The Magical Girl Wants to Bully Me

Chapter 2: Laughter Is the Best Medicine

Delving deep into my studies, I discovered the charming world where mascots, typically adorable animals or mythical entities, guide and empower magical girls. I stumbled upon the notion of "energy points," a measure of a magical girl's prowess. This newfound understanding of the captivating universe that Selena had opened up to me fueled my curiosity to decode the secrets of her powers and her mysterious mascot mentor.

Armed with the knowledge of Selena's magical secret, I put my plan into action. I was determined to turn the tables on my roommate and break free from her constant torment. Whenever I saw Selena, I would flash a dazzling smile and greet her with an enthusiastic "Hey, girl! How's it going?" She would roll her eyes and mutter a half-hearted response, clearly thrown off by my sudden change in demeanor.

Previously, the gloom that clouded my perception veiled the true beauty of our campus. However, with a calmer mind, I've come to appreciate its unique charm. As I meandered through the university grounds, the awe-inspiring architecture of each building captivated me. Inside, the classrooms boasted cutting-edge technology, transforming learning into an effortless endeavor. The dormitories offered spacious, sunlit abodes, ensuring comfort and serenity. The campus itself, a verdant haven, was adorned with meticulously maintained lawns and majestic oaks, offering both shade and a tranquil retreat. It was an idyllic setting for both academic and personal growth, a privilege I cherished deeply. If only Selena weren't part of this picture, it would be perfect.

As the days went by, I made a point to laugh at every opportunity. I would chuckle at funny memes on my phone, giggle while watching sitcoms, and even find humor in the most mundane tasks, like folding laundry or organizing my bookshelf. Each time I laughed, I heard the mysterious voice announce, "Aurora Sterling's mood has improved. Selena Darkwood loses 1 energy point."

I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction every time I heard those words. I was finally taking control of my life and fighting back against Selena's cruel machinations.

One evening, as I sat on my bed, laughing at a stand-up comedy special on Netflix, Selena burst into the room, looking exhausted and irritated. She glared at me and snapped, "What's so damn funny? You've been giggling like a hyena all week."

I paused the video and looked up at her with a serene smile. "Oh, just enjoying some quality entertainment. You should try it sometime, might help you relax."

Selena scoffed, "I don't have time for that. Some of us have important things to do."

I raised an eyebrow, feigning innocence. "Really? Like what? I thought we were all just college students here."

Selena's face flushed with anger, and she clenched her fists. "You wouldn't understand. Just keep your annoying laughter to yourself, okay?"

I shrugged, still smiling. "Sure thing, roomie. But you know, laughter is the best medicine. Maybe if you tried it, you wouldn't be so grumpy all the time."

Selena let out a frustrated growl and stomped out of the room, slamming the door behind her. I couldn't help but chuckle at her dramatic exit.

Over the next few weeks, I continued to observe Selena's behavior. I noticed that she would often rush out of the dorm, looking stressed and preoccupied, only to return hours later, exhausted and drained. I suspected that Selena was struggling to complete her tasks as a Magical Girl, which seemed to be far more demanding than I had initially assumed.

I also realized that most of the magical items Selena used couldn't directly target individuals. This meant that as long as I stayed vigilant and maintained my positive attitude, I could avoid falling victim to her schemes. I was grateful for this discovery, as I had no desire to go head-to-head with someone wielding magical powers.

Furthermore, I had a hunch that Selena couldn't transform into her Magical Girl form in front of others. This would explain why she always seemed to disappear when she needed to use her powers or meet with her mascot.

Despite everything Selena had put me through, I still hoped that we could find a way to be friends. One day, I approached her after class and asked if she wanted to grab a coffee and chat. To my surprise, she agreed.

As we sat in the campus café, I tried to make small talk, but Selena seemed distant and uninterested. Finally, I decided to address the elephant in the room.

"Selena, I know we've had our differences, but I really want us to be friends. Can you tell me why you dislike me so much?"

Selena let out a bitter laugh. "You really want to know? Fine. I've never liked you, Aurora. From the moment we met, I couldn't stand the sight of you. You're just a bookworm who spends all her time in the library. It's pathetic."

Her words stung, but I refused to let them get to me. "I'm sorry you feel that way, Selena. I know I spend a lot of time studying, but it's because I care about my education. It doesn't make me pathetic."

Selena rolled her eyes. "Whatever. I don't need to explain myself to you."

As she got up to leave, I couldn't help but feel a sense of disappointment. I had hoped that we could find common ground, but it seemed that Selena's dislike for me ran deeper than I had realized.

Later that week, I decided to reach out to some of Selena's high school classmates on social media. I was curious to learn more about her past and what had shaped her into the person she was today.

To my surprise, I discovered that Selena had struggled academically throughout high school. She was known for her jealousy towards students who excelled in their studies, often lashing out at them or spreading rumors behind their backs.

Suddenly, everything made sense. Selena's hatred towards me wasn't personal; it was a reflection of her own insecurities and past experiences. She saw me as a threat, someone who reminded her of the students she had envied in high school.

Armed with this new understanding, I decided to approach Selena one last time. I found her sitting alone in the quad, looking lost in thought.

"Hey, Selena. Can we talk?"

She glanced up at me, her eyes narrowing. "What do you want, Aurora?"

I took a deep breath and sat down beside her. "I know why you dislike me so much. It's because I remind you of the students you struggled to keep up with in high school. But Selena, I'm not your enemy. I'm just trying to do my best, like everyone else."

Selena's face softened for a moment, but then she quickly regained her composure. "You don't know anything about me, Aurora. Don't pretend like you do."

I nodded. "You're right. I don't know everything about you. But I do know that holding onto this anger and resentment isn't healthy. It's only hurting you in the end."

Selena stood up abruptly. "I don't need your pity or your advice. Just leave me alone."

As she walked away, I couldn't help but feel a sense of sadness. I had tried my best to reach out to Selena, but it seemed that she wasn't ready to let go of her past or her grudges.

I sighed and looked up at the clear blue sky. I knew that I couldn't force Selena to change, but I could continue to work on myself. I would keep spreading positivity and laughter, not just for my own sake, but for the sake of everyone around me.

Until then, I would keep smiling, keep laughing, and keep fighting for the life I deserved.