Twenty-five dollars does seem like a lot for a simple reading, but why not.
It might feel a little childish to admit, but the reading on your love life just now did manage to make you feel a lot better.
Perhaps that’s what fortune telling is all about, telling people what they want to hear.
It’s all smoke and mirrors, isn’t it?
That’s why you’re going to take another question.
Not because of the reading itself, but because you want to support this enterprising young girl with her little business.
It's not because you're getting strangely into this, not at all!
“I’ll take another question,” you say.
“A very good choice,” says Fortune-teller Tomiju, “I’ll take my payment upfront.”
“Eh?” you say, “Well, that’s fine with me.”
You pull out your phone and exchanges Line IDs.
A payment request comes in from Tomiju Aya.
“Twenty-five dollars for …lunch?” you say.
“So I can dodge taxes,” replies Fortune-teller Tomiju as she shuffles the Tarot deck.
Eeeeeh….
Fortune-teller Tomiju gets up and fiddles with the lamps a bit, the light dims – casting an ominous darkness in the tent.
You remind yourself to ask Fortune-teller Tomiju where she got the cloth for the tent as they would make excellent bedroom curtains with how well they hold out the light.
“We return for a second look into what lies beyond,” says Fortune-teller Tomiju, “Let us lift the veil between realms and place our trust in the mystic arts to guide us…”
You nod, fists clenched as they rest on your lap.
“What misery clouds your soul?” says Fortune-teller Tomiju, “What wisdom is it that you seek?”
“Well,” you say, “There’s still girl I know and she’s been struggling a bit recently. I was just wondering if she’ll be okay…”
“Okay in what way?” asks Fortune-teller Tomiju.
“Career? Life? Just in general, I suppose,” you say.
“Hmm,” says Fortune-teller Tomiju, pinching her chin, “Specific questions are better, but we can simply place our trust in fate and she what comes up…”
You nod, that’ll have to do.
You just want another nice reading like the previous one to ease your worries.
Fortune-teller Tomiju splits the cards in two neat stacks, lifting a corner on each stack, and, with a sound not unlike rustling leaves, combines the stacks into a single deck again.
“Once more…” she says, sliding the deck towards you.
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> The Past
> Need one 1d156 roll.
> Rolled 144 (1d156)
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> The Present
> Need one 1d156 roll.
> Rolled 146 (1d156)
>
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> The Future
> Need one 1d156 roll.
> Rolled 7 (1d156)
>
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>
>
You draw three cards, placing each of them face-down.
“This girl,” says Fortune-teller Tomiju, “Is somebody you’re close with?”
“Eh? In a way… We work together,” you say.
“I see,” says Fortune-teller Tomiju, pointing at the first card, “Let’s reveal what represents their past…”
You flip over the left-most card for “The Past”.
Facing towards you is a card depicting a mighty sword.
A cruel instrument that can hurt anyone it feels deserving of it.
“Justice,” says Fortune-teller Tomiju, “It signifies truth, fairness, and law. Something happened in her past that has long-term consequences, and she will not escape them.”
Despondent, you look at the fortune-teller, “I thought “facing towards me” was supposed to be a good thing…”
“It is,” says Fortune-teller Tomiju, “For the scales of justice judge all equally. The card facing towards you tells of a reckoning coming towards those that have done your friend injustice. However, if it was you that did something terrible then the card is a warning. In summary: Karma.”
“I s-see,” you say.
“Does that mean anything to you?” says Fortune-teller Tomiju, “Fortune telling is a lot better if the person whose fortune is divined is present.”
You can think of some things, but you keep them to yourself for now, “A little,” you say.
“I’d like to know about the present, she’s been going through a very hard time lately…” you continue.
Fortune-teller Tomiju gestures towards the face-down cards, “Destiny is within reach…”
You flip over the second card for “The Present.”
Standing on top of an isolated cliff is a lonely man, his gaze set on the horizon.
His only company is the staff he carries and the lantern at his side.
“Ah,” says Fortune-teller Tomiju, “Facing you is The Hermit.”
“Eeehh…” you say, “I don’t like this card at all…”
“Fear not,” says Fortune-teller Tomiju, “Things would be different if this card was facing away, but since it is facing towards you it’s far more positive. The card represent isolation by choice, quiet introspection and reflection. Looking inwards and figuring out what you want in life – who you are. His lantern is fuelled by the wisdom of past experiences so it can light his path and show him where to put his feet.”
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She does have a lot to think about.
Kaiba was doubting whether or not she should continue as an idol the other day, hopefully it’s not that.
She’s with Kitabayashi at the moment, so hopefully Yui-chan can help her through any rough patches.
“I guess it’s as you say and a lot has happened to her, she just needs time to figure herself out.” adds Fortune-teller Tomiju.
“What would’ve been the meaning if the card was turned away?” you ask solemnly.
“M-moving on towards the future,” says Fortune-teller Tomiju hurriedly, “Please flip the card…”
Concerning.
You move your hand towards the card you dread the most – the future.
It’s same card as earlier: the young man working hard on his craft that signified a good work ethic and determination to see tasks through till the end.
Only this time it’s facing away from you.
“Turning its back on you is Eight of Pentacles,” says Fortune-teller Tomiju.
A sliver of panic creeps into your body, “W-what does it mean?”
“Lethargy, little motivation, and simply not putting in effort. Drawing this card means she thinks the work is either not worthy of her or that she’s not worthy of the work. It makes a person drag their feet. Why try when you know you’ll fail? If your friend was here in person I would say the card also serves as a reminder to keep trying hard anyway.”
You liked your own reading a whole lot better…
Is Kaiba depressed about failing the voice-over job?
She did mention at times that she feels like she doesn’t have what it takes to be an idol.
Knuckles turning white as you ball your fists, you face the fortune-teller, “…is this fate unavoidable?”
“Hah?” says Fortune-teller Tomiju.
“I’m really worried,” you add, “I don’t want her to quit…”
“Eh,” says Fortune-teller Tomiju, then clears her throat, “EHUM!”
“Cast your sightless gaze to the sky as I channel the powers hidden within me!” says Fortune-teller Tomiju.
Sightless gaze? Oh, she wants you to close your eyes.
You do so. Anything if it helps Kaiba.
Fortune-teller Tomiju mumbles incoherently, it kind of sounds what spellcasting would probably sound like.
Every now and then her mumbling is interrupted by the sound of paper rustling.
After hearing the sound for the fifth time, you crack open an eye.
Fortune-teller Tomiju is leaving through some kind of book as she continues to mumble arcana.
The cover reads: “Tarot Reading in Seven Steps”.
All of a sudden, her face brightens and she snaps the book shut.
You hurriedly close your eyes again.
“Fate has shown me that there may be an alternative path!” shouts Fortune-teller Tomiju.
Either fate or the table of contents.
Fortune-teller Tomiju throws her hands wide, “Fate is always in flux. Destiny is what you make off it! Imprinted in the tapestries of fate are sagas of your own creation!”
“Ooooh!” you say.
It’s common sense, but you’ll take it.
Sometimes you just need to be reminded of things you already know.
Sudden sunlight brightens up the dark tent as the tent flap is pulled open.
The invasive light has you squinting your eyes, barely making out the silhouette of the figure standing in the opening.
A short, but broad-shouldered man looms in the opening.
Fortune-teller Tomiju arms herself with the book she had been reading earlier.
“Who dares interfere with the mystic arts!” shouts Fortune-teller Tomiju, holding up a hand to shield her eyes from the trespassing rays, “Identify yourself!”
“It is I,” proclaims the figure, adjusting their cap, “Kazato Hideo. Patrol officer #72 of the Shibuya District. Do you have a permit to set up shop here?”
Fortune-teller Tomiju drops her book.
“Eeeeeeeeeeeh?”
And so your fortune reading came to an abrupt end.
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As you wander off, you ponder the results of your reading.
There are people out there that put a lot of stock in fortune readings, but you’re not sure if you’re one of them.
Nevertheless, there is a kind of romanticism to it.
The idea of governing forces, destiny, and fate.
If you take it all at face value it’s really nothing more than getting a chance to talk about stuff that’s clearly bothering you -- that’s why they prompt you to ask a question.
Certainly, there’s a sense of relief that comes with talking about your issues, maybe that’s why some people get so into it.
In a way it’s like budget-value therapy, but it’s a lot easier to tell people you’re visiting an exciting, mystical fortune reading than admitting you’re seeing an actual therapist.
For now, the intricate tapestries woven by the threads of fate will have to wait as you still have to do some grocery shopping.
You just have to hope Kaiba is okay.
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Grocery shopping is a simple affair.
You don’t really run into anyone you know and simply browse the aisles for items.
Though you don’t want to admit it, Kaiba’s reading has you concerned and you decide to splurge on some snacks for both her and Kitabayashi.
Well, maybe not these snacks, you think as you put back the chocolates.
Kaiba is an idol after all.
Tasty fruit and snack veggies will have to suffice.
After loading the bags filled with groceries for both you and Kitabayashi’s household into your car you decide to stop by the music store on the way back to buy a new album.
The outside walls and windows of the store are slathered with posters of all kinds.
Small bands announcing gigs, a local guitarist offering music lessons, and dance crews looking for fresh talent.
Ishibashi Music is more than just a store.
It’s a place for all those interested in music to find each other and share their love of music.
More than a few bands owe their existence to this place.
You find a gap between the many posters and advertisements to peek inside.
Ah. It doesn’t seem like he’s working today…
Not that it matters. You came here to buy a new album most of all.
You open the door and there’s about two dozen people inside.
A fairly typical Saturday afternoon for Ishibashi Music.
> Decision
>
> >1 - Get your album and bring groceries to Kitabayashi
> >2 - Browse, spend some time here.
> >3 - Low-key ask where the guy that’s usually at the counter is
>
> Winner
> >1 - Get your album and bring groceries to Kitabayashi
You open the door and return the little wave of the cashier.
Ordinarily you would stop by the counter for a short chat since it’s been a while since you’ve last been here, but a set of other customers seem to be vying for her attention.
With a brief bob of the head, you simply decide to beeline for the j-rock section, but not before glancing into the aisle quickly to ensure you don’t spot any familiar faces.
Relief.
Why would they be here?
You check out the new albums in the j-rock section and manage to find the album you’ve been looking for, purchase it, and call it a day.
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The last thing to do before you can fully enjoy the remainder of your weekend is deliver the groceries you’ve bought to Kitabayashi’s house.
After a little detour you arrive at Kitabayashi’s door and hand over the groceries.
“Oh, Miho,” says Kitabayashi with a smile, “Thanks, but I can buy my own groceries, y’know?”
“Sure, but you’re already taking care of Kaiba-san for me, I didn’t want you to shoulder double the food cost and all that,” you say, “I checked in with Kaiba’s dietician from work, everything in her diet should be in there.”
Kitabayashi looks alarmed for a moment, “Ah… Of course, she has a diet, haha,” she says, “Active idol, I mean, it’s a given.”
You squint a little, “Yui-chan…”
“Just a small bucket of ice cream!” she says defensively, “To celebrate her moving in! She had it rough, y’know?”
The comment reminds you of the fortune reading from earlier that day.
You swivel left and right in an effort to look over Kitabayashi’s shoulder and peek into the house, “How’s Kaiba-san doing?” you ask.
“Still asleep,” replies Kitabayashi.
Eh? It’s mid-afternoon.
Then again, it must’ve been like getting home after a long vacation for her – finally able to get some long-needed rest without any questions or concerns.
“I see,” you say, then hesitate, “…Tell me if anything strange happens, alright?”
Kitabayashi raises an eyebrow, “Sure?” she says, “Are you expecting strange things to happen?”
“Ah, well, not really,” you say.
“Miho…” says Kitabayashi with soft disappointment, “Really? You think that level of secrecy works against me? I’ve known you for years. What’s this about?”
There’s not a chance that you’ll confess that the random fortune told by a teenage mystic girl that was later arrested by the police has you on edge.
“She’s just had a harsh time, that’s all,” you say.
“Fine, keep your secrets,” says Kitabayashi, “Don’t you wanna come in? Say hi?”
You hold up your hands defensively, “No, no,” you say, “I saw her yesterday and I see her every day at work. I’m still her boss, she should be able to have some time away from me. So she can relax.”
“Alright,” says Kitabayashi with a shrug, “You’re welcome anytime.”
You nod, “Thanks again, Kitabayashi.”
“Nothing’s free, girlie,” says Kitabayashi with a smug grin, “You owe me and I’ve already got some plans how to use that favour.”
As you open your mouth to speak, Kitabayashi interrupts.
“It’s a surprise,” she says, winking.
You sigh, then smile back, “Fine,” you say, “Just don’t get me in any trouble.”
”I should probably get going,” you add, “See you on Monday.”
As you turn to leave you make it only a few steps before turning back, “Send me a message if anything happens, okay? Just anything strange. Anything at all.”
“Jeesh, Miho,” says Kitabayashi, amused, “Calm down. She’s fine.”
“Okay,” you say, turn around, then turn back, “…anything odd, just tell me…”
“Bye, bye, mother hen,” says Kitabayashi, as she gradually closes the door, “I’ll take good care of your little girl!”
Geh.
Back in your car you take a deep breath, then sigh.
It’s time to forgot about work for a bit and just relax.
A new week awaits.