Smokey Trail of Stars
A Shokugeki no Soma Fanfiction by Literate Cricket: Part 2
"Ibusaki-San, would you please have a Shokugeki with me?"
Shun, who's last class had just ended, turned around. He had been thinking about his tranquill study session with Ryoko a day earlier, and was wondering if he should ask her again when he heard the stranger's voice. A younger boy, still folded over in a respectful bow, had asked the question. He was about to say 'sure' as usual, when something behind the kid caught his attention: a girl's pretty magenta hair shining as she walked out of a classroom on the other side of the hallway. Shun hesitated, and replied to the kid "Yeah, sure, but would you mind waiting 'till tomorrow afternoon? I have something to do today". The boy stammered "Uh, yes! Of course. Thank you very much, Ibusaki-San!", and left with another courteous bow. Shun took a moment to be sure he didn't already have another Shokugeki planned for that day, then started towards Ryoko.
Yuki had been walking beside Ryoko, chatting casually with her, when she noticed a familiar fluffy head on the other side of the hall. Is he coming this way? She wondered, and a gleeful smile appeared on her face as she saw him obviously heading in her direction -or should she say, Ryoko's-. Yuki suddenly turned to her friend and quickly made up an excuse to leave: "Ah, bamboo shoots! I just remembered I left my knife in Mr Miyasato's class!", she said, with some cheesy hand gestures to match her fibs. Ryoko was visibly baffled "What? I can't imagine you would forget something as important as your cooking knife! Also, isn't Zenji the one in Mr. Miyasato's class? You're confusing me, Yuki...". Wild rats, she isn't buying it…, thought Yuki. She continued in a rushed tone "Who, Zenji? Maybe. Well, I'll catch ya later, Ryoko-chi!", and dashed off without giving her friend any time to speak. Ryoko stared after Yuki's bobbing pigtail buns in confusion, when she heard someone clear their throat behind her.
"Oh! Shun! I… wasn't expecting you", she said shyly, brushing a lock of hair behind her ear. Shun's cheeks reddened just a little bit. "Um… Hi, Ryoko", he muttered back. Ryoko eyed him with curiosity "Did you need something from me?". Shun perked up "Uh, no! I just wanted to ask, by any chance… are you free this afternoon? No pressure if you're not, obviously...". Ryoko was taken aback, and a whole legion of butterflies fluttered in her stomach. But she turned her face away as she answered "Well… I told Isshiki I'd come help him out with the new hangout place today...". Shun's heart sank, but Ryoko hadn't finished: "...but I shouldn't have too much to do after that, if you'd still be willing then?". Shun felt a prickle of excitement, but managed to disguise it adequately " Oh, sure. Whatever works for you". After a brief silence, he turned to her again. "Do you mind if I ask what you meant by 'hangout place'? I hope Isshiki hasn't done anything too crazy this time". "Um…" Ryoko hesitated for a moment, then continued "I think it would be easier to just show you. Would you like to come see?". As Shun responded quickly "Okay, sure", the two heard some familiar voices behind them.
"Hey Shun!". Zenji walked up to Shun with Yuki tagging along behind him. His eyes glinted thoughtfully for a split second when he noticed Ryoko beside Shun, but by his next sentence, he had erased any trace of his inner thoughts "And Ryoko, good afternoon!". Ryoko politely returned the greeting, but her gaze quickly switched to Yuki, her eyes full of suspicion: "Yuki, I thought you had gone to get something?". Yuki laughed nervously. Jackrabbits! What should I say now? Yuki thought anxiously to herself. But Zenji continued to speak: "Hey, with the two of you, that makes four of us Kyokusei residents! What do you say we all walk back together?". Thank heavens! Yuki thought gratefully, as everyone else nodded their agreement, and as Ryoko completely forgot about her while eyeing her crush. The group of friends walked out of Totsuki, and began the usual hike back up to Kyokusei Dormitory.
"So what was up with Ryoko back there?" Zenji asked Yuki quietly; they were walking a few paces behind Shun and Ryoko. Yuki replied, sounding simultaneously joyous and defeated "Well, I told her I'd forgotten my knife in one of my classes, so she was confused when I came back empty handed, haha…". Zenji lifted a curious eyebrow "Yuki, your cooking knife is one of your most important cooking tools, how could you ever leave that behind?". Yuki responded with a hint of impatience in her voice "Of course I didn't actually forget my knife, that thing hasn't left Kyokusei since my last Shokugeki! It was just an excuse to leave her alone with-''.
Yuki stopped suddenly, her eyes wide with concern. Oh rabbit-poop, what have I done?. She cast a worried look at Zenji, who eyed her with thoughtful eyes. No no no… this is not good at all!. Zenji must have sensed her anxiety because he smiled and reassured her "Don't worry, Yoshino-kun, you got lucky; I already knew". Yuki exhaled a breath she didn't know she had been holding. Zenji chuckled "But you should be more careful with your words, Yoshino-kun, or you might accidentally end up in a pretty tense situation one of these days". Yuki replied "Yeah, you're definitely right… haha", flooded with relief. But she perked up again shortly after "Wait, how did you already know? Did Ryoko tell you?". Zenji shook his head. Yuki continued "If Ryoko didn't tell you, then… wait, you couldn't possibly mean-". Zenji smiled, and gestured ahead of them using his eyes. Yuki followed his gaze, and saw that he was looking at Shun and Ryoko, who were happily chatting a little further up the path. Yuki smiled and looked back at Zenji, who returned the gaze with knowing eyes. Then, they continued down the path in peaceful silence.
"Looks like we're here!" Ryoko said happily a few minutes later. Everyone looked ahead at the looming white building overrun with ivy. As they walked under the large iron gate that led into Kyokusei's front yard, a familiar joyous voice greeted them from the upper balcony: "Shun, Ryoko, welcome back! Oh, Zenji and Yuki too?". Yuki gleefully returned Isshiki's greeting "Hi Isshiki-Senpai!". Isshiki, wearing nothing but an apron as usual, waved back and smiled "Get up here, guys! There's something I have to show you!". Then, humming a happy tune, he disappeared into the building. Ryoko perked up "Ah! He must be talking about the hangout room! Come on, guys, I'll show you the way!".
A few minutes later, the four of them were walking down Kyokusei's hallways, Ryoko in the lead as she had already been to the room once before. She talked to herself as she searched "Hmm… I think it's around here somewhere, but I can't remember the number…". Suddenly, a loud crash resonated from a door a few more paces down the hallway, followed by two familiar, brash voices.
"Oh, great job, dingus! Now it's completely broken thanks to you!"
"Excuse me? Well, if your dumb butt hadn't knocked it out of my hands this never would have happened!"
"Argh! You better fix this before Mrs. Fumio finds out!"
"Why should I fix it when you made me drop it?!"
"You're just saying that cuz' your stupid face doesn't know how to fix it!"
"Who are you calling stupid, stupid?"
When Shun pushed open the door to let everyone inside, Daigo and Shoji were butting heads in the middle of the room, standing over a shattered potted plant. Megumi was at the other end of the room with a stack of books and looked a little anxious, doubtlessly because of Daigo and Shoji's shouting. Meanwhile, Soma was standing near the corner holding a broom, his calm expression betraying none of his inner thoughts. The two meatheads growled at each other, and it looked like their verbal brawl would soon become a physical one, but Isshiki suddenly appeared and shoved them apart before things got out of control: "Alright boys, let's keep it friendly now, shall we? Daigo, there should be a dust sweeper somewhere at the bottom of the staircase, would you please get that for me? And Shoji, I think we'll be needing to replace some of the lightbulbs in this place, there should be a few in the maintenance closet. Don't worry, I'll take care of the plant". With one last semi-hostile glance at each other, the two nodded glumly and went to do the tasks Isshiki had asked them to complete. Once they had gone, Isshiki wiped his forehead with his arm: "Whew! That was close! Last time those two brought it down, they made one heck of a mess!". Zenji commented sourly "No need to remind me, it happened in my room…".
Everyone laughed lightheartedly, then Isshiki spoke again "Well, I guess I'll be leaving you for a moment, this little guy's gonna need some help". He picked up the plant, put it on a plate to avoid getting soil everywhere, and left the room with a few jaunty steps. Megumi spoke shyly "I was afraid that would get pretty brutal, it's a good thing Isshiki was here", and walked over with Soma to greet the others. Yuki spoke first "Hi Soma, hi Megumi!". Soma waved and Megumi made a small bow, then Shun asked "So, what is everyone doing here?". Megumi set her books down and began to explain "Well, when we found this room, Isshiki thought it would be a great place to just hang out with everyone, you know? So we took it upon ourselves to make it a little more hospitable, and I think we've done pretty well so far, don't you?"
"Yeah, certainly!" Ryoko replied supportively as everyone looked around the room. It was really good-looking with a wide rectangular shape, and one of it's walls was lined with many windows. The room was also quite large and spacious, definitely a good size and shape for a friendly party. It was obvious there was still a bit of cleaning to do, but the place was already dotted with bookshelves, bean bag chairs, and tables among a few other things, even a TV.
Yuki commented "Wow, you guys did a really nice job so far! Maybe it'll go a little faster if we help out a little bit". Megumi smiled "Thanks guys, that's really nice! You can basically do whatever you think would make this place a little better! I was moving some stuff out of those boxes over in that corner". Yuki piped up again "Oh, let me help you with that!". Megumi replied good-naturedly "Aw, Thanks Yuki!". As the two girls headed off to work on that, Soma spoke flatly "As for me, I've been sweeping here and there. But I think I could use some help, there's a lot of floor to cover". Shun and Ryoko spoke simultaneously: "I'll help you!". They glanced at each other, then quickly turned away, embarrassed. Soma raised an eyebrow, and continued "Well, thanks for pitching in! Here, there's two more brooms by the door over there". Zenji smiled, then said "Well, I guess I'll stay here and take care of the broken pot. You guys go on".
As Shun and Ryoko went to get the brooms, Zenji frowned, then complained quietly "Ugh! Here I am cleaning up after those two bozos again! Why is it always me?!". The two smiled as Zenji continued to grumble to himself. They each picked up a broom, then crossed to an area Soma hadn't reached yet. As they swept dust and debris into neat little piles, Shun noticed a curtain shielding a window that looked a little different from the others. He leaned his broomstick against the wall, then walked over to inspect it. "Hey, guys, there's a sliding door over here", he told the others. Soma's voice answered him "Huh, really? That's cool. Can't believe no one noticed that earlier'' as he tentatively opened the door and stepped out. Behind the glass door was a smallish wooden balcony, quite lovely even though it had been taken over by plants. It offered a really sweet view of the woods surrounding Kyokusei, except that the right half of the balcony was blotted out by some drooping tree branches.
Shun stood there for a long and thoughtful moment, then went back inside. He crossed the room, calling over his shoulder "Soma, I think I'm gonna leave you and Ryoko to finish sweeping, I found something else to do". Some complained "Aw, come on, really?" and Ryoko giggled as Shun left the room. A few moments later, Isshiki came back in, humming a tune and carrying the little plant in a brand new pot of dirt. He set it atop a bookshelf, then said encouragingly to his underlings "It's looking great, guys, keep up the good work!". Then, chatting like brothers, Daigo and Shoji entered together -they'd already forgotten their dispute- with the feather duster and some light bulbs, while Shun followed in after them with…
"Shun, what are you planning to do with that chainsaw?!" Zenji said with audible alarm in his voice. Some of the others turned their heads towards Shun, obviously sharing Zenji's thoughts. Shun scratched his hair shyly "Ah, sorry, didn't mean to spook you. There's some pretty tough branches blocking some of the balcony, I wouldn't be able to clip them with the garden scissors". Relieved after his explanation, the others returned to their work. The whirring of Shun's saw streamed in from outside, while Isshiki stood on a chair -full moon in plain sight- and hung some pretty string lights above the windows. Ryoko continued to sweep with Soma, and so on. All of the Kyokusei residents worked cheerfully together on their new hangout place, and everyone had a good time.
"Whew! That should be good for today, guys, don't you think?" Isshiki said good-naturedly. Everyone was getting a little tired, and the sun was already looming over the horizon. "Yeah, I'll gladly take a nice long break from cleaning...", Soma said loudly, wiping his forehead on his sleeve. Then, he opened a twinkling eye "... cuz' I need to get back in the kitchen! Isshiki, would you be up for a friendly food battle? These guys could be the judges during dinner later". Isshiki returned his Soma's challenging gaze with a mysterious twinkle in his gentle eyes "Friendly, huh? Well, either way, how could I turn down such a challenge? You're on, Yukihira Soma".
Yuki suddenly piped up "I'm bored! Can I spectate? I'll even be an emcee if you'd like!". Soma turned to her, smiling: "Sure! What should the theme be then, Emcee Yoshino?". Yuki brought a thoughtful finger up to her mouth, then said loud and clear "Alright! The theme of this food battle will be whatever's in the fridge! You have two hours, and of course you can use anything you may have brought with you. The winner will be whoever gets the most votes at tonight's dining table. In short, you can do whatever you want, just make sure it's delicious!". Soma pumped his fist enthusiastically "Alright, then! Let's head to the kitchen, I can't wait to get started!". Everyone filed out the door behind Soma and Isshiki, excited to watch this match between the Totsuki top two. Ryoko was about to follow Yuki, when she heard Shun call her name from behind her. She turned around then remembered suddenly "Oh, Shun, I'm sorry! I was so excited about the battle that I completely forgot!". Shun brought an embarrassed hand up to his neck "Ah… it's okay, I nearly forgot as well, no pressure".
The two stood in silence for a moment, then Ryoko said shyly "Um… did you want to do anything in particular?". Shun suddenly realized that he had not planned anything when he had asked her out that afternoon. "Well…", he began, but Ryoko spoke again "Honestly, I'm up for anything as long as we're back in time for dinner!". Shun hesitated, and took a moment to look around. When he noticed the sun looming sleepily over the western horizon, a great idea came to him. He turned to Ryoko "I was thinking… there's this place on the path between here and Totsuki I think you would like… if you'd be willing to walk there, that is". Ryoko brushed a lock of hair behind her ear and replied "Oh, sure! Of course! Besides, I'm sure a little bit of exercise couldn't hurt me". I can't believe this is actually happening! Shun thought to himself, brimming with joy. But he managed to speak in a controlled voice "Oh, sweet! Then... I guess I'll meet you by the door in a few minutes?". Ryoko smiled at Shun: "Yeah! Let me just get my shoes, I'll be right there!". Shun smiled as he watched her go, then followed after her to pick up his jacket.
Later, as he made his way down the path away from Kyokusei with Ryoko, Shun became thankful he'd gotten the idea to go for a walk: The forests that surrounded Kyokusei and it's pathways filled the air with an uncountable number of soothing sounds and odors. Shun inhaled deeply, savoring the aromatic smells of the forest. Ryoko suddenly spoke up: "Wow… This really is a beautiful path! It's nice to appreciate the beauty of this place without any school-related thoughts in the way!". Shun replied with a smile "Yeah, certainly!". After a short pause, Shun commented "Judging from where we are, we should get there in about five more minutes…". Ryoko responded happily "That's great! Can't wait to see what you wanted to show me!". Shun nodded, then turned his head towards the path and continued to walk in without a word. Ryoko felt a little awkward in the ensuing silence, and glanced at Shun nervously.
He was facing forward, so she couldn't see his face, but she did notice his recently outgrown sideburns. His hair looks nice like that, she thought. Then, her eyes softened as she continued to think to herself: Maybe I should compliment him… No way, that's just weird! I can't just say something like that out of the blue!. Ryoko frowned and grumbled very quietly to herself "I'm just thinking to myself and yet I feel like I'm talking to Yuki…". But not quietly enough: "Did you say something, Ryoko?". She perked up at Shun's question "Um, no! Nothing at all!", and turned away with a flustered blush. Shun lifted a puzzled eyebrow under his fluffy auburn bangs. After an awkward pause, Ryoko swallowed and said shyly "I like your longer hair, it looks good on you…". Crap, I sounded like a total idiot! Way to go, inner Yuki…, Ryoko thought, cringing at her words. She turned away again, too embarrassed to see his reaction.
Shun thanked the heavens that Ryoko had averted her gaze after the sudden compliment, because he had suddenly turned bright red. He stood in shock for a moment, his mouth slightly open, then recollected himself. "Ah, uh, th-thanks, Ryoko…", he stammered shyly. He peeked at her through his shaggy hair; she was still facing the opposite direction. Shun hesitated, then decided to return the compliment: "Um… I like your new haircut, too. But you look great either way in my opinion…". Another uncomfortable silence took place, then Ryoko replied in a small voice "Th-thank you…". Shun swallowed, feeling quite awkward after the strange exchange of compliments. Too embarrassed to say any more, the two teens walked the rest of the way in silence.
"Oh, looks like we're here!", Shun said suddenly after many long minutes. Ryoko looked up, as Shun pointed with his chin to a grassy patch beside the path. It led into a good-sized meadow that led uphill for a while before touching the forest. Ryoko lifted an eyebrow; this really didn't seem like anything all that special. But Shun smiled enthusiastically, and called to her "The timing's perfect! Come on, Ryoko, or we'll miss it!". Ryoko replied with a grin "What'll we miss, Shun, what are you talking about?". Shun beckoned her again "Come and see!". Ryoko laughed happily, hot on Shun's heels as he raced up the grassy hill. When they reached the top, Shun stopped to catch his breath. Ryoko caught up to him, also panting, and asked him with a smirk "Okay… will you finally tell me where we're going now?". Shun sat down in the grass, then turned to her with a smile and said "This is it, Ryoko. Look around!". Ryoko saw that Shun was looking at something behind her, and turned to follow his gaze.
"Shun… it's beautiful", Ryoko murmured as she took in the sight. The hill, which she now noticed was dotted with wildflowers, sloped gently downwards and disappeared into another thin patch of forest. Beyond that forest, however, the horizon spread out and gave way to a gorgeous view of the setting sun. A dozen warm colors merged together in a continuous ripple of warm light that emanated from the slowly sinking star, tinting the surrounding wispy clouds in lovely shades of pink and blue. Ryoko's eyes sparkled in awe: "I've never seen such a beautiful sunset in all my life. Shun, how ever did you find a place like this?". Shun tilted his head thoughtfully "Well, one day I was wondering if such a long and tiresome path through the hillside might have destinations other than our dorm. So I kinda just meandered around, and well, here we are".
Captivated by the beautiful view, Ryoko did not respond. Shun continued shyly "You know, I used to come here in secret sometimes, just to get away from it all…". After a few more moments, Ryoko finally blinked and averted her gaze from the flourishing lights. She backed up a few steps, then sat down next to Shun and asked "So… is this like your personal hideout?". Shun hesitated: "Well, not too many people know about this place; I guess you could say that". Ryoko spoke again "Not even the others at Kyokusei?". Shun shook his head "No, not even them. Actually, I think you're the first person I've ever shown this place to…". Ryoko's eyes sparkled, and she felt another flurry of butterflies tickle her stomach as she replied "Oh. In that case… thank you, Shun, for sharing this with me". A small blush tickled Shun's cheeks, though the lights from the setting sun disguised it well "Oh, sure… anything for you". Ryoko felt another flurry of butterflies tickle her belly: "Wait, what?". Shun's mild blush intensified when he realized what he had just said to her: "Uhm… I meant… It's a pleasure! I'm glad you like it here, Ryoko". Ryoko smiled, and the two spent the next few minutes in blissful silence, enjoying the beautiful view and each other's company.
Even long after the last of the sun's rays had vanished, Shun and Ryoko remained seated there, side by side in the soft grass under the vast, darkening sky. Then, Ryoko suddenly said "Look, Shun, it's Kyokusei!". Shun frowned under his curtain-like bangs "Uh… what?". Ryoko giggled and continued "No, Shun, not our dormitory. Kyokusei. The northern star! Look up!". Shun tilted his head upwards and with his gaze followed Ryoko's finger to the small, twinkling star shining bravely in the night sky. Shun commented "Oh, that's cool! I didn't think it would be that dull, though". Ryoko explained "You're right, it isn't very bright, but there's a different reason it's so special". Ryoko leaned into Shun, and pointed at the sky with her outstretched hand. "You know that when the earth rotates around the sun, the stars also seem to rotate around the earth. But this star is special, because no matter the time of day or year, it stays fixed in its location at the earth's northern pole. That's why it's called Kyokusei, the polar star".
Shun nodded in understanding and replied "That's really cool, Ryoko, I had no idea. Say, you know a lot about the stars for someone attending a cooking school". Ryoko chuckled and brushed a lock of hair behind her ear "Oh, stop it… I actually don't know that much. But one day, I was just wondering about why our dormitory was named the way it was, so I looked it up and learned what I just told you". Ryoko and Shun both tilted their heads back up, and contemplated Kyokusei as well as all the other stars that were appearing one by one in the vast sky. Shun pointed up and said "Oh, there's the Big Dipper! Though I think it looks more like a pan than anything else…". Shun and Ryoko laughed happily together, then returned their awestruck gazes towards the milky way, streaming across the dark sky like a draft of sparkling smoke from the Big Dipper's pan.
Suddenly, a cool breeze ruffled Shun and Ryoko's hair as they peacefully admired the sky, and the two were sitting close enough that Shun could feel Ryoko shiver ever so slightly. He turned to her, and said with a hint of concern in his voice "Ryoko, we can head home if you're starting to feel cold". But Ryoko shook her head, "Don't worry, I'll be okay. Besides, I don't want to head home just yet. I… I really like being here with you, Shun!". Shun felt warmed by Ryoko's comment, and was thankful that it was dark enough she couldn't see him blushing. But even so, Shun still felt another quiver from Ryoko, and was not oblivious to her shuffling when she curled her knees up to her chest.
Darn… I really should have brought my coat with me! But I wouldn't want to ruin this moment…, Ryoko thought, conflicted by her contrasting desires. She didn't tolerate the cold very well, but she also felt insanely compelled to stay with Shun. Then, she heard the grass rustle as Shun sat up beside her. A moment later, she suddenly felt warmed both on the outside and on the inside as Shun draped his jacket over her shoulders. She started "Shun, you really don't have to- '', but he cut her off "No, please keep it, Ryoko. You need it more than I do". This was a partial lie on Shun's behalf, but nonetheless, Ryoko took the coat gratefully. She spent a few moments bundled up in the jacket, savoring it's rich, smokey scent that seemed to grow more familiar and soothing to her the more time she spent with Shun. Then, she heard a discreet mumble next to her.
"Did you say something, Shun?". The boy with shielded eyes perked up "Um, no, I…". But Shun hesitated. He glanced at Ryoko, who's sparkling eyes and warm smile made him want to wrap his arms around her. And at that moment, Shun knew that he would cook anything, with or without smoke, just to see Ryoko's beautiful smile. As Zenji's words came to him along with memories of all the lovely times he'd spent alongside this stunning violet-haired girl, Shun finally mustered up the courage to utter the words that for so long had been locked up in his heart.
"Ryoko… there's something I have to tell you", he began, his heart pounding with apprehension. What if she says no? He wondered anxiously, but Ryoko was already waiting "Um… yes, Shun?". He swallowed and cleared the clouding thoughts from his mind, then continued "Ryoko, I… I've really enjoyed the time we've spent together recently. In fact, I've really appreciated your company ever since we were first years". Ryoko never took her sparkling red eyes off of him. I love you? No, that's way too cheesy… I like you? Shoot, that's worse…. Shun took a deep breath, and let his heart speak for him: "And, well… I really feel like… no, I know I would cook anything in the world, with or without smoke, if it meant I could see you smile". Ryoko's eyes sparkled and her mouth fell slightly open as Shun finished nervously "Ryoko Sakaki… I… I love you, and I want to dedicate all my cooking to you".
Shun sat silent for a moment, aware of nothing but his own racing heartbeat. There, I said it, but now… . Shun looked nervously up at Ryoko, who's expression displayed complete and utter disbelief. She stammered "Shun, I… I don't know what to say…". A long, tense, uncomfortable silence took place then, neither teen knowing what to do next.
Suddenly, Shun quickly stood up and bowed "Sakaki-san, please forgive me for saying something so brash. I am deeply sorry for any discomfort I may have caused you". And with that, he turned and began to quickly walk away, oblivious to Ryoko's outstretched hand and wistful eyes.
Ashamed and heavy-hearted, Shun stomped away, regretful thoughts streaming through his mind. What the hell was I thinking? There was never a doubt, it was hopeless from the start. I've passed for an idiot, and now Ryoko's probably completely freaked out by me!. Shun gritted his teeth in shame and in disappointment, and walked even faster. But he suddenly stopped when he heard Ryoko's desperate voice behind him: "SHUN, WAIT!". Shun turned around, a dozen apologies on the tip of his tongue, but before he could utter a single word, something pushed up against his lips and silenced him.
Shun stood completely dumbfounded for a moment, then slowly became conscious of Ryoko's arms wrapped around his shoulders, of her rich sweet scent, of her soft lips against his. Shun's brain blanked, and he stood frozen in shock. But little by little, Shun's heart took the lead. He slowly wrapped one arm around Ryoko's back, and stroked her silky hair with the other as he lovingly returned her kiss.
When they finally pulled apart, Ryoko took a moment to catch her breath, then murmured "You didn't let me finish". Shun didn't know what to say, but Ryoko continued for him: "Shun, I'm honored to know that you've enjoyed my company as much as I have yours, and the moments I spent by your side these last couple days… no, these past two years, were some of my best times here at Totsuki". Ryoko lovingly stroked Shun's hair: "And if you would cook anything in the world just to see me smile, then I too would cook any amount of dishes if it allowed me to remain by your side". Ryoko nuzzled into Shun's soft gray turtleneck and continued "And even if it meant I could never make another Koji dish in all my life, Shun, I would still want to be with you". She gave him a moment to let everything she had said sink in, before she finally added "Because I love you too, Shun Ibusaki". Ryoko brushed back Shun's soft shaggy hair with her hand so that deep blue eyes met sparkling red ones. Then, they kissed again, and the stars glowed with warmth as the two embraced each other under their gentle, twinkling light.
"You know, I've seen a lot of positive changes in those two since they got together"
It had now been two weeks since Shun and Ryoko had confessed to each other under the starry night sky. Now, they stood side by side in the Kyokusei kitchen, cheerfully preparing a koji rice dish with some smoked sides. Meanwhile, Isshiki was seated at the dining table with a closed book at his fingertips, watching the young lovebirds with a warm smile. Beside him, Nene Kinokuni sat with her nose in a different book. But she closed her book, and responded to her old friend with a calm tone "Certainly. Even if I don't know them too well, it's easy to see that they bring out the best in each other". Isshiki chuckled and replied "I know, right? Shun especially has become a lot more open and friendly".
Still cooking in the kitchen, Ryoko gave her boyfriend a playful shove with a lighthearted comment. Shun, who's curtain-like bangs were now held back by a smoky gray bandanna, responded with an adorably carefree laugh, his finally exposed eyes sparkling with a new kind of warmth.
Isshiki sighed contentedly, happy for his underclassmen. Then he cast a sidelong glance at his somber-faced companion, and playfully poked her shoulder as he teased "Can't say as much for you though, Nene-chan". Nene blushed lightly and pushed his hand away as she retorted "Stop calling me that!". Isshiki replied "But I like that nickname, it's cute!". Nene faced him unmoved, her eyes not betraying any of her emotions: "Just die". Isshiki said nothing, and Nene thought she might finally have a moment of peace. But a moment later, he grasped her hands in his own and eyed her lovingly "You know you don't mean that, Nene-chan". Nene was swarmed with annoyance at Isshiki, but she could not suppress the larger surge of love that came after it "Um… I didn't…huh?". Isshiki closed his eyes with a lighthearted chuckle, and teased again: "You're really cute when you make that face, Nene-chan".
Nene blinked with large, adorable pink eyes that made Isshiki smile even wider, then pulled her hands back and huffed "Ugh, you're just unbearable!". Nene became even more cross when Isshiki began to laugh again: it seemed that no matter how coldly she spoke, her words would never dull Satoshi's silly smile. On the contrary, he would always respond to her with even more affection.
Suddenly, Isshiki stood up: "Nene, would you like to go outside? I think it's time we leave these two alone". With a twinkle in his cyan eyes he added "And maybe a bit of sunshine could make you a little more smiley!". Annoyed, Nene looked up at Isshiki, who's happy face was now illuminated by a lovely ray of sunshine streaming in through the window. And even Nene couldn't deny that Satoshi looked even more handsome in the golden light. But naturally, she said none of it, and turned away to hide an intensifying blush as she retorted "F-Fine! If it means you'll stop bothering me, then I'll come outside". When Nene stood up, Isshiki was already trotting towards the front door. "Come on, Nene-chan!". As the two headed out together, Nene's annoyed voice trailed off into the distance accompanied by Satoshi's carefree laughter: "Argh! Why are you always wearing just that stupid apron? Idiot, idiot, idiot!"
"Everyone at dinner really liked your Koji dish, Ryoko. You've really improved!".
After a busy night in the kitchen, Shun and Ryoko took a moment to peacefully enjoy the still night from the Kyokusei balcony. As they chatted good-naturedly, a glowing mezzaluna illuminated the surrounding forest, turning the trees' green leaves into silvery ethereal wisps.
"Shun, they didn't like my dish. They liked our dish".
Shun replied humbly "Oh, I just cooked up some sides, the main dish was all you". Ryoko smiled and disagreed "Shun, you know that's not true". A playful sparkle danced through Shun's teal-blue eyes before he continued "Okay… maybe I gave you a little extra help with that sauce". "And with the roasted spices", Ryoko added. A little giggle passed through the both of them, before they tilted their heads up towards the shining moon. After a peaceful silence, Shun pointed at the sky "Isn't that Kyokusei up there?". Ryoko squinted, following Shun's gaze to the meekly twinkling figure not far from the half-moon. "Yeah, it is! Nice find!". She cast a playful glance at Shun before continuing: "Say, you're awfully familiar with the sky for someone attending a cooking school…". Shun smiled warmly at the familiar quote, while Ryoko nuzzled lovingly into his shoulder.
The two lovers spent a long, tranquil moment enjoying the lovely scene, and more importantly, each other's company. But at one point, Shun's face took on an air of slight seriousness when he suddenly asked: "Ryoko… what will you do when you graduate?". Ryoko opened her eyes, and lifted her head off of his shoulder to respond after a thoughtful moment "I… I don't know. I guess I would probably go back to my family, help them run our koji shop". Ryoko fidgeted, then continued: "Um… why do you ask?". Shun sat in silence for a moment, then responded "Because… well, I don't know… it's kinda hopeless anyway". Ryoko lifted a confused eyebrow "What do you mean by hopeless, Shun?". Shun remained silent again, but noticed when Ryoko comfortingly gripped his hand in her own, her loving gaze still trained on his face. Shun cleared his throat, then spoke nervously "Ryoko, I… when we're grown up and all… would you want to start a restaurant together?".
Ryoko's eyes widened in surprise, as Shun continued apologetically "I-I mean, if you don't want to, I'd understand, it is a bit of a stretch-". But as he blabbered, Ryoko gently set her finger on his lips, silencing him. Shun -who felt quite apprehensive- relaxed a bit when he saw Ryoko smile at him with amative, understanding eyes: "You're wrong to think that way, Shun. Any hope for a bright future requires big dreams!". Shun hesitated, then spoke meekly "Then, do you…?". Ryoko gave him another loving smile and said truthfully "Honestly, Shun, I think we still have quite a long way to go before we can make such a big decision". "Ah…", Shun sighed as his heart sank slightly, but Ryoko gave his hand a reassuring squeeze: "But it's definitely a possibility, so don't lose hope, okay?".
Relieved, but also confused, Shun searched Ryoko's shining red eyes for answers to his many questions. She giggled at his puzzled expression, then spoke with a hint of longing in her voice "You know… I was serious back then…". Ryoko cast a glance at Shun, who still didn't understand what she meant, and further explained "Under the stars… when I said I would abandon koji just to stay with you". Shun spoke disbelievingly "Ryoko, you couldn't… you've poured your entire life into mastering koji!". Ryoko chuckled, "Oh, I don't think I'll find myself forced to give up cooking anytime soon, so don't worry. But I'm quite serious about the latter half of that statement, Shun. I really do want to stay with you". Shun felt a glowing warmth in him as Ryoko continued "I know we're still minors right now, Shun, and major decisions like opening our own restaurant will have to wait until much, much later. But I'm willing to make a commitment to this, and honestly, I share your dream of wanting to start a restaurant together". Quite literally, Ryoko recalled, as she stared into Shun's beautiful slate-blue eyes.
Shun stood silent for another long moment, returning Ryoko's warm and loving gaze. Then, he suddenly grasped both her shoulders and pulled her to his chest. Ryoko made a little gasp, while Shun murmured to her: "Thank you, Ryoko. Thank you so much". Ryoko opened her mouth to speak, but shockingly found herself at a loss for words. Speechless, she returned Shun's embrace, realizing that words weren't always needed to convey certain thoughts and feelings.
"Ryoko?". She opened her eyes and tilted her gaze up to Shun: "Yes?". Shun loosened his hug, and the two pulled apart as he spoke "I understand that we still have many more things to learn before we can wing it on our own, both inside and outside of the kitchen". Then, he continued with a more hopeful tone "But I'll keep holding on to our dream, Ryoko, I swear. And one day, when we're old enough, we'll make it a reality". Ryoko slipped her hand into Shun's and finished: "Until then, we'll continue doing everything we can to become the best chefs we can be. But from now on, we'll do it together". Shun gave Ryoko's hand a gentle squeeze and repeated "Together".
After a short pause, Ryoko nudged Shun and said with a challenging twinkle in her eyes: "But that won't stop us from having some epic Shokugekis every now and then, will it?". Shun returned her mischievous gaze "Oh, certainly not". Ryoko giggled and rested her head on her boyfriend's shoulder with a content sigh, and he wrapped his arm around her lovingly. "I love you, Shun" she whispered. "I love you too, Ryoko", he murmured back. And with that, Shun and Ryoko returned their gazes to the sky. Happy in the present and hopeful for the future, the two lovers stood in peace while admiring Kyokusei and the shining half-moon that blessed them with its silvery light.
End