UZA Chapter: To Shine
“Well, welcome to the UZA theater and congratulations for making the final cut of what it takes to get here. As Takamina has said earlier, I am Matsui Jurina and I am one of the stagemasters for the theater.” Jurina declared, rising from her chair and moving to the front of her desk.
“We are -” Sayanee tried to express her and Rena’s joy upon joining the theater, but was cut off.
“Happy to be here?” Jurina questioned and grinned when she gained a nod from the two. “As one would be, the 48 group is well known, but many know the true stars are hidden in ‘UZA’. Only the best of the best in the 48 group can enter, but there are those special exceptions who are here without being part of the group. Tell me,” She leaned on her desk and a serious countenance graced her face. “Do you believe you are one of those extraordinary stars shining every night on the stage.”
There was silence, then one spoke up.
“I can be...” Sayanee answered, and Jurina could tell she had more to say. “I may not be anywhere near the level of those performers now, but I believe as long as I keep trying and improving, I can become one.”
Jurina only looked at Sayanee without a blank look on her face, but after a moment, she grinned.
“That’s the honest and earnest spirit I was hoping for. You truly are what I expected and I tell that there’s more I can expect from you.” She then looked at Rena. “And what about you?”
“....” Rena was just quiet and hesitant to actually answer, she didn’t know what she should even say.
“You should just answer the way you feel.” The young stagemaster said, noticing Rena’s dilemma.
“....” Rena stared at the stagemaster then looked down. “Truthfully, no. I don’t think so.” She looked at Jurina again, who only waited for her to continue. “There’s nothing particularly special about like everyone here, I don’t really think I deserve to be here.”
The Stagemaster only looked at Rena, then glancing at Sayanee. She stood tall and walked towards the bookshelf in the corner of the room and retrieved a small yet intricately decorated box. Walking back towards her desk without looking away from the box.
“Tell me, do you think diamonds can be formed from nothing but air.”
“...” The two were confused and just answered. “...No”
“Would you believe me when I tell you that with enough pressure and blinding and burning lights, something beautiful and precious could be created from practically nothing.” She pulled two diamonds out from the box. “I believe the same can be done with people, someone like you who thinks nothing of yourself could be turned into something that shines and strong.” She set the box on the desk and threw the diamond to the two who caught.
“Until the day you become diamonds yourself, keep this as a reminder of what you aim to become.” She returns to her seat and as if on cue, Minami arrives.
“I suspect you are now finished.” Jurina nods, “Then I shall take over, and I’d like to remind you, she’s waiting for you.”
“If you see her again, please tell her I have some things to attend to and I’ll make my way to her when I finish.”
“Understood, then I shall see you when the show begins.” Takamina bows and begins to lead the two out of the room. The three exit and Takamina speaks, “I am going to introduce you to everyone before the show begins. And those treasure, make sure to take of them.”
The two nod and make their way to stage.
To be Continued....