dad arrived, the former greeting her uncle. “Fraaank!” She greeted before gasping at the guitar, “Oh my God, you’re giving Anon Roxanne?” “He’ll pay me back.” He said with a smirk before we all laugh at that, Frank turning to me. “But I would like one thing from you Anon.” He then smiled, “... You wanna jam?” “Right now?” I ask, wondering how we were going to do so. “Yeah.” Frank then pointed to the other side of the lawn as I followed his claw, noticing Joe on the other side of the lawn, a drum and with bits of equipment already set up. “Joe’s already got most of the stuff together.” I pause before nodding with a smile, “Alright, let’s do it.” I walk forward, but not before turning to Uncle Frank. “And for the record-” I then held the guitar up, “Roxanne's way cooler than any of Stygy’s guitars.” “You got that right.” Frank said with a smirk, the two of us moving to the end as Mom and Dad called out. “Everyone! My son’s gonna play us all a song!” Excited whispers and sounds grew as we prepared, Joe returning to sit behind the drumset as Uncle Frank picked up an old base guitar. I spot Olivia at the pool, a smile on her snout as she watched me, Melissa and Mike approaching as the latter seemed to be told that I was playing, his snout lighting up. Mom and Dad stood closest, watching as Frank and I connected our guitars. I look to Frank. “What do you wanna play?” He shrugged, “Dunno, it’s your choice. Joe and I will adapt.” I pause for a moment before deciding. “Alright, hit me with an E when we start.” Frank nods as I peer at Joe. “Give a count.” Joe begins tapping the sticks together. “Thanks.” And I immediately get into it upon the count finishing. “Don't go in there, you'll become one, freaky creatures, monster party- ” Frank and Joe play along, perhaps having heard the song I was singing before. “-eyes of yellow, scales and feathers, tails in tethers, turn the lights off. ” I then begin to lightly strum, my tail swaying like a metronome. “Bend the nightmare, you control it, artful dodger, easy does it, shut the closet, get under the covers, snakes and lovers- ” I then stopped to sing. “Turn the lights off. ” We break into a loud chorus as my strumming changes to a sudden intensity as most in our party begin to cheer. “Everybody likes to get taken for turns, to see how bright the fire inside of us burns! And everybody wants to get evil tonight, but all good devils masquerade under the light… ” Another verse, feet tapping against the grass. “Don't you like it, I know I do, how about you? What do we know, tiny patterns, hypnotizing., terrorizing. Turn the lights off! ” We go off into a wordless chorus, finishing up as I sing one last tune. “Chroma diamonds, twinkle brightly. Dance in darkness, blow the nights off. Sleepy child, spark desire… ” I finish. “Walk the fire…” There was a short pause. And then the entire lawn erupted into wild cheers as I bashfully looked down. I didn’t think my amateur performance would generate this much hype as Frank patted me on the back with a smile, Joe giving a thumbs up. Olivia clapped whilst leaning against the side of the pool while my parents approached with smiles on their snouts. Even Mike, who disliked the idea of Frank playing, seemed so full of awe and happiness, Melissa leaning her head against him. The rest of the day went on with a happy note. “Ready to go?” Olivia nodded as we stood outside the exam room, having just finished. “Yeah, hop on back.” The baryonyx said, turning around as I stepped up before she wheeled us forward, going through the school halls as we looked at the walls of Mezosoic Private. One last time. “Doe and Worden should be waiting for us at the entrance.” I say, “They’ll say goodbye before Mom and Dad pick us up.” Olivia nodded, looking up as she looked up at one of the vents, smiling. “... Remember when I hid in the vent?” “I remember.” I say with a chuckle, “The teachers looked everywhere for you.” We pass the door to the auditorium. “And remember when we showed Literally E?” “Yep.” Olivia answered, “Making the sets was great…” Our nostalgia trip ends when we reach the front of the school, seeing Doe and Worden by the door as they take notice of our arrival. “Anon, Olivia! You’re just in time!” The two of us blink, Olivia speaking up as Doe and Worden come up alongside us. “Just in time for what?” We then exit to see an entire crowd from the school, teachers and students alike. Doe answered Olivia’s question. “For everyone to say goodbye.” Olivia and I remained stunned for a few seconds as I step off the back of her wheelchair, both of us looking to Doe and Worden. “You two organized all this?” I asked as Worden shook his head. “Didn’t really have to. Everyone we asked just… agreed to show up to say goodbye.” The allosaurus explained as Billy approached with the boys. “Yeah! No way I wasn’t going to see you off. You were one of the reasons why I had a good time at this school, Anon.” Billy said with a smile on his snout, the rest of his gang agreeing. Isaac then approached with Stacy. “Indeed. You both have been there since the beginning, I would not ever dream of missing this moment.” “And were it not for your efforts, Olivia, Isaac would have never presented me with that beautiful card art you drew, Olivia, sparking our relationship to new heights.” Stacy added, Olivia looking shocked at that revelation. I then turn to see Jeremy and Coach Mikhail approach, the former speaking up. “If it weren’t for you Anon, I would’nt be the dinosaur that I’m proud of today.” He then looked to Coach Mikhail, “Dad also has something to say.” “Dah.” Coach Mikhail nodded, “When you first came to my gym, you were tiny baby coward.” Harsh words… were they not so funnily delivered. “But now… you are a big strong man, Anon.” The anklyosaurus looked close to tearing up, sniffing. “I am proud.” “Thanks… Misha.” I say with a smile before noticing one last figure approach. Mrs. Prodryas. The beautiful coelophysis smiled, “Came from the office as soon as I heard you were leaving today. Watching you two grow up since I first taught you in first grade has been a magical experience. I ain’t gonna lie, I’m a lil’ upset knowing that you two won’t be attending no more, but just know that when I become principal, I’ll be thinking of you two.” Olivia and I nod, “Thank you, Mrs. Prodryas.” She nodded before seemingly considering. “Y’know, my husband works in Volcaldera Bluffs. He’ll definitely recognize you if you ever see him.” “Really?” I ask, “I’ll keep that in mind.” A beep then alerted us to see Mom and Dad arrive in the car, Olivia and I peering to everyone else to wave goodbye. “See you everyone!” I called. “Goodbye Mezosoic Private!” Olivia waved. They waved back, calling our names goodbye as Olivia and I approached the car. Yet before we opened the door, we turned around to Worden and Doe, the two of them smiling… yet their faces tinged with sadness. We went back one last time, Olivia wheeling close as we held our arms open and embraced each other into a group hug. “... We've been through a lot together, huh?" Worden asked as we all nodded and smiled, finding it more difficult to keep the wetness from our eyes, "I’ll miss you guys.” “And we’ll miss you too.” I murmur, “And before you forget, Olivia?” The baryonyx nodded, reaching for her backpack to produce a drawing. “I made something for you two.” “For us?” Doe asked as we separated, accepting the drawing as she and Worden looked at it. “... Oh…” Her voice broke, tears building in her eyes. “It’s so beautiful.” It was a detailed group portrait of Doe and Worden, sitting at the table in the cafeteria, the two of them smiling as they looked toward the front, pasta in front of Doe and… A homework sheet in front of Worden. The allosaurus broke off into a laugh, “Holy crap! You still remember I did that back in first grade?!” “Y-Yeah.” Olivia giggled as she closed her eyes, the four of us pausing before getting close together, slouching down as if gathering to discuss a game plan at a football game. “We’ll see each other again at some point.” I promise, “... B clique for life?” We all nod, “B clique for life.” Finally, we separated for the last time, Olivia and I moving toward the car. The baryonyx opens the door to help herself into the seat as I take her wheelchair and store it in the back, the two of us waving Doe and Worden one last goodbye. They wave back at us as we close the door, Mom and Dad slowly driving away. And before long… We had left Mezosoic Private. Dad peered up at the backseat mirror, “You two holding up alright?” “Yep.” Olivia and I say at the same time. Mom smiled, “The moving company has already packed most of our things, it’ll be all ready to go when we get back.” We both nod as I pause for a moment to stare out the window, trees on the side of the road passing quickly. It was only when we entered a lit tunnel that I began to think deeply about what had happened until this point… moments flashing through the glass and reflecting back upon me. Of when I walked again. Of when I talked again. Of when I met Olivia. Of when we came to Mezosoic Private. Of when we met Doe and Worden. Of the boxing club, of Jeremy, of Coach Mikhail, and Literally E. Of the Meteor Bowl, of Naser, of the Mall, and our goodbyes. And of the very recent, and of the now. Now… I closed my eyes. And reopened them. We were driving through a tunnel, the back of the car now filled with containers and boxes. I look away from the window, seeing Olivia staring outside, her reflection upon the glass holding no real discernible expression. Wordlessly, I reach forward, gently grasping her claw and squeezing it. Although she peered away, I could see a warm smile build on her snout as I looked back to see us exit the tunnel, our car driving beside the oceanside. … And in the distance… The city of Volcaldera Bluffs. [NOTES] I just wanted to say in this crucial moment of the story... thank you all for supporting me. I didn't expect this story to blow up this much, but it did, and for that, I appreciate every single one of you reading. You all are gigachads.