Ever careful, Mimi spread the quilt out beneath the tree. Intricately sewn with an image of a creeping vine and many flowers, it had been a gift from her mother, bought at a stall during a county festival they had visited in the mountains during a rare occasion when her mother and father had been together with Mimi. Her grandmother said it was far too ostentatious. Mimi cared what grandmother thought, she cared deeply, but she wanted so much to rebel now that she had her time on her own in Miator. Mimi had decided that this quilt that she loved so very dearly would be her rebellion today as she practiced the weekly chakai. It was one thing to rebel, but unthinkable to skip her assigned lessons. The quilt would not sit two for very long. She unpacked the delicate equipment of the tea ceremony from its special box and laid them out reverently upon the quilt. With practiced elegance, Mimi knelt into the seiza position and smoothed out her ceremonial tea kimono.

Mimi began to go through the motions. They were almost second nature to her at this point. She couldn't light a fire out here so she used a small battery powered kettle to heat the water. She allowed her mind and attention to wander, something she would never have been able to do with her grandmother who wielded a willow branch like a whip. Nothing promoted concentration like the fear of a rap on the knuckles. She thought about the beauty of the school and the joy of being free. She also thought about the tree. It was so large and imposing, like her grandmother. The difference was that the tree offered shade and was a thing of beauty. Unfortunately there must have been many who disagreed. Names were carved all over the trunk and went far up into the tree. Such a shameful way to treat a wonderful piece of nature and Mimi was ashamed. She could only hope that it was done by the hooligans from the other two schools rather than her own fellow students in Miator. They were the proper young ladies after all.

The seiza pose was uncomfortable as it always was. Mimi had never gotten used to the feeling even after years of practice. Shifting and shuffling was another way to get a rap across the knuckles from the willow whip. So Mimi did not fidget. There was some part of her mind, perhaps deep down in her mind, that feared that any failure or lapse in duty would make its way back to her grandmother. She knew her grandmother was close to several of the nuns who worked on the grounds and her grandmother had been a student here long ago. A daughter of Miator, so the pressure was even greater not to make any mistake that would betray a failure and bring shame down on the Wakana family. The burden would be too great if a second generation in a row was disgraced. She was not sure how her mother and father had disgraced the name but Mimi did not want to fail either. There was a small beep that brought Mimi's mind back to the present. The water was hot.

Enough rumors had been circulating around the black haired teen to gain her intrigue about this Memory Tree. Normally she wasn't one for the romantic side of affairs, but she was in a bit of a slump with her writing. So she figured this magical place could inspire her at least a little. Everyone always had some sort of love song on their first album, right? Of course. The only problem was she didn't understand love. She didn't understand why someone would go through so much pain just to feel accepted. Why they would want to feel such a deeper pain after it ended. It all seemed like something you would want to avoid. The rewards could never outweigh the aftermath, because nothing was forever.

Vivian wrinkled up in her nose in disdain and moved further down the path to her destination. Maybe she shouldn't go to this tree.. it was only making her more confused about the humans that surrounded her. She couldn't be the only one that thought like this, right?

While the thoughts were still rolling in her mind she noticed that there was a clearing ahead. She paused to take in the beauty before her. The tree, despite the carvings all over the trunk was absolutely breathtaking. It was then she noticed the silent figure at its base, seemingly lost in her own thoughts. Instead of letting herself be known right away, the composing dancer leaned against a nearby tree and drew the pen from behind her ear and began to scribble on the pad that had been clenched in her right hand.

'I first saw her sitting beneathe that tree,
A place of dreams and memories.
She fit so well into this scenery,
I just couldn't believe,
That this wasn't meant to be.'

Her head tipped to the side as she studied the words that had so easily flowed from the tip of her pen then slid the writing utensil behind her ear and tucked the pad into her back pocket. She'd come back to it later. Right now she felt a bit like a creeper, so she stepped out into the clearing, hands pressed into back pockets of her dark jeans. Her silken black locks had been twisted into a bun on the back of her skull, leaving her features visible under a layer of bangs. In order to make it seem as if she had been walking this way without hesitation she had begun to hum softly to herself. That was a completely natural thing, right? Oi. She was always doubting whether what she did was natural that she also always over thought her actions. Thankfully though, this seemed to be going seamlessly as she made herself known and in a way that was less likely to startle to formally dressed girl at the base of the tree.

Mimi pulled the pot from its stand and brought out the leaves. With care, she began to scoop them out of the jar and into the small tea bag. Carefully she twisted the lid closed and tied the drawstrings on the tea bag. With a small deft movement, she tied it shut with a slip knot and set it on the saucer beside the cup. With care she poured the hot water into the tea cup and set the pot back down in its stand. Then she drew forth the team pot. The water from the cup went into the pot. She did this thrice more until the pot was filled most of the way. Then Mimi checked the knot on the tea bag one last time before dropping it into the pot. She placed her hands back onto her knees and began to count inwardly. Measuring the time was an important part of making tea and you couldn't hurry it. Nor could you mess about with the pot. That led to bitterness and disappointment and a sharp rap on the knuckles.

Suddenly something threw off the count in her head. At first she wasn't sure what it was. There was a presence that her ears picked up first but couldn't make out. But as it grew louder, Mimi realized that it was musical. The sound of humming breezed through her mind. It was a very nice voice though the tune was not one she recognized immediately. She wanted to sway to it, to let the noise envelope her. But that would earn a rap to the knuckles too so she remained still. Somebody was humming and they were coming towards her. Perhaps she would not drink her tea alone this afternoon. Company might be fun, especially with somebody who could carry a tune. She stopped her count, it was probably good enough at this point and there was no way it was accurate anymore having been distracted by the sound. She pulled out a small plastic bag and removed the tea bag from the pot. With care not to drip on anything, she moved the one bag into the other.

The voice was close enough now that Mimi felt she should address them. "Good afternoon. I am Wakana Mimi, would you like to join me for tea?" She put the plastic bag away. She'd have to clean it out and wash it when she got back to the dorm. "I shall pour you a cup if you desire it." Her Japanese was formal but to the point. Grandmother had told her that flowery speech was a waste of time so long as the point was made in a polite and proper manner. Excess use of words was improper of a noble lady. Mimi took the pot in her hands and poured herself a cup of the tea.

Success. She had pulled off normal. At least she hoped this was so since the girl wasn't commenting on her earlier attendance around the clearing and instead offered her name and tea. The dancer wasn't exactly use to the Japanese style of directly stating your name, but she replied anyway. All the while feigning ignorance of knowing the girl was there.

"Gogenkiyo, Miss." Now that the onyx locked dancer was standing in a visible area she bowed slightly at the waist, her hands clasped before her. She used this time to ponder whether or not to accept the offer. When she straightened, she flashed one of her signature, brilliant smiles. Even tilting her head a bit as her eyes closed.

"I am Vivian Fairclough. That is a very fine offer. Thank you. If you don't mind the sudden intrusion, I would not mind a cup."

She had never been to a formal tea ceremony and so she wasn't exactly sure what the decorum was for such settings. Now that she accepted the offer, she was feeling a bit nervous. As that was, Vivian was never afraid to admit her ignorance at something so as she moved forward, albeit a bit hesitantly, she glanced down at the tea set.

"Please take no offense, Wakana-san. I'm not well versed in the way of traditional ceremonies."

The last thing she wanted to do was set this girl on edge right after she had put a spark under her muse. She hoped the teen would offer some pointers as she moved the last few paces to the blanket Mimi was settled on.

Mimi gave a small bow in return, though from a sitting position. It did nothing to make her more comfortable but you had to be formal, otherwise you got a rap on the knuckles. "It is a pleasure to provide for you, Fairclough-senpai." Mimi took a second cup and poured the tea into that cup as well. "Do enjoy, I apologize for my lack of manners as I have not brought food as well. Forgive my failures." She inclined her head. Even if the older student did not know about tea, it was no reason to slack. In fact, it was even more reason to hold herself to a higher standard and show what could be done.

"I do not take offense, senpai. You are an invited guest and so as long as you keep your mind open and enjoy yourself, all will go well." She set the pot down and smiled at her guest. "Please, tell me what was that tune you were humming as you approached. It was a lovely song but I find myself unable to remember it." This was the part that really had her, and it was all she could do to hide any sign of desperation in her voice. It was music after all and humming was much like singing. If she could meet a great singer,that would be amazing, they could be a wonderful friend and confidante. Mimi forced the hope back down inside. She had to be adult about this, act mature. This was no time to go fantasizing about silly things like music. She was making tea.

As Viv settled on the blanket, she mimicked the other girl as well as she could. And instantly regretted it. How could anyone sit like this for hours on end?! The dancer tried not to fidget and did as well as she could, pulling from her training to hold her position until given leave.

"No need to call me by my last name. We're acquaintanced now. Vivian is just fine." She politely took the cup, bowing her head slightly in thanks as she verbalized them. "Thank you. It is quite alright. That would have been a lot for you to carry out here by yourself and dinner will be served soon. Wouldn't want to spoil our appetites with treats."

An award winning smile was flashed as she held her cup like she had seen Mimi doing a few moments ago. She was a quick study, but that didn't make her any less nervous about it. A slight nod inclined her head once more, causing silky locks to spill over her shoulder. "I appreciate that and I highly doubt I will find any trouble in enjoying myself. I already am."

Then there was a pause, so the girl was interested in music. She had seen that sparkle in many a eye and could spot it from a mile away, but the girl masked all the other signs significantly well. Viv let out a bashful chuckle. "Ah, well it doesn't have a name yet, so it makes sense that you couldn't place it. I've been working on lyrics to go to the tune, but my muse has been failing me as of late."

The tea was finally lifted to her lips, a small drink was taken and savored before she lowered the cup back to its original resting place in both of her hands. Her eyes were closed in bliss and her smile grew. "This is very delicious, Mimi-san. You are a very skilled maker."

Mimi watched the girl sit down. She hadn't needed to adopt the seiza but the effort was appreciated. "I thank you for your openness, Vivian-senpai. It is a formal setting but I must extend the offer of casual adoption back to you. Please feel free to sit and take the tea as you like it. I realize that the traditional seating is not the easiest way to relax." She bowed her head with a smile. As far as Mimi was concerned, nobody could relax this way. It was probably just another way to keep awake and focused while doing repetitive things and waiting for water to heat up. Pain would definitely keep you awake.

"I must still apologize for the oversight, but I thank you for your kindness and the grace you have shown." Mimi bowed her head again. No wonder grandmother had been so strict about rules and etiquette. Your regular person had no idea what to do. If nobody performed as they were trained, the whole tea would likely descend int disorganized chaos. It wouldn't be a ceremony at all then.

"You write music? That sounds lovely. I've composed for piano, nothing special and certainly not with any lyrics worth sharing aloud." Most of it was juvenile even by her standards. Not in the good way like what her father played or her mother sang somehow. Though those were often very juvenile and silly. She just didn't have the talent, or hadn't practiced enough, or didn't have the right experience. Of course the music grandmother preferred her to play didn't have lyrics at all, at least, not usually. And when they did they were ancient. "I do wish you luck in your composition. Are you composing it for a band or is it a solo piece." Mimi waved off the compliment. It was just a matter of counting and an electric kettle. There was nothing all that special about making tea, music was the real talent.

Vivian let out a sigh of relief, she just couldn't hold it back. The girl shifted her center of gravity so that her rear was on the blanket and her legs tucked up beside her. It was a far more comfortable position.

"I write every now and again. At least, when I have some down time and I'm not practicing dance. I would have to say I do the latter far more than writing. It flows more easily."

Her head then tipped to the side as she pondered Mimi's words. "Perhaps, you just haven't had enough practice at it. Everyone starts out on a low note, unless you're Mozart. It took me years of study to be able to even get this far. And this far, isn't very far. I compose for orchestras sometimes with a chorale voice, but this one is just for piano and a singer. When I finish it, I'll let you be the first hear it." After all it was only fair since this girl was her muse for the moment. She had been so cute sitting so proper under the Memory Tree. Viv didn't voice this part of her thoughts though as she looked up to the etched tree.

"Girls can be so fickle.. Carving things into a tree thinking it'll make their relationship last forever. Nothing lasts forever. They've only disgraced the beauty of this place."

A small smile crossed Mimi's face, it wasn't proper to show too much emotion at anything but Mimi was certainly glad she'd eased the other girl's burden at least somewhat. "Dancing is very beautiful as well though it isn't something that I have had much experience with outside of the more formal lessons I've had for the sake of small gatherings and parties arranged by my grandmother." There was something about dancing that Mimi liked, perhaps it was the way that a person could convey music silently. She wouldn't mind learning someday, though in private where she would not bring shame upon herself and no one could see to shame her for doing so.

Mimi sipped at her tea as the girl spoke. "Some people are blessed with talent. I am told my mother can play nearly any song on her guitar after only hearing it a few times. I did not inherit her talent. I don't know if that is a skill that can be learned with practice. In some ways, it is disheartening, or it would be if I were going to pursue." Mimi sipped her tea again and suppressed any emotion for that. Her path was clear, music might be a small hobby but it would not be the focus. She was not going to end up frivolous and loose like her mother and father. She would be proper and respectable. "Thank you for the offer, Vivian-Senpai. I look forward to the music."

Mimi turned her head to look at the tree again. It certainly was a shame, she had thought the same when she'd first arrived. But there was a beauty too it. "I disagree, Vivian-senpai, I'm sorry." Mimi reached out to the base of the tree and let her hand run across its roots. "There is a hope to it, a dream that each girl gave to the tree. It is shameful the way they've treated the tree and yet they have also given it a small part of their life. A hope, a dream, even a promise. These names, the friendships that were forged, maybe they continue, maybe they are over and forgotten by the people who carved their names on the tree. But the tree holds that memory. The tree won't forget. It would be a terribly sad thing if anything happened to the tree because the tree remembers. Even if the people don't, it's flesh holds the promise of hundreds of young women and it won't let go. I think that gives it a beauty of its own."

Vivian returned the soft smile then lifted the cup back to her lips to take a small drink of the tea. "Formal lessons are alright. It's best when you work with other dancers and they can help you perfect moves far easier than someone telling you what to do. If you're interested, I could always help you out some." Of course she could turn a random encounter into a possible member. That was just the way she operated. If there was an opportunity, you snatched it up before it slipped through your fingers. "I practice in the gym every evening that it isn't being used by the sports clubs. Or in the theater. If you ever feel the itch to dance, that's where I'll be."

"Indeed, some are. It is a very rare talent. I'm not quite to that point, but it is something that you can grasp at if you practice a lot. You'll be able to pick out the notes that are being played because you've heard it enough to recognize the chords. The problem is remembering the order the chords are played and how the tempo goes." The teen lifted her shoulders in a half shrug, as if she didn't think it a big deal. "No problem, Mimi-san. Though you don't need to use honorifics with my name. I'm not exactly use to it myself. So please forgive me if I slip up." She bowed her head as well as she could from a sitting position.

The dancer kept her head tilted back to look up at branches of the tree. She wasn't sure she quite grasped the concept of leaving your memory in the tree, but she shook it off. "We're allowed to have differing opinions. Free will was given for a reason." She smirked and finally looked back from the tree. "I suppose I just haven't found someone that I would feel the need to carve my name with." Her cup was settled on the blanket next to her, since it was empty, and reclined back on her palms. She gave an empty smile then turned her gaze back up at the tree. "Perhaps some of my venom is from jealousy. Who knows."

"I suppose I would not mind a few lessons." After all, grandmother didn't need to know and even if she did find out, dancers had elegance and poise. That kind of grace and ease of movement was probably good to have anyway. Sports people did ballet after all and ballet was proper. Though maybe not performing it, and sports were right out. Maybe she wouldn't use that excuse if grandmother found out. "I shall visit you there some time. Though I don't dance, I can admire people who do."

Mimi sipped her tea. "Jealousy is a dark thing but even darkness can bring out artful music. I don't believe that true art is pain like some, I believe it is emotion and the best music is emotion that can be felt pure. So even negative emotions can be used to make great music. Or at least be the seed of great music." She looked at the tree again. "A tree is easier than stone to carve into at a moment of passion. This love was made to stand the test of time, that's how it's written in this heart of mine." As usual, Mimi retreated to music to express ideas she couldn't seem to communicate with her own words. "Have you ever wanted a moment to last forever? I think it might be like that." Mimi stared down into the dregs of the cup.

"I think I would want something to commemorate a time when I felt happiness, pure emotion. You can write a song to keep hold of that moment. You have something truly special in that. If I could keep a single moment of love and happiness forever by carving my name in this tree, I don't know that I wouldn't. Moments are special and who would want to risk losing a perfect moment? Especially one that is shared with somebody else?" Mimi smiled softly and carefully reached out to the pot to fill her cup again.