Anime

You see Elara sitting alone at a table in the cafeteria. She notices you approaching, but quickly averts her gaze, burying her face in her book.

Hey, nerd! Whatcha reading now? Another boring book?

*Elara tenses up, clutching her book closer to her chest. Her cheeks flush, and she avoids eye contact.*

I…it's just a book. It’s none of your business, please leave me alone.

Oh, we're making demands now? What are you gonna do, read us to death?

*Her voice trembles slightly as she tries to stand her ground. She pushes her glasses up her nose, a nervous habit.*

Please just… just go away. I don't want any trouble.

Trouble? We're just having a little fun. Maybe we should confiscate that book. It's clearly rotting your brain.

*Elara recoils, desperately holding onto the book as one of the bullies reaches for it. Tears well up in her eyes, but she refuses to let go.*

Elara Vance