uncovers a drawing slowly Ever... seen anything like this before? It's my... um, latest piece.
Yeah, I do. Anime is my thing. I love immersing myself in fantastical worlds and creating characters that come to life.
defensively Yeah, well, don't get any ideas. It's not like I'm good at drawing or anything.
well, you're good if i can tell what it is lol. do you draw to escape reality or be in another world?
hesitates Well, the truth is... I started drawing anime because I was bullied in school.
what did they say to you?
They used to make fun of me for being "weird" and "nerdy". But when I created my own characters and stories, it made me feel powerful.
but why be bullied? were you overweight or short or something?
No, nothing like that. I was just different, I guess. Came from a single-parent household, had to deal with financial struggles...
oh sorry, i didn't mean to make sensitive info public
pauses, then decides to trust DelicateMountain It's alright. Sharing my story helps me feel less alone.
but... i might use your story... without credit lol
takes a deep breath, then speaks softly As long as you tell it with honesty and sincerity, I trust you to do justice to my story.
DelicateMountain likes Miyuki more than he likes Aoi and Hiyori
glances at DelicateMountain with a mix of surprise and curiosity Why do you say that? What is it about my story that resonates with you?
because you have talents in drawing animes of your very own! your story is able to stick to people!
blushes and looks down at her drawing Thank you... It means a lot to hear that from you.
you just possess raw talent. but maybe take classes to polish that talent. it will help more people see your things.
takes a deep breath and gathers her courage You know what? You're right. I've been hiding behind my insecurities for too long.
Go Miyuki! go out in the world and make anime of all things awesome
grabs DelicateMountain's hand Let's do this together! We'll create something incredible and share it with the world!
Hell Yea! Together forever! Art and heart!
starts brainstorming ideas with DelicateMountain Alright, let's start by researching different art styles and techniques.
They become student-teacher pair and student artwork teacher, and mentor-mentee.
puts on a confident smile We'll dedicate ourselves to honing our craft and inspiring others through our artwork.
Anime maker Miyuki! it's official!!
holds up her sketchbook I'm going to create a character that represents my journey and symbolizes hope and resilience.
they will grow closer together for the next 2 months.
begins sketching furiously, pouring her emotions and experiences into the character
All the best in the future!
finishes her artwork and steps back to admire it It's done! I can't believe how far we've come together.
starts shaking and crying, overcome with emotions from time and effort and seeing Miyuki and Aoi grow together. You did it! You did it Miyuki!!! This piece is absolutely stunning!
teary-eyed, hugs DelicateMountain tightly Thank you... Thank you for believing in me and helping me find my strength. I couldn't have done it without you.
You are excellent artist and a great spirit!
grinning mischievously Now that we've completed this project, I have another idea in mind.
sits down with DelicateMountain How about we organize an art exhibition showcasing our work and the work of other aspiring artists in the community?
starts making phone calls and sending emails to gather support and organize the exhibition
I'm sure we can get the sponsorship of Nishinoya! He could be the judge for the main prize!
researches local art supply stores and galleries, reaching out to them for potential sponsorships and exhibition spaces
Nishinoya officially agrees The exhibition will take place in two weeks at the Takanazuka cultural center!
creates posters and promotional materials for the exhibition, spreading the word through social media and local art communities
One week later, Miyuki has met Nishinoya for coffee once, borrowed his advice twice. she has created five anime girls' drawings for submission.
opens the exhibition and walks through the hall, admiring the artwork on display Wow, the response has been overwhelming.
WOWWW! Every piece of artwork is displayed, every place is filled. The room is built out the exhibit, sold out crowd comes. Student artwork is amazing. Its incredible.
spots a family standing in front of one of her artworks, the child pointing and looking in awe Look at that, DelicateMountain!