"Stigmatized"
By: Na-chan
Disclaimer: CCS belongs to CLAMP. But that doesn't mean I can't dream of having Eriol to myself. ^_^ The song belongs to the Calling.
Author's Notes: Yay!!! Thanks for the reviews! And thanks for putting up with lazy and inspiration-deprived me.
"Talking"
'Thinking'
~Song~
Chapter 3: Once More
*******************************************************************************************
~Even God himself and this faith I knew, shouldn't hold me back, shouldn't keep me from you.~
"I won't allow it."
"Okaasama, I've been going there alone for quite a while already..."
"It's not safe for you to go out unsupervised, dear."
"But--"
"I'm sorry. I don't think my conscience will ever let me allow you to go by yourself after what happened. I'll send a bodyguard to bring you there. She'll come by around lunch to fetch you."
Tomoyo sighed in defeat. "All right. I'm sorry for pushing the subject." She stood up from her sitting position, her dark curls shining in the light. The girl bowed in respect and proceeded to leave her mother's room. An air of disappointment surrounded her.
She was looking forward to being alone in the shrine today, to reflect on the events that happened two days past. But alas, she always bended to her mother's will. Sonomi knew what was best for her daughter. She always did.
"Shall we go, Tomoyo-sama?" Her designated guardian for the day was Arashi, a bodyguard who went with Sonomi on most of her outings. Her mother must be really taking precautions if she was sending her best hired help to accompany Tomoyo instead of herself.
Tomoyo managed a smile. 'Okaasama really is over protective...but at least I know she loves me.'
"Yes, let's hurry."
*******************************************************************************************
Good luck was something Eriol was currently experiencing. The balance of yin and yang must have gotten off kilter--that was the only explanation the lad could think of. He hadn't had a rendezvous with any police officer who had wanted to catch him--that was good fortune.
He frequented the gambling place now, not to just be the source of his income--he was already filthy rich before this whole fiasco, the only problem being how to take the money from his account, but to get information on the goings on in Tokyo. He already knew that the authorities wouldn't be issuing fliers for his capture thanks to a drunken man who he had come across there.
Now he was on his way to the Amamiya shrine, wanting to visit his week old acquaintance. It pointless really, but he was drawn to her in a ethereal way he couldn't explain. It was also because he was bored. It was becoming a routine of his to wake up early and roam the streets of Tokyo, doing absolutely nothing productive. He wanted a change.
The steps leading towards the shrine did not decrease at all; they still made him tired after trying to defy gravity. To his disappointment, he did not see the miko anywhere so he decided to pray to the deity residing in the shrine. But first he had to purify himself. There was a sign that pointed towards an ablution basin. He found it easily and dipped his cupped hands into the liquid.
The water was clean and it felt cool against Eriol's skin. He drank the water first, before moving on to his hands. He washed them briskly, trying to rub off the germs found in his palms. That and his stained reputation. The dirt washed off easily but the unseen stain remained. It would take a very long time to disappear.
After he was cleansed, he headed towards the altar and rang the bell that hung above it. It was believed to announce his presence to the kami but he also knew it would attract attention.
He threw a few coins into the offering box, mentally reminding himself that the money might be going into other people's pockets. He had nothing against the religion, just that some of the people tended to be greedy and self-righteous at the same time. Like the ones that did this to him.
He bowed twice then clapped his hands. Even though he was not entirely devoted to the Shinto, he still learned its rituals due to the fact that all government officials were obligated to be Shinto worshippers.
He thanked the kami for his good luck. He also prayed that it would continue and that his name would be cleared soon. Finishing with a bow, he continued to leave the altar.
"Ohayou, Kuro-kun," A voice startled him. He turned around to find Tomoyo in all her glory.
"Ohayou."
"What brings you here?" Tomoyo wore a serene smile on her face.
Finally, someone to talk to...
He could tell she was sincere but he also was given the impression that there was a tinge of longing in her voice.
"I was just passing by and I thought you needed company..."
"Arigato," She closed her eyes as if remembering something. "You know, I'm not supposed to be here today," She said, "you're lucky to be able to catch me."
He looked a bit perplexed and curious at that. "May I ask why?" A smirk appeared.
"Hn." She placed a finger to her lips and looked upwards in a thoughtful manner.
"Okaasama was none too pleased with my little stint a few days ago. It took quite awhile to persuade Arashi-san to leave."
"Ah." Eriol nodded in understanding. He knew the feeling--his parents would sometimes be too... domineering when they wanted to. "It's just a phase. You'll just have to regain her trust again." Words of advice from someone who knew about trust and honesty all too well. Especially their harsher counterpart.
Her smile grew wider. "I know. I just wanted a little freedom."
He looked surprised at that statement. "You? You're whole life seems to be preordained to be impeccable." 'Just like mine did. And look what happened.'
She blushed at the statement. "Kuro-kun!"
"What's wrong with what I said, Miko-san? It's true isn't it? Living life as carefree as possible..."
"I-I guess so."
"I once had a stable lifestyle. But that was a long time ago," He had a faraway look on his face. He wouldn't reveal anything more than that. It was too painful.
"But aren't you free now? You should be thankful," Tomoyo reasoned. She thought that he was different from the rest of society that she had come across. Or maybe she hoped he was.
'In what way?' That little voice in her head asked.
She had no answer for that question.
He smiled but it did not reach his sapphire eyes. "People never know what they have until they've lost it, Daidouji-san." His tone was bitter but he kept his nonchalant expression while her words echoed in his ears.
But aren't you free now?
'I'll never be free from myself...'
She paled and he noticed the visible change in her skin tone.
He had said her real name. He knew who she really was. Their nicknames were meaningless now. He had to tell him hers--it would be downright rude of him not to.
"How did you..?" She wore an expressionless mask. It was impregnable, something she had mastered since childhood.
He gave her a simple answer. "Suitors."
"Mou. It's unfair of you to know mine while I haven't the slightest of yours." The mask was again gone, put away almost as fast as it was put on. Only a slight layer remained.
"We haven't been properly introduced. I'm Hiiragizawa Eriol," He held out his hand for her to shake. He was risking his safety by doing this but...
She eyed it warily. "Pleased to meet you. Watashi wa, Daidouji Tomoyo desu." She did not return the gesture.
It dawned on Eriol that the girl was unfamiliar with the custom since it came from England. He apologized quickly. "Gomen. I forgot we were in Japan."
She giggled.
"You're a foreigner?"
"I'm half-English and half-Japanese."
"That explains you're clothes. A little advice, Hiiragizawa-kun. If you want to remain inconspicuous, you should change your look."
He tried to look offended. "So you mean this look doesn't suit me?"
She took the query seriously due to her upbringing. "No! I mean, no. It fits you but I don't think..."
A grin appeared on Eriol's face and Tomoyo understood completely. "I guess I wasn't supposed to react that way, huh?"
"It's quite all right. Very few people have gotten it."
"And I'm part of the majority," A pause. "I want to show you something," She moved away from him and motioned for him to follow. He went along with her, trusting that she wouldn't do anything to take advantage of his current blithe disposition.
He was curious to where she was taking him but he knew better than to ask.
She led him to a pathway then hesitated. "Are you in a hurry?" She asked uncertainly.
He shook his head. "No."
She smiled.
*******************************************************************************************
The forest enveloped the path yet the trees still made it a point not to shroud the light too much. The couple walked in silence, Tomoyo absorbed in silent contemplation while Eriol admired the foliage around the walkway.
"I thought this place was supposed to be dangerous," Eriol smirked. He was kneeling down to examine a plant.
"Only in certain parts."
"I see," He stood up and pointed towards the object of his interest a few moments earlier. "That is a hyssop. It's just a small plant but it's a big help for healing wounds and the sort."
"Really? I never looked at it that way..."
"Things are not always what they seem, Daidouji-san." He continued walking, leaving her behind.
She pondered on his statement before trying to catch up with him. "There's more than what meets the eye..?" She stated as if in a realization.
"Exactly." They continued heading towards their destination.
The pathway was beginning to become wider at this portion. There were less trees and plants in this area but it was still dark.
"We're almost there. I'm sorry for taking up your time," Tomoyo apologized to him. She had grown up in a world where the society reigned supreme and formalities were law.
He had the same upbringing but he knew when to use it and when it was too much. "It was time well spent my dear."
She blushed a light shade of pink. It was almost obscure due to the lack of light and she hoped Eriol wouldn't see it.
Unfortunately, he did notice. Fortunately, he did not press the subject for his nose had picked up a sweet aroma in the air.
They reached the end of the pathway and the trees cleared while he looked on in anticipation.
"Here we are."
A meadow was spread before them, dosed in thousands of brightly colored flowers. Their scent was sweet and it enveloped his senses. The place was more of a valley but the cherry blossom trees surrounding the location gave a different effect.
"What is this place?" He asked. It was exquisite, no doubt. But it was in such a secluded place, away from all forms of civilization. No one would be able to appreciate its beauty if it were to be kept surreptitious. All this wasted. But maybe the secret to its beauty is because society has not destroyed it yet.
"This is the Vale of the Wild Blossoms."
"Wild? You mean to say that you didn't grow them?"
She had a wistful expression on her face. "No. I found them by accident."
"They're beautiful. They remind me of the flowers back in England."
"Honto ni?"
"Yes. This meadow's flowers are mostly lilies. They are very common in Europe but I haven't seen this type of variety yet..."
They walked nearer the clumps of flowers. "How did you know?"
"Their scent. It's practically the same," He plucked one of the flowers from the ground and took a whiff of it. He inhaled some pollen by mistake and started to sneeze.
"Are you all right?" Tomoyo rushed to his side immediately, her face clouded with concern.
He nodded his head furiously and sneezed once more. "I'm okay," He managed to say.
"No, you're not."
"Seriously, I just need some air," He walked a good distance away from the flora. She picked a few flowers and stuffed them into her robes before following him.
He regained his composure after a few moments of silence. "This is a nice place."
"Yes. I come here often. The flowers give me a sense of comfort and belonging," She eyed the colorful things with a contented smile.
"Just like in the shrine," It was more of a statement than a question.
Tomoyo shook her head then nodded.
He laughed. "Make up your mind, will you?"
"The feeling is not entirely the same but it does have similarities."
He had expected an answer like that would come from himself. Now he wanted to view her mind-set, to be able to see into the mystery that was Daidouji Tomoyo.
Eriol looked into her eyes intently. The eyes where the windows of a person's soul, were they not? But their amethyst color were distracting him from seceding the emotion he wanted to see in them. With diverting eyes like those, she could hide her sentiments with ease, a fact which reminded him once more of himself. "Could you tell me why?"
She looked away from his intense gaze. His sapphire eyes seemed to be boring into her soul, trying to destroy her mask of perfection. She would not let him best her. It had taken her long painstaking years to actually create the ideal pretense--there was no way he was breaking her defense in one powerful stare. "I-It's personal."
"I see," Now he too had joined in her concealed masquerade. It was an effortless task, since he too had a flawless veneer.
They smiled at the same time but it was out of politeness, not of happiness or relief.
"Shall we go now?" It was Tomoyo who wanted this meeting to end unlike before, when she was the one who suggested they repeat their outing.
He nodded but he couldn't help but want to stay a little longer. This meadow had a tranquil and calming aura like the shrine. It reminded him to be grateful for the gift of nature.
'And for the gift of company,' A random thought passed and tried to go unnoticed. He mentally reminded himself to kick himself later for that thought. But it was the truth. He was really appreciative of her company and he wanted to thank her for that. And not just through words of gratitude.
Tomoyo, however felt a bit guilty while watching him contemplate. He probably didn't want to see her again. And she just wanted to get to know him more. She just wanted a friend.
Maybe she should just back off.
"Um..." He had stopped walking.
"Nani?" This was it. She would pull back willingly.
"Thank you for showing me the vale."
She was quite surprised at him. "I thought you might enjoy the view."
"It was spectacular."
She smiled, relieved.
His next statement shocked her more. "I want to make it up to you."
'It must have taken a lot for you to show me your sanctuary...this is the least I can do.'
"The Ryogoku festival will be held in two days," He said, a mischievous sparkle in his eyes. Since Tomoyo was not too familiar with him, she dismissed the glint as something accidental.
"Hai. The fireworks will be superb."
"Will you give me the honor of accompanying you? It's the least I can do."
Her face broke into a smile. "Hai."
Maybe she would have a friend after all.
^____TsUzUkU_____^
Author's Notes: Sorry if this turned sappy or something. I wrote this while listening to Aeris' theme (Final Fantasy) and the music kind of got the better of me. Btw, if you notice something wrong in my fic, feel free to tell me. If it's too fast, if the characters are OOC (which they are, but this is an AU so it doesn't really matter) give me a hint or something. R & R!
A little history for you guys, the Ryogoku festival used to be the name of the Sumida River festival. This topic would be expounded on by Yamazaki-kun (and Eriol-kun) in the next chapter.
*Japanese Terminology
Mou- Darn. An expression of annoyance. Think Kaoru of Rurouni Kenshin.
Watshi wa- I
Honto ni- Really/Are you serious
Nani- What
-kun:a honorific. Shows affection.
-san:another honorific. Shows respect.
By: Na-chan
Disclaimer: CCS belongs to CLAMP. But that doesn't mean I can't dream of having Eriol to myself. ^_^ The song belongs to the Calling.
Author's Notes: Yay!!! Thanks for the reviews! And thanks for putting up with lazy and inspiration-deprived me.
"Talking"
'Thinking'
~Song~
Chapter 3: Once More
*******************************************************************************************
~Even God himself and this faith I knew, shouldn't hold me back, shouldn't keep me from you.~
"I won't allow it."
"Okaasama, I've been going there alone for quite a while already..."
"It's not safe for you to go out unsupervised, dear."
"But--"
"I'm sorry. I don't think my conscience will ever let me allow you to go by yourself after what happened. I'll send a bodyguard to bring you there. She'll come by around lunch to fetch you."
Tomoyo sighed in defeat. "All right. I'm sorry for pushing the subject." She stood up from her sitting position, her dark curls shining in the light. The girl bowed in respect and proceeded to leave her mother's room. An air of disappointment surrounded her.
She was looking forward to being alone in the shrine today, to reflect on the events that happened two days past. But alas, she always bended to her mother's will. Sonomi knew what was best for her daughter. She always did.
"Shall we go, Tomoyo-sama?" Her designated guardian for the day was Arashi, a bodyguard who went with Sonomi on most of her outings. Her mother must be really taking precautions if she was sending her best hired help to accompany Tomoyo instead of herself.
Tomoyo managed a smile. 'Okaasama really is over protective...but at least I know she loves me.'
"Yes, let's hurry."
*******************************************************************************************
Good luck was something Eriol was currently experiencing. The balance of yin and yang must have gotten off kilter--that was the only explanation the lad could think of. He hadn't had a rendezvous with any police officer who had wanted to catch him--that was good fortune.
He frequented the gambling place now, not to just be the source of his income--he was already filthy rich before this whole fiasco, the only problem being how to take the money from his account, but to get information on the goings on in Tokyo. He already knew that the authorities wouldn't be issuing fliers for his capture thanks to a drunken man who he had come across there.
Now he was on his way to the Amamiya shrine, wanting to visit his week old acquaintance. It pointless really, but he was drawn to her in a ethereal way he couldn't explain. It was also because he was bored. It was becoming a routine of his to wake up early and roam the streets of Tokyo, doing absolutely nothing productive. He wanted a change.
The steps leading towards the shrine did not decrease at all; they still made him tired after trying to defy gravity. To his disappointment, he did not see the miko anywhere so he decided to pray to the deity residing in the shrine. But first he had to purify himself. There was a sign that pointed towards an ablution basin. He found it easily and dipped his cupped hands into the liquid.
The water was clean and it felt cool against Eriol's skin. He drank the water first, before moving on to his hands. He washed them briskly, trying to rub off the germs found in his palms. That and his stained reputation. The dirt washed off easily but the unseen stain remained. It would take a very long time to disappear.
After he was cleansed, he headed towards the altar and rang the bell that hung above it. It was believed to announce his presence to the kami but he also knew it would attract attention.
He threw a few coins into the offering box, mentally reminding himself that the money might be going into other people's pockets. He had nothing against the religion, just that some of the people tended to be greedy and self-righteous at the same time. Like the ones that did this to him.
He bowed twice then clapped his hands. Even though he was not entirely devoted to the Shinto, he still learned its rituals due to the fact that all government officials were obligated to be Shinto worshippers.
He thanked the kami for his good luck. He also prayed that it would continue and that his name would be cleared soon. Finishing with a bow, he continued to leave the altar.
"Ohayou, Kuro-kun," A voice startled him. He turned around to find Tomoyo in all her glory.
"Ohayou."
"What brings you here?" Tomoyo wore a serene smile on her face.
Finally, someone to talk to...
He could tell she was sincere but he also was given the impression that there was a tinge of longing in her voice.
"I was just passing by and I thought you needed company..."
"Arigato," She closed her eyes as if remembering something. "You know, I'm not supposed to be here today," She said, "you're lucky to be able to catch me."
He looked a bit perplexed and curious at that. "May I ask why?" A smirk appeared.
"Hn." She placed a finger to her lips and looked upwards in a thoughtful manner.
"Okaasama was none too pleased with my little stint a few days ago. It took quite awhile to persuade Arashi-san to leave."
"Ah." Eriol nodded in understanding. He knew the feeling--his parents would sometimes be too... domineering when they wanted to. "It's just a phase. You'll just have to regain her trust again." Words of advice from someone who knew about trust and honesty all too well. Especially their harsher counterpart.
Her smile grew wider. "I know. I just wanted a little freedom."
He looked surprised at that statement. "You? You're whole life seems to be preordained to be impeccable." 'Just like mine did. And look what happened.'
She blushed at the statement. "Kuro-kun!"
"What's wrong with what I said, Miko-san? It's true isn't it? Living life as carefree as possible..."
"I-I guess so."
"I once had a stable lifestyle. But that was a long time ago," He had a faraway look on his face. He wouldn't reveal anything more than that. It was too painful.
"But aren't you free now? You should be thankful," Tomoyo reasoned. She thought that he was different from the rest of society that she had come across. Or maybe she hoped he was.
'In what way?' That little voice in her head asked.
She had no answer for that question.
He smiled but it did not reach his sapphire eyes. "People never know what they have until they've lost it, Daidouji-san." His tone was bitter but he kept his nonchalant expression while her words echoed in his ears.
But aren't you free now?
'I'll never be free from myself...'
She paled and he noticed the visible change in her skin tone.
He had said her real name. He knew who she really was. Their nicknames were meaningless now. He had to tell him hers--it would be downright rude of him not to.
"How did you..?" She wore an expressionless mask. It was impregnable, something she had mastered since childhood.
He gave her a simple answer. "Suitors."
"Mou. It's unfair of you to know mine while I haven't the slightest of yours." The mask was again gone, put away almost as fast as it was put on. Only a slight layer remained.
"We haven't been properly introduced. I'm Hiiragizawa Eriol," He held out his hand for her to shake. He was risking his safety by doing this but...
She eyed it warily. "Pleased to meet you. Watashi wa, Daidouji Tomoyo desu." She did not return the gesture.
It dawned on Eriol that the girl was unfamiliar with the custom since it came from England. He apologized quickly. "Gomen. I forgot we were in Japan."
She giggled.
"You're a foreigner?"
"I'm half-English and half-Japanese."
"That explains you're clothes. A little advice, Hiiragizawa-kun. If you want to remain inconspicuous, you should change your look."
He tried to look offended. "So you mean this look doesn't suit me?"
She took the query seriously due to her upbringing. "No! I mean, no. It fits you but I don't think..."
A grin appeared on Eriol's face and Tomoyo understood completely. "I guess I wasn't supposed to react that way, huh?"
"It's quite all right. Very few people have gotten it."
"And I'm part of the majority," A pause. "I want to show you something," She moved away from him and motioned for him to follow. He went along with her, trusting that she wouldn't do anything to take advantage of his current blithe disposition.
He was curious to where she was taking him but he knew better than to ask.
She led him to a pathway then hesitated. "Are you in a hurry?" She asked uncertainly.
He shook his head. "No."
She smiled.
*******************************************************************************************
The forest enveloped the path yet the trees still made it a point not to shroud the light too much. The couple walked in silence, Tomoyo absorbed in silent contemplation while Eriol admired the foliage around the walkway.
"I thought this place was supposed to be dangerous," Eriol smirked. He was kneeling down to examine a plant.
"Only in certain parts."
"I see," He stood up and pointed towards the object of his interest a few moments earlier. "That is a hyssop. It's just a small plant but it's a big help for healing wounds and the sort."
"Really? I never looked at it that way..."
"Things are not always what they seem, Daidouji-san." He continued walking, leaving her behind.
She pondered on his statement before trying to catch up with him. "There's more than what meets the eye..?" She stated as if in a realization.
"Exactly." They continued heading towards their destination.
The pathway was beginning to become wider at this portion. There were less trees and plants in this area but it was still dark.
"We're almost there. I'm sorry for taking up your time," Tomoyo apologized to him. She had grown up in a world where the society reigned supreme and formalities were law.
He had the same upbringing but he knew when to use it and when it was too much. "It was time well spent my dear."
She blushed a light shade of pink. It was almost obscure due to the lack of light and she hoped Eriol wouldn't see it.
Unfortunately, he did notice. Fortunately, he did not press the subject for his nose had picked up a sweet aroma in the air.
They reached the end of the pathway and the trees cleared while he looked on in anticipation.
"Here we are."
A meadow was spread before them, dosed in thousands of brightly colored flowers. Their scent was sweet and it enveloped his senses. The place was more of a valley but the cherry blossom trees surrounding the location gave a different effect.
"What is this place?" He asked. It was exquisite, no doubt. But it was in such a secluded place, away from all forms of civilization. No one would be able to appreciate its beauty if it were to be kept surreptitious. All this wasted. But maybe the secret to its beauty is because society has not destroyed it yet.
"This is the Vale of the Wild Blossoms."
"Wild? You mean to say that you didn't grow them?"
She had a wistful expression on her face. "No. I found them by accident."
"They're beautiful. They remind me of the flowers back in England."
"Honto ni?"
"Yes. This meadow's flowers are mostly lilies. They are very common in Europe but I haven't seen this type of variety yet..."
They walked nearer the clumps of flowers. "How did you know?"
"Their scent. It's practically the same," He plucked one of the flowers from the ground and took a whiff of it. He inhaled some pollen by mistake and started to sneeze.
"Are you all right?" Tomoyo rushed to his side immediately, her face clouded with concern.
He nodded his head furiously and sneezed once more. "I'm okay," He managed to say.
"No, you're not."
"Seriously, I just need some air," He walked a good distance away from the flora. She picked a few flowers and stuffed them into her robes before following him.
He regained his composure after a few moments of silence. "This is a nice place."
"Yes. I come here often. The flowers give me a sense of comfort and belonging," She eyed the colorful things with a contented smile.
"Just like in the shrine," It was more of a statement than a question.
Tomoyo shook her head then nodded.
He laughed. "Make up your mind, will you?"
"The feeling is not entirely the same but it does have similarities."
He had expected an answer like that would come from himself. Now he wanted to view her mind-set, to be able to see into the mystery that was Daidouji Tomoyo.
Eriol looked into her eyes intently. The eyes where the windows of a person's soul, were they not? But their amethyst color were distracting him from seceding the emotion he wanted to see in them. With diverting eyes like those, she could hide her sentiments with ease, a fact which reminded him once more of himself. "Could you tell me why?"
She looked away from his intense gaze. His sapphire eyes seemed to be boring into her soul, trying to destroy her mask of perfection. She would not let him best her. It had taken her long painstaking years to actually create the ideal pretense--there was no way he was breaking her defense in one powerful stare. "I-It's personal."
"I see," Now he too had joined in her concealed masquerade. It was an effortless task, since he too had a flawless veneer.
They smiled at the same time but it was out of politeness, not of happiness or relief.
"Shall we go now?" It was Tomoyo who wanted this meeting to end unlike before, when she was the one who suggested they repeat their outing.
He nodded but he couldn't help but want to stay a little longer. This meadow had a tranquil and calming aura like the shrine. It reminded him to be grateful for the gift of nature.
'And for the gift of company,' A random thought passed and tried to go unnoticed. He mentally reminded himself to kick himself later for that thought. But it was the truth. He was really appreciative of her company and he wanted to thank her for that. And not just through words of gratitude.
Tomoyo, however felt a bit guilty while watching him contemplate. He probably didn't want to see her again. And she just wanted to get to know him more. She just wanted a friend.
Maybe she should just back off.
"Um..." He had stopped walking.
"Nani?" This was it. She would pull back willingly.
"Thank you for showing me the vale."
She was quite surprised at him. "I thought you might enjoy the view."
"It was spectacular."
She smiled, relieved.
His next statement shocked her more. "I want to make it up to you."
'It must have taken a lot for you to show me your sanctuary...this is the least I can do.'
"The Ryogoku festival will be held in two days," He said, a mischievous sparkle in his eyes. Since Tomoyo was not too familiar with him, she dismissed the glint as something accidental.
"Hai. The fireworks will be superb."
"Will you give me the honor of accompanying you? It's the least I can do."
Her face broke into a smile. "Hai."
Maybe she would have a friend after all.
^____TsUzUkU_____^
Author's Notes: Sorry if this turned sappy or something. I wrote this while listening to Aeris' theme (Final Fantasy) and the music kind of got the better of me. Btw, if you notice something wrong in my fic, feel free to tell me. If it's too fast, if the characters are OOC (which they are, but this is an AU so it doesn't really matter) give me a hint or something. R & R!
A little history for you guys, the Ryogoku festival used to be the name of the Sumida River festival. This topic would be expounded on by Yamazaki-kun (and Eriol-kun) in the next chapter.
*Japanese Terminology
Mou- Darn. An expression of annoyance. Think Kaoru of Rurouni Kenshin.
Watshi wa- I
Honto ni- Really/Are you serious
Nani- What
-kun:a honorific. Shows affection.
-san:another honorific. Shows respect.