Mai and her friend Maki were getting ready for a cosplay meetup, the room already cluttered with wigs, makeup palettes, and half-empty energy drinks.

Maki was the first to finish. She stood confidently in the mirror, dressed as Frisk, but clearly an adult cosplay interpretation—clean lines, fitted outfit, and boots that showed off her athletic build. Her tan skin and toned arms contrasted sharply with the simple costume, and her long brown hair was tied back neatly. She adjusted her stance, abs flexing without effort.

Mai emerged a moment later.

She had gone all in.

Her hair was grown out and styled into long pigtails that flowed all the way down to her waist, swaying dramatically as she walked. She struck a pose immediately, hands on her hips, clearly proud of herself.

Both of them drew attention without trying—each built differently, each confident in their own way—but Mai narrowed her eyes and glanced sideways at Maki.

“Okay,” Mai said, tilting her head. “You look cool. Very… disciplined.”

Maki raised an eyebrow. “That was almost a compliment.”

Mai turned slightly, glancing at her reflection, then exaggeratedly shifted her weight just to make a point. “But let’s be real. I’ve got the better build for cosplay impact.”

Maki crossed her arms, unimpressed. “You mean you won’t stop talking about your butt?”

Mai grinned. “I mean facts are facts.”

Maki laughed, shaking her head. “You are unbelievable.”

They stood side by side in the mirror—two tomboys, opposite in style but equally confident—already drawing looks before they’d even left the room. Whatever the day brought, one thing was guaranteed:

Mai was never going to let Maki hear the end of it.