Welcome to Kisuragi Girls'

Koto music was playing softly, as the Parent's Association took their places around the table of the boardroom. A low table had been placed at the end of the room, and the members looked at it questioningly.

"What is that doing there?" Mr. Kusunoki said pointing at the table. The director of the Parent's Association, he was dressed in a tan sport jacket over a red shirt with a bolo tie. "And why are they playing that ridiculous koto music. Is this a boardroom, or a teahouse?"

"Always the fly in the ointment, aren't you" Ms Himuro said as she entered the room. "We are in for a treat, ladies and gentlemen. A prospective student has offered to perform a traditional tea ceremony for us."

A chorus of 'Ohhs' was heard. Mr. Kusunoki, however, was not impressed. "How does that have any relevance to this meeting? We're here to discuss this American you insist on bringing into the school. How can you even think of doing such a thing? How will it make us look if we accept some mongrel into Kisuragi Girls'? We'll be disgraced!"

Ms. Himuro looked coolly at him. "The tea ceremony is significant, because the girl performing it is the American. A person's bloodline does not dictate their worth. Rather the content of their heart and motivation behind their actions determines their true value. I would have thought you'd learned that after that debacle over Hayakawa's father."

"It may be that she's a good person, but the fact remains, Kisuragi Girls' is an elite Japanese girl's school. Letting in some brash uncivilized foreigner would be detrimental to this institution's role as a finishing school for young ladies."

Ms. Himuro scowled. In a low, serious voice, she said, "Amy Watson's mother is Japanese. To blatantly dismiss her, without even meeting her is an insult, to her, and this school. Do you think so poorly of my judgment, that I would let just any student enter here? She is an exceptional student, as well as an exceptional athlete. Kisuragi Girls' is fortunate to have her."

"Fine," Mr. Kusunoki said. "Parade your Yankee half breed out here, and get this over with."

Ms Himuro darkened at his choice of words. "Mr. Kusunoki, please refrain from using such derogatory remarks. Now it is you who would embarrass this school."

The other board members clapped in agreement. Mr. Kusunoki scowled, but said nothing.

Turning to the other members she said, "Thank you for your support. Now I would like to introduce Amy Watson."

Amy entered dressed in a pale green kimono, with her hair ornately styled on top of her head. She was carrying a tray containing the components of a traditional tea service. Moving smoothly across the room, she set the tray alongside the table. Turning to face the members, she bowed deeply and said, "How do you do? My name is Amy Watson; please treat me kindly. I come before you today in the hope that you will find me worthy to enter your fine place of learning". She approaching Mr. Kusunoki, bowed again, and said; "It would be my honor to perform a traditional tea ceremony for you. If you would be so kind as to allow it, may I prepare tea for you?"

"No thank you. I will not be part of some orchestrated scheme to sway this decision."

"I assure you Mr. Kusunoki, this was Amy's idea. She thought it would reassure the board, that she has not neglected her Japanese heritage." Ms. Himuro responded.

"Please sir." Amy said bowing yet again. "I promise you, my mother was most diligent in training her daughter how to perform this ceremony. I will not embarrass you."

"I don't care if she does know how to prepare tea!" He retorted. "Even monkeys can be trained to ride bikes."

"That is enough!" Ms Himuro said slamming her hand on the table. "You may be the director of the Parent's Association, but I will not have you belittle this young woman in such a manner." She stood up, and walked over to Mr. Kusunoki. Leaning into his face she added, "You are a disgrace to your position, and if it were in my power, I would have you removed."

Amy had stepped back as if she'd been struck with Mr. Kusunoki's words. Regaining her composure, she said, "I can't help that I'm not fully Japanese. It's true my father is American, but he is also the most noble and self-sacrificing man I know. He gave up a good job, coaching professional baseball, because his son needed him. He loves my mother more than life, and would do anything to protect his family. He is a man of integrity, and I see those same values instilled in my brother and me. Not because of something I inherited, but because of his example. He walks the walk, Mr. Kusunoki, and I'm proud to be his daughter. If that's not good enough for this school, then maybe I was wrong for wanting to come here. If every Japanese man is as bigoted and narrow minded as you, then I'm taking the next plane back home. Please excuse me." Turning, and pulling up the hem of her kimono, she ran from the room with tears filling her eyes.

"Are you satisfied?" Ms. Himuro said glaring. "Your intolerance has wounded that sweet young girl. She wants nothing more than to help this school win the national championship next season. As she just demonstrated, she can be quite eloquent. My daughter remarked to me how well mannered both she and her brother were. I cannot imagine her ever embarrassing this school. Members of the Parent's Association, I beg you, please do not turn this remarkable student away, simply because of where she was born."

Mr. Kusunoki looked like he'd been slapped. Gazing around the room, he saw dark expressions on the faces of the other members. Even Mrs. Ayanakoji, his staunchest ally during that Hayakawa incident, looked at him with disdain. "Mrs. Ayanakoji, surely you agree with me on this?"

"I'm sorry, Mr. Kusunoki," Mrs. Ayanakoji said curtly, "Coming into this meeting, I was unsure, but that young woman is, in my opinion, qualified to attend this school. She was humble, charming, and gracious in a stressful situation. Even emotionally defending her father, she remained polite and in control. You on the other hand were extremely rude with your derogatory remarks, and refusal of her tea. Your own feelings aside, you should have let her proceed with her tea ceremony. Fewer Japanese girls are choosing to learn how to perform it, so it is to her credit that she can. I am very disappointed in you."

Feeling the weight of their disapproval, he cleared his throat, and said, "I'm sorry everyone, I let my prejudices cloud my judgment. My personal feelings shouldn't be a factor in this decision. Miss Watson clearly demonstrated a passion for wanting to attend. If Ms. Himuro can guarantee her conduct, I vote to let her attend."

The other members clapped in agreement, and Mr. Kusunoki noticeably relaxed.

"Thank you everyone." Ms. Himuro said. "She will not disappoint you. If you would excuse me, I would like to tell her the good news. Mr. Mita would you take over?"

"Certainly, Ms. Himuro" He said with a slight smile.

She left the boardroom, and walked down the hall toward her office. She heard crying from a bathroom, and opened the door. Amy was sitting on the windowsill, looking out, with tears running down her cheeks. Ms. Himuro moved over to her, and took Amy's head into her arms. Stroking her hair, she said. "You did it Amy. You persuaded them. Not just with your Japanese elegance, but with your American pride as well."

Amy looked at her and said, "I can attend? Really? Ms. Himuro, thank you" Then she started crying all over again.

'Cry, my dear,' Ms. Himuro thought, wrapping Amy in a hug, 'get all those emotions out now. Because you can't afford to show them where this road's going to take you.'

Ms. Himuro was so focused on comforting Amy, she failed to notice Izumi, watching them from the doorway, slowly, quietly, close the door.

Ryo couldn't concentrate. Her English instructor's lecture was normally interesting enough, but today she found her thoughts straying back to the night before. Amy had struck out Hiroki. Now she wasn't the only pitcher to have beaten him. She was contemplating how this would affect their relationship. 'Hiroki had told me that he had fallen in love with me when I'd beaten him. Could he develop those same feelings for Amy?'

They had come back to the restaurant to finish celebrating Hikaru's birthday. The girls were still chatting excitedly when they'd entered.

"We're back, Mom." Ryo called as they'd walked through the door.

Shino looked relieved when Ryo and the others came in laughing. "Oh welcome back everyone. Did it go well?"

"You should have seen her Ms. Hayakawa!" Hikaru exclaimed. "She was amazing."

"Really, mom." Ryo added. "She is quite a talented pitcher. We really have a chance this year."

"What about you coach?" Shino asked Kido when he sat back down at the counter. "Is this girl going to be Kisuragi's new ace?"

"It's to soon to tell," Kido said noncommittally. "I can tell you she's better than most of the high school pitchers. But then, so is your daughter."

Corey and Hiroki had fallen behind the girls, lost in conversation. At that time, they entered the restaurant. Slapping Hiroki on the back, Corey walked up to the counter, "Ms. Hayakawa, may I use the phone? I need to contact my grandfather and let him know where we are."

"Certainly," Shino said. "This way please."

Hiroki walked straight up to Amy and said, "Congratulations on being the first pitcher to strike me out since elementary school. Your brother tried to warn me. I guess next time I'll listen to him."

Amy smiled saying, "Thank you for a good contest. You're such a talented batter; I doubt I'll be able to fool you again. That doesn't mean I won't give it my all."

"I wouldn't have it any other way." He said smiling back.

"I'm just glad it wasn't me at bat." Koharu said. "She only would have needed three of those fastballs to beat me. Just like when I faced Ryo on the beach back in Tosa."

"No, no," Ryo said humbly, "I just got lucky. You would have hit my third pitch if that wave hadn't sprayed you with salt water."

"Give yourself some credit Ryo." Kido said between sips of sake. "She'd never seen a fastball like yours. It takes time to learn to hit balls at that speed."

"That's right Ryo." Amy added. "I used to rely on my fastball, but the batters got used to the speed, and I started giving up too many hits. So my dad taught me how to throw that sinker. It's normally good for that final strike. Or if they do connect, it's usually a ground ball."

"I'll say." Hiroki said shaking his head. "I thought it was just an off speed pitch. I sure didn't expect it to drop 30 cm. Next time, I'll be waiting for it."

"And you still won't be able to hit it." Amy teased, grabbing his arm and dragging him towards the counter. " Come on, I'm thirsty, buy me a drink for my reward."

Ryo had watched as Amy dragged Hiroki away, laughing, and hugging his arm.

"Boy, she sure changed how she feels about Takasugi." Hikaru said, walking up to Ryo. "Before they faced off, I thought she couldn't stand him, now she's acting like she's his girlfriend."

"Quit trying to stir up trouble Hikaru," Izumi said, scolding her. "You know Hiroki loves Ryo, so don't tease her like that. Ryo, believe in Hiroki. He doesn't like girls that sweet-talk him."

"Oh, I'm not worried." Ryo assured them. "We've been a couple for almost seven months, we're practically engaged."

Nene had chosen that time to announce that she was cutting the cake, so everyone moved to the end of the counter to watch.

The seed of doubt had been sown though, and would grow overnight.

"Miss Hayakawa!" The instructor's voice calling her, snapped her back to the present. "Are you planning on joining the class sometime today?"

The other girls laughed as Ryo stood up, and bowing said, "I'm so very sorry sir. I was lost in thought. I'll try harder to pay attention from now on."

"Please see that you do." He answered. "For atonement, please come up to the board and translate this paragraph."

Ryo felt like a thousand eyes were on her as she made her way to the front of the class. 'Why do I do these things to myself?' She lamented silently.

Corey walked through the front door of the school, as the Parent's Association members were leaving. More than one looked at him with wide eyes before moving aside to let him pass. He smiled, gave them a slight bow, thanked them, and was going to continue on, when Mr. Kusunoki stepped in front of him. "Excuse me sir, I would like to get by."

"Would you now." Replied Kusunoki. "And just what business does a young man like you have in the school where our daughters attend."

Corey had caught the contempt in the man's voice and guessed its meaning. He said sarcastically, "When you say like me, do you mean so large, or so incredibly handsome?"

The other members of the Association chuckled, causing Kusunoki to scowl. "I mean so foreign. You had better leave before I have security throw you out."

Corey looked at this arrogant man and smiled, "That might be more of a problem than you think, being I was invited by Ms. Himuro."

"Corey, welcome to Kisuragi Girls'" They turned to see Kido approaching them.

"I should have guessed you were connected to those delinquents on the baseball team." Kusunoki growled. Then he stormed by, digging his shoulder into Corey's side.

"Ow!" Corey spun, grabbing Kusunoki by the collar. "Hey, you apologize! There was no call for that."

"I don't apologize to trash, now let go of my coat." Kusunoki said so only Corey heard. Then he cried out, "Look what happens when you let uncivilized Americans in to Kisuragi."

"Let him go Corey." Kido said putting a hand on Corey's arm. "You're just going to cause trouble for your sister."

Corey let him go with a shove, causing Kusunoki to stumble before catching himself. Glaring, he said, "I'll remember this boy. The first time your sister steps out of line, she'll be expelled."

Corey and Kido watched stony faced as Kusunoki straightened his collar, and strode out the door.

"What an asshole." Corey said grimly. "I'm sorry, if I'd known he was so vindictive, I never would have grabbed him."

"This isn't the first time he's caused the baseball team trouble. We survived that, we can survive whatever else he tries." Kido said laying a hand on Corey's shoulder. "You're here to get your sister, right? I'll take you to Ms. Himuro's office.

Walking down the hallway, Corey talked with Kido about the team. "So, how many new players are you going to have besides Amy?"

"We have fifteen girls who are interested, but after tryouts, I'm betting only half of them are talented enough, or have the commitment to make it. Last year we were desperate, so we took any girl who was willing. Tokashiki and Daidoji had never touched a baseball, but with my inspirational coaching, they blossomed into outstanding players." Kido said, laying his palm across his chest.

"Don't believe a word he says." They turned around to see Hikaru, along with twenty other girls, following them. "He slept off hangovers more than he coached us. He was able to get Yoko motivated though."

"Yoshimoto, shouldn't you be in class?" Kido growled.

"It's between periods coach. These girls are all in my class. They saw you two walking by, and wanted to meet Corey. So, I told them I would introduce him."

"Good morning, ladies." Corey said smiling. "It's nice to meet you all."

The ice broken, the girls, all talking at once, soon surrounded Corey.

"How do you like Japan?"

"How long are you going to be here?"

"How old are you?"

"Do you have a girlfriend?"

"Would you like my number?"

"Can I buy you dinner?"

Kido, seeing Corey was getting flustered, stepped in. "Alright girls, that's enough. Give the poor kid room to breathe."

"I agree." A voice said behind them. They turned to see Ms. Himuro walking with Amy who was still in her kimono. "Besides, your next period will be starting soon."

"Oh! She's so beautiful." They gushed, seeing Amy. "Are you going to be a student here?" One of them asked.

Amy bowed slightly, saying "Yes, My name is Amy Watson, and I will be attending as a freshman this spring. Thank you for your kindness. I'm glad you like my kimono, I received it for the New Year when I last visited."

"You're the American we've been hearing about? The rumors said you were two meters tall and big as a house."

"I believe they were talking about my brother." She said motioning to Corey.

"Thanks, Amy." Corey said irritably, "They'd forgotten all about me."

"Enough." Ms. Himuro said with finality. "Get to class. You'll have ample opportunity to meet Miss Watson when she starts next term"

"Yes ma'am" They said walking away.

Hikaru had hung back, watching Corey get mobbed. Now she stepped up saying. "That was fun. Sorry if they gave you a hard time Corey." Then turning to Amy added, "Congratulations on making it in. You do look really good in that kimono. By the way, how'd the tea ceremony go?"

"I never actually got to perform it." Amy admitted. "I got into an argument with one of the members and ran out of the room."

"She was a vision of elegance." Ms. Himuro added. "I'm sure if Mr. Kusunoki would have given her a chance, she would have performed flawlessly."

"Well, now we know what precipitated that confrontation in the lobby." Kido said patting Corey on the shoulder.

"You had a run in with him as well?" Ms Himuro asked. "That man is overstepping his authority."

"He all bluster, Keiko." Kido said putting his hands in his pockets. "He's not the only member of the Parent's Association. The fact Amy got in after getting into an argument with him proves it."

"Remember how close we came to losing everything after the press leaked that story about Hayakawa's father. One hint of a scandal like that and we may be done." Ms. Himuro declared. "Miss Yoshimoto, don't you also have class?"

"Ohmigosh, I'm late. See you later everyone" She said running away, waving.

"Ryo's father was involved in a scandal?" Amy inquired as they began walking towards Ms. Himuro's office. "May we hear the details?"

"Ancient history." Kido answered. "It all happened over twenty years ago when he was playing pro baseball. He was accused of taking money to throw games. The press dug up the story after Ryo first threw her lightning ball. Her dad had been dead for ten years, so he couldn't defend himself. Ryo found herself in the middle of a media frenzy."

"That must have been hard on Ryo." Corey said quietly. "She was just a little girl when he died, so she probably didn't remember him very well. Then to have a bombshell like that dropped on her."

"It was worse than you could imagine." Ms. Himuro added. "Lost in the grip of despair, Ryo quit the team, and ran away. She went to her father's home town, and nearly died rescuing two young children from flood waters."

"Ironically," Kido continued, "That act of selflessness is what saved the team. Because of all the negative media exposure the story was causing the image of the school, the Parent's Association was up in arms to disband the baseball team. But then the story about Ryo being a hero was printed, and it defused the whole situation."

They arrived at Ms. Himuro's office and entered. Amy went off to a side room to change out of her kimono. Kido and Corey took a seat on the sofa, while Ms. Himuro sat behind her desk. Pressing the intercom on her phone, she was rewarded with the voice of Mr. Yamagida, her personal secretary, "How may I be of service, Ms. Himuro?"

"Could you make tea for four please?" She asked.

"Right away, madam." He responded.

Turning to Corey, Ms. Himuro said, "While we're waiting for Amy to change, tell us a little more about life back in the States."

"I don't know that there's much to tell. We live in a small town in Michigan, with only 400 or so people. The nearest big city is about half an hour away. My dad's farm is decent sized. We raise corn, alfalfa, strawberries, and apples. He has eighty milking cows, and some poultry. We're not getting rich, but we're not going broke either. My mom works teaching Japanese at the community college, so her paycheck helps also."

"Your mother is in education? Does she find it rewarding?" Ms. Himuro said, her chin resting on the top of her clasped hands.

"She seems to enjoy it, but I think she'd rather be teaching kids." Corey admitted.

Dropping her hands to her desktop she said, "Teaching adults can be rewarding also. Tell me more about your father. He played baseball professionally?"

Corey nodded his head saying, "Yeah, he pitched for seven years, before he got injured and had to quit. He coached after that for another twelve before he left for good."

"What kind of record did he have?" Kido asked, scratching the stubble on his chin.

"He played in the American league, and with designated hitters, never needed to bat, so he doesn't have a batting average. His record was eighty-six wins, and twenty-three losses. His lifetime ERA was 1.93 with 515 career strikeouts.

"Whoa," Kino said surprised. "Those are pretty good stats."

A knock on the door interrupted them. Yamagida entered carrying the tea tray. As he set it down, Amy emerged from the other room dressed in jeans and a sweatshirt. Her Kimono was neatly folded, and her hair was back in its accustomed ponytail.

"Mr. Yamagida," She said as she walked up to the group and bowed, "Thank you again for your help with the kimono. I would still be fumbling with it if you hadn't been there."

"Think nothing of it Miss Watson. If one is not accustomed to wearing them, a kimono can be quite troublesome." He bowed, and then excused himself from the room.

Picking up a teacup, Amy sat down and took a long sip. She closed her eyes and let out a sigh. "Finally, I can relax a little. Ms. Himuro, thank you again for all you've done for me. I don't think I could have handled that meeting as calmly if you hadn't been there."

"It was my pleasure. You are a wonderful girl; Kusunoki had no right to be so derisive towards you." She said smiling.

"All this excitement, and it's not even ten o'clock." Kido added.

"Well Miss Watson, is there anything you want to see or ask me before we conclude today?" Ms. Himuro inquired.

"If it's possible, I'd like to see the field and locker room." Amy said after another sip of tea.

"If you don't mind, I think Mr. Kido can handle that. I do have other business to attend to, so please excuse me." Ms. Himuro said standing up and walking towards the door. "Please feel free to finish your tea before you leave.

Amy and Corey stood and bowed as she left. Kido just yawned, and said. "You two really need to loosen up. Let me know when you're ready to go." Curling up on his section of the couch, he promptly fell asleep.

Looking at him, snoring contentedly, they poured themselves another cup. With Amy's place in the school secure, they were in no hurry.

-

Izumi locked the door to the locker room as she closed it. She had borrowed the key from her mother's desk, and would return it later. She had to get away from school for a while. That meant climbing the wall, a task for which her school uniform with its short skirt was ill suited. She had changed into her running gear, and made her way to the back gate. She and Hiroki had used it many times to dodge the press, but being school was in session, it was currently locked. It was smaller than the front gate, but it was ornate wrought iron, and its curls and embellishments offered many hand and footholds. With her strong arms, and well-conditioned legs, she clambered over it easily. She then began to run with no direction in mind. Her only goal was to put as much distance between herself and the school as possible. Anger had fueled her escape; anger at her mother, and at Amy. This treacherous interloper had come here and wormed her way into her mother's heart. How dare she steal her mother's affections from her! How dare she try to take her place! The more she thought about it; the more she ran; the more her anger gave way to sorrow and despair. Finally, her breath coming in ragged gasps, she collapsed under a tree in a small park, consumed. Sobbing wretchedly, she was oblivious to the world around her. All she could think of was how miserable she felt. Seeing Amy cradled in her mother's arms, with her mother stroking her hair with affection. Affection Izumi longed to receive, but never did. Her heart ached in her chest, and her lungs and throat burned from her lamenting. Eventually gaining her composure, she made her way to a public restroom. Looking in the mirror, she didn't recognize herself. Her eyes were red and swollen, her makeup had run from her tears, and she had twigs and grass clippings in her hair. She splashed water on her face, and combed her fingers through her hair. She looked a little more presentable, but her eyes still looked horrible. She was startled when she heard the toilet flush. Looking behind her in the mirror, she watched the stall door open, and a well-dressed woman in her late twenties come out.

"Excuse me." Izumi said backing away from the sink. "I thought the restroom was unoccupied."

"That's alright, miss." She said smiling, washing her hands, "I can share." Looking closer at Izumi, she added. "It's probably none of my business, but are you alright? You look like you've been crying."

"I was. Thank you for your concern, but I'll be ok." Izumi said bowing.

The woman stepped next to her, and cupped Izumi's face gently. "You have such a beautiful face. It's a shame what tears can do. Do you mind if I fix your makeup?"

Izumi, taken back by this woman's forwardness, hesitantly said, "Th-that's alright. You really don't need to."

"Don't worry, I'm not trying to seduce you. I just want to do something nice for someone who's having a bad day."

The woman's reassuring voice, and gentle smile persuaded Izumi. "I suppose it would be alright."

"Good" The lady said. "Let's find someplace outside. The light is terrible in here."

They found a stone bench that was surrounded by bushes, affording them some privacy. The woman moved skillfully, and in a matter of minutes was done. Handing Izumi a mirror, she stepped back.

"Wow!" Izumi said. "I look great! Thank you so much. I'm sorry, but I don't have any cash on me. How can I repay you?"

"I didn't do this for money." The woman said. "Just do something nice for someone else. I wish I had something for those red eyes. Oh! Wait!" She opened her purse, and pulled out a pair of sunglasses. Handing them to Izumi, said, "Just wear these for a while, and try not to cry any more."

Izumi looked at them, and gasped, "Ray-bans! I can't take these. They're worth at least 10,000 yen!"

"I'm not worried. That designer running suit you're wearing tells me you're no stranger to money. When you're done with them, bring them back to me. I'm the cosmetics department manager of that store." She pointed across the street to a large glass building.

Izumi stood, and bowing deeply said, "Thank you so much for your kindness. I will return these to you soon."

"No hurry dear." She said. "I've got to go, I don't want to be late. My boss is a real grouch about punctuality. Say, if you have any friends needing a makeover, bring them in. Goodbye."

Between running and crying, Izumi had worked up a thirst. She bowed again as the woman left, and then pulling out her credit card, set off to find something to drink.

Kido, Corey and Amy made their way to the baseball field. Kido yawned hugely, still waking up from his nap. "Man, I sure slept good. I'm glad you two let me sleep."

"Believe me, Mr. Kido," Corey said grinning. "We tried to wake you twice before we gave up and just waited. You really do sleep like the dead."

Blushing, he said, "Well, yeah, um, so anyway, Amy, what's been you impression of the school so far?"

"It's great! Almost everyone has treated me well. I'm a little confused though."

"Oh? What about?" Kido said glancing sideways.

"If the school didn't have a baseball team before last year, why does the ball field and locker room look so old? I only caught a glimpse last night but they seemed worn down."

"That's because this was originally Kisuragi Boys' campus. Twenty-six years ago, they built a new facility for the boys, and decided to use this as a finishing school for girls. The field and locker facilities are left over from then."

They walked up to the locker room, a small cinder block building. Kido unlocked the door, and the three of them went in.

"Well, it's certainly cozy." Corey said looking around. "It must get pretty crowded when everyone's in here."

"It's not so bad." Kido answered. "But it'll be worse this year with fifteen or sixteen girls. The real problem is going to be the shower."

"What wrong with it?" Corey asked, leaning against the windowsill.

"Take a look." Kido said pointing to a door on the far wall.

Opening the door, they walked into the changing room. The lockers were old, and all of them were in some form of disrepair. Continuing in to the shower room, they stared in disbelief. There was only a single showerhead, and the shower stall while in good condition, was tiny.

"This is terrible," Amy said, whirling to face the coach. "How can an elite school allow meager facilities like this?"

"Budget limits." Kido said simply. "Almost all the members of the team are here on scholarships, and between those and equipment costs, not to mention my salary, there was no money left."

"I can't see fifteen girls using this shower," Amy said, shaking her head.

"Pretty cramped, I know." Kido said nodding his head. "But the Finance Council feels as long as we have working facilities, they don't need to spend any money.

"We'll be here all day after practice. We need at least three showers coach."

Corey stepped from behind the shower stall saying, "That water heater's on it's last legs too. It really needs to be replaced."

"Listen, I'd love to give the girls a new shower facility, but I don't have the money, and the school won't spend it." Kido said holding his hands in a fending off gesture.

"So if we want a new shower, we're going to have to raise the money ourselves?" Amy asked intently.

"Looks that way." Kido said nodding again. "Well, I have a lunch date, so if you've seen enough, let's go."

"A date? At your age?" Amy asked surprised. "Who's the unlucky lady?"

"Hey! You've been talking to Yoshimoto too much."

Laughing, they walked back outside, and went their separate ways.

Seira signed her name to the bottom of the letter. She felt a sense of relief, finally writing down all the things she had wanted to tell her mother, but couldn't find the courage to. Without the fear of rebuttal, she was able to say how much it had hurt to hear her parents argue, to be caught in the middle, and used as an object to be fought over. Following Dr. Suzuki's direction, Seira had written her mother that she'd forgiven her, and would like to see her sometime. Sealing the envelope, she said to herself. "Why didn't I do this before? I feel like I lost 20 kilos off my back." Walking out the door, she made her way to the post box on the corner. Depositing the letter, she stretched, made an elated squeal, and danced in place. "Damn, I feel good! Thanks Kenji wherever you are!" She headed towards the shopping district to find an outfit for when she saw her mom again. Passing a sidewalk café, she spied a familiar face. "Izumi?"

The dark haired girl looked up through her sunglasses. "Seira! What are you doing here?"

"I could ask you the same thing, princess." Taking the seat across the table, she continued. "Last I heard I was the only one on the team suspended, so how come you're not in class?"

Izumi removed her sunglasses to reveal eyes still red from crying. "I wasn't in the right frame of mind to study, so I skipped."

"What happened?" Seira said her eyes going wide with surprise. Then, her face darkening, she added, "Did that sleaseball of a coach do something? I'll kick his ass."

"It wasn't the coach, so come down off your white horse. I don't need you to defend me. Besides, what happens in my life is none of your business." Izumi snapped, putting her sunglasses back on.

"I thought we weren't going to argue anymore? I'm really concerned, Izumi, so why don't you come down of your pedestal and let me help." Seira said, irritated.

Izumi looked at her for a long moment, and then sighing, said quietly. "I think my mom likes Amy better than me."

"What?" Seira asked in disbelief. "Izumi how can you say that? Sure Amy's causing a big stir, and she's taking a lot of your mom's time, but come on."

"You haven't heard my mother talking about her, about how this golden girl from across the sea is finally going to win at Koshien. You didn't see her holding her, offering words of comfort when she was crying, the same comfort she withheld from me when I was hurting over Hiroki." Tears began running down her cheeks again.

Seira leaned back in her chair, crossed her arms and said. "Have you tried talking with your mom? She doesn't seem so bad."

"Every time I try, her emotionless responses make me so irritated, I just end up arguing with her." Izumi said sniffling.

"I just finished writing a letter to my mom. It felt so good to get all that pain and resentment out. Why don't you write one to your mom?"

Izumi shifted in her chair. "A letter? That sounds so, I don't know, impersonal."

"Give it a try. If nothing else, it could open a door." Seira said, giving Izumi a reassuring smile.

"I suppose." Izumi said looking up. She suddenly stiffened, looking over Seira's shoulder. "Oh crap, it's them! Why do they keep turning up? We're five kilometers from school for crying out loud!"

Seira turned around, and spotted Amy and Corey across the street, walking down the sidewalk. "Well princess, here's your chance to get the skinny on how she feels about your mom." Then she yelled, "HEY! AMY, COREY, OVER HERE!"

"You idiot!" Izumi hissed. "They hadn't seen us."

"You going to hide behind those shades forever Izumi?" Seira said with a serious look on her face. "No more tiptoeing around."

"I swear you have no class." Izumi said looking around at the people staring at them after Seira's outburst.

Amy and Corey crossed the street, and walked up to their table. "Good afternoon." Corey said, and then noticing Izumi's sunglasses added, "Nice shades Izumi. Are those Ray-bans?"

"Of course." Izumi said curtly.

"They look good on you." Amy added. "Good afternoon Seira. How're you handling your suspension?"

"I'm doing ok. How about you? How did your tea ceremony go?"

"I'm afraid I never got that far. I had a confrontation with the director of the association, and ran out of the room."

"So does that mean you can't come to school here?" Seira asked leaning forward in her seat.

"No, I was approved by the rest of the association, so this April, I will be a freshman here."

"Too bad he didn't have the power to veto the vote." Izumi muttered quietly. Then out loud she added, "What are you two doing here? We're a long way from school."

"Our grandfather's house is near here, and we just dropped off my kimono." Amy said pleasantly "How about you? Are you feeling ok, Izumi? Don't you have classes today?"

"I'm playing hooky. Is Little Miss Perfect going to report me?" Izumi said scowling.

"Um, Corey," Seira said, standing up and taking Corey's arm, "These two have something to discuss. Why don't you help me with some shopping?"

"Sure." Corey said sensing the tension. "You going to be alright, sis?"

"I'll be fine." Amy assured him. "I'm pretty sure I can take her in a fight."

Seira and Corey walked out of the café together with Corey looking over his shoulder. The girls waited until they were gone before continuing.

"Where did that come from?" Amy asked wide-eyed as she sat down. "I thought we were becoming friends. What did I do to make you feel this way?"

"How am I supposed to feel Amy? You come blowing into town, and in two days have charmed everyone into thinking you're this sweet little thing." Izumi said fiercely. "You cry your little crocodile tears for my mother after talking to the Parent's Association, so she'll run to your defense. And the way you were hanging all over Hiroki last night, it was like you were laying claim to him. Ryo is my friend, and if you try to take him away from her, I will make your life here hell!"

Amy face darkened as she listened to Izumi. "Hold it! I don't cry to get sympathy. I don't need it. You saw me crying after that meeting because I thought all my dreams had been destroyed. You weren't in there, and you didn't hear the things Mr. Kusunoki was saying. He made me feel like less than a bug, and when I rebuked him, I thought it was all over. When your mother told me they had accepted me, I was so relieved, all I could do was cry tears of joy. I can't believe you think I'd play people like that. As for Takasugi, I was just being friendly. I wouldn't date that pompous, arrogant, narcissist if you paid me. If Ryo is happy with him, good for her, but I think he takes her for granted."

"How do feel about my mother?" Izumi questioned.

Amy's face brightened as she said, "She's wonderful! She's so sophisticated, intelligent, and outspoken; you're lucky to have such a great mom."

Izumi looked at her with contempt. "If you say so. She seems to really be taken by you as well. You're all she talks about lately. She hardly spoke with me before, but your coming here has only made it worse. The only time she talked to me in the last two days, was when she asked me about you and your brother."

"Izumi, I'm so sorry. I had no idea I was causing you such hardship. If you want me to, I can talk to you mom."

"And do what?" Izumi said angrily, "Tell her that her daughter feels abandoned, that talking to her feels like talking to some automaton? She's built this set of invisible bars between us. I'm her prize canary in a gilded cage, primped, polished, and paraded before the media so she can be lauded for having such a proper daughter. I'm sick of being this genteel aristocratic girl. I want a normal life with a normal mother. That's one of the reasons I despised Hayakawa when we first met. She can live her life in relative obscurity, with a mother who cares about her."

Amy looked around as Izumi's outburst had caused the café's other patrons to stare again. "I can see that this is a sore spot with you Izumi, but you might want to keep it down. People are staring."

This just made Izumi angrier. "Don't tell me what to do! You are in no position to chastise me. If I am disturbing people, so be it. Let them tell me to be quiet. You hear that." She shouted at the crowd. "If you have a problem with me, spit it out, otherwise, mind your own damn business." Sitting back in her chair, she crossed her arms, and looked at Amy saying. "There, no more tiptoeing around."

Amy's face became flush listening to Izumi's tirade. Staring coldly, she said in a disapproving voice. "Of all the selfish, whining, contemptible, immature, unreasoning people; you have a great life. You have everything a person could ask for, health, beauty, wealth, a fine house, and the respect of your classmates. The one thing in your life that you find dissatisfying, you're unwilling to work on. Life is what you make of it, Izumi. No other person can make you happy. That is a conscious choice you have to make. Strive for more, but be thankful for what you have. If you can't grasp that, you'll be miserable all your life." With that, Amy stood and walked out of the café, leaving Izumi speechless.

-

Seira and Corey walked down the street window-shopping. "Is there some place in particular we're going Seira?"

"There's a shop up here I buy all my clothes at. You'll like it; it's really laid back. The owner is a transplanted American."

"That's cool," Corey said. "Do they have men's clothes too?"

"Yeah," Seira answered, "But I doubt they'd have your size. Not many Japanese men get as big as you. Well, here it is."

"Back on the Rack." Corey read out loud. "A second hand shop?"

"Yup, but it's all top notch stuff." Seira said opening the door. A deep tone rang out.

Looking up, Corey saw the door was connected to a large chrome bell. "Well, I guess no one is going to sneak out." Glancing around the room, Corey noticed the shop was cramped. Items were arranged neatly, but the aisles between the racks were rather narrow.

"Seira!" a voice called out. "Long time, girlfriend. What have you been doing, that you can't come visit your Aunt Emma?" They looked around to see a woman walking toward them. Corey guessed her age around forty. She was about 170 cm tall, with blonde hair and blue eyes. She had an athlete's build, tanned and fit. She strode up to Seira and wrapped her in a hug.

"Hey Emma, Yeah, it's been a while." Seira said after she was let go. "So how you been?"

"Can't complain, business is doing good." Looking at Corey, she whistled and said. "You're a big one. Is this your boyfriend Seira? He's quite the hunk."

"He's just a friend. I only met him yesterday." Seira said blushing.

"Corey Watson, ma'am. It's nice to meet you." He said holding out his hand.

"Likewise," she said taking his hand. "I'm Emily Carter, originally from San Diego. Call me Emma. If I had to guess, you're from the Midwest."

"Michigan actually, but I have grandparents here in Tokyo." Corey said smiling.

Turning back to Seira she said, "So why aren't you in school? Wait, don't tell me, you and Corey are eloping and you've come for a wedding dress."

Seira scowled, and Corey cleared his throat, shifting uncomfortably.

"Emma, don't even think things like that." Seira exclaimed. "I got into a fight, and I'm on suspension for the week.

"So what are you looking for today? I just got in a new shipment of jeans, straight from Cali"

"Actually, I'm hoping to visit my mom soon, and I want something nice."

"You're giving her another chance? Good for you." Emma said smiling. "Corey, I'm sorry, but you're so darn big, and I have a lot of collectibles scattered through the store, would you mind waiting outside? There's a bench out there, and if you'll have a seat, I'll bring you a cup of tea."

"I understand. I'd literally be a bull in a china shop. I'm just glad it's a nice day. Seira, I'll be outside if you need me."

"Sure. "She said. "I'll try not to be too long."

"If you shop like my sister," he said shaking his head, "it'll be a while. Ms. Emma, do you have anything to read?"

Laughing, she grabbed an old magazine from a rack and handed it to him. "Try not to bend the pages dear." She said.

Holding up the dog-eared copy, he replied, "It looks like someone beat me to it." Then tucking the magazine under his arm, he saluted, spun on his heel, and goose-stepped out the door.

Smiling at his antics, Emma said. "Seira, you've got to hold on to that one, he's precious."

Seira blushed at the implications, "I told you; I barely know him. His sister is coming to school here next year, and he came along as her chaperone."

"Is his sister going to be on the baseball team with you?"

"Yeah, we've finally got another pitcher. She's damn good too. We could really do it this time."

"Well, enough small talk," Emma said rubbing her hands together. "It's time to do some shopping."

Amy walked down the street, still upset. How dare that pretentious snob complain about her life? Everything she could want was hers for the asking. There was no way Ms. Himuro was the heartless monster Izumi painted her as. Amy wanted to be friendly with her, but Izumi insisted on being cold and distant. Looking down the street, she saw Corey, sitting on a bench, sipping tea while reading a magazine. Walking up to him, she kicked him lightly in the foot. "Where's Seira? She get mad and leave too?"

Corey could see Amy was upset, and setting down the magazine, patted the bench next to him. "Have a seat sis, and I'll get you a cup of tea."

Sitting down, Amy watched as Corey stepped inside a store. A minute later, he returned with tea, followed by Seira.

"What happened?" Seira asked. "Was Izumi her arrogant old self?"

Taking a sip, Amy let out a sigh, and then said, "That's only half of it. She hates her relationship with her mother, but won't do anything to change it. She blames me for driving an even bigger wedge between them. I offered to help, and she basically told me to mind my own business."

"That sounds like Izumi. I'm sorry, Amy." Seira said sitting on the bench next to her. "I knew Izumi was feeling neglected, but I never thought she'd unload on you like that. I should have stayed there, to lend support."

Amy smiled, saying, "It's alright, I doubt it would have made a difference. Izumi wanted to tell me off, and nothing was going to stop her. I just wish she'd have the courage to talk to her mom, and clear this up."

"Hey Amy." Corey suggested, "Why don't you help Seira pick out an outfit? You know shopping always cheers you up. I'm not allowed in the store past the doorway, so I can't."

"He's too big to fit between the racks, so the owner asked him to stay outside." Seira explained. "Come on. Corey says you're an experienced shopper, help a teammate out."

"Sure." Amy said smiling weakly, "I'd like to see you in a dress. I bet you'll be gorgeous." Corey sat back down on the bench as Seira and Amy went in.

"Wooow!" Amy said looking around the room. "I never would have guessed there was so much stuff in this tiny shop. You're right, Corey would be knocking things over right and left in here."

Emma smiled seeing Amy's reaction. "Welcome, you must be Corey's sister. Seira says you're quite impressive as a pitcher. I'm Emily Carter, it's nice to meet you."

"I'm Amy Watson, it's my pleasure." She said shaking her hand.

"Welcome to Japan. Corey said you live in Michigan?"

"That's right. Corey and I were both born in New York, but things happened, and six years ago, we moved to the farm dad grew up on. Grandma and Grandpa love having us there. They adore mom, and she loves living in the country. She was born in Tokyo, but never really liked living in the city. Our house in New York was upstate about forty-five minutes out of New York City, so even there, she had escaped city life."

"Isn't it boring?" Seira asked. "I mean there's no stores, clubs, fast food places, or malls. What do you do for fun?"

"They're there." Amy replied, "You just need to drive to get to them. It's a little different than here. Nearly everyone has a car, so driving becomes second nature. We also have chores we have to do; so going out is usually Friday night only. Mom's quite a local figure. She raised a few eyebrows when we first came, but now she's won over most of the town."

"See Seira." Emma teased. "You and Corey would fit right in there."

"Emma, if you mention that one more time, I'm going to slug you!" Seira said holding up a fist.

"What are you talking about?" said a confused Amy.

"Oh, Emma has this crazy idea that Corey's my boyfriend." Seira said exasperated.

"I don't know." Amy said smiling. "I think you two would make a great couple."

"Not you too! We just met, and anyway, how can you even think that he'd be interested in someone like me?"

Emma took her hand and said, "Someone who's honest, compassionate, loyal, hard working, and maybe a little self conscious? Sounds like a pretty good package to me. Seira dear, don't focus on the negative things, if you do, you'll never like yourself."

"You might not think it," Amy added. "But Corey is actually kind of shy around girls. He had all kinds of girls throwing themselves at him because of his size and looks, but that's not what he wants. He wants more of a romantic relationship. I think he wants a woman that doesn't need him to take care of her, but would appreciate it when he did."

Looking out the door again, Seira said quietly, "He is a really nice guy." Then she walked over to a rack and started looking for her outfit.