Linked Paths

Arc II - Many Firsts [Chapter 2: Dates]

So, we work our way little by little and just enjoy the time together.

At some point we come to an area on the second floor where only old-fashioned stalls and stands are set up. I really love this contrast to the otherwise super modern elements. Not only is it interesting and gives a cool touch, but it also fits the theme in my opinion. Like the opposing elements Yin and Yang, but here with the opposing elements old-fangled and modern. A patchwork tent in the corner we're heading towards catches my attention. I stop in front of it. The lettering says, "Will you find your true love?" - Ask fortune teller Nunnally" Oh, a fortune teller?

The romantic in me literally draws me to the tent. He always wanted to try fortune telling. Wouldn't now, with my crush by my side, be a perfect opportunity to try it? The realist is getting quite a beating from the romantic this moment to just shut up.

Shin: *steps next to me*, "You want to go in there, Izzy?"

"Hmm, it kind of tickles me to go inside.", I admit.

Shin: "Then go in with Tamamushi and see how it's like."

I just love Shin!

I nod and then look questioningly at Tamamushi, who is standing on my other side. Of course, I blush because it's still somehow embarrassing. "What do you think? Can I somehow get you to come with me?", I ask puppy eyed.

Tamamushi: "How could I say no to that face, huh?", *grins*

"T-thanks.", I stutter.

Kotatsu: "We'll wait here.", *links arms with Shin's*

Shin: *shark grins*

Gentleman-like, Tamamushi holds the tent entrance open for me and lets me enter first. His gesture is sugar for my heart.

Inside the tent, I am enveloped in a mysterious haze and a soothing scent. There are only some candles here and there. The atmosphere is perfect for a fortune-telling tent. In general, the interior is lovingly designed and makes entering the tent worth just for that alone. As we walk further into it, my eyes naturally fall on the fortune teller, who calls herself Nunnally. I had expected - cliché-like - an old woman, so I am somewhat surprised when I see a pretty, young lady sitting behind the fortune-telling table. She has long, light brown, wavy hair and a flawless face. Her clothes are appropriate for the role she plays here, but by no means cheap. What is particularly fascinating is that she keeps her eyes closed. I wonder what the reason for this could be. Perhaps to appear more mysterious?

Fortune teller Nunnally: "Welcome, young gentlemen."

Her voice is soft and calm.

"Hello.", I greet her. Tamamushi remains silent.

Fortune teller Nunnally: "The person to whom I am to read their love destiny, please provide the amount indicated..." *points with her hand to where this is to be done*, "...and sit with me."

"Okay.", I say.

Then I do as she said and put the money in a black jar, which reminds me of a piggy bank, but of course is much cooler, fitting the antique accessories.

Fortune teller Nunnally: "The voices of the future thank you, young sir."

Then I sit down opposite her at the table. Tamamushi stands behind me at arm's length.

Fortune teller Nunnally: "Reach out your hand to me, young sir."

I place my hand, back first, in hers, which is already waiting for me in the middle of the table. She receives me safely and tenderly, as if she can see, although she still has her eyes closed. I watch her face and slowly but surely get the impression that she in fact could be blind. That would be fitting for her role, I have to admit.