Valentine Shot
Note: this chapter FINALLY happened after the Christmas Shot
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"I don't like what I see."
That's right, the only feeling existed in Yuzuriha's chest was an ugly green monster of displeased. Having this sort of reaction was rare even for her–the brunette could categorize herself as rather easy-going and an open figure, so only a few things could trigger certain negative emotions churning inside her. However, this time, Yuzuriha was displeased. She didn't like this sight before her, not even a millimeter if using Senku's infamous catchphrase.
"The more I look, the more I hate it." Minami grumbled underneath her breath and Yuzuriha was glad she wasn't the only one who got to feel so. The blonde beside her had her chocolate eyes narrowed, brows furrowed in pure annoyance. To emphasize the unpleasant thrumming in her heart, she folded her arms upon her chest.
"I could not help but agree." Ruri's rather quiet but stern tone became an unexpected addition–usually she's as calm as soothing summer's breeze. Yuzuriha thought Kohaku would be the one to said such words–this was indeed dire if someone as patient and tranquil as the priestess was affected.
On the other hand, both Kohaku and Nikki were busy with their sharp stare threatening to bore holes onto the two people they're currently observing (read: glaring). Maybe if they tried hard enough, they would set them on fire. The disliking draping over surpassed their ability to put words onto their tongue. Even though the two were the most tomboyish between them all, the two were also the most sensitive and delicate to everything related to feelings.
"What are you girls doing?" Shinko's question didn't manage to make them avert their gaze even for a second–her sudden appearance didn't even faze them. Sounds of gravel crunching could be heard before Yuzuriha felt the taller woman's presence beside her. "Uhm… and why such scary expressions?"
"We're looking at the most annoying view ever been seen in the history of humanity." Kohaku answered without hesitation and Shinko undoubtedly was taken aback by her bluntness. The better term would be taken aback by blonde's sharp tone and rough statement overall, though Yuzuriha kind of agree with her.
Laughing nervously, and maybe rather intimidated by their cold respond fueled with shimmering fury, the young woman then questioned. "…Is Ukyo-san and Azura-san having a conversation considered annoying?"
The poor victim of their unpleasantness was both Ukyo and Azura, one of Ishigami Village's resident who joined the main group staying at Kingdom of Science's second headquarters. As explained before, most of youthful members of Ishigami Village remained rather than returning to the village. Since manpower became one of the most important needs in Kingdom of Science's projects, their hands on deck were necessary.
Now, why did they threaten to drill holes onto the two you may ask? Those two had been too immersed in the little bubble formed around them–chatting animatedly nonstop for hours (the truth it was probably just a few minutes, but Yuzuriha and the girls were too petty for any correction or input at the moment). Preoccupied with whatever topic at hand, both didn't even feel onlookers directly and openly staring at them–without a doubt startled by the rare combination.
The next question would be why did the girls had such murderous expression marring their face? Their interaction was the answer–especially Azura's part. Yuzuriha could notice even with just a glance–the apparent blush blooming on her cheeks, the clear admiration glimmering in her brick red eyes, the shy giggles and smiles between words being exchanged, the lingering stare during Ukyo's part of talking.
Those signs were extremely obvious.
And the girls weren't having it, not even for a single inch.
Ukyo dared to look sheepish, which only bathing the flames ignited with more fuel. Instead of flames, it probably turned into a vicious wildfire.
Couldn't he realize that the girl was undoubtedly making a move on him!? Right in front of Shinko at that! The girls were annoyed, but as humans with perfectly functioned mind and extended patience, they weren't going to do something reckless, sparked unnecessary conflicts, nor would they intimidate Azura for her approach. The girls were only keeping it between themselves, of course (while silently planning Ukyo's demise in their mind).
"So, Ukyo is a womanizer, huh?" Kohaku muttered underneath her breath, tone gone cold and still dropping a few degrees. Reaching out over her waist, fingers tightly gripped the katana's handle–blue eyes glinted dangerously. If it's the usual, Yuzuriha would shudder at the mercy of the strong killing intent wafting from the blonde. However, on this occasion, she's too upset to even flinch. "A man like him should be taught a lesson."
Much to everyone's disappointment, Shinko was quick to react by wrapping her arms around Kohaku's waist–effectively preventing the shorter warrior from sprinting in a flash and truly giving Ukyo a beating of his life. The young man was guaranteed to never leave unscathed if it happened and they didn't have advanced medication to handle broken bones yet. Sure enough, Ukyo would meet his maker early. "Homicide isn't acceptable, Kohaku-chan!"
"Then say something, Shinko-chan!" Minami exclaimed in frustration, torrent of emotions spilling. Pointing at the figures openly, she continued. "Be a little more upset at least!"
Said young woman could only rise her hands in surrender and gave the reporter a stiff smile after letting Kohaku go. "You know I can't do that."
Nikki, who was silent from the start, finally opened her mouth to talk–only to sighed dejectedly, shoulders sagged. "And she's right, even though I don't like that she's right."
"It would be hypocrisy." Shinko pointed out–a logical reason which none of them had no ability to rebut. Yuzuriha was always on her toes because it's unsettling on how the archer's being extremely calm in this matter. "I talk to other boys, no? Senku-san, Gen-san, Ryusui-san, Chrome-san, Taiju-san, practically everyone. I have no right to forbid Ukyo-san talk to other girls just like he has no right to forbid me talking to other boys."
"…I hate you, Shinko-chan." Minami pouted in the end, accepting the explanation with much reluctance–triggering the archer to laughed at her honest respond.
Correct, but not a hundred percent. Sure, the pink-haired young woman interacted with every male population there was, however, she didn't have any ulterior motive. She assisted Senku because she wanted to slightly relief him from the enormous burden of humanity on his shoulders. Not all of them had the courage to do so, Senku was someone they looked up to so much their insecurities of disappointing him catch up quicker than their confidence.
She's struggling at first (everyone did when it came to understanding Senku) but eventually, managed to grasp and embracing the role. Now, Yuzuriha couldn't imagine someone else fit to stand on Shinko's feet. If in another world she's the same age as her and Taiju and become their schoolmate, without a doubt she filled the vice president of science club position. No one expected her to be this capable–the brunette wanted to tell them it came from years of diligent study as she came from an esteemed family, and experience altogether. Shinko used to help her grandparents in their projects, her grandfather in tinkering things and her grandmother in cuisine from scratch. She's so used in helping she just needed some time to adjust and the rest was history.
Yuzuriha could rule out Ryusui because it's Ryusui–he basically acted the same around everyone. Flirting didn't exist in his blood, that's just how he was from the very start. For some people, he may look like a Casanova but the brunette knew it was different. That's just the captain's personality, honest and straightforward–his action completely based on it. Shinko didn't push him away because she understood he never meant any harm.
Taiju–he treated everyone as equal without looking at either gender or age. He's a simpleton (Senku would call him big oaf), but kind-hearted and loyal to an amazing extent. He praised everyone including Shinko and she to him–all of it were genuine because they truly did admire each other's strength and accomplishment. The rest relied on Yuzuriha's trust–the brunette trusted them both. (Taiju never had his eyes on girls other than Ogawa Yuzuriha, after all). That also applied to Chrome and Ruri. The priestess trusted Shinko and Chrome saw her as a comrade who he could learn much from–besides that, nothing peculiar.
To put it simple, Ogasawara Shinko never insinuated more than friendship.
"But it has been going on like this for a while." Ruri argued, her usual calmness she supported was replaced by a rather worried one. "Without you around, Azura has been, uhm, approaching Ukyo more often. This could only mean one thing."
If Kohaku and Nikki were the most sensitive and emphatic, then Shinko was the wittiest among them. There's a reason Senku kept her by his side and letting her be his unofficial assistant who supervised many things. Supposedly, even without them informing, she would've sensed anything peculiar occurring in Kingdom of Science by putting everything piece by piece. A circumstance as obvious as this couldn't possibly passed through her head. Yuzuriha clenched her fists unconsciously, watching as the archer proceeded to glance over at Ukyo and Azura before humming shortly. Raising a finger, she then remarked innocently,
"That Ukyo-san has charms?"
"Shinko-CHAN!"
From the looks of it, Minami was ready to strangle both parties alike and Yuzuriha could relate.
"Calm down, Minami-chan," Shinko laughed nervously, not trying to free herself from the reporter's powerful and relentless shake. Could be seen that the blonde wished to push some senses to the archer for sanity purposes. Though it seemed the victim only brushed it off as something unimportant. "They're harmless."
Once again, Kohaku reached for her katana. Brandishing the weapon, its iron glinting menacingly against the sunlight. "Unfaithful and ignorant men are best dead or imprisoned."
There're a few joints cracking from Nikki as she flexed her hands, her face marred with nothing less than murderous. "Also, a good beating will do."
"…Maybe we should establish an official no-killing policy." Yuzuriha heard Shinko muttered, then she sighed. "Anyway, what they do is harmless. It's not like me and Ukyo-san has any, uhm, serious relationship or anything related. So, it's no problem."
The moment Yuzuriha strongly wanted to retort, she instantly held back her tongue.
Words arranged in her head vanished in an instant the moment her chocolate eyes rested on Shinko's figure. The brunette knew those eyes well, a little too well. Lost and wistful. Her words from before maybe decorated with light humor, her tone maybe stayed the same as usual–it's because both were easy to faked. And faking gestures and emotions were women's field of expertise in some ways.
However, eyes were windows of a soul–the most difficult of all to manipulate as you please.
Yuzuriha sometimes forgot on how this would affect Shinko more than they were. Since when did she started to support that look whilst looking from afar?
"Oh, I have to help Senku-san with the plans for our sails." Quick to change their main subject, the young woman blinked in realization and the previous display of vulnerability vanished. Yuzuriha knew for sure she wasn't lying, and that her appearance here was just dropping by out of curiosity regarding their burning and displeased stare. Although it may not look like so, Shinko was one of the busiest people in Kingdom of Science prior to being Senku's appointed assistant. Most of her time was occupied with independent projects, discussions, inputs, and supervising. "I'll see you girls later!"
"Oi, Shinko!" Not even waiting for their reply, the mentioned young woman skipped to the opposite directions–Nikki's call went passed her head, either accidentally or deliberately Yuzuriha couldn't differentiate. All of them could only stare as her figure went smaller from the distance.
Ruri sighed forlornly. "I hope Shinko is okay with this matter."
Kohaku huffed, folding her arms across her chest–putting up a stern look although she shared the same worry with her older sister underneath. "What I know, whatever happens, she will always have our shoulders to lean on."
There's no words truer being said currently. No matter what happened in the future, the girls would make sure Shinko had their support as long as it's in their capabilities. Yuzuriha could only sighed dejectedly in the end and hoped things were not in the verge of falling apart when it's not even started.
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Azura was a nice girl–she's probably younger than Shinko but still older than the rest of the girls, probably the same age as Ruri. She dressed modestly in simple once piece dark-blue dress, the contrast of Three Dazzling Sisters (that's kind of a unique title Ukyo heard from Kohaku about the prettiest girls in their village). Just like the others, she helped Kingdom of Science with projects as extra manpower especially in everyday needs–Kohaku said she mostly helped Francois preparing meals like the other girls.
Ukyo bumped into her more often than before, ever since he lend a hand when she's in the middle of struggling carrying a woven basket with towering content it obscured her vision. Quite frightening if he remembered because there's a steep cliff ahead. Being quite shy at first, all she did was stuttering the moment she tried to spark some conversation. And Ukyo couldn't brush off her effort, it took her a lot of courage and he had to respect her for that.
To be honest, it was unexpected for him to have a mundane conversation with an Ishigami Villager other than Chrome, Kohaku, Ruri, and Suika.
However, it's rather peculiar to know Azura only appeared when Shinko wasn't around. It wasn't hard to figure out the pattern after several chances. Kind of difficult to adjust himself having one on one conversation with another girl other than Shinko. When talking to the former athlete, everything seemed to flow smoothly and Ukyo felt he could talk about anything.
On the other side, whilst talking to Azura there would be an awkward pause or such in between–he's struggling to keep their conversation afloat.
Currently, he tried to cover his part of framework Senku mentioned the other day. When breaktime arrived, Azura was the one to approach him with a smile as he rehydrated himself. He tried to return the gesture, but the slight disappointment from a certain pink-haired figure's absence made it harder. Usually, Shinko would be there with refreshments and both of them would relax for a bit until breaktime's over. There was no need for conversations, each other's presence while enjoying the soft breeze and forests' peace was more than enough–Ukyo held those times close to his heart.
It couldn't be helped when Ukyo knew she was especially busy today–he swore he needed more fingers to count on how many times Shinko jogged passed him to either deliver materials or notes (she always waved at him and uttered 'good work', though, at least it eased his heart a bit). Still, the sonarman kind of enjoyed Azura's company–it's better than sitting alone and zoning out.
Did Shinko finally had her rest? Or was she still insisted on getting some things done before doing so? Usually, she would get everything finished first as she's uncomfortable having duties hanging halfway. Diligent, but Ukyo wished she paid attention to her wellbeing more–there's no excuse to exhaust herself.
"-so that's how it works." Azura's giggles broke him out of his thoughts. "I'm sorry if I ask so many questions. Modern crafts are really hard to understand."
He hoped she didn't notice how his mind was mostly elsewhere.
Rubbing his neck sheepishly, Ukyo replied. "It's okay. There are so many new terms to learn, but you'll get a hang of it."
That's when he felt it, a violent chill crawling from his neck along his spine. The noise around him were loud enough to mask the soft ones, less details he could hear as it was hidden–his instinct was the one who acted. Snapping his neck towards the source, he was met with several murderous eyes from extremely familiar people.
Ukyo felt blood leaving his face and swallowed heavily–especially the moment Kohaku unsheathed her katana.
"I HATE YOU, UKYO-KUN!" The said young man flinched when Minami yelled those words. "I won't forgive you, you hear me!? Never!"
Ukyo had a hard time comprehending the situation. "W-what?"
Without waiting for him to truly digest everything, Minami huffed and turned her back. Soon enough, followed by the rest who either shot him a disappointed look (Yuzuriha and Ruri) or the one which boring killing intent (namely Kohaku and Nikki). All of them leaving Ukyo with turmoil of fright and perplex.
A few seconds of silence engulfed him.
"Are you alright?" Azura was the one who broke it, asking and he could hear her concern from how everything escalated quickly. Reaching out, Ukyo placed a hand on his chest. For some reason, there's a foreign sensation of suffocating inside–it was uncomfortable, making his stomach churn.
"…I think I might've done something terribly wrong."
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Keeping track of time without any sorts of reminder was probably the most difficult thing Shinko had ever experienced. Back in modern humanity, there's a little calendar sitting on her desk. She usually marked it to know which date passed, writing short notes for important occasions, and flipped it when months were changing. There's also a phone, constantly changing minutes and automatically adjust dates everyday–she only needed to activate her lock-screen and would know the exact time in a mere push of a button.
Small luxuries like that was taken for granted, Shinko realized. There's no such thing as calendar in this stone world, they could only rely on Senku for accurate timing everyday. After counting for thousands of years, the scientist managed to perfect his parallel brain function. It means Senku was able to count every second accurately whilst working through his task, at the same time.
An impossible, almost inhuman feat.
However, the scientist somehow made it work–and Shinko wouldn't ask how. Back to discussion about dates, as Senku was the only one who's able to keep track, no doubt he already memorized certain particular days yet to come. Well, the scientist was the one arranging their last Christmas event and celebrating new year with watching the sunrise has been Ishigami Village's sacred traditions. Two major events already passed and more would soon be celebrated.
Maybe that's the reason for Senku's suddenly assigning her for a task, changing her priorities. He didn't mind having a little bit of delay for some work, saying they weren't going to croak from a day or two of being halted. Time was precious at the moment so, but he did say to avoid any kind of pressure to prevent stress and overworking happened. His reasoning was logical, if it was anything they didn't have time for chaos. So far, with his efforts, Senku managed to create a healthy working environment and she knew he refused to throw that away.
Her job wasn't that hard per se, but the peculiar combination of the things he needed her to gather enough to piqued her curiosity. One thing she understood was, there would be another unexpected science re-discovery. There's always a room for small projects along the way to improve Kingdom of Science's lifestyle.
"Senku-san, I managed to get the materials you need." Shinko announced her arrival by a short greeting by the door, stepping inside the lab. There's a woven basket in hand filled to the brim with the scientist's request. That being said, she would find her answer as Senku worked with what she brought.
"How the hell did you get them so fast." The said scientist stared at her incredulously, halting his movement on returning the flasks back to its place–it seemed he's just finished with whatever he was tinkering initially. Then, he grinned. "Well, the faster it is, a lot more variety we can make anyway."
"What are you planning to make, Senku-san?" Placing the woven basket on the lab's table, Shinko questioned.
The answer she earned was his infamous smirk. "You'll see."
The scientist reached out from under a table and placed an unknown mechanism she didn't have any clue on. From appearance alone, it was similar to LED lights arranged vertically with each end connected with a power source–something she had never seen before. Studying the object closely, Shinko tried to rack her brain to at least grasp on how it worked.
"Solve it yet?" Senku's voice broke her thoughts. Not knowing how many minutes she spent staring intently at the mysterious tech, all she knew was Senku himself already done with all the necessary preparation he needed. Instead, he sat down with an arm on the wooden surface–ruby red eyes watching her facing difficulties.
In the end, Shinko sighed and laughed sheepishly. "I have to be honest that I have no idea."
"It's normal to not know this thing." Senku grunted as rose from the stool. Tapping his knuckles lightly upon the machine, he continued. "It will be ten billion percent weird if you do."
"Then what is this? I don't think this is one of the engines for the ship."
"Ozone generator."
White noise filled her mind as she tried to comprehend those two words. Another two absurd words which somehow existed into one sentence for real. Blinking in disbelief, she slowly directed her gaze back towards the device. "…Ozone generator?"
"Don't be that surprised." Senku's hand reached out and gave her forehead a light poke with his fore finger. The gesture came more often for the past few months ever since Lillian's record being played, something she would have to get used to. "It does exist, though we're gonna use to commemorate another modern occasion."
Tilting her head, Shinko looked at the scientist in confusion. "Is it for Lunar New Year? To be honest, I keep losing my track on the date after New Year."
Senku hummed and then remarked, "It's not. Maybe I should teach you how to count in parallel."
"Counting thousands of seconds per day will burn the last of my braincells, Senku-san. I'm not a supreme genius like you."
"…You always came up with weird nicknames, did you?"
"You're the one who started it."
It was hard to hold on a sputter especially when said scientist shot her a dirty look. Though, he rubbed his neck a few seconds after whilst still supporting an annoyed look. Shinko heard his self-made nicknames for certain individuals more times than often; he called Gen as mentalist, Kohaku as either gorilla or lioness (much to her absolute distaste), Suika as great detective, Taiju with big oaf, Craftsman Kaseki, sonarman for Ukyo, and huntress for her. To be honest, she didn't even remember when did he ever called her by her real name.
"You already washed this, right?" Moving on from the subject, Senku asked referring to the materials piled up in the woven basket.
Shinko nodded. "Yes, it's ready to use."
"When we activate this machine, we can make ozone. Ozone is produced from electrical discharge. Great deals of it are produced from lightening during a thunderstorm. This is one of the reasons you smell the "fresh" smell after a thunderstorm." Senku explained as both of them watched the machine whirred to life. "Any electrical discharge, or spark will create it. The spark will split the oxygen molecule (O2) found in ambient air into elemental oxygen (O). These Oxygen atoms will quickly bind to another oxygen molecule (O2) to form ozone (O3). Ozone (O3) quickly reverts back to molecular Oxygen (O2) and can't be stored and must be produced on-site and on-demand."
"So that's why you said the sooner the better." She hummed in understanding. "Because it's extremely easy for it to be ruined or short-lived? I don't know much about chemistry."
The scientist gave her a satisfied grin, the one he usually wore when someone managed to guess or add to his explanation correctly. "Short-lived is the right answer. In a corona discharge ozone generator like this, the electrical discharge will take place in an air gap within the corona cell designed specifically to split the oxygen molecule and produce ozone. In this air gap, a dielectric is used to distribute the electron flow evenly across this gap to spread the electron flow to as great a volume of oxygen as possible."
"It's really hard to understand the principles." Shinko muttered, even more confused than before as how the machine functioned leaning more towards psychics and complex chemistry. Her brain reached its limited capability to comprehend further. Only Senku could understand that much of information as he's the one who built it. "I know we need ozone because you used this machine, Senku-san, but what kind of production needs ozone?"
"That's where these came in." His infamous smirk of amusement appeared. In a flash, his hand moved here and there between the flasks he prepared. The scientist didn't even need an hour to make extract from the laurel bays Shinko gathered–even managed to gave her instruction in arranging red endo peas upon a tray and placed then in the oven in order to dry them. "If we add laurel bay to the ozone we created, we can force vanilla essence out of it."
It was extremely hard to stay cool, especially after hearing Senku talked about making vanilla essence for cooking from ozone–Shinko nearly let the tray she pulled from the oven slipped off her hands from pure bewilderment.
"V-vanilla essence? From ozone?" She repeated two main highlights from Senku's explanation in stutters.
The scientist rose his eyebrow, probably from the unexpected (almost forgotten) reaction could be drawn from her. So far, his newest creations didn't faze her–until this one. "I thought you're getting used to this."
Laughing nervously, Shinko replied, "If it's about machines or others I may be, but making edible components from inedible ones? I need a minute or two to let it sink in."
"There's a mortar and pestle on the shelve. Use it to grind the dried peas." He didn't comment further, deeming it wasn't important to brought up. Instead, he's ready with another set of instructions. The young woman immediately did as she told–finding said clayware visibly seen on the shelve. Pouring the dried peas, which shrink from its original size, into the mortar Shinko didn't waste her time and brought down the pestle. Soon enough, the peas had been turned into fine powder–wafting an extremely familiar smell.
"This smells like cacao powder." She commented to no one in particular, however those words were a wake-up call to what Senku had aimed from the start. "You intend to make chocolates, Senku-san!? And the occasion you spoke of is Valentine's Day!?"
The scientist threw her a mischievous grin. "Now, you get it."
"…I have a feeling you have an underlying motive for this." Shinko threw him an uneasy look–in the back of her head, her senses tingled.
Which incurred his scheming face to finally appear as he chuckled lowly. "Now, you get it. We can harvest tons or Dragos from this thing as the greediest man around will definitely down for it. Kukuku, isn't this exhilarating?"
"I guess Gen-san is also on board with this plan." Her mind automatically drifted towards a certain crafty mentalist who, without a doubt, had the same length of thoughts as Senku. Those two frequently teamed up to wring unimaginable amount of Dragos from Ryusui through… certain ways one after another. Most of the time, their plan worked up a miracle. "But we do appreciate sweets other than cotton candy. Varieties are more than welcomed."
"That's why I ask you to bring those nuts." The scientist added, referring to leather pouches of assorted nuts on the bottom of the basket. Each type was sorted in different pouches to avoid it mixing together and for easier used. "By refining the taste with nuts and adding vanilla essence, our replacement of chocolate is complete!"
"And you need the golden ratio." Shinko couldn't help but finished, giving Senku a smile. The young man always brought incredible surprises for them, an intelligent person fitting to be their leader. It's impossible to not admire him–that was probably the reason why everyone had it easy to lend a hand and support the scientist. He always saw and planned everything through, making it seemed to fall to its respectful place magically. "That's the reason I'm here."
He chuckled, his ruby eyes alight with something indecipherable to her. "You're getting better in seeing through my plans. Francois already had their hands full with experimental recipes and everyday menus, so it's your job now. Think you can do it?"
"If you're willing to be my taste tester that is." This time it was Shinko's turn to shot him a mischievous look. At first, Senku was taken aback, but eventually regained his composure and added a smile as he folded his arms across his chest.
Snorting harmlessly, he remarked. "You gave me no choice anyway."
Giving him a wide grin, Shinko couldn't help but feeling her heart thrum in excitement. "I guess I am."
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In the end, finding the golden ratio wasn't as hard as Shinko feared to be.
With small batches of samples and Senku's amazing observation, she perfected all of them exactly when the sun started to set into the horizon. Golden rays filled the lab the moment she finished tidied all of the utensils being used, a reminder of many hours she spent for tomorrow.
True to his words, the scientist accompanied her and did his best as taste tester. Senku mentioned about how she did things efficiently by experimenting on small portions rather than bigger ones that would waste so many ingredients–his compliment was something to be proud of. Of course, he had to drink water in between so he wouldn't confuse one sample for another. With his help of memorizing each ingredient's percentage accurately, Shinko successfully crafted a fake chocolate with really close taste to its original.
Not only that, she managed to make several varieties while doing so–the one with certain type and mixed nuts, the one filled with dried fruits to enhance its aroma, and even some purposely being hollowed to fit in caramel and honey. They even managed to get it molded classically, rectangle and thin with its infamous carving. If the time came, surely business would boom.
And just like she predicted (Senku and Gen definitely knew about this event), as soon as Senku made announcement the next day everyone literally, fight tooth and nail for a piece. The demand was insane but with Francois's help, Shinko somehow could churn out batches in an unimaginable speed (which she didn't know existed in her, probably because how efficient the butler was). Though, her arms still felt like noodles after she finished Ryusui's mountain of order.
Now, there's a similar mountain of cash piling on the table–the captain deemed it as 'a proper amount of reward for your service, my dear!'.
Shinko was grateful, definitely, however she had a hard time to save all of it (thankfully, Francois gave her several extremely helpful advices. Nothing less from their esteemed butler). Currently, it was an amusing view to see on the sidelines as everyone enjoyed a piece of chocolate by their choice. There were a lot of waterworks of tears from the undeniably nostalgic taste and from the ones who tried it for the very first time.
Valentine's Day, also called Saint Valentine's Day, is celebrated annually on February 14. Originated as a Christian feast day honoring one or two early Christian martyrs named Saint Valentine. Through later folk traditions, it has become a significant cultural, religious, and commercial celebration of romance and love in many regions of the world.
Shinko didn't know what people in other countries do for it, but in Japan, only women gave chocolate during Valentine's Day. Also, there are several types of chocolate being overall as the celebration went on. The first one would be giri-coko (義理チョコ) which translated to 'obligatory chocolate'. Its name served its purpose quite literally; obligatory chocolate given to co-workers out of sense of obligation to commemorate the day. The next one would be tomo-coko (友チョコ), chocolates being presented to friends–usually, it was done by girls.
Another one was probably what livened up the day with sparkles of romance and love; honmei-coko (本命チョコ). Translated to 'true feeling chocolate', this particular chocolate was given to a special or loved ones. Shinko could recall her school days vividly for this occasion–her classmates presenting homemade chocolates for their crushes, confessions being made soon after. Love was wafting in the air she almost felt jealous because she couldn't indulge herself. What she remembered was definitely gifting obligatory chocolates to her teammates, coach, and close friends–no true feelings chocolate involved.
However, a saying about there's a first for everything existed.
The apparent weight on her palm spoke so. Shinko stared at the small box on her hand. It's far from grand, only a wooden box decorated with simple bow made out of paper. Making dyes was yet on their to-do list, but seeing there's another pressing matter at hand it was delayed until uncertain time. There's no flare on her craft, instead it was plain almost too boring to look at. Shinko had no extent imaginations unlike Yuzuriha, however because she did her best, hopefully it came out decent.
"Shinko-chan! Great job in making the chocolates!" Minami greeted her with a praise and flung herself to her.
Giggling, she's always ready to catch the cheerful reporter, it became a routine for her and Yuzuriha to do so. "I'm glad you like it, Minami-chan."
"You eat this freely three thousand years ago!?" Kohaku questioned, eyes widened in shock although her mouth keep munching away. "I never know such delicious taste like this!"
"Chocolates are the best sweets after all, Kohaku." Nikki pointed out after swallowing her bite. "It's best eaten as it is or incorporated with other deserts."
Yuzuriha giggled merrily. "I think this is a sign for Francois to start making chocolate chip cookies or chocolate filled bread."
Kohaku's blue eyes sparkle at the thought. "Bread is already good on its own but you can add this!? How about chocolate cotton candy!?"
Shinko laughed nervously at the idea whereas the others could only stare at the blonde warrior on slight horror–imaginations about chocolate cotton candy was now impossible to get rid of. Aside from that, it's amusing to see how Kohaku was head over heels for the cloud-shaped sweet. "I don't think that's a good idea, Kohaku-chan."
Besides, chocolate cotton candy didn't even exist in the first place.
"A-anyway, how's the chocolate giving going, Yuzuriha?" Nikki remarked, trying to change the subject.
Which was definitely a success from how flustered the said brunette was. "I-it's going well."
Shinko couldn't help but cooed internally–Taiju and Yuzuriha's journey to true love was incredibly sweet, they're really made for each other. Taiju never gave another girl a glance, his strong feelings and loyalty were reserved for Yuzuriha only, on the other hand, Yuzuriha didn't have any interest on any of the male population other than Taiju. She hoped the day when both finally made it official.
"Taiju cried when he received the box." Kohaku pointed out, her straightforwardness never ceased to amaze Shinko. And it led the brunette turned into a combination mess of stutters, squeaks, and shrieks.
Minami giggled in glee, probably recalling on how Taiju and Yuzuriha rendered speechless (it's amazing on how someone as loud as Taiju could be lost for words once) and heavily flustered throughout the process. "That's given because knowing his feelings for Yuzuriha."
"I'm happy, but embarrassed!" Said brunette squeaked, hiding her flaming face behind her palms. "But happy!"
Shinko grinned–the happiness she experienced from her success endeavor was contagious. "We know. By the way, where is Ruri-chan? It's rare for her to not be here with us."
"Aaah, about that," Kohaku drawled, her tone decorated with pure tease and delight altogether. For sure, she's waiting for someone to question her sister's unexpected absence. "She's hoping to give Chrome some chocolates."
"Love is blooming everywhere today." Nikki commented, nodding in content. Her statement spoke truth–today was the day where anyone holding particular special feelings confront their dearest, another side other than enjoying the newly crafted delicacy. Internally, Shinko wished the best for Ruri's effort knowing Chrome's in the slow side of realizing that certain fondness could be a sign of romantic sparks.
"Although some quickly withered right after." Minami deadpanned and the archer understood what she meant crystal clear. The reporter undoubtedly referred to mountains of chocolates the Three Dazzling Sisters presented to their infamous scientist, who acted indifferent towards the obvious approach–even as far as bluntly mentioned he already tasted all of the variations he's getting sick of it. To simplify, the girls had to nurse their heart to recovery from merciless and blunt rejection.
Kohaku snorted harmlessly. "They definitely didn't know that romance and relationships based on it never made it to Senku's list. I heard he called it illogical for at least a thousandth times."
Biggest condolences, Shinko couldn't help but whispered internally. Then she chuckled nervously. "This is Senku-san we're talking about."
"They will be back to their feet in no time, though." The blonde warrior continued and the archer noticed her share of sweets were already gone without a trace to her stomach. She patted her stomach in satisfaction, and she looked like she could go for seconds if Shinko offered. "Those three won't easily back down if they already set their eyes on something."
"Good luck for them. They'll need it." Nikki remarked, genuinely wished for the best for the three.
"Believe me, they will." Kohaku mused, entertained by the idea. "Senku is an impossible man to have a relationship with. I don't think he's capable of romance, more like the term is already thrown away by him."
"The love Senku-kun has is only for science, after all." Yuzuriha giggled, if anyone understood the said scientist more then it's his childhood friends.
Nikki snorted harmlessly, shrugging her shoulders. "He's married to science, we know that much. Oh, to be science which he always thinks of every second of every day."
"But to be honest, I think Senku-kun is like that because he hasn't met his right one." Yuzuriha remarked, her eyes softened. "If he finally found them, I think he will change his mindset. Humans could change."
She wasn't wrong–changes constantly came in every individual's life whether it's welcomed or not, whether we wished for it or the exact opposite, whether we're prepared for it or it came abruptly. And Senku's a human, which meant he wouldn't be excluded from the basic laws of the universe no matter how he tried to avoid it or changed course. Although hearing Senku and romance existed in one sentence was a bizarre experienced. Kohaku nodded vigorously, it seemed she greatly agreed with the brunette's reasoning.
Minami hummed before craning her neck, looking at the sky in wonder. "If Senku likes someone, what kind of person will they be? It's hard to imagine."
"Someone genius like him?" Kohaku tried to guess.
Nikki furrowed her brows in confusion, arms folded across her chest. "I can't think of another type. And that kind of person is probably really hard to find. There's no one as smart as he is currently."
"Someone who can understand him well maybe?" This time, Shinko tried her luck.
"That could work too." Kohaku nodded in agreement.
"For me, I think someone who left a strong impression for him." Yuzuriha remarked, finger under her chin. "They don't have to be a genius but smart enough to understand and catch up to his fast-paced thinking. Someone who can give him another perspective, someone who can impress him in their own way."
"So, it's someone who is extremely capable." Minami concluded. "Now that you think of it, it's definitely the kind of person he will be attracted to."
Shinko threw the brunette a smile, impressed by her detailed insight about the mentioned scientist and his possible (and maybe had yet himself to realize) criteria for a significant other. "You know a lot about Senku-san, Yuzuriha-chan."
Yuzuriha returned the gesture double, followed by giggles. "It's because we've been friends for a long time! Taiju-kun will say the same thing in his own language."
There's no doubt in that.
"By the way, are you going to do the same thing, Shinko?" Nikki voiced, eyes moved to stare at the box in her grip and herself alternately. The taller girl gave her a knowing smile borderline to a teasing grin. Instantly, the others had their attention zeroed on the archer who could only sighed as she resigned to her fate.
"Probably." The reply was vague but Kohaku and Yuzuriha already had sparkles of excitement alight in their eyes.
"OOOH, I see." There's a mischievous look appear on Minami's face as she drawled in understanding. At this point, Shinko was already used to her hinting gestures. "Is this the answer to my question the other day?"
Pushing away the finger poking incessantly on her cheek, the archer gave her a mysterious smirk. "Is it?"
"You're no fun." Minami pouted harmlessly, arms across her chest. "Give a hint or two! Come on, Shinko-chan! Don't leave me hanging here!"
"What are you guys talking about?" Kohaku rose an eyebrow in apparent confusion.
"I'll tell you when we're in a safe place." The said young woman promised. Confronting her and the girls with these newfound feelings was both thrilling and embarrassing. Thrilling because she could finally pinpoint it into clear words rather than vague ones, embarrassing because she felt like going back to her teenage years where crushes were common. Before, it was just a puppy love, however this time Shinko could tell the difference. Stronger and certainly wasn't going to go away for quite a long time.
Humming in understanding, the reporter huffed. "It's a promise!"
"I know, Minami-chan." Without a doubt the blonde was already arranging a certain plan that could gather all of them in once place while having a great privacy. Since it's a personal matter to begin with, they had to make sure to not give any chance for eavesdropper who's thirsty for people's secret. Shinko would leave all the honor of planning to her.
"Then," Feeling hands on her back accompanied by pushing, the archer almost stumbled on her steps from the sudden gesture and dropping the box. "Don't waste anymore time! Give it to him before the day's over, although he doesn't deserve it."
It couldn't be called mumbling as Shinko clearly heard it. Kind of amusing watching Minami switched her personality from excitement to a rather dark one filled with annoyance.
"Are you still annoyed at Ukyo-san?" Rhetorical question, especially when the reporter didn't even bother to hid her displease. Ever since the blatant view of said sonarman and Azura together had been observed by her and the girls, she built a certain disliking towards Ukyo. On the other hand, the young man looked lost and questioned on whatever fault he did to make them straying away. "He's confused on why you and the girls are avoiding him."
"Well, it's on him to realize." Then she proceeded to hissed something about flirting and oblivious idiot along the line. Shinko found her grumbling cute–no wonder Yo was swooned quite easily. "Anyway, good luck! Make sure you chuck the box to bullseye."
"That's a little violent." The archer laughed nervously.
Bidding the girls goodbye (Kohaku and Yuzuriha's waves were more than energetic) and another promise of having dinner together, she finally walked off towards the most challenging part of the day–Shinko really needed Minami's wish of luck for this. Her palms turned clammy from the bubbling nervousness even though she had yet found their sonarman. Heart drumming quite loudly against her ribcage–the familiar pattern repeating itself, the exact thing she felt on the last Christmas.
However, this time the intensity was tenfold knowing the conclusion for her quite special feelings. Saying it wasn't a big deal didn't seem right because it was–well, at least to her anyway. Mind running a thousand miles per hour, coming up with any possible scenarios that could happen. In the end, Shinko forced herself to stop thinking because it only added worry and became unhelpful.
Having activities done with this additional realization wasn't that difficult, maybe it's because she got ahold of it in tight leash and controlled her reaction better. What's new was undoubtedly how her traitorous heart sped up automatically every time Ukyo reached out for her hand or how the sonarman throw her that lovely smile of his. Flustered she may be as it was unavoidable, but knowing she didn't react weirdly from the supposedly usual gesture shared between them was an amazing feat herself admitted.
Thinking about it made Shinko unconsciously tightened her grip on the box.
This was Ukyo, she reminded herself. The last person who would judge her for whatever action she took, the last person who would leap to conclusions and made Shinko regret anything. If she somehow made a mistake, he would take on a diplomatic side and they both would find a way to fix it.
Looking for the mentioned sonarman came easy no matter how big the crowd formed before her–in just a quick study of the whole yard, striking yellow could be seen slightly obscured behind the lab's building. Shinko thanked her sharp eyes for that. She then realized it's quite uncommon for him to separate himself from the hustle happened even though he didn't participate. Ukyo had been an easy one to integrate to his environment even with new people, being far more social than her who needed an approach. Wasting no time, her legs leading her towards the direction.
Each step being taken, the archer felt her heart threatened to jump to her throat and her stomach churned in anticipation.
It's supposed to not be this difficult. During Christmas, she successfully overcame her initial nervousness and her gift finally changed hands. She strongly hoped for the same sudden burst of courage pushed her forward the moment she was ready to back away. Because throwing the box to him and sprint to oblivion didn't exist in the list of possibilities. Besides, whether these romantic feelings bloomed or not, Shinko would give Ukyo a box of handmade chocolates regardless.
That's just how it was, as if it was a second nature for them both.
Thumps of her heartbeat seemingly roaring against her eardrums she had to physically sighed to calm herself. This day only came once a year, might as well as finished it with a bang and regretted less to none–a certain and visible first step to an unknown territory.
"T-This is for you, Ukyo-kun!"
Words that were meticulously arranged and ready on her tongue vanished in an instant. Rooted on her spot, Shinko heard white noise replacing the once loud noise of her heartbeat. Her greetings didn't even have a chance to rang, halted in her mind by force.
She knew that voice. It was hard not to, especially when it could be heard often around Ukyo for these past two months.
"I know we only started talking for a short time, but I fell in love with you! A-and please accept these chocolates!" Azura stuttered, undeniably flustered at that and Shinko could imagine her bowing low whilst thrusting said gift for the sonarman who had his back towards her.
There's a pregnant silence. "You're really sweet, but I'm afraid I can't accept your feelings."
Ukyo's voice sounded gentle, however there's a firmness that couldn't be ignored–he's emphasizing his statement. He's calm, too calm for Shinko's liking, as if he was expecting this confrontation. For sure, he caught up with the brunette's hidden affection for him–like Senku, he's good at reading people and pointed out unusual acts straying from their usual ones.
Then, she could hear him sigh–shoulders sagging and continued. "In this world, I don't think relationship would be the best idea to happen. There are more important matters to tend and, I'm sorry if this offend you somehow, to me relationship in this current time serves as a little disturbance I wish to not happen. Once again, I'm really sorry, Azura-san."
Shinko's heart fell into the deepest chasm in her chest.
.
.
Senku failed to find the correlation between alcohol and Valentine.
Valentine's Day was supposed to be centered around chocolates and skin-crawling romance (the scientist visibly shuddered at this), he didn't remember having tipsy-induced beverage as a part of the celebration. But who he was to make such regulations when it was harmless? Most of them were in suitable age to drink anyway. As long as there's no chaos caused by drunkards and responsible ones forbidding the underage from touching the drinks, Senku deemed it wasn't necessary.
He recalled the last time this sort of celebration happened–precisely the night after the Grand Bout. Everyone mingled with each other, forming loose circle around a big bonfire in the middle. They shared drinks, stories, and laughter and nothing was more peaceful than that. Rivalry went forgotten and disappointment being soothed. The situation currently not much different from that time.
Although, there's a certain someone missing from the crowd.
"Would you care for some treat, Master Senku?" Francois came to him with offerings, bringing a tray filled with refreshments both savory and sweet yet being touched. A bite or two wouldn't be a problem at all, that's why the scientist reached out for the one which feasted his eyes the most.
"Where's the huntress?" Senku, as always, never beaten around the bush.
There were a few seconds of silence before the butler answered. "To be honest, I have no clue. Lady Shinko didn't show up during preparations and just like you, I have been wondering about her whereabouts."
A frown made itself known on Senku's face as he heard the abnormalities. Shinko had a knack on assisting the butler in meal preparations, the kitchen was basically her second fort. His idea on asking Francois was based on that, if someone knew where she went during a celebration where food became the main star then it would be the esteemed butler. However, it seemed today was particularly different than the usual.
"Me too, actually." Another one approaching and fitting himself into the conversation seamlessly. Ukyo stood only a few steps away from Senku, slight worry marring his face. "She's getting better at vanishing without a trace. I don't know if it's a good or a bad thing."
Truthfully, the scientist was about to ask the closest person around the said archer. Though, it looked like he didn't need it, along with the fact that his only lead gone like a puff of smoke. Despite lacking clues, there's something nagging at the back of his mind and less worry he found himself in.
"Don't worry." Senku shrugged his shoulders. "She's not an idiot to go around at night when there's beasts around. She's around somewhere."
However, his words didn't seem to convince the sonarman. The scientist could sympathize slightly, both of them were inseparable since the start and having one gone from ones side was like missing a limb. Most important thing to point out was one of them almost having a friendly hand shake with Death–without a doubt Ukyo was traumatized greatly and there's a probability Shinko having constant nightmares from it.
Before joining hands based with the Kingdom of Science, Ukyo and Shinko only had each other to rely on–their bond ran deep, maybe just like what Senku and Taiju had.
"I'm going to look for her." Ukyo's decision sounded final, tone solemn. He placed his cup, still full with wine, on an available space on Francois's tray. "Do you mind holding this for me, Francois?"
"Not at all, Master Ukyo." The butler shook their head firmly. "Please be careful and come back safely."
Only giving them a nod, the sonarman immediately broke into a sprint. Senku watched as he dodged incoming passerby quickly and ran through the crowd smoothly without having to bump against a single person. Undoubtedly, as a part of military, agility ran in his blood served as advantages from his lithe size. Soon, Ukyo was gone behind the thick canopy.
"I'm going for a walk." Senku sighed in the end and Francois didn't say anything. The butler only bowed knowingly before leaving him to his own devices, offering treats to people nearby.
Turning his back, the scientist faced the opposite direction the sonarman went to. Feeling no hurry, there's no need to run and wasting energy–Senku would treat this as an easy stroll. The further he went, the ruckus from the 'party' slowly diminished. The only voices accompanied him would be crunches of gravel against his sole, trees rustling from the night's breeze, nocturnal beings moving to live.
To be honest, Senku couldn't pinpoint the place he had in mind–it held no name and no one bothered to give it a name. It's rare for someone to go there, yet here he was. He let his legs guide him, each step he took filled with confidence. Maybe around five minutes to his lonely short journey, Senku finally stopped.
"For some unknown reasons, I knew you would be here."
He didn't have to announce his arrival in the first place because he believed Shinko could feel his presence regardless. She's a former member of Tsukasa's esteemed lookout team, her inhumane sight made her constantly aware of her surroundings–at this point, nothing could possibly pass through her vision whether purposely or accidentally. She's better than Kohaku, who would place the sharp side of katana on your neck if you surprised her.
"Should I be impressed?" It's supposed to be playful, just like how she usually be the annoying one around him. However, this time, it's the exact opposite. It's empty and sounded so tired Senku could feel the heaviness pushing down on his shoulders.
There's a silence stretched between them. The scientist let it be for a few seconds as he found himself sitting on the ground beside the archer, feet dangling over the cliff. Distance between them could be measured in centimeters. "Ukyo is looking for you."
"…As much as I feel touched by his worries, I couldn't face him currently." Senku could hear an incomprehensible whisper hanging even after the sentence reached the dot. He didn't ask further nor did he proceed to continue the conversation.
By his own volition, he let silence engulfed them whole.
Blunt and straightforward maybe a part of his personality, but Senku had his times to stay silent and just be there. Not everyone wished to pour out whatever was bugging them and the scientist had no right to push them to tell. Sometimes, one's company worth more than thousands of words. Shinko was the latter.
That's why Senku kept his mouth shut even when he noticed the glossiness in her eyes. Her sight didn't particularly set on anything, staring rather emptily at the Milky Way. Shinko looked lost, something he never thought would exist in her. Sadness and resignation followed closely. And he noticed he never truly looked.
Senku recalled the event many nights ago where she let torrents of negative emotion flooding through the broken dam she closely guarding. He stayed, watching tears dripping to the ground and her shoulders shook in grief. Raw emotion nearly swept him off his feet and drowned him along. This time was somehow similar, though it's a lot softer and more controlled. Currently, Shinko wore her heart on her sleeves and Senku became a witness.
He wondered if Ukyo ever stood on his current position.
"Whatever happened," Forming steady words became slightly difficult for the scientist. "It will get better. I can promise you that."
Truthfully, words stuck on the back of his tongue and he tried not to choke on it. It was hard to both swallow and talk. Because sadness coiled around Shinko so much his chest felt as if it was suffocated, his heart fell into the deep pit of darkness somewhere in him.
A wry chuckle could be heard, the scientist took it as a good sign. At least she still had some humor left. "That's kind of a hard promise to fulfill."
Senku snorted harmlessly. "I'm not the one who will. Time will."
Shinko shifted slightly, hugging her knees close to her chest. "It's a minor problem, but personal. But I can't believe I'm so upset about this. It's not supposed to be a big deal."
"If it makes you upset, then it's a big deal to you." Because she was never the one who easily upset. Because she's one of the most level-headed ones in their community. It would be a different case for someone who's the exact opposite of her–Senku would treat them like a parent handling a child throwing tantrums because they've been denied candy. "No one's get to judge that."
"Thank you, Senku-san. You're really kind." There's a faint smile he heard, a genuine one and it eased the heaviness around them. "Aren't you going to ask for specifics, though?"
"Do you look like you want to talk about specifics?'
"Touché."
Unlike Ukyo, Senku couldn't offer his arms to cry on or his hand to hold. There are no sweet words to balance the bitterness, there's only him and his logical thoughts which stated facts to help people trying to see in a different angle. Ukyo was more proficient in soothing the wounded heart, something Senku found hard to do. But Senku wouldn't mold himself to do similar thing, because it's not him.
Rising from his seat followed by Shinko's curious eyes watching over, he reached out his hand and proceed to make a mess of the hair on her head.
"Well, you won't be swimming in that thing longer because we have so many things to do." Senku announced, throwing her a smirk.
Because Shinko was so, so sad Senku refused to let her sink deeper. He would pull her out in his own way, he would bring her up in his own way. That's just how he could define him as himself.
"We're gonna be spartanly busy, huntress."
Comforting wasn't Senku's forte, maybe he's placed lowest on the bar for it from his blunt words for people who had fragile heart. Still, he wanted to do his best because he understood one thing; between all things and unfathomable responsibility resting on him, he found her happiness made it to the list.
For personal reasons, Ishigami Senku wanted Ogasawara Shinko to always be happy.
It felt foreign, but welcoming at the same time. Tingles of warmth encasing his chest like a loose cocoon of comfortable blanket during winter–toasty and gentle. He couldn't remember when did such thing started to show. It didn't disturb him, that's why he's not insistently trying to scrubbed it clean with all his might.
Maybe, when the time was right, he would understand this alien feeling.
Note: the angst (?) is finally here!