Weakling

Title: Weakling: Chapter 3 – Eleven
Fandom: Bleach
Pairings: othersxZaraki Kenpachi; none in this one
Rating: NC-17. This Chapter: R
Warning: Rape [also forced minor sex], gore and death.

Disclaimer: Neither Bleach nor the sexy characters in it belong to me. They all belong to lucky Tite Kubo. Only the idea of this fanficition and some characters [NO Mary-Sues!] belong to me. And, as sad as it is, I don't gain any money with this piece.


Eleven

He was sitting sluggishly in his chair – one hand still holding the pen while his other couldn't stop rubbing the scar on his face. He was shaking and breathing heavily. Maybe writing everything down wasn't such a good idea after all. It made everything so real. Until now he had tried to ignore what happened; until now he always pretended his life started when he met baby Yachiru. The scar always was a very bad reminder – pulling him back towards reality – reminding him; but having it black on white was by far worse than he imagined. He sighed and rubbed the scar even harder.

“Ken-chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaan!!!”

Immediately he jumped up – sending his chair flying backwards. Hastily he collected the papers in a pile and shoved them in a drawer. Just as his door opened he turned around, looking in the confused eyes of his daughter. “You... you are already up!” she chirped and ran up to him to hug his left leg. He turned to look outside the window – indeed it was already bright; he must have forgotten time – before he leaned down to pet her head. She smiled brightly up at him before letting go and running to the door where she turned to face him again. “Get ready and then let's have breakfast.” she chirped happily. He yawned and stroked a hand through his long hair. “Every time.” he said finally and glanced at her. “I never have breakfast.” She pouted. “Go and get something while I get ready.” He continued and kneed down in front of his daughter. “After that we can go and annoy Kushi some.” he said with a wide grin and winked. “YAY!” she cheered immediately and hugged his neck. “I'll go then!” she announced loudly and ran out – most likely to annoy Ikkaku to make her something sweet for breakfast. The 11th captain shook his head smiling and walked into his bathroom.

It was not big, but by far more than he was used to have. The floor and the walls were covered with plain white tiles. Randomly there were white tiles with the 11th Division symbol placed. To his right there was a small white bathtub and right next to it a small shower stall. Across from him, placed against the wall, was a toilet; above it a small window. To his left there was a small sink built in a wide dresser. Above it was a wide mirror, which he always tried to ignore. He stepped in and closed the door behind himself. Once he was done he got back in his room where he quickly dressed in his captain uniform before sitting down in front of the mirror he had in his room. Time to do his hair. He sighed and opened a small drawer where he got out a box before closing it again. Carefully he opened the box. Inside there were eleven small, golden bells, placed in red satin. He closed his eye, the other already covered by his eyepatch, and could hear their sound when a light breeze was blowing through them over their hands; back on the porch of their small hut. He shook his head, opened his eye and looked in the mirror. Stupid scar, stupid memories. He went to work.

–

“Do you have to come and annoy me?” he asked coldly and took in the two peasants in front of him. “Gosh Kushi. Don't get ya panties in a knot.” Byakuya could feel how his right eyebrow started to twitch. They placed themselves across from him at the table. Yachiru was eating a huge piece of cake, seemed like they annoyed his staff before invading his personal quarters. Kenpachi was sitting next to her; his head leaned on his left arm which was placed on the table, fixing him with a bored expression. “Please refrain from using such words, peasant.” “Stop the princess attitude, girly. Be happy that somebody even bothers visiting you.” “I do not wish for visits.” Kenpachi cliqued his tongue. “Of course.” he said smoothly and yawned. The noble only shook his head. These two did what they wanted anyway.

“Nii-sama. Where... oh...” Rukia stated surprised as she opened the door and peeked inside. “Kenpachi-taichou. Kusajishi-fukutaichou.” she said hastily and bowed. The 11th captain only waved her off while Yachiru smiled brightly at her, pieces of cake smeared around her face. “Hai Rukia-chan.” she chirped before putting her attention back to the cake. “Paying my brother a visit again?” she asked softly. Kenpachi only grunted while Yachiru nodded and shoved in another piece of cake. “What do you want?” asked the 6th captain strictly and glanced coldly at her. “Uh..” she flushed slightly. “Not important nii-sama. I will come back later.” she said embarrassed, bowed and left the room. “I'll go with her.” the pink-haired girl chirped and stood up. “Wait.” her father said “You'll stain everything like that.” he murmured, picked up a napkin and wiped the cake off her face. Once he was finished he threw it on the empty plate. “See ya later.” she announced and ran out of the room.

“You are too soft on her.”
“Huh?” Kenpachi glanced from the door back to Byakuya. He rubbed his scar and fixed him with a hard stare. “And you are far too strict with your sister.”
Byakuya looked at him coldly... then smirked.
Kenpachi smirked right back at him.

...

“Zaraki.” a soft kick in his side. “Wake up.” The tall man grunted and slowly opened his eye – Byakuya was standing above him. He rubbed his forehead and sat up. “What?” “You fell asleep. I have a family meeting now and don't need you here.” Kenpachi grunted once more and slowly stood up. “Where is Yachiru?” “Somewhere in Sereitei. I do not know for sure.” “Ah well. See ya later.”he said and walked to the door and opened it. “Kenpachi.” The taller one turned around and looked into Byakuya's cold face. “I do not like it when you always suddenly fall asleep here. Go to Unohana when you need help.” The 11th captain only waved him off. “Yeah, yeah.” he muttered and walked out. The noble watched the door some time before shaking his head. “Stupid peasant.”

–

He had put Yachiru three hours ago to bed and was currently watching the dark ceiling above him. He sighed and rubbed his forehead. Seemed like he could not go to sleep. It was funny really – where his way had taken him. Back then he slept on the cold ground not in a bed covered with the softest of furs. Back then he had nobody he could annoy or was worried about him. Back then he didn't have a bathroom... couldn't even wash the blood away...

He sat up, move the pile of black fur out of the way and stood up. He stretched and sat down at his desk. He took some time to look out the window. Should he really try it again? He placed his head in his hands. Why wasn't it just going away? It had been YEARS now. He just wanted to forget. Defeated he rubbed his face and got out fresh papers.

-.-

The first few nights after the incident were the most horrible ones in his life. The raining stopped once he had left the village behind – giving him no chance to wash all the blood off. Big clusters were on his face – especially around the long slash, which still re-opened after the slightest movement of his face. Blood was still on his hands; not his but Yachiru's – reminding him too much of what happened. It also still was between his thighs; itching and rubbing. But the blood was nothing compared to the pain he still felt. His face hurt so much he didn't dare to show any form of expression, his butt hurt so much that every step was torture – that he could hardly sit. The worst pain though was the one in his chest. One night... just one night and he lost everything.

But he would go on – step after step.

–

He did not know how much time passed, but slowly the pain stopped – a scar was left on his face though; and his kimono got shorter and shorter.
He slept wherever he fell, he ate whatever he found. He did not like stealing – it was unfair, the others worked for it after all; and people did not like to give him something. Whenever he entered a village they sent him disgusted looks, got out of his way or just ignored him. He did not know what hurt him more – that they hated him or that they pretended he was not there. He was completely invisible.
He missed Yachiru.

Sighing the boy entered another village; the long, long sword being pulled after him. The box, which housed Yachiru's bells, was in the half ripped sash of his kimono. He wiped some of the long, wild stands out of his face and looked around; his stomach grumbling loudly. He placed a hand over his belly and groaned – so hungry. He looked up at the few people standing together – most likely gossiping, but they hastily walked out of his way. They surely all saw the monster he truly was – letting the most important person in his life die. He sighed heavily and continued on his way.
It was a village like any other he walked through.
In the middle there was the market, where most of the people tried to trade their goods. It wasn't a very colourful or loud one – some trading vegetables, some rice and everybody seemed to know where to go for what they needed. Around the markets they placed their homes – close together to protect them from the harsh wind.

Suddenly somebody bumped into him and sent his weakened body backwards, where he connected with the hard, cold ground. “The heck, boy!” he looked up dazed, saw the blurry form of a tall, old man. “Watch out where ya goin'!” he scolded the small form on the ground and stepped over him. The boy turned slowly onto his belly and looked after him.
Meat.
He licked his cropped lips and his stomach started to growl even louder – always starving. The man carried a pig over his shoulder. Would it hurt him so much to give him just a small piece? He was so hungry. He pushed himself up, gripped his sword and walked after the man as fast as he could. “Excuse me.” he said once he reached the old man, gripping his pants. “Could I have some meat? Please?” The man growled and looked down on him. “Ya have something to trade?” The boy sadly looked on the ground and then back up. Slowly he shook his head. “No.” he said quietly. The man moved his leg out of the boy's grip and spit down next to him. “Then forget it.” he growled and moved on. “Stupid freeloaders. Sit around and beg.” he heard him mutter before he was too far gone. The boy bit his lower lip and continued on his way – maybe he would be able to hunt something down in the forest. He looked ahead once he reached the edge of the village – it seemed so far away. He shook his head and rubbed his scar. Yachiru would be ashamed of him. All he could do was complain day in and day out. He should be able to take matters into his own hands; shouldn't be such a crybaby.
“Weakling.”
he bit his lip harder. No. He didn't want to be one anymore.
The boy groaned once more cramps started. The hand from his face moved back to his belly. He was out of the village now; only some small huts still randomly placed around. The further he got the more his vision started to blacken though. His knees started to buckle and after some more steps completely gave out. With a soft groan he landed once more on the ground. Everything was so blurry. He blinked to sharpen his vision again, but it was of no help. He blackened out.

–

His nose tingled. The smell. He crawled his hands into the blanket as the cramps started again. … Blankets?
Immediately he opened his eyes. At first everything was blurry, but after he blinked he noticed a wooden ceiling above him. Where was he?
“Finally awake, huh?” said an annoyed voice. Slowly he turned his head to his right. A girl, some years older than him, was sitting on a small broken chair. She had short brown hair and big, honey-brown eyes. She was rather tall, her skin tanned and a cold expression on her face. She wore a long, torn, white kimono and a yellow ribbon around her neck. “Took ya long enough.” she growled, one eyebrow raised in annoyance. “Who are you?” he rasped. She humpfed and crossed her arms in front of her chest. “I should be the one asking questions.” she barked. A small, sad smile was tugging on his lips. “But I will have no answer for you.” he said sadly. “Huh?” she let out confused and stroked a hand through her short tresses. “Whatever, crybaby.” she waved him off and stood up. She moved to the bed, picked up a small pot containing water and helped him sit up. “Drink. Yukari will have a small soup for you ready soon.” “W..why?” he asked confused, but took a sip anyway. “You were alone out there.” He glanced at her face which turned solemn. “You are an orphan.” He nodded at the statement; rubbing his scar again. “We all are.” She slapped his hand away. “So stop being such a pussy, ya ain't alone. You are a boy – grow some balls and get over it.” Sadly he bit his lower lip and looked at the blanket. “But I failed her.” She groaned. “You really are a crybaby.” she said annoyed. Angrily he looked up at her. “I ain't one!” She leaned close to his face. “You are!” He growled “I ain't!” “Ya...”

“Miyuki.” came a soft voice from the door. “Don't be so mean to him.” He glanced to the door. A small girl was standing there holding a tray. She probably was only one or two years older than him. She had black hair which she held in piggytails, some wild bangs were hanging over her forehead. She had a soft face and friendly dark green eyes. Her skin was slightly tanned and over her brown, dirty kimono she had a stained apron. “Gah, Yukari!” the girl next to him said and slapped her forehead. “Don't protect that momma boy.” “I ain't one!” he growled and turned his attention back to her. “Geez stop it you two.” said the small girl and put the tray on his lap. On it was a steamy, watery soup. “It ain't much, but it's something.” she told him in a friendly tune. “I... I...” His stomach growled. “I don't want stuff for free.” he chocked out. “Pfffft!” the older girl said and slapped the back of his head. “Ya won't get it for free – don't cha worry.” “Huh?” He looked confused at her. “Ya will work here after all. And I have no need for pussies, so ya better get some flesh on ya skinny frame. Ya look like a girl.” He ignored her mocking comment. “And where am I?” “At an orphanage.” Yukari chirped. “O... orphanage?” “Yeah! Mine! And cause these fuckin' adults don't feel like helpin' us cause we are slime we gotta help ourselves. My name...” she smirked and slapped her chest. “Is Miyuki Sato. And this...” she pointed at the small girl. “Is Yukari Taito. There are others – we are ten.” she informed him. “And you are our eleven.” “And who are you?” Yukari asked curiously. “Hn” he licked over his lip nervously. “I have no name.” “No?” the small girl asked. “Ya mentioned somebody earlier. Did she not give ya a name?” Miyuki questioned. He simply shook his head. “Well then...” she put a finger on her lip and turned thoughtful. “Then we'll simply call you...” “Jyu-ichi.” Yukari chirped and laughed happily. “That's a stupid name.” Miyuki growled. “Nuuu...” Yukari pouted. “It is not.” She turned to the boy and hugged him close. “Ya like it too, don't cha?” He flushed a bright scarlet and swallowed. “Uh... yeah.” he said. “Yay!” she let go of him and jumped around. Miyuki facepalmed and growled. “Ok then. Jyu-ichi it is.” she sighed and looked down at him. “Now eat before it turns cold.” He nodded, still blushing and uttered a small “Thank you.” before starting to eat. “Just do it slowly.” the older girl remained him. “Or ya'll vomit.” He nodded in understanding and continued slowly. He couldn't believe what was happening.

–

Once he woke up again he blinked the sleep from his eyes and slowly sat up. He looked around. Still the messy, run down room. There was a big hole in the floor to the left of the bed; ahead of him there was a door without a handle and a cupboard which had no doors anymore. To his right there was a plate on a broken chair being used as a bedsidetable and a chair right under a window – more like a hole in the wall – it had nothing to be closed. The bed on which he was sitting was very small – the legs on the footend were broken – which made it uneven. It had no mattress, the pillow smelled of dirt and the blanket had stains and was ripped at some places.
He closed his eyes and breathed in deeply.
Yet it was all so much more than he ever hoped for.

He re-opened them and stood up carefully. Once he wrapped the sash tighter and made sure that the long sword and box, containing the bells, were in the room he left it.

He found Miyuki in the kitchen downstairs. It was a small, shabby kitchen with big windows, which at least could be closed, and two tall cupboards with broken legs. There was a big pot on the floor which seemed to be used as a sink and a fireplace right next to it. Most of the room was dominated by a long table though, which had all kind of things around it, which were serving as chairs.

“Ya are awake.” He looked up in her cold face. “Good.” she continued. “First of all we gotta find a new kimono for you and cut your hair. You look like a girl.” she announced and pointed to a bucket with holes. “Sit down, Jyu-ichi .” He wanted to say something, but decided against it. Quickly he sat down while Miyuki got a dagger. “Kyoko! Search for a kimono in Hakari's size!” she called up the stairs before stepping behind him. Carefully she pulled his jet-black hair, which reached his elbows by now, back and held it in one hand. Without another warning she cut everything off by his neck. The freed tresses fell back into place – they were covered his ears and forehead now. The girl stepped in front of him. “Well... better.” she said and mustered him. “At least you don't look that girly anymore. Gotta strengthen your stare some though.” He licked his lip. “I know I am weak.” he said softly. “Nah.” she said and clasped his shoulder. “Ya are just missing ya balls.” She smirked, but it vanished once another girl entered. He glanced at her. She must have been around Miyuki's age with long, bright brown curls pulled in a pony-tail. Her thin, pale frame was wrapped in a baby-blue kimono with yellow flowers. It had also stains, but the holes were sewed. She fixed him with icy blue eyes and a friendly smile. “Hi. My name is Kyoko Tanaki.” she greeted him in a soft tune. “Hi.” he chocked out. “I am... Jyu-ichi.” He felt a flutter in his chest. He suddenly felt is if he belonged. “Jyu-ichi?” “Nma Yukari named him.” came Miyuki's cold voice from the background. “You got something?” “Of course.” Kyoko replied smoothly and held up the cloth she was carrying. “It is a bit too small for Hakari.” She mustered the boy. “But I think it will fit his slight frame.” “Good.” Miyuki said. “Give it to him and then get the others.” The other nodded, handed him the kimono and after he said thanks she left upstairs again. “Put it on.” “But...” he blushed. She groaned. “Ya won't lose ya dick if I watch. Kami! You are by far worse than the girls.” she growled and turned away from him. “Put it on.” she said again. “Quickly he undid his sash and let the kimono fall on the floor. He picked up the new one, put it on and wrapped the sash around it. The kimono was a dark blue with yellow tiger designs. The sash was dark yellow – almost golden. It had some stains, but the holes were sewed. And most importantly, he looked down on himself, it reached his ankles instead of his thighs. “Thank you.” he said again, but the other turned around and waved him off. She bent down, picked up his kimono and sash and threw them in the fireplace. It would serve one last purpose. He sat down again when he could suddenly hear footsteps. Slowly he stood up once more and watched the staircase. First Kyoko, then four children he did not know, then Yukari and after her three more entered. Nine children stood in front of him; four boys and six girls. “This.” Miyuki said and touched his right shoulder softly. “Is from now on your family.” She sat down on the bucket, pulled him on her lap and hugged his waist.

“I am the oldest one, fifteen. My mother died giving birth to me and my dad when I was ten. I was alone and nobody cared about me. This is my house and I swore to myself to have a family again. That I would help other children who were shunned and left alone. Soon after I found Kyoko and Akito.” Kyoko stepped forward and touched her chest softly. “I am Kyoko Tanaki. I am fourteen years old. My parents fell ill when I was nine and died when I was ten. The people in the village I lived in made me run away. They didn't want to have a freeloader. So I ran and ran and ran... until I met Miyuki.”
A boy stepped up now. He had short, dirty brown hair and friendly dark blue eyes. He was very tanned and wore a deep red kimono. “My name is Akito Haruno and I am also fourteen. I grew up with my brothers, but once they needed to move they left me behind. I went after them, but instead of them I found this place here.
A girl and a boy stepped up then. Twins for sure. They both had dark red hair and bright green eyes. They were tanned and while the girl wore an orange kimono the boy wore a green one. “We are Yuna...” the girl started. “And Takeshi.” the boy finished. “We are twelve and our parents threw us out when we were eight.” she explained. “Luckily...” he continued. “We were not out long. Miyuki found us right away.”
“You already know me.” Yukari chirped and stood up straighter. “I don't know my parents and grew up with my grandparents. They were old though and died of age. I think I was eight then. Miyuki found me when I was nine – now I am ten.” she told him – still happily.
“My name is Mihiko Takashi.” a boy said with a wide grin on his face. He had white, spiky hair and black eyes. He wore a purple kimono and had bandages covering his wrists. “I am eleven and their protector.” he said proudly. “I lived with my uncle until I was eight. Then he was killed by some peeps he should have paid. They wanted to get me too, but I was too fast for those losers. And when I stopped I arrived here.”
“I am Hikari Kenta.” a girl chirped and moved forward – almost the same size as him. “I am nine.” she continued softly, almost shyly. She had long brown hair, touching her hips and turquoise eyes. Her small frame was wrapped in a soft pink kimono. “I was travelling with my parents when we were suddenly attacked by thieves.” At this the boy twitched slightly. “I hid behind the bushes – once the sun was up my parents were dead. I wandered around until I arrived here.” she told her story sadly.
Then the last kid moved forward. He was smaller than him and had black hair – the bangs were almost covering his hazel eyes. He was a little chubby and wore a crimson kimono. “I am Eiichiro Kagura.” he said loudly. “I am six. I wanted to be a hero and ran away from home to travel.” He looked sadly on the floor. “I've never found my way back.” Then he looked up again. “But now I am here.”
“You know us now.” Miyuki said once Eiichiro stepped back into line. “Your turn.” she demanded and pushed him onto his feet.
“Ummmm...” he said nervously and stepped forward. “I do not know my parents. Yachiru raised me until I was seven.” he bit his lower lip and swallowed down a sob. “Then we were attacked and she was killed. I had to flee from the village.” he looked in their faces. “I have no name and dunno how old I am, but thanks to Yukari you can call me Jyu-ichi.” He bowed. “Thank you for helping me.” Miyuki's hand brushed through his hair. “No need to thank us.” He looked up in her smirking face. “The rules.” she continued than sternly. “Family always protects each other. You will help out here like everybody else – we take turns with the chores. Do NOT go to the village. We are seen as thieves there. You will share your room with Mihiko. And most importantly.” Her grin was back in place. “I am boss.” He nodded and smiled up at her. Her smirk turned into a soft smile and suddenly she was hugging him. He breathed in heavily and suddenly the others were hugging him too.

–

“So you are Jyu-ichi?” Mihiko asked him curiously and leaned forward.
After they had stopped hugging they showed him the rest of the hut. Then they had a small dinner and now the two boys were sitting on their broken bed – facing each other. They black haired one nodded shyly. The white haired leaned even closer. “And ya don't even know ya age?” He shook his head now. He simply has not kept count since he lost Yachiru. “Well.” Mihiko laid his hand on his head and petted it with a wide grin on his face. “Ya are small like Hikari. So probably eight or nine.” The boy shrugged and looked up at his chirpy roommate. “Mah..” he moved the hand off him and sat next to the smaller one. “Don't cha worry. I'll protect you, Jyu-chan.” “You don't have to.” he said blushing. “Nah.” Mihiko said and pulled him closer. “Ya are a frail one. Boy gotta watch over girls and frail pretties.” “I ain't any of that.” he blackhaired dead-panned. But the human touch after so long was not unwelcome. “Thanks though.” he whispered and leaned closer. “Don't cha mention it.” The older one said happily and grinned down at him.

–

“Yo Jyu-ichi. Forget the dishes and help with the wood before it gets too dark.” barked Miyuki from outside. Immediately he let everything fall in the pot, stood up and wiped his hands off in his kimono. He had been here for a week now and hadn't seen the girl since the first day – so he was quite confused that she needed him now. He left the kitchen and stepped out in the warm evening air. A soft breeze was blowing. “Don't cha fall asleep now.” Miyuki groaned and slapped the back of his head. He looked sadly up at her and rubbed the spot. “Kami.” she said annoyed and pushed a hand through her brown tresses. “The look again. I won't call ya Jyu-ichi but Pussy. Now come on.” “Hey!” he called after her. “Don't call me Pussy!” But she ignored him and continued to walk towards the trees. He growled, clenched his hands into firsts and ran after her. “Miyuki!” he said once he reached her. “Why do you say that?” She continued on. “Miyuki!” He gripped the sleeve of her white kimono and she stopped. “You!” she barked and turned her attention back to him. “I have been watching you.” she started and removed the sleeve from his grip. “You are so weak.”
He looked sadly on the ground.
Again.
“That's what I mean.” she said calmly – he could barely hear it. She kneed down and clasped his shoulders. “You let it push you down.” She put a finger under his chin and lifted his had to look in her eyes. “You are far too soft.” She stroked his cheek. “They all will hurt you. They will hurt you so much.” She hugged his slight frame close. “You have to hide it. You have to become somebody they either can't read or fear.” She leaned back again. “You won't survive like that.”
He swallowed heavily and she stood up. “Now let's go.”
She walked farther into the forest. Somehow she was right.
He breathed in deeply and followed her.

–

They were cuddled together next to their fireplace – it was getting colder now. “Man if it continues like that our boys will freeze their balls off.” The oldest girl complained loudly and stood up to get some more wood for the fire. “Gah Miyuki!” Mihiko called after her. “Ya damn whore have such a rotten vocabulary!” he complained and pulled Jyu-ichi closer to his chest; hugging the shivered boy even tighter. “Whatever.” their leader said once she was back inside. She let a book fall next to her – for later use. “Ohhhh” Yukari chirped and looked at it curiously. “Does it have pictures?” “Nah.” Miyuki answered and shook her head. “What a shame.” Yukari said and looked back in the slowly dying fire. “You... you could just read it and use your imagination.”
All eyes turned to Jyu-ichi, who looked at the book. “Well for that we'd need somebody who can read, silly.” Akito chided him and pulled Hikari and Eiichiro closer. “Can't you read?” the blackhaired boy asked surprised. “Of course not.” Kyoko answered him patiently while the twins rolled their eyes. “Only nobles and rich ones can read.” “... I can read.” They all gaped at him.

“Y...you are lying” Akito said. “Hey!” Mihiko growled. “Don't call him a liar!”
“You really can read?” Yukari said with sparkling eyes and kneed up. “Yeah, Yachiru taught me how to read, write and count.” “That's so cool!” the black haired girl said happily, jumped up and brought him the book. “Can you read for us?” He looked surprised in their awaiting faces then shrugged and opened it. “Sure I can.” Immediately they all sat closer and he started.
From then on he read to them every night.

–

“Come on. Together now!” chirped Yukari, gripped his hand and together they jumped in the river. Laughing loudly they emerged, but had to block the water once the twins jumped in next to them.

They all luckily survived the winter; only Kyoko had fallen ill for a short time. They were currently enjoying the warm days; splashing around in the river and warming their bellies in the sun. Miyuki was watching them – a small smile was tugging on her lips when she saw them all laughing so happily. But it vanished again right after. She sighed – it never reached his eyes.
“Yo Pussy. Ya gotta warm up too!”
He stepped out of the water and growled. “Don't cha call me Pussy, bitch.” he complained and showed her his tongue. A grin appeared on her face. She had many conversations with him in the past and it seemed like her lessons were giving him some backbone. “Don't call me bitch, Pussy. Better go and cut your hair before Mihiko confuses you for a girl again.” “HEY!” “You go and make ya face prettier. Ya scare the animals away.” he shouted back and smirked. “Oh just you wait!” she shrieked and started to run after him. He started to shout loudly while she tried to get her hands on him, but suddenly he connected with a hard body. All laugher and cheering for the two died down.
Somebody from the village.

Jyu-ichi had learned quite fast that they hated the children from the hut by the forest. In their eyes the children were stealing all the animals from the forest, all the firewood and the fish from the river. The village was poor so it was no wonder that these two groups often clashed.
The orphans tried to ignore them as best as possible while some adults ruined their garden or threw stones against their hut.

“You.” the man growled and glanced at the scared boy. “Watch where ya going, slime.” he said and stepped forward. Immediately Miyuki stepped protective in front of him. “Don't ya dare touchin' one of mah siblin's ya fatass!” she growled and clenched her her hands into fists. The man slapped her, but she did not stop glaring at him. “Is that all ya got? Fuckin' pussy!” The man slapped her again – her lip already bleeding, but it did not stop her. “Pussy man.” He slapped her again and she smirked. He did not know what to do with her. She was not scared.
“You... you...” he turned around and strode off – he would only give her what she wanted.

“Mi...” the boy tried once the man was gone, but she interrupted him.
“Shut up!” she barked. “Bu...” “I told you to shut up!” she shrieked, turned around and slapped him. With hurtful eyes he looked up at her while holding his burning cheek. “Get some balls.” she whispered and strode off.

Nobody said anything as they stood up and walked after her. He waited until the sun was down before following them.

–

Softly he knocked on the door.
“If ya are Pussy ya can leave again.”
Sadly he hung his head and sighed. He tried again.
“Go and cry.”
He bit his lower lip and was about the leave when he noticed that she probably wanted him to enter anyway.

Jyu-ichi turned back to the door, swallowed and opened it. He dodged the puppet which was thrown his way and closed it after him. She was sitting on the right side of her bed, feet placed against the floor and looked outside in the dark night.
“I told you to go.” she growled. He stepped closer. She sighed and looked up at him. “What do you want?”
“I...” he played with the end of his sash nervously. “I...” “Stop that!” she complained and slapped his hands away. He looked on the floor.
She sighed and rubbed her forehead before petting the place next to her. “Sit down.” He did so immediately. She looked out of her window for some time longer before glancing down at his bowed head.
“You said you want to get stronger.” she started softly and he looked up at her. “But you will never manage that if you don't put your feelings under control.” She noticed his confused look and cliqued her tongue. “The man today was by far stronger.” He nodded. “But he left. He did not know what to do in the end.” She sighed and scratched the back of her head. “You know best that life can be tough. But you will never manage to come far if you don't learn to swallow it down. Ya understand?” He shook his head. She placed a palm on his cheek and stroked a thumb over it. “You are so sweet.” she whispered. “And I don't doubt that you will become very strong. I can see it in you.” She wetted her lips. “But you show far too much on your face. Don't get me wrong. Everybody needs some certain someones, who they can tell some things which are going on inside them or even a special one who they can tell everything.” She petted his hair. “Nobody else should know though. If you let them all see who you really are or how you are feeling they will see all your weak spots. You have to show them somebody they fear and respect. You are alone in this world, you have to cry alone, but in order to beat them all you must never show them.”

He swallowed – hanging on her every word. “Do you understand?” Slowly he nodded. “Yes.” he chocked out. She smiled sadly and kisses his forehead. “I know ya'll manage. I have a good feeling about you.” He took in a shaky breath. “Now go to sleep.” she said and stood up. He did too and looked up at her. “Thank you.” he said softly. She grinned down at him and ruffled his hair. “Is ok. Gotta watch after my little bro after all.” He nodded and smirked back. “Night!” he chirped and left the room.

She watched the door and sighed. He'll manage.

Carefully he slid into their room and laid down next to Mihiko, who immediately wrapped his arms around the smaller one and sighed contently.
The blackhaired close his eyes.
Miyuki was right.

–

Lately they had been having many problems with the village people. Hikari was still out cold after she had been attacked while Mihiko was fuming, Eiichiro balled his small hands into fists and swore revenge and Miyuki was plotting their demise.

“I can't understand them.” their leader barked while pacing up and down in their kitchen. “We have done nothing!” “But exist.” came Akito's smooth voice next from Jyu-ichi. The small boy looked up into his stern face. “We should move.” “Run away?” Miyuki shrieked and slammed her fists on the table. “We will never run!” “But Miyuki.” Kyoko said softly and sat down next to Akito. “They are more and they are stronger.” “Their attacks won't stop.” continued Akito. “You see what they did with Hikari. Do you want one of us killed next time?” Immediately Miyuki stepped back and took a deep breath. “No” she said defeated. “But we...” Yuna started. “...don't wanna move.” Takeshi finished – both looking at the older ones sadly. “We won't leave.” Mihiko said angrily and growled – placing himself on the other side of Jyu-ichi. “We are no cowards.”
“We are not.” Akito agreed and looked at the other one coldly – calming him a little. “But even if you manage to defend yourself. Who looks after the younger ones?” “I will punch the evil people.” Eiichiro chirped up innocently. “And I'll protect my Jyu-chan.” “I... I don't need protection.” he reminded Mihiko blushing. “Hush. I already told you how it works.”

Akito sighed and rubbed his forehead. “And Hikari? Who protected her?” Nine faces turned to the floor. “We can't be everywhere all the time. At one point they will get us. Don't get me wrong. I hate running away just as much as you do.” He balled his hand into a first and growled. “I could kill them all for their ignorance. For hurting Hikari. But it has to be done.”
“And then what?” asked Miyuki calmly. They had never seen her so tired as she sat down and fixed Akito with an analysing stare. “Do you really think the other villages would welcome us with open arms?” Akito swallowed nervously. Kyoko wiped her nose. “We could hide in the woods?” she tried. “Where we have no shelter? Gotta be fun during the winter.” Miyuki snorted sarcastically. “And wherever there is water and wood there are village people.” She rubbed her forehead. “We will always stay outcasts.” “What else should we do then?” the oldest boy chocked out. “Let them kill us?” Their leader shook her head. “No. You are right. We have to leave.” She fixed them all with a stern face. “But don't expect the others to like you either.”

–

One week after that, once Hikari was able to walk again, they started to pack. It did not take them long to collect all their belongings, but they were in a hurry anyway.
Jyu-ichi sighed and looked out of the broken window of their shared bedroom. “Everything gonna be aright.” Mihiko tried to lighten the mood as he heard the sound. “Yah, I know.” he agreed and pushed the box, containing the bells, in his sash while gripping his long sword.

They didn't get far – just outside their cottage they were waiting for them.

“What?” Miyuki growled and took a step forward. “You don't have to bother with us any more – so let us leave.”
“The hell we will! One of you little rats slaughtered Kudo's pigs!”
The girl shook her head. “No! We never touched anything that belongs to you.”
“You did! The animals in the forest also belong to us! We are sick of starving just because you fools have to eat what is ours.”
“They are not yours.” Akito's cold voice spoke up as the boy stepped next to Miyuki. “We all have the right to hunt there.”
“No!” another man shouted angrily. “And you never again will do so.”

And suddenly they had their weapons drawn and run up to them.
Fear stroke them all and even brave Miyuki stepped back. To no vain – the wave of people hit them full on.

The boy did not know where the others were. Suddenly he was surrounded – parted from his family – and unsheathed his sword – blocking an attack. He bit his lip and started to counter attack – ignoring the hits the people delivered. Why wasn't he stronger? He could hear little Hikari screaming in the background, could hear Mihiko promising revenge – fear had an ice cold grip on him. Only five people were around him – yet he couldn't even take one down. Why was he once more so utterly useless?

“Weakling.”

Tears were collecting in the corners of his eyes when somebody suddenly hit the back of his head. He let out a groan and fell on the ground as everything turned black.

“Weakling.”

-

Something was tickling his nose – slowly waking him up. “Mhm~ stop it Hikari. I wanna sleep.” he muttered, but the tickling continued. He groaned and opened his eyes – seeing grass in front of him. Grass? He let out another groan. And why was his head splitting into two? Slowly he sat up, rubbed his face and glanced around.

His breath hitched.

His home was almost completely burned down – flames still licking wood here and there. And right next to him were his siblings – covered in blood.

Slowly he crawled over to the first form – Mihiko. He bit back a sob as he saw the long gash at his neck – his whole face and upper body covered in blood – the black orbs looking lifeless up at him. Why did this have to happen? The boy never meant anything bad. He only lived to protect and... and had to meet such an end.
Not being able to stare at his friend any longer he moved on to the next one. His tears ran down freely once he arrived next to Miyuki. He was not used to her being so calm – not even when she was sleeping. He crawled his fingers into his kimono and cried. Tears running down his cheek – falling onto his small hands.

“I knew you would survive.”

His eyes widened and he looked down at the older girl. Her eyes were dazed and she was smiling up weakly at him. She lifted her hand shakily and touched his cheek; brushing away the tears which were still flowing. “Don't cry anymore.” she whispered. “B...but I don't wanna live. I wanna die with you.” he chocked out. “Don't say that.” she replied and stroked over the scar on his face. “It is not your time. You still have a purpose in life.” He shook his head. “No. I don't wanna be lonely anymore.” She chuckled softy. “You still have so much ahead of you. You don't know yet what's going to happen.” She coughed – a shake running through her weakened form. “Don't let everybody see who you are or how you feel.” She took in a deep breath. “Don't let them hurt you. Hold your head high and...” Miyuki coughed some more. “And take one step after the other.” She continued to smile up at him, brushed once more over his scar before letting her hand fall down next to herself. “You... will become something... great.” She breathed out before closing her eyes. “N...no.” he shook his head. “Please no. Don't leave me alone.” he cried out and fell forward onto her – hugging the lifeless body close. “Don't leave me. Don't leave me. Don't leave me. Please don't leave me.” he repeated over and over – crying himself to sleep.

-

He was standing at the edge of their burnt down home – watching the fire lick on the bodies of his dead siblings. After he awoke he checked on the others, only to notice that they were indeed dead too. He pulled them all over to their house – where their kitchen was; laid them down in line and started the fire newly. The smell was horrible and the memories of them painful, but his tears had run dry. Once their corpses were not recognizable anymore he made sure his bells were in the sash, picked up his long sword and continued on his way – disappearing in the forest.
On this fateful day elven children lost their lives. Brave Miyuki, caring Kyoko, wise Akito, playful Yuna and Takeshi, sweet Yukari, protective Mihiko, innocent Hikari, heroic Eiichiro and spineless Jyu-ichi.