How does one write a poem that will speak to everyone alike? How does one write a poem to the introverts, extroverts and ambiverts alike? How does one relate to traumatized and untraumatized equally? How does one make a connection to the talkative and quiet ones simultaneously? How does an author come up with lines so deeply human they resonate with any race, gender, ethnicity, and sexuality?

How can one find the words to make someone feel like the main character in a love montage? For all are deserving of that deep love and connection, to know they are loveable to such a degree of being chosen over and over, day after day for the rest of eternity.

-Anastasia Ava (VIA:Therapy by An Unknown)

Saturday.

The day of the Ivoree Gates Autumnal Social had finally arrived.

It had been a tumultuous end to the week; a rift had occurred in the almost-absolute social class structure that was to be Elaine and her Evil Elite 3.

With the public abdication of Elizabeth from the group, it felt as though Ivoree Gates had seen the end of an era. A very cruel, self-serving, elitist era, but an era nonetheless.

But this meant nothing to Tawny, who was more focused than ever on looking impressive for the Social.

Professor McCurdy's going to be there, thought Tawny. She didn't know why this made her care more about the event, but it did.

She scrutinized her hair and makeup for over an hour. Both she and Maddie were hopeless on their own, but put together, and with the help of the almighty Youtube for their tutorial needs, the two girls were able to put together something resembling what you would call a "glow-up".

Tawny wore her brown hair in an updo, and was wearing a flowy salmon ballgown. For jewelry, she wore a simple teardrop pendant.

Maddie wore an outfit tailored to look like a tuxedo, with the top resembling the suit portion but then tapering off into a black high low dress. Her messy curly red hair was subdued into a slicked-back ponytail.

They were just about to head out when a loud chiptuned melody overtook the dorm room.

"What's that?" said a startled Maddie.

"It's...it's my phone," replied Tawny, surprised. As she wasn't blowing up on the social front, Tawny's phone almost never rang. This was the first time it had rang since she arrived at Ivoree Gates. "Hello?" she said, as she held the device to her ear.

"Hello? Is this Tawny Matthews?" came the voice on other end. "This is Linda Branson, from the library."

"Oh! Hi Linda," said Tawny, still a bit confused by the call.

"Hi...I'm so sorry to call this late. I just thought you'd like to know the book you requested had come in. You can pick it up tomorrow if you'd like--"

"Actually, I think I'll pick it up now," replied Tawny. "I'll head right over."

When Tawny hung up, Maddie raised an eyebrow.

"I'd been looking for this book for ages," explained Tawny. "It's not in circulation and it's really hard to come by. I'll be super quick."

"Sure," said Maddie. "Meet me in front of the building where they're holding the dance."

--

When Tawny arrived at the library, Linda had the book ready for her at the front desk.

"Thanks," said Tawny, as she took the book in her hands. "I really appreciate this, Linda."

"My pleasure, dear," said Linda. There was an expectant look in her eye and she shifted anxiously from foot to foot.

"Is everything okay?" asked Tawny.

Linda's eyes darted to and fro, even though there was no one else around. She waved Tawny to come closer to her.

"Dylan is here," she whispered.

"What? Now?" Tawny asked. "In the library?"

Linda nodded. "It was strange enough when he came here with you, but I never thought I'd see him here on his own."

"Linda," Tawny began. "Why is it so weird for Dylan to be in the library?"

"His mother died there," explained Linda. When she saw Tawny's eyes bug out, she waved it off. "Not here, of course! I mean, she died in A library, not this one. Overseas. She was just in the wrong place at the wrong time..."

"That's terrible...." said Tawny.

"Yes, it truly was," said Linda.  "She used to bring Dylan with her all the time, to all the libraries around the world. But this library was her favorite. It was just fortunate he wasn't with her during the incident. But his poor father...Mr. Westinghouse was never the same after that day."

"Poor Dylan," said Tawny.

Linda sighed sadly. "He became cold, and I think it rubbed off on Dylan..."

There was a beat, then Linda gently nudged Tawny. "Would you like to see him?"

"Should I?"

"I wouldn't dare disturb him while he's in there. But you...you're different. Something tells me he wouldn't mind."

Linda motioned her head toward the hall leading to Dylan. "Go on."

Tawny took a deep breath, then walked down the hall.

She was still mulling over all she had learned when she spotted Dylan lying on one of the long tables, staring at the ceiling. He holding a book to his chest but not reading it.

Tawny froze. It was the most vulnerable she had ever seen him. She suddenly felt like she was intruding on an intimate moment, like she had walked on Dylan naked.

She was about to make the decision to turn around and leave when Dylan turned his head in her direction.

Immediately he sat up, setting the book on the table but behind him, so that it was obscured from Tawny

"What are you doing here?" Dylan asked. It wasn't said with his usual malicious edge; he actually sounded curious.

"I---" struggling to find the words, Tawny lifted her hand holding her book. "Forgot this. Book."

Dylan smirked. "Figured an oddball like you would get all dolled up for the library." He moved to the edge of the table so that his legs dangled. You look good, by the way."

Tawny cast her eyes downward. "Thank you. And...I'm actually dressed up for the Autumnal Social."

A thought crossed her mind. She looked at Dylan. "Why aren't you there? I thought you were going with Elaine?"

Dylan rubbed the back of his neck and exhaled, looking up at the ceiling.

"I had a change of heart."

"Oh," was all Tawny said in reply.

"Yeah, after hearing about the shady shit she and Grady got into...that's not my style."

"Did Elaine know you're not going?"

"She'll figure it out," Dylan replied, succinctly.

"I see," for some perverse reason, Tawny felt a twinge of remorse for Elaine. But after everything that had transpired, she considered it par for the course. "Well, I better get going."

Tawny was about to depart, but then Dylan spoke up again.

"I have to say, I'm surprised you were able to convince someone to go with you to the Social," Dylan quipped.

There it is, thought Tawny. Dylan just couldn't resist an insult with every interaction, could he?

"So...who's the lucky guy?"

Tawny tilted her chin upward and mirrored one of Dylan's signature smirks.

"Wouldn't youlike to know?"

She then turned on her heel and strode out of the hall with confidence, not giving Dylan the satisfaction.

Kuru is finishing her bowl of delicious soup which Zhìhuì had kindly made for her when the door opens and Commander Ōtomo enters who is closely followed by a very handsome Westerner who she has not seen in years. “Einar, it is wonderful to see you.”

The Soul Drinker gives her a quick hug, then makes his way over to the sleeping man and the lady informs him, “You remember Takahashi Sanjō, my brother’s guard?”

Einar nods and begins to question, “Has Tenjō and Zhìhuì been playing with his mind?”

The lady is surprised he can even sense it. Then she remembers how powerful he is and answers, “Yes, they have tried to place him in a peaceful place, why?”

The Soul Drinker places his hand to the man’s forehead and closes his eyes for a moment. “There, that is far better.”

His actions soon brings the Dreamer and Healer out of the kitchen. “Why have you undone it, Son?” Zhìhuì questions a little worried.

Einar’s eyes opens and he shakes his head. “Mother, you know full well Tenjō would not fully understand what he was seeing. The reason Sanjō keeps going back to what happened to him, is because he knew the boys who attacked him. And that is why they were being cautious because it is clear they are afraid of him. That is why one of them dived back to cut his arm and ran away. Sanjō knows the leader of the bandits is a fool, who would not hesitate to send out his men to die. Ah, it is looking like we have only put away the leader’s right hand man and not the true leader. The name he is repeating within his mind is Shimada Kazuya… My dear, do you recognise the name, yes?”

Kuru’s eyes open wide, she places a hand over her mouth and emits a muffled, “No it cannot be?”

Dōng cháo goes to her and gives her a hug for he can sense the lady is becoming afraid. “It is all right you do not have to tell us.”

The princess shakes her head and removes her hand from her mouth. “It is all right. Kazuya is the son of our music teacher Mr Shimada. I’m afraid I never knew his first name. This goes back to when we were teenagers. Kazuya got into a heated argument with my second brother Masato over the fact that we were allowed to be either gender and he just could understand how my family were so open when it came to sex. Einar, we were children, I never thought he would go through with his threats.”

The Westerner walks over to take hold of her hand. “Even so you could have told me or Mèng.”

Kuru shanks her hand and pats the back of the god’s hand. “Like I said, it was nothing more than a misunderstanding that turned quickly into a heated argument. Eventually Kazuya threatened to kill us all and wipeout everyone who my family had poisoned with our strange ways. Once everything had calmed down Masato told me it was all because Kazuya had seen him having sex with the stable boy. That is when we came to the same conclusion Kazuya must have followed them to the teahouse and peeked through the window. Otherwise he would never had known what they were getting up to in there.”

Einar’s eyes open really wide, then they close and he places the back of his right hand to his mouth and groans. This makes the lady take hold of his left hand and apologies, “Forgive me, I never intended to upset you.”

Dōng cháo stokes the Soul Drinker’s back and explains, “He is not upset… it is more like he has remembered something which has made him feel unwell.”

Zhìhuì quickly hands him a cup of tea. “Here this will make you feel better.”

The Westerner begins to chuckle, he removes his hand from his mouth and shakes his head. “I am afraid you are both wrong. I was remembering those heated debates between Kazuya and Masato. It was not because of what he saw. On contrary it was because Kazuya would never be allowed the same freedom.”

The Dreamer shakes his head. “You scanned him?”

Einar emits another slightly louder chuckle. “No, Mother. I merely step in to bring their debates to an end by finding out the reasons behind it. Poor Kazuya got nasty with me and snapped because I was a god I would be allowed to love whoever I wanted and it would not have an impact on the family or society. I explained to him, my first family were worried, mainly because I was the only one in my family who was into men. And of course it eventually got out and it was just awful for me and my parents. We had not only family shutting us out, even some of the mortals would have nothing more to do with us. Just like you the boys were shocked to hear this about my first family. My second family, on the other hand, could not give a damn what anyone thought. It was because both of them were also into the same sex and they knew it could be past on their children. I said to Kazuya for you to be into men it must also run in your family.”

Kuru is a little confused and questions, “Wait, you have two families?” She watches him float down to the foot of the bed and seems to release an awkward laugh. “Sorry, I should not have asked.”

“No really it is fine. I would say,” he clears his throat before he continues, “it is up to you how you want to interpret this, I was reincarnated. I know it sounds ridiculous, however, not when it comes to my race. We are eternal and when we are killed we are allowed to return.”

“I see, so even though you are born into a different body you are still the same person?”

“Very much. It was a little daunting as I got older how my first family would react to someone who was meant to be gone.”

“I can see them being a mix of shock and overjoyed to have you back,” sates Commander Ōtomo, who is pleased to finally hear the Ink Heart speak of his reincarnation and is hoping to hear more. However, he notices both Zhìhuì and Dōng cháo are looking a little concerned and this makes him wonder, could the Soul Drinker not like speaking of his first family?

Einar folds his arms and explains, “It was I who was shocked to discover I was born into my eldest brother Alrick’s family. There was nothing, absolutely nothing that made us what we are. My goodness this has really taken us off topic. I should get back to what I was saying about Kazuya. The thing was if his mother discovered he was in to men, she would throw him out.”

The Healer gasps and declares, “Oh, you are thinking it is a revenge attack?”

“Well, think about it, how else would these bandits know how to recognise the family and their personal guards without seeing a single tattoo. Kuru, my sweet, you have not changed much over the twenty years.”

The lady emits a soft giggle. “Kind of you to say, Einar. Even though I am getting on in my years.”

The Soul Drinker moves to the side of the bed, he places his hand to the side of her face and smiles. “You are still beautiful and being in your forties is not that old. This is what Kazuya looked for, as you well know all your family have been blessed with dashing good looks. It is not just that he would instantly recognise your lovely voice.”

“Einar, you are right, they all have a high-class way of speaking, it really does shine, just like your own. The problem is the family who were killed in Izumi how did he know the girl was of Sasaki family?”

“The thing is, Asuka, I do not think the fires are related… it is beginning to look like a separate matter of someone who wanting to wipeout the competition and somehow the family has just got caught up with it. The two men who are in Limbo are hiding the real reason they were targeted. I think in the morning I will pay the girl a visit.” Einar takes a deep breath and opens a portal to Tower Island. “Right now my head is heavy and bed is calling, so I bid thee good day.”

Commander Ōtomo quickly goes to him. “Would you like me to accompany you?”

The Ink Heart pats the side of Asuka’s face. “I’ll be fine, sweet dumpling. Besides you need to warn my love of what is going to happen.”

Just at that moment Yūrei enters and trots over to his lover. “I am sorry I missed you.”

“Do not worry about it, Asuka will fill you in. I need to sleep,” he gives him a quick kiss before he steps through.

Once the portal closes the Great Warrior looks to the Commander who goes on to tell him about the vision Einar had and only touches on what was discussed at the infirmary. The Masked Warrior also agrees they need to warn everyone in the village and Handa Gokuraku-ji Temple.

“I do believe my love is on to something,” says Yūrei, folding his arms, “for I also remember those heated debates and was thinking I should put an end to them. However, as you all heard Einar beat me to it. In a way I was glad he did because I knew they would not dare hide anything from him otherwise he would soon be giving them that look… the look he gave your second brother.”

Kuru takes hold of the king’s forearm and quickly asks, “What look are you talking about?”

“Sorry, I should say, his eyes narrow and his scowl deepens, then he will ask, why are you lying. Except he seemed to stop himself from saying it, instead he said quite sharply, ‘yes having a new baby can be tiring’. There was no hint of a smile that would indicate they were retiring early for some fun. When the fire broke out Tōran was nowhere to be found.”

“I knew you would get there in the end, my sweet Ink Summoner,” comes the Soul Drinker’s soft voice.

They watch him come stepping out of the portal holding a small scroll. “It is a good job I wrote it down because I was going to confront them the following day. The trouble is they were gone.”

“Einar, were they lying?” Kuru asks close to tears.

The Westerner unrolls the scroll and reads aloud, “Tōran was trying to hide his urgency to leave and his wife was really worried that I would see right through them. She was correct. I caught up with them in the stables for I knew they did not want the celebration to happen every time they had a child. They were so uncomfortable their sex life was being, in a way, put on display. And I completely sympathised them because it is what happened to me with my first family. My own father put on a party to celebrate that fact that I had a woman with child. I never liked the ordeal of having to give-in to… I told them if they wanted it to stop never announce they were going to have or had another baby. They both kiss me on the cheeks got into their palanquins and left.” He hands the scroll to the lady. “I am sorry I kept it from you. I just did not want to course them more embarrassment of your family discovering, yes, she was the mother of the child, however, she was not his wife.”

Everyone gasps, “What?”

Zhìhuì gives him a tap on the arm and asks, “Then who was she?”

“She was Haru hanabira (Spring petal) his head maid. His marriage to Princess Momo was nothing more than a show. For she was already with child by her lover who she returned to after the marriage and he ended up with the woman he truly loved. The reason I did not say anything was because I also know what states means and I could not allow them to not be with the ones they love, like I was denied all because of states and the fact that I preferred the company of men. Anyway, now you all know why Tōran left in a hurry that night. The ones who are behind the downfall of Sasaki Castle are Kazuya and the Major. We just need to find out why.”

“I agree, my love,” answers Yūrei, taking hold of his hand. “You did not just return to shear this with us, did you?”

Einar shakes his head. “You got me, my sweet Ink Summoner. I initially returned to remained Asuka, to inform you a certain young man is after you.”

Commander Ōtomo performs a quick bow to thank the Ink Heart. “Yes, Watanabe Takumi, was hoping you, Mèng, would join him for dinner.”

The Great Warrior smiles and gives him a pat on the arm. “Thanks for message. I shall go to him.”

The Westerner points his hand at Asuka and offers, “How’s about breakfast my place? I will make my famous flat bread.”

The Commander’s face fills with delight and wonder. “Ooh, yes, I would love to.”

“Wonderful. My dear princess, I am so sorry I did not share this information with you, twenty years ago… It’s just that I promised your brother I would keep it a secret.”

Kuru shakes her head. “I completely understand, because at the time if my parents discovered who his wife really was they would have been angry and upset that he lied to them. In the worst case I think father would have disowned him.”

“Ah, see you are just thinking the same as us, it was for the best for your father so reminded me of my first father who did not understand that his children did not want to be unhappy or in a way living a lie when they did not love the person they were with. Anyway, I am glad I finally said what really happened.”

Takahashi-san begins to stir and he mutters, “Kodokuna senshi (Lone warrior) is that you?”

Einar goes to him and places his hand upon the man’s chest. “Easy, you have been through quite an ordeal.”

The Royal Guard closes his eyes and sighs. “I still cannot believe I was attacked by Naruhito’s clan.”

“Naruhito? Who is that?”

Sanjō’s eyes look up at the god and he replies, “Major Kikuchi’s son, who controls the Akai Tsuru (Red Crane) Clan. Naruhito came to me after he had discovered half of his clan had been haired by Lieutenant Nakan and Rin of the Kuro Koi Clan to kill everyone who was present at Sasaki Castle on the night it was set alight. No one was meant to have survived. It was members of the Kuro Koi who caught up with me in the forest and I recognised two of the boys for they are from my village. It was clear from their expressions they did not want to kill me and that is why one cut my arm and ran off in to the forest. What Naruhito and I do not understand, why wait twenty years? And why does his father have such a grudge against the family? Naruhito was hoping I had the answers… unfortunately I have no idea why Shouji wanted to kill the family.”

“The problem is we got distracted on the fact that Dragon money was being used to bribe the bandits,” informs the Masked Warrior, folding his arms. “So, I never got it out of him why he was attacking the family.”

“It was a shock for all of us, your grace,” declares Kuru, placing a hand to her chest. “Speaking of arguments, I vaguely remember hearing Ōhiko shouting at… I think it was the Major’s daughter. All I can remember is myst still covered the garden and I could hear his voice bouncing off the walls. I had to go and find out what was wrong and by the time I reached the lower garden Shouji’s daughter past me on the steps. She had left my dear brother frustrated yet he would not tell me why. He just told me it was nothing and walked away. Ōhiko is not one for loosing his temper and it was clear whatever it was had clearly upset him. Going by your expressions I take it he has not said anything to either of you?”

The royal guard has another mouthful of tea before he responds, “I can remember one day he was not himself. Normally he would tell me anything which was troubling him. I am afraid he did give me the same answer that it was nothing. You are right, princess, something was bothering him.”

Commander Ōtomo places a hand to his chest. “Why don’t I go and have a chat with him? I was just thinking he might be more incline to tell me when I am not family or the king. Unless, Einar, that raised eyebrow means he told you?”

The Westerner’s lips form into a soft smile. “Oh, how observant of you,” he replies and chuckles. “I am afraid I was trying to signal I was intrigued to hear this about Ōhiko. Just like Sanjō, Ōhiko would not hide anything from me. Nor did I experienced him being the way you both described. So, the incident must have occurred when us gods were not present, hence the one raised eyebrow.”

Zhìhuì walks back and fourth with his hands behind his back. Then he walks over to the door and partly opens it. “Tenjō, come here please.”

A few minutes later the Leader of the Yamoto comes trotting into the infirmary along with Rì chū and listens to the Dreamer. Tenjō begins to shake his head, suddenly his eyes grow wide and he emits a sharp, “Oh!” This makes Zhìhuì giggle and question, “Ah, you do remember something?”

“Yes, it seemed to come from nowhere, his parents were suddenly really concerned for Ōhiko. The reason I remember is because the king was quite determined to sort the matter himself for he believed it was nothing he could not handle and there was no need to trouble us gods with it. I'm afraid I did not pry.”

“You really are too sweet for your own good,” expresses Einar, tapping his friend’s nose. “I would be scanning them to uncover what was troubling them. I must admit they did cover it up very well to keep it hidden from me.”

Kuru laughs and states, “There are no secrets with you, sweet Einar. You're right, they must have buried it deep in order for it to not prick your interest and have you going no use trying to hide things from me, mortal. Come on, out with it. Hmm, is that not so?”

“Ooh, Mieko, you know me too well,” responds the Westerner, kissing her on the forehead. “Hmm, if it was as they claimed nothing… then why hide it? Asuka, I think you are right he might be more inclined to tell you when he does not know you.”

Commander Ōtomo performs a slight bow and opens a portal to the mountain temple and steps through. He quickly makes his way over to the monastery and makes his way to the prince’s room and knocks on the door. “Enter,” comes Ōhiko’s voice from within. Asuka slides open the door and steps inside. “I hope I am not disturbing you, your highness?”

“Not at all,” answers the prince, placing a tile on to the board. “Care for a game of chess?”

The young monk sighs when he realises Ōhiko has beaten him again. He rises and remarks, “Watch it he is quick. I cannot beat him no matter how hard I try.”

“Ah, there is your problem, lad, you are trying too hard.”

The monk bows to him and walks out of the room.

The Commander goes on to take a seat and they starts to play. After a while he brings up what the princess had mentioned about Ōhiko arguing with the Major’s daughter.

The prince sighs and shakes his head. “I knew eventually my sister would remember that. I might as well come clean. Chiyoko was in love with me and even though I let her down gently she still persisted. That morning my sister spoke of Chiyoko, the Major’s daughter placed my hand to her breast and practically demanded I give her a child.”

The tile drops from Asuka fingers and he gasps, “What?!”

“I know and that is why I lost it. I made it damn clear to her, that there was no why in hell I would just take her when all she wanted was my title. I just could not understand why she was so desperate to have a royal baby. I explained to her that I may never become king because back then I had two older brothers. I swear this is what she said, ‘if something were to happen to them, then you would be king’. I just could not believe she was suggesting, I just told her to leave, which she did. Thinking about it that was the last time I saw her and Shouji became bitter towards me. Of course I informed my parents and after father had a word with him he did kind of return to his former self. Well, in front of them, and the rest of the family, yet he still remained bitter towards me.”

“I am also puzzled, why was Chiyoko only interested in you when you were, and forgive me for saying, not the crown prince.”

“No way am I offended, Commander, when you are right. Yes, she was hopelessly in love with me and I cannot blame her when I was quite a catch back then.”

“What are you saying? You are still a catch now. I am not lying you are very handsome.”

Ōhiko blushes and awkwardly responds, “That is very kind of you to say.”

Asuka strokes his beard and clears his throat. “Surely it cannot be that which turned him against your entire family?”

The prince’s eyebrows slightly rise and he responds, “I hope not… then again their reaction was a little extreme. I mean I tried to make her understand that she was not the kind of woman I would go for. I prefer a lady that has some meat on her bones and nice plump breasts. She was thin and barely had any breasts. Not pleasant at all, wouldn’t you agree?”

Commander Ōtomo smiles and replies, “Well, kind of. The thing is I do not care for thin men. I’m the same, a man has to have a nice fit body, with a lovely peach.”

They both laugh and Ōhiko apologises, “Sorry if I made you feel uncomfortable.”

“Not at all, for I have brothers who are into women or who are into both sex. It is great fun because my older brothers would be eyeing up a girl as well as a nice lad for me.”

“That is wonderful to hear they understood and never forced you to be with a lady.”

“Nor did our parents, they were happy with whatever gender we came home with… wait, did you explain to the girl your ideal woman or did you just say you’re not my type?”

Ōhiko takes a moment to think, then his eyes grow wide and he quickly answers, “Yes, all I said was that you’re not my type… oh, no they just jumped to the conclusion I was into men, didn’t they, all because most of my family were in to the same sex or switched gender. Thinking back they did not seem to like the idea of Mieko choosing to be a girl when she used to be a boy. I can vaguely remember the… I think it was the head maid, who was giving Shouji a lecture on his behaviour towards my sister. It got me thinking why is he our Major when he doesn’t understand she is happy being a girl.”

“I agree. We sometimes have this kind of issue come up in the Aoi Koi and they get warnings and reminded our leader is only into men, however, he does allow straight man in to our merry group.”

“I think it is wonderful how understanding he is. It is also great he doesn’t expect every man he has to be the same as him,” remarks the prince, winking his left eye at the Commander. “I bet for you he is really hard to rest, hmm?”

Asuka emits a soft chuckle and clears his throat. “Yes, he is very handsome. The thing is I find Tenjō to be too serious, and you feel like you could not have a joke with him. Unlike Einar, he is completely different, as you well know.”

Ōhiko gives a sharp nod and large smile spreads across his face. “Yes, he is amazing and you are correct he has a great sense of humour, we always had fun when he was around. I also like the way Einar just speaks his mind and tells amazing stories.”

The Commander releases a soft sigh and a happy smile spreads across his face. “I could listen to him all day. He has such a wonderful voice.”

“My, I do not think I have heard anyone describe his voice like that before,” declares the prince, rising his eyebrows. “I am gathering you are in love with him?”

“Yes, you could say I am madly in love with him and to be honest I do not know why, I just am.”

“Well, I cannot blame you, for he is very handsome and I must admit that voice of his is quite captivating. And I am only in to women, yet the moment I hear Einar speak even I find it attractive and hard to resist.”

They both laugh.

Commander Ōtomo clears his throat and questions, “Hold on it cannot be the same Major who was at the castle that is now within the Yamato? Yet they do have the same name… Was Shouji young when he became Major?”

Ōhiko has a think and answers, “No, he was a late middle aged man who was going white. Oh my goodness you are right… it cannot be him, yet he has fooled all of us in to thinking he is Shouji. So who is he? Major Kikuchi’s son?”

Asuka shivers and quickly responds, “I have no idea and I am kind of creeped out.”

“You are not the only one. The question is what to do? I guess hopefully see if Mèng and Tenjō have also figured it out.”

Asuka gives a sharp nod and opens a portal back to Hatsugano and trots in to Dōng cháo’s home to find Takahashi is enjoying a bowl of soup with Kuru by his side. “Is Mèng and the others still here?”

“Yes, Commander,” answers the princess a little baffled by the Aoi Koi’s urgency. “What’s the matter?” When Commander Ōtomo explains both Mieko and Sanjō gasp and agree it cannot be the same man.

“It is his son,” informs Tenjō as he enters the room. “Sorry for the confusion. Allow me to explain, I have just returned from chatting with him. I can now conform he is Major Kikuchi’s son Akihito."

What a great way to start my morning. Posting the next chapters of ADT on my various profiles, checking the stats, and we've hit 2k views here on Penana! *squeals of delight*

It's a little weird to me, actually, since I've had no feedback on it here. I'm used to comments and likes trickling in, and after I have a fairly solid base of consistent readers, then the views start shooting up. I guess it's fine this way. It's just weird to me.

But do comment. I love feedback. :)

Oh, and my dear mother, who is a faithful reader on another platform, said Ivetta is dressed like a Playboy bunny in one of the pics at the top of the chapter. This was definitely not intentional. Generating images I like through AI has proven to be an interesting challenge. If I say "young woman" in the prompt, I get little girls, but if I just say "woman," I get busty models. "Maid uniform" gives me sexy little French maid dresses... It's a process of fine-tuning prompts to find just the right words, and then I have to play with different elements to get the style I want...

*sigh*

It would be so much easier if I could draw. But that is not in my wheelhouse. ;)

[Intro]

Gettin’ choked

Mm-m, oh, oh, oh

[Verse]

Eyes are tearstained, I’m getting choked

My heart is hurting, I can't find my way

To the happy me, to the one I used to be

Burnin’ our photos down, feelin’ so betrayed

Don’t feel happy, don’t feel free

Without your care, without your love

And now every day is the same as yesterday

[Pre-Chorus]

I’m broken, I feel like a pathetic freak

You’re the reason I’m lonely and weak

I have lost myself without your love

I can no longer fly high and rise above

[Chorus]

Help me breathe, help me wake up

(I can’t breathe)

Help me escape this burning pain

I will not handle a betrayal again

(Sick of crying my eyes out)

I used to be your queen

Livin’ the life I couldn’t dream

About (oooh-oh-oh)

Feelin’ stunning with no makeup (oooh-oh-oh)

Without your pure love

I'm burning inside

[Post-Chorus]

Help me breathe…

[Verse 2]

Oh, love, you don’t know the pain I felt

Baby, you didn’t hear the scream I held

Down (help me breathe)

My lungs are burnin’, my lips are numb

(Can somebody help me?)

Crying like a child, feeling freaking dumb

Can no longer feel the beat of my heart

And never thought life could hurt so hard

[Pre-Chorus]

I wish I could come back to the past

To never share our first kiss with you

To keep our love story as a draft

To give a chance to someone who is true

[Chorus]

Help me breathe, help me wake up

(I can’t breathe)

Help me escape this burning pain

I will not handle a betrayal again

(Sick of crying my eyes out)

I used to be your queen

Livin’ the life I couldn’t dream

About (oooh-oh-oh)

Feelin’ stunning with no makeup (oooh-oh-oh)

Without your pure love

I'm burning inside

[Bridge]

Every time I take a breath

Every time my heart beats

I feel like it’s a little death

It’s harder than it seems

[Breakdown]

Help me breathe

[Chorus]

Help me breathe, help me wake up

(I can’t breathe)

Help me escape this burning pain

I will not handle a betrayal again

(Sick of crying my eyes out)

I used to be your queen

Livin’ the life I couldn’t dream

About (oooh-oh-oh)

Feelin’ stunning with no makeup (oooh-oh-oh)

Without your pure love

I'm burning inside

[Outro]

Help me breathe

Please…

Press Shift+Enter for multiple line breaks.

London's skies are famously cloaked in shades of grey, a perpetual canopy that casts a sombre hue over the historic streets. For someone who's traipsed through the cobbled lanes of Covent Garden or sought refuge from a drizzle in a snug corner of a pub, the constant companionship of an umbrella becomes almost endearing. Yet, this same palette of perpetual greys often sends its residents seeking solace—or sun—elsewhere.

Across the globe, Sydney and Melbourne beckon with their promise of brighter days. Sydney, with its postcard-perfect beaches and an opera house that basks in the sunshine, seems like the antithesis of London's misty days. The city enjoys a temperate climate with mild winters and warm, sometimes hot, summers. It's a city where sunglasses and sunscreens are more crucial than umbrellas, and where the ocean's azure is as consistent as London's slate skies.

Melbourne, on the other hand, offers a meteorological merry-go-round. Known for having "four seasons in one day," it can dazzle with a morning of brilliant sunshine, then swiftly shroud itself in a cool grey afternoon. This capricious weather is a topic of good-natured grumbling among locals and a bewildering puzzle for visitors. Yet, this variability brings with it a verdant lushness, a stark contrast to both Sydney’s dry brilliance and London’s drabber tones.

Living among these contrasting climates is like flipping through different chapters of a novel, each with its own mood and setting. In London, the weather compels introspection and perhaps a deeper appreciation for the warmth of a well-timed tea. Sydney’s sunny disposition encourages outdoor jaunts and fosters a vibrant, laid-back lifestyle that's outdoors almost year-round. Meanwhile, Melbourne's unpredictability might just make you a more adaptable soul, ready to enjoy whatever the day presents, raincoat and sunglasses at the ready.

This tale of three cities and their skies is more than a meteorological comparison—it's about how weather shapes our lives, our habits, and even our dispositions. Whether it's the constant companionship of grey skies, the embrace of the sun, or the surprise of a sudden shower, each city offers its own unique blend of meteorological melancholy and mirth. And for those of us who've lived beneath these varied skies, it’s a reminder of the transient beauty of now, whether shadowed or sunlit.

So apparently we might have a homeschool dance with our friends? And I just bought this gorgeous black dress that I could wear... Depending how I feel. I might wear my tie 'fit. Anyways, that could be fun!

Also, I bought a blink-182 shirt that says 'thank god for punk rock bands', and a tee that says 'that's a terrible idea. (What time?)' which I love lol.

We love thrifting.

The creation of your very own Book of Shadows is a profound spiritual journey. It's an act of translating the sacred whispers of the universe into written form. It's like planting a seed of spiritual wisdom that could grow into a mighty tree, providing shade and fruits to anyone seeking knowledge and enlightenment, yet also being mindful of the potential dangers if it falls into misguided hands.

Being a guide and a beacon of light in the Christopagan community, I feel it's my duty to share the knowledge that I have acquired over the years. However, I also believe in the importance of discretion and the sanctity of some secrets that should remain untold. Though I am eager to share, I also understand the significance of personal growth and discovery.

My spiritual journey is intertwined with my Christian faith and my shamanic practices. I have always felt a bit uneasy about the term 'Christian', mainly because of the historical misuse and abuse of the term. Perhaps, describing myself as a Trinitarian Shaman feels more fitting. I have been fortunate to be under the guidance of a wise old Native American who has taught me many shamanic practices, including astral travel. I hope to share some of these teachings in this Book of Light, as I have chosen to call it, and hope it brings illumination to your path.

So, what's in a name? Whether you call it a Book of Shadows or a Book of Light, the essence remains the same. These books are repositories of wisdom and knowledge about the Craft and serve as a guide for your spiritual journey.

In this first chapter, we delve into the concept of the Trinity of Light. The trinity in Christopaganism - Yeshua, Yahweh, and Shekinah - is similar to the Biblical trinity. Yet, our perception of the Bible is different. We know it is a human creation, inspired perhaps, but not directly written by the divine. We understand its imperfections and acknowledge its misuse as a weapon.

Yahweh, God the Father, is the source of all creation, beyond human comprehension. Shekinah, the Holy Spirit, has transformative power and can descend upon individuals through baptism. Yeshua, the son of a human woman and Yahweh, chose a path of sacrifice instead of wielding his celestial powers for personal gain.

Our spiritual practices are influenced by various Christian denominations and magical systems. We welcome anyone irrespective of their religious background, understanding that no single religion holds the entire truth.

I have had personal encounters with all three aspects of God, witnessed miracles, and experienced divine intervention. Through this book, I hope to instill faith in you and your abilities, and foster a deeper connection with the divine.

Take some time to ponder upon these questions as you embark on this spiritual journey:

May this book serve as a guiding light on your path, helping you to discover your own truth and divine connection.

Hi dudes. I am here to say a couple things to you readers.

First, Thank you for being AWESOME and still reading my writing while I don't post anything.

Second, I am so sorry for taking so long to post the first chapter of my book but I was really trying to put a lot of effort and detail into the first chapter so you can relate to the characters.

I'm so glad people can still put up with me because I love to share my work with the world.

Sorry for this being so short but I need to get working on the next chapter because this first one took WAY too long. Ill see you in the next chapter.

BYEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!

"A GENTLE REUNION"​​​​​​​

Writing Prompt generated via ChatGPT:

As I stood under the cherry blossom tree, the petals drifting down like confetti, I caught sight of her across the park—my high school crush, now ten years older and impossibly more beautiful. Just as I gathered the courage to walk over, she turned and our eyes met, both of us frozen in a moment suspended by time

It was a warm and gentle evening, the sunlight shines gently onto the ground at a park as Haruki admires the beautiful scenery from the cherry blossom tree. He would always be here almost daily to calm himself down after his hectic work at a convenience store. As he sat under the cherry blossom tree, the petals drifting down like beautiful confetti, his eyes suddenly caught someone across the part - it was his high school crush, Asami, now ten years older and impossibly more beautiful.

Haruki was about to gather his courage and stood up before he walk over to her, only for Asami to turn around and their eyes met, both of them frozen in a moment suspended by time. "Haruki-chan? Is... Is that you?" Asami broke the silence, Haruki had no idea how to react to this. As if she's reunited with someone she loved, Asami ran towards him, climbing the cliff where the cherry blossom tree stood tall. She stood right in front of him, couldn't believe that she met with someone that she knew a long time ago.

"A-Asami-san... Good t-to see you again...", Haruki said shyly, as he did not expect to finally meet his old high-school crush ten years after they graduate. Asami instantly hugged him and expressed on how happy she is right now, "I missed you so much! How have you been?".

"Well... I'm doing just fine. I just got back from my work at the konbini. What brings you here?" Haruki replied, wanting to know how and what she's doing here. Asami told him that she's here for a concert that she needs to perform, but it was delayed for two days due to the unforeseen circumstances that happened at the said concert. She used the free time to look around the city and hopefully she could find her friends, but she couldn't find anyone until she found me.

"Ah... about that, I don't think that most of our friends lived in this town anymore. I heard that they moved, either continuing their studies or work outside the city..." Haruki said sadly, causing Asami to be disappointed and sad that she couldn't find them. "Did... they said anything to me before I left?" She asked Haruki. He shook his head before saying that they've left the town around two to three years after Haruki and Asami graduated from high-school.

But Haruki encouraged him, saying that finding me is more than enough. Asami smiled at his response, before asking him, "Say... are you busy tomorrow? Or even for two days?". Haruki was surprised by her question as he thinks on whether he have work for the next two days. He looked at his work calendar in his phone, thankfully, those two days are empty - it was his off-duty. "Nope, I'm free. Except that I have to wash my clothes tomorrow morning and that's very much it."

Hearing this relieved Asami, "I was wondering if we can hangout together like we used to back in high-school, I've planned a lot of place to go to calm myself down before the concert begins~ What do you say?". Haruki blushed as he thought that this would be the perfect opportunity to get close to her after a long time. He never felt this happy ever since his first day at work. "I-I'd love to!", he said in a rather happy and childish voice, as it was a clear answer for Asami that he accepted her offer.

Both of them exchanged their contact numbers on their phones before they head back to their houses. Asami was blushing at the thought of going out with Haruki, in which she used to talk and study with him a lot back in high-school. Haruki, on the other hand, is beyond excited for tomorrow as he screams internally. He had a smile on his face even when he reached his apartment.

Once he took a bath and got to bed, he spend time chatting with Asami until it was midnight as they discuss about where would they go before changing topics to make sure that it doesn't feel bland.

I think its all an act An explanation of my fucked up brain Maybe its just a tact

They say there are so many who suffer more But do they know the feeling when your brain is never on the shore

I think I do realize I am faking but now even after my command its not ceasing

So you may find a better shoulder one that's not as colder

And please do remember one thing ​​​​​​​Everything has always been just nothing