#fingers crossed shes the noob for this series this time

[tame-a-messenger]

Damien and Angela playing Hello Neighbor would be so fun ngl

I don’t know much about Hello Neighbor but to be totally frank, I would be born again if Damangela is the next ‘noob and pro gamer play scary game’ duo. I don’t care what game they play lol

It looks like RE7 is going to be the next game for that series so I’m trying to think who would be the ‘pro’ for that game if it ends up not being Shayne? 

It’s a FPS game so I feel like whoever is going to be the ‘noob’ is really going to take a back seat with that game (although they could play easy mode tbf), especially if its Angela considering she’s only played Party type games (mainly Mario)

I haven’t played or watched anyone play RE7 but RE games are usually really fucking scary, so I’m really fucking hoping we get Ange and Damien playing it!!

[animechick2015]

Hi.....Can I ask your top 10 favorite anime ever (can be series or movies)? And why do you like them (if you don't mind me asking)? Thanks.....

Hi thank you so much for asking! So my top 10 are

1. Fairy Tail

This was my first anime I ever watched and I know that a lot of people hates it because of the power of friendship and all that crap but I absolutely loved it. I watched it when I was going through a really low period in my life and this is what got me out of it so this anime has cemented its place in my heart forever. Also can we talk about how good the filler episodes were; I think that FT deserves some credit for having the best fillers in any series.

2. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

This was also an anime I watched from my noob days so I had no idea what I was getting into and boy was I shocked. I loved every single episode of it and it had such a heavy theme and message but it was brought about so effortlessly that you can’t help but love it. Also appreciated that all the women in this anime were strong and didn’t depend on anyone saving them.

3. Assassination Classroom:

Ahhh this one brought me so much pain. I remember watching the season 2 finale and my dad was in the same room with me and my dad looked up and saw me full on crying and he had the most confused look ever lol. But seriously this is an underrated anime and I absolutely love Koro sensei.

4. Gintama

This was one that I went into for comedy and just to kill time when I was bored but I was caught off guard with the emotional plots, like one minute I’m crying from laughing so hard and the next I’m crying cause the writer broke my heart. Also I loved the openings, endings and OST’s from this anime.

4. Akatsuki no Yona

I thought that this was going to be your typical harem anime where the girl gets saved by her guys in every situation she puts herself in but I was genuinely surprised when it was not. I loved that we got to see Yona start from her lowest point and gradually grow both mentally and physically and her determination to protect Hak at all costs 🤌. And Hak was just 😍😍😍 seriously he set the standard for all my anime husbandos. Also still keeping my fingers crossed for a second season 🤞

5. Attack on Titan

I thought this was an anime about giant naked people eating smaller clothed people; I did not expect it to go in-depth about war, race,genocide and other heavy topics. Honestly I’m really impressed how simple scenes from the very fist episode came into play for the most recent episodes. I know there’s a lot of criticism for the author about the direction and choices he made to end the series but I absolutely loved the manga and I really enjoyed the anime and most certainly am looking forward for the final final final season.

6. Bleach

I think Tite Kubo deserves an award for creating the most attractive characters tbh. Like even the villains were so damn good looking. I believe this was the second anime that I watched and everyone was like oh I bet it was better than Fairy Tail and I’m just meh. I think the reason why I didn’t devote my heart and soul to this was because of the toxic fandom, whenever I talked about it, it was always are you Team Rukia or Team Orihime and I’m like yo I’m just to figure out when are we going to get Ichigo’s dad backstory. Putting the fandom aside I really loved this anime and I can’t wait for the final season to be animated.

7. Howl’s Moving Castle

The plot of this was just absolutely beautiful. Sophie deserved the world and so does Howl. Sophie was such a relatable character to me when I was younger because I understood her insecurities about herself and watching her slowly overcome them was breathtaking. Also Howl’s meltdown after dying his hair the wrong color 💯 % understandable lol.

8. Haikyuu

Ahhhh I don’t think I have enough words to describe how much I loved this anime. I loved that we got to see Hinata start from the bottom and grow from there. It was also nice to see character development from the secondary characters as well. I think this is the first anime that there wasn’t a character that I disliked.

9. Fruits Basket

This one absolutely caught me by surprise. I thought it was a simple love triangle, will they or won’t they get together type of trope and I was thrilled to see how much more in-depth the story went. Seeing how much each character was suffering in their own way was heartbreaking to watch but seeing them overcome their trauma was oh so satisfying. I still stand by what I originally posted that Akito deserved punishment for the abuse that made members of the zodiac suffer.

10. Sword of the Stranger ( Stranger: Mukou Hadan)

This is a very underrated anime movie that I see absolutely no one talking about. It has an interesting plot as well as great animation style. The characters were so likable and the soundtrack really set the theme of this movie. Also watching the familial bond grow between the two main characters was just icing on the cake.

[karahalloway]

(Un)Common Attraction: Chapter 6 - A Crash Course in Etiquette

Series: TRR (following the events of Book 1, with some changes)

Pairing: Drake Walker x OC (Harper Gale)

Rights belong to Pixelberry, most characters and some dialogue belong to them.

Book Synopsis: Harper Gale is a small-town girl working as a waitress at a seedy New York dive bar. After a chance encounter with nobility sees her jetting halfway around the world to compete for the hand of the Prince of Cordonia, her dream of seeing the world starts to come true sooner than she expected. But as the completion heats up, Harper quickly learns that life at court is a lot more than just pretty dresses and fancy balls, and that the polished aristocratic smiles often hide deceit. Does she have what it takes to rise above the gossip and intrigue of the social season, and beat the nobles at their own games? And, more importantly, does she actually want to become the queen of a small European country? Or will her heart have other ideas?

Masterlist: (Un)Common Attraction

Chapter Summary: It’s morning of the Derby and Harper learns that there is more to being a suitor than just dressing up and smiling prettily…

Word Count: 2,500

Rating/Warnings: None

Chapter Theme Song:

Please read: Author’s Note

Also available on Wattpad.

Chapter 6 - A Crash Course in Etiquette

"So," says Maxwell, grabbing the pencil out from behind his ear and glancing at his clipboard. "Let's review. At the lawn picnic..."

It's the day of the Derby and at Bertrand's insistence, Maxwell had woken me at an ungodly hour for the past three days to give me a crash course in lady-like etiquette, so I would – fingers crossed – make it through the day without looking like a complete high-society noob.

"I won't stuff my mouth, pick my teeth, or stab Olivia with a fork... no matter how tempting the last one may be," I finish with a rueful smile. "Relax, Maxwell. I've got this. We've gone over it enough times that I could recite it in my sleep!"

I was sitting in one of the plushly upholstered chairs in my room, practicing sipping coffee daintily and cutting croissants with a knife (because apparently it was the epitome of rudeness to actually bite into it like a normal person).

"Yeah, I know," concedes Maxwell. "Bertrand just made a special point of going over everything one more time. Speaking of which, how would you address Bertrand if you were meeting him for the first time?"

"Your Grace," I reply, dabbing the corner of my mouth with a cloth napkin like Maxwell had shown me.

"Correct! And just in case you are asked, his full title is Duke Bertrand Beaumont of Ramsford, also known as Duke Ramsford."

"Speak of the devil..." I murmur as Bertrand lets himself into my bedroom.

"Maxwell," nods Bertrand at his brother by way of greeting. "How's progress?"

He casts his eyes over my outfit, which is a bright pink, high-waisted pencil skirt with a sexy yet elegant slit up the back, as well as a flowery silk top with cute ruffles on the sleeves. Completing my look were a pair of pale pink high heel, open-toe booties, a statement necklace and a fetching fascinator. And I swear I see a tiny glimmer of approval in my sponsor’s eyes... But maybe that's just wishful thinking on my part.

"Good!" replies Maxwell. "Harper and I were just about to review her entrance at the Derby and how to get out of a car without flashing the press..."

"Adjust skirt before moving and keep knees and feet together while swivelling out," I parrot dutifully, demonstrating on the chair that I am perched on.

Bertrand scoffs. "Anyone with a smartphone can look up a video of the Princess of Wales and ape her grace and poise. While simple imitation may fool the backcountry buffoons from where you come from..."

"Hey!"

"...it will not fool the people of Cordonia or the press, and it will certainly not fool the Council. You cannot simply act like a lady. You need to convince everyone that you are a lady. To that end, Maxwell, I hope you don't mind if I take the liberty of testing Harper myself."

"I'm pretty sure it doesn't actually matter whether or not I mind..." grumbles Maxwell.

"It doesn't," confirms Bertrand brusquely. "Now. Harper, let's pretend I'm meeting you for the first time." He clears his throat. "Hello. It's a pleasure to meet you, Lady Harper Gale."

"The pleasure's all mine, Duke Ramsford," I purr with a demure smile, gently laying my hand into his.

Bertrand drops both my hand and the smile he had magicked up. "Adequate. Now, what did I do wrong?"

"Erm... You used the wrong hand?" I ask uncertainly. This was not something that we had covered with Maxwell, but I was pretty sure that he should have taken my hand with his left, not his right.

Bertrand's eyes widen ever so slightly in surprise. "Very observant of you. And do you know what message the use of the wrong hand conveys?"

"No," I admit, feeling my shoulders slump. I had been so confident that I had been able to cram everything that I needed to know into my head, but Bertrand had put paid to that notion in two seconds flat.

"It's an insult," replies Bertrand with a self-satisfied smirk, knowing that he had caught me out. "It means that the person you are talking to does not respect you or your station. It is not sufficient to simply know how you need to behave, but you also need to be able to read the subtle signs given off by others and respond accordingly."

"I will keep that in mind," I reply dejectedly.

Mastering the nuances of courtly etiquette was definitely going to take more than a couple of days, but I was hopeful that what Maxwell and I had covered will be enough for the moment. I mean, I seriously doubted that anyone was going to try and catch me out like Bertrand just did...

"In any event, the real reason I came was to inform you that our limo awaits to take us to Honeyhill Downs."

"Limo, you say?" I ask, grabbing my clutch and heading out the door, only to nearly collide with Olivia in the corridor.

"Oh!" she exclaims. "I'm surprised to see you here. I thought you would have gone home by now. After all, you cannot seriously believe that you have even the slightest chance at winning." She surveys my outfit with pursed lips. "Especially in that getup. Where did you find it? The charity bin?"

"I have it on good authority that the Queen prefers a modern look," I reply, squaring my shoulders. "In fact, it is you who should be concerned. After all, you thought it was a good idea to nest a giant bird in your hair."

I eye up the massive black and orange creation that sits on Olivia's head with scepticism.

"Ha!" scoffs Olivia. "A comment like that shows just how ignorant you really are. The Derby is a fashion show, and a bold look attracts more attention."

"From PETA, no doubt," I mutter under my breath.

We reach the front steps of the Palace, where a veritable conga line of limos is waiting to pick up their passengers.

"Harper, this way!" shouts Maxwell, waving me over.

Leaving Olivia to find her ride, I get into the waiting car and it rumbles off towards the racetrack.

"Now," says Bertrand once we're underway. "As mentioned previously, how you come across to the Cordonian people is very important, and the press can make or break you. Since this is the first public event of the social season, it is very highly publicised — so expect to be interviewed. But, if you can convince the media that you are a serious contender, then the people will feel more comfortable with the idea of their beloved Prince choosing a foreigner."

"So, I should be myself?" I ask.

"Good God, no!" exclaims Bertrand in horror. "Be the future queen who loves Cordonia and acts with grace and poise."

"People want to understand you story, so think about how you want them to see you," translates Maxwell. "They'll start with easy questions, asking who you are, where you're from, that sort of thing. Then, if there is time, they may ask you harder questions, like your views on current events or foreign policy."

I gulp. I had no idea what was even happening in the world of Cordonian current events and foreign policy, much less my views on them!

"And for the love of King and country," adds Bertrand sternly, "if they ask you about Cordonian apples, make sure you take the questions seriously."

"Apples?" I ask. "Seriously?"

"Yes," says Bertrand without a hint of humour. "Very seriously."

"It's the national fruit and one of our most important exports," explains Maxwell. "Apples are a bit of a national obsession."

"Yeah I know..." I reply, remembering what I'd read on the plane. "I just don't see how on earth a reporter could manage to worm a question about apples into an interview with a royal suitor."

"Oh, don't worry," Bertrand assures me. "If they want to, they will. So, you'd better be prepared, because there are no do-overs with the press. If you make a laughingstock of yourself, we may not be able to salvage your image. How confident are you actually feeling about this?"

"To be honest... I kind of feel like throwing up..."

I had never done something like this before, and the thought of being the centre of attention at a royal event in a foreign country made my stomach twist with nerves.

"If you're going to be sick, at least have the decency to wait until you're outside the limo," grumbles Bertrand. "It's a rental, and we don't want to lose our deposit."

"It's normal to be nervous," smiles Maxwell reassuringly, patting my knee. "It's your first public event and it's a big one. But, I know you'll do fine. If you could handle a bunch of drunk guys at a bachelor party, you can handle the press."

"Thanks, Maxwell," I say with a tight smile, trying to stop my knees from bouncing up and down.

"We're here," advises Bertrand.

Glancing out the window, I can see smartly dressed men wearing top hats and tails, accompanying ladies in brightly coloured dresses and statement head-pieces as they make their way down a red carpet thronged by spectators waving Cordonian flags and reporters with flashing cameras.

I take a deep breath. "Well, here goes nothing..."

Maxwell opens the door and I manage to swivel out gracefully, remembering to keep my knees and ankles together. With so many eyes on this event, the last thing I want is to end up on the front page of the local gossip mag with a feature shot of my lacy underwear.

Straightening my skirt, I glance back at the limo to see that Bertrand and Maxwell are looking at me expectantly.

"Wait," I say with rising panic. "Aren't you coming with me?"

"Heavens, no," scoffs Bertrand. "We don't need to be interviewed."

"Erm, okay, but how will I know where I need to go?"

"Just continue down the red carpet until you reach the stands and then you should look for the pink tents near the track. That's where the rest of the ladies vying for Christian's hand will be watching the race from," advises Maxwell.

"Close the door, Maxwell," grunts Bertrand. "We're holding up the line."

"You've got this!" Maxwell grins with a double thumbs up before pulling the door shut.

I watch the limo disappear into the sea of other cars with a dejected look.

Not very sportsmanlike, leaving your MVP to play solo.

But, there's no turning back now, so taking another deep breath, I straighten my spine, square my shoulders and lift my chin like Maxwell showed me this morning, and make my way to the red carpet.

As soon as I get within sight of the press, the cameras start flashing in a blinding frenzy and no less than a dozen microphones are shoved into my face. The reporters start hurling questions at me in what sounds like ten different languages.

Staggering back slightly, I force a smile onto my face, so I don't look so much like a deer caught in the headlights. I could not for the life of me imagine how celebrities put up with this on a daily basis. No wonder they ended up losing their cool and punching the paps in the face every so often...

"Erm... Hello," I say by way of greeting. It felt a bit awkward, but I wasn't sure what else to do...

"Over here!" shouts one reporter in English, elbowing the others out of the way. "Donald Brine from the Cordonia Broadcasting Centre. You must be the new lady on the social scene! What's your name?"

"Lady Harper Gale of House Beaumont," I reply in what I hope is a measured and dignified manner.

"Of House Beaumont?" asks the reporter, looking up from his notepad. "Is the Duke of Ramsford sponsoring you for the social season? In the hope that you'll win the Prince's hand?"

"That's right," I nod.

"You must've done something to impress him then!" shots someone from near the back, drawing laughter from the other reporters.

"I caught the Prince's eye," I shrug with a coy smile.

A dozen cameras flash, making my eyes water.

"Our viewers care about getting the real story," continues Donald. "Tell us about yourself!"

"I'm... I'm just a regular girl, like many out there," I say. Short, simple and to the point. They didn't need to know my entire life story.

"That's it?" asks Donald in disbelief. "Most of the ladies here can't wait to talk our ears off."

"What can I say?" I shrug. "I'm not like the other ladies here..."

"No doubt!" agrees Donald. "But surely you can tell us something about yourself?"

"Well, I'm from the States..."

"A commoner!" exclaims Donald. "A fascinating spin!"

"...and I share the Prince's love of fun and adventure," I add, thinking back to our impromptu visit to the Statue of Liberty and the maze-tag.

"American Mystery Woman sweeps the Derby red carpet..." nods Donald, scribbling furiously. "Can I get a picture of you?"

"Sure," I reply.

"Throw us your best look!"

Putting a hand on my hip, I pose in what I hope is a confident, over-the-shoulder look.

"Wonderful, just wonderful!" enthuses Donald, snapping pictures. "You're very photogenic!"

"Thanks," I reply, blushing.

"Lady Gale," says a no-nonsense looking woman dressed in a sharp pantsuit and a posh accent. "Ana de Luca here on behalf of Trend, fashion and celebrity news magazine... As an outsider, what do you think of Cordonia?"

"It's breathtaking," I reply honestly. "A country full of charm and wonder."

"The people will be happy to hear it," nods Ana, jotting on her notepad. "Lady Gale, if you marry Prince Christian, you'll be our next queen. What qualities do you feel will make you a good ruler?"

I think for a moment. "I'm honest and practical. The people can trust me to look out for them and to keep a cool head in times of crises."

"That'll be a nice soundbite. Last question... Hypothetically, how would you handle news about low crop yields from the Cordonian apple orchards?"

I blink.

So, Bertrand hadn't been kidding when he said that there could be an apple question from the press!

"I know how important apples are to the country and its people, so first of all, I'd assure everyone that I'd take this problem very seriously. Then, of course, we'd work together to find the best solution to deal with the crisis."

"I can use that..." muses Ana. Glancing up, she sees that there is a growing backlog of people trying to get down the red carpet, waiting impatiently for us to finish. "Looks like that's all our time. Thank you, Lady Gale."

"It was my pleasure," I reply sincerely. As first interviews go, that was not actually that bad...

"Glad to have someone interesting like you in the running..." concurs Donald, giving me a wink.

Letting out a big sigh of relief as the reporters turn their attention to the new arrivals, I make my way down the remainder of the red carpet.

"Now to find those pink tents..." I say to myself. "I hope they have drinks..."

The story continues in Chapter 7 - Horsin Around

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@twinkleallnight @lovingchoices14​​​ @petiteboheme​ @aussiegurl1234

[sunnyie-eve]

5 | Awakening the Dead

Series: Supernatural Squad | Benny Weir

Word count: 2.3k

A/N: ~ means POV changes

"So have you thought about it more after what I told you?" Ethan asks Benny as they walk towards the school. "What? Me liking Sadie? I still don't." Benny groans. "I think you're just too chicken to admit. Why else would you want her to be jealous that you kissed Della?" Ethan asks as they walk through the doors. "I told you, I was hit hard and just said random things." Benny tried to defend himself. "So you're telling me, you calling her an Angel twice, is you liking her as just a friend? There's nothing wrong liking her? I did and didn't deny it." Ethan says, making Benny groan.

"I can't say I like her if I'm not sure, okay. Are you happy I said that? I'm not sure if I like her. Now on to another topic. Think about it, dude. Anything we want. Cash. Cars. Candy." Benny changes the subject. "So you only use magic spells for stuff that starts with 'C'?" Sadie laughs, joining them making Benny sigh. "Once we were lowly high school noobs. Now we're vampire killing, spell-casting rockstars! The world is our oyster." She chuckles at Benny again. "Have you ever actually had oysters? Not something you wanna swallow. More like something you'd cough up." Ethan tells him. "Also you're still high school noobs." Sadie pats Benny's shoulder as he stops walking and gets an idea.

"Yeah, nice. Nice image to start the day. But there's the image I need. I know you're both the 'see-er' and all, but I can see her with me." He looks over a Della and Sadie laughs again, "Oh yeah, because I can totally see it." She says while Ethan tells Benny to keep the magic on the down low. Once again Benny didn't know why he wanted to see if he could make Sadie jealous. Maybe because if she showed some type of interest in him maybe he would finally figure out he likes her. "Would you relax? I got this." He magics up a bouquet of pink flowers and starts to walk over to the girl.

~

"Can I talk to you two?" Sarah walks up to us. "Hey, how goes it? What's new?" Ethan asks her. "Can I borrow twenty dollars, friend? It's for a good cause." She asks. "Twenty dollars? Like, now? Um..." He was cut off as we heard crying. We turn our heads to see the Della crying and Benny offers a panicked look before handing the bouquet over. He then makes his way over to us, "Awesome news, Della's dog died!"

"And that's good news?" I ask, raising an eyebrow "Yeah." He nods his head smiling. "I gotta go. Later." Sarah leaves us. "I'm gonna get going too. Plus I don't wanna know what you are thinking of planning to do. See ya." I snap my finger at them turning to walk away. "Hey, Sadie. What do you think about this... Rory the Vampire Ninja." Rory randomly jumps next to me at my locker. "It's catching, I think it fits you well." I give him a smile. Out of me, Benny and Ethan I think that I have always been the nicest to Rory. There's times I think that Rory is just too precious for this world because of the way he acts.

"So you think it's cool, great. Can you like do me a favor and make me like a business card that says it is not in English? I think it will fit the brand I'm going for better." He nods his head smiling like he normally does. "Sure, I'll design it throughout the day then make it at home. You can either come over and watch or come over after I'm done with it." I laugh, closing my locker.

~

"I expected more of a reaction..." Benny says as he watches Sadie walk off. "Are you trying to make her jealous again?" Ethan asks, crossing his arms. "I'm not doing it because I like her... cause I don't. I just want to so I can bug her. Anyways, you're gonna help me bring her dead dog back." Benny tells his friend. "No. Benny, you cannot bring her dead dog back to like just to try to make Sadie jealous." Ethan tells him trying to be serious. "Won't know until we try, right?" Benny winks at Ethan walking away. "Benny! Stop! If Harry Potter were here, he'd smack you around!" Ethan shouts at him.

After school Benny showed Ethan a recording he took of his grandma, asking if it was possible to bring an animal back from the dead. "Hey, Grandma... I was just wondering if there's any magic that can bring, say, a small animal back from the dead?" He asks, making her pause the TV, paying attention to Benny. "Why are you asking me that?" Evelyn asks him. "Uh, it's for a report at school and Sadie won't help tell me." Benny lies to his grandma. "Uh-huh..." She ignores his question.

"See, those crazy wrinkles are hiding something. I know it." Benny says as the video ends. "Benny, maybe you should just conjure up a bracelet for this girl. I mean, reanimating a dead dog is overkill." Ethan tries to explain to him. 'No, it's underkill. 'Cause the dog would be un-killed. Duh! Plus me giving a bracelet to Della isn't gonna make Sadie jealous. I mean, the kiss from Della didn't even make her jealous." Benny explains before looking back at the computer.

"You don't even know how to do it. And to be honest if a kiss didn't make her jealous I don't think bringing the dog back to life will." Ethan sighs. "Yes, I'm literally bringing a dog back for a girl. No, but I do know where to find the answers, Grandma's secret shelf." Benny looks back at him. "Secret shelf? My bad feeling just got ten percent more bad." Ethan says making Benny look at him weird.

There was knocking at Ethan's bedroom door before it opened, and Ethan's mom walked in with a dish in her arms." Hey, guys. Ethan, dinner's almost ready." She lets him know. "What's that... aroma?" He asks his mom. "Did Jane melt one of her dolls again?" Benny asks Samantha, who gives a short, humorless laugh. "Actually... Ethan's dad is having a very, very important client over for dinner this Friday. So, I'm testing some recipes from T.V's Greatest Chefs. And this is kelp and kimchi ratatouille. Do you wanna try a sample?" She asks the boys.

"Mmm. Yum. Uh... I have to go." Benny gets up leaving the room before Samantha feeds Ethan a forkful of the food. As Benny gets outside he sees Sadie and Rory talking in front of her house. "Oh hey, Benny!" Rory waves at him. "Hey, I gotta get to Grandma's to get something. Also Sadie, I wouldn't go in because Samantha is trying to make food and wants us to try it." He warns her as he walks down the sidewalk. "Thanks for the warning!" She shouts at him.

After some time Benny takes three potions from Evelyn's secret shelf, then texts Ethan to meet him outside. As Benny pulls up to the sidewalk on his bicycle and Ethan walks over. "Hey. I got your text. What's up?" He asks as Benny gets off his bike. "I took these from Grandma's secret shelf." He takes out three vials of liquid. One is golden, the second is red and the last is blue.

"How do you know which vial has the potion to bring a dog back?" Ethan asks him. "I thought you might use a vision to see which one is the bring-back-to-life juice." Benny gives him an awkward smile as Ethan sighs, briefly glancing around in uncertainty. "Come on, E! Help reunite a fair maiden with her beloved pet so I can't make Sadie jealous. One touch." He begs his friend.

"Uh... Okay." Ethan puts his hands out. "Yes!" Benny hands the vials over to Ethan. "Okay, now, focus." As Ethan holds onto the vials, he receives a vision. His eyes go a pale white and he zones out. He sees a crow first, surrounded by a haze of blue. Then a monster-like hand with claws, surrounded by a haze of red. Finally, he sees a hand shooting out of a fresh patch of soil with gold surrounding it. Ethan snaps out of his vision, taking a look at the vials.

"This: angry birds." He hands the blue vial over to Benny. "This one: gross hair on your fingernails." He hands the red vial to Benny. "This-this one's it." He holds up the golden vial, shaking the contents slightly. "But--." Benny snatches it from him. "Sweet! Della's dead dog, thank you. Wish me luck. I have a long road ahead." He climbs onto his bicycle, "And a pooch to summon from the dead. Engage!" He pedals off hurriedly.

"Benny! Benny! Wait! Benny... ugh!" From behind him, Rory drops down, appearing from thin air. "Boo!" Rory says, making Ethan jump back. "Don't do that!" He moves his arms around. "I was working on my Ninja skills. Check out my new card Sadie made for me." He hands over a card to Ethan.

"What's that mean?" Ethan looks at the card. "Hm. Rory, Vampire Ninja. Sadie said it's cool so I'm keeping it." He speedily takes the card back and places it into his shirt pocket. "Ugh. Look, Benny's gone to Della's, and I don't know where she lives. Do you?" Ethan asks him. "No... but I know a sure way to find out: Air Rory!" He grabs hold of Ethan, turning him around and hugging him before flying into the air.

---

It was late at night and the crickets were chirping as Benny was crouched sneaking into Della's backyard, whistling. "Here dead dog. Here boy." He whistles again but it slowly dies out as he comes across a grave amongst a mass of shrubbery. There was a picket with a cardboard sign attached to it, writing on it. "Beloved Puffles, in loving memory. Bingo!" He unscrews the lid off of the gold, reanimating vial.

"I have an afterlife wake-up call for one Puffles... the dead dog." He pours the liquid on top of the grave and it begins to glow. Benny watches on, startled when Ethan suddenly lands near him with a thud. "Wait!" Ethan groans as Benny falls back. "Ethan. Do not sneak up on a dude who's awakening the dead!" Benny sits back up. "Keep it down. Come on, let's go before you do something stupid. I mean, more stupid."

"Too late. Already did. Nothing happened. I--." Rory suddenly lands near them, crouched. Ethan and Benny scream in fright. "Boo-ya!" Rory smiles proud of himself. "Rory, I don't care how undead you are, you do that again, I kill you." Benny points his finger at him. "To kill Vampire Ninja, you must first find Vampire Ninja!" Rory tells him. "Vampire Ninja, you--." He and Ethan turn to see Rory had disappeared.

"Alright. That was kinda cool. Anyway, potion had no effect at all. Maybe your vision was wrong." Benny looks back at Ethan. "My visions are never wrong. But I think your grandma was right. We shouldn't mess with the forces of life and death." Ethan pats Benny's shoulder and gets up. They both walk over to a bench in Della's backyard and sit down with tired and defeated expressions.

They begin to hear whimpering. "Do you hear that?" Ethan looks at Benny. "No way!" They look over to the grave, where a snout is poking out from underneath the soil, the dog whimpering. "Puffles!" Benny runs over to the grave, with Ethan right behind him. "It's alive!" Benny shouts making Ethan shush him. "Woah!" They both start to dig with their hands as Puffles whimpers. Rory appears behind them, his eyes wide, "Woah." They uncover Puffles as he lays on his back, panting.

"That is the sweet sound of Benny scoring a date with Della and making Sadie jealous finally." Benny smiles. "Okay, you did it. He's alive. Let's go before someone sees us." Ethan tells him. "What? No, she has to know I saved him. I wanna surprise her at school tomorrow." Benny lifts Puffles up out of the soil and puts him down on his own paws, allowing him to stand properly. He takes out a blanket from his backpack. From the back of the house, a light is turned on from the upstairs balcony. Puffles barks softly.

"Okay, we have to go." Benny lifts Puffles into his arms and wraps the blanket around him, standing up. Ethan and Rory hurriedly put all of the soil back over the grave, making it look like nothing had happened. In pajamas, Della opens up her patio doors and walks out onto her balcony as the guys run off. "Wait, did you say to make Sadie jealous?" Rory asks Benny who nods his head, "That's why I'm doing this in the first place." Benny explains before Ethan adds to it, "Just for fun supposedly since he doesn't like her." Rory starts to laugh. "Dude, it's not going to work. Trust me, I know."

"How do you know?" Benny glances at him. "Because she only gets jealous if she likes somebody. That's how all girls work. Plus, I already got her." Rory smirks making the other two laugh. "Yeah, right. Maybe in your dreams." Ethan laughs and Benny agrees. "You might have been her first crush but I was her first kiss." Rory says flying off leaving the guys shocked. "He can't be telling the truth right? Sadie wouldn't kiss Rory would she?" Benny turns to look at Ethan. "I don't think so but I know the first part was true so..." Ethan says not knowing to believe it or not. "Nahh, she wouldn't kiss him. Who would? He's Rory." Benny let's out an awkward laugh as they walk. "You didn't make her jealous when you kissed Della, but hearing that she kissed Rory makes you jealous is hilarious."

[lurafita]

Obsession - Chapter 1

Read the prologue here: https://lurafita.tumblr.com/post/184483191964/obsession-prologe

Somebody please tell me how to properly embed the previous part here, please? I’m such a noob.

Thanks everyone who liked and reblogged the prologue, it really got me writing the first chapter way quick! Also, please tell me if this is missing specific tags.

Somebody also tell me how to tag people for the update? Do I just go like this: @itfeelssogoodmrstark @the-neon-demon ?

Obsession

Chapter 1

//Tony, this isn't a joke! You can't just slip away from the tower without any security! If you don't call me or Happy in the next ten minutes, I'm sending Natasha after you!//

Tony smirked as he read the text message Pepper, his personal assistant, had sent him. It wasn't so much that he enjoyed being hunted down by his head bodyguard and former Russian spy, Natasha Romanoff, but he simply wasn't the kind of person to organize a team of stiff security goons around him, just to get out of his tower for a bit.

Which was not to say that he didn't understand Pepper's worry. He was an important, powerful and influential man, who had rivals and enemies practically around every corner. While he certainly wasn't helpless, it wouldn't be the first time he had been kidnapped. And ever since Obadiah's betrayal... well, as stated before, Tony did understand Pepper's worry. Didn't change the fact that he didn't like having a fucking battalion of suits following his every movement, or telling him where he could or couldn't go. He had already fired a bunch of those who had tried. No one told Tony Stark what he could or couldn't do. It was possibly one of the reasons why he had promoted Natasha to the head position. The woman was terrifying in every way, but she never tried to limit Tony. She simply adapted to his whims. And today one of those whims had prompted him to put on a rather atrocious outfit, a wig that made it look like he was some kind of hippie, a cap and sunglasses, all of which combined made up the perfect disguise for him to roam the streets of New York undetected.

He hadn't actually planned to stay out too long, just find some hole in the wall, unobtrusive little diner and drink a cup of coffee (which in hindsight was a really bad idea, because clearly whatever this brown sludge was couldn't hold a candle to the high quality beans used in the coffee makers in his tower), when the conversation between the three people sat at the table on his right had drifted over to him.

At first he had felt annoyed; after all, he had chosen this pitiful little diner because it's unappealing location in a narrow alley way and over all unimpressive decor, was supposed to guarantee very few patrons. And therefore, a quiet little space for Tony to relax for a few minutes, before he had to go back to people shoving papers and contracts under his nose for him to read and sign and his phone ringing every damn five minutes. He had been about to leave, when he decided to at least take a quick glance at the people daring to disturb his little break.

They seemed to be around the same age, which Tony guessed to be early twenties. One rather heavyset young man, black hair, slightly darker skin tone, if pressed, the billionaire would put him down as part Filipino. A young black woman, curly hair, a serious expression on her face that kind of reminded Tony of Pepper. And then his eyes drifted to the third person at that table and he felt... something... shoot through him.

Pale skin peeked out from under a too big sweater, allowing just a glimpse at the collarbones leading up to the slender neck. Light pink lips that, while not overly plumb, looked invitingly lush. Short brown hair that was clearly unstyled, but just seemed to beg you to run your fingers through it's curls.

Soft brown eyes. Deep and bright. And so expressive, as the young man recounted what must have been a fascinating lecture by one of his professors to his two friends.

“Professor Conners studies of cross species genetics and their possible applications in modern medicine are mind blowing, guys. I'm so deliriously happy that I got into his class! He even said that there ...” And Tony couldn't look away. At only a first glance, the brunette looked plain. Unassuming. To someone like Tony Stark, who had bedded more super models than most people even allowed themselves to fantasize about, there should be nothing particularly outstanding about the younger man. And yet...

He was cute. Slightly boyish features, a bit of a baby face. But clearly an adult. Must be. Had to be.

He spoke with such enthusiasm, such passion. His voice just that side of a little higher pitched, but smooth, pleasant.

“...which is why we could possibly be lucky enough to get Doctor Octavious as a guest lecturer sometime this semester and...”

Intelligence and eagerness was pouring off the brunette. So excited by the prospect of learning more, widening his horizons, that his cheeks had taken on a light rosy hue. It was adorable.

“...and just think about what this could mean for trauma patients, or people waiting for a transplant...”

And so Tony ordered another cup of watered down mud, kept on ignoring the messages blowing up his phone, angled his body in a way that kept the younger man in his sight, without outright staring at him, and continued to listen.

The three covered a wide variety of topics, and Tony learned not only the brunettes name (Peter, the other man had called him at one point, and what a delightfully fitting name for the cute creature), but also that beside the sharp intellect, Peter possessed a snarky kind of humor, that had almost caused Tony to snort loudly a few times.

The disguised celebrity was on his third cup of what passed for coffee in the world of the pitiful, when the three were discussing a book that the woman – he hadn't bothered to memorize her name – was reading for her literature course.

“I'm not saying that I like Richard. I just don't think that he is the personification of evil that the book is painting him as.”

And even though Tony had no idea what the books plot even was about, he felt inclined to agree with Peter. Just on principle. The woman shook her head.

“Every oracle they have come across has pointed out the darkness residing in him. He clearly can't be trusted.”

Ah, so it was some kind of fantasy book? He hadn't known that colleges even used those. Then again, his education at MIT had mostly circled around all kinds of mechanical engineering and business, with a side of physics and a bit of chemistry. He had never really been into the liberal arts and the like, so what did he know?

“But that's just it! All they ever say about him is that he carries darkness in his soul. But does this automatically make him a bad man? I mean, if the darkness can be used and manipulated, then isn't it simply a matter of the person who wields it? Like, think of the darkness like a weapon. A gun in the hands of... a robber or something, could kill you. But a gun in the hands of a good guy, like a police officer or someone, could save your life.”

What a profound thing to say. Cute, smart, funny and thoughtful.

“And, is darkness even all that bad? I know it gets linked to evil a lot in stories, but really, I mean, how do I put this? Sometimes darkness can be.. comforting? Like, have you ever tried to sleep in a fully lit room? And sure, you are more likely to get robbed when it's dark out, but it's also a lot easier to hide or escape from someone if they can't see you. Know what I mean?”

It was like Peter was speaking directly to him. Because there had been a time, almost five years ago now, when Tony had thought that maybe, he could find love with Pepper. She had been with him for years. She was loyal, she was beautiful, she was his friend, and he trusted her. The attraction was reciprocated, and they had tried. Tony Stark’s first real relationship. The media had been in a frenzy over them, had hounded him more than usual, hoping that they would catch him straying. Wetting themselves over the chance that they might be the one to get the scoop of the playboy who couldn't stay faithful. Nothing sold better than a scandal.

But Tony hadn't cheated on Pepper, and it wasn't an act of betrayal that ended their relationship. “I'm sorry, Tony. But I can't do this anymore. It's not something you did, it's just... Remember that article a few months ago, - after we brought out the new military weapon series, - that questioned whether or not you had a heart? That article was bullshit and the person who wrote it is an ignorant fool. I believe you have a great capacity for love. But I don't think that I'm the one that... Sometimes, it feels like there is this darkness inside of you. And that scares me. I'm so sorry.”

They had stayed friends, and Tony knew, even if Pepper hadn't ended it that day, it wouldn't have worked out between them. But her words had stuck with him. 'There is this darkness inside you. And it scares me.'

He hadn't denied it. How could he, when it was nothing but the truth?

How many people had called him a warlord, because of Stark Industries weapons manufacturing? How often had he been accused of profiting off people dying? How often had he had to defend himself from his would be assailants, or his would be kidnappers, and not felt an ounce of mercy or regret, when he broke their bones or put bullets into their limbs? He knew well of the darkness he carried, and he had accepted (resigned himself) that this made him a bad man. 

But now Peter, bright, enthusiastic, adorable Peter, was offering him an alternative. A second chance.

Darkness didn't have to be evil.

Yes, Stark Industries had made millions by designing and building weapons to use in wars. But it was those weapons that enabled their soldiers to protect and fight for the ideals of their country and the freedom of all.

It might be scary, but it could be comforting.

He had felt like a demon, avenging and ruthless, when he had finally hunted down Obadiah and ended him; but after that, he had held Pepper and been held by her, knowing that he had done what needed to be done, and that because of that, they were now safe.

It might harbor monsters inside itself, but it could also hide you from them.

He could remember running through the endless halls in his childhood home, his angry and drunk father screaming somewhere behind him, and slipping into a room, any room. Killing all the lights and crawling into a niche, or under a bed, or a couch, or a table. And his father, too drunk to find the light switch with his fumbling, unable to see him in the dark.

“I doubt Professor Wilson expects us to be this philosophical about it, Parker.”

The woman's voice so rudely interrupted Tony's introspection, and he wanted to yell at her to shut up. But he didn't. He wouldn't. She was Peter's friend. And while Tony carried darkness inside him, he was not a bad man.

He watched as Peter shrugged.

“You never know, MJ. Can't hurt to be-” That's when the young man caught a glance at the clock that hung on the opposite wall and his eyes widened in panic. “Shoot! It's almost six already?! I'm gonna be late!” He frantically grabbed his jacked and backpack and stood from the table. His Filipino friend shot him a concerned look.

“Think you gonna make it? Wasn't your boss really angry that last time you were late?”

Peter was rummaging in his jacket pocket and having found the few dollars in it,  quickly laid them on the table to cover his tap. He nodded.

“Yeah, I will have to run, but it's not far. I should just make it. Skype later?”

His two friends nodded, and then Peter was off like a shot.

No. No no no no no. This was too fast. Peter couldn't just leave like this. He couldn't- his phone vibrated with what was undoubtedly another angry text from Pepper about bringing in Natasha. It helped clear Tony's head, though.

This wasn't a problem. Nothing was lost. Tony had listened to the three undergrad students long enough to deduce that they attended Berkeley College. He knew that Peter had signed up for all of Doctor Conners lectures. 

And he now knew that Peter's last name was Parker.

He could find him now. It would be easy, with all the resources available to him. Child's-play.

So he breathed in deeply, and finished the last of his sludge. He laid some money on the table and stood. He had left a generous tip, because even though the coffee had been miserable, the company had been exquisite.

He took his phone out and finally answered Pepper's numerous messages, as he left the diner.

Tony Stark didn't believe in love at first sight.

He thought back to his escape from the tower, now almost 2 hours ago, and the time spent in the diner. He felt lighter than he had in a long time.

But he did believe in true love.

He remembered every detail of Peter that he had been able to gather. And he remembered that something that he had felt, when he first looked into his eyes.

And he did believe that sometimes, true love started with a something.

[forkanna]

NOTICE: All characters and settings © Atlus. Story © 2019 to me. All rights reserved. Dedicated to CheekaBelle, who helped inspire me to play this game and to ship this cracky ship.

WARNING: Slight AU; just one or two small events. Relationship involving a potentially underage character (high school; around 18). Massive spoilers for Persona 5, obviously. Change in perspective will be denoted with "JUDGMENT" for third person, and "The Priestess" for first person Makoto. Also, I know I'm writing the names in Western order (given name then surname) for Japanese characters; please don't @ me haha. If someone were to translate this fic into Japanese I would hope they reverse them into proper Japanese order.

NOTES: Okay. I'm really nervous about this one, because I know Persona has a huge fanbase and I'm a total noob. I just never had any contact with it that wasn't passing P4 on a game store shelf and having no idea what it was until last year; none of my friends were playing it and I didn't know enough about it. But then earlier this year, a few friends strongly recommended P5 to me, and it went on sale for a great price, and… well, crack's primary function is to be addictive, right?

Hopefully I've done some justice to the characters and the universe. And as always, I tried to write this in a way that non-Persona fans can jump right in. Enjoy!

-Jessex

[AO3 LINK] [EF LINK]

PROLOGUE

The clicking of jet black heels echoed throughout the hallway as Sae Niijima made her way to the interrogation room. Her blood boiled and curdled alternately as she thought about what she was about to do - or rather, what she was going to have to put herself through. The last thing she wanted was to know any more than she already did about this situation. But she had no alternative. Either she did her job and got to the bottom of this, or…

No. That was the only option.

"Alright," Sae sighed brusquely as the door slammed shut behind her. The noise still had yet to fade when she added the din of a metal chair scraping across cold concrete to the cacophony. A file folder with a legal pad inside was deposited on the otherwise-barren table; more routine than necessity.

"Let's start from the beginning. Name?"

The half-smiling girl across the table from her stared back for a moment. "Are you kidding?"

"I am not. Name?"

"Fine," she sighed softly, lowering her reddish eyes to point at the table as she tucked a strand of dark brown hair behind her ear. "Makoto Niijima." When the pen started scratching across the pad, she snapped, "Come on, Sis. You didn't need me to tell you that to add it to your file."

"I'm following the rules," she snapped right back at her little sister. "And don't forget our deal."

Makoto seemed to go even more pale than usual at that barely-stated threat. Her slender throat contracted from swallowing as she stared through the table that lay between them. Then she whispered, "Alright."

"Good. Now… do you want to start at the beginning?"

"Beginning of what?" she hedged.

"Of why and how you let this happen."

"When I… when I let this…" Her eyes widened and she sat up straighter. "Just what are you accusing me of?"

"Exactly what it sounds like." Sae crossed her legs and tapped the pad of paper with her violet nails, finally glaring at her sister properly. Etched across every inch of her severe features was disapproval, disappointment - just about any word that began with 'dis' was present. "You and I both know you're nobody's victim, even if you weren't the aggressor. And there are other… factors in this case that don't really add up to the simplest explanation. So I think I have every right to demand answers."

Jaw tightening in defiance, just for a moment, Makoto whispered, "I asked you to leave this alone. It's none of your concern."

But she received a lot more backlash for that than she probably had anticipated. Sae slammed her palm down on top of the notepad, eyes narrowing as she leaned in closer to her alarmed sister.

"Do you know what they think you're doing here? My superiors? They think I'm interviewing you in connection with those so-called Phantom Thieves - which I still need to do, because I think you know more than you've let on in that regard."

Only now did her sibling look truly shocked. "Wh-what?!"

"That's right. I'm not blind. But one thing at a time." Leaning in further so that Makoto had to tilt backward to avoid their heads connecting, she hissed, "I have complied with your foolish request, you little pain in my ass. I don't know what the point is. I don't know why you would want me to protect anyone who did something like that to my own flesh and blood. But I have. So the least you can do is show me a little more cooperation than this!"

As always, Makoto shut down. She knew that was coming. Whenever they argued, if it got particularly heated - or rather, if Sae let her temper get the better of her and went into full Attack Mode - Makoto would resist, she would argue back… until she didn't. The light left her eyes, the wind went out of her sails. Sae both loved and hated that moment, because while it meant she had won the argument…

She was losing Makoto. And she couldn't stop it, couldn't alter that course. It was too late. She wanted to treat her sister better, more like family, but couldn't quite see that pathway anymore.

"Yes, Onee-san," she said in that robotic tone that had become all too familiar. "What would you like to know?"

"Better. Let's begin." She turned the file folder, sliding it across to Makoto so she could see the photo clipped to the corner. It wasn't an official police file - yet. Just notes and a picture.

"What can you tell me about Sadayo Kawakami? And the nature of your relationship outside of teacher-and-student. The truth."

Makoto took a deep breath, staring down at the picture. "It's… not what you think."

"Then tell me what it is instead."

"Alright. So…" Fingers fiddling with the corner of the file, she took a deep breath before she continued. Sae had backed her into a corner; it was practically her M.O. No sense in fighting it.

"This started a few weeks ago, maybe a month, when I noticed something really unusual going on with my friend Ren…"

 CHAPTER ONE

~ x The Priestess x ~

Kawakami has always seemed to me as if she were hiding something. Maybe that's because my big sister is a public prosecutor; something hereditary from our late policeman father. Or maybe hearing about all that legal-related work my whole life has just made me paranoid. Either way, I felt like there was something a little bit off about the Japanese language teacher even if I couldn't quite place what it was. Most of the time, she remained professional and always taught her subjects with passion. But this black cloud seemed to follow her around. Why did such a highly intelligent, capable woman who said she loved teaching so much always look as if she wished she were anywhere else but Shujin Academy?

My first clue I might be right was only a series of fleeting glances between her and Ren- I mean, Amamiya-san. My suspicions should be obvious. Even though I didn't think of him as the sort of boy who would do such a thing, or Kawakami-sensei as that sort of woman, intuition is not a guarantee. So I had to find out for myself one way or another.

I could never have guessed their true situation. Not in a million years.

My curiosity finally got the better of me one day when I saw Kawakami was more tired than usual. Drastically more tired, as if she hadn't slept in a week. With everything going on after Coach Kamoshida's confession of abusing his students and subsequent termination, I think it was natural for me to assume she was feeling fatigued from the fallout from that; the entire staff were strained from picking up the slack of his classes, and dealing with the constant gossip and bad press. Still, given my suspicions about Ren, I decided it was my duty as student council president to at least ask. If she didn't want to talk about it, then that was her choice. And if I turned out to be wrong…

I would have been relieved. Do you honestly think I wanted to find out another teacher at our school could prey on their own students like that?

"Kawakami-sensei?" I asked gently as I knocked on the open door to the teacher's office. "Do you have a minute?"

The dark bags under her eyes said that she didn't. Even her cheerful yellow long-sleeve scoopneck seemed extra wrinkled, though that was probably a figment of my imagination.

"Niijima-san. What's up?"

Seating myself at the neighboring desk, I cleared my throat. "Nothing in particular. With me, anyway."

"That's good," she began suspiciously, brow furrowing as she ran a hand through her wavy brown locks. It occurred to me that she was actually very beautiful, but it wasn't as easy to notice when she always looked tired and stressed out. Sometimes a person's mood colours all perceptions.

"Yes, I'm doing well in my studies. Making new friends."

"Excellent." A few more seconds ticked by. "So…"

"Hmm?"

"So… what did you need to see me about?"

"Oh!" I gave a respectful bow, keeping my eyes on the floor as I said, "Forgive me, Sensei. I'm sorry to take up so much of your time."

However, Kawakami chuckled at me. "So formal. Go ahead, I don't bite. What's on your mind?"

As I sat back upright, I tried to arrange my thoughts into the most tactful question I could come up with. What came out was, "Are you having an affair?"

I could see my teacher's eyes widening, and it took a concentrated effort not to throw myself out of the nearest window. It happened again. Why did I always sling the most forthright question possible at people if I was investigating them, instead of phrasing things a little more gently? That impulsiveness was so unlike me - and as I already learned many times, it didn't yield positive results!

"Niijima-san… what's- I mean, why would you ask me something like that?"

"I-I, um… I'm not sure?" Swallowing hard, I whispered, "You seem very exhausted and upset. Sorry if this isn't my business, I was-"

"You're right. It's not your business." My head snapped up to see she was frowning hard at me, and my heart sank. "I'm your teacher and my personal life outside this school is just that, kid - personal. But in point of fact, I'm not married, so I can't have an 'affair', anyway."

I felt about two centimeters tall as I bowed low. "Y-yes, Sensei."

"And you can tell that old potato the same thing."

"Old… potato? Oh, you mean Principal Kobayakawa?" My jaw almost hit the floor. "Did you just say that about our principal?!"

Kawakami rolled her eyes, seeming to actually lose another hour of sleep just from having to endure this conversation. I felt a tiny pinprick of guilt, though I tried not to think too hard about that. "Come on, Niijima. I know you're his pet; we know that. The staff, anyway."

"I…" My heart sank even further at the way she stated that. "I'm not his pet."

"We've all seen those notices pinned up all over the school, asking for information. Does the rest of the student council really care about unearthing the Phantom Thieves? Maybe about bullying and things like that, but… it's not even school-related. Well, other than their target being Coach Suguru."

Staring at her denim skirt instead of her face now, I whispered, "Of course. It is our duty to… to maintain order in this school. The Phantom Thieves, a-and bullies, are… disorderly. Right? Shouldn't we want to make sure… u-um…"

When it became obvious I wasn't going to finish because my voice had left me, Kawakami prompted, "Go on."

"Shouldn't we want to ensure this is the best institute of learning it can be? Don't you want that? You're our teacher."

"Well…" Another sigh, and I glanced up to see her pinching the bridge of her nose. "Yeah. I guess we do. But nobody likes a snitch. Even I've heard that you and the principal knew about Suguru abusing his students… what was going on with poor Miss Suzui."

"I- I didn't," I hastily told her, feeling my chest tighten, my blood running cold. She hated me. Everyone at the school hated me, didn't they?

But Miss Kawakami was shrugging and turning to look at her papers. "Didn't say I believe the rumours. Just that they exist, and they have some basis in fact. You gonna deny that?"

When I never answered, she finally did glance over at me. There was no warmth or kindness in her eyes, and I understood why; I had stormed in there, accused her of doing something unscrupulous. Even if I didn't outright state that it was with a student, maybe that was why she was so upset: she figured it out. What kind of entitled jerk was I?

"I am very, very sorry," I whispered as I bowed low again, just barely able to keep from trembling. Maintaining my professional facade. "I won't trouble you with this again, Sensei."

"Thank you," she said simply. But when I didn't raise back up, she touched my shoulder. "Makoto…"

"Wh-what…?"

Now there was the tiniest amount of warmth there - both in her eyes and the gentle hand. My heart skipped over a beat. Whether that was because the brief comfort felt nice, or because I had been shocked and afraid she might hurt me, I couldn't say for sure.

"It's alright. Get out of here, let me get back to work."

"Thank you, Sensei. I… I'll go away."

For just a second, as I stood and turned toward the door, I caught a flicker of surprise crossing her face again as she watched me make my way to the exit. But I didn't dare look back to confirm.

                                             ~ o ~

That was it. My big plan to expose further corruption in our school, to get to the bottom of the problem with my teacher, and I failed. I didn't even really get started.

So nothing happened for another week or two. I busied myself with other projects, studying, my duties as student council president. Though I did notice Miss Kawakami looked more and more exhausted, I had already burned that bridge with her; she thought I was an awful, rude busybody who cared more about advancing my school career and finding out the truth than people's feelings. None of that was true… but how could I argue with the way it looked?

Then something happened that almost made me forget all about her. You might remember this, Sister. I hadn't even been home for a few minutes when I heard you shouting for me.

"Makoto!"

I was still busy taking off my Mary Janes when I called back, "Yes?"

You came around the corner, that iron grey hair of yours dripping wet, towel wrapped around your body. It's easy to forget when I don't see you like that, but your legs go on for days. How am I your sister when you're twenty centimeters taller than me? Why did you win the genetic lottery? I always feel like a child next to you. But that's for more than one reason.

"Wasn't the water heater supposed to be fixed today?"

"I… think it was," I replied, stepping away from the door and fiddling with the strap of my school bag. "I take it maintenance didn't get to it?"

"You take it correctly." Every inch of your posture radiated anger and disapproval. "I thought you were going to make sure they could be let in."

Swallowing hard, I set my bag down near the couch. "Well, Onee-san… I said I would if I was home. But they were supposed to arrive while I was at school, so-"

"Then you should have left instructions with them. A key under the mat, something. You know I'm busy with the Phantom Thieves case; do I have to do everything around here?"

"No," I said. In what I hoped was a reasonable tone. "But you also know I can't skip class. And isn't it dangerous to leave a key out for anyone to find?"

Your jaw tightened, and I felt smaller and smaller. Pathetic and useless in your eyes; like I would never measure up. Which was how I always felt with you. On the good days, I only felt somewhat lesser; on the bad, I felt like nothing.

"Fine. You're right. Can't help that. I'll have to do it myself."

"Wait. Can't you… can they come back on Sunday? I don't have class then, and I would be happy t-"

"Nevermind," you cut me off fiercely with a wave of your hand, eyes no longer focused on me but off into the distance. "I'll do it. You can focus on your studies so you can grow up someday. Can't keep coddling you and supporting you forever, can I?"

And before I could say anything else, you were stomping back into the bathroom. There was nothing more for me to do than to move into the kitchen and begin cobbling together a simple dinner for the both of us. And that happened so often I could have set my watch by it. I was left alone in the living room, with my feelings of inadequacy coming from two women in my life who were authority figures.

Poor little Makoto, right?

                                            To Be Continued…