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Chapter Text

The rain poured down on the old school building. Maya walked up the stairs, her hair and robe wet from the storm outside. She was still wearing her training clothes, but she had brought her essentials that she would need at the Von Karma academy: her black leotard, her ballet shoes, extra training robes and her Steel Samurai pajamas. Everything else she could get there, she thought. Her sister had told her that the school had a store that she could buy important supplies from.

I hope you were right, Sis, she thought sadly. If you were still here, we would be walking up these stairs together. Maya's older sister, the famous ballerina Mia Fey, had died a few months ago in what everyone thought was a suicide. Maya never believed that: Mia wouldn’t have killed herself, but nobody would listen to her. Mia's death had left Maya with only her aunt and cousin to live with. Maya had applied for the prestigious ballet school that her sister had gone to, in hopes of escaping life with Aunt Morgan. Aunt Morgan had disliked her younger sister, Maya's mother, and projected the same dislike onto Maya. She had been very surprised when the school had accepted her, but seemed content that Maya would be gone.

Maya pondered what she could do about her situation as she moved up to the fourth floor. She stopped by a door marked with the words “Admissions,” and knocked on it softly. “Come in,” said a woman’s voice. Maya turned the knob, and walked into the office. It was tidy, the desk covered in neat stacks of paperwork and books. The lady at the desk had long brown hair, not unlike Maya’s older sister’s, and a face that was stern but kind. Her eyebrows furrowed at the sight of Maya’s rain-soaked hair and robe. “Ah, Miss Fey. Our new arrival.”

Maya nodded. “Y-yeah, that’s me. Maya Fey. You have the paperwork that my aunt sent you, right?”

“Yes. It arrived two days ago by mail. I am Lana Skye, the head of admissions at the school. I knew your sister, if I am not mistaken. Mia Fey?” Maya bit her lip. The memory of her sister’s death was still fresh in her mind. “Yes. I assume you know what happened to her, Ms. Skye...?”

Skye’s face darkened. “I do. It was tragic, her death. I’m sorry for your loss.” Maya closed her eyes, not responding. She didn’t know how to react to that statement, even though she had heard it countless times, and she had always thought it was a strange one to say to someone.

“Mia Fey was one of our best dancers, Miss Fey. Are you sure that you can live up to what she’s been able to do?” Lana Skye looked down at Maya. She was very tall, Maya thought, and her intimidating office didn’t help Maya’s nervousness.

“Y-yes, Ms. Skye.” Maya swallowed. “I want to continue my sister’s legacy. Even if she’s gone, I want to hold up our name in the ballet world. I might not be as great as she was, but I want to try.”

Lana closed her eyes, turning her head towards the window. “Miss Fey, you do know that for the head of the school, trying will not be good enough. He will only accept the best performances from you. Are you prepared for that?” Maya nodded, biting her lip once again. What kind of head of the school is like that? Surely he knows that you have to try before you can succeed?

Lana Skye turned back to Maya, snapped out of what seemed to be a daze. "All right, your papers are in order and I have your dorm assignment ready. It seems that because we've run out of room and you're such a late arrival, you'll be rooming with... someone who would not normally share her room. However, she has grudgingly agreed to let you stay with her." Lana gave her a key. "Dorm A, fourth floor, room 401. You can't miss it." Maya nodded in thanks, and stood up to leave. She was almost out the door when Lana called back to her.

"Maya. A word of advice." Maya turned around, looking back at a grim-faced Lana. "Tread lightly around your roommate. She is a force to be reckoned with by herself, and you don't want to get her father involved either. Watch out for her whip." Whip? What kind of roommate do I have, anyway? Maya wondered as she left Lana Skye's office. Is she some kind of warrior princess? Maya hoped that she could stay on the girl’s good side, whoever she was.

Outside, it was regrettably still raining. Maya’s already soaked robes were now getting another douse in the cold rainwater. Maya didn’t mind the cold or rain, she was used to this from training, but she highly doubted that her new roomie would be fond of water all over the floor. Her black wooden sandals were becoming slippery from walking through puddles, and with a small shriek, she lost her balance and fell face-first onto the sidewalk. She caught herself, but she didn't escape without injury. Her palms and knees were stinging, the oddly nostalgic feeling bringing back memories of her days with Mia in Kurain Village. Sitting up, she brushed the gravel off her robe and sash as she slowly regained her bearings.

"Well hello, Maya Fey," said a voice from above Maya. She looked up to see what was possibly the most flawless person she had ever seen. The girl above her had short bluish-silver hair, a tall, slim but muscular figure, and a beautifully structured face. She was wearing a black vest, with a cloud-like white bow blouse underneath. In her hand, she carried a long, leather whip. She turned her head to the side in annoyance, rolling her eyes. "You've fallen, I see. I hope this does not indicate our future dance rehearsals with you."

Maya's eyes were still wide, as she shook off the shock of the girl's appearance. "H-huh? Sorry, I, uh, didn't hear you."

The girl flicked her whip impatiently. "I said, I hope you are not as much as a clumsy oaf when you are dancing with our company. You are the younger sister of Mia Fey, after all. She was one of our greatest dancers. Of course, she could not best me or my little brother. But she was very good, and I shall hold you to the same standard."

Great, first Skye and now her. At least Lana wasn't as scary as she is. Maya stood up, blushing a deep red. "Ah, s-sorry. My shoes were slippery from the rain. This won't happen again." As she nodded, the girl's cold gaze seemed to become even frostier. "I should need no introduction, but since you don't recognize me, I will have to make one. I am Franziska Von Karma, ballet prodigy and daughter of the head of the Von Karma Ballet Academy. I believe we are to be roommates, which makes me worry a bit."

Roommates? Oh geez. She’s scarier than Aunt Morgan ever was… Maya shook Franziska’s hand, nervously. Franziska looked slightly annoyed, but accepted the handshake nonetheless. “Maya Fey, you must put your things away in our dorm room. I expect you to help keep it neat.”

“Uh, right, Miss Franziska. I’ll see you later.” Maya was slightly afraid of ballet life with Franziska Von Karma by her side. She remembered Mia’s stories about this girl now: she had gone to the school her entire life and joined the performance company at the mere age of 13. Maya had met her father, the head of the ballet school and dance company a few years ago one of Mia’s performances. He was a wicked-looking man, with an evil smile and a thirst for perfection. Mia didn’t receive much praise from him, and the male lead, Miles as Maya recalled, didn’t get any at all. She remembered Von Karma’s words as clearly as she remembered her sister: “Miles Edgeworth. Those missed steps… I’m disappointed. This will have consequences.” Miles had shuddered, and then abruptly left. Maya had been stunned at what little was given to them for their efforts, but Mia had assured her that that was just how Manfred Von Karma was. His name had sent chills down Maya’s spine ever since. He wasn’t a man you would want to mess with.

Sighing, she continued toward the dorm with a storm of questions on her mind and a rain of emotion in her heart. All she could do was wait to see how everything would play out at the Von Karma Academy of Ballet.

Chapter Text

Maya didn't have anything to eat, and she was dying for a burger. She hadn't brought any money, and she didn't know where she could get food. She made a note to ask Franziska when she came back. For the time being, she changed into her extra pair of training robes and began to meditate. Meditation was something that Maya did daily, as a part of her training. She wanted to keep her spiritual power going even when she was at ballet school, so she had set a goal to practice as much as possible. Maya's spirit channeling was an important part of who she was. She couldn't leave it behind, because she was to be the Master of the technique someday. She couldn't refuse: she was the last daughter of Misty Fey, the former Master. The only thing that could stop her from becoming the Master now was death or exile. She had no choice in the matter, only the wishes of her village elders and the memory of her mother.

She could feel her Magatama getting colder as she got closer to the spirit world. She was calling to a familiar face: her older sister Mia. Since she hadn't been dead for long and Maya knew her well, she would be the easiest spirit for Maya to channel by far. Maya had channeled successfully only once before, but here at the ballet school, she felt like Mia was easier to call out to. When Mia answered, her consciousness slipped away, piece by piece. Mia would be able to help her out and give her advice, but she would have to write it down or talk to someone else. Maya didn't care: Mia could help.

XXX

Franziska walked back to her dorm, shaking her head. The foolish Maya Fey would be a piece of work to handle if she wanted to achieve perfection. She had never missed a step before, but she worried Maya Fey would put that perfect record in danger. She could not end up like her little brother, who faltered in his performance with Mia Fey and stumbled in those with Phoenix Wright. The spiky-haired man had been expelled from their dance company for using unfair means to dance well. Franziska was happy about that: she and her little brother could dance in peace.

She found the dorm room dark, with Maya Fey's silhouette sitting on her bed. This struck Franziska as odd, for why would Maya Fey be just sitting with the lights off? She flipped the light switch in the corner, and let out a small gasp. "Maya Fey. Why are you dressed as your sister?" she asked, narrowing her eyes. Mia Fey had killed herself almost a year ago, so why was she here instead of Maya Fey?

"Ah, Franziska Von Karma. Nice to see you again, it's been too long." Maya-Mia Fey smiled mysteriously. "So, since Maya's spiritual power is running out, I'll cut to the chase. My death wasn't a suicide, as Maya will tell you. However, she lacks evidence to prove her claim, and I will need to provide some. Tell her, when she wakes up, that my journal is kept safely with Lana Skye. The evidence you need should be in there."

Franziska couldn't believe her eyes. "Maya Fey, stop this ridiculous charade! I will not have it!" She whipped Maya-Mia Fey, to illustrate her point. "Foolish fool, you cannot bring back the dead." The smile returned again, wider and even more mysterious. "Ah, but that's not really true, Franzie," the girl said. "And for you, I suggest you research the Kurain Channeling Technique. Now, Maya's powers have depleted. Remember my journal, Franziska. Goodbye."

Franzie. The nickname Mia Fey would call her in passing when they saw each other in rehearsal. Franziska hated nicknames, and she had a strong dislike for the woman, but she had not done anything to Franziska. She looked back at Maya Fey now, who was lying on her back. "Hey Franziska," she said between breaths. Her voice was thin, and she looked like someone had sucked the life out of her. "Ugh... did Mia tell you anything important?"

"You should know, you told me. Your foolish disguises cannot fool me. I know that Mia Fey died. Do not play games with me."

"No, really, Franziska." Maya closed her eyes. "It's a real thing... Mia has to have told you something."

"Well, I'll repeat what you said to me if you will stop talking about it. You told me that Mia's death was a suicide, and that you had to get her journal from Lana Skye. Apparently, I must look up the 'Kurain Channeling Technique', and then your disguise as your sister vanished. I know you wish to uphold your foolish belief about Mia Fey's death, but I can assure you, it was her doing and hers alone. Your foolish fake ability doesn't fool me, Maya Fey. Grow up, we are the same age."

Maya was silent. Franziska realized that she must have struck something in Maya’s heart. She stood up quickly, and walked to the bathroom to get the robed girl some water from the sink. You have made a mistake, Franziska Von Karma, you foolish fool! Maya Fey will surely dislike you greatly for the pain you have caused her. The sound of the tap water was rushing and loud, to the point where Franziska couldn't stand it any longer. She shut off the tap, and walked back to Maya Fey. “Here, drink some. You look… quite drained.”

Sitting up, Maya accepted the glass from Franziska. “Thanks, I guess.” Her face was downcast and gloomy, and she wouldn’t meet Franziska’s eyes. After drinking a few sips, she sighed. “Franziska…”

“What is it, Maya Fey?” Maya’s voice was still thin and sad, it was that of someone who had given up and was waiting for their time to end. “Do you really think that it’s fake? I mean,” Maya paused. “The Kurain Channeling Technique?” Oh hell. I’ve done it again, caused someone pain because of something I’ve said. Franziska paused, considering what to do. To tell the truth, she did not believe in this foolish idea of bringing spirits back from the other world, but Maya Fey’s face showed that if she were to say yes, it would only make her more upset and distrustful of Franziska.

Franziska shook her head. "I-- I do not know. I need proof, but I reacted partly on instinct as I was frightened of seeing Mia Fey, alive and well. I apologize for my harsh words, Maya Fey."

Maya smiled slightly, looking back at Franziska. "Thank you, Franziska. I can get why you'd be afraid of seeing my Sis come back to life. It is kinda... weird, and it would totally scare me if I didn't know what was going on. I forgive you, and I wanna start off on the right foot with you."

Franziska returned the small smile, and she walked over to her own bed. "I will help you solve the case of your sister's death, Maya Fey. Do not worry. I am perfect, and that means I will find the guilty party."

"Really?" Maya was shocked. "You'd do that for me? Oh my gosh, Franzie, thank you!" She hugged Franziska, who grudgingly accepted the hug from Maya. “We have to find her journal, and get it from Lana. Something tells me that Lana isn’t going to give it up so easily. When she mentioned my sister, she got this look… I could tell Mia meant a lot to her.”

Franziska nodded in agreement. She, too, had noticed Lana Skye and Mia Fey’s closeness, even when she was a little girl. Franziska used to look up to Lana, until she had stumbled and missed several steps in a performance. The audience didn’t notice, of course, but Franziska and the other dancers did. So did Franziska’s father. Manfred Von Karma had punished Lana for her mistakes, Franziska knew that. There was a reason that Skye no longer wanted to dance.

XXX

As night fell on the girls, Maya changed into her pajamas. The shirt, merchandise from her favorite TV show, was very soft and comfortable. It was black, with red lettering that read “The Steel Samurai” and a print of the character. Even thought the show was cancelled recently because of the untimely death of one of the actors, Maya still loved to watch it.

Maya saw Franziska walk out of the bathroom after brushing her teeth. She was wearing a short, lacy nightgown that draped over her thin figure. Upon seeing Maya, she made a small gasp and stared at Maya’s pajamas. “Maya Fey, I have a question for you.” The dancer looked unsettled and wary of Maya, eyeing her shirt with disdain. “What are those foolish clothes that you wear to sleep?”

Maya furrowed her brow, confused. She thought everyone had heard of the Steel Samurai. “They’re my pajamas…? They’re based on my favorite TV show, The Steel Samurai. It got cancelled a little while ago, but I still like it a lot.”

Franziska sighed. “You are much more of a fool than I took you for. I hope you will not make me like my little brother. I know that he enjoys that program as well.”

“Your little brother? I only thought you had an older brother, Miles. What’s your little brother’s name?”

“Ah, I see that you have much to learn, Maya Fey. Miles Edgeworth is my adopted brother, and became a Von Karma two years after I was born. Even though he is eight years my senior, I bore the name before he did. That is why he is my little brother.” Maya turned the thought over in her head. She didn’t understand Franziska’s reasoning, but she also didn’t want to question it. She already thought of Maya as a fool, and doubting Franziska would only make her look even more foolish.

“Maya Fey, it is late,” said Franziska as she sat down on her bed, brushing her short silver hair. "We must go to sleep."

Maya looked at the clock on Franziska’s side table. “What? It’s only 9:30, Franzy. We’ve got like, at least two more hours before we have to go to sleep.”

Franziska shook her head. “Class starts at seven-thirty in the morning. If we are to make it on time to breakfast, we must wake at six at the latest. If you are tired in rehearsal, you will almost surely make mistakes. My father will not take kindly to that, Maya Fey.”

Maya rolled her eyes. “Okay, okay. Jeez, your dad is like, the fun police. Let’s go to bed.” Maya climbed into bed, and Franziska turned out the light. “Goodnight, Maya Fey,” said the girl’s voice from the other side of their room. “Sleep well.”

“You too, Franzie," said Maya. "Goodnight.”

Chapter Text

Maya awoke to the harsh beeping of an alarm clock, much earlier than she had expected to. As she opened her sleep-filled eyes, she remembered where she was: dance school. Right. Franziska had said that they would have to get up early for rehearsal. Looking around, she saw Franziska already out of bed and brushing her hair. "What are you doing, you lazy fool?" Franziska turned around, looking sharply at Maya. "Get up! We must not be late!"

Maya blinked, stretching like a cat. "Okay, okay. I'll get ready." Maya went into the bathroom, splashing her face with water and stealing some of Franziska's mouthwash. She needed to buy a toothbrush at the school's store, as she had forgotten hers. Using her purple hair ribbon, Maya managed to tie back her mane of black hair into a bun. She smiled in the mirror at her reflection, and went back out to Franziska.

"Ah, you've managed to tame your hair, Maya Fey. Excellent. Put on your leotard, and wear your silly... whatever those purple robes are, over it. Bring your shoes."

Well aren't we bossy, Franziska, Maya thought to herself. Her simple black leotard looked terrible and unprofessional, and her worn shoes were like wilted flowers next to Franziska's pair of beautiful pink roses. She put on her Magatama necklace, the translucent orange stone calming Maya's nerves. She would touch her Magatama when she was scared or upset: it reminded her of her days with her mother and Mia and when everything was all right.

“You’re ready. Let’s leave.” Franziska had on what she was wearing yesterday, along with a small, light sweater. “You've got a big day coming. You will want breakfast.”

Down in the school’s little cafe, Maya was astonished when Franziska bought breakfast for both of them. “I remembered that you do not have money,” she said to Maya as they sat down at a round wooden table. “My father will pay for my meals anyway. You need not worry.”

“Gosh, Franzie, thank you…” Maya was still slightly shocked. She didn't think her roommate thought that much of her, in fact from what the two had experienced, she had assumed that Franziska disliked her. The breakfast of a sizable blueberry muffin, slices of orange and black coffee wasn't what Maya was used to, but she enjoyed it nonetheless. Maya loved food, no matter what kind of food it was.

The two sat in silence, sipping their coffee. Franziska seemed lost in thought, in a world of her own. Maya smiled at her, and after a few moments, she noticed. She returned the smile, in a very un-Franziska-like way. Picking up their leftover dishes, Maya took them over to the bus trays. The clinking of the china plates against each other brought Maya an odd sort of peace, a familiar sound in an unfamiliar world. Franziska was standing up to leave, and Maya followed her. “Dance studio number one,” she said briskly. “We will see your true skill there.”

Walking in the morning mist, Maya clutched her Magatama. She was very afraid, the pressure of her sister’s greatness pushing down on her. “F-franziska?” she asked. “Will your dad be overseeing me in class and rehearsal?”

Franziska sighed. “Yes. He teaches classes, although occasionally they are taught by Mr. Blaise Debeste, who is similar to him. Of course it is important for him to see the company rehearsals. You must do ten times your best for him, Maya Fey. Do not let your fear impact your performance. I know you are a Fey, and I know your family have always been great dancers.”

Yeah, thanks. No pressure at all, Maya, just live up to your mom and your sister. That really helps me when I feel sick from fear. Maya looked down, biting her lip and considering her options. She could injure herself, perhaps, getting her out of this first day…

“Maya Fey!” Franziska shouted, breaking Maya out of her trance. “You must face your fear of my father, I know he is a ruthless man, but you must think of your goal. You must think of your sister!”

Franziska’s words rang in Maya’s ears. She was frozen for a moment: thinking back on her life with her sister, of her aunt and how her little cousin Pearly looked up to her for going to school. Then, she looked at Franziska, her eyes shining with hope. “You're right, Franzie. I've gotta do this. My sis and Pearly don't care what Von Karma thinks, they only care that I did my best. I'm doing this for them, after all.”

Franziska shook her head, and put her hand lightly on Maya’s shoulder. “You must try to achieve perfection, however, if you do not, do not be discouraged. I believe in your skill as a Fey. You may disappoint me, and you may disappoint my father. But I shall forgive you, and I shall see your skill improve. I am not as harsh as my father, even I seem to be.”

Maya smiled. “Thanks, Franziska. You really helped. I'm gonna do the very best I can, even if Von Karma hates the way I dance and pose and do everything. I've got this.”

The two girls kept walking, and Maya could see a tiny smile and a slight pink hue on Franziska’s face. Was she blushing because of Maya? Maya couldn't help but grin at the thought. She didn't know why this would embarrass Franziska, but a flustered Franziska was quite possibly the cutest thing she had ever seen. Well, the cutest thing besides little Pearly. Not a lot of things could beat Pearl Fey at her cuteness.

Arriving at the studio, Maya glimpsed the familiar faces that she knew from seeing Mia dance before. The only person she knew by name was Miles, but there were definitely other faces that she recognized from Mia’s previous performances. Franziska motioned for her to come with her, and they tied on their shoes in a room off to the side, putting their normal clothes into small cubbies on the wall. Franziska looked seriously at Maya. “Do not worry. You have prepared for this.”

Maya nodded. “You're right. I'm a Fey, I'm a dancer. I can do this.”

The two of them walked back into the main room, with eyes slowly turning to Franziska. She shook her head. “Why are you looking at me? I am not my father, I am not a teacher. Do not think me higher than he is!”

Mumbles of “sorry” and “apologies” echoed through the room, as the humbled dancers went back to warming up. Maya began to stretch, rolling her shoulders and doing the exercises that Mia had shown her back when they were little. Franziska nodded in approval at Maya, and Maya smiled. Maya always felt natural and at home in a dance environment. She wasn't sure why, but the mirrored room and wooden floors gave her a feeling of peace.

The door to the studio opened, and Franziska, along with all the other dancers, stood up ramrod-straight. Maya looked around, and then saw the person who had walked through the door. Manfred Von Karma himself, their instructor and overseer, was here. He was older-looking, but still had an aura of power and fear. He was dressed in an elaborate overcoat, with a cravat tied with a jewel. Maya hastily straightened up, her face flushing red. Manfred scowled at her, and addressed the entire room.

“Dancers. Class has begun, you will follow my instructions. That should be clear to most of you, however,” his piercing gaze and evil smile fell on Maya. “It seems someone did not know that. What is your name?”

“M-maya Fey,” she stuttered. “I'm Maya Fey.”

The smile grew, and Maya began to quake. “Maya Fey, indeed. I assume you are related to one Miss Mia Fey?”

“Y-yes, Mia’s–” she stopped herself, her words catching in her throat. “Mia was my sister.”

“I see.” Von Karma looked as if he was lost in thought for a fleeting moment, then turned back to Maya with his ever-returning grin. “And you have come to disrespect me on your first day of class?”

Maya let out a little gasp, terrified by the silver-haired man. “N-no, Mr. Von Karma, I just didn't know that–”

“Silence!” He snapped his fingers, causing almost half of the other the dancers to jump. “You will stand when I arrive in the dance studio, Miss Fey, and you will address me as ‘sir’, do I make myself clear?”

Maya looked at the floor. So much for starting off on the right foot. “Yes, sir,” she mumbled. “I apologize.”

“Bah!” He snapped his fingers again, evidently unsatisfied by Maya’s response. “Miss Fey, you will look at me we are speaking, and you will not mumble. Do it again.”

Holding her head up, Maya could feel tears burning in her eyes. She blinked them back, not going to give Von Karma his victory. “I apologize for my disrespect, sir,” she repeated. “It will not happen again.”

He nodded at her, and turned back to the group. “Class will begin shortly. Please inform Miss Fey of our other rules, as I do not wish her to be ignorant of our customs at the academy. That is all.”

With that, he walked out of the studio, the click of the door behind him taking a weight off of Maya’s chest. Phew, she thought. I could barely breathe. Poor Franziska, poor Miles… they have to live with that.

At least I'm not them, she thought, and she went back to warming up for class.

Chapter Text

When Franziska left the dance studio, she was nearly in tears. She had made another mistake, not telling Maya Fey the rules of her father’s dance school. She wished she could do the day over, so Maya wouldn't have had to face Franziska’s father’s harshness.

Franziska often loved her father, but sometimes, she did not. Her father could hurt many people, and she knew that he had before. She and her little brother were no exception to this, and that was the reason that they had to be perfect in every way. If they were not, they would face the wrath of Manfred Von Karma.

Franziska walked back to her dorm, biting her lip. A Von Karma never showed weakness, even if they were in great pain. Unlocking the door and walking in, she fell onto her bed. She pulled her journal of letters, something she kept secret from even her father and her little brother, and began to write.

Elise,

I have made a terrible mistake. My new roommate will suffer the wrath of our father, and it is my fault for being such a fool. I have grown attached to her, even though it has been only a day and a half that we have known each other. She is sweet, even though she is a fool, and I wish to rectify my mistakes. I have promised to help her find jusitce for her sister, who died nearly a year ago. Many believe it was a suicide, but she doesn’t think so.

I am fortunate that even though you are no longer considered my sister, you are still alive. Maya, for that is her name, is the younger sister of Mia Fey. She misses her greatly. I suppose I miss you too, Elise. You helped Miles and I through so much.

Say hello to Fraya and Alice for me. I wish you the best.

Franziska Von Karma.

Franziska’s journal consisted mostly of letters to Elise, although there were some for Victoire Dupont, Franziska’s late mother. Franziska did not remember much of Victoire, only her smile and her laugh and her beautiful yellow curls. Franziska had not inherited any of her mother’s appearance, however, Elise was almost a spitting image of her. There was only one difference: Elise’s curly hair, like the rest of their family, were bluish-silvery, the mark of a Von Karma. Elise had been stripped of the Von Karma honor almost ten years ago, when she ran off with a man and wound up with a child. Elise had always been rebellious, but that was the last straw for Manfred Von Karma. He threw her out of the Academy, and out of their family. Franziska hadn’t seen her since, but they stayed in touch through letters. Elise had named her daughter Fraya, after Franziska and Elise’s best friend Alaya. The older woman was now an amateur opera singer, as well as a defense attorney. Fraya, her daughter, was eight years old, although Franziska had never met the young child. She wished she could, but her father forbade any association with Elise and Fraya. She would absolutely be shunned if he were to find out.

XXX

“Fran? Are you okay?” Maya had opened the door to their room to find Franziska facedown on her bed, not moving.

“I am fine, Maya Fey. Do not test me.” Franziska’s words were like an ice-cold knife, cutting through Maya’s soft voice.

“I was wondering if we could go see Ms. Skye, to ask her about my sister.”

Franziska sat up, the blue journal hidden behind her back. “Ah yes. Mia Fey’s journal. It will not be easy to get it from Lana Skye, but we must try our best.”

“All right. How long is it until rehearsal starts back up again?”

Franziska checked her watch, hidden under her puffy white sleeve. “We have thirty minutes, perhaps less. We must move quickly.”

When they reached Lana’s office, she was surprised to see the two girls. Her face almost held a look of nostalgia seeing them together, but she motioned for them to sit down nonetheless. “Miss Von Karma, Miss Fey, what brings you here today?”

Maya looked at Franziska nervously, but pressed on. “Uh, we were wondering about my sister--”

Lana cut her off almost immediately. “Your sister was nothing more than a colleague to me, Maya. Perhaps a friend, but not a very close one. If you are wondering about her personal life, I should advise you to seek out a man by the name of Diego Armando. He should know about your sister, although I fear he may not be in the best condition to talk to you.”

Maya could hear the clanking of chains almost immediately as her Magatama started to glow. Five red locks, intimidating and fierce, were over Lana Skye’s heart. “All right, Lana… we’ll do just that, but we might come back. Is that okay?”

The corners of Lana’s lips turned up, not exactly into a smile but not a bad expression either. “That’s perfectly all right, Miss Fey, Miss Von Karma. I’ll see you soon.”

Franziska was looking at Maya with an expression of disbelief the entire way back to the studio. “Maya Fey, why did you give up so easily? Surely you must be determined to bring your sister’s fate to light!”

Maya shook her head. “I can tell that Lana’s hiding something. Here, take this. I’ll charge it for you later.”

Maya produced a green jewel that looked very similar to the one she wore around her neck. “It can show you when people are hiding something. If they’ve got one lock, they don’t want to protect the secret very much. If they’ve got a lot, it means that they REALLY want to hide it. Lana’s got those locks on her heart. She’s hiding what she knows about Mia from us.”

Franziska nodded, her brow furrowing. “I do not fully understand, but I will go along with you. How many of these ‘Psyche-locks’ did Lana Skye have?”

Maya sighed. “Five, the largest amount that can appear. Lana really wants to keep this a secret, and it’s gonna take us a while to get to my sis’s journal.”

“That is regrettable. So, what must we do to unlock these locks? What kind of metaphorical ‘key’ do we need?” Franziska was becoming more and more curious about Maya’s spirituality by the minute, even though they had only known each other for a day.

“We need to show her something that proves she knew Mia more than she said she did. I think our best bet is to go out tonight and try to find this Armando guy.”

XXX

“Okay, Fran, we’re gonna ask Mia for help again,” said Maya. The two girls sat in their room. It was eight o’clock now, rehearsal and classes were over, and they had already eaten dinner and dessert. “We can’t find Armando anywhere on the Internet, so we have to get my sis to tell us about him.”

Franziska nodded. “I will remember what she tells me, to the best of my ability.”

Watching a channeling was an experience for Franziska. Maya had her back turned, so Franziska couldn’t witness everything, but she was still amazed by the faint golden glow that surrounded the medium. Maya seemed to be in a deep trance, and Franziska’s mouth hung open as Mia Fey turned back around to face her.

“Ah, Franzie. I’m back. So, what does Maya want to know about? Fire away.” Mia Fey’s face was kind, a little smile on her lips. Franziska regretted not being nicer to her while she was alive.

“Well, Lana Skye will not tell us about you, she is hiding something. She told us to seek out Diego Armando. We cannot find his whereabouts, would you know where he is?” Franziska absentmindedly cracked her whip on the floor.

Mia’s face fell. “Diego isn’t dead, but I’m not sure he’s alive either. He hasn’t come over to the spirit world, but I’ve felt him close a few times. As far as I know, he’s at the DeCosta General Hospital in downtown, in the coma ward. I used to visit him all the time, so if Maya mentions she’s a Fey, they’ll probably let you in. But Franzie…” she trailed off, a serious look on her face.

“What is it, Mia Fey?” Franziska tapped her fingers on her knees, waiting for Mia’s answer.

“If he’s alive and awake, you have to lie to him. You have to tell him I’m alive and well. I can’t go, because he knows enough about spirit channeling that he’ll recognize Maya channeling me. If he finds out I’m gone… it won’t be pretty. He can be really… self-destructive. I wish I could tell you everything myself, but Lana won’t believe you if you say that you channeled me. She no longer believes in it because of that… incident. She won’t trust you if you mention it, even if I meet with her face to face.”

Franziska nodded. “I see. You must leave Maya soon, Mia Fey. But before you go…”

“Is there something I should know, Franzie?” Mia asked. “Fire away.”

“I am sorry I was not kind to you. I am truly a fool. Meeting your sister… I am just so sorry.”

Mia smiled. “Franzie, it’s okay. I don’t blame you for anything. Rest easy, little one, and help Maya with all you can. She needs it.”

Franziska closed her eyes. “I understand, and I will stay by Maya’s side. Thank you.”

“What? What does that mean, Fran?” Maya was sitting there, dazed as she usually was after channeling.

“Hmph. It means nothing, Maya Fey. We must go to the DeCosta General Hospital, for that is where your sister says Armando is. She is not sure if he is awake or not, but the least we must do is try. She said to mention you are related to Mia Fey as well, as your sister would visit Armando very often.”

“All right, Fran,” said Maya. She stood up and put on her shoes, a determined smile on her face. “Let’s head downtown to DeCosta!”

Chapter Text

When they got to DeCosta Hospital, it was already dark. Maya had been worried about walking out in the city at night, but Franziska assured her that anyone who was distasteful to the two of them would taste her whip. The hospital was brightly lit, the harsh fluorescent lights straining Maya's eyes. The woman at the reception desk eyed them warily, but as soon as Maya gave her her name, she brightened up. "Oh, you must want to visit Mr. Armando! I remember that girl who used to come in to visit him, what happened?"

Maya glanced at Franziska. “Um, she moved to Kurain, in Southeast Asia. Our family’s from there, so she wanted to learn more about the region.”

“Oh, that sounds wonderful. Mr. Armando is in Room 409. He's not very talkative, but we finally managed to wake him up. Apparently it was coffee that did the trick. The human body sometimes is marvelous, isn't it?”

Franziska nodded, playing along, but her eyebrows furrowed together instinctively. Who was woken from a coma by coffee, of all things? Was such a thing even logical? Franziska wasn’t sure. “Come along, Maya. We must go see your uncle Diego.” She took Maya’s hand, and led her toward the elevators.

They took the elevator up to the fourth floor, nervous and uncertain. When they entered room 409, they were greeted with the sight of a tan-skinned man with a shock of white hair. His eyes were closed, and he was hooked up to so many machines that “I never expected to get many visitors,” said the dark-skinned man lying on the hospital bed. “What are your names? I'm sure I'd recognize you but…” He gestured to his eyes. “I am completely blind.”

Maya stared at Franziska, a look of shock on her face. She closed her eyes and, a few moments later, Mia Fey stood where Maya had been. Mia looked just as surprised as Maya had. Franziska pulled her to the side and muttered, “he can't see.”

A look of realization dawned on Mia’s face. She turned back to the hospital bed, walking over to her boyfriend. “Diego, don't you know how to greet your kitten?”

Armando’s face brightened instantly, as he turned his head to face her voice. “Mia… You've changed. You don't wear that perfume any more.”

She shook her head, and Franziska could tell she was spinning lies and bluffs as the two spoke. “My aunt took it away. She said it was disgusting, and unlike me to wear it.”

Diego’s fists clenched. Evidently, the mention of Mia’s aunt upset him greatly. “I hate that woman, that aunt of yours. She is a terrible guardian. She hurt you, she hurt your sister, she–!”

Mia put a finger to his lips. “Shh, Diego. Don't worry about Morgan. I'm sorry I haven't been to visit. Ever since that incident, I couldn't dance any longer. I went back home to Kurain Village, and I didn't even know that you had woken up. Only when I came to visit my sister at dance school did I decide to come and see you.”

He smiled, gently caressing her face. “It was worth the wait, kitten. I am so glad to see you again.”

“Speaking of my sister, she wanted to know more about my dancing career. Do you still have that little scrapbook of articles about me?”

He smiled. “It should be on that table over there. I can't read it anymore, it is no use to me. Take it, kitten. Keep it safe. But, kitten, I have to ask. Who is the other person here?”

“Oh, that's Franziska, my sister’s friend and fellow dancer.”

Armando’s brow furrowed. “Franziska as in Franziska Von Karma? Your sister is making powerful friends, Mia.”

Mia nodded. “I know, I know. Maya’s had a good influence on her though.” Franziska walked over to the small table that Diego had mentioned and picked up the white scrapbook. Sure enough, there were photos and journal entries and newspaper clippings all lovingly taped and glued to the pages. Franziska noticed that there were marks where drops of water had fallen on the paper. Were they Mia Fey’s tears? Or perhaps just raindrops? Franziska couldn't tell. Mia chattered on with Diego, reminiscing about their years as dancers.

Eventually, Maya and Franziska had to leave. Mia left the room, and soon after, Maya was back. Franziska smiled. “We have a scrapbook about Mia and Armando’s ballet years. This will absolutely have something that we need.”

Maya nodded in agreement. “We should head back, it's pretty late. We’ll be really tired tomorrow, but hey, it was worth it. Right?”

Franziska wasn't sure what to say. They had only deceived Diego Armando into getting a scrapbook that could help them, potentially, but it wasn't going to be easy to find the one thing that they needed.

When they got back to their dorm, it was almost midnight. “We’re gonna regret this in the morning,” said Maya as she flopped onto her bed. “But to find justice for my sister, we have to get to the bottom of this.”

Franziska nodded. “Your sister was… quite remarkable back there. Your gift is truly amazing.”

Maya made a noncommital grunt. “It’s not that amazing. Mia’s the only spirit I’ve ever been able to channel. If I try anyone else, it just… never comes to me.”

Franziska frowned. “Why are you negating praise? Should you not take the compliment of perfection from a Von Karma?”

“What do you mean, Fran?” Maya raised her eyebrows.

“I mean that when you receive praise, even praise that you think may be “false”, you should accept it.”

“Huh. I’ve never really thought of it that way…” Maya looked lost in thought. “We should go to sleep, Fran.”

“You’re right, Maya. Father will be very angry if we are tired and loafing tomorrow. We must sleep as much as we can.”

Franziska changed into her lace pajamas, and climbed into her neatly made bed. Maya smiled at her from across the room. “‘Night, Franzy.”

Franziska returned the smile, feeling content and happy with Maya by her side. “Good night, Maya Fey.”

An exhausting day of class combined with their lack of sleep passed for Maya and Franziska. They returned to their dorm shortly after eating dinner. Maya lay down on the floor after changing into her pajamas. Franziska did too, strangely, and the two sat looking at the white book that the two girls had gotten from Diego Armando’s hospital room. “So… where should we even start? This thing is gigantic.”

Franziska pursed her lips. “Well, we must look for articles that mention Lana Skye. After all, we are looking for evidence that the relationship between her and your sister was more than what she says it was.”

The two girls flipped through the book, keeping their eyes peeled for a mention of the kind administrator. Maya paused on one page, excited by something. “Fey and Skye steal the show in Swan Lake… no, that’s just about the ballet. Lana was Odette and Mia was Odile… werd, I thought it’d be the opposite.”

Franziska shook her head. “Lana Skye was older and had superior skills to Mia Fey. Of course she would have the main role. Look, my little brother was Prince Sigfried. That wasn’t one of his better performances, I think. I was very young when I saw it with Papa and…” she trailed off, troubled by somehthing. Maya didn’t press it: she knew that something had struck a nerve with Franziska. Hurriedly turning the page, she moved on from the subject.

After what seemed like ages of the equivalent of looking for a needle in a haystack, the girls were tired and frustrated. Maya groaned, flipping to the next page where she guessed she’d find a whole lot more nothing.

Maya had never been so happy about being wrong.

“Franziska! I found it! I found something!” Maya cried, shoving the book into Franziska’s listless face.

Franziska shot up, alert and excited. “What is it? What have you found?”

Maya pointed at the article. “Look! ‘Dancer shields colleague from bullet, is shot in leg’! And that picture’s of Lana!”

Franziska gasped, and a look of recollection dawned on her. “Oh… I remember this… I was young, but I definitely remember this…”

“Oh my god, Lana was shot…” Maya trailed off. She had so many questions. “But who would want to shoot my sister? And why?”

Franziska shook her head. “I do not know, Maya Fey. But I think that this is what we need. Right now, we know that Mia Fey was important enough to Lana Skye that she would take a bullet for her. In fact, I think the injury, along with my father’s harshness, was what drove her out of dancing.”

Maya yawned, dog-earing the scrapbook page and closing the large white book. “We should sleep now, Fran. We can take this to Lana tomorrow. I’m sure that this’ll break one of those locks on her heart.”

Franziska nodded. “Indeed, Maya,” she said as she lay down in her bed. “I bid you good dreams.”

Maya smiled and turned off the lights. “You too, Fran. Goodnight.”