>>5450151That’s when the pair finally notice you, and… there’s a bit of a sour look on their faces. “Son Peppa.” Idasa greets, frowning.
“Hello.” Ikose attempts more neutrally.
“Hey guys! Glad you two could make it! We’ll be getting ready soon.” you attempt to greet more cheerfully. “Got some Tangergreen Coolers over there, for contestants only.” you point out the little juice bar your mom’s standing by. “…You two uh, doing okay?”
Idasa mumbles out a “I guess.” before what you said registers in his mind. “…Tangergreen?”
“Yeah. Promotion linked up with the slime dodge. They’re bringin’ back the cool Ecto Juice stuff!” you reply in the same cheerful tone.
“I loved that stuff…” he mumbles under his breath. “Eh, I mean… I guess I can try some…”
“...You sure everything’s okay?” you ask again.
“Mom’s out on parole, so. It’s better.” Ikose grunts, walking off with his brother.
Ah. Yeah. Yeeaaaahhh. That’s made the air just a bit awkward. But the drinks have given them a bridge. You finally make your way to Sibella, Phantasma, and Kokoro. The Ghouls and Hunter greet you with a good deal more positivity, and while the former two are in their usual attire, Kokoro’s in much more casual dress than before, a cream blazer and blue skirt. “Hey Peppa, good to see ya again.” Sibella greets politely.
(cont.)