A/N
It has been, a really really long time since I updated this! And tbh I just want to get it over with already since I don't want to leave it unfinished. I wrote half this chapter months ago and then finished it now. I might end up REALLY rushing the rest of the fic because it's either that or I'll never finish it at all, but I'll try. Ty for the understanding!

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(Y/n) could only accept it as a fever dream. The sound of a wailing child overpowering the muffled sobs, and they just stood there not even crying, in so much pain they were unable to do so.

Since that text, (Y/n) constantly searched for Albedo in campus until Childe with a teary eyed Kokomi revealed to them the news of his disappearance. Weeks later Yelan recieved the autopsy report confirming that the mutilated body belonged to the former artist.

"And we're here." Yelan watches from a distance. For safety precautions she'd have security with her at all times, just not today. Placing faith that Ayato isn't sick enough to try any of his dirty tactics during the wake of one of his victims.

Her eyes wander to Arataki Itto, who is bawling like a child. Kujou Sara held him in feeble attempts to console her lover. No one knew when the two got together, or that they were together, but Kokomi's right to cry is even more justified. Yelan despaired at the wreck she sees, rubbing her thumb and index finger together. "That Kamisato bastard is to blame. But I need to neutralize his faithful dog first."

The "Kamisato bastard" didn't even show up. Or maybe he did, out of Yelan's sight.

She leaves upon confirming Ayato's absence. Only a few noticed her leave followed by an air of suspicion. Kujou knew this was no normal case and that the government now has eyes on the school.

"This has to be a joke." (Y/n) tried so hard to hold back tears. They felt confused, horrified, rage, sadness. It was unbelievable to them at they'd once again lose someone close to their heart.

Not even a final glance at Albedo's face was spared for anyone. It was a murder, the killer unknown. His body tied to train tracks and run over. If not for an identification card and his wallet miraculously in tact, no one would've known who he is with how gruesome the passing.

It was all too much for them to understand. (Y/n) felt even worse with their last moments being the whole kiss incident. Was it possible Ayato had something to do with this? Thoma? That man is a murderer. The first thought made them feel guilty. There's no way their boyfriend is a murderer.

"(Y/n)? Did Ayato not come?" Kujou walks up to them, offering a tissue.

They take the tissue and wipe off the tears that fought to stream down. "Now that you mention it, no he hasn't."

"How could he not be here for... You! That... Stupid mother fu— I'm sorry. I'm sorry, it's just this is most definitely going to be one of the most devastating moments for you and Ayato didn't come alone." Kokomi pulled their bestfriend into a hug.

They saw no excuse for the last Kamisato sibling to not come to the wake. Even Childe who wasn't close with the artist came to pay his respects.

"It's fine..."

Kujou Sara looked at Kokomi and sighed. Well aware that her and Itto being together was adding to the fish enthusiast's pain. She didn't feel bad for choosing who she loves but hopes that Kokomi will someday find someone as good as her. That, and the whole (y/n)'s friends getting murdered incidents. Even she felt that something really strange is happening and that everyone close to (y/n) and (y/n) themself isn't safe.

"Itto and I shall be going soon. You two take extra care." She pats them both and leaves, then waves at Childe who stood nearby. The man comes up to the two left sobbing together after Kujou leaves completely.

"I hate to be the one to say this but don't you think Ayato might have something to do with this?"

"Now is not the time." Kokomi mumbles almost irritated.

"He isn't a murderer!" (Y/n) glares at him.

"Woaah slow down buddy I didn't call him a murderer. I just said he might have something to do with all this but not him being a killer. And Kokomi's right, I'll shut up now." He backs away, extending his hands out while doing so.

"I just wish all this was a dream. I want this to end, I can't lose another friend. I know I've messed up with him but he doesn't deserve to die! Albedo?! He's so pure... And kind."

"(Y/n)... I'm sure you have nothing to do with this. And neither does Ayato." Their bestfriend rubs their back comfortingly.

"I sure hope so too."

Until the final day of the wake, and the burial, Kokomi and (y/n) remain. From the first to final day they've witnessed some familiar faces, unfamiliar ones, but never were there. And Ayato never showed up.

On the final day, (y/n) attempted to paint Albedo from the photos they had together. It didn't turn out well, in fact it was a disgrace to his beauty, but he would've been overjoyed to have seen in regardless. And there, he was buried along with the painting.

(Y/n) watched as soil was being shoveled over, almost being blinded by the heat of the sun that day. They'd have thought that anything would be better than rain during a burial but the raging sun was no better. Nothing would lessen the pain of loss, and (y/n) wondered if they'd be going through this again, and again for their whole life.

"Remember when we painted the scenery together ? I don't think I'll ever be able to paint a scenery with pure emotions again like back then. Just dull, gloomy, empty sceneries even with the blasting sunlight before me."