Post by Merlot Ayano on Jun 26, 2017 14:07:27 GMT
“Sensei Aimi!”
What transpired next probably looked like something straight out of an anime to all the Vegas on lookers. Merlot Ayano literally jumped out of her seat, ran a bit, and wrapped her arms around her trainer. She didn’t do so to cause a scene or spectacle. No, she was just generally to lay weary eyes upon her trainer and mentor. The two spoke on the phone every now again; and there was the sporadic Skype call here and there. But the hadn’t physically seen each other in years.
Natsuko was normally quite reserved. She was forever the stoic. Nevertheless, Merlot’s enthusiasm softened the woman for a moment or two. A rare smile crept across her face as the woman’s face as embraced her pupil and gently patted her back.
“Why hello there,” Natsuko said in Japanese. “It’s been a long, long time.
“It sure has been a long time,” Merlot responded back in Japanese.
Their hug lingered for a bit longer. Unbeknownst to her, Merlot’s grip had been a bit to snug for her sensei. The older woman buckled a bit as her knees shook. “Okay, okay,” Natsuko said with a laugh. “You must let me go, otherwise you’ll crush me.”
“Oh!” Merlot quickly released her. “I am sorry sensei.” Merlot bowed. “Please forgive me. Sometimes it’s hard to remember my own strength. I can get a bit carried away.”
“It’s quite alright.”
For the first time in ages, Natsuko was able to view her student upclose. Obviously she’d seen recent photos and footage of Merlot. However, those mediums didn’t do her justice. Merlot’s definedness and tone were apparently as she stood there in an Adidas Trefoil sports bra. She was a distant memory from the stick-thin young woman who wandered into the Zero/FOUR Dojo years ago.
“My, aren’t you in top physical condition?” Natsuko asked. “You look like a small ox,” she said with a mild laugh.
Merlot flexed nonchalantly. “It was my goal to get beefy ever since I started powerlifting. I think I’ve done a pretty decent job. My body type will ensure that I’ll stay lean, but you can see the gains and definition.” Merlot nodded. “However, if you’d like to witness true beefiness, wait till we get home and you meet Carly.”
“I look forward to meeting her.”
“Good!” Merlot effortlessly grabbed Natsuko’s bags. “Come along, sensei. We’ll pick up some food and get you home. I’m sure you tired and dying to rest.”
Natsuko sat down in the living room’s love seat. She’d be sufficiently stuffed with all types of fancy BBQ’ed foods. A moment or two later, Merlot walked into the room and sat down on the couch, which was a little a bit away.
“How was food?” Merlot asked in English.
“The food was amazing.” Natsuko leaned back in her seat and closed her eyes. “I’m not sure how you were able to keep your figure. If I were here in Vegas, eating that type of food, I’d be about three hundred pounds.”
“Is not too hard,” Merlot said with a giggle. “Carly and Merlot eat clean four days a week. That and training everyday help keep figure, hai hai.”
“Good planning, I like it.” Natsuko folded her arms in front of her chest. “Speaking of training, what is your regiment looking like these days?”
“Well, Carly and Merlot do power lifting in mornings. If not traveling, then lifting five to days mornings. After lifting, usually will do some cardio. Then, will focus on ring work or striking work.”
“I see. I see.”
“But, Merlot and Carly actually looking for new gym soon.”
That comment peaked Natsuko’s interest.
“Really now?”
“Hai,” Merlot said. “Home gym is amazing for weight lifting and general work out. However, maybe no as good for wrestling training.”
“What is the issue?”
“Well, home gym has wrestling ring. But, often rents it out. Can get in there and practice, but time in there is very limited and strict.” She nodded. “Gym also lacks other things. Example, only have one heavy bag. So, if someone else is working hard, must sit by sideline.
“Is good gym, no mistake. However, maybe just too small. Can’t do things like Merlot want to; got to work within limitations.”
Natsuko stroked her chin as she nodded her head. “I think I may have a solution to your problem, Merlot.”
“Really!?”
“Indeed.” She looked over at Merlot. “Would you care to know why I’ve journeyed over here to the U.S.? Minus visiting you, of course.”
Merlot shifted in her seat just a bit. The thought did cross her mind, the appropriate time to ask just hadn’t appeared.
“Hai hai.”
Natsuko let out a small sigh before she began. “Hmmm, how to put this?” She snapped her fingers a bit before she ultimately shrugged her shoulders. “I suppose I’ll just be direct.
“Zero/FOUR Dojo is running very strong back in Osaka. We are still training and cultivating top level talent.” Natsuko nodded. “Well, last year we picked up a couple of American students. Nice girls, really are workers. They trained with us for about six or seven months.
“When they came back to the states, they were quite amazing. Many people began contacting me, asking if I might open up an American branch of the dojo. For a while, I was a little hesitant. As you can imagine, creating a brand new branch would be quite an endeavour…
“However, I finally made up my mind.”
“Haiiiiiii?” Merlot said with widened eyes.
“I have already secured a location for the dojo, here in Vegas. In fact, it is already paid for and stocked with many goodies.”
“Oh!” Merlot exclaimed. “What kinda’ goodies!?”
The older woman paused for a bit, more so to keep up the suspense. She could already tell that Merlot was intrigued.
“Three high quality rings for starters, all 20 x 20 feet. There is also a large weight room, perfect for basic lifters and advanced strong women. A striking station with seven heavy bags and five speed bags. A medical center, a locker room, a showering room. Oh, and a sauna.”
“Oh! So much!”
“Indeed.” Merlot’s response made her laugh just a bit. “There’s only one, tiny little issue…”
“Hmm? What matter?”
“I have not hired a staff to help me yet. And, I don’t know many people here in Vegas. I was hoping that my dearest student might help me out a bit.
“Assist me in training up some students. In return, I’ll pay you and you’ll have unlimited access to the gym.” She held up a finger. “Additionally, I’ll continue to help you train for your own matches. You may not be a rookie any longer, but that doesn’t mean you can stop learning.
“So, what do you say?”
Merlot’s smile beamed brightly.
“Hai!!!”
Natsuko smiled a bit and shook her head. “Well, I thought it might take a little more convincing on your end. I was mistaken.”
“Merlot’s end?”
Natsuko nodded. “If you girlfriend is willing, I’d like her to be part of the staff as well. Our students will need nutrition and weightlifting advice. And based on how you look, she could definitely be of much use.”
Natsuko or Merlot could say another word, a SUV pulled up to the house. The engine cut off and the door opened up.
“Well, can ask yourself.” Merlot smiled. “But, more than likely will say yes.”
Enter the drummer for Trouble Clef and weightlifter Carly Mack, who walks into the house looking for Merlot as she carries her bag of drumsticks in with her. Soon she spots Merlot, and sees her with the guest Natsuko. “Oh, hey babe.” Carly says as she approaches the two. “You must be Merlot’s sensei. I’m Carly.” she extends her hand out to Natsuko, smiling. “She’s been talking about you so much this past week, and I’m glad to finally meet you.”
“My, my.” Natsuko looked the woman up and down before she extended out her hand and shook Carly’s. She expected the woman to be fit, but not that fit. Impressive. “Interesting. Merlot is a great warrior, but sometimes shy when it doesn’t involve wrestling. However, I always assumed she had good taste, in regards to friendships and relationships. It appears I was correct after all.”
“Heh. Thank you, sensei.” Carly said, her cheeks a bit flushed from the comment. “I’ve spent years at the gym, had to do something to compensate for my height growing up. In fact, I used to be a gymnast before that. I used to be pretty agile for a while.” She looks back at Merlot. “We met through Twitter one day and just happened to hit it off. But...we’re still taking it slow. I’m sure you hear about people getting married a few days after meeting, right?”
“Yes of course.” Natsuko nodded. “You two are wise. Slow love is long-lasting.” Natsuko motions towards the couch. “Please, have a seat. I was just discussing something with Merlot. There’s something I’d like to speak to you about as well.”
Carly sits down next to Merlot, placing her arm around her girlfriend. “Everything’s okay, right? This is good news?”
“Hai, good good news.” Merlot snuggled in closer to Carly. “Sensei Aimi is opening U.S. branch of Zero/FOUR. Is where Merlot trained. Would like Merlot to assist and help out.
“Annnnnd, want to offer Carly position too!”
“Specifically, nutrition and weightlifting. I believe your knowledge will be valuable.”
The look in Carly’s eyes said it all, wide with surprise at the offer. “That’s...this is great, Merlot. And...I mean, I might not always be around with our band travelling about, but I’d love to help my Merlot wherever she needs me.” She grins widely as she holds Merlot close to her. “Whatever I can do to help, sensei, you name it.”
“Wonderful. You shall train in the ring with us as well?”
Carly nodded. “Of course. I haven’t done any wrestling in a while, but it doesn’t help to keep in shape, right?”
“True, true. This will be good. I believe you training with us will be beneficial for Merlot.”
She turned towards Carly once more. “I have another question for you...a more serious one.”
Carly raises an eyebrow, curious. “What’s up?”
“Your girlfriend wrestling and style—” Natsuko glanced over at Merlot. “Do you think is performing to her true potential? Yes, I know she has won championships. I am very proud. However, do you think she can get even better?”
Carly looks at Merlot, unsure what sort of answer the sensei was looking for. “In all honesty, ma’am, I think Merlot is fantastic as a fighter. But I’ve seen my friend Lily perform both in wrestling and MMA, and I watch her struggle sometimes, always wanting to get better.” Again she turns to Merlot, holding her hand. “You’re great, and I love you, but it’s not for me to say if you need to improve. That’s your decision, always.”
“Merlot know intent of question.” Merlot held onto Carly’s hand. “Even great fighters have flaws. And part of being great fighter is working to lessen flaws.” Merlot nodded. “Sensei saw last match in Proving Grounds, saw the way Merlot lost.” She was silent for a moment. “Merlot should have performed better, is no secret. Maybe have been too comfortable out there.
“So hai, can improve.”
“Good. Very Good.” Natsuko looked at the both of them. “Merlot, there are things I wish to teach you. Things that will help you keep a clear head and stay focused. Things that will help you to become more confident in yourself and your abilities. Things that will help you elevate your level.
“The bond that you and Carly share, it will aid in those teachings. You want to get better. And her response lets me know that she will help you accomplish that goal.” She looked over at Carly. “Am I correct?”
“Of course I will, sensei.” Carly says, smiling. “Merlot and I will work together under your gym’s rules and get better. Maybe I can convince Lily to join us, too.”
“Very well. We shall begin on Monday. Sound fair?”
“Hai,” Merlot responded.
“Sounds good.” Carly said back.
“Lovely. And as I told Merlot, you two will be taken care of, as far as compensation and such. Plus, you’ll have access to our wonderful gym facility.”
“Can’t wait to see the equipment, sensei.” Carly said, all smiles.
Natsuko peered at Merlot one last time.
“You picked a good one. Yes indeed.”
Merlot grinned wildly.
What transpired next probably looked like something straight out of an anime to all the Vegas on lookers. Merlot Ayano literally jumped out of her seat, ran a bit, and wrapped her arms around her trainer. She didn’t do so to cause a scene or spectacle. No, she was just generally to lay weary eyes upon her trainer and mentor. The two spoke on the phone every now again; and there was the sporadic Skype call here and there. But the hadn’t physically seen each other in years.
Natsuko was normally quite reserved. She was forever the stoic. Nevertheless, Merlot’s enthusiasm softened the woman for a moment or two. A rare smile crept across her face as the woman’s face as embraced her pupil and gently patted her back.
“Why hello there,” Natsuko said in Japanese. “It’s been a long, long time.
“It sure has been a long time,” Merlot responded back in Japanese.
Their hug lingered for a bit longer. Unbeknownst to her, Merlot’s grip had been a bit to snug for her sensei. The older woman buckled a bit as her knees shook. “Okay, okay,” Natsuko said with a laugh. “You must let me go, otherwise you’ll crush me.”
“Oh!” Merlot quickly released her. “I am sorry sensei.” Merlot bowed. “Please forgive me. Sometimes it’s hard to remember my own strength. I can get a bit carried away.”
“It’s quite alright.”
For the first time in ages, Natsuko was able to view her student upclose. Obviously she’d seen recent photos and footage of Merlot. However, those mediums didn’t do her justice. Merlot’s definedness and tone were apparently as she stood there in an Adidas Trefoil sports bra. She was a distant memory from the stick-thin young woman who wandered into the Zero/FOUR Dojo years ago.
“My, aren’t you in top physical condition?” Natsuko asked. “You look like a small ox,” she said with a mild laugh.
Merlot flexed nonchalantly. “It was my goal to get beefy ever since I started powerlifting. I think I’ve done a pretty decent job. My body type will ensure that I’ll stay lean, but you can see the gains and definition.” Merlot nodded. “However, if you’d like to witness true beefiness, wait till we get home and you meet Carly.”
“I look forward to meeting her.”
“Good!” Merlot effortlessly grabbed Natsuko’s bags. “Come along, sensei. We’ll pick up some food and get you home. I’m sure you tired and dying to rest.”
. . .
Natsuko sat down in the living room’s love seat. She’d be sufficiently stuffed with all types of fancy BBQ’ed foods. A moment or two later, Merlot walked into the room and sat down on the couch, which was a little a bit away.
“How was food?” Merlot asked in English.
“The food was amazing.” Natsuko leaned back in her seat and closed her eyes. “I’m not sure how you were able to keep your figure. If I were here in Vegas, eating that type of food, I’d be about three hundred pounds.”
“Is not too hard,” Merlot said with a giggle. “Carly and Merlot eat clean four days a week. That and training everyday help keep figure, hai hai.”
“Good planning, I like it.” Natsuko folded her arms in front of her chest. “Speaking of training, what is your regiment looking like these days?”
“Well, Carly and Merlot do power lifting in mornings. If not traveling, then lifting five to days mornings. After lifting, usually will do some cardio. Then, will focus on ring work or striking work.”
“I see. I see.”
“But, Merlot and Carly actually looking for new gym soon.”
That comment peaked Natsuko’s interest.
“Really now?”
“Hai,” Merlot said. “Home gym is amazing for weight lifting and general work out. However, maybe no as good for wrestling training.”
“What is the issue?”
“Well, home gym has wrestling ring. But, often rents it out. Can get in there and practice, but time in there is very limited and strict.” She nodded. “Gym also lacks other things. Example, only have one heavy bag. So, if someone else is working hard, must sit by sideline.
“Is good gym, no mistake. However, maybe just too small. Can’t do things like Merlot want to; got to work within limitations.”
Natsuko stroked her chin as she nodded her head. “I think I may have a solution to your problem, Merlot.”
“Really!?”
“Indeed.” She looked over at Merlot. “Would you care to know why I’ve journeyed over here to the U.S.? Minus visiting you, of course.”
Merlot shifted in her seat just a bit. The thought did cross her mind, the appropriate time to ask just hadn’t appeared.
“Hai hai.”
Natsuko let out a small sigh before she began. “Hmmm, how to put this?” She snapped her fingers a bit before she ultimately shrugged her shoulders. “I suppose I’ll just be direct.
“Zero/FOUR Dojo is running very strong back in Osaka. We are still training and cultivating top level talent.” Natsuko nodded. “Well, last year we picked up a couple of American students. Nice girls, really are workers. They trained with us for about six or seven months.
“When they came back to the states, they were quite amazing. Many people began contacting me, asking if I might open up an American branch of the dojo. For a while, I was a little hesitant. As you can imagine, creating a brand new branch would be quite an endeavour…
“However, I finally made up my mind.”
“Haiiiiiii?” Merlot said with widened eyes.
“I have already secured a location for the dojo, here in Vegas. In fact, it is already paid for and stocked with many goodies.”
“Oh!” Merlot exclaimed. “What kinda’ goodies!?”
The older woman paused for a bit, more so to keep up the suspense. She could already tell that Merlot was intrigued.
“Three high quality rings for starters, all 20 x 20 feet. There is also a large weight room, perfect for basic lifters and advanced strong women. A striking station with seven heavy bags and five speed bags. A medical center, a locker room, a showering room. Oh, and a sauna.”
“Oh! So much!”
“Indeed.” Merlot’s response made her laugh just a bit. “There’s only one, tiny little issue…”
“Hmm? What matter?”
“I have not hired a staff to help me yet. And, I don’t know many people here in Vegas. I was hoping that my dearest student might help me out a bit.
“Assist me in training up some students. In return, I’ll pay you and you’ll have unlimited access to the gym.” She held up a finger. “Additionally, I’ll continue to help you train for your own matches. You may not be a rookie any longer, but that doesn’t mean you can stop learning.
“So, what do you say?”
Merlot’s smile beamed brightly.
“Hai!!!”
Natsuko smiled a bit and shook her head. “Well, I thought it might take a little more convincing on your end. I was mistaken.”
“Merlot’s end?”
Natsuko nodded. “If you girlfriend is willing, I’d like her to be part of the staff as well. Our students will need nutrition and weightlifting advice. And based on how you look, she could definitely be of much use.”
Natsuko or Merlot could say another word, a SUV pulled up to the house. The engine cut off and the door opened up.
“Well, can ask yourself.” Merlot smiled. “But, more than likely will say yes.”
Enter the drummer for Trouble Clef and weightlifter Carly Mack, who walks into the house looking for Merlot as she carries her bag of drumsticks in with her. Soon she spots Merlot, and sees her with the guest Natsuko. “Oh, hey babe.” Carly says as she approaches the two. “You must be Merlot’s sensei. I’m Carly.” she extends her hand out to Natsuko, smiling. “She’s been talking about you so much this past week, and I’m glad to finally meet you.”
“My, my.” Natsuko looked the woman up and down before she extended out her hand and shook Carly’s. She expected the woman to be fit, but not that fit. Impressive. “Interesting. Merlot is a great warrior, but sometimes shy when it doesn’t involve wrestling. However, I always assumed she had good taste, in regards to friendships and relationships. It appears I was correct after all.”
“Heh. Thank you, sensei.” Carly said, her cheeks a bit flushed from the comment. “I’ve spent years at the gym, had to do something to compensate for my height growing up. In fact, I used to be a gymnast before that. I used to be pretty agile for a while.” She looks back at Merlot. “We met through Twitter one day and just happened to hit it off. But...we’re still taking it slow. I’m sure you hear about people getting married a few days after meeting, right?”
“Yes of course.” Natsuko nodded. “You two are wise. Slow love is long-lasting.” Natsuko motions towards the couch. “Please, have a seat. I was just discussing something with Merlot. There’s something I’d like to speak to you about as well.”
Carly sits down next to Merlot, placing her arm around her girlfriend. “Everything’s okay, right? This is good news?”
“Hai, good good news.” Merlot snuggled in closer to Carly. “Sensei Aimi is opening U.S. branch of Zero/FOUR. Is where Merlot trained. Would like Merlot to assist and help out.
“Annnnnd, want to offer Carly position too!”
“Specifically, nutrition and weightlifting. I believe your knowledge will be valuable.”
The look in Carly’s eyes said it all, wide with surprise at the offer. “That’s...this is great, Merlot. And...I mean, I might not always be around with our band travelling about, but I’d love to help my Merlot wherever she needs me.” She grins widely as she holds Merlot close to her. “Whatever I can do to help, sensei, you name it.”
“Wonderful. You shall train in the ring with us as well?”
Carly nodded. “Of course. I haven’t done any wrestling in a while, but it doesn’t help to keep in shape, right?”
“True, true. This will be good. I believe you training with us will be beneficial for Merlot.”
She turned towards Carly once more. “I have another question for you...a more serious one.”
Carly raises an eyebrow, curious. “What’s up?”
“Your girlfriend wrestling and style—” Natsuko glanced over at Merlot. “Do you think is performing to her true potential? Yes, I know she has won championships. I am very proud. However, do you think she can get even better?”
Carly looks at Merlot, unsure what sort of answer the sensei was looking for. “In all honesty, ma’am, I think Merlot is fantastic as a fighter. But I’ve seen my friend Lily perform both in wrestling and MMA, and I watch her struggle sometimes, always wanting to get better.” Again she turns to Merlot, holding her hand. “You’re great, and I love you, but it’s not for me to say if you need to improve. That’s your decision, always.”
“Merlot know intent of question.” Merlot held onto Carly’s hand. “Even great fighters have flaws. And part of being great fighter is working to lessen flaws.” Merlot nodded. “Sensei saw last match in Proving Grounds, saw the way Merlot lost.” She was silent for a moment. “Merlot should have performed better, is no secret. Maybe have been too comfortable out there.
“So hai, can improve.”
“Good. Very Good.” Natsuko looked at the both of them. “Merlot, there are things I wish to teach you. Things that will help you keep a clear head and stay focused. Things that will help you to become more confident in yourself and your abilities. Things that will help you elevate your level.
“The bond that you and Carly share, it will aid in those teachings. You want to get better. And her response lets me know that she will help you accomplish that goal.” She looked over at Carly. “Am I correct?”
“Of course I will, sensei.” Carly says, smiling. “Merlot and I will work together under your gym’s rules and get better. Maybe I can convince Lily to join us, too.”
“Very well. We shall begin on Monday. Sound fair?”
“Hai,” Merlot responded.
“Sounds good.” Carly said back.
“Lovely. And as I told Merlot, you two will be taken care of, as far as compensation and such. Plus, you’ll have access to our wonderful gym facility.”
“Can’t wait to see the equipment, sensei.” Carly said, all smiles.
Natsuko peered at Merlot one last time.
“You picked a good one. Yes indeed.”
Merlot grinned wildly.