=== Chapter 2 [Lion]

[Sis... You would be fine on your own right?

I just hope that her work would not be too difficult.

I mean she only wants for me to do designs so...]

[But I don't like how she talked. Don't you think her wording implied she thought of buying you?

My precious sister is not merchandise, thus I will not allow her to become someone else's model.]

[Though... the job only included drawing designs.]

[That too, don't you think it will ruin our shop as well if you do that?

We would get fewer visitors if you lend your talent to her, so it's totally wrong.]

But I didn't listen much to what my sister had to say, I had my own talents and could do whatever I wanted with it. As much as I hated it, I almost went into a quarrel with my sister there, enduring it with silence. I like my sister, but I also need time for myself, alone without her or her influence. I didn’t want my sister to do everything for me, thus albeit in a rush, I have made my decision. I stand now before the door to the Brilliant Dream. I’m a little wobbly too…

[Okay, I'm doing this for my sister too... so she won’t worry about me all the time.

I'm also doing this for WRose too... that’s what she would have advice me to do probably.

And finally I'm doing this for myself... so I prove to myself that I can do things on my own.]

Above me there was a signboard with the logo of the shop made in shiny colours that resembled various gems. It had no art, just the writing, thus it felt elegant rather than cute. Additionally, I peeked inside the shop, various dresses and skirts, from cutesy-like to refined, from simple designs to more princess-like ones.

All of this was a level above of what I do—I only do simple art meant to attract the eye with its cuteness. Would I really be able to work at a place like this, I wondered, it is a little overwhelming to be honest. My hand was on the handle already, pushing ever so slowly it down. It definitely would not hurt to take a look inside...

[Don't mind me I'm just looking... around. But no one seems to be inside?]

I slowly opened and the door and took a step through the doorway, there was not a single living being inside. It felt very doll like at first, mysterious yet inviting, foreboding yet calm. With a few more squeaky steps, my mind was within a whole different world. It wasn't just a fairytale, it was actually real. As I pinched my cheeks...

I was instantly surrounded with materials I only read about online, like velvet, cashmere, silk, satin, or chiffon. Furthermore, even if it looked old-fashioned, the dresses didn't use bird cages, actual corsets or anything, just petticoats. With my hands from off the cheeks, I probed different materials to see how they feel. I found myself close to satisfying my curiosity when...

[I spot that my little curious cat demoiselle has found her way into my lair, quite splendid. ohoho~

As you can see from our selection, we have anything a proper lady would need for her beauty desires.

Don't you find yourself immersed too? If that's the case, please feel free to try on whatever you like.]

[Oh hello... you startled me a little there. But I'm fine now.

Before anything... maybe I should introduce myself first okay?

My name is Pina, I draw little and cute stuff... It's a pleasure.]

My words followed a bow which was replied with her dropping a curtsy. Her movement was graceful, unlike mine, but there is a reason for that I rather not talk about... I mean this is just a job, so don't worry, I said to myself. First impression aside, she walked towards me, doing pleasing-to-ear click click noises as she walked the stage.

[I see you are that girl who this ingenious madam wanted to purchase a little while back, yes that is your face I reckon.

I pardon my mind's absence—I should also return my greetings as well. My name is Avaria, the lady of this boutique.

I must say my original designs are all far and beyond my clientele expectations. You must be entranced by them too, right?]

[That is correct... I feel a little nervous though, so sorry.

I mean I like the designs but... I don't know if I achieve that level myself.

I will definitely try so please give me a chance! I will work hard.]

With that being said, I found myself bowing my head very deeply, like apologizing for something I haven't done. It was just my nerves after all—I couldn't collect myself in this luxurious environment at all. I was scared a little, but then the lady did the similar gesture as before. She gently traced her delicate finger through my chin upwards.

[Look up, I would not have invited you if you didn't have any talent yes? We already established that.]

And so, my head slowly lifted without my influence. I was in her spell and looking directly at her beaming face. It was as if a mother was seeing her child, a very gentle and genuine slime. I was almost tripped with my balance shaken.

[I do... of course I have talent! At least that's what I like to think.

Anyway yes, I'm here for the job, but this is all new to me... I'm afraid.

Sorry, but could we talk what exactly my job would entail? I was wondering...]

Since I'm also working with my sister of her designs I would like to do both jobs if my shift allows it...Is something I wanted to say when Avaria interrupted my words and prevented me from finishing my sentence.

[You don't need to think deeply, I did envision that you will just do fine after all, yes?

All I really require is someone to make illustrations that would fit the style I'm showing here.

When I say that, I mean things like elegant tea parties, fabulous ball dances and princess-like rooms.

You can definitely do that, so believe in yourself okay? It takes time to grow, so don't worry my child.]

[Um... I will definitely try hard on doing art, I promise.]

But why I'm being petted again? It feels differently than before, at least inside of my head. The warmth doesn't just stop at my head but goes down to my chest and stops my breathing. Along with her voice, her hand doesn't tickle, but gently carcasses my short hair like a fuzzy pillow.

[So then, maybe we should get you ready for work, shall me? Of course, you can do work from anywhere,

but to give you a better idea I think you should stay here for a while and feel the air of this fine establishment.

Thus I find it most fitting that you would help me with selling, I'm I wrong? This requires however...]

The curtain to the back room was slowly opened for me. Inside was a spacious environment with mannequins, mirrors and tidily organized boxes with materials. The wooden floor was shining and fresh air was present. On the walls, various material and pattern details were placed. This is the room was quite well equipped for designing, I thought…

[Come on right in, I won't bite. We have to dress you up first after all, right?]

[Of course... but please be gentle about it, okay? I’m a little nervous.]

===

There I was, looking at the mirror and wondering about what I was actually doing. Avaria, as gentle as she was, asked me to pick my own coordination. I was a little afraid I wouldn't be able to choose, but she insisted. And thus, after being guided by her keen eyes, I engaged the clothing animation and a curtain appeared.

[So what do you think... I figured I would have picked the essentials first.

I'm just missing shoes and other stuff... but I didn't want to keep you waiting.]

[Splendid, I shall concur your decision. You look far more refined now, far more lady like,

and you work fast, so consider all this as a compliment from someone with experience.]

My outfit totally changed. Previously I was wearing the bunny hoodie my sister made for us, but right now I'm was wearing a stylish dress fitting someone who has a high sense of fashion.

[You really think so? Well thanks... I feel extremely honoured, Avaria.]

While I was feeling the material and looking at the mirror I just noticed how much I have changed. The hoodie was now a marine blue jumper skirt that reached just below the breasts. The print itself was an image of sea—from the top it was imitating light-blue waves from the sea crushing into the coast, while further down the colour of the sand contrasted the dress with a darker shade. It was also decorated with orange seashells-like buttons on the waist, and cat-like vanilla cupcakes near the bottom.

As for the rest of the top, I had a sand yellow shirt with ruffles underneath the dress. From the legs down I had cotton tights which were yellow from top and blue at the bottom. It was a similar effect to how the skirt was designed—the blue was foaming into the yellow in the middle. I did actually draw all of this now, so I was impressed to how this all contrasted well.

[Well isn't there something missing still, Pina? I see you have mastered the colours,

but the design is lacking in volume. By that I mean, you had the right idea, but we can go further.

Here, allow me to help and I shall present you with something even more breathtaking, yes?]

[I can't say no... I tried hard but I guess this is still not enough...

I mean I'm not finished but you might as well tell me what's wrong, I will fix it.]

[Nonsense my dear, you are fine just the way you are, you little kitten, ehehe~

but more seriously, I only want to gather that cute side from you and show it to the world.]

In the end, I tried to take a firm stance against my captor, but I was once again defeated by her petting. A little while after, she returned the clothes I gave her and I changed myself again. And even though...

[Well this no different... you only added tabby cat like frills on the straps and at the bottom?

I guess that is more cute now, but... why does it feel like you are not finished yet?]

[One step at a time my dear, for you see I have plenty of other things to dress you with.

Don't you find this completely adorable and yet still something is missing? I can tell...]

Suddenly the room was filled with an ominous presence. I noticed her voice changed a little, she was more serious and her eyes were focused as well, like a lion stalking her prey. From the way she looked at me I instantly noticed that she wasn’t talking about the clothes anymore.

[...by the look from your face. You want this look but you are just a little scaredy cat.]

That is more or less true, I am missing something from my life and I'm afraid of some things...But I'm not sure. I looked at my face again to confirm my doubts, and she was indeed right. I liked the sea, both calming and relaxing. The sand is warm but the sea was colder. Just like my outfit, the contrast between sadness and joy, that was the face I saw in the mirror.

[Can you see this now? This carousel of depression, your ups and downs, aren’t they obvious?

The moment you choose that outfit I already knew what it represented. But do not be shy,

I shall accept it all. Here, fashion it into your hair, it will help you hear clearly.]

Her hand was over my head in the mirror was holding an item, which I equipped by pressing it against my hair. The moment our hands touched, a chocolate and blue headdress appeared on my strait-cut short dark hair. It had ribbons and little shellfish bells on the side. When I traced my finger over them they ringed into my ears.

It was a deep sound that emanated from inside of a seashell. Usually you could hear just the sound of the sea, an empty meanness echo. But I swear I heard something else... It was voice from someone close me that I lost.

[So this is... what I lacked, this is what I was missing right?]

[Was it the courage to see yourself in the mirror?

Was it the bravery to listen to forgotten voices?

Oh please do tell, it intrigues me greatly. ohoho~ ]

[It was...]

With her behind my back and enveloping over my waist I could feel her gentle air arriving at my ear drum. My cat ears twitched and my posture straighten. But at the same time there was something else that was strange. I felt at ease, as my body became warmer and mushier. This motherly feeling, was this what I was missing, I wondered…

This novel's true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.

[It was genuine… love, Avaria.]

===

A little while later I calmed down from the awkward word I just said. However, Avaria acted as nothing has happened.

[Well now, we can't just stop at just one accessory, we have to complete your look, don't you agree? ohoho~

I have big plans for you my little assistant. Your loveliness is still far from mature, thus we need to spark you further...]

[Umm... sorry I think I need a breather first before we continue.

I will get some tea or something... one moment please.]

The look she was giving me felt like I was being hunted by a lion but at the same time I was already used to it. And so I have decided to make myself some warm tea, even though my sister is usually the one that makes it. I prefer sitting on floor chair so going up to the wheelchair would be a bother if it was just a normal one. However, this one could lower down and deflate into an easily accessible shape, even if you where on the floor.

Anyway, it seems that my sister is not at home at all, that's fine I wouldn't want her to eavesdrop anyway. Luckily my sister prepares the kettle on the stove so it’s within my reach. I return to my room with the tea, and put on my VR headset... which I was wearing all this time. I forgot I was wearing it all the time seems...

[I see you like playing around too, how childish like, but it's fine.]

[Eh... what happened?]

Before I realised it seems that the VR device, reading the movements I was making while going up the chair, did some strange things. It's quite embarrassing...I do that sometimes when I model for my sister too. That is because when I move outside of the range of the cam, it switches to the standing mode, instead of the sitting mode that I use all the time. I have to think of something...

[Em... that? I'm just fancy playing like a cat sometimes... that's all there is to it.]

I was embarrassed so I couldn’t think of any other better excuse… I hate talking about this, basically because I hate how they treat me afterwards. But perhaps I could trust Avaria? At that point I wished I could have just said I have a disability and that would be all but...

[Playing like a cat you say? I see... ohoho~ so you finally showed me your cute side, didn't you?

How about you come here and sit for a while, I have a perfect present for a cat lady like you.]

In her hand there was a pair of shoes, something that I feared the most... but it happened. Normally when you shop for boots you supposed to raise your leg for the person fitting it. To do that I had to somehow move my leg around with my hands secretly, while on the chair and...

[Emm... I can help myself with that, you don't need to pamper me this much Avaria.]

My words were a little quieter than usual, as if I was inviting her to do it. More and more, my face reddened as closer she approached. I was still on the ground, unable to stand up, and with my legs curled up. I was defenceless in that position so I only managed to cover my eyes.

[There there... I would never make good girl do what they aren't supposed to. I do say,

if there is ever anything you want to say I shall not force it, it must come out naturally.

Right now, you shouldn't listen only to your voice, but to people that are around you.]

My hands started vibrating, but were stabilized by her gentle touch. My eyes wanted to tear up, but the smile of her face froze them. She was right, I thought, I was lonely, but I can still hear them through my memories. The moment I realised that I was immersed into an ocean of beautiful voices.

[And now my dear Pina, as you are listening, I shall keep my word and grant you your wish.]

Which a caressing movement she lifted my leg ever so slightly, as I could barely feel anything. But soon, as she slid the little shoe into my foot, something started twitching on the tips of my toes. I couldn't believe it myself, it was the first time I sensed something like that after the accident. Were my feet moving on their own or was it just Synapse? Was this magic or could I really move my toes?

[With these two little shoes, the silly cat lady will now stand and face me head on.]

Her enchanting voice, like a spell, made me feel like I was able to move again. I was a princess from a fairytale, and she was the queen. Joining each other hands, we gently stood up from the ground. I was looking down, the marine blue mary janes with sea foam on their toes, they were a replacement for the glass heels. Now it was my time to shine, and as I raised my head I found myself just an inch away from Avaria.

[I accept the dance... my lady.]

My legs moved on their own, as if they were enchanted by the wind that swirled our dresses around. Step by step, clicking sounds followed in a circular motion. Our gentle legs, like scissors, cut through reality. This wasn't just another world—this was a fantasy that was everlasting and pure. I was the little sister, my colours were a little lighter and I was smaller, and Avaria was the taller and older one, her colours were darker.

Like a lion and her cub, both of us embraced one another. It was the same distance as with my sister, but surprisingly more spacious, like a ball room. This strange and mysterious place where I could walk freely...

[Do you like it Pina? My gift for you wasn't just the job, but much more.]

[Yes... thank you for making me believe in myself, Avaria.

Well I know this won't matter now but I have to say something...]

At that moment our movement slowed down. I wanted to confess my disability to her, feeling that it was the right time, but she insisted that I kept my words to myself with a soft finger on my lips. I had to yield without fighting and...

[Words are not always necessary to convey your feelings, my dear little kitten.

Silence and trickery are sometimes necessary for a lady to show her demeanour.]

Suddenly the room got darker, was it the sun or her words, I wonder? All sound was silenced. Around me several mannequins, and on them familiar clothes. Now I remembered, those designs are something I saw already. They were actually copied, from various sources. Though Avaria said those were original designs but she must have lied about that, I was sure.

[Life without a light or colour is just journey through the monochrome, a saddening trip.

Thus what a girl really needs is something to make her truly sparkle with joy, something that shines.

Surrounded by things you like, you can enjoy your everyday, and without it you are at a loss.

Am I right so far Pina? Do you accept that there are things in this world better left unsaid?]

But her gentle and doubtful words didn't stop from my mind from disagreeing. In fact, it further made me realize that she her logic was correct. Like an unpleasant truth, like a rainy day without an umbrella, they are only negative if you think so yourself.

[Yes Avaria... I understand what you are saying and I accept this.

I was always tired of being someone who is being serviced by others.

But now I will change, I shall wash away my old self and accept your light.

You gave the feeling in my legs and the courage to walk, thus I accept everything.]

[So be it then, I shall do according to your wishes. Let it be known that I,

Lady Avaria, will take this child as her own and teach her the ways of splendour.]

As if with a flick of a wand, I was given a new light to shine with. My fingernails were now coloured, from light blue to deep ocean blue. They had little shell rings with a tiny amber embodied into them.

[This is... quite a gift really. In real life this must cost a lot.]

[Of course, anything for my darling. ohoho~ I shall not allow such beauty to go to waste.]

It was certainly pretty—this entire outfit gave an impression of a fine and fashionable lady. For once in my life, my very own look was complete, different from the one my sister gave me. In the mirror I saw a completely different person, someone who wasn’t submerged into the sea of sadness. It was a girl who was gorgeous. These clothes and jewellery was the first time I ever dressed myself up.

[Therefore, from now on you should remember what I have to say to you now.]

Suddenly, another accessory was given to my neck. Without thinking I equipped it hastily. It was a small collar with a padlock that had "ownership" imbued onto it in golden letters.

[This adorable thing is the symbol of my investment, of my purchase. I said I want it all right?

Truth be told, you must now face a difficult task. You can be with your sister, or you can be with me,

whichever you choose will cause problems for the other I'm afraid, thus the choice is yours.]

[I said I accepted it all but...]

Between my sister and Avaria, which person was the one I would rather be? I didn't even have to think much about it much, I already knew what my answer would be.

[If any problems truly occur, I will consider staying with you Avaria.]

Being with her felt similar, yet different that with Hina. Although she was far more forceful, Avaria’s gentle words were genuine. They made my hair stand on end, yet resonated within me. Furthermore, she looked through me and accepted who I was, treating me fair. Without those gifts, I would have still been lost and wandering. Even as a possession, I was very glad to be at her side.

[Then my little Pina, I shall never leave or fill you a dubious love.

Our days shall be filled with joy, as long as we both have each other.]

[Yes, Avaria… I mean my lady.]

I curdled up onto her lap on the floor, like a little kitten, and she petted me gently. This is the right choice, I thought, as my mind was calmed by her soft caressing. She granted me my wish, giving me care of a true mother that I never experience in reality.

===

It was raining again it seems... but I didn't mind that at all.

My new and pretty dress was getting wet... but it didn't matter in this game.

Even if the puddles reached above my ankles... I wasn't bothered with that.

Even since I accepted the job and become an employee of Brilliant Dream I had a lot of work. From the ground up, I had to make a lot of designs for the shop and change its mood. Now the silent and foreboding atmosphere was filled with cutesy designs of elegant ladies.

Everything was thanks to the lady who I met by chance, Avaria, who was the fanciest person I have ever met. She wore a princess dress that was simply refined looking, always having a dignified look as she walked. She inspired me to try out fashion for myself, and I ended up prettying myself up too. However...all that came at a cost and I had to abandon my work I did with my sister, I simply didn't have the time any more.

[So had enough? I reckon you want her back but I must disagree with your opinion.

She feels a lot better with me than with you, so I suggest you accept your defeat.]

Further down the road I could hear some voices, two people were fighting on the streets. It was unusual for Maremoda to host to such activities in the middle of the walkway, so my cat ears instantly turned towards the source of the squabble. What I heard then was...

[You ask me to accept defeat so easily? I'm her sister and you are just some rude lady!

I never thought you would have done something like this but you don't leave me with a choice here.

This is not just about her, but about how you treat her. I most certainly can't allow it!]

[Then we shall battle until one of us will lose the will the fight, is that was it comes down to?

Listen, I want only to avoid unnecessary complications for you and for her, thus stop this at once.

Have you no shame battling a fellow artist for the sake of profit? Have you lost your mind completely?]

In the far reach of my vision there were two girls fighting despite the rain. One was standing on the stairs, the other one was trying to reach her with magic from below. However it was a pointless effort, since her attacks were deflected by barrier. Slowly the girl on the top moved towards her opponent.

She had all the time—she was playing a Priest, the same class WRose played. They can heal others, and themselves, so they can fight for a long time if you let them. Needless to say, her opponent was a Wizard, an archetype that had difficulty with surviving for a long time as they lack any long-term survivability skills.

It seems that out of all people, only I was interested in watching, so I moved closer to the fight. There was no danger of getting into crossfire during the duel either. Thus, when I had a better view, I realised who the two girls were. One was my sister, Hina, the other was my lady, Avaria.

[So you think you can humour me with your a petty effort like that? I expected much more from you,

but it seems your power is just at a beginner level. Such a disgrace to think I was against a serious opponent.]

[You say so, but you are almost out of mana yourself. I have been saving mine all for a moment like this.]

What I was about to witness was that the trump of my sister's brilliant tactic, I thought. However, I was mistaken. As soon as my sister launched her magic blast, the other one stood still, and created a shiny barrier made out of gems which absorbed the hit and then redirected it back.

[Ugh... how dare you? Such dirty tricks.]

[Coming from a fox person that seems like a complement. ohoho~]

The result of the battle, my sister was down on the ground in the dirt and my lady was standing victorious. She gave a foreboding look towards her from the stairs, a warning gaze not to try this again. With that, my sister with regret in her eyes accepted defeat and punched the ground which slashed the water around her.

[You did well sis... I mean we barely even play this game so you should be happy.]

[Wait Pina? Why are you even here? Have you been watching since the start of the fight?]

My sister, who asked me a little while ago to put on headphones, has been fighting my lady. However, she wasn't strong enough to defeat her and was now sitting partially submerged in a puddle. The rain drops covered her face, her hair and ears were drenched thoroughly. Not only her avatar, but her face also did not appear looking good. She made an expression of a child that was about to cry.

[I don't think I need to explain anything to you Pina, isn’t that right? We did talk about this before,

I'm glad that you have a job now but what I worry is about you. Are you really okay with Avaria?

Isn't she treating you like a pet and asking you only work for her, while forbidding you from any other work?]

[Never said I stopped working for us... I just didn't have time for our shop lately.

It’s just...I had to draw a lot of stuff from the ground up so....]

This was nevertheless the truth, no matter how my sister felt about it. Perhaps when I have more time, when Avaria releases me from the initial workload, I will have more time for my sister. No problem there...

[But look at you Pina, are you okay with what are you wearing right now? This collar,

this shiny jewellery... isn't this just to make you stay there? Remember what she said,

about that she wants it all? You must have noticed by now that she wants to posses you fully.]

[I'm sorry Hina, but you are unfortunately wrong... She never took me in as her possession.

It was my own decision and my own conviction... that I accepted the gifts she bestowed upon me.]

All this time, Avaria, who was standing above us on the stairs, was looking at us silently. Her head was covered by a roof above, while I and my sister were exposed to the rain down below. The silence continued while the little droplets felt onto the ground. Eventually, my sister spoke…

[Did you really agree to that Pina? I respect that decision if it really came from you but...

Your outfit is all drenched, as well as your hair. Here, I brought these for us.]

It was the umbrellas I have finished the design for on the side. She must have been carrying them all this time. Quite frankly their colour was yellow and orange, one had fox ears and the other had cat ears. The design was an animated cat, or a fox, that ran around and left paw prints whenever it would rain. With one hand she covered herself and with the other she reached towards me. But I didn't want it...

[I don't need an umbrella... I'm fine in the rain.]

The rain kept falling onto me, eventually reaching my legs and feet. This sensation, the little tingling Synapse was giving me, was the true reason to why I liked the rain.

[It fits together, like it's our colours and everything! It's even has your design on it.

And even with that you don't want it? We are twins, remember? You always liked when...]

[Stop... I think...]

I was lost at words, because I didn't want to say this out loud in front of Avaria.

[What's on your mind sis... I really want to know why, so please tell me.]

Without the umbrella, she reached for my hand but I avoided her and hid my hands behind my back.

[You know, maybe I'm really supposed to say this but... I promised I will change to Avaria.

And the thing WRose said to me, not directly but still... I think there is no point in keeping it a secret,

not any more... You said that it's fine to tell others if I feel like it, right? Then I will say so.]

[Is it really? Do you really trust her as much after just meeting with her? Sister...]

Walking snuggling on her knees, my sister grabbed the hem of my skirt and pulled it, pleading for my attention. I looked down on her, from an elevated position, and I saw not just her tears, but her desperation. Slowly, I tried to push away her shoulders but she only clutched harder. She was sobbing ever so quietly. It made me sad two, I even shed a tear or two, but they soon were engulfed within the raindrops.

[Listen to me... I really wanted to make you feel better. I tried my best with the Mermaid City,

and the shrine stuff. I listened to your every desire and done everything you asked. We had fun,

we cried too, and all that was for you. Is there even a better sister you could have? If so...]

The pain of separation pierced through my headphones, it was the sensation that my sister was feeling. She was afraid that if choose Avaria, she would be left alone. But that was just her wild imagination. The more I pushed her away the more she was getting closer to me, both in the game and in the real world.

[Don’t be hysterical Hina. I will be frank... I can see similarities between you and Avaria.

You both have a desire to possess things and have difficulty giving them up. The difference is however,

she never made that the topic. You always try to help, but sometimes it hurts more than it helps.

Even if she treats me like a pet, you did as well… besides, her sincere love is greater than your sibling one.]

That last sentence left my mouth with distaste. I wasn't lying but I used a statement that wasn't correct, just like Avaria did. Her affection might have been based on desire of possession, but it felt less dubious that my sister's. Her gifts might have been a shallow way to show gratitude, but it's better than forcing me smile through my teeth. It's things like Mermaid City or modelling that reminds me of my feet, but my sister doesn't understand that.

[Her love? You mean that collar you are wearing is a symbol of her love?

She never talked about it with you, and yet you have no doubts about her intentions?

You put her above me, and yet you barely even know her, so please reconsider…]

[No you don't understand!]

After I almost shouted, there was a length of silence between the two of us, each looking at each other with a worried expression...

The truth is, I was just getting angry and needed to vent my emotions. Like a drenched cat in the rain that has to raise her voice so their owners would open the door for her, I really felt like raising my voice, but not towards Hina. Slowly, in the silence, my sister released me...

[I always wore the same clothes as you sis... but never had a wardrobe of my own.

I was always worried that you and mother worked hard... but I was never able to repay you.

I always sat silently and endured the help you gave me... and though it is pain to say it...

what I always wanted was you to treat me as a normal person, not someone special because of my disability.]

And there... I have said it. It took real courage that I lacked but it was finally done.

[Sister...]

I don't care what my sister will do afterwards, I think for myself now and I don't need her opinion. As for Avaria, I would have probably had to tell her sooner or later, but I'm glad it came out naturally.

[Listen Hina, I know it’s hard to understand, but no matter how hard you try you can't just make me forget.]

My sister faced the problem, trying to be as useful as an older sister could be. But she wasn’t helping me, just herself. Avaria, on the other hand, was the first person that made me feel like I could move my legs again. Maybe it’s still too early to dream, but I have hope that one day, with her help maybe my legs will heal...

[Thus I won't accept your umbrella—I don't need it any more.]

Still holding to her own, I left Hina who was in the ground and parted the scene with Avaria. We walked towards a bright future, my lady and I, as the sun dispersed the clouds and the rain stopped. Even though there was a rainbow, you could barely see its reflection on the surface of water.

Rainbows supposed to have seven colours right? This one... you couldn’t even tell them apart.

===

Pitiful are the sinners that gather their malice and spread among the young, weakness unkempt. Such is the nectar that curses and spreads upon those that are weak, shielded must be the human soul. Without perspective, reflection is what only can be seen. And thus, further and deeper they fall...

In my vision today, the very essence of dreadful, the lady that hunts down the weak as her prey. She is but one that is responsible for the demise of humans, corrupting them with greed and dreams. If the world were to erase her it would be for the better. But this evil is desired by me, it has a use.

[My salutations dear Avaria. I have come to collect what is rightful and fair. Let us discuss the matters.]

[Oh my... what a strange looking man dressed in such rags. You called me mister?

Are you perhaps a debt collector who made a mistake? I never had any problems with money ohoho~]

As petty as her laughter is, I have to endure it for a greater cause. I shall steel myself, for the path ahead of me is only filled with thorns and hurdles. But at the end great things await.

[It is a pleasure from Schuld my lady, I shall state that I have what you need and desire.

For that, I shall impose a small price. That are my conditions and offer, think it through well.]

My plan was simple and obvious, for the small rare item that was in my belongings, I wanted to recruit her. There is a greater reason to why I chose her and to why I decided to gather party members. Soon they shall know about it as well, but for know I can only say as much as it is required to understand.

[So you want something for this little gem? Certainly this marvel of nature is gorgeous, I have to agree,

but what is that you want minster? Is my assistance that you so desperately require this highly valued?]

[It is but a simple party request, and specifically, you can feel honoured that you were chosen.

However, the time and place shall be decided later, thus keep your preparations at all times.]

The question why was she chosen has an easy answer. It is her parents, in particular her relation with them.

Long have this girl enjoyed the delight of having a sponsor for her expensive lifestyle, one she refuses to give up.

Her father, who acts as if he was royalty, is responsible for her upbringing in greed and snobbery. At one time,

that caused a quarrel that caused her parents to separate and now Avaria lives with her mother who she loathes.

She curses her for her unfaithfulness toward her husband, which is also the person who is dearest to Avaria. The mother claims,

money is not everything and you exploit people. But the Father rebukes, I created this with my hands fair and square.

And thus, in the middle, Avaria sides with her father, claiming her mother faked love in order to marry into money.

These convictions fashioned her sin, her maniacal attachment to money and people. And it is only growing,

with the money she keeps receiving from her father and due to her newly acquired possession. Thus I act,

to claim what is rightful and fair and release her from the burden. Her pardon and my goal will unite together,

that is why she was chosen for my plan, for I foresee a great calamity in near future and only those who have sinned will prevail.

[So I should consider myself as a mercenary for you, mister Schuld? Gladly,

if that is all I shall take my leave. I will be meeting you later, I assume.]

With her overemphasized elegance she parts me with a curtsy. I have others matters to attend to, other sinners to gather as their guide. Thus with the hope in chest I escape into the darkness, until I appear next.