#JuriSaku

[sexywmatsui48]

Love or Duty | Chapter 1

Jurina convinced herself she stood in front of the bar to relieve the stress of her hectic day. Staring at the red neon letters above the door, Acceptance, she glanced back towards the darkening street. Salary men and women left office buildings, going back home after work. Strutting around dressed up to the nines in their black uniforms, some joined the subway, while others waited for their bus. Whether listening to music coming from their headphones, or their gaze riveted to their phone. Nothing on their face let transpire the frenetic pace of life in Tokyo.

Jurina’s fingers clutched her briefcase. Go back to her apartment and call it a day: that’s precisely what she should do. Forget about the foolish thought of passing that door. Returning her attention to the flashy red letters, she swallowed the lump in her throat. How often did her steps slow down when she passed in front of this bar? How many times had she paused a moment too long and considered entering, before quickly changing her mind and resume her walk?

Jurina closed her eyes, trying to force herself to move along and erase the inappropriate ideas flooding her mind. If she had resisted the temptation on dozens of occasions, she could do it once more. Against all common sense, a newfound determination swept through her. Taking off her wedding band, she slipped it in her vest pocket and marched forward, entering the Acceptance bar.

A funky, upbeat music welcomed her, her arrival prompting a few heads to turn around. She remained at the entrance, observing the place. On the left side of the room, was erected a stage, the instruments indicating that a band was expected to play. Around the stage were disposed velvet comfy chairs, a few occupied by customers. Between the stage and the first row of chairs, sufficient space had been left to dance. On the right side of the room, was the bar, some clients enjoying a drink at the counter, perched on a bar stool. The blue subdued lighting created a warm and cozy atmosphere.

On a Wednesday, it was far from full. By the number of people slowly approaching the stage, Jurina guessed the upcoming show was much anticipated and would attract a lot of attention. To complete her studying, she noted the bar was filled with women, without a single man in sight. She didn’t expect any less. After all, Acceptance was renowned for attracting a specific type of clientele.

Forcing her legs to move, she walked towards the bar, and took a seat on one of the elevated black stools. Placing her hands on the wood counter, her eyes rested on the empty space on her ring finger. Jurina felt a pang of guilt, and reconsidered her presence. This was wrong; she shouldn’t be here. She glanced over her shoulder in the direction of the front door. The female bartender was busy attending another customer. There was still time to change her mind and leave unnoticed.

 “Hi, you’re new? I’ve never seen you here.”

Jurina swung her head to her left, where the feminine voice came from. A few stools away was sitting a woman in her thirties. Long, dark hair fell around her shoulders and down her back. Jet black mascara outlined her eyelashes. She wore a white sleeveless top, a mini red full skirt, along with a pair of blue sandals. Jurina felt ill-at-ease in her black salary woman outfit. Her black vest, buttoned over a white shirt, and her black pair of trousers, contrasted sharply with the woman’s relaxed appearance.  

A gentle smile played across the woman’s lips, highlighted by a subtle, pale pink lipstick.

Jurina caught herself staring at her lips a moment too long.

“Yes, it’s my first time,” Jurina replied. She looked away. Jurina wasn’t a shy person. She was outgoing, and had no difficulty to engage in casual conversations with friends or coworkers. People praised her good nature. When a party was organized, she never refused. So why was she acting so distant? Another peek at her absent ring reminded her of her immoral intentions. She hadn’t only come to this place to empty her head after a long, exhausting day. She was in search of something else.

“May I join you?”

Jurina glanced back at her, and nodded her head in agreement. A smile of pleasure plastered the woman’s features. She moved to sit next to her.

“You haven’t ordered. What would you like to drink?”

Jurina’s attention fell onto the half-filled tulip glass in front of the stranger. “What are you drinking?”

“Sun and the Moon. It’s a mix of pineapple, melon and cranberry. It has a sweet taste, but it’s also alcoholic. It contains a lot of vodka.”

Jurina read between the lines; the woman was warning her against the possible effects the beverage could have on her. She was resistant to alcohol. Tonight, she wanted to forget about her problems. If this drink could help, it was what she needed.

“I’ll have the same,” Jurina replied.

The other woman expressed slight surprise, but didn’t say anything. She addressed the female bartender. “Akane. Can you serve the same to my friend?”

“Of course.” Jurina didn’t miss the curious look the bartender gave her, as if assessing her, before sending her a polite smile and preparing the drink.

“Do you come here often?” Jurina asked; it was impossible to ignore the familiarity between both women.

“Not that much, but the bartender is a good friend of mine. Who can say no to free drinks?” she said in a playful, joking tone. “I sometimes come on the weekend. Today is an exception. I had a long day at work, and needed to…” She trailed away, searching for her words. Her brow wrinkled with thoughts.

“Unwind?” Jurina offered.

“Yes.” The woman’s features softened; her lips curled into a smile. “Where are my manners. I didn’t introduce myself. My name is Rena.”

“Jurina.”

“Well, Jurina. Nice to meet you.” A drink was placed in front of Jurina, and she thanked the bartender. “I hope you’ll enjoy your drink.”

Jurina brought her glass to her lips, taking a sip. The woman was right; it contained a strong dose of alcohol. Despite it, she couldn’t resist taking another taste. It was different from what she was used to, but there was nothing wrong with trying something new. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed the other woman watching her.

“I like it.” Jurina lowered her glass on the counter. “It has a sweet taste in the mouth. I might be tempted to take a few more.”

Rena let out a soft chuckle. “Yes, this cocktail can have this effect. I’m glad you like it. It’s my favorite.”

“I work in an advertising company. There are often tight deadlines to respect, and my days can be a little stressful,” Jurina said, marking a pause. A few women left the counter to approach the scene. The band had arrived. Jurina felt no desire to follow the gathering of people. Beside her, her companion had her gaze fixed on her, and was listening with attention. “What about you?”

“I’m an actress. At the moment, I’m playing in Central Hospital, a medical show that airs on TBS every Friday at 7 PM. You might have heard of it?”

“Well, I…” Jurina’s face clouded with slight embarrassment. “No, I’m sorry. I don’t watch a lot of TV.”

Rena’s eyes sparkled with amusement. “It’s alright, it’s a small part. I play the role of a lab technician. You wouldn’t have remembered me.”

“That’s hard to believe,” Jurina shook her head in disapproval. “I don’t see how anyone could forget a beautiful woman like you.”

Jurina tensed. Her heart beat increased. What on earth was she saying? She had blurted those words without thinking. She raised her glass, drinking hard.

Rena giggled. “Thank you for the compliment. So, you think I’m beautiful?”

Jurina returned her gaze to her, startled. The woman was teasing her. “I do.” The answer left her lips more naturally than she wished to admit. It had to be the alcohol speaking. She had already emptied her first glass. Deep down, she knew it was a false excuse. Her female companion was lovely, charming and attractive. Anyone with eyes could see that. It was impossible to not feel drawn to her.

Rena went back to her drink, looking pensive. Jurina feared she had gone too far. Had she been too straightforward? “Be careful, or I’ll believe you’re flirting with me.”

“I…” Jurina didn’t know what to say.

“I don’t mind,” Rena said; she laid her hand on top of Jurina’s. “After all, I’m the one who approached you.”

The contact sent her pulses racing. Jurina knew it was wrong to feel that way. Every fiber in her body warned her against it, what would happen if she pursued with this interaction and train of thoughts.

“I’ll take another one.” Rena signaled the bartender. “What about you? Do you want another drink, or…” she paused for a breath, letting slip a twinge of doubt through her mask of confidence. “Do you want to stop here?”

Jurina was at a cross path. Reason told her to put some distance between them and leave before it was too late. Another part of herself, the one that led her to push the door of that bar, was eager to discover what would follow. Before she could open her mouth to answer, her head had nodded her consent. The woman displayed the most captivating smile, one she found unable to resist.  

 **********

After the third drink, Jurina perceived the influence of alcohol on her system. It made her more open, talkative. In Rena’s presence, she didn’t see the time pass by. During two hours, they discussed various topics, from music, cooking and traveling. Never did they broach, as if a tacit agreement existed between them, any subject that touched their private life.

Their complicity made Jurina forget all about the late hour. Every opportunity was good for Rena to brush Jurina’s shoulder, or rest her hand upon her leg. Rena used the music as a pretense to lean over and speak against her ear, her lips touching her cheek too frequently to be an accident. Her rose perfume, that reached Jurina’s nostrils whenever she invaded her personal space, blended with the freshness of citrus scents, both soothing and intoxicating at the same time.  

They were playing a dangerous game.

“This is my favorite song.” Rena’s attention was drawn by the ballad the band was singing. “Will you dance with me?”

The proposal set up a few alarms in Jurina’s head. “I-I’m not so much of a dancer…”

“Oh, come on.” Rena raised from the stool. She reached for her hand. “Everyone knows how to slow dance.”

Jurina didn’t have the opportunity to protest that she dragged her towards the stage. She stopped in the middle of the dancefloor, amidst the other couples of dancers, and threw her arms around her neck. Jurina’s heart hammered in her chest. She stood transfixed on the spot, unable to move, Rena’s body pressed against hers.

“You’re supposed to put your hands around my waist,” Rena murmured playfully to her ear. “Or people are going to look at us awkwardly.”

Jurina met her gaze, amusement flickering in the eyes that met hers. Jurina’s hands touched her waist, tentative, then slipped her arms around her. They moved in rhythm with the music, brushing the floor softly. Before Rena’s tender smile, Jurina let herself go. Little by little, the tension melted from her body and she slowly relaxed. When Rena buried her face against her shoulder, Jurina tightened her hold ever so slightly.

It was like time was suspended, and nothing else mattered but the two of them. Jurina didn’t pay attention to the lyrics of the song, or the other couples dancing. All she could focus on was the gorgeous woman in her arms, and the intimacy they shared. How was it possible to feel such a strong connection to someone she barely met? She shushed the little voice in her head telling her this was wrong. While the truth scared her, it was impossible to deny they were attracted to each other.

She could have danced with her all night.

Everything eventually comes to an end. In the background, the music faded, breaking the magic.  Rena disentangled her arms from her neck. The band announced it was the last song, and the crowd dissipated. None of them made any move to leave. Rena’s lips were so close to hers; she could have easily stolen a kiss. Jurina felt a twinge of shame for letting such a thought cross her mind.

Rena took her hand, and lead them back to the bar. All along the way, Jurina tried to analyze what had transpired between them. Why had she let another woman get so close to her? Her actions were irrational. She should have left that bar hours ago. In fact, she shouldn’t even have passed that door in the first place. They regained their seat, both falling into an unusual silence.

Rena raised her glass to her lips, and Jurina mimicked her actions, trying to make sense of the situation. When she glanced back in Rena’s direction, she found her looking at her intently. Rena settled her drink back on the counter. Her hand found hers, linking their fingers together. “I’m going to the bathroom. Will you join me?”

Jurina’s heart raced at Rena’s suggestive smile.

She didn’t wait for an answer and left. Jurina followed her retreating form, not losing the implication of what she had offered. She reached for her drink, noticing how little was left of it, and emptied it down in one gulp. Her feet moved on their own volition. Before she realized it, she had pushed the bathroom door.

“I wasn’t sure you’d come.”

Rena waited on the other side of the room, her back leaned against the white, tiled bathroom wall. Jurina watched her expression of pleasure change to longing. She shuddered, and felt a burning need for her grow deep inside of her. She swept the place around, enough to acknowledge they were alone. Rena tore herself away from the wall and reduced the few meters separating them. Once in front of her, she wound her arms around her neck and drew Jurina’s mouth to hers.

“I’ve wanted you since you took a seat at the bar.”

The moment Rena’s lips made contact with hers, Jurina threw herself into that kiss. Rena’s lips parted and her mouth opened in invitation. That small invitation was all Jurina needed. Jurina pulled her close, and kissed her hungrily. The simple taste of her elicited reactions from her body that swept her away in their intensity.

Jurina could feel herself sliding towards that dangerous cliff. The cliff where the entire world gave way before her burning urges. Her hands wrapped around Rena’s waist, holding her steady. Rena never hesitated nor resisted. The more Jurina took, the more Rena gave, and she clung to her, Rena’s body pressed so closely against hers she could feel every supple curve moulding to her.

How long they stayed that way, drowning in the taste and touch of the other’s mouth, Jurina didn't know, and truly didn't care. Had it not been for the demands of their oxygen starved lungs, she might not have pulled her lips from her own. Rena was here in her arms, and Jurina was losing herself in the smell of her, the taste of her, the very feel of her soft, warm skin beneath her fingertips where they brushed her bare shoulders.

Her hands moved down her back, exploring, trying to slip underneath her white shirt. Their kisses turned more demanding, pressing. It was messy, urgent. When Jurina kissed her, she discovered she had more passion and fire within her than she ever imagined, for one luscious taste of Rena’s lips only left her hungrier for more.

“I needed that so badly,” Rena gasped.

“Me too,” Jurina confessed.

When Jurina’s mouth met hers again, Rena took control of the kiss, her tongue plundering the depths of her mouth and leaving her trembling with arousal and desire. Jurina drew back long enough to gaze at her with enough unbridled passion in her eyes, for the other woman to know they both wished the same thing.

Their kisses turned more passionate, none of them showing signs of wanting to stop. Jurina found herself pushed against the wall. She heard her vest falling on the ground, and a pair of hasty fingers unbuttoning her shirt. Next thing she knew, Rena’s palms were mapping her breasts through her bra, her nipples pulling tight under her ministrations.

“You’ll need that.”

The kiss was broken; Jurina dragged her heavy-lidded eyes open. Trying to figure out what she meant, she followed Rena’s actions. Detaching herself from her, Rena placed a coin in the wall machine, and retrieved the fallen condom. Surprise flashed in Jurina’s eyes. “H-How did you know?”

Rena gave her a malicious, knowing look. “You think I didn’t notice the bulge between your legs? It’s not a secret what kind of people come to this bar.”

Jurina was taken aback, speechless. “So, you have… with people like me?”

“I don’t have any preferences, but yes, a couple of times. Why?” She slipped the plastic bag into the front pocket of Jurina’s pants. “Isn’t it what you were looking for when you entered that bar?”

“I…” Jurina made no immediate reply, and considered for a moment. “I’m not sure what I was searching.”  

Confusion crossed Rena’s features. “You wanted some company.” She lightly swept her tongue between Jurina’s lips, pressing her warm, soft lips to hers. “Am I wrong?”

“No, you’re not…” Jurina couldn’t deny it.

“Then, come in.”

Rena grabbed her by the shirt and pulled her into an empty toilet, shutting the door close behind them. Jurina didn’t know what she found the most frightening and enticing at the same time: that she wanted another woman so much, or that she was desired with equal hunger. Rena didn’t waste time to work on her pants, pulling them down, then pushed her down on the toilet seat. Jurina’s mouth went dry; her heart jolted. She watched in awe as Rena’s hand disappeared under her red full skirt and pulled off a pair of pink underwear, letting it fall on the floor.  

She grew more excited as Rena hiked her skirt up and straddled her. Jurina helped her remove her white top from above her head, Rena tossing it aside, her pink bra following the same path. Jurina pulled her closer, and latched her lips onto hers. Her hands moved up so her thumbs touched the undersides of her exposed breasts. Jurina could feel Rena’s heartbeat, and she breathed more heavily by every second. With every breath, her breasts moved slightly and Jurina moved towards her nipples. She caressed them freely and fully, cupping one in each hand and rubbing each in a circular motion.

“D-Don’t make me wait.” Rena’s voice sounded husky, a little breathless. “I want you inside me.”

Jurina needed no further encouragement. Her hand reached between Rena’s legs, but was halted in her exploration. “There’s no need for any more foreplay.” Rena grabbed her wrist. “Trust me, I’m ready.” Jurina gently freed herself from her hold. She resumed her progress underneath Rena’s skirt, approaching the soft flesh of her inner thighs. Her fingers came in contact with damp folds. “See? Told you.” Rena smirked back at her. She hooked a finger on each side of Jurina’s boxers and inched them down, revealing Jurina’s manhood. Astonishment touched her face, followed by an amused smile.

Jurina felt slightly embarrassed.

She was as hard as stone.

Rena touched Jurina’s cheek and ran her thumb across her lips. She leaned forward, gently kissing her. “Do you want to put it on, or will I? What do you prefer?”

Through her frenzy mind, it took Jurina a few seconds to remember where Rena had placed the condom. Jurina retrieved it from her pants pocket, and tore it open, slipping the protection on over her erection. Rena took a moment to position herself, then reached between Jurina’s legs and guided her manhood into her. She lowered herself smoothly, gently, until Jurina held her completely inside her. Jurina gave a gasp of excitement as she felt the hot, moist clench of her muscles on her.

Rena began moving on top of her. She moved slowly, sliding out of her until only the tip remained inside then slowly thrusting back in again until she filled her completely. Each stroke made her whimper and moan slightly, her arms tightening around her. Rena continued her slow languid movements, holding her intense chocolate-eyed gaze with her own. They rocked together, two minds slowly merging to become one as their bodies melded until it was impossible for her to know which was her pleasure and which was hers.

She rocked rhythmically, back and forth, rising and falling, changing sometimes to a lewd circular sway. It drove them both crazy, if the hitches in their breathing were any indication. Jurina drew one of those tight nipples into her mouth. Gripping handfuls of her hair, Rena let out a sharp cry of pleasure. Jurina’s hands gripped Rena’s hips and grinded her down on her. Jurina sped up the tempo.

Hard and fast she pushed her down on her, her tongue moving in sync with her hips, encouraged by Rena’s rising passion, by the hands that clenched her back. Jurina sent her free hand down to where they were joined, teasing and coaxing her sensitive bud. Rena’s moans of pleasure encouraged her fiery plundering of her body. Jurina closed her eyes and let the pleasure radiate outward from where their bodies were joined. Jurina felt a pulling at her shaft in rhythm to their movement. It was the muscles inside Rena, caressing her. Jurina made a low sound in her throat.  

“You can hold it. Just… a little longer.”

Jurina heard Rena’s whispering pleas, and she squeezed her eyes shut. She teetered on some brink of ecstasy, trembling on the edge just this side of sanity. Rena’s breath was coming faster now. They went on, moving in unison. Rena adjusted the angle to reach her most sensitive spot, far up inside her womb. That made Jurina’s eyes open. The physical pleasure could no longer be separated from the mental, and she felt them both rising to the edge toward the crest of ultimate pleasure.

Rena reached that pinnacle first. Gasping out Jurina’s name, she shuddered around her, her contractions clamping down on her shaft. Rena clung to her while her body shivered in the aftershocks. Jurina’s own release followed on the heels of hers. She lost all control and climaxed with her, riding the waves of pleasure.

When Jurina returned to herself, it was to the feeling of Rena’s fingers stroking her hair. A sensation of satisfaction drifted from her, a sated happiness and warmth that was intoxicating. Rena’s body still trembled from the force of her last orgasm and she shuddered as well. Breathing heavily, still buried deeply inside of her, Jurina dropped a trail of kisses down her neck, and on her shoulder.

Minute by minute, they came down from the euphoria but remained locked in each other’s arms. For the first time in more years Jurina could remember, she had finally experienced sexual pleasure again.

Jurina felt Rena backing slightly, and pressing her lips against hers. A smile pulled at her lips and she returned the kiss, almost wishing this moment could last forever. Eventually, Rena slowly removed herself from on top of her. She retrieved her fallen clothes from the floor, and readjusted them as best as she could. Jurina watched her moving towards the door, and she knew this was it. Her short, but memorable encounter with Rena was coming to an end. She turned around in her direction. “Thank you. I enjoyed it.”

Rena gave her one last lingering smile and unlocked the door. Jurina followed the sound of her footsteps drawing away, followed by the bathroom door opening and shutting close. Jurina was left alone with her thoughts. A one-night stand. It was all that it was. Once Jurina would have left that place, she would return to her daily life, and pretend that moment never occurred.

**********

Jurina dropped her keys in the ashtray, and hanged her vest on the coatrack. Removing her shoes in the entrance, she was careful not to make too much noise as she made her way inside the dark apartment. She stole a peek in the direction of the bedroom: the lights were off. Pushing the bathroom door, she removed her clothes, and entered the shower. A steady stream of warm water cascaded over her shoulders, washing away any physical trace of her misconduct.

Visions of Rena filled her mind. She had no intention of seeing her again. No clarification was needed for them to know what this nightly encounter was. But it didn’t mean Rena was someone easy to forget. She had made her feel something, on both an emotional and physical level, that she hadn’t felt in years.

Jurina made her way to the bedroom, slowly opening the door. Her gaze fell down on her wife, sleeping soundly in bed. The pang of guilt got bigger. She made her way towards her own side of the bed, and took a seat on the side of the bed, her back turned to the other woman while she put on her pajamas. She had to repeat herself again and again it was only a moment of weakness, to not let the shame consume her. Placing her wedding ring on the bedside table, she quietly slipped between the sheets.

The mattress shifted behind her.

“Did you stay at work late again?”

“Yes, I wanted to finish some paperwork.” Jurina bit down on her lower lip. It was the first time she lied to her wife.

“You can arrive at work later. Don’t forget we have a meeting at 11 AM with the board committee.”

“I won’t…” Jurina’s voice trailed away uneasily. “Thank you for reminding me. Goodnight, Sakura.”

“Goodnight.”

Behind her back, Jurina heard her wife falling back asleep. Jurina tried to do the same, but found herself wide awake. She stared at the wedding ring on the bedside table, reminder of the commitment she had made to the woman sleeping in bed with her. And the misdeed she had committed tonight for the first time. Jurina squeezed her eyes shut, wishing to erase from her mind once and for all any memory of Rena’s enchanting dark, brown eyes.

[morganlegaye]

listen i just watched the whole MV for AKB48′s “sentimental train” and if i’m not supposed to ship jurina and sakura after that idk what the point of it was tbh 

[worstlovesong]

YOU LIKE JURISAKU?!?!?!

YES OF COURSE

[akb48girldaisuki]

Jurina you got to pick the other team for Peek-a-boo! sakura : *sparkly puppy eyes*i want that song* J: .. (must not look into sakura eyes must not look into) S: jurina san J: .. (GOD GIVE ME STRENGTH MUST NOT LOOK) S: senpai~ J: .. (MMMMGHHHHHHHH )

[misakishishido]

"Let's meet again when the sky lets us;

Until we meet again, I wanna tell you so many things.

Can you wait for me? Can you promise me?

I'll come back and be by your side;

Until we meet again;

We will meet again."

- '다시 만나' -

===

I thought I’d only be overwhelmed with feels listening to ‘Let’s Meet Again/See You Again’ because of Kang Hyewon+Satou Minami’s backstory, but now after the release of ‘Sentimental Train’s’ MV, this song has tripled the feels factor especially when Sakura is in this group </3

Now the lyrics of the song feels like it fits JuriSaku too ;A;

My JuriSaku feels definitely resurfaced because of ‘Sentimental Train’s’ gosh darn MV </3 (AKS actually did something right for once, especially when all expectations were pretty low for me. What an emotional MV they’ve created, despite being unfinished at the moment.)

[purplerider]

mnet;

stop ruining jurisaku, they ain't no enemies

start giving more screentime to people who ain't this famous

stop making sakura look weak by showing off every one of her crying scenes in every episode

there are certain girls that we didn't even get to see in the ranking part of episode one where they perform in front of the judges; give more recognition to them since people don't know them much. it's like you clearly try to get some girls kicked out of the show as fast as possible

of course it's a competition but you try so hard to make them all look as they are actual enemies with each other, but you know in reality that they are supportive to each other

mnet please stop ruining produce 48, we all had enough of this.

[jurisakutwice-blog]

The Wait (Jurisaku)

oof this is just wishful/delusional thinking at 2am but in all seriousness i hope both of them will take care of their health and be happyyyy

fluffy oneshot ^^ hope you enjoy! feel free to follow my blog for more fanfics and drabbles in the future

-////-

Sakura could finally plop down on the hotel bed and bury herself in the soft sheets after a long day of schedules in Tokyo. In addition to today’s activities, she had been practicing hard for the new senbatsu single, but was never satisfied with how she was doing. Worried about if she was doing enough to meet the expectations of herself and others, Sakura pushed herself harder and harder until she literally could not dance another measure. She collapsed in front of the long mirror and stared at her reflection.

She was always someone that had too many thoughts.

Do I deserve to be here?

Can someone like me really be center?

These kinds of thoughts ran through her head far too often, especially with the attention she’s been getting from Produce48. Though she could feel the fatigue building from the soreness of her muscles and the bags under her eyes, she pretended like it wasn’t there. Like always. Someone who puts on a bright smile, laughs, shines, gives strength to the people around her and to the people that support her. That’s who Sakura believes an idol has to be.

Therefore, when she finally got the chance to lay down, the first thing she thought to do was pull out her phone to update SNS. However, she was scrolling through her timeline when an article caught her eye.

“SKE48’s Matsui Jurina to Take Hiatus and Focus on Medical Treatment”

Sakura’s finger paused at the words when her brain finally managed to register what she was reading. The two were rivals, as management and fans pushed them to be, but neither had ill intentions towards the other. Instead, it was quite the opposite. Sakura had always admired her senior, though she wasn’t sure how the other party felt about herself. Jurina was gorgeous, confident, and undeniably talented. Everyone knew how hard Jurina had been working for the sake of her group in the past ten years, even to the detriment of her own health.

At first, relief flooded Sakura’s heart when she realized Jurina was finally prioritizing her wellbeing. She herself witnessed how the Nagoya ace’s exhaustion coupled with sleep deprivation and starvation affected her at this year’s Sousenkyo. Relief was then quickly replaced with concern. When was the last time Jurina took a break? She loved her work and her determination never ceased until the extreme. How bad was her condition to have to go on a hiatus of indefinite length? When she finally got the first place she’d always been waiting for too...

Although Sakura wouldn’t consider their relationship to be a “friendship,” she wished the best for the other girl from the bottom of her heart. Which was hard not to, as Jurina had been an inspiration to many from the start, including herself.

Sakura rarely had the courage to reach out to someone first, suffering from an irrational fear of being bothersome or clingy. Her insecurities restrained her from acting the way she wanted more times than she could count. Feeling unusually confident today, she tapped on the green Line icon at the bottom right corner and watched her recent conversations load onto the screen. Sakura had to scroll quite a bit until she found the chat she was looking for. The last message from “Jurina-san” was dated back in March on Sakura’s birthday. The latter was surprised, but mostly flattered when her senior thought of sending her a short congratulatory message on her 20th birthday.

Now that she was here, she didn’t really know what to say. Sakura wracked her brain trying to think of what would be best. Feel better? Rest well? She was struggling. Right when she was about to give up and call it quits for the night, a new message popped up above her keyboard.

“Ouchhh,” Sakura whined as her phone slapped her in the face.

She rubbed her forehead while kicking her legs in excitement, fatigue from today’s dance practice completely forgotten. She was so startled to see a message from the sole person in her thoughts. Even though it was just a simple “hey” Sakura couldn’t control the unmanageable beating of her heart and the heat rising in her cheeks.

It wasn’t until she managed to type out “hi” and press send that Sakura noticed she was holding her breath. It was almost midnight... She couldn’t help but smile at the fact that Jurina was thinking of her right now.

“I know it’s kinda late and you’re probably in bed already, but do you have time right now?” Sakura read the request aloud, incredulous and unaware of how her voice became almost a squeak by the end of the question. “Yes” she replied in a trance, before immediately realizing how desperate she must have sounded just then.

“Come outside. I’ll be waiting.”

The amazingly unathletic girl sprung up from her sheets in record time, almost twisting an ankle and busting open her head on the bedside table in the process. She was never good at being graceful.

Sakura flung her hotel door wide open and rushed down the stairs, too impatient to wait for the elevator. Completely forgetting that she was barefaced, in her pink pajamas, slippers, and without a mask, Sakura didn’t notice the wide eyes of the hotel receptionist at all when she practically flew through the lobby’s front doors.

Sakura stopped in her tracks, her eyes landing on the unmistakable figure leaning back on the closest bench to the entrance. It was the same figure she admired so many times before in the past. In the dim lighting of Tokyo’s street lamps, Jurina stared off into the distance, clad entirely in black including the mask covering half her face. Sakura just gazed at her a minute. It had been a couple weeks since they last saw each other and quite honestly, Sakura missed her. Though they didn’t talk much, she missed the way her smooth black hair framed her face, the look she had when she pouted, and the sparkle in her eyes when she was excited.

Sakura was forced out of her reverie when Jurina realized just who was standing in front of the hotel’s main doors. Under her mask, a big smile broke out over her face, the first one in a while. Sakura’s heart almost jumped out of her chest when she recognized that legendary eye smile.

Tentatively making her way over to the bench, Sakura whispered a timid “Hey” before taking a seat next to the smiling girl.

Taking a shaky breath and scooting closer to Sakura, Jurina removed her mask with one hand and scratched her neck with the other.

“Sakura... I’m sorry to call you out here so late. You’re probably tired and sleepy and you might not even want to see me but-“ Jurina’s faced flushed red as she couldn’t stop the random jumble of words from escaping her mouth. She was almost always more composed than this.

Her unusual behavior didn’t go unnoticed by her junior who stopped her in the middle of her sentence.

“Hey, Jurina-san? Please calm down, you’re scaring me a bit.” Sakura let out a soft giggle facing the ground, a little happy to see that she wasn’t alone in her nervousness. The pinkness of her cheeks was still noticeable in the darkness of midnight.

When the younger girl finally looked up into the other’s eyes, she was surprised by the expression she found. It was the first time she saw this look on a normally put together Jurina. She couldn’t quite tell what it was, but when she was about to open her mouth to break the extended silence, warm arms pulled her into a tight hug. Confused, but not uncomfortable, Sakura let Jurina embrace her for a few seconds before wrapping her own arms around her back.

“Can we just stay like this for a bit?” Jurina murmured into Sakura’s shoulder.

She hummed in response, pulling Jurina even closer. She always wondered why 48g’s certified kissing monster seemed to be a clingy pup to every other girl but herself. With her so nearby, Sakura could smell the subtle floral scent of her shampoo and enjoyed the warmth of the hug in the cool summer breeze.

No wonder she’s so popular, she mused, losing herself in Jurina’s soft dark hair.

After what seemed like a millisecond, the older of the pair abruptly pulled away and placed her hands on Sakura’s shoulders.

“I’m sorry,” she breathed suddenly. “I’m sorry I scolded you in the middle of a performance. I’m sorry for all the stress our ‘rivalry’ has caused you. For not calling out to you when I should have. For not offering my shoulder for you to cry on. I’m sorry for avoiding you whenever we were alone and for never being honest about how I feel...”

The black haired girl took a deep breath and observed Sakura’s surprised, wide-eyed, blinking face for a second.

“Pfffft. Your face! You’re really cute, you know that? Like all the time, even when you look like this,” Jurina laughed, flashing a smile before placing one hand on the younger girl’s cheek.

Immediately, Sakura’s own hands flew to cover her face after a late realization. “W-wait! I’m not wearing any makeup and I’m really red and kinda sweaty-“

“You’re cute,” Jurina replied firmly this time. “In every way.”

Now it was Sakura who was fumbling with her words. The flustered girl pressed her lips into a line and puffed out her cheeks, not knowing what to say. She was still processing what Jurina had said earlier.

“You have nothing to be sorry for, Jurina-san. Everything you do is always because you’re looking out for other people. I was so worried when I saw how you were acting before the election and when I discovered the news of your hiatus. But at the same time I’m so happy that you’re finally putting your health above all else. Your fans, SKE, I, and the whole world would wait for however long it takes for you to come back with that bright smile again,” Sakura paused before continuing.

“And if anything, I should be the one apologizing. I’m always too nervous to approach you and I’ve never thanked you for being my motivation all these years. So thank you. Also, I’m not that cute,” Sakura gave Jurina her toothiest grin while her eyes glittered in the moonlight.

Jurina couldn’t help but believe that the Sakura sitting in front of her with a wide smile, sparkling eyes, pink pajamas, fluffy slippers, and no makeup was the most beautiful sight she had ever seen.

With her hand still on Sakura’s cheek, she leaned in closer as Sakura’s eyes fluttered shut in anticipation. When their lips touched, Jurina could feel all the tension in her body from the past month fly away with the summer breeze. Pulling away from their gentle kiss after a short eternity, Sakura lightly pressed her forehead to Jurina’s and smiled.

The blush from her cheeks had never faded.

“I would wait forever.”

[yuri-or-death]

Spellbound 05: Initiation (JuriSaku)

CHAPTER: 01, 02, 03, 04, 05

Main Characters : Matsui Jurina, Miyawaki Sakura Pairings: JuriSaku, WMatsui, NanaSaku/SakuNaa, JuriMomo (friendship), and more.

Summary : Matsui Jurina is the immovable ace of St. Hildegard’s School of Magic. Considered a protégé by many Wizard Saints, her technique and mastery is second to none. Enter Miyawaki Sakura, talentless, unrefined and socially awkward. Her golden ticket for admission into the elite school is her late father’s legacy.

What happens when Sakura suddenly gets transferred to the Special Class because of a lottery? Will the mysterious ace take interest? (Magic School AU)

XXXX

The sun burned brightly this morning, the brightest it had been in the last two weeks. It was mostly clouds and rain since the week started, but now the rays of the sun could almost sear through fabric.

Even so, no amount of sunshine could faze Watanabe Mayu. Her system was carefully crafted to withstand any weather condition. When it was too hot, her sensors would stabilize her body temperature and the cold wasn't a problem either—cyborgs don't get hypothermia. Though she did need built-in heat foils under her silicon skin to prevent her circuits from freezing.

“You’re up early.” She acknowledged Sayaka who was standing by the dorm’s gate seemingly waiting for her.

A ghost of a smile crossed Sayaka’s countenance as she swung her jacket over her shoulder. Her usually punkish style was dressed down to St. Hildegard Academy’s regular polo shirt and gray skirt. The first buttons of her blouse were undone and her deep red tie hung loosely around her neck. Yet despite her carefree appearance, her strong aura was enough to unsettle any novice mage in training just by standing there. “Today will be interesting.” She almost skipped on her way out.

Mayu matched Sayaka’s steps perfectly as they made their way towards the main building. “Only because Miyawaki Sakura has become quite a commodity.” The cyborg’s tone as she spoke betrayed her disinterest. It seemed Okada Nana wasn’t the only who could put two and two together. Mayu’s astral scan of Miyawaki on the first day she appeared in class proved handy, as expected. She was able to read the spike of aura almost instantly as the distortion occurred.

“You think I can get her in my roster?”

“Statistical probability is 25%...If they do proceed with the Baptism today that is.”

“I’m sure the dimensional shift last night won't stop the Headmaster from conducting the initiation.” Sayaka rubbed her chin. “I’m actually quite excited to see if Miyawaki is indeed what we think she is.”

“Shouldn’t you be steering away from all this?” There was almost a slight hint of taunting in Mayu’s robotic voice. “When was the last time you appeared in The Round, even?”

“I can enjoy a good show as long as I’m not the one tied in strings.” Sayaka refused to answer the second question. The Round--it was  the Matsui Conglomerate’s circle of elites, the group of clans who answered to the beck and call of Jurina’s grandfather. Sayaka wanted nothing to do with it, not after what happened last year.

~*~*~*~

Professor Shinoda placed her teacup back on its coaster. She watched the cluster of students in the courtyard from the window, her eyes seemed to darken under the shadows of the curtains.

“Mari—”

Mariko’s mind was elsewhere, unable to recognize the soft timbre of Haruna’s voice. The latter had been trying to strike a conversation for the past few minutes, to no avail. The adviser of the Special Class was too deep in thought.

Finally, Haruna feigned a cough. “Mari-chan, you’ve been listless since yesterday.” She said before taking a bite of her strawberry scone. Her free hand hovered over the teacup’s rim, slender fingers glided against its porcelain mouth. “Why is that?”

“Are you not shaken at all? We’ve been breached.”

“I am. I’ve doubled sentinel patrols, even as far as flying around myself. But there’s no point in dwelling too much..”

“I’m sorry.” Mariko sighed in defeat. Her confidante was right, what has passed cannot be undone. “It’s just that our meeting last night lingers like a shadow.” As she closed her eyes, she could recount last night’s events perfectly as a mage looking into an enchanted mirror.

Miyawaki Sakura entered the Headmaster’s office, her brown eyes flickered with youthful inquisitiveness. She wanted answers, an explanation--anything to hold onto-- for the upheaval she caused.

The Headmaster, Professor Shinoda, Miss Kojima and Jurina turned to her direction. Their body language indicated that the newcomer had interrupted an ongoing debate.

Jurina’s hands fisted on her sides, while Haruna held the Ace’s shoulder as if to subdue her.

At the center of the Sakura’s panorama was the Headmaster, seated behind his desk; eyes obscured by the glint of his glasses.

“Thank you for joining us, Miss Miyawaki.” The Headmaster finally addressed her. He motioned for her to come closer with his right hand.

Sakura could feel Jurina’s heavy gaze upon her, as if silently trying to implore her to turn back and get out of the room fast.

“It is my honor.” Sakura tried to sound reverent. Although she spoke to the Headmaster, she held Jurina’s gaze. What was the older girl thinking? Why had she grown so pensive?

“How are you feeling?” The Headmaster asked.

“Great, never better, honestly.”

Mariko couldn’t stop her eyebrow from rising as she scrutinized the young girl in question. She was thoroughly apprised of what had transpired when Jurina activated Valhalla but was not content with just the Ace’s narrative. “Haruna told me you couldn’t fully recall the details of the attack.” She prodded.

“Yes, I blacked out after Jurina-san was injured. I can only remember a burning feeling engulfing my body.”

The Headmaster nodded, as if perfectly knowledgeable of Sakura’s circumstances. Like he was anticipating a move in a chess game that was all too familiar. As he laid down his glasses on the wooden desk, a ring of blue light appeared on his left iris.

He mumbled an incantation. “Give me your hand, Miyawaki-san.”

Just then, the towering Grandfather clock chimed, its deep, somber tune echoed as midnight fell.

Sakura obeyed. She placed her hand atop the Headmaster’s open palm. Thin silver lines started to crawl on her wrist until it took the pattern of a celtic cross.

“That mark,” Jurina recognized the insignia. It was the same one that appeared after Sakura’s aura flared up.

The silver pattern was reflected on Sakura’s wide eyes. “What...is this…?” At her words, the air in the room seemed to concentrate around her like a whirlwind. The windows blasted open and everything in the Headmaster’s office shook from the pressure of her astral force; building up, spiraling, scattering.

Mariko, Haruna and Jurina stood there unfazed; activating a defensive barrier of their own as trinkets and potions shattered, books leapt out of their shelves.

The Headmaster’s strong grip on Sakura’s hand did not waiver.  “The White One has branded you, Miyawaki Sakura. But now is not the time to break your chains.”

Using her free hand, Sakura tried to shield her face from the strong gust of wind. “I don’t understand any of this!” Her thoughts were all jumbled again; the sensations flooding her like an angry tempest.

Nothing was making sense. Power, so much power that it burned like white-hot pain.  Just a few days ago she couldn’t even properly cast a levitation spell but now, her whole being was leaking with astral energy for the second time today.

“Jurina, come here.” The Headmaster commanded. “Negate her.” His tone was sharp and dark and foreboding but Sakura could barely make out the words.

Jurina raised her hand, slender fingers wove through the air to create a magic circle. Pain shot through the blonde’s senses like lightning coursing down her spine. Still, she tried to compose herself—the mark of the serpent burning brightly on her wrist.

“Abyssum Vaqui.” In a flash, the wind swirling around Sakura, the spiritual pressure that hung heavily disappeared as if sucked by a vacuum.

“J-Jurina...san--” Sakura mouthed before she collapsed into Jurina’s arms.

An unseen force brought the blonde girl to her knees, her branded hand was shaking against Sakura’s back as they both crouched down on the floor.

“The Round will not approve of this, Headmaster.” Jurina softly hissed despite her labored breathing, still overcome by the pain of her curse mark. Her arm was draped over Sakura quite protectively.

“Your Grandfather will understand.”

Sakura somewhat regained her sensibilities. She lifted her head to look Jurina in the eye. “Please tell me what’s happening—” Before she could finish her sentence, Professor Shinoda tapped her forehead and she fell into deep slumber.

Jurina glanced at her adviser, there was a defiant glint in her eyes, discontent was burning inside her. “She deserves an explanation not putting her to sleep again..”

Mariko understood the blonde girl’s displeasure. “It is not yet her time.” That was the only semblance of an explanation she could offer.

“You did well, Jurina.” The Headmaster would not usually mouth off praises here and there, but tonight his favorite student earned it.

“We have confirmed Miyawaki-san’s identity, Headmaster.” Haruna said while prying away Sakura’s unconscious body from Jurina’s grasp. “From here on out, please proceed with extreme caution.”

Haruna’s last words rang inside Mariko’s head like a bell toll, indeed they were treading about dangerous waters.

“Mari-chan shall we start preparing for the Baptism today?”

“Yes, but before that, I have a delivery to make.”

~*~*~*~

Momoka watched as Jurina scribbled notes on her syllabus. “What were you doing in the Headmaster’s office last night?” She whispered.

Their History professor was writing something on the board while droning on about the Fall of the Roses. This was a regular class attended by 3rd year students of the Academy and it was boring the bodyguard to death.

The strokes of the fountain pen against the paper were elegant and concise. “Why should I tell you?”

“Because I’m the one who picked you up, half-collapsed on the dormitory lobby. You can’t keep spreading yourself too thin like this.”

Jurina did not reply. She barely made it to her room conscious last night.

“If they keep making you use void, I’ll have to tell your Grandfather pretty soon.”

The Ace finally lifted her gaze from her writing. Momoka rightfully earned her full attention.“You will say nothing.”

“J, I’m not exactly the number one fan of your quest for self-destruction.” Jurina’s frequent passing out was becoming alarming, especially for Momoka.

“And you think telling Grandfather will make any difference? Do it, if you want to see me all locked up.”

“That’s not what I—”

The bell chimed signaling the end of the joint class. Students almost skipped out of the study hall, eager for recess.  

Momoka tailed Jurina, like always. But today the blonde was more distant than usual. When the tide of students finally passed and only the two of them stood in the middle of the corridor, the bodyguard spoke once more.

“Look, I’m just worried.”

Jurina glanced behind, locking gazes with the single person she could fully trust. “I’m sorry for being difficult, Momo.” It was crystal clear to her how much Momoka was trying.

“Stop rushing into things on your own.”

Jurina wanted to promise she’d avoid danger, that she wouldn’t risk confronting Lady Jeopardy again and again and again just so she could find an ending to their decade-old struggle. She would do anything for a chance to pick up the broken pieces and right things one last time.

“It’s complicated.”

“You offend me. Am I so weak that I can’t stand by your side?”

The hurt in Momoka’s voice was difficult to miss. She spent her whole life fighting to get stronger. Jurina was the sun and though Momoka was a mere comet in orbit, were all the years of untainted fidelity to her benefactor not enough?

Jurina scratched the back of her neck. She did not mean to disgrace Momoka. It’s just that, death followed her like a longing shadow that she would take any chance to steer her good friend away from its clutches. Momoka was her knight but that doesn’t mean she was expendable.

“I’ve lost Sayanee already, I can’t...” Jurina tried to put her apprehension into words but Momoka was quicker to snap back.

“Let me make my choice—to live, to die, to struggle--it is only mine.”

The ace sighed in resignation. “Fine,” She had lost this mental battle and the price was to come clean. “Sakura has the mark. It won’t be long until she fully awakens.”

Momoka’s brows furrowed deeply as she soaked in the information. “Your meeting in the solarium that day—were you the catalyst?”

“I didn’t understand at first, but It seems our astral energies have been reacting.” Memories of their first encounter in the glass garden, the falconry match and the breach flashed back in her mind. “The pieces are falling into place.”

“Tell me Jurina, can we still stop this?”

~*~*~*~

The girls in the corridor eyed Sakura from head to foot as she and Haruka passed by. It seemed the gossip mill was yet to die down and the fact of Sakura’s transfer to the Special Class was still a cause for disdain to the regular students.

“Hey Saku-chan,” Nana came from behind Sakura and Haruka who were on their way to the cafeteria. Haruka could swear she heard a few whines from the girls as Nana came to them. Something like “Why is Naachan with the dunce?” “That girl’s been leeching on Jurina-san too!” “I bet she’s so full of herself now.”

“Naachan,” Sakura acknowledged. “Good day to you.” She smiled, paying no heed to the girls ostracizing her.

“I was supposed to ask you about what happened. But the Professor suddenly summoned you last night.” Nana said, falling in the same pace as the two freshmen.

“Even I am yet to be apprised of what has transpired.” Haruka interjected. She had tried a few times to get Sakura to speak about it, but the latter would only say her memories were blurry.

“Yeah, umm...about that,” Sakura started, “everything’s a bit hazy honestly.” She scratched the back of her head while chuckling nervously. “I don’t think I went to the Headmaster’s office...I…fell asleep.” Sakura tried a hundred times to recall the events yesterday but there was this cloud in her mind that would not let up.

“Really? You are so dead!” Haruka sounded exasperated, and quite rightfully so. She was Sakura’s best friend and being kept in the dark about all of this made her uneasy. But it’s not like this was Sakura’s fault, Haruka debated in her head.

“I swear. I only remember Jurina-san rushing in to save me. She was injured.” Sakura’s expression turned glum at the thought of the blonde ace risking her neck, yet again, for her sake. No matter how many times she berrated herself for failing to remember, the recollection of yesterday’s events was simply elusive. Did she hit her head hard...or something?

“Must be the shock.” Nana surmised. She held onto Sakura shoulder and comforted the younger girl. “It’s okay. What matters is that you’re safe.”

Sakura was definitely caught off guard by the prefect’s sudden gesture. She felt her cheeks flush and was thankful they had reached the non-crowded part of the corridor. Otherwise, she was so sure Naachan’s fangirls would rip her to shreds.

“If you need anything Saku-chan, please come to me.” What was this warm feeling suddenly gripping her heart? She’s just really nice, Sakura. Sakura repeated like a mantra in her head. Nana’s gaze was so magnetic that it reminded Sakura of a certain blonde.

Sakura and Nana could probably stare at each other the whole lunch period but Haruka would have none of it. “Jurina-san has been tangled in your affairs recently.” Haruka huffed. “Just what impression are you trying to make Saku-chan?”

“Impression?” Sakura almost choked, the mention of Jurina’s name seemed to unhinge certain gears in Sakura’s brain.

“You’re probably number one on the hit list of Jurina-san’s fangirls.” Haruka added.

“But I’m not doing anything!”

“Except playing the damsel in distress.” Haruka snickered. Teasing Sakura was quite enjoyable from time to time. Nana, on the other hand, only looked at Sakura; her gaze, unreadable.

“Haruka, it’s not like I enjoy it when Jurina-san—”

“When I what?”

The three girls jolted as if an electric current had suddenly shot through them. Matsui Jurina stood ahead, just a few steps away. Her regal figure was commanding enough to stop them in their tracks. She looked like she was engaged in a conversation with Momoka and Yui beforehand.

Sakura’s mouth gaped open mid sentence. Her mind unable to coherently form her thoughts.

“J-Jurina...san, good d-day.” Haruka almost did a curtsy.

Nana turned to the ace and gave her a greeting in the form of a slight nod, which the latter returned.

“When I do what, Sakura?” Jurina repeated, too curious as to why she had become the subject of these girls’ conversation. She tilted her head to the side, her gaze did not leave Sakura’s face.

“Uh...I…” Sakura stammered.

“You don’t like me, Sakura?” There was a hint of hurt in Jurina’s voice. Whether it was genuine or just part of her teasing the younger girl, it wasn’t crystal clear.

Panic gripped Sakura. “No! Of course I do! I mean that’s not….I don’t…” Forming a coherent sentence was becoming quite challenging for the transfer student who was turning a deeper shade of red by the second.

Jurina sighed but then smiled. She was well aware that Sakura’s memories were partially wiped out but still couldn’t help but pry. “You sure you’re ok?” She came forward to check on Sakura’s temperature—her lithe fingers lingered on Sakura’s forehead.

The feeling of Jurina’s cold touch against her skin seemed to magnify the young girl’s spiral into an incoherent mess.

This was insane. Sakura wanted to evaporate. Her dream of Jurina, as a valiant knight, saving her from falling and embracing her firmly replayed in her mind. What was happening here? Did she just actively recount her lucid dream of Jurina? Why was she even having lucid dreams of Jurina? It only served to plunge her into a deeper frenzy.

“If you keep teasing her, you’ll ‘overheat’ the poor girl, J.” Momoka interrupted, seeing how Sakura was blushing redder than a blood ruby. It was more of her enjoying highlighting the young girl’s predicament than her being concerned though.

“Maybe you should skip class today? You look really flushed.” Jurina advised while stepping away and falling back into place between Yui and Momoka.

Sakura opened her mouth to speak, her heart hammered in her chest. Don’t do this Sakura. Don’t embarrass yourself further. Don’t. “Jurina-san...I—”

“Jurinaaaa~” Miru appeared out of nowhere, her arm linking with Jurina’s. She rested her chin on the ace’s shoulder and deliberately turned Sakura’s way to see the freshman’s reaction. “I’m sorry for my actions the other day. That was quite unbecoming of me.” She apologized, her overly sweet voice bothered Sakura to no end.

This was the girl who just actively tried to demolish Jurina’s reputation the other day; The girl who wanted to kick Sakura out of the Special Class. Now she was acting like some Mary Magdalene-- Oh! Woe to thee, repentant sinner.

“I understand,” was Jurina’s response. And Sakura was honestly disappointed the ace didn’t make it harder for this wolf in sheep’s clothing.

“Please, let’s have lunch together. It’s a peace offering.” Miru’s grip on Jurina’s blazer was firm. She obviously would not accept a “no.”

“Only if you promise to play nice.” Jurina replied, the calm and reserved air about her did not shift the slightest. Miru muttered something incoherent before dragging Jurina.

“No you don’t!” Momoka grunted while trying to pry Miru away from the blonde.

“H-hey! Let go you brute!! I don’t want you in my date with Jurina!”

“What date? You delusional woman! I’m her bodyguard!”

“Please excuse us.” Yui bowed to Sakura’s group, still chuckling lightly at the turn of the events. ”I hope you’ve recovered, Sakura-chan. Have a good day.” She said before taking her leave.

~*~*~*~

Sae was sitting on one of the benches behind the school’s main building. She was busy fumbling with her communicator. It has almost been a week since she arrived in St. Hildegard and she was already starting to worry about the partner she left in the Special Forces.

“Sae, it’s been a while.”

Sae lifted her gaze and immediately perked up at the sight of her former team mate. “Yuko! How are things in the bureaucratic maze?” She buried her communicator deep in her coat pocket and shifted her attention to the woman in front of her.

Yuko gave her a toothy grin. “Ever so dull. I thought it would be more interesting in Central Dogma.” She sat beside Sae on the bench, her  left arm spread out on the backrest.  “How about you? Having a blast in the Special Forces?” The hunter gazed up at the sky, a flock of birds passed her line of vision.

“I was. Until the Prime Minister sent me back here to train these kids.” There were clear hints of lethargy in Sae’s voice. She placed a hand on her forehead and started to massage it. Almost a week in the Headmaster’s playground and she has yet to give a lecture. What kind of instructor did they want her to be anyway?

“The Headmaster probably requested that.“  Yuko’s gaze did not leave the sky. There was a forebodding feeling floating in her chest. That Miyawaki girl will be targeted again and the Headmaster was trying too much to leave Central Dogma in the dark about her. Should she report this to her superiors? Should she let the Headmaster do as he wished? Should she involve herself in their affairs? “Sae... something’s coming.” And though she could not see the expression on Sae’s face, she knew the other fighter was as vigilant as her.

“The intruders yesterday, they weren’t just some small fry mercenaries.” Sae concluded. True, she was not present when the confrontation occured, but Haruna and Mariko were quick to fill her in.

“That’s right. And they will come again.” Yuko closed her eyes before taking in a deep breath.

“Hey, Yuko….shouldn’t you be starting with the Baptism of the neophytes?”

The hunter nodded. An Overseer— such was the role she would play for today...maybe for a longer time even. Central Dogma and St. Hildegard Academy had a partnership, a mutual co-existence that forced her to keep her presence in this institution even if she wished for nothing else but to move forward. The Headmaster was ever cruel, giving them the freedom to walk out the gates but never to fly away.

“Yes, Takamina’s probably waiting. Will you be observing the initiation rights, Sae?”

“Sure. Those kids will be my students after all.”

~*~*~*~

Sakura found herself inside the Hall of Transfiguration, a church like structure at the zenith of the school’s main building. It was an altar where mages and hunters were conferred the Holy One’s blessing.

The tall concrete walls were intimidating, light shone from the windows, hitting the four crystal pillars that were erected on each corner of the glass platform. The stairs leading to the platform were embellished with red glowing orbs on each side. At the center of the platform was a magic seal, it was glowing a bright blue hue.

The sound of rushing water echoed inside the hall. Water fell from the eastern and western walls, forming a pool just below the elevated platform.

Sakura’s gaze was on the Hunter from Central Dogma who was in the middle of the platform.

Takahashi Minami, despite her short stature, carried an air of authority about her. Hands clasped behind her back, she paced to and fro like a general giving the order of battle to her subordinates. “As you may know, I am Takahashi Minami and my partner, who will soon join us, is Oshima Yuko. We are your Overseers for this year’s Baptism.”

The students in front of her listened carefully, unable to break their concentration from the famed alumna of St. Hildegard.

“What’s happening?” Sakura whispered to Haruka.

“The initiation rights, you’re going to be baptized...”

“And you’re not included in this? You’re a freshman too.”

“I entered earlier than you, Rika and Mion, remember? It was a special program endorsed by the Pres.” Haruka shifted her glance to Yui who was standing still beside Takamina, a smile ever present in her motherly facade.

“Why do you always leave me hanging??”

“Hey, I have nothing to do with you winning the lottery...”

Sakura sighed. She was already sure she would flunk this, god save her.

“Freshmen, come forward.” Takamina commanded. “A baptism by fire awaits you today. Take pride in this, for only the chosen ones are given the opportunity pledge allegiance to Central Dogma this early in their lives.”

“What is she talking about?”

“You get to be a hunter even before graduation, Sakura. Didn’t you read the handbook?”

Before Sakura could answer, she was pushed forward by Haruka. I didn’t sign up for this. Sakura wanted to become a hunter alright. But not this soon. She would’ve preferred actually learning magic first. But alas! Lady Destiny loved to toy with her.

Sakura looked around, her wide eyes searching. Mion and Rika seemed to be okay with this. They were waiting for Takamina’s next directive.

On the left side of the room, Sayanee and Mayu were watching. To Sakura, they gave off the feeling of being ‘outsiders’. Observant and non-committal; pragmatic and disconnected. Annin and Yuria stood beside them, the pair, on the other hand, were eager to finally have some form of entertainment.

Sakura gazed behind, Momoka and Jurina were at the far back of the Hall. Momoka whispered something to Jurina but the ace’s eyes were fixed on Sakura. The weight of her stare disarmed the transfer student, it sent a shiver down her spine. But Jurina only seemed to nod at her, motioning her too look back to the front.

Sakura did so. Her undivided attention returned to the hunter before them.

Takamina surveyed the three freshmen students. “For this activity, you will be divided into three groups.” She said and as if on cue, Oshima Yuko materialized beside her, a goblet in hand.

“All of you take a gem from the cup.” Yuko commanded, offering the goblet to all of the students instead of just the three. Her signature bestial grin adorned her face. This exhilaration is what she lived for—danger, surprises, non-conformity.

“Ehh?” Confusion was crystal clear in Haruka’s face. She just went through this not too long ago, the memories (and the bruises) were too fresh.

“With all due respect, but we already have our senbatsu passes, you can’t force us to join the Baptism of the freshmen.” Miru retorted. She just had her manicure, rough labor was not part of today’s schedule.

“Is this even allowed? They have to work for their place on their own efforts.” For once, Kizaki Yuria and Shiroma Miru were in agreement over something. Was the world ending soon?

“I do not appreciate being dragged into this.” Annin’s melancholic voice added.

Takamina did not answer. She merely stepped to the side and allowed Yuko to take the stage.

“Consider this the new method. The old one was getting boring.” She snapped and in the next breath, the walls of the Hall of Transfiguration and everything else around them disintegrated into small particles of magic dust.

They found themselves in the middle of a forest, the verdant roof was too thick that it blocked out the sun.

Sakura’s face scrunched up in confusion. “You gotta be kidding me…” Everything about the Special Class was insane. She looked at Haruka on her right and then at Nana on her other side. Haruka had a defeated look on her face while Nana just shrugged with a weak smile.

“Now take a gem from the cup and let’s start the Baptism.” Yuko’s tone darkened, the severity of her grin could force anyone into submission.

“Are you okay with this Jurina?” Momo asked.

“It’s Yuko-san...not like we have a choice.”

~*~*~*~

The crystal walls of the Hall of Transfiguration showed the images of the students wandering in the forest. Each group was projected on a different wall and the three women stood on the platform as mere spectators in this game arranged by Central Dogma’s hunters.

“Whose idea was this?” Sae asked, still confused with the turn of events. “This is outside protocol.”

“Yuko of course.” Mariko replied, her gaze never leaving the northern wall which projected Sakura’s group. The transfer student was with Yamamoto Sayaka, Iriyama Anna and Matsui Jurina.

“I think it’s rather interesting. They get to test out team dynamics while working on individual growth.” Haruka responded. She was particularly drawn to Watanabe Mayu’s group. Shiroma Miru, Kinoshita Momoka and Nakai Rika were with the cyborg.

“This isn’t rigged...right?” Mariko was still looking at Sakura and Jurina’s images on the crystal wall. What a coincidence—the two of them in the same group.

“Hmmmm….” Haruna twirled around motioning to exit the hall. “Want to take bets?” She smiled.

~*~*~*~

“Well..I bet this was definitely out of your calculations, eh Mayu-san?” Miru commented while reading a scroll.

The cyborg did not answer, she merely scanned her surroundings, drinking in each detail of the terrain they were traversing. Where was the end of this path of trees? It was almost as if the forest could stretch on and on.

“The instructions say we have to retrieve an artifact. A key.” Miru continued to examine the scroll given by Takamina. It was the only clue provided for them to finish the challenge. “A tower, a graveyard, a fairy...just what are these images?”

“Stop hogging the scroll to yourself, Ms. Primadonna.” Momoka snatched it away from Miru’s grasp.

“Hey! You brute! I was reading that—” Miru tried to regain possession of the parchment, but to no avail.

“Leave the deciphering to people who actually have the capability.”

“Just who do you think you’re talking to? You’re just Jurina’s guard dog!”

Momoka stuck out her tongue, only to aggravate Miru further. “This guard dog has a higher rank than you, Princess.”

“Get back here! You unbelievable runt! Plebeian!!!”

The two reminded Rika of kindergarten students arguing over their favorite toy. It was hopeless, Miru and Momoka getting along was like the sun setting in the east. “Nuuuu~Rika’s doomed in this group isn’t she?”

Mayu looked at her then tilted her head. “Statistical probability is 78.34 percent.”

~*~*~*~

“Seriously, did they just put Sayanee and Jurina in one team? That has to be cheating right?” Yuria complained to Nana who was walking beside her. Just a few feet away, Yui, Haruka and Mion were checking out the cave in front of them.

“We drew the lots didn’t we? It’s basically random sampling…” Nana replied as she tried to make sense of the scroll. An image of a tower, a graveyard and a fairy was drawn on the paper.

“But they’re too OP! 1st and 2nd rank?? In one group??? I bet they’re finished with this thing right now.”

“You do know that Sayaka-san and Jurina-san aren’t really in good terms, right?”

“Well yeah...but—” before Yuria could finish her sentence a shrill shriek from afar filled the air.

“AAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!”

The scream caught the attention of everyone in the perimeter. Birds nesting in the trees took flight at the sudden disturbance.

“Who was that?” Nana gazed up from the scroll. She knew the answer when Yuria, without a single word, bolted to the source of the scream.

“Annin!”

XXXXXX

Author’s Note:

Been a while since I updated! So sorry for being MIA in the writing field.

Sakura’s group is in a pinch now that Annin’s status is unknown!! The MiruMomo scenes were fun to make BTW~

Now onto the serious stuff,

When I started spellbound I saw it as only lasting for 12 chapters or so but when I plotted out the events until the end...I had 25 chapters to work on. I’ve been thinking a lot about the direction of Spellbound and came to the decision that I’ll continue the fic version if there is still some interest (a lot of months have passed without an update after all). Otherwise, I will give my full attention into the game devt of Spellbound because it’s really hard to simultaneously do things.

So this may or may not be my last update for this fic. I’d probably just stick to one shots, if ever things go down south...so I hope you enjoyed the ride and do tell me what you think.

Always with love,

A.

[tanuki-ringo]

My viewpoint towards this whole Jurina and Sakura thing

People make mistakes and Jurina looked shit that day. So can you all just be nice people and forgive her? Sakura getting hurt is something I can understand, but if she is really a strong girl, she should have stood up and tell her own side of the story! She's making Jurina like a evil queen or something.

Honestly, originally I didn't like Jurina or Sakura. Jurina gave me the vibes of a super proud girl who grabbed Acchan's center position. Sakura was just...plain and boring and was there because of management. Now I've learnt to love them. Jurina's confidence is her charm. Sakura's actually a big fan of gaming and her smile is amazing. They both have their own flaws, but this is what they are!

I wouldn't be suprise if all of this stuff was pulled of by mnet to create more "drama". I love Jurina more but I also love Sakura so can everyone please just let this down because from what I can see both girls were suffering from great pressure that day. Jurina looks like she went crazy at that point and Sakura...is just not in the mood.

I'm sorry for this whole long piece of thing, but I figured posting my opinion will get less backlash compared to posting it on stage48.

[jumarit38]

JUMARIT FANFICTION LIST

                                TODO DE MI (WMATSUI)

CAPITULO 1 - CAPITULO 2 - CAPITULO 3 - CAPITULO 4 - CAPITULO 5 - CAPITULO 6  -  CAPITULO 7 - CAPITULO 8 -  CAPITULO 9 - CAPITULO 10 - CAPITULO 11 - CAPITULO 12 - CAPITULO 13 - CAPITULO 14 - CAPITULO 15 - CAPITULO 16 - CAPITULO 17 - CAPITULO 18 - CAPITULO 19 - CAPITULO 20 - CAPITULO 21 - CAPITULO 22 - CAPITULO 23 - CAPITULO 24 - CAPITULO 25

FINALIZADO

ENGLISH VERSION

                          THROUGH TIME (WMATSUI)

PROLOGUE - CHAPTER 1 - CHAPTER 2 - CHAPTER 3 - CHAPTER 4 -CHAPTER 5 - CHAPTER 6 - CHAPTER 7 - CHAPTER 8 - CHAPTER 9-CHAPTER 10 - CHAPTER 11 - CHAPTER 12 - CHAPTER 13 - CHAPTER 14 -CHAPTER 15 - CHAPTER 16 - CHAPTER 17 - CHAPTER 18 - CHAPTER 19 -CHAPTER 20 - CHAPTER 21 - CHAPTER 22 - CHAPTER 23 - CHAPTER 24 -CHAPTER 25 - CHAPTER 26 - CHAPTER 27 - CHAPTER 28 - CHAPTER 29 -CHAPTER 30 - CHAPTER 31 - CHAPTER 32 - CHAPTER 33 - CHAPTER 34

COMPLETE

                  MISUNDERSTANDING (JURIMAYU) 

CHAPTER 1 - CHAPTER 2 - CHAPTER 3  

COMPLETE

                            FALLEN ANGEL (JURISAKU)

CHAPTER 1 - CHAPTER 2 - LAST UPDATE DEC 4 2017

[luckymatsui]

The Impaler vs. Okami

Chapter 2

It’s been 3 months after Sakura’s weird dream. While staring at a daze, her best friend Haruppi came and sat beside her and snapped her back to reality.

“Hey Haruppi! What’s up?”

 “Have you heard? There are 2 transfer students coming today?”

 “Nope and I don’t care.”

 Haruppi watched as her best friend fetched her notebook on her bag.

 “Are you still working on that Werewolf boy’s story? Still can’t over about that Korean Movie?”

 Sakura stopped writing and gave Haruppi a weird look.

 “Haven’t I told you? I’m done wri-“

 Sakura stopped as they heard the bell rang, which means that their first class is starting. Mr. Yokoyama, their homeroom/English teacher came.

 “Good morning class!!!”

 “Good morning sensei!” class said in chorus.

 “I bet you guys heard that we have new students coming. So, I want you guys to be good to them.” Mr. Yokoyama roamed his eyes.

 As Mr. Yokoyama signed the new students to come inside, Sakura is still busy writing her story. New students came and all the girls shrieked and all boys were disappointed.

 “Kindly introduce yourselves.”

 “Good morning! I’m Okada Nanao, nice to meet you all” Tall, thin, pale and has bags under his dark brown eyes, but a total head turner.

 “Good morning! I’m Matsui Jun.” Jun is taller than Nanao, has piercing eyes and has a buff bod. Contrasting to Nanao’s clean cut hair, Jun has a long hair and tied in a bun. What an ikemen indeed.

 After hearing the new student’s names, Sakura immediately raised her head.

 “Oh, my Gosh! This can’t be true”

 “There are vacant seats behind Ms. Miyawaki, you can take those.”

 “Hai!” said the two.

 As they walk to their respective seats, their eyes are staring directly at Sakura. The two formed a very cute smile, making Sakura lower her head and stares back at her notebook. Haruppi witnessed as the newcomers smile directly at Sakura.

 “I don’t care huh? Very sneaky of you Sakura” Haruppi thought and smiles mischievously.

 “Ok class guys! Let’s start with the lesson, our lesson for today’s is Pronouns. Any ideas?” Mr. Yokoyama asked.

 “Anyone?”

 A hand was raised and it belongs to Matsui Jun.

 “Yes Matsui-kun?”

 “Pronoun is a word that replaces a noun in a sentence.”

 “Very good, Matsui-kun. Pronoun is a word that can function by itself as a noun phrase and that refers either to the participants in the discourse or to someone or something mentioned elsewhere in the discourse. Can anyone give me an example?”

 Another hand was raised, which belongs to Nanao.

 “I like Sakura.”

 Murmurs can be heard as Nanao blurt out his feeling towards Sakura.

 “Ok kids! Settle down!” Mr. Yokoyama slams his hands on the table to catch the attention of his students.

 “Mr. Okada, your very brave to confess right now, but please pay attention to the topic. Anyways, let’s proceed. Any other example?”

 “I love Sakura and I know that the feelings are mutual” Jun bravely declares.

 Loud cheers were heard as the lad declares his feelings towards our heroine.

 “What should I do with these kids?” thought by Mr. Yokoyama as he facepalmed himself.

   “Class dismissed, and don’t forget your assignments. See you tomorrow” Mr. Yokoyama said.

 “Thank you, sensei” shouted by the students.

 As Yokoyama-sensei walks out, horde of girls flocks to Jun and Nanao, however, both lads had their eyes and ears focused on their prey, Sakura.

  “Hey! You’re keeping a secret from me.” Haruppi said.

 “Huh?” Sakura looking puzzled.

 “Don’t “Huh” me. You know the transferees”

 “No. I don’t” Sakura lower her head and starts to write.

 “Sakura, we’ve been together, like what? Since we were kids. Don’t dare to have a secret from me.” Annoyed Haruppi said.

 “Ok! Ok!” Sakura stopped writing and faced Haruppi.

 “They are my created characters.”

 “HAHA. Very funny, Sakura.”

 “See? You don’t believe me.” Sakura started to write again but Haruppi snatched her notebook.

 “Ok! I believe you. So, what’s with them?”

 “I don’t know.”

 “How are you, My princess?” Nanao said as he cuts in to the two girls conversation and made Sakura confusingly stares at him.

 “My deepest apologies, it took me so long to be here with you. Don’t worry I will never leave your side, my love.” Nanao reaches Sakura’s face and caresses it.

 Sakura and Haruppi jolted for the sudden action of Nanao.

 “Get your filthy hands off my Cherry, you bloodsucking monster.” Jun said as his eyes are piercing through Nanao’s.

 “What did you say you mutt? How dare you to insult a royal vamp-” Jun didn’t let him finish and grabs him by his neck

 “I WILL SNAP YOUR NECK RIGHT IN THIS VERY MOMENT!”

 Everyone in the class stops and focused on the two lads, and it seems that no one dares to intervene.

 “Bring it on! If I win, don’t every get near to Cherry.”

 “Sure. Let’s start this and get ready to lose, you mutt.”

 “STOP!!!!”

-TBC-

[imagiluminary]

48 Group Members Reactions to Sana and Jurina's Relationship #1

[ Sakura noticed something odd with Jurina ]

Sakura: Jurina san, where were you? All members were waiting for you in the dressing room

Jurina: Welp, I just came from the toilet

Sakura: 30 minutes inside the toilet? Wait, is that a lipstick stain on your neck?

Jurina: Oh shoot!

Sakura: That ring on your finger... That's new.

Jurina: Someone just gave me this

Sakura: WHO IS IT?

Jurina: S... Sa... Sana... From TWICE?

Sakura: HOW DARE YOU!

[Sakura storms off back to the dressing room]

Jurina: Great

[jyurineko]

Treating your girlfriend right (JuriSaku drabble)

Sakura: *going home after HKT theatre stage*

Sakura: *tries to call Jurina*

Sakura: Hmm... is she busy? *pout*

Sakura: *arrives home* Ahh~ I’m so tired...

Jurina: *fully clad in a maid outfit, brightly smiling* Welcome home, mistress!

Sakura: *stops in her tracks* o.o

Jurina: You must be tired from work. Shall I fix dinner?

Sakura: *trying to process cuteness*

Jurina: Or perhaps you want me to give you a massage? *chuckles*

Sakura: o////o *doki-doki*

Jurina: .... Hey, Sakura, say something, this is embarrassing! >////<

[akb48girldaisuki]

Jurina :guys lets make weird face! sakura *making weird face* J: no no no still too cute! S: *another attemp* J : nope nope! still cute! Chori : *makes a real weird face* J : thats cute too! conclusion : girls cute no matter what on jurina beatiful eyes #produce48 #akb48

[misakishishido]

Untitled JuriSaku OS (11/7/2018)

How many times has it been? Miyawaki Sakura thought to herself whenever she’s here-- in a certain hospital, where 48G members would usually be sent whenever they have issues with their health. The main reason she’d be here would normally be to visit Kodama Haruka a.k.a. Haruppi, the supposed Ace of HKT48, her so-called counterpart in said group and most importantly, a person she could earnestly call “a friend”. A title that she would not normally hand out unless she “deems” the title worthy onto a person. Of course, Haruppi has been clear to be in and out of the hospital and as such, Sakura’s visits to the hospital has been less frequent. Since then has met her fellow friend at her home as Haruppi still needed more rest and rehabilitation for her health to be at its 100% to return to her activities in the group. Sakura respected that decision, albeit she did feel slightly lonely and longed for the return of Haruppi by her side, to lead HKT48 as it should be. Her thoughts on Haruppi were put on hold when she had arrived at her destination. A nurse had just exited the room, bowing courteously to Sakura with the latter doing the same immediately before she walked away. Sakura froze in position, looking at the nameplate of the hospital room she was about to enter. “Matsui”. “Jurina” was written in a smaller writing besides her family name and Sakura gulped. She honestly didn't know what made her come here. She wasn't egged on by her manager to pay this senior of hers a visit, nor did Sasshi make a fuss that she should. Heck, she shouldn't have anything to do with her is what she thought. But something in the depths of her conscience, her heart, said that she should visit Jurina, whether she wanted to or not. Thus why she is here today. It's probably because deep down, she wanted closure. There had been way too much drama going on between the de facto leaders spearheading the 48G and eventhough she personally felt like avoiding the conflict in case another may arise, her heart wouldn't allow it. She gulped, shakily pulling onto the door and slowly walked into the room. All she could hear in the room were the sounds of the air conditioning and beeping sounds of medical equipments. As she approached the bed of said patient, she clenched her fists as her heart started to thump in anxiety. What would she say if Jurina was awake? What would she do when she sees Jurina, in whatever state she is in?? Would she just call it quits and run away??? Enough thinking. Just get it over and done with. Sakura let out a deep sigh as she drew the curtains, revealing her senior in a peaceful sleeping state. As expected. Even when she has her eyes closed you can see her happy facial expression. She wasn't known as a ball of sunshine for no reason. Sakura's eyes continued to scan her senior. She definitely seemed as weak as everyone feared her condition to be. She was on drip and it does not seem like Jurina would wake up any time soon, at least not when she's there. The younger of the two slowly walked over to the visitor’s stool placed next to the bed and sat down softly. She cursed herself in her head for not bringing anything with her to give Jurina due to this being extremely impromptu but she continued to stare at Jurina’s fragile state, heart aching at the sight. She definitely felt like she was suffocating. It felt like yesterday when Jurina and Sakura were asked to be the 48th single’s WCenters, with Jurina congratulating her and saying “let's do our best!” with the brightest smile she could show Sakura. Sakura, on the other hand, was more on the awkward side and rarely gave the same friendly response to Jurina unless she was put in the spotlight in the media or such. She recalls every single time they had to perform “Negaigoto no Mochigusare” together that Jurina would do the same thing, as if it was a natural habit. Jurina would purposely seek out Sakura before they go on stage, and encourage her with a smile before running off to go on standby without even needing a response from the latter. “You’ll be fine today! Let's have fun performing.” She said the exact same phrase each time, to the point Sakura thought that Jurina was on autopilot out of courtesy and just so she could get “brownie points” from anyone who actually noticed this simple act. However, now that Sakura has thought a little more carefully, Jurina did more than just that. She boosted Sakura’s confidence each time they had to go on stage together. Sakura never did the same, or more like, she couldn't, due to usually being either awkward or just not as spontaneous as Jurina was. Selfless. That was what Jurina was. Her senior wanted what was best for the people around her more than caring about herself. Sakura knew Jurina definitely needed the emotional support more than anyone else but Jurina decided to do the opposite-- by giving members who needed it first, not receiving it. Tears started to unconsciously roll down from Sakura’s doe-like eyes and she started to feel extremely frustrated at herself. All the drama, all the misunderstandings… everything could have been prevented if she had talked more to Jurina. “... Sa… ku… ra… tan…?” Sakura was startled by a weak voice that called out to her. She looked up slowly, only to see Jurina's eyes squinting at her, as if she was trying to keep her eyes open to look at Sakura. The junior felt even more emotional at the sight of her senior currently, but quickly wiped away her tears. Jurina was definitely not supposed to be awake, that was what she thought when she entered and saw her. This was way too unexpected and now she doesn't know how to deal with it. “... I’m… sorry……” Jurina said weakly as she slowly shut her eyes, letting out a sigh, before quickly falling back to sleep. Again. It happened again. Sakura couldn't respond at all. “... Why are you apologising… I… I should be the one who should be…” Sakura said between sobs, slowly reaching out to Jurina's hand closest to her and wrapping them in her own pair. “... I have so much I want to say to you… I have so much to thank you for… I…” Sakura tightened her hold on Jurina’s hand until she suddenly realised the fragility of Jurina’s hand and quickly let go. She shook her head vigorously in a brief panic that overcame her and shot up from her seat, breathing in and out shakily. Her eyes darted elsewhere from Jurina’s vulnerable body and she saw a clipboard with papers attached, along with a pen on it. She knew she shouldn't be nosy but she approached it and took a closer look at it. The first piece of paper had random scribbles and doodles which did not make much sense to her but it seemed like stickmen doing dances, with “Ikinari Punch Line” written at the bottom lightly. She flipped to the next page and there were more scribbles that weren't very readable as they were written lightly. She could only presume that these were written by Jurina herself. She continued looking through the clipboard and the writings and scribbles slowly got more and more readable and cohesive. They were probably written when Jurina was still in a more better condition than she is now. Her attention stopped at one piece quite a few pieces later and unclipped the stack before it to read it more properly. On it, the words “Tell Sakura” were pretty clear at the top. There was a personal note to Jurina herself right below it: “Don't make it sound rehearsed. You will make everything worse if you do. If you mean it, say everything from the bottom of your heart! >o< Also, don't overload her with your ‘speech” OKAY?” Sakura was confused. Just what was this? She continued reading on: “Hey Sakura. This may sound slightly awkward but I really want to apologise again for the whole Sousenkyou incident. I know I must have hurt your feelings and I should have known full well that you're as stressed out as I am. 

We both have our responsibilities to fulfill in our own individual groups and our own dreams to pursue. But well, it'd be nice if the both of us can move past our… “issues”... against each other and work together for the sake of the group. It'd be nice if we could set a good example for our juniors… is it too selfish of me to ask? ^^; 

I hope I'm not too pushy… I'm trying my best not to be! Really! I want to hear Sakura-tan’s thoughts and opinions as well! Please don't hesitate to stop me if I go too ahead of myself… it's weird telling you this but I’ve always had Rena-chan or Masanyan who would tell me off when I go overboard. Now that I'm the only senior, as much as I've lost my “limiters”, I realise I definitely need someone to look out for me. I've got Akarin for most parts but it'd be nice if we both could look out for each other...

I mean, we're in Produce48 together too! I really hope we can get more acquainted with each other through the programme and fight for our group so that everyone will know how amazing the 48G is. Of course, I'll take good care of myself so that everything will go smoothly. I hope Sakura-tan will take good care of yourself too. Let's do our best together okay?”

Sakura couldn't help but smile wryly at what she had just read as she returned everything to how it was positioned. She was well aware that Matsui Jurina was a rather stoic person despite her ever-cheerful outlook, since she had to literally prepare a “script” to confront Sakura, but it also showed how awkward she was in her own way as well. ‘An awkward sun’. She sees how that song from SKE48 somewhat relates to Jurina after hearing about it from members and comments online. Sakura was now resolved to make things right, once Jurina got better. With newfound courage that surged within her, she turned to Jurina and gently caressed her head, forcing a smile as her eyes continued to form tears within them. “... I'm waiting for your return Jurina-san… when that happens, I can be honest with you… and tell you a lot of things I've been wanting to say to you. Rest well…” Sakura left the room after she made a brief bow to Jurina. Little did she know however, Jurina's lips had formed a weak smile, and a tear rolled down from the left side of her eye, as if she had actually heard the yearning and resolve of her precious ‘rival’.

[aidorudaisuki]

Take you like a drug I taste you on my tongue You ask me what I'm thinking about I tell you that I'm thinking about