Chapter 48 Seeing the World.
Hello everyone! We're going through 2023 and I'd like to believe progress is being made. Of course it's not over yet and there are still plenty of things to come. I just hope my sanity can hold on. For all the short comings, this could be a good year for anime at least.
Anyway, I hope you enjoy this chapter.
Eri stirred awake, their eyelids fluttering open greeting the morning sun that bathed the entire room. Eri sprang out of bed. Sakura showed her where to find all of her clothes and allowed her to pick out her own. It was intimidating to think about when all she had to wear was a worn-out white dress. But Sakura assured her that Eri could call if she was having trouble.
There weren't that many clothes but to Eri it was. She eventually found something that was comfortable and suited for the warm weather.
She wore
After a knock on the door, Eri heard the knock on the wood and saw Sakura waiting for her.
"Good morning,"
Eri's eyes shined, "Good morning,"
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Sakura found that Eri didn't enjoy being idle which was like most children but unlike most children, she wanted to consume her time in being productive and helpful in the grinding tasks of the day, rather than leisurely playing. She wanted to help with chores in any way she could, despite Sakura's insistence that was and should be playing and exploring. But there was a sense of satisfaction that Eri experienced when she was able to help Sakura even with the smallest tasks. She was too cute for Sakura to turn away.
Sakura always tried to do things that would be enjoyable for her.
So for today, Sakura was taking Eri through the delicate steps of pancake creation.
Eri was in charge of mixing the ingredients, her movements reminiscent of a hesitant breeze trying to find its rhythm. But with Sakura's gentle guidance, Eri's confidence grew, each stroke of the whisk blending the ingredients.
Sakura and Eri stood side by side at the small hotplate, its warmth radiating like a tiny sun. Sakura's hand held over Eri's, as they flipped the pancakes together. The sizzle and pop of the batter meeting the heat became a harmonious duet.
"Smells nice…." Eri exhaled. Sakura smiled.
"Ready to flip?"
"Mm!"
"One, two….three!" Sakura raised Eri's wrist and the pancake was in the air like a fish leaping out of water, flipping on the other side.
"Perfect landing!"
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Seated at the quaint wooden table, Sakura and Eri found themselves captivated by the sight before them. Their plates, like vibrant works of art, boasted a colorful array of pancakes, adorned with a delicate cascade of juicy berries. Eri's eyes, as if harboring the very essence of anticipation, flickered with a restless eagerness.
With a contented sigh, Sakura settled into her seat. Her gaze met Eri's, filled with a mix of encouragement and anticipation.
"Okay, Eri, it's time for the taste test."
With her small hand clasping the fork like a brave knight grasping his sword. She tentatively brought a morsel to her lips. As the sweet taste of the pancakes mingled with the succulent strawberries, her eyes widened in wonder. It was more than a mere indulgence; it was a sensation that tickled her taste buds with joyous abandon.
Sakura's gaze never left Eri's face. "Is it good?" she inquired, her voice carrying a tinge of excitement.
Eri nodded quickly, her cheeks still adorably plump from the feast she had devoured. She attempted to chew faster, desperate to voice her approval, but Sakura's interjected. "Careful, Eri," she cautioned, her words laced with tender concern. "You're going to choke if you do that."
Sakura then selected a pancake from the plate and began eating. Eri watched with her anticipation.
"This is good!" she exclaimed, her eyes alight with a mixture of delight and pride. "You mixed it so well, Eri!"
A rosy blush tinted Eri's cheeks, her lips twitching as if attempting to summon a smile. It was a feat she had not yet accomplished, but Sakura could feel the tendrils of progress winding their way through the young girl's heart. Each interaction, each shared meal, brought them closer to chasing away the lingering shadows that haunted Eri.
"I like the berries," Eri said. Sakura learned that Eri enjoyed fruits more than any sweet. Apples, in particular, had woven themselves into her affections, claiming the title of her favorite with unwavering certainty.
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"Sakura, look at this!" Eri's voice, filled with a familiar excitement, pierced through the air, causing Sakura's heart to skip a beat. The memory of the last time Eri had called out in such a manner flooded Sakura's mind—a perilous encounter with a beehive hidden in the treetops, a dangerous situation that she had swiftly whisked Eri away from. Without wasting a moment, Sakura rushed over to where the little girl knelt on the forest floor, her pulse quickening with a mix of anticipation and caution.
Her eyes followed Eri's gaze, landing upon a small, squirming creature. It was a mole, its tiny paws working diligently to tunnel its way back into the embrace of the earth.
"That's a mole, Eri."
"What's a mole, Sakura?" she inquired, her voice a fragile whisper of innocence.
Sakura crouched down beside Eri, a warm smile gracing her features. She searched for the words, crafting an explanation that would resonate with the young girl's inquisitive mind.
"Well, Eri, a mole is like a secret gardener. It spends its days digging tunnels under the ground. And when it's ready, it pops up to say hello."
As Sakura indulged Eri's insatiable appetite for knowledge, she couldn't help but revel in the joy of their shared moments. She cherished the opportunity to nourish the girl's thirst for discovery. However, beneath the surface, a hint of concern lingered within Sakura's heart. The abandoned house they now called home, the untamed wilderness that encircled it. It was becoming a refuge for Eri, a shield from the rest of the world, and that concerned Sakura because she knew that Eri couldn't have permanence in a place like this.
Of course, Sakura longed for Eri to trust her, to confide in her. But she understood that she couldn't be the permanent solution to the little girl's trials. There was a big world out there, and Sakura wasn't going to make the best guide. But that was a bridge she would cross when it came to. At the least, she could prepare Eri to face the rest of reality.
She would do whatever it took to help Eri find her strength, to guide her towards a life where she could flourish. The wilderness may have been their current haven, but Sakura's ultimate goal was to nurture Eri's resilience so that she could embrace the world, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
The mole, having vanished beneath the earth, became a symbol, a reminder of the beauty that can be found even in the hidden depths. And Sakura, like the mole, knew that sometimes, growth and discovery could only happen by venturing beyond the confines of comfort and safety.
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The bedtime routine followed as normal, Sakura was trying to make sure that Eri didn't go to sleep too late. Of course, she realized that she probably shouldn't have fed the girl that much sugar today. Since they had to read three stories before Sakura received the first signal yawn from Eri.
Eri was looking out at the moon, Sakura wanted to put up something for curtains but Eri said she liked watching the stars and the moon at night.
Sakura, perched on the edge of the futon, "Eri, do you want to go to the zoo?"
Eri's brows furrowed in confusion, her young mind grappling with the notion. "The zoo?" she repeated, her voice a delicate murmur.
Sakura smiled warmly, her voice laced with excitement. "Yes, the zoo! It's a place where we can see all kinds of animals."
Seeing Eri show such a fascination for other creatures, gave Sakura the idea to use the zoo as bait to lure Eri out of the woods and back to the city. A bit ironic, but still. Eri needed to broaden her comfort zone.
Eri hesitated, her uncertainty weaving a delicate tapestry in her mind. She glanced up at Sakura, her eyes searching for reassurance. "But what if they find me?" she whispered.
Sakura's expression softened, her hand gently brushing a lock of hair behind Eri's ear. "Oh, sweetie," she cooed, her voice filled with unwavering confidence. "I'm gonna be right with you every step of the way and I won't let you out of my sight." Her voice grew in confidence, "And I'll let you in on a little secret," she continued, her voice conspiratorial. "No one can beat me, you know why?"
Eri shook her head.
Sakura whispered, "Because I'm a ninja."
Eri's eyes widened with wonder, her voice a fragile melody. "A ninja?"
Sakura settled herself beside Eri, her voice carrying the weight of ancient tales and hidden strengths. She spoke as if she was telling a story. "A ninja is someone skilled in the art of stealth and fighting. It's their job to protect people and fight against bad guys."
Eri listened intently, captivated by Sakura's words. The concepts of heroes and villains were foreign to her, yet in Sakura's tales, she found a glimmer of something extraordinary.
'I probably should've explained the concept of heroes and villains to her in this world,' That was yet another topic she hadn't touched on with Eri yet but there were other matters to deal with now.
"Eri, I will protect you, no matter what," Sakura promised, her voice imbued with unwavering determination.
"But what if they hurt you?"
"If I ever get hurt, I have the power to heal any wounds. Besides I'm much stronger than most of those guys anyway," Sakura stroked Eri's head. "You should get to see the world and experience things that will make you happy. Don't let them steal that away when they aren't even here. I will make sure nothing happens to you, no matter what. That's my solemn promise."
Sakura extended her pinky finger, a gesture that held immense significance in their world. Eri's brow furrowed in confusion, unfamiliar with this unspoken bond, but Sakura patiently explained the meaning of a pinky promise. With a smile, Eri reached out, her tiny finger interlocking with Sakura's, sealing their vow of protection.
As they lay in the stillness of the night, the weight of their promise hung in the air, a shield against the uncertainties of the world. Eri closed her eyes, feeling the warmth of Sakura's presence envelop her like a comforting embrace. The zoo, once a daunting prospect, now held the promise of adventure and wonder. In Sakura's arms, Eri began to believe that there was a future where she could explore the world with wide-eyed curiosity, knowing that her protector, her ninja, would always be by her side.
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It had been two days since Sakura had gently suggested the idea of taking Eri to the zoo. In those two days, Eri's mind had been a whirlwind.
As Sakura stood in the yard, hanging up freshly laundered clothes on the line, Eri approached her timidly.
With hesitant words, Eri finally found the courage to express her desires. "I... I want to go to the zoo,"
Sakura turned to face Eri. She could sense the anticipation that swirled within Eri's gaze. The request, seemingly simple, carried with it a profound meaning—a yearning for freedom, discovery, and a glimpse of the world beyond the confines of their secluded haven.
A gentle smile graced Sakura's lips, mirroring the first light of dawn illuminating the horizon. She understood the significance of this moment, the profound step Eri was taking toward reclaiming her stolen childhood.
"Yes, Eri," Sakura replied. "We will go to the zoo."
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Sakura felt a tingling unease in the pit of her stomach as she prepared to take Eri on their journey to the city. It wasn't the possibility of being seen, they weren't even going to be staying in that part of the city and would be catching another bus and train further out. No, her concern lay in ensuring that this outing would be a source of joy and wonder for Eri, a respite from the horrors she had endured.
As they boarded the bus, Sakura guided Eri to a seat by the window. Eri's wide-eyed gaze, akin to a deer caught in headlights, drank in the sight of the passing farmlands, the fields stretching out like a patchwork quilt beneath a vast, open sky.
"Those people working in the fields, Eri," she began, her words a comforting melody amidst the rumbling of the bus engine. "They're called farmers."
"What are they doing there?"
Sakura spoke coyly, "Oh they're going to grow a bunch of yummy fruits and vegetables,"
"Ah!" Eri turned back to the window and watched as the bus passed by.
The bus rumbled along, traversing the distance between the tranquil countryside and the vibrant heart of the city.
As they neared the city's embrace, Sakura whispered a promise to Eri. "Remember, Eri, I will be here with you every step of the way.."
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They eventually made it to their stop after two bus rides and a bullet train. When they were getting off, Eri held onto Sakura's hand tight as instructed and kept her hair tucked under her hat. This was the most effective way to hide her horn as well. Sakura had done the same, sporting a baseball cap to tuck in her short hair. It was unlikely that they would be spotted, but she intended to get Eri through this day unscathed.
Eri stood at the edge of the bustling street, her eyes darting nervously from face to face, her petite frame nearly swallowed by the sea of bustling bodies. Every passerby seemed like a potential threat. Each step taken by a stranger sent a shiver down her spine.
Her breath came in short, shallow gasps as anxiety clenched at her chest, threatening to suffocate her. Eri's trembling hands gripped the edges of her coat, seeking solace in the soft fabric that offered a fragile shield.
"Don't worry, Eri. I'm right here," Sakura whispered, her voice a soothing melody amidst the chaotic cityscape.
"We pinky promised," Sakura continued, a soft smile playing on her lips.
Eri's tense features softened, a faint spark of trust lighting up her eyes. She allowed herself to lean into Sakura's presence. At that moment, the bustling streets faded into the background.
Together, they moved through the city. Sakura's watchful gaze swept over their surroundings, a protective shield shielding Eri from any lurking danger.
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Finally, they reached the entrance of their destination. Sakura paused, her hand tightening around Eri's. Eri's gaze fixated on the ornate gates before her. Her voice trembled with a mixture of awe and uncertainty. "This is a zoo?"
Sakura nodded, her voice soft and laden with hope. "That's right. We're going to go see all the animals, ready?"
With a gentle tug, Sakura guided Eri through the gate.
Eri's wide eyes darted from one exhibit to another, her gaze shifting like a compass needle. Sakura guided Eri along the winding path. Sakura pointed out the vibrant plumage of exotic birds. She described the harmony of the animal kingdom and any questions Eri had for her.
As they continued their exploration, Eri's wonderment blossomed.
The zoo pulsed with life as Sakura and Eri took off. They meandered along the pathways, the air was heavy with the scent of foliage and the distant murmur of animal calls.
Sakura led Eri to the mini aquarium. They stood before the glass tanks, where a kaleidoscope of fish swam with graceful abandon. Eri's eyes widened, reflecting the iridescent hues that danced before her. The fish, are exotic and unfamiliar.
"These fish wouldn't be found in the forest," Sakura explained.
Eri continued to watch them, the comparison to the enigmatic fish painting colors upon her cheeks.
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As they moved forward, Sakura's hand securely nestled in Eri's, when they came to the elephant enclosure. The sheer size had marveled Eri and the way it moved its trunk to eat and drink.
They went further, encountering giraffes grazing on treetop leaves, their necks reaching toward the heavens. Zebras, adorned in their distinctive black-and-white stripes. Flamingos, bathed in hues of rose and coral, waded through shallow waters.
"Sakura, they're pink!" Eri exclaimed, her voice brimming with excitement. Sakura couldn't help but sense that Eri's joy stemmed from a connection, a parallel between the vivid hues of the flamingos and Sakura's own vibrant hair.
A few steps away, they approached the tiger exhibit, where the regal beasts prowled behind sturdy enclosures. Eri's eyes widened at the sight of their fierce grace, their untamed power held in check. But as she ventured too close, the tiger roared, a symphony of raw dominance that rattled her to her core.
Startled, Eri sought solace in Sakura's comforting presence. She knelt down, her voice a soothing lullaby amidst the storm.
"It's alright, Eri. The tiger can't get through the enclosure. You're safe here with me,"
With a gentle tug, Sakura guided Eri toward the tiger cubs. Their soft fur and curious eyes softened Eri's fear.
Leaving the tigers behind, Sakura led Eri to a corner of the zoo that resonated with simplicity and warmth—the petting zoo.
Eri's eyes widened as she surveyed the scene before her. Unlike the forest animals that she had been cautioned against approaching, here, there were no high cages or bars. Instead, goats, sheep, chickens, ponies, calves, and rabbits roamed freely, inviting interaction.
"You can feed and pet these animals, Eri," Sakura explained.
Eri hesitated, uncertainty clouding her gaze. Tentatively, she approached the goats and sheep, her small hands extending with trepidation. The animals, gentle and patient, welcomed her offerings. A small goat bleating after it cleared half of the food in Eri's hands.
Then, Eri stood before a group of rabbits, their twitching noses and velvety ears captivating her attention. Sakura noticed her hesitation and plucked one of the rabbits from the ground and placed it gently into Eri's waiting arms.
As Eri cradled the warm, fluffy creature in her hands. It was in this moment, as she witnessed the delicate bloom of a smile on Eri's face, that Sakura glimpsed the echoes of innocence, the promise of healing.
"It's so cute," Eri breathed.
Sakura covered her mouth, her eyes trembling, 'She smiled,'
That's all folks! Don't worry you can find the new chapter schedule on my Tumblr page along with a few other projects that are progressing, soon enough I will be able to share and I'll tell you where.
Until next time!
MEMBERS NOW:
-Kunoichi amongst Heroes chapter 49, 50, 51
-Kunoichi amongst Heroes movie
-Kunoichi amongst Pirates chapter 17, 18, 19
-Through the looking Glass chapter 16, 17
-Through the Spyglass chapter 1,2,3
-Crossroads of Fate chapter 12, 13
Public Post 30 August
-Kunoichi amongst Heroes chapter 49
-Kunoichi amognst Pirates chapter 16
