Morning 1
TSURUSA found herself lying in her bed. Last she could recall, she had been plunged into labyrinthine surroundings, pulsating to the surreal rhythm of a human constitution. Following the hypnotizing yet patterned circuitry and overcoming its dangers ended with meeting SHIKUN, or a shadowy doppelganger of the boy to defeat. Before all that she just remembered being in the hospital emergency room exorcising him of a demon. Had she been dreaming, and if so when did she start?
TSURUSA took her phone from the nightstand to check the date and time, then began to prepare for school. Maybe AKUMA, or the snake whose hiss haunted her, had the answers to this riddle. But the former turned out to be of no help this morning, when she met him at the bus stop. His countenance seemed dazed but was otherwise oblivious when he offered TSURUSA a perhaps quieter greeting than usual. They boarded the bus and headed for another week of school.
Nighttime 1
Before going to sleep, TSURUSA called OBASAN with her phone.
OBASAN: Yes, this is the Uba household.
TSURUSA: OBASAN, are you doing well?
OBASAN: Oh TSURUSA-chan, of course it'd be you calling at this hour. Yes I'm doing very well, and you?
TSURUSA: I'm okay as well… School started again so I've gotten busier.
OBASAN: Is that so, I hope your studies can bear fruit in schools outside Tokyo. Did you have a question for me concerning this?
TSURUSA: No, but um...actually the school I go to now, it's the first one I've been to that has cherry blossoms planted within.
OBASAN: Oh yes, hanami season over there must have already reached full bloom. Have you enjoyed them with anyone?
TSURUSA: Um no.
OBASAN: Did your parents not accompany you?
TSURUSA: ...They're busy. I haven't enjoyed hanami since leaving Tokyo, to be honest.
OBASAN: TSURUSA-chan...though I've seen many hanami seasons in my lifetime, I actually haven't enjoyed them myself either, since my younger days.
TSURUSA: Hm really? ...Oh sorry, I must have brought down the mood.
OBASAN: I'm fine, let me tell you a story before I retire to bed. Is that alright with you?
TSURUSA: I'm listening, OBASAN.
OBASAN: Once, there was a man and a woman, very much in love. Every hanami season, they would sit under the blossoms and eat as much sakura mochi as the woman could make. The man would sometimes complain about how sticky the mochi was, but the woman would remind him that however sticky she made the mochi, the longer their love could stretch on through life. However one time, the man replied in a wistful tone that their love may end up as transient as the blossoms themselves. He would be proven right, when the woman finally received his remains after he had left for his duty. This is the story that had me understand the pathos of things.
TSURUSA: That photo, in your home…
OBASAN: With all that said, I just wanted to remind you to at least have some sweet sakura mochi while still in season. I couldn't have more than one piece myself nowadays, ha.
TSURUSA: Right, I forgot about them.
OBASAN: And if you buy too many or it's too sticky, share them with someone significant to you.
TSURUSA: I haven't had a significant other since you OBASAN, well and that senpai I told you about. But maybe I can share with my parents.
OBASAN: Oh you're sweet TSURUSA-chan. Please enjoy the blossoms while you still can.
TSURUSA: I will, and thank you for the story. Good night, OBASAN.
OBASAN: Good night, TSURUSA-chan.
TSURUSA ended the call.
Daytime 2
The school bell rang for the next class period, and a foreign looking male teacher strode into TSURUSA'S classroom through the sliding door. He halted behind the teacher's desk and turned to face the students.
ROBIN: Hello everyone, my name is ROBIN and I will be your English teacher this school year. I come from the United States, though this is not my first time teaching in Japan. Let me get straight to the point. For third years, there is a curriculum to follow in preparation for the English sections on your college entrance exams. However, the curriculum I will be teaching asks for your active communication, between you the students, to me as your teacher, in order for you to become successful learners.
Students exchanged confused glances and whispers about needing to speak English, as ROBIN gave a thin smile then turned around to write on the chalkboard. After writing his name in the corner, he proceeded to write the proverb "the nail that sticks up gets hammered down" in Japanese and English, before turning back around.
ROBIN: I think you have heard this Japanese proverb before, the nail that sticks up gets hammered down.
The class immediately quieted down and refocused on ROBIN. He took this opportunity to write another proverb on the chalkboard, "exceptio probat regulam in casibus non exceptis" in Latin, English, and Japanese.
ROBIN: Let me teach you an English proverb today, ah, except it comes from Latin. Just as Romaji has loanwords from foreign languages, English has loanwords as well, such as from the language of the Romans. "Exceptio probat regulam in casibus non exceptis," or the exception proves the rule in cases not excepted. Let's use our Japanese proverb as an example to explain this. If a nail sticks up, then it must get hammered down because it's an exception. But if a nail never sticks up, is there that rule in the first place? Likewise, suppose there is the rule at this time of day, students present in my class must be learning. How would I know if any student is present, say, unless they respond? Or, one of you could spirit yourselves away from the classroom right now.
Students glanced at each other hesitantly this time. But one eventually stuttered out a response.
STUDENT: S-So does that mean, I-I could leave class to prove that rule?
A few giggles and a dry chuckle from ROBIN could be heard.
ROBIN: Please raise your hand so I acknowledge you have a response first.
They promptly raised their hand and ROBIN called on them after consulting his roll sheet.
STUDENT: So can I leave class? In order to prove that rule.
ROBIN: No sorry, however since you did respond, I can tell you have been learning thus far. Thank you for that.
Scattered laughter from other students gave ROBIN the opportunity to edit his writing, erasing "nail" from the first proverb and replacing it with "stake."
ROBIN: You may have heard this version of the proverb as well, the stake that sticks up gets hammered down. I think there is a subtle difference between using "nail" or "stake," if "nail" means an exception. Let me demonstrate my thinking by comparing it with another Latin phrase.
ROBIN erased some lines to make space, then wrote "expressio unius est exclusio alterius" in three languages.
ROBIN: "Expressio unius est exclusio alterius," or the express mention of one thing excludes all others. This is actually a legal guideline used in judicial courts, so I have little doubt that this rule has been proven. Regardless, let's use it to distinguish between the meanings of "nail" and "stake." If the "nail" as an exception is negative because it's out of place, the stake is not always presumed to be bad sticking out, like one on a hill. Likewise, if someone says something, even if there are other possible responses, they go unsaid if no one else is willing to respond. That someone may be on an elevated position like a hill, but is there a point in hammering them down if they are not in a bad position? Rather, why not be willing to join them?
Another student blurted out a question.
STUDENT: Teacher, are we nails or stakes then?
ROBIN wryly smiled at them.
ROBIN: Be whichever you want. Though, being a stake may be better already sticking out in the first place.
ROBIN paused a moment, then pointed at some words on the chalkboard.
ROBIN: "Exceptio," "exceptis," "expressio," "exception," "excepted," "express," and "excludes." Who has a response to tell what is common between these words? Hands raised first of course.
The previous student who raised their hand slowly did so again, but ROBIN waited a bit longer. Then GURUPI raised hers, and ROBIN called her name.
GURUPI: Um, they all have the letters "e" and "x" as the first two in each word.
ROBIN: Yes they do, together they make the "ex" prefix. The same prefix between words shows their definitions are related to the meaning of the prefix itself. Any responses for what you think that meaning is, from what you know of these English words?
GURUPI raised her hand again, followed by TSURUSA who was called on.
TSURUSA: "Except" and "exclude" both refer to being other than something, uh, but I don't know how to apply "express" to that…
ROBIN: True to what you have said about "except" and "exclude." "Express" has many different definitions, but in the context of this sentence, it's an adjective that means only. Thus, adding on to "ex" referring to being something else, the prefix means the word is related to one thing out of others. In English, we can use prefixes in the opposite direction to get to the definition of a word, similar to how hiragana themselves can be words but also combine into others. But I digress.
The students murmured amongst themselves, while ROBIN erased the chalkboard except for the English and picked up a stack of papers from the desk.
ROBIN: We will come back to a lesson on prefixes sometime. Here I have your syllabuses with what and when we learn something listed on them. Let's go over it together, and I will hear out your questions and responses too.
ROBIN handed out the syllabuses and began reading it with his class.
Evening 2
TSURUSA took a stroll around Mutsumi after dinner. As she was passing through the village square, a sharp clacking could be heard from within one of the many joints.
She entered to find out a mahjong club full of seniors was in session.
One of the tables had an empty seat, and the players already there invited TSURUSA to join them for a game. She played a few rounds while listening to the surrounding conversation about village life and outside news.
Afternoon 3
After school, TSURUSA wandered about the districts of Semiamizumi. She chanced upon a clothing store of a familiar brand she used to frequent back in Tokyo.
TSURUSA went inside browsing the seasonal sale for outfits she could wear outside of school.
Afterwards she visited KOIBITO Cafe before returning home to Mutsumi.
Afternoon 4
TSURUSA, TAIYO, GURUPI, and KURABU left school and visited a street market. They lined up by a crepe stand to order some.
KURABU: One order with kiwi, Nutella, and whipped cream.
TAIYO: One order with blueberry, strawberry, and syrup.
GURUPI: One order with banana, chocolate, and pudding please.
TSURUSA: One order with custard, mochi, and red bean please.
After they received their orders, TAIYO leaned towards TSURUSA to check out her crepe.
TAIYO: Wow, yours is so packed. Can your belly really handle all that?
TSURUSA: Um, it's not like I eat this all the time…
KURABU: Looking for seconds already TAIYO-chan?
TAIYO: ...To be honest, maybe I should've ordered mine with mochi as well.
GURUPI: Custard is so rich, but I had to go with my childhood favorite pudding!
The girls dug into their crepes, some more heartily than others.
TSURUSA: Hey KURABU, you got some whipped cream on your cheek here.
KURABU: Oh, here? Uh thanks TSURUSA-san.
TAIYO: Who's looking hungry now?
KURABU: Oh shut it. This Nutella's sticky enough to not scarf half of it down yet, unlike you.
TAIYO: I order light, just in case there's anything else to try. And ew Nutella, can't you have real nut butter?
GURUPI glanced at TSURUSA, whose mouth was aggressively chewing something.
GURUPI: Um TSURUSA-san, are you okay with yours?
TSURUSA: Shorry, thish moshi ish sho shticky.
TAIYO: Huh, let me try.
TAIYO helped herself to a piece of mochi from TSURUSA'S crepe.
TAIYO: Shoh thish ish shticky shalright.
TSURUSA was taken aback by TAIYO'S forwardness. But she countered by giving a wide, mochi filled grin.
TSURUSA: Grandmash, your teesh aresh sho white todaysh. What'sh your shecret?
TAIYO: Pssh-don't makesh meesh shoke!
TSURUSA: GURUPI-shan, KURABU-shan, trysh onesh.
GURUPI took up the offer of mochi.
GURUPI: Ish likesh New Yearsh shin mysh moush shagain! KURABUSH-chan join ush!
KURABU: I'm good thanks…
GURUPI: Shello partysh pooper.
KURABU: ...Fine, I bet I can chew the fastest.
KURABU popped a piece of her mochi into her mouth, and soon was vocally chewing.
KURABU: Shomnomnom, shomnomnom, shomnomnom.
TAIYO: Yoush shew likesh mysh fasher, shall crown shand nosh filling.
GURUPI: Pffsh-pleashe passh meesh sha napkin, shor sho shelp meesh!
TSURUSA finally swallowed her mochi and burst out laughing, followed by TAIYO, GURUPI, then KURABU. The girls finished their crepes and moved on with the day.
Afternoon 5
AKUMA insisted on accompanying TSURUSA today, so she took him to a donut shop of a familiar franchise.
AKUMA: Huh, I've seen girls from my class here before, and they weren't the weight-conscious ones.
TSURUSA: Well AKUMA-kun, I decided that this would be my treat for you, after sharing some village food with me. Are you really going to turn your nose up at sweet, city donuts?
AKUMA: There was that time my cousin bought a box of donut holes and shared them with me...I only took a few pieces since I didn't want to get addicted.
TSURUSA: Donut holes aren't that addicting, not until you try the strawberry glazed cronuts, oh, or the pan de angeru with neapolitan cream, mmm...a-anyways, unless you only want a waft of those heavenly smells when I open this door, let me pay for what you really desire.
TSURUSA proceeded to open the door into the donut shop, mock gesturing to invite AKUMA inside with her.
AKUMA: I want to hang out at the park or something, not here…
TSURUSA: After, after.
AKUMA sighed and followed TSURUSA inside to line up. Afterwards they sat at a table opposite from each other to eat, sharing a tray loaded with donuts that the latter dug into faster than the former.
TSURUSA: Ah, it's been so long since the last time I even had a simple glazed donut. The days since I moved here really wore me down.
AKUMA: These donut varieties really don't look simple, with all the Romance language names too. You sure are contemplating upon them with your stomach though.
TSURUSA: Um, do you mind having your portion? It is embarrassing to be the only one at a table enjoying their food…
AKUMA: Right, let me just savor it with my other senses first…
TSURUSA did pluck her next donut and hold it up to eye level in admiration, before taking a tender bite out of it. AKUMA watched her instead of the cronut he idly held with a napkin, as she vocalized her enjoyment behind a hand covering her busy mouth. He looked at the cronut again, then a sly smile crept across his face. Holding a finger out over it, he began tracing circles in the air around over and over.
AKUMA: Aren't you excited to gobble these up. Especially the ones where they make it go "tsubitsu tsubitsu" right in the center.
He emphasized his point by tapping the center of the cronut, making TSURUSA stop chewing. Having drawn her attention, AKUMA hovered his hand towards a donut twist, miming its turns with index finger and thumb while grinning.
AKUMA: How about this one, where it goes "konmori konmori" round and round. How does it feel when placed in your mouth? You couldn't just eat it all at once right?
TSURUSA furiously finished off the donut in her mouth, then sucked water through a straw from her drink. She threw herself back against the cushioned seat, arms crossed and scowling. AKUMA meanwhile casually leaned back, arms stretched over his seat while stifling a laugh.
AKUMA: Yep, gotchu good, am I right?
The customers seated behind him excused themselves to leave, causing AKUMA to retract his arms and raise a hand for service.
AKUMA: I think we've overstayed. Can we get a takeout box?
After exiting the donut shop, TSURUSA marched in front of AKUMA with a huff.
TSURUSA: Don't come asking to be invited if I take some other friends there again.
AKUMA: Well, I'd rather not get addicted.
He held onto the takeout box on the way back to the village. When TSURUSA returned home, she read a note left by her father, "Get up early tomorrow to pray at Semaimizumi shrine."
Daytime 6
TSURUSA'S FATHER took her to the Semaimizumi shrine on the day off. However his countenance had been stormy since morning, and he refused to make eye contact with his daughter. For her part TSURUSA remained silent and ashamed as they rode public transportation then arrived at the foot of the shrine. They climbed the steps then performed the cleansing ritual, and at the top began their silent prayers. TSURUSA finished first, peeking at her father who took a deep breath, then finally looked at her as he opened his eyes.
TSURUSA'S FATHER: Sorry, for not talking to you on the way here. I felt like getting something off my chest before I could speak.
TSURUSA: I was thinking you were mad at me this whole time.
TSURUSA'S FATHER: I can't stay that way, for the sake of your mother as well. We have to be together again in harmony like one family. So again, sorry.
TSURUSA: I'm really glad to hear that, Father...it's been stressful for me since then, adding the start of school onto that. I made some friends like TAIYO- to take the edge off but, sigh, of all the school years, I had to move here on the one preparing for college.
TSURUSA'S FATHER: Ah, I understand how you feel, about college I mean. It's been so long since I first met your mother in medical school. I'd always tire myself out studying since my own high school days, and even until I graduated I could just barely think about her.
TSURUSA: I know I can't do anything but wait, but I honestly hate it. Why won't you let me see her at least?
TSURUSA'S FATHER: I have to protect you from the illness she caught, just in case. But TSURUSA, I will do everything in my power as a doctor to treat her. You may worry, but you won't be healthy staying that way. Please, confide your worries to me instead.
TSURUSA: I...I know something about the disease, but how can I explain what I only see... Father, the truth is, I've been scared all this time, of the new people I barely know, and new places I must go to. Now when I return to a new home, I cannot expect to see both my parents anymore.
Her father gave a hug.
TSURUSA'S FATHER: TSURUSA, extraordinary circumstances still call for maintaining one's own matters. But yes, it can only take time to get used to new faces and places. Even before then, I'll try my best to see you every morning at home, and your mother can wish you good nights again when she returns, I promise.
TSURUSA nodded and they walked down the shrine steps together.
TSURUSA: While we're here in Semaimizumi...do you have time to look around with me? Or will you be going back to the hospital?
TSURUSA'S FATHER: I really should be getting back...but thank you for coming with me, I would've understood if you had other plans today.
TSURUSA: No such plans exist that don't include my parents. Let me head back home with you then.
TSURUSA smiled and skipped ahead of her father, also smiling despite his weariness.
Afternoon 6
Back in Mutsumi, TSURUSA was browsing and shopping in the open air market for groceries, when she came across a girl at a market stand not selling anything. The girl was instead busy roasting seeds over a charcoal grill and picking some for consumption.
TSURUSA: Um, hello. May I ask what are you offering?
GIRL: Oh hi, I'm just cooking these sunflower seeds. There's some other flower seeds not for eating in those bags. You can take one if you want to feed birds or something, or wait to have some cooked sunflower seeds. If you want, please consider paying what you think this is worth.
She tapped a jar filled with only a little coin on the table. TSURUSA asked what flower varieties were mixed into the seed bags, and took a bag in exchange for pocket change. After leaving the girl eating sunflower seeds, TSURUSA bought some planters in the market before returning home. She prepared to germinate flowers by planting the seeds in compost, watering them, then covering and placing them by her bedroom window.
Evening 6
TSURUSA was strolling past the hospital, when out exited SHIKUN with an older woman scolding him.
SHIKUN: Please don't make a fuss in public Mom, can't it wait until we get home...?
SHIKUN'S MOTHER: I've been waiting long enough for you to get well, young man. Oh, the lessons I thought of your father and I have to teach you again, on the worth of your life!
She hit SHIKUN over his head, then grunted before doubling over coughing. While he held her, she noticed TSURUSA staring at them, and stood back up.
SHIKUN'S MOTHER: Sorry, we really should be heading home.
As SHIKUN and his mother passed TSURUSA, he looked towards his classmate, then halted. His mother looked back at him and tugged his arm, but he withdrew it to his side and bowed to TSURUSA.
SHIKUN: Thank you...I suppose.
SHIKUN'S MOTHER: Huh, who's this? SHIKUN, explain.
TSURUSA: I'm…
SHIKUN: Mom...this is TSURUSA-san, a classmate of mine. She...that day she-
TSURUSA: -I called my parents the morning he collapsed on the bus, since they work at the hospital. I hope they took good care of your son, MRS. SHIKUN.
TSURUSA bowed back towards SHIKUN'S MOTHER, who responded with a deeper bow.
SHIKUN'S MOTHER: Of course, you must be the doctors' daughter. I have no words to recompense you and your family for saving my son's life. But please, relay my utmost gratitude back to your parents, and I will deliver something from my belongings as material proof later. Thank you, so, very much.
TSURUSA: I'll relay your gratitude as soon as possible. You don't need to worry about compensation, my parents were only doing their job. We wouldn't want to see you inconvenienced further.
SHIKUN'S MOTHER: Very well, but I will deliver something, not for my inconvenience but to set things right. I wish for you and your family good things this year.
TSURUSA: To yours as well. SHIKUN-san, I'll see you at school again whenever you're ready.
SHIKUN: See you there soon...then.
All parties turned to leave, but SHIKUN called out to TSURUSA one last time.
SHIKUN: Wait. I...I can talk about it, at school I mean. If you want to listen.
TSURUSA smiled at him.
TSURUSA: Of course. I can listen to whatever you want to say.
SHIKUN weakly smiled back.
Velvet Room
WOMAN: Welcome back. I have been informed of your previous stories.
I am back in the Velvet Room, sitting on a couch. Across on the other couch sits a woman with a butterfly motif pinned to the lapel of her coat, just like PHILEMON. She smiles.
BAUCIS: Allow me to introduce myself. My name is BAUCIS, and like my partner PHILEMON I am also an attendant of the Velvet Room. You may call on any one of us the next times you visit. From what I understand of your situation, you have memories that confuse you as to what your identity and purpose are, is that correct?
I nod.
BAUCIS nods back.
BAUCIS: With PHILEMON having advised me to not question your purpose, until you give a possible answer from your memories, the way forward for us will be to continue invoking those memories. Are you ready to continue?
I nod again.
BAUCIS: Let us work through an exercise of word association. I will say a single word at a time, and do say what comes to mind afterwards.
I lean back.
BAUCIS: Boy.
SHIKUN, AKUMA, TAWA.
BAUCIS: Life.
Death, disease, experience.
BAUCIS: Experience.
New people, new things...trying something new.
My ears ring and vision blurs. BAUCIS looks concerned.
I'm okay. I remembered an activity that I-no, TSURUSA was asked to try, by someone familiar.
I begin narrating.
Evening 1
TSURUSA traveled to the east end of Mutsumi, where she had passed a Shinto shrine before with AKUMA. She visited it this time, climbing the steps then cleansing herself. A few familiar, younger faces from the village TSURUSA recognized maintained the grounds, but otherwise she was alone to offer a prayer to the kami.
She prayed for the good health and recovery of all in the village.
TSURUSA felt the breeze through her hair was the kami's reply.
Evening 2
Leaving her house with a change of clothes and towels, TSURUSA decided to try the communal bathhouse also offered in east Mutsumi. Once there, she doused herself in rinsing water, having already showered at home, before soaking in the pool. She rested alongside other women, who commented on her youthful figure.
TSURUSA relieved tension in her body with aid from the herbal bath.
She dried off and dressed before heading home.
Nighttime 3
TSURUSA gathered her books and study materials at her bedroom desk. She planned to pull an all nighter in order to study for the upcoming tests at school. She got to work as soon as the moonlight began to fade through the lavender curtains as it passed over her house.
At the crack of dawn, TSURUSA was tired but finished studying.
She proceeded to go through her morning routine in preparation for school.
Afternoon 4
After school, TSURUSA exited the school building into the courtyard. All around her students were shouting and waving signs about their clubs, recruiting anyone interested in joining. As TSURUSA walked through the crowd and excused herself from solicitation, she passed TAIYO and KURABU, both of whom noticed her.
TAIYO: TSURUSA-san! Join our judo club!
KURABU: The judo club is looking for anyone and everyone interested, beginners are always welcome! Come try a session after school today!
TSURUSA moved out of the way of incoming students and huddled together with TAIYO and KURABU on the side.
TSURUSA: Sorry, I'm interested in joining your club, but I think I'll be too busy studying for exams to be much help.
TAIYO: That's fine, we have members of all different experience levels, so you can train at whichever pace you like.
KURABU: We even have senpais that are beginners! Don't be shy first years, judo can cater to everyone!
TSURUSA'S sweat dropped. Eventually a few more students joined the huddle, then TAIYO and KURABU led them all to the high school dojo. Inside, the new recruits took a seat while the existing club members introduced themselves, with TAIYO as captain.
TAIYO: Now for a demonstration, I want to show that judo isn't a tough martial art to practice. It's about being gentle yet firm with your partner, especially when not competing. Hmm, considering I compete all the time with my teammates, I think I'll need someone new to try this with...TSURUSA-san, may I?
TSURUSA: Huh-sure?
TAIYO beckoned TSURUSA to stand in front of her, and directed each of their hands to be placed on each other's body. Then she moved her foot behind TSURUSA, and pushed against her partner, nearly throwing TSURUSA before TAIYO prevented it by catching in time. The latter let out a yelp as she felt her balance give way, before falling into the steady hold of TAIYO.
TAIYO: Oh sorry, maybe I overdid it a bit. But as you can see, judo's a lot like dancing, except you're actually allowed to trip your partner. So those with clumsy feet should join us over the dance club.
TAIYO demonstrated a few more moves on TSURUSA, every time tripping her into yet another near embrace. TSURUSA eventually let go of her fear, instead feeling strangely exhilarated each way her body was thrown. After the demonstration was over, TAIYO separated from TSURUSA and split all the new recruits into pairs. Then partnering up with KURABU this time, she walked through the judo moves step by step, and observed everyone trying them out. She checked in on TSURUSA, with a new partner.
TAIYO: I think you're naturally picking up judo so far, TSURUSA-san. If nothing else, you can always just drop in as a practice partner for the first years. We're in need of senpais not focused on competition after all.
TSURUSA: Okay, but don't put my name on the roster list yet TAIYO-san. I still need to figure out my schedule for other things…
KURABU walked up to TAIYO and led her away out of earshot of others.
KURABU: TSURUSA-san's our friend, but don't you think you're going a little too far just for her? Regardless if more second and third years mentor the first years, we have to train for upcoming tournaments and leave the beginners alone later on.
TAIYO: You're the one who was yelling about having beginner senpais.
KURABU: Yeah, but still. We have Sensei to train the beginners anyways, you need to focus on beating the competition in front of you, not hold back for others who won't reach your level anytime soon, Captain.
TAIYO flipped her hair and looked aside.
TAIYO: It'll be her choice to join. We'll see, I haven't forgotten my duties either.
Afternoon 5
TSURUSA walked to the intersection at the corner of school and the bus station. As she was waiting for the walk sign, AKUMA and two other students strolled up chatting.
AKUMA: TSURUSA-senpai, what's up?
TSURUSA: Nothing much, AKUMA-kun. Um...and your friends?
His friends introduced themselves. One was a second year boy in the same class as AKUMA with the same mischievous disposition. The other was a third year girl wearing an extra long skirt, who TSURUSA recognized from her own class as the voice questioning MR. ROBIN about whether they were nails or stakes.
MALE STUDENT: How come an Ojou-senpai like you associates with this lowly rascal? Bro, you don't realize how lucky you are.
AKUMA jabbed his friend's ribs in response, though he was blushing. The girl sized up TSURUSA, and slung her bag over her shoulder to widen her frame intimidatingly.
FEMALE STUDENT: Be careful who you get to know in these parts. Judging from your speech, what flies in Tokyo won't go all the way here in Semaimizumi. Of course, we can show you a bit of the ropes around here, for a favor.
TSURUSA crossed her arms and stood her ground.
TSURUSA: I'll be fine on my own. The city here feels the same as in Tokyo, as well as the people. I know who to associate with, AKUMA-kun was just a coincidence, but a fortunate one to get to know the kind of people you are.
FEMALE STUDENT: Ha, you wish you knew even half the person I am, Ojou-san. Want to find out?
AKUMA: Sis, cut it out.
He sheepishly grinned at TSURUSA, who discerned nothing suspicious for once in his expression.
AKUMA: You know, these two and I actually formed a school clique. We parkour around the city for fun after school, there's a lot of places around here you'd think were inaccessible until we achieve them. Dunno if you joined a club or not yet since it's mandatory, but hit me up if you're interested in hanging with us. Or me some more.
TSURUSA rolled her eyes at him. The walk sign finally lit up and emitted its shrill tone signalling pedestrians to move on. AKUMA and his clique dashed ahead while he waved goodbye to TSURUSA, who crossed another street. In the distance, she thought she made out the three delinquent students freerunning on the other side across structures of the city sprawl.
Daytime 6
During lunchtime, TSURUSA was in her classroom seated and eating with GURUPI, when the door suddenly slid open with a bang, causing them to jump in surprise. They looked up with the rest of the class at the third year student in the door opening, adjusting their glasses then striding forward. In several fluid motions, they picked up a piece of chalk, etched "Debate" in large katakana on the board, and swiveled around facing the class before bowing deeply.
TAWA: Debate with me, please!
The boy of the third Mutsumi family readjusted their glasses after standing up, and spoke in an authoritative tone.
TAWA: If you want to argue otherwise, that means you already have the talent to join my debate club. But for those who are confused or indifferent, allow me to explain why you should care.
He caught his breath before continuing.
TAWA: As third years, we are all on the precipice of entering the adult world, to join our parents, teachers, and bosses. Yet, have you not heard the bad news they speak of these days? Failure to pay off loans, job losses, businesses going bankrupt, these and more are the stories shared between adults both close and far to us. When we enter their world, all their problems will be placed upon our shoulders to help them fix. But why should we deal with the mistakes they made before us?
He then slapped the board, his hand underlining "Debate."
TAWA: Why, we should dare to ask them directly. Have our future superiors explain, clearly and exactly, why we should care to work for their struggling company. Tell them as the younger generation, we have the freedom to forge our own paths around older institutions. But if they want to continue surviving in society, convince us that their decrepit ways are worth saving, and not used to fill empty talk ignoring failure. Debating is the skill to have in order to draw out these kinds of responses and judge them thoroughly. So please, join the debate club and debate with me further!
TAWA bowed again, and held it until scattered applause spread throughout the classroom. He excused himself, and finally strode out the door, closing it softly this time. TSURUSA turned her attention back to GURUPI.
TSURUSA: Who was that?
GURUPI: TAWA, the student council president amongst other club positions, and top of our grade. He's pretty intense as usual...oh, and I think he's from the same village TAIYO-chan and you live. Never met him before?
TSURUSA: No...that club sounds interesting though. Debate, huh?
GURUPI: It's mandatory to join a club or clique here, so why not consider it? Well, as a fair warning I heard that TAWA-san sets high standards for those around him.
TSURUSA: I'll keep that in mind, thanks.
They returned to eating their lunches and chatting on other topics.
Afternoon 6
TSURUSA decided to leave through the back entrance of the school in order to dodge the club recruitment crowd. She happened to follow right behind TAWA, who turned onto a side street, then went inside one of the cramped buildings lining it. Curious, TSURUSA hid herself in the alcove of another building, and examined the front of the first, a construction agency.
TSURUSA: Construction...? Is he applying for something here?
TAWA soon reemerged, clutching a manilla envelope, before walking further down the street. TSURUSA watched him gain some distance, then crept towards the construction agency building to get a closer look through a dimly lit window. When she approached the entrance, the door suddenly swung open to reveal a man in a suit.
MAN: Lost, Ojou-chan? Or, you're here for an appointment?
TSURUSA: Huh!? Oh-I-uh, was just passing by…
MAN: Do you have one of our business cards yet?
He took one out of his suit pocket and offered it to TSURUSA, who received it with shaking hands then recoiled at the sight of contact details for a modeling agency instead of construction. The man grabbed her hands after letting go of the business card and stroked them.
MAN: Wow, your hands are really smooth and silky, Ojou-chan, I think you'd make a great model with us. Aniki, are we allowed to accept appointments for new models here?
He yelled this question over his shoulder back into the building. TSURUSA could only shake harder in fright, resisting then eventually pulling away her hands, and took a step backwards into the body of someone else.
TAWA: Excuse me, I was looking for my kohai here. She just started her first year at our high school, and joined a club I participate in. We need her to attend activities right now. Please pardon us for our urgency.
The man stared down TAWA, who held his head lower than his gaze shielded by glasses. Then the man turned over his shoulder again.
MAN: Never mind!
As the man proceeded to shut the door, TSURUSA caught sight of a tattoo running up the back of his neck, before the door closed on him. TAWA took the business card out of her hand, then led her by the shoulder away from the building.
TAWA: Are you alright, Ojou-san?
He flashed her a smile, but TSURUSA removed his hand from her shoulder and confronted him face to face.
TSURUSA: Y-Y-Yakuza!? TAWA-san, why are you involved with them? How are the yakuza so close to our school!?
TAWA looked off to the side, and tsked while readjusting his glasses.
TAWA: So you were following me. None of your business of course.
TSURUSA: It is part of my business! I just moved here from Tokyo, and was hoping to get comfortable going to school in another city despite living in the countryside. Now I may have to deal with those...creeps, harassing me after school now? Please tell me, what should I know?
TAWA: The yakuza branch here will not bother students unless they visit them, like you just did. Just avoid them by leaving school through the main entrance from now on...also if I may bother to hear your name please.
TSURUSA: ...It's TSURUSA. I'm a third year as well...but thanks for covering me back there.
TAWA: I know, I recognize you from when I visited your class earlier. TSURUSA...your family name sounds familiar.
TSURUSA: I was told you come from the same village as TAIYO. I recently moved there with my family, who are now doctors at the Mutsumi village hospital.
TAWA: I see, though my family has no stake in the hospital, we are pleased to hear of the services your parents offer our village, TSURUSA-san. I am a son of the TAWA family that resides on the hill overlooking Mutsumi.
Awkward silence followed. TAWA shifted his feet, but TSURUSA refocused her eyes on his.
TSURUSA: ...You're doing something a student, not even an adult should be involved in. Please reconsider, is this really what you meant by forging your own path?
TAWA gave a thin smile.
TAWA: You have no idea.
I am thou, thou art I...
Thou hast been bound to I...
It shalt be a mutual exchange of opportunities for both of us to grow...
With my proposal of the Lector Persona, thou art closer to the future you believe in…
TAWA: So you were listening to my speech. Persuaded you to join my debate club already? You should, in exchange for me saving you with that excuse and making it the truth.
TSURUSA: Um, I'll think about it. I actually have a few offers from different clubs now, so I should decide which suits me the best first.
TAWA: The school clubs and council that I am a part of are the best, because I expect everyone around me to perform their best. Maybe instead of choosing one, join all of those clubs that invited you, and prove we can be in the company of one another.
With a derisive laugh, TAWA walked away from TSURUSA, leaving her confused and irritated.
TSURUSA: What is even his problem?
She shook her head, and walked off in the opposite direction down the street.
Evening 6
NASU received TSURUSA at the reception desk of the hospital. She led the new hiree into an examination room, and directed TSURUSA to sit on the bed while she took a stool.
NASU: Now I know your family is going to secure the job for you no matter what results from this, but I'm going to interview you just for authenticity's sake.
TSURUSA hesitantly nodded and smoothed her clothes down. NASU pulled out a clipboard and began to nonchalantly go down a list of items.
NASU: When is your birthday?
TSURUSA: March fourteenth.
NASU: Oh, the same as your mother. You're lucky to have such a convenient date as White Day, for your future man to give you presents on two special occasions like your father must've done for her.
TSURUSA'S face flushed red, but her knuckles whitened as she tightened her hands into fists.
TSURUSA: This is a job interview, right?
NASU: Relax, small talk is all a part of it. Also a real interview would be conducted by a panel rather than just one individual, so you should expect some curveballs by different interviewers.
TSURUSA crossed her arms and hunched forward.
NASU: Why do you want to work here?
TSURUSA: ...Because, this is the closest job I can get to obtaining skills related to the medical field, before I enroll in a medical school.
NASU: And?
TSURUSA: And? -I mean, um, and I want to work in the medical field because I can help take care of people's health so they continue contributing to society, like my mother and father taught me.
NASU: You'll need to work on that statement, that's a very basic question that'll be rephrased in different ways to keep green faces like yours on their toes. Some interviewers may even enjoy watching interviewees squirm, speaking from experience.
She hid a smirk behind the clipboard while TSURUSA did visibly shift in place.
NASU: Now, any questions?
TSURUSA: ...Why did you want to work here?
NASU narrowed her eyes.
NASU: You're supposed to answer with a no, in order to indicate confidence. Also, I'm the only one asking questions here.
TSURUSA: I'm just curious about my coworker and senpai. Unless I'm allowed to join after work gatherings as a minor, I want to learn to communicate better at my workplace, if that's not being too nosy.
NASU set the clipboard down on her lap, her expression stiffly neutral.
NASU: I wanted a change of scenery. And to land some hot stud. I found both by the way, your father was very generous in the services he provided, even before you moved here.
Before TSURUSA could retort, NASU quickly stood up and leaned over her smiling.
NASU: Time's up for me to entertain you, I have to return to doing some real adult work now.
TSURUSA: No introductions or training?
NASU: No, you have the rest of the day off, your parents have to do the paperwork for your employment first after all. Until we finally work together, have a good evening TSURUSA-chan.
She winked at TSURUSA and left the examination room, leaving the interviewee shaking her head in disgust.
