sumicchin

[sumicchin]

aaa hello! might not be able to update the fic this week since I'm quite busy with school and art ;; pls have these sketches tho! ume with his hair down has me in a chokehold and I've been listening to dearvo brachi's latest album on loop so I imagined suo as joshua (pls check out dearvo istg esp zakki and tosshi fans)! I'm excited for suo's chara song!!!

[sumicchin]

Just wanted to say how much I love your series so far! Keep up the good work ❤️❤️❤️

Thank you so much!!! The support that this silly fic I started on a whim one afternoon because I didn't have wifi has been overwhelming. Will do my best to update whenever I'm free from irl stuff. Writing with winbre characters has been therapeutic for me ♡ Hope you have a great day!

[sumicchin]

CHIMES OF THE HEART

❃ a wind breaker (satoru nii) reader insert

Chapter 6

Umemiya regrets telling everyone that conversation = fist fight. (1.9k words)

cw: female reader, umemiya spoiler, tsubakino referred to as they/them, i made up stuff about makochi

"You're just going to let her go, Sakura?" Suo says next to him, eyes not tearing away from the direction you went.

Sakura clenches his fist, forehead scrunching from the sudden stress, "I..."

"(F/n) probably won't go out of town, r-right? She did say she had to find something! I'm sure we can help her out!" Nirei optimistically says as he catches up to the two after giving Kakiuchi to his other classmates. He takes a good look at Sakura's face and sees his eyes wide.

Sakura is reminded of your conversation last night—of how he saw himself in you, and how much pain your eyes held.

It wasn't his concern, but he knew you needed help. He wasn't letting anyone go through what he did before.

"Sa...kura?" Nirei attempts to calm him down, until he sees Sakura take out his phone.

He gestures his hand towards the phone and Nirei becomes even more confused, "I need to call him... he'll know what to do."

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Umemiya, despite his childhood, grew up to be a fine man. No one would imagine that a well-rounded guy like him, oh so cheery and charming, experienced hell on earth as a child. Anyone would feel bitter about losing their parents, and Umemiya was not free of that. He struggled, thinking he wasn't deserving of being saved.

Survivor's guilt.

But he grew to see what was important in front of him—to honor his parent's sacrifice by giving back love to those around him. To make everyone feel like family, and never let anyone feel like they're alone in this world.

"You're...amazing, Umemiya," you both stare into each other's eyes, holding massive respect for what he's been through and how he achieved his goals.

Umemiya chuckles, ruffling your hair, "I didn't tell you my story to pity me, you know? Was hoping you'd reconsider and stay here in Makochi, with us."

With...them?

It's too strange. Everyone in this town is strange. Were city folks always this welcoming towards outsiders?

"I don't want to keep bothering anyone...I can't go back to the shrine so I'm practically homeless." Supposedly, you were to be taken away by your husband after the vows, but now you aren't so sure if he's hot on your trail. But one thing was agreed upon—the shrine people and all its inhabitants except you were to remain unharmed. So long as you didn't go back to your previous residence, everyone was safe. Hayami, the friendly Mikos and the priest who you were thankful for secured the shrine. If anything else happens, Sojiro can take care of it. He was strong, unlike you. Everyone can trust in him.

Unlike you, already causing havoc in a new place.

"Sakura must be uncomfortable with me staying at his house," you mutter. "It doesn't sit right with me to live like everything's handed to me."

You're thankful, really, for the help you've received thus far. But how were you going to repay the kindness they've showered you with if your tracks only lingered with danger?

"You're all too kind... I'll carry the guilt of bringing danger to this town if I stay too long."

An overthinker that you are, Umemiya observes. "Makochi wasn't always like this, you know?"

He proceeds to tell you how Makochi used to be terrorized by delinquents day and night, the local businesses having trouble with their operations and families often fearing for their safety. Umemiya mentions a couple who led and funded the restoration of Makochi's properties, him in particular being a recipient of their kindness.

"The orphanage I grew up in was funded by a couple," he starts, pointing at the statue nearby the fountain. "I discussed the situation with the staff earlier and had my hunch confirmed. Everything checks out, you'd be the same age as their child if she were alive today. You're a split image of them too."

Then, that means...

He shows you a picture from his phone. Just like he says, you had their features.

Umemiya notices your trembling figure, immediately reaching out to pat the small of your back.

"I could've met my parents."

You grab Umemiya's blazer tight, tears threatening to fall from your eyes, "They're not gone yet, r-right? They're waiting for me?"

For once, you held onto hope—but Umemiya's look said otherwise.

"I'm...sorry," he says, almost whispering.

You couldn't help but let the tears flow uncontrollably, hanging onto Umemiya while he continued to calm you down in his own way. He knows the feeling all too well, and this time he'll be sure to help you out.

"Even if you were an outsider, we'd still help you to the best of our capabilities." He says, wrapping his arms around you, shielding you from any negative thoughts. "I...and the rest of Bofurin will protect you, (F/n)."

You look at Umemiya, giving you a bittersweet smile. "Welcome back, (F/n)."

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Sakura, Nirei, and Suo found themselves walking to the park where Umemiya had instructed them to go. They eventually find Bofurin's leader and (F/n) in an embrace.

"Oh, if it isn't my favorite first years!" The boys look at the new group approaching them, led by Tsubaki and the Sakaki twins.

Sakura immediately signals to keep quiet, earning him a chuckle from the newcomers. "It's all fine! Ume told us to gather here, didn't you receive a message?"

Nirei checked his phone and lo and behold was a message from their leader, "Ah! We were too occupied searching for (F/n)."

Suo lets out a grin next to him, "It all worked out in the end, thanks to Sakura's plan!"

Said boy became heated from the mention, saying it was all Umemiya who did the work. He knew it was the right call to let Bofurin's leader handle the situation seeing how at ease you were next to him. Almost like they were intruding a special moment between two lovers at the park. He blushes at the sight, feeling a pang in his chest.

Now aware of more people's presence, you immediately get out of Umemiya's embrace and bow your head down, not letting him see your puffy red eyes and runny nose that may or may not have gotten into his uniform. He places his hand on your shoulder and gently asks, "Think you can face them?"

Standing up to acknowledge his peers, you turn your head towards the large group of students now approaching their leader. "Yo! Looks like everyone's here," Umemiya scans the group, "Even Kaji came, that's surprising!"

Kaji tenses at the special mention and feels all of his peers stare at him. His vice-captains laugh and Enomoto talks for his defense, albeit in a teasing manner, "Kaji said he wanted to fetch his jacket back and definitely not because he was worried about 'er or anything." Now this puts a nail in the coffin and everyone swore Kaji would've pounced on his friends if it weren't for Hiragi pulling him back.

"You're all too lively," Tamon's captain says as he drags Kaji by the hoodie, "Give (F/n) a break, don't wanna overwhelm her."

You watch the boys bickering and Umemiya notices the faint smile from your lips.

"Fun bunch, aren't they?" You nod.

"You can trust them, just open your heart."

Trusting them, a couple of teenagers who seemed rough around the edges, with your heart?

Maybe you should let loose this time. Umemiya, Kotoha, and Sakura are just the few people you've met today, yet they all radiate the same warmth and comfort you've been yearning for all these years. If everyone shares the same kindness, you'd probably think you're living in some kind of fantasy.

Recalling Hayami's last request for you—to live an earnest and free life. Maybe you can trust them to achieve it.

In a daze, you didn't notice someone approaching you giddily, almost a hope to their step.

"I'm so glad you're doing better now!" A tall figure immediately stood in front of you, but it didn't phase you one bit. Their presence wasn't trying to intimidate you. "I'm Tsubakino Tasuku, but Tsubaki-chan or anything will do, love!"

Tsubaki lets out a wide smile, enthusiastic to see you well and standing despite your puffy eyes and cheeks. You stand still though, and this immediately raised a concern with everyone.

"A-ah, did I scare you—"

Your eyes suddenly twinkle with excitement, and you yell what was running on your mind without a filter. "You're really beautiful! Very much!"

"It's a great honor meeting you!" Shaking hands with Tsubaki, everyone was startled with the sudden change in personality. This was most likely the enthusiasm you've been hiding all these years, suppressed by loneliness. Umemiya beside the two of you finds your exchange with Tsubaki very endearing, already making notes on how he'll elicit this kind of reaction from you soon. Hopefully you like plants!

Tsubaki on the other hand was already enamored with you, listening to every word you say. "Your hair and the way you dress, and the makeup really accentuates your features! The ones I see in the magazine don't compare to Tsubaki-chan!" You stop your rambling and see Tsubaki endearingly smiling at you with a blush.

"S-sorry! I just, get too excited seeing new things." You chuckle and Tsubaki does too.

It's hard to resist not taking you out this weekend, Tsubaki thinks. The trip will probably take a huge hit on their savings, but money can always be earned. Seeing your smile is a reward in itself for Tsubaki.

Everyone watches as Tsubaki continues to coddle you, happy to see you engaging enthusiastically. Suo lightly pushes a blushing Sakura, whose romance sensor has been going rampant since earlier, towards you and Tsubaki.

"H-hey! What gives?!" Sakura exclaims towards his eye-patched friend who only signalled a gesture for friend, linking his hands together.

Oh right, you probably hate him right now for what he did earlier at Pothos. Tsubaki seemed to understand the situation with how tense the two of you were, patting your head before leaving to stand next to Umemiya.

Just you and Sakura again, this time not so comfortable. "U-uh...about what happened earlier," his mouth becomes pouty, struggling to look you in the eye but he does so anyway, "I shouldn't have forced the idea...s-so...sorry."

His irises were trembling, searching desperately for a reaction from you. Sakura, despite his tough and standoffish attitude, always meant well and tried his best to help his peers. Last night's conversation was purely between two aloof individuals, both yearning to be in the presence of others, yet their struggles distinct. Hearts that were afraid of being vulnerable, not knowing if they were worth of affection.

"You were just looking out for me," you trail, "It's me who should be apologizing...for being stubborn."

Similar to how Anzai tried to reject everyone's help during the fight with KEEL, there was no escape from Sakura's headstrong personality. He'll find a way to worm in and help you out. He was just that selfless.

"He probably filled you in already on how this town operates and stuff," Sakura points at Umemiya, referencing his request earlier during their phone call. "Violence isn't something this town's had enough of."

"So you don't have to worry about us. Don't be afraid of asking for help, that's just how it is here."

You were indeed afraid. The concept of friendship and trust blurry to you not until yesterday, with Sakura declaring he was there to help you out, as a friend. It was a foreign feeling, and the boy reciprocated the confusion you must've felt before his bold intrusion. Even he was surprised by his actions last night. Everyone in Makochi must've been rubbing off of him—in the best possible way.

So, he tries to apply what he's learned so far.

"If you're still not convinced, let's settle this with a fight."

Or not.

"H-hey now, there's a time and place for fighting Sakura." Nirei visibly sweatdrops, "You can discuss things with (F/n) like a normal person, you know???" The boy looks to his other side and sees Suo with an approving smile. This is hopeless, Nirei concludes.

"If you win, I'll let you do what you want. If I win, you stay here in this town and let us protect you."

Hiragi, Tsubaki, and Umemiya all look confused.

Kaji and his vice-captains are all in awe with Sakura's naivety.

The Sakaki twins think this is a regular Friday. They've heard about you and how you can fend for yourself, so front row seats to see the real deal were nice.

The two first years, Suo and Nirei, were concerned, but Suo was just a tad bit curious to intervene. Nirei on the other hand thought otherwise.

Surely you're not that crazy enough to actually go with it?

"Fine with me," you reply.

Nirei just wants to curl up and do the pillbug stance right now.

tag list: @wutap, @the2ndl

[sumicchin]

CHIMES OF THE HEART

❃ a wind breaker (satoru nii) reader insert.

CHAPTER 5

Makochi was too good for you. (2.5k words)

content warning: female reader, a bit angsty, violence

After having breakfast at Sakura's apartment, the Furin students went on their way to school. It was decided that you would stay with Kotoha while waiting for the first years to accompany you around town, saying that it's not safe to go alone in this situation.

"For real? That guy is wack in the head, good on you for escaping." Kotoha exclaims. Other than some elderly having their breakfast, it was just the two girls inside the cafe. From an outsiders perspective, it almost seemed like the two of you knew each other since birth from how loud you both were.

"But... it's not like I feel better now that you guys are involved in my problem," You sigh, feeling yourself open up to the brunette.

Kotoha gently puts down the cup she's been drying and puts her hand on your shoulder. She's dealt with these situations too frequently, but it's not like she's one to shy away from helping people "Hey, don't say that. Just because we haven't known each other for a long time doesn't mean you can't rely on others, we're more than happy to help you."

You just look at her silently, not knowing how to respond. The Mikos back at the shrine were kind and made great company, but not so much that you'd consider them friends. You were only there to protect them, humor their small talk during the many trips to the market, and maybe get to know a bit more about them, but not about you. The priest and Hayami were adamant on not letting you spend too much time with them. Kotoha who you've just met today on the other hand, was crossing a boundary you were unfamiliar with. Sakura must've felt the same way...

"Sorry...if I come across too touchy. It's a silly habit," she says with a warm smile. "Sakura was the same when he first arrived, and now look at him, hanging out with friends and all. It's a step forward to make him feel that he belongs, and hopefully...you can entrust this town and its citizens of your burdens."

Her words were simple, yet comforting. You were still conflicted, whether to overhaul these feelings of doubt on your own or entrust yourself to the people of Makochi. You went silent for a while, but Kotoha knew better than to probe. She patiently waits for your response.

"I... don't know what I did to deserve this kind of treatment, but thank you...for offering your aid."

Kotoha smiles and taps your shoulder, prompting you to look at her. "To get your feelings across much better, it's good to look at the person's eyes."

You look at Kotoha as per her advice and muster your courage to say, "Thank you."

"That's the spirit! So, how's the sandwich and coffee?" You're surprised at how good of a conversationist Kotoha is, able to lift your mood in just mere seconds. She's a good person...I can trust her.

Your plate had only half a chunk of the sandwich left, the warm coffee at least a thirds of the cup. "It's amazing! I've never had this kind of food back at the shrine."

Now Kotoha's more motivated to spoil you with all the city has to offer. "There's tons of places you can check out here in Makochi! Obviously my cafe is tons better but I'd love to see you try out everything." She starts going on a tangent, mentioning the Tsubaki person again and taking you shopping this coming weekend. It made you feel giddy and excited, but part of you was worried you'll attract unwanted attention. Never would you want Kotoha or anyone really to be in harm's way.

"That all sounds exciting. But maybe after my whole fiasco is settled...I don't want to break the peaceful environment here."

Kotoha visibly tenses at your statement, "Give Makochi a day or two, you'll have the full experience by then—"

Cueu a loud thud from the window.

Kotoha looks at the source of noise and just sighs, "That's a new record."

You see a crowd forming right outside the cafe, circling the lone student from Furin. Kotoha whips out her phone and starts dialing someone.

"I'll call the guys over—"

"Do you have a broomstick or anything similar, Kotoha?" She stares at you, but hands you a broomstick anyways. "I'll make sure to return it!"

You step out of the cafe, approaching the bruised student with the broomstick in hand. He coughs out blood and you irk, "Can you stand?"

He shakes his head and points at the large group of men, about ten or so.

"Oh, so yer the girl that took out our men."

"Ah, yeah...I already apologized though." You unapologetically say, and this irked some of the men. Your mentor would've done the same either, and he had the patience of a saint.

One of the tallest in the group comes forward and stares you down, hunching to meet your eye, "We were punished by our boss thanks to them embarassing us."

You stare back, "And why did you involve someone innocent? You're even worse than scum." Never did your words carry so much poison.

Sojiro would've been so proud of you right now.

The man goes for a punch, but you immediately dodge and go behind his figure, raising your broomstick and hitting swiftly at his nape. His body falls near the injured Furin student who looks up at you with amazement. You crouch down to his level, taking a good look at where he was hurt. Bruises on his head, cheeks swelling, and his dirtied uniform most likely hid even more gashes.

Pointing the broomstick at them, you face the group of men and yell, "You're all cowards for ganging up on a student. Apologize to him!"

They all charge towards you, yelling profanities that your ears blocked. You have no time to hear their idiocy, the task at hand is to quickly dispose of them without making a mess.

Unbeknownst to you, the Furin student had the energy to whip out his phone and record footage of the fight, sending the video to the Class 1-1 group chat.

Kakiuchi

Sent a video.

Happening rn at pothos!

Kotoha and the elderly patrons of Cafe Pothos watch from inside as you single out opponents with flawless footwork and quick strikes to the neck, rendering opponents still after being hit. "That little lady is quite the fighter," the old man says, watching with glee.

So this is what Umemiya and Hiragi meant, Kotoha thinks.

The Furin student sees his phone get bombarded by messages from the group chat just seconds later.

Kiryu

Lol (F/n) get their asses!!

Nirei

WHAT'S HAPPENING??!??!??

WHY IS (F/N) FIGHTING??!?!!?!!!

Tsugeura

SHE'S A BEAST HOLY CRAP

Anzai

DAMN?????

Suo

We'll be there as soon as we can

Not even a minute passed, all men were down and unconscious around you. You stretch after the tiresome workout, and wonder why your hand felt lighter than earlier.

The broomstick is now in half.

Sweating bullets, you refuse to look back at Kotoha and the Furin student who were calling out your name.

"(F/n)! Are you injured?" She says worriedly, inspecting your body for any signs of bruising. She found none thankfully, making her sigh of relief. "Thank you, for protecting us."

You refuse to look her in the eye but at the now two pieces of wooden sticks in your hand. Kotoha notices this and laughs, "Don't worry about that! It's just a broom."

"T-thank you!" The student says from his seat, "Please let me know how I can repay you!"

Your eyes light up from hearing it, "You don't have to really...but a broom would be nice."

"YOU BRAT!!!!!!" A familiar voice shouts from afar.

You suddenly gain the courage to face Kotoha and give her a pitiful look, mouthing the words please cover for me.

Sakura stomps and grabs both your shoulders and shakes you back and forth, "How hard is it to stay still?! You had us worried sick!!!!"

"Now, now, the deed's already been done. Not much we can do now," Suo says, looking at the pile of bodies. "You sure did a number on them (F/n), very impressive!"

Kotoha rips you away from Sakura's grasp, hugging your figure, "Can you go easy on her? (F/n) literally just saved us."

"It's my fault! Please don't get angry at her," the injured Kakiuchi who Nirei helped stand up says to his classmates. "I was on my way to school when they asked me about a girl who beat up the guys at the red light district. I was no match for them..."

So it really was your fault he got injured.

Sakura clicks his tongue and looks at his classmate sternly, "You could've called us! We swore to help each other out, didn't we!?"

Everyone looks at their grade captain who became embarrassed upon noticing he attracted the eyes of everyone, "All I'm saying is...don't do everything on your own, a-alright! We're a class for a reason!"

"And you!" Sakura points at your figure, hiding behind Kotoha, "From now on, someone's gonna look after you!"

Stepping away from Kotoha, you glare at Sakura dead in the eyes, "I refuse."

"What did you say?" Sakura huffs, looming over your figure, showing signs of annoyance.

"I said I refuse! Didn't you see how someone got injured because of me? Do you think I'd want any more of you to get hurt because of me?!"

He backs off, eyes wide and stunned. Kotoha stood her ground beside you, but she was clearly shaken by the sudden shift in you. Looking at Kotoha made you regret your words. It's like her words didn't get through you at all...

If you can't trust yourself, who will?

"You've all done enough to help me, but I'll have to do things on my own from now on. Please tend to his injuries well."

They all watch as you walk away.

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"OUCH!" Umemiya yelps as he holds up his pricked finger. Sugishita rushes to his side, band aid in hand.

"Thank you, Sugishita!"

"You seem... bothered," Sugishita mutters while tending to his upperclassman's small injury. Umemiya smiles, proud to know how perceptive his little brothers were.

He looks up at the sky, breathing in the fresh air brought by the downpour from yesterday. Umemiya recalls a day like this in his childhood, and he'd been thinking about it while tending to his seedlings. "Ah, I just remembered something. That girl, I knew she was familiar."

Sugishita has heard of the commotion you caused yesterday, but partly because Umemiya couldn't stop discussing it in private with Hiragi earlier. The boy was never one to pry, but seeing Umemiya this bothered him was a matter on its own. It must be very important.

Umemiya's phone ringing suddenly broke the two's trance. He was greeted with Sakura's handle. Must be really urgent if Sakura of all people was calling.

"Sakura! What's the matter?"

He waits for the boy to respond, prompting Umemiya to randomly say Sakura's name to check if it's him or if the call was a mistake.

He gave Sakura a few more seconds, and he finally heard him spoke through the phone.

"(F/n)...she left."

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You ended up walking at a park, people going by their day and spending time with their loved ones. Must be nice...

It was a fair weather compared to the last few days, so most families decided to make the most out of the opportunity for recreation. You hear a little girl cry, pointing at her balloon stuck on a tree while her mom calms her down. You didn't want to overstep, but the little girl was adamant on having her balloon and didn't want her mom to buy a new one.

Without hesitation, you climb and found yourself reaching for the balloon.

"Ah! Thank you, big sis!" The little girl says, her mother thanking you as well. Just as you are about to leave them, the little girl tells you to stay still and wait for her to come back.

"Big sis!" The little girl runs up to you and hands you an ice cream cone, "Thanks for getting my balloon back!"

The act of generosity surprised you, wanting to decline her offer and let her have the ice cream instead. "This is yours! Please take it, it has one of my favorite flavors!"

You watch as they walk off hand in hand. The ice cream in your hand had three scoops and looked a lot like the ones advertised in magazines. It was very delicious, like the little girl just said. The fact that someone else gave it to you out of gratitude added more to its value than just being a mere dessert.

This town was peaceful, with kind citizens inhabiting it.

You're just here to ruin it.

You kept walking around the park until you reached a fountain with a statue of a couple and their baby, peacefully sitting by the fountain's ledge. As soon as you find what Hayami and Sojiro entrusted you with, you'll be sure to be out of Makochi's borders.

Taking the time to rest before you make your move, the statue strikes you as odd now that you've paid attention.

A plaque beneath had a quote etched:

Where joy grows deep, sorrow must deepen; the greater one's pleasures, the greater the pain.

"That's...a quote from Kusamakura," you recall. Hayami and Sojiro often quoted this and told you of its meaning as a child.

"Oh...Our little ghost is quite the bookworm!" A familiar voice happily says out loud.

Turning your head to confirm your assumption, you see locks of swept white hair and large grey irises. "Ume...miya?"

"I'm glad you remember my name!" He points at the seat next to you with a grin, "Do you mind if I take a seat?"

You scooch over, making room for his large figure. He seemed very relaxed, contrasting your anxious self.

"So, how's Makochi so far?" He asks, looking at the citizens of the town who seemed aware of his presence as well, often waving when passing by.

"It's...cozy. The people here are nice to each other, almost like everyone's family."

The man lets out a satisfied hum, "And you're a part of it."

You let out a weak laugh, looking at Umemiya with a pitiful smile, "I've been here for a few days, and I'll take my leave after I finish my task. You can all pretend like I've never been here."

"Just like a ghost."

Umemiya frowns at your choice of words, almost thinking of lecturing you on the spot. He lets out a sigh, "I've heard about what happened earlier...I know it's hard to see someone get hurt, but you don't have to shoulder all the blame. Bofurin exists to protect everyone in Makochi, and that includes you."

"You guys are too kind...to a sickening and persistent degree if I might add," you scoff.

"If it gets you to feel welcome and accustomed here, then by all means, I'll become the most annoying person you're gonna know," Umemiya says, almost too seriously. "I'm here sitting next to you for a reason."

Curious about the sudden change in Umemiya's tone, you see him look sternly at the fountain statue. You've only seen him this morning, but you can tell this was not his usual demeanor.

Umemiya pauses for a moment, seemingly racking his thoughts before speaking, "Care to lend an ear for me, (F/n)?"

tag list: @wutap

[sumicchin]

sorry this isn't a fic update! was doing school stuff and currently working on some art stuff ;; I did sketch these scrimblos tho !!! will update once I get the time ~(>_<。)＼ also have u guys heard sakura and sugishita's chara song .·´¯`(>▂<)´¯`·. so good...yuumataso always gives his hundred percent when singing!!! I'm excited for suo, nirei, and hopefully kiryu since its zakki, chibasho, and tosshi (anisong recs check it out hehe)!! its been really fun to be here in the winbre fandom! will continue to support this series to the end ( •̀ .̫ •́ )✧

[sumicchin]

CHIMES OF THE HEART

❃ a wind breaker (satoru nii) reader insert.

CHAPTER 4

Violence is the answer to everything in this world (not really). (3.3k words)

content warning: female reader, original characters, character background, slight ooc i fear

When I was little, I often found myself looking forward to the sound of the wind chime as it danced with the breeze. It was fairly quiet inside the shrine when it was just Hayami, me, and a man named Sojiro while waiting for the officiants to inhabit the divine structure.

Furin was my only companion—acting as if its bell were telling me stories from the outside world. It's been there ever since I could remember, and no one bothered to place another one.

Just like the wind chime, I was alone.

While the grownups worked, I occupied myself with little tasks that my stubby fingers could manage. Sometimes I took out a book they had in the study and ran to the adults to ask what certain words meant. I became more involved with the shrine as I grew older, not as a Miko, but just as a random helper. 

I was essentially free to do what I wanted. So when I was 10, I expressed my wish to venture out of the shrine.

"Hey, old man," I greeted Sojiro, tending to the flowers near the statues. His head perked up upon hearing my voice and greeted me back. As odd as it sounded, Sojiro wanted me to call him that way despite his youthful appearance.

"Hi there, little miss," Sojiro says as he stands up to face me, "what's today's agenda?"

For as long as I can remember, Hayami and Sojiro have been caring for me since. I haven't really asked about their relationship, or who my parents were since there was no need to do so. I was fine with how things were for the past couple of years, but the books I read and my trips to the market while accompanying Hayami made me yearn for more.

And so I was determined to confront them that day.

I showed him the book I was carrying. Kusamakura by Natsume Soseki.

Not really something a ten-year-old would read, but I had nothing better to do in this shrine.

"Oh, that's one of Hayami's favorite novels," Sojiro says. "An artist sets on a journey in search of beauty and inspiration for life and art. It's a simple read but very worth it to understand what it's like to be an artist." The man beams, totally lost in his thoughts. I let out a sigh, "That's not what I came for, old man."

"Ah, my bad! You know I get too excited about stuff like that." Sojiro laughs and pats my head, "So, let's cut to the chase. You want to go outside, right?" He chuckles as soon as my face contorts to that of a shocked expression. Sojiro is a man full of secrets.

"H-how'd you know?"

He shows me his infamous grin with eyes closed, "It's a secret power of mine!"

He pats my head, ruffling it in the process, "But sorry kiddo, we can't really make that happen." Already rejected before I could speak the speech I prepared. "Hayami will explain to you once you're older, but right now you have to stay here, 'kay? Think of it as a special mission given by the gods!" I was about to sulk and curse whoever made that decision when Sojiro perked up, "But hey that reminds me! The priest decided to assign you as bodyguard for the Mikos." I let out an audible sound of confusion, telling him I barely knew how to throw a punch. The best I could do was to bite someone like a sewer rat.

"That's why I'm gonna train you starting tomorrow!"

By sheer determination and fear of being on the receiving end of Sojiro's sword and fist (both hurt equally), I became a competent bodyguard for the officiants at the age of 14.

"The wind feels very nice, doesn't it (F/n)?" Manami, one of the older Mikos, glances at the fully bloomed cherry blossom trees by the river.

"Yeah, pretty lucky we got to go out today!" I excitedly say. Becoming the bodyguard for the Mikos allowed me to at least go out more often. It was always fun accompanying the women of the shrine outside, teaching me all sorts of stuff that can't be picked up from books.

"The priest doesn't really trust outsiders let alone men to protect the girls, so he's hoping to rely on us, (F/n)." I recalled Sojiro's words on our first day of training. It was a day full of bruises, and many more came after that but the strength I currently possess made it all worth it. I find myself more comfortable fighting with a sword though, and Sojiro encourages me to keep at my training.

I established one rule as a bodyguard.

To never take someone's life.

The two of us continue talking, heading back to the steps leading to the shrine after buying gifts from the market. We were a few blocks away from returning to our refuge, until I felt a tug on my hakama's left sleeve.

"What is it, Manami?"

"Can we maybe, stay outside for a bit longer?" She timidly asks.

"But we promised to only go to the market," I reluctantly answered, but seeing her crestfallen face made me double take. I guess she's just tired of Miko duties...

"It's just for a moment, I promise! There's something I need to see."

She leads me to a shop that sold fireworks and the like.

"I'd like to get one of these for summer!"

I watched as she hurriedly went inside the shop, already browsing the many varieties of explosives. How do we hide the fireworks from Hayami and the priest, I deadpan.

I was too occupied with my thoughts, but I know for one someone in black just went past me. Still bothered by how I'm supposed to hide the fact we went somewhere other than the market, the scream of a woman registered late to me.

I hurriedly ran inside the shop and saw a dark-haired man in a suit dangerously near Manami.

"Let her go!" I yell as I grab the hilt of my sword.

Upon closer inspection, it became clear that the man was actually just a tall teenager from his features. He must be an artistocrat or something.

"Please fight outside my shop!" The shop owner yells to no avail.

"Are you cosplaying a samurai?" The boy hums, letting go of Manami. She stumbles back but was helped by the store owner. "She took the last sparkler I wanted to buy," he says mockingly while approaching me.

"But I've lost interest now." His tone suddenly drops, approaching slowly as he inspects me and my sword—and to say I'm frightened is an understatement. I've fought many men before, but his aura screamed something awfully dangerous.

I knew right then and there I'll die if I try fighting him.

"Is that sword for real? Must be serious business, huh?" he grins as he points at my sword.

I scoffed, "Wanna see for yourself?"

"Fine with me..." He raises his right arm, my grip on my sword's hilt and scabbard tightening, "been wanting to take out someone armed."

He swiftly tried to go for my neck, but I nearly blocked him with my sword, the blunt edge of the blade near my cheek and the sharper side near the man's wrist. "Don't move a muscle, or the blade will cut you."

His lips twitch, but not so much to pass as a grin, "I'll look forward to that."

Even though I tried resisting, his strength overpowered me by the end and I lost control over my blade. I stared helplessly as my sword fell to the ground, waiting for his fist to strike me. It

"You're interesting! Let's meet again when we're a bit older." He pats my shoulder, walking out of the store. "How about when we're both 16, 'kay?"

He walked unscathed out of the store as I scrambled towards Manami who was shaken.

She and I swore to never talk about the incident ever.

It was then that I realized I'm still weak.

Was I even fit to protect others?

Although I never wished to encounter that man again, the world had different plans for me.

Turns out he was just the start of this madness, and there were more to follow.

❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋

You watch the boy from across the room as he sleeps peacefully, just like a child after throwing a fit. That night, he established social distancing before heading to bed, saying he didn't want to accidentally do stuff he'd regret in his sleep.

It was painfully obvious that he was nervous the whole night, stiff as a rock and barely breathing. He eventually (and with difficulty) fell asleep though, thankfully. Sakura would probably stay asleep for a couple more hours, so you decided to get a head start and freshen up for the day.

You unfold the piece of clothing that served as a makeshift pillow last night, recognizing that this is what Sojiro called a hoodie. It smelled very minty and upon checking the pockets, you see some suckers with different flavors. These look really good...

This must belong to Sakura, but no harm in trying it out right? The hoodie, that is. You've had enough of stealing's someone's food. The apparel was obviously loose and too big, but it makes one admire the craftsmanship with how warm and comfortable it felt. 

He told you that night that his friends brought in food and clothes, so you excitedly checked the bag. It's filled with clothes that you used to dream of trying out, too tired of the usual hakama back at the shrine. Nothing bad about being traditional, but seeing vibrant colors and patterns other than flowers and birds makes you feel all giddy inside.

One of the shirts had a drawing of a white cat with a red ribbon. This character often appeared in the teen magazines Sojiro brought back from trips. Why he bought them is beyond you (it's so that you can check out what girls your age like, he says).

This is super adorable! You think while holding the shirt.

The bumpkin has now been in contact with Sanrio characters.

Taking out pants that you think fits the shirt with the white cat, you find the bathroom to freshen up and change.

If Hayami saw you right now, she'd probably start calling you out for looking scandalous. A huge part of your legs and thighs were exposed, and the shirt definitely hugged the torso a bit too much to what I'm you're to, but the cute design is too much to pass up on.

Styling your hair in your preferred way to complete the new look, you step out of the bathroom, seemingly trying your best to fit in with the folks of this city (and accordingly to the magazines).

It seems that Sakura is still out cold. Worriedly, you approached his figure hunched in a fetal position to check his temperature. Your face neared his and touched your foreheads together. Upon contact, it didn't seem like he was ill, but after a few seconds he began heating up rapidly.

You were greeted by his heterochromatic eyes, too wide for someone who was just sleeping moments ago. Didn't this happen already?

"W-WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!" He stammers, backing to a wall behind him.

"Checking your temperature, what else? You were out cold for a while."

He wipes his forehead rapidly like you spread germs on it. Rude.

"Aren't you the sick one here? Stop worrying about me, damn it!"

You unknowingly pout and look at the floor, "I was just worried." Rolling your eyes towards him, he looks away in return.

He clicks his tongue, refusing to look you in the eye. Is he allergic to affection or something?

"So much for a morning call." You stretch, standing up to head out. "I'm feeling all better now, can we go outside?"

"Someone's gonna pay you a visit, so sit your ass down!" He turns on his phone and starts swiping his fingers.

Nirei

Sent a sticker [good morning!].

Suo

Sent a sticker [happy wake up].

Kiryu

Sent a sticker [cat wake up].

Tsugeura

Sent a sticker [muscle ohayo!]

Nirei

Suo and I will be visiting!

Sugishita

Seen

Sakura sees the group chat for his class, then checks out the ones his upperclassmen sent.

Kaji

bring my hoodie to school i cant drop by cuz of errands

Tsubaki

Good morning!

I'll be visiting after school with Kanji and the twins~

Umemiya

Morning!

Kotoha and I will visit soon!

Breakfast is on me!

···

He sees Bofurin's leader still writing another message and waits for it. When it does get sent, he suddenly gets conscious.

Umemiya

Kotoha hopes you're wearing something other than a shirt and boxers, she says!

Sakura immediately looks at himself and suddenly whips his head towards you.

"How come you didn't tell me I was just wearing boxers in front of 'ya the whole time?!"

You blink repeatedly, "You were bothered by that? If it makes you feel better, I've seen uncles only in their loincloths."

He turns red and immediately scrams to the bathroom to check for his used pants.

❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋

"Wow, so this is your school uniform?"

Sakura comes out of the bathroom in his iconic green gakuran and pants, acting smug and proud to be wearing symbolic garments. You clapping and looking with amazement just made his head bigger, saying stuff like "Woah, so trendy!" and "You look like a model!"

A knock on the door interrupted the duo's little fashion show, with Sakura heading towards the door to invite his guests.

He sees Umemiya, Suo, Nirei, and Kotoha all carrying bags.

"Morning, Sakura!" Everyone followed suit with their morning greetings, taking off their shoes as they entered his apartment.

"Oh! Looks like our little ghost has recovered now," Umemiya smiles as he takes a seat in front of you. "I'm Umemiya Hajime, but you can call me big bro if you'd like!" He beams.

He starts rummaging the bag he brought out, "Hope you like soup and omurice!"

Kotoha approaches you and waves hello, to which you bow in reply. She was taken aback, saying there was no need to be formal. "Kotoha is fine! And the clothes look really good on you!" She starts gushing about taking you to the shopping district with someone named Tsubaki, happy to have another female companion.

"We've brought you some snacks, courtesy of the class!" Nirei shows you the contents of the bag filled with unfamiliar bags, "O-oh! I'm Nirei Akihiko by the way. If you need help navigating Makochi, I'm your guy!"

The last of the visitors wore an eye patch and felt immensely mysterious, boasting quite the powerful aura. Thinking about it, three of them held overwhelming auras, Umemiya's in particular was overflowing. You didn't notice that you were staring too hard at the eye-patched boy.

"My name is Leonardo DiCaprio!"

Oh! A foreigner, you beamed.

"Don't fall for that, (F/n)!" Sakura points accusingly at Suo, "That guy's Hayato Suo, make sure you're extra careful around him."

"You wound me, Sakura. I thought we were friends," Suo fakes a sigh. "And you're on a first name basis with her."

Sakura blushes, "That's her first name?!"

Nirei realizes and hides his face using his notebook, feeling giddy to have another female friend on a first name basis, "I-it feels really embarrassing to be on a first name basis already!"

"You already gave her your lap yesterday, a name is nothing at this point," Suo chuckles.

You think for a bit, and it reminds you that everyone back at the shrine never mentioned a family name. Gods, am I adopted? Am I the next Momotaro?

"I don't know my parents, and no one really told me about other stuff about them."

Everyone stops and looks at you with a somber expression.

Umemiya lets out a loud wail, eyes comically tearing as he tries to go in for a hug, "Ume-nii and Kotoha over here will be your family then!!!"

Nirei feels himself tear up as well, unable to imagine living a life without knowing who his parents were. Suo's face remained neutral, mouth forming a line and unable to say something to lift the mood.

Sakura on the other hand just stares at you, eyes soft and looking as if he sees himself in you.

"But don't worry about me! I still grew up with caring adults," your smile falters for a bit, wondering how Hayami and Sojiro were faring after your escape. "Let's all eat! Big day ahead of us."

Kotoha begins handing out soup and takeout omurice, "What happened to you anyways? If you don't mind me asking,"

You choke on a potato, clearing your throat before speaking, "Oh uh...I made an enemy out of an aristocrat, he decided to marry me or else he'll destroy my home, but my caretakers wanted me to run away, and now I am searching for something here in this town. Yes, I think that accounts for everything so far!"

"That's quite the story." She says, not sure if she was concerned or amused.

Suo pieces the situation in his head, "I assume that's why you were in a white kimono." Everyone realizes and looks at him, "Do you think your husband will search for you?"

You correct Suo, saying you're technically not wed yet. He mutters a small apology. "I don't want to get married to a man like him."

They all feel the spite and anger behind your words.

You look sternly at everyone, "It's also why I needed to get away from everyone as soon as possible. I fear I'll get you all caught up in this mess."

Everyone hears a scoff from Sakura who was gulping down food just earlier, now looking at you with a smirk.

"Thanks for telling me bits of your story," he puts down his now finished bowl of soup and omurice.

"We just gotta beat up that guy, right?"

changed the writing style for a bit, hope its okay (⁠；⁠^⁠ω⁠^⁠）

[sumicchin]

hello everyone! i'm having trouble posting the next chapter, not really sure what's wrong but i'll try to have it uploaded within the day (⁠人⁠*⁠´⁠∀⁠｀⁠)⁠｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+

[sumicchin]

CHIMES OF THE HEART

❇ a wind breaker (satoru nii) reader insert.

CHAPTER 3

Sakura curses the world for not having the ability to teleport people in and out of his room. (2.5k words)

content warnings: female reader, awkward teenagers, cussing

Cafe Pothos was a safe haven for the students of Furin, and much to Kotoha's dismay, it often becomes a makeshift meeting place for very rowdy delinquent business.

The girl found herself cleaning up the tables as Umemiya and Hiragi talked by the counter, glasses seemingly looking like alcohol but actually filled with water (for dramatic purposes, Ume says).

"You were lookin' at the girl strangely earlier, 'sup with that?" Hiragi asks, snapping his friend out of a daze.

Umemiya hums as he puts down his beverage, "She looked familiar, is all."

"But we just met 'er."

"Maybe she appeared in a dream," Umemiya laughs.

Hiragi doesn't dismiss his friend though...he knows better than to doubt Bofurin's leader. He never declares something he's unsure of.

"Well, we can fish out information once the girl's feeling better." Hiragi says as he takes out a gas-kun10, feeling his stomach flip again.

Why are you two making it sound like she's a wanted criminal up for interrogation, Kotoha thinks as she's wiping the tables.

❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋

Two of probably the most awkward people in Japan stare each other down as if they're relaying some passage about the secrets of the world. 

Sakura could only think of unintelligible phrases in his mind, never had he locked gazes with the opposite sex this long. He tried to open his mouth but clammed up immediately, not knowing what to say in the first place.

Should he greet her or something? Talk about the weather? Or what about asking about how she's feeling at the moment.

Nah scrap that, he'll do the most Sakura thing ever.

"Are you fucking done sleeping?"

He fucked up, he thinks.

He earns a weird glare and just wishes he could die in a hole. Well, it isn't as bad as he thought it was, imagine if Suo was here. The girl groans and musters all her remaining strength to sit up, stressing Sakura out for the nth time that day.

"W-what are you doing?! You're supposed to be resting!"

"Need to go somewhere..." She struggled but soon was able to stand up, now noticing the change of clothes. The top is fleece with long sleeves, and her pants are made of cotton as well as socks. She's unfamiliar with it, but she often sees girls of her age wear the same thing when she visits the market.

The boy immediately regrets his very poor choice of words and aggression, dragging the sluggish girl by her arm back to the futon. "You can't go out, I promised to look after you!"

The girl just looks at him with annoyance.

"I don't need a babysitter..."

Sakura for some reason felt like he was dealing with his doppelganger, and now he understands how big of a saint the people around him are for being patient with him.

He thinks to himself how would his friends respond in this situation. How were they able to show kindness and patience towards someone like him? He calms himself and looks the girl straight in the eyes...

Face us when you're talking.

Sakura takes a deep breath, clearing his mind of aggression. "Look...I don't know what you've been through, and I won't force you to talk about it...but I ain't an enemy." The girl remains quiet, but her face is now free from turmoil.

Not having the energy to fight back, she could only respond with droopy eyes and a bit of a slur to her words, "You look very kind to me...no need to prove it." The boy heats up and starts yelling incoherent sentences, saying he's a very violent delinquent who's far from nice. Was he really becoming soft?

She chuckled as she sat down, taking the futon to her hands and begins folding it, "Thank you for letting me stay here, but you don't want a criminal inside your house."

Sakura scoffs and scratches the back of his neck, trying to formulate a sentence that would make her feel better for beating up people the other day. "Those guys were traffickers, you just gave them what they deserved." And that cops barely do jackshit in this town, apparently. This earns him an audible 'Oh' from the girl, now plopping the neatly folded futon in place. Sakura could only hope that she didn't smell drool from the bedding.

He notices her form relaxing, body now facing his. Not that he thinks violence should be normalized, but he swore to himself that those scumbags had it coming.

The two just stare at each other for a while, waiting who's going to continue the conversation. Unlike his conversations with Kotoha who usually takes the lead (and embarrasses the hell out of him), the current situation is calling for him to take the initiative.

"Just, stay here until you feel better...I don't mind," he feels his face heat up when he noticed the girl staring at him like he's part of the seven wonders of the world. "Whachu lookin' at?"

She shook her head, and saw her smile for the first time, "You're the handsomest person I've seen."

Sakura almost went into cardiac arrest.

He clutched his chest, feeling his chest beating erratically. He might be the one who needs to rest rather than the girl.

After a few seconds, Sakura felt himself calm down and think clearly. He concludes that this girl is dangerous, physically and mentally.

Now regained his footing, Sakura clears his throat and politely (surprisingly) asks for her name. He sees her hesitate for a moment, but one look at Sakura's honest eyes reassured her.

"(F/n)."

I just asked a girl her name, Sakura inwardly celebrates.

❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋

Sakura sets up the rice cooker that Kotoha left earlier, (F/n) watching as he takes out the ingredients. "Sorry this is where you had to rest...it was the closest from where you fainted." He takes out the bag of rice and dumps it in the pot, obviously not knowing how this works since he forgot to ask Kotoha for instructions.

(F/n) watches in dismay, grabbing the ingredients from the struggling boy. "I can cook," she just saved the rice grains and bits of meat from being turned into a disastrous meal. The girl grew up in a very secluded area with little to no technology, so she too unfortunately had no idea how to operate the machine, but one can hope to work a miracle. She asks the boy where to rinse the rice, to which he points at the sink. Back home, she had to walk to a well to gather water for everything. Having everything in one room is very convenient.

Sakura watched as (F/n) worked in the supposed kitchen of his apartment (just a sink). He observed that she seemed very used to doing chores, and he remembered what Suo said earlier.

Perhaps she works at an izakaya...or even a brothel.

It would make sense that she ran away from...that establishment, but he knew better than to assume.

"Regardless of what you say, I think it's comforting and warm here," she says while rinsing the rice and vegetables found in the bag Sakura was rummaging a while ago, "I feel safe already." Sakura pouts, fiddling with the rice cooker.

The ingredients were for chicken congee, so she'll do just that. "What was it like in your home anyways?" He asks, watching as the girl returns with rice, ginger, and chicken broth inside the pot. "Old, to say the least," she replies.

They both fiddle with the machine, taking turns acting like apes and eventually, they get the thing working. "I hope this actually works, I only saw this in a magazine," (F/n) recalls a page she read before.

The rice cooker, an asian home essential!

She proceeds to watch the machine intensely like a caveman discovering fire for the first time. Sakura saw his phone screen light up next to him, seeing tons of unseen messages from everyone. He unintentionally ghosted them from being too nervous earlier.

Nirei

DID SOMETHING HAPPEN TO BOTH OF YOU?!

Sent a sticker [faint].

Suo

Is everything okay, Sakura?

You haven't answered our messages.

Umemiya

I know you get nervous around girls, but nii-san knows you got this! 😎👍

Kotoha

Don't break the rice cooker please!!!!

and lmk how she's doing!

Tsubaki

You better not be doing anything to her~

Kaji

be back tom to get my hoodie cuz they used it as her pillow

Sugishita

are u dead

Why the hell was Sugishita messaging him was his first thought, but he slowly replied to everyone's message and told them everything's all good, with the minor exception of his heart rate.

Sakura

everythingz fine sheesh

you guys can all visit tomorrow

were making congee right now

oh and her name is (f/n)

He decided to be brave today and use the camera function of his phone, taking a picture of the girl watching the rice cooker.

Cute, he thought while blushing to himself.

He sends the picture to his friends. Not even a second passed, he already received tons of replies.

Nirei

Cute!

Sent a sticker [love].

Kotoha

Ask her if she's feeling better!

Tell her the clothes I brought are for her btw!

Suo

She's like a child watching the rice cooker ^^

Tsugeura

TELL HER TO EAT TONS!!

Sent a sticker [eat].

Umemiya

Tell (F/n) I said hi!!!!

I will also bring her some of my special soup tomorrow!!!!

Hiragi

Make sure she's nourished well.

Kiryu

Sent a sticker [cute].

I left some medicine make sure she drinks it (⁠ ⁠ꈍ⁠ᴗ⁠ꈍ⁠)

Tsubaki

CAN I VISIT RN???

PWEASEEE!!!! 🥺

Are these guys seriously gonna raid my house tomorrow?

Sakura feels (F/n) sit next to him and is now staring at his phone, letting out an audible gasp of amazement. "That's a real phone, right?" He nods, but more importantly, almost combusts from how close she is to him. This girl is going to give him a stroke.

"You haven't seen one?" Sakura thinks, but he's one to talk since he literally got his phone pretty recently. The girl next to him shakes her head, "Only in the magazines and books I've read."

"W-wanna use it?" He offers it to her, but she frantically shakes her head, "No no, I'm good with watching. I don't want to accidentally break your stuff..."

Socially challenged meets technologically challenged, the saga.

She's pretty cute like this...

(F/n) looks at him like a kicked puppy, "You're probably thinking I'm an idiot or something." Sakura immediately dismisses her and says he was basically the same before he arrived in town. He thanks the gods for giving him Nirei and Suo.

The girl mumbles an apology, obviously bothered based on the expression she's giving. "I'm just, overwhelmed is all...it's my first time out in a city, and I don't know anyone nor have anything on me."

Sakura knows exactly how it feels.

"Believe it or not, I had nothing before coming to this town." He recalls his first day, saving Kotoha and the rest was history. "I just beat up some guys and suddenly, I'm surrounded by all these people."

"Then they probably saw something in you."

Sakura looks at her, "Y-you aren't the first person to say that."

(F/n) smiles, "I can tell you're willing to go through lengths for the people you care."

Sakura gasps, telling her she's not making sense while stuttering. Facing her companion who's seemingly cosplaying a tomato, she lets out another chuckle, "It's a secret power of mine."

"S-shut up. First you were a ghost, and now you're acting like a psychic." (F/n) laughs, having too much fun teasing the boy next to her. "What's up with you earlier anyways?"

The girl stops laughing, fidgeting in her seat. "Ah... it's a long story." Sakura raises his brow, finally having the leverage over her, "I-it's not like I killed someone! Those guys suddenly came at me...and stuff happened." She starts telling him about what happened afterwards with matching gestures— searching for shelter, admitting to stealing a few things, and the encounter with the Furin students.

"So... I'm really grateful that I get to recover before I set out."

Well...that didn't answer anything, Sakura thinks. Now impatient, he starts taking the lead to make the conversation fruitful.

"Where do you need to go?"

"Huh?"

"I said, where do you need to go? I'll help you out."

"Some place called—"

 

The rice cooker dings and (F/n) whips her head towards the machine. "Oh, the congee is ready!" 

❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋❋

After a silent dinner, the boy refreshed himself and prepared to head for bed.

But he can't.

Not when he keeps constantly reminding himself that he's sleeping in close proximity to a girl. Said girl also was feeling restless that night, back facing Sakura as she sat in front of the curtainless large window with the moonlight illuminating the room.

Sakura was very curious about her. The damned congee machine cut her off while she was talking, and he's still trying to grasp at straws on why she's such a capable fighter. For now, he's letting her have a moment of peace. She hasn't uttered a word since dinner, did Sakura offend her somehow? Consumed by his thoughts, he was suddenly pulled out of a haze once he heard (F/n) mention his last name.

"Do you live alone, Sakura?" He takes a moment before answering, letting out  a hum and saying that it's been like that since he could remember. When was the last time he spent the night with someone else's presence? "But you have your friends, right?" He pauses for a bit, looking at the girl's back as if she had two heads. It's exactly what plagues him, the thought of letting people see through him...but he's learning to grow past that. 

He had friends that constantly remind him that he belongs.

"How does it feel..." the girl trails, turning to face Sakura, "to have friends you can rely on?" He notices her watery eyes, yet none of her tears fall. Sakura thinks back to the time he felt like he had no place in this world. It was painful, having to reject the kindness that others have shown him before. But as time passed, he grew longing for this interaction and found himself enjoying everyone's presence.

When did he start to feel sentimental?

The boy answers with a small "It's ok," while avoiding her gaze, but his thoughts say otherwise.

They mean the world to me, is what he truly meant.

(F/n) smiles, "Will you...let me indulge in something like that too?"

He goes silent, not knowing how to respond at first.

Sakura gets up from his previous fetal position to sit next to the girl.

They both watch the moon in comfortable silence.

"Stop acting like a cryptic then." Confused, (F/n) looks at Sakura and asks what he meant by it. He clicks his tongue, muttering something along the lines of 'Are you slow?'.

The room is barely lit by the moon, but it's enough to see his cheeks that were dusted with pink.

"As your friend, you gotta let me know what's on your mind before I can help you. I can't read minds, unlike you." The girl chuckles at Sakura's words. "So, where do you have to go?"

"Oh, a town called Makochi, I think..."

Sakura stares at the girl, with the emptiest expression he's ever pulled.

"What's with the face?" (F/n) grimaces, all of her comfort thrown out of the window.

This girl's gotta be pulling my leg.

"Can't believe I got myself involved with you."

need to remind myself to make a masterlist ww

[sumicchin]

CHIMES OF THE HEART

❃ a wind breaker (satoru nii) reader insert.

CHAPTER 2

Sakura needs to remind everyone that his apartment complex doesn't have galvanized steel extensions. (1.5k words)

content warnings: female reader, everyone testing sakura's patience

Nirei

No luck here on our end!

Tsugeura

nada here as well!!

Anzai

she's better at hiding than me that one time with KEEL

Takanashi

Skill issue

Sakura reads the messages his classmates sent in their group chat, all of them having the same result. They all decided to go by pair with the exception of the captains and kings as solo to respond quickly to their subordinates. Sakura found himself wandering near his apartment, what's already eerie in ambiance has been worsened by the rainy weather. The perfect hiding spot for a fugitive, he thinks. While there's the possibility the target already escaped to the next town, him feeling the target's skin told too much that the person wouldn't last long if the rain persisted.  'If only I was quick enough, I could've caught this person easily,' he mutters to himself. 

He feels his phone vibrate in his pocket and whisks it out swiftly. A message from Kusumi, one of Kaji's friends, was sent to all Bofurin students with a video attached.

Kusumi

Sent a video.

This is her right????

Sakura watched the short clip and sees the now clear figure of a girl hanging onto a lamp post, back hunched and labored breathing. His phone rang again, another message from Kusumi.

Kusumi

Kaji and I are near an alleyway by the bakery btw!

Come quick >< !!!!

I think she knows we're here but she's not moving (⁠;⁠ŏ⁠﹏⁠ŏ⁠)

Sakura doesn't understand, but he immediately runs to the said location. Just earlier, he was trying to fight this person, but now he's running with all his might under the rain for some stranger. 

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Many students had already arrived at the girl's location, but none of them knew how to handle the situation. Kaji, already waiting for about a minute or two, stepped forward but was pulled back by his shaggy-haired vice-captain. "She's gonna die from hypothermia if we keep acting like pussies," Kaji scowls. He turns his head back to the girl, only to see Umemiya next to her. Sakura arrives just in time to see Bofurin's leader take off his dark green tailcoat and put it over the trembling girl who hasn't moved an inch.

"We aren't here to harm you, we promise you that." Umemiya keeps his eyes on the girl whose lips are a shade of purple, hands gripping the lamppost already pruning.

What they didn't expect was to see their leader in a defensive stance as he blocked a punch directed to the face.

"Let us help you, please." He states with a firm tone while making sure he isn't gripping the girl's fist roughly. He felt like he was touching ice, and he needed to work his magic soon to save her fast. Umemiya was thinking of having someone come out and help him seize the girl, but he noticed the pressure on his arm was gone.

He felt a weight on his chest instead.

Everyone watches as the girl falls towards Umemiya, who is fast enough to catch and wrap his arms around her. He then proceeded to carry the unconscious girl who was barely breathing in his arms.

"Whose house is nearby, quick!"

Everyone looked at each other, until a certain first year raised his hand.

"My place is nearby, but I don't think it's the best place to keep her," Sakura says. Umemiya however argues that it's their best option so far, so they decide to rush over to his lodging. Some of the boys ran to shops to get supplies such as heat packs and warm soup.

Umemiya, Kaji, Tsubaki and the first years arrive at his seemingly run-down apartment a few minutes later, laying the girl down gently in Sakura's futon for warmth. Said homeowner unfortunately did not own pillows, but Nirei was kind enough to offer his lap as a makeshift cushion. Normally, Sakura would've been embarrassed by what he was seeing, but the severity of the girl's condition had him too worried to care about public displays of affection.

"Kaji says that his group is going to arrive soon with food and heat packs," Hiragi relays to Umemiya whose gaze is stern and clearly bothered, different from his usual demeanor.

Hiragi swears to himself that Umeyama's expression had something other than concern showing.

Suo and Tsugeura were seated oppositely at the girl's side, their much larger hands taking in her cold, paler ones to warm her up while waiting for the heat packs. Kiryu and Tsubaki offered to rush to Cafe Pothos and ask Kotoha for help and spare clothes. Not much was going on inside the room while they waited for the second years to arrive, with only the labored breaths of the girl permeating their senses.  

"So this is yer place," Hiragi tries to break the ice as he looks around the room, searching for at least one piece of furniture. "Didn't know yer a minimalist."

Everyone looks at the two of them, the room's atmosphere slightly lifting. Sakura however feels embarrassed, having his friends over in such a cramped space. "I-I don't have any need for furniture...just a waste of money."

Umemiya lets out a chuckle from his underclassmen's persistence, "I can get you a bean bag and some curtains if you'd like!"

Sugishita glares at Sakura upon hearing Bofurin's leader offer his rival free stuff, "You should be grateful Umemiya-san is offering you gifts!".

"It was pretty concerning the first time we came here..." Nirei says with Suo nodding in agreement, feeling the girl's hand feel warmer as time passed. "I have faith that Sakura will eventually learn how fun it is to decorate."

Other than warming her up, Tsugeura fiddled with the girl's hands as if he were massaging it. A thought suddenly appeared in his head, face scrunching up as he imagined it.

"Doesn't this mean that she's gonna stay here with Sakura for the night?"

Said homeowner exploded.

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A few hours passed, and everyone seemed to calm down a bit. After Kaji's group arrived, some of them bid their farewells but reassured they were willing to help if needed. Kiryu and Tsubaki arrived with Kotoha in tow, allowing her to clean and change the girl's clothing into warmer ones. They all sat in silence as they prepared warm food and drinks for everyone.

"So, is no one gonna fill me in?" Kotoha breaks the silence, everyone turning their heads towards her. Umemiya could only let out a weak chuckle, scratching the back of his neck. "Sorry Kotoha, we didn't mean to keep you in the dark." Bofurin's leader turns to resident chatterbox Nirei, who still hasn't given up his job of makeshift lap pillow to retell the events—from the beat-up red light district traffickers to Umemiya almost getting squared in the face.

"She must've run away," Kotoha says looking at the near folder yet tattered kimono beside the girl.

Suo stares intensely at her sleeping figure whose breathing is now at a normal pace, "Perhaps she works at an izakaya...or even a brothel."

Everyone started formulating their own theories, on how this girl came to be and what drove her to act violently before succumbing to weakness.

"She looks like a princess while sleeping, straight out of a fairytale," Tsubaki says with smitten eyes, pushing away strands of hair covering her face. "I believe that Kotoha and I should be the first ones to have a talk with her once she wakes up."

No one seemed to reject the idea, so it was decided that they all go home to freshen up and come back once Sakura let them know she was awake. Upon hearing the idea, Sakura went into panic mode, asking his more experienced peers what to do if the girl woke up.

He was ignored.

So it was like that for hours.

The Haruka Sakura, resident bad boy lone wolf who happened to be given the flaw of being the worst at socializing, is now alone in his very humble (and minimalistic) abode with a girl who was now sharing his futon. He hasn't moved an inch since arriving at his own room, mind you. Every time he dared to make a move, to maybe freshen up since he stunk as hell from having damp clothes and a face full of wet concrete earlier, he suddenly retreated once he heard the girl make noises in her sleep.

Is it normal for girls to do that, he asks himself. His train of thought was broken when he heard actual words come out of her resting figure, repeating the phrase "Get away from me" with intensity.

His feet drag him towards the girl, her face sweating profusely and eyebrows knitted. She's having a nightmare.

Does he wake her up? Sakura finds himself reaching out to her but immediately retracts his arm. This internal warfare kept going until the girl calmed down on her own.

Nicely done, Sakura.

What he didn't expect was to suddenly have eyes staring back at him.

[sumicchin]

went outside to see the wind breaker gasha (⁠人⁠*⁠´⁠∀⁠｀⁠)⁠｡⁠*ﾟ⁠+ they are so cute aaa (nirei's tiny notebook im crying) i hope i can make a winbre ita bag soon!

i got everyone (dupe for suosaku!!) except umechan ｡⁠:ﾟ⁠(⁠;⁠´⁠∩⁠`⁠;⁠)ﾟ⁠:⁠｡

i may or may not have spent almost 40 usd LOL

[sumicchin]

CHIMES OF THE HEART

❃ a windbreaker (satori nii) reader insert.

CHAPTER 1

Rumor has it that a violent ghost has been plaguing the streets of Makochi. (2.6k words)

content warnings: female reader, mentions of prostitution, let's pretend nothing bad happens after roppo ichiza arc, original characters, swearing, it gets wholesome i swear

"Are you ready to go now, dear?" I feel my caretaker's hands touch my shoulders, light and caring. In front of me was my reflection in the mirror, clad in a white kimono and flower pieces adorning my hair. In the 16 years I've lived, this is the first time I saw myself all dressed up.

It's unfortunate that it had to be for an undesirable occasion.

I let out a small hum, face somber. Hayami, my caretaker since being born into this world, snakes her arms around me while I remain quiet. "If you're worried about us, then there's no need to. We have everything under control," I hear her mutter on my ear. She grasps my shoulders, giving me an earnest smile, "I trust that, you look out for your own."

"You deserve to live an earnest and free life, child."

Footsteps soon pollute the room as men clad in black arrive to escort me. I was to wait in a room alone, soon to meet my 'husband'.

"I wish you all the best. Farewell, my dear."

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My head hung low as I followed them to the banquet hall as was discussed to us a few days ago.

"He'll arrive in a few minutes, stay put."

Unbeknownst to them, we had no plans of actually going through the ceremony.

As soon as the footsteps disappeared, I immediately dashed towards the back exit of the room. Having lived in this shrine for all my life made me aware of the secret passages around, and I wouldn't dare want to know why those were around.

The passage leads to the nearby river where a boat near the docks was placed by Hayami. I rushed towards it, not looking back.

I paddled fast, my mind in a haze, thinking of what could have become of everyone after knowing I escaped.

I can't let their sacrifice go to waste...

Hours passed, my arms tired from paddling nonstop as I couldn't waste a single moment. I just know that they're hot on my trail, I couldn't risk stopping.

Clouds started forming, and soon waves started accumulating. Just my luck.

We didn't anticipate a huge storm today. All I could do is hold my breath as I see a huge wave coming towards my boat.

Images of Hayami's smile before I was escorted flooded my mind.

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It was a rainy day in the neighborhood, but that didn't stop the boys of Bofurin to patrol the town.

The representative first years, except Sugishita who decided to help Umemiya with his saplings, all brought their umbrellas as they walk around town while talking about the most mundane things.

"Who in the hell would even go out in this weather," Sakura groans. As much as he wanted to do something exciting (street brawl, for example), the weather warrants a day for rest.

"We just need to do one more round and we can call it a day," Nirei says with a huff. "I really wanted to take notes about the stuff you guys said earlier, but I don't want to risk getting my notebook wet."

"That would cause great trouble for you, Nirei," Suo agrees. He himself has been quiet the whole trip, too absorbed in the rain's ambience. The five of them have been walking around town for a good hour now, with nothing out of the sort. The most exciting part of the endeavor was probably Kiryu almost breaking Tsugeura's neck after the tall lad sneezed in front of him, Suo thinks.

"If we aren't gonna do something fun, then let's at least talk about something interesting while we finish up!" Tsugeura exclaims. Kiryu on his phone doesn't bother to look up at said buff male, "At least talk about something other than your protein shakes and virtues."

"I agree with Kiryu," Suo says with a hint of distaste.

Tsugeoka laughs, "I'll save those for another day! Right now, I'm feeling pumped to hear scary stories! Doesn't the rainy weather feel gloomy and stuff? Perfect vibe!"

"But didn't you say you're scared shitless of ghosts? You're just gonna make yourself piss," Sakura scoffs.

Tsugeura moves past his group and blocks their path with a determined face, "You guys gotta hear me out for this one!!! My friends from the other street have been talking about this 'White Lady' recently, and apparently, they spotted it just earlier!" He shudders visibly.

Kiryu looks at him disinterested, "Wasn't there a similar incident at the rooftop? It was only a black cloth all along."

"You should stop scaring yourself, Tsugeura. It's bad for the heart," Suo laughs, however, the boy next to him is visibly bothered by the story.

"So it is real...!" Nirei, with bloodshot eyes, starts shaking uncontrollably.

"What's real? And why are you shaking?!" Sakura exclaims. The blonde looks at his peers, face pale as he recalls the rumors, "It's said that the ghost had long hair and was wearing a white kimono. Get close to it and it'll attack, they say!"

A manly scream erupts out of Tsugeura.

"And since it's a ghost, you can't fight back!!! Four men apparently were injured ever since the sightings started!"

Another scream erupts from Tsugeura.

Suo's eyes lit up upon hearing the four men mention, "Oh, you meant the wanted traffickers in the red light district? The Roppo Ichiza would be glad to hear about that."

"At least the women can be at ease now. This ghost might be of help to us," Kiryu adds.

The other three boys in the group all just stared at each other for a moment, but Sakura's interest was piqued as soon as he heard 'fight'. The ghost must be tough to beat up four grown men!

Suo hums with concern, "How did the men come across the ghost anyway?"

"Apparently, if you hear the clanks of wooden sandals—"

Clank. Clank.

"Exactly like that one, it's a telltale sign that the ghost is nearby."

Nirei's train of thoughts stop as he looks towards where his group is gazing at.

Long hair with a white kimono.

"AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!" Nirei and Tsugeura cry as they hug each other.

"Well, if it isn't the star of the show," Suo says, eyes wide at what he's seeing.

Sakura and Kiryu look at the figure with curiosity, seemingly wanting to approach it.

"Can we be sure that this isn't a real person," Kiryu trails, "That looks awfully...real."

Sakura steps forward, "Only one way to find out."

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Apparently, I survived that storm.

The weather remains gloomy like before, and I assume it's around midnight.

My body feels heavy, my mind is fuzzy, but I had to ignore these and get moving.

I walked until I saw signs of civilization. I was never allowed to go outside of the shrine other than the market, so all I could rely on right now was my intuition and fists.

All the shops were closed, but the street lamps were all lit—they looked beautiful. If I weren't running for my life, I would've basked in this moment for a bit longer.

I needed to get some sustenance and shelter soon, my body has been giving me signs of malfunction.

I walked around a corner and was greeted by four armed men, all huddled together smoking cigarettes.

"That new catch you got is pretty experienced. Exactly the boss' type," I hear one of them say with the rest of the men laughing, saying more vulgar and inappropriate acts.

The mainland has it worse than I thought.

The group of men drop their cigarettes upon looking at the glowing machine in their hands. Apparently, it's past midnight by 10 minutes. Hayami would get angry at me if she knew I stayed up this late.

"Break's over. Let's head back to the bar," a hooded figure says and soon the three other men follow. They walk in my direction and noticed my presence, immediately turning their attention towards me.

"Oh, you there, pretty lady. You tryna catch some guys around this time of the night?"

They laugh.

I just kept walking, ignoring their catcalling. As soon as our paths cross, one of the men grabs my arm and flings me towards them.

His other hand grabs my chin and lifts my face, almost as if inspecting it. A pleased hum erupts from his nicotine reeking face.

"You could make for a fine prostitute."

With all my remaining energy, I send a kick to his abdomen, the man falling to the ground as he clutched his stomach.

"What the—hey! Get this bitch tied up!" All three men charge at me, but they all crumble like a tower of cards.

Four piles of unconscious bodies around me.

"G-ghost!!!"

I heard a woman scream as she runs away, dropping the bag she's carrying from panic.

The people back at the shrine would shun me for stealing, but I'm too starved to think straight. Rummaging through the bag, I come across some leftovers. I nabbed the food and went back to the unconscious bodies, searching for anything useful.

A few coins that can hopefully buy bread or water.

My kimono feels too heavy from all the moisture, but I'd rather endure it than wear clothing that smells like smoke and alcohol.

I ran away as soon as I looted whatever's useful, searching for a place to hide and rest.

Hopefully, tomorrow treats me better.

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"Don't do it, Sakura!" Nirei frets, finger pointing at the white figure. "Who knows what that ghost will do to you!"

"I'm not buying the ghost crap, if I get a hold of that thing, then it ain't a ghost!" Sakura exclaims as he approached the finger, dropping his umbrella in the progress.

"Ah Sakura, didn't you just recover from a cold?" Suo says as he picks up the boy's forgotten umbrella.

"I won't be able to fight with one hand."

'That's cringe,' Kiryu grimaces.

Tsugeura, trembling profusely, can only bid his captain all the luck in the world. "I can't watch this!!!"

"So, you're the ghost everyone's been talking about."

He doesn't get a response.

"Those four men aren't part of our territory, but I can't let you running around our town free," Sakura clenches his fist and runs towards the figure. He strikes a fast punch, only for the figure to step aside and appear behind him. He goes for a kick, but the ghost avoided him once more. This goes on for a while, Sakura barraging the ghost with powerful punches and swift kicks, only for naught.

"Why aren't you fighting back?!"

"Maybe it's because it is a ghost!" Suo replies playfully.

Tsugeura, pale as paper, could only look through his fingers, "Tell me when it's all over!"

"Suo, Kiryu, don't you guys think you could help out Sakura? This is getting nowhere!" Nirei says.

"I want to but, I don't really want to get my clothes wet," Kiryu nonchalantly says, "Plus it's fun to watch from here."

"Same here." Suo chirps.

"Why are you guys so chill about this?! There's some paranormal activity going around and you guys are just treating this like it's some circus act—"

A loud thunk was heard, the boys turned their heads over to Sakura who was now on the floor. While the boys were engaging in playful banter, Sakura was suddenly hit by a powerful kick to the back of his head. The force of it almost resembles Togame's punch, he thinks.

The rest of the boys come to his aid, with Nirei acting as his clutch as he catches his breath.

Sakura heaves, "That's no ghost, it's human just like us."

"Fuck, I thought I could handle it myself, but I'll be needing your guy's help. The only objective right now is to capture that thing so it doesn't cause trouble for the town." He's not exactly sure if he's supposed to make a villain out of the mysterious person, but it's better safe than sorry. Before his face got plummeted to the ground, he swore to himself that he was able to clutch the figure's right ankle, cold to the touch.

Everyone nods in agreement, understanding the assignment. By this point, their umbrellas all dance on the floor as they prepare to catch their target.

"I'll overcome my fear for the townspeople's sake!" Tsugeura roars, taking his stance.

He charges towards the figure and tries to go in for a grab, but he ends up catching air.

Suo and Kiryu now taking the whole situation seriously follow suit and try to get near the figure with haste. Kiryu tries to corner the figure, but it starts to use the wall as leverage and makes a run to escape. Suo notices this and was able to predict the person's landing, only for his shoulder to be stepped on.

Their target soon makes its escape, not even allowing the boys to regain their composure.

Nirei, who was watching by the sidelines, was able to discern which direction the figure went and relayed this information to his Bofurin peers. They decided to assimilate it in their group chat as well to make the task easier.

Highschoolers hunting for a 'ghost' in the middle of a downpour made headlines that day.

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The students of Bofurin all get word of the hunt. Needless to say, everyone was joining for the hell of it.

"So you're telling me, this ghost is not actually a ghost?" Umemiya says, slightly disappointed. His hope of meeting the occult, shattered. Everyone sweats a drop at their leader's statement, except Sugishita who reflected the same feeling of disappointment. Students who were available that day all gathered at Furin's rooftop, to which the crops and seedlings all glistened at having been watered by mother nature. All grade captains and the four kings were present, indicating the severity of the situation.

Or that they didn't really have anything going on for the day.

"Anything else we need to know about the target?" Hiragi asks the first year boys, to which Nirei perks up.

"U-uhm, I was watching the whole time so I think I got a good look at them. Other than the long hair and tattered white kimono, height-wise I think they're about my size," he nervously says, flipping pages of his notebook. "Sakura also said that the skin was cold as ice due to being exposed to the rain for days. I don't think the target could've gone far after our encounter with it since they might've been suffering from hypothermia by now!"

'So he was jotting down details the entire time...how diligent,' Suo thought to himself, acting like a proud father.

Everyone takes in the information and is about to head downstairs until Kiryuu's voice reaches everyone, halting their steps. "I don't want to get ahead of myself, but are we sure the target isn't a girl or something? I mean, I know a girl when I see one. Don't you agree, Suo?"

Leonardo DiCaprio nodded his head with a smile, "I thought so as well, but I was afraid Sakura would hold back once he heard about it."

Cueu steam coming out of said boy's ears.

"If that's the case, then let's proceed with caution everyone! Don't act like savages if you come across the girl," Tsubaki suggests with Umeyama agreeing. "Make sure to keep communication open once she's on sight so that everyone can close down the area."

Needless to say, Tsubaki was worried ever since Kiryuu and Suo suggested that they were to capture a girl.

"Are y'all done with the chitchat? If we don't move our asses then we can kiss goodbye to the whole thing," Kaji interrupts, already looking impatient and raring to go.

"Welp, you heard the man. Bofurin, roll out!"

winbre brainrot real ;-;