The Generation Series: REBIRTH

When Sakura woke up in her immense bedroom the following day, she was drenched in cold sweat. Her heart raced, and the memories of the vivid nightmare still lingered. She could not shake the helplessness and being trapped in her dream, leaving her uneasy as she tried to make sense of the haunting vision. She wiggled out of bed, feeling exhausted.

She peeked at her stained, foul-smelling clothes and sighed, frustrated. "Damn it, I forgot to pack a change of clothes. And the boys were supposed to be released last night. Why won't they ever let me see them?"

Rising, she stepped toward the large decorated floor mirror. Her reflection stared back—a familiar sight of her in a worn black hoodie and sweatpants. She felt out of place on the island.

"Everyone here wears such nice clothes, and here I am, entirely out of place." 

Her gaze shifted towards the door, where she detected an envelope on the floor beneath the gap.

The soft, light pink envelope contained a letter on lined paper written by Taylor. It invited Sakura to meet her in the cherry blossom meadow beside the palace.

Sakura approached a map on the wall she hadn't seen before in the mansion's halls. Upon closer inspection, it appeared to be a map of the entire island. Sakura pulled out her phone to take a photograph. She pointed from the palace to the lettering of the cherry blossom meadow. The map was helpful, and she felt more prepared to explore the island now.

Exiting her room, she saw her Beta guards bowing to her presence. The two werewolves held the gold door handles and pulled them open for her to exit the building. She took the path leading to the east exit of the palace.

A stone pebble path, illuminated by lanterns crafted from stone, strayed through the cherry blossoms, leading her to the enchanting pink forest. Among the natural splendor, werewolves in their wolf forms leisurely strolled through the forest, basking in the sun and cherishing their time together. Many of them were young Omegas, seeking some fun before classes resumed.

Sakura suddenly heard Taylor's voice calling her name from a distance. Following the sound, she found Taylor seated on a large, dark blue blanket spread over the lush grass, a basket filled with Nigiri and other delectable snacks beside her. Sakura joined her on the mantle, a warm smile gracing her lips as Taylor offered her a rice ball wrapped in seaweed.

Sakura asked, "Oi, Taylor, why did ya ask me to come out here?"

Taylor responded with genuine concern, "I wanted to make sure you were alright after yesterday. Jack seemed pretty worried about you."

Sakura reflected, "I'm fine, but I'm worried about the others," she said with a smile.

"Traveling the world is so much fun; you're lucky," Taylor replied with a playful giggle.

Sakura felt a more profound connection growing with Taylor, as though they had been friends for a lifetime.

With a warm smile, Sakura said, "Tell me more stories about me mother. I want to know what she was like."

Taylor's gaze turned distant as she reminisced, "Your mother, she was quite the adventurer. In our time, we didn't have computers and smartphones to keep us occupied. We had fun going on adventures and missions together."

Sakura leaned in closer, her curiosity piqued. "Tell me everything."

"Well," Taylor began, "we explored the nearby forests and meadows when we were your age. Your mother had a knack for discovering hidden treasures in the most unexpected places. We would also care for the small Kami who live on the island. Hours would pass as we collected wildflowers and created crowns for each other."

Sakura's eyes gleamed with interest. "What else did you do?"

"She would entertain me with stories of her adventures beyond the island," Taylor continued. "Lily would reveal the fancy jewelry and trinkets she found on her missions. She taught me about human culture and the multitude of languages beyond our shores. She always had an overload of fascinating tales."

Sakura couldn't help but smile, her heart warmed by the image of her mother's adventurous spirit. "She sounds amazing."

"She truly was," Taylor affirmed. "We also spent countless afternoons climbing trees. Your mother possessed incredible fearlessness. She would ascend higher than anyone else, always reaching for the sky."

Sakura chuckled, envisioning her mother as a spirited young girl. "And what about you, Taylor?"

"I was the one who kept her grounded," Taylor laughed. "But our differences complemented each other perfectly. Lily's boundless enthusiasm made every day an adventure."

Sakura playfully caught a cherry blossom petal, twirling it in her fingers. "I wish I could have known her like that."

With a reassuring hand on Sakura's shoulder, Taylor comforted her. "You may not have experienced those moments with her, but you carry her spirit within you. She lives on through you, Sakura."

Sakura nodded, gratitude filling her eyes, and tears welled up. "I believe you're right."

A deep sense of connection enveloped them in the cherry blossom meadow, surrounded by Sakura's mother's echoes and the natural world's beauty. Sakura knew that even in her mother's absence, her legacy continued through her and the stories shared by her dearest friend. That was something that could never be taken away.

Then, Taylor remembered something and asked, "Sakura, the funeral is in two days. Did you bring a funeral outfit?"

Sakura rubbed the back of her head, her smile slightly awkward. "Oi, I forgot to bring any clothes with me."

Taylor's understanding expression remained unchanged. She asked, "Sakura, would you mind following me for a moment?"

"Uh, sure," Sakura replied, a hint of curiosity mixed with nervousness. She rose from the blanket and trailed Taylor to the mansion's courtyard. Inside, they weaved through a series of winding corridors until they reached a door marked "Rin's Atelier."

Upon opening the door, Sakura was greeted by a room that defied her size expectations. The walls were ornamented with shelves overflowing with colorful fabrics, threads, and intricate sewing patterns. At the heart of the room stood a stage-like platform with a full-length mirror and various measuring tools.

Within this sewing paradise, Rin, a woman of captivating charm, waited with a warm smile that could melt hearts. She wore a black and white maid's attire with her beautiful dark golden skin. A delicate shade of light pink crowned her hair, which framed her with stunning eyes and a chubby figure.

Taylor approached Rin, and she said, "Rin, this is Sakura. I brought her here to introduce you, and I thought it would be wonderful if you could create a funeral yukata for her to wear at the City of Lights ceremony."

Rin's eyes lit up excitedly as she extended her hand gracefully toward Sakura. Speaking with a hint of a charming French accent, she said, "Oui, A pleasure to meet you, Sakura. Taylor has told me so much about you. Don't worry; I'll make sure you look absolutely stunning."

Sakura managed a small, appreciative smile. Although she felt slightly out of her comfort zone, she trusted Taylor's judgment.

With a gracious nod, Rin motioned toward the stage with the mirror. "Now, my dear, if you could stand here, S'il vous plaît. I need to take some measurements, so you'll have to remove your clothes."

Sakura hesitated, feeling vulnerable standing in her undergarments in this room filled with fabrics and tools, but Rin's presence and Taylor's reassurance helped ease her discomfort.

Taylor chuckled softly, her voice soothing. "It's alright, Sakura. Rin is a professional, and she'll take your measurements quickly and painlessly. You'll be out of here in no time."

With Taylor's encouragement, Sakura stepped onto the stage, facing the mirror. She hesitantly removed her apparel, desiring they would finish soon. She exposed the wounds on her back and her torso as if she had already seen war outside the battlefield. 

Rin froze, her gaze fixed on the scars. She had never seen injuries like these before—they told a story of someone who had been beaten into submission at a young age. The sight made her stomach twist, but she quickly suppressed her gasp, forcing herself to remain composed.

Turning slightly, she glanced at Taylor, who looked equally stunned. Taylor gave Rin a subtle nod, silently urging her to continue.

Rin began her work, her skilled hands moving over Sakura's body, taking precise measurements. 

Gradually, Sakura's initial discomfort melted away, replaced by a growing sense of relaxation as she allowed Rin to work her magic. Sakura admired the artistry and craftsmanship that surrounded her. This room felt like a sanctuary of creativity and talent, a place where the cares of the outside world seemed to fade into insignificance.

With her measuring tape in hand, Rin looked up at Sakura with a warm smile. "Merci, Sakura. You may step down now, love. I will bring you the yukata once I'm finished."

"Thank you," Sakura replied, a genuine smile gracing her lips.

Rin nodded and retreated to the back room to work on the garment with a smile. She was overjoyed to work on the Alpha Leader's yukata. 

"Come on now, let's get moving," Taylor said as she guided Sakura back to the mansion's front hallway. She noticed her lingering gaze toward the infirmary, her longing clear as if a piece of her heart had been left behind with her friends.

Taylor offered a reassuring smile. "Michelle just wants to make sure they're fully healed before they're discharged. She doesn't want them coming back sooner than necessary. In the meantime, why don't you explore the island? You're safe here within the three-mile radius."

"Are ya sure?" Sakura asked hesitantly, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

Taylor nodded. "Yeah, go ahead. I'll be in the infirmary with my daughter if you need me."

With that, Taylor left, disappearing into the infirmary to assist with the recovery efforts. Sakura was left alone with her thoughts, a wave of unease washing over her. The enormity of the unfamiliar world around her felt overwhelming, and sweat beaded on her brow as anxiety crept in.

But despite her fear, Sakura knew she needed to summon the courage to adapt and find her place in this strange and daunting environment. Slowly, she took a deep breath and resolved to take the first step.

Deciding to head south to Paradise City, Sakura marveled at the natural beauty surrounding her. Towering, ancient trees formed a majestic canopy overhead, their leaves rustling in the gentle breeze. The air carried the sweet scent of blooming flowers, and the harmonious chorus of birds serenaded her as she followed the main road to the city.

While walking along a winding forest path, Sakura stumbled upon a small, glistening stream that strayed through the underbrush. Drawn by the soothing sound of flowing water, she kneeled to dip her fingers in its crystal-clear waters. To her astonishment, the creek seemed to shimmer with an otherworldly light, and she could feel a subtle, magical energy coursing through it.

Curiosity guided her steps, and Sakura followed the stream inside the forest. Her footsteps barely sounded as she trekked on the soft, mossy ground. Sakura noticed tiny figures darting among the leaves and flowers surrounding her. These were the Yokai, the spirits of nature, that called this island home.

One of the Yokai, a petite and radiant feminine creature, caught Sakura's attention. This Yokai had sparkling wings that seemed to shimmer with a hint of green, and her body appeared as though it was made of glistening leaves. Her eyes were large and entirely black. Her beauty captivated Sakura, finding her irresistibly cute.

"Oi, what's your name?" Sakura asked.

Sakura gently raised her hand, inviting the petite Kami to perch on her palm. The tiny spirit responded with a tinkling laugh and a playful twirl. Although Sakura couldn't understand her language, the Yokai's warm demeanor and enthusiastic gestures were universal.

"Oh, sorry, lass. I don't understand what yer sayin'," Sakura admitted, feeling a bit of a language barrier between them.

The little Yokai beckoned Sakura to follow her deeper inside the forest. Sakura hesitated briefly, weighing the decision to pursue a creature she could not communicate with. However, Taylor informed her that she was safe within the three-mile radius. Sakura followed the Yokai further into the forest, and the surroundings became increasingly mystical with each step.

The trees grew taller and older, their trunks thick and gnarled, as if they held the wisdom of centuries. The ground beneath her feet transformed into a lush carpet of moss. Sakura smiled and removed her sneakers and socks to embrace the texture between her toes. In the distance, the gentle babble of a brook called her forward.

The journey was long, and Sakura felt weary. She gasped for breath to replenish her energy. The little Yokai continued to float around her in joyous circles.

Sakura panted. "Where are ya takin' me?"

The spirit responded with laughter and continued speaking in her language, leaving Sakura puzzled.

Sakura sighed, "I still can't understand ya, forest spirit. Can I call ya Hana?"

In response to her question, the spirit embarked on an enthusiastic series of twirls and spins, delighting in the name Sakura had given her.

With a final step, Sakura and Hana entered a breathtaking clearing, bathed in twilight's soft, enchanting glow. Towering trees surrounded the clearing, their branches forming a protective canopy that allowed enough light to filter through. In the center of the clearing lay a radiant, moonlit pool.

However, not just the pool took Sakura's breath away. Countless small Yokai were everywhere, filling the clearing with their vibrant presence. Some danced gracefully on the pool's surface, creating ripples that glimmered like liquid silver. Others swung from the branches, playfully leaping between leaves and vines.

Sakura's jaw dropped in amazement; the island never ceased to surprise her. The sight filled her with overwhelming joy. The Yokai was a variety of colors and shapes, each uniquely fascinating. Some possessed delicate butterfly wings that shimmered with rainbow hues, while others resembled miniature tree spirits, their forms blending seamlessly with the forest itself. Their laughter reached the tinkling of wind chimes, and their voices carried the songs of the natural world. Hana encouraged Sakura to join in the festivities.

"Thank you for inviting me, Hana," Sakura said sincerely. It's a privilege to join you in your spirit festival."

With that, Sakura twirled and danced with the Yokai, their laughter filling the clearing. She felt as light as the air surrounding her. It was a truly magical moment. After hours of playing with her new companions, the night caught up to her. She was enjoying her life for once. The evening deepened into night, and Sakura and the Yokai continued dancing and playing, forging a connection that transcended language. Sakura knew this enchanted glade would forever hold a special place in her heart, where the mystical and the ordinary seamlessly converged.

Eventually, the sky turned a darker shade of blue, signaling it was time to return home before the night grew too dark.

"Thanks again for inviting me," Sakura said to the Yokai. "I had fun. However, I have to go back, but I hope to meet ya again soon."

Sakura bowed to the spirits and reluctantly left the enchanting festival behind as the moonlight illuminated her path back to the mansion.