Sorry if this chapter seems rushed. Finding the right words is an ongoing challenge, so there may be some repetition and grammar errors. Also, the pace of the story may seem lagging as I wanted to be through on the details (every chapter counts). As a result, it may take a few chapters before the rest of µ's will be introduced in this story. Thank you for patience.
I do not own Love Live
Maki…..
The person standing before Nico was definitely the girl that she met 10 years ago due to the crimson hair and lavender eyes, but what surprised Nico was how Maki has changed.
The person has become taller, wearing a purple blouse overlapped by a white coat and black pants that seem to highlight her figure, giving the Hyou a matured look.
Beautiful…
Did anyone tell you that it's rude to stare at people? Also, it's Nishikino-san to you. Maki said with a neutral tone.
W-What is with her?!
Shirou suddenly interrupted their conversation. As I was saying, this is Nishikino Maki, 16 years old. She is the only daughter of a distinguished family of doctors in her tribe. In addition, she recently became the youngest doctor in her nation. She is staying in our village as part of an agreement in order to better the relationship between our two tribes.
Wait… she is a year younger than me? Not only that, She is rich, a doctor, AND good-looking?! Before Nico could process all this new information, a voice snapped me out of my thoughts.
How long are you keep staring at me?
Me?! You're the one staring at me! Not to mention, is that how you address someone who is older than you?
What did you say? Maki displayed an expression of both shocked and annoyance.
The two glared at each other's eyes, both of their tails twitching with its hairs standing on.
What is the deal with this girl? Nico thought.
It's so nice that you two are getting along, which will make this easier since Maki will be staying with you, Nico.
What?! Nico and Maki said simultaneously.
There were some complications while making Maki's housing arrangements, so it may be best for her to stay with you until we can figure things out.
No way! Why can't she stayed at your house?
There is currently no room for her in my house and you know how chaotic my place can get.
How could I forget? The last time I stayed at Shirou's place, I was so exhausted even after a good night's sleep.
Don't worry, you will be properly compensated for providing room for her.
You could have said that in the first place, Nico deadpanned.
I am definitely going to get back on you for this, Shirou.
I'm sorry but I can't agree with this. The two turn to the red-haired girl.
Oh, is Nishikino Maki scared of being with the great Yazawa Nico? Nico said with a smirk.
What is with that attitude of yours? What would your father say about the way you are acting right now?
Maki's words made Nico halt her rant, leaving her speechless and making a distorted face.
Nico tilted her head downward with both hands clenching into fists while Shirou stayed silent.
Hey, what's wrong? Maki look concerned at the two.
A strange atmosphere fills the room until Shirou decided to break the silence.
Nico's father, Hiro….. passed away.
Maki's eye widens and took a step back.
He's dead? Maki said in shock and disbelief.
Yes, he was killed during the 'Kyojin Incident', Shirou said.
Nico jilted at the mention of the event. 5 years ago, witnesses from a distance saw an unknown gigantic entity that suddenly appeared where the Hyou nation was located at and went on a rampage. It annihilated nearby villages using strange barbs and almost wiped out the entire Hyou tribe. Somehow, the fiend mysteriously disappeared, but not before leaving behind unspeakable destruction. There were many casualties from the incident, one of whom was Nico's father. Nico decided to end this discussion.
Shirou, I think we should talk about this another time. We have both things to do after this. Nico said in a somber voice.
You're right, Nico. There are still work I need to do, so why don't you bring Maki to our usual place tomorrow morning around 10 so she can start on her training?
Whatever you say, Shirou-sensei, Nico said with a sigh.
Shirou promptly left the room, leaving the two girls alone.
For now, why don't we head to my place? Nico said looking at the luggage that the younger girl brought with her.
Maki made a slight nod, avoiding eye contact with the older girl.
The girls exited the building and walked to a wooded area that was a few blocks from the town.
So, how are your parents? Nico asked after a few minutes of walking.
Oh, they are well and doing fine, Maki responded.
That's good, Nico said.
… ….. …..
Yazawa-san….
Nico.
Eh?
Shirou made it very clear that we are going to be working together, so let's drop the formalities, ok?
Ok, Nico-chan.
Eventually, they arrived at a modest sized wooden house similar to the building that Maki stayed during her time with Nico and her dad. The lack of forest surrounding the house allowed the sunlight to varnish the roof, giving it a serene glow.
There was even a fish pond with a wooden bridge in the middle of the body of water.
It's beautiful Maki thought. Is this where you are living?
Of course. This house once belonged to an associate of my dad, so I am able to live in this place rent-free in exchange for maintaining the place.
I see.
While looking around the house, Maki notices movement near the base of the house and saw a bear-like creature laying on the grass. Its fur displayed a dull gray hue with a rock-like texture.
Oh, that is just Kumo, a 'companion' of the previous owner of this place. He lives around these parts and keeps away trespassers. I give him food every now and then, Nico said as she waves to the creature while sliding the front door open.
After giving a tour of the house, Maki started unpacking some of her possessions in the living room.
Maki-chan, I am going to run a few errands, so I won't be coming back to the house until nighttime. Why don't you stay here and unwind a bit? Nico approached Maki while holding a pink bag.
Can't I come with you? Maki said.
Shirou asked me to provide a place for you. He didn't say to babysit you.
Nico walks up to Maki. Unless Maki-chan doesn't like to be all by herself, Nico said with a sarcastic tone.
I-It's not like I can't be alone. I just wanted to take a look around the village since I am going to be staying here for awhile. Maki averts her eyes, hopefully that the older girl doesn't notice the blush on her cheeks.
Suit yourself. I am going to do a lot of things, so prepare yourself, Nico said as she placed a parcel inside her bag.
After securing the house, Maki followed Nico to another remote area of the village until they reached a small house that is embedded into a tall tree.
When they went inside, Maki saw an array of plants, equipment, and containers scattered all over the place.
Shadow, are you home? Nico's voice filled the place.
A tall figure surfaced from the mess of a room and greeted the girls. He looked like an Ookami with unkempt black hair and amber eyes. He was wearing a black apron and goggles.
Well, if it isn't Nico, how are you doing? The man said with a calm smile as he took off googles and apron as he walked towards the two.
I'm doing just fine. Anyway, here are the supplies that you asked for. Nico handed the package in her bag to him.
Thank you very much. Shadow reached into his pocket and handed what looked like a silver coin to Nico, exchanging it for the package.
Thanks. Nico pockets the coin, then turns around to bring Maki closer to Shadow.
This is Nishikino Maki. She is new to the village and currently staying at my place.
It's nice to meet you, Maki said as she brought her hand to the man.
Shadow stared at the crimson-haired girl for a few seconds before reaching for Maki's hand, pausing abruptly in the middle of the action.
Oh! I almost forgot. Shadow retracted his hand and donned on a white glove before fully grasping Maki's hand with a firm grip.
You can call me Shadow.
Shadow is a well-known herbalist and pharmacist in the village, so he is familiar with the medical field, Nico explained.
After making small talk with Shadow, Maki and Nico left the house.
What's wrong, Maki-chan? Nico looked at the younger girl.
I don't think he likes me. Maki said as she remembers his actions towards her.
Shadow is like that with everyone. Apparently, he has a medical condition that makes him unable to touch people with his bare hands and has to live outside of the town due to health reasons. Not to mention, he works with all sorts of plants and chemicals, some of which are poisonous. Last time, I accidently touched him without his gloves on and ended up with an irritable rash on my hand. Luckily, he gave me some ointment for the rash. Nico made a dismayed look as she recalled her experience.
If you say so, Maki still looking skeptical.
The two girls journey into town where they entered a building and arrived at the center desk inside.
May I help you? the receptionist sitting at the desk asked.
I am here to report my completion of the requests set by Shadow and Mr. Moto. Nico said as she placed two silver coins on the desk. The receptionist retrieved the coins and recorded something on what looked like a logbook.
I verified your requests. Thank you and have a nice day.
The two then headed to the center of town while Maki took in the sights.
There seems to be people other than Ookami in this place.
Well, our village does business with other tribes, so it is not uncommon for people to travel here.
Eventually, they reached a busy marketplace, filled with foodstuffs, goods, and chatter among the vendors and customers.
Let's see, there should be some rice from the other day, so I just need get onions, potatoes, carrot….
What are you doing? Maki asked Nico who was near the stands.
Getting ingredients to make dinner, Nico said while inspecting the produce.
You can cook? Maki said, who looked surprised.
Of course. You can't live on your own without learning to cook a dish or two. If I had known I was going to host a certain someone, I could have planned something ahead of time. Say, Maki-chan. do you still like tomatoes? Nico said playfully as she holds a ripe tomato near Maki's face.
Maki flinched at the sudden gesture, I-I don't mind eating them.
Which is an understatement as Maki became fascinated of tomatoes ever since their encounter. She persuaded her parents to include them in her meals and even has a little garden at her house that grows multiple variations of tomatoes.
After done shopping, the two walked into a tall building complex at a busy location. After walking up four levels of stairs, they arrived at a door, where Nico reached into her pocket to get a key to open the door.
Hello, Is anyone home?
Oneesama!
Onee-chan!
Nee-chan.
Maki heard voices and footsteps and saw three children running towards them. Nico placed the bags on the floor and embraced her siblings.
These are younger sisters, Cocoro and Cocoa, and my younger brother, Cotaro. Everyone, this is Maki-chan.
Oohhhhhhh the trio exclaimed as they stared at the newcomer with curiosity. Maki froze at the sight of their crimson eyes gazing at her. Maki didn't know what was more surprising, that Nico had this many siblings or the fact that they look very similar of the petite girl.
Maki-chan, I am going to start on dinner. Can you look after my siblings? Nico started unpacking their groceries.
EEhhh?!
Before she could act, Maki gets her arms pulled by the younger sisters while the brother followed them.
Come play with us.
Let's have some fun.
Play.
By the time Nico was done making dinner, Maki was found sprawled on the couch, exhausted from the energy exhibited by the siblings. This was definitely a first for her.
Today, we are having beef stew and caprese salad.
Maki and the siblings gather at the table, with the word Itadakimasu resonating in the house just before they began eating.
This is delicious, Oneesama!
So good!
Tasty.
Maki took a spoonful of stew into her mouth, savoring its flavor and warmth.
This is good.
Of course it is. This is a meal by the one and only Nico-nii! the older girl said with a confident grin.
My, something smells good. A voice came from the direction of the front door. Maki saw a woman who looked like an older, matured version of Nico coming towards them.
MAMA!. The trio shouted as Cocoro and Cocoa ran to hug their mother.
Hey, mama.
Sorry for the wait, Nico, Work took longer than expected.
The woman planted a kiss on Nico's forehead.
It's all right, come join us for dinner.
Nico's mom nodded, then turn to face Maki. And I see we have a guest.
It's nice to meet you. My name is Nishikino Maki. Maki said while making a slight bow.
The pleasure is mine. My name is Yazawa Chiharu.
After finishing dinner, Nico explained the situation about Maki to her mom.
I see. Nico, would you mind getting the little ones ready for bed?
Alright, mama. Hey you guys, it's bath time. Nico herds her siblings to the bathroom.
Maki was now alone with Nico's mom.
So I finally get to meet you. My husband and daughter told me a lot about you, so I recognized you instantly.
They did? Maki was surprised by this.
Yep, you are just as cute as they said you were.
T-That's….! Maki stammers at the compliment as she looks down on the floor.
There was a moment of silence before Nico's mom continued the conversation.
When you told me that you were staying with her, I felt a little relieved.
Why is that? Maki asked.
A lot has happened ever since my husband passed away. It was particularly hard for Nico as she was very close to him. It's already been a year after she moved into her own place. Even though she says that she is doing fine, I do worry that she would overwork herself. I know that she takes on multiple jobs to cover her living expenses. She would sometimes send us money and even help look after her siblings whether I couldn't be home due to work. Nico's mom turn to face Maki, showing a sad smile.
Is it so? Maki is astonished by the unexpected side of the older girl.
I know you are staying with her as a guest, but can I ask you to look after my daughter?
I don't mind. Maki softly said.
Thank you, Maki, Nico's mom said while placing a hand on Maki's head, giving her a warm feeling that she hadn't felt for a long time.
What are you two talking about? Nico came back from putting her siblings from bed.
I was just telling Maki how cute she must have been when she made purring sounds when you two were napping together.
MAMA! WHAT DID YOU SAY THAT FOR? Nico yelled with a blush on her cheeks.
Maki blushed as red as her hair. I-I was only purring because I was having a nice dream.
A-Anyway, Maki and I have to get going before it gets too dark.
Ok, Have a safe trip, you two. The mother saw them off at the door.
Exiting the building, they start walking back to Nico's place. The village was not as dark as the night lights were turned on.
Sorry about that. My family can get crazy sometimes.
It's ok, I actually found it interesting, Maki said. As an only child, she was used to eating by herself as her parents were busy with work.
The two were silently walking on the pavement until Maki started to speak.
I'm sorry, Nico-chan. Maki said.
What's with you all of a sudden? Nico halted her movement, looking at Maki with a confused look.
I really thought I would never be able to see you again. So much have happened since we met.
Maki talked about her situation with her family, which was made worse after her kidnapping and the Kyojin Incident. The fact that she was even allowed to come to the Ookami village was due to dire circumstances and even then it took some persuasion to her parents.
Man, that sucks, Nico said.
On top of that, I didn't even know about your father's death and I never got a chance to thank him properly, Maki said with a sadden face.
Suddenly, Maki felt a slight pressure on her face and saw Nico placing both hands in her cheeks.
N-Nico-chan? What are you doing?
Maki, you hadn't seen my dad in years, so you couldn't have known about what happened. You have nothing to be sorry about. Besides, I believe my dad would have wanted you to live your life with a smile, so don't make such a sad face. Nico gently removed her hands for Maki's cheek.
In any case, we should make the most of our time together while you are staying with me. Nico said with a wide grin.
R-right… Thank you, Nico-chan, Maki said with hesitation, revealing a small smile on her face.
Now, that's more like it. You do look better with a smile, you know that? Nico said with a smirk.
Wh-? I-It's not like not I was happy. Maki made a cute pout.
Well, we really need to get back to the house. It gets hectic at night in the village. Nico grabs Maki's hand and starts sprinting towards home, dragging Maki along with her.
When they came back to the house, Nico went to take a bath while Maki was unpacking the rest of her stuff, thinking over the conversation she had with Nico's mom. The two decided to sleep in Nico's room as they didn't get a chance to clear a place for Maki to sleep in. The first word that seem to come to Maki's mind as she look around the room was… pink.
Hey, Maki-chan, you can use the bath now. Maki turn to face Nico and was blindsided at the sight.
Nico seemed to have taken out her pigtails, letting her smooth, dark hair run down to her shoulders, giving a more mature look to the older girl.
What? Nico said with annoyed look.
N-N-Nothing, Maki stammers as she rushes passed the older girl to the bathroom before Nico could inquired further.
Nico started preparing two futons, a few inches from each other.
When Maki comes back to the room, she noticed something white on Nico's face.
What is that?
It's facial treatment to keep my skin smooth and young.
Whatever. Maki positions into her body into the futon.
Anyway, we better some sleep. Knowing Shirou, he is going have some crazy things planned for us.
Nico pulled the string to turn off the lights.
All right, Good night. Nico-chan.
Good night. Maki-chan. Just don't make too much noise with your purring, ok?
L-Like I said. I was just having a good dream! Maki turned her body away from the older girl, who was making small snickering sounds behind her back. Eventually, the room was filled with soft breathing sounds as they slowly drift into slumber.
In an unknown location
Never thought I would get to see her again. I knew there was something about her when we first met, but I didn't think she would be a 'princess'.
I guess that is what people call 'fate'.
Still, I must admit she has grown quite a bit in the last ten years, but it is nice to see that some things haven't changed.
Oh?, have you taken a fancy towards her?
What?! No, I am just saying it's too early for her to be on the same level as my brilliance.
Said the one who hasn't grown since middle school.
Shut up! Kuuuu. There is no way I am going to lose to the likes of her.
With that said, Nico storms out and seemingly disappears. A big sigh filled the place.
Looks like things are going to get interesting. Hopefully it won't turn into something too troublesome.
The next chapter will be a little more technical as we look into the mechanics of the world.
This includes use of 'life-force' as well as ranking structure based on concepts from series like HunterxHunter and Naruto. I am open to suggestions.
Please stay tuned for the next chapter.
Reviews are welcome.
