Special Shot: Guide the Way
Note: This chapter occurred before the Christmas Shot
Suika has been an early riser, but today it became a little bit earlier than her usual internal clock.
Before Kingdom of Science rapidly grown with former residents of Tsukasa Empire joined in as additional members, she, Kohaku, and the others woke up the moment sun was ready to rise in the horizon. When the first stream of warm light shone upon earth, they already discussed divided works for Senku's roadmap on the open area. And when the sun began climbing up slow but steady, number of things were already done and they moved on to other duty. That time it's only the four of them against the world (Kohaku liked to put it), lacking everything especially manpower. Of course, even a prowess like Kohaku had her limits.
Suika sometimes awoke in the crack of dawn too, for the sake of being useful of course! Remembering the contribution she presented when Senku was in dire need of certain material for vacuum tube, Suika was eager to do more. The moment his red eyes lit up once it rested on the scheelite glowing blue in her hands, she vowed to be more of a help for him. She always promised to be another hand for Senku's endeavors ever since the young man introduced him to magics of science.
Because through Senku's knowledge of science and lens craft, the little girl could finally relish the beautiful moment of clear world. No more fuzzy sickness (he did mention something about being extremely near-sighted in scientific terms, but Suika's brain couldn't comprehend such big words), and Suika owed Senku for it. She, and the whole village, owed Senku many things as he escalated their quality of life–from the simplest thing to the most difficult one.
He always had a solution for it all.
That's why, she would do her best to help with anything to her best capabilities as ten-year-old. Not much, but Suika would try! Giving up wasn't choice if she's afraid to take a step forward.
Bringing up fiery resolve sent Ryusui popping up in her mind–along with his infamous booming declaration of desire and a few snaps of fingers. He's the perfect example of burning passion and unwillingness to let go of things, the embodiment of striving for what your heart wants even with all the struggles yet to come. Suika hoped she could have the same smoldering principles as Ryusui (the not giving-up part, Kohaku reminded, she didn't tell her the other though).
She's ready to give her all for the sake of helping everyone!
Besides, helping was fun in its own way. You could get workload being shared and ease someone's burden, saving a lot of time for other tasks, and learning little bit of all which could be useful someday in the future. Currently, Suika was doing both helping and learning at the same time along with Mirai in the mentioned before early morning. Cool still-air brushing against her skin was refreshing, the pure silence engulfing as the place devoid from people was something Suika found rather comforting, and anywhere she looked bathed in calm shade of blue.
So far, the only active residents around were the three of them–each holding a woven basket filled with dried leaves for a special delivery to Francois's kitchen. Initially, Shinko supposed to bring all of it alone, however Suika and Mirai immediately sprung from under the covers and offered some help. That brought all three to their current condition.
Along the way, the older explained to her and Mirai about the peculiar plant as they walked in a relaxed pace from the hut they shared with the other girls. They were curious and Shinko didn't mind to answer every bit of questions torrenting down. There's no hurry, the day was long and wasn't even started yet from how early they rose.
Tea–a drink made from steeping those dried leaves for a certain time until the liquid turned brownish color, best served both piping hot and cold with ice. Suika learnt how it's a beloved drink to earth's seven billion population, and after having a taste herself, she understood on why modern people came to loved it so much. Although, the archer mentioned it's not truly tea leaves–more of a substitute has the closest taste towards tea. Mirai vouched that it's definitely how tea tasted like.
Shinko made some for her and Mirai sometime ago, the drink warmth her body in a comforting way as if being wrapped up in a cocoon of blanket during winter. Fragrant, sweet, a little bit of sour and tangy–a bunch of flavors and sensations Suika fell in love with. The best drink yet.
"So, it's already sweet without sugar!?" The blonde little girl gasped in amazement, and Suika could see sparkles of excitement in her brown eyes.
Of course, it was contagious as the shorter added, "Suika thought Shinko-nee added some that's why it's so yummy!"
Shinko giggled at their respond. Her laughs were always warm and Suika loved it very much. "I didn't add any. Because it's naturally sweet, we can save sugar for other more important things like cotton candy for example. And it's a lot healthier that way."
"That's right!" Mirai suddenly remarked before grinning proudly, piquing the archer's curiosity. The word cotton candy seemed to be a magic word reminding her of something. "Do you know nee-san, me and Suika-chan sold a lot of cotton candy and ramen yesterday! We got a lot of money from it! The stack is even taller than us!"
"Francois helped us count all of them! And Ryusui even gave us some bonus!" Suika added, and seeing how a big smile marred Shinko's face, she was glad both of them decided to tell.
Laughing in respond, the older then announced, "Look at how hard our little fairies work! This means both of them will get their prize of choosing, how about it?"
At first, Suika and Mirai soaked on the archer's praise with puffing chest before squealing in delight as she threw in the word 'prize' right after. They're probably turning up a little too excited because Shinko reminded them to lower their tone as most of Kingdom of Science were still drifting in the dreamland. The little girls immediately toned down their voices, understanding their mistake.
Aside from showering them with praises, hugs, and head pats, Shinko sometimes would include presents to give for Suika, Mirai, and the other kids for their excellent work or effort. It didn't have to be an object–in fact, it could be everything as long it's still in her capabilities.
A few days before, Suika asked if she could play with her hair and she's having a blast with it. Mirai and her brought a bunch of flowers and ropes, experimenting and creating a lot of hairstyles (Yuzuriha and the others joined in too, it's basically a sudden girl's night). They probably could do it all night long if Shinko didn't send them to bed with a promise of continuing the next day. Or that one time where Mirai requested on her teaching them how to make simple flower crowns because she saw Ukyo wore one after a break. They made numerous in different combinations of colors and sizes, distributing all of it everyone in the end–even Senku got one.
"Hey, hey, Suika-chan, what should we ask from nee-san!?" Mirai asked, eyes glinting with excitement. That's right, they had to think this through–it would be a while until Shinko gave them another as she's busier these days. Unlike before, Senku needed her assistance more both in field and his planned projects. She also became a seasonal member of Yuzuriha's Handicraft Team, meaning of whatever huge project involving handicrafts were to happened she's an extra pair of hands on deck. The main thing is, Suika and Mirai couldn't exactly see her until late night (they could during break, but Ukyo stole her away and they wouldn't be anywhere on sight until break was over).
That's why they wouldn't let this chance slipped through their fingers. The shorter girl hummed in wonder before replying with enthusiasm. "How about bedtime stories with songs!?"
Bedtime stories were the most awaited part of Suika's day. After their daily labor was to end and dinner filled their stomach, Suika and Mirai with a few other children immediately huddled closer to Shinko, Yuzuriha, Minami, and Nikki–waiting on their toes for either a new tale or its continuation. Meanwhile, both Kohaku and Ruri would watch from the sidelines with the same amount of expectation.
Storytelling with the four was beyond fun; the four took turns on who's the narrator for the occasion and the rest would play out scenes in theatrical. Once the curtain's closed, most of them would whine for the continuation or even raised hands for questions when they're curious about the story. Not long after, Shinko took her role as a reminder for curfew–their protests flew over her head as she coaxed them to lay on their futons.
After being tucked in, most of them did have their batteries ran out and full-blown snoring just in a matter of seconds. Although, there's a few stubborn ones who resisted sleep even when their eyelids dropping significantly–Suika and Mirai were one of them. That's when Shinko pulled out her secret and most effective weapon in hand.
She didn't do much, just patting or stroking their head in a steady pace whilst humming a certain, unknown tune. Even if it's unknown to them, it successfully lulled them to sleep eat any chance. Comforting and soft in her ears, a dangerous combination especially when Suika's being bundled up under the warm blanket. Her humming promised a dream of fairy tales about princesses, princes, dragons, and magical adventures.
Asking Shinko to sing for them was a brilliant idea. She never particularly did the same thing again after their first girl's night–choosing to hum here and there instead, but never outwardly sing. Her tone was sweet, and Suika wondered if she was to sing with all her might, it would be as amazing as the time Suika heard Lillian's angelic voice from the record Senku's father left them.
"I'm not a good singer, though. I don't know if I can do it." The archer smiled nervously and Suika wondered on why she felt so. The little girl may not be as genius as Senku, but she knew the familiar sensation of subtle refusal tickling her mind. There's no way the older blatantly reject the idea, she's too nice for that. Meaning, there's a chance they could change her mind.
If Shinko had a secret weapon, then Suika and Mirai both have their own–which they agreed would use on full-force on this very moment.
"Pretty pleaseeeeee~"
No one could resist the pleading look of two little girls. Shinko tensed up from the unexpected plan of theirs was a sign. Kind of an underhanded way knowing the archer had a hard time saying no, but it's all of the sake of a story filled with magical songs!
The staring contest went on and Suika betted it all on their tenacity–it's their determination vs Shinko's adamant.
There's a few seconds of thick silence draped between them, neither of them chose to back down. However, soon enough the archer finally gave in–shoulders sagged and chest caved as she sighed. Giving them another nervous smile, Shinko replied with an answer they've been waiting for, "Alright,"
"YAY!" Cheering for their accomplishment, the little girls raised their hands for a double high-five to celebrate.
"Well, aren't you guys having fun so early in the morning."
A new voice joined in their conversation was another surprise. Averting her gaze towards the source, with Mirai and Shinko did the identical, five figures were trudging towards them with sluggish steps. As they got closer, Suika could finally see each one clearly.
"Good morning Senku, Gen, Chrome, Ukyo, and Ryusui!" She greeted, accompanied by a hand waving energetically–to which Ukyo and Gen responded with a weak one from themselves. Unlike Suika, Mirai, and Shinko who's brimming in energy after a pleasant rest last night, their Five Wise Generals were the exact opposite–completely drained off even when the day hasn't even started yet.
The little girl could hear Shinko sighed helplessly once she studied their dishelved figure from head to toe–much like how Turquoise threw a displeased look whenever Jasper straying too far away from his responsibility. The apparent difference was how the archer was more relenting than Turquoise, who wouldn't waste a single second to reprimand in full-force. "I'm guessing the five of you decided to sacrifice sleep."
Gen replied by laughing nervously, fiddling with his hands both hidden in his haori's sleeves. "It's really obvious, isn't it?"
"A day without sleep is nothing." Senku chuckled wryly, combing a hand through his white-green hair sluggishly–trying his best to tame some stray strands jutting out only to make it even messier than it already was. His fingers didn't even move smoothly in the first place, caught in a few tangles just with one stroke. "The longest time I've been awake was three days."
Mirai's eyes widened in both disbelief and fright, even her face went a few shades paler. "T-That isn't healthy!"
"Sleep is only for the weak!" Ryusui declared, although it seemed his body couldn't keep up with his blistering spirit from his rather slouched back. If anything, he's looked like about to collapse from a single blow of breeze.
"Your eyebags spoke another thing, Ryusui-san..." Shinko trailed off unamused.
"We're still standing that's what matters!" Chrome tried to retort.
"…You're swaying like a branch, Chrome-san…"
To wound up the brunette even further, Mirai and Suika both nodded vigorously–which made him sputtered in respond. The archer was honest about how Chrome wasn't even steady on his own two feet. Lack of sleep do be creeping up on him. However, this was Chrome they were talking about because soon enough, he regained his composure to counter Shinko's unexpected blunt comment.
"S-shut up! We're still in one piece, y'know!? And don't forget you owe us explanation about that so-called fake black tea plant!"
"I might reconsider telling you anything at all if you're not getting proper rest."
Two times in a row was a record for arrows to stabbed through Chrome's pride, rendering him choking out of surprise and unable to form another rebuttal. Withholding a certain knowledge and discovery from the brunette, who's basically curiosity on legs, were an enormous threat. Meanwhile, Senku was picking on his right ear with his pinky nonchalantly as he drawled, "What are you? Our mom?"
"She did remind us to take care of ourselves until I lost count," Gen mused, chuckling tiredly. His remark was an open answer to be interpreted as anything.
"Anyway, why are you three up so early?" Ukyo interjected, trying to change the subject. "You're staying past midnight, Shinko, shouldn't you be resting now?"
"I just lost a few hours from my usual, it's nothing." Shinko said before her eyes glinted, staring sharply at the said male archer who immediately rose his hands up in surrender. "I should be the one asking you that, Ukyo-san."
"We're delivering these dried fake black tea nee-san has been preparing to Francois!" Mirai answered, holding up a woven basket in her hand. The content made a crisp rustling noise from her sudden movement. "Have you tried it yet!? It's sweet and smells good!"
"Actually, we are the first ones to try!" Ryusui remarked as he grinned widely while Mirai pouted in betrayal, to which he laughed at.
"Eeeeh!? Me and Suika-chan aren't the first one to try!?"
Approaching Shinko in easy steps, Ukyo peered into her basket once he's close enough. He hummed in understanding before asking, "When did you gather this much?"
"A few days for the fresh ones, and a few days to dry it under the shade until it turns out like this." She answered with a smile, reaching her hand out to pat down messy curls that stood out from Ukyo's white hair. The young man decided to remove his hat for easier process, Suika knew he thoroughly enjoyed the treatment. His gentle smile was extremely hard to miss–it's a smile Suika noticed he gave only for Shinko. Though it seemed Shinko's attempts were for a naught as the curls refused to be tamed. Laughing in amusement, she remarked, "Well, at least make yourselves presentable. Can't have our Five Wise Generals looking like they're running through a storm."
"We're not that messy." Senku deadpanned, earning a smug look from Shinko.
"I beg to differ."
"Five of you are super messy!" Suika chose to backed the older up because she told the truth. Their clothes were crumpled, decorated with numerous wrinkles almost on every surface–also, Suika could spot and pointed out several charcoal stains which weren't there before. Their faces screamed lack of sleep so obvious, especially those prominent black bags under the eyes and frequent yawns happening in between their conversation. Their hair reminded Suika of a bird's nest; tangled and untidy, probably from how many times they ruffled it during their difficult discussion.
To conclude, they need to freshened up before continuing their duty or they would croak halfway there.
"Let me brush your hair and then after that, you can wash your face," Shinko offered, whipping up the necessary tool for it from her pocket. Before this, she did comb both Suika and Mirai's hair and didn't have time to put it back to its place. "Francois-san would be ready with some fresh bread around this time, so make sure you have breakfast for energy."
"Ha? We don't need that-"
"Not in the world would I miss it!" Senku's disapproval went ignored as Ryusui cut him off, immediately getting comfortable by sitting on a log nor far from where they stood. The captain snapped his fingers, and somehow Suika could see his energy was being recharged by Shinko's idea. "A lovely lady just offered you a service! Only foolish people dared to refuse!"
The scientist's eye twitched in annoyance. "Y'know-"
"We still have sooo much time to spare," This time Gen was the one who cut him off, sending him his infamous mischievous smirk–to which only fueled more of the scientist's growing annoyance. Then, he proceeded to approach the two. "Don't mind me joining in, Shinko-chan~!"
"It will definitely save you from another set of lectures." Ukyo remarked and with his reasoning being both rational and tempting, Senku finally relented (much reluctance included) with a scoff–Suika giggled at his action trudging his steps towards the makeshift 'beauty shop'. On the other hand, Chrome was confused with where the conversation led to but in the end, he just went with the flow when seeing everyone on board–walking towards where Ryusui was sitting in unsure steps.
The order was easy; the first one without a doubt would be Ryusui–who's clearly enjoying Shinko's handiwork in getting rid of all tangles and untidy curls from his rather long blonde hair, his navy-blue captain hat sitting on his lap. Next one would be Gen, Chrome as the third one, Senku the fourth in turn, and finally Ukyo because the scientist would appreciate getting everything done as soon as possible. As Shinko did her work, Suika and Mirai decided to watch rather closely.
"And it's done, Ryusui-san," She informed once she's finished–of course it wouldn't take too long considering most of their hair were on the short side. Running his fingers through his now smooth blond locks, the captain laughed in absolute delight–sounding a lot louder as the silence still prominent around them. To add more dramatic flare, he faced Shinko and bowed down with hand pressing his hat upon his chest–a gesture Suika remembered usually done by those princes in her bedtime stories.
"A magnificent job, milady! I'm eternally grateful!"
Shinko chuckled nervously–she could understand the gratitude whereas she didn't know why the word 'eternal' supposed to be used. "I'm just combing your hair, though…"
"No matter how small-!"
"Anddddd, it's my turn~!" Knowing it would be endless if the two of kept on pushing and pulling through their replies, the mentalist took to himself to ended it before it even stretched. Flopping to sit down in front of Shinko, she immediately went on to work. It didn't take much time to fix his black tresses whilst she took more care for his white ones as it's noticeably longer than the rest.
That's when Suika heard it–the familiar tune she would never get tired of, the gentle series of notes never failed to present her a fantasy world awaiting in her dreams. Complimented silence beautifully, encasing the atmosphere around them in pure serene and letting morning's majestic presence showing through–Suika unconsciously closed her eyes, basking in tranquility.
Without a doubt, Suika and Mirai wasn't the only one who came to enjoy it the fullest. As the hum crisply rang, Ryusui and Ukyo letting themselves soaked into its warm embrace–eyes closed and relishing peace it brought along. Chrome was staring in childlike wonder, much like the first time he listened to Lillian's record. Senku didn't show much of a reaction, however his apparent relaxed posture with arms folded upon his chest spoke an answer itself.
"…You have a nice voice, Shinko-chan," Gen commented, his voice sounded quiet yet sincere. The short tune ended along with her comb running through the mentalist's now tidy hair, indicating his turn was done.
"Thank you, Gen-san." Suika could hear her smiling before moving on to continue her work on Chrome, her steps were accompanied by muted crunching from the uneven ground decorated with gravels. Removing his rope headband, she began the same routine as she did with the previous two.
"Nee-san always hum this lullaby to get us to sleep." Mirai admitted, before sighing in content. "She's like our fairy godmother!"
"Fairy godmother doesn't sing, though," Shinko pointed out.
Chrome hummed in understanding. He craned his neck to look at the archer standing behind him. Her questioning stare for his action then met with his suggestion. "How about you sing for everyone? We have speaker and mic and everything! We do love Lillian's song, but we want to hear other songs too! Senku mentioned there's a lot of 'em."
This sounded like a brilliant idea worth to be commenced by the rest of them–Ryusui, Senku, and Ukyo's head noticeably perked up, eyes widening in enlightenment. Lillian's recording was a burst of bright light and colors in this monotone stone world devoid of anything modern if Senku didn't start on pursuing civilization. Also, the only physical legacy left from 3,700 years ago–a song completed with music. The rest of entertainment were part of their memories, however Shinko could bring some of them back to life–notably, the music industry.
On the other hand, it seemed to be more of a nightmare in Shinko's part because Suika has never seen her became a few shades paler indescribably fast.
Shaking her head vigorously, she sputtered, "N-No! I'm not a professional singer! Also, it's been ages since I really sing!"
"B-but you sing for us during the first girl's night out!" Suika remarked innocently, which made several eyes immediately zeroed on her figure. To be honest, the little girl didn't know if the truth she spoke of was for the better or for the worse–better for most of them and worse for Shinko alone, maybe. Swallowing the guilt for outing the archer, Suika decided to push further because Shinko really has a nice voice! Everyone would love to hear her! "You have a pretty voice, Shinko-nee!"
"It's average at best, Suika-chan…" Now, the little girl wished she could take back her words because currently, the older looking like she'd rather be anywhere than here. "Singing is just a hobby. I don't polish it much like kyudo."
"How about you sing first and then we'll be the judge for it," Senku bargained and Suika noticed his tone was softer, devoid of his usual firm and straightforwardness. "Audience's whole opinion is objective. If it's not up to standard, we'll let it go. Promise."
Shinko stared at the scientist with widened eyes. Then, she blinked and decided that tidying Chrome's hair was the most interesting thing as she couldn't meet their gaze any longer. "…I really can't do it…"
"Ah, stage fright," Gen concluded, voice filled with understanding. It was an alien term for Suika. "I remembered the first time I had it, everything was really scary. It's not an easy thing to overcome. Took me years to finally get some confidence."
"It's okay if you don't want to, Shinko." Ukyo consoled. He's an advocate for the conclusion of their feelings currently–although they have their desires, it would be wrong to push it to someone who's already unwilling. Shinko had all the right to reject and they would respect her choices.
"It's kind of funny because Shinko-chan isn't confident with everything except kyudo!" Gen remarked, feeling completely amused with this new sight he witnessed from the said archer. His cheerful and light tone loosened up the rather gloomy atmosphere surrounding them. Leave it to Gen for breaking the ice with his way.
"Kyudo is completely different from singing!" Shinko whined, slight pout marring her face. Unconsciously, she tugged on Chrome's hair a little too powerful until the brunette yelped in pain–she immediately apologized, though, before continuing. "Kyudo is all the about the bow, arrow, posture, and target, everything else didn't matter! On the other hand, when you're singing, you have to look at the audience, controlling your movement and your looks, everything is overwhelming!"
"Aaah, the point is you're a kyudo-obsessed idiot." Senku pointed out, throwing a smirk towards the older.
Suika couldn't help but giggled on the comment, and not only her, series of laugh from the others quickly filled the silence.
"I-I'm not obsessed!" Shinko retorted indignantly, red completely engulfed her face Suika though there's steam wafting from the top of her head. It's a new thing to see her being extremely flustered.
There's a lot of teasing came next–basically all of them had their chance and amusement picking at the archer. Harmlessly, of course. For once, Shinko looked free–Suika hoped she could see this side of her more.
"Well, aren't you look a lot better now, Shinko-chan," Gen smiled, now staring at the said archer whose posture was more relaxed than before as she finished tidying Chrome's hair and now securing his favorite headband. The brunette thanked her enthusiastically, admiring his now neat hair. Suika had always admired Gen and his quirky ways, he mentioned that nothing couldn't be fixed with a little bit of humor and laughs. She now understood what he meant.
"I do." Shinko affirmed with a smile, her usual one. Suika was glad it was free from its initial burden. "Thanks to our esteemed mentalist."
Everything fell into a more comfortable pace, almost like magic. The previous conversation went forgotten as they decided to enjoy a piece of morning's peace. Shinko was still busy tending Senku's hair, which took some time longer than the others as it… defies gravity.
The sky was getting brighter and chirps of birds resounding–soon everyone will wake up and get ready to start the day. Watching the as first stream of light broke through the trees, a thought flew past Suika's mind. "Suika wondered if there's a song about morning."
"There's a song about everything, Suika!" Ryusui's the one who answered. "Nature, love, money, desire; everything!"
Chrome's head perked up upon the topic. "So, songs can talk about those things!? That's bad!"
"Some says song is a cumulation of feelings, messages, or anything that its composer wanted to deliver to their listeners." Ukyo explained, his teal eyes held a nostalgic gaze. "Even with just listening, you could feel what they're trying to convey."
"Some of the villagers did cry when hearing Lillian-chan's singing, right?" Gen remarked. "Even though you don't understand the lyrics, Lillian-chan's sang to her whole might. She poured all of her feelings into it and it reached you."
"Song is a really beautiful thing," Mirai added, stretching out her hand as if trying to grasp the sky. "It can make you feel happy, nostalgic, or even everything. All in just a few minutes. I hope we can get to hear them all again-"
"Right above the world full of cuts and bruises,"
Deja vu washed over Suika the moment she heard it.
For a few seconds, she was brought way back to the day when the world became clear in her eyes. Time seemed to froze that day–exactly like what happened now. Everything went still.
"Darkness heavily sets in, and never goes away in time."
Gen told them that Lillian's song was in another language, a language different from theirs as they were Japanese–hers was in something called English. Both the mentalist and Senku was proficient in it as they immediately understood every word in the song. Gen kindly gave them a translation of what was in the song orally because most of Ishigami Villagers couldn't read or write–which Senku would do something about it later on.
Now, Suika could understand; every word being said as the song kept going. Shinko was singing in Japanese–her voice reverberated in Suika's soul.
"Sorrow lingers on all the way, but the sky still searches for dawn.
And grasp the future in our hands.
We are neither weak nor vulnerable. We believe, we love, we flame out."
So many songs like this in the past? Suika couldn't imagine it. Everyday filled with beautiful notes and tunes, numerous people who could make them and then perform. Senku and the others were so lucky to experienced it all.
"Again and again, the soul sheds blood and beyond its dream.
Shining and shining, a new morning will arrive.
To the direction where hope flows."
The song is full of imagery–it's not straightforward, but Suika didn't mind. She had all the time in the world to slowly unravel its meanings. She could ask everyone about it later. Now, all she had to do was enjoy this performance while it lasts.
It was definitely different from Lillian's, but it had its own personality. Lillian's was soulful, mature, and strong, Shinko's was sweet, lighter, and youthful. Both were distinctively different yet beautiful it their own way.
"To the dawn that is calling for you."
As the last note fell, Shinko was finished with her work. Senku's hair was now free of knots and persistent tangles. Deeming there's nothing more to fix, she moved towards Ukyo–who watched her in silence with widened eyes. Could be seen that she's tried her best to ignore numerous eyes watching her like a hawk–the flush crawling from her neck to her cheeks until her ears was prominent.
"P-Please say something at least!?" Shinko squeaked, couldn't stand with the on-going silence. Covering her face, she quickly curled up into squatting position. "A-All of you wanted me to sing, right!? I knew this was a mistake!"
"W-WAIT, Shinko-NEE!"
"NEE-SAN!"
"Shinko!"
Even with Suika, Mirai, and Ukyo's cries, the said young woman already disappeared through the trees.
.
.
"You look like death."
"I feel like one, Nikki-chan…"
Nikki had seen Shinko's ups and downs before, however it wasn't this level of severity.
Sighing, the taller girl craned her neck up, looking at a certain pink-haired young woman who curled up on a sturdy branch way high up. Her bright clothes against greeneries surrounding stood out and hard to miss. "Everyone's looking for you, you know? Specially Ukyo, Suika, and Mirai. He said you're being extremely stealthy so it's hard to track."
"…I really don't want to face them." Her voice sounded muffled, but it's not something that could be missed by Nikki's ears. "And Ukyo-san probably found out where I am as we're having this conversation."
By this level of severity meant completely withdrawing one's self from socializing for an unknown amount of time. Shinko never did this kind of thing, the lowest Nikki ever witnessed was her retreating to do more work in Francois's kitchen and spending more hours to end. She's not the one who keen on abandoning her duties or staying still even for some time. However, she's currently doing the exact opposite and Nikki was concern about that.
"Don't worry, the construction's site is really noisy right now. It's impossible for him to hear with all the noises." Nikki assured, leaning her back against the sturdy bark. No matter how sharp the sonarman's ears were, it's still quite difficult to discern softer voice laying underneath more rumbunctious ones. Even Ukyo's superhuman ears had its limits.
Initially, the taller girl was searching for more logs to be used as their supplies began diminishing over time. This area Senku mentioned seemed to have the type of wood he needed, so Nikki volunteered herself to fetch said material. A great kind of excuse for a stroll because she's in dire need of fresh air and a little bit of peace devoid of the male's population. The whole trip presenting everything she wanted–cool shades, canopies rustling, and nature's cacophony.
Nikki didn't expect bumping into Shinko, who's been missing since morning.
"I won't tell either, 'cause you looked like you really need some time alone. The girls said so." She continued, arms folding across her chest. Naturally, it's their duty to build an understanding towards everyone of one's condition. Like Minami mentioned before, girls always have each other's backs. The reporter, Yuzuriha, Kohaku, and even Ruri suggested anyone who asked about Shinko's whereabouts to let the said archer be–because she surely didn't want to be found in the first place.
"I heard from Suika and Mirai that you sang today. In front of them and the guys." The pregnant silence engulfed them was broken by that statement. Even without looking, Nikki could feel Shinko flinched upon hearing it. "What did they say?"
A few seconds passed before the archer muttered, "Nothing…"
"Nothing?" An eyebrow rose, Nikki glanced over at Shinko who didn't move an inch from where she was sitting. The reply she got was a simple stiff nod.
Somehow, the taller girl began to see the pattern laid up for this special matter.
But first, let her embraced proud for a moment because Shinko sang. In public. Two major events she hoped for as the young woman never truly sing after their first girl's night out, only humming here and there around the girls. The key was 'around the girls', meaning she didn't do it around others. To put it simple, no one knew Shinko could sing and now the secret's out in the open. She's not a professional as it was just a hobby, however she would be the only person they had closest to a singer. In terms of slightest musical knowledge and ability, she had all of them beaten by a mile.
"Ah, I see." Nikki said to one in particular. So, the sequence went on like this; they thought it would be a great idea for Shinko to sing. At first, she refused with all her might but after some talk and ice breaking, she did sing although it was short. However, they didn't say anything after she finished and choose to gaped at her–which she took it the wrong was as unsatisfactory. Thus, Shinko flee from the scene.
To conclude, it's just a plain misunderstanding.
Nikki scoffed harmlessly. "So, how was it feel performing in front of an audience for real?"
"Beyond embarrassing I want to die." Shinko answered without hesitation and she was kind of amused with her being dramatic.
"They probably enjoyed it and taken aback by your sudden willingness." Nikki offered, trying to explain the reason behind the supposedly nonexistent reaction while real one was delayed for various personal reasons. "They're gaping and all, weren't they? That's a good sign."
Shinko made some confused and bewildered noises. "I don't think so."
"That's what I caught on." Nikki didn't force her to believe, at least she wanted her to look at things in another light. That's what Shinko needed the most currently; another perspective to clear the misunderstanding happened.
And Nikki would make it as her personal mission.
.
.
Lillian Weinberg was a star shining so brightly, a star which light Nikki's heart through her voice.
In a world built upon stereotypes, she had faced many different kinds of scrutiny each step moving forward. When girls her age adored a slim body shaped of hourglass, Nikki was buff and packed with muscles. Everyone else were petite and cute, whereas she stood looming taller even against most boys–they strayed away from her sight, intimidated. Hanada Nikki poured her dedication to martial arts, definitely something extremely far from ladylike.
There's no beauty as woman in her–she couldn't count how many times people would whisper such words behind her back.
She hated her school life–no memories about it being the least beautiful as everyone tended to tell. It could be beautiful if she fitted to the stereotype, even that didn't guarantee anything. Loneliness and bruises after an intense training, that's all there was to it.
But then came Lillian Weinberg–a singer so famous during their time no one would not recognize her.
Taking up the world by storm with her songs and performance, everyone fell in love–including Nikki. Maybe it's just a song between millions of others, however her song spoke. Through her songs, Nikki found hope and solace–and she could finally accept everything with open arms. There's love, support, gratitude; Lillian's song made her saw a new light in life, where there's color and sparkle. A beauty she once failed to witness.
Nikki was saved–it was similar to clarity after a downpour.
Forever she be eternally grateful of Lillian, that's why she chose to side with Kingdom of Science in the first place. The world's last song, she would do anything to protect it.
Not only her, many people were probably saved by songs which conveyed their deepest feelings and put it into words for real. Being related to and understood, being supported and consoled indirectly. There's someone who at least understand, it was more than enough.
"She's amazing," Shinko commented, fingers tracing on the surface of the recorder player–the song playing in a low volume. "Lillian-san, I mean."
Scoffing harmlessly, Nikki replied, "Of course she is. There's a reason why people love her so much."
Currently, the two were sitting in the main laboratory which unexpectedly empty. This was a part of Nikki's impulsive plan. They couldn't really stay long in the forest in the first place and Nikki still had an errand to run. Thankfully Shinko didn't mind being back to their headquarters. Well, she did become a little stealthier to avoid interacting with people along the way.
It wasn't hard to found the player as it was in a reachable place, even more convenient knowing it's always being plugged to a sulfuric-acid battery. Sometimes, everyone would gather around to listen to the glass recorder playing–Suika was mainly the one who insinuated it while the rest slowly gather to enjoy.
"You can't sing like she does, though." Nikki's blunt statement sent Shinko sprawled on the wooden table, wishing to melt into it and just disappear from existence. "She's a pro after all."
The archer threw her a nervous smile, cheek smushed to the surface. "…You're right even though it hurts."
"But," Nikki continued, emphasizing the first word to make it clearer so it would stick to her mind. "You have your own voice. It's special, don't compare it to Lillian's."
Shinko the kind of person who's hard to read at first, however once you knew her well and she let herself be comfortable around you, she's quite an open book. The most apparent thing in Nikki's eyes was her lack of confidence in things required much attention–except kyudo. If she's shown some unwavering confidence, then it's absolutely because she's seeing a clear outcome. Like food for example, no one was immune of modern time delicacies.
She's the type who preferred to be a helper behind the curtain rather than having spotlight shone upon her–assisting little things and avoiding major ones needing public speaking. A follower, not a leader, she mentioned to Nikki once.
Singing in public was basically everything she wished to avoid at all costs–the spotlight, the glaring attention, and most importantly the self-conscious part.
Now that she thought of it, like some bizarre people they had on board, Shinko was a piece of work herself.
Shinko sighed, shifting to sit straighter. "Everyone will have high expectations, especially after hearing Lillian-san's voice. I don't want to disappoint-"
"So in the end you're here, huh, troublesome huntress."
Knowing it was the lab, of course it would be obvious for its permanent occupant to drop by frequently. While Shinko stiffened out of surprise and kept her mouth shut, Nikki sighed, averting her gaze towards the familiar white-haired scientist stepping in. "Do you need her?"
"Yeah," Maybe his answer sounded more like a final verdict for Shinko as she became a few shades paler, especially the when the scientist approached the table. "There's a thing I wanted to show Kingdom of Science. It's easier to gather everyone than replaying it."
Stretching out his hand, Senku reached out for the glass record sitting innocently in the record player. Staring at the object on his palm, there's a faraway look alight in his eyes. "There's another record besides the original one my old man left behind."
"W-what!? There's another song!?" Hope and adrenaline began pumping into her veins. Nikki couldn't forget on how Senku stated that it's the only song left from modern times–he's always straightforward and true when it came to science, not once would he lie about it. Every bit of physical record undoubtedly bit the dust hundreds of years ago with no way to revive it.
"I thought this was the only one left…" Shinko muttered, eyes widened in disbelief.
"I didn't say it's a song, don't get your hopes up." Senku stated firmly and Nikki knew he was right–nothing good came if put too much hope. Then he rose the record and smirked, the glass glinting against sunlight shining through it. "But that old man carved records in on both sides of this glass. Why don't we listen to more things he had to say?"
This was certainly a huge news and it would be a shame to rely it rather than experiencing for real.
Just as Senku instructed, every project was put to halt for a few moments–everyone was being led to gather in front of the main laboratory. It didn't take long for a crowd of more than a hundred formed by the entrance, chattering and excitement filled the air. In their small population, important news would travel extremely fast.
"Shinko-nee!" That included a certain little girl wearing watermelon helmet who barreled through in order to jump straight into Shinko's arms.
"Nee-san!" Along with a blonde little girl in short orange dress.
Their combined power made the archer grunted slightly from the sudden impact, stumbling a little. Mirai had her arms tightly wrapped around her waist while Suika clung onto one of her legs. Lifting their head up to look at Shinko, that's when the first sob rang. "We're sorry…!"
And Shinko had this expression where the world seemed to end, she was instantly on her knees to match their height. "No, no, Mirai-chan, Suika-chan, it's okay! You two did nothing wrong, I'm the one who's sorry for worrying you!"
"Don't leave us, Shinko-nee…!" Suika hiccuped, tears running down her cheeks when the young woman removed her helmet to wiped them away. Her little hands clenched onto the edge of her dark-clue cloak.
"Please don't hate us, nee-san…!" Mirai added, her hand gripping onto Shinko's shoulder tightly as if she would disappear. Bringing the two into her arms, Shinko tried to console them as best as she could–Nikki could sympathize with her. No one liked the sight of both crying, especially when they're good kids. Misunderstanding wasn't something to be looked down upon.
"Excuse me! Please let me come through…!" And the final party who held the same worry finally came, jogging into the lab when the crowd parted to make a way for him. Ukyo sighed in relief the moment he laid his eyes on Shinko's figure, who successfully reduced Suika and Mirai's tears and sobs into slight hiccups–the two seemed to refuse letting her go for a while from the tight grip they had on her shorts when she stood up.
"I guess it's a mistake for me to teach you stealth." Ukyo joked as Shinko caressed both Suika and Mirai's head for more comfort. The sonarman looked way more relaxed than before, as if all of the burden being lifted from his shoulders. Those two were inseparable, he's probably who worried the most. "I'm never teaching you things again."
And Shinko's eyes light the up the moment he stood close to her. She gave him a wry smile. "That's kind of mean, Ukyo-san."
"Well, now that everyone's here," Senku announced, placing the glass record back–this time with the other side shown. A grin marred his face. "Let's hear the other message the old man had."
Upon the first crackling noise of speaker, every conversation was silenced. Now, everyone was focused on the record playing in real life.
"I hope you still hearing this recording, Senku!" Different from the mentioned scientist whose tone filled with sarcasm and drawl, Byakuya's was more playful and cheerful–an exact contrast with his son. However, they held the same mischievousness–like father, like son. "I'll have this side reserve only for our idol right here 'cause she's got a message to deliver. Alright, Lillian-sama, the time is yours!"
There's a womanly giggle before the voice changed. "Hi, everyone, I'm the singer for the previous song we recorded, Lillian Weinberg!"
Nikki's chest instantly drowned in warmth and nostalgia–the real Lillian Weinberg left them an audio record. Not only her, everyone was gasping in awe. It was undoubtedly tough times when earth's population turned into stone and they're the six ones left of humanity, but Lillian sounded strong and steady as if nothing wavered her. Half of Nikki thanked Byakuya for it, his positivity was certainly an important factor to keep the last astronauts on earth going.
"I hope you enjoy the performance! There's only a limited improvised music instrument right here, so the music might not be too clear. Still, I wish the song can come through nicely. I don't know how many years it is for you to find this record, but if you finally played it, thank Senku for it! Man, your son is really is something, Byakuya!"
"This is Senku we're talking about! The only one who can make a recorder player from scratch is him!"
"They sound like really good friends." Shinko commented, a wistful smile apparent.
Senku snickered, ruby red eyes holding a faraway mist Nikki couldn't decipher. "My old man's expertise is getting chummy with people after all."
"I just feel like leaving a message too." Lillian's cheerful tone trailed off into softer one, Nikki could hear her smile. "All my life, I dedicate it to sing. I love singing from the bottom of my heart. Music, it gives my life a meaning. A world without music is… I don't even want to imagine it. That's why we left this for you, to those whom the light of music has dimmed."
They left so much for them, Nikki wished she could tell her.
"This record is maybe the last song to ever exist hundreds of years later, but I hope someone will be able to revive music from our time! Music has shown me the way I want to live, it gave me hope, I'm sure some others felt the same. That's why, if you can, please let it live on!"
Lillian was born in slums somewhere in America, a little worn our record player was something that gave her life colors. She realized that through music, she could finally appreciate the world and feeling happy she was born. Lillian sang for herself, then she sang for others to share her sympathy and gave support–she wanted people knew she understood.
"Because music can guide the way."
Hope. Lillian found hope and way from music–and through her singing, she helped people find their own.
"…That's really Lillian, alright." Nikki sighed shakily, feeling her throat clogged up. It felt like she was back to the first time she heard Lillian's song through Senku's phone during the dawn of Stone Wars. Withholding her tears threatened to spill was hard. "First the song, and now this… your dad is a piece of work, Senku."
The scientist scoffed harmlessly. "He is, that eccentric old man."
"Wow, you're so sappy. Just like when you're telling me the origins of your lore."
"Byakuya! You little-!"
Hearing their short bickering, Ukyo chuckled. "He really livened up to his reputation."
"Now it sounds more like a skit." Senku deadpanned and he wasn't wrong though. Byakuya really changed the atmosphere in a flash, what an amusing man.
"Anyway, I live everything to you. I know you can do it!"
"For our future singers out there, I know you'll make us proud!"
"Why do you get to say it, Byakuya!?"
Then, nothing. Nikki guessed the record ended just like that. Whilst everyone was in chattering in excitement as they changed their opinions about the content, the ones lingering in the lab was draped in silence. Music, it became a quite sensitive topic to brought around–they knew that much. Even Suika and Mirai shared worried looks as they glanced at Shinko, though the young woman put up a neutral expression.
To be honest, Nikki didn't even know what to say.
"It's more than enough to encourage you, right?" Senku was the one who broke it, sending his signature smirk towards Shinko.
Sighing lightly, she mused. "Did you happen to foresee this Senku-san?"
"Not even a millimeter." The scientist chuckled in amusement. "A message to motivate modern singers. The timing's a little bit too perfect."
"Indeed."
Fate had its own way, one of them was letting every piece fell into its respective place in a way never imagined. Maybe this what it was called to begin with; fate. Nikki wasn't a devoted religious one, however now she knew how it worked a little. Removing the needle, Senku picked the glass record. In short steps, he stood in front of Shinko. Without hesitation, he reached out for her hand and placed the item onto her palm–this gesture was unexpected even for Nikki as Senku wasn't the type to initiate something like that. It's quite surprising.
"Your voice is decent if that's what you wanna hear." The scientist vouched, earning a pair of widened purple eyes staring at him. Then, followed by a flick on her forehead which made her yelped. "If you actually stayed longer rather than running away, you'd hear the same from the others."
"Well, it's also our fault for gawking without saying anything in the first place." Ukyo recalled, giving Shinko a comforting pat on her back.
The young woman chuckled nervously. "I'm very sorry I took it the wrong way."
"Whatever." Senku dismissed as he's never the one who took mundane things seriously. "'Bet the greediest man around will ten billion percent demand to be your sponsor. And looking at things, you're definitely up for it."
He's not wrong–there's a certain glint alight in Shinko's eyes, Nikki noticed. Quite different from the aghast one when they had a friendly chat in the forest–the record without a doubt fueled her much needed courage. Previously, it's also the one that united Ishigami Village, the same could be applied even now. The scientist was someone who's good at reading people, he's most likely correct. If he's most likely correct…
"Music can guide the way." Shinko repeated Lillian's word, holding up the glass record and looking intently. Against the stream of light filtering through, it glistened. On certain surfaces in the room, prism of color reflected. Nikki watched as she opened her mouth.
"Oh song, guide me."
Her voice sounded shaky and unsteady–it sounded like she tested the waters. However, it was enough to stole a few attentions. Even with her, Senku, Ukyo, Suika, and Mirai in the room watching intently, she still continued.
"Even with a melody as tiny as this.
It feels like an entire world has passed through it.
Every morning I wake, I search for you."
Slowly, in each word, the nervousness vanished–slowly, it became firmer and confident. Nikki could hear her heartbeat roaring in her ears, adrenaline pumping excitedly in her bloodstream.
"A future without you.
I've never wanted to imagine it, I hate it.
But you're already gone, and I don't know what to do.
Everyone but me seems to be carrying on just fine.
Even so, tomorrow will come, right?"
It came strong and each note changing, Nikki knew they were climbing to a climax. Full of anticipation, she's on her toes. Did Shinko realize that she resembled more of a singer currently? Did she realize that all ears were focusing on her voice right now?
"Oh song, guide me!"
Nikki's chest felt tight–from how it reflected on Lillian's message and how Shinko voice's stretching clean. Damn it, she's good and how couldn't she know this?
"I can't stand it, everyone, are you happy?
Do you have someone you love?
After being left alone, fеar has overcome me.
Oh song, guidе me!"
Both Mirai and Suika stared at her with glimmering wide eyes. Senku and Ukyo were watching her in wonder, jaw unhinged and fascination alight in their eyes. Nikki sighed and smiled–all of them were so immersed. She kind of understood–all of them were much too deprived of music, and this impulsive performance probably shook their mind.
"Whatever happens, I don't care."
With the final highest note dimmed, it was the sign that the song come to an end.
"Oh song, stay with me.
Oh love, come to me."
Music finally came and stay with them.