#like hi. remember me? put in the waiver please. he is one of my professors this semester anyways. for the translation class

[treecakes]

also have to email the head of the german department at my school again 😭 give me the prerequisite waiver or i swear i will cry

[eclecticminded]

Professor Barba part five

anonymous asked: So in part 4 of the professor barba series the reader said “i dont mind having my ass beat” and rafael said something like “we will explore that another time” may i request part 5 be that time? Lololol 👀👀👀

Ask and you shall receive. I’m so glad people like Prof Barba!!

Other parts

You’re studying with Rafael again, this time for his class. He gets creative to help you remember the material.

Words: 1,769

Warnings: Sex. Spanking. Food and alcohol mention.

Tags: @southsiderepresent @glimmerglittergirl @madpanda75  @southern-magnolia @katmstanton @esparza-army @sweetsummertime99  @obfuscateyummy @lifeisbetterwithbarba  @lyssa1385  @hux-me-up   @bowieisawizard anyone else ask!

Also I have a Kofi (link in blog description) if anyone wants to donate!

Your math test went off without a hitch; you passed and put it behind you. But now finals were approaching and you realized you’d studied for every class but Rafael’s. It wasn’t that you thought fucking the professor meant you got to pass. It was more you thought you didn’t have to worry about his test because you did so well in the class. So you devoted all your energy into studying for your other classes. Now that you were looking over the study guide, you felt like you knew nothing.

 As you tried to study, you grew more frustrated. You knew you knew the material, but it sure didn’t feel like it. The words started to jumble and sound like gibberish when you read out loud. The study guide was long gone and you were giving up. In a frustrated screech, you threw the book across the room and pulled your phone out.

 [To Rafael 7:30pm] Are you busy?

[From: Rafael 7:35pm] Finishing dinner with an old friend. What’s wrong?

[To: Rafael 7:43pm] Pulling my hair out studying.

[From: Rafael 7:48pm] Come over.

[To: Rafael 7:52pm] You sure.

[From: Rafael 7:56pm] Sí

 Thirty minutes later you were timidly knocking on Rafael’s door with your heavy backpack over your shoulder. Rafael let you in with brief hug and took your backpack to the living room. You hung your jacket up, kicked your shoes off, and followed him. There was a tall man in the kitchen putting food into containers and you froze in your tracks.

 “I’m so sorry, I’ll leave,” you stammered and tripped over yourself backtracking to the door.

 “Don’t leave on my account,” the man smiled, “I’m leaving.”

 “Stay. We just finished eating. He has to get home,” Rafael rubbed your shoulders.

 “Is she the one you told me about,” the man grinned so big you were sure his face would get stuck.

 “Yes,” it was Rafael’s turn to look embarrassed.

 “I’m Sonny; I used to work with Barba. I’m a detective at Manhattan SVU,” Sonny shook your hand.

 “Y/n. But I guess you knew that,” you tucked your hair behind your ears.

 “Being a college student you haven’t eaten I imagine,” Sonny motioned you to the table and brought one of the containers to you.

 “What’s this,” you raised an eyebrow and removed the lid.

 “Pasta. Family recipe. Whipped it up for Barba, but you need it more,” Sonny pulled his jacket on after you dug in.

 “Delicious! Thank you! Can’t remember the last home cooked meal I had,” you practically moaned, “You cook for him often? I might have to become your friend.”

 “He asked me to be a guest speaker next semester. I’m a detective and I passed the bar,” Sonny beamed, “I cooked dinner to thank him.”

 “Oh! You’re Carisi! I’ve heard so much about you,” you waved him goodbye as he snuck out.

 “Wine and garlic bread,” Rafael sat a glass and plate down in front of you.

 “Thank you,” you pecked his lips and kept eating, “So you told your friend about me?”

 “Is that okay,” Rafael froze.

 “Of course,” you pulled off a chunk of garlic bread and popped it in your mouth.

 “What class is kicking your ass this time?”

 “Yours,” you averted your eyes.

 “You said you didn’t worry about my class,” Rafael teased and caressed your thigh.

 “Well I should have worried more. I tried to study and I feel like I don’t know any of it,” you hung your head and pushed the food away.

 “We both know you know the material,” he stood up, “Finish eating, I have an idea.”

 “Okay,” you pulled the container back to you and kept eating while he disappeared down a hallway. Ten minutes later your food and wine were gone. You’d even washed the dishes you’d used and put them in the drying rack. Rafael still hadn’t returned and you were growing anxious.

 “Miss yln? Are you ready to study,” Rafael appeared out of thin air causing you to jump.

 “Yes Rafi,” you recovered and smiled.

 “That’s Professor Barba to you young lady. Understand,” his eyes flashed and you realized what was going on.

 “Yes Professor,” you nodded, going along with the role play.

 “Let’s go to my office and get started,” he motioned for you to follow him and you were hot on his heels. He led you to his home office and you practically drooled over all the books. You’d been to his place a couple of times, but not to his office.

 “So many books,” your jaw dropped at the over flowing bookshelves lining the walls.

 “Later cariño,” he cleared his throat and sat in his desk chair, “You’re having a hard time understanding the material?”

 “Yes Professor,” you fidgeted with the hem of your shirt and avoided looking at him. Part of you was embarrassed; the other part was turned on.

 “I know just the thing, come here,” he motioned you forward and you complied. While maintaining intense contact, Rafael tugged your leggings and panties down. Obediently, you stepped out of them and tried to cover yourself.

 “Professor,” you gasped.

 “You will get the answers right, or be punished,” Rafael pulled you over his lap and helped you settle yourself.

 “But professor, this is embarrassing,” you wiggled your ass.

 “It’s the only way you learn,” he tsked, “I will ask you questions. For every one you get right, I will touch your pussy. Every wrong answer is a spanking that continues until you get two questions right in a row. Understood?”

 “Yes professor,” you were already soaked, it was the perfect way to teach you.

 “If you need me to stop say red. Ready,” his large hands caressed and squeezed your cheeks.

 “Yes professor,” you nodded enthusiastically.

 “Let’s start simple,” he paused, “What is mens rae?”

 “When you meant to commit the crime you committed,” you bit your lip, it seemed too easy.

 “Very good,” Rafael traced his pointer finger up and down your folds to coat it with your juices and slipped inside you. The next correct question earned you a second finger. A third and he started pumping in and out of you lazily. He paused his questioning and let you enjoy yourself.

 “Next question,” you squeaked, growing impatient, you wanted it to be over so you could fuck.

 “Malum prohibitum is what,” he kept up his agonizing movement, rubbing against your gspot just enough to drive you wild.

 “Ummmm,” you couldn’t think clearly.

 “Not an answer,” his fingers slowed.

 “I don’t remember,” you whispered.

 “Not remembering is a wrong answer,” he pulled his fingers out of you and sucked your wetness from them. Without warning, his hand slammed down onto your ass and you yelped. He gave you two hard smacks and asked again.

 “Evil intent in committing the crime,” your voice waivered, you couldn’t remember.

 “Wrong again,” he shook his head and began alternating smacks to each cheek.

 “Malum prohibitum,” you swallowed, “means the crime is only unlawful because of a statute.”

 “Good girl,” Rafael praised and rubbed your reddening cheeks “And malum in se?”

 “The crime committed is an evil avt,” you finally started to remember.

 “Good, one more and you get the fingers back,” he teased. The next few questions you got right and nearly came. Sadly you got another wrong resulting in more spanking, but you recovered quickly. Soon Rafael was setting you up and moving you to sit on his desk.

 “Done already,” you pouted.

 ”You answered every question correctly the second time through. You’re good,” he offered you a glass of water and you gulped it down.

 “I want more spankings. Harder spankings,” you looked at his belt and Rafael smirked.

 “Bend over,” he moved papers and you bent over his desk while he removed his belt.

 “Please spank me with your belt,” your voice was already ragged with desire. Having done this with you before, he hit you with just enough force to make you cry out without going overboard. He rained down several more smacks and your eyes watered.

 “Check in,” his fingertips tenderly traced the slowly forming welts.

 “Green,” you sighed contently, “More please?”

 “You’ve been so naughty,” Rafael growled and swung his arm back, cracking the belt onto your ass one last time. He dropped it and started using his hand again. The smacks combined with your cries made his cock hard.

 “I’m sorry I had to ask for your help professor,” you sniffled, “Let me make it up to you.”

 “How do you plan on doing that,” Rafael briefly slipped out of the roleplay to kiss the welts.

 “Like this,” you dropped to your knees and undid his pants. Expertly you freed his cock and swallowed it. You bobbed up and down moaning in pleasure from the precum and hardness he already had without touching him.

 “Good girl,” he praised and guided your head. You gagged and drooled and his eyes rolled back. As his orgasm approached, his thighs clenched and he pulled you off him.

 “Fuck me,” you demanded and bent back over his desk. Rafael dug a condom out of his pocket and dropped his pants. It took four seconds from the time the condom was on for him to push inside you.

 “Shit. You’re fucking soaked,” he groaned and picked up his pace, slamming you into the desk.

 “Told you spankings did it for me,” you moaned. While Rafael thrust in and out, he grabbed a fistful of your hair and smacked your ass. From all the teasing, you came in no time. As your orgasm waved through you, you chanted his name like a spell. Unable to move afterwards, you laid there while he chased his own release.

 Rafael came and pulled out of you, tossing the condom and pulling you to your feet. He kissed you hard and long, letting you go. Your knees buckled and he caught you with a chuckle. You blushed and he kissed you again, this time sweeter and with more emotion.

 “Let’s go cuddle,” he yawned and led you towards the bedroom with a hand on the small of your back.

 “You keep yawning and I’ll get sleepy and fall asleep,” you yawned to prove your point.

 “My diabolical plan is working,” he evilly laughed and you rolled your eyes, crashing into his bed.  Everything seemed too good to be true; you worried with the semester ending you’d lose Rafael. But what you saw in his eyes as he curled next to you, and what you felt in the kisses he planted on your forehead, dismissed your fears. It would be okay.

[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.

[doodledialogue]

Interview series - What after B.arch?

Interviewee: Ar. Maithily Velangi Post-graduation: Master of Landscape Architecture | SPA Delhi, India

Hello, Maithily! Please tell us about your university and program. How did you hear about it? Why did you decide to take it up? Well, School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi doesn’t need any introduction. Right from when you enter Architecture field, every student knows of SPA!! I was looking particularly for the course in Landscape and in India. Having had worked in Landscape offices for approx. 4.5 years out of 6 years of working (before taking up Master’s), I was very sure of what I was looking for from the course. So given the colleges that offered this course here, this was one of the best, according to the reviews that I got from many professionals who I approached for advice.

Alright…Could you tell us more about it- What exactly about the university or program appealed to you? One was the location itself. Delhi had much to offer, in terms of exposure with practising professionals and interdisciplinary events that happen in Delhi (Architecture-based). Secondly, SPA as a brand itself carried more weight. Third, but most important to me was, it was out of my comfort zone. Ahmedabad (CEPT) or Pune (BNCA), which were my other two options, would have put me back to comfortable areas and being there, I couldn’t have judged my capacities to the fullest.

That’s an interesting way of looking at things! How was your experience at SPA? The overall experience was quite informative and it put forth various aspects in landscape discipline can intervene. The program was definitely intensive, I don’t remember getting even one weekend for myself! We were taught by many practising landscape architects, geologists, ecologists from DU, botanists from JNU and professionals from Government bodies like DDA, DUAC, etc. and they had a lot to offer from their experience and their own background of work. Hence, the teaching-learning process became interdisciplinary, which is a must when it comes to working in Design field.

That sounds fascinating! What lessons did you take from the experience? Never doubt yourself! When I planned my masters, I knew I was already a bit late and I would have to compete with fresh young minds knowing all the latest software and that I would lag behind. But no! I had a wrong interpretation of Master’s all together. It doesn’t push anyone back, with whatever knowledge you go, it will only push you ahead, make you more capable than you were!

OK… Note to self: Never doubt yourself! How was your program/university different from the others? I think this course at SPA particularly prepares outgoing students to solve design problems rather than being theoretically-oriented. The research part is kept minimal during the academic study. Students are required to address design issues and bring out tangible design solutions which are the need of the hour. To be frank, this can be either advantage or disadvantage depending upon where the graduated student works post-masters. But as I understand from various interactions, the program gives a higher edge up for the outgoing students.

Sketching exercise

Interesting… Which semester did you attend? How did you plan the entrance exams? I did give GATE to get a scholarship, but unfortunately, I didn’t get the required score to get the scholarship. But it surely helps financially. Every college has its schedule of application, interviews, etc. It usually happens around May-June every year. We need to visit the college websites and keep updated for dates.

Yes, of course! How did you manage the finances? Did you acquire a scholarship/fee waiver? I had to go for a student loan, given I had no financial support. Also, when I was supposed to be earning and sharing the household expenses with my husband - Rahul, I couldn’t possibly just take a break and go attending classes, leaving everything on him to pay! Yes! I was married when I did my master’s! Hence, I had to be on my own while he would be on his own here in Bangalore. The Canara Bank, Tilakwadi -Belgaum branch manager then (in 2013) went out of his way to help me out with the student loan, considering my accommodation and daily travel expenses as well apart from tuition fees and stationery. I am right now repaying my loan.

Oh! That’s quite a gritty story! Also, kudos to everyone who supported you on your master’s journey. Did your program have any research opportunities? I believe that every topic we study under any course we do needs research and homework. So it is up to us to choose whether to do it or not. As a part of the curriculum, we did have certain subjects which were research-oriented but as a separate research wing which would hire research assistants etc., we didn’t get that opportunity. Also, being a proactive person as I am, I always kept myself busy with student competitions, participated in workshops, seminars and was involved with every bit that came my way apart from being only into academics. This gave me good exposure, interaction opportunities and built up my professional and personal networking.

Class Photo

Okay… Most post-grad students work a part-time job while studying. Did you obtain any such opportunity? No, as I had mentioned earlier, the course was quite intensive and there was hardly any time to take up part-time job.

Do you suggest working for a while before post-graduation? Yes! I highly recommend work experience of at least 2 years before taking up post-graduation. Firstly, it allows you to find your field of interest and choose the right course that may suit you. There are many allied fields in Architecture, right from pure architecture, landscape, urban design, planning to product design, photography, Architectural journalism etc. Hence while you are working, you get some time to pause and think about other fields. Secondly, when you go for Masters with some experience, it will help you relate to the subjects that you are studying in a holistic way. You get an in-depth understanding which may remain superficial otherwise.

Right! Did you have any post-masters plans in mind when you went to do masters? Or did you ‘go with the flow’? Since I was already into landscape field before I took up masters, I knew I had to be back and into office again. I also had in mind that I wanted to get linked to academics. However, I would have liked to stay back in Delhi or go to any other city to see how work happens there and gain experience , but I didn’t allow myself that freedom and headed straight back to Bangalore – though Rahul had suggested me to work anywhere I liked for another two years and then get back!

Oh! And did you do a lot of travelling while studying? If yes, where? During our course of two years, we had to deal with various projects located at different locations within Delhi and even in other cities. For this reason, we got an opportunity to travel to various places like Udaipur, Mandu, Indore, Bhopal etc. Apart from this, other travels were more of personal trips, whenever a chance came by.

Documenting Mandu

Survey in Mandu

Wow! That’s certainly a lot of places explored! Could you tell us about how your master’s degree is helping you in what you are doing right now? It has opened up various windows in mind through which I can explore my field of work. It has helped me shape my vision and understand the extent up to which we, as designers can make a change to the society. It has helped me address a design problem or issues at different scales and at various levels. Above all, it has built up my confidence.

Tell us more about your current work and future plans. Currently, I am working as Assistant Professor at BMS college of Architecture, Bangalore. Apart from this, I do take up Landscape design consultancy. I also keep myself involved in paper writing and any research opportunities that come my way. I do have a few plans to explore practice and research, hoping that it will take shape soon.

Finally, what message would you like to give to future students of Post-graduate studies/ B.arch students? Under Graduation is mandatory, whichever field you choose. Many may opt to continue working post-UG and yes, there is no dearth of jobs in our field! But Post-graduation is something one does out of choice. It is one’s own decision to not to work for 1 or 2 years and undertake Masters Course. Hence, my message to all is to choose the right course, take it up seriously and not look at it as just another degree in your cap! PG isn’t a course, it is a platform for each one to explore their interests, push themselves to the maximum limit and bring out the best in them. Always remember, that you owe something to every other student/batch-mate who studies with you during Masters. Same way as you have taken it up with good intentions to absorb new learnings and gain experience, your colleagues too are there for the same reason. Hence, don’t just sit back and do what you are ‘supposed’ to do. Everyone does that. But it is very important that you offer your knowledge and opinions as well. By interaction, healthy competitive work and hard work, through questions, answers and sharing ideas, a rich process is generated within the course and that is what becomes fruitful at the end of the day, not just the degree or scores! As Rahul says, these years of Masters that we put in, no one has the right over it except you. No one will take it back from you; No one can give it to you. It’s up to you to make the most out of it!

Thank you Maithily for letting us interview you. Your earnest and detailed answers are much appreciated. - Doodle Dialogue

About Maithily Velangi B.Arch (GIT, VTU, Belgaum), M.Arch – Landscape (SPA, New Delhi) Graduated as an Architect from the KLS Gogte Institute of Technology, Belgaum, India, and subsequently completed her Master’s Degree in Landscape Architecture from School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi. Currently, she is working as an Assistant Professor in BMS College of Architecture, Bangalore. She has worked in various firms specialising in Landscape and Design in Bangalore. As a design member in offices, she has worked on several projects of varying scales from detailed design of residential and institutional projects to master planning projects of larger scale. Mrs. Velangi has additionally participated in several national design competitions and workshops and also has been involved in research work. She has several Awards to her credits, recent one being the ISOLA Best Thesis Award 2015. She is also an active member of Indian Society of Landscape Architects and is involved in hosting events for ISOLA in Bangalore. She can be contacted at maithilygv@gmail.com for request of portfolio of works or for any other queries.

Ar. Maithily Velangi’s Master’s thesis summary: URBAN PARK Interfacing environment, heritage and culture. The 156 acres of forested area, of the colonial era, with a set of built mass which served as a Vaccine Institute then, sits in the suburb of Belgaum city, Karnataka. With increasing urbanisation and with growing requirement for land, this 156 acres of heritage land, which was lying defunct from 1977 till date is under great pressure for development. This thesis studies the fragility of this site against the unrecognised potentials it carries to justify the role it can play while being amidst the city. The problems of urbanisation are not just related to lack of open spaces but also other environmental and productive issues that a growing metropolis faces such as food production, water security, environmental issues such as air pollution, etc. Apart from quantitative lack, there is also a dearth of qualitative and consolidated spaces. Though this open space cannot address and resolve the environmental issues of the entire city, it can, however, situate itself to give an opportunity to cater to public health, urban requirements and local recreation. Apart from these basic notions of an open space functioning at the metaphysical level, it creates a sense of continuing heritage and culture for the city of Belgaum due to its historical importance. The historical relevance of the space was developed as a ground supported with ancillary facilities to function as integrated urban park for the city of Belgaum.

Final thesis presentation

Soon after jury

Award ceremony at Trivandrum-2014

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