Fragmented Unity [Chapter 31]

[HPriest]

This story is getting better and better. I hope you'll continue this one till the end. I mean, it's a waste if this one didn't end. 

Don't worry, this fic is my priority now. My other fics have to wait a bit.
I also want it to end sometime, but I am not really sure when the end will come.
On paper I am already a lot of chapters ahead and also have many ideas for future chapters...
I have an already planned end, but it might take a while to get there. (...and even then I could probably continue it)

Anyway, here is the next chapter. This time I am not too proud about the little graphic, though. 

-------------------

Chapter 23 - The 15 Minutes



There is no sign of the typhoon anymore. The sun is shining again, it's warm and a lot of people wander around the streets. Only the still wet grass reminds of the heavy rain last night.
Sayu and Eri are also enjoying the sun while on their way to the office of Sayu's agency. It isn't a very long way, but the two girls still find some time to talk about this and that. Compared to last night, their mood really increased a lot. They haven't been together for such a long time and both are really enjoying it.

They arrive at the agency. Eri says goodbye, but Sayu wants her to wait. She guesses that it won't be a long meeting. "We can go shopping after this.", Sayu suggests and asks her to wait inside. Eri first wants to decline, but Sayu seems to be so energetic that she basically only can agree. It isn't a bother to her at all, but Eri also has some stuff to do while being in Japan. Sayu shows her a nice couch and then hurries for the office. It isn't far away and Eri can even see her entering the room from the couch. Eri can't help it but laugh. "Sayu didn't change at all, didn't she?", she says to herself.

At the hospital...
Miki has been gone for a while now. All girls are still waiting in the hospital, despite some schedule conflicts a couple of them probably have. Yuko decides to take a look and see what the situation is. She sees the two, Aichan and Miki still sitting in front of Risa's room. It would probably not be good to disturb them right now. Yuko realizes that neither herself nor any of the other girls can really help now. It is something only Aichan and Risa can solve on their own. However, Miki surprisingly seems to be able to connect with Aichan. This is something Yuko still is a bit confused about, but wasn't want to concern with too much at the moment. She walks back to the other girls and explains the situation. Yuko suggests that for now all should go back to their work. They can still visit her later. Although the girls feel a bit sad about that they can't check on Risa, they also understand the circumstances. Slowly they begin to say goodbye to each other. There is a high possibility that they will meet again in the hospital. Kei is the only one who wants to stay. She doesn't have any plans for today anyway and Miki probably won't be able to stay the whole day as well.

At Sayu's agency, Eri already waited for about 15 minutes.
Sayu comes out of the office and looks pretty flustered. It almost looks like she is going to cry any second. Eri immediately walks up to her, but Sayu quickly runs away. Her managers comes out as well and looks at Eri.

~ And who are you? ~, he asks very unfriendly.

> What did you do to her? <, Eri straightforwardly.

~ Who? Sayu? ~, he laughs, ~ I didn't do anything, I'm just her manager. ~

> But.. <

~ You shouldn't put your nose into things that don't concern you, cheeky little miss. ~

He walks away while Eri becomes angry about his word.

> Cheeky little miss? I am an adult already! <, she whispers.

However, she doesn't want to fight with him now. She runs after Sayu who actually waited near the entrance.

> Sayu...? <

~ Can we leave now? ~, Sayu still with teary eyes.

> ...yes. <

Sayu starts to walk in a very fast pace. Eri tells her to wait and to slow down, but Sayu won't stop. She asks her to explain what happened, but no reaction either. However, Eri won't stop talking to her, trying to calm her down and suddenly Sayu stops. She turns around and Eri can see that now Sayu really broke out in tears.

~ You won't leave again, right? ~, Sayu asks her all of a sudden.

> ...huh? <

~ You will stay here ... with me, right? ~

> Uhm...I... <, Eri doesn't really know what to answer.

Sayu then wraps her arms around Eri and holds her very tight.

~ Tell me that you are not going to leave me alone again...! ~, Sayu being all in tears.

> Sayu... <

[glcorps2002]

What the @#$% happened at that meeting?

[JFC]

They arrive at the agency. Eri says goodbye, but Sayu wants her to wait. She guesses that it won't be a long meeting. "We can go shopping after this.", Sayu suggests and asks her to wait inside. Eri first wants to decline, but Sayu seems to be so energetic that she basically only can agree.

Energetic? Considering how they've probably spent the whole night at the hospital concerned about Aichan that's a little surprising. Then again it could be that Sayu's a light sleeper and that whatever nap she had there was all she needed.

Yuko decides to take a look and see what the situation is. She sees the two, Aichan and Miki still sitting in front of Risa's room. It would probably not be good to disturb them right now. Yuko realizes that neither herself nor any of the other girls can really help now. It is something only Aichan and Risa can solve on their own. However, Miki surprisingly seems to be able to connect with Aichan. This is something Yuko still is a bit confused about, but wasn't want to concern with too much at the moment.

While it IS nice to see Miki taking care of Aichan this way, much like how Yuko feels it seems a bit confusing, especially considering that last line that she (Miki) had said in the previous chapter. It almost seemed like Miki wanted to continue on and tell Aichan more.

She walks back to the other girls and explains the situation. Yuko suggests that for now all should go back to their work. They can still visit her later. Although the girls feel a bit sad about that they can't check on Risa, they also understand the circumstances. Slowly they begin to say goodbye to each other. There is a high possibility that they will meet again in the hospital.

It's best for Risa to get her rest while she recovers from her surgery.

Kei is the only one who wants to stay. She doesn't have any plans for today anyway and Miki probably won't be able to stay the whole day as well.

Well, it's a safe bet that Kei's audition is blown.  Plus, should something happen (either for the better or worse), it would be good to have someone there who can contact the others.

At Sayu's agency, Eri already waited for about 15 minutes.
Sayu comes out of the office and looks pretty flustered. It almost looks like she is going to cry any second. Eri immediately walks up to her, but Sayu quickly runs away. Her managers comes out as well and looks at Eri.

~ And who are you? ~, he asks very unfriendly.

> What did you do to her? <, Eri straightforwardly.

~ Who? Sayu? ~, he laughs, ~ I didn't do anything, I'm just her manager. ~

> But.. <

~ You shouldn't put your nose into things that don't concern you, cheeky little miss. ~

For someone who claims to be her manager, this dude sure doesn't seem concerned about his client.  If Sayu's on the verge of tears then the meeting couldn't have gone well for her, which is something that a good manager should be concerned about. It's the manager's job to protect his/her client's best interests, which this guy doesn't seem to care about.
 

~ You won't leave again, right? ~, Sayu asks her all of a sudden.

> ...huh? <

~ You will stay here ... with me, right? ~

> Uhm...I... <, Eri doesn't really know what to answer.

Sayu then wraps her arms around Eri and holds her very tight.

~ Tell me that you are not going to leave me alone again...! ~, Sayu being all in tears.

> Sayu... <

Geez, what did they say to her in there? 

[lil_hamz]

Oh gosh what did the evil manager say to Sayu?? Can Eri really promise her and keep it? We know she can't possibly stay forever....can she?? Awww another heartwrenching chapter and I don't even know what made Sayumi upset yet

[HPriest]

Chapter 24 - The Warm Smile



So everyone except Miki and Kei left the hospital. Kei walks to Risa's room and isn't as careful as Yuko just now. She decides to walk up to Aichan and Miki, but they don't seem to mind her. At least Kei isn't as clumsy and tries to start smalltalk with them, instead she searches herself a chair and carries it to Risa's door. Just as she sits down, Miki suddenly stands up.

~ Did I do something wrong? ~, Kei asks confused.

But Miki didn't stand up because of her. She doesn't even speak to Kei, she just suddenly enters Risa's room without saying a word.

~ Wait, aren't her parents...", Kei wants to stop her, but Miki already closed the door behind her.

Aichan now is confused as well. What is she up to? Risa's mother doesn't like the interruption, of course. However, she isn't as moody as before.

# Couldn't you at least have knocked before entering? #, she asks.

Risa, who already is awake, doesn't say anything and her father also reminds silent, while Miki walks straight up to Risa's bed. With her mouth she gets close to Risa's ear and whispers something. It's so quiet that the parents can't hear what she says, but Risa's reaction makes it easy to guess.

~ She is outside? ~, Risa is surprised.

> She has been the whole time. <, Miki explains, not whispering anymore.

Risa looks towards the door and thinks for a short while. Then she turns to her parents and asks them, if they could leave for a moment. Miki got her answer with this and heads for the door. She leaves the room, looks at Kei, turns to Aichan who still sits on the ground and tells to her.

> You can go and talk with her now. <

~ Really? ....I mean...... ~

> Don't worry.. <, Miki bends down and pats on Aichan's head.

Just as Miki says this, Risa's parents came out of her room. They don't say anything and Risa's father quickly brings his wife away from the girls. Aichan still is shaky and scared, but Miki helps her up and gives her enough confidence to face Risa. Through the open door, Aichan can already see Risa who smiles and nods at her. However, Aichan doesn't smile, blaming herself for everything; but slowly she begins to walk into her room. Miki gently closes the door behind her to give them some privacy. She keeps on standing in front of the closed door and smiles. It's a really unusual warm and sweet smile on Miki's face.

Kei wonders why Miki seems to care so much more about them than anybody else.

~ Miki? ~

Miki's smile immediately stops. Kei gets scared, but Miki doesn't talk to her again. She changed her mood from happy to serious just like that and walks down the hallway. Kei follows her, realizing that Miki heads for the exit.

~ You are leaving already? ~, Kei asks, but Miki continues to remind silent.

Miki sure seems to be a bit more strange than usual today and Kei wants to know why. At the exit she tries it again, but Miki just ignores again. Miki walks along the parking area and Kei stopped at the entrance. Kei simply doesn't know what to ask anymore.

Then Miki's mobile rings. She takes it out, look at the display, doesn't take the call, shuts it down and if this wasn't enough already, she also takes out the battery and throws it into a trash bin. Kei witnessed everything and begins to worry about her. However, all she can do is watching as Miki walks away in an angry mood.

[JFC]

So everyone except Miki and Kei left the hospital.

...

Miki suddenly stands up.

~ Did I do something wrong? ~, Kei asks confused.

But Miki didn't stand up because of her. She doesn't even speak to Kei, she just suddenly enters Risa's room without saying a word.

~ Wait, aren't her parents...", Kei wants to stop her, but Miki already closed the door behind her.

Well, earlier on Miki was telling Aichan that "it wasn't her fault". Maybe she was doing more than just trying to comfort her?  Something tells me Miki's going to have an interesting conversation with Risa's folks.

Risa, who already is awake, doesn't say anything and her father also reminds silent, while Miki walks straight up to Risa's bed. With her mouth she gets close to Risa's ear and whispers something. It's so quiet that the parents can't hear what she says, but Risa's reaction makes it easy to guess.

~ She is outside? ~, Risa is surprised.

Or she's going to tell Risa that Aichan's out in the hall worried sick about her.

Risa looks towards the door and thinks for a short while. Then she turns to her parents and asks them, if they could leave for a moment. Miki got her answer with this and heads for the door.

Now they can talk in private.

Through the open door, Aichan can already see Risa who smiles and nods at her. However, Aichan doesn't smile, blaming herself for everything; but slowly she begins to walk into her room. Miki gently closes the door behind her to give them some privacy. She keeps on standing in front of the closed door and smiles. It's a really unusual warm and sweet smile on Miki's face.

Kei wonders why Miki seems to care so much more about them than anybody else.

Definitely getting the feeling that Miki knows something that the others don't. 

Miki heads for the exit.

...

Miki walks along the parking area and Kei stopped at the entrance. Kei simply doesn't know what to ask anymore.

Then Miki's mobile rings. She takes it out, look at the display, doesn't take the call, shuts it down and if this wasn't enough already, she also takes out the battery and throws it into a trash bin. Kei witnessed everything and begins to worry about her. However, all she can do is watching as Miki walks away in an angry mood.

Curiouser and curiouser...

[kazitakato]

Damn..... ....the story just gets better and better by the chapters.    my eyes are bleeding for staring at the screen for so long. And nice perspective too, about MM disbanding due to Aika's death, and Ai-chan blaming it on Risa, destroying Risa's career. Now all that remain's is wha does Yuko have planned and what actually happened  to Aika??

Guess I'll have to keep reading to find out.....

[Sancho]

Hmmmm... Miki got issues. I have a few guess but not quite sure. I think Miki helped out because she doesn't want them to end up their relationship just like what happen to her and Aya.
And poor Sayu. I wonder what happen to the meeting.

[lil_hamz]

What's up with Miki? She seems to have some issues. I hope someone manages to get through to her. But then again, who can? Except maybe Aya?

Ooooh TakaGaki are gonna have a talk. I hope they make up.

[HPriest]

Chapter 25 - The Old & New Sores



Morioka, it says as the destination at the platform where Yossie arrives. She searches for the other girls from her team, but it looks like they already left without her. Not even the coach is here, so she guesses that he still is angry. However, on her way to find an open seat to wait for the next train, she suddenly sees a girl who reads a book. Somehow Yossie seems to know this and walks up to her.

> Konkon! <, Yossie calls the girl who now puts down the book and yes, it's really Konkon.

~ Yossie..finally. ~, Konkon sighs.

> Sorry that I made you wait. By the way, why are you still here? <

~ Coach made me wait for you, so there won't be more delays. ~, Konkon puts the book in her bag.

> Ah..hehe...sorry.. <

~ Don't worry about it. ~, Konkon smiles,~ Where have you been? ~

> Huh? You didn't see it? <

~ See what? ~

> ..the news? <

~ Mmh..actually no, I didn't... had to prepare something and was busy last night.. why? ~

And so Yossie begins to tell her everything while they wait for the next train. Konkon can't believe that she didn't notice this somehow, but she really has been busy as she already said. However, she now blames herself for not being at the hospital together with the others, but Yossie is able to calm her down.

In the hospital, Kei is on her way back to Risa's room, but on her way she decides to find something eat. At the desk she then suddenly bumps into Eri. Kei is surprised to see her already.

~ Uh? Eri? You are here again? ~

> Is Reina still around? <

~ Reina? No, they all left a while ago.. ~

> ..I see. <, Eri looks a bit baffled.

~ What's the matter? ~

- Excuse me. -, a man suddenly interrupts the two.
- Are you Morning Musume? -, the man asks in broken Japanese.

~ Morning Musume? ~, Kei is surprised to hear somebody ask this.

> ..well..yes...but <, Eri starts to answer.

~ ...but "Morning Musume" doesn't exist anymore, you know. ~, Kei finishes.

Of course the man knows about this, but he didn't know any other way to ask this. The girls also changed a bit and he had to make sure he talks to the right girls, but what does he want anyway? Some foreign fan from the old days?

- I've been with Sayumi. In the building. Fire. And.. -, he tries to explain.

> You are the man she talked about? <, Eri remembers.

- Mmmh, is she and Takahashi Ai okay? -

> Oh..., I mean yes, they are..! <

~ AH! ~, Kei suddenly spouts.
~ Aren't you the one Sayu talked about before! ~

> ... < Kei sure is a bit slow and so Eri can only stare at her for a second before continuing the talk with the man.
> She said you protected her. Thank you for that. <

- No no, I just... -, he misses a word here, but the girls don't really need an explanation.

The three of them continue to talk a bit longer. He really has been a fan of them and now he works in Japan. No, he is not working for Aichan, but he happened to be in the same building as the fire broke out. His Japanese also is much better in reality.

- I've been a bit nervous and didn't want to embarrass myself. Who knows what kind of medicine they give me, I wasn't sure whether you were the right girls or not. -, he explains almost without a problem now.

The girls laugh and really get a long with him. They keep on talking for a few minutes, about his injuries and other stuff. Especially Eri seems to like him a lot already.

The train arrives at the station. Yossie and Konkon enter the train and Konkon writes something on her mobile. She decided to write Aichan a message, apologizing and asking about their condition, although Yossie already told her that they are fine. A few minutes later, the train leaves the station.

While Konkon writes her message, Aichan and Risa have their first real talk ever since they broke off their friendship. Aichan doesn't really walk close to Risa's bed. Risa doesn't seem to be as nervous as Aichan and tries to break the ice with a friendly "hi."

~ ...hi ~ Aichan responds with a shaky voice and turns her eyes away from Risa. She just isn't able to face her..

> How are you? <, Risa asks as friendly as ever, but doesn't get a response from Aichan.
> Aichan? Are you okay? <, she is worried.

~ WHY? ~, Aichan suddenly asks in a somewhat angry and sad tone at the same time.

> ..why? <, Risa is a bit surprised by the sudden outburst and also doesn't know what she is talking about.

~ Why are you so friendly? ~

> I.. <

~ Why are YOU ask me how I am? It should be me...asking this..shouldn't it? ~, Aichan's voice now definitely sounds more sad than angry.

> ..but..< Risa first doesn't know what to answer and gets interrupted by Aichan again.

~ You...you never wanted to talk to me until now. Why now? Don't think that I don't know that it all has been my fault, but I still kept on trying to talk to you.

> That's not.. <, Risa still isn't able to say anything without getting interrupted. Aichan also still doesn't look at her. Risa guesses that she should let her finish and say out everything that's on her mind.

~ Why did you want to visit me this time? I don't understand this, I really don't understand this. Does this mean that this accident also is my fault? It is, isn't it? I am really ruining your life, ain't I? ~ Aichan has to make a pause to sniff up the tears that are now making their way down her face.

~ ..so..WHY? Why did you have to come here during such weather? I...I finally accepted that you will never talk to me again, I finally realized that I don't deserve to be your friend anymore. ~, again a small pause. She still didn't look at Risa so far.

~ ...why? ~, now almost drowning in tears, making it impossible for her to continue speaking.

> ... <, Risa only smiles and waits a bit before saying anything. She now listened to everything Aichan had to say...

> I could basically say the same.. <

~ ...same? ~, Aichan really can't bring out more than one word now.

> Do you really think the accident today was your fault? <

~ ..of course.. ~

> You aren't that stupid. <, Risa tells her straight away. Aichan doesn't know whether she should be angry now or not, but Risa already continues.

> I went out to see you, that's right. <, Risa is searching for the right words and Aichan is confused. Is she agreeing with her or not?

> The car, you didn't drive it..right? <

~ But you...I... ~

> And I really doubt that you made this rain, too. Aichan, it was an accident. Please, don't blame yourself for it. <, Risa keeps on explaining.

However, Aichan still doesn't look comforted by Risa's words. She still blames herself and stares at the ground instead of looking at Risa. Risa isn't finished yet. She looks out of the window and continues to talk to Aichan.

> Just when I was going to forgive you.. <, she whispers.

Aichan hears that and looks at Risa.

~ ..what? ~, Aichan has to confirm it herself. Did she really hear it right?

> You said you finally gave up on trying to talk to me, didn't you? <

~ ..y...yes..? ~, Aichan remembers.

> I also was going to give up, give up on hating you. Great timing, huh? <

~ Risa... ~, Risa turns at Aichan again, who immediately looks down to the ground again. Risa has to laugh a bit, but you can clearly see that her eyes are teary as well.

> Sure, my life might not have turned out like yours, but I understand that you have been under a lot of pressure back then. I..I can't blame you for the rest of my life and I can't see you blaming yourself for the rest of your life either. <

Aichan slowly begins to realize that this conversation is turning towards a certain direction. She now looks straight at Risa.

~ Does this mean that...you are...forgiving me? ~

> I realized that this is what made me suffer the most. Stop blaming yourself, please. Every time you tried to apologize to me, all I wanted to do was to hold you, but... I couldn't. Something always told me that I shouldn't forgive you, but I know realize that I have been so wrong... <

Those words just now have been so much better than a simply "yes" for Aichan. She rushes towards Risa, knees down next to her bed and grabs her hand. Risa wants to pat Aichan with her other arm, but it's still hurting a bit.

~ I missed you so much. ~, Aichan says and gets up to give Risa a hug, a hug she has been longing for so many years. This is also why the hug turns out to be a very tight one.

> Not so tight, you are choking me. <, Risa says with a smile that doesn't seem as bright as it used to be. What's wrong? Aichan now lets go of Risa, but doesn't notice that something is up.

Risa remembers the short moment before the hug, when Aichan moved up to hug her. Something in this image is wrong and she starts to realize what it is, but can't believe it herself. Aichan's mobile rings.

~ Look, it's from Konkon. ~, Aichan wipes away the last remaining tears.
~ She sounds so sad, I've got to answer her right away. ~

> ...yeah <, Risa completely lost in her thoughts.

~ Wait, let's make a picture! ~, Aichan suggests, still not reading the signs that Risa found out about something.

> ..yeah, wait..what? Ummm...I mean...sure.. <, Risa tries to act normal again and is able to produce a somewhat true smile for the picture that Aichan takes with her mobile. However, as soon as Aichan is busy with writing the message, she casts back on her thoughts.

> Those things on her forearm are...<, she looks at Aichan..
> Can't be...... <

Back at the train station. Yossie and Konkon left already, of course. About one hour passed and another train is arriving at the station. People are leaving and entering the train, when suddenly we see a familiar girl. Yes, it's Miki. Is she also traveling somewhere? She enters the train. The train then starts to move out of the station. When looking at the platform, we realize that it is the same platform Konkon and Yossie were before. Finally we are able to see the destination of the just leaving train and it is...Morioka, too.


------
Turned out longer than usual. I had two chapters originally, but I didn't like how one of them felt..lacked some story. That's why I shortened this chapter and combined it with the Ai/Risa chapter. Anyway, happy holidays! ^^

[JFC]

Morioka, it says as the destination at the platform where Yossie arrives. She searches for the other girls from her team, but it looks like they already left without her. Not even the coach is here, so she guesses that he still is angry. However, on her way to find an open seat to wait for the next train, she suddenly sees a girl who reads a book. Somehow Yossie seems to know this and walks up to her.

> Konkon! <, Yossie calls the girl who now puts down the book and yes, it's really Konkon.

~ Yossie..finally. ~, Konkon sighs.

Konkon? I'm sort of surprised that none of the girls thought to call her and tell her about what happened.

~ Coach made me wait for you, so there won't be more delays. ~, Konkon puts the book in her bag.

Wait...so Konkon and Yossi are on the same team?

In the hospital, Kei is on her way back to Risa's room, but on her way she decides to find something eat. At the desk she then suddenly bumps into Eri. Kei is surprised to see her already.

~ Uh? Eri? You are here again? ~

> Is Reina still around? <

~ Reina? No, they all left a while ago.. ~

Eri's looking for Reina? Might she be looking for some advice/help on how to deal with some of the stuff that she's having to go through lately?

- Excuse me. -, a man suddenly interrupts the two.
- Are you Morning Musume? -, the man asks in broken Japanese.

...

- I've been with Sayumi. In the building. Fire. And.. -, he tries to explain.

Oh, it's the guy that helped get them out when the fire initially broke out! Glad to see that he's okay.

Eri seems to like him a lot already.

Ooooooooooooooooooooooo...dokidoki? 

Aichan and Risa have their first real talk ever since they broke off their friendship. Aichan doesn't really walk close to Risa's bed. Risa doesn't seem to be as nervous as Aichan and tries to break the ice with a friendly "hi."

~ ...hi ~ Aichan responds with a shaky voice and turns her eyes away from Risa. She just isn't able to face her..

Ganbatte!

> Aichan? Are you okay? <, she is worried.

~ WHY? ~, Aichan suddenly asks in a somewhat angry and sad tone at the same time.

> ..why? <, Risa is a bit surprised by the sudden outburst and also doesn't know what she is talking about.

~ Why are you so friendly? ~

Something that one must keep in mind is that even with all the anger she felt, deep down inside Risa probably never stopped caring about Aichan.  She shouldn't be surprised, after all, this is Risa we're talking about here.  Sure she was royally pissed off at Aichan for the longest time, but that was because she was hurt so much by what Aichan did. One is never hurt more than when they're hurt by someone that one cares so much about.

~ You...you never wanted to talk to me until now. Why now? Don't think that I don't know that it all has been my fault, but I still kept on trying to talk to you.

That's definitely one thing that Aichan has going for her in all this. She never hid or tried to deny her responsibilities in this.

~ Why did you want to visit me this time? I don't understand this, I really don't understand this. Does this mean that this accident also is my fault? It is, isn't it? I am really ruining your life, ain't I? ~ Aichan has to make a pause to sniff up the tears that are now making their way down her face.

~ ..so..WHY? Why did you have to come here during such weather? I...I finally accepted that you will never talk to me again, I finally realized that I don't deserve to be your friend anymore. ~, again a small pause. She still didn't look at Risa so far.

~ ...why? ~, now almost drowning in tears, making it impossible for her to continue speaking.

Poor Aichan...all that guilt that she's had to keep bottled up inside her is now pouring out all at once.

> The car, you didn't drive it..right? <

~ But you...I... ~

> And I really doubt that you made this rain, too. Aichan, it was an accident. Please, don't blame yourself for it. <, Risa keeps on explaining.

> Just when I was going to forgive you.. <, she whispers.

Aichan hears that and looks at Risa.

~ ..what? ~

> I realized that this is what made me suffer the most. Stop blaming yourself, please. Every time you tried to apologize to me, all I wanted to do was to hold you, but... I couldn't. Something always told me that I shouldn't forgive you, but I know realize that I have been so wrong... <

~ I missed you so much. ~, Aichan says and gets up to give Risa a hug, a hug she has been longing for so many years.

Risa remembers the short moment before the hug, when Aichan moved up to hug her. Something in this image is wrong and she starts to realize what it is, but can't believe it herself.

...

> Those things on her forearm are...<, she looks at Aichan..
> Can't be...... <

On her forearm? Oh god, no. Please don't say that Aichan is... [bgcolor=#000000]a drug addict???[/bgcolor]

About one hour passed and another train is arriving at the station. People are leaving and entering the train, when suddenly we see a familiar girl. Yes, it's Miki. Is she also traveling somewhere? She enters the train. The train then starts to move out of the station. When looking at the platform, we realize that it is the same platform Konkon and Yossie were before. Finally we are able to see the destination of the just leaving train and it is...Morioka, too.

So Miki is heading to the same place where Yossi and Konkon are? Wonder what lies there for them?

[lil_hamz]

YAY!! TakaGaki made up Was still hoping for a kiss but this is good too

I wonder where Miki is headed, would the 3 meet?

> ..well..yes...but <, Risa starts to answer.

Did you mean Eri?

@JFC: Ahhhh Ai-chan a druggie? I didn't think of that but now that you've mentioned it

[inDeceit]

I wasn't thinking drug addict, more of perhaps cuts/bruises or hurting herself >_< I hope it's neither.
And if she was a druggie, I think she'd look sickly or something and that has to be noticable somehow.

Love the fic, it's like a roller coaster ride. When one thing somehow settles down, some other stuff happens and it just keeps getting better with each chapter! ^^

[HPriest]

> ..well..yes...but <, Risa starts to answer.

Did you mean Eri?

Yeah, I mixed it up two times. It's Eri.

-

Thanks for the comments. I hope the talk between Aichan and Risa is enjoyable and at least a bit touching.
Can't wait to post more chapters! ^^

[lil_hamz]

^ I CAN'T WAIT to read more chapters

I wasn't thinking drug addict, more of perhaps cuts/bruises or hurting herself >_< I hope it's neither.
And if she was a druggie, I think she'd look sickly or something and that has to be noticable somehow.

Love the fic, it's like a roller coaster ride. When one thing somehow settles down, some other stuff happens and it just keeps getting better with each chapter! ^^

I did think that too but it would usually be around the wrist area no? But hey, I'm no expert in that area so I guess anything's possible.

[inDeceit]

I wasn't thinking drug addict, more of perhaps cuts/bruises or hurting herself >_< I hope it's neither.
And if she was a druggie, I think she'd look sickly or something and that has to be noticable somehow.

Love the fic, it's like a roller coaster ride. When one thing somehow settles down, some other stuff happens and it just keeps getting better with each chapter! ^^

I did think that too but it would usually be around the wrist area no? But hey, I'm no expert in that area so I guess anything's possible.

I think the wrist area are usually for when someone wants to suicide, and the forearm area for when uhm.. cutting for the sake of cutting.. but why are we talking about this, lol. Maybe Aichan forgot to take out her drip or something =X or maybe accessories.

Oh yeah, I almost forgot. I wonder if the foreign man is important in the story, and what happened to Sayu in the earlier chapters.

[HPriest]

Chapter 26 - The Studio



The door of what looks like the old studio of H!P opens and in come Yuko and Nacchi.

~ Can't you just forget what I said? ~, Yuko asks Nacchi. They seem to be in the middle of a talk.

> What? Why? I think it would be a fun idea.. <, Nacchi responds while looking around. This place sure brings back memories. Yuko still works here, but Nacchi hasn't been here for a long time.

~ You know that it is not going to happen, it would be like ... ~

> ... a miracle? <, Nacchi adds and Yuko nods.

- A miracle? -, another girl suddenly joins the conversation. It's Junjun.

~ Oh Junjun, you are already here.. ~, Yuko greets her.

- Yes, going through the new dance routine again. -

> Still putting everything you've got into the work. ...Great! <, Nacchi is impressed.

~ ..despite the current situation.. ~, Yuko adds with a bit of hope.

- We sure are in a difficult situation, but it can't be helped. Anyway, how are you, Abe-san? -

> Man, I forgot that you are already in your mid-twenties. You sure sound like a responsible person, but, please, don't call me Abe-san. You are making me feel old. <, Nacchi rubs her own head and laughs.

- Hehe, okay. I've got the feeling that we never really met, though. -

> True...things went pretty bad short after you joined. <

- Yeah... -, Junjun and Nacchi remember.

> But you are still here. <, Nacchi smiles.

- I don't have much of a choice.. - Junjun peers at Yuko and laughs.

~ Hey! ~, Yuko turns around to the two.

- Oh, sorry boss! - Junjun grins and Yuko unlocks the door to her office.

> Are you going solo now, or..? <, Nacchi asks Junjun.

- No no, still in wasure na gusa. -, Junjun corrects her and sinks into the chair.

~ She became leader last month. ~, Yuko adds and walks to her desk.

> Really? Great! <, Nacchi prefers to stand.

~ Saki left us to try her luck elsewhere and so Junjun became the leader. ~

> I see ... <, Nacchi looks at Junjun. >Mmh, I guess it would be fun for her as well. <, Nacchi suddenly switches the topic back to the original one.

~ ..not again. ~, Yuko turns on the computer and sighs.

- What? -, Junjun is confused.

> You know, Yuko plans a revival of Morning Musume with a lot of former members.. <, Nacchi explains.

- Really? Are you serious? -, Junjun looks at Yuko.

~ Who said something about a plan? ~, Yuko actually wanted to ignore her, but now Nacchi even infects Junjun.

- ..how many? -, Junjun asks Nacchi.

> Not sure, but a lot of girls! <, Nacchi smiles at Junjun and it seems like she only keeps on talking about this topic to pull Yuko's chain.

- ..a lot? -, Junjun with big impressed eyes.

> Well, it would only be to give the comeback a nice start. We elderly women probably won't be able to keep it up with you still young girls, right Yuko? <

~ I AM NOT LISTENING! ~, Yuko checks the mails and acts like she is really busy.

- This really sounds like it could be a lot of fun. -, Junjun agrees with Nacchi.

~ Why are you talking about it like it's a decided thing already? ~ Yuko couldn't ignore them anymore and now tries to open their eyes.

> Why are you ignoring your own idea? <, Nacchi becomes serious now.

~ It only was a vague 'fantasy' and.. ~

> Then what's so difficult with realizing this 'fantasy'? <, Nacchi interrupts.

Junjun is surprised by how the mood suddenly became so serious.

~ Mmmh, let's see ... EVERYTHING? ~

> You are not really optimistic... <, Nacchi turns away from Yuko and lowers her voice.

- She is always like that. -, Junjun whispers.

~ Maybe because I know how this business works? There is a lack popularity, lack of money, lack of connections, ...lack of everything. By the way, I doubt that we even get a handful of former members. Leaving the fun aside, they all have contracts with other agencies. ~, Yuko strikes back with nothing but the reality.

> The way you say it really makes it sound like a stupid idea.. <, Nacchi finally understands.

~ See! ~

> Still... <

~ No, no 'still'. Now stop talking about this anymore. ~, Yuko gets back to her mails.

- Anyway, you can find me in the dance studio. Bye~ -, Junjun gets up and leaves the office, saying good bye to Nacchi.

> There still has to be some way.. <, Nacchi brings it up again after saying good bye.

~ Nacchi...! ~

> ...sorry. <, Nacchi smiles. She realizes that it's enough now.

[JFC]

The door of what looks like the old studio of H!P opens and in come Yuko and Nacchi.

~ Can't you just forget what I said? ~, Yuko asks Nacchi. They seem to be in the middle of a talk.

> What? Why? I think it would be a fun idea.. <, Nacchi responds while looking around. This place sure brings back memories. Yuko still works here, but Nacchi hasn't been here for a long time.

Aaaaaaaaaaaah...how nostalgic.  

What would be fun? Getting the old gang back into the studio for the hell of it?

~ Oh Junjun, you are already here.. ~, Yuko greets her.

- Yes, going through the new dance routine again. -

JUNJUN!

* JFC hopes Linlin is still there too.

> Are you going solo now, or..? <, Nacchi asks Junjun.

- No no, still in wasure na gusa. -, Junjun corrects her and sinks into the chair.

~ She became leader last month. ~, Yuko adds and walks to her desk.

Some new group that was created after MM fell apart?

> You know, Yuko plans a revival of Morning Musume with a lot of former members.. <, Nacchi explains.

- Really? Are you serious? -, Junjun looks at Yuko.

Whoa...

If they're serious about this, would they be able to pull it off, given the current situations the others are in?

> You are not really optimistic... <, Nacchi turns away from Yuko and lowers her voice.

- She is always like that. -, Junjun whispers.

~ Maybe because I know how this business works? There is a lack popularity, lack of money, lack of connections, ...lack of everything. By the way, I doubt that we even get a handful of former members. Leaving the fun aside, they all have contracts with other agencies. ~, Yuko strikes back with nothing but the reality.

> The way you say it really makes it sound like a stupid idea.. <, Nacchi finally understands.

It's not a matter of wanting it enough or whether it's a good idea or not. The main stumbling block are all the legalities and business-related things that would have to be done before they could even begin to try and get this thing started.  Having the desire/drive to do it is nice and all, but it'll be all for naught if they can't get the practical side of it done.

> There still has to be some way.. <, Nacchi brings it up again after saying good bye.

~ Nacchi...! ~

> ...sorry. <, Nacchi smiles. She realizes that it's enough now.

[Sancho]

Wha!!?? My heart skip hearing that they are planning to revive MM but the reality they are in right now suck. 

I'm curious like JFC. Where's Linlin?? 

[HPriest]

Chapter 27 - The Bath



Sayu sits in front of her bed, staring at the TV with a sad face. She can hear the noise of somebody opening the door with a key, but doesn't really care at all. It's Eri who still got the key to Sayu's flat. In the past they exchanged keys and often spent whole days together at either Eri's or Sayu's place. Even today it seems to be normal for them. Eri puts away her jacket and looks at the spaced out Sayu.

> You are still in this mood? <, she asks.

There is no response from Sayu. Eri walks up to the kitchen. It's an 'open' flat. The living room, bed room and kitchen are not separated by walls, one big spacious room. Eri opens the fridge.

> And you still don't want to tell me what happened? <

Eri doesn't really expect an answer. She takes out the milk and takes herself a glass out of the cupboard. While doing this, she noticed that Sayu took herself a pillow and and lied down on the floor. Eri does a somewhat caring, sad smile and takes out a second glass. She takes the two empty glasses and the milk and walks up to Sayu. Sayu doesn't say a word and keeps on staring at the TV. Eri looks around for a place to put down the glasses, but ends up putting it all on the floor. She grabs Sayu and returns her to a sitting position. Sayu now lays her head down on Eri's shoulder who sits down next to her.

> I understand. You don't have to tell me, if you don't want to. <

Eri carefully takes the milk and fills a glass for Sayu. She gives it to her and tells her to drink. Without any resistance she moves the glass towards her mouth while Eri fills the second glass for herself. They both remain in this position in front of the TV, not saying any word.

After about 10minutes of silence.

> Ah! I have an idea! <

Sayu moves up her head and looks at Eri with a questioning look.

> What about taking a bath together like we used to? <

Sayu keeps on looking at the happy face of Eri and eventually nods. Eri stands up and helps Sayu to get up. She lays the pillow down on the bed and hand in hand they walk to the bathroom. It's a really big bathroom with a huge bathtub. Eri lets in the water. They both take off their clothes and help each other pinning up their hair. Then they step into the bathtub. It's a nice temperature, maybe a bit too hot, but they both like it. Soon the whole room is steamy, moisture at the walls; they forgot to open the window a bit. After Eri went out of the tub to fix this, they both continue to enjoy the bath. Sayu still remains silent. Except of 'It feels good, doesn't it?' - 'Yes, it does.' they don't really talk that much. Eri doesn't want to force her into a conversation that could make Sayu even more sad and her other attempts to talk about other topics only end up with getting a simple 'Mmh' and 'Yes' as answer.

> Want me to wash your back? <

Again, no response from Sayu. However, she slowly turns her back to Eri, symbolizing that she would like her to do it. Eri chuckles to herself a bit, since Sayu actually looks kind of cute being all sad. She knows that Sayu enjoys Eri's presence and is glad to be able to help her at least a bit. While washing Sayu's back, she tries to start a conversation again.

> What's on your mind? <

~ You are going to keep your promise, right? ~, Sayu suddenly replies by the surprise of Eri.

> Promise? <, Eri wonders and tries to remember.

### Scene starts around the end of Chapter 23
~ You won't leave again, right? ~, Sayu asks her all of a sudden.
> ...huh? <
~ You will stay here ... with me, right? ~
> Uhm...I... <, Eri doesn't really know what to answer.
Sayu then wraps her arms around Eri and holds her very tight.
~ Tell me that you are not going to leave me alone again...! ~, Sayu being all in tears.
> Sayu... < (Chapter 23 ended here, but there is actually more.)
> I.. I don't know.. <, Sayu steps back a short step and looks at Eri.
~ Promise me! ~, she demands.
> Sayu, really.. I...<
~ Promise! ~
> Okay, okay.. I promise. <, Eri smiles at Sayu, but is a bit concerned about it.
~ Thank you! ~, Sayu smiles and hugs Eri again.
### End of this scene.

> Uhm, well... of course I will. <, Eri answers, asking herself whether it was a good idea to verify it like that again. However, she doesn't want to make her sad again either. She is in a really hard situation right now. Sooner or later she will have to find the right time to tell her that it won't be possible to stay here forever.

They finished their bath. Sayu also washed Eri's back and they both helped each other with their hair. All in all it was a very relaxing and fun time, even if Sayu can't really show it right now. Eri can still feel it that Sayu enjoyed it very much. Both girls lay down on the bed. Sayu has a big bed for two people, although she usually sleeps there alone. In the past they both have slept in this bed together already a few times, but since then Sayu has been alone all the time; no boyfriend, no close girlfriend, nobody. They both lie there, face to face. Sayu, being all tired and with Eri caressing over her cheek, soon starts to fall asleep. Eri can see how she tries hard not to fall asleep, but the day has just been too much for her. At moments like this Sayu really looks like a very fragile, young girl again. Eri also enjoys the moment, but doesn't feel like falling asleep. She keeps on smiling at Sayu and caress her a little longer, although she is already asleep.

Eri notices that her mobile is vibrating at the kitchen table. She luckily put it on soundless, not waking up Sayu again. Slowly she gets up, walks up to her phone and receives the call.

> Yes? <
> You read my message? <
> Okay. <
> Yes, we can meet now. <
> You decide. <
> Yes, I know where it is. <
> Okay. <
> Bye. <

She puts on her socks, pants and one of Sayu's sweaters, all without waking up Sayu. Then she takes her jacket, not forgetting the keys and closes the door without making too much noise. Sayu didn't notice any of this and peacefully sleeps, hopefully having a nice dream.