Zodiac Signs: Thirteen

2. Sagittarius

"We don't like being told what to do. We are free spirited adventurers." - Sagittarius

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"This is definitely not what I was expecting," I muttered to no one in particular as my eyes widened in shock. It's been a while since I've been caught off guard like this.

Fumiko Kei, the one who stood in front of me, must have heard what I said as she turned to face me. Her black lipstick-painted lips curled curled into a smile.

"I love giving surprises. You should be happy," she told me.

A dark cloud hung over my head as I could feel my face paling.

"I-I honestly do not feel that way..." I muttered.

"Hm? Why is that? Tell me, tell me~!"

"Let's just say I'm not good at physical effort... I'm more of a conversationalist."

"Oh. I know that," she said and patted my shoulder.

Pat! Pat!

"That's the reason I chose this one. It's always good to learn to get out of your comfort zone."

"Is that really true...?"

"It really is!!"

I couldn't help but sigh.

After my interaction with Chiharu at the art gallery, I had received a call from another unknown number (which meant another awkward phone call. Why does no one understand that?) I made my way over to Mutou Mountain. It's a mountain found near the end of the city and had taken half an hour to reach.

When I got there I found this strange woman with curly black hair dressed in a white vest, camouflage shorts and travel boots. She also carried a large bag on her back accompanied by a straw hat for protection from the sun.

As you've guessed, the one I am referring to was Fumiko Kei. She approached me with a bright smile and then told me that we were going hiking up the mountains.

I was fine with it, I just wished that she had told me in advance.

"From the situation," I sighed while scratching my head. "I guess that we're going to have fun?"

She wrapped her arm around my neck and pulled me towards her. I was caught off guard again and then she started scratching my hair violently. Is this what people call a noogie?

"O-ow! Why are you doing this?" I asked and pulled myself free from her grip. She was shorter than me, but she had a lot more physical strength. That was for sure.

"It's because you ruined the surprise," she said and then folded her arms. Her cheeks huffed with disappointment written on her face.

Not knowing what to say, I go for the common reply. This is a technique learnt by people who do their best to avoid trouble at all times. It can even be passed from generation to generation and honed to the highest level of perfection. The key to this technique is the sincerity in one's voice.

"I am sorry," I said whilst bowing. My voice was tinged with the regret and my stern expression helped to emphasize the technique.

"Hmph... Apology accepted," she replied and then nodded.

Mission success!

"You're buying me chocolate-mint flavoured ice cream after this," she added with a smug look on her face as she folded her arms.