Sparkling. Glittering. Beautiful.
"It's SNOW!" she exclaimed upon opening the window, her wide childish brown eyes glistening at the sight of the white blanket covering the front yard of the Shinoya residence. "Snow, snow, snooo~w!"
Pure. Lovely. White.
"It's snowing," he noted in a curious voice while looking out his own window, laying his hand against the frozen glass, something peculiar flickering within his coal-colored eyes. "I wonder if she sees?"
"I wonder if he sees?" the girl wonders from where she is, staring wistfully out and just sighing, her crisp breath visible in the winter air. "I wonder, I wonder? Uguuu."
And funny enough, it had a tendency to lighten hearts rather than chill them.
"I wanna see him soon!"
"I wonder how she is..."
Shinoya Yuki closed the window and shivered before sliding on a light blue coat with a fluffy collar, sighing as she did.
"Yuki? Are you going out?" Meme wondered, trotting up in her usual kitty-cat form, cocking her head to the side and blinking. "It's cold out there..."
"Please!" the black witch laughs, reaching out and patting her feline friend's head. "For your information Meme, snow is what Shinoya Yuki was named after!"
It could also be one of those many things than can bring hearts together.
"You're not really going outside in this weather, right, Saiki-kun?"
"It's fine, onii-chan."
Saiki simply smiled as he settled himself in an oversized brown overcoat, breathing into his hands to warm them up.
"I think I can handle the Human World winters..."
Akatsuki frowned, almost pulling too tightly on the green scarf around his neck. "If you catch a cold..."
"It's fine."
The black-haired wizard laughed a bit.
"I'm the one who can handle Yuki-chan, right?"
It really was something amazing.
hana wa kaze ni yure odoru you ni
(Flowers sway in the wind as if dancing,)
(Footage: Birds are seen flying away, showing the Tomo-DACHI logo that soon fades as Yuki soon looks up, her hands tightening on her heart. She soon shuts her eyes tightly in pain.)
ame wa daichi o uruosu you ni
(So that the rain will moisten the Earth)
(Footage: The Ojamajos flash together in a group shot, posing.)
kono sekai wa yorisoiai ikiteru no ni
(So even though it's alive, coming closer and closer together)
(Footage: Doremi looks up as Yuki's seen running down the street, looking desperate.)
naze hito wa kizutsukeau no
(Why do people harm one another?)
(Footage: Akemi is seen looking out at a starry sky, tears forming in her blank sapphire eyes.)
naze wakare wa otozureru no
(Why are there always partings about?)
(Footage: Moriko is seen tending the flowers, her dark green eyes as blank as Akemi's was.)
kimi ga tooku e itte mo mada
(Still, even if you go far, far away)
(Footage: Kurumi is seen waving at a departing plane as she soon sighs, frowning deeply.)
itsumo kono kokoro no mannaka
(You'll always be in the middle of my heart)
(Footage: All the Ojamajos in maid outfits grin, presenting a surprised Yuki with a cake.)
ano yasashii egao de umetsukusareta mama
(While they remain buried with that kind smile)
(Footage: All the Ojamajos are seen smiling with Yuki with them as she suddenly sighs, looking upset.)
dakishimeta kimi no kakera ni
(Even if I start to feel such pain)
(Footage: Yuki is now alone, and she holds her heart, closing her eyes.)
itami kanjite mo mada tsunagaru kara
(I still will hold fragments of you, because of our connection)
(Footage: She looks up and a memory appears of her in her original form, crying her eyes out.)
shinjiteru yo mata aeru to
(I believe that we'll be reunited again)
(Footage: A hand is soon extended towards her, making her perk up in surprise.)
I'm waiting for your love
(Footage: Yuki perks up in surprise, her eyes widening.)
I love you, I trust you
(Footage: Memory flash of Yuki smiling brightly, and change to her and Doremi holding each other's hands.)
kimi no kodoku o wakete hoshii
(Share your loneliness with only me)
(Footage: The wind is blowing at Yuki, tears being carried from her big brown eyes as she shuts them and her tears begin trickling down her cheeks.)
I love you, I trust you
(Footage: An image of the Ojamajos crowded around Yuki as she's seen talking on the phone, looking really happy and soon changes to an image of Yuki posing with the other witch apprentices with her, all shooting peace signs.)
hikari de mo yami de mo futari da kara shinjiaeru no
(Even in light, even in darkness, we're always together, so...)
(Footage: Yuki soon smiles as she shakes her head, and walks forward, sakura pedals seen falling in her path. We scroll up to where she's seen smiling with her eyes closed as they open, sparkling with tears in them.)
hanasanaide
(Don't ever leave me again)
(Footage: One last shot is shown as only Yuki's hand is seen extending out, only to be taken by another unknown hand, lightly squeezing her own.)
Winter chapter~! Wai~! Like I said, this is not really canon, although Yuki will be using her...that in the future~! Anyways, this is really long...but it feels like I rushed...I probably did towards the end. Darn it. I'll make up for that...you'll see... You really WILL see!
By the way, the insert song is "Everlasting Snow" by Dream...I like it. A lot. But it's not mine so darn it.
Either way, have a merry Christmas! Do enjoy a few cookies and cocoa!
Ojamajo Doremi Tomo-DACHI:
Lessons in Friendship –
Gifts Of Love! Merry Happy Christmas!
Lesson: Remember that it's not what you got that matters, it's the thought that counts! As long as you mix in all your pure feelings with your gift, you're sure to have it all work out! Or...something like that.
"YAY~! It's snow!" Yuki squealed as she swung her window open, hopping onto the tree beside her window and sliding down into the white blanket with a plop.
"YUKI!" Meme exclaimed, jumping on the window edge in cat form, groaning. "You can't play around in the snow if you're still wearing your pajamas!"
"Calm down, Meme!"
The black witch giggled as she fell backwards into the snow, flailing her arms and legs up and down, making a snow angel as she did. After a while she suddenly jolted up and threw her arms around herself, shivering like crazy.
"C-C-Cold!"
Meme could only sweat-drop at the sight. "I knew it..."
Yuki quickly rushed back inside via front door, still trembling as she stepped into the living room.
"U-Uh... Okaa-sama?"
And Shinoya Ayaka nearly fainted at the sight of her precious little daughter standing there dripping and shivering, looking chilled to the bone.
"Yuki-san, you didn't..."
The black witch shuffled her feet uncomfortably, her face still flushed.
"Um... Sorry. I just got excited and..."
"What will Daichi and I ever do with you?" her mother groaned, taking her own blanket and wrapping it around the blond girl's shoulders. "Come on, I'll make you some hot cocoa to warm you up, okay?"
Yuki nodded with her blush increasing as she headed to the table to sit down and wait. The older female Shinoya just smiled, pouring in the milk and mix as she sighed. "By the way, Daichi will be home a bit late today like always, Yuki-san... But he'll take a few days off to spend the holidays with us so there's no need to worry, right?"
"No need to worry..." her foster daughter mutely repeated, her grip tightening on the warm blanket. "Um... Can I visit a friend today, okaa-sama?"
"Wait until you've had your hot chocolate and warmed up, Yuki-san." She paused, a little curious. "Are you visiting Harukaze Doremi-chan? I've talked to her parents, and her mother is very nice..."
"Actually...!" Yuki blushed heavily, steaming a bit. "I-I was..."
I was going to visit Saiki-kun, but ahhhh! Okaa-sama can't know about him!
"A different friend from school, perhaps?" Ayaka guessed with a laugh. "Can I meet her, Yuki-san?"
Not her, okaa-sama. The black witch's smile just twitched as she sighed. "My friend's rather shy, actually... I don't know..."
"As long as you're delicate, Yuki-san."
Yuki's eyes suddenly widened at that, a light gasp escaping her lips.
Delicate? With my Saiki-kun? Am I ever delicate with him? Saiki-kun...
She quickly nodded, gulping as she turned to the table, looking down in shame.
That's right... If I hold on too hard to Saiki-kun... He'll get hurt and leave... I can't do that...n-not to him...
Her fists clenched as her eyes closed while she bit onto her lip.
Saiki-kun... Saiki-kun... Saiki-kun...
"Here's your cocoa, Yuki-san." Ayaka smiled as she set down the steaming mug in front of her daughter, making her perk up as she patted her head and walked off to return to her needlework.
"O-Oh... Thanks, okaa-sama!" Yuki called out as she gripped her cup, a smile making its way to her face. "How cute! There are even little marshmallows! Yay!"
She sipped and licked her lips, sighing happily as she did. "So nice~! Kyaaa~! It's so tasty! Happy, happy, happy! Miiii~!"
The black witch soon looked towards the door again, glancing back at the hot chocolate.
"I wonder...what Saiki-kun even plans to do in this weather... I really want to see him..."
She suddenly looked confident and gulped down the rest of her hot chocolate, yelping from how hot it was.
"Bad idea! Bad idea!"
Yuki fanned her burning tongue with a groan.
"T-This is simply too much, but ahhhh! I really have to see Saiki-kun! This is for Sai-chi, Sai-chi, Sai-chi! Uguuu!"
Ouch! Really! Always... This always happens to me!
The black witch soon shook her head and stood up, dropping the blanket as she skipped over to the closet and began rummaging through for a coat.
"Okay, okay... I need a coat... I can't freeze to death on the way there... That just won't be smart at all! Now, let's see... Should I have brown? Yellow? Red? Pink? Oh, black doesn't suit this form at all... Ah! Here's a really good one right here!"
Yuki smiled triumphantly as she pulled out a light blue coat with a snowflake decoration, holding it up to her body in glee. "This is just perfect for me~!"
A snowflake for Shinoya Yuki, perfect-o! Absolutely correct! Saiki-kun will compliment me for sure! Ikuzo!
She slipped on the coat, taking a red scarf off the shelf and wrapping it tenderly around her neck.
"Okay, I think I'm ready..." Yuki began, patting her normally formal blue ribbon and slipping on some brown shoes. "There~!"
The black witch soon spun around, shooting a peace sign, showing off for no real reason. "Saiki-kun, be prepared!"
"Ah-choo!"
Saiki rubbed his nose, sniffling a bit as he did. "Man, it's so cold that I've been sneezing..."
"If you sneeze, humans say that means someone special is thinking about you," Fujio stated with a cheeky grin, scribbling something down in a notebook. "Perhaps Yuki-chan is thinking about you, Saiki-kun?"
"That girl..." the black-haired wizard groaned before looking outside. "Speaking of Yuki-chan... It's finally started snowing, huh?"
"It's really beautiful, isn't it?" Akatsuki asked with a slight laugh, slipping into a brown overcoat. "Are you going outside, Saiki-kun?"
Saiki blinked once in confusion before just nodding. "Yeah, um... I need to do some important business anyway..."
"Actually, Saiki-kun," Leon cut in, gripping the younger prince's sleeve before he could go anywhere. "It's YOUR turn in the kitchen! You have to make us some decent food! We can't trust Akatsuki-kun with this important mission!"
"I feel so loved..." Akatsuki groaned in annoyance. "Leon-kun, don't touch my brother, alright?"
"Oh..." the blond English-speaking wizard let go of Saiki's arm at that, quickly waving his hands. "Sorry about that, Saiki-kun."
Saiki looked at him oddly, turned his glance to his elder twin in curiosity before just turning back and giving Leon a forced smile. "N-No worries...?"
"Isn't that something Yuki-chan would say?" Tooru wondered, looking outside. "I wonder if she'll visit us today anyway... I kinda look forward to her visits..."
"Good thing Oyajide-san's still doing businesses in the Majokai..." Fujio noted before tapping his chin with a pencil. "But isn't that a little irresponsible? I wonder how our teachers would react..."
"I can handle everything," Saiki groaned in annoyance, heading towards the kitchen and wiping off the counter. "It's perfectly fine..."
"Fine, he says fine..." Leon stated, blinking.
"Saiki-kun's saying it's fine..." Tooru continued. "Paranoid, always worried Saiki-kun knows the word...'fine'?"
"Give it a break!" Akatsuki and Saiki both snapped at the same time in chorus, purely annoyed. "Sheesh, you guys!"
That's when the two princes noticed and looked towards each other, Saiki quickly turning away in embarrassment, blushing heavily.
"U-Um... I'll just get to work..."
The older prince blinked once in confusion before just smiling.
"I'll help you out then, Saiki-kun."
"I love the holidays..."
Yuki sighed happily as she skipped through the snowy-covered streets of Misora, looking about as she did in wonder of all the colorful light-adorning building as she smiled. "I better buy Saiki-kun something... But what would he like, I wonder? I'm so confused..."
"Yuki-chan? Is that you?"
The black witch perked up in surprise. "Doremi-chan?"
Doremi stood there in a puffy magenta coat, her face flushed from the cold and her hair in its usual odango buns. "Hey... Are you out Christmas shopping too, Yuki-chan?"
The blond girl's eyes widened before she shook her head. "I... I'm not, actually..."
"Oh, really?" the pink witch feigned being hurt. "How mean, Yuki-chan..."
"I'm just visiting Saiki-kun right now! Besides I have no idea what to get him... Maybe a manga or something? Or a Battle Rangers DVD?"
"Does he like Battle Rangers too?"
"No, but I do."
Doremi smiled sadly at that, reaching into her bag and pulling out a few of her own Battle Rangers DVDs. "I got these for Akatsuki-kun... So he can watch them at home... But I'm really a little embarrassed; this is my first time spending Christmas with him..."
"Really?" Yuki cocked her head to the side in confusion. "I spent it with Saiki-kun all the time, but I never did a gift exchange or anything... They don't celebrate Christmas in the Mahoutsukaikai..."
"You're kidding!" the red-headed odango laughed, patting the black witch's shoulder. "What's stopping you, Yuki-chan?"
This made the blond snow-named girl's eyes go glassy, her lips parting with her breath momentarily visible in the winter air.
"Who knows?"
"Alright, breakfast is ready."
Saiki simply groaned as he dragged a confused Akatsuki out of there, almost relieved to be done cooking.
"Anything wrong, Saiki-kun?" the older prince asked, though he was well aware of what his little brother was so stressed about. "I told you that it'd be fine..."
"I don't like it is all... You could have cut yourself, and then..." the black-haired wizard shuddered at the thought of his elder twin's blood in plain sight and smell, almost feeling slight horror and nausea in his stomach curling. "I-I was just worried..."
Akatsuki just smiled, shrugging.
"Whatever. I don't see why you have to be so paranoid anyway, bro."
"I just get worried is all..." Saiki whispered in a hushed voice, a slight blush sneaking up into his face. "Sheesh, nii-chan..."
Akatsuki's smile widened.
"Whatever."
Saiki looked at his twin oddly before dropping his hand and sighed, grabbing his coat to slip on with a groan.
"Whatever yourself. I need to still be outside..."
"I'll go with you..." Akatsuki stated, pulling out his own coat from wherever, putting it on.
The black-haired wizard could only nod as he reached for a green scarf Oyajide had used once to wound around his neck before pausing, noticing that his dear brother's neck was bare of its own scarf.
"Is this...the only scarf we have, onii-chan?"
The older prince stared at him in confusion before he smiled again, this time with clear endearment in his eyes.
"It's fine. You keep it, Saiki-kun."
Saiki shook his head and quickly undid the scarf without a moment's hesitation, approaching Akatsuki and coiling it around his brother's neck, letting out a slight sigh of relief when he was done.
"There..."
Akatsuki blinked once, touching the soft green fabric of the scarf in confusion.
"Saiki-kun... I said that it was..."
"I can handle myself," his brother retorted indignantly before turning away and opening the door. "Are you coming or not, nii-chan?"
The older prince tilted his head to the side in increased perplexity but nodded, following after Saiki and shutting the door on their way out.
That was when Fujio poked his head out from the hallway, frowning a bit.
"Have a safe trip...you two."
"So you've known him for even longer than I've known Akatsuki-kun, but you have NO idea what he likes? That's so like you, Yuki-chan!"
"Don't laugh! Saiki-kun almost never talks about what HE likes and I'm always too scared to ask!"
Doremi shook her head, still giggled as she adjusted the pink scarf around her neck. "Sorry, sorry... I just can't believe that despite your obsession with him, you don't know Saiki-kun's likes and dislikes..."
"Saiki-kun's not really one for material possessions so it kinda sucks," Yuki huffed, folding her hands in her lap and looking away with narrowed eyes. "He hardly ever opens up so himself... It's so unfair... Saiki-kun makes it so hard to make him happy as well as smile... It's just cruel..."
And he has such a nice smile too... The fact that it's so rare is just a crime! Completely unfair in all aspects!
"I don't know much about Akatsuki-kun either..." Doremi sighed, the realization much more depressing than she thought it would be. "I don't know his favorite color, his blood type, his other hobbies, his favorite food, or even..."
"It's red."
"Huh?"
"Akatsuki-kun's favorite color is red," the black witch repeated, still not looking at the pink witch. "He likes red."
The odango just blinked, unknowingly blushing at the brought-up fact. "It's...red?"
"He likes to play handheld games and he likes those little scooters, too... His other hobby is playing with Saiki-kun, and he doesn't really care for food that much although he's good at cooking since he's a good listener..." Yuki paused, looking towards Doremi with a curious expression. "I wouldn't know what his blood type is though. Saiki-kun's always too careful to let him get hurt when they're together..."
"W-Wow!" the pink witch exclaimed, almost totally amazed. "Yuki-chan, you're like an Akatsuki-kun expert! What more do you know?"
The black witch shrugged. "It's actually hopeless knowing about Akatsuki-kun to make up barely knowing my Saiki-kun... I don't like it at all..."
"Aw... But, still..."
Yuki stood up abruptly. "I need to get going."
"Ehhh?" Doremi was completely taken aback. "But, it hasn't even been ten minutes and I really wanted to know..."
"I'll see you at the Mahou-Dou later!" the black witch exclaimed, rushing off. Doremi just sighed.
"See you... Yuki-chan."
"SAIKI-KUN, I'M HOME!"
Yuki looked around in confusion as she practically kicked open the door (practically breaking the lock from her actions in the meantime) and just barged in, no manners whatsoever.
"Saiki-kun?" she wondered, looking around some more in hopes of seeing the younger prince she crushed on so badly. "Hey... Where's Saiki-kun?"
"You broke the door, Yuki-chan," Tooru stated in exasperation as he walked up, hands on his hips. "Man, what will we ever do with you? How can Saiki-kun handle you anyway?"
The turquoise-haired wizard sighed as he snapped his fingers and pointed to the broken doorknob, his magic fixing it within a matter of milliseconds.
Yuki made an 'ah' sound, quickly bowing.
"S-So sorry, Tooru-kun!"
Tooru shrugged and Leon peered from the kitchen, asking a question in English.
"Who is it? Oh, Yuki-chan. Hey there."
"Hello," the black witch responded in her own much more fluid English, shrugging as if that itself was a greeting. "Um, where is..."
"Saiki-kun?" Fujio finished the question for her, popping up behind Leon. "He and Akatsuki-kun just went out."
Yuki nearly fell over at that. "I-I see! Well, then I'll go looking for him!"
The three boys exchanged glances and just waved as she left them, not even bothering to say good-bye.
"Coming into our house saying she's home, looking only for Saiki-kun, leaving without so much as a wave... Saiki-kun sure knows how to choose them..." Leon muttered, earning Tooru and Fujio to just nod in agreement.
"Indeed he does..."
Silence.
"At least she's cute," Tooru laughed a bit nervously before there were more murmurs of agreement.
At least indeed.
I can't believe he wasn't there...
Yuki groaned as she trudged through the snow, her head slumped forward. "I guess... It's only to be expected... Saiki-kun not being there..."
She stopped and looked over at a young couple standing near with the older girl clinging to her boyfriend's arm, looking awfully comfy. Yuki's heart twitched with envy before she turned back, sniffling.
I just wish...
The black witch continued her walk, still looking down as she did before his name slipped out of her lips again, her heart swelling up with the single identification in certainty.
"Saiki-kun..."
Yuki shook her head abruptly, blushing heavily as she did. "No, no, no, Shinoya! You mustn't think like this! Saiki-kun won't be upset if you ask him what he likes, it won't surprise him... He's use to disappointments!"
'Use...to disappointments?'
Her heart throbbed, beating a broken meter as she paused, her eyes wide and blank. "Saiki-kun being disappointed... Do I really want to be like everyone else when it comes to him? That would be so unfair to him...not to mention that it would be unfair to me as well..."
The black witch sighed, brushing back a bit of blond hair as she looked back ahead, her brown eyes returning to their usual sparkle. "But what do I do?"
"Yuki-chan? Is that you?"
Speaking of Saiki-kun...?
"Sai-chi?" Yuki gasped, only to be disappointed herself when she met a pair of violet eyes in contrast to the coal-colored ones that belonged to her beloved younger prince. "Oh... Akatsuki-kun."
Not Saiki-kun.
Akatsuki blinked in curiosity before smiling politely, holding up his hand to wave. "I didn't expect to see you in this kind of weather... Though I shouldn't be surprised. Saiki-kun didn't say you were near or anything like that..."
"He didn't?" she almost squeaked, her forced smile twitching a bit as she laughed albeit nervously. "O-Oh... I see... T-That... That's so like my Saiki-kun, Aka-chan! What can we do? Ah..."
Saiki-kun knew I was here but didn't say anything.
The elder prince's smile faded at that. "Oh really, Yuki-chan?"
The black witch was silent for a few moments.
Saiki-kun knew. But he didn't say anything. That means...
"Um..."
That means...he doesn't care that I'm here?
"Onii-chan, we need to get going."
"Oh, Saiki-kun!" Akatsuki chirped, turning around to face his younger brother walking up, his smile widening. "I found Yuki-chan... You should have said something, you know, otouto-chan."
"Don't call me that." Saiki snapped before turning to Yuki who flinched with his usual expression of nonchalance. "Fancy seeing you here, Yuki-chan."
"I-I'd say same here, but..." Yuki bit her lip, her eyes glimmering ruefully. "Did you wish that we didn't meet today at all, Saiki-kun?"
You don't have to deny it, Saiki-kun... I'm not as big of a pathetic and clueless idiot as you think I am...
And while the older twin's eyes widened, the younger's simply narrowed.
Although... You probably will.
"What would make you think that, Yuki-chan?"
Figures.
The black witch laughed, her anxiety gone for the moment, back to her usual cheerful self. "No worries! I'm really happy to see you, Saiki-kun! If you just smile for me, then my day will be complete! I'll be really happy!"
Akatsuki's own eyes narrowed. I may not know Yuki-chan as well as Saiki-kun... But even I can tell she's hiding something... I want to know what it is... But... Saiki-kun still...
"Give it a break," said little brother grumbled, turning away with a huff. "You really are something, aren't you, Yuki-chan?"
I can't even tell if he's complimenting me or insulting me... Although it's probably both! Yuki thought cheerfully, her smile widening as she shook her head. Aw well, I'm well over it now~! I'm just glad to see him, and...huh?
Her eyes jolted wide in disbelief, staring at the two brothers' necks in confusion.
Why is Akatsuki-kun wearing a scarf...when Saiki-kun is not? Saiki-kun might be extra cold without it!
"Hey... Saiki-kun..."
"If you're thinking about the scarves..." Saiki stated, not missing a thing as he surprised both Yuki AND Akatsuki. "It's fine. I don't mind it at all."
The older prince stared at the black-haired wizard in slight annoyance at that. When he noticed Saiki reach up and pull up his collar, he silently mouthed only one word.
"Usotsuki."
Saiki flinched—he obviously heard—but didn't respond, confusing Yuki a bit.
"Saiki-kun?"
"It's none of your concern, Yuki-chan," he responded quietly, making the blond girl back away in slight fear. "So what did you wish to talk about anyway?"
The black witch blushed, looking down.
"Um... Snow sure is pretty right? A-And I mean the glittering white stuff on the ground, not me..."
Saiki had to smile slightly at that, though Yuki unfortunately missed it. "It is. You are too, Yuki-chan."
"N-Nani?" she squeaked in surprise before repeating it in English. "What? No... Oh no, I'm... I just said I wasn't talking about me!"
"I know."
The black witch's blush deepened intensely, almost steaming a bit.
"U-Um... Christmas is coming up by the way, Saiki-kun!"
"Oh...Christmas." Saiki's friendly and endearing tone of voice returned to the usual indifferent nonchalance. "Yes, that..."
"I know this is your first time celebrating it... But I was um, wondering if..." Her blush increased if possible. "They're putting a gigantic Christmas tree in the middle of Misora on Christmas Day! It'll be so pretty... Let's meet there okay?"
Darn! I meant to ask what he wanted... But that would be way too obvious!
"We need to decorate the house..." Akatsuki murmured while Saiki nodded.
"Christmas...it's supposed to be a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, right? Christmas Day, December 25th, that is... It's also supposed to be the beginning of Christmastide. But here in Misora, it's celebrated a bit...frivolously."
"I-I'd expect this sort of thing from that Satou Natsumi-chan from Class 1-B!" Yuki waved her hands, trying to laugh it off. "Talking about such religions makes me feel really awkward, Saiki-kun!"
"I was only being informative, Yuki-chan," the younger prince responded almost curtly, turning away with a huff. "I just don't see the point anyway..."
"So...you won't come? It's supposed to be a time for gift-giving and love..." Yuki slumped a bit. "A time where we can be happy...despite our conditions... And considering how lucky I am to know you, Christmas makes me really happier than it would have before, especially since you're here right now..."
Saiki could only stare in slight surprise before rolling his eyes. "Whatever you say... Let's just get going, nii-chan."
Akatsuki could only nod as he followed after Saiki, looking back at Yuki in confusion as they walked away.
And the black witch just sighed.
"Talk about mean... That Saiki-kun..."
She reached up to grasp her hair, letting out a heavy sigh.
"What am I supposed to do about it anyway?"
"Hey, I'm finally here,"
Yuki closed the door on the way inside the old Mahou-Dou, still sighing as she did.
"Yuki!" Hana exclaimed as she slid in, greeting the black witch with glee though she also seemed to be partially scolding. "You came too late! Hana-chan already set up the Christmas tree and everything!"
"Tree? Isn't it a bit early?" the snow-named girl smiled a bit, twirling a bit of her golden blond hair. "Nice, Hana-chan."
The white witch beamed, wasting no time to run up and grasp Yuki's hand to pull her into the room. "Come on Yuki, if we hurry, you can still continue to help with decorations!"
"A-Ah, Hana-chan! Wait, actually, I..."
Yuki stopped on a dime when she saw what became of the Mahou-Dou thanks to the girls and a few decorations. There were multiple tinsel garlands over the ways colored many different colors from golden yellow to snow white, a fancy almost handmade wreath with a bell and tied with a red ribbon hung from the doors, a few poinsettias (grown by Moriko, no less) here and there, and finally the beautifully decorated Christmas tree in the center of the room.
And they still seemed to be working.
"Wow...!" The black witch sucked in her breath. "They did really...really well..."
That's when Onpu looked up, quickly smiling brightly. "Oh, Yuki-chan! You made it!"
"Onee-sama!" Yuki gasped, blushing heavily as sparkles appeared from nowhere around her. "I'm sorry, I came too late..."
"It's fine, we're still not done," the purple witch beamed, deepening the blush on her fangirl's face. "Why don't you help?"
The black witch's lips parted for an answer but she remained silent, her normally cheerful mood still hampered by the earlier confrontation she had with Saiki. "Um... Actually..."
That's when she noticed two members of the party missing, shortly gasping again.
"Hey... Where's Moriko-chan and Akemi-chan?"
"Akemi-chan had something else she wanted to work on..." Kurumi stated, observing her reflection in a handheld mirror with a slight sigh. "Moriko-chan's checking on her for some reason..."
Yuki tilted her head to the side in confusion. "Oh... Can I go check on them as well?"
"You don't need to ask for permission, Yuki-chan," Hazuki informed her with a knowing smile, her glasses fogged so that her hazel eyes couldn't be read. "Go ahead."
Onpu simply nodded in approval. Doremi was too busy messing with tinsel to notice, and Aiko just shrugged. Momoko blinked but said nothing.
Shinoya mutely nodded, turning around to head to the other room and opened to door.
"Akemi-chan... Moriko-chan...?"
She blinked blankly as Akemi looked up from the floor, an unfinished white scarf in her lap with a sewing needle in the crystal witch's delicate hand. Across from the crystal witch, Moriko sat with her legs crossed, staring up at the black witch in both annoyance as well as curiosity.
"Yuki-chan," the florist acknowledged curtly, her eyes narrowed. "So you made it?"
"What are you doing?" Yuki asked Akemi, flat out ignoring the green witch apprentice. "You could prick your finger and fall asleep for a hundred years!"
The crystal witch frowned, obviously a little confused by this. Moriko huffed and simply stood up and left, though neither of the two girls reacted...but it seemed Akemi's blush deepened significantly from being left alone with the abnormally friendly black witch.
"Um... Yuki-chan..."
"We~ll, Akemi-chan?" she inquired, stretching out the well. "What is it?"
"I-It's a scarf..." the crystal witch stammered, looking pathetically down on the unfinished needlework in her lap. "Or at least...it will be...once I finish..."
"You can sew, Akemi-chan?" the black witch asked in slight surprise. "I know it's a scarf...is it for Moriko-chan or Hazuki-chan?"
Akemi shook her head. "N-No, actually it's for Daisuke-nii-san..."
"Dai...suke?" Yuki let the name roll around a bit in her head before it hit her, letting out an 'oh!' sound. "Your older brother! You're making a scarf for him?"
"He doesn't have one back at the dorms of where he lives now..." a soft smile made its way to the ballerina's face. "I just think he might be cold...and I want to be as much support as I can... I just hope I can finish it in time for Christmas..."
The black witch slowly blinked and gasped, the image of Saiki pulling up his collar around his undefended neck rushing back.
Saiki-kun wasn't wearing a scarf because he made Akatsuki-kun take it.
The image sent shivers of both anticipation and anxiety up and down her spine.
Saiki-kun was cold. He needs a scarf, doesn't he? He's cold. That...
Yuki's eyes jolted wide as inspiration hit her like a lightning bolt.
That could be it!
She squealed, taking Akemi off-guard with the sudden mood swing. "Y-Yuki-chan?"
"Akemi-chan, can you please teach me how to sew?"
"H-Huh?" The crystal witch blinked. "Why would you want to...know?"
Yuki simply grinned. "Saiki-kun needs a scarf. If I make him one with love in every stitch, he'll have to be happy, right?"
Akemi gasped lightly but shook her head. "S-Sorry, Yuki-chan, actually... I... I'm not good at sewing at all... S-Sorry!"
The black witch looked surprised at the apparent lie, casting her narrowed gaze once again to Akemi's unfinished scarf but stood up, surprising the crystal witch.
"Yuki-chan...?"
"So that's how it is. Sorry that I bother you, Akemi-chan."
Yuki shut the door on her way out, leaving the crystal-haired girl sitting there in surprise that quickly turned to anxiety as she shut her eyes and tightened her fists.
"S-Sorry... Yuki-chan..."
The other Ojamajos perked up as the black witch walked through, her expression surprisingly cold and calculating.
"Yuki-chan?" Doremi wondered, taken aback by the look that seemed so strange on her normally smiling and happy newest best friend. "Hey, Yuki-chan...?"
"I'm feeling sick today," the blond girl muttered in a monotone, passing by as fast as she could. "I'm just going to go home."
"But..." Hana began softly, disappointed. "Hana-chan...really wanted Yuki to help with decorations..."
"Maybe later."
"Oh, Yuki..." Majorika called, walking up with Lala beside her in confusion. "There you are...huh?"
Yuki swerved around the green-haired witch tutor, her brown eyes hidden. "I'm feeling sick today."
The door slammed shut.
"What just happened?" Majorika wondered, earning the other girls to look among themselves in worry.
Moriko frowned herself, fidgeting with her skirt.
Akemi-chan... Did you say something you didn't mean to?
"Okaa-sama, I'm home."
Ayaka raised her head from the table where she had been resting. "Oh... Yuki-san... You're back early... Did something happen with your friends?"
My foster mother is almost as amazingly right as Saiki-kun. Yuki forced a smile. I have to make that scarf for Saiki-kun...and okaa-sama knows how to sew... Watashi, makenai!
"Um..." she fiddled with her fingers. "Okaa-sama, do you know how to sew?"
"Of course, why?" Ayaka looked confused before smiling. "Do you want to make something, Yuki-san?"
Her daughter nodded, her eyes once again obscured by the fake golden locks. "D-Do you mind teaching me?"
Her foster mother blinked once before simply smiling. "What is it that you wish to make?"
"A-A scarf!" Yuki answered almost automatically, a blush escaping to her face. "I want to make a scarf!"
"A scarf?" Ayaka tilted her head to the side with a serene smile. "What color, Yuki-san?"
The black witch looked surprised and put a finger to her cheek in thought. "Anou... Well... I haven't thought about it..."
The smile brightened on the older woman's face. "Think about it hard, Yuki-san. What do you want your scarf to represent?"
What...to represent? Now that I think about it... Akemi-chan's scarf was white...is that because it's as tender as she is? Green can be envious... But a counterpart to green...especially on this time of year...for Saiki-kun...
She gasped, her brown eyes going wide in realization.
That's it!
"Red! I want the scarf to be red!" Yuki exclaimed, almost desperate. "Um... I think red...would be a suitable color..."
Red for Saiki-kun... Would he look nice? Would he perhaps get the message?
Ayaka perked up before smiling sadly. "Um... Yuki-san... We don't have any red yarn left."
Silence.
"WHAT?"
"Ah...Ah..."
Akatsuki quickly covered his brother's mouth, earning another light sneeze. "You've been sneezing a little too much, Saiki-kun... Are you sure you're alright?"
"It feels like someone's talking about me," Saiki responded tiredly, removing Akatsuki's hand. The older prince gave him a small smile.
"Maybe we should just head back? It's getting chilly out...and I wouldn't want you catching a cold, Sai."
"I'll be fine...I still need to do something..."
"Something? What?"
Akatsuki looked confused before noticing the black-haired wizard cover his mouth again, his expression almost embarrassed. Not to mention it probably wasn't just the cold when it came to the slight red tint on his face.
"Oh... Is that so?"
Coal-colored eyes glanced towards him in confusion and Akatsuki simply smiled, patting Saiki's shoulder.
"That's fine."
Saiki's blush deepened significantly and he dropped his hand, quickly shrugging off the touch and pushed his older twin away by his shoulders.
"Please go back without me, okay? I won't be long... I just need to... Ah... It's nothing that's important, but..."
"That's a bit out of character for you, but whatever Saiki-kun. Just don't take too long or I'll get worried."
The younger twin nodded obediently, and Akatsuki patted his head before turning around and walking off. Once he was sure the older prince was out of earshot, Saiki sighed heavily in slight relief.
"I'll give onii-chan a more sincere apology later... He was irritated again." He frowned at the thought and mindlessly pulled up his collar, shivering a bit. "It really is cold, though..."
Such a difference to Yuki-chan... Funny, snow's really pretty...but it's freezing... Yuki-chan always has such a warm smile when she's around...
Silence. Saiki quickly shook his head, sighing a bit.
No, that's not right... She's always happy...but there's always something deeper than that... Then again, what am I thinking about anyway? Akatsuki-nii-chan's my only concern... But...
"It's supposed to be a time for gift-giving and love..."
The younger prince blinked, letting the black witch's words repeat over and over again in his mind,
"It's a time for gift-giving and love."
"It's a time..."
"For gift-giving."
Gift-giving, Yuki-chan?
(A few minutes later)
"Thank you, come again later!"
"B-Bye..."
Saiki stared at the small gift bag in annoyance, his eye almost twitching. "I actually bought it...Wow. But it isn't anything special... I already got something for onii-chan as well... It's perfectly fine... I'm just doing this because of what she said and I wouldn't want her to start crying again, I hate it when Yuki-chan starts crying over something so little..."
He looked around, continuing his mutterings. "Besides, she is someone special, after all..." An image of the smiling blond came to mind, unknowingly making him blush. "It's perfectly normal to be nice to her... I don't need some silly reason to make her happy, but if that's true..."
Saiki grimaced, covering his eyes in distress.
"Why am I even making up excuses...? I can't just return the darn thing now!"
He suddenly perked up, his overly keen senses picking up something he wouldn't have missed even if it was a blizzard outside right now.
"Ah, what timing."
Saiki made his way through the crowd of people, focusing on the presence he felt, looking about the crowd with careful, cautious coal eyes.
"Okay, I bought it! Yes! Now I can get started!" a cheerful voice rang out, making the younger prince stop and smile a bit.
Found her.
"Yuki-chan," he called nonchalantly, feeling the blond freeze and nearly drop the bag that she was holding as he spotted her slim figure and approached her, taking note of the deep red shade her cheeks had taken. "What are you doing out here?"
"S-S-Saiki-kun! I thought I was dreaming!" she gasped, surprised beyond belief before hiding the bag behind her unceremoniously. "Um... What are you still doing out here? Is Akatsuki-kun out here with you?"
Saiki didn't miss the slight unease in the black witch's last question and simply shook his hand, shrugging a bit. "No, he's already gone... But really, answer my question..."
Yuki blinked and simply smiled. "Oh...Oh no reason..."
Lie. The black-haired wizard instantly grimaced. It was always so painfully obvious when someone lied to him...especially the young Shinoya girl. But then again, I have my own things to hide... he thought quietly, hiding the bag behind his back the same way Yuki hid hers. It shouldn't matter...
It still mattered.
"Why aren't you back anyway, Saiki-kun?" she asked with a soft endearing smile, her brown eyes sparkling for some reason. "Funny, we run into each other twice in the same day... Hey, maybe destiny wants us together!"
Saiki immediately rolled his eyes at that in slight annoyance, almost thankful that his blush could have been mistaken for the fact that it was cold. "Yeah... Right..."
"Oh, you never listen to me!" she fumed before sneezing abruptly, sniffling. "M-Man... It really is cold..."
The black-haired wizard instinctively looked at her in worry. "You should have gotten a thicker jacket, Yuki-chan..." he muttered, shuffling the small gift bag into one of the oversized pockets.
Yuki smiled at his worry, shaking her head. "No, no... It's fine... I'm just tired... It's so far from my house to all the way here..."
"You shouldn't push yourself like that, especially not in this kind of weather." Saiki reached up for the top button of his coat, unbuttoning it and continuing. "What will I ever do with you?"
The black witch froze again once she realized what his actions meant, dropping the bag into the cold snow and patiently waited.
"Now, I'm only doing this because you at least need to warm up a little bit...if you start running, you might be able to..." he trailed off as he unbuttoned the last button. "Ah... It's a little hard saying this, Yuki-chan..."
She didn't give him time to finished as she practically hopped into his chest, her arms snaking underneath the jacket to around his back as she nuzzled into the pleasurable warmth.
"Thank you."
"You really don't miss a beat do you?" Saiki asked with a sigh, wrapping his coat around her to warm her up a bit more. "Sheesh, Yuki-chan..."
Yuki's smile widened. "You smell so nice." And so warm... His heartbeat's so comforting, too~!
The younger prince stared, not exactly knowing how to reply to that particular compliment. "Are you doing any better?"
"Un! I'm doing fine!" she looked up at him with a smile filled with excitement and happiness. "Thank you, Sai-chi! If I run back home, maybe it won't be as bad!"
Yuki separated from him and waved bye playfully as she scooped up her bag and rushed off, leaving behind one confused Saiki.
"Have a safe return," he muttered quietly, buttoning his coat back up as he once again pulled at the collar. "Yuki-chan..."
(Eyecatch: Yuki is seen fiddling with all sorts of cards, and the Ojamajos soon look behind her as she pulls up a card, and all grin widely. The card reveals to be an image of Yuki beaming, dressed in a Santa girl dress, with a wide and beautiful Christmas tree in the background.)
"Okay, now be careful as you stitch them together, Yuki-san..."
"Hai~!"
Yuki smiled as she wove through the red yarn, giggling in anticipation. "Okay, okay, I think I got the hang of...OUCH!" she yelped as she jerked her hand back on sucked on her forefinger, obviously having pricked it by accident.
Ayaka's own smile widened as she noticed the phone ring, getting up to answer it, leaving her daughter with her newly-started needlework.
"Shinoya residence, Ayaka speaking. May I ask who this is?"
"M-Moshi...moshi... Shinoya-san... Um... T-This is Suzuki Akemi, a friend of Yuki-chan's..." a voice stammers on the other end, slipping up every so often. "May I speak to Yuki-chan, p-please?"
"Oh, a friend? May I ask what you cared to call her about? Yuki-san's rather busy..." As if to confirm the short black-haired woman's statement, she could hear another one of the black witch's high-pitched yelps. "Um... So... What is it, Akemi-chan?"
"T-Talk...to Yuki-chan, please?"
"Oh," Ayaka then called out. "YUKI-SAN! A FRIEND IS ON THE PHONE!"
"N-No thanks!" Yuki grunted from the other room, having somehow gotten her wrists tangled in the yarn as she struggled to free herself. "I-In a bit...of a situation here! Maybe later!"
The Shinoya woman blinked in slight worry before speaking into the phone. "Sorry Akemi-chan, I think Yuki-san might not be in the sort of condition to talk right now..."
"O-Oh..." came Akemi's chipped reply as her hand tightened around the phone. "Sorry for bothering you... I-I'll talk to her later than..."
Click.
Ayaka could only stare at the phone in confusion as she hung it back up. "Now I wonder what that was all about..."
"EYAAAAHHH!"
Ayaka gasped and quickly rushed back to the other room, surprised and worried. "Yuki-san?"
Her stare turned blank and her jaw dropped. "Ah...?"
There, tangled in the red yarn, lying down and tied up, was her foster daughter.
"How did you manage?"
Yuki sniffled, her brown eyes glimmering in shame. "Um... Tasukete? Onegai? Help? Please?"
Ayaka simply sighed and got down to help untangle the black witch, frowning as she did.
"Sheesh, Yuki-san... Maybe sewing isn't for you..."
Yuki shook her head fervently as soon as she was free, still as stubborn as ever. "No! This was just a minor setback; I'm definitely going to work harder! I'm not going to give up, okaa-sama, so no need to worry!"
And as she got back to remaking her scarf, Ayaka's smile faltered a bit.
"That...just makes me worry even more, Yuki-san."
And soon, hours went by, and the black witch worked.
"Yuki-san, it's time for dinner!"
Ayaka perked up in surprise as she noticed that Yuki had still not moved from her working place, having fallen asleep on the table with her still in progress red scarf beside her.
"You've really been trying aren't you? Who are you even making this for anyway, Yuki-san?" she smiled, placing her hand over the black witch's bandaged one from all the times she managed to poke herself with the needle, earning the blond to mutter in her sleep a bit.
"Mmm... Saiki-kun..."
"Eh?" Ayaka's hand automatically retracted back, surprise flickering across her features. "Who?"
"Saiki-kun..." Yuki moaned again, her hand tightening up into a fist before becoming loose again, a sigh escaping her lips. "Saiki-kun... Just stay... Stay here with me..."
Shinoya Ayaka blinked, slowly lifting the blanket around her daughter, frowning as she did. "I don't understand why you always say such weird things in your sleep, Yuki-san... But I've never heard anything about a 'Saiki-kun' before around you..."
At his name, the black witch sighed again, her breathing gentle.
"I love you... Saiki-kun... Don't let go..."
Ayaka's eyes slowly widened and she quickly shuffled out, feeling like she had just stumbled onto a deep, dark secret that neither she nor Daichi would ever would have thought of their presumingly innocent and cheerful daughter.
I'll interrogate her when she brings it up... This Saiki boy... she decided silently, a bit uncertain. I sure hope he's a good kid...
"Ah-Ah... Ah-choo!"
Saiki sniffled with a grimace as he rubbed at his nose for the umpteenth time. "This...is getting out of hand."
"Out of hand?" Akatsuki wondered in confusion, staring at Saiki in curiosity. The younger prince stared at his brother in slight masked annoyance.
"I think I really do have a cold."
That made the older wizard prince frown, tenderly placing a hand against Saiki's forehead in worry.
"You do feel slightly warm..."
"I was joking."
Akatsuki quickly removed his hand.
"You do still seem bothered by something, little brother."
Saiki momentarily glared at him before turning away with a huff. "It's nothing!"
"It wouldn't have anything to do with that gift you bought, right Saiki-kun?"
The younger brother blushed at that before reaching into his pocket and handing a wrapped gift to Akatsuki who took it in confusion before smiling and drawing Saiki into a tight hug, nuzzling against his cheek.
"Thank you. But that's not what I meant."
Saiki's blush deepened heavily as he twitched in the over-affectionate embrace, stammering a bit.
"U-Um... Ah... Nii-chan..."
"As much as I'd hate to interrupt the brotherly love moments," a voice growled as the two differently colored twins looked up, Akatsuki's arms still loosely wound around his younger brother's shoulders. Leon simply sighed, making a 'tsk' sound. "We need to hurry up so Yuki-chan won't be disappointed when and if she visits."
When and if. Strange, seeing as the black witch's visits were unpredictable as much as just plain expectable.
The younger prince shuffled uncomfortably in his brother's hug and glanced over at the wrapped rounded rectangular present set on the shelf earlier with a red bow on it, having only been questioned about a few times (mostly by Akatsuki) before simply being set down and left alone, waiting.
I still haven't been able to give Yuki-chan that... What could she possibly be working on for so long that she couldn't visit anyway? It's so unlike her...
His focus was snapped when Akatsuki finally separated from him though still kept a firm grip on his shoulders.
"Something wrong, Saiki-kun?"
"Just anxious."
"Hmm... Well, that can't be helped; you're always anxious about something."
Saiki weakly smiled and the older prince grinned, ruffling the black-haired wizard's hair endearingly.
"There, there, Saiki-kun."
I'm still worried about Yuki-chan.
Yuki continued weaving as she looked at the clock. Her wrists ached but she continued sewing, a bit of sweat running down her chin.
I'm... I'm halfway done...almost...
"Yuki-san, it's time to take a break," Ayaka wondered as she walked in with a slightly melancholic expression. "You've been at this for hours...and you..."
She was cut off when the black witch lightly gasped having once again accidentally poked herself in the side of her palm, this time hard enough to draw blood.
"N-No need to worry..." Yuki muttered darkly, lifting her hand to lap away the blood and rub at the newest injury as her foster mother quickly grabbed a bandage and applied it to her daughter's palm, earning the black witch to lightly sigh. "Thanks."
"Yuki-san... Is... Is the person you're making this for that important?" Ayaka frowned, her eyes glimmering in worry. "Who is it anyway? Doremi-chan, perhaps?"
Or that one you call Saiki-kun?
"A dear friend of mine," the black witch bit her lip, continuing to weave as if her life depended on it. "A very sweet and a very dear friend."
"A sweet and dear friend?"
"U-Un."
"Is that so, Yuki-san?"
"Y-Yes..."
Yuki blushed heavily, her mind already pulling up a picture of the black-haired wizard. "I-It's someone who is very special and precious to me... Someone that always makes me happy just by being around, and someone who makes me feel so warm and cozy...like that feeling you get when you sip hot cocoa or when you're curled up by the fire in a big and comfy blanket... That feeling that's really amazing yet also really fulfilling although you don't quite understand it until you and that special person are close together..."
Ayaka blinked. "Is... Is it really like that for you? You know, I don't think I've ever heard you talk so fondly about someone like that before... Have I ever met this person before?"
The black witch shook her head honestly. "No, but if you two do by chance meet okaa-sama, please treat my special someone with the upmost respect, okay?"
Please treat my Saiki-kun lovingly. Don't hurt him...he's too special and too precious as much as delicate to be handled with something other than the highest care possible...
"Oh..." Her foster mother smiled a bit weakly. "I guess it's someone you really do treasure..."
Yuki nodded. "I have to finish this scarf..." she mused, mostly to herself. "I have to finish it quickly..."
For Saiki-kun... For Saiki-kun...
And Shinoya Ayaka simply nodded in return, her smile widening.
"Got it, Yuki-san."
The black witch made a light 'huh' sound and then just mindlessly continued with her needlework.
I have to hurry. I have to be hasty and get this done quickly. It's for Saiki-kun, and Saiki-kun needs this as soon as possible... Or at least just in time for Christmas!
"Okay, I'm out, okaa-san!"
Doremi rushed outside; dressed in her coat again although this time for some reason she styled her ruby-red hair into its usual school-occasional ponytails rather than odango buns.
The pink witch sighed, her breath visible in the cool winter air as she looked down at the bag she was carrying, smiling softly at it. She soon giggled and skipped down the path, looking about as she did.
Everyone's already setting up for Christmas... That's good, Yuki-chan and the others will love it here... Although Kurumi-chan's probably going to ruin it with her condescending behavior! I know she doesn't mean to sound like that... I wonder if she's even going to be amazed...
The red head already found herself sighing at the mental image of the normally nonchalant cool gray witch not being impressed...it took so little to amaze her when it came to people, but when it was culture wise, it's like such a thing as being 'culturally-shocked' just didn't exist for the mature-appearing female known as Sayoko Kurumi.
Akemi-chan might like it... Although she's been rather moody since that day when Yuki-chan left... I wonder how Yuki-chan's doing now anyway. It seems so odd that she hasn't visited... I kinda wish she did... I wanted to share some of the cake with her...
Doremi sighed heavily again, slumping a bit.
It's not fair... I really wanted to see Yuki-chan smiling so brightly like always when I shared my treats... Momo-chan probably would have liked it, too... We all can't help but adore Yuki-chan when she starts to smile... Even Akatsuki-kun, although that makes me a bit envious! Ah!
The pink witch snapped out of it and shook her head vehemently.
No, no, no! Yuki-chan likes Saiki-kun, Akatsuki-kun's younger twin BROTHER, not Akatsuki-kun himself! Doremi, you're just being silly! Although I can't still quite FATHOM why she likes Saiki-kun, I mean... Sure he's a little polite like Akatsuki-kun and yeah his smile is cute like Akatsuki-kun's but of course Akatsuki-kun's much, MUCH cooler than he is! Akatsuki-kun's so much friendlier, more sociable, easy-going, compassionate...
A blush soon made its way to Doremi's cheeks as she looked up, her eyes glimmering at the thought of the older prince's warm smile.
Sweet, handsome, warm, perfect... Akatsuki-kun is just amazing... Why would he even like someone as clumsy and loud as me anyway? It just wouldn't make sense... Akatsuki-kun... How can I even tell him how much I like him?
The pink witch soon perked up and sighed again as she looked over, quickly brightening up.
Ah, here's Yuki-chan's house already! I'll just talk to her and...
As Doremi continued her mental preparations, she headed up to the front door of the Shinoya household and knocked lightly on the door and waited.
And sure enough, Shinoya Ayaka answered the door.
"Ah, Doremi-chan! Konnichiwa."
"Konnichiwa, Yuki-chan no okaa-san." Doremi smiled brightly, her eyes closing. "Is Yuki-chan busy? A few days ago, she left the Mahou-Dou saying that she was a bit sick so we've all been really worried about her for a while now... How is she?"
"Yuki-san's doing fine, but..." she hesitated, confusing the red-haired girl in ponytails for a moment. "She is rather busy... She hasn't moved from her spot in ages since she started..."
"Started what?" the pink witch asked innocently though inside she was surprised. Too busy to even visit Akatsuki-kun and Saiki-kun? To visit the FLATS 5 and Oyajide? I can't imagine what Yuki-chan's doing... But then again, Akatsuki-kun did say that she's a rather unpredictable girl...
"Oh, she's sewing a scarf." Ayaka laughed a bit, rather embarrassed. "But Yuki-san's really stubborn, and she refuses to tell me who it's for... It's probably for someone really important..."
"Someone...really important?" Doremi frowned, immediately thinking of Saiki.
That makes sense...but wasn't Akemi-chan also making a scarf for her older brother?
"So is she too busy to go on a walk with me, Shinoya-san?"
Ayaka shrugged. "I'll go ask her, Doremi-chan... Why don't you come inside? It's really cold out."
The pink witch nodded and followed after Yuki's mother, closing the door on her way in as she soon settled on the couch, feeling rather shy and self-conscious in that moment.
It's just Yuki-chan... What am I so nervous about anyway?
"Yuki-san," Ayaka called, walking into the other room, sighing as she did. "Doremi-chan's here and she was wondering if..."
Yuki immediately halted her progress, looking up at the older Shinoya in confusion. "Doremi-chan's here?"
Her mother simply nodded.
"Yes, she wanted to spend some time with you, Yuki-san."
The black witch blinked.
Doremi-chan...
"Um..."
I have to finish this...for Saiki-kun, for Saiki-kun!
"Sorry, I'm really busy, okaa-sama... I need to finish this so just apologize to Doremi-chan and make her some hot cocoa, okay?"
"Now, Yuki-san!" Ayaka exclaimed, her hands on her hips in a scolding matter. "You've been working hard enough on that scarf and you're even overworking yourself! Now your nice little friend has visited and it would be extremely rude to just push her out into the cold! So take a break and go for a walk with your friend!"
"But okaa-sama~!"
"No buts!"
Yuki groaned and stood up, rubbing her wrist. "Fine, fine."
And with that, she walked into the living room where the pink witch was.
"Doremi-chan?"
Doremi immediately looked up, surprised. "Oh, Yuki-chan! So you're doing alright now?"
The black witch sighed, still stroking her bruised wrist. "Um... Doremi-chan... This is a bad time..."
The red-haired girl looked confused at that and quickly smiled, tilting her head to the side as she stood up. "Really? Why?"
"I'm...working on something."
"Oh, your scarf right? Your mom mentioned..."
Yuki nodded shyly, shrugging. "G-Gomen-naisai..."
Doremi smiled sadly, shaking her head. "It's for Saiki-kun right?"
The increased blushing in the black witch's seemed to confirm it.
"I...I have to finish..." she murmured, rubbing her wrist again as her eyes fluttered as if fighting to stay open. "I have to finish...Saiki-kun's scarf..."
Saiki-kun... Saiki-kun... Saiki-kun...
Yuki's eyes suddenly snapped wide and she shook her head fervently before smiling cheerfully at the pink witch like always. "Where did you even want to go, Doremi-chan? Okaa-sama wanted me to take a break..."
Although I really don't want to...
Doremi's smile faded into slight surprise. "A break? Well, it's cold out so can we just stay inside and talk?"
The black witch nodded enthusiastically. "Okay!"
Yuki hopped to the pink witch's side as they sat down, giggling, the blond girl instinctively sliding an arm around the red-haired girl's shoulders. "So why'd you visit me here anyway, Doremi-chan?"
"Just to check on how you are... I'm glad you're doing alright though, everyone...especially Onpu-chan and Kurumi-chan was worried about you, Yuki-chan."
This surprised the black witch a bit and she took her arm back, shuffling her feet rather uncomfortably. "Were they?"
As always... Doremi-chan-tachi is much too nice... I really don't like that...
Doremi nodded, smiling.
"Why wouldn't we be worried about our friend, Yuki-chan? So, about Saiki-kun's scarf..."
"I-I'm almost done!" Yuki exclaimed, blushing furiously before groaning, sulking a bit. "It's just taking a while because I'm not very good at sewing at all... Hey speaking of sewing, is Akemi-chan finished?"
Doremi nodded. "She is... In fact..."
(Enter the memory of Harukaze Doremi!)
"I-I'm finally done!"
"It's so cute, Akemi-chan!" Moriko exclaimed as she stared at Akemi's finished white scarf in approval as the crystal witch held it up, a blush on her cheeks and a soft smile on her lips.
"I-I'm glad that it's done..." Akemi murmured, holding her finished work close. "I hope nii-san likes it..."
"It really does look nice, Akemi-chan," Hazuki commented with a gentle smile, Momoko nodding in amazement.
"Definitely!"
"T-Thanks Hazuki-chan, Momo-chan..."
"Hana-chan wonders where Yuki is," Hana sighed heavily, swinging her legs. "Hana-chan wants Yuki to see Akemi's pretty scarf~!"
The crystal witch froze at the mention of the black witch, frowning.
Kurumi perked up. "Either way... Daisuke-san's sure to like Akemi-chan's scarf...but where is Yuki-chan?"
"A-Ah... That is..."
Doremi blinked in confusion.
"Um..."
(Now back to reality!)
"She's also worried about you, Yuki-chan."
"I'll talk to her later, but do tell Akemi-chan that I'm happy for her." Yuki smiled, turning to the side. "Where did you want to go? You never answered my question, Doremi-chan."
"I wanted to visit Akatsuki-kun but I just chickened out..." Doremi hit the side of her head childishly. "I'm not surprised really... I can't imagine being in Akatsuki-kun's home with all the other wizards...especially Saiki-kun."
"Saiki-kun's not really that intimidating..." Yuki giggled herself though sighed, groaning. "I know he's a little rough, but..."
The black witch trailed off as her lips curved into a smile, becoming soft and tender as she looked up, her brown eyes glimmering. "Saiki-kun's still kind-hearted, still warm...and he's so reliable and tender...I really do love...someone like Saiki-kun. He's so sweet..."
"You're different when you talk about Saiki-kun, Yuki-chan."
"Huh?"
Shinoya stared at her in confusion, blinking. "What do you mean by that, Doremi-chan?"
"I mean it seems like you really do like him..." Doremi smiled, chuckling a bit. "I envy you a bit for being so straight-forward... If only Saiki-kun took you seriously..."
"If only!" Yuki exclaimed in agreement, shaking her head like crazy. "Saiki-kun's really smart but it's just so annoying how he never takes me seriously at all! It's like he doesn't even see me as a woman! And I'm totally a woman, right Doremi-chan?"
Doremi made a face at that and blushed heavily. "I-I'm a woman too, but if we think about Kurumi-chan..."
The two girls paused and imagined the mature gray witch before both flustering and moaning in pure agony.
"THAT'S JUST UNFAIR!"
They then looked at each other in surprise before laughing.
"Well, I need to get back to work, Doremi-chan,"
"Oh, can I watch, Yuki-chan?"
"Sure thing!"
Yuki took Doremi's hand and pulled her into the 'work station', allowing the pink witch to see the red scarf in the making.
"Oh... You chose red, Yuki-chan?"
"It's still a passionate color."
The black witch quickly got to her knees and pulled her work close, continuing. "I'm almost done."
"But will Saiki-kun like it?" Doremi wondered as she seated herself. "Who knows?"
"Who knows?" Yuki found herself echoing, sighing as she wove the red fabrics.
Saiki-kun...
Ayaka soon peeked in from the doorway and sighed for a moment before simply shaking her head.
"Aw well."
"She fell asleep."
Yuki sighed as she wrapped a blanket around the unconscious pink witch's shoulders, ruffling the ruby red locks. "I worked for only four hours...and she fell asleep."
The black witch sighed as Doremi's cherry-pink lips parted in her sleep, pressing their foreheads together.
"I guess Doremi-chan really was tired... That's not too bad, is it?"
"Yuki-san?" Yuki perked up as Ayaka came in, carrying a tray of cookies. "Harukaze-san called... She's a little worried about Doremi-chan but she's relieved to know that she's here."
Does Doremi-chan's mother trust us that much? The thought made the black witch frown.
"...I see."
"Why don't you wake her up and I'll take her home?" her mother suggested. "Or do you want your little friend to stay a little longer?"
That's a good question.
"Let's wait until she wakes up... I'm sure she'll want one of your oishii cookies, okaa-sama." For some reason, her tongue felt heavy saying that. Why was it? If Doremi left, she could get to work on her scarf, and Christmas...
Yuki glanced at the calendar and turned blank at the date.
December 24th. Christmas was tomorrow.
Had she really been working that long? The aching in her wrists confirmed it.
But Ayaka smiled, setting down the tray and heading out.
"If that's what you want."
Oh sweet Mahoukai.
Filled with a desperate panic she got back to work on the scarf quickly, her needle swiping through her already abused hands though she paid no attention to the thin lines of red that matched in with her passionate needlework so perfectly.
I HAVE TO FINISH!
Beads of sweat ran down her cheek as the threads wove together until she stabbed herself with the sewing needle, gasping lightly.
Doremi stirred but didn't wake up. What a heavy sleeper.
"O-Ow..." the black witch whimpered, sniffling as she stared at the self-inflicted mark, blood running down as she yanked her hand back before the crimson red could taint the scarf. "I-I didn't want that to happen...no..."
Before she knew it, tears were welling up and she was rubbing away the blood, pressing her lips to the wound as a sob escaped her throat.
"Saiki-kun... I... I..."
The pink witch's lips parted again and crushed together as she let out a light moan, surprising Yuki as her hand fell to the floor and the tears went away, making the black witch stare tentatively at the awakening red-head with glimmering brown eyes.
"Do...Doremi-chan?"
"Yuki-chan...how long was I asleep?" Doremi yawned loudly with her hand raised, her eyes fluttering open. "Do I smell...cookies?"
Yuki had to smile at that. "Yeah, okaa-sama made some for us."
She's awake. Doremi-chan's awake.
The pink witch smiled at first with half-opened eyes before those same magenta orbs jolted wide with horror as she took in the shocking sight of the black witch's hand dripping crimson blood.
"You're bleeding, losing precious blood! What did you do, Yuki-chan?"
"Poked myself," Yuki muttered ruefully although the red-haired girl probably didn't hear; she already jumped up and went searching for a bandage for a few moments before returning urgently, placing the band-aid on the wound before frowning at the several other bandages.
"Akemi-chan didn't make nearly this many mistakes."
The black witch shrugged before taking the sewing needle and once again continuing her work, earning Doremi's frown of concern to deepen.
"Yuki-chan...shouldn't you take a break?"
"Nope," she answered much too simply, her eyes glancing momentarily at the tray of cookies her mother had left there earlier. "Help yourself."
"I don't want a cookie when you're overworking yourself!" Doremi exclaimed exasperated, though she still grabbed one anyway. Hey, they looked pretty good. "Saiki-kun wouldn't like this..."
Although she grudgingly had no idea what the younger prince liked and didn't like.
"It's Christmas Eve, Doremi-chan."
"Huh?" the pink witch's eyes became question marks. She knew what day it was; there was a reason why she wanted to visit Akatsuki today after all. "Of course it is, but what does that have to do with anything?"
"I have to get this done by tomorrow."
Doremi's mouth became an o when she noticed Yuki's grip tighten on the needlework and her lips spread into a smile.
"Oh, I see. But you don't need to hurt yourself over it, Yuki-chan. Just pour your feelings into it." She took a bite out of the cookie. "This tastes great."
The black witch said naught but went back to sewing, her abnormally focused brown eyes still locked on her work.
"Speaking of which, I need to get going...do you mind if I take the rest of these cookies?"
Yuki nodded but said nothing.
"Right..." Doremi muttered awkwardly, pushing all of the cookies except for one into a plastic bag, and she placed that bag in the bag she was carrying before, standing up. "Um...by the way, Yuki-chan?"
No response.
"W-Well... We're having a Christmas party tomorrow at the Mahou-Dou...after you give this to Saiki-kun, will you join us?"
The black witch shrugged again.
"Good luck, Yuki-chan," the pink witch murmured gently heading out before casting once last glance at the young Shinoya girl, smiling when she noticed her reaching for a cookie and grasping it before pulling it back and nibbling on it uncertainly. "See you there."
Finally, Yuki spoke.
"See you, Doremi-chan."
Smiling brightly now, Harukaze closed the door on her way out.
She finished. It was late, and her mother had left saying that it was a meeting and she'd be back early in time for Christmas, but...
She was done. And it still felt incomplete.
Yuki stared at the fabric uncertainly, chewing on her soft lower lip.
"I don't get it...all I see is a red scarf." A red scarf, not her red scarf.
And especially not Saiki-kun's red scarf.
Meme was sleeping upstairs in her room, most likely...she was probably worried about her...but...
It can't be done. Not like this.
Yuki blinked, her brown eyes taking in the finished red scarf. It wasn't too messily made thankfully, it looked normal.
And that's what bugged her. What made this red scarf physically different than the kinds you see in stores?
"Where did I go wrong?" she wondered, lightly stroking the fabric and holding it close to her face to nuzzle it. "It smells nice, and it's warm...but I don't like it. What's wrong with it?"
"Your name fits you."
Yuki's eyes jolted wide as she found herself jumping into another memory.
"Your name fits you," Saiki muttered, tearing through the sheet of paper covered in constant signatures. "Shinoya Miyuki. Shinoya Yuki. Snow. It fits you just fine."
The black witch stared at him with wide eyes like a deer in headlights. "Really now?"
"Ebony hair, dark like mine," the black-haired wizard made a 'huh' sound as he glanced at the long ebony hair at her waist, held by that same green holder. "Eyes that are almost a chocolate brown... Shinoya Miyuki. It fits your appearance, but not your personality."
"I don't like Miyuki. I told you to call me just Yuki, Saiki-kun."
"Whatever works, Yuki-chan," he answered with a huff, shrugging. "It's such a nice name for you either way... It's rather interesting..."
Suddenly he smiled; making Yuki shudder with the warm feeling that smile gave her.
"I like that name. Shinoya Yuki-chan."
Yuki. Miyuki.
Yuki's eyes slowly widened.
Well, duh.
Filled with new inspiration, the black witch grabbed the white thread, etching in a snowflake in the corner of the scarf, smiling in victory. It was small, but still noticeable nevertheless.
There! NOW I'm done!
Yuki soon yawned, lying her head on top of her scarf, sighing a bit.
Tomorrow, I can finally give this to Saiki-kun on Christmas. I can't wait.
She soon smiled before drifting off.
"Saiki-kun..."
(And on Christmas night...)
Looks like she didn't come after all...
Saiki picked up the present as he stared at it melancholically, sighing.
I couldn't even give her this... Oh well, I suppose.
"Saiki-kun, Doremi-chan said there would be a party at the Mahou-Dou," Akatsuki started, reaching out to grasp Saiki's shoulder. "Will you be coming with us?" For some reason, he sounded hopeful. "Yuki-chan might be there."
How am I supposed to give this to her with those girls AND onii-chan around though? Not to mention how suspicious it'll sound if I ask to be alone with her...
"I might as well." He muttered darkly, looking off towards the side as his grip tightened on the gift. "But it's only because you asked me to though, onii-chan."
The older prince smiled at that and affectionately patted his younger brother's head in gratitude.
"Thanks, Sai. Hey, maybe we'll get to see how people decorate Misora itself... It could be quite the sight."
Saiki's eyes suddenly jolted wide in realization.
"They're putting a gigantic Christmas tree in the middle of Misora on Christmas Day! It'll be so pretty... Let's meet there okay?"
That's right! That tree!
"Onii-chan, I need to go somewhere..." the words were slipping out faster than he intended as he brushed away his twin's hand, grasping his coat and slipping it over his arms as he rushed out. "It won't take long, I promise!"
Akatsuki was simply left there, confused.
"Sai...ki-kun?"
me o mitsu metara sugu atata mete
(when I looked at you, your sight warmed me)
"KYAAAAA~!"
Yuki rushed out of the house, nearly stumbling as she held her red scarf in a bundle close to her heart as she groaned.
"I-I can't believe I slept so long!"
shinjiteru GARASU ni ka ita moji
("I believe in you" were the words I etched on the window)
The black witch soon shook her head.
"I still...have to give this to Saiki-kun... I better hurry!"
And with that, she rushed off.
imafuri sosogu kono yuki no naka
(in the midst of the falling snow)
Saiki himself looked about as he walked through the crowds, frowning a bit.
"Will Yuki-chan...really be there?"
tada hitori sagashiteru
(I'm looking for you alone)
He groaned as he pulled out the gift again, staring at it.
"I should at least give this to her, right? I owe Yuki-chan that much."
"And considering how lucky I am to know you, Christmas makes me really happier than it would have before, especially since you're here right now..."
"Whatever you say."
"Funny, we run into each other twice in the same day... Hey, maybe destiny wants us together!"
"Yeah... Right..."
"Oh, you never listen to me!"
Yuki continued running through the snow desperately, still holding her scarf close, panting a bit.
Saiki-kun...
"You shouldn't push yourself like that, especially not in this kind of weather."
"What will I ever do with you?"
"Ah... It's a little hard saying this, Yuki-chan..."
"You really don't miss a beat do you?"
"Are you doing any better?"
"Have a safe return, Yuki-chan..."
shiawase to aruiteiru ne
(All these couples walking around town)
Yuki found herself picking up the pace as she looked over and noticed a different couple from earlier, her eyes widened.
machi chuu no koibito tachi wa
(They sure seem happy, huh?)
The two were hugging and looking awfully romantic as she snapped her head back and continued running.
"Will Saiki-kun and I ever be like that?"
ano goro no futari no you de
(I'm actually heartbroken at the sight)
Saiki stared at the clock topped with snow, a frown on his face.
"It's late...should I really expect to see her there?"
mune ga kuru shiku naru
(they remind me of how we were back then)
He looked at the present again, Yuki's smile flashing in his mind.
watashi ni dekiru koto ga aru kana
(if there's one thing that I can do)
The black witch stopped at a red light, her fingers still grasping onto the scarf.
"I went through all this hard work... I can't stop now."
Her eyes glimmered as she looked back down at it, biting her lip at the sight of her still-bandaged hands.
anata no tame ni nani ka shitakute
(I'll do anything if it's just for you)
And as soon as it was green and good to walk through, she dashed.
"Saiki-kun..."
"gomen ne" sae mo ie nakatta
(even if "sorry" doesn't have a form, I'm still thinking)
As she was running, tears formed in her eyes as they fell, sparkling in the winter air.
hitotsu yuuki o moteba anata to irareta
(...that one courage I have when I'm with you.)
Yuki sighed heavily, her eyes glimmering.
"This is for Saiki-kun."
moshi kana u nara sugu ai ni kite
(if this voice can reach you, come to me immediately)
Saiki perked up as he stopped, his eyes wide.
"What was that?"
te no hira de toketeku hikaru yuki
(as the shining snow melts on the palms of my hands)
His breath as visible in the winter air as he looked at the present for the umpteenth time, his coal eyes glimmering a bit.
"Yuki-chan? Was that her? Or just the snow?"
ano hito shisa ga mada kienai yo
(if that kindness still hasn't disappeared yet)
Please. Saiki-kun.
Her feet were starting to hurt from running so much but she didn't slow down, still as desperate to reach her goal as ever.
Please, Saiki-kun.
kono mune ni furitsuzuku
(then in this heart, it will continue raining)
Please just be there.
Her eyes soon shut as she pushed herself.
PLEASE!
Saiki walked down the path as she continued running, and after a while, the two both took in the sight of the gigantic, beautiful and bright Christmas tree in the center of Misora.
masshiro na KURISUMASU TSURII miageteru watashi wa hitori
(At the big white Christmas tree, I look at it alone)
Yuki breathed in surprise.
"So pretty..."
She stopped, clutching the scarf even tighter.
"I made it here...but is Saiki-kun here?"
kono basho de te o tsunaida ne
(in this place where I once held your hand tight)
"It really is a sight...impressive," Saiki noted before tightening his grip on the present and perking up.
"Wait a minute..."
egao o omoidasu
(I will always remember that smile)
"Yuki-chan?"
Yuki immediately flinched as she walked forward, noticing Saiki for the first time, walking up uncertainly.
"Saiki-kun?"
sabishii yoru wa koe ga kikitai
(I want to hear your voice on these lonely nights)
"I didn't expect to see you..." she began softly, walking forward with the scarf behind her. "I'm surprised Saiki-kun, but..."
namida no hi ni mo tsuyosa kanjite
(I feel you even on those days where I cried)
The black witch soon smiled, shrugging. "I'm also really, really happy..." Yuki bowed, her eyes closed in gratitude. "Thank you, Saiki-kun."
deae takoto wa guuzen jaanai
(it was no coincidence we met)
This surprised Saiki a bit as he shook his head. "You don't have to bow, Yuki-chan." He sighed as he did.
itsumo nori koe rareta
(I was able to overcome anything...)
The younger prince blushed a bit lightly as he just spoke.
"I came only because I wanted to see you."
anata ga ita kara
(because you were there for me)
Yuki's eyes widened in surprise, her own blush deepening as she lightly gasped.
me o mitsu metara sugu atata mete
(when I looked at you, your sight warmed me)
"I feel the same way!" she exclaimed before she could change her mind about it. "I really, REALLY wanted to see you so this was the first place I looked, but..."
shinjiteru GARASU ni ka ita moji
("I believe in you" were the words I etched on the window)
The black witch closed her eyes and bowed her head, her eyes glimmering.
"I never thought...that you would actually show up...so I was a little worried, but I was still so desperate to see you..."
imafuri sosogu kono yuki no naka
(in the midst of the falling snow)
Saiki frowned at that, looking about around the snow, trying not to meet those eyes.
"Yuki-chan... You shouldn't have..."
tada hitori sagashiteru
(I'm looking for you alone)
The sunny blonde just smiled at that, looking up at the black-haired wizard with brown eyes sparkling in complete adoration.
"I wanted to."
chiisana kagayaki no hitotsu bumo
(even if it's only a small fragment of light)
Saiki had to smile and pull up his collar again before turning surprised as she walked forward and tenderly wrapped the scarf around his neck.
"Yuki-chan...?"
wasureru koto nante dekinai yo
(I won't be able to forget about it)
"Perfect fit!" Yuki exclaimed in glee, completely delighted. "Great, after all this hard work, it's a perfect fit!"
doko ni iru no ima tsutaetai
(wherever those things are right now)
"You worked on a scarf for me?" he wondered in confusion, reaching up to touch the red fabric. "Wasn't it hard?"
The black witch just stuck her tongue out at that, giggling.
moshi kana u nara sugu ai ni kite
(if this voice can reach you, come to me immediately)
Saiki frowned at that and shook his head, making her flinch in fear.
"P-Please accept it, Saiki-kun..."
te no hira de toketeku hikaru yuki
(as the shining snow melts on the palms of my hands)
"I do appreciate it Yuki-chan, and it would be rude to expect but...you made it, right?"
Yuki nodded eagerly, blushing heavily.
"Y-You needed a scarf so that's what I made!"
ano hito shisa ga mada kienai yo
(if that kindness still hasn't disappeared yet)
"So this is why you never came earlier..." the younger prince muttered, earning the black witch to perk up, raising an eyebrow.
"I wanted to do it, Saiki-kun. I really did."
kono mune ni furitsuzuku
(then in this heart, it will continue raining)
He squeezed the bridge of his nose, groaning with irritation.
"That's a little unfair though... How am I supposed to...? Really?"
zutto oboeteru sou yuki ga furu
(I will always remember the layers of fallen snow)
Finally he just pulled out the gift, making Yuki's eyes pop up wide with disbelief and surprise.
"Am I...dreaming?"
kono machi de tsunaide nukumori o
(in this city where all the seasons connected)
"Humans make it look so easy...giving presents to each other with a 'Merry Christmas to you'; it's so embarrassing." He groaned. "You like this sort of thing, right? 'Cute', as you call it?"
mada dono ku kana te o sashi dase ba
(maybe if I spread my arms into the eternality falling before me)
The black witch tentatively reached for the gift, her eyes still wide like a deer in headlights.
"This artistic wrapping...the complete perfection... Y-You wrapped this yourself, and the wrapping paper itself is so cute!"
furi tsumoru eien ga
(will somehow reach into your embrace)
Saiki had to smile a bit at how silly she was being, pointing his finger at it. "You supposed to open it, aren't you?"
"I-I know that, it's just this is the first real present you ever gave me for Christmas so I'm really excited!" she exclaimed indignantly, still blushing like crazy before looking down in a discouraged manner. "The fact that you bought something for me is just too much, Saiki-kun..."
The black-haired wizard rolled his eyes.
"What can I say? I immediately thought of you when I saw it and this is something you could use..."
Yuki's lips twitched before she smiled brightly at him.
"Thank you!"
With that, she carefully opened the present, taking extra care to not tear the paper Saiki had gone through the trouble of wrapping...although the younger prince probably didn't care anyway. Yuki was weird like that.
And finally...
She froze at the sight of the small pencil bag, it didn't even seem like Saiki himself had bought it; it looked like something she herself would immediately purchase upon seeing it and being infatuated with how cute the dang thing was.
It was adorable, really, small enough to fit into both her hands, colored a light pure blue with a printed chibi white bear on it with a red ribbon wrapped around its neck, surrounded by several wintery decorations. And the zipper she also noticed, had a few bead attached with the kanji for her name printed on it.
It wasn't a romantic gift; it was something that just seemed natural for the black witch to own, to have. Chances were if someone asked, it would be a question if she had bought it, not someone else.
And it was the best thing she could have gotten from him.
"I'm sorry, it's not much..."
"I love it. I love it!"
"Really?" he stared at her in slight surprise; though somewhere in his mind he only thought the two words knew it. "I figured...you've always liked these sorts of things."
And the fact that he knew what she liked made it even more special. This was despite the fact that Saiki had a weird way of knowing everything about everybody except himself.
"I love it~!" Yuki squealed, rubbing the pencil bag—her gift, no one else's—against her cheek. "Saiki-kun, you're the best! The greatest! It's the most natural present I've ever gotten! And it's the only present you've ever given me, too..."
Saiki blinked at that, rolling his eyes with a slight blush. "You're just completely...childish, Yuki-chan."
The black witch perked up at that, her eyes narrowing. "I can be a woman, Saiki-kun. Let me give you the second part of your gift."
"There's two parts?" he wondered, reaching up to grip the scarf, burying his face in it a bit. "Honestly, Yuki-chan; the scarf is more than enough..."
"Close your eyes."
"What?"
"CLOSE!"
Saiki obeyed, shutting his eyes tightly as he yanked the scarf down a bit. Yuki smiled and took a big step forward, standing on her toes so that their faces could inch closer.
And the black-haired wizard, sensitive as he was, shivered a bit from feeling her cool breath against his lips.
"Um... Yuki-chan? Can I at least know what you're doing?"
A smirk pulled at her own lips as she pushed herself forward, planting a chaste kiss on the younger prince's cheek. Yuki quickly pulled back, grinning. Saiki's eyes opened and he touched where she kissed him, making a 'huh' sound.
"Over-affectionate as always, I see."
Her smile twitched.
"I love you, Saiki-kun. I really do love you, idiot."
"I'm not the goof who ran around in circles without realizing that the center square of Misora is only a ten minute walk if I just go straight," he countered, making her do a comically-styled fall over.
"S-Saiki-kun, that is-!"
"Another fine example of your terrible sense of direction; don't ever become a land guide okay?"
"You condescending, smart-mouthed, overly-sensitive, broody...CUTIE!" she seethed, flailing her arms about in a pouting manner. "You're so lucky that I like you!"
Saiki just stared at her, clearly questioning her mental stability.
"I'm not cute."
"Right, guys prefer handsome, got it." Yuki stuck up both thumbs in mock approval. "I'll be sure to keep your man-ego up, my sweet Saiki-kun."
Silence.
"...Thank you for the present, Yuki-chan."
"It was nothing, really. Thank you."
The black witch smiled sincerely, her eyes closing. "Merry Christmas, Saiki-kun. I really do love you."
Saiki smiled himself as he patted the top of the blonde's head, earning a giggle of delight. "A merrier Christmas to you, Yuki-chan. You deserve it."
"No, I..." she stopped when he separated from her and walked away into the snow, grasping the scarf again. Yuki blinked before turning to the tree, watching the sparkle.
"I love Saiki-kun... Saiki-kun got me a present...and Saiki-kun smiled at me..." she muttered as if trying to convince herself it wasn't a dream. "I...love...Saiki-kun."
Her heart felt warm as she gripped her gift tighter.
"Merry Christmas then, huh?"
"Yuki-chan, there you are!"
"Oh, Doremi-chan," Yuki stated, still in a bit of a daze as the pink witch dashed up, looking obviously very delighted.
"I knew you'd be here, well are you ready? The party's waiting on you!"
Doremi grabbed her arm and yanked her friend forward, squealing.
"It's so great, Momo-chan made us a tray-load of cookies plus the one from your mother's if you don't mind... I came looking for you because I remembered how bad your sense of direction is, do you mind?"
Yuki quickly shook her head, quickly sliding her precious gift into her pocket.
"No... I... That's fine. Thank you, Doremi-chan."
Doremi laughed, and finally the black witch got curious.
"You're really happy today, huh? What are you so excited about?"
"The same thing you are!"
"Akatsuki-kun?"
She nodded, turning at the black witch to wink. "He's coming to the Christmas Party with the others~! I'm really glad for that."
It only took a minute for Shinoya to understand before she glomped the pink witch, squealing.
"Doremi-chan, thank you! Merry Christmas!"
My romantic Christmas with Saiki-kun hasn't ended yet! Christmas...really is something amazing.
-Lesson Learned-
(Footage: There are some random flashes of Misora Junior High before we stop at a scene at the window where Yuki is seen tapping a pencil against her chin as we pan up, and she soon looks at the screen, confused.)
kikoe sou na kodou ga hazukashii yo
(It's always been a bit embarrassing when people hear my feelings)
(Footage: Yuki can be seen walking down with Doremi and Kurumi at her sides, all of them laughing.)
doushite? watashi rashiku ha nai yo
(Why is that? This isn't my usual self at all)
(Footage: Yuki looks up and sees the rest of the Ojamajos waving towards her, inviting her to come over. She smiles brightly and nods.)
kyou ga owatte mo
(Whenever the day is over,)
Footage: Yuki is seen twirling around while she sweeps across the Mahou-Dou, Hana chasing after her in glee.)
ashita ga sugite mo
(And tomorrow soon passes away)
Footage: Switch to where Yuki and Majoren are happily chatting away with Naoki and Kazuo watching them in curiosity. Akio soon serves them drinks, Kazuki shaking Yuki's hand as she giggles.)
itsumo soba ni ite
(I'll always be by your side)
(Footage: Yuki can be seen wiping off her forehead as she's seen doing laundry, and steps out to look at the sunset.)
zutto sunao ni kawaranu futari
(Forever throughout our ever faithful relationship)
(Footage: Switch to a scene of the FLATS 5 as Saiki extends his hand to the screen, grinning widely.)
shinjitai!
(I want to believe!)
(Footage: We switch and pan up to a surprised Yuki who soon smiles brightly and closes her eyes in pure joy as she rushes up.)
anata to atta ano hi kara
(From the very day we met)
(Footage: Doremi is seen looking out the window in thought and smiles as she looks down at a note that says "Let's walk home together tomorrow, Doremi-chan!" in Yuki's miserable writing.)
donna toki ni demo
(And at any single time)
(Footage: Akemi and Hazuki are seen practicing ballet, and Akemi soon blushes when Hazuki smiles at her.)
subete o kanjirareru ki ga suru
(I could always feel everything around me)
(Footage: Moriko is tending the flowers and looks up and soon smiles as Aiko is seen offering her a hand.)
tada anata ga iru dake de
(Only whenever you are here)
(Footage: Momoko is cooking while Hana and Poppu both help, and we soon cut to a scene where Kurumi and Onpu are discussing future plans as they beam.)
soba iru dake de
(So please just stay by my side)
(Footage: Yuki soon perks up as she's now seen all alone, and sighs.)
Forever, you're my only feeling heart
(Footage: We pan up as Yuki seems bummed and looks up and soon rushes to where the Mahou-Dou is, and quickly opens the door, only to be covered in streamers, making her look up in surprise as the Ojamajos smile while holding party-poppers. Yuki's eyes glitter in surprise as she slowly smiles brightly as the song ends.)
Next time on Ojamajo Doremi Tomo-DACHI:
Yuki: While on an adventure in the park, I was found by this strange little girl named Amu, and she might be onto my secret!
Other Ojamajos: NANI?
Yuki: Or not... She actually thinks I'm a wish-granting fairy.
Doremi: Don't scare us like that, Yuki-chan... But what are you going to do?
Aiko: Ya really screwed up...
Yuki: Don't worry, it'll be fine! Besides, Amu-chan's so cute just like Poppu-chan! I want her to smile at me and call me 'nee-chan'!
Hazuki: Yuki-chan...
Akemi: Really...
Moriko: She's an idiot.
Kurumi: Oh, Yuki-chan...
Yuki: Don't worry, it'll be fine, Amu-chan! Nee-chan will make all your dreams come true!
Hana: Go for it, Yuki!
Momoko: Oh man...
Onpu: I wonder what'll happen~?
Doremi: ...I'm really worried right now. Can you really be a sister, Yuki-chan?
Yuki: No need to worry!
Other Ojamajos Except Hana: That just makes us worry more!
Doremi: Next time on Ojamajo Doremi Tomo-DACHI!
Yuki: The next lesson! "Grant My Wish! Yuki-chan As Nee-chan?"! And remember, friendship comes before everything and always treasure it!
Kurumi: Making friends isn't easy, but don't give up!
Bonus~!
Omake: All's Well That Ends Well! Merry Christmas!
"MERRY CHRISTMAS YUKI-CHAN!"
Yuki blinked as she was covered in streamers, the rest of the Ojamajos standing there with stamped grins on their faces, and Doremi smiled at her as well.
"They really hoped you'd make it."
The black witch just stared in shock, her hands trembling.
"E-Everyone... Tha... Thank you."
Akemi walked up, carrying her own present, blushing furiously.
"U-Um, I really wanted to apologize for earlier... Merry Christmas, Yuki-chan, I know this is weird...but... I... I just..."
"It's okay, Akemi-chan."
The crystal witch looked up in surprise, her eyes glimmering as Yuki shrugged.
"I don't mind, really. Merry Christmas."
She took the present from Akemi's hands before grinning playfully. "No worries!"
The crystal witch had to smile and tentatively wrapped her arms around the black witch in a friendly hug before flinching and quickly getting back, waving her hands.
"I-I'm glad!"
"Still so shy, Akemi-chan!" Moriko gushed with her elbow making contact with her fair friend's shoulder, winking at Yuki. "You ought to feel honored, Yuki-chan."
"I already do," the sunny blond laughed with the present close as she set it down, twirling a lock of her hair around her finger. "Thank you as well, Moriko-chan."
"For what?"
"No idea."
Instinctively, Yuki took out the pencil bag she got, delicately setting it atop the crystal witch's present.
"How cute! You bought that for school, right?" Kurumi asked, noticing the gift. "But that's mean, Yuki-chan, you should have gotten something for me..."
"Ha-ha," she simply laughed, not daring to correct who really bought the present. "Merry Christmas, Kurumi-chan."
"Yuki, you have to try Momo's brownies and cookies!" Hana squealed, tackling Yuki and dragging her to the sweets. "Also, your mom's cookies tasted REALLY good, thanks Yuki!"
Yuki casted a glance towards Doremi who innocently smiled.
"Hana-chan, let Yuki-chan walk on her own." Onpu laughed, giggling. "She's probably worn out from her 'romantic' Christmas with Saiki-kun."
"Details, details!" Momoko exclaimed, excited. "What happened anyway?"
"M-Momo-chan, Onpu-onee-sama, that's-!"
"So what was it like, Yuki-chan?" Hazuki asked sweetly, Aiko grinning beside her. Yuki only flustered.
"U-Um... I... Chu..."
"I really want a romantic Christmas with Akatsuki-kun," Doremi sighed, thankfully cutting off the black witch. "You're so lucky, Yuki-chan."
"Yeah...keep telling yourself that, Doremi-chan." She shrugged then, a smile tugging at her lips. "Anyway, Majorika and Lala...are...?"
No answer. Duh.
"...right..."
"Yuki-chan?" Momoko wondered as she sauntered over to the window. "Um...what are you?"
"I should have brought Meme, as soon as Majorika gets back, I'll call her over." Yuki smiled then at the sight of the while falling snow. "I love snow. I love my name."
"Miyuki, or...?" she quickly cut the pink witch off.
"Yuki, always Yuki."
Suddenly she noticed something odd, something that looked like a magical carriage...or was it a sleigh?
Is that Joou-sama, or...?
"Yuki-chan? We still need to set up for the other guests..."
"C-Coming! I'll get things ready for Saiki-kun!" Yuki yelped as she bounced back to her friends, taking her thoughts away from the strange sight, completely missing the kanji that had magically formed in the clear starry night.
Merry Christmas.