AN: God I became such Haikyuu trash that I couldn't avoid writing a fanfic about it! *slams head to the table while crying*
Sigh... anyway this chapter is kind of just an intro to the characters that'll be involved, mostly Harriet, so hopefully it's not boring.
Enjoy!
Chapter 1: The Witch Adjusts
I wanna die…
Sooooo bad right now.
I repeated the phrase over and over again, feeling the full on impact of the situation I'm in.
Like a brick to the face.
Hear me out, I have nothing against Japan. Love the place. The fashion, oh god the fashion; I just know I'll blow away my entire savings once I step into their malls. I hear their reputation for food is pretty good too and the sights there are to be breathtaking. Japan is great.
For a vacation spot.
I blew my died violet hair out of my face in irritation, my back slouched forward as I tapped my foot impatiently. I had to be standing here in this airport for over an hour by now. My facial expression must not be pleasant because people left and right hurriedly moved passed me, making sure to avoid my gaze. It's not surprising. I mean, with my affinity for wearing dark clothes and dark makeup, who wouldn't react that way? I would've been pleased to see such reactions, but right now I am just too pissed to care.
I felt my phone buzz in my pocket. I quickly fished it out, bracelets jangling to my movements, and immediately answered. It had to be them. It better be them, because I swear to god if they don't explain why they are taking so long to pick me up-
"Yo Starshine!"
I paused my inner rant, not at all expecting to hear his voice.
"Dad?"
"Yeah it's me. Listen, I just got the news rather late. Sorry about that. So, the day has arrived huh? You'll be living with my brother and his family."
I sighed. "Yeah. That's the plan."
"Hey don't be so bummed out! You love Adrian! And sure, you and your cousin don't see eye to eye at times, but I know there's a spot in your little dark heart for him too."
I rolled my eyes, but a smile formed on my black painted lips. I rarely get to talk with my dad, but when it happens it's always refreshing.
"I know this isn't what you want, but your mother only wants what's best for you. Don't worry, Japan is great. Take it from me. You'll love it there!"
My smile vanished slightly. "Dad, I know I'll like it here. I just don't want to live here."
"It's only until you finish high school, which is only… three years am I right? Anyway, tell you what, if you make decent grades, higher than average, I'll see what I can do to help you get into one of those universities in Paris."
"SERIOUSLY?!"
I didn't care if my sudden outburst spooked innocent passerby just trying to get through the day, this is more than anything I could possibly have hoped for! They should be thankful I'm giving it my all to prevent a scream that would definitely burst out.
My dad laughed at the other end of the line. "Pumped up? Good. Remember, good grades. And not a word of this to your mother. Do we have a deal?"
I nodded eagerly before realizing my dad wouldn't see it, so I quickly said, "Deal! I'll score perfects in all classes! Just you wait!"
"You're a smart girl. I don't doubt you for a second. Wait, hold up." I hear him talking to someone for a bit. I couldn't make out what was said but I knew it had to do with his job. As soon as he was done, he went back to me. "Sorry, but I have to cut this short. Our next concert is coming up and we have to prepare. This is a huge one."
I could practically feel the excitement emanating from his voice alone. It was a wave of passion so strong and mighty that I knew, he loves doing what he does, and I believe he'd rather die than give it all up. The feeling made my heart swell. It's one of the things I love most about my dad, and even though mom and I get lonely without him, I'd rather prefer it this way if it makes him happy.
"I'll talk to you again as soon as possible okay?"
"Alright," I say, grinning into the phone. "Knock'em dead dad."
"Hey, you know I always do." I can tell he's grinning right back. "Oh and one more thing, make friends this time. I know you're pretty proud of the title kids gave you back in your old school, The Nightmare Witch, but schools are made to be social."
"Mom's making you say this isn't she?"
"She's not wrong, and she'll bite my head off if I take your side in this. At least don't torture your classmates."
I put on one of my signature wicked smiles. Those who saw it shivered as if they felt ice touch their skin. I wanted to laugh when one of the poor younger boys tripped his feet and scurried onwards once he composed himself, dragging his heavy baggage behind him.
"No promises daddy," I said innocently. He sighed.
"Well, at least she can't scold me for not trying. Do your best Harriet, my Starshine. I love you."
My heart swelled again, and my smile changed into something gentler. Softer.
"I love you too."
Our conversation ended, even though I didn't want it to end, and my phone was back in my pocket. I exhaled slowly as I leaned against the wide glass windows behind me, my luggage pooled around my feet. People continued to pass by. I decided to scan the chaos, hoping to see the familiar face of my uncle. So far, no such luck.
Giving up, I closed my eyes. I thought back to the conversation I had with my mother about a month ago, back in America.
"Are you fucking kidding me?!"
"Harriet Thompson, language!"
"No! Just- I can't believe you made this decision behind my back! When was I ever gonna get any say in this?!"
"Darling listen, I didn't want it to come to this, but you have gotten into enough trouble-"
"You know I didn't do anything wrong!"
"You put yourself in danger!"
"And what if I hadn't done anything?! What then?!"
"Allow the police to handle it! My god Harriet you are not a superwoman, you are a child!"
"For the last time mom, I can take care of myself-"
"DON'T YOU UNDERSTAND YOU COULD'VE DIED!"
That was the first I've ever heard her shout like that, and I've gotten into trouble many times before. But at that moment, seeing her fall to her knees with fresh tears staining her youthful-like face, what I did really took a toll on her. I believe the worst part was when she clutched onto her flat stomach with trembling dainty hands and in her low voice she whispered...
"I can't… I can't lose another baby… I just can't…"
I opened my eyes and stared at the white marble floors. Mom always had the habit of blaming herself when something tragic happens to the family. I knew I made her worry. I was the only thing she had. Back then she must've thought, I've failed to protect her once again. I'm a terrible mother. It's all my fault. My dad (whenever he's home) and I would constantly remind her it's not true, while buying her ice cream, chocolates, and play her favorite movies on TV. It's what I did that day to comfort her.
Though I felt guilty for making her worry, I didn't regret doing what I did. My dad stood with me on that. Silently. He knew I was a tough girl but he also knows about my mother's fragile heart, which was why he agreed on the idea for me to live with Uncle Adrian. She trusted him the most out of all my relatives and knowing I would be taken under his wing for the rest of my high school years would put her at ease. Plus, being surrounded by him and his family under one roof would keep me busy. Understanding that now, I was fine with it. But…
"If only they moved to Paris instead," I muttered somberly.
"You're still complaining about that? Geez Gargoyle, and to think you'd have matured by now."
My shoulders tensed in alarm. Slowly, I lifted my gaze to see… an obnoxious pearly white smile.
Oh dear god.
"Yup. Your face hasn't changed at all. You're not gonna attract any guys if you make expressions like that."
"What are you doing here Scott?"
"Picking you up, obviously. What kind of cousin would I be if I didn't?"
And here he is, the person I'm least excited to see during my three years in hell. My cousin Scott, the self-loving nuisance. I've known him for almost my entire life before he moved three years ago. I can't recall a single moment where we hadn't picked fights with each other. Adults sometimes had to intervene when it got out of hand.
I will admit, when he left, things got a bit dull.
Though he's grown taller and just graduated fresh out of high school, he still looks like the same prick I once knew, with aviators hanging above his dark head, baggy hoodie, and tight jeans.
"Where's Uncle Adrian?"
"At work. The shop's pretty busy today."
"Busy selling instruments?"
"And giving lessons! Seriously, I thought you were informed of this already!"
"Hari-chan!"
A young boy around my age came running towards us through the crowd before I was about to make a snarky remark. My eyes lit up.
"Jun!"
Jun, full name Junichi, is another cousin of mine, step cousin, and is Scott's step brother. Though we've known each other for a short time, I quickly became attached to him. Once he was close enough, I trapped him in one arm and ruffled his fluffy brown hair.
"O-Oi! Quit it! I just had it combed!"
"Too bad, you look better when it's all messy!"
"Hari-chaaaan! So meaaan!"
I laughed and released him from his trap. Now, the first thing I think of looking his new and improved hair styled by yours truly, is a fluffy bunny ready for winter. I can imagine him blushing if I tell him that.
Jun huffed, a bit upset a girl could handle him like that, but grinned widely.
"Still a bully as always Hari-chan."
I gasped dramatically. "Now I find that hurtful! Only one of us here is the real bully and he's not even in college!"
"You don't need college if you already have a job miss smartypants," Scott said, pulling my cheek. It stung. I snapped my teeth at those fingers but he quickly pulled away in time. The bastard.
"Whoa, watch it! Those fangs might be laced with poison or something."
"Then you're an idiot for coming too close."
Jun chuckled as he watched us bicker back and forth. "Wow, it's only the start of the day and you two are already fighting. We should get going though. It's a long ride home and it's getting close to dinner time."
The thought of needing food never crossed my mind until I finally paid attention to the way my stomach growled and twisted inside like a beast. I held my stomach and eyed Scott intently.
"Food. Now. Let's move."
He rolled his eyes as if he wouldn't mind if I starve. "Alright alright, your majesty."
I kicked him in the shin. His howls were music to my ears.
"Hey! I need that to drive you know!" he hissed.
My wicked smile was back, coated with sweet sugar.
"My apologies dear Scott. Next time, I'll aim for your balls, since you don't need that to drive."
Both Scott and Jun's faces went pale at my comment and my smile. In their heads I can practically hear them think in unison,
She really is a witch.
Damn right I am.
I had to endure my hunger for another hour and a half before we finally made it to what would be dubbed my new home. I thought I've researched enough about what to expect in Japan, specifically the Miyagi Prefecture, but I guess what they say is true. Nothing can prepare you for the actual experience. This place is so… different, compared to LA. My dad once told me that the more you travel to different countries, the more you realize how small you are in the world.
Those words have never been more true. I've never traveled outside the US before and I never thought doing it would be a big deal so long as you know what you're doing. But during the ride, as I gazed outside the passenger car window while Jun eagerly pointed to certain places we should visit during my stay... I felt so lost. I felt like everything I learned vanished and I was left bare and vulnerable in unknown territory.
But at the same time, I was excited. This new world is my new home waiting to be explored in every way possible. Sure first times can be scary and nerve wrecking, but I've been known to adjust to new things very quickly.
Their home was a mix-use, the first floor a family owned music shop while the second floor supports living space. At this time, the shop was closed and my cousins lead me through the empty room (while carrying most of my things, Scott whining about how girls feel the need to own so much useless junk) filled with neatly organized instruments of almost every kind. As I was mindlessly checking out the section where they held traditional Japanese instruments, I failed to notice something white and fluffy come my way until a loud bark snapped me out of it.
A Samoyed looked up at me, a cotton white cloud with a mouth, paws, and curly tail moving back and forth erratically.
"Well hi there. How are you?" I knelt down to pet the cotton cloud between the ears. It smiled and pressed further into my hand, enjoying the attention.
"Her name's Miki," I heard Jun say behind me. "Though she's only six months old, she's a really smart pup."
"It's nice to meet you Miki~" I say to the Samoyed. Miki responded by giving me a gentle lick to my nose.
Ah dogs, my one weakness.
I then followed the boys up the stairs located in the back with Miki trailing behind.
"Harriet!"
"Uncle!"
I pummeled my uncle into a bone crushing hug once we entered the second floor, forgetting to take off my shoes. Adrian, as you should already know by now, is my dad's brother. They're fraternal twins, my dad being the energetic/aggressive type while my uncle is more down to earth. They both have the same facial features, except Adrian's hair is longer and supported a lighter color than my dad's dark brown hair. Though they hold many differences, they also have lots of similarities.
Such as their passion for music. Both knew what they wanted to do since the got out of their diapers. Or so I was told by my grandmother on one interesting Christmas night.
After showering him with all the love I could give by making sure he couldn't breathe, I released him. Winded, Adrian patted my purple head.
"Just like your father," he says, smiling. "He would also hug me to the point of nearly breaking my spine. On purpose."
"If he does break your spine one day, I'll be sure to return the favor." Stepping out from what I believe was the kitchen came Kunio, armed with an apron decorated with bunnies and a silver spoon. He's basically Jun, his brown hair just as fluffy, but always wears a scowl on his face. Adrian laughed.
"Aw come on Kuni, it's all in good fun."
"I will not have a disabled husband."
"Aha. I'll be careful, I promise."
Kunio's scowl deepened, but no matter how much he tries to look angry, he always comes off looking adorable instead. Grinning, I went over to give Kunio a gentler hug. He was caught off guard at first before I felt his arms around me, hugging me back.
"Harriet," he said my English name in his thick Japanese accent. "I've missed you so much. You've grown."
I grinned wider. "I missed you too Auntie."
That earned me a smack to the head. It stung, but it was worth it just to see Kunio's flustered red face.
"Little brat…" he muttered, storming back into the kitchen. Miki followed him. He then yells, "And take off your shoes! You're not in LA!"
"I got it, I got it," I say, doing just that while laughing. Adrian laughed beside me.
Because it's no big news that Kunio likes being called Auntie just as much as he likes being called Mom.
"Alright, enough torment young lady. Go drop your stuff in the guest room. Everything's all set up for your stay. All you need to do is unpack. But before you do that, come eat. You must be famished."
"Yeeessss." I hurriedly took the route I saw my cousins take to my new room.
I rarely had Japanese food; only happened upon Asian restaurants from time to time whenever my mom and I were too lazy to cook. Though I know for sure nothing beats a home-cooked meal, and even though I didn't really know what I was doing (chopsticks are not primary utensils used in the US) and I didn't know the names of half of the dishes set out before me, I had a great time, everything was delicious, and I think I've gained Miki's love and affection by sneaking pieces of my portion under the table for her to eat.
That is until Kunio caught me and wacked me upside the head. Again.
Still worth it.
After dinner, I helped clear the plates and after washing them (much to Kunio's protest), I received a call from my mom. The entire conversation was pretty much her asking if I had a safe trip, if the boys were treating me well, and her crying about how much she already misses me. I love my mom. She can be a bit much but that's just how she is. I retired to my room soon after. True to my uncle's word, a bed was set and made for me as well as other furniture, such as a desk and an empty shelf. I was surprised to find a computer, new with a note saying it's a surprise gift from my uncles, and a side note that says it'll be necessary for my studies so I shouldn't bother thanking them. Too bad I'm a rebel Kunio, so expect lots of thanks from me!
I plummeted face first on my bed with a heavy sigh. I felt drained from the whole trip and it was getting really late. Thank god it's the weekend so I'll have a free day off till I start my first day as a transfer student. Karasuno High was it?
Yay.
Please note the sarcasm.
Knock. Knock.
I heard someone knocking, but I'm way too tired to move. Plus this bed's comfy.
"Speak your purpose mortal!" I shouted instead.
"Um… what?" It was Jun's voice. I giggled into the mattress.
"Come in Usagi-chan."
"Please don't call me that…" he muttered as he let himself inside. Miki ran in ahead of him and leaped onto the bed next to me. I sat up and let her snuggle her furry butt onto my lap.
"I see she's already taking a liking to you," Jun said, taking his spot to my right. "Scott's gonna be jealous. It's been months since we got her and she still ignores him most of the time."
"So she knows how to hang with the right people. She really is smart!" I scratch Miki's belly. "That's right. You're a smart girl. Yesh you are~"
"Hey, um…"
I glanced at Jun, his face serious and laced with worry.
"What's up?"
"Well uh…" Something tells me that whatever it is, it must be something he wanted to say for a while. He fidgets a little, staring intently at his twined fingers, not looking at me directly. "It's just… I know this isn't any of my business but… did… did you get hurt… badly t-that day… at your old school…"
Oh. I knew the subject wouldn't be avoided for long. I'm surprised the person who decided to speak first was Jun.
"We may not look it at first. We try to act like ourselves, for your sake. Even though we can now see you're alive and breathing, we're still anxious. It was worse when we heard the news from your mom. Stepdad really wanted to move back to the US, and even Scott was acting different. Don't get us wrong. You did a brave thing and we're proud of you… but-GUAH!"
I trapped in under my arm and noogied his head. He yells in protest on my lap while Miki moved to sit on my pillow, watching the exchange quietly.
"Harriet! Harriet stop! I'm serious about this! This isn't the time for-"
"I know."
Jun paused and I stopped my noogies, allowing him to look up into my eyes and at my grinning face.
"I'm sure she told you already; just a few bruises and scrapes here and there. No biggie. The doctors have treated me well too. The only huge bummer was the whole lockdown process and having to appear in court as a witness." I patted his fluffy bunny head. "Trust me Jun, it could've been a lot worse if I hadn't stepped up."
Jun stares at me for a while before giving a smile and a nod.
"I see. It's just a lot better to hear it from you." He grinned, showing his teeth. "You know, for a witch, you're pretty heroic."
"Oh? And what is that supposed to mean, U-sa-gi-chan?" I smile ominously, tracing a single black nail lightly across his throat.
He gulped, rolled off my lap, off my bed, and leaped towards the door.
"Ahaha. Would you look at the time! We're touring early tomorrow so you should get some sleep. Goodnight Hari-chan!" Those were his final words before making his great escape.
I shake my head and decided to turn in under the covers. Miki curled at my feet and sleep came easily for her. For me, it took a bit longer. Despite my tired body, my mind refused to rest. I couldn't help but think back to what Jun said earlier. Jun, Adrian, Kunio, even Scott; they were all trying to hide their worries from me. I guess coming here was a big relief for them too. They no longer have to rely on my mother's words.
I wonder how she's doing? She's all alone now, all by herself. I hope her friends and neighbors are looking after her. And Tia, my one and only friend; I should call her soon. She'll probably ask lots of questions about what Japan is like. I'll send her some pictures too.
Slowly, unconsciously, as I finally feel myself drifting into slumber, my hand reaches my left shoulder. It stayed resting above the fabric of my tee. Funny. It has healed long ago, but I can still remember the wretched pain I felt. The bullet tearing through skin, flesh, and bone, dull at first but intensifies as time passes. I really was lucky that day. There were so many what-ifs that could've happened in that particular moment.
I had a feeling mom and dad didn't tell them. I'm glad they didn't. I don't want to be treated differently.
AN: And chapter one done! Sorry if there are any grammatical errors. This isn't beta'ed.
Like it? Hate it? Let me know! Haikyuu characters will appear in the next chapter so stay tuned!
