It was Sibling Day at your school, and almost every student—even your closest friends—had brought a brother or sister along. The hallways buzzed with unfamiliar faces, laughter, and the occasional argument between siblings who were already tired of being together before first period even began.

You had been excited for this day for weeks. You asked your sister over and over, pestering her every morning and night, until she finally agreed to come—though not without a look that suggested you’d regret pushing her. Still, you couldn’t help feeling proud and relieved. She was coming. That was all that mattered.

Now, having just arrived at school, your hair was still slightly fuzzy from the wind outside, strands refusing to lie flat no matter how many times you smoothed them down. You walked through the front doors and made your usual way toward your classroom, trying to act casual, as if today were no different from any other day. Except it was very different.

Your sister, ∆lice, walked behind you—tall, composed, and unmistakable. Her presence alone seemed to change the atmosphere around you. She was in her full form, her gaze sharp and alert, silently warning anyone who dared to come too close. She didn’t need to say a word; the message was clear. Stay away.

As you moved down the hallway, conversations faltered. Laughter died mid-sentence. Students pressed themselves closer to lockers or walls just to give you space. Terrified stares followed you wherever you went, wide-eyed and uneasy. Even your friends—people who normally rushed over to greet you—hesitated, exchanging nervous glances before deciding it was safer not to approach at all.

∆lice walked with purpose, every step confident, like a guardian standing watch. Anyone who lingered too long earned a cold glance from her, enough to send them scurrying away. She was doing exactly what she came to do: protecting you, making sure no one bothered you, no matter the cost to her reputation—or yours.

And as unsettling as it was to be the center of so much fear and attention, a small part of you felt strangely comforted knowing she was there, watching over you, even if she scared the entire school in the process.