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Kazumi Orako

Spring Daughter of the Sun and Moon

0 · 593 views · located in Akita

a character in “Akita's Seasons Return”, as played by Zodia195

Description

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”I love new beginnings that my season brings.”
Alegria



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| Full Name |
Aurora Hellena (the Seasons technically don't have last names)

| Season |

Spring

| Nicknames and Aliases |

Kazumi Gen Orako - Alias
Ari- Nickname, mostly by her parents

| Gender |

Female

| Age |

Claiming to be 21, but appears younger. However she's way older then she claims to be.

| Birthday |

March 21 (the spring equinox)

| Sexual Orientation |

Straight

| Scent |

Spring flowers, particularly sakura flowers

| Accent |

It’s hard to pin down her accent since she’s not from Earth. She's been trying to develop a Scottish accent, but isn't all that successful.

| Nationality |

She has none, but is pretending to be Japanese and Scottish

| Romantic Interest |

Role 1

| Ethnicity |

Appears to be Scottish

| Social Class |

Upper Class since she’s used to being pampered

| Occupation |

Works at a flower shop part time

| Place of Residence |

Shared Home
Shared Home Bedroom
Private Home Note- Take out the statues and replace the gold columns with regular white ones. Replace Corinthian orders with Doric orders.
Private Home Bedroom

| Oddities |

Loves making flower wreaths and decorating areas with them, including people.
Will always wake up to dance as the sun rises. In the rare instance she misses doing this, she'll do it at sundown.
Will talk to animals in public




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| Hair Color |

Pink

| Hair Style |

Straight, often in pigtails

| Hair Length |

Long, reaches mid-back

| Skin Tone |

Pale

| Complexion |

Flawless

| Eye Color |

Raspberry

| Height

5’5”

| Weight |

120 lbs.

| Body Type |

Vase

| Build |

Average

| Tattoos |

None

| Piercings |

None

| Birthmarks/Scars |

Has a birthmark in the shape of a lily on her lower back




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| Season |

Spring

| Pet |

Canine- She owns a Shiba Inu named Dawn, and an Akita named Eos, both whom are extra protection to her. Eos in particular is very protective of her. Due to her ability, Kazumi can walk with them without a leash on, which adds to her odd behavior. Her private house has more animals in the area, but these 2 dogs are always with her.

| Enhancement |

Interspecies Communication- Kazumi learned to bond with animals as a baby and eventually developed the skill to communicate with them, first verbally, but than telepathically. She's had to learn to tune out the words of other animals though since they can create 'white noise' in her head, leading to headaches. She's quite proficient now.

| Music Type |

Wind- Kazumi loves playing woodwind instruments, but her favorite is the clarinet. Her parents got her into playing to help control her 'whirlwind' personality and it worked for it helped her channel her energy into something positive. Still they had to soundproof all the rooms for her playing was awful at first, but being a quick learner, she soon excelled.

| Compatible People |

Confident People- Kazumi can be a force to be reckon with and suffers no fools so she needs someone who won't let her walk all over him. She also has a romantic side to her that dreams to have someone like her father, who is the most confident person she knows.

| Abilities Gifted by the Season |

Growth of Nature- As her brother's season ends, Kazumi has the ability to wake up plants from their long slumber and allow them to grow. With more effort, she can caused them to grow at a rapid rate.

Able to create spring showers- Kazumi can make it rain and generate the elements to cause it. This also includes fog. However, when she's angry she can create strong spring storms, which include tornadoes.

Temperature control- She can raise the temperature and lower it. She only raises it when spring first starts and cools it when she wants rain. She never makes it too hot or cold since she doesn't like hot and cold weather.

Earth- Besides her Growth ability, Kazumi also has the ability to manipulate the earth. This includes bringing about the richest soil from the ground, moving the ground itself (to an extent) and even can find precious material within the earth (this includes gems).

Shapeshifting- Kazumi has the ability to shapeshift into any animal she likes, but only for a length of time because if she stays in a certain form too long, she'll begin to lose herself.




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| Personality |

~Mature, Outgoing, Temperamental, Self-Critical, Perfectionist, Elegant~

Being the eldest of her siblings, Kazumi learned to be responsible from a very young age. She did for a brief time become jealous of her younger siblings since she was used to be the center of attention, but that would change with time. However, she is still used to being pampered due to her upbringing. Because she likes to get what she wants, she's developed manipulative tendencies. Kazumi loves being around people, but mostly animals. Some would equate her to a Modern day Snow White since she seems to attract animals all the time. The lady will admit though she prefers the company of animals to humans since she's had more interaction with them. Despite her oddities, one can't help but be drawn to her charming personality, but she still has this aura of mystery.

Kazumi might be a good person, but she can also get emotional at the drop of a hat. Much like her spring storms, she can cause a raucous, but they always leave her drained and she hates loosing control. She is her own worse critic and expects nothing less than the best from herself. Because of this behavior, she also hopes for the best from others too, but isn't as demanding of them.

She does have the tendency to order her siblings around, especially now that they are on Earth. However, she loves them dearly and is protective of them. She still respects authority and is a stickler for rules. Being a dancer, she has natural grace about her.

| Morals |

Aurora is extremely straight laced, but she also believes in balance too, so while she does her best to be good, she does have a few manipulative tendencies to get what she wants, although it’s never for anyone’s detriment.

| Likes |

Spring (and everything associated with it)
Animals, especially dogs.
Her family
Mornings
Strawberries (she’s obsessed with them)
Rococo Art and Interior Decorating

| Dislikes |

Animals getting hurt
Anything too hot or cold
Making Mistakes
Meat (her love of animals has made her a vegetarian)

| Talents |

Dancing
Communicating with Animals
Her magic abilities
Basic gardening
Interior Decorating

| Flaws |

She can’t cook, always burns stuff when she tries, she once blew a hole in the wall of her home when her mother and Senior star first tried teaching her how to cook
Self-Critical
Manipulative
Short-Tempered

| Weaknesses |

She’s not physically strong
Low Pain tolerance
Has empathy towards nature and animals
Strawberries or any other fruit.
Her Siblings
Shopping- especially hats. She's constantly wearing them with the flowers she attains.

| Hobbies |

Reading
Walks her dogs a lot
Gardening
Dancing
Making flower wreaths




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| History |
Kazumi is the eldest of the Sun and Moon. She grew up away from the Earth, but was always curious about it. She is extremely close with her siblings, but due to her short temper, she's gotten into arguments with them, especially her brother who rules the summer time. (will add name in time). Growing up, she believed her family were the only beings in the universe. At an early age she developed a love for animals since she could communicate with them, but more so of the canine family. When she was old enough, she was granted the ability to create spring for a section of the world. She loved breathing new life into the planet once winter was over. Knowing spring was a time for nourishment, she did her best to bring about showers that would feed the earth. On her bad days though, she would create strong spring storms, and even tornadoes. For awhile, observing the Earth as it changed was enough for Aurora, but than her curious nature got the better of her and she and her siblings eventually decided to live as mortals on Earth. She does take their safety seriously though and while she does enjoy the feeling of pretending to be mortal, she does her very best not to reveal her true nature, but that's easier said than done with how her and her siblings' abilities affect the town they are currently living in.

After what happened to her sister on Earth though, Kazumi has become extremely protective of her and when they traveled to Earth, as the eldest, she's kept an extra eye on her little sister, even going so far as she have animals following her whenever she can't be around. Still she knows her sister enough to give her some distance and doesn't want to be overbearing.

| Other |

None at the moment

| Inori Yuzuriha |

So begins...

Kazumi Orako's Story

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Kazutora Miyato Character Portrait: Kazuyuki Orako Character Portrait: Velonix Orako Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Astraea Mantrenul Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
Tag Characters » Add to Arc »

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”It's okay to feel weak sometimes. It's okay to be afraid.
The important thing is that we face our fears.
That's 
 That's what makes us strong.”

Hex Code ~ #B43104




From the beginning of time, humans have worshiped some form of a deity. Where they got the ideology that another more powerful being existed, watching over them and also judging their every movement, their every decision - their every thought - is beyond the understanding of modern day scientists. Some speculate that humans do this as a coping mechanism for when thinking about their inevitable deaths, so that instead of the panic of the unknown, they have something to look forward to. All that is known is that they have worshiped some sort of ethereal being since the beginning of their existence.

Jesus. Allah. Moses. Zeus. God.

Those are but a few of the many, many deities and omnipotent beings that the humans have ‘thought’ of as their creators. Obviously, none of them came close to the truth - the truth that the Sun and the Moon, two ‘planets’, as they were deemed by humans, were the actual creators of all living creatures - but that was partially the doing of said deities. Ever since the humans began to wonder how they came to be, how they were created, or in general question anything related to such a subject, the Sun and the Moon have ventured to Earth to regularly spin stories and spread them across the world in an attempt to slow the discovery of their being. Once their children were born, however, they put far more effort into keeping their existence hidden, into preventing them and their children from being discovered. Any human that came close to the truth was promptly dealt with, usually by the Senior Star given her memory suppression capabilities, and thus far they believe that their web of lies and legends has held up.

The lies were put into place to not only protect the Sun and Moon, and not only their children, either, but also the human beings themselves. If they were to discover the true origin of their beginnings, there is no telling what the outcome could be. What could become of the children and their parents is unknown, seeing as the two deities never once claimed to be omnipotent, and they have lived in slight fear of their existence becoming known one day.

They don’t, of course, plan to hide themselves forever. Simply until they deem the humans to be capable of accepting their existences without any repercussions; and so far, they have yet to prove themselves worthy to know the truth.

The main cause of war in human society stems from religious views. The main cause of disputes between people is caused by their differences in beliefs.

Many, many issues in human society, both currently and throughout the past, can be traced back to religious differences. The Crusades are a prime example of holy wars, during which time countless lives were lost.

The witch trials across Europe and early America are another example of the religious influence that causes mass genocides to take place. World War II, in which Adolf Hitler attempted to wipe out all of those belonging to the Jewish faith.

To sum everything up, human beings as a whole are not ready to accept the truth. They are close - Gods, they are so very close - to being able to hear the real truth and accept it without negative consequences or outcomes.

But they aren’t quite there yet; and so the Sun and the Moon are not ready to take the chance of revealing their existence to any human being, out of fear of them spreading the knowledge of their lives to other humans throughout the world. And so we hide.

We always hide.


“Ms. Orako, the Headmaster has finished with your brother and is ready to see you now.”

Velonix glanced up at the Headmaster’s Assistant from the blank, old book that she had been writing in. It had been given to her by the owner of the bookshop that she had just recently been given a job at as a welcoming present. She had seen it through the window when she had been walking by, and it had prompted her to enter the store, almost as though it were calling for her. When the owner, Mr. Zwemmer, saw her inside and staring at it, he had removed it from its case and allowed her to look more closely at it. While she was studying it, they began a conversation, and one thing led to another, and she ended up with her first real job in the human world. After hiring her and observing the longing in her eyes for the book while going through the paperwork process, Mr. Zwemmer finally caved and gave her it as a gift, much to her happiness. She had promised vehemently to care for it as though it were a living creature, and he laughed in response, knowing that she would. Her first shift would be in an hour, after classes had ended, as she was supposed to be receiving all of her school information now and the boy who Mr. Zwemmer had assigned to train her on the way that things were run around the store was in the same school as her.

Setting down the quill - yes, she still wrote with a quill and ink, deal with it - she put the stopper into her ink bottle and pushed back her chair, rising from her seat at the desk that she was told to wait at in the teacher’s offices. She placed the book and writing utensils in her messenger bag, slung it over her shoulder, and rubbed her arms absentmindedly.

She could still remember the day that her siblings pushed her into returning to Earth, which was only two weeks prior to the present day. The idea had been hers - a decision that still surprised her, even though she was the one who came up with it - but she was nonetheless hesitant to follow through with the plan.




~’.’~Two Weeks Prior~’.’~

Soft whispers slithered beneath the door that led to the library. They could only be heard if one were to be standing directly outside of the door, and it was almost necessary to press one’s ear to said door in order to actually understand what was being said.

Not that there was anyone to listen to the discussion. Sun and Moon were currently overwatching the Earth, as they did at that exact time each and every new day, and The Senior Star was currently assisting them in their Earthly decisions. The Junior Star was at her side, attempting to intake any new knowledge to be gained from the actions that his more powerful Godly comrades were performing.

Now who, one may wonder, was making such noise in the library?

There could only be one group of culprits behind it; the four children of the Sun and the Moon.

The very embodiment of the Seasons themselves.

Beyond the large oaken door, the children of the Gods sat on the comfortable furniture within. The two eldest were on one couch, while the two youngest had taken seats on the armchairs on either side of the larger furniture. Harmonix had taken the liberty to start a fire in the massively beautiful fireplace that adorned the equally gorgeous library, which was quadruple the size of the area that they were currently nestled in, and she folded her legs beneath her bottom on the chair, tucking her skirt underneath her shins in an ever-present drive at modesty. A mug of her equally ever-present hot chocolate, decorated with whipped cream, marshmallows, and sprinkles of cinnamon, was clasped firmly between her oddly cold palms, which were damp with a nervous sweat. The same wetness was sprinkled across her hairline, both along her forehead and the nape of her neck, and a small tremble of anxiety resided in her grip. In addition, she was doing her bad habit of bouncing slightly as she sat, constantly shifting her weight in an obvious attempt to get comfortable, despite it being a futile effort.

After several moments of silence had ticked by, Harmony, obviously too nervous to start the discussion of why she had asked her siblings to join her in the library, squirmed a bit until her sister spoke.

”Harmy, I understand that you’re nervous, but you should know by now that there’s no need for you to feel that way around us. Whatever’s bothering you - whatever’s weighing on your mind - just speak.” Her voice was gentle, almost a coo, in an obvious attempt to draw her shy younger sister slightly more out of her shell.

In response, Harmony fidgeted a bit more for a moment longer, before forcing herself to settle and heaving a sigh. After a long sip of her delicious cocoa, she lowered her feet to the floor and leaned forward, setting the mug on the coffee table before her. She dropped her hands to her knees, drew in a long breath in preparation, and in one long heave, blurted out what she had rehearsed at least thirty-two times in her mind.

”I 
 I want to go and visit Earth!”

Almost instantly the girl squeezed her eyes shut, her shoulders hunching in readiness for her siblings expected outbursts of rejection at her wish. When nothing was immediately said, she slowly allowed herself to pry open one eye, and then another when she noticed the blank stares of surprise from her brothers and sister. Squirming a bit under their piercing gazes - they all had equally beautiful eyes in her mind, and ones that could unsettle even the most rigid of people - she gnawed on her lower lip, looking down at her hands on her legs. Her fingers were curled inwards, digging into the flesh of her knees, and she was bouncing her one foot anxiously.

A few more beats of silence passed before anyone spoke, and it was one word.

”No.”

Harmony’s head snapped up, her heart stopping for a brief moment before skipping a beat and regaining its regular pattern. Her eyes met her older brother’s gaze, which was dark and stern, unrelenting in its own way.

”But, Phoebus, at least let me explain wh-”

”No. Absolutely not. This shouldn’t even be up for discussion, Harmonix,” he interrupted, not even allowing her to finish her sentence. Her eyes welled up with tears in immediate response, and she lowered her head once more, her action holding all of the defeat she felt. She had known it was a long shot from the beginning, getting her siblings on board with her idea, but to be shot down so quickly and so assuredly definitely stung.

A soft scoff was heard from the girl that sat beside Phoebus. Her cotton candy hair was illuminated in the glow of the fire, and an eye roll could be seen.

”Oh, come on, Phoebus. At least let her explain [b]why she wants to visit Earth. You can’t just shoot down what she says without allowing her to tell us why she would want to do it. Harmony very rarely speaks her mind about issues that she knows are controversial, so you can at least respect her courage to do so right now, given the subject.”[/b]

Harmony glanced up slightly, looking at her sister through her lashes, her gaze holding the gratitude she felt towards the older girl. Aurora definitely wasn’t wrong, though; very rarely would Harmony bring up a subject or idea that she knew would cause an argument or negativity of any sort, so when she did, it was usually for a good reason.

Turning her gaze to her older brother, she allowed her eyes to take on a puppy-dog look, and she jutted out her lower lip. This was her signature expression - something that she reserved only for times that she really wanted something - and her older brother instantly melted like butter.

Quickly averting his own eyes from hers, he looked away, his pale cheeks taking on a soft flush.

”By the stars above, Har - not the eyes,” he groaned. He flicked a glance at the girl, only to find that she was still holding the same expression, and slapping his hand over his eyes, he slowly dragged it down his face before heaving a loud sigh.

”Fine, I’ll at least listen to this insane idea that you’ve come up with,” he muttered.

Instantly Harmony brightened, her puppy dog look diminishing, and she leaned forward, her previous nervousness replaced with obvious excitement. A twinkle shone in her eye, and she had a gentle smile on her lips. She still did, however, speak with hesitancy, a slight stutter taking away some of the confidence she felt.

”I 
 I’m hoping that if I were to go to Earth 
 That it could maybe help me come to terms with everything that’s happened since 
 Since the incident,” she finished, her voice ending almost in a murmur. What little courage she felt when she began speaking had quickly faded as she finished, and she felt her shoulders slightly slump with dejection. She picked at her fingernails, suddenly extremely fascinated with her hands.

”I know that 
 I know that I’ve caused a lot of unnecessary trouble and problems over the years, ever since that day when we were children 
 And I know that because of what happened, I’ve changed a lot as a person ...” She trailed off for a moment, having to pause to garner a bit of bravery. Turning her face back upwards, she met each one of her siblings gazes before continuing.

”I’ve been keeping it hidden as much as possible, but recently 
 Recently, what Astraea did to help me contain Phoenix 
 The walls that she built to help seal my two separate minds, or identities, or whatever you want to call them 
 I can feel them beginning to crumble,” she said softly, her shoulders once more slumped, but this time instead of the cause being defeat, it was more so worry or fear. She pressed her lips together for a moment before continuing.

”I 
 I’m really scared,” she whispered, tears prickling at her eyes. ”I’m scared of what will happen if those walls disappear completely, and Phoenix is allowed out and into the physical world once more. I don’t expect any of you to understand 
 You’ve never had anything like this happen before 
 But I ...” Drawing in a shaky breath, she felt a ball of anxiety curl in her chest. ”I can hear her 
 I can hear her voice, in the very back of my mind, hiding behind those walls. She keeps telling me to do things 
 Things that I know I shouldn’t do, but things that I really want to do. So far I’ve been able to ignore her and push down my urge to do what she says, but 
 But I’m afraid of what might happen if I can’t get a handle on her.”

There was a lapse in words being said, before Phoebus once more spoke, his voice slightly heavy, given the equal weight of the current conversation.

”And how do we know that it isn’t Phoenix’s idea for us to go to Earth? How do we know that this is actually your own idea, Harmonix?”

Harmony hesitated before slowly responding.

”I just 
 It might be hard for me to resist the temptation that she gives me to do certain things, and I may not have been able to discern my thoughts and her thoughts before Astraea helped me, but 
 Right now, I can tell which thoughts are mine and which are hers. I don’t really know how to explain how I can, but 
 But I can. And on that, you’ll just have to trust me, Phoebus.”

Another moment of silence ticked by - there seemed to be a lot of those during this discussion, Harmony idly thought - before anyone responded to her words.

”I think 
 That if you think that it’s a good idea, and if you think that it really will help you 
 That we should do it.”

Harmony turned her gaze to her younger brother, her lower lip trembling slightly. She had known before even asking for her siblings to meet her that out of all of them, Halcyon was most likely to support what she thought was best, and he had definitely proved her correct in that assumption.

Turning back to her older siblings, she looked at them with her wide, umber eyes, which spoke volumes over her expectation for an answer. Aurora was studying her nails, and while filing at the tip of one of her index fingers, she shrugged and spoke.

”I think that if you think that it can help you, and that you can handle it, we should at least give it a shot. Who knows? Maybe it’ll prove beneficial for all of us. Wouldn’t you agree, Phoebus?” she dragged out, purposely doing so in order to annoy him.

The boy in question narrowed his eyes slightly at his older sister, a soft growl of sorts escaping his lips, before he turned to Harmony, his gaze a smidge less stern than it was before. After several calculated moments, during which time she could practically see the gears turning in her older brother’s head, he spoke.

”Seeing as I’m clearly outnumbered, I’ll have to say yes. What kind of brother would I be to just let all of you run rampant down on Earth? Someone has to be down there to corral you,” he sighed, rubbing his temples.

Harmony immediately brightened, her skin taking on a slightly golden glow, and she was across the gap between them in seconds, her arms thrown around her older brother’s neck.

”Thank you, Phoebus 
 You 
 You have no idea what this means to me,” she whispered into his neck, her tears soaking into his long hair.





Shaking her head to rid it of those thoughts, she smiled at the Assistant Headmaster and adjusted the strap of the bag on her shoulder. She strode after her, idly turning her head slightly to look forlornly out the window, inhaling deeply in an effort to gather herself.

The sun was shining brightly through the clear window, giving the interior of the building an ethereal glow. Dust mites danced in the sun’s rays, and for a moment, she felt an unwanted sadness in her chest.

Somewhere, far up in the sky and even further beyond that, her parents were looking down at the world below. She could picture her mother, wringing her hands and a worried crease between her brows, and her father pacing with long strides across the hall that enclosed the enormous, hologram-like image that showed them the entirety of the planet. It was used to view in on any place at any time, past, present, or future, and to interact with said reality. There were many times that her parents had altered the past in order to benefit the future - they went back and prevented world-wide catastrophes.

Why, then, did they allow certain events to occur? Why did they allow countless lives to be lost to the hands of evil humans who wished nothing but death upon the masses?

It was all for a better goal.

To think that they enjoyed watching the humans suffer - you couldn’t be further from the truth. Countless times had Harmonix ventured into the great hall, as a young child and beyond, to find her mother weeping over the hologram of the beautiful planet. She had seen unimaginable things in that hologram, and heard screams that still echoed in her ears to this very day. As soon as her parents spotted her they would shoo her away fairly quickly, of course, but that didn’t stop her from seeing things.

People being torn limb-from-limb by ancient Roman Gladiators.

Children being burned alive alongside their parents during the European Witch Trials.

Animals being killed by toxic chemicals sprayed down upon the humans by large flying machines from above.

Tears pricked at her eyes at the memories, and she squeezed the large umber orbs shut in an attempt to stem their flow, and to shield herself from the visuals flashing before her eyes.

Closing them only prevented herself from seeing, however. It didn’t slow what she could hear, not by a long shot; and the screams continued to echo inside of her mind. Pausing midstep, she dropped her face into the palm of her hand, pressing it against her forehead and letting out a soft moan of pain.

“Stop ... Stop it, please ...” she whispered, her lips a slight grimace.

After a few moments, the screams slowly faded and she had managed to calm her rapid breathing, having only just then realized how quickly she was panting.

“Ms. Orako? Are you quite alright my dear?”

Removing her hand, Velonix turned a small, slightly strained smile up to the woman. “I am alright, my apologies. My head pains me slightly is all,” she breathed out, resuming her stride.The Assistant Headmaster smiled once more and continued her walk as well, and they moved in silence for another minute or two before she paused outside a set of wooden doors.

“Right through here, my dear.”

With a slight nudge the door slid open and Velonix let herself in, announcing her presence as she entered. “Good morning Headmaster. My name is Velonix Orako and it is quite a pleasure to be of your acquaintance.” The Headmaster let out a chuckle, reaching out to pat her hand. “You may drop the formalities, dear, as I have no need for them.” Motioning for her to sit, she did so and he did the same, clasping his hands on the desk before him.

“Your siblings were quite pleasant to meet, and I can already tell from your demeanor that you’re no different,” he began, offering her a kind smile. “I do like to take the chance to personally meet each of my new students at least once - I believe it helps take away some of the frightening nature that comes with my title,” he chuckled, a slight twinkle in his eye. “Nothing to worry too much about, of course. As I tell everyone, I do hope you enjoy and value your time here, and take what you can from this place of learning. If you run into any problems or have any questions, don’t be afraid to ask for help, even if it’s from me directly.”

Velonix nodded, a gentle smile on her face, and rose once more while adjusting the bag strap on her shoulder. “Thank you, Headmaster. I appreciate the sentiments,” she said softly, bending forward slightly at the waist in respect. When she straightened again, she gave him another small smile. “Have a pleasant rest of your day.” The kind old man gave her a smile and nod in response, and she turned on her heel and quickly made her way out of the office, pausing once she had closed the door behind her. Letting out a small breath, she groaned a bit. That was stressful and she was more than glad to be over with it. Social interactions, specifically with strangers, weren’t really her forte and she’d much rather observe from the sidelines than be the sole focus in someone’s conversation.

Standing tall once more, she gathered herself together and began to walk while also pulling the map of the school grounds that was provided for her to navigate more easily. It was already two weeks into the second semester, Summer Break having just come to an end, so they weren’t transferring in frighteningly late thankfully. They would stand out a bit but no more than normal transfer students.

She flicked her eyes down to her map, pausing mid step to gather her bearings. Once she had figured out where she was, she pushed through the doors into a small side-courtyard on the side of the school. Inhaling the smells of nature deeply she followed through with a satisfied sigh, the tiniest of smiles turning up the corners of her lips. A small pond was situated nearby with an empty bench, and further down the path led to the back of the school building, shrouded prettily by the dense leaves of the orange and yellow trees that hung above it. She assumed it would feel nice on a hot summer day and looked forward to finding out if that was the case in a few months - hopefully they would still be there.

As she walked, Velonix tilted her head back ever so slightly towards the leaves, admiring their pretty, calming colors. A gentle breeze caused them to sway a bit, small dashes of sunlight peeking through every so often. The combination of everything brought a soft wave of serenity over her, and for the moment, she was content.

Until she found herself slamming directly into a wall obviously made from a person. Having not been paying attention to where she was walking, she had slammed into the person fairly hard, causing her to stumble back and nearly fall. She somehow managed to catch herself, albeit clumsily, and felt a small warmth of embarrassment seep into her cheeks. Velonix scrambled to straighten and bowed quickly, her hands clasped before her and her braided orange hair falling over her shoulder. “I-I apologize! I did not mean to bump into you! It was all my fault - I was not paying attention to where I was walking!” she breathed out quickly. Once she had finished her apology, she glanced up slightly to see who it was that she had bumped into, and straightened rather quickly when she found it to be two teenage boys wearing the school uniform. A bit of anxiety fluttered in the pit of her stomach but she cleared her throat and clutched the strap of her bag in an effort to ground herself. The boys gave each other a look before small smirks grew on their faces. The one that she had run into leaned slightly to the side to peer into her face as she was quite short as a girl, his own face getting uncomfortably close to hers. It was almost close enough for her to feel his breath on her cheeks and his dark eyes held an odd gleam to them that made her uncomfortable. The colors that glowed ever-so-lightly off of his skin were dark and coiled together with streaks of black and red, and when she noticed his aura a small shiver crawled across her body, goosebumps breaking out. He wasn’t evil by any means - at least not yet - but this type of aura was only associated with those who enjoyed being cruel. Not psychopaths or sociopaths, persay - just people who got off on being, to put it crudely, assholes. Velonix, however, preferred a more gentle route instead of violence and cruelty, so when faced with someone such as this, she grew into a nervous puddle.

“Well hey there 
” his voice curled. He definitely had nice enough features, but they were marred with the underlying viciousness that he held about him. When Vel took a step back out of simple reaction it drew a chuckle from his friend who leaned against a bike rack a few feet away, hands shoved in his pockets. The two boys were clearly delinquents, as they wore their uniforms in rumpled messes, necklines popped open and jackets slung over their bikes. He held a similar air to him but not quite as dark, and she felt an instinctive curl of her toes in reactive fear. Tightening her grip on her bag and drawing into herself a bit, she attempted to shy away from him. With each small step she took back though, he seemed to follow with one that was slightly larger, until he had her cornered against the side of the building, hand planted firmly on the wall above her shoulder. Her skin crawled as his body drew a bit too close to her for comfort and she shrank away a bit more, a small tremble beginning in her legs. This drew an amused chuckle from the boy and he tilted his head a bit more, his tongue slightly licking his lips.

“My, my, my 
 Aren’t you a cute one .. You’d think I’d remember seeing you before,” he drawled out, tilting his head to the other side as he spoke. “Or are you one of the new transfer students that moved to town and took her sweet time joining us?” he inquired, his gloved hand lifting slightly. She supposed he thought he was ‘cool’ to wear gloves. “Well, I guess you were worth the wait for being able to see the mysterious new students 
 Because you’re real nice on the eyes,” he murmured, leaning even closer to her and lightly brushing his finger across her cheek and over her hair. He began to follow it down, causing her tremble of fear to overtake her upper body as well. She knew very well that if needed she could defend herself and that this boy didn’t stand a chance, but her years of courage and pride were long past. Even though she knew she was capable of taking care of herself, it was a very difficult thing for her to do as she feared losing control, so not only was she in fear of the current situation, but she was in fear of defending herself and losing herself at the same time.

A small burst of courage slid through her and she grasped at it desperately, flinging her hand up to slap his away from her face with a loud smack. “Do not touch me,” she snapped, attempting to push past his arm at the same time. Before she could get through, however, he snagged her wrist and yanked her back, his other arm twining around her waist. The touch made her skin crawl with disgust and a new wave of fear assaulted her. Despite her Senior Star’s suppression, a familiar feeling of acute terror washed over her when he touched her, his hand sliding slightly under her school shirt and grazing the skin of her stomach. She locked up for a moment before struggling against his grasp, all the while his friend laughing softly nearby. His one hand rose to clamp over her mouth, the same smirk on his face.

“I like them feisty,” he curled out, his smirk turning slightly sadistic. Her eyes widened, her sounds of protest muffled against his palm. “Playing hard to get, hm?” he drawled, pinning her once more between the wall and his body. Tears pricked her eyes as buried emotions from that time so long ago rose up and an innate sorrow filled her chest, a new bundle of fear hitting her stomach as the boy began to move his face down towards hers. She didn’t want this disgusting human boy’s mouth to touch her - she didn’t want any of him to touch her. ”Let me go or else I will scream,” she warned him, her voice low and dark, holding undertones promising things that he could not ever wish for. A small burning sensation began to broil within her chest, her eyes beginning to take on a slightly-red, somewhat-glowing hue. Her fingers curled inwards, clenching into fists so tightly that her nails dug into her palms. The ends of her hair picked up slightly in the breeze which began to swirl a bit more aggressively than before, and she felt her jaw clench in preparation for the release of her abilities.

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Character Portrait: Kazutora Miyato Character Portrait: Velonix Orako Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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"I am telling you Kazumi, we should have tried to get our younger siblings get into college, or at least posed as high school students ourselves. It's safer that way."

Kazumi groaned at her younger brother, Natsuo. While she would have preferred, they had gone to the same learning facility herself, she knew this way was the best and she was going to remind her annoying brother again. Currently they were in a secluded area of the college they were at.

"Natsuo, Velonix wanted a bit of a break from you also. Plus, she wanted to experience high school. At least Yuki will be in most of her classes. At least this town has a school system from elementary to college in the same place, so you and I are in the vicinity. Trust our sister to call upon us if she really needs us."

"Oh I trust Vel, it's these mortals I don't trust."

Natsuo was just relieved that he had Shadow keeping an eye on his sister. Crows were pretty common in Akita. One crow, Aeolus, was with them while Gust was watching over their shared estate. Still, Kazumi did have a point, Velonix did need space.

"Well, try not to worry too much Natsuo. Or those worry lines will become wrinkles," Kazumi replied with a smirk.

"Tsk! The day I get wrinkles is the day the sun explodes, which is never. Now come on, don't we have our own classes to go to?"

However, before Kazumi could get a word in, Shadow suddenly appeared. Natsuo was the first to spot him. Even though he couldn't speak to every creature like Kazumi could, at least he could speak to birds.

"Shadow, what's wrong? Is Velonix in trouble?"

The bird had seen two boys target Velonix and even someone come to her rescue, but he didn't stay around long enough to see the conclusion. Kazumi looked at Natsuo and has his grey eyes darken, a sure sign his anger was rising. She herself could feel her own temper come forward but decided to take action before letting it out.

"Thank you for letting us know Shadow. Please lead the way. Let's go Natsuo, I don't think us being late will be an issue if we explain things to the professor."

Natsuo nodded and the two older seasons took off running, following Shadow. It was a good thing the high school was near the college for it only took them a few minutes to get to the scene. It also seemed their appearance on the high school grounds caused people to stare at them, wondering what was going on. They got to the scene just in time to hear someone shot at another person.

Natsuo, who tended to act before thinking, came forward to check on his younger sister, who was clearly in distress, and looked at the blonde hair man. In the meantime,

"Care to explain what happened to my sister?" he asked crossing his arms.

"Really, Natsuo, you have eyes, right? He's obviously not the one who hurt her. Did you see the two other thugs here?" Kazumi said, turning to glare at the two boys.

She would make whole sure they would never mess with her little sister ever again. She knew the two other boys were the ones responsible because Shadow did physically describe all the parties involved. Ignoring Natsuo, she turned to Velonix, came up to her, and gave her a hug.

"Will you be okay Vel?" she cooed in her most soothing voice, one she used on all of her siblings when they needed it.

It was something she picked up from their mother, who had a constant soothing presence.

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Character Portrait: Kazutora Miyato Character Portrait: Velonix Orako Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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”History would be boring without conquerers, bloodthirsty warlords, and saviors.” ~Miltiades Varvounis
Speech Code ~ #B43104
| Thought Code ~ #FE9A2E




As her power built, Velonix could feel a shift in the tension. It almost seemed to crackle with the power as it rose, and the air became stifling rather quickly. Something twinged inside her head, and for a moment, she saw nothing but red, her fingers stretching as she began to release-

"Hey, asshole!"

Just as suddenly as the two delinquents had appeared before her, the boy was suddenly gone, almost in the blink of an eye. Velonix barely registered the vision of fist connecting with face as she was roughly released. She stumbled back a step, bumping into the wall behind her, and looked up in time to see the boy who had so recently been holding her swing hard at the blond who had appeared seemingly out of nowhere and knocked him away. Bewildered by the sudden turn and escalation of events, she didn’t have time to react and shout for her savior to duck, and she winced in sympathetic pain as she watched him take a solid hit to the head. Before she could do anything to even help him - she wasn’t used to these types of circumstances, so excuse her lack of reaction time - the blond had retaliated, striking her assailant several times until the sorry excuse for a boy had rolled away, groaning and whimpering at the feet of his stunned friend.

”Fuck you,” her savior snapped at the injured boy, and she felt a bubble of laughter threaten to escape her throat. She fought it back, knowing that the situation did not call for giggles, but would be lying if she said she wasn’t amused by the blond boy’s words.

It was at that moment that the one who had come to her assistance finally turned and looked at her, and when his fierce gaze settled on her own, she felt her breath hitch a bit in her throat. Eyes like those - ones that pierced into your very soul - and with such an intense hue were rare indeed. Velonix had her fair share of experience with humans, or at least with what they looked like, and it would be a lie to say that she was not intrigued by the unnaturally beautiful gaze.

So distracted by his eyes was she that it wasn’t until the boy spoke that it registered that he was injured. "Sorry, you okay?" He paused for a moment and as he did, she subconsciously lifted her hand a bit, taking a step towards him as she did. ”He didn't do any-" Before he could finish and she could move any further, a rather loud - and rather annoying - voice echoed throughout the courtyard from above, the name that it spewed ringing in the area. The boy’s reaction to the name as well as his wary gaze in the direction of the man who was clearly the perpetrator of such noise led her to the easy deduction that the name had to be the boy’s - or rather, Kazutora’s. Velonix watched as the teacher disappeared from the window, undoubtedly intent on coming down to the yard, and before he would have time to reach them she closed the distance between herself and Kazutora, her hand withdrawing something from the bag that still hung at her hip. It was a small hanky, and she unfolded it quickly, scrunched up one end, and before the boy could react, she had gone on her toes and gently pressed at the bleeding lip.

Almost as soon as she had touched the cloth to his mouth she heard approaching footsteps and took a step back to glance around Kazutora. Oh, Gods - here comes Phoebus. Why am I not surprised that he already knows what happened? she thought bemusedly. Phoebus quickly made it to her side and grabbed her - gently of course - and seemed to give her a quick yet thorough examination before he suddenly rounded on Kazutora, a glare in his deep eyes and arms crossed over his chest.

"Care to explain what happened to my sister?” Frustration instantly bubbled up in Velonix’s chest. Why does he have to be like this? she internally groaned, embarrassment over her brother’s assumptions evident in her reddening face.

"Really, Natsuo, you have eyes, right? He's obviously not the one who hurt her. Did you see the two other thugs here?" Thank the Gods for Aurora - at least she gathered the immediate information before jumping to conclusions. What a great friend, Velonix internally mused as the one who hadn’t touched her turned and fled, clearly not wanting to face any of the smoke from the fire that his buddy had stoked. Suddenly she found herself wrapped in Aurora’s gentle embrace as the older girl murmured gently to her. As soon as she was in her sister’s arms, Velonix felt an uncontrollable wave of tears overwhelm her and she sniffed, a few of the tears escaping. She lifted her hand to rub at her face with her ever-present gloves, attempting to stifle her tears. After a few moments she had managed to collect herself and with an unattractive sniff she nodded at her older sister.

”I’ll be okay,” she said, speaking for the first time since Kazutora had intervened. Finally released from Aurora’s hug, Velonix turned a soft yet dark look on her brother. ”Natsuo, what have I told you about jumping to conclusions?” she huffed out, practically waggling her finger at him as she gently chastised him. If one didn’t know any better, they would think that she was the older sister, with the way that she spoke to him just now.

Deeply inhaling, she let it out slowly in an effort to gather herself and her wits. A lot had just transpired in such a short amount of time, and she felt frazzled as a result, but would be remiss if she neglected to thank the one that had come to her aid. With that thought in mind, she turned to face Kazutora and took a step closer to him so that they were a mere foot or two apart. Her expression softened as she took in his bleeding lip, and she internally winced at the thought of how a human had suffered because of her.

”I am so, so sorry,” she apologized, and it was clear on her face that the words that she spoke rang true. ”I attract a lot of bad luck, and it seems that this time, you were pulled into it as well.” Velonix grimaced a bit, lifting the newly-stained hanky back up, intent on helping him to stem the bleeding, but was cut off by a booming voice.

”Kazutora!

What could it possibly be now?

When Velonix turned her head towards the voice it was to spot a charging teacher - oh, it was the one who had yelled from the window earlier - headed directly for them. The man’s angered gaze rested solely on Kazutora, and with a flicked glance between the two, she moved forward a bit without a second thought, placing her short stature smack between her blond rescuer and the oddly infuriated teacher. She slipped the hanky into Kazutora’s hand as she did so, fixating a heavy gaze on their professor. Said teacher came to a sudden stop before her, almost as though he hadn’t seen her until the very last moment, and despite the anger in his gaze there was also confusion as he looked between Kazutora and herself.

Before he could speak, Velonix bowed forward at the waist, her hands clutched together before her.

”Please forgive us for the uproar, Senpai, she pleaded convincingly, and she peaked up at the man through her lashes and bangs. ”It was my fault, and if Kazutora had not come to help, I’m afraid that things could have ended up far worse. In fact, you should be thanking him and cut him some slack, do you not agree?” she asked, and as she spoke, a gentle breeze carrying scents of cinnamon and pumpkin slipped past the man, almost instantly soothing his anger. He seemed to relax a bit, his expression softening, and he sighed, rubbing at his head.

”Fine, but only this time, since you’re so new and seem like a good kid,” he grumbled. With that, he turned on his heel and stalked back towards the door to the school, muttering under his breath as he did. When he was finally out of sight, Velonix relaxed and turned back to face her siblings once more.
”I’m alright now, and I apologize for making you worry.” With that said,s he turned back to Kazutora, immediately repeating her actions that she had made with their teacher, yet this time more sincerely. She bowed before him, having studied the pleasantries in countries such as Japan, China, and the like before arriving, and when she glanced up at him, her face held remorse.

”Again, I am so sorry for everything that happened. I did not mean to involve you, and I am extremely grateful for your help.” She straightened, a small smile on her face as she looked up at him. ”My name is Orako - Velonix Orako, but most call me Vel. This is Kazumi, and this Natsuo - my older sister and brother.” she motioned to them respectively. ”We moved here a couple of weeks ago and they will be starting at the university, while I will be in your school,” she smiled at that thought and held out a hand in his direction, clearly intending to introduce herself properly. ”And from what I have gathered you are Kazutora, correct? Or would you rather I address you differently?” she tilted her head a bit, gazing up at him.

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Character Portrait: Kazutora Miyato Character Portrait: Velonix Orako Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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kazutora miyato.
dialogue ; #853232. – thought ; #035d63.
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All of that effort, dropping from the second floor, fighting off some asshole and getting a busted lip, a new bruise forming on the side of his head, just to get yelled at by homeroom from the second floor window, to get - probably - a scheduled visit at the headmaster's office and be put under the burning gaze of disappointment and frustration, revulsion, at least from Iwao and perhaps the headmaster at this point. Probably more rumors, new discomfort and- So much for the "peace and quiet," that didn't last, did it?

A groan almost rises out of his chest and into the air, a sharper glare forming as he stares at the ground, and then-

The gentle press of something soft against his lip. Careful, tender, it's an unfamiliar sensation, and he finds himself staring blankly down at the girl who holds a cloth in her hand, who looks at him with something only he can see as worry and concern.

What? What?

Who...in their right mind...for someone like him...

He's still partly stuck in his shock as she pulls away her hand and the now stained cloth, dark red eyes staring down at her as she moves back a step, glances behind him. Trying to make sense of something that felt impossible to made his head hurt, his mind spin with thoughts and ideas. Was this a joke? A setup? What was next, a slap across the face? A spat joke in bad humor, making fun of him for even thinking, even hoping that for once someone here genuinely looked to him with that concern and harmless kindness?

And then that moment of confused silence is over, as the sound of approach and an older voice cuts through and brings him back to reality. He spins on his heel quickly with something of a defensive expression, hand curling into a fist out of frustration again. Right, this was what was normal, being looked to and spoken to with an accusatory tone that practically smacked the label of "villain" over his forehead before he even got the chance to try and explain, to try and clear up the misunderstanding. Thanks, life, that little spritz of kindness that only lasts a couple seconds, as per usual.

"Care to explain what happened to my sister?"

Irritation and frustration claw their way back into his heart as he faces the dark haired man in front of him, crossed arms and angry expression, not much different than what he'd be facing as soon as Mr. Iwao made it to the courtyard himself. But where had this guy even come from, a college student? Why wasn't he in his damn classes, or sitting in his dorm room or something? And - sister? A glance back and forth between the girl he'd jumped in for and him, the pink haired girl who also looked college aged - seriously, where the hell were the university students coming from!? Was it visit the local high school day or some shit!? A final glance back to the brunette. No way these three were related, unless they were all adopted or something, right? They looked nothing alike.

Still, the accusatory words sting, and his glare sharpens towards the man, venom-spiked words on the tip of his tongue, "excuse me? I didn't-"

"Really, Natsuo, you have eyes, right? He's obviously not the one who hurt her. Did you see the two other thugs here?" The more feminine voice cuts through then, the pink haired girl glaring at Kazutora's two classmates who freeze up upon being acknowledged. He'd already beat the first one's ass, and now there were two others, older, here who they probably wouldn't dare challenge at this point. Brave, cocky faces turned cowardly and wimpy in a split second, it was honestly humiliating. Cool until you don't have the advantage, real great character.

And then he's stumbling back a couple steps, getting out of the way of the entirely unexpected siblings reunion in the middle of the one and only high school in Higashi-Naruse. Discomfort spikes quickly as he watches, gaze flitting back down to the ground at the sound of the brunette's sniffling. He hadn't been the one to make her cry, right? That wasn't his fault?

Then, again, attention back on him, the voice that was growing more familiar and ingrained into his mind; it'd be difficult to forget now. "I am so, so sorry," nearly makes him choke; why the hell was she apologizing to him? What? Had he missed something? "I attract a lot of bad luck, and it seems that this time, you were pulled into it as well." Was she...apologizing for her luck? By all means, shouldn't he do the same as well? His luck was horrendous, they could probably be considered even if she'd made it a habit to go out of her way to apologize for her's.

"Why the hell are you saying sorry?" It's muttered, mostly to himself and immediately drowned out in volume by his name being shouted a second time. Ah, kill him already, he was too tired to deal with this now. Mr. Iwao, go bother someone else, or go after the actual offenders here please! If you didn't want a fight like this maybe you should have stepped in first like any teacher here should!

He about to, albeit begrudgingly, take his homeroom teacher's berating, the usual angry words and sharp, almost shocking reprimands while he dragged him off to the staff's lounge by his uniform jacket. Instead, another shock. The man's charge forward is halted by the girl again, and now she's in front of him, as if her tiny form is somehow strong enough to get the man to stop whatever he's doing. Even the shock that someone is stepping in for Kazutora seems to wear off quickly enough, the irritated expression returning, but before he can even speak she's talking instead herself. "Please forgive us for the uproar, Senpai, It was my fault, and if Kazutora had not come to help, I’m afraid that things could have ended up far worse. In fact, you should be thanking him and cut him some slack, do you not agree?"

If her dabbing away the blood on his lip, and stepping in front of him at Iwao's approach weren't a shock enough, then her words were literally sending him over the edge. Huh? What? Excuse me? Is she- is she trying to defend me? Why- what? This total stranger, who he'd never seen or spoken to up until this point, was defending him? Was telling Iwao to thank him and cut him some slack? Excuse me? Who-

And then Iwao agrees. And then Kazutora can only stare in shock as he walks away, as nothing happens, as he's not yelled at and not dragged off to the headmaster's office and not whispered about again for the rest of then day and not-

The shock, a sensation of disbelief. No way in hell this was happening. In the three years he'd been here, in the fourteen years he'd been alive, not once had someone thought to defend him, or make sure he felt- okay? Was that even the right word? It had always been ignore, accuse, attack, berate, never...this. Something inside his chest warms slightly for a moment, and he can feel a slight pang of...gratitude? Warmth? Was he blushing? No. But the sense is gone in an instant too; how could he even believe this was genuine, real? The look in the girl's eyes swore it to be true, but the voices in his head all shrieked a resounding, "no! How dare he even consider that to be a possibility? That someone didn't outright hate him or at least find a bitter taste in their mouth from the moment they spoke with him?

Not true, not real, no way. It was just some game his classmates had conjured up to rattle his emotions and get his hopes up again, only to douse the tiny matchstick flame in a bucket of water. They'd done it before, why not again? Senior year, their last chance.

But she's talking again, and he lets out an uncharacteristically shaky breath, trying to sort through this sudden change in the plot line of his life, trying to make sense of the unfamiliar girl who stood before him, whose name was Velonix Orako. What the hell kind of name was that? So obviously foreign. And then there's Kazumi and Natsuo, the latter's name he'd already guessed from the former's words. Siblings. And then things start to click in place. They were new here, just a couple weeks ago new, and while Natsuo and Kazumi were attending university, Velonix - Vel? - was staying here. So she was one of the new transfer students? Then, who was the other? Another sibling or just a random? Still, at least he had names now, and a situation and backstory. So even if Velonix wasn't already in on some game with her new classmates, then she probably was just unaware of Kazutora's own reputation and standing in the social realm of the school and town at this point. That would make more sense. She'd probably be looking at him just the same as the rest as soon as she got settled in and others started talking. Especially...after an event like this.

His gaze stays down on her for a moment longer, almost unreadable in the blur of solving his own emotions and thoughts, before he relents with a soft sigh, moving a hand out to shake her's, as odd as it felt. Even with her pressing attention and eyes on him, he keeps his own averted, to the grass, the school building, the pond behind them, avoidant. "Kazutora...Miyato." The last name comes out a bit strained in the volume of a mutter, as always, but he doesn't dwell on it long, "just...Kazutora, is fine." Another short pause, "thanks, for getting Mr. Iwao off my back. Sorry, about everything else."

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Character Portrait: Kazutora Miyato Character Portrait: Velonix Orako Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Iphianassa Lykaois Character Portrait: Mafuyu Hanazawa Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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Kazumi wasn't surprised in the least when her sister started shaking a bit, but soon seemed to calm down. It seemed like they got to Vel just in time for both her and Natsuo knew what happened when Velonix was pushed hard enough now, the darker half of her would awaken. So it while their main concern would always be for their sister, a part of them would always be concerned for others too, not just for their safety, but to keep their cover too.

Once Vel said she was okay and left Kazumi's side, Kazumi had to struggle not to laugh when she turned on their brother.

Natsuo was tempted to make a sarcastic remark, but reframed from doing so, not only because he knew that would get more of a lecture from Velonix, but wouldn't get him anywhere either. In his mind though, he didn't think he was making assumptions, he just was making sure the blonde hair guy wasn't one of the ones who hurt his sister. He turned his gaze to Vel's savior as she started apologizing and talking to him. Natsuo would have said something about that, but they heard someone shouting, presumably at the blonde. Both him and Kazumi stayed silent as Velonix handled the situation. She was always good at peacekeeping. Kazumi kept looking back at the two trouble makers to make sure they stayed where they were. She even went so far as to have all the animals in the nearby area keeping an eye on them.

After the teacher left, Velonix started talking again and introduced herself as well as Kazumi and Natsuo. Kazumi smiled kindly and waved when she was introduced and Natsuo mere nodded his head. It took a few minutes but the guy did finally introduced himself and thanking Vel for getting the teacher of his back.

Kazumi spoke up after he finished.

"Thank you for helping our sister Mr. Miyato. Vel, dearie, we need to get to our first class, but we'll make sure these 'boys' go to the headmaster's office and also the nurse's office," she said before turning to the guys who hurt her sister, "Come on you two, let's get going."

"Why should we listen to you?" one of them said, trying to gather up some courage, but it was obvious he was scared.

Natsuo was hoping for a response like that. There was a reason why he always carried a kendo sword while he was here. Moving so fast that only his sisters could see him movie, one minute he was next to Kazumi, the second he was right in front of the one who spoke, the tip of his wooden kendo sword right at the guys' neck.

"Because it's in your best interests. Be lucky we're only giving you this warning. Now move," Natsuo said in a calm, but threatening voice before lowering the wooden sword.

After that, the older siblings left with the two guys in tow. After taking care of that, they finally headed back to the college. Both knew they were a bit late and hoped they wouldn't be in too much trouble. Knocking on the door of the classroom, the professor opened the door and actually looked relieved to see them, but was still a bit cross at their lateness. He did say this while they were still outside the classroom. Kazumi did explain the situation.

"Well, I know this is your first day of school, so I'll give it a pass for now, but this will be your only warning. I hope your sister is fine now. Give me a few minutes and we'll introduce you two." he said before closing the door.

Several minutes later, the professor returned and allowed the pair to come in.

"Class, here are your new classmates. Please make them feel welcome. Ms. and Mr. Orako, please introduce yourselves."

Kazumi stepped up first and was all smiles. She loved being the center of attention and was already enjoying the reactions of the class, especially the guys.

"Hello, my name is Kazumi Orako and I am the oldest of 4. I love to garden and dance and play woodwind instruments. It's a pleasure to meet you and I look forward to getting to know all of you. You're next brother dear." Kazumi said, winking at Natsuo at that last part.

Natsuo rolled his eyes before looking at the class and saying, "Good morning, I am Natsuo Orako. I like to cook and train."

Kazumi couldn't help but tease her brother and said, "And he's single too ladies!"

Glaring at his sister, Natsuo snapped back, "That's not important right now, Kazumi. Shall I tell everyone all the times you've made our kitchen a disaster area? Oh wait, I just did."

He said that last part with a smirk. Kazumi would have exploded, but the professor intervened.

"Thank you both. There are several seats back there near Miss Lykaois. Feel free to sit back there and we'll continue the class."

Both siblings calmed down and nodded. Soon they found themselves near the person the professor indicated. Kazumi sat right next to the girl while Natsuo sat behind his sister. He couldn't help but look at the dark hair girl a few times for she didn't act like the other girls in class, who kept giggling when looking in his direction.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Kazuyuki Orako Character Portrait: Velonix Orako Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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”The tongue weighs practically nothing,
But so few people can hold it.” ~African Proverb

Speech Code ~ #B43104
| Thought Code ~ #FE9A2E
Phoenix Speech Code ~ #FF0000 | Phoenix Thought Code ~ #DF0174




It would be a lie to say that she had missed the conflicting emotions flashing through the boy’s eyes, but before she could pinpoint what exactly those feelings were, Kazutora had averted his gaze, making it blatantly obvious that he was looking everywhere but at her. This caused an eyebrow to arch in interest - Why was he refusing to look at her? Did he find her that hideous and awful to look upon? Velonix shook away the thought, distracted by the warmth of his hand slipping into her own. His grip was firm but soft, and his palm was slightly callused, the little scars of his life experiences faintly dotting his pale skin - hands that belonged to someone who had seen the true difficulties of life. For a moment she felt a small rise of curiosity, and a fleeting thought to simply remove her gloves and force him to reveal his memories, albeit unbeknownst to him, flashed through her mind. Do it. You know you want to know. She winced a bit at the voice that spoke to her, one so similar to her own yet so vastly different in inflection and tone. She couldn’t focus on such a toxic inner voice; it could so quickly lead to her downfall. Instead she returned her focus to Kazutora, who was still making a drastic effort not to meet her stare, and she almost seemed to make it a game of sorts. When he looked one way, she leaned in that direction to meet his gaze - when he looked quickly to another direction, she would hop slightly to the side so that he had no choice but to meet her eyes.

After a few changes in direction, he seemed to give up, at that point his face turned somewhat to the ground as he peered down at it, almost as though he were intently counting each blade of grass. "Kazutora...Miyato. Just...Kazutora, is fine." Velonix couldn’t contain her smile and she beamed up at him, clearly pleased with his introduction. "Thanks, for getting Mr. Iwao off my back. Sorry, about everything else."

Now it was her turn to be confused over his words, for why in the world was he apologizing to her? If it weren’t for him, she would still be dealing with the disgusting excuse of humans that had been harassing her, and if it weren’t for her, he never would have gotten hurt or been at risk of punishment by the administration. Her confusion evident on her face, she quirked a brow and tilted her head a bit, tapping her chin inquisitively with her index finger. She studied him for a moment, a million thoughts flashing through her mind in record time. From his mannerisms to his words, it was clear that the boy was troubled for some reason - but, why? It wasn’t like she had done anything to him, but his weariness was clear in his features and the way that he held himself. She took a step closer and peered at his face, her own expression intent and serious as she studied his features.

Hehe, cute little pup, isn’t he? You should make a move - I know we’d both enjoy a little toy like him, especially when it comes to playing with his mind.

Velonix visibly blanched as the words slithered through her mind. It was true that the young man that stood before her wasn’t lacking when it came to his physical attributes, and he was clearly more than capable of holding his own in a confrontation. What Phoenix had said was at least a partial truth - he was attractive, physically. His actions, though, made her instantly nauseous at the thought of doing something to cause this boy pain, whether directly or not, and she couldn’t contain the broiling anger in her chest at the mere mention of it.

You know nothing, Phoenix - I could never do that to him. Go away!

The only response she received was a low giggle, one that held the promise of something unpleasant in the future. The sense of foreboding that she felt over this internal laugh gave her a dreadful feeling, and as she withdrew her hand from Kazutora’s, she absently rubbed at the goosebumps rising on her arms. At that moment, her siblings spoke up, informing her of their intent to turn in the remaining delinquent to the Headmaster for her before returning to their own classes. She watched in amusement as Natsuo seemingly flashed to the boys’ side, sword withdrawn, and mulled over the fact that while her brother was a bit of a stick in the mud, he was still protective and loving towards her and their siblings. He would definitely make an amazing husband to his future wife. A grateful smile crossed her lips and she stepped over to them, wrapping her arms around them both at the same time in a small group hug.

”Thank you so much - truly. I have no idea where I would be without you both and Yuki,” she spoke softly, and she released them just as gently. Once they had left with protesting troublesome boys, Velonix turned back to Kazutora once more and gave him a smile, despite her inner thoughts, and almost seemed to radiate sweetness to the point of tooth decay.

”Mm, I believe it to be only fair that I extinguish the flames that I helped to create, no?” she asked, referring to helping with the teacher, who she now knew as Mr. Iwao - she would have to remember his face and name for later, should he continue to cause any trouble for this boy that she was quickly considering to be a friend, her first friend on Earth, if she was being completely honest. She peeked up at him through her lashes at that thought, remembering something that Phoenix had said, about his ‘cute’ features. Her alter ego was not far off, but if she were to pick a word to describe the boy before her, cute would be an understatement. She studied him, taking in his porcelain complexion and blond locks that were so vastly different from his intense, dark eyes. His face was narrow but not unhealthily so, and a darkening spot on his cheek gave her a harsh twinge in her heart that she couldn’t quite explain. Was it pity, guilt, regret - or something else? He was lean and not necessarily muscular, but certainly was not lacking in his build.

So into her study was she that it wasn’t until she looked back up at his gaze that she realized how long she had been eying him down. Almost instantly she turned a bright, crimson red, and she quickly turned her face away from him, digging through the bag at her waist as a coverup for why she looked away so quickly. When she removed her hands once more, it was to reveal an instant cold pack, which she crackled quickly before it was held in Kazutora’s direction with a dainty, gloved hand. Her expression bespoke her remorse over him being injured because of her, and before he could refuse the pack, she gently took his hand once more in hers and slid it into his palm which still held her hanky. She closed his fingers around the items before pressing his hand to his abdomen insistently, somehow knowing that he would be the type to reject them.

”Please, make sure to ice your face well. It looks quite painful, and is already bruising and swelling a bit. You should visit the nurse before class,” she advised, her concern evident in her eyes. She was nothing if not the type to wear her heart on her sleeve, and she refused to change that fact about herself.

Ri-ii-ii-iing.

Jolted from her thoughts, Velonix felt panic rise up inside of her. They had been so distracted by everything that she had lost track of time, and now the warning bell was chiming, signaling that they had five minutes to get to class before they would be marked tardy. Unfortunately for her, she didn’t exactly know where class was.

With a slightly panicked look at Kazutora, she bent at the waist once more before quickly breathing out,
”It was nice meeting you, I hope we can become close friends!” before she was off, not waiting for a response. She did, however, cast one last glance over her shoulder back at him, unable to resist a final glimpse of the boy that had saved her - Kazutora.

The name stuck in her mind as she searched for her class, and the events that had brought them to meet played behind her eyes as she jogged. The second bell eventually chimed, signaling that students were to take their seats and prepare for homeroom, and it was then that she finally found her room - 3C. The homeroom teacher was just about to step through the doors when she noticed her approaching somewhat out of breath, and an amused smile crossed the woman’s lips as the teenager came to a stop before her, attempting to catch her breath as she scrambled out an apology for being late.

Mrs. Satƍ simply smiled down at her reassuringly, giving her a light pat on the head. ”It’s okay, don’t worry - today’s your first day, so it’s understandable if you got a little lost. Just don’t let it happen again, okay?” she told her kindly. ”I’ll be your homeroom and History teacher, Mrs. Satƍ, so feel free to come to me if you have any troubles.” She slid open the door a bit further, still speaking as she did so. ”Just let me tell the class that you’re here and I’ll introduce you.” With that said, she disappeared through the door, sliding it almost completely shut behind her.

A few moments ticked by as Velonix stood in silence, listening as Mrs. Satƍ gave her morning greetings and began to introduce her as the new student. She couldn’t help but wonder where Yuki was - he should’ve beaten her to class, seeing as his meeting with the Headmaster had been before hers. He must have run into some trouble along the way, and at the thought of that, she sent a quick prayer to her parents that he was safe.

When the introduction had finished, Velonix plastered a smile on her face that didn’t quite reach her eyes, her concern over her brother’s absence too difficult to entirely cover, and with a slide of the door, she easily entered the room. Her heart hammered in her chest, thundering in her ears as she moved, an entirely unfamiliar feeling for the young goddess. Was this ... Nervousness? She had never had anything to feel nervous about, so the emotion was foreign, but from what she knew, the closest thing to explain the feeling would be either anxious or nervous. Soft whispers floated across the room as her new classmates gossiped amongst themselves, and her slightly superior hearing easily picked up the words, which ranged from praise to disdain towards her appearance. They say that it only takes 27 seconds to make a first impression, and to her that seemed a bit of a disappointment, as it was clear most people made their decisions on their views upon one another based entirely on physical qualities alone. Things like, 'What a babe', 'Wow, what a tryhard skank' and 'She's so pretty!' slithered through her eardrums, and she felt a bit of hurt mixed with embarrassment over their words. What a fantastic first impression she'd made.

Velonix was jerked from her thoughts as her teacher began to speak, lightly touching the girl's upper arm as she introduced her. ”Class, please give a warm welcome to Miss Velonix Orako. Her brother is the other new student that you all have heard about and I’m sure that he’ll be joining us shortly, but as for now, Miss Orako is the only one here, so please make sure to be kind and helpful to her as she adjusts to our lovely school,” the teacher said, and Velonix was impressed by the woman’s ability to speak so much without taking a single breath. It was clear that the woman was well-practiced in public speaking, she’d give her that much.

A bow and a smile, and Velonix straightened once more to face her class, giving them that same cheerfully false smile.

”Hello, I am Velonix Orako. I enjoy books, the arts, and sweet things. I am so happy to meet you all, and I cannot wait to become friends with everyone here. Please, treat me kindly,” she introduced herself sweetly, ignoring the odd stares that she was receiving from the other students - a mixed pool of piqued interest, jealousy, and lustful gazes littered their features, and none of those things really sat well with her. Their auras clung to them desperately in an attempt to not meld with the sheens of auras belonging to the others; there were far too many people in the one area for her to be able to make out the individual hues, and doing so would undoubtedly cause her eyes to hurt. She would have to tread carefully with these human students - who knew what type of things that adolescents were capable of?

As she glanced over the group of her new peers, she idly heard the teacher saying something about where she could sit, and when the woman pointed at the three empty desks surrounding a rather familiar individual, Velonix felt her heart quicken a bit - this time she knew it was due to excitement though. Before she could stop herself, a genuine smile bloomed across her face.

”Kazutora!” she called cheerfully, giddiness obvious over seeing the boy once again. So involved in her enthusiasm was she that the expressions of her classmates were entirely missed by her eyes; how they changed from interest to mixes of confusion and disdain over the mere mention of the boy’s name. Before the teacher could say anything else, Velonix had slipped through the desks and begun to approach her blond savior, when she was suddenly stopped by a hand tightly gripping her wrist through her sleeve. Surprised, her head snapped to the side, her eyes settling on the boy who held her in place.

”Excuse me, but I do not believe I gave you permission to touch me,” she said coolly, her voice sugary sweet but holding dark undertones. The boy simply smirked at her, his eyes showing an underlying hint of malice. A pause as he almost seemed to eye her up and down, and she felt her skin crawl a bit under his gaze. Despite the mesh of auras, she could instantly pin point the darker hues swirling around him - This is someone I have to make sure to avoid.

”Hey, hey, hey, no need for the hostility. I was just trying to help a new classmate out. Trust me, you definitely do not wanna sit by that 
 thing over there,” he warned, tossing a thumb with his free hand in Kazutora’s direction. At the boy’s words, Velonix’s expression visibly darkened. As he moved, his finger idly brushed across her bare wrist, and before she could control it, a barrage of images flashed before her eyes. It happened quickly, almost instantaneously, and she felt an instant pain flash through her skull at the onslaught of moving pictures and sounds. Snippets of interactions between the boy and who he assumed were his parents, giving him money as though it were the most normal thing in the world; the boy smoking cigarettes behind buildings and joking around with his friends; and finally, him looming over a very familiar blond male, foot connecting repeatedly with the downed boy as Kazutora laid curled on the ground before him, his friends more than happy to help him in the beating. The sight wrenched at Velonix's heart and before she knew what she was doing and the boy could react, she tore her wrist away from his grip and rubbed at her skin, as though attempting to get his disgusting touch off of her body, and fixed a revolted glare on him.

”I appreciate the advice, but maybe you should learn to mind your own business,” she bit out, her eyes narrowed and hard. She glanced around a bit, noticing that almost all of the other students had similar expressions to the boy who had stopped her. They were staring intently at the interaction, as though it were their entertainment for the day. Their teacher ignored the drama between the students as it was common for teenagers to have spats, instead focusing on preparing for their lessons. Another boy who sat beside the first leaned over in his chair, looking up at her earnestly.

”Seriously, he isn’t joking - that guy’s a real monster, so you’d be smart not to go near him.”

At that, Velonix took a step back from the duo, a look of awe and repulsion on her face.

”I’m sorry, but last I checked, I had a mind of my own that was perfectly capable of making its own decisions and judgements. The last thing that I need are a couple of simple-minded children whose intellect is on par with that of a Neandrethal telling me who I should or should not associate myself with. Perhaps next time, you should think carefully before speaking, lest you publicly embarrass yourself any further by judging another person without getting to know them first,” she snapped out - her voice was cold, entirely different from how it had been a mere few moments before when introducing herself, and she made her anger over the boys’ words oh-so-very-clear.

With that said, she made her way to the back of the room and rather matter-of-factly dropped her bag onto the floor beside her chair, a loud thud sound reverberating throughout the space, having chosen a desk directly beside Kazutora. The other students stared at her in a mixture of shock, surprise, and awe at her boldness, to which she met each gaze firmly, ready to bite out another retort at their rudeness, but before they could begin whispering amongst themselves, Mrs. Satƍ cleared her throat and called for their attention, slipping easily into their first lecture of the day. Velonix withdrew a notebook, pencil, eraser, and her textbook, smoothly flipping open to the page written on the whiteboard. As she settled into her seat and parted her notebook to a blank page, she cast a sideways glance over at Kazutora, a small smile on her lips, and she gave him a small yet clear wink, already beginning to take notes as their teacher spoke.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Kazutora Miyato Character Portrait: Velonix Orako Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Reiya Goertz Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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kazutora miyato.
dialogue ; #853232. – thought ; #035d63.
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Something about Velonix really threw him off. She wasn't quite like anyone else he knew at this point, or, more than just "quite," she really wasn't like anyone he knew. Chalking it up to her just not knowing any better, to not realizing who she was talking to so comfortably right now, was the only thing that helped him make sense of the situation. Surely, as soon as she entered whatever class she'd been dropped in and their classmates inevitably approached her and "warned" her of him, she'd grow to look at him just the same as everyone else did here, and it would be back to that normalcy he'd grown accustomed to these past three years. The equation was ready, x = new student and y = today's new gossip + three years of rumors, the only part missing was the time it took for her to reach class and start a conversation.

Still, being treated like a human being by one of his peers for the first time in years was...refreshing. Kind. Nice. He almost didn't want it to end, but holding onto that hope would only leave him disappointed in the end; expect the worst and you'll never be hurt.

The girl proves herself as persistent though, perhaps well meaning, but his heart starts beating a little too quickly when she seeks out his gaze, and he tries to choke back the incoming anxiety, as if that could even do anything. One look to the left, and she's leaning that way. To the right, and her head bobs into his field of vision again. Up and she gets on the tips of her shoes, and then finally he casts his gaze to the floor, throws out his hand and forces out his introduction. That, at least, seems to satisfy her, and a quick glance catches that bright, beaming smile she has aimed in his direction, almost an approving nod. That smile turns confused after his apologies, though, and as it takes over her expression, he finds her staring at him, as if he were some picture to study.

A study gone wrong, apparently, because soon her face is paling, eyes widening slightly and her hand withdrawn swiftly, rubbing at her own arms uncomfortably as they cross over her chest. He blanks at the reaction, now free hand moving to gently press at his lip, cheek, before something sharp pricks his heart, makes his chest tighten. Right, that was a normal reaction to seeing him; had she finally realized who he was? Who she was offering her kindness to? Certainly not someone who deserved it, if any of the others in Higashi-Naruse had something to say about it.

"Thank you for helping our sister Mr. Miyato," is the slightly unfamiliar voice that draws his attention away from conflicting, frustrated emotions, and his gaze turns towards the pink haired woman who turns to give her goodbyes to Velonix, to finally return to their actual school. You know, a college, not a local high school. Not quite finished yet, though, as she turns towards the two who had harrassed Velonix, who had made him bleed, with a short, matter of fact, "come on you two, let's get going."

He looks away from them both then, back down to the ground, silently searching for some way to get out of this situation and back to that quiet corner where his desk was. Abnormality and confusion would be over soon, and it would be back to trying to graduate and get out of the grip his classmates had on him and his reputation, without ending up half dead by their hands or actually throwing himself off the school's roof someday.

That short-lived search for freedom is over in a heartbeat, though, and he finds himself looking back to the girl when he feels her smile and gaze burning into his back again. Hadn't she just looked at him like he was something to be afraid of...two seconds ago? He hadn't missed her paling face, what was with this flip in expression and demeanor again? Truly, she was becoming hard to make sense of, and he wasn't sure how to handle it.

"Mm, I believe it to be only fair that I extinguish the flames that I helped to create, no?" Probably in response to his expressed gratitude earlier, and he gives a light shrug in response at it, glancing away towards the school again, where that man had stormed off to. How long until he would be switching place with his homeroom teacher and ramming math into his head for an hour? That was third hour, wasn't it? The man would probably be after his ass during that period today, given he couldn't give him shit earlier thanks to Velonix's interference.

Who was, once again, staring at him for an extensive period of time. Was this a cultural thing? Was it a cultural difference that was normal where she was from? Because it definitely wasn't normal here; it was anxiety inducing and he was-

And then she's looking away in a startled manner once again, and Kazutora expects her to go pale once more, but rather than losing color from her face, she's gaining color, bright red and impossible to miss. Embarrassed? Did she realize how long she'd been staring at him for? He practically felt like going red in the face as well at this point, as if he should feel flustered or sheepish over something he did or something on his face: the busted lip or darkening bruise, he didn't know. It wasn't like he could make those things disappear at this point, nor could he make himself disappear, at least not right now, not until he could find a way to leave without causing anger or discomfort.

Velonix is speaking again though, and suddenly he feels contact to his hand, the soft fabric of her glove and then the freezing sensation of the icepack she'd pulled out of her bag, on top of that handkerchief that she'd slipped into his palm earlier. He still needed to return that, actually, given he'd figured she had just needed him to hold it for her for a bit, or maybe she wanted him to wash it and return it later since he'd been the one to stain it, but now it was trapped underneath the icepack and his closed hand, her own gently holding it that way as if he might throw it right back at her given the chance. Honestly, he probably would have tried to return it or shove it in her bag before leaving if he got the chance, eyeing the open flap of it now anyway, but soon enough she was speaking, gentle and concerned, just as before, "please, make sure to ice your face well. It looks quite painful, and is already bruising and swelling a bit. You should visit the nurse before class."

Blinking once at her words, his brows only furrowed further as she got them out, a request, an observation, a suggestion. He blanks again from it, mind still trying to keep up with all the confusion blooming out of this situation and this new student, and truly, he was feeling at his wits end. Too kind, too concerned for his well being, too generous, it had been years-

The ringing of the bell draws him from his drowning thoughts, draws her from her expressions of concern before they turn to slight panic for herself as she practically scrambles back, bows, and then waves as she runs for the building, an, "it was nice meeting you, I hope we can become close friends!"

His mind finally short circuits, and he can only stare in her direction as she goes. Close friends? She wanted to be friends with him?

God, give her a week and she be backpedaling on those words fast as she can. He scowls slightly, before half begrudgingly pressing the icepack to his face, and making his way to the classroom that he'd be stuck in for the rest of the year: 3C. At least when the warning bell rang it cleared out the hallways quickly, and those left in the spaces were more focused on getting to class than they were him. An easy walk to the third floor, lazily back to his desk, and he falls into the seat with a slouch, a slight scrape of the chair legs over the floor. Still, the sound is drowned out by the continuously excited chatter, and he rolls his eyes, crossing his arms over the top of the desk and resting his head over the top of them. If he'd lost his nap for the morning, then maybe Mrs. Satƍ would have mercy and let him sleep through homeroom and part of social studies. Probably not.

The final bell rings and silence slowly begins to fall over the classroom as the other students prep for their teacher to enter, as they do their best to give a good first impression for the new students, and Kazutora keeps his head down on the table, ignores the sound of his teacher entering and closes his eyes. Only for them to snap open again, and for his head to lift from his arms at the oh so familiar voice that introduces herself to the class.

"Hello, I am Velonix Orako. I enjoy books, the arts, and sweet things. I am so happy to meet you all, and I cannot wait to become friends with everyone here. Please, treat me kindly."

Velonix!? She was one of the new students in his class!?

Iphi, please tell me, do the gods only want to see me suffer? Is my life entertainment for them? Truly, he was feeling that way now. Not only did they drop Velonix into his life for a short moment of kindness and a sensation of hope that was still burning in denial in his mind, now he had to sit here and watch his classmates tell her all the rumors and stories surrounding his little head like annoying gnats, and see her kind and cheerful expressions towards him turn to ones of disgust and hate in real time. Thanks, a whole lot.

And then she's calling out his name in that happy, gleeful tone, and he wishes he could throw himself out this window right now. Did she really just do that? Was she really going to keep this up, in front of all the others? Did she realize how the others would react to that? He could already feel the stares, the snickers and the disgust, and for a moment he caught Kenji's gaze, the asshole's sneer only growing over his face at this perfect opportunity he was being provided.

Her giddy approach to his desk, or the one beside him is halted though when Kenji's hand snaps out the grab her wrist, a grip far too tight from what Kazutora could see, and he nearly jumps out of his seat. Hadn't he just kicked someone's ass for harassing her anyway? Why not do it again?

And probably get the life beaten out of him after classes when he gathered all of his friends so they could take "revenge?" As if he hadn't gone home covered in bruises and cuts after one of those and nearly given Etsuko and Kenta heart attacks. But her sharp words leave soon, a glare in their classmate's direction as she gives small tugs to try and get out of her grip, but Kenji slips in his own words before she can get away, poisoned words filling the air of the room as everyone stays quiet and listen, snickers and whispers along, "hey, hey, hey, no need for the hostility. I was just trying to help a new classmate out. Trust me, you definitely do not wanna sit by that
thing over there,"

Oh, we weren't going to wait to do this? The shift in Velonix's perspective was going to be changed, day one, right in front of him as she had been on her way to sit next to him? His chest tightens at the words all the same. There's something about hearing the words spoken so carelessly, cruelly, right in front of him where they know he can hear. Stings, burns, and he turns his head away from, stares out the window at his left as he tries to choke back anxiety, rage, the urge to jump up from his chair and just punch Kenji out of his. But first the brunette's words reach his ears, and he pauses, brows furrowing slightly. Did she...just tell him to mind his own business? Kenji?

"Seriously, he isn’t joking," comes the next voice, Hitoshi Oka or something, he always hung around Kenji, "that guy’s a real monster, so you’d be smart not to go near him." But his gaze is already turned back towards them, wide and in shock that she'd even cast of their warnings in the first place. That...that had never happened before. The word monster rings incessantly in his ears, but so do her's, and they only grow as she speaks again, tearing her wrist from his grip and glaring down at them, "I’m sorry, but last I checked, I had a mind of my own that was perfectly capable of making its own decisions and judgements. The last thing that I need are a couple of simple-minded children whose intellect is on par with that of a Neandrethal telling me who I should or should not associate myself with. Perhaps next time, you should think carefully before speaking, lest you publicly embarrass yourself any further by judging another person without getting to know them first."

No way. No...no way. This. This was a dream? There was no way this was- this was not fucking happening because there was no one on this earth that would even try. That would even care but now he was-

He can only stare at her as she makes the rest of her way to the desk, dropping down the bag and into her seat without a care for the stares, the looks making their way over to them, so shocked they can't even respond to what's been said and done. Their homeroom is finally starting too, though, and as she begins her neat writing into her notebook for the lecture, he catches a glance, a smile, a wink, like what she'd done was simple and unimportant, like that wasn't the first time someone had stuck up for him or told off Kenji since he'd been here, for three years. She...had no idea.

A look up to the other boy for a short moment wins him the glare and dark smile that promises hell, though, and suddenly he knows that this whole ordeal wouldn't go without him catching Kenji's anger over the humiliation in the end. A tighter grip on the ice pack, and all he can do is stare down at his desk, neglecting even pulling anything out to take notes with. At this point, it would probably end up in the school's pool anyway.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Iphianassa Lykaois Character Portrait: Mafuyu Hanazawa Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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mafuyu hanazawa.
dialogue ; #7f9f91. – thought ; #bb7e8c.
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"And...he hasn't tried to call you again since then, has he?"

"No, Mom. I've blocked the last number he called me through anyway, so it'll probably be awhile before he tries again."

"If...if you're sure. I just want you to be safe, okay? If he tries anything more than just talking over the phone, please come visit home for a bit. You know how I just...I would rather you be here with me and the girls, so I can know you're safe."

"Got it, got it, I promise I'm fine though. How would he know where I live? Or where any of us live anyway? He must've found my number on something, don't worry too much, okay? Focus on the girls, and yourself. Did you get that check I sent your way, by the way? It should have arrived a couple days ago."

"Oh, Mafuyu...yes, I got it, but haven't I told you, you don't have to keep sending me these. Keep this money for yourself, don't you want to go out with friends and buy nice meals occasionally?"

"...Yeah, I have enough for that, don't worry about it. Just make sure everyone's getting full meals, okay? I gotta go now though, I'm already going to be late for first hour. I'll call you tonight, alright? Tell those three hello for me."

A tap on his phone screen and the call was over, silence filling his cheap apartment once again for the morning. An unpleasant call, if he was honest, but at least it was his mom who had answered and not his sorry excuse for a father. How many times had the man gotten a new number or called from a public phone to try and get ahold of him? Was this the fourth? He didn't know, nor did he care at this point. Hopefully, his words had been strong enough to get the man to give up this time, but in the back of his mind he felt that was unlikely.

Falling back onto the pile of blankets on his bed, he stared up at the ceiling, sea green eyes going empty for a moment. If the man kept on insisting on reentering his life - for less than pure ideals no doubt - he wasn't sure what he'd do. Not that he even had time to think about it; he really was already late for class at this rate, and he wasn't really in the mood to get chewed out by his professor in front of the whole class if he could avoid it.

Sitting up again, his hand swung out to snag the backpack sitting lazily on the floor, zipping up the open pack as he walked over, and then shoving his feet into an easy pair of shoes. Skateboard in hand soon after, the keys to his apartment swung around his finger like a disc as he stepped out the door, pulling it shut with his foot and then locking the...particularly unreliable deadbolt, now that he was looking at it. How long until that just broke off the door on its own? At least none of his neighbors had tried to break in yet.

Down the shoddy steps and onto the old asphalt, he moved past the few cars littering the apartment's parking lot before letting his skateboard drop onto the ground with a clatter, and up he stepped. Its wheels roll him down to the sidewalk just a short ways away, and as he hits the more even ground and reaches a smooth drift, he puts his foot against the concrete to pick up the speed, hands moving to tie his hair back into a lazy ponytail all the while. Just a short way to the class, but even the fresh breeze of the quaint town's air and some sense of freedom for a moment lets him relax his nerves, let go of the stress from this morning and just...be.

His apartment wasn't all too far from campus, luckily, and soon enough he found the sidewalk leading him right into it, dodging past a couple of the students as he rode past, before kicking the board into grass to let it slow down and pick it back up. Trying to go around in the more crowded spaces here would probably get him in trouble, or leave him crashing into some unlucky classmate, and he wasn't really keen on doing that. A couple hey's, some waves, an exchanged high five and then he's already in the building where the...philosophy class was being held. By god, why, did he have to take philosophy? He didn't really feel like questioning life anymore than he already did in general, but it was required, so alas, here he was, stuck staring at the closed door of his classroom, trying to ready himself to face his classmates and professor within for being - a quick glance to his watch - ten minutes late already. Have mercy, ma'am, please don't mark me down as absent.

Shifting the skateboard around so the decal on the deck was facing towards him instead of the crowd within, he pushed the door open with a nudge of his foot, and then slipped inside.

"Mafuyu Hanazawa. Late, again."

Wow, not even a second to breathe. Not even a chance to sneak. Just rip the bandaid right off lady, he could probably take it anyway.

Looking towards the woman who stood at the front of the class with her arms crossed - the chalkboard behind her was welcoming two people, guests? Visitors? New students? - and as she tapped an impatient finger on her arm, he jokingly brought his own arms up to shield over himself, smile breaking through as he did, "Aiya~ please have mercy Ms. Nishihara! I promise it won't happen again!" A pause, he lowered his arms before giving an awkward smile, a short bow, a quiet tone. "I'm really sorry ma'am, I had some family matters come up."

A roll of her eyes, she gestured her hand off to a vague area of seats, to which he spotted unfamiliar faces and another he couldn't possibly forget: Iphianassa. "Hurry up and take a seat so we can get started, Mr. Hanazawa. We don't need anymore distractions for today, we're already short on time." A quick nod, and Mafuyu shifted around to make his way up to the spot left in the classroom, letting himself half fall into the seat next to the boy. His skateboard on the ground and backpack following, he shuffled out a notebook and pen while their professor began her lecture, as...unengaging as he usually found it. Only two weeks in...how am I going to survive this semester?

Still he leans forward slightly in his seat towards Iphianassa, giving a lopsided smile in her direction as he spoke, keeping his tone quiet, "heya, Phig. Wanna introduce me to these two? You were here when they were introduced you know." A pause, he glanced to both of them, giving slight waves even if he paused at the pink haired one. "Nice to meet you both, mhm, sorry I caused a scene on the day you arrived. I've only been late twice now, promise. Name's Mafuyu Hanazawa, nice to meet you."

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Iphianassa Lykaois Character Portrait: Mafuyu Hanazawa Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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"Sorry, sarcasm falls out of my mouth
Like stupidity falls out of yours."
~Unknown

Speech Code ~ #8A0808
| Thought Code ~ #045FB4




As she waited, Iphignea withdrew a cold water bottle from her bag and took a quick swig from it. Recapping it, she returned it to her bag and was in the process of removing a notebook and textbook and straightening once more when their homeroom professor made her way into the room. She leaned back in her seat, knees and arms crossed over one another, an unimpressed expression on her face. She stopped behind the desk, set a stack of papers, files, and books that she had with him on top of it, and cleared her throat before making her way around to the side of the desk.

“Before we continue with our lessons from last week, I have an announcement to make.” The chatter of the students quickly died off, as a special announcement wasn’t a common occurrence in their quiet school. Once the classroom was silent and Professor Nishihara was satisfied with the full attention of the class, she continued. “We have a couple of new students joining us today.” Immediately she threw up her hand to stem the excited titter that quickly sprung up at this news. “Now, I know it’s odd to have new transfers at this time of the year, but let’s all attempt to give them a warm welcome. Please make sure to provide any help they may need as they make this adjustment to joining us here at our lovely university. I expect you all to be as accepting as possible,” she finished with a very pointed look in Iphianassa’s direction. This earned her an eyeroll in response, which she reciprocated before turning to the door to the room. As soon as she turned away, she stuck out her tongue. “You two can come in now,” she called out before turning back to the class once more. “Please welcome Natsuo and Kazumi Orako. Mr.- and Ms. Orako, please introduce yourselves and let us know something interesting about you,” she said, motioning to the small classroom as he spoke.


As the two entered the room, the class fell silent. Despite the pair’s obvious relation due to their last name and them transferring in together, they looked nothing like one another. They both were, however, ethereally beautiful. An odd sensation crawled across Iphianassa’s skin as they made their way across the front of the room to the center to stand beside the teacher. It wasn’t that her skin was crawling, per-say, but more like her hair was standing on end. She wasn’t afraid, though, so why it was doing that was baffling to her; but what she did know, though, was that something was off about these two, and despite her piqued curiosity, she forced herself to remain nonchalant. It was none of her business, and why would she care anyway? They were just two random, strange kids that she didn’t even know.

Her curiosity was unable to be fully contained, however, as she studied the pair. The girl was small and reminded Iphignea of cotton-candy with her bright coloring, and she had a warm yet fierce presence about her. She definitely struck her as someone that she could possibly become friends with, but who knew. Moving on, her eyes slid over to the boy who had come in with her, for the first time actually able to see his face.

Almost instantly her mouth went dry. Her heart skipped a beat in her chest and she felt her breath hitch. His dark features stood out in stark contrast to his pale skin, giving him an odd beauty that wasn’t handsome nor sexy, yet somehow both at the same time. His dark eyes seemed to bore into her soul and she felt herself enraptured by them. She could feel her cheeks heating up as a soft flush entered them, brushing across the rest of her body as it did. Forcing herself to lick her lips, she somehow managed to tear her gaze from his, lowering it to her desk in a strangely-subdued manner that was odd for her normally-fiery personality. Something about that boy had struck her dumb, and she didn’t like it.

Peaking a look back up to the front, she quickly looked back down at her desk and opened her textbook to a random page, eyes skimming over the words but not actually taking in any of them. Her mind was racing and she couldn’t stop it, but she could at least keep herself from staring at the new kids like some sort of heathen. She listened as they made their introductions, and when they jibed at each other like normal siblings did, she felt a pang of sorrow over the lack of love that her blood sisters had held for her. Shaking it away quickly, however, she listened to their retorts and at the mention of the new man’s - Natsuo’s, she should say - current relationship status, she felt her cheeks flush a bit, out of - what? Excitement? What was with this reaction? The hushed, gossipy chatter around her was a clear indicator that the other students found the two new siblings attractive as well, and at that Iphignea felt her hopes at friends dashed. Undoubtedly these two would fit in well with the popular crowd, which left her out as an option for friendship. She definitely was not one for popularity, but in fact was probably the exact opposite - at least, at school she was. When she was at work, though, she got along quite well with her patrons; then again, a majority of them were completely shitfaced.

The mention of her last name brought her back to reality and away from her thoughts, and having missed what their professor said, she glanced up only to feel shock at the sight of the new duo approaching her. Her heart quickened a bit but she forced her expression to remain placid, and when the two reached her and chose their seats, she said nothing in greeting and went out of her way not to even glance at them. Once they seemed to have found their seats, the professor immediately launched into the beginnings of her lecture - something to do with ethics. Iphignea was okay at philosophy but the subject bored her to tears, and as the teacher spoke, her voice became a blur, almost akin to the voice of the teacher in the show Charlie Brown. She stared down at the textbook, her expression bored - it was clear that she was beyond dulled by the current subject.

Despite all of this, Iphianassa found herself struggling to qualm the urge to look at the new students - or, well, in particular Natsuo. Unable to stifle the need to do so, she found herself occasionally subtly flicking a glance behind her, completely incapable of resisting the urge entirely. It was during one of these glances that she truly noticed his hair and the length of it, but despite the odd amount, it looked soft and healthy. The desire to run her fingers through those soft tresses caused her hands to twitch a bit as she wrote, muddling some of the numbers occasionally, much to her frustration. What was with her today? Acting like this over a guy?I must not have gotten enough sleep last night, she reasoned to herself, rubbing the bridge of her nose. Despite this thought, she couldn’t ignore the giggles and whispers of the girls in the class as they blatantly stared and looked over at Natsuo, a few of them tossing in some glares in Iphignea’s direction. She simply glared back, mouthing, ’The hell do you want me to do about it?’ in return to the girls. She really hated that she was getting all of this attention just because these two sat next to her. Gods, why couldn’t they have sat anywhere else?

The door to the classroom suddenly flew open and in sauntered none other than the walking, talking blueberry himself - Mafuyu Hanazawa. Iphianassa found herself unable to contain her snicker as he was quickly chastised by their professor, to which he had a rather comical reaction, and she snorted a bit in her laughter. A hand flashed up to her mouth in embarrassment and she quickly stifled her chuckles. When she saw Mafuyu begin to make his way in her direction, a devilish smirk on his face, Iphignea straightened instantly and shot a look at their professor.

”No!” she practically wailed. ”Please don’t sit this dumb blueberry next to me!” her voice begged, her overdramatics gaining a few chuckles from their classmates. ”Sit down and stop your whining, Miss Lykaois - I will not tolerate the theatrics in my classroom.” This instantly shut Iphignea up who groaned and dropped back into her seat just as Mafuyu opened his big fucking mouth.

”Heya, Phig. Wanna introduce me to these two? You were here when they were introduced you know." His friendly wave didn’t fool her for a second and she noted the lingering gaze he held on the new girl. Ohohoho she inwardly snickered. The things she would do with that little information. She couldn’t help but bite out, ”Why is it my job to introduce you? Introduce yourself; you have a working mouth, don’t you? And I’ve told you before, don’t call me Phig.” He seemingly took her ‘advice’ and began to greet the new duo. "Nice to meet you both, mhm, sorry I caused a scene on the day you arrived. I've only been late twice now, promise. Name's Mafuyu Hanazawa, nice to meet you." An eye-roll followed this hello. ”Mafu, even if I didn’t have class with you literally every single day, I would still know that what you just said was a total lie. You’ve been late, like, at least four or five times,” she outed him, rising a bit in her seat and jabbing a finger in his direction. ”Shouldn’t a talking blueberry have more drive to get a good education? How are you going to get a job anywhere without a good education looking like you just had a bad visit at Willy Wonka’s factory, Mr.Beauregarde?” she quipped, the name referencing the character from the movie who began to turn into a giant blueberry.

Dropping back into her chair with a light clatter, Iphignea crossed her knees and arms, narrowing her eyes on Mafuyu. ”If you’re really that incapable of creating a proper introduction yourself, than I guess I have no choice.” With a hand motion in the direction of the two new students, Iphignea made a rather valiant effort not to look at the two. ”This is Kazumi and Natsuo Orako - they’re siblings, so make sure you treat them kindly,” she mocked their teacher. ”Now, unlike some people,” she looked pointedly at Mafuyu, ”I would actually like to learn something today.” WIth that said, she plucked up her pencil and began to fervently take notes, attempting to block out all thoughts of the new bubblegum girl and her unnaturally hot brother as well as the annoying Mafuyu.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Iphianassa Lykaois Character Portrait: Mafuyu Hanazawa Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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Code- #FF1493
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Code- #0000CD
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If there was one thing Kazumi was dreading it was sitting inside of a classroom with nothing to do but listen to the professor. And right now, she was so bored she was starting to fidget. She never saw the point of a classroom setting either. Why stay inside when one could be outside? At least when the weather was nice. And it definitely was. She found herself looking out the window and sighing. However, her thoughts were interrupted when someone burst through the door.

The noise also got Natsuo's attention too. He too was bored, but unlike his sister, he still focused on the class and found great humor in what the professor was teaching. Did humans really think like this at one point? Wow were they ignorant of how things actually worked. However, his attention was also on the dark hair girl who he could see kept looking at him and his sister, even though she tried to hide it. Oh, Natsuo was very much aware of the attention he and his siblings had on the opposite gender. It was amusing to say the least and Natsuo relish in the attention. He knew his younger siblings didn't like it, but he and Kazumi enjoyed it. Kazumi herself loved leaving guys begging for mercy. He always felt sorry for them boys. The only males that Kazumi didn't turn men's minds into jelly were their father, Pavo, and Kazumi's new boss.

Speaking of males, one blue haired one came into the class suddenly. Kazumi watched his interaction with the professor. She was curious about these family issues, but it seemed he had issues with being on time. Even though Kazumi and Natsuo were a bit late themselves, normally Kazumi was a stickler for time. It was one reason why she and her siblings waiting until AFTER Spring and Fall started to come to Earth because she and Vel had to perform their duties in changing the Seasons for the North and Southern hemispheres. And in the back of her mind, that they might have to leave before Summer and Winter arrived again. Knowing Natsuo, he would want ALL of them to leave, but if Vel wanted to stay longer, she would at least try to convince Natsuo to let her and Vel stay at least. That's if their parents hadn't found them beforehand. Both she and Natsuo did talk privately, and both had a feeling that Astraea and Pavo were searching for them, knowing their parents would have sent them to find them. But they would cross that bridge when it happened.

As for the new guy, Kazumi found herself giggling between the outburst of the brunette, Iphianassa, and the professor. Soon, the guy introduced himself as Mafuyu Hanazawa. Iphianassa's words to him reminded Kazumi of the times she and Natsuo got into it. She looked at her brother and he merely roled his eyes at her with a look that said I am nothing like that. After the brunette introduced the two of them, she went back to taking notes. Kazumi turned back to Mafuyu and smiled. She would wait to see what kind of effect she would have on him.

"Pleasure to meet you Mr. Hanazawa."

Natsuo merely acknowledge him as he too continued to refocus on the class. For Kazumi, class seemed to drag on when finally it ended. As soon as it did end though, many of their classmates clamored around the two older Seasons asking questions at once. Natsuo merely ignored such trial questions and let Kazumi be the spokesperson. It was a how they both worked and perfected it over the years.

"Ms. Orako, where are you and your brother from?" "What made you decide to come here?" "Do you have any other relatives?" "Can I escort you to your next class?"

These were the kind of questions given to them and Kazumi answered all of them, but did know when to hold back. She valued her privacy too and enjoyed keeping others guessing. Finally, Kazumi called a halt to the questions as she and Natsuo had to get to their next class, which was a Language Arts class. While there was more time in between classes, Kazumi wanted to check on her two dogs, Eos and Dawn, who were positioned outside the school grounds. Both dogs had wanted to stay by Kazumi's side but the school wouldn't allow Kazumi to take them on the grounds, even though Kazumi tried. So Kazumi promised the two dogs she would check on them between classes. After the pair left the classroom, Kazumi turned to her brother.

"Natsuo, I am going to be checking on Eos and Dawn. You can head to our next class if you want."

"Na, I want to get outside just as much as you."

Nodding, it only took them a couple minutes to get to the main gate of the campus, where Dawn, a Shiba Inu, and Eos, an Akita, were waiting. Seeing their master, the two dogs instantly went to her side, sniffing her before moving to Natsuo to do the same thing. Glad to see they were okay, Kazumi talked to them a bit before they had to leave since their class was on the other side of the campus and was pretty close to the High School campus. This time they made it to the class within plenty of time with time to spare to talk if need be.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Iphianassa Lykaois Character Portrait: Mafuyu Hanazawa Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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mafuyu hanazawa.
dialogue ; #7f9f91. – thought ; #bb7e8c.
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The complaints from Iphignea certainly don't reach deaf ears as he approaches, but that isn't to say they'd drive him away. If anything, they just made the enjoyment of reaching that free seat so much better, watching her shoot her usual irritated glare in his direction as he settled into his seat, skateboard clattered on the floor without much of a care. Lessons begin and his introductions are out, but the girl he considered a friend - well, she probably didn't look to him as one, but they talked and bickered enough to practically be considered siblings at this point. If she knew I thought this, my life would be over by her own hands. He stifles a snort of laughter, before leaning back in his seat, grin brightening slightly at her words. "Why is it my job to introduce you? Introduce yourself; you have a working mouth, don’t you? And I’ve told you before, don’t call me Phig."

"Aw, but I like Phig! It's cute!" He replies quite quickly, moving a hand to lightly pat against her head like some kind of kid or underclassman, a kouhai, except they were the same age, only a month's difference between them. Still, it's a teasing move that he was sure would probably blow her temper off in about five seconds, and he pulls his hand back to his chest before she can think to grab it. "I'm the blueberry, you're Phig, doesn't it sound nice? Like some weird crime duo, or stage names." That was kind of dipping into stripper territory, though even if he was one he wouldn't choose blueberry for his. Still, that nickname had become a source of glee for him anyway; the girl constantly used it against him, how could he not get used to it at this point? Maybe even enjoy it a little out of some odd form of amusement. I like my blue hair, not gonna change it up for anyone.

Without her help for introductions, however, he moves along to give his own, comfortably leaning in their directions again with a pleasant smile. Usually he's able to hit it off quite easily with people, dare he say he was considered to be someone within the popular ring, had been for several years. That wasn't to say everyone took a liking to him from the get-go either though. He'd feel offed by that if it were the case, people were human, they had preferences, and sometimes Mafuyu just didn't fit within their realm of likes. Still, he always did his best to make a friend out of anyone he met, and these two wouldn't be an exception, especially not with them sitting right next to him in this class from here on out. Comfort was key when you would probably have to work together with desk neighbors, so at the very least he hoped these two would tolerate him in the long run.

"Mafu, even if I didn’t have class with you literally every single day, I would still know that what you just said was a total lie. You’ve been late, like, at least four or five times." Iphianassa's response comes, and he stifles another laugh, feigns some sort of hurt expression, "Iphi! How could you betray me like that! There goes my good first impression..." A defeated expression crosses his face as he slouches in his seat, "to think my best friend doesn't even have my back, I'm so hurt..." Hand over his heart like he'd been shot, he doesn't have time to continue the act before she's quickly forcing out her own for him, probably to avoid anymore of his shit for the rest of the hour. Her hand moves out as she does give the introductions to each of them in turn, "this is Kazumi and Natsuo Orako - they’re siblings, so make sure you treat them kindly."

"Oh! You finally gave in, thanks Phig." He smiles again, a little more happily this time before looking over to the two newcomers once more. "Happy to meet you both, I hope we can become friends! This class sucks, but let's still do our best, okay?"

"Pleasure to meet you Mr. Hanazawa." Comes Kazumi's words, and he brightens a little at getting a response from at least one of them. "Sure, yeah! You too, Kazumi."

Again, words are cut short by Iphianassa, and he pouts a little as she speaks, irritable and matter-of-fact as she returns to the notebook and pencil at her own section of the table. "Now, unlike some people, I would actually like to learn something today." It gets him to lean forward a bit at that, hands fallen over the front of his table as he lays his head lopsided on the desk. "It's not that I don't want to learn, Phig, it's just that philosophy sucks. Besides, I'm just planning on teaching high school; if I have to teach teenagers this stuff, they'll probably want to die just as much as I do right now." Still, she was right; he had to pass this class, and with the way his relationship with their professor was going after being late a considerable amount, he didn't think she'd be willing to give him extra credit, or anything of the sort if he didn't do so hot on an exam or homework.

Not that he could risk losing his 4.0 anyway. It had been carefully maintained for the past two years, and he wasn't on the road to start failing now. Now even with the looming shadow of his father trying to make a comeback in his life now. Talk about bad timing...I'm already stressed enough as it is. Two jobs and full-time college certainly didn't make him keen on trying to balance anything else on his way too full platter, besides positives, like new friends, which he would be working on in this class from hereon out.

So silence falls again, and the lecture fills his ears with the overthinking, the redundant concepts and people trying to act like rocket science should be applied to lifestyle and the Japanese language. Seriously, if he met these philosophers, he'd ask them why...how the hell they had so much free time to keep coming up with these concepts, and if he could steal some of it from them.

When class is over and they're dismissed, Mafuyu isn't surprised to see the gathering crowd around the area, classmates curious and interested in the new students that, dare he say, probably looked like they could hit up any modeling company around here and get a job on the spot. Natsuo was attractive, Kazumi was attractive, he'd date them both really, but he didn't even know them well enough to try pursuing that now, and something told him neither were the type to get drunk at a bar with him and just share a bed for the night. Besides, he was looking for a deeper relationship with someone now; an actual partner, and something told him extending his history of what could be considered one night stands (even though he was friends with most of the people he'd done so with) wouldn't help out in that area. Well, maybe it wouldn't affect it if he found someone who didn't care for his past as it was already, but he didn't feel like chancing it. Take dating seriously for the rest of the year challenge, or something.

Still, he'd seen Iphignea's gaze on the boy a couple times now, so by all means he'd keep himself from trying with him. He might not even swing Mafuyu's way anyway, so no reason to make things awkward from the get go with an instant rejection. His eyes were more on the girl at this point by all means. He wasn't shallow or anything, but that didn't mean he didn't see beauty when it was right in front of his face. She had soft features, cute, and an almost regal, put together sort of vibe; it'd be fun to get to know her, and maybe try out a date with her in the future, if she accepted his request by then anyway. He still had no idea what either of them thought of him, and given the way they had slipped out of the classroom without so much of a goodbye to either him or Iphianassa, it would be some time before he could comfortably ask her out.

Mafuyu's smile returns as quiet begins to fill the space, though, even as he's packing up his bags for his next class. "Well, what'd you think of those two, Iphi?" He spares the nickname she hates for a moment, if only because he genuinely wants to hear her thoughts, not get snapped at again and left alone in the classroom. "They're pretty cute, don't you think?"

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Iphianassa Lykaois Character Portrait: Mafuyu Hanazawa Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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”Stop judging others based on what you see,
Because what you see, is what they want you to see.”

Speech Code ~ #8A0808
| Thought Code ~ #045FB4




”It's not that I don't want to learn, Phig, it's just that philosophy sucks. Besides, I'm just planning on teaching high school; if I have to teach teenagers this stuff, they'll probably want to die just as much as I do right now."

An eye roll was all that this whining excuse received. Iphignea tossed him an annoyed look, a small scowl on her face. In a hushed voice, as the teacher resumed her speaking, she stuck a finger in his direction. ”Oh, grow up, Mafu-Tofu; adults have to deal with shit they don’t enjoy. That’s just the way things are, get used to it.” With that, she turned back to her notes, determined to ignore Mafuyu and anyone else near her - but particularly that damn blueberry.

Class continued without any further intrusions, the events seeming to have finally ended, between the two new students and Mafuyu’s grand entrance it had been pretty hectic. As their lecture came to an end, it seemed that their fellow classmates wasted no time in rushing in on the new students, much to Iphianassa’s dismay. As their annoying peers - even more annoying than Mafu and that was really saying something - crowded near her desk, she found herself attempting to move away from the group as much as possible, all the while shoving her books and supplies as quickly as possible into her backpack. Like hell she was going to stick around this crowd; it was way too much stimulation for her.

With that thought in mind, she attempted to get to her feet but found her way blocked by the group of students surrounding the new ones. Her irritation surged - Stupid assholes, some of us have classes to attend. After a few minutes the crowd finally began to disperse but before she could make her own exit, Kazumi and Natsuo were slipping past not only herself but Mafuyu as well without so much as a farewell. Rude much? Beauty is only skin deep. From the way they were dressed, they undoubtedly came from money, so of course they wouldn’t even bat an eyelash in pitiful, poor Iphianassa’s direction, or pitiful, poor Mafuyu’s either. Her seemingly permanent scowl fixed on her lips, but she attempted to wipe it away and relax her features. Early onset wrinkles were not her goal.

"Well, what'd you think of those two, Iphi? They're pretty cute, don't you think?" Unbidden heat instantly assaulted her face and Iphignea found herself pressing her hands to her cheeks, staring at Mafuyu with wide eyes. Then she was suddenly on her feet, her hand pointed in his direction. I-I don’t - I mean, that is - How would I know something like that!” She stumbled over her words as she rushed them out, clearly frazzled by the question. Who the hell just asks something like that anyway! As if I could ever find someone so stuck up and rude attractive! Even as she thought this, however, she couldn’t help but recall the siblings’ beautiful appearances - from Kazumi’s gentle features to Natsuo’s sharply delicate ones; from her soft cotton candy hair to his long, raven-like locks, they were the picture-perfect sibling duo who could easily pursue modeling as a full-time career. The urge to play with Natsuo’s hair had been strong and she felt her fingers twitch at the memory of it. Knock it off!

Her scowl back, Iphignea tossed a glare in Mafuyu’s direction. ”Don’t pretend to know what you’re talking about, Blueberry Man!” and with that exclamation she practically ran from the room, her only intent to get as far away from Mafu and those infernal new students as possible.

Thankfully, she had Language Arts next, one of the few classes that she actually enjoyed outside of those involving anything physical. She went straight for the class, preferring to be early as opposed to on time or possibly late, and when she arrived she slipped through the door quietly. With a heft she pulled her backpack to the front of her body and unzipped it, rifling through until she found a hair tie. Mission accomplished she zipped the bag back up and was in the process of moving it onto her back once more, her main focus to find a seat near the back of the class and ready herself for the next lecture, but before she could even attempt to do that she found herself ramming into a solid piece of - flesh?

So in tune with her thoughts was she that when the collision happened Iphignea was nearly knocked back onto her butt. Unable to grasp anything else, she found her hands shooting up to grip the arms of the person that she had ran into, both in an effort to stabalize herself but also to avoid her poor victim falling as well. Damn, that shit would’ve hurt like hell too.

Once firmly planted on the ground again, Iphi turned her attention to the person she had run into, an apology already leaving her lips. ”I’m so sorry, I wasn’t wa-” Halfway through the words, she cut off and froze, her blood running cold. No freaking way. ”H-Haruto!?” she exclaimed, stumbling back two steps from the man, who was already turning to face her, his ever-present smirk appearing on his lips. ”Well, well, if it isn’t my little Phig. I’ve missed you babe - I almost wasn’t able to switch any of my classes, but at the last minute they had an opening, so here I am!” Haruto threw out his arms, a dark smile on his lips. Before she could react he had closed the distance between them, his hand lifting to press lightly against her cheek. She wanted to recoil in disgust but found herself rooted in place, her eyes wide and a scowling grimace etched across her lips. Haruto ran a thumb over her bottom lip, chuckling a bit. ”Don’t be like that babe. I know things got weird for a while, but I’ve changed! And I know you can’t wait to take me back.” His expression caused a chill to run up her spine and with that she was shocked back into her body. A hand shot up out of reflex and smacked his wrist, knocking his arm away and removing his disgusting touch from her body. In the same movement she stepped back, not just one or two steps, but six just to increase the distance between them.

”You stay the hell away from me, you disgusting creep, or I’ll kick your freaking ass into next week,” she practically growled, her hands gripping her backpack straps so hard that her knuckles whitened. ”I’m not stupid, Haru - I know you cheated on me with Yumiko, and I don’t plan to take you back,” she snapped, her eyes fiery and her expression stormy. ”And I know you’re the one who’s been leaving stuff at my temple and following me home from work, so do me a huge favor and fuck off!” Seeming to have gotten in out of her system, she literally shoved her way past a stunned Haruto, who stood there gaping in complete surprise, his small group of friends staring wide-eyed at her as she walked, but she didn’t care. The guy was a total stalker and if she didn’t put him in his place now he would only grow bolder and possibly try something later on. Better to nip it in the bud while I still can without violence.

Feet stopping in their tracks, Iphi found herself a mere couple of feet from two of the only people she really didn’t want to see in this class with her - Natsuo and Kazumi. It wasn’t that she didn’t like them, per say, but something about them just didn’t sit right with her. Add in their mesmerizing beauty and she wouldn’t be able to concentrate in class all semester. Freaking fantastic! Not only do I have my own personal stalker here with me, but also Mr.- and Ms. Popularity as well! Yippee for me! Her thoughts were bitterly sarcastic, especially considering that the new duo had just witnessed a messy interaction between herself and her ex - not her finest moment, but what the hell, he was being a creep. Embarrassment tinting her cheeks pink, she found a desk at the back of the room, unfortunately this time behind the new sibling duo. Without so much as a hello, she dropped her bag on the floor with seemingly little care, dropped into her seat, and went about removing her textbook and supplies.

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Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Iphianassa Lykaois Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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Code- #FF1493
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Code- #0000CD
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[b]Kazumi was interacting with a couple of the classmates in her class while Natsuo was skimming the textbook they had. One would never know it looking at him, but he was an avid reader and his parents had indulged him in finding rare texts. Skimming through the book, Natsuo was slightly disappointed in the material for it just 'basic stuff'. And just like with Philosophy, he knew this was going to be another "easy A" for him. He knew Kazumi would do well in this case because she loved the arts more than the sciences. Well, not the culinary arts unless you asked her to do a salad or anything non-cooked. It was another reason why they settled on Japan was because it would have more 'natural food' for Kazumi to 'eat'. Oh none of the Seasons needed food, but they still enjoyed the 'fruits of their labors' and food fell into that category. Looking up from his book, he soon saw that one dark hair girl appear through the door. Her mentally corrected himself, he name was Iphianassa Lykaois. He saw her see both him and Kazumi and didn't seem too happy about seeing them. He raised an eyebrow at her, wondering what either of them could have done to upset her. His curiosity was peaked, especially when she still sat near them, only behind him this time. However, a voice called out to him.

"Natsuo? I heard you were in this school, but I didn't quite believe it," said a young man with short brown hair.

Natsuo turned to see it was one of his new coworkers, Daisuke Maeda. Natsuo had gotten himself a part-time job at a local stir fry place. Daisuke worked there also.

"Yes, this my first day here, Daisuke. How are you?"

"Oh I am fine. I just thought I say hi before class starts."

It was at this moment Kazumi showed up, having seen Iphianassa and Daisuke.

"Natsuo, who is this cute young man?"

Daisuke, seeing Kazumi for the first time, blushed from head to toe. Having been raised by his grandparents, he didn't have much interaction with those close to his age, especially girls and this one was probably the prettiest one he'd seen yet.

Seeing that his sister had effectively made another guy melt again, sighed and said, "Really, Kazumi, do you always have to have your charm level turned up to extremes? Daisuke, this is my older sister, Kazumi. Kazumi, this is Daisuke Maeda, he works at Kamikaze Stir Fry with me, but he cooks in the back."

"Oh Natsuo, I can't help it. I got it from our father after all. Mom says I am natural! And it's nice to meet you Mr. Maeda!"

"Aw. . . . . nice . . . to meet . . . . you too. I'll . . . . let you be," the poor guy stammered before going to his desk.

Both Seasons felt bad for the poor boy, but this was a common thing and they were use to it by now. Kazumi turned to Iphianassa.

"Hey, nice to see you again Ms. Lykaois. Your name is so pretty by the way! Are you from Greece originally?" she asked.

She had seen the looks the girl had given her and her brother and was highly curious about her now, wanting to see what was up. Kazumi might come off as an airhead; however, she was anything but. It was just one of her personality quirks she develop to hide her secrets.

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Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Iphianassa Lykaois Character Portrait: Mafuyu Hanazawa Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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mafuyu hanazawa.
dialogue ; #7f9f91. – thought ; #bb7e8c.
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There's something about Iphianassa's reactions, the way he knows how to push her buttons just right to get them that fills his heart with a mischievous sense of joy. He knew better than to push her too far, but what he was asking about wasn't harmful anyway; if anything it just made it all the more obvious that he had taken an interest to them himself too. But instead, the brunette in front of him is a stammering mess, a finger pointed at him in an almost accusatory manner as he raises his own hands in surrender, even if the amused smile over his lips says anything but "I give up."

"I-I don’t - I mean, that is - How would I know something like that!" Comes words that might scare of most, but Mafuyu had long grown used to the girl's behavior, and frankly he was difficult to intimidate anyway. Priceless, seriously, how is she going to live this down, just offering up teasing material like that for free? He gives a faint snicker as she shoots that same familiar glare at him too, a hissed, "Don’t pretend to know what you’re talking about, Blueberry Man!" This wins him even more laughter, though, and he lets his head fall back as she makes her way out, "who says I don't know what I'm talking about! We both know I do!" Is all he calls after to her as she storms out of the classroom. Frankly, he had been in his fair share of relationships at this point, thank you. Not that Iphianassa hadn't herself, but her last one had ended less than ideal, and he wasn't about to be an ass about that. Knew that guy was bad news. Not that he was able to help much beyond trying to offer a shoulder to cry on. Had he wanted to go kick the guy's shit in? Absolutely. Though honestly, Iphignea probably beat him to it, and something tells him that the payoff would be better done by her hand anyway.

His teasing, if you could even call it that at the start though definitely by the end, lost him someone to walk with to the next class, and perhaps he deserved that. Oh well, he'd certainly survive through the quiet, that's how most his mornings were spent anyway, and the ride home.

Swiping up his skateboard from the floor and his backpack soon after, he makes his way for the doorway that the transfer students and Iphianassa went through, dodging past several lingering classmates that probably don't have a class right after this like some of them. Try not to block the door, would you? It hardly delays him in the end though, as he makes his way over and almost catches a glimpse of Iphianassa too far ahead to catch up and disappearing into the building for their second class of the day. Language arts, right after philosophy. At least it wasn't as painful, and technically he did have to pay attention in here; English was one of the subjects he'd be teaching once he landed himself a position in a high school after his graduation, and not learning the material well enough to teach it would just be shooting himself in the foot. Miyako asked me to tutor Mamoru for English this weekend anyway, so it'd be better refresh on it quick now. He was due to tutor that Kenji kid this weekend too, even if the boy was a spoilt brat (he'd come to learn that himself, and heard more than enough from his sister about the boy's antics at the high school). His parents paid him decently though, so who was he to turn down the job?

Thoughts of graduation requirements and tutoring jobs on the weekend are out of his mind in an instant when he enters the building for his language arts course, nears the door and all he can hear is the sound of Iphianassa's near yelling, that bitter angry sound showing what he would consider genuine anger from the girl that he didn't want turned on himself. She wasn't that mad about my teasing, was she? She would have actually taken it out on him if she were this mad though, and as he peeks his head around the doorway, he sees the source of those emotions clear as day.

Ah, Haruto. Cheating asshole of the century, emotionally manipulative and abusive next. Did he actually think he could win her back over? Why do people like him think they can just waltz back into people's lives after the damage they do? Astounding, really. It didn't seem he'd have to step in though; that final "fuck off" was enough to put the seal over his mouth for the time being. He nearly snorts out a laugh at the guy's face, like he thought his stupid plan would work so well, like it was so fool-proof. The narcissism is out of this world, man. Go hang out with my dad, you guys would probably click to best friends from day one.

Walking into the classroom with most eyes on Haruto and his obnoxious little gang after that scene, he doesn't have to worry to much as he half skips past in something of a mocking manner, head tilting towards the other classmate as he passes him, a, "humiliated yourself enough yet?" muttered in his direction, taking off before the male can retort or say anything back to him that wouldn't probably embarrass him further. Mafuyu knew he was higher on the social food chain than that guy, but he didn't particularly care anyway; Haruto deserved all the shit he got; he brought it on himself half the time after all.

Glance around the classroom again and there's full view of the desks, and gleefully he spots Iphi right where she always was, fully prepped to take notes and listen to the lecture, but alas, her favorite blueberry is here to ruin her plans.

I won't actually distract her that much this class though, our professor is okay for this one at least, and I need to teach it eventually.

"Iphiiii~!" A mix of whine and playful, he quickly made his way over to her again, look of betrayal crawling over his expression, "what'd you leave me behind like that for? We could've walked together! Did I make you that mad?" He cuts into a free seat close by, nearly sitting on top of the desk to chat, but he knows better than that by now; the professors would probably call him out for damaging property if they caught him doing so. But even with that teasing tone and the probably growing dread that he added to with his second time sitting near her, he tilted his head slightly, "you alright, by the way? Is he still not leaving you alone?"

A slight pause then, he glances around the classroom again before spotted the transfers once more, that same feeling hitting his chest again at the sight of them both. They were in front of where he and Iphianassa were this time, though whether that was good or bad he’d have to figure out; staring at the back of their heads with no distractions besides english lectures probably wouldn’t help make this go anymore smoothly. A slight head tilt all the same though, and he offers a brighter smile and wave. "Hi again Kazumi, Natsuo. Guess we share more than philosophy, huh?”

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Iphianassa Lykaois Character Portrait: Mafuyu Hanazawa Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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”Talent can’t be taught;
But it can be awakened.”
~Wallace Stegner

Speech Code ~ #8A0808
| Thought Code ~ #045FB4




As she rifled through her belongings and began to get her books in order, Iphianassa heard a voice pipe up, calling her name in a pitiful yet coy howl. When she looked up and located the owner of the sound, she couldn’t contain the eye roll that followed. Greeeeat, just what I needed. What an eventful semester this is looking to be. It was an internal groan, revealing her emotions through the annoyed expression on her face. "What'd you leave me behind like that for? We could've walked together! Did I make you that mad?"

”In order for me to be mad, I would need to care about what you have to say, but since most of the stuff that comes out of your mouth is either sarcasm or a flirtation, it’s hard to take you seriously,” she scoffed, really going for the jugular today it seemed. It wasn’t her fault; the universe seemed to really be trying her patience and to be honest was lucky that she hadn’t set fire to the school yet.

”You alright, by the way? Is he still not leaving you alone?" The question gave Iphignea pause; she internally debated whether or not to lose her absolute shit over Mafuyu’s words. The boy was bold, she’d give him that, but he seemed to have no boundaries for others' personal lives - something that was bound to get him into trouble at some point. She couldn’t really pinpoint it, but he seemed to be lacking something - streetsmarts, perhaps? Despite the anger that threatened to boil over the nosiness of Mafu, she paused. Her doctor had been pushing her to try and make more friends. The least I can do is give it a shot. Plus, when she really studied him, he appeared to be genuine in his concern over her ex’s actions. You lose every shot you don’t take, and all that. Slowing a bit in her movements as she finished withdrawing her supplies from her bag, she sighed. With a soft thwup sound, her books hit her desk and she lowered herself into the seat, her physical demeanor betraying how tired she felt. She hadn’t been sleeping well - not that she ever had - but lately it had been getting worse, due to a combination of things, at the top of that list being the one and only Haruto. Rubbing her face a bit as though to try and bring herself back to her normal state, she stifled another sigh.

”It hasn’t been 
 Good, you could say. After what happened with Yumiko and him and I broke it off between us, I figured everything would just go back to how it was before we ever dated. But 
” she paused and was unable to stop the next sigh that escaped her. ”Now, it seems like it won’t be that easy. It’s been over half a year and he still calls and texts me at least once a day. I figured that since we’re in different majors, I would be able to avoid him in class, but obviously that’s not the case. And 
” This time it was a hesitation and her expression was weary as she continued, ”And someone has been leaving gifts for me at my temple every week. If it was just that I could ignore it, but 
” Wringing her hands together, she stared down at her fingers, ”But after work every night this week, when I’ve been walking home alone, I swear that someone’s been following me. I’m not the type to just imagine that kind of thing. I may be paranoid and may have my own issues, but I swear I’m not just imagining it, and I can guarantee that I know who it is.” Clenching her hands into fists, she couldn’t help but feel her skin crawl a bit. An unfortunate side effect of her somewhat above-average senses was her uncanny ability to be able to tell when someone was watching her, and to be honest, even without her enhanced sensory, it would be nearly impossible to miss the beady brown eyes that belonged to her slimy ex. Unable to control herself, her lips turned into a scowl; it was a consistent expression that she made, or similar ones, when at school in particular, but she found her muscles were a bit tighter due to her increased emotions. Without being able to contain it, she snapped her head to the side and shot Haruto a glare full of absolute hatred and fury. Unfortunately for her, he had chosen a seat as close to hers as possible, which left only two students separating them. In response he simply smiled at her, in what she assumed he figured to be a charming way, but instead it had the opposite effect, leaving her disgusted and annoyed.

Before she could stop herself, her tattooed hand had lifted and she let out a fake sneeze, moving her head forward as she did so. When she pulled her head back, her hand held one dainty, long finger pointing towards the ceiling, and her scowl had twisted into a look of mock surprise. As she flipped him the bird and revelled in his shocked face, she quite sweetly slipped out, ”Didn’t I just get done telling you to go fuck yourself? Because obviously you didn’t hear me, seeing as you’re still staring at me with your beady little reptile eyes.” As he was satisfyingly struck dumb, his jaw hanging slack, Iphignea ignored the surprised stares of the few classmates that were near them. She wasn’t one for many words and given the small status of their town had spent the last decade with a majority of these people, so most of them knew better than to try and approach her. She had made her feelings about her peers clear; stay away from her, she’d stay away from them, and they’d have no problems, capiche? People are so freaking annoying. When will they learn?

An eye roll and Iphi turned back to her desk, only at that moment to have her new bubblegum classmate appear. As she watched the other woman flaunt her features to none other than Daisuke, she couldn’t contain the second eye roll that revealed itself. Daisuke was a confirmed socially awkward straight-edge who followed the rules to a T, leaving Iphi about as far as could possibly be from his friend group and activities. She knew him, but barely, and wanted to keep it that way. Seriously, what a dork. It would be a lie to say that Daisuke was a complete joke, though; the siblings were definitely something to look at, and matched with their odd charm they seemed to carry gave them a deadly draw. Kazumi’s sweet voice, tinged with hues of pink and yellow, and Natsuo’s gentle baritone that held soft blues and purples - they were enticing, to say the least.

"Hey, nice to see you again Ms. Lykaois. Your name is so pretty by the way! Are you from Greece originally?"

The sudden address of her name jerked Iphignea from her thoughts. As though confused or unsure despite her name being used, she actually turned in her desk to look behind her, as though searching for who Kazumi was speaking to. When she turned back to face the trio that were near her, she pointed at herself, seemingly baffled. People don’t just go out of their way to talk to me. Seriously - who is this chick? And she recognizes Grecian names? ”Um, me?” After a beat of awkward silence - Obviously she meant you, you freaking idiot - Iphignea found herself scowling again, but this time at her own stupidity. She wasn’t dumb, but had definitely just made herself seem to be.

Dragging her palm across her forehead as though she were having head pains, she sighed and seemed to relent, but to what, who knew? ”Of course, you mean me - not like there’s any other Lykaois’ here,” she muttered, seemingly to herself. When she glanced back up at Kazumi, her features were a bit more docile, at least half of her consistent hostility gone. Given her personality, however, she found herself crossing her arms defensively over her chest. Her sudden state left her feeling vulnerable in more ways than she could count, so to counteract it she found herself positioning her body protectively, legs and arms crossed, as though to guard her inner self - the child who was simply afraid of growing close to others. ”Yeah, I’m from Greece. I’m 
 Surprised you could tell. Most people don’t recognize Grecian names, and I’ve gotten to be really good at hiding my accent. I’m 
 Impressed.”

Fingers tightening their grips on her upper arms, Iphignea frowned, uncertain on how to proceed. Her therapist had encouraged her so often over the years to step out of her comfort zone and try to make friends, but it was just so freaking difficult. What if they found out about her past and decided they wanted nothing to do with her, after she had let them in? What if they developed the same asinine belief that her eyes could see things that others couldn’t? What if they found out about her indifference to gender, instead preferring what was within an individual when attempting to find love? What if, what if, what if - it all just cycled endlessly within her mind, almost as though entrapping her within the confines of a prison cell. When these thoughts assaulted her, she felt like little more than the scared, small child that her birth parents had done their best to create. Her back ached at the memories, stinging in resistance to what her mind was recalling.

Of course, these were all things that had been discussed in length with her various doctors, none of whom she had found herself able to connect or bond with. Instead, they had simply been there to make an easy buck off of the fucked up adopted foreign kid and really just couldn’t care less about what actually happened to her. At least now, with her current psychiatrist, she felt somewhat of a kinship. The woman had been through similar - albeit different - circumstances to Iphignea, and she couldn’t help but feel a bit of a connection through the woman’s empathy.

When she glanced up again, pulling herself from her reverie - she had a tendency to just clock out and into her own little world - she found her azure gaze snagged by intense eyes that looked to hold an entire summer storm within them. The depth of them stopped her breath in its place, and despite the thundering of her heart telling her to breathe, she was unable to focus on anything other than those eyes. An odd whooshing sound dulled all other noises around her, and for a moment, all that existed was this man’s fierce stare.

”Alright, class - take your seats and we’ll begin momentarily.” The sudden words somehow managed to wrench Iphianassa from her trance. She blinked rapidly, quickly coming back to the current moment, and was unable to contain the intensely red hue that instantly assaulted her face. What the hell is wrong with me, just staring at random people like that? He probably thinks I’m a freak - way to go, Iphi! If you were possibly going to make friends before, there goes your chance. They both probably think you’re some sort of freaking psycho. Groaning internally at the thought, she dropped her forehead onto her desk with a soft thud. She really couldn’t do anything right in her life, could she? And now she had to tell her psychiatrist what an utter loser she was; what a joke.

Language Arts proceeded without any intrusions or anything really eventful to note, and as their instructor gave the departing words, Iphignea began to gather her books, ignoring the hair standing on end on her arms. She knew without looking that it was Haruto staring again that was causing this to happen, and with a clenched jaw, she shoved her things into her bag with an unnecessary amount of aggression. Freaking chill Iphi; what'd the books ever do to you? A deep inhale followed by a slow exhale and she had calmed herself enough to pull her bag over her head. She could see Haruto attempting to make his way through the departing students to her side, but before he could reach her, she spun to the nearest person to her and grabbed their arm, rather loudly exclaiming, ”Wow, thanks for inviting me to lunch! I absolutely can't wait to share our lunch hour together! Lead the way!" without even bothering to look at the person in question.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Astraea Mantrenul Character Portrait: Iphianassa Lykaois Character Portrait: Mafuyu Hanazawa Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako Character Portrait: Pavo Etoile
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Code- #790D49


Pavo was deeply asleep but had learn to wake in an instant. Even though he wasn't human anymore, he still retained some of his human habits, and the ability to wake up instantly was one of them. It was something he picked out during WWII when he joined the rebellion. You always had to watch your back for you never know when you had to move, so sleep became a precious commodity. Another trait he still carried though, was the fact that he was a crabby person when woken up suddenly, like right now.
He didn't even fully pick up what Astraea said, only that he heard his name. Someone was certainly excited. Groaning, Pavo got up slowly. He was so out of it that he didn't even bother to put on a shirt or brush his hair. So when opened the door, he was still only in his boxers, which had red hearts and silver stars all over it. He scowled when the lights hit his eyes too.

Looking at Astraea though, he saw her demeanor change from excited to demure as she noticed his own physical state. It wouldn't be the first time he got such a reaction out of a woman. After all when he had time, he did indulge in the human women of this planet, but those were quick 'one-night stands'. In the USA, the women there practically melted the moment he opened his mouth and his French accent hooked them in. When Astraea's eyes finally rested on his face and not his torso, he managed to smile. Her reaction certainly put him in a better mood instantly. All too soon though, she hid her face behind her notepad and told him she managed to narrow down their search.

Looks like she took his suggestion to heart, which pleased Pavo. He was glad they were making headway too. The question now to be where to go from there. However before saying what he was thinking, he said something else.

"It's no problem, Astraea. I don't blame you for getting excited. And um, technically it is tomorrow, so if you want to keep on talking about it, by all means go for it. By the way, would you like for me to put on a shirt?" he asked smiling mischievously.





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Code- #FF1493

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Code- #0000CD


Before Iphianassa could answer Kazumi's question, the other guy from their previous class showed up and addressed the dark hair student. Kazumi liked the nickname he gave her, it was cute. Looking at the blue hair guy, what was his name again?, oh, Mafuyu Hanazawa, she very much liked his interaction with Iphianassa. Their interplay reminded her of her relationship with Natsuo. Soon Mafuyu addressed her and Natsuo. Smiling, Kazumi answered him.

"It's nice to see you too! I'll be honest, I am looking forward to this class more then I was the last one."

Soon the subject seemed to get serious when Iphi started talking about an ex-boyfriend of hers. Kazumi wondered if Natsuo was listening. She looked at her brother, and while it seemed like he wasn't paying attention, she saw how his eyes had darken to the point of looking black. Oh dear, that was never a good sign. Natsuo might not show it, but he had a high sense of honor and anyone without was a pest at best in his eyes. And hurting women was one of his biggest pet peeves and a quick way to ignite his anger. It sounded like Iphi had a stalker on her hands and that was even worse. Kazumi could feel her own inner rage growing, but took a deep breath and decided to try and calm down Natsuo.

Without saying a word, Kazumi got out of her seat, and placed a hand on his cheek. His eyes opened wide and he looked at his older sister and saw her sad smile. He then realized just how close he was to losing it. Last thing he needed to do was blow their cover and the last time he lost control of himself, it has caused the Dust Bowl that devastated the USA during the 1930s. He felt such shame for that and it was one of his biggest regrets. Immediately he pinpointed was almost set him off, it was learning that Ms. Lykaois had an ex that just would not leave her alone. Taking a deep breath himself, he patted his sister's hand to let her know he was back in control. Nodding, Kazumi returned to her seat. Both looked at Iphi's ex after seeing her look at him. Both already knew they were going to keep an extra eye on him now. When Iphi told the guy off, Kazumi actually laughed, which earned her a few looks from her fellow classmates. Natsuo grinned himself. The girl certainly had spunk. He admired those who stood up for themselves so his opinion of her improved a bit.

Finally Iphi answered Kazumi's question. The girl was clearly flustered by the compliments, and it did amuse Kazumi and Natsuo because one minute she had a strong backbone and the next she acted like a bashful teenager.

"It's obvious your last name isn't Japanese, and I just love learning about the world. Hey can I call you Iphi too?
You have such a pretty name that I worry I would butcher it."


However the girl didn't have time to answer since class started up. Kazumi was relieved that this class was more interesting then the last one. Still there were times she almost found herself falling asleep. Still it was better to be bored then to be irritated by the subject matter. Thankfully this was to be her last 'boring' class.

Soon class ended, and thankfully this time not many students came to their area. However, both Kazumi and Natsuo watched Iphi's ex and could see he was looking at Iphi. Both got their things together quickly and ended up sticking to her side. What they weren't expecting was for Iphi to suddenly grab Natsuo and say something about inviting her for lunch, rather loudly. Natsuo was genuinely shocked at the physical contact and Kazumi laughed. It was obvious she wanted to get away from her ex and Kazumi played along right along.

"Sure thing Iphi! Why don't you show Natsuo where the best place to eat is hmm?"

An idea popped into her head too. She wanted to know more about the girl's ex, but thought it wasn't a good idea to ask the girl herself. Mafuyu seemed to know about him though. Turning she immediately when to the guy.

"Say, can I ask you something very quick? This won't take long at all!" she said before taking his wrist and dragged him out of the classroom, winking at Natsuo on her way out.

Natsuo rolled his eyes at his sister's antics and turned to Iphianassa.

"Come on, let's get out of here," he said before leading the girl out of the room.

He couldn't help but turn and glare daggers at the ex though. One could tell what he was conveying too 'just try me pal'. When Natsuo got them out of the classroom, he still took the lead though and took her to place outside where there were no crowds.
Once outside, Natsuo felt better. Once alone, Natsuo addressed his classmate.

"I don't think your ex will find us here. The other day when exploring the campus I figured this was one of the places people don't visit much during lunch. Sorry, I guess I should have asked if you brought a lunch with you. I have some here, but it's pretty spicy." he said as he sat on the ground next to a tree and opened his own bento up to reveal his meal of traditional Japanese lunch of ramen, tempura, and veggies.

Only difference was all of the spice cooked into each. One thing Natsuo found lacking in Japanese cuisine was the lack of spices found here. Oh there was wasabi, but the stuff was very mild as far as Natsuo saw. Once nice thing about society was web access, so Natsuo ordered spices online from outside of Japan and got stuff from India and China. With his current meal, Chinese Chili peppers had been cooked in with each element.

Meanwhile, Kazumi had also led Mafuyu to a secluded area outside. She was so tired of being indoors.

"Sorry about that, I just wanted to ask you a question about Iphi's ex really quick. Was it the guy who kept looking at her throughout class and what's his name? I am just really curious and I'd figured you know that much about him. And if you're worried about Iphi being with my brother, I can assure you she's safe with him. Just this morning our younger sister was being harassed and Natsuo was ready to beat the crap out of the delinquents, but someone beat him to it. He really doesn't like guys who target girls. Anyway, I've jabbered on long enough. After you answer my question, you can be on your way and I'll go find Natsuo and Iphi."

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Iphianassa Lykaois Character Portrait: Mafuyu Hanazawa Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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mafuyu hanazawa.
dialogue ; #7f9f91. – thought ; #bb7e8c.
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Settling into class isn't so bad, not when he knows he can sit right by Iphianassa again, even if he's rather sure that she wishes he wouldn't. Still, he goes, dropping into his seat next to her along with his bag and skateboard on the floor once again. Leaning back in his seat, he turns a content smile towards her, even as she rolls her eyes and scoffs at him, words meant to probably pierce through him, but he doesn't find himself particularly hurt or offended by a single one of them. Learn to have tough skin, or whatever. He'd had it since he was a child after all.

"In order for me to be mad, I would need to care about what you have to say, but since most of the stuff that comes out of your mouth is either sarcasm or a flirtation, it’s hard to take you seriously," come those sharp words, and he feigns shock again, an overdramatic gasp leaving him at such a pitch that a couple people turn to look in their direction, only to realize it's just Mafuyu, and there wasn't actually anything interesting or wrong going on. Just his antics, as per usual, though most didn't mind them. It came with the popularity, he supposed, even if it confused him sometimes.

"Miss Phig, how could you? And here I thought we were friends!" A little joking, though he wished it were true, honestly. He knows better than to actually think the other woman thought of him that way, not at this point, and who knew in the future. He'd keep trying, but he wasn't one to force anyone to do or tell him anything just because he wanted to hear it.

Regardless, he gives up on trying to piss her off further, lets her tell him about the asshole that was Haru in however little or plentiful detail she desires. He knew he was being nosy, even if the implications only hit him after he'd asked, but still, he wasn't overly keen on seeing that bonfire of garbage harassing someone he, at least personally, looked to as a friend. Or any of his other classmates in general, really. He'd never taken kindly to people like that, flaunting their power and status, whatever else they wanted and treading over others. His mom had raised him that way after all, and after watching his father do so for twelve years of his life, he found himself only being reminded of the man when being in unfortunate proximity with them.

Lucky for them he had a clean record to uphold for his future career, or he'd be sure to make them regret their actions. Not that it could hold him back forever, at this rate. Even in such a small town, the college student-body was full of those who didn't belong near any other being, after all the harm and pain they'd caused.

He won't lie, he's a little surprised when she actually does come out and talk to him about it, giving up the details of a little history, and his brows furrow, twitch into something of a glare most certainly not meant for her, but he doesn't look over at the other man, doesn't want to give him the time of day when he thrived off of that attention. A stalker? Haru had seriously fallen that low? What the hell was wrong with him?

He talks of winning Iphianassa back, but he's too delusional to see that he's just terrifying her half to death? His gaze finally does shift back to the other for a moment, scowl burning into his features at the other who won't take his gaze off the brunette next to him. Seriously, what was wrong with that guy?

Bubbling rage settles for a moment, or is at least pushed to the background as she finishes speaking, and Mafuyu watches her careful, takes note of the body language, the way the wrings at her hands and how her expression turns to something exhausted, wary, uneasy. No doubt these things had taken a toll on her, but who wouldn't it take a toll on? Miyako had had a stalker herself a year or two ago, and thinking of that only draws out the evermore protective side of him, leaves him thinking of Miyako in that position again, but it's Iphianassa here now, and for far too long than she ever should have deserved.

Letting out a quiet breath, he leans forward slightly as if to block Iphianassa from that asshole's view, words tumbling around in his head as he tries to take more care in phrasing his offer, but all he can do is his best, leave it in the air for her if she'd like, even if the thought of her being alone walking through the town at night makes him...paranoid himself.

"You shouldn't have to walk alone at night like that, you know. Not when there's obviously...something wrong." A pause, he tries to catch her gaze, head tilting slightly, "If you want, I could meet you after your shifts. I know you probably don't think of me as...a friend, but at least you wouldn't be alone. I doubt he'd try anything if someone else was with you."

The offer is in the air now, and he gives a small smile, warm and genuine this time, "I won't force you or anything, but I thought it might make you feel better to have someone to walk you home at night."

Hopefully, he thinks, that doesn't piss her off.

Still, a snicker leaves him as he watches her look behind him, sees her hand move up with the middle finger extended towards exactly the person he was thinking of. Seriously, this guy didn't know how to fuck off even when it was spelled out for him, it was beyond obvious. Eventually, he hopes anyway, karma will catch up to him tenfold. The day that happens, Mafuyu hopes he's there to see.

The new siblings are here again soon after though, and his gaze stays on the two of them as they make their way up towards the desks too, approached by Daisuke who seems to already know Natsuo. It's a bit surprising, if Mafuyu is honest; Daisuke was socially-awkward, a little strange at times and most certainly didn't seem the type to mesh well with what he knew of Natsuo so far, someone who seemed to hold a heated air about him, that rarely smiled and spoke even less at this point, though he was sure that would change with time.

It's the awkwardness and second-hand embarrassment that comes from seeing the other male practically melt and fall apart at Kazumi's acknowledgement, taking in her appearance. Surely that was nothing but uncomfortable for her, wouldn't it be? Unless she liked that, but most of the girls he knew ran for the hills when that was a guy's initial reaction. Tact, man. Learn some please... Sighing slightly, he turns away from the odd scene, waiting until they actually find their seats and by then he's already said hello.

"It's nice to see you too! I'll be honest, I am looking forward to this class more then I was the last one." Comes Kazumi's voice, pleasant to the ears and he smiles, nods along with her, "that makes two of us, then. Isn't philosophy such a bore?" He laughs lightly, leaning forward and turning to the side so as to easier face the siblings.

Language arts is in motion soon enough though, the professor entering the classroom and gathering most, if not all attention to the lecture prepared, and at least this time Mafuyu manages to keep focus, take notes even with the distractions of his phone vibrating with a text that he was almost nervous to see who it was from. His mom? Sisters? Or his dad, somehow finding a new way to contact him again? Ignore, ignore, ignore, he had classes to study and pass for his degree, so that he could get his mom and sisters out of that house and somewhere nice, to let his mom work less than two or three jobs at once, just one.

Shifting around slightly in his seat, another hits his phone again, and finally he relents, pulling it just out of his pocket to see the lit up screen and, perhaps expected, an unknown number.

+ 8133-560-1254
XMafuyu, it's your father.
+ 8133-560-1254
XI'd like to meet up. Respond once you receive these messages.

And that's a fuck no from me, asshole. He wants to hiss it out loud, but all he does is toss his phone without a second glance onto his backpack on the floor, quiet hope that the man would stop trying to get his attention until he could get on his phone and block the number.

The rest of class goes smoothly enough, a full set of notes for once in his notebook, and quietly he wonders when exams will be starting up for these classes. They were already two weeks in by now, but usually professors were already scheduling dates for those sort of things, throwing them up into calendars to give him another day to dread. For now, however, the professor doesn't give any out, and the class ends somewhat peacefully as the last.

It's before he can even think or say a word that Iphianassa has suddenly taken hold of Natsuo, to Mafuyu's own surprise, though he certainly knows she would never take hold of his arm like that on purpose. Still, only an idiot wouldn't catch onto the reason for her sudden latching, and as he glances over to the pair now so readily exiting classroom fast past Haru, he laughs out loud over the entire thing. So uncharacteristic of her, but entertaining all the same, and at least he was rather confident she'd be safe with the new guy; or so he hoped. Vibes alone told him he wouldn't have to worry anyway.

It's just that he doesn't expect the hold on his own wrist next, blinking once as he looks back at the pink-haired girl who smiles all brightly at him already, and his brows quirk in confusion. "Say, can I ask you something very quick? This won't take long at all!"

Without any time to respond or think, she's already dragging him away, and Mafuyu isn't sure what to think. This sort of thing had happened in the past, though it was usually when he was dating someone and they wanted alone time with him somewhere. He highly doubted the new girl carried any of those intentions in doing so, but he still laughs along with it as they make their way out of the classroom, him just barely able to grab his things before they're out of reach.

The pace of the dragging slows considerably once they make it outside, but she's still leading him along like some sort of lost child, or so it feels that way. Eventually, she releases his wrist, and he finds himself standing with her somewhere quiet, away from the crowds of students and staff. What was such a secret little spot chosen out for now?

"If I didn't know any better, I'd think you brought me here to have some sort of private date," he tries to joke through the awkward, confused sensation dredging up inside of him, but even he outwardly cringes at his own attempt for a joke, offers an apologetic smile as soon as it's out, "yeah, sorry, that was a shit one."

Pausing, he quirks his eyebrow again slightly, turning towards Kazumi and trying to settle into comfort once more, "ignore what I just said; what's up? Something you need to talk to me about here?"

"Sorry about that, I just wanted to ask you a question about Iphi's ex really quick. Was it the guy who kept looking at her throughout class and what's his name? I am just really curious and I'd figured you know that much about him. And if you're worried about Iphi being with my brother, I can assure you she's safe with him. Just this morning our younger sister was being harassed and Natsuo was ready to beat the crap out of the delinquents, but someone beat him to it. He really doesn't like guys who target girls. Anyway, I've jabbered on long enough. After you answer my question, you can be on your way and I'll go find Natsuo and Iphi."

Her words come out quick, and he almost finds himself falling behind as she talks, but rather than be annoyed with it, he's rather pleased. She seemed comfortable talking to him at least, hopefully didn't mind his presence or his personality of what she knew of it so far. He was a great listener too anyway, so she could talk all she wanted.

"Iphianassa's ex?" He echoes, head tilting slightly before he lets out a hum, wonders if it's even his place to tell someone else about any of the things he'd learned or knew at this point. Well, if it was basic knowledge, that wouldn't hurt anyone, right? Seems he had someone as nosy as himself on his hands, and silently he tries to remind himself not to gossip too much. "Yeah, that's Haru. I'd keep your distance from him if I were you. He's...bad news."

A light laugh, he waves off her second words, "I figured she'd be alright with your brother, he doesn't seem too bad. Pretty sure she could stand her ground if he weren't anyway. Not gonna shit-talk your brother right to your face though, that'd be stupid. He seems cool, maybe he can get her to relax a little."

His arms are crossed over his chest now, fingers tapping absentmindedly at his arm as she finishes speaking, "eh? I mean, I wouldn't mind tagging along with you to see them. Iphi..." He pauses, laughs awkwardly, looks away quickly, "I guess she probably doesn't think of me as a friend. I'll just make sure things are okay and then leave you all to your own thing."

Setting

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Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Iphianassa Lykaois Character Portrait: Mafuyu Hanazawa Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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Code- #FF1493


The date comment was pretty funny and Kazumi did giggle at that.

"Hehe oh please, if I were to go on a date with you, it definitely wouldn't be in a school setting. Besides, aren't there rules for that here?" Kazumi asked.

Even though Kazumi was the type to bend the rules, a lot, she would never break them without good reason. Like they all pretty much broke a rule by coming to Earth without telling their parents or Astraea. Kazumi knew they were all going to be in for an earful whenever they were found. She just hoped it would be later rather than sooner. Her thoughts refocused on Mafuyu though when he answered her question. So the ex's name was Haru huh? A devious smile appeared on her face when Mafuyu warned her about him.

"Thanks for the warning, but I should warn you, I get a special thrill of putting guys like him in their place. I can't stand guys like that either and if he tries to put any moves on me, I'll crush him," she said menacingly.

She meant it too. Her attitude brightens though when Mafuyu talks about her brother a bit. Oh, she wasn't 100% sure about Natsuo helping Iphi relax since he was pretty uptight himself. He would no doubt protect her. Her brother didn't carry his kendo sword around for show after all. He was very proficient and was taught by the best. The only one who could best him was their main protector Astraea. Now there was someone you never messed with.

When Mafuyu said he'd like to stick around, Kazumi nodded.

"Sure thing! Oh sorry for dragging you off too suddenly. I am hungry so let's go find them. Just give me a second and I'll call Natsuo," Kazumi said before pulling out her cell phone.

After pressing a few buttons, she called him up.

"Hey where are you? . . . Oh that place. . . . uhhhh, sure I know where that is . . . . . okay right . . . . See you soon."

Kazumi was annoyed that she forgotten the location of the place Natsuo had mentioned. It was the exact place they had met that morning before the incident with Kazutora and Vel. Thinking of her sister, she hoped she was still having a good day. Well in several more hours they would know.

"Okay I know where they are. Let's go shall we?" Kazumi said before leading the way again.





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Code- #0000CD


Natsuo, being the observer that he was, did look at Iphianassa as she took out her cell phone and read what he guessed was a text message for her expression changed. The girl was quick to show emotions so she was a pretty easy read. She was definitely not happy about what she read too. Curious, he decided to ask what was up, but before he could even do that, Iphianassa sat down and started talking to him. Her mentioning spicy food cause the corners of his mouth to lift and he found himself smirking a bit. How would she react if he told her he could jump into lava and still think it was pleasant? He was pleasantly surprised when she offered him a bit of her meal. Instead of taking the chopsticks offered to him, he just took his own and took a sausage. He wasn't expecting much, so when he tried the food, it was nice to see that it was really good. It was certainly had a kick to it, but was still a bit mild for his taste. Still what he was eating was not as spicy as he preferred too. After all, his sister made it.

"Very nice. You're welcome to try mine if you like. Sadly I didn't make my lunch this time, it was my younger sister who did since I was too busy training this morning."

After she took one of his tempuras, he started eating his meal. It was pleasant and it was during this time, Natsuo saw his sister and Mafuyu approaching. Iphianassa's back was to them so she wouldn't be able to see them. The girl then started talking again.

"I really appreciate your help and your sister’s kindness as well, particularly with getting away from my ex ... But to be completely honest with you, I’m a little confused. Why would you help me? You don’t even know me, and I’ve done nothing but be rude to and glare at you since we met this morning."

Natsuo looked at her, puzzled.

"Because no one deserves to be treated that way Miss Iphianassa. If there's one thing my siblings and I don't like it's those who prey upon others."

Ipianassa continued on though by saying, "If you think that there’s any benefit of being close to me in any way, you’d be wrong. Not only am I poor, but I also tend to scare a lot of people off with my resting bitch face. I’m not really the type of person that’ll boost your popularity, if you catch my drift."

Natsuo frowned and would have replied, but Iphianassa continued on, "So what’s your goal here? I don’t have any money, and I don’t own nice things. I don’t have many friends, and it’s not like I’m pretty; so what’s your end goal? Huh?"

Kazumi and Mafuyu had arrived in time to hear that last comment.

Raising an eyebrow, Kazumi was quick to say, "What are you talking about Iphi?"

With a flourish, she sat down next to Natsuo, right across from Iphi and took out her own lunch, which was a regular a bowl of ramen and some vegetables mixed in.

"Miss Iphianassa here seems to think that by being around her, our reputations will be shot."

Kazumi's eyes opened wide and she suddenly laughed before saying, "Oh my, it's sweet of you to worry, Iphi, but the last thing we ever worry about is our reputation. And we could care less if you have limited means when it comes to currency, which I always never liked, it causes more problems than solutions. Seriously, the day humanity decided to put a cost on something was the dumbest decision humanity has ever made. Also, as for you not being pretty? Girlfriend, have you ever looked in the mirror? You've very attractive. Isn't she Natsuo?"

Natsuo nearly choked on his food for he wasn't expecting Kazumi to say something like that. Seeing Kazumi's look, he knew she did that on purpose too. Looking at Iphianassa, he felt his cheeks redden suddenly. She was attractive, but for crying out loud, they had just met. Still better to be honest then to lie and hurt the girl.

"Yes she is," he said, not looking directly at her.

Smiling, Kazumi turned back Iphi, "See? If you're not feeling comfortable about your looks, maybe I can help you out there. I do great make-overs. Anyway, let's eat before we need to get to our next classes."

Natsuo was grateful his sister finally stopped talking and just focused on her meal. They continued to eat and after finishing, Natsuo decided to ask Iphianassa about her text message.

"Miss Iphianassa, was something troubling you earlier? I saw you looking at your phone and I can only assume you got a troubling text message."

That got Kazumi's attention and she looked at Iphi to see what was up.

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Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Iphianassa Lykaois Character Portrait: Mafuyu Hanazawa Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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mafuyu hanazawa.
dialogue ; #7f9f91. – thought ; #bb7e8c.
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Perhaps his joke doesn't fall entirely flat, given the way the pink haired girl before him lets out a small laugh. That was good, right? She didn't already completely despise him? He'd take it as something of a win, that he'd managed to take the smallest step forward in terms of becoming a friend.

"Oh please, if I were to go on a date with you, it definitely wouldn't be in a school setting. Besides, aren't there rules for that here?" He blinks once at the words, and takes this as his second small win. She wasn't completely averse to a date? Enough at least, that she didn't mind playing along with his joke. It makes his smile a little brighter with that in mind, and then shrugs, "probably, I'm good at letting that sort of thing slip my mind though. There's a whole booklet on rules, it's impossible to keep track of them all here." Besides, this was a college campus, wasn't it? Couldn't they be allowed to let loose a little more than in high school?

Probably not, there was still reputation to uphold for universities after all.

Maybe it was something he should catch up on more, given he'd be teaching high school soon enough. Not that he was overly strict, but letting too much slide would let teenagers walk all over him, and he wasn't exactly for that by the time he was free of the school system. In just two years, really, he'd be graduated and working soon enough.

"Thanks for the warning, but I should warn you, I get a special thrill of putting guys like him in their place. I can't stand guys like that either and if he tries to put any moves on me, I'll crush him," Blinking once out of his own thoughts, he finds himself staring at Kazumi for a second longer before his head tilts and he lets out a small laugh. Crush him, huh? That was certainly a choice of words. She wasn't the type to take shit, was she? Iphianassa and her would get along that way, he was rather confident of that now.

"If you say so; don't put yourself in a bad situation though, Haruto's dirty as they get." Mafuyu doesn't think he'd try anything...insane, or so he had thought until he'd crossed the line of stalking with Iphianassa. How long until he went further into that depraved territory? She seems like she'd be able to handle herself, but it still doesn't settle well with me.

Shrugging off the thought of too many unknown futures, he waves off her apology as she turns around to pull out her phone, call her brother and ask where he and Iphianassa ended up. Not far off, probably. It wasn't that big of a campus in comparison to others nearby. Higashi-Naruse only had space and funds for so much, after all, and as much as he would have enjoyed attending college in the city somewhere a little more prestigious, staying close to his sisters and mom, to home, and going somewhere cheaper even with a full scholarship to other places was better for him in the long run.

He was a bit eager to move eventually though, what with Hisao having tracked him down at this point. More anonymity in a city, less in a town of just barely over two thousand people. It wouldn't be long before that trash starting pinning things, or places down a little easier, would it? As long as he stays away from the girls.

Looking back up from where he had been absentmindedly kicking around tufts of loose grass, Mafuyu's eyes settle on Kazumi for a moment as she begins to walk away, and a faint smile comes to him then, "mhm, lead the way, Kazumi. I certainly wouldn't know the directions." His skateboard is back in his hands from the ground, a little careless in its retrieval, and he jogs for a bit to catch up to her and stick to her side, comfortable in the presence they shared for the moment. She really didn't seem too bad, a likeable personality and a seeming caring side to her as well. And yes, she was pretty, but you'd have to be blind to miss that fact about her. It's just the way her apparent personality thus far makes that sort of beauty a little more true, a little more deep than just the skin, and he finds himself appreciative of that. It wasn't always that way, after all. He'd met plenty of people who turned ugly the moment they opened their mouth.

The air is quiet as they walk for a bit, Mafuyu's mind continuing its wandering, but after a second he glances to the pink haired girl again, head tilted ever so slightly before slipping out the question that had been on his mind since they'd first entered, before he'd been able to given they were all in class or the two siblings were surrounded on both sides by curious classmates that wanted to meet them. "You and Natsuo, where'd you guys move from? I figure you're probably not from Higashi-Naruse originally, right? I feel like I would have met you both by now if you were, it's such a small town."

His words are up in the air only a moment before the answer to that question can even be spoken, interrupted by the sound of Iphianassa's voice, her apparent interrogation on the man who she'd had help her escape Haruto earlier before. His brow quirks slightly at the tone, at the words themselves; couldn't people just want to be friends? Though, knowing her, it made sense that she'd question everything that way. It was rather rare that most would seek her out in any positive manner or lacking some sort of ulterior motive, he knew that, he'd watched it go on for several years now, hadn't he? So truly, in the end, no shock here.

"So what’s your goal here? I don’t have any money, and I don’t own nice things. I don’t have many friends, and it’s not like I’m pretty; so what’s your end goal? Huh?" Silently, he follows in with Kazumi, though the woman doesn't seem keen on staying quiet in their positions as she questions her brother on what the conversation was over. "Miss Iphianassa here seems to think that by being around her, our reputations will be shot."

Looking down at her the, Mafuyu tilts his head slightly, faint smile picking up over his features. Sure, maybe reputation was at risk when you hung around those that had the bad rumors and the like hanging around their heads, but Mafuyu was rather confident that anyone who would treat someone else terribly just because of, exactly what they were, rumors would be far from worthwhile. Iphianassa's anger and harsh personality certainly were there for everyone to see, but that didn't make her a bad person. If anything, the brunette reminded him of his sister. Of Ran, who certainly had her own reputation and bad rumors building with each year they spent here. If someone were to treat her badly, how would he feel? Enraged, no doubt. So why treat someone like his sister cold or cruelly?

But there Kazumi goes again, that swift talk, though this time it's more of a pep talk than just general rambling. He listens quietly all the while, nodding along with each statement, stifling a laugh when the question of how attractive Iphianassa was is turned on Natsuo, who half chokes on the food he'd just put in his mouth. If anything was obvious in this sibling dynamic, it was that Kazumi had her way with teasing, and seemingly found every moment to inflict it upon the dark haired male. He often did the same with his sisters, so he could appreciate that. There was just a joy like no other, getting a reaction out of those related to you like that.

In the end, Natsuo agrees, even if he can't bring himself to look at Iphianassa. Mafuyu tilts his head then, looking over to her with a slight piqued curiosity over the situation. They'd practically just dashed away her concerns, or at least done so in the form of words; whether or not she'd take it and consider any weight behind them was up to her in the end.

"People can like you even without material things, you know. It's not all about money, in the end." Maybe it was for some people, but Mafuyu certainly wasn't one to care for it, and most people who did didn't stick around him for long when they caught a glimpse of his wallet. He shrugs lightly though, glances away, "and people shallow enough to only stick to a pretty face aren't worth your time anyway. Not that you aren't pretty, Iphi." It's a little teasing in tone, he's rather sure that he's the last person she wants to hear compliments from anyway.

"Miss Iphianassa, was something troubling you earlier? I saw you looking at your phone and I can only assume you got a troubling text message." Natsuo's voice cuts through a moment later though, and a brow quirks up in her direction at the words. Text message...of what? Had Haruto tried to get ahold of her again? Or was it something else? Well, he supposes he'll stick around just a bit longer to be sure things are alright after all.

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Character Portrait: Kazumi Orako Character Portrait: Iphianassa Lykaois Character Portrait: Mafuyu Hanazawa Character Portrait: Natsuo Orako
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”Pretty words are not always true,
And true words are not always pretty.”
~Uknown

Speech Code ~ #8A0808
| Thought Code ~ #045FB4




"Because no one deserves to be treated that way Miss Iphianassa. If there's one thing my siblings and I don't like, it's those who prey upon others." The sentiment was nice, but it was hard to believe. It would be amazing news to know that there were still people out there with such a high moral peak, but it was also extremely unlikely and doubtful. She found herself giving him an incredulous glance, and it didn’t help that he had called her Miss Iphianssa. What was with this guy and his formalities? Must be a culture thing? I’m sure he means well but come on - guy’s making me feel old as hell, calling me Miss.

"What are you talking about Iphi?"

The sudden voice jerked Iphignea from her thoughts and she whipped around, almost spilling the remnants of her lunch onto the ground. She just barely managed to catch it in time, but was unable to hide her blazing red face. What she had asked Natsuo had been a private rant; she had lost her control for a minute and begun to demand these answers from him, but she had never intended for anyone else to hear them. Embarrassment of course ensued, engulfing her features. She wasn’t upset with Kazumi for listening to their conversation. It wasn’t like it had been an intentional thing; she had simply overheard, and clearly Mafuyu had. Hopefully the other woman hadn’t heard the beginning of what she had said.

"Miss Iphianassa here seems to think that by being around her, our reputations will be shot." Oh Gods, can this get any more mortifying? Now I sound like a whining pre-teen looking for attention! Here I go, fishing for some attention, tossing my metaphorical hook into the water, she groaned internally. It was the last thing that she had wanted to be seen as by anyone, and hear there were now three people who had witnessed her inadvertently admitting to her own insecurities. How humiliating.

"Oh my, it's sweet of you to worry, Iphi, but the last thing we ever worry about is our reputation. And we could care less if you have limited means when it comes to currency, which I always never liked, it causes more problems than solutions. Seriously, the day humanity decided to put a cost on something was the dumbest decision humanity has ever made. Also, as for you not being pretty? Girlfriend, have you ever looked in the mirror? You're very attractive. Isn't she Natsuo?" Okay, wow, that was a lot to take in all at once, her azure eyes blinking blankly as she soaked in her response. At least Kazumi had said that she didn’t care for material things, and apparently Natsuo didn’t either. Whether or not she was telling the truth was an entirely different situation altogether, but for now, Iphignea decided to take her doctor’s advice and try to look on the brighter side of the situation - that Kazumi was telling the truth, and that she definitely wasn’t lying. But boy, oh boy, that last part of what she said - and why would she ask Natsuo! Instantly any color that had begun to fade from her cheeks was back, her naturally tan skin helping to hide the flush only a bit. Her hands shot to her uniform’s lapels, lifting them as much as she could to hide her cheeks, and she dropped her head slightly so that her hair could help shroud her face, her sudden shyness evident in her demeanor. She couldn’t help it; something about these two new students just made her feel less aggressive, more demure. In an effort to cool herself, Iphi snagged her water bottle and began to take a drink from it, enjoying the cool liquid as it passed her parched lips.

"Yes she is.”

A series of coughs escaped Iphignea as she choked on her water. As she fought the liquid going up her nose - the last thing she needed was to spew water from her nostrils in front of these people - more coughs racking her chest, she waved her hand as though to try and convey that she would be okay in a moment. She was completely caught off-guard by Natsuo’s response to his sister; he thought that she was attractive? What was this, a joke? There was absolutely no way, in either Hades, Earth, or Olympus, that a man who had looks that were so akin to that of the Greek God Adonis would ever find her even remotely attractive. This definitely had to be a joke. What, did they decide that on their first day that they would find the weakest link in their classes to target and make a mockery of that person? Iphignea’s had tightened around the bottle at the thought, her anger sizzling a bit under the surface. Just who did they think they were?

But then there was that little voice, buried so far underneath her surface of ice. She could see this little voice in her own mind and it was as though she were there as well, hands curled into fists as she battled over whether or not to chip at the ice, at the solid block of frozen water, her eyes locked on a doppelganger of herself only feet away in the solid substance. It called out to her, begging her to listen to reason, begging her to remember what her parents had taught her over the last decade; begging her to remember what her doctors had tried - and failed many times to - instill within her.

That not everyone was evil, and not everyone was out to get her. Not everyone had an ulterior motive in approaching her.

As the reasoning slid through her mind, she calmed herself once more and let out a breath, but her mind immediately returned unbidden to what Natsuo had said. Yes, she is. He 
 He thought she was pretty? Another blush entered her face, but behind her hands was the ghost of a small smile at the thought, and uninvited, another thought crossed her mind. He thinks I’m pretty 
 Unable to think of anything else to say in this situation, and knowing that it had been long enough that she really should respond, she managed, ”I 
 Thank you,” she said softly, to both of the siblings.

“See? If you're not feeling comfortable about your looks, maybe I can help you out there. I do great make-overs. Anyway, let's eat before we need to get to our next classes." Iphignea jumped, almost guiltily, but she quickly fanned herself and returned to her normal resting bitch face expression. At the offer of a makeover, Iphignea made a sound with a shrug, but whether or not it was one of agreement could be argued. The offer sat with her though, and she was definitely tempted to take Kazumi up on it. If anything was obvious with a first glance of the new student, it was that she had a sense of style - something that Iphignea was sorely lacking in. Her closet consisted mostly of black or deep red items, a majority of such were pants and tops, with maybe two or three ‘fancy’ pieces thrown in there. She snorted a bit at the thought of her current wardrobe; it left quite a bit to be desired.

"People can like you even without material things, you know. It's not all about money, in the end, and people shallow enough to only stick to a pretty face aren't worth your time anyway. Not that you aren't pretty, Iphi.” She found that pretty hard to believe. Money made the world go round, and if it weren’t for money, you couldn’t survive. Anything worthwhile costs money, and if you didn’t wear the latest clothes or carry the newest bags, you were considered an outsider. He wasn’t wrong, though, in his last statement. It was simply a matter of finding the people who didn’t care about materialistic things. Those people, though, were hard to come by.

With that, she returned to her meal which was now luke-warm at best. Oh well, might as well enjoy what I can of it.

"Miss Iphianassa, was something troubling you earlier? I saw you looking at your phone and I can only assume you got a troubling text message." Ah, here he goes being nosy. Good things can’t last forever, can they? Iphignea really couldn’t stand nosy people - those who put their noses into other people’s business. Plus, there he went calling her miss again. But she also couldn’t deny that both Natsuo and Kazumi had been pretty helpful and nice to her so far; and he had just said he found her to be pretty, so it was unlikely that he was asking with nefarious purposes. Still, it wasn’t exactly her business to be sharing, so she would have to pick and choose her words carefully.

As she began to pack up her empty lunchbox, she spoke.

”Well, first of all - stop calling me miss. I’m sure you’re saying it with the best intentions, but damn, you’re making me feel old,” she rolled her eyes, tucking the box into her bag. With a flick of her arm she zipped it shut and dropped back to sit beside it. She threw up her hand to hold up two fingers. ”Second of all, you’re a bit nosy now, aren’t you?” she tilted her head to the side, almost seeming to be teasing him. ”You should tread a bit more carefully when asking people that you’ve just met questions that could be seen as personal; it may be a cultural thing, but here in Japan, people tend to be fairly reserved and prefer to keep most matters to themselves and within a tightly knit circle.” A third nimble finger flicked up. ”And last but certainly not least; to answer your question, I simply received a text message from a close friend of mine who’s in the high school about a rather disgusting pest infestation that they have in their classroom,” she said this with a sweet smile, but her eyebrow twitched, betraying her underlying anger just at the mere thought of Kenji. ”But don’t worry - it’s nothing that a little bit of ass-kicking can’t solve.” Her smile seemed to darken a bit, a small chuckle escaping her. ”That little ****** is gonna wish he never saw the light of day. I’m gonna cut off his **** and shove it up his *** until he ***** his *** and wishes he ******* his ***** instead,” she happily delivered, cracking her knuckles as she spoke. A somewhat maniacal laugh escaped her as she envisioned exactly what she was going to do when she got a hold on the nasty little vermin that Kenji was. Oh the fun that she was going to have kicking his ass into next week and shoving his head up where the sun didn’t shine for him.

Realizing that she had slipped back into her naturally aggressive self and exposed her easy rage to the trio, Iphignea suddenly laughed sheepishly, relaxed her hands and used one to rub at the back of her head. ”But you guys don’t need to worry about any of that. It’s not like Kenji's going to tell anyone about getting his ass kicked by a girl, and I won’t hurt him badly enough to send him to the hospital. I know my own strength,” she reassured them, flapping her hand in their direction.