Away from home (ISO Debs and anyone else)

Participating characters:
Ryuu Riccardo Nefis
Debora Ajdelsztajn
Ryouko Shigami

Status: Incomplete/History

Last Post: Unknown





Ryuu R Nefis

Ryuu cursed under his breath as he paced along side the camp lake. It was already bad enough that Ms Levet had decided that he should persue an education in Hogwarts - and hence forcing him to socialise and give up his isolated life - but she had decided to send him to camp as well! This was an outrage to the proud young man. The one person who never took commands, only requests. But somehow he had gotten himself into staying at least half the summer in camp.

If she hadn't been his benefactor, Ryuu would not have complied. He might even have gotten his way and would stay on where ever he wished to stay and have private lessons without the need for a class. Just the master and his student.

No matter. He was here now and he couldn't go back. He didn't know how to.

I suppose that's why I have to learn more about the wizarding world... Ryuu thought disgruntingly as he flung a pebble into the lake, watching it skip a few times before it finally sunk into the water. A huge tentacle surfaced briefly before disappearing again. The pebble must have disturbed the giant squid, but who cared? Certainly not Ryuu. If there was anything he ever cared about besides himself it was his family. The family he had yet to find.

Ryuu had come to the lake to find seclusion away from everyone else. The mirror surface of the lake had a strange effect on Ryuu, somehow it influenced his moods and calmed his nerves. Aside from the lake the only other place perfect for peaceful contemplations was the forest. No one there but the creatures and the song of the cicadas, a perfectly soothing atmosphere. That was only if students continued to fear the creatures inside, then perhaps Ryuu could continue to find isolation in the forest.

Perplexed, Ryuu seated himself on the sandy shore of the lake, watching the sky slowly light up as the sun rose. The fifteen year old had been up at the lake since dawn and it would be soon when he had to leave again. Not because it would soon be noon, the forest provided sufficient shelter from the hot noon sun. It was because of the lake popularity as a student hangout for surely there would be students venturing down here for either a playful jump into the water or for whatever lovey dovey business they had up their sleeves.

With a sigh, Ryuu flung another pebble into the lake.

Debora Ajdelsztajn

Debora had gotten up early that morning. The shades of the Gryffindor cabin were still closed and most of the students were still asleep when she left. She squeezed her eyes slightly against the sunlight as she made her way through the Hangout, her hair dancing along with the light warm breeze that preceded the hot afternoon.

Walking mindlessly to where her feet would lead her, Debora ended up on her way to the lake. The young girl didn´t think she would run into anyone since it was so early, so she brought a book with her. As hardly as she tried, she could not stay away from books, she was addicted to them. The book in question had a grey cover with a drawing of a boy and it was named 'The Lost Prince', from Frances Hodgson Burnett. Debora had already read it before, but she felt like reading it again since she loved France´s books.

To her surprise, when Debora arrived at the shore, she was not alone. A boy was sitting there, looking at the lake. The sunrays reached the surface, decomposing themselves into several beautiful colors. Then he threw a pebble at the it, and all the colors faded away in the waves.

"He must be new." she thought as she tried to get a look at his face. She didn´t recognize him though and it would be rather rude just to stand thee looking at him and not say anything.

"Hello." she began in her polite voice. She held her posture, not in an intimidating way, but just as a kid who was taught to behave around other people.

"Wasn´t expecting to find anyone here at this hour."

Ryuu R Nefis

Ryuu's ears had picked up the sound of approaching footsteps but had chosen to ignore them. Perhaps if he was lucky the person might just walk on by without noticing him though it was unusually early for anyone to be out and about.

Perhaps wizards are early risers... unlike those lazy muggle noblemen... thought Ryuu as he waited for the footsteps to fade away. No such luck. The person had decided to stop barely two metres away from him. The lion's extreme self consciousness sensed eyes staring at him. If there was one thing he didn't like, it was to be stared at.

Afterall he was no different from the average population. He had two ears, two eyes, a nose, one mouth, the normal set of limbs and had no deformities such as a hunched back. Well he did have those scars from the whips of slave drivers but those were not the point.

Perhaps he or she would go away once they were done giving him the once over. It had been almost a week since he first arrived Ryuu had learnt to tolerate most of these staring incidents as they seemed to occur everywhere he went. Maybe it happened to every newbie. Afterall the number of staring incidents had been depleting as Ryuu grew familiar to the camp grounds. Eventually it would stop conpletely. Or so Ryuu hoped.

"Hello." A feminine voice interupted Ryuu's thoughts.

"What do you want!?!" Ryuu had wanted to snap back but he held his tongue to allow the girl to continue.

"Wasn´t expecting to find anyone here at this hour."

"There are many things in life we do not expect." Ryuu commented slowly getting to his feet and staring ahead across the lake for a moment before turning to face the girl. "But we must learn to expect the unexpected or we will not be prepared to survive, is it not Ms...." his voice trailed off as he looked the girl in the eye imporingly.

Being at camp, few students actually dorned the Hogwarts uniform and hence Ryuu could not deduce from which house she came from. Patiently, he waited for her reply and perhaps also an introduction.

Debora Ajdelsztajn

It was perhaps usual for the girl to talk about such things. She liked deep conversations and people with their own opinion. Not those brainless kids from her neighborhood whom she had to keep company.

Deep conversations weren´t something you would hear coming out of their mouths. Most of them would just talk about frivolous things, such as what happened at the last formal party, or who was supposed to be getting married. Or they would just brag about their possessions. Debora had most of the same things they did and still didn´t feel the need to keep talking about it everywhere she went.

And even with so many possessions, the girl could be happy with a single book. She didn´t know how her parents put up with those people, but it was a price she had to pay for being a member of her family, and having that surname. She couldn´t imagine someone from her neighborhood saying what this strange boy had just said, and that made her a little bit curious about him.

So, instead of saying her name, she decided to answer first.

"Yes, should life choose to give you trials, you are not going to be expecting them, but you must overcome them anyway." she said quietly, gazing back at his green eyes. Her curls continued to fly slightly along with the wind and before she spoke again, she pushed a black lock away from her face with her free hand. The other was still holding to her book.

"I´m Debora Ajdelsztajn." she said with a small smile, "And you?"

Ryuu R Nefis

The girl has been most... interesting to say the least. Unlike most of the children who were staying at the Hogwarts Campsite. Yes children. Ryuu considered most of his fellow housemates to be children with their petty squams and senseless chattering. If there was one thing they needed to learn - besides consideration for others who might not appreciate their "cheerful banter" - it was to think before they spoke.

So far the younger students whom Ryuu had met had a tendency to answer back or cut into conversations that did not concern them. Or else they would be picking fights with members of the Slytherin house. Ryuu had heard of those childish arguments. Especially those between his supposed team assistent captains and a couple of others from the Slytherin quidditch team. Didn't they know their claims on being the best were just some empty hypothesis that they had yet to prove? So what if they thought the best of themselves, actions spoke louder than words. And from what he knew, the lions had lost to the snakes, period.

But this girl seemed somewhat different. It was a pity that she had not been appointed in the place of Ms Brown and Mr Greeny. She would certainly have been worth more than two of their heads. Who were the former captains anyhow? From what he had heard, those two had only recently taken over. And from what he had heard, the last two weren't that bad either. Well at least they had some sense not to make them the captain in charge. At least Ms Sayre had more sense to slow down and weigh things out then lunge straight into unknown depths without checking facts.

"Yes, should life choose to give you trials, you are not going to be expecting them, but you must overcome them anyway."

Simple words but with a logical philosophy behind it. Ryuu was beginning to enjoy her company. Perhaps she would be able to prove his stereotypical belief of his housemates.

"I´m Debora Ajdelsztajn. And you?"

"Please to meet you Ms Ajdelsztajn." Ryuu greeted with a mock bow. "I am Ryuu Nefis. What you would call a 'newbie' fifth year. Or should I say the only male fifth year."

Ryouko Shigami
(( hope you guys... don't mind me joining))

Seizing the opportunity that most at still away, Ryoko stole time off to be alone. " I suppose the lake is the best place.", Ryoko thought to herself. It was a surprise to see two other people at the lake. Both were Gryffies, from the look of their plain clothes. Ryoko could always remember who it was from the back regardless of who they were. Ryoko had seen the duo in school and had heard of them when she first entered Hogwarts. They were like two bright bulbs shinning in the midst of the students.

One of them was a rather solitary guy, Ryuu whom Ryoko knew little about. He was like a mysterious figure in the school, although he was low profiled. In fact, it was probably his nonchalant attitude and his superiority that attracts Ryoko. She had never been ignored that much when she was back home. In fact, never. Maybe because she was the only "precious" baby left in the family that is able to salvage the reminants of the broken clan. However, he exudes a certain aura that often gets Ryoko very inquistive to know more about him. He was like a hidden flower in the high mountains, unless you are able to climb up to the place, or you will never notice his presence.

The other is a girl whom Ryoko had seen a couple of times around the school compound. She had often given Ryoko a feeling of security as well as maturity like her "sisters" back home. She was like a strict disciplinarian as well as a caring sister. In fact, Ryoko actually looks up to her like a figure to follow. She is like a blanket, able to give people comfort and security in the cold.

Gathering up her courage, Ryoko walked hastily towards them and asked, " I hope I'm not intruding, I'm Ryoko Shigami, 3rd year. It's pleasing to meet you!" Ryoko smiled as the time seemed to froze at that very minute....

Debora Ajdelsztajn

(( I don't mind oh, and just for the record, we are not wearing the school robes.))

"I'm pleased to meet you." she said, and held her dress with her free hand, returning his bow in a girly way. "But please, call me Debora."

She didn't know why, but she prefered to be called by Debora than by her surname. Perhaps it was because her neighbours called her by her last name, so she resented it a little.

The girl was about to say that he was probably not the only male in his year, when another girl suddenly appeared, making Debora let out a gasp. She was easily startled and this was no exception. Debora looked curiously at the newcomer. It was a look she often used, for she often tried to figure people out, and what they could be thinking at that very moment.

Debora didn´t really mind the girl arriving, but she was a little disappointed that she might have missed the chance to have a good deep conversation with the new boy. So she pondered if she should stay a bit for a small talk and then excuse herself and find a nice quiet place to read her book.

"It´s nice to meet you too Ryoko, I´m Debora and I´m a 3rd year as well, from Gryffindor." Debora told her politely, then turning to Ryuu, she continued, "I´m sure you´re not the only male in your year. We´re still halfway through the summer, so I´m sure more males will enroll."

Ryuu R Nefis

"I'm pleased to meet you. But please, call me Debora."

"If you insist Ms Ajde... I mean Ms Debora. Do forgive me for the occational lapse into addressing you by your last name. It is considered unbecoming to address anyone by anything else in my family." Ryuu had explained. But before anything else had been said another student had appeared.

From the way the new comer addressed the two already present, she had apparently heard or seen them around, though Ryuu did not recall ever meeting her face to face. And since she did not bother to give her house, it meant she expected them to know, which led him to his next conclusion; she was one of his housemates.

Unlike Debora this one seemed a little more... immature in comparison to Ms Ajdelsztajn whom he prefered according to level of maturity - though the girls were apparently the same age as he had just discovered - Both were thirteen coming fourteen but as he had thought earlier, Ms Ajdelsztajn was - in his own preference - the better of the two.

This time, Ryuu did nothing more than to nod in Ryoko's direction to acknowledge her presence, in addition to the inaudible murmur; something between "Please to meet you Ms Shigami" and a grunt. Few could earn his respect and so far, there was only one. He had yet to meet the other members of his house.

"I´m sure you´re not the only male in your year. We´re still halfway through the summer, so I´m sure more males will enroll." Debora had continued after a friendly greeting to the other lioness.

"I would not be too sure Ms Debora," Ryuu paused, casting a brief glance at Ryoko. "The requirements for application are not easy to fulfil. Or at least few have made it through. Some return to try again but their applications still contain the same flaws they were rejected for."

The conversation seemed to be going on without the new arrival, perhaps she might leave. Ryuu was growing uncomfortable in her presense. It was just this look she wore on her face, he had seen it before. And back then, it had not been a good thing and he did not think it would be now. Or perhaps it was just his imagination, afterall, it had been a while since he had been in the presense of females. That was one socialble attribute he would have to learn.

"Do pardon me if I should seem cold." Ryuu continued. "It's been awhile since I have had to interect with society." Ryuu was not ready to mention anything about his encounter with slave trade yet and would just leave them to infer whatever they wished since it was a known fact that Ryuu lived virtually alone in Levet Chase.

Ryoko Shigami

((Thanks!))

The atmosphere was a little stiffled as the two were talking. Debora was rather friendly and of course, mature for her age. Ryuu seemed to dislike the presence of her, the moment she entered. Ryoko smiled at the two and listened in the conversation. Ryuu commented that he would be the only 5th year male in Gryffindor. Ryoko recalled the list that she had seen a couple of days ago. Indeed, there were only a couple of shortlisted candidates in the hundreds that sent in their application. Among them, only Ryuu made it to the fifth year.

Ryoko nodded at the acknowledgement of Ryuu words. Mr Nefis, I presume, please correct me if I'm wrong. I am impressed with your ability to enter the fifth year. However, I have to agree with Debora that you will not be the only fifth year as there are many other applicants who will also be shortlisted." Ryoko replied in a stern and confident tone. Ryuu was cold but she could understand why he was so.

Having lost contact with the society makes one susceptible to steer away from others, hoping that they would not be hurt. However, this would mean that Ryuu would have been hurt pretty badly, either physically or emotionally or even both to isolate himself from the society. Thinking about this, Ryoko glanced at Ryuu and then at Debora. She questioned her thoughts, Did Debora notice this as well as she talked to him? It seems like Ryuu has consented to Debora's presence, is there anything I can do to change his impression of me?

Ryoko swallowed her thoughts down into the stomach, she didn't want the duo to think of her as a freak we reads people and try to find out their history. Curiously, she asked the duo, " How high are the chances for those who apply into Hogwarts and get selected?" Ryoko had seen many of those who applied and left in tears as they were not selected. It was a vivid image that kept playing like a movie in Ryoko's mind

Ryuu R Nefis

"Mr Nefis, I presume, please correct me if I'm wrong. I am impressed with your ability to enter the fifth year. However, I have to agree with Debora that you will not be the only fifth year as there are many other applicants who will also be shortlisted."

Another interuption by unwanted company.

Impressed eh? Flattery will get you no where Ms Shigami... Ryuu thought. There was just something about the girl that did not quite strike his fancy. No matter how hard he tried, Ryuu just could not pin point the fault.

Perhaps it is just your aura Ms Shigami... perhaps we were not meant to get along... More private thoughts. Thoughts that Ryuu would probably never voice out. A little trait he had learnt from his father about handling people. Some things were just better left unsaid.

Instead of ignoring Ryoko, this time Ryuu turned to speak to the girl for once and voiced a more socialble reply in comparison to his thoughts.

"It is strange that you know my name Ms Shigami, though I do not recall giving it to you. But I thank you for your kind congratulation, and I would thank age and experience for my success if not for well horned skills alone." the lion began, trying his best to be civil in the process. "Though if what I have said earlier was to be true, I would not have any opposition against it. Afterall, some of us do treasure our privacy."

Another slip of unintended malice.

Debora Ajdelsztajn

It was clear that Ryuu somewhat changed his attitude since the arrival of Ryoko. True, they hadn't said much before she arrived, but he wasn't... grunting then. Maybe he prefered deep converstions too, who knows? Debora figured she would have to wait for another time to find out.

The conversation started to revolve the applications. The requirements were indeed hard to fulfill, but then again, she had been approved on her first try. On her mind, it was just an accident of life that she liked books and remembered everything they contained, so perhaps it was just another accident that she had been approved at Hogwarts. Anyway, she didn't want to boast about that fact, so instead she just nodded in agreement at Ryuu's comment and Ryoko kind of helped Debora keeping quiet when she made her compliments to the boy.

"Yes, it must be hard to enter the 5th year, specially since it's OWL year."

A silence followed and Ryuu sent a strange look at the other girl. It seemed to be a glare, but his look was a total opposite of what he said next.

"Do pardon me if I should seem cold. It's been awhile since I have had to interect with society."

It had become frequent the times when she was reminded that other people must have harder lives than herself. When her own routine became too hard to bear, she forced herself to remember those moments. She couldn't guess why Ryuu had no interaction with society, and she would not try to, unless he wanted to tell her when he was prepared. The girl knew how one felt when pressured to tell something you do not want to.

So Debora gave him a subtle look of sympathy, so subtle that no person other than Ryuu himself could have noticed. It was just to let him know that she felt for him, but didn't want to make him vulnerable in front of other people. And instead of making any comments on the subject, as she would have done if there was no one but the two of them around, she just nodded to let him know she had heard what he had said.
"A single look can be worth a thousand words." her mother's voiced ringed inside her head.
This was obviously a delicate matter and she thought it wouldn't be wise to say anything right now.

Again, Ryoko changed the subject. Debora had to admit, this girl was turning out to be quite useful.

" How high are the chances for those who apply into Hogwarts and get selected?"

"It depends really. Like Ryuu said earlier, the school's requirements are hard to fulfill, and unless you know the rules and write a good application letter, you will not be accepted."

Ryoko Shigami

"It is strange that you know my name Ms Shigami, though I do not recall giving it to you. But I thank you for your kind congratulation, and I would thank age and experience for my success if not for well horned skills alone."
"Though if what I have said earlier was to be true, I would not have any opposition against it. Afterall, some of us do treasure our privacy."

Those words slapped Ryoko hard on the face. It was like a warning from Ryuu on her words.He was like telling her that he disliked her being around him. Especially the reply after a slight pause. His words seemed to urge Ryoko to leave the scene, making her feel rather uncomfortable. However, she decided to go for the challenge.

What's life without a single challenge in life? If I was able to make myself step out of despair, I'll definitely be able to make Ryuu like me as well. Ryoko thought to herself, as she listened on.

"Yes, it must be hard to enter the 5th year, specially since it's OWL year."

"Fifth year..", Ryoko muttered to herself. She wasn't even sure if she would be promoted to fifth year. She wasn't even confident she could finish her third year. Heaving a sigh quietly, her thoughts wandered a little further to her hometown. She felt somewhat lonely with no companion beside her which could understand the pain that she was going through. She had a mission to complete by the time she finishes her studies here. It may seem long but in actual fact, there is very little time left. Clenching her fist, she vowed in her mind.

"It depends really. Like Ryuu said earlier, the school's requirements are hard to fulfill, and unless you know the rules and write a good application letter, you will not be accepted."

Ryoko's attention was drawn back to the lake when Debora commented. Ryoko nodded in acknowledgement to the answer and felt the enlightened by Debora's words. Unable to retain her curiousity, she blurted out," Doesn't that mean that unless you are really a superb writer, the chances of getting into the higher levels like the sixth or seventh years? Does that mean that those who are the sixth or seventh would have taken their OWLs? "

After saying that, she quickly covered her mouth to stop her thoughts from blabbering out without going through her mind to process. Right after Ryoko asked, a breeze slowly slide towards trio.

Ryuu R Nefis

"I believe that the professors have already thought of that aspect Ms Shigami." This time Ryuu's voice bore a hint of his gradually growing anger. Thankfully, this was held in check by Debora's presence. Perhaps if the lioness was not around Ryuu might just have snapped without thought. Debora did remind him of his sister Vera, and Vera had never failed to ensure that Ryuu behaved.

Not to forget that subtle look of concern Dedora had given him only moments before. Besides proof that she was unlike their shallow-minded housemates, she had proven she too possessed sensitivity, such friends were indeed hard to find. Ryoko Shigami on the other hand however... was quite a different story.

If it were not for Miss Ajdelsztajn Ms Shigami, I believe you would have seen more than the monster inside me... Ryuu thought as emerald eyes briefly slided over Ryoko's form, committing all her features into memory - not out of interest, but so that he'd know what to look out for if he should one day chose to avoid her - as he continued on the subject.

"And if I am not mistaken, students eligable for sixth and seventh year have to take an entrance exam to pass the first stage and eventually they still have to take the OWLs to see if they can indeed survive the last two years of schooling."

Ryuu had had enough of this discussion about admission, afterall, it was none of his business how students were admitted, he was not a professor neither was he the headmaster of the school. All he had to concentrate on now was surviving the next three years of his life. And with people like Ryoko about, it might prove a greater challenge than he had anticipated.

Casting a glance towards the lake, Ryuu noted that the sun was rising steadily and had almost fully risen from the horizon. Soon it would be time for him to leave. He was not going to hang around when the other lodgers decided to make a trip down to the lake for a dip. Ryuu would only return again at an ungodly hour, perhaps when most campers would be sound asleep in their beds. Speaking of sleep, it would soon be time for Ryuu to do that same.

"And now if you'll excuse me, I'll be on my way." Ryuu was not going to provide them with the location. Debora he didn't mind, but the last thing he wanted interupting his sleep would be a pesky newbie. With that, Ryuu left, heading in the direction of the caffeteria just in case Ryoko decided to follow him. Later on he would alter his course and leave her on a wild goose chase.

Ryoko Shigami

"I believe that the professors have already thought of that aspect Ms Shigami."

Ryoko felt the tinch of boiling anger in those words. She was utterly stunned. It was in fact, Ryuu's merciful nature that stopped him from flaring up in front of Ryoko. Perhaps it was Debora herself, who is able to slimmer that fiery temper Ryuu had.

Ryoko wanted very much to tear as she was rather hurt with those words. Infact, she was afflicted emotional pain. She couldn't understand why she felt so or maybe it was just that she felt as if she had lost a potential friend who might be able to help her and guide her.

"And now if you'll excuse me, I'll be on my way."

With the terrible feelings she felt within her, she would want nothing to do with Ryuu for the time being before she burst out in tears. Slowly, she strolled towards the lake, hoping that the atmosphere would dissipate into the thin air when she returns to the original spot.

With her back turned towards Debora to hide the trickling tears that were flowing from her eyes, she spoke sliently with a slightly raspy voice, " Debora, I think you should go and run after Ryuu. He seems rather infuriated by my presence and also what I have said. I'll be around here. I'm sorry to have intruded into your conversation just now. It seems like I have made a mess out of the entire thing."

Glancing at the horizon afar, Ryoko wished that she could be back home. Alone in front of her mother's tomb, waiting for the dead to rise.

Debora Ajdelsztajn

((Sorry I skipped your post, Rae! Won't happen again! And sorry about my lateness to post here.))

Debora watched in awe as Ryuu grew angrier towards the other girl. She didn't know why or what made her keep quiet, but she just did. Normally, when in situations like this, Debora would have been the mediator, the one to calm down the people who were arguing and to bring them to reason. But there was just something about this boy.. something that made her unable to interfere. And when she finally thought about interfering, Ryuu had already left.

After he left, Ryoko took a few steps towards the lake. Debora could sense the girl's feelings were hurt, and she was afraid Ryoko might just jump in the lake to hide her sadness. Perhaps Ryuu had been a little hard on her, after all, Ryoko was just trying to be nice. But Debora knew people like Ryuu, and people close to her heart too. Her brother Alex, for instance, he often acted just like the other boy. How many times had Alex not been hard upon herself or upon her other brothers? One just needs to learn how to deal with people like them, and Debora had had a lot of practice.

When Ryoko spoke to her, the black haired girl knew she was crying, for her voice was more high pitched than before. Debora took a couple of steps towards her, feeling the sandy shore soft against her feet. She was careful not to get too close, in case Ryoko didn't want her to know she was indeed crying.

"It won't do any good to run after him now. Anger can lead one to do foolish things." she said quietly, moving her book from one hand to the other, like a nervous habit. Then she turned her voice to a more gentle tone. Debora was not one that would just stand and see other people suffer without doing anything. "However, I do believe his anger is not because of you. On the contrary, he must have let it out on you because you were the easiest target. You should not trust a person's words when on a high temper because it all comes out of an impulse, and most of the times, these words aren't true."

This was very much like her, to speak of general feelings and not of the situation itself. She hoped it would ease the girl's mind though, for she may not have many intimate friends, but she certainly didn't want to make enemies.

"If you'd like to be alone, just say the word and I'll leave." Debora said after a moment. If she had been in Ryoko's place, she would have liked to be left to her own thoughts, for she hated to be seen crying. The only time that had happened to her at Hogwarts was on the empty corridors one day, when she had cried on her friend's, Rinoa, shoulders. But it was different, Rinoa was one of the few intimate friends she had.

"We can all get a fresh start some other time."

Ryoko Shigami

((hehe... I don't think Rae will mind. I'm being a little pissed by Ryuu. But that is ooc. I'll retain my character's personality))

"It won't do any good to run after him now. Anger can lead one to do foolish things."
It was something Ryoko knew from the beginning. Anger management was one thing that she learnt from the lessons she took in Japan. However, Debora was able to speak of it so naturally. It was no wonder that Ryuu fancied her more than Ryoko. In comparison, Ryoko was much plainer and average like the other girls. Following that, Debora spoke more sense into Ryoko.

"However, I do believe his anger is not because of you. On the contrary, he must have let it out on you because you were the easiest target. You should not trust a person's words when on a high temper because it all comes out of an impulse, and most of the times, these words aren't true."

"Easiest Target?", Ryoko asked, with her voice still muffled. " Did he think I was like dirt? Something not worth his concern? Something so worthless? " Ryoko's tears was streaming down like beads. However, she refused to turn around, in case she did embarassed herself. She didn't want others to see her ugly side, especially when she cries.

"If you'd like to be alone, just say the word and I'll leave."

If Debora leaves, I might fall back into the old self I was before. It would be terrible. I might even be disillusioned forever. Sister warned me again and again. If I am to be sad again, I'll have to talk to someone instead of seeking solace in myself. Ryoko thought to herself. However, she was not certain of Debora, she wasn't sure if she was right if she trusted her. Despite that, her instincts told her that this maiden is one whom she could rely on for help and for emotional stability.

"We can all get a fresh start some other time."

Upon hearing that sentence, Ryoko turned and ran towards Debora like a hungry hog. " I can trust you, right?" Ryoko said in the most desperate voice ever. She was on the verge of breakdown, she needed someone to talk to her. Someone to relieve her of her pain and emotions that she had kept inside her ever since she reached Hogwarts. The envy, the loneliness, the feeling lostness, the missing of her hometown, all the feelings crumbled inside Ryoko as she pulled Debora closer and started to pour out her feelings.

Debora Ajdelsztajn

((sorry I took so long, had a million things to do here))

Debora was surprised to see Ryoko suddenly turn around and run to her, like a child running towards his parents in search of comfort. The girl could see in Ryoko´s eyes how she was desperate, and maybe even hopeless. She would not be able to stand there and do nothing.

" I can trust you, right?" Ryoko asked her, and Debora expected her to jump on her shoulders and cry at the very moment. Looking at her, Debora was reminded of herself, on an afternoon not too long ago at the Hogwarts´s dark empty corridors. A vision of herself carrying about ten books came into her mind. It was that day that Debora had ran into Rinoa, one of her best friends, and had cried upon her shoulder. It had been just what she needed regardless of how uncomfortable she felt afterwards.

So why not help this poor girl in front of her? She was not so unlike herself, they were both Gryffindors and 3rd years. Ryoko though, didn´t seem the type of girl who had the same education as she had. Her social class implied that she should behave in a certain way, and normally she followed the rules. But that didn´t stop her from helping other people. So, could Ryoko trust her?

"Yes, definitely" she said, without a moment´s hesitation

The real question was: could Debora trust Ryoko? That would be more difficult. The girl could be there for Ryoko without her having to know what she felt, and what her life was like. She had never been one to talk much when it came to her own life, or anything for that matter. She knew she shouldn´t say more than it was necessary. But the girl knew how to give advice when it was required.

And with a look of sympathy, Debora waited for Ryoko to spill her thoughts. She wondered what Ryoko was about to tell her.

Ryoko Shigami

(( It's okay. I'll be quite busy the next few days packing my stuff. Kinda like lost my touch for RP))

"Yes, definitely"

Ryoko was comforted with those words that Debora had said. It was like as if her sister was there once more, trying to bring out the disillusioned Ryoko out of the desperation and despair. Those words reminded Ryoko of the days sister spend just drilling encouragement into her. It took literally months to get Ryoko to respond to her.

According to sister, Ryoko was totally like in a world of her own, at that period of time. She ate without glancing at the food, she kept lying on her bed, looking at the wooden cloak hanger. She never talked a single world, her eyes were glassy and reflected noone, and looked as if they were blind. Her face was clean but the blood stain from her mother didn't seem to disappear.The curtains in the room were always drawn and the windows shut, letting not even a slight breeze into the room. Hence, the room looked gloomy and sick.Ryoko wouldn't step out of the bed at all unless she needed to use the toilet. Cries of her mother were often heard from her in the middle of the night, like a ghost dying a horrible death and wants justice.

Ryoko wanted to just burt out all these that had happened to her in the past. However, she wasn't sure if she would have done the right thing by telling it all out. Debora gave her a look of sympathy, which was rather encouraging, to know that there was someone out there worried for her. However, it wasn't a great experience to re-live that moment of horror once more, and it would be pretty depressing for Debora as well, being a listener.

Slowly, she calmed herself down and moved her lips, " Debora, have you lost your mind on something before? Well, Ryuu indeed was rather irritated by me, that is something that I can tell. I really wondered then, if my existence was really worth. Should I have died at the footsteps of my home, 9 years ago? And now not live to have myself hated once more by a friend whom I thought was someone I could relate to? Do you think I can ever be a buddy to Ryuu?" Saying that, Ryoko glanced up at Debora, as if hoping that she would give her an answer that would pull her back on her feet.

Debora Ajdelsztajn

The young gryffindor listened as Ryoko poured out her feelings, though she didn´t quite understand how one could be so open with someone they had just met. Sometimes it took people their whole lives to share something with a person who they´re close with and yet, here they were and Ryoko bursted out her feelings with a sad ease. Debora wished she had the strengh to tell people about her life and worries, but that wouldn´t be achieved anytime soon.

Upon hearing what the girl said, Debora´s look turned serious and she put one hand over the girl´s shoulder. The other still helf her book.

"Life is a gift, don´t ever again wonder if you should have died when you should be glad you´re alive." she said, then let go of the Ryoko´s shoulder.

Personally, Debora thought it was a little childish to be questioning her own life over a simple acquaintance gone wrong and Ryoko reminded her of the people from her neighbourhood. That made Debora turn a little stiff and perhaps take a colder tone in hr voice, but not cold to the point of sounding careless, because she did care. She just didn´t want to be reminded of home.

"Acquaintances can be mended, however bad the first meeting was. If you can understand how Mr Nefis´s mind works, even if it you can understand only the cover, I´m sure you can be his.. 'buddy'" Debora said, using the girl´s own words to describe a future friendship, if that was possible.

Ryoko Shigami

"Life is a gift, don´t ever again wonder if you should have died when you should be glad you´re alive."

Ryoko took a glance at Debora. These were the exact same words that her sister had been telling her all those time when she was upset and totally disillusioned. She nodded in acknowledgement to those words. " Sometimes, I really wonder if you are a gift from the gods to help me because of my loss. Those were the words said by sister. I never thought I'll be able to hear them again when I'm in Hogwarts", Ryoko suddenly shot that statement out her mouth.

"Maybe trying was one thing but succeeding is another. I really hope that I'll be able to be buddies with Ryuu and at the very least, friends. Is that so hard to achieve? Is that something that I'll never be able to achieve because I am a village girl? When has life become so challenging?"Ryoko muttered to herself, yet, it was loud enough for Debora to hear it.

"Acquaintances can be mended, however bad the first meeting was. If you can understand how Mr Nefis´s mind works, even if it you can understand only the cover, I´m sure you can be his.. 'buddy'"

Debora was certainly getting into Ryoko's mind. It was as if she knew how her mind works. Upon hearing those words, Ryoko felt a peace that suddenly floated into her heart like the lake which had just been stopped totally. " Debora, you are really a wonderful person. Now I can understand why Ryuu prefers you to me. You are able to make one feel comfortable with you regardless how. " Ryoko stated directly from her heart. By now, her tears had dried off and her idealogy had been changed. She wanted to know more people and more friends including Ryuu.

" Debora, thanks for our help. I'm really glad you stayed back. I have one little request, can you be my older sister? It would be great to have you around to guide me. " Ryoko turned her sad face into a smile and beamed cheerfully at Debora. " I'll just have to work at it to become friends with Ryuu. Hopefully, I'll be able to know him more indepth as a person. It is really tough job ahead but I think I'll be able to handle it. Afterall, Life is unpredictable isn't it?" Ryoko turned her vision towards the sky and took a glimpse at the moving clouds. It seemed like the loomy days are over. But the real fact was, was the loomy days really over?

Debora Ajdelsztajn

"Your words are kind, but I'm just being reasonable, and your sister probably was too. It's only a coincidence we should have used the same words to express ourselves." Debora gazed right back at Ryoko's eyes, though she felt a little uncomfortable by what Ryoko had just told her. The other girl seemed eager to please everyone and as Debora listened to Ryoko's compliments on her. It appeared that Ryoko has suffered a lot in the past and she was only seeking for love and care. But perhaps if she didn't try so hard, she would be able to accomplish what she wanted.

"Thank you again, Ryoko, but I'm sure that's not why Ryuu seems to prefer me," she said, putting enphasis on the word 'seems', "we exchanged hardly two sentences before you arrived and I don't see how that could have happened."

" Debora, thanks for our help. I'm really glad you stayed back. I have one little request, can you be my older sister? It would be great to have you around to guide me. "

The young black haired girl turned away from Ryoko's beaming face for a moment and faced the lake. Ryoko just kept making her more uncomfortable by the minute, but Debora did not blame her. It was just that Debora was a quiet person, and she couldn't see anything in Ryoko that resembled her family. But that didn't stop her from being friends with the girl. Debora just didn't want to share her own life, and to be sisters meant directly to share. Debora kind os understood now how Ryuu had felt when they were talking. Maybe the excessive compliments had made him uncomfortable as well.

"You flatter me, and I am truly grateful that you should think so fondly of me." the young girl said, turning her attention back to Ryoko "But... I can't accept your request." Debora said in a quiet tone as she looked down to her own hands and the book she was carrying. Then, she looked back up, opening a small smile as she spoke,

"But I'll tell you this, we're of the same age, and in the same house. That means we will be roomates at Hogwarts, so whenever you feel like talking, you can come to me, ok?"

Ryoko would have to give in if she really wanted to be friends with Debora. The girl didn't dislike Ryoko, and she would try her best to be there if the girl needed her, but in her mind, they just couldn't be.. sisters.

" I'll just have to work at it to become friends with Ryuu. Hopefully, I'll be able to know him more indepth as a person. It is really tough job ahead but I think I'll be able to handle it. Afterall, Life is unpredictable isn't it?"

"Yes, I agree with you on that. Life is truly unpredictable." Debora said, the small smile still in her lips, "Maybe, in time, you and Ryuu can really become friends, I wouldn't doubt that."

Ryoko Shigami

"Thank you again, Ryoko, but I'm sure that's not why Ryuu seems to prefer me,"

Ryoko wanted to ask why but she swallowed her words back into her stomach. It seemed like Debora didn't want to talk too much about the topic on Ryuu. Ryuu was special but Debora was very much like her sister. If Ryoko was to determine who more important in her life, she would still choose Debora.

"You flatter me, and I am truly grateful that you should think so fondly of me.....But... I can't accept your request."

Ryoko nodded in understanding. She knew it was too early to ask Debora about such stuff. Afterall, they had just met not too long ago. " I understand perfectly. It takes time to build a friendship and an even longer time and patience to build a strong one. Maybe I was just too anxious." Ryoko smiled and answered as logically as she could. "However, I don't think you can go back on your words that I can go to you if I had any problems!" Ryoko gave Debora a cheeky look. She wanted to show Debora that she had recovered from her slight sadness over Ryuu.

"Yes, I agree with you on that. Life is truly unpredictable. ....Maybe, in time, you and Ryuu can really become friends, I wouldn't doubt that."

Ryoko beamed and said, " Thanks Debora, have been a great help. It is encouraging to hear from you that Ryuu and I maybe friends in time. But that is the future. Nobody can predict the future and what would happen. Maybe that can come true or maybe not. Worst things may happen but I wouldn't know.Perhaps I should start reading up on star-glazing." Ryoko glanced at the clouds towering above them.

" Or Perhaps I should take up Divination and hopefully, I can open the third eye and see the future." Ryoko joked. She knew she would never take up that subject lest be able to predict the future. " Anyway, are you planning to take up Divination as a subject? I really hope that I can take up Arithmancy. It seems like a totally interesting subject." After mentioning that Arithmancy is an interesting subject, Ryoko's eyes seemed to have glittered with enthusiasm. It can't be helped, she is a lover of maths.

" Anyway, since I am still rather fresh on the school stuff, what are the subjects that we will be allowed to take in 3rd year? Any additional subjects that we can pick up? " Ryoko asked curiously. Since she entered Hogwarts, there wasn't many people whom she talked to. Therefore, she knew pretty little about the school system.