Description
=========================SCENE II=========================
After the full recovery thanks to Chiyo; I too was escorted from the woods by her. Before I could take another step Chiyo grabbed my arm.
“I know you like to make fashion statements but, this is something the public isn’t accustomed to seeing just yet...”
After she said that; Chiyo reached for my head, flicking it. Instantly a flash appeared above my sight; already noting she removed the seal. With that, I felt a slow inclination as if Symbi was somewhere far within my mind – harboring a mild distain. Chiyo seen the look of concern on my face and added.
“My child, do not see this as a setback; more so a step needed in clarity. How good is a friend if one cannot acknowledge differences?”
When Chiyo said that; it returned the thought that I should get to know Symbi better. Despite the bitter feeling within; I just want to hear Symbi’s reasoning. I want to be there for Symbi; Chiyo had more to say.
“As for you familiar; just ask before taking Leah’s body...”
After the jest, I felt nothing but, a bit of disgust coming within; along with the irony that I had given myself to Symbi when we first met – Chiyo somewhat felt this and can only chuckle.
“Anyway, shoo; you keeping my Ayame waiting.” Chiyo said gesturing
I gave a weary expression in reminder so before going I bowed before the Elder; looking forward to our meeting in the morning. I can only hope that Symbi would behave then; least trying to ingrain that wish for Symbi to read in my mind. From there I started my mild jog out of the park; Chiyo just sat there looking before she couldn’t see me anymore.
-----
Coming up the street; along the way I seen the crowd standing before the television shop – when I slowed I seen everyone watching the Osaka News broadcast. Seems like I should expect this news station to be on top of everything that is involving Symbi and I for they are discussing the sudden explosion at Minoo Park.
I stood to watch; to see what was captured – eyewitnesses explained the bastion of light appearing out of nowhere. Others expounded on how they were blown away by the sudden force coming from the forest. As I was hearing the statements come from the station as well as the crowd – an alien yet familiar voice hissed in my mind.
“I Will... Do wHAt iT TAkeS... to PRoTecT Leah... TO prOtECt wHAt iS DeAr to her...”
I held my head as a bit of those memories were being forced into me; seeing the confrontation for myself. I felt Symbi’s anger in this; not only her anger but her passion in who I cared for. Whether this injection was out of spite in me wanting to know; it was refreshing. Refreshing that Symbi didn’t want to hide anything from me but, as the memory was trailing – I heard a low tone.
“Truuuuussst...”
In the instant I tried speaking to Symbi but, nothing returned; no rebuttal, no clause – just that word lingering within the space that is my mind. Despite the ill emotion coming; I tried to stay strong for the both of us – thus I continued my way toward Ayame.
A few blocks later; I seen the most precious sight standing before Toshiro’s café – Ayame. My eyes gleamed as I ran up to her jumping for the hug; Ayame didn’t change her position one bit, making this hug of mine confirmed in contact.
Ayame sighed, “Took you long enough; finally found your way I presume?”
“Uh, yes! Nothing would keep me from you Aya!” I returned
“So Elder Chiyo helped you out.” Ayame said
A flush of red came over me; Ayame lent a mild giggle – though this was short lived as Ayame was ready to get inside.
“Well let’s go; hopefully some soup for the soul will calm the storm.”
Soon as Ayame said that; I immediately knew what she was referencing, in that I take her heartfelt statement into consideration. I do feel undoubtedly famished and could use something; for both Symbi and I.
Entering the café; patrons of all kinds yield to keep this place empty. The energy is so vibrant along with the interior color scheme of deep reds, golds, and green’s with white centering everything between the celling and floor. Before Ayame and I take another step; we was greeted by the over so gracious owner; Mr. Toshiro himself.
“Why hello ladies, welcome to Oodles of Noodles – where we thread finest noodles into silk.”
I couldn’t help but, to giggle at such a tagline – so creative and each one is never the same. However all has a relation to noodles; Mr. Toshiro seen my expression – adding to the mix.
“Aha, I see someone likes the new tagline?” he said
“Yes very much so; I can use a bit of that silk to drape my interior.” I returned
Toshiro laughed, “Of course! Right this way.”
As we were walking toward our designation; Mr. Toshiro started his discourse.
“So Ayame I hope your day is good; how’s that team of yours coming along?” he asked
“I am well; and the team is coming along.” Ayame answered
“Mhhn, I see, I look forward to the conference; I’ll make it a special outing here at the café for the townsfolk. We are thinking about extending the venue outside to make it like a barbeque – you know how the American’s do it.”
“Ooo, that sounds so cool!” I expressed
“Mhm...” Mr. Toshiro sounded as he was seating us, “... Speaking of specials, are you still willing to try everything m’dear?”
When he said that; it finally clicked that I missed doing so on that day I was late to school.
Abashed, “Oh god, I am sooooooo sorry Mr. Toshiro – I got caught up on that day.”
Mr. Toshiro just busted laughing, “It is okay darlin, I know you have a busy schedule but, I always look forward to your coming no matter what time or day it is.”
“D’awwww Mr. Toshiro...”
He gave his genuine expression to my own; now flipping out his notepad ready to take our orders.
“Alright ladies, what would be on the menu today...”
From there, Mr. Toshiro started to take our orders – Ayame genuinely ordered her traditional dish while I ordered my own Miso soup along with one of the specials. It being a side of traditional french fries; while we waited for our meal – Ayame opened the discussion.
“So how was the elder?” Ayame asked
I was a bit surprised at the sudden subject but, I shouldn’t be – I should have known this would come up.
“Oh...” I paused in thought, “... well the master shown me a few things; helpful things.”
“Master?” Ayame raised her brow, “Interesting, so you are willing to undertake the martial art?”
I nodded, “Yes, I really want to learn. I want to know why a punch a thrown and how I a kick is done. I can’t be living in this ignorance – so master Chiyo offered her help.”
Out of that; a joyous expression left Ayame, I never seen such a satisfied face.
“Well then this will be quite interesting indeed; I am a bit excited to see what the elder would teach you – I already have an inkling on what style you would be introduced to...”
To hear that from Ayame; was the most pleasing statement to hear – only reminding me of the other detail of this contract made.
“Wait, does that mean I am your classmate right?” I asked
“Apparently but, only on rare occasions.” Ayame folded her arms
I pouted a bit for I still wouldn’t be around Ayame for a grand duration of time; she continued with her words.
“In this, I can say that you have learnt a great deal from your experience with the elder?”
After hearing that statement; I immediately thought of the confrontation I had with her, then of the tender moment within her cottage; then.
“Truuuusssssssst...”
My expression changed as the sudden whisper made way; Symbi hissing the word through my mind – lingering through its echo.
“Mmph” I sounded
Ayame had taken notice of my facial definition. Noting the struggle within; Ayame had a message for the both of us.
“Is everything okay L.A.?” she asked
I nodded hesitantly, “Y-yes, everything is fine.” Looking to the side
Soon as I did our food was delivered by Mrs. Toshiro herself; giving her usual greeting.
“Oh my babies how are you!”
As she was laying the plates down Mrs. Toshiro came down and gave me a peck on the cheek – while still straddling Ayame’s meal on her arm. Then coming over to Ayame doing the same; we both gave our answer rhythmically but, similar yet different answer.
“We are fine...”
“We are doing great.”
Mrs. Toshiro clasped her hands; giggling happily.
“That is splendid to hear...”
She then opened the conversation.
“So have you two heard about what happened at Minoo Park?”
“Mhm.” Ayame sounded
“Yes...” I said quietly
“I couldn’t leave the kitchen but, our patrons were expressing seeing a blue light in the distance. The news only caught the aftermath; continuously doing the report along with their scientific annalist.” Mrs. Toshiro said
“Word surely travels fast.” Ayame added
“Indeed, especially when our new heroine appeared; speaking of her, I wonder if she was involved with what happened at Minoo Park. I hope that cutie is okay; I don’t want anything to go wrong with her.”
When Mrs. Toshiro addressed her concern; I was a bit choked up, to least know someone out there cares for us. I’ve had mixed feelings on the current situation – Symbi spoke to me again.
“Don’t you trust me; MY Leah?”
Feeling Symbi’s frustration along with its depression translated onto my own foundation; Mrs. Toshiro noticed and called out to me.
“Is everything okay hun?”
Placing a hand on my shoulder; I was snapped back into the current reality, I looked up to her and gave a weary smile.
“Y-yeah, I am fine; just a bit scatter brained is all...” I said, “... the food is good.”
“D’awww honey, if there is something wrong you can tell auntie here ya?”
Mrs. Toshiro leaned in for the hug; her motherly like body groping my own, it is refreshing to have since I needed it. After the embrace she combed my hair a bit; looking down at the finished plate.
“I see you still have a big appetite; I hope the food filled you with the love it has.” Mrs. Toshiro said, “I’ll get this out of your way; I know you have desert waiting for ya at the kitchen so I will be right back with it.”
Soon after the statement; Mrs. Toshiro picked up my plates – making way back into the kitchen. Now alone again with Ayame, giving the advice she wanted to give before our consumption.
“I feel that it is in your best interest to become familiar with the issue at hand. Remember, to make every step count and nothing is ever useless.”
Reading between the lines; I understood what Ayame wanted of me – however I addressed my mild concern in walking home alone.
“So, um; you don’t want to come with me?” I pouted
“L.A. you are a big girl; I feel you should make this walk alone – least to gain any vibe from within. If anything was to happen; you know I would be there...” Ayame addressed
“Promise?” I milked into the words
“Hmph” Ayame sounded, “You already know the answer to that – for now enjoy the night.”
“Fine, I’ll go but...”
I got up from my chair; coming over to Ayame giving her a hug.
“Thank you for helping the both of us.” I whispered
I rose from Ayame’s ear, giving one last word.
“Have a good night Ayame; enjoy the rest of your meal – sorry I didn’t get to enjoy the desert.”
Ayame raised her hand, “No problem, there is always next sunrise; for now just let your mind go.”
I nodded before making my way to the exit; soon as I did, Mrs. Toshiro came out with the desert – looking in my direction as I was already outside. She questioned Ayame.
“Oh, Leah is going so soon?”
“Yeah, just to clear her head.” Ayame responded
“Ooouh, I hope she will be okay.”
Ayame looked toward the window; having her own thought about the situation.
---
Walking down the street; I get to see the splendor that is the night of Osaka City, this trek without Ayame felt so alien. Reminded, I taken her advice to least sort things with Symbi but, I got nothing happening. The thought within prompted me to look up toward the stars; as I did, it felt as if it was conveying what was happening.
I never felt so distant; so doubtful in what I wanted to do. I want to help Symbi; I really do but, I don’t know how. Suddenly I felt a throbbing in my head; the vision before me was becoming distorted – my balance being tested. Then a voice spoke to me.
“... WE aRe PuRE...”
Symbi speaking in broken verses; at the same time I felt something crawling around my hand. As I looked, it was tipped with Symbi’s being as sharp claws; continuing its way up my arm as crystalline flesh started to protrude. I held my arm in an attempt to stop it from happening but, to no avail – that was when the second verse was spoken.
“...iT is WHY I cHoSE LEAH...”
The clothes I was wearing was becoming shredded – becoming a part of this transformation I was undergoing. Now Symbi transfigures my shoulder coming up my neck and down my back; my chest becoming exposed.
“...OUr TRUe PoweR WiLL bE rEAlized...
My hair now being coiled into tendrils flowing wildly; my body started to radiate the blue aura from before. My concern grew as I am still around people; fearing for their eyes having to see this manifestation before them. I don’t want to hurt anyone; I don’t want to bring harm – then another verse.
“...YOU hUMaNS nEEd to be PUNISHED... YoU ArE tHe siNNeRs...”
“... tO ReaCH our ApEX... ... I hAVe to SHed SoMe bLOod...”
Then I felt the final verse of Symbi’s prose; completing my transformation into our corrupt form.
“TO SAVE THIS SINFUL WORLD!!”
My eyes widened; all I can do is scream in my desperation.
“NooOOOOooooOOOoooo...”
Suddenly I heard a voice.
“Leah, hey Leah!”
I snapped back into reality; only to be visited by one handsome face – Bakurou looking at me with concern as he held my shoulder.
“Is everything okay?” he asked
Before I even answered; I looked at my hand, arm, even touched my hair. Nothing, Bakurou was a bit confused upon what I was doing but, I myself already knew what I was a victim of. Not delaying any further, I gave Bakurou his answer.
“I-I fine; just, a bit dreamy I guess...” I said
Bakurou chuckled a bit, “I see; well this night can be a bit captivating – I can see how one can be in awe.”
I couldn’t help but to be warmed by his statement; added to his own obliviousness to the ordeal. Though something struck me; he called me by name, in that I’ve let it be known.
“Wait. You called me by my name...” I said
Bakurou looked back at me, “Oh, yeah; isn’t what you wanted Leah?”
I blushed as he said it again; I never felt so high, least the one I am interested in saying my name.
“O-of course; you can say it as many times as you like. With me there is no formal setting!” I expressed
He couldn’t help but to laugh; rubbing the back of his head.
“It is an honor to address you by your name.” Bakurou said, “By the way, where is Ayame? I usually see you two always together.”
“Well...” I twiddled my thumbs, “... she encouraged this of me. To like – cool off after all the complications today presented; school and such.”
“Ah I see.” Bakurou placed a hand on his chin, “Yeah you should relax. Tonight is a good night; aside from all the buzz going on – it is something one must enjoy.”
“Yeah...” I said quietly, then I worked the courage to ask, “Say, do you mind walking me the rest of the way home?”
Bakurou looked at me, “Sure. I have to know this area better so this would be a good opportunity.”
“Mhmm, I will call it; the ‘Experience of Osaka’ by Akemi Leah...” I said
Again Bakurou was tickled by the expression, “I see why Ayame speak so highly about your acting career; you sounded very genuine.”
In that I never felt so warmed by a statement; then again it’s coming from Bakurou. Funny enough I am not getting any ill vibe from Symbi. More so of a curiosity though still remaining silent but, I can be thankful that it doesn’t want to ruin this moment for me. Adrift in thought, Bakurou extended his hand.
“Shall we; I am very eager to see what you call home.” He said
I happily accepted his hand; beaming with a smile.
“Of course, right this way!”
Immediately after I started pulling him in my excitement; Bakurou followed along with my movement. Before we even hit the second block; Bakurou said he didn’t mind a casual trek – not wanting to rush what night we can soak up. I was a bit embarrassed as I did jump the gun; but quickly rectified by keeping myself on his arm as we walked. I’m glad he didn’t mind me doing so – enjoying this walk as we observe the night.
---
Coming up to my house; I looked up at Bakurou, just to see his head turning everywhere – observing the suburbs. I couldn’t help but to question it.
“So you never had been in an area like this?” I asked
Bakurou’s attention was caught, “Yeah, as embarrassing at this sounds; I only know the city. If you remember I live out in the village outside of Osaka.”
I smacked my own head in the realization, “How can I forget; forgive me I just, find it really interesting seeing you like this.”
“Don’t worry about it Leah; if anything you are doing me a big favor.” Bakurou smiled, “This area look so nice.”
I smiled in return, “I am glad you like it...”
Then we stopped before my house; standing before the two stories that it is – I made sure to give Bakurou a nice introduction.
“And this; is the crème de la crème – L’etendue de L’amour. Habite par la famille Akemi.” I said
[S/N: L’etendue de L’amour = “the expanse of love”]
Bakurou’s eyes were fixated onto the house.
“Wow, this is a pretty nice place; I can definitely feel good vibes coming from here.” Bakouru folded his arms; he then looked at me.
“I didn’t know you spoke French Leah. When did you learn it?”
“Oh.” I blushed, “Well I learned it from my father a bit; I was so enthralled that I have taken classes during my high school years.”
“Awesome, I always wanted to learn something different as a language – though the opportunity never revealed itself.” Bakurou said
In action to his own dismay; he lowered his head, I came before him grasping his hands. He looked at me and me to him.
“Well, I can teach you if you like...” I said, “... I can roleplay as such a French teacher...”
After that statement; the both of us blushed, Bakurou more so – whether it was something already swirling in his mind or just the directness of my approach; he understood my commitment as an actor.
He chuckled, “Your dedication cease to amaze me; I’ll be an honor to learn from the Valedictorian of Osaka City University.”
I lent a warm smile, “Good, it would be my pleasure...”
Soon after the statement; I leaned in, giving Bakurou a hug.
“Thank you for taking me home; I enjoyed your company...”
During the action; he had his hands out, pondering if he should or should not return the same – in that I gave a giggle in the action.
“You suppose to hug back; silly...” I said
Once I said that, I felt his arms wrap around me; the embrace didn’t last that long but, it was enough to satisfy me. Now with the two of us standing before each other – he gave the first farewell.
“You have a good night Leah; hope you rest well.” Bakurou said
“You too, see you tomorrow.” I returned
I started backing up toward my house; not wanting this moment to end as I kept my eyes on Bakurou. Once I did make it to the door; I’ve let out a sigh – Bakurou gave his final wave to me and I returned the same. He then started his trek back home; my eyes kept on him till I didn’t see him.
=========================SCENE II END=========================
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=THE STALKER SERIES I <(R)> CH IV=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=//SCOURGE (P2) [TO BE CONCLUDED]//=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
>>> NEXT PART
TS Series I Revamp [CH IV - pIII]=========================SCENE III========================= Once I entered the house; I took my shoes off at the door. Before I could even make a few steps to the stairs; I was met with a hug on the side of me. “Leah!” my mother said, “Mmng, I am glad you made it home okay.” “Oh, you heard about it too?” I questioned She nodded, “Yeah, it was painted all over the stations of what happened at Minoo Park – I got concerned for you genuinely.” No matter what I would be reminded of what happened at that park. Though, I shouldn’t be surprised at all; my mother seen the blank look on my face – peering into my well-being. “Is everything alright ho...