Persona BLEACHED 4: Chapter 22

Chapter 22: Hallowed Holidays
October 31, 2031
Earth-727. Morning in the Naruki residential district. In a house decorated with orange and other autumn-colored flowers.
"Fluff this up a bit more...and it should be good for tonight." Rin placed a blue wig on a foam bust. 
"I don't know how fluffing it now is going to help later." Rose brushed her hair.
"I just want this to go perfectly. I don't get to do costumes all that often."
"You desperately want to win that costume contest, don't you?"
"I wouldn't say 'desperate'. But it would be nice, to be sure. Especially after all that time I've spent working on this. The leggings alone should qualify as a core project..."
"I've noticed. You spent so much free time on those costumes. Picked up some sewing skills from Ms. Van Damme, did we?"
"It's all in the name of good fun. Honestly, after the last couple of months, it was really nice to work on something creative with Shizuka. Putting her costume together was as happy as I've seen her in a long time. That alone makes it worth it."
"Well I for one can't wait to see the finished product. Are you sure she's going to be okay getting in front of people for that contest?"
"She said she wanted to try. If it's too intimidating for her tonight, then I won't force her. But I would love it if she did it and placed high. The things that could do for her confidence..."
"It would certainly be a far cry from how things were."
"And maybe seeing me go up there would give her the extra push. Especially if I end up winning."
"I'm detecting some confidence."
"Wouldn't do to put the work in and be negative about it after. And maybe I'll have some bragging rights over Takeshi."
"Ah, I knew there was some ulterior motive in this. It probably wouldn't be a good example for Shizuka to see her mother being combative with her teacher."
"Please, it's just a bit of harmless fun. All that matters to me is that Shizuka enjoys herself. Anything else is a bonus."
"Well so long as you two have a good time of it, I'll be satisfied." Rose picked up a blue witch's hat. "So speaketh the Velvet Witch."
Rin giggled. "I'm glad you're starting to sound like yourself again."
"I've started to become accustomed to this look. And I would be lying if I said I haven't come to like it. Not being confused with an alien, I mean."
"There was absolutely nothing wrong with the way you looked. But I won't lie. I'm getting used to this look, too. Maybe now you'll come down to the salon one of these days with me. Let Kirumi or Ibuki play around with your hair a bit instead of cutting it yourself. Never hurts to change it up once in a while."
"I may have to take you up on that. I'll have to ask Kirumi when we see her and Uri tonight. Think we could get some kind of 'We're your son's aunts' discount?"
"I sincerely doubt it."
"Wouldn't be bothersome to ask..."
The pair prepared to leave. "Shizuka! Are you ready?" Rose called out.
"Here, Mama Rose." Shizuka appeared in her uniform.
"Ready for another intellectually stimulating day?"
"Um...sure."
"I think she's more ready for the festival tonight." Rin said.
"I know you two worked very hard, but don't forget that education comes first." Rose advised.
"Mr. Hasegawa keeps talking about the contest and how he's gonna beat Mama Rin again." Shizuka said.
"Oh, he said that, did he?" Rin questioned.
"What do you mean 'again'? Ahh, wait a minute. That costume contest from a few years ago you placed second in. That was him that won, wasn't it?" Rose asked.
"I practiced that flute solo for WEEKS! It was the cherry on top that completed the cosplay, and then he swoops in--literally--on mechanical wings!" Rin composed herself. "I'm letting bygones be bygones. This is about the children's fun. Even if evening the score would be satisfying."
"That gleam in your eye tells me as much."
"Mr. Hasegawa won't say what his costume is. He doesn't want Mama Rin to have any, um, Ein Tell." Shizuka said.
"I think you mean 'intel', lovebug. So he's keeping it close to the vest, is he?" Rin replied.
"Mr. Hasegawa doesn't wear vests, Mama."
"Figure of speech. Well, if that's how he's playing it, who am I to turn down a challenge?"
"So much for 'friendly' competition." Rose uttered.
---
Later in the day, the lunch bell rang at Naruki Ascension Academy, and Rin's class began filing out. "Excuse me, DJ. Do you have a minute?" she said to one student, with mid-length black hair and glasses.
"Oh, uh, sure Professor. Did I do something wrong?"
"No, not at all. How are you doing, now that you've been in Japan for a couple of months?"
"Um...alright, I guess. I've picked up most of the language now, so things are kind of..." He stopped. 
"Not too sure about it, hm? I wanted to talk about what I've observed. You've picked up on speaking Japanese impressively fast. I've noticed with your last couple of papers, though, that you're still struggling a bit with the written language. Take right here, for instance." Rin took out a paper. "I can see you wanted to write 'ten' as in the number, but you wrote 'ten' as in 'heaven'."
"Oh, man...I'm such an idiot..."
"No, you aren't. You're struggling to adapt to a new language, it's perfectly normal. It took me a while to feel confident enough to write in English, or understand what I was reading. These things can take time. So I've got something that helped me out. Have you heard of 'Bullet Train'?"
"That movie with Brad Pitt? Yeah."
"It was actually based on a Japanese book called 'Maria Beetle'. It's one of the better dark comedies I've read, and I've read it in both Japanese and English. This is my original copy." Rin took the book out from her bag. "And I took the liberty of printing a QR code for an audio book reading of it. Super easy to follow along. It'll help you put the vocal and visual parts together."
"I...wow, that's...wow. Thanks, Professor Kubo! I've tried using a translator, but it's not the same as hearing it for real. I'll give it a listen this weekend and see if it helps. I'll try not to bend any pages..."
"It's no trouble at all. You'll see that I've bent a few myself already. Try to space it out so you're not overwhelmed."
"I'll try. Thanks so much, Professor! See you on Monday." He hastily bowed, and almost tripped as he left.
"Have a safe Halloween. Happy reading!" Rin grabbed her bag. "Let's not keep our good doctor waiting."
Elsewhere in the Academy building, Rose sat in her office. "...at the end of the day, you need to accept that things didn't turn out the way you wanted, and that it's best for you if you move on. Life is about difficult choices, after all."
"But it was such a cool pair of earbuds!" a brown-haired boy exclaimed. "The perfect sleek, black coloration, the perfect surround sound and noise-canceling technology! And I dropped one in the toilet like a barbarian! How could I ever continue on after that?!"
"I know it seems...difficult right now, but maybe this is a sign that you're meant for an even more advanced pair of earbuds. I'm sure there's a store in Akihabara that carries them."
"But we were so perfectly in sync! They'd never fallen out before today, and now they're banished to the septic abyss! How am I ever going to sleep at night..."
"Well...that means that you weren't perfectly in sync, then. That was probably their way of telling you that your paths were meant to diverge. You were meant to find your perfect match, and they were meant for...a kappa, perhaps."
Outside, Rose's assistant, a brown-haired young woman with pigtails tied up with bands resembling flowers, tried to hold back her laughter as she went through paperwork.
The boy suddenly came bursting out of the room. "Thank you, Doctor! I know now what my true path is--the life of a kappa-slayer! My perfect match will be avenged! I'll not stop until their foul ilk is laid to ruin! But first, onwards, to Akihabara! My *perfect* perfect sync awaits!" He marched out of the office.
Rose exited with a dull expression. Her assistant burst out laughing. "Oh my God, I don't know how you do it, Dr. Wolfe! I never could've made it through that with a straight face!"
"I've seen all manner of curiosities, Erica. The important thing is to keep an open mind. They're in my office because they feel like the worst thing that could happen, has. And it's our job to help work them through it. No matter how...out there it might be." Rose dictated.
"And that's why I love being your assistant, you're the consummate professional! Though you might've unintentionally caused the birth of a demon slayer..."
"The deadliest monsters are the ones our mind creates, I'm afraid." Rose sighed. "Feel free to take your lunch. Rin should be here any minute now."
"Yes, ma'am! Oh, before I go, I actually have a bit of a...personal question."
"Oh? Go on."
Before her assistant could ask, Rin walked in. "Is there a reason why Tatsume just trotted past me declaring that he was going to avenge that which he's lost?"
"Yes. A reason exists. And I'll be happy to fill you in." Rose replied.
"Oh, Professor Kubo! Maybe you could help me out, too." Erica spoke.
"Sure, what did you need?" Rin asked.
"You two always have your hair looking so fabulous. I've been looking to change up my style, so I'd love it if you had a stylist you could recommend?"
"Oh, we know just the place!" Rin took out her wallet, and took out a business card. "Take a picture if you like. Our nephew's mom owns this salon downtown. My personal hairdresser is a close family friend. Ask for the fiery girl with the fishnets. She'll know exactly what to do."
"Perfect! Thank you, Professor Kubo. I'll see you after lunch, Dr. Wolfe." Erica took a picture of the card, and left.
"Enjoy." Rose bid. "Well then. Shall we eat?"
"Yes, we shall." Rin replied.
The two sat down in Rose's office to eat. "So, how did it go with Mr. James? Did you give him the book?" Rose asked.
"I did. He looked excited to start reading. We'll see if it helps him in the long run, but I'm confident." Rin replied.
"So much for the board wanting you to be more hands-off with the students, hm?"
"They told me I shouldn't host them at the house anymore. Fair enough. Won't stop me from supporting them in any way I can. We aren't teaching robots. What works for one might not work for the other. They'll have to excuse me for wanting to help someone clearly struggling in a certain area."
"I'm glad to see that side of you hasn't been stifled at all."
"I promised Shizuka that I wouldn't fixate on Miko anymore. But the promise I made hasn't changed. The more students I can help, the better. It's the same for you, isn't it?"
"Of course. I have a duty to helping every student that steps into my office. No matter how...unique the situation is. It's not every day you see someone take on an oath to obliterate a yokai over a pair of earbuds."
"It makes every day unique, definitely. Oh, but now that you mention something musical..." Rin stood up.
"Rin?"
Rin shut the door, and covered up the window. She took out her phone, and began to play a slow, romantic tune.
"What are you doing...?" Rose asked.
"We have a festival tonight, you know. It's been a minute since we've danced in public. Shouldn't we practice a bit before that?"
"You want to practice now?" Rose sighed. "You look for any excuse, don't you?"
"I'm not playing any games here. I'm just a high school teacher, asking the beautiful doctor she married if she'll have a dance with her." Rin extended her hand, expectantly.
Rose started blushing. "The doctor accepts the radiant professor's request." She got up, and the two began to dance slowly, hand in hand.
"If the board only knew what we were doing on paid time..."
"We're practicing for a school event. I see nothing wrong with this." Rose replied. "When it's you and me, in a singular moment, it can never be wrong."
"My thoughts exactly..."
The women were interrupted by the sound of the door opening. Their eyes darted over.
Erica looked in, blushing. "I'm so sorry I'm so sorry! I'll pretend I didn't see anything! You two are absolute GOALS, though!" She quickly shut the door again.
Both women were now beet-red. Rin shut the music off. "I...think that's enough practice for one day. I should get back to the classroom."
"Yes, good idea, duty calls and all that. I will see you later, Professor Kubo." Rose stiffly uttered.
"See you later, Dr. Wolfe." Rin robotically exited.
Rose shuffled in place. "It was probably the music that gave us away. Should probably invest in some earbuds."
---
Later at the Kubo household, Rose was garbed in a dark blue gown and heeled boots. She was tending to Shizuka in her room. "Comfortable?"
The girl was in a purple bodysuit with a number of shiny attachments on the gloves and boots. On her back were a pair of translucent butterfly wings. "It's a little itchy..."
"It's to be expected with these fabrics. Let's get a good look at you...oh, you and Rin did such a good job with it."
"Do you think I can win, Mama?"
"I absolutely think so. Are you going to be okay being in front of all those people?"
"...maybe."
"If you're scared, please let us know. You don't have to do anything you don't want to. We want you to have fun."
"Is Mama Rin gonna beat up Mr. Hasegawa?"
"Wha--oh, no. It's nothing like that. She's just being a little competitive because she lost a contest like this to him when they were in school together. Hence the...extra effort."
Rose walked out with Shizuka. "Rin, are you ready to--oh."
Rin was wearing the blue wig, along with a black leather breastplate with a white collar, that revealed her lower stomach. She had on an ashen gray coat worn like a cape, gray wrist guards, long black heeled boots and leggings that had a complex pattern to them. She wore no glasses. "Hello, ladies."
"Hello...Professor." Rose uttered.
"Wow, Mama..." Shizuka added.
"Do you like it? Do I look positively mercenary? Because I *feel* mercenary." Rin bent down to Shizuka's level. "And don't you look amazing, lovebug. We're gonna win this thing for sure. Know how I know?"
"Because you're mercy nary?"
"Because *I* have an ace up my sleeve." Rin picked up something from the table: a long, yellow, bonelike sword with a hollow center in the hilt. "Allow me to demonstrate." A clicking sound echoed, and the sword separated into several sections, akin to a chain whip.
"Are you sure your intent isn't to kill Takeshi?" Rose questioned.
"Friendly competition, my flower. Friendly competition. Mwehehehehe..."
"I'm really unsure of that glimmer in your eyes..."
"Alright, lovebug, grab your helmet. We're gonna be the talk of the Academy grounds, just you wait and see." 
"Okay." Shizuka replied.
"Let's hope that it's for good reasons..." Rose uttered.
The family made their way to the Academy running track, where the festival was being held. Rin looked around. "Seen any sign of Takeshi?" 
"As of yet, no. Please don't make this your hyperfocus for the night. You'll run into him soon enough." Rose replied.
"I need to see for myself what I'm up against. For...friendly purposes."
"Mmhmm. Sure."
"Greetings, Professor!" an enthusiastic male voice called out.
"Hm?" Rin's attention turned to the man at the ticket counter, dressed in silver armor and a helmet shadowing his eyes. "Oh, hello there, Kugo. Nothing to report today?"
"You're definitely something to report, Professor Kubo! I barely recognized that it was you! That costume is amazing!"
"I'm glad to hear that. I've spent weeks getting it just right. And I suppose a security guard would make a good gatekeeper."
"You really think so? I was worried no one was gonna appreciate the effort I put into this! And here comes everyone's favorite professor dressed as...everyone's favorite professor!"
"That might be exaggerating. But your hard work deserves praise. Oh, did you need our IDs?"
"Yeah, need to scan 'em. Record purposes and all that, you know how it goes."
The two women gave the guard their school IDs. "Alright, all good. Enjoy, ladies!"
"Enjoy standing in place." Rose bid.
The Kubo clan entered, and were now amongst numerous Halloween-themed booths, as well as countless people in costume. It was a joint effort between the Academy and the adjacent Prepatory. The centerpiece of the night's festivities was the costume contest, of which there would be three categories: the Prepatory students, the Academy students, and the staff from both.
"....." Shizuka was now wearing a purple 'Rider' helmet, with butterfly antennae. 
"Nervous, lovebug? The contest isn't for another couple of hours. Why don't we try to find something fun to do in the meantime?" Rin asked.
"Ms. Kirumi and Uri should be around here somewhere." Rose said.
"Is he gonna try to hug me again?" Shizuka asked.
"He's family, lovebug. He just wants to connect, that's all. Even if he can be overly enthusiastic." Rin replied.
The moment was interrupted by the sound of someone whistling at Rin. "Well well well. Fancy running into you here, 'Teach'."
Rin turned to the source of the whistle. "What--no. You have to be joking."
Takeshi walked up to her. He was wearing regal, yellow garb, black boots and gloves, a white ascot, a multicolored sash around his waist, and a bright yellow cape. He held a large bow, bonelike in composition much like Rin's sword. "And here I thought I'd kept my idea under wraps. Mighty impressive job you've done there, Professor."
"And to you as well, 'Khalid'. But let's not pretend that I'm the one taking cues, here." 
"Heh, last I checked, I'm supposed to be the suspicious one. But I assure you, this is all a happy coincidence."
"Oh, I'm sure. You really expect me to believe that?"
"Believe what you want to believe. I'm more curious about little miss butterfly here. That *is* you in there, right Shizuka?"
"Y-yes, Mr. Hasegawa." Shizuka replied.
"I'm impressed with your setup. Did your moms help you put this together? I'm something of an expert on wings, myself." Takeshi winked at Rin.
"Why, you--!" she uttered.
Rose got in front of her. "Settle down, you two. We needn't have you bickering in front of your students."
"Aw, who's bickering? It's just a bit of friendly banter. Right, Professor?" Takeshi asked.
"Sure, of course it is. All in the name of good fun." Rin concurred, unconvincingly.
"Now, I do have a serious question for you two. Is Shizuka going to be alright getting in front of everyone?"
"I'm not entirely sure. We're going to make her feel as comfortable as we can, and she says she wants to do it. You said she's gotten better with communicating in class, didn't you?" 
"I did, and she has. To me, at least. A big crowd like this might be too tall an order for her, but if she wants to do it and feels alright, then that would be massive. You really want to do this, Shizuka?"
"Y-yeah...I want to try being brave, and...Mama Rin worked so hard on it..." the girl answered.
"Oh, lovebug..." Rin rubbed her daughter's back.
"Heh, well, guess there's nothing to worry about. You can focus on our little bout, Professor. I've got some tricks up my sleeve that'll leave you speechless." Takeshi said.
"Duly noted, Mr. Master Tactician. But you aren't the only one with some surprises in store. This time's going to be different." 
"I look forward to seeing you try. We'll find that out soon enough. See you around, 'Teach'..." Takeshi walked away.
"Oh, we'll find out, alright. Of that, you can be sure." A glow appeared in Rin's eyes.
"Is Mama Rin really not gonna beat up Mr. Hasegawa?" Shizuka asked Rose.
"I'm growing less certain by the minute." Rose replied.
The trio continued walking through the crowd, with a couple of students and faculty stopping to say hello to them. After a few minutes, Shizuka spotted someone familiar. "Oh, hey, I think that's Aura over there."
The girl ran up to her friend, who was dressed in a white pirate uniform, complete with an eyepatch curiously resembling one of her father's. "Hiya, Aura."
"Oh, hey, Shizuka! You look so cool! I love your wings!" Aura replied.
"Thanks, I love your...eye thingy."
"Well don't you look cute, Aura-chan. Dressed as your father, I see." Rin teased.
"Where are your parents?" Rose asked.
"Oh, Mama and Papa are doing work stuff, so I'm here with Uncle Kaido." Aura replied.
"And here it is, perfect protection from--gah!" Kaido, also dressed like a pirate captain, turned around. His cap had several paper tags hanging from it, and he was holding several others in his hands.
"Please, save your terror. I've already eaten today." Rose deadpanned.
"Just what is that supposed to--gah, never mind."
"On babysitting duty again today, Kaido?" Rin asked.
"It's what happens when your bosses more or less run the south side of town. I don't mind at all, really. I mean, I have to take all these extra precautions against the souls of the damned, but that's the risk one takes on All Hallow's Eve."
Rose looked at him curiously. "Kaido."
"Hm? Something on my face?"
"Is that one of JoJo's eyepatches you're wearing?"
"What? Oh, no, definitely not. I know it must look remarkably similar, but I just got it at the same store."
"Curious. I thought he had those custom made." Rose pulled on the eyepatch.
"Gah! What are you--"
"Even more curious. This 'store' you mentioned must have a habit of sewing the initials 'H.S.' into their work. How incredibly odd."
"...I bought it from a high school."
Rose let go of the eyepatch. "Naturally."
"You're gonna be in the contest later, right Shizuka?" Aura asked.
"Uh-huh." Shizuka nodded.
"Take this, then! It's for good luck." Aura handed her a small red tag.
"Oh, thanks."
"That's very sweet of you, Aura. Isn't it, Ri--Rin?" Rose asked.
Rin was in front of the charm booth. "I'm going to need ten of those luck talismans. It's a matter of national importance!"
"Is this a costume contest, or a lottery to become the next emperor?"
The Kubo trio soon after departed. "Good luck, Shizuka! You're gonna win for sure! I'll be rooting for you!" Aura waved at them.
"Say hi to your parents for us." Rose waved back. "What a sweet girl. Unfortunate that JoJo and Hiyoko couldn't be here. Suppose with their jobs it was unavoidable."
"At least she's having fun. Without anything over her head, at that. Who could've imagined that two years ago? She deserves to be happy." Rin replied.
"True enough. Now where should we--"
Their conversation came to an abrupt halt when someone ran in front of them, corrected themselves and ran back to them. "Hiya, Aunties! It's me, Uri!"
"What the..." Rin uttered. Both women blinked.
Uri was garbed in black and blue plastic armor, with a lightning bolt on the chest. Rin and Rose recognized it instantly. It was the armor of Captain Thunder--Max's old misguided alter ego.
"(Oh. My. God.)" Rin thought.
"Uri! How many times do I have to tell you not to run like that?!" Kirumi arrived, dressed in a rather glittery witch costume.
"S-sorry, Mom." Uri apologized.
"Sigh...should've known that excess sugar was a bad idea. Hm? Oh, hello, ladies. Sorry if he spooked you."
"Well, it is the night for spooks." Rin replied.
"So, ah...that costume he's wearing..." Rose asked.
"Isn't it so cool?! Captain Thunder's got the sweetest armor ever! I can really feel the justice flowing through me!" Uri exclaimed.
"(If Max was here, he'd either be flattered or horrified. Probably the latter.)" Rin thought.
"Putting this together was an adventure and a half, I can tell you that much. From the look of it, you can say the same thing." Kirumi said.
"It was a lot of work. Don't even get me started on the wings. But it was fun just getting to work on something creative with her." Rin replied.
"Oh, of course. Uri was so intent on winning this contest, how could I ever say no?"
"Oh, he's going to be entering, too?"
"Is Shizuka going to be doing it? And here I thought she hated getting in front of people."
"It's still a work in progress. But if she wants to try, I'm happy to give her the chance."
"You're gonna be in the contest, too, Shizuka? That's great! It's gonna be so much more fun!" Uri exclaimed.
"Um, sure...if you say so." Shizuka uttered.
"*pant*...*pant*...I'm not built enough to...keep up with this kid..." a male voice uttered.
"Hm? That voice...isn't that..." Rin pondered.
"Uh..." Kirumi suddenly became alerted.
Arriving in a biker jacket and skull helmet was a very exhausted Tan. "*pant*...I dunno how you've been able to keep up with this kid, Kirumi...I feel like I've just ran a marathon..."
"...! Tan? What are you doing here?" Rin asked.
"Hm? Ah...oh, I beg your pardon, ma'am. Y-you must have me mistaken for someone else." Tan denied. For her part, Kirumi was averting her eyes.
"Oh, hey, Dad! I thought you got lost for a second there." Uri said.
"D'oh."
"Tan, I think I'd be able to recognize your voice and mannerisms flawlessly by now. So, again...what are you doing here?" Rin asked.
"Well, ah...Kirumi asked if I wanted to spend some time with the kiddo, so..."
"That I understand. Why the nervousness, though? And how come I can see her turning red?"
"What? Oh, no, I'm not...it's just getting a little humid..." Kirumi denied.
"Really? It feels rather chilly, to me." Rose replied.
"...oooooh. I see what's going on." Rin smirked.
"H-hey, cut that out! It's not what you think!" Tan denied.
"Mmhmm."
"Really, Ringo, it's nothing. Just a perfectly normal outing." Kirumi insisted.
"Mmhmmmmm."
"Excuse me, Uri? Have your parents been spending time together like this regularly?" Rose asked.
"Oh yeah, it's been great! Dad comes over all the time! I've even seen them holding hands!" the boy confirmed.
"Guh, uh..." Tan muttered.
"N-naughty little blabbermouth! Couldn't you lie for me, at least?!" questioned a flustered Kirumi.
Rin crossed her arms. "Hehehehehe."
Tan's guarded demeanor dropped. "Aren't you too old and educated for the annoying little sister act?"
"Nope. I'll just say it took you long enough."
"W-we only wanted a bit of privacy before telling anyone. Just to know for sure. So much for that..." Kirumi uttered.
"Could you just...not tell Ma about this until we're ready? Pretty please?" Tan asked.
"Oh, sure. I'm not that petty. Even if you did hide your son's existence from me for ten years." Rin replied. "So, this is probably an awkward time to ask this, Kirumi..."
"Name your price. I'll buy your silence!" Kirumi stated.
"Don't go that far. Rose and I were just wondering about a potential Auntie discount at the salon."
"You're asking that *now*?" Rose responded. "Now it just sounds like we're blackmailing them..."
"Um, hey, Mama?" Shizuka spoke up.
"What is it, lovebug?" Rin asked.
"Where's your sword?"
"Hm? My..." Rin looked to her side. To her shock, her sword was missing. "H-huh?! My sword...what happened to it?!"
"What on Earth? I just saw it a few minutes ago..." Rose pondered.
"Did you drop it?" Shizuka asked.
"I had it when we left Aura-chan...it wasn't even a minute before we ran into you all." Rin replied.
"Keep it together, Rinnie. What's this sword you're talking about?" Tan asked.
"Wait, so...you didn't see it on me?"
"I didn't see anything of the sort." Kirumi affirmed.
"I put a sword together to go with my costume. I spent hours upon hours getting the mechanics just right so it'd be like the game it's from...how could I lose it like that? It's not a tiny weapon, either..."
"Calm yourself, beloved. If it just happened, then it can't be far. It would be difficult to miss with how distinctive it is." Rose reassured.
"You need a sword, Auntie? Then wait right here! Captain Thunder's on the job!" Uri sprinted off.
"Uri, where are you--" Kirumi objected.
"Oh, no. I didn't even tell him what kind of sword..." Rin uttered.
"Here you go, Auntie! The day is saved!" Uri returned with a plastic saber.
"That's...not my sword, Uri."
"Hey, you thunderous twerp!" 
The group looked to see a fuming Kaido. "Gotta steal my blade on top of messing with my brain?! You're getting the mother of all headlocks for this!"
"(Of all the people here, he picked the one that had his heart changed by Captain Thunder...that's almost supernatural bad luck.)" Rin thought.
"Uh..." Uri looked around. "Hold this for me Dad, Thunder awaaaaaay!" He handed Tan the sword, and fled.
"Hey, don't leave me with--" Tan objected.
"Ohhh, that boy..." Kirumi grumbled.
Kaido arrived. "That slippery little...come up to me dressed like that..."
"Um...here's your sword back, dude." Tan handed it to him.
"I'm sorry about that, Kaido. My sword's gone missing, and my nephew got a little...too enthusiastic about helping." Rin apologized.
"Oh, that big bone-looking thing you were carrying? How do you lose something like that?" Kaido questioned.
"That's what I'm trying to figure out. Someone must've taken it while we were distracted, and that only could've been..."
"That brief moment when we were gawking at Uri after he ran past. Unless whoever took it was a ridiculously timely sort, we may be dealing with someone who was eyeing the sword for a while." Rose surmised.
"Maybe someone who wanted to sabotage your entry into the contest. Is there anyone like that you can think of?" Kirumi asked.
"...grr. I have one in mind." Rin replied.
"Oh, Rin, you don't think...would Takeshi really do something so underhanded?" Rose questioned.
"The man he's dressed as would. I'm sorry. I have to excuse myself." Rin walked away.
"Oh, dear. I'll go after her. Come along, Shizuka."
"Now Mama's *really* gonna beat up Mr. Hasegawa." Shizuka followed alongside Rose.
"Sheesh. What a night, huh?" Tan groaned.
"Must be something in the air." Kirumi surmised.
"Mom! Dad!" Uri appeared, holding a lightsaber. "See how cool it is? This one's gotta be Auntie's!"
Both parents groaned.
---
Takeshi, meanwhile, spoke with the security guard. "Seriously, the hardest part of making Failnaught was getting Benji to realize that none of it was edible. Toddlers, am I right?"
"Takeshi." Rin appeared, a stern look on her face.
"Oh, hey. Come back for another round of banter, eh Teach?"
"I'm not in the mood, Takeshi. Someone made off with my sword."
"Wait, the Sword of the Creator's gone missing?! All of Fódlan would be doomed if--er, I mean, how awful!" the security guard exclaimed.
"I see. So your first instinct is to hunt for the guy dressed as the cunning nobleman. Honestly, I'd do the same thing. But I didn't steal it." Takeshi insisted.
"There's no doubt you have the most obvious motive to take it." Rose said.
"True. But I'm not petty enough to try to hinder the competition. I wouldn't disrespect you or the work you put in like that. Plus, I teach kids that aren't even ten years old. What kind of example would I be setting if I cheated and stole from an old friend? Not a good one."
"....." Rin's aggression dropped. "I'm sorry. You're right. I'm just at a complete loss."
"I get it. I'd think the same thing. But after I left you, I came here to chat with Kugo. He can vouch for that."
"That's right! He hasn't moved an inch! But I can tell you, I haven't seen anybody carrying the sword out of here. I keep a close eye on everyone that comes in and out, so I'd know." the guard affirmed.
"Well, at least that means whoever took it is still here. We should get to looking around, Rin." Rose suggested.
"You're right. It shouldn't be hard to spot. Sorry again, Takeshi." Rin apologized.
"Hey, don't worry about it. If we're gonna square off, I want you to be at your best. Having your hard work stolen like that is the worst. I'll see you in a bit." Takeshi replied.
The women searched around the grounds for about half an hour, but came up empty-handed. "I don't understand. How does such a distinctive weapon go unnoticed like this?" Rose questioned.
"....." Rin looked downtrodden.
"Are you OK, Mama?" Shizuka asked.
"I'm alright. I just..."
"Come on, tell me what's on your mind." Rose insisted.
"I know it must seem like I'm going overboard for a single contest, but I made this costume with other events in mind, too. Kat told me she wanted to coordinate with me when she comes here for a convention. Tonight was a test run for any adjustments I need to make before then. And that sword...I poured days of work in to make sure it worked exactly how I wanted it to. Now it's just gone."
"Rin..."
"That sword was the centerpiece of this outfit. I don't stand a chance of winning without it. I might have to drop out if I can't find it--"
"No! You can't drop out!" Shizuka yelled.
"Shizuka...?"
"I wanna do this cuz you worked so hard! Making the costume was so much fun! Even if it's scary, I wanna do it with you! So you can't give up! Never ever!"
"Oh...oh, my heart." Rin bent down and held her daughter. "Thank you, lovebug. I needed that. We're gonna find that sword, no matter what. And if we can't find it, I won't drop out. I'll just have to work that much harder to impress the judges. We don't give up. Right?"
Shizuka shook her head.
Rin put a hand up. Shizuka gave her a high-five. "Let's find us a sword."
"We'll have to hurry. The contest is in less than an hour. Someone here *has* to have seen something." Rose said.
"Let's keep asking around...oh, isn't that Erica?"
Over by one of the booths was Rose's assistant, dressed in a red-and-black harlequin costume. The trio approached her. "Hello there, Erica." Rose greeted.
"Oh, hey Dr. Wolfe! Professor Kubo! Don't you all look amazing?" Erica responded.
"You look adorable, Erica. We wanted to ask, have you seen anyone carrying a large sword around? One that kind of looks like it's made of bone?" Rin asked.
"Rin's going to be in the costume contest, but it seems that someone made off with the sword she constructed. If you haven't seen it yourself, then has there been anything suspicious you've noticed?" Rose asked.
"Well, it *is* Halloween. Not sure what'd qualify as suspicious, but...hm. One thing did seem a little off, now that you mentioned it." Erica replied.
"What was it?"
"Well...you remember that weirdness with Tatsume earlier today?"
"Ah, yes. His declaration of war against all kappakind, in remembrance of his lost earphones. Feels like an eternity ago given everything else today."
"I spotted him running around here a little while ago. He's wearing this black school uniform and a cape and cap, rambling about how he finally got his hands on 'the bane of all evil'. No idea what he was going on about."
"A weapon to fight off evil, hm...I wonder. Where did you say he headed?" Rin asked.
Nearby, underneath the bleachers next to the track, the vengeful Tatsume, garbed exactly as Erica had described, held onto his prize. "Soon...yes, soon...the great harvest can begin...the ancient world's war on progress will be brought to a screeching halt...and I'll have that sinful demon's head on a pike! All thanks to the sword of the goddess..."
"Ahem."
He turned to see Rin standing there, arms crossed. "Nyeh! The Ashen Demon, here?! Have you aligned yourself with that foul, thieving monstrosity?!"
"So this is what a bit of professional advice can do." Rose appeared.
"D-Dr. Wolfe?! I, uh...I can explain!"
"Save it. You can explain to the headmaster on Monday why you think stealing from a teacher is appropriate behavior." Rin sternly replied.
"B-but...but..."
"No buts. I might be understanding of most things, but I'm far from a fool. That sword you stole was the product of time-consuming labor on my part. What it *isn't* is a tool for this ridiculous fantasy of yours. There are hundreds of stores you could go to and get a new pair of earbuds. Surely it'd be less of a personal cost than stealing from me. Now hand it over."
The defeated teenager dropped his head, and gave her back the sword. "S-sorry, Professor Kubo."
"I expect a written apology on my desk first-thing Monday morning. I'd spend this weekend reflecting on why a student of one of Japan's premier institutions should be above blatant theft. Now go."
The boy slinked away, dejected.
"I should've nipped that absurd fantasy in the bud. This was enabled only because of my own negligence." Rose apologized.
"Don't say that. You couldn't have predicted this." Rin pressed the mechanism on the sword, and it separated out. "It's still working perfectly. That, at least, is a good thing."
"Now we can go win! Let's go, Mama!" Shizuka exclaimed.
"Yeah, let's go! No hesitation!" 
"(Ha. These are the little moments I live for.)" Rose thought.
The Kubo clan made their way to the center of the field, where a stage and chairs had been set up. "Looks like it's already started. The faculty are up first. Are you ready?" Rose asked.
"I was born ready." Rin assured. "Watch me close, Shizuka. It's really easy. Just show off your costume, strut your stuff a bit, and that's that."
"Strut my...stuff?" Shizuka uttered.
"Just watch. I know you'll do great. Wish me luck."
"Best of luck, Rin. If for nothing else but your own sanity." Rose bid.
Rin walked to the line reaching out from the stage. "Now let's find a good spot to watch." Rose said.
"Rose! Over here, Rose!" In the middle of the rows of seats was Kirumi, gesturing at Rose.
"Ah, Kirumi. That makes it easier."
Rose brought Shizuka over. "It's your lucky day. So much better than standing, right?" Kirumi asked.
"Very much so. Where are Tan and Uri?" 
"Tan took them for a quick bite to eat before the kids' segment. Or rather, Uri ran to get a bite and Tan had to chase after him. That boy has such an aversion to sitting still."
"I've very much noticed."
"I see Ringo's taken her spot. Crisis averted?"
"Crisis averted. One of her students had made off with it while we weren't looking. She gave him quite an earful for it."
"Now that sounds like a fearsome sight. Oh, please take a seat. Don't need anyone griping behind you."
"Of course." Rose sat down. "Right here, Shizuka." She patted her lap, and the girl sat. "So, since we have a few minutes...about that hair appointment..."
"Would tomorrow work for you?"
"Oh, um...it sounds like you've already given it some thought."
"I'll be honest, I was surprised to find out that you cut your own hair. I'd just assumed it was professionally done."
"I've been doing it myself for so many years, I've been able to keep it precisely how I want it. But now that my hair is...darker than it used to be, I'm more open to trying something different. Why not let a professional have a go at it?"
"I'd be flattered to be the first. And, between you and me, I've absolutely wanted to get to know you better. I've learned a good deal about Ringo from her coming to the salon, but you're still a mystery to me. No offense."
"I've been called worse."
"I've heard plenty about the family over the years from Tan, but I wanted to get perspective from someone that was brought into the fold. And of course, I'd love to get my hands on that hair."
"I would...greatly enjoy that. Tomorrow it is, then."
"Perfect! Does 11 work for you?"
"11 works wonderfully."
"Great! Then when we're done, would you be open for lunch? I know a good diner nearby where we can stop and chat for a bit."
"You're positively spoiling me, Kirumi. That sounds lovely. But it's only right if I return the favor. Family dinner at our house later on?"
"Now you're trying to spoil *me*. I'd be over the moon for that. I was planning on having Uri stay with Tan for the weekend, so...would just me be enough? He's really the one thing connecting me to you all, so..."
"I don't recall saying that you're required to be with one of them to justify being around us. We're more than happy to welcome you in. Right, Shizuka?"
"Mmhmm." the girl responded.
"Well, in that case, I gladly accept. I'll have to give this hair some extra special attention tomorrow." Kirumi teasingly flicked a strand of Rose's hair.
"Please don't form a teasing habit. I get enough of that from Rin." Rose replied. "Ah, there she is now. Look, Shizuka."
Sure enough, it was Rin's turn on the stage. "Wow. It took me a minute to realize it was you, Professor Kubo! Those eyes are the giveaway." said a young man in a skeleton morph suit, holding a microphone.
"Eyes that can pierce the soul." Takeshi chimed in from the side.
"Oh, there's something I'd like to pierce. How about a little contest?" Rin asked.
"Huh? Asking me?"
"I've got a nice trick hiding in this sword. How about you try that bow out? If I mess this up, that's points for you. Sound good?"
"Well, if that's how you want to play it, how do I say no?"
"Oooh, we've got a bit of a competition going on, folks!" the skeleton boy chimed.
Takeshi drew an arrow. 
"Hope you're ready to be amazed." Rin said confidently.
"I'll believe it when I see it." Takeshi launched the (non-pointed) arrow into the air.
Rin looked up at it, pressed the mechanism on the sword, then slashed the arrow in two, all while it was still in mid-air. "And here..." She grabbed the head of the arrow before it hit the ground. "...is something to believe in."
The crowd was wowed. Rin handed Takeshi the broken arrow. "Hope you don't mind me snapping it like a twig."
"Heh. Not like I'll need an arrow anytime soon. Nice work on that sword."
Rin returned to her family. "How was that? I make my point?"
"How on Earth did you make it do that?" Kirumi asked.
"I asked an engineering friend of mine to help with the mechanism. It took a lot of work to put it together just right. See now why I wanted to get it back so badly?"
"Well you certainly impressed the crowd. I'd say your chances of winning are pretty good." Rose assured.
"When do they say who wins?" Shizuka asked.
"They're going to post the results on a board after it's all done. The top three get prizes. So, lovebug, are you ready? The Prepatory contest is going to be soon." Rin asked.
"Yeah...yeah, I'm ready. I'm gonna do great, I know it!"
"That's the spirit! Come on, let's get you in line."
"I'll come along. Kirumi, isn't Uri going to participate, too?" Rose asked.
"Knowing him, he's probably gotten hyped on sugar and given his father the runaround." Kirumi replied.
"Well, you're not far off." Tan arrived, carrying a sleeping Uri.
"Ohhh, what now? He exhausted himself, didn't he?"
"Looks like the kid's got an off switch, after all. Of all the times to zonk out..."
"Ugh...well, maybe this is just what he needs to stop bouncing off the walls. Guess that means we'll be rooting for Shizuka."
"Hopefully it's not too scary for her. Just getting in front of all these people is an accomplishment and a half."
By the stage, Shizuka stood, waiting. "....."
"If you don't want to do this, just let us know. We won't be upset." Rose assured.
"...I'm gonna do it. I wanna make you two happy! I'm gonna make everyone clap just like Mama Rin!"
"That would be amazing, lovebug. And I'm gonna help you do it." Rin replied.
"Huh? You are?"
"See this button right here? If you're not sure what to do, then push it. I promise you, everyone will love what happens after."
"Am I gonna win, Mama?"
"Honestly, Shizuka...no matter what happens, if you get on that stage and do your best, it's a win. Getting to have fun with you is my win. No matter what, I want you to have fun. And if you do win...then that'll make me very happy. More than if I win." Rin patted Shizuka on the head. 
"It's her turn, Professor Kubo." the stage attendant said.
"It's time. Breathe, and good luck. We believe in you." Rose said.
"We're already so proud, lovebug. Have fun." Rin added.
Shizuka took a deep breath. Putting one foot in front of the other, she walked out.
"Oh lord, she's actually doing it." Tan uttered.
"You're doing great, Shizuka!" Aura waved from a few rows back.
"....." Shizuka stood in place. "They're all...staring at me..."
"Oh...was this a mistake?" Rose questioned.
"Give her time." Rin replied.
"Hey there, little lady. What's your name?" the skeleton boy asked.
"....." Shizuka remained silent.
"Come on...you can do it." Rin spoke.
Shizuka heard her loud and clear. "My name is...Shizuka...Kubo..."
"Hi, Shizuka Kubo! Isn't that a cute little costume you've got? Oh, hold on. Do you know Professor Kubo?" the skeleton boy asked.
"She's my...my Mama..."
"Damn right I am." Rin whispered, with a sense of pride.
"There anything you wanna say to the audience, Shizuka?" the boy asked.
"I...um..." Shizuka thought of what to say.
"Say the first thing that comes to your mind." Rose whispered.
"I..." Shizuka breathed. "I love my Mamas so much. I wanna make them happy."
The crowd 'awwwed' at this.
"I think I'm melting." Rose uttered.
"That makes two of us." Rin said, a hand over her heart.
"And Mama said to...push the button!" Shizuka pressed the spot on her wrist. Her wings lit up, and glowed purple and blue. A hidden compartment in the wings opened up, and a shower of purple glitter shot up and came down around her. She looked at it in wonderment. For the first time in a long time, Rin and Rose heard their daughter giggling.
The crowd loved it. The happy parents to the side were both in tears. "I love you, Rin." Rose said with her head on her beloved's shoulders.
"I love you, too." Rin replied with a smile at Shizuka's joy.
Shizuka sprinted over. "Mama, Mama! That was so fun! I did it!"
"Yes, you did. We're so proud of you, Shizuka. And we love you so ridiculously much." Rose replied.
"I love you more!"
Rin bent down and hugged her. "I live to see you happy, lovebug. Oooh, now I'm all glittery..."
---
"Oh no, I'm way too nervous..." Rin scanned the winners' board. "Prepatory Top 3, let's see...oh...oh my gosh, Shizuka! Look!"
At the top of the Prepatory list was Shizuka's name.
"I...won?" she uttered.
"You did! Lovebug, you won! Oh no, I'm gonna cry again..."
"You were so awesome, Shizuka! How'd you make that glitter thing happen?" Aura asked.
"Umm...I pushed a button and then it just...happened, I guess."
"That was very brave and wonderful, Shizuka." Kirumi said.
"Hell yeah. Now if only a certain someone didn't decide to take a nap right before he was gonna go..." Tan added.
"I'm not even mad! I'm super happy Shizuka won!" Uri hugged her.
"Um..." Shizuka hesitantly patted him on the arm.
"Well that was definitely a performance. A glitter bomb in the wings. I was honestly shaking *for* you." Takeshi arrived. "Seriously, though, Shizuka, that was incredible. I knew you had it in you. Congrats, really."
"Thanks, Mr. Hasegawa."
"Well, now that it's all settled, guess now's the moment of truth, eh 'Teach'?"
"Yes, so it is. Win or lose, this was certainly a memorable night. Let's see where the cards fell." Rin returned her attention to the board.
Takeshi had taken third place. "Hunh. Well, can't win them all. Tough crowd, I guess."
And directly above him was Rin. "Looks like we've evened the score, Takeshi."
"I know when I'm beat. But wait...if you didn't win, who did?"
On top of the staff list was...
"Kugo? The *security guard*?!" Rose questioned.
Elsewhere, the guard was covered in confetti. "I won?! I won! How did I win?!"
Back at the board, the adults couldn't help but laugh. "Y'know what, fair enough. I can't be mad at that." Takeshi said. "Alright, I think it's about time I took my leave. Shizuka, Aura, I'll see you in class on Monday. Take it easy, 'Teach'." He saluted, and left.
"I should get the little miss back home. See you for dinner soon. After all, first place nets you a free meal at One-Eyed Dragon Sushi!" Kaido said.
"Bye-bye, Shizuka!" Aura waved before departing.
"Well ladies, I think that's our cue to bid you adieu. Let's get ya back to my place, kiddo. Now you get to experience a day in the life of your old man." Tan said.
"Alright! I can't wait!" Uri exclaimed, and they too left.
"All thoughts and prayers for that boy." Rose uttered.
"A weekend with his father will do him some good. Now, I'll see you ladies at my boutique for our day of fun tomorrow. I'll get right on your new style, Rose. Have a good night." Kirumi followed after.
Shizuka let out a yawn.
"Long day, huh? Did you have fun?" Rin asked.
"Mmhmm. A whole lot."
"Me too. Let's go get what we won, and then we can read you a nice bedtime story. That sound good?"
"Mmhmm." Shizuka put her hands up. "I wanna hug both of you."
"Of course, little bug." Rose said, and both women bent down and hugged her.
"I love both of you bunches. I'm happy big sis sent me to you."
Rin began to tear up. "So are we, lovebug. So are we."
The two stood up, both taking Shizuka by the hand.
On a night reserved for scares, there was nothing to be felt but the purest love.