Persona BLEACHED 2: Part 10

Chapter 10: The Hearts of the Cards
September 19, 2028
"And here you go--a big ol' serving of Tenko-nii's specialty noodles~! And they're the right color this time. No additives or anything, pinky swear." Mimi said, handing Rin a large container of noodles.
"What do you mean 'additives'? It's not like I'm performing mad science experiments, I'm making culinary magic!" Tenko griped.
"If that's what you want to call it." Rose mumbled under her breath as she watered her plants.
"Additives or none, thanks, Tenko. I'm sure the kids'll love them. I hope I didn't put you out, but, you know my cooking is...um..." Rin said.
"'Um' is as apt a description as I can think of." Rose responded.
"Don't worry about little old me, Rin-Rin. Always happy to help out. It's Rule 73 in the Bestie Manual, 'When your Bestie needs a favor, never hesitate to lend a hand. Unless it's murder. Murder is always bad'." Tenko said.
"That kinda goes without saying, Nii-san..." Mimi responded.
"Well, thanks again. Oh, by the way...how was Jin when he got home? He left yesterday in a hurry."
Mimi sighed. "Quiet. When I got home, he was on the couch, eating his Hi-Chews. He's never been the biggest talker, even when he was little, but...I can tell the difference between when he has nothing to say, and when he just doesn't want to talk. And that look on his face told me he didn't want to talk."
"When I got home, he looked like his usual gloomy self. But then...he just gave me a hug and started crying. He kept saying he didn't want those kids to end up like him. I know he won't let it on, but, he's still the same Jin deep down. It'd be so easy to just call him a crazy monster and lock him away, but he doesn't need a padded cell. No one could understand what he's going through except us. So, I'm glad you guys are trying to help him. Making a bunch of noodles is the least I can do to repay you." Tenko added.
"Awwww, don't make me tear up now. I love you guys like my own family. Long as it makes a better environment for our little princess. It's Rule 3 of the Auntie Manual." Rin said with a cheeky grin.
"Oh, is that your latest book project? Well, me and Meemster have to get a move on. Good luck with the kids. Tell 'em they can have as many noodles as their hearts desire. Except Kenji. He can have leftovers." Tenko said with a wink.
"Heh. I'll keep that in mind. Thanks again for the food. Have a good day, you two." Rin replied.
"Good luck, Senpai. If you have a moment later, could you swing by and make sure my brother's doing alright? I think he'd appreciate the company." Mimi requested.
"Oh, absolutely. You don't even need to ask."
"Thanks a ton. Catch you later, Senpai." Mimi and Tenko left.
"Okay, I'm gonna get these in the fridge. First of the flock should be here soon. It's gonna be a good, productive day, right?" Rin asked.
"It will be. Positive thoughts only, beloved. Positive thoughts." Rose assured.
---
I. The Magician
In tarot readings, the Magician represents the harnessing and realization of one's inner talents, and the drive to utilize said talents. With it comes the message to live up to the potential within, rather than go through life holding back.
The only sound that echoed in the house was that of rubber hitting palm. Kibō was lying on the couch, tossing his globe ball up and down. "The whole world in the palm of your hands. Sounds like something Kyohei would come up with." Rose said, sitting on the sofa across from the couch.
"It was a gift from him. Helps me relax. Keeps me occupied." Kibō replied, never looking away from the ball.
"How exactly is your relationship with your brother?"
"Complicated. He went to jail when I was seven. Don't really talk. My parents don't like talking about it either." He stopped tossing his ball, and turned to Rose. "What do you see when you look at me, Ms. Rose? Do you just see what he did to you and Professor Kubo? Am I a mastermind-in-training to you?"
"What I see...is a young man bearing the weight of someone else's sins on their shoulders. What do you see of yourself, Mr. Ishimaru?"
Kibō thought for a moment. "My parents...when I went to see them, I saw how tired they were. They have to live with what he did. 'Our son, Accomplice to Murder'. I'm their last...well, hope. When they saw the others with me, their eyes lit up. They were so worried I wouldn't fit in with anyone. That I was gonna be some kind of social outcast. They were so thrilled that I actually made friends. And for a little while, so was I."
He paused again. "When that masked freak told me, that he killed everyone, I...I froze. Then I wondered why I was the one left alive. Everyone else is an artist. They can be something. I'm the picture of mediocrity. What was I still alive for? So I could tell my parents that I royally screwed up and brought my friends to their deaths?"
"You want to know when I knew I was out of my depth? One day, I'm walking around the academy looking for something to do. I notice the door to the theater is open. I walk inside, and I hear this...wonderful music. I think it's a recording. And then, I walk into the theater. It's not a recording. I look out to the stage. I see what you might call an angel, dressed in light blue, with glowing white hair, singing the most incredible song. I can only kneel behind a seat and listen."
"I hear that angel every time I close my eyes. Her song follows me wherever I go. The thing is, she isn't an angel. She's a student, same as me. But that's not how it should be. Someone like me shouldn't be near something so amazing. So I sat in that cell, thinking that the angel had been silenced and I would be left here, listening to her song for as long as I lived. It was only a few hours before that my mother sat at a table and fell for that angel."
"I was too weak to help my friends. Too far out of my league to do anything. All I am is a criminal's younger brother. Too tainted to be near such greatness. So weak that, when I'm hearing the chorus of an angel, all I can do is kneel. That's what I think of myself, Ms. Rose."
Rose sat and gathered her thoughts. "May I tell you something, Mr. Ishimaru? What I heard, just now. About how you seemingly don't deserve to be around your classmates. The way you worded all of that...I don't think someone with no spark to them could have described everything in such a manner. Honestly, when I was listening to you, it sounded like something Rin would have come up with."
"So, what, you think since I talked about something, that means I'm some kind of savant?"
"I'm not saying that. But I do feel you house a great deal of potential. Your brother, for all his faults, was a very intelligent individual. And your family comprises many skilled politicians and orators. The fact that you were able to enter the academy in the first place tells me that you have a very astute mind. Something else I've been meaning to ask about...last month, you got in an altercation with a man at a fast food establishment. What happened there?"
"Oh, that? Some obnoxious idiot was yelling at the cashiers because he wasn't getting his order quick enough. I took an issue with that and told him as much. I got a black eye for my trouble but I didn't feel bad about it. It's my biggest pet peeve. Adults who bully people younger than them. Whether it's a moron screaming about food, or those masked men torturing a bunch of kids. Hell, look at Kitty's sister. Bunch of people that should know better, should be setting a better example, but don't. I can't stand that."
"I see. I think I finally understand you, Mr. Ishimaru. You see yourself as being unspectacular, unworthy of your peers. But just listening to you here, you possess a very strong worldview and insight, well beyond what would be expected of someone your age. You're a much more intelligent young man than you give yourself credit for. With the proper guidance, there is much that you can offer the world."
"Proper guidance, huh? What do you have in mind?"
"I want you to talk it out with someone close to you. See what they see in you, and what it is you see in them that you think you lack. You might be surprised to find that they may see the same in you."
"Who am I supposed to do this with?"
"The angel."
"The...no way. Oh God, that'd be too--"
"Take my advice, Mr. Ishimaru. Holding feelings back benefits no one, least of all yourself. I believe in your potential. So does Rin. Maybe hearing it from someone close to you might get you to see it for yourself. The world is in your hands. You have the potential for greatness. How you use it is entirely on you."
Kibō got up. "Maybe you're right. Maybe there's no point holding anything back. I just have to figure out what to do from here...thank you, Ms. Rose."
A knock at the door. "Guess my time's up, then. I'll just let myself out..." Kibō opened the door, and Barbara was standing there.
"Oh, hey Keeb. Just got done, I'm guessing?" she asked.
"Oh, yeah, I just finished. It was...enlightening. Hey, can I ask a favor? If it's not too much trouble, could you meet with me after you're done? I wanted to talk about...things."
"Okay, that's fine. Maybe we can talk over a nice meal?"
"Yeah, sounds good. I'll let you pick the place this time. Less chance of me getting punched."
"I'll try my best. See you later."
"Yeah, see you." Kibō walked out.
Rose took a sip of tea. "An angel. You really are Rin's student." she mused.
II. The Star
The Star is representative of hope, altruism, joy and positivity. To embody such things is to inspire it in others, even with the knowledge that, eventually, the light will peak and fade.
Barbara took a sip of the tea. "It's lovely, Ms. Rose. Thank you."
"You know, you don't have to call me 'Ms.' Rin is your professor, not me. Just my name is perfectly acceptable."
"That just won't do. You're just as worthy of respect. You did volunteer to help us, after all. Not like I'm calling you an old granny."
Rose giggled. "Did I say something wrong?" Barbara asked.
"Not at all. Just the maturity some of you speak with makes me forget that you all are around 15 years old. Though perhaps I shouldn't be surprised. I'm only reminded that the class I was part of was..."
Rose thought back to her academy days, sitting at the lunch table with the rest of the group. "The hell you lookin' at, ya goddamned shithead?" Jugo sniped at Shūjo.
"I'm looking at that ugly-as-fuck mug you call a face, Cotton-Eye Jackass. Hey Tenko, tell this bumpkin to piss off." Shūjo said back.
"Eat shit and die, JoJo. I'm not some skank you can boss around." Tenko griped.
Rose exited her thoughts. "...a tad more free and easy with their language."
"Credit my study habits, I guess. When I'm not practicing for a performance or hanging out with the others, I've probably got my nose in a book. I'm addicted to learning new things."
"So I've realized. Your intangibles coming into the academy were highly impressive. Especially so considering..."
"Considering what you saw inside Max's mind, right? Call it a win for nurture over nature. Everything from my study habits, to my interests, all of it was grown by my mom. All I ever got from my dad was knowing never to touch his beer unless I'm fetching it for him. Thank God my mom finally kicked him aside."
"Ever since they split, my mom's doubled down on the important things. Keep studying, keep practicing, keep singing. You have to be better. People won't ever think you were fathered by a barbarian."
"Is that why your interests are what they are?"
"Oh no, that's not it. I really do love singing and acting. My mom's not forcing me to do it. She just wants to help me be good at it. And if it helps distance me from an abusive subhuman, so much the better."
"My, you really do hate your father, don't you?"
"Of course. How couldn't I? His whole career was built on cheating. I was more than happy to take him down. Then he convinces my brother--my other half--that I'm the bad guy. You don't understand what that did to me. When Max said he hated me, it...it felt like death. I know most siblings don't get along that well, but that's never been me and Max. My father made that happen. And I truly despise him for it."
"Did you know that when Max showed up after leaving our father, his arm was cut up and bleeding? He tried saying that he got caught in a bush, but I know it was my father. He's nothing but an overly aggressive, perpetually drunken brute. He's probably laying on the floor surrounded by beer bottles right now."
"What happened yesterday, thinking that everyone had been killed...ugh. The first thing I thought was, did I really just lose Max and...and the others? Then as I sat there, stewing on the floor shedding the angriest tears I've ever shed, I had a thought. What would the old drunk think of this? Me suffering in a cell, Max murdered and me left there alone? He'd have a drink to that. Celebrating the ultimate confirmation of my weakness, and how I led my own brother to his grave. That just made the pain so much worse. I live my life according to one policy: don't do anything that would make the drunk satisfied. And thinking that I'd failed that in the worst way...it made me sick."
"You know what I believe, Barbara?" Rose began. "I believe you are perfectly built for singing. Your heart is on your sleeve, and I can feel the depth of emotion you have bottled up. Singing is your outlet, is it not?"
"I guess it is. When I'm happy, my songs are happy. When I'm sad, my songs are sad. And when I'm upset...I just feel more intense. Outside of performances, I don't let a lot of people hear me sing. I'll find a big, private space where I can just let loose. I don't have to worry about anything else then. I can just be Barbara, sounding off about how I feel to no one. Well..." She began fidgeting in her seat.
"Well?"
"I say I'm singing to no one, but, recently I've had an audience. They're a really good listener, and I've been spending a lot of time with them. I like to believe I'm helping them open up, and they're letting me just be me. I thought a lot about this person when I was in that cell...how I wanted to sing to them just one more time..." Barbara rapidly shook her head. "Ohhhh, I'm saying too much! I can just tell you're assuming a million things right now--"
"Ahahaha, don't fret over it. I understand the sentiment completely. And I'm sure this other person returns that sentiment." Rose replied with a mischievous smile.
"M-maybe. Anyway, I should be on my way. Thanks for your time, Ms. Rose. It's weird to vent in a way that doesn't involve lyrics. One of these days I'll let you and the professor hear me sing. And it'll be the happiest little song you'll ever hear. Promise."
"I would like that very much. For now, just keep being real to your secret audience. I'm sure they're waiting for you even now. Best not to keep them wanting for long, hm?"
Barbara stopped as she walked out the door. "D-does she know?! She's looking right through me...she really is good at this." she thought.
Rose took another sip of tea. "Perhaps Rin is right. Maybe I am getting a bit of a naughty streak." she said with a smirk.
III. The Chariot
The Chariot is representative of self-confidence, assertion, single-minded passion. It is the drive to pursue one's goals, whatever they may be, no matter the personal cost.
"These are rather appetizing noodles, Ms. Rose." Kenji said. 
"I'm glad you're enjoying them. You can thank Tenko later." Rose answered.
Kenji paused. "Oh. This is her doing. Lord knows what devious ingredients she's included in it. These could be constructed from animal hides for all I know." 
"Don't worry about it. We made her promise not to do anything odd to the noodles. If there's one thing you can hold her to, it's that she won't lie to Rin about anything."
"Hm. I'll hold you to that. But if I start growing an extra appendage, I'm pressing charges."
Not long after, he sat down on the couch. "So, where is the professor, anyway? I'd assumed she was going to be party to this."
"She's in her room, catching up on a writing project. I insisted on one-on-one sessions. She simply responded with 'do your thing'. She wanted to be here for it, but I wanted her to have some time alone. She hasn't had much of that of late."
"Fair enough. Let's get this on, then. You can commence with the brain dissection."
"Brain...dissection? I'm certainly not doing anything that extreme."
"It was a figure of speech. I'm telling you to psychoanalyze me. Gaze into my mind and see what's amiss."
"Help me, then. Start with what's on your mind."
"What's on my mind? Hmm, let's see. How about we begin with how I spent 24 hours in captivity, being told that all of my companions had been mercilessly slaughtered. That seems as good a place as any to begin."
"I realize you've endured a good deal of trauma, but we can do without the attitude."
"Heh. Seems old habits are hard to kill."
"Rin told me how you would speak to her when you first entered her class. Absolutely zero respect, and quite a few derogatory terms to go with it. I've read your file, Kenneth. 'Combative with female authority figures' was highlighted. Based on what I saw and heard in your Palace, I assume much of it stems from resentment towards your mother. Is that right?"
"Cutting right to the point, eh? Yes, I suppose you are correct in that assessment. Understand that neither my mother nor any woman I'd met prior to being enrolled at the academy treated me with anything but scorn. Oh, how I disappointed my mother in every way. Whether it was taking up a sculpting interest, or having my...'proclivities', shall we say, revealed. Would you like to see the scars on my back for whenever I was deemed to be out of line?"
"My parents live in a completely different universe from what you'd deem normal. When I say they live amongst the nobility, they take it completely seriously. I am to uphold the standards of a noble. That means I must exude strength, and masculinity. Who do you believe my parents want as their child? Kenneth, the Grim Swordsman? Or Kenji, the gay sculptor?"
"I'm sorry. That must have been an arduous upbringing. I do have a concern. When you leave and go back to England, what will you do?" asked Rose.
"What will I do? Probably go back to living a lie. Except I don't think I can do that now. My parents believed that coming to such an esteemed institution would force order and obedience into me. Instead, I have learned to embrace who I am. But who I am, is not the me that others want. Everyone else here is free to live as they want, pursuing their lifelong goals. If I wish to do the same, it would have to be in secret. Meaning everything the professor has set out to do would be for nothing."
"I truly wish I could understand all of it. Why, after being so horrible to everyone, they still brought me into the fold. So as I sat in that cell, believing that those same people that foolishly trusted me had been taken from the world, a thought crossed my mind. What if everything my mother had said was true? What if this was my punishment for living my life a certain way? It was me that failed to keep an eye on Sahir. If only I had been paying attention, that situation could have been avoided. Instead, I was left to wonder whether the God I'd cursed so much for my poor treatment had gotten the last laugh on me. And for the first time since coming here, I'd felt a deep rush of guilt."
"Kenneth...while I agree that your attitude was not acceptable, I don't believe it warranted anything like divine punishment. Do you think that your interests or sexual orientation are deserving of scorn?"
"Well, I don't hear of anyone being struck down by heavenly lightning for carving a statue. As for my sexuality...it's complicated. I'm still not entirely sure how I should conduct myself, what it all really means."
"Kenneth. What do you think I am to Rin?"
"Hm? That's an odd question. I assumed you were simply close friends." The implication hit Kenji. "Hang on...are you saying that you and the professor are..."
Rose smiled. "Let me tell you what 'it' means. It is being in love with someone because of who they are. Gender is the only difference. When I look into Rin's eyes...I feel like no problems matter at that moment. I was silent about my true feelings for so long, and I felt like I could never confess them. But then she told me she felt the same way. Now, everything feels...amazing. I have someone I can stand with for the rest of eternity. Now tell me. If she or I were a man, would anything about that story be radically different?"
"No, I suppose not. I've just heard for so long that it's a sinful way to live. Yet here you are, speaking of another woman as your dearest love, with no hint of wickedness about you. There is much about this life I still have to learn. Though I fear that I may never be allowed to do so."
"I want you to do something for me, Kenneth. I want you to think long and hard about how you want to live your life. Whatever conclusion you come to, you must find the courage to stand on your own, regardless of what others might think. Rin and I are here for you. I know this is a difficult path to tread. Don't be afraid to ask for help."
Kenji pondered the thought. He snickered. "You and the professor. What a pairing. Snark aside, this was a fruitful discussion. I have much to consider about my future. I appreciate the time. Now if you'll excuse me..."
"Oh, don't be afraid to take some noodles to go. Tenko made plenty."
"That's...quite alright. I have enough of that wo--of Mrs. Tenko's cooking as-is. Wouldn't want to deprive the others of...the experience. Take care now." Kenji left.
"Still rough around the edges, but he's trying. Could stand to lose the suspicion, though perhaps that can't be helped..." Rose pondered.
IV. Fortune
The Fortune card is representative of fate, luck, and opportunity. It is indicative of destiny, and the question of how one responds to fate's cruel path.
"Something on your mind, Caroline? You've been rather quiet. Is the tea not to your liking?" Rose asked.
"Ah, forgive me. No, the tea is delightful. I am just reminded of happier days...of having tea with my mother."
"Oh, forgive me. I did not mean to trudge up difficult memories."
"There is no need for apologies. My happiest memories are from those days. Those thoughts are all that got me through captivity."
"I'm going to be completely honest with you, Caroline. Of your entire class, Rin is perhaps most concerned with your mental state. Considering your background..."
Carrie fidgeted, and didn't say anything. "If it's too much for you to talk about, then we can just talk about those happier days you mentioned. I'm not here to cause you discomfort." Rose said.
"Your concern is appreciated, but I'm alright. I was taught that withholding pain is counterproductive. Even if it's difficult, I must be honest about my pain."
"For the past five years, I have dealt with the pain of losing my parents. Trying to figure out why I was the only one to make it out of that building alive. I was finally beginning to forgive myself for that day. Forgiving myself for living. Then, to be told that everyone I cared about had been slaughtered again. Can you even begin to comprehend something so horrifying? That I get to live with the thought of surviving a massacre not once, but twice? Do you know how I reacted?"
"How, Caroline?"
"I didn't. On the inside, my stomach was turning. My mind was aflame. But on the outside? Cold as the grave. I shed no tears. I hadn't done so since that day in Qatar. I could tell even that masked dastard was unnerved. 'Your friends are dead, and yet you stand there with no reaction whatsoever?' I sat in that cell, wondering why the gods of fate had chosen me as their guinea pig for whatever cruel experiment they were performing. Why must I continue to live while everyone around me suffers a horrible fate? Through all of this, I shed no tears. I thought my heart must be as cold and hard as stone. I really must be some kind of ruthless, unfeeling beast."
"Is that really what you believe?"
"I did. I couldn't blame myself for it, of course. When you've endured as much tragedy as I have, it stands to reason that my heart would become hardened. But then something happened that put a crack in the shell. I walked out of that cell, and the sight I saw..."
Carrie went silent. "Need a moment?" Rose asked.
Carrie put her hands together. "רוח ... מלח ... חול ...רוח ... מלח ... חול"
"Wind, salt, sand. You recite those words to calm yourself, yes?"
Carrie nodded. "Before that fateful meeting, my last good memory of my parents was a trip to a salt flat. My mother teaching me about salt formation, my father on the phone talking with the Emir of Qatar. I recite it in Hebrew out of respect for my old teacher Boris. He was the one who taught me how to fight. He gave his life to protect me on that horrid day. That trip was the last moment of happiness I would have for a very long time. Recreating the feelings of that moment helps to calm me down." She took a deep breath. "Okay. I'm ready to continue."
"I saw Natalia, curled up and crying. Me and her, we've become close since meeting here. I feel like it's become my duty to keep her safe, given her timid nature. Seeing her in that state, I was conflicted. It was a mixture of relief that she was still alive, but also the most horrific guilt that I didn't keep her safe. I just gave her the biggest hug I'd ever given anyone, like I had to keep her safe from the world. And then I felt something crossing my cheek that hadn't done so in five years. Suppose my heart isn't as rock-hard as I'd thought."
"I don't think I need to tell you that you haven't lost your heart, Caroline. I think that seeing what you've seen has had a drastic effect on how you perceive the world, but I don't believe it's cost you your soul. I have several friends who feel the same way as you. Asking themselves why they lived and someone else didn't. It's a feeling that can't be easily explained or amended. What I would suggest is...take it one day at a time. Ask yourself what your loved ones would want for you. Would they want you to prosecute yourself, and deem yourself to be a soulless monster? I don't believe that to be the case."
"I know. Some days I just feel so...lost. Like I don't know why I was allowed to live. I feel so isolated in those moments."
"That's what you have friends for. What we are here for. If you're feeling scared and need an outlet, find somebody to listen. I don't encounter many problems where talking doesn't help even just a little bit."
Carrie took another sip of tea. "This really is delightful tea. Thank you for the hospitality and time, madame Rose. I'll do my best to heed your words." As she exited the house, she saw Natalia crouched down next to the door. "Oh, you're here already, Natalia. I hope you haven't been waiting long."
Natalia got up. "N-no. I just got here a few minutes ago. I guess you're done?"
"I am. It felt good to vent for a little while. I'll leave you to your--"
Natalia grabbed hold of Carrie. "P-p-please don't go. It'd be a lot easier if you were in there..."
"I can't do that, Natalia. It has to be one-on-one. If it makes you feel any better, I can wait out here until you finish. I don't have any other business today, so I don't mind."
"O-okay. That makes me feel a little better...time to get this over with..." Natalia went inside.
"Her stuttering is back...that's a worrying sign. Oh, Natalia..." Carrie mused.
V. Death
Death is the ultimate end. It is representative not only of physical expiration, but of the alteration of one's lifestyle. The presence of this card is indicative of the end of a cycle, or some other type of deep change.
"....."
"....."
"...Natalia?"
Natalia was curled up on the couch, her hood draped over her head. She had been in this same position for the past ten minutes, having said nothing. 
"I recall meeting this one at the flower shop last month. She didn't say all that much...all I can remember is Mimi running in and knocking her over in her hurry. Rin did mention to me that she was timid. I should try making her feel comfortable..." Rose thought.
"Natalia...do you need me to bring you something? Something to make you feel more at-home?"
Natalia remained silent.
Rose heard a knocking sound. She looked towards the source of the noise, and saw Carrie waving at her through the window. Carrie beckoned her outside. "Wait one moment, Natalia." Rose said, and she went outside.
"Caroline, you're still here? What's the matter?"
"Sorry to interrupt, madame. Natalia wouldn't go in unless I promised I was close by. She hasn't said anything, has she?"
"No. I'm trying to find a way to make her comfortable. You're closest to her, Caroline, do you have any suggestions?"
"Hmmm. She's rather fond of hugging soft things. She has a mantra of hugs making everything feel better. Maybe you should find something for her to hug while you're talking."
"Something soft to hug...hmm. I could try our cat, but she's not very good with strangers...Ah! I think I have an idea. Caroline, wait here with her. I'll be right back." Rose walked off. Carrie went inside.
"Not feeling very chatty, Natalia?" she asked. Natalia wordlessly got up and hugged Carrie. "It's alright. I know opening up is difficult. But madame Rose is here to help you."
"W-where'd she run off to?"
"She went to get something to help you relax. She shouldn't be long." Natalia held her tighter. Carrie sighed. "What am I going to do with you?"
Rose walked to Jin and Tenko's house next door. She rang the doorbell. The pair's shiba inu, which was sitting outside, put its paws on Rose's legs. She bent down and pet it. The door opened. Jin stood at the entryway, a tired expression on his face. "Yo." he uttered.
"Good day to you, Jin. All's well, I hope."
"'s alright, I guess. Bored to tears. Never thought I'd be counting the days til I got back to work. Weren't you talking with those kids today?"
"I am indeed. That's actually what I wanted to talk to you about. I've hit a bit of a snag with one of the students. It's been suggested that I bring her something soft to hug, to help her relax."
"Something soft, huh? I might have something that can help. Come on in. Shoes off. You know Mimi's policy."
Jin took Rose to a room down the hall. The room itself was filled to the brim with stuffed animals of varying shapes and sizes. Rose looked at the pile stunned. "Oh...wow."
"Yeah. I know." Jin said bluntly. He began sifting through the pile. "Gotta be one here somewhere...ah, got it. This one oughta work." He pulled out a pink-and-white foxlike animal, a bow and ribbons on its neck and one of its rabbit-like ears. "Sylveon should be enough for your cute and fluffy needs. And those ribbons help to calm people down."
"Thank you, Jin. This should be perfect."
"Tell her she can keep it if she wants. Tenko wants me to offload some of these before the baby gets here. I'd feel better if they had a good home to go to. Call it a gift. From one kidnap victim to another."
"The sentiment is appreciated. I'm sure she'll adore it."
"I really do hope you can help them, Rose. No one else needs to suffer like I have. Seeing visions of their tormentors whenever they close their eyes. If this helps even a little bit..."
"It will, I'm sure of it. Thank you again. I'll call you about our next session. See you later." She hugged Jin, and proceeded out the door.
"What was that about?" he asked.
"Hugs are good medicine for sadness, so I've been told. Ta-ta~." Rose left.
Jin looked around. Silence. "No laughs. No violent snark. Good." he said with a smirk.
Rose returned to her house. "Natalia, I have something for you. I hear you're fond of fluffy hugs. So I sought help from a friend, the king of fluffy hugs." She handed the plush to Natalia, whose eyes lit up.
"Ohhhh, it's so fluffy and cute...I love it..." Natalia said, hugging it tightly.
"Call it a gift from someone who went through something similar to what you all endured. He agrees with your life mantra about hugs. Would you be more comfortable talking to me now?"
Natalia turned to Carrie. "You'll be fine. It's alright. I'll still be outside."
Natalia nodded. "Okay...yeah. I can talk."
"Wonderful. Thank you for watching her for me, Caroline. You can step out now."
"Okay, madame. See you in a little while." Carrie said to Natalia, before walking out the door.
"You're very sensitive, I can tell. What happened yesterday must have been extremely difficult for you."
"Y-yeah. It was really scary. Especially when the creepy mask guy told me he'd killed everyone. T-that he killed Carrie..."
"You and Caroline have formed quite a deep bond in such a short amount of time. I can see how much she cares about you. And you completely shut down unless she's around."
"Outside of my parents, Carrie's treated me nicer than anyone else. It's still so crazy. Someone as beautiful and fashionable as her. And she's so strong...I love having her as a friend. Thinking she was gone...that the best friend I'd maybe ever have was gone...I just kept thinking 'Why? Why?' I've never had so many friends before, and I can only have them for two months? It felt so unfair..." 
"I'm just so scared all the time...it feels like nothing in the world makes sense anymore. My parents practically had me wrapped in a plastic bubble my whole life. Magic powers, worlds made of thoughts, freaky cult guys in masks...this kind of stuff only happens on TV. But this isn't TV. And I don't know how to handle it. I'm such a scaredy cat. When that black-and-white guy took Carrie out...I froze. If she couldn't win, what chance did I have? None, as it turned out. I was completely useless. I still feel that way..."
"I don't think you're useless at all, Natalia. Caroline doesn't either. I just finished talking with her not too long ago. It's clear to me that you're very precious to her. You know what she's dealt with in her life, yes?"
"Y-yeah. Her parents died a few years ago. She still says she feels guilty about it."
"Indeed. Such a horrific experience could leave a person emotionally dead. Yet she is very affectionate with you. From what she told me, the one thing keeping her in-touch with her humanity...is you."
"M-me? Why me?"
"She believes that she is here to keep you safe. And I believe she wants to help you with your self-esteem. In doing so, she probably sees a reason for her survival. This is what friendship truly means, Natalia. It's helping to make each other better. I know how frightening all of this might seem. But you have people to help you through it. And as for Caroline, the way she treats you, how you two interact with one another...in her, you have a friend for life. I truly believe that."
"A friend for life...I'd be really happy if I could be friends with her forever. She makes me feel so safe..."
"Tell her that, then. She'll be happy to hear it."
"I-I will. Thanks so much for the talk, Ms. Rose. And for the plushie. I have so many stuffed toys at home, but I forgot to bring one with me. I'm really happy to have this one."
"Thank our neighbor, Mr. Mirai. He has a vast assortment of them. And his wife provided the noodles. They've been friends with me and Rin since our academy days."
"They sound like really nice people. They must be your friends for life, then."
Rose giggled. "I suppose they are. You know it only took Tenko--she's Mr. Mirai's wife--about five minutes to declare Rin her best friend. Sometimes you just know who's meant to be in your life."
"Yeah...I guess you're right. Thanks again. Tell the professor I said hi." Natalia walked out.
Carrie met her outside. "Feel better, Natalia?"
"Yeah, I do."
"So glad to hear it. I hate seeing you so upset. Let's head home. I'll prepare some tea--"
"Before we go, I, uh...I wanted to give you a present."
"A present? For me?"
"Yeah. Let me just..." Natalia put her hand in her bag, and pulled out something. "I finally finished it." It was a purple hooded jacket, with an image of a purple gemstone stitched onto the back. 
"Oh my goodness. This is adorable..."
"Try it on. I've been afraid that it wouldn't fit..." Carrie put on the jacket. "How is it?"
"It's perfect. Such comfortable material...hm, and we can't forget the signature hood. Thank you, Natalia. I'll treasure it always."
"I'm happy that you're happy. I was so afraid that you wouldn't like it..."
"I love it. This is one of the most meaningful gifts I've ever received. I truly mean that." Carrie embraced Natalia. "I'm so glad I met you. I really, truly mean it."
"Same here. Thanks for always being so nice to me. So, c-can we be friends forever?"
Carrie gave a surprised laugh. "Of course, Natalia. I'd love nothing more. Friends forever."
Smiles on their faces, the two headed home.
VI. The Moon
In tarot readings, the Moon is representative of creativity, dreaming, fear, and the subconscious. It indicates being uniquely attuned to the world around, perceiving things that should otherwise go unnoticed.
"Is this, ah...is this Kamen Rider?" Kitty asked. She was looking at a photo placed over the fireplace.
"It is. That's actually Rin inside the costume. Are you a fan, So-yin?" Rose asked.
"Not really. Hard to avoid it when you go to as many manga and anime shops as I do. I wouldn't have pegged you or the Prof as fans, though."
"We've seen an episode or two, mostly at the behest of the girl in the photo. Her name is Miko. She made the costume herself. We still have it displayed in her old room."
"Dang. That's some impressive handiwork. Weird that she wouldn't take it with her if she worked so hard on it. What's the story about that?"
"Oh, she...she died. About four years ago. She battled an illness. We've kept her room intact for the most part."
"Oh, shoot. Sorry. That sounds rough."
"It was. It's had a profound effect on Rin. Miko idolized her. She's only just recently gotten to a point where she can talk about it. Losing such a unique spirit to something so horrible...it's been a long grieving process."
"Sorry to bring all that up. I'm supposed to be the one in therapy. I'll just get to sitting down now."
Kitty laid down on the couch. She grabbed a pillow. "K, so, I was born in a log cabin. Pieced together by an old Asian doctor..." she mused.
"Um...I beg your pardon?"
"Isn't this how these gigs usually go? We start from my humble beginnings, trying to find where it all went wrong? Maybe find some childhood trauma along the way? I've got one doozy."
"Well, by all means, let's hear about it." Rose took a sip of tea.
"Well see, I had an uncle."
"Oh, dear."
"He was an apeist."
Rose spat out her tea. "A...a what now?" she asked, trying to wipe her mouth.
"An apeist."
"What does that mean, So-yin?"
"He forcibly aped people. Turned them into apes."
Rose tried to hold back laughter. "How...how did he do that?"
"With his crinkled ape magic finger. He dipped it in mud, and it came out all crinkly."
Rose couldn't hold it any longer. "Dipped it in--Ahahahahaha!" She recomposed herself. "So-yin, you...ahahaha...you realize humans are all apes to begin with, yes?"
"Tell that to my uncle. One time, this dude tried cheating him at cards. Next morning the guy was flinging his poop at everyone that walked past."
"That cannot POSSIBLY be true."
"Oh, it absolutely is. Wasn't cuz of crinkled ape finger, though. Dude was just high."
Rose sighed. "So you admit the entire thing was facetious?"
"Well, duh. Sold it pretty good though, huh? Having a thief for a sister means I've gotten pretty good at BS. Spouting it AND spotting it."
"Being a good liar isn't really something to be proud of."
"Got her cornered, didn't it? She'd probably still be running around the market district if I didn't get her to buy the 'mark of a lifetime' schtick. 'Oh, Sister-senpai! Let's be mean and steal stuff together!' Bought it hook, line and sinker."
"No one would ever believe that their own sister would be setting them up. Not even a master thief. Doing that is one thing. But what about everyone else? How does being a compulsive liar benefit your day-to-day relationships?"
"Whoa whoa whoa, time out. Who says I'm a compulsive liar?"
"I'm not saying you are now. I'm saying that with such a casual attitude in regards to lying, that you could very much be on that path."
"K, K, let me explain something to you. EVERYBODY has to lie about something. Let's look at my class, for instance. Aren't politicians trained to lie to get what they want? Aren't actors trained on selling a lie about who they are? And how many times do you think Mr. Sunshine Sahir has been sprawled on the ground, acting like his leg's been broken before getting up two minutes later and walking it off? I'm not doing anything nobody else is. I'm just not getting paid for it."
"I don't see anything wrong with knowing BS when I see it. I didn't buy one word of that masked freak's crap. Told him as much. And where he could stick it. I spent my time in that cage more irritated than anything."
"Well. Seems you aren't as good at selling lies as you think." Rose affirmed.
"What am I lying about, exactly?"
"I saw how you were with the others after being released. You were as relieved as the rest of the class to see them safe. Part of you was truly fearful that they were gone. Or was the way you embraced Barbara and Max part of a deception?"
"....."
"I don't mean to sound accusatory. You're an intelligent, witty girl, So-yin. Surely you must realize that there's no need to embrace deceit. With deceit comes a natural distrust. Do you wish for a life where nobody believes a word you say? What if, hypothetically speaking, you were to profess feelings towards someone? Would they be wise to believe you?"
"That wouldn't happen. Not in a million years."
"Hm. You see where I'm going with this, don't you? It doesn't take much to go from one or two white lies, to lying without any effort at all. I'm saying this now so that it doesn't become a problem in the future."
"...ugh. You're right. Sometimes I just can't help it. You have the sister I do, you pick up on some of the worse habits. Lying just comes easy. I don't want people to not trust me. That kind of thing already cost me my streaming. 'She helped her sister rob a store, who's to say she isn't a thief herself?' I'd always get messages like that. All you need to do is be close to a liar, and people accuse you of being one too. I don't want to be the kind of person that hurts my friends just by being around them."
"And, yeah. I was afraid that my BS radar was wrong. Seeing the Wonder Twins and everyone else was a damn relief. It's funny. Barbie gets ragged on for telling the truth. I dunno how we're friends, but for whatever reason she likes being around me. And Sparky's a fun guy to be a geek with. Great moral compass, too. They're the kind of straight-laced peeps I should be around."
"That's encouraging to hear, So-yin. The first step to amending a problem is acknowledging there is one. Gathering you all from across the globe was an effort to expand your horizons and change your perspectives. Helping you grow as a person is simply part of the process."
"Yeah, yeah. No need to sell me on the project, I'm already part of it." Kitty shuddered. "Okay, that's enough being serious. Which way did Kenji go? I need to ruin his day."
Rose sighed. "One step at a time, I suppose. Just make sure that silver tongue of yours isn't being used for nefarious purposes."
"Aye-aye, Doc." Kitty gave a salute, and walked out.
As she walked out, she ran into Max. "Oh, hey Sparky. Right on time, I see."
"Of course. Can't be late to such an important meeting, can I?"
"Heh. Wouldn't be like a hero of justice to show up late."
"Again with the hero of justice thing. I'm just showing up when I said I would."
"I'm just teasing, Sparky. I like that you're always so punctual. You're a good guy to be around."
"Umm, thanks. I gotta head in."
"Right, right. Shoot me a text when you're done, though. I got some new anime releases I wanted to look at with you. If you're cool with it."
"Sounds like fun. I'm game."
"Awesome. Good luck in there. She'll mess with ya. And your miiiiiind." She waved her hands around dramatically.
"I'll be fine. Mind games don't work on a hero of justice. See ya later." Max walked inside.
Kitty turned red. "You're a good guy, Sparky. And that's no lie." She walked in the direction of the academy."
VII. The Emperor
The Emperor represents power, control, and unwavering courage. Its appearance is indicative of a major internal struggle, one that requires that same courage to face up to.
"I hear you do impressions, Max." Rose said.
"It's my specialty, yes." Max replied.
"Before we get started, could I see a display? Lighten the mood before more serious matters."
"Sure thing. I'll give you my usual act...who's your favorite actor?"
"Keanu Reeves." Rose said sheepishly.
"Good a choice as any. How about a favorite song?"
"Fly Me to the Moon."
"You ever seen Evangelion?"
"I have, actually. I enjoy shows and movies about space. And I have...something of a fondness for the moon. So, Max...are you going to sing for me?"
"...yeah." he said in a deepened voice, resembling that of the John Wick star.
Rose giggled. "Let's hear it then, Mr. Reeves."
"I can't promise that it'll be Barbara-level in quality, but..."
Max proceeded to sing the first verse of the song Frank Sinatra made famous, all while imitating the vocal tones of one Keanu Reeves. When he was finished, Rose applauded. "Stop it..." Max uttered in his normal voice.
"That was masterful, Max. You have a real gift. No wonder the acting world's taken notice."
"Ah, that's an exaggeration. All I do is put on voices. I'm certainly no Keanu."
"Could've fooled me. You and your sister could easily be a package deal."
"Yeah, that's not gonna happen. We'd appear in stuff together when we were younger, but she's a theater girl at heart. I'm a film guy myself. Not just the acting part, either. I've learned a thing or two about directing, editing...gotta know as much about the industry as I can if I want to find my way in. These days, my impressions are mostly just for entertaining people...and myself."
"It's what got me through having to live with my old man. Even if he'd tell me to shut up after a while."
"Here's what I still can't understand, Max. If your father was such an abusive brute, why did you go with him instead of your mother and sister?"
"....."
"You and your sister have a tight bond. You aren't just siblings, you're twins. I would assume that you would believe her over your father."
"...I was a fool. He'd convinced me that she was lying about the allegations. She did have a reputation for gossip, after all. And for all his faults, he was still my father. There was always a tension between them. So I, stupidly, thought that if he was away from her, maybe his attitude would change. But, oh, was I wrong. He got so much worse when I was alone with him. The drinking got worse, and with that, came the beatings. He even wanted me to come here just so I could one-up Barbara. That's how much of a spiteful person he is. But who's the bigger fool: the monster, or the dimwit that refuses to see the signs?"
"You chose to believe there could be good in him. There's no shame in admitting your optimism was misguided." Rose responded.
"That 'misguided optimism' made me tell my sister I hated her right to her face. I'll never, ever forgive myself for that. Some 'hero of justice' I am. I'm such a strong, heroic guy that I had my butt whooped almost immediately, then sat crouched in a jail cell while some cultist weirdo gloated about how he'd murdered all my friends. And Barbara. And the only thing I could think of was the old man boasting about how he'd won."
"He was right all along. I'm just a sissy pretending to be a man. But then another part of me thought: this is just part of being a hero. Every hero has a personal tragedy to motivate them. Batman and his parents, Spider-Man and Uncle Ben. I just get to have seven Uncle Bens. Seven people that died because I wasn't strong enough. Guess it makes sense that I'm so good at pretending to be someone else. The real me just isn't good enough."
Suddenly, there was a knock on the door. Rose looked toward it. "LET ME IIIIIIN!" shouted a female voice. 
"Um...it's open." Rose replied.
The door flew open, and Kitty stood at the entrance. Her cheeks were puffed, and she was clearly frustrated. "Sorry to barge in, Doc, but I couldn't listen for another MINUTE."
"K-Kitty?! You were out there the whole time?!" said a stunned Max.
"Never mind that! Just where do you get off, talking about yourself like that?!" Kitty said back, storming over to where he was sitting. "So you got beat by that uber-goth cosplayer? Newsflash, we all got beat! It doesn't mean we're all weak. We just weren't prepared for those freaks."
"And you're saying you pretend to be someone else because the real you isn't good enough? I'm the one that should be spouting that nonsense. I'm the master BS artist, not you. That's what I was before meeting you, at least. You and Barbie are so straightforward and genuine. You're the example for what I should be doing. I don't want to hear any crap about the real you 'not being good enough'."
"Kitty..."
"You're a genuinely good guy, Sparky. A genuinely good guy that likes the same nerdy stuff that I do. You're responsible, you make everyone laugh with your impressions. You shouldn't say that nobody thinks you're good enough. I know Barbie thinks you're good enough. And...I think that too."
"....."
"D-don't just gawk at me like that, say something."
"...thanks for that, Kitty. I'm...happy to hear you say that." Max replied.
"She has a point, Max. I'm starting to believe that Rin's tendency to be too hard on herself is waring off on you all. It's one thing to take responsibility and try to improve. It's quite another thing to perpetually blame yourself for things that aren't your fault." Rose said.
"Wait...the professor feels this way too?" Max asked.
"Oh, do not get me started. I love her dearly, but she has a nasty habit of blaming herself for things beyond her control. So-yin, remember how I mentioned that our friend Miko passed away due to illness?"
"Yeah. You said the Prof has a lot of trouble talking about it."
"Correct. And that's because she feels partially responsible for Miko's suffering. Those two first met...when Rin stopped Miko from taking her own life. Rin's guilt stems from the question of 'If I didn't save her that day, would that have spared her from greater pain?' It's not a pleasant question, nor does it have a pleasant answer. I tell her that Miko was thankful for the four years they did have together, and that some things are just beyond our control. I don't know if it helps at all, though."
"Guilt isn't a rational thing. When there's that much pain involved, you want to find someone to blame. Even if it doesn't make sense." Max said.
"Precisely my point. You shouldn't blame yourself for things outside your control. There's nothing to be gained from that except self-loathing. Just listen when people tell you why there isn't a reason to feel guilty. Case in point..." She motioned towards Kitty, who shyed away from any interaction.
"Well, thanks for the advice, Ms. Rose. I'll try to keep it in mind. Let's get a move on, Kitty." Max said.
"Don't be so presumptuous. What if I'm planning on staying here forever?" Kitty retorted.
"Pardon?" uttered a surprised Rose.
"Come on, crazy girl." The two walked out the door.
Outside, Max stopped Kitty. "Hey. I forgot to make one thing clear."
"That you're a butt?"
"That you're someone I'm trying to be like too."
"Don't be dumb. A hero of justice wants to be like me?"
"Why not? You're so smart, you've got a sharp tongue. You know WAY more about anime and games than me. I honestly think I'm too wound-up. I could stand to be more laid back, like you."
Kitty was speechless. Then, she ran up and hugged Max from behind. "Thanks for that, Sparky. I mean it." She started blushing. "Now promise me you won't mention this to anyone. I have a rep to uphold."
Max smirked. "My lips are sealed. I won't tell a soul. A hero always keeps his word."
"Good. Come on, we've got some anime to stream. Our weeb kingdom awaits..." The pair walked towards the academy.
VIII. The Sun
The Sun is representative of joy, optimism, and a sense of accomplishment. It is indicative of the ability to see the good in all things, even when there seemingly is none.
"Are you, um...enjoying the food?" Rose asked. Sahir was scarfing down a large serving of noodles.
"Ahh, delicious food, and alone time with a couple of lovely, mature ladies! What more could a guy ask for?" Sahir said boisterously.
"I already told you, flattery will get you nowhere." Rose said with a tinge of annoyance.
"Never hurts to try. I mean, except when I get slapped. Then it hurts."
Rose groaned. "You don't see this compulsive urge to flirt as a problem?"
"Heh, why would it be a problem? I'm making people feel good. Nothing wrong with that."
"Sahir, I'm going to say something that might come off as harsh. But that habit of yours is what got your class in trouble, is it not?"
"Ouch. You don't mince words, do you, Ms. Rose? Well, you're not wrong. I ran off by myself to look for--"
"A maid café. I was told."
"Yeah, and while running I came across that big spooky portal. I know, I should've told the others first, but it was too tempting."
"And then everyone went looking for you, and they found the portal. And that's when they were ambushed."
"Yeaaaah. So much for an innocent maid adventure, huh?"
"You realize what the repercussions for that could have been, yes?"
"Of course I do! The freaky witch doctor man told me he'd done everyone in! That was the worst feeling I'd ever felt in my life. Went to have a little fun and I got my friends killed. Kept thinking, y'know, maybe I should've taken that club contract after all. I'd be far away from here, and no one would've gotten hurt. I felt like such a fool for getting everyone wrapped up in that mess."
"And yet, here you are going right back to your flirtatious ways."
"Can't just stop being who I am, can I? That'd be the same as the masked bozos winning. I'm not gonna quit being me overnight. I just gotta, y'know...be smarter about it."
"I know this sounds selfish of me. Keeping up like that after it almost got my friends killed. But I don't like to harp on the bad stuff. You keep dwelling on the bad, you start to ignore the good. Someone's gotta be the happy one when things get dark. If the others see me going on like usual, maybe they won't be so down. Does it bother me? Heck yes it does. It's gonna bother me for a long time. But I'm the happy one. The guy that doesn't take much seriously. If I'm not okay, the others aren't gonna be okay. You see what I'm saying?"
"I understand your logic. Wanting to keep everyone's morale up is commendable. But you shouldn't keep ill feelings bottled up. It isn't healthy." Rose retorted.
"I'm not keeping things bottled up. I'm admitting I screwed up."
"Admitting to a mistake is different from pretending it isn't there. While you might believe that you are providing levity, your friends might perceive it as a lack of concern for their own wellbeing. Be a guiding light for them, but not to the point where they see you as being unaffected. Call it 'optimism within reason'."
"'Optimism within reason', huh? Beautiful and intelligent. I like it."
Rose groaned.
"But I get it. I'm the one that messed up. It's my responsibility to make it right. Within reason. Guess I've gotta start working on my apology."
He pointed towards the noodles. "Can I grab some to go?"
"By all means. Otherwise me and Rin will have to finish the rest ourselves."
"All I needed to hear!" Sahir grabbed a large container full of noodles. "You and Teach have a good rest of the day, now. You've gotta be exhausted after hearing us mope all day. Maybe have a nice, romantic noodle dinner." He winked.
"That does sound pleasant. Something tells me we'll be having noodles for a good while now..."
Sahir exited the house. As he walked, he bumped into a familiar face. "Oh, Kenny. Out for an afternoon jog? Bit of a ways to run."
"I'm not out for exercise. I actually wanted to stop by the professor's house."
"Didn't you come by earlier, though?"
"I did. However...I left without taking any of Mrs. Tenko's noodles. I was hoping they might have some leftover. Given my...prior history with her, I was skeptical that they may have been a product of her culinary insanity. In hindsight, the ones I tried were rather delectable, so I decided to swallow my pride and ask for more."
"Well, my friend, you're in luck! I've got myself a big batch of 'em. Bigger than I could finish on my own. You could have some, no strings attached."
"I couldn't impose."
"It's not imposing. It's me making up for...for getting you guys in trouble. I messed up, bigtime. I got too excited and curious and it almost got everyone killed. No amount of 'I'm sorry's could ever make up for it."
"I'm not exactly without blame, either. Given your excited state I should have kept a closer eye on you. Frankly, I'm still getting used to having other people around that I'm supposed to watch out for."
"What a sad pair we are, huh Kenny? Y'know what'd go a long way to making things alright?"
"Let me guess...noodles?"
"We're on the same wavelength, Kenny! Race you to the dorms!" He ran off ahead.
"Feh. Nothing keeps him down for long, does it?" Kenji mused, and he walked after Sahir.
---
"Oh, dear. Tenko really did make a lot of noodles..." Rose said to herself, staring at the substantial amount of food still remaining. "Suppose this takes care of dinner for the rest of the week. She always puts in 110% effort when Rin is involved. If she puts that much effort into motherhood, that child will struggle to find a single bad day. Speaking of Rin, I should see what she's up to. She gets so laser-focused on her projects..."
Rose walked upstairs. She peered into Rin's office. Rin was at her desk, resting her head on her arms, asleep. Rose quietly walked over to her, and peeked at what she was working on. The page count on her laptop read '67'. "Certainly has been busy." Rose thought. She looked at the title at the top of the screen. The Girl in the Wasp's Nest.
Rin stirred awake. "Mmmm...hey, Rose." she said groggily.
"Sorry, did I wake you?"
"No, no, I was barely even asleep...how'd it go?"
"I think it went very well. They still have some things to work out amongst themselves, but overall, I think we made some real progress."
"Good. Thanks so much for doing this. I should've been down there with you--"
"None of that, Rin. I told you I had it covered. You needed the alone time. Which, I can see, you certainly used."
"Oh, yeah. I've just had the idea ringing in my head for a while now. It's a memoir, of sorts."
"I saw the title. She's never far from your mind, is she?"
"No. But, I figured getting the good memories down would be therapeutic. We need all the good vibes around here we can get."
"Certainly. Now then, you must be starving. I would give you suggestions, but every choice would be the same option."
"Oh, boy. How much do we have left?"
"I'll let you assess the damage."
"Alright, give me a minute."
Rose left the room. Rin began cleaning up the papers strewn around her desk. One caught her attention. It had images of the red hand mark spraypainted across the city. Question marks and lines written in red ink were all across the paper. "Just who the hell are you people?" she whispered.
---
Later in the evening, Kitty was sitting on her bed, eating popcorn and watching TV. Max was seated next to her. "I'm still on the fence with this one, Sparky. Isekai with useless goddesses are a dime a dozen."
"I'm willing to give it another episode or two. Animation's pretty slick, though, gotta admit."
"Pretty colors don't always equal 'pretty good'." She took another mouthful of popcorn. "Man, what's taking Barbie so long in there? I know some people like their long showers, but she must be looking like a raisin by now."
The bathroom door started to open. "Shoot! Sparky, get down!" Kitty whispered, as Max dove out of sight.
"Sorry about that. Hope you didn't have to go too bad." Barbara said, drying her hair. Kitty looked over with a surprised expression.
"That a new dye job, Barbie?"
"Not exactly. This is my God-given hair color. Couldn't find another color I liked. So I figured, why not just go with what I was born with."
"Damn. I dunno why you covered it."
"Well, when you have the name I do, having hair like this lends itself to some...rude jokes."
"Screw 'em. You look fab. You're a fab girl. With legs that won't quit."
"And that's my cue to walk away."
"Aw, c'mon, you know I'm just teasing."
"I know how you are, Kitty. But I was leaving, anyway. Got that important meeting to go to."
"Right. That 'important' 'meeting'. Nudge nudge, wink wink."
"Oh, stop. I'll fill you in when I get back. See you later. Bye, Max." She walked out the door, leaving Kitty and Max with dumbfounded looks on their faces.
Elsewhere in the city, Kibō sat at an outside table in front of a café. As he gazed at his phone, someone approached him. "Sorry I'm a little late. Had an update take a little longer than expected."
"Oh, it's no big--" Kibō looked up, and fell silent. Barbara stood before him, but her previously silver hair tone was replaced with a vibrant blonde. "...wow." Kibō uttered.
Barbara giggled. "You like it? This is my real hair. You can start getting the Barbie doll jokes out of your system."
"Oh, no, I don't have anything to joke about. It looks...really nice. You look like an a--" Kibō stopped himself, then cleared his throat. "It looks good."
Barbara sat down. "So, what'd you want to talk about?"
Kibō took a deep breath. He could feel a pit growing in his stomach. "Okay, so...I just wanted to, uh...w-what do you think of me, Barbara?"
"Hm? What do I think? That's kind of an out-of-the-blue question."
"I'm just...curious. Why a girl as talented as you would want to hang out with someone as average as--"
"Okay, let's drop the 'average' thing, Keeb. For real. I don't buy it."
"Huh?"
"Your parents might've paid the fee, but the academy doesn't let just anyone in. I could tell from the start, you were way smarter than you gave yourself credit for. And getting to know you just proved it. The way you speak, the way you act...you're not an idiot, Keeb. And I can prove it."
"When I was talking to your mom, she showed me something she keeps handy. Something she takes a lot of pride in. She keeps a record of every one of your test scores. And wouldn't you know it, every one of those scores was either at or near the top of whichever class you were in. Someone with those scores could get into pretty much any school in the country that they wanted. That record didn't say 'average', Keeb. Those were prodigy-level scores. So before I answer your question, I have one of my own. Why do you tell people you're an average student when you very clearly aren't?"
Kibō was caught off-guard by the question. "Mom told you about that, huh?" He pondered his response. "When my brother was arrested...my parents were humiliated. He had all these expectations placed on him, and those expectations forced him to do some dire things. My parents had all these accusations thrown their way about their competence, about how faulty they were as parents. Newspeople wouldn't leave them alone. They had no choice but to leave and become anonymous. Move across Tokyo where no one would recognize them."
"So now, here I am. At the same school, with the same last name. Thankfully, enough time has passed where no one in the school has connected any dots. I can just be another in a crowd of hundreds. If I were to stand out in any way, it'd draw more attention to me and my parents. Someone, inevitably, would find the connection. And the questions and harassment would start all over again. Accusations that they had used their influence to get me here, or questions about whether I would become another Kyohei."
"You saw the hurt on my mother's face. How it pained her to even think that people would accuse me of being some evil genius. I want my parents to be able to live in peace. To enjoy their heavy metal music and be able to go about their lives without being bombarded with questions about their convict son. They've earned that much. If that means I have to pretend to be a run-of-the-mill teenager and show no major aspirations, then so be it. They won't suffer because of me."
She let him finish his thoughts. She was in awe of what he'd let out. Finally, Barbara spoke. "That right there...is my answer."
"Hm? What do you mean by that?"
"Everything you said just now is everything I like about you. You don't flaunt your smarts around like so many other people here. It's never about you, you're always more interested in what everyone else is doing. You want everyone else to be better. I got that from seeing you stand up to that jerk at the burger place, even though you were putting yourself in harm's way. And you want your parents to be happy. But I know they're already happy with how you're doing here. Your mom keeps all of your test scores with her. They're proud of you, Keeb. To be honest, I'm a bit jealous. You don't care about fame or getting yourself out there for people to stop and stare at. I can only dream of disappearing into a crowd and being left alone."
"Nonsense. I'm the one who's envious. You're the picture of confidence. You're not afraid of getting up in front of a crowd and pouring your soul out. You can have that kind of attention and not put your family at risk of being harassed. Me? If I put myself out there like you can, it wouldn't be long before the whispers began. Look at this fool. Kyohei Ishimaru 2.0. You could never understand what that's like."
"I do understand it. Why do you think I'm so far away from home? The moment I step back into Louisville, I'll just be James O'Donnell's kid. The one that ratted out the King of Kentucky High School Football, and gets to answer for everything he did. I couldn't go anywhere without being badgered with 'how much did you know' type questions. Nobody wants to be associated with me, all because of my name. Someone I share blood with messed up, and I get to pay for it. Sound familiar?"
"...it does."
"I can only face people here because they have no idea. Even if people here found out about my father's cheating, what would it do? I'm thousands of miles from where that kind of football matters. If this was flipped, and we were at a high school in America, you could do whatever you wanted. Your last name carries no weight there. Like mine doesn't here. Back home, though? I'm a rat. Blood related to a cheater. My name is mud."
"It shouldn't be. You did nothing wrong. You saw an injustice and couldn't let it stand. You shouldn't have to suffer because someone you're related to made a--" 
Barbara gave Kibō a look. He stopped talking. He realized what he was saying. "I'll be damned. You really do understand." he uttered.
Barbara started twirling her index finger through her hair. "I took the coloring out of my hair because I don't have to pretend to be something I'm not here. I can be Barbara Dana O'Donnell, theater girl. And I'm telling you that you can be the real Kibō Ishimaru to everyone else, not just with me. You don't have to live in fear. Be that same smart, injustice-hating badass 100% of the time. I think that guy's pretty awesome."
The feeling in Kibō's gut had spread to his now racing heart. He spoke. "In that case...I want you to keep being the confident, fearless angel I've come to know. I think she's pretty awesome, too."
Barbara's cheeks were ablaze. She nodded. "It's a deal."
The pair finished their meal, and Kibō walked Barbara to her dormroom. "I'll see you in class tomorrow, then." he said.
"You bet. Good night, Keeb." She walked into her room. He turned to walk away.
Barbara stood at the door for a moment. She bit her lip. "Oh, there you are, Barbie. I was starting to--Barbie?" Kitty began, before Barbara stormed back out.
Kibō hadn't walked far. He heard Barbara approaching, and turned around, a confused look on his face. She marched right up to him, and then...she leaned into him, and kissed him. His eyes went wide. His cheeks were aflame. The heels of her feet were suspended in the air. Kitty poked her head out from the dormroom, mouth agape. Barbara let go. She let out a sigh, turned around, and marched back to her room. Kitty quickly ducked back in. Kibō stood dumbfounded.
Barbara went back inside and shut the door, blushing madly. Kitty kept staring at her. Seconds of silence felt like hours. Finally, Barbara opened her mouth, and lyrics poured out.
"Amaaaaaazing grace, how sweeeeeet the sound...~" she chanted, walked to her room, and shut the door behind her.
"GUUUUUUUURL!" Kitty yelled. "Oh no, WHAT, no, where are you going?! We ain't even CLOSE to done! Open up RIGHT NOW!" She started banging on the door. No response. Suddenly, opera music rang out. "FINE, IGNORE ME! I'M HAVING MY TEA COME THE MORNING, YA BEST BELIEVE!"
Outside, Kibō stood in place, stunned and turning red. Kenji approached him, eating from a bowl of noodles and wearing a bathrobe. "Oh, Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou, Romeo?" he said sarcastically. He grabbed Kibō by the arm and started dragging him back.
"You...saw all that?" asked a still-stunned Kibō.
"I saw all, you silver-tongued devil. I'm not letting you rest until you tell me everything." Kenji replied.
Back in her room, Barbara lay on her bed, opera music still playing. With a blush, and a giggle, she smiled, shut off the music, and went to bed.