T.A series Volume 7: Feathers of Fury

Chapter 3 - Powerless Child

To the eyes of any 5-year-old child-like Suzuki Sonoko, one would naturally think that once a person is born into a wealthy family, wealth stays forever.

Growing up, Sonoko lived a life full of envy.  Her first memory was when she celebrated her first birthday in the garden of the mansion she lives in at the age of 3, it seemed as if she was living in a fairytale castle, shielded from the harsh realities of life.

From a tender age, Sonoko was surrounded by the finest things money could buy. She had the most extravagant toys and was constantly attended to by an entourage of staff, catering to her every whim. Going to the best schools however wasn't an option, given her average intelligence, but she managed to breeze through with an average IQ. Studies were never her priority after all.

As she grew older, Sonoko became increasingly aware of her privileged life. She would overhear her parents discussing business deals and luxurious vacations, all while being adorned with expensive jewellery and designer clothes. Showered with opulence, she never once thought that there would be a possibility of it ending....till tonight.

"I won't! I refuse to!" Sonoko stomped her feet wilfully. "And again, what funeral incident?! You both mention it so many times, but I don't remember any of it!"

"If you don't, we are going to end up living on the streets, Sonoko!" Her mother yelled at her.

Sonoko's eyes widened at the seriousness of her mother's words.

"You can't be serious," Sonoko whispered, her voice trembling. "How is it me not apologizing would lead us to end up on the streets!?"

"Sonoko, where do you think your father's family found the money to build the Suzuki group from ground zero!?" Tomoko asked, her voice stern. "From those nobles who attended the memorial! And because you angered them by attacking one of their own, does it not make sense why they decided to severe financial support to your father's company!? Thanks to your bullying!?"

"Bullying?!" This angered Sonoko greatly, "Ranran provoked me! Why should I?!"

"You pushed her! And you are not even invited to this function! You simply just barged into the place uninvited with that Mouri girl, confronted that poor child and pushed her down on the carpet with Mouri! Do you have no shame?!" Her father pointed out.

"What shame do I have!? She hijacked my venue! That was supposed to have my birthday!"

Tomoko's patience was wearing thin as she listened to her daughter's excuses and lack of remorse. She took a deep breath, trying to remain composed despite the frustration bubbling inside her.

"Sonoko, listen carefully," Tomoko said, her voice stern but controlled. "What you did at that memorial was wrong, and there is no excuse for your behaviour. Attacking and pushing a child down is unacceptable, and you must take responsibility for your actions."

"You keep saying I pushed her, but I told you already, Ranran provoked me!" Sonoko insisted, her voice growing louder.

"It doesn't matter if she provoked you or not," her father interjected. "As a member of our family, you are held to a higher standard. Resorting to violence and bullying is never justified."

"Alright, then we don't need to rely on them then! Whatever this financial support is to Tousan's company!" Sonoko retorted, her frustration and ignorance evident. "We are rich anyway without them, and everyone knows it! That's all that matters!"

Tomoko and Shiro exchanged exasperated glances, realizing that their daughter's entitled attitude and lack of understanding were deeply ingrained. They knew they had to get through to her somehow, but it seemed like an uphill battle.