Chapter 9:

Encounter 1

SHADOW & FEATHERS

In the less crowded area of the city, there stood a three story house. Large window panes and traditional sliding doors could be seen from faraway. In this modern neighborhood it looked unique due to its traditional style. It was, probably, one of the luxurious but traditional houses. A small garden surrounded this old house. There a boy could be seen, crouching and fiddling with one of the plants. The boy looked young. He had contemplative look etched upon his face. Suddenly there was sound of a door opening and someone's footsteps echoed. The boy stopped what he was doing and listened attentively.

The sliding door facing the garden opened. A girl emerged, seemingly out of breath.

"Hey. Welcome back." The boy greeted.

"You are here and I was finding you inside." She took a long breath, stabilizing herself.

"Why? Did you need anything?" the boy patted his clothes.

"Off course" She shouted, "you promised me something."

"Hmm…what are you saying?" the boy teased.

"Don't tell me you forgot, Aki!" the girl shouted angrily.

"Ha-ha… off course I didn't. Don't be angry." The boy, 'Aki', laughed. He picked up the tools.

"I can't forget for I don't want to die so young."

"Sigh… doesn't tease me alright. I won't kill you."

"Yes, yes. I know." He replied halfheartedly.

They entered the house. The interior of the house was not traditional but had a modern touch to it. One can see some picture frames hanging on the wall.

The girl slumped down on the sofa.

"So?"

"So what Akira?"

"I mean, if you remember then hurry up."

"But there is still some time before the festival starts."

"Yeah, but me and my friends decided to meet earlier so that we can enjoy."

"I see. But why there is a need for me to go?"

"You don't understand. I promised my friends that I'll introduce my brother to them. I want to tell them how handsome my brother is. Come on Miyaki!"

"…."

"What? Why are looking at me like that?"

"No nothing. Sigh"

"I am going upstairs so hurry up and get ready." She made a shooing gesture towards her brother and went upstairs. He gazed intently at her disappearing figure. There was silence for a moment.

"Ha-ha…you have quite a stubborn sister I say." Suddenly a laughing voice of a child echoed.

Miyaki nodded helplessly. He stared blankly in the air.

"Well…I should hurry up, I guess?" he said.

"Hehehehe….yes." laughter echoed although there was no one else present.

…..

Sakura's POV:

It's been a few days after the mall incident. Today is the first day of festival and currently I am trying to figure out what to wear. Yeah don't blame me. I, as a girl, need to think about these things. Although, I am not an expert in this matter. Plus there are many clothes that….umm…you know Maya bought for me.

Finally after an hour of struggle I was ready.

I checked my phone. Ah… not the one with which….broke. Long story short Maya in the end bought me another one. But what can I say.

Sigh…. Bad memories.

TRING-TRING

Oh…Maya's calling. Seriously, this girl.

"Hello..."

>Ah…Hello, where are you Sakura?

"Hmm…I am at home. Why?"

>WHAAAT!

"Ugh…why are you shouting?"

>Silly girl! Hurry up…..hey what….I is not scolding her….

She seems to be talking with someone.