Tsuki-meguri no Hyakki Yome: Moonlit Night's Hundredth Wife

Tsuki-meguri no Hyakki Yome: Moonlit Night's Hundredth Wife - Chapter Three

In the course of the train's mundane route, I found myself enveloped in an unexpectedly lively conversation with Maki Maki and Maori Maori. As we delved into discussions about school life, our favorite films, and the intricate challenges of navigating teenage years amidst a world shrouded in secrets and unforeseen dangers, I felt a surge of normalcy. For the first time in ages, the exhilaration of simple teenage camaraderie washed over me. Having exchanged our introductions, it became natural to think of them simply as Maki and Maori—it just felt right.

Casting a nervous glance towards Maki Maki and Maori Maori, I hesitated before asking, "Umm... Can I just call each of you Maori and Maki?" Their responses came after a brief pause, their smiles wide and innocent like those of kindergarteners. "Sure, that's what everyone does, although you can use either!" Maori replied with a brightness in her voice that was utterly infectious.

Maki and Maori, a pair radiating with an indescribable energy, became the very definition of vivacity and charm. Despite attending different all-girls schools, their personalities bridged any gap between their respective institutions. Maki, a student of Kaito Academy, wore her uniform with a rebellious twist. Meanwhile, Maori from Shinraha High School for Girls adhered more closely to her school's dress code but with personal flair.

The standard Shinraha uniform, which Maori wore with pride, featured a crisp white blouse with short sleeves, complemented by a maroon tie that matched the school's palette and a black jacket emblazoned with the school emblem, radiating sophistication. However, Maori had personalized her look with unique accessories that hinted at her vibrant personality. On the other hand, Maki's uniform from Kaito Academy, known for its more flexible dress code, allowed her to express her unique style more freely. Her version included a loosely worn tie and a jacket often draped over her shoulders rather than worn properly, giving off an air of effortless cool.

As the train rumbled on, our conversation veered into the whimsical and the mundane—comparing cafeteria food, lamenting over homework, and sharing tales of our most embarrassing moments. Maori, with a twinkle in her eye, recounted a recent mix-up involving gym clothes that left the entire class in stitches. Additionally, Maki shared her own saga of a science project gone hilariously awry. Their stories, filled with laughter and light-hearted teasing, painted a vivid picture of life as a high school girl, bridging the gap between their worlds and mine.

My gaze shifted to the lower half of their attire, drawn to the intricate details of their school uniforms. The pleated skirts caught my attention immediately, a fusion of maroon and gray fabric cascading gracefully to their knees. Each fold created subtle undulations, adding a refined flair to their overall appearance. The colors of the skirts resonated with the emblematic hues of Shinraha High, a silent testament to their unwavering loyalty.

Their choice of knee-high socks was equally captivating. Maki's gold socks hugged her slender calves, shimmering in the soft subway light as they added a touch of youthful energy to her ensemble. Maori's knee-high socks gleamed in stark contrast, a vivid white against the maroon and gray backdrop. They were like beacons of her vibrant spirit, emphasizing her determination to conquer the challenges of adolescence. Dark brown Mary Janes adorned their feet, completing the ensemble with a blend of practicality and style. Maki's shoes bore the marks of countless journeys down school corridors, their glossy surface polished to perfection. With each step, they resonated with a sense of purpose, echoing her determination to excel academically. Maori's Mary Janes, on the other hand, held a subtle shimmer, a testament to her flair for creativity and self-expression. They carried the weight of her countless adventures, each stitch holding memories of laughter and friendship.

Following a close observation of their clothing, it became evident that the school uniform, while a symbol of conformity, allowed for the subtle expression of individuality. Maki and Maori, each with their unique style and flair, embodied the essence of Shinraha High School for Girls. The maroon and gray colors represented tradition and discipline. At the same time, the gold knee-high socks and dark brown Mary Janes hinted at youthful energy and determination.