#masterthicf

Even though Evan acted as the de facto head of the reborn Maple Heroes...part of him had always felt that he was lesser than them.That he didn’t deserve to stand even alongside them. These were legendary heroes, people worthy of everyone’s respect, while he was just an ordinary farm boy that...well, still hasn’t fully become one in his own eyes. Still, he had to act strong, for their sake and the Maple World’s as well.

“Thanks for your hard work, everyone,” said the farm boy as the meeting with the alliance had drawn to a close. His heart felt heavy, however; everyday, it was nothing but more battle strategies, preparations, fortifications...admittedly, the young Dragon Master had not much talent for those kind of things. Yet because of his direct connection to Freud, they looked up to him as their role model, the standard on which everything was based on.

“Master Phantom?”

She had been told by Gaston that her Master was recently in a bad mood and was thus unapproachable. Still...

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It’s become instinct, to look towards her roof every time she leaves or approaches her house. Today is no different, Miki hugged in her arms like one would do a plush toy. On the roof this time is a mischevious thief cloning himself with snow–

❝ … Ne, why do you always make me gifts in your image, Phantom-kun? I feel like you’re trying to hint something to me… ❞

It’s not something she’ll ever get used to– Having someone appear whenever her mood decides to drop. Tears barely escape her eyes before she hears Miki’s voice, Aoko rushing to wipe the tears away and unravel herself from her curled-up position.

❝ Ah, Miki-kun! Sorry, I mean– Yes, I’m alright. ❞

A light chuckle leaves her lips, Aoko letting herself flop back onto the bed, instead of sitting with her knees against her chest. A soft smile is given his way, as if telling him not to worry.