A/N: KonnichipuuMinna-san. How's everyone doing? Mi-chan had changed my penname from kreuz4eva to chidoriochibi. Mi-chan will alwz pray for everyone's health and safety. As usual, the story has taken me quite sometimes to get it done. I would like to apologize for keeping all my readers waiting. Moshiwage arimasen. This story is always dedicated to all Tenipuri fans, Sakuno's fans.
Ah, before we proceed, I would like to thank all FujiSaku fans for their support. I'm currently working on a Solo FujiSaku fanfic titled "When Tensai meets Wobbly girl" Not sure how the outcome would be, but I'm looking forward for the completion to be done. Currently, please have a look of the fanart I've made for the story: When Tensai meets Wobbly girl. I've posted the link on my profile page.
Warning: Sakuno-centric fics, readers has been warned.
Plot: Tenipuri x Jubei-chan crossover (some sorts)
Pairing: RyoSaku, FujiSaku (maybe more pairings to come)
"…" Denotes speech
'…' Denotes thoughts
Italics denotes flashbacks
Standard Disclaimer: Now, this is a real mess. Even if I put up SD, guess the owner would not be please. Konomi-sensei and Akitaro-sensei, my sincere apology to both of you. Sorry for spoiling your story, sorry for using your characters, sorry…er…just sorry for everything.
Recap of Chapter 9:
"We'll be expecting visitors to stay over in our place for a couple of weeks"
"Visitors? Many of them?" Sakuno blinked "You mean Obaachan had invited her friends to stay in our place?" Sakuno ask frantically.
"Hai, hai" Sai answered humbly and turn her daughter around, pushing her back to make her stepping towards the stairs "Now we'll discuss this first thing in the morning, alright? Now it's time to go to bed. Though, you're not going to school but you'll still need to organize your time"
"Mou…papa, you sounds like I'm a kid"
"You are" he smiled when Sakuno tilted her head up to look at him.
"I'm not" her two reddish cheeks were round when she huffed with dissentient.
"Ryoma-kun" The hazel haired girl falls into her slumber. Tears escaped from the corner of her eyes.
Meanwhile, at the Echizen's residence, Ryoma had also faced the same difficulties in getting to sleep. He too tuned in the channel which Sakuno had been listening. Ryoma walked over to his drawer and took the same group picture that Sakuno had. Placing a finger over Sakuno's picture, he whispered forlornly "Sakuno, I'm sorry. If only I'm not confused with my own feelings, if only…"
Sakuno-chan no Monogatari
Chapter 10: Part 1 - Youkoso Kyoto – Charming Confessions
Sleep had been long time pending. Ryoma hadn't tossed and turned so much as lain, staring up at the ceiling. He'd watched the moonlight fade into that final deep darkness before sunrise.
The sun was streaming in bright ribbon over the bed; he was flat, spread out, and fast asleep. In dream floating through his mind, he scooped Sakuno into his arm and carried her up a long spiral staircase of ashen granite.
She smiled at him. Her arms lifted, wound around him. Slowly her mouth moved under his, soft as she murmured…
"Ryoma-kun…Ryoma-kun!"
Ryoma came awake with a crash as he carelessly fell from his bed and landed on the floor with a thump on his back. His indecipherable grunt had the lady's giggling as it was the first time she had ever witnessed Ryoma in such comical situation. Nanako immediately suppressed her giggles when Ryoma glared at her.
"Ryoma-kun, please wake up. I've prepared you breakfast" Nanako said with her usual soft and polite tone "I've made you ham and egg sandwich, hotdogs and baked beans"
"Western food?" Ryoma grumbled into the pillow that fell together with him, struggling to clear the sleep from his throat and the dream from his mind. "Can we have some Japanese food instead? I don't mind even its onigiri for breakfast" he sighed inaudibly as slowly stood up and do a bit of body stretching before heading towards the bathroom.
"Obasan had gone out to town early this morning. Before she left she asked me to prepare breakfast for you, since you be leaving for the meeting too" Nanako came out from Ryoma's room and stopped in front of the bathroom door which Ryoma had left it opened. (A/N: Oba san is for auntie. If granny they'll usually have a longer vowel of 'a' i.e. oba a san)
"How did she know about the meeting?" Ryoma stop washing his face and asked Nanako casually.
"Ojisan told us last night" Nanako smiled "He also said that you and your team will be going to Kyoto for training"
"And how did oyaji know about this? I've not spoken to him eversince my return from school?"
"Ryuzaki-sensei called up last night and told Oyaji about the training schedule" Nanako replied shortly before she left. Ryoma blinked, more than a little shocked of what Nanako had said. Watching his cousin's figure slowly disappearing from his sight, Ryoma let out an audible frown. 'Trouble' he noted mentally 'Hope that Oyaji won't do anything impractical this time'
To Nanako's surprise, Ryoma had taken more time than he usually does. Nanako asked as she lifted a box of fresh milk from the fridge and poured some milk into the glass that was placed in front of Ryoma.
"Ryoma-kun?"
"What?" Ryoma said casually before savoring the food in front of him.
"Aren't you supposed to attend the meeting at this time?"
The young man paused halfway from savoring his food and stared at his cousin with two big and surprising eyes. A piece of ham fell off from his bread and stained his khaki colored trouser.
"Ah…ah, Ryoma-kun! The ham!" Nanako squeaked and quickly grab the table cloth that was hanged on the sink and rushed towards Ryoma to clean up the mess.
He hated it so much when someone had to remind him about the meeting. That was also the only ambiguity which he struggled for the whole night and the whole morning, wondering if he should be joining the meeting or even the training that was scheduled in Kyoto.
"Em…" Ryoma was dumbfounded for a second but slowly he adjusted his composure to block out the quick jump of his pulse "Domo"
"Daijyobu" Nanako smiled at him.
"Ano…Ryoma-kun? Are you in trouble?" she continued to ask, her voice is honest and concern.
"Not at all…" he lied at first but when Nanako stared into his eyes he looked away, feeling slightly culpable for what he said earlier. "Well…there could be some glitch"
"Some glitch?" Nanako asked again as she stood up and walk towards the kitchen right after she cleaned up the mess.
"Em" Ryoma nodded and stood up from his seat "I better go and change my trouser first"
"Ano, Ryoma-kun" Nanako called again "Though we are cousins, but I've always treated you as my own brother…so, you're always welcome to talk to me. As your elder, I'll try my best to share with you my experience" she declared sincerely.
"Nanako-san!" for the second time, Ryoma was taken by surprise by Nanako's words.
"Thank you, Nanako-neechan" Ryoma's soft and placid voice was beyond Nanako's recognition as he murmured before heading back to his room again.
What overwhelmed Nanako was that Ryoma had called her 'neechan', for Ryoma had never called her 'neechan' eversince she stayed with the Echizens. Nevertheless Nanako had never thought of his arrogance for being the cause for his indecorous. In fact Nanako had always believed that Ryoma is a very introverted young man. He's just being too tense and shy when he's around girls.
A few minutes later, Ryoma came down with a pair of clean dark blue jeans that matches perfectly with his black colored woven shirt. He resumed back to his breakfast.
"Hm…western food is not that bad after all, thought I still prefer Japanese food"
"Ara…you're commenting me, ureshi wa" Nanako said cheerfully "Ooki ni"
(ureshi – happy, Ookini – thank you)
Nanako watched contentedly as Ryoma had finished the whole portion of his breakfast which he usually don't.
Right after Ryoma gulped the last drop of the milk, he clasped his hand together and showed his appreciation to god for the food he had and took the dirty dishes into the kitchen and placed them in the sink.
"Ano…Nanako-san" bringing out his courage, Ryoma finally speaks out "Can we talk?"
"Of course, I'm always here for you"
Nanako noticed that since it's the first time that Ryoma would ever shared his thoughts with someone, she would expect that he'll have some refrain from telling the whole story, yet, she could tell that he is trying his best to be as specific as possible. Nanako had been a great listener, listening to every word that Ryoma had expressed without interjecting him.
"So, what do you think?" finally Ryoma heaved a long sigh.
"Hm…That's really troublesome" Nanako poked an index finger under her chin as she mused.
"You think so?" Ryoma sigh again.
"I think you'll have to go after her" Nanako suggested without further hesitation.
"I should? But, she was with my senior and …" Ryoma said perplexingly.
"Trust me" Nanako patted Ryoma's shoulder lightly "My instinct told me that the girl must be very concern about how you feel about her"
"How could it be…Fuji-senpai has always been there for her, knowing her past and now even knowing her better than me"
"Didn't she chased after you when you were about to leave?"
"Yes she did"
"Had she tried to explain to you her situation?"
Ryoma nodded as his pair feline eyes stared blankly at the table.
Breaking the silence, Nanako continue "I really loved watching you while you played tennis. You look so brave and confident although you knew that your opponents are stronger than you. With your courage, you beat each and every opponents that impedes your ambition"
"If you really like the girl as much as you love tennis, you should not give up easily. Protect her like you're protecting your territory. Chase after her like the way you chased after those balls. Be persistence and be determined"
"Like tennis…" Ryoma felt his heart started to pound heavily. Nanako was right. Her word had made him realized his true feelings and passions towards Sakuno. He had always wanted to share the same interest with Sakuno, thus he had been willing to supervise her on her training. He enjoys seeing her wobbly action, her smile and accepts who she is. He had wanted to protect her from danger. He wanted to share his world with her. In every aspect, the girl, Ryuzaki Sakuno has become part of his life; she has to be in his life, like he has to have tennis in his life.
"Yeah, how could I never think it in that way?" It's just a simple explanation and yet it took him for so long to comprehend his true feelings.
"I…I've got to go! Thank you" Ryoma exclaimed and dashed out of their house, like a speed of arrow, Ryoma headed towards to meet Fuji.
"Best of luck to you, Ryoma-kun" Nanako said in a sing song tone. Just before she enters the kitchen, she switched on the radio and tune into her favorite morning program.
'Welcome once again to the breakfast show. Recently this song had made a big hit around the globe. Let us now enjoy this beautiful song for such a beautiful day. Here's the song entitled –'Let me be with you' by Round Table featuring Nino'
To make sure the two of us meet, I cast a spell
Our hands are gently touch, and then look at me, smiling
"First of all, hold your racket properly, like this"
"Ha..hai"
"Focus on the ball, one, two, three step back…"
"Hit the ball now!"
"Hai!"
"AhRyoma-kun! I've hit the ball too hard! Doushiyou"
"Nice shot"
"Ano…I'll…I'll get the ball back"
"Mada mada dane"
We pretend not to realize how we really feel
And suddenly, we fell in love
Let Me Be With You
Let Me Be With You
Let Me Be With You
I want to hold you tight
"Ryuzaki? Are you asleep already?"
"I know, you were not asleep back then when I kissed you!"
"Then...why, you know that I was not asleep, why you still...kiss...me?"
'Because…that's because, I like you, Sakuno' Ryoma thought with infinite happiness as he paced towards Fuji's house.
Until now, unable to say it, I've just been hiding it
I'm only acting strong, that's all it is, please see through it
"Is it really fine with you?"
"What do you mean?"
"Is it alright for you to see what Fuji-senpai is doing to me?"
" Why don't you say something? Ryoma-kun?"
"I didn't know that I was given the right to say something"
"Ryoma-kun?"
"Why? Didn't you at least feel something in your heart?"
"Yes"
"Right now, I've realized that I've made a fool out of myself. Back then, you could have told me that you didn't like it when I kissed you. Back then…you could have told me everything about you and Fuji-senpai!"
"I…It's not true"
"Sakuno…you're troublesome"
'I'm such a fool! I should have told you that I don't like what I've saw that day'
Just wait five more minutes until we can meet
And after that we fell in love
Let Me Be With You
Let Me Be With You
Let Me Be With You
I just want to cry
"Can I have this ball?"
"Hm…yes"
"Ano…Ryoma-kun?"
"What?"
"Ano…no…nothing"
'If only I could be more honest with myself…'
When we let go our joined hands
It makes me uneasy, it makes me uneasy
Let Me Be With You
Let Me Be With You
Let Me Be With You
I just want to hold you
I just want to hold you
"Sakuno, wait for me…Kyoto here I come"
"Ryuzaki-sensei said that our lodging will be provided by…" Just when Fuji was about to continue further, Ryoma's stepped into the dinning hall interjecting the meeting.
"Fuji-senpai!" Ryoma steadied his breathe before he could continue further.
"Echizen!" the team stared at Ryoma with surprise.
"What is it, Echizen?" Fuji noticed the determination in Ryoma's eyes.
"Can we have a few words in private?" Ryoma demanded.
"That could be arranged right after our meeting" Fuji ensured "why don't you take a seat first?"
The other members eyed the two geniuses with surprise. They had been giving each other cold shoulders eversince that day when they had an unpleasant match but right now the two seems to get back to their normal self again.
Ryoma abided and took a seat next to Momo who in turn smiled at him mischievously.
"Hey, Echizen, I never expect you to turn up for this meeting" Momo mimicked
"I never want you to expect anything from me either" Ryoma sighed as he murmured softly beneath his breathe.
"So Fuji, just we've been discussing about the lodging" Tezuka began "I think it would be more appropriate for you to provide us some information on the owner so that we would get ourselves prepared upon meeting him"
"No problem" Fuji nodded "As to save our pocket, Ryuzaki-sensei had contacted his son-in-law to allow us to stay in his place for our two weeks training program in Kyoto"
"The owner, Mr. Nanohana Sai, is a pleasant and kind man and most important, he's the father of Sakuno-chan"
"Father of Sakuno-chan!" Everyone shrugged with surprise.
"Right now Sakuno-chan is also in Kyoto, living with his father" Fuji added
"Oh? That beats me! I never know that she's from Kyoto, beside she doesn't have those Kansai accent like Oshitari" Momo scratched his head as he declared. (A/N: I believed that everyone here knows how Kansai-ben sounds like )
"Everything beats you" both Ryoma and Kaidoh muttered softly in unison.
"Nanohana Sai? I thought Sakuno's surname is Ryuzaki?" Kawamura asked curiously.
"That's because she's been using her mother's surname" suddenly a malleable feminine voice interjected.
"Yumiko nee-san" Fuji greeted the beautiful ginger-haired young lady as she entered the hall. The sibling looks very much alike, especially their identical sparkling blue eyes.
"Sorry for the interruption" she chuckle upon seeing their amusing expression as she suddenly made her appearance. She walked over and stood in between Fuji and Tezuka, facing the crowd with a warm smiling face.
Everyone greeted the Yumiko politely.
"Shusuke told me that all of you will be going to Kyoto for training. I used to stay in Kyoto once" Yumiko claimed.
(AN: About Fuji's name is supposed to be Shusuke and not Syuusuke. I've translated his name from Katakana to romanji)
"This time we're not only going there for training"
"What do you mean, Fuji?" Oishi asked anxiously
"In fact by all means we have to bring Sakuno-chan back here" Fuji said seriously "I don't know if anyone of you have realize that Osakada-san had been missing for days"
"Certainly, there's no record in here showing her presence for the past week" Inui added as he flipped and checked on the data entries where he surveyed on visitors monitoring their daily trainings.
"According to my investigation, the girl and her family were captivated. The devil, Togashie Toukushiden, the man who wanted to filch the power of Yagyu Jubei, had ordered one of his best assassins to eliminate the Second Generation of Yagyu Jubei. Ooshima Torajishiro was the one who captured and used the girl to attack Jubei-sama" Yumiko explicated with a stern look plastering her beautiful façade.
The group looks at each other, barely could utter a word. They were more than overwhelm upon hearing Yumiko telling them the situation which they never thought it would ever happened in reality.
"I know this could be hard for all of you to blend in so suddenly, but we have to act before the enemy does" Fuji interjected the quiet atmosphere "A day before Sakuno-chan left the town, she had been attacked. That night, she was badly wounded"
"She was wounded? That's terrible!" Eiji squealed "Who on earth would hurt such a sweet girl? Poor Sakuno-chan. By the way, how do you know that she was wounded?"
"Because I found her fainted in front of my doorway" Fuji replied without hesitation.
"That means that night, both of you were home alone" Inui scribbled the information into his data book.
As soon as Inui's words slipped out, everyone, except Tezuka stared at Fuji mischievously while Ryoma was glaring deadly at him, in process, he seems like wanted to strangle Fuji to dead.
"Though she never says a word, but, we found out later that it was Osakada-san who injured her" Fuji quickly intercepted with another topic.
"Osakada-san!" Eiji and Momo bellowed in unison "How could…she's the best friend of Sakuno-chan?" Eiji asked anxiously at last.
"To be exact, Osakada-san was inhabited by the devil. He used her to attack Sakuno-chan. This way he would protect himself, since he knew that Sakuno would never hurt her friends" Fuji hissed with a hand clenches into a ball of fist.
"Ow! That's too cunning, damn those freaking baddies" Eiji scoffed while others remained silence although they are as frustrated as Fuji and Eiji.
"Yumiko-san, why are you collecting information on someone you barely know?" Inui asked out of curiosity.
"Someone I barely know? Well of course I know Jubei-sama" Yumiko declared cheerfully
"In fact, Jubei-sama is my savior" she continued "She saved me and freed my perplexing soul from the devil's hand"
"She did?" everyone stared at Yumiko with disbelieve.
"Yes she did. It was two years ago when I was summoned by my ex-master, to exterminate Jubei-sama and seize the mysterious love-shaped eyes patch from her, as it was believed that the eyes patch is the source of Jubei's power"
"Back then, my foolishness had lead me to believe that by snatching the eyes patch, I'll be able to free myself from the control of Taiko Daiyu"
"I was able to get hold of the eyes-patch and even wore it once, but it seems that the eye-patch had a kind of mysterious enchantment to protect itself from being possessed by people of wickedness. As soon as I wore it, my body started to engulf with flames. I still can recall unbearable heat that almost scorched my body into ash. It was then Jubei-sama came to save me from being burnt to death. My soul was finally restored back to life when she slashed her sword into my body" Yumiko said dreamily at the end "Jubei-sama, kakkoi"
"Ha?" Everyone's jaw went ajar upon hearing what Yumiko said. Based on her expression, she must have enjoyed being slashed. If anyone who's not aware of the topic, they might think that the young woman has an inclination of being suicidal.
"Nee-san always gets hyper when it comes to sharing her acquaintance with Sakuno-chan" Fuji explicated with a smile as if he's enjoying the topic too.
"So…let's get back to the schedule again. Since our priority is to fulfill our training program in Kyoto, we'll have to walk from the Nanohana's residence to a nearby tennis court" Fuji continued shortly.
"Nearby court? Fuji-senpai? How near would that be?" Momo asked anxiously.
Inui flipped open the map around the residence and check the distance. "It's about 10 kilometers"
"WHAT? 10 Kilometers?" Once again Eiji and Momo bellowed in unison. It seems like the two of them really have similar mindset.
"That's not near? Mou, Fuji? Can't you find a nearest one?" Eiji protested "Or perhaps we can go there by bus?"
"Eiji, that's the nearest court we could find and we are not planning to go by bus. Our daily routine would include the 10Km warming up. Inui had planned some special training for us" Tezuka interjected firmly "Most importantly, the lodging is free"
'Man, have we taken the wrong club or what? What club is this by the way? Tracks or tennis?' Eiji complained inwardly.
"Yes, our training would be totally different from those we had before. I've even formulated a new type of nourishing drinks to improve everyone's physical condition" an evil smirk appeared on Inui's face as he asserted.
"Failing to reach the court within the designated time will have to get a glass of my special formulated 'Inui's special extra hot chili pepper vege-juice"
"Inui/Senpai! Drink it yourself!" everyone bellowed in unison.
"Shusuke? What's that Inui's special drinks all about? All your teammates seem to be terrified by it?" Yumiko asked anxiously.
"It's Inui's invention. It's delicious and healthy" Fuji explained "I really look forward to try his new invention"
Upon hearing that, everyone turned and stared at Fuji with disbelieve. 'That's no way I would have it' everyone noted in accord.
"I really hope that all of you here could bring Jubei-sama back here as soon as possible" As soon as the guys resumed their composure, Yumiko interjected "Since Toukushiden's power has been expanding in this city, we'll have to bring her back here to stop him, otherwise, this city would be in big trouble"
"Is there any other ways or other people who could stop this?" this time Tezuka prompted "What if she doesn't want to come back here or she's leaving because she doesn't want to get involve?"
Yumiko bit her lips as she regarded the stern captain for a moment "You could be right, Tezuka-kun. Jubei-sama…I mean Sakuno-chan, right after I've gotten to know her better, I come to understand clearly; she definitely not cut out for battles. Seeing anyone get hurt in front of her is something she hates more than anything else, even if it was an enemy. Such people shouldn't fight, because she would end up hurting herself"
"Then why are you asking us to bring her back here knowing that she would get hurt?" Ryoma asked with slight antagonism in his tone.
"Because, she's the only one and only she alone could put the battle to an end" Yumiko said with an equally stern voice as Tezuka "For she is the successor of Yagyu Shinkageryu, the Second Generation of Yagyu Jubei"
"With her Sword of Life, she'll be able to resurrect these samurais and save them from being manipulated by Toukushiden's evil power"
"I'm not gonna let anyone hurt her" Ryoma said earnestly "Although, I'm neither a fighter nor a samurai, but, I'll protect her with all my strength, I will"
"Echizen?" It was a moment of trepidation when they heard what Ryoma said. Even Tezuka was overwhelmed by Ryoma's words.
"I won't give up, Fuji-senpai" Ryoma continued sternly.
"I won't lose to you either" comprehending what Ryoma meant, Fuji smirked with contentment.
"Mou? What are both of you talking about! Fuji, Ochibi, we demand an explanation" Eiji protested.
"We?" Oishi asked abruptly and earned an elbow attack from Eiji.
"Me too! Sheltering behind a girl's back is just not my style" Momo stood up from his seat as he exclaimed excitingly.
"Urusai…but this is the first time that I've found your word sounds more like human" a smirk plastered on Kaidoh's face as he muttered softly.
"Minna" Oishi was filled with abundance of joy when he sees that their team is beginning to strengthen "I'm so happy. Yes, though there's not much we can do but we shouldn't just sit there and let a girl to protect us and our city. We should work together as a team" the motherly vice captain was almost in tears as he stated.
As soon as their meeting ended, everyone went back home while Ryoma had stayed since he still have some matters that need to be solved. Yumiko too had gone back to her room, comprehending that the two young men would need some privacy.
"So, what was it that you wanted to talk to me about?" Fuji wasted no time and he could also tell that Ryoma was starting to get uncomfortable for staying in his house for too long.
"Like I said earlier, I'm not gonna give up"
"Well, like I said too, I won't go easy on you either, Echizen-kun" another one of Fuji's trademark smile had got into Ryoma's nerve.
"And I really mean it, you know how persistent I am" Ryoma muttered under his breathe.
"And you should know I'm just the same as you" Fuji replied cheerfully. Another smile, Ryoma's is about to blow his head off.
"She called me Ryoma-kun…it's RYOMA-kUN" Ryoma enunciated his own name loud and clear.
"Although she called me Fuji-senpai, but I'm sure that can be adjust once we get into a relationship"
"Why don't you just give her up?" Ryoma fumed "She's younger than you"
"Age is just a number, moreover, there's only two years gap between us, but, I think she's a few months ahead of you?"
(A/N: Sorry I'm not sure if she is a few months older, well just guess )
Ryoma glare and Fuji smile, the two would just make a good partner if there were to perform a Manzai act. (Manzai: A traditional Japanese comedy, usually consist one stupid man and a straight man, telling jokes in Kansai-ben)
"No one's gonna make me give up" the two suddenly said in unison.
"Oya, oya, Echizen-kun is mimicking my words" Fuji said teasingly.
"Who's mimicking who!" that was the last blow as Ryoma could no longer stand Fuji and his airy personality "I'm leaving!"
"Echizen" Just before Ryoma was about to stomp off but was then stopped by Fuji.
"What?" Ryoma scoffed, his eyes never turn to meet Fuji's.
"I like Sakuno-chan" Fuji added at last
"Are you prompting me to kill you in advance?" Ryoma asked dangerously.
"I'm serious. Remember that night when I told you that she's an interesting girl? I felt comfortable whenever she stays beside me, and so I…"
"Like I said too, I'm not going to let go of her no matter what"
"Guess this challenge is unavoidable"
"Obviously"
"Well then, let's have a fair competition. If she choose you, I'll leave, and if she chooses me?"
"I'll leave"
"Deal…No regrets"
"No regrets"
As the day finally comes, everyone had gathered around the Seishun Shinkansen Station, except for Ryoma. The raven-haired boy had always been showing a record for being late. Someday Tezuka will make him to serve whatever punishment he would think of to teach Ryoma to be punctual.
Fifteen minutes before the departure, Oishi had decided to call up Ryoma when he finally turn up, standing in front of them, the first year was taking his time to catch his breathe due to the rush.
"Echizen? Are you alright?" Oishi asked with concern "And…what's with the big bag you have?"
"Hoi hoi, ochibi is planning to migrate to Kyoto and stay with Sakuno-chan?" All the regulars gazed mischievously at the now blushing first year. Indeed it had surprised them to see Ryoma bring along such a big bag with him. Some even wondered if he'd bring along his love pet, Karupin.
"You're too noisy for your own good, Kikumaru-senpai" Ryoma muttered softly with slight embarrassment "No thanks to my mom. She told me to bring some souvenirs for Sakuno and her family"
"Ah!" Suddenly Oishi shrugged "Oh, yes, we should have also buy some present for Mr Nanohana, to show our gratitude for letting us to stay in his place for free"
"Minna, please get on the train first, I'll just get good stuff from the station booth"
"O…Oishi…better be quick; or else we'll have to leave you behind!" Eiji exclaimed naughtily.
"Eiji, you'll freak Oishi's heart out" Kawamura added frightfully when he saw the vice captain had merely lost his balance right after hearing what Eiji said.
"Nyah, serve my purpose right" Eiji flashed Kawamura his trademark wink "Hora, Taka-san, let's get on the train! Let's go! Let's go! I want to sit next to the window"
"AH! Kikumaru-senpai! Wait! I also want a seat next to the window" Momo bellowed frantically and quickly pick up his backpack and go after Eiji.
"KIDS…" the others muttered in unison.
"Echizen" Fuji smiled "do you need me to give you a hand?"
"No thanks" Ryoma immediately declined Fuji's offer "I don't feel like owing you any favor"
"As usual, you're still so cold" Fuji shook his head, his trademark smiling face never faded a bit "If I were a girl, I would instantly get flared up and might not want to talk to you again"
"If were a girl, I would not even consider of approaching you coz you're too unpredictable"
"I'll take it as a compliment, Echizen" Despite of Ryoma's sarcastic insult, Fuji chuckled before boarding onto the train. Ryoma decided to wait for another few minutes before joining the others.
At the same time Oishi had also return from the last minute shopping spree. He was surprised to find Ryoma standing alone with his oversized backpack. Although he would like to help his junior but he too had two big bags with him.
"Echizen? Are you waiting for me?" Oishi smiled contentedly when he though his assiduous guidance has finally recognized by Ryoma, the well known arrogant rookie. Now, Ryoma no longer acts cocky and even show great respect to his seniors.
Yet a moment of Oishi's happiness was shattered into pieces when Ryoma shook his head and said "No, I just don't want to follow Fuji-senpai, so, I'll just wait here until everyone's on board, that's it"
"I…I see" Oishi sweat drop. Although he'd heard from the others that both Fuji and Ryoma are now fighting over the coach's granddaughter, yet, he never expects them to such a drastic situation.
A final call had been made by the operator to call everyone to get on board. Just when Ryoma was about to get onto the train, he spotted a familiar figure that was boarding onto the same train, using the other entrance.
'It can't be' Ryoma shoved off his suspicion and quickly get on the train before other passengers behind him starts to complain.
Just as the train was in the middle of the track, Kawamura, Momo and Eiji exclaimed dreadfully when they finally realized that the Seigaku Coach is not on board. It was then Tezuka informed his teammates that the coach is not going to participate in this training schedule. Nevertheless, Tezuka was told by the coach that she had arranged someone to replace her to guide them with their training.
"Really? A substitute coach? What is Ryuzaki-sensei up to? Usually, she won't take our training casually" Momo muttered "Ne, Inui-senpai? Do you have an idea or info about our the new coach"
"No" Inui replied with slight disappointment since he had totally slip away with such important data.
"No matter how, we must trust our coach's decision" with that, Tezuka ended everyone's worries. They quickly resume back to what they did earlier.
'A replacement coach?' Ryoma thought inwardly. His instinct had told him that something terrible is about to happen.
As soon as they reached the Kyoto sub-station, the Seigaku team gathered at one place to wait for their captain to locate the meeting place.
Since there are many bypassers, it's really hard for them to locate the host. The picture that Tezuka is holding is the photo of Nanohana Sai, taken many years ago. He was about their age. Based on the picture, they could tell that the coach and her son-in-law were not in good term.
"I wondered how Mr Nanohana looks like now" Eiji murmured
"Yo, looking for Nanohana Sai?" The group was taken by surprise when a man with baritone suddenly interjected them from behind.
Everyone turned around to face the man. Short spiky hair, wearing short sleeve shirt with Hawaiian printings and khaki pants, the man winked at the group.
"OYAJI!" Ryoma was the first one to bellow out loud.
"Oyaji?" Everyone eyed at Ryoma with surprise and then their gazes turn back to the man whom Ryoma regarded as his father, the Tennis Professional Player, Echizen Nanjiroh.
"From today onwards, I'll be your substitution coach. Yoroshiku na" he flashed another wink at the group. (This scene reminds me of Kai-sensei of Naruto. Seishun libretto and his flashy winks)
"Chott…o matte!" Despite of his oversized backpack, Ryoma was able to cross the distance between him and his father in just a flash "What are you doing here!" he asked sinisterly under his breathe and quickly pull Nanjiroh away from his teammates.
"What? Didn't I said that I'm here as your coach?" Nanjiroh shook his head and replied Ryoma with his blended accent.
"What do you mean by that? You're not supposed to be here or stay near me" Ryoma hissed under his breathe, his words was filled with the usual sarcasm, the way he usually talk to his father.
"Do you think I want to be here! I would die to stay at home and sleep, if not the old hag had threatened to tell your mom about my first date with Mitsue-chan! You know your mom could do anything senseless, like burning my treasured magazines!"
'So he's Echizen Nanjiroh, the legendary professional tennis player who invented Nitouryu' Tezuka noted mentally. His sight never breaks away from the Echizens.
"Tezuka" Fuji interjected the team captain "You're as excited as I am, aren't you?"
"This would be a good chance for me; I want to know the abilities of the legendary pro" Tezuka muttered softly.
Just as the Echizens were having some problem of their own; there came another man who dashed towards the group "Ah! Finally found you all! Seigaku Tennis Club Members!"
The man with grayish hair in messy ponytail, wearing the similar spectacle as Inui, half tugged in light blue long sleeves shirt and black trouser, Sai, introduced himself as he welcome the group.
"Oh! Nanjiroh-san is here too? What a pleasant surprise"
"Yo, Sai! Long time no see" Suddenly Nanjiroh faked a cool look as he winked at Sai.
"Yes, it's been a long time" the other middle aged man, Sai, did the same "I never thought that I could meet you again, Nanjiroh-san"
The two middle age man shook each others hand tightly; they exchanged a rather ardent gaze. The regulars who stood in between the two could see glitters surrounding them. It's really an eyesore to see two men staring at each other like that.
"Ne, Echizen? Do you know that your father knows Nanohana-san?" Momo walked over and mimicked to Ryoma, while others waited for his response.
"Nope, and I don't want to know, coz I've always thinks that oyaji's friends must be as weird as him" he muttered nonchalantly.
"Is that so?" the rest of them sweat drop upon hearing his reply. They could also tell that Ryoma is not particular kind to his father.
Just when the two old friends finally remembered the group, Sai apologized for keeping them waiting "Ah! Sorry guys! Let me introduce myself again! I'm Nanohana Sai. Welcome to Kyoto!" He then guided everyone out of the station and go to his place by a chartered bus which he arranged prior to their arrival.
Due to their long ride, all the regulars are getting tired; especially it's almost time for dinner. Everyone sat gloomily at their seat, while the two elders continue to accounts for their youthful chronicles.
"Man, aren't they tired? They've been talking for almost an hour by now" Momo murmured to Ryoma who sat with a fist tugged underneath his chin, eyed the two men with his lazy feline eyes before muttering his libretto "Mada mada dane"
Sakuno had almost finished all her preparation of dinner for their guests. She was stirring last-minute seasonings into the fluffy omelet when she heard the sound of the loud diesel engine stopping nearby their house.
She switched off the heat of the saucepan and quickly rushes over to the entrance to welcome her father as well as the guests.
As soon as she opened up the door, Sakuno was more than surprise to see the regulars standing in front of her.
Eiji suddenly dashed towards her and gave a deadly bear hug.
"Nyah, Sakuno-chan" He said in a sing song tone "My dear Sakuno-chan! How are you doing? Senpai misses you sooo…much"
"Ah…ah…Ki…Kikumaru-senpai!" Sakuno's eyes turns into the shape of eddy, her face is now steaming crimson. All of them, except Tezuka and Ryoma, broke into laughter upon seeing Sakuno's comical façade.
"Ne, ne Sakuno-chan? You've prepared dinner for us right?" Eiji asked cheerfully right after releasing the furiously blushing girl from his embrace "We're starving!"
"Yes..Yes" Sakuno stammered. Both hands touching her burning cheeks, the girl turn away from the crowd. She was about to faint after being hugged tightly by the acrobatic player.
Shortly after she regained her composure, she could hear soft footsteps approaching. She turned back again to meet him and only to find that the familiar scent and his body is only a few inches away from her. It doesn't need Sakuno to look up to tell who is standing in front of her now.
"Fuji-senpai?" Sakuno's heart beats faster than the usual rate.
"I'm so happy to see you again, Sakuno-chan" a hand move over and tilt her chin upward, directing her to place her eyes on his.
"Me…me too…" Sakuno was totally stunned by Fuji's action. "I never expect that all of you would be here as our guests"
"We'll be staying here for quite sometimes. During these days, please guide us along" Fuji said politely before inching nearer to Sakuno's face.
"Same…same here" Sakuno panicked as could felt his hot breathe. She comprehended Fuji's feat and she knew that what would come next. Part of her was trying to refrain from him, yet other part of her heart melted when his soft hand caresses her cheek.
All of them were too confounded to react upon seeing such incident; Fuji is about to kiss Sakuno.
"Kairashi ko ya ne…" he praised. Just when his lips almost touches Sakuno's; Fuji open up one eye and regarded Ryoma who is supposed to be furiously mad but had tried to act cool. He quickly changes his direction and kissed her rosy cheek instead. "Thank you for welcoming us"
(Kairashi ko ya ne – What a pleasant child. This phrase can be described that the child is adorable. Kairaku means pleasure)
'Show off' Ryoma mentally noted as he lowered his cap to hide his irritation.
Upon seeing his daughter being greeted in such ways, Sai turns into a statue. Sturdily, he turned and faced Nanjiroh, his jaw went ajar.
"Ne…Nanjiroh-san? Did they used to greet each others in that ways?" Sai, who was able to resume his composure from the initial shock, asked cautiously.
"Well…you've asked me? I don't really know if they used to greet others like this" Nanjiroh replied as a matter of factly "but I guess your daughter is very adorable. She reminded me of her mother. I would also love to give her a warm hug too" he added as he stared at Sakuno with his trademark depraved expression.
"Nanjiroh-san!" Sai furrowed his brow, disapproving the legendary tennis pro to stare at his daughter in such way.
Their conversation were interjected by Tezuka and Oishi as they approached the two elderly and bowed before them.
"Nanohana-san and Echizen-san" Tezuka said with his usual stern and scary tone, that almost freak the two out. "During this days, please show your guidance to us" he added shortly.
Nanjiroh could see anticipation in the young captain's eyes. Those eyes remind him of his old self. Seeing the young man before him makes him excited too. "That's for sure" he said with a pleasing smirk "I won't show mercy during training times"
"Thank you" Tezuka bowed for the second time.
At the same time Oishi passed the souvenirs that he bought from the Seishun Station Booth. "Nanohana-san, thank you for allowing us to stay here for free" Oishi said politely "Please accepts these souvenirs as a token of our appreciation"
"Wow, this is too courteous" Sai suddenly shrugged upon seen the two big bags of souvenirs handled to him by the vice captain. "I must not accept this"
"We insist. Please accept it" Oishi bowed once again as he said.
"Well, if that's so, I won't reserve. Thank you" Sai smiled. Oishi is just a reflection of his old self. "I'm happy to have you all here. Please work hard for the trainings, okay?"
"Hai!"
"Talk about souvenirs" Oishi suddenly recalled "Echizen had also brought some good stuff for you too"
A/N: Omake - 1
"He did?" The older Echizen raised his brow with surprise "Is that so? My adolescent child"
"Who do you call 'adolescent'? You freaky old man" Ryoma mocked as he walks towards his father.
"Heh? You have problem with that?" both of them exchange glares.
"He's Ryoma?" Sai interjected and asked Nanjiroh with much delight. He walked over and took a closer look of the young Echizen.
"You're Ryoma?" Just when Ryoma was about to reply, Sai pulled off Ryoma's cap to see clearly his face.
"AH? You're really Ryo-chan!" Sai exclaimed happily. "Ryo-chan! You've changed a lot; if not that I still recognize your eyes"
A/N: Omake - 2
"Ryo-chan?" Ryoma sweat drop upon hearing his new suffix. The rest of the guys couldn't help but chuckled softly until Ryoma turn around and shot them a killer glare.
"Ano...How about going into the house first? Dinner's' has been ready for quite sometimes" Sakuno quickly added upon sensing Ryoma's resentment.
"DINNER!" Both Eiji and Momo bellowed with joy. "Let's go!"
"Please come in" Sakuno smile cheerfully as she welcomed her friends into the house.
"Nanohana-san! Thanks for your warm invitation" Before they enter the house, all of them bowed before Sai as to thank him with gratitude.
Before they have their dinner, Sakuno guided her friends to their alternative rooms.
Tezuka, Oishi and Kawamura shared a room. Momo and Kaidoh heaved a sigh upon hearing that none of them had to share the same room with the strict captain, but then, when the two eternal rivals heard that they'll be sharing the same room, immediately they request for a shift but was declined by their captain.
Staying together in one roof means all of them would have to learn to respect and take care of one another.
Much to their aversion, Ryoma also had to share one room with Fuji and Inui. The first risk he'll have to face is to sleep in the same room with Fuji, who is now officially his RIVAL. Another risk, to be in the same room with a highly dangerous senior who always collect data of other people, more frightening, he's the inventor of eccentric drinks. No further protestation was made since the captain had declined the earlier one.
When all of them had finally settled their backpacks down, they proceed to the dinning hall where Sai, Nanjiroh and Sakuno had waited.
Right after they finished dinner, Tezuka, Oishi and Kawamura volunteered to do the cleaning up. From today onwards, all the regulars would have to take turns to do some chores. When everyone finally gathered around the living hall, Sakuno served them with chilled watermelons.
The Seigaku regulars were glad to see that Sakuno is still old usual self despite of the incident that happened before she came back here.
Sai noted that his daughter has adopted herself to blend around with these guys. Seeing her cheerful laughter makes him at ease. Eversince Sakuno's mother had passed away; Sakuno has become quite introverted. Nevertheless, Sai couldn't blame his daughter since he's at fault. That's also a reason why he's now working as a ghostwriter instead of working as an editor in a well known publishing firm. If only he could have more time for his family, his wife, Nadeshiko Nanohana would not have died.
Flashback…
"Papa, when are you coming back home?"
"Jubei? Papa is very busy right now. Papa will be back soon"
"How soon? Please come back now. Mama is very sick" the girl voice cracked.
"Papa will call you again later"
"Papa? Are you coming back now? Mama, mama is not taking her medicine"
"Oi! Sai! What are you doing? We don't hire you here to make phone calls! Get the article complete before the deadlines!"
"Hai, I'm so sorry"
'When I got back home, it's too late. Nadeshiko is gone'
"Jubei?"
"Shh…mama is now taking her rest now…" the little girl speaks softly while staring blankly at the body of her mother, a hand gently caressing its cold pale cheek "Tsumetai…"
(Tsumetai – cold)
"Jubei, listen, she's not waking up anymore. Mama is dead"
"Jubei…I'm sorry!" Just when Sai was about to get hold of his daughter's tiny hand, she moved away.
'For months, she had not been talking to me' Sai eyed the girl who kept herself away from him.
"Ne…Jubei, why don't you say a word to papa?"
"…"
"Jubei? Are you mad at papa? Yeah, you have the right to be mad"
"…"
'That day…she finally talks to me'
"Jubei, listen, papa knows that I'm not a responsible father, but since mama had passed away, you'll have to learn how to take care of yourself too" Sai eyes never leave the girl that sat at the far corner of their living hall.
"…"
"From now on, papa's gonna train you on how to take care of yourself. We'll have to share chores together"
"Sharing chores?" the girl finally broke her silence.
"Yes" Sai nodded "we'll have to, since it only you and me"
"Only you and me?"
"Yes"
"I know it painful to face the fact that your mother is no longer with us, but as a father, I shall be responsible, to take up the role of your mother. Though, I don't know how this would turn out to be, but I'll work hard, I mean both of us"
The girl turned around to face his father for the first time "You're going to be mama too?"
"Of course and we're gonna work things out together"
"Really? You're not going to work?"
"I've resigned my job as an editor. I'm now taking a part-time job as a ghostwriter, so I can always be with you"
"Always be with me?"
"Yes, always"
"You promise?" Sakuno eyes widen as she asked.
"Yes, this is my promise for you" Upon hearing her father's reply, Sakuno rush over and hugged his father tightly.
"Let's stay together, forever" Sakuno finally broke into tears.
"Ah…"
"Sai?" Nanjiroh shook Sai's shoulder to bring his soul back to reality.
"Yes" Although he did reply in an instance, Nanjiroh could tell that half of Sai's soul is still floating somewhere in heaven.
"Are you thinking about Nadeshiko-chan again?"
"It's just that, I'm grateful that she had finally brighten up so much"
"Yeah, with those kids around her she'll definitely be happy" Nanjiroh said seriously.
"Second thought, it's kinda dangerous to have them around, since Sakuno-chan is becoming more and more like Nadeshiko-chan"
"Nanjiroh-san! Don't scared me like this" Sai furrowed his brow when his old friend had once again stared at Sakuno defiantly.
Meanwhile…
"Sakuno-chan" Eiji called with Sakuno's name in a sing song tone.
"Hai" Sakuno smiled
"Let senpai tell you a funny incident" Eiji too flash a cheerful smile as he declared.
"Please" her lovely and cheerful smile never faded a bit.
"That, Fuji and Ochibi were fighting each other"
Everyone stood frozen upon hearing Eiji's loud remark. The two instantly shot dead glares at the acrobatic player. The innocent lively player didn't sense the glaring as he continued further.
"It would be nice if you were there since they were fighting for you"
"M…me?" Sakuno quickly turn around to glance worriedly at the two young men.
"We were not" the two said in unison "Sakuno-chan/Ryuzaki! It's not true!" There was a sudden outburst of confusion among the group. Eversince Eiji had brought up such incident, everyone, except Tezuka, said out their own version of Fuji and Ryoma's war of love. The whole living room has become a lively forum.
"Sakuno-chan/Ryuzaki?"
"Wait!" Both Fuji and Ryoma regarded each other when they were caught saying the same words in unison.
"Back then, I've called off the game because Echizen did not perform well back then"
"It was Fuji-senpai. He's being too sensitive. I told him that was just warming up. His patience failed him"
"A bad painter blaming its brush"
"That's the best of the worst thing I've ever heard"
It is not usual to see Fuji acting like how Ryoma had acted. Usually he would just shove off the accusation with a smile but this time both of them seems to be in a defending mode.
"I'm so sorry!" Sakuno bowed before the two. "I don't know what had I done to drag both of you into such situation. All I could do now is to apologize. But…but…" Sakuno paused "I'm sorry" with that she dashed out of the living hall.
"Sakuno-chan/Ryuzaki?" The room instantaneously cooled down among the guys upon seeing Sakuno ran out of the hall.
"Oh my goodness! Ohime-chan is running away again…" Nanjiroh interjected with his trademark teasing tone.
"What should we do now?" Eiji asked worriedly.
"Hm…I guess she just needed some fresh air" Sai winked "Don't worry, she'll be alright"
"Nanohana-san, please let me know, where would she usually be, to get some fresh air"
"Echizen, I don't think it's a good idea to look for her now" Oishi suggested "Let her have sometimes alone"
"Nanohana-san, please" Ryoma insisted.
"Eto, Ryo-chan, do you know where in this house is has the closest distant with the stars in the sky?"
"Closest distant?" A confident smirk plastered on his poker face "Of course, it's up there!" Ryoma pointed a finger upwardly "Thank you, Nanohana-san" Ryoma thanked Sai before leaving the hall to search for Sakuno 'Back then, I did saw that there's an attic in this house'
Shortly after Ryoma had left, Fuji too excused himself and goes after him.
"Fuji…Echizen" Oishi eyes widen upon witnessing their persistence.
"Nyah, Oishi, don't worry about them. They'll be fine" Eiji gave flashed an assuring smile, while the rest nodded their head in agreement.
"I understand"
"Ne, Sai, the two kids seems to have the same problem like we used to" Nanjiroh murmured.
"You're right, Nanjiroh-san" Sai chuckled "They were so much like you, me and Nadeshiko"
"After all these years, you're still being so formal towards me" Nanjiroh shook his head to show his disapproval "I know I hate 'Keigo'" (Keigo – formalities/courtesy)
"Whether what the outcome would be, one of them would definitely get hurt" Sai paused when he heard a sniffing sound.
"You…it's all your fault…otherwise…Nadeshiko-chan could have chosen me"
"Nanjiroh-san?" Sai sweat drop "I'm sorry…I'm sorry"
"I'm just teasing you" immediately the playful tennis pro resumed his usual façade.
"No…I mean I'm really sorry. Perhaps she could be lot happier if she's with you" Sai looked down "Maybe things would be different or she wouldn't…"
"Sai, stop babbling nonsense, you fool" Nanjiroh interjected "Nadeshiko-chan is happy to be with you, otherwise I would not have help the two of you to runaway from home"
Meanwhile…
Ryoma heard that there's a footstep pacing towards his way. He turn around to see who's the pursuer only to get him more irritated that the guy coming from behind is his rival, Fuji.
"What are you doing, following me?" Ryoma said coldly when he finally reached the room; that would lead them to the attic.
"I'm also worried about Sakuno-chan, so I came along"
Ryoma regarded the senior for quite sometimes before opening the door.
"Echizen" Fuji called "before we see here again, can we just try not to bit each others bones?"
"I won't if you don't" Ryoma said as he entered the room.
"Doushiyo…" Sakuno stare wearily at the starry sky.
"Ryuzaki" Suddenly Ryoma's head poked out from one side of the window and gave Sakuno a freak.
"Ryo…Ryoma-kun!" Sakuno exclaimed "Why are you here? How do you know I'm here?" Sakuno watched as Ryoma climb out from the window to sit himself beside her.
It surprises her even more upon seeing Fuji climbing out from another side of the window. She is now stuck in between two princes.
"Ryuzaki" Ryoma began "I'm sorry about what happened just now"
'Ryoma-kun? He's apologizing?' Sakuno couldn't believe of what she had heard. She's was sure that the one who said those words was definitely Ryoma and not Fuji.
"Fuji senpai was right! I wasn't in the mood when I played the match" Ryoma didn't know what has come into him, to make him saying such words. Yet he comprehended the important of being honest since the very day he realized his feelings for her. "It's just that, I didn't see you for days and was quite worry about you"
"Ryo…Ryoma-kun?" Sakuno cheek flushed. She is starting to suspect if the guy that sit beside her is really the Ryoma she knew.
"No…no, I was also having mood swing too" Fuji interjected and his words also had attracted Sakuno's attention. "Since you're always there by our side, cheering for us"
"I'm sorry" the two said in unison.
"Fuji-senpai, Ryoma-kun" Sakuno felt like crying. She was just the same as the two. Eversince she left Seishun-shi, she realized that she had missed her friends dearly, especially the two young men that is now sitting by her side. "Thank you…" holding back her happy tears, Sakuno divert her attention back to the sky. 'Kami-sama, thank you so much for bringing them back to me'
The trio had been sitting on the roof top, quietly enjoying the beautiful sound of nature. As the night gets chiller, the three of them decided to get into the house, when something caught their eyes.
"A shooting star!" Sakuno exclaimed and immediately she closes her eyes and crossed her hands to make a wish. Ryoma and Fuji followed what she did.
"Ne, Sakuno-chan, what are you wishing for?" Fuji asked
"I wish for everyone's health and safety" Sakuno replied cheerfully "Ano…both of you?" she asked shyly.
At the same time, both Fuji and Ryoma hold each side of Sakuno's braids and kissed it before they revealed their wish "To be with you, forever"
"Sakuno/Ryuzaki, daisuki desu"
"HOE!" Sakuno couldn't believe of what she had heard. Two princes of tennis had finally confessed their feelings for her at the same time, on the rooftop, beneath the beautiful starry night.
Omake 1:
"Ne…I wondered, what souvenirs had Echizen brought?"
"E…Eiji! That's too rude! You're not suppose to touch anyone's belongings without their consent"
"Nyah, don't be so uptight, Oishi! Just one look!"
"Ah? What is this? Surume? Kikurage and Dango!"
(Surume – Cuttlefish, Kikurage – Cloud ear mushroom (fungi), Dango – Sweet dumpling)
"What was that Kikumaru-kun?"
"Nanohana-san, Echizen had brought some homemade souvenirs for you"
"Surume? Kikurage and dango…" Sai suddenly snapped his finger "Oh, these were the food of love confession!"
"Food of Love Confession?"
"That means when you are fond of someone and yet you do not have the courage to tell that person, the best way is to use these to show them your feelings."
"And why is that so?"
"The first word for Surume is "Su", then comes "Ki" for Kikurage and finally "Da" for Dango"
"SU?"
"KI?"
"DA?"
"It's SUKIDA!"
"Hee…hee, that cunning ochibi"
Omake 2
"Nanohana-san…is it true that Echizen-kun had come here once? He doesn't seems to recall anything about this"
"Oh yes, Nanjiroh and Ryo-chan were here once. Back then, Ryo-chan was only three"
"I've some picture that I could show"
"Dore dore?"
"Here"
"Ah? This is Echizen? And the other kid is Sakuno-chan!"
"Kawai…but why are they taking bath together?"
"PAPA/NANOHANA-SAN!"
TBC…
AN: Ano ne, this would be the longest, yet, a bit crappier as it goes on. Please bear it with me. There's still not much action in it yet, but…I hope that all of you would still continue to support me and read my fics. Your support and reviews are the best motivation to me. Minna-san, hontoni Arigatou gozaimasu. Mi-chan is too happy to read all of them.
Oh…another thing, recently I stumbled across a Japanese website and many Japanese are supporting the YukiSaku pairing (YukimuraSakuno), Oshitaro/Sakuno, Eiji/Sakuno, Ryoga/Sakuno. Many fanarts were submitted for this couple. Kawai…
My dedication goes to:
LadyLight: Thank you for reviewing my story. I know that's not much interesting scene in this chappie, since mi-chan had made it too long, but I promise the fun will begin in the next one. I'm sorry.
Whitelilies: Ah? It's really hard to choose, guess need to check the reviews to see which pairing has more votes. But I really like anyone to be paired up with Sakuno-chan, since I've liked her the best among other girl characters of Tenipuri. I must apologize for being indecisive.
Valu: Oh my goodness! Thank you! Mi-chan is so happy to read your review. Eto, I must apologize for the wait and driving you crazy…just kidding :P As you can see, I've not really decided on how the end will goes, but, mi-chan believe everything will be fully set up till then. And thanks for your kisses too. I'm also a RyoSaku, FujiSaku lover.
Fanfic-fan: Thank you so much for your review. Oh, I've changed the rating. Once again, thank you for pointing it out to me otherwise; I'll be in big trouble. You're right; MUAHAHAHAHAHA is definitely sounded more evil that "heeheehee" I used it next time
Yepp: Thank you so much for your review. This would be a RyoSaku and FujiSaku. I'm looking forward to check out all the votes I had from the reviews to decide which pairing to use, so please be patience with me, okay?
Magy-chan: Yes! Here's another update of my story. I think I won't drag it for a year, coz, back then when I saw your review, I'm deeply touched that you're still here, supporting my story. This is for you.
Tsubame-chan: Thank you! I still dunno how their match would end, so I alwz keep on dragging :P I'm also looking forward for my instinct to tell me what to do. Sakuno-chan's gonna enjoy herself with the regulars in Kyoto. How could she not? She's surrounded by group of cute guys :P Makes me what to be part of it. Any good suggestion?
Eri-chan: Thank you so much for reviewing my story. I hope that I can do better and sorry for keeping you waiting.
Raiy: Thank you very much for your review. Nope, definitely, I can't let this end here…otherwise I would upset the ones who are supporting me, I might upset you too…thus no ending here yet…that's what I've decided, but I could be slow sometimes. Please bear this with me.
Other dedications: Niji-san, Doggythumper, LadyLight, Ginaorgasoline, StarFreak, Magy, Koori no tenshi, hannah-chan, zazabeans-chan, anime-obsession260, zhu-zhu, glitterfairy, Sourapplegreen, Kiralacus, the Eiji Cat, abc and Sakuya-chan
Thank you so much for your continuous support. Mi-chan will work harder to cope up with the short comings. Any good ideas please feel free to share with me and please continue to read my upcoming chappie: Part II of Youkoso Kyoto – One Angel and Nine Guardians.
Ja mata ne,
mi-chan