The Aeon Arcana

Idealistic Lover

"Tch." Akechi rolled his eyes.

Hifumi looked pleased to finally have a day to herself. You were worried since Hifumi was so reserved she would be awkward with Makoto especially, but she made fast friends. Hifumi could complain about photo shoots with Ann, and talk about more sophisticated subjects with Makoto. You actually felt a little left out, based on how much they were talking. Sitting in silence while you drank boba tea wasn't a bad thing, though, as it gave you some time for reflection.

 What…really did you have to talk about? You didn't have much enrichment in your life other than your boyfriend who you found to be infinitely more interesting than you. If someone asked your hobbies, would you even be able to tell them? Was Akechi your hobby? You liked the way he made you feel when he complemented you, held you, and told you he literally worships you. You had watched some anime, but did you ever have time to indulge in activities? Have you ever done anything creative? 

You had a bit of a crisis sitting there at the table.

Ann was munching on a goey, crispy bubble waffle which was covered with chocolate syrup and whipped cream. You had opted against it, as it looked like it had so much sugar you would go into a coma. "You okay, Y/N? You've been quiet today."

"Hm? Oh. Just thinking," you said with a smile.

"If it was Akechi-kun again," Hifumi said sharply. "I will not hesitate to cut off his–"

"Oh, no, not him," you sighed. "Well, kind of him. I've been thinking today that all of you have things you like to do outside of school or the relationships you have. Like, um…"

"You mean hobbies?" Makoto asked. "Or at least…things that enrich our lives?"

"Like Shogi, or Ann's modeling," said Hifumi.

"I always assumed you liked food," said Ann, her mouth full. "Akechi-kun is always taking you out places."

"That's…kind of his hobby actually," you blushed. "My whole life is just him at the point if it's not school, and hanging out with you makes me realize that I don't have much to talk about other than my boyfriend. I feel like… that girl, you know?"

"Why don't we try a bunch of new things to see if you like something?" Ann suggested.

"I'm exhausted thinking about it," sighed Hifumi.

"Me too," Makoto agreed.

"Oh, well, actually, there is something I wanted to ask," you said, looking at Makoto. 

"Of me?" Makoto seemed shocked.

"Yes. Do you know anything about pole weapons?" You asked. "I don't know anything about Aikido." 

"I'm no master but yes, I do have some skills with pole weapons. Why do you ask?" Makoto was intrigued.

"I…do you think you could train me?" You almost begged the question.

Makoto looked a bit taken aback. "You want to learn Aikido?"

You nodded eagerly. 

"I suppose I can help," said Makoto. "But I'm a harsh teacher."

"I"m sure she'll be fine," said Ann.

"I'll be fine!" You insisted.

"Exercise I think will be good for you," Hifumi remarked.

You nodded. "Oh, and one more question."

"Hm?" Makoto tilted her head to the side.

"Shujin has a councillor right? Um…Dr. Maruki?"