Deep at night, Kiyoko came to check on Kikone whose already sleeping on the bed. After that, she walks down to the living room to check on Noel whose sleeping on a futon laid down on the floor. Kiyoko took a closer look again at Noel’s face and without a doubt she really looks like Suzune.The scarlet blood-like eyes were the eyes of a demon-kind. The baby she was worried about when she that day was alive. This gives off a special sense of relief within Kiyoko’s heart. She wanted to ask Noel about Suzune. However, it will only sprout more questions. And as much as possible, Kiyoko doesn’t want Kikone to be dragged down to the same path as her mother. Kisara.While Kikone and Noel were in the bath.Kiyoko was eavesdropping outside to investigate and her hunch was correct. Noel was looking for Kikone, the angel of the end. Kiyoko doesn’t know what purpose the angel of the end has, but she knows that it will course down to trouble.Kiyoko took a kitchen knife and then glance down at Noel
“1… 2… 3… 4… 5… 6… 7… 8… 8… 7… 6…5…4… 3… 2…1…” We counted together stretching our arms upward. Next, hands on our hips and our cocked rotated our heads clockwise. “1… 2… 3… 4… 5… 6… 7… 8…” Then, counterclockwise. “8… 7… 6…5…4… 3… 2…1…” After that, we all jump together in the same counting.What are we doing? It’s obviously a stretching exercise. Don’t make me look like some kind of lazy bum that only play around every day. Children who can do work with adults. Child work is not really labor since it's mostly light work.Playing around is fun, but fun should be balanced with some hardships. Well, work was fun when you were with someone you knew. Down the village there is a farm, this land is land that no one owns. All crops harvested on this farm was distributed to all resident of the village. The chief also thinks this is a good way to teach children a sense of responsibility.There are lots of fun things to do like hoeing the soil and harvesting berries and fruits. The milking cow i
When Noel was still little, her mother--Suzune always tell her the story. The story of her admirable father who fought in multiple wars to create a world for everyone. The heroic story of the man wielding flames that burns evil. A flame that symbolizes hope to all everyone who wishes peace and equality.Unfortunately, Noel’s father died in the war. His ideals were too much impossible. In this war, only one race must exist. The remaining demon-kinds on his side realize. It's hard for Suzune to accept this, but she had no choice. She must rise Noel in a good enough environment even if it will cost her her own humanity.The story is tragic and sad. But even Noel’s father was defeated. Suzune told Noel that there is nothing wrong with her father’s ambition. To dream of a place where everyone could smile whenever they want is normal in this messed up world.After the war that destroyed the island shelter, Demon-kinds divided themselves into 13 countries. Countries held war with each other
Kikone was startled by Noel’s sudden actions. She tried to reach out her hand to stop her knowing how dangerous it was, but there is no way of stopping Noel.Noel sprinted like a gust of wind. Kicking the ground, launching herself in the process. Sniffing through the air she searched for the group of monsters. Down the sides of the mountains nearby the fogged forest, Noel paused on her fast sprint to look at the horrifying scene.Monsters chomp their victim at the feast. Noel gazes at them all the lifeless. They are all mercenaries that hunt down monsters around the village for safety. Most of the monsters around town weren’t dangerous, most of them are easy prey and no one take them seriously. This sudden turn of wind was a shock to the mercenaries at work.Suddenly frightened giant wolves attacked them. Not just wolves, there is a Bear-Owl that was three times the size of an adult human and claws as long as a standard sword. Dragon alligators that currently fighting with Blue snake
Swing the sword properly. Look closely at every movement of the opponents. Have a strong foothold. Don’t close your eyes when your opponent was attacking. Few lessons were taught to Noel at the tender age of seven. Together with her mother Suzune, early morning in their backyard. All she did was train and improve herself. Noele never questioned her mother in training her all she know is that this is for the good of her in the future.It's not only physical training. She was though complex board games like chess to sharpen her foresight. Painting to improve her image. And Piano to improve mental health.Over and over again this is Noel’s life.Despite not saying anything to her dear mother. Noel couldn’t help but wonder what it feels like to play with kids outside. Noel also wants to play with dolls with some other girls in her age.She gazes at them from afar.One time Suzune notice her gazing toward the kids. “Want to play with them?” Noel nods in reply. She wanted to have a conversa
“What are these two lovely angels?” The owner of the tavern said with the adoring eyes of a grandparent looking at their grandchild wearing the cutest clothes ever. Noel and I were adored by everyone like some kind of Pop idol. I’m cheerful and a bit embarrassed, but Noel had her emotionless mode switched on. We’re just wearing the tavern uniform no biggie. Simple red skirt and a white shirt with a pink heart logo on the chest side. But with a face like mine. Any clothes will look awesome. (The overconfidence is so cute.) The tavern is named “Kokoro Tavern”. Obvious why the logo is a heart. I came here from time to time when I was little because my Aunt was always anxious about my safety, so I’m no stranger to the owner and full-time workers here. Sometimes when some part-timers are needed. I’m always available to help out. Like in our current situation. Looking around does take me back. The scent of the food being cooked in the kitchen, the sweaty smell of the mercenaries, and
Time flies without us knowing. Noel and I already finished our shift, but for Aunt Kiyoko the night was still young. More mercenaries gathered to grab a bite and chug down alcohol. Well, they’re now eating like there is no tomorrow.Many were optimistic about the result.I can’t just understand why they’re celebrating before they defeat the dragon. I think they should celebrate after the subjection.I’m just a kid so I can’t fully comprehend what's actually going on with their heads.Currently, Noel and I were on our way home. Under the sky filled with stars and cold breeze that makes us shiver. The colorful surrounding of the town at night was dimmed down. The streets were silent so silent. Lights from the houses we passed by look captivating for some reason I don’t understand.Right at this moment, all I can do is follow the tune.I picked up my flute and start playing while walking with Noel.This tune was for the peaceful starry night. Relaxing music after a day of hard work. Musi
What is this place? Everything was burning. Everyone was screaming. Everyone was hurt. Blood. Flesh. Finally, Aunt Kiyoko was laying down on the field motionless while swimming in a pool of blood. “No! No! No! No! I don’t want this! This won’t gonna happen. This is not what I wish. I don’t wish for this reality. I don’t want everything to disappear. Even it will cost my--”…I suddenly open my eyes and sat down. I placed my hand on my head and rub my forehead. Sweat and unusual fear were running through my body. I shivering. In moments like this, I remember what my Aunt Kiyoko told me.I raise my palm and slap my cheeks seven times. It kinda hurts but this will wake me up and stop my shivering. I sensation of fear was gone and I feel good again. I have a deep breath and sigh.Still, thinking about it. That nightmare of mine was horrifying. The village was in complete destruction and I was there crying non-stop.I was the one shouting, but I felt like it wasn’t either. I don’t understa