Riches 'N Heaven || Chapter 3 - Broken Promises

 

“H-Hello, I am sorry if I look like a mess.” Alice would look around the room for a mirror to fix my presence. “Do not worry; I came unannounced hearing what happened. I thought we could know each other first.” He would bow his head while he spoke. “My name is Ryo Sosuke. It is nice to meet you, Alice Kazuki.” 

Sosuke… that name I have heard about from my Mother when I was a child. It was a male who only cared about greed and ruling over his own people. That truth made me scared to meet Ryo’s Father indeed over his power being quite unknown what he could do. Thinking over the possibility I only would keep my distance. This be for the best…

“I have asked your parents to take you to my Kingdom for the day. Do not be alarmed I only wish to show you around.” Ryo would lift his head to be a bit taller than I was. My whole body was frightened over the thought leaving my kingdom to see his. Even so, I should go look right? I would be home before Toshiki would come visit right? “Ah, sure. I just need to wash up and then we can go.” Ryo nodded his head with a goofy grin toward Alice. “Of course, I will be waiting downstairs for you with your family.” 

It took an hour for me to get rid of the dirt that I had on my body from last night adventure. The only worry I had was Toshiki coming and I be gone all day. Should I leave a note? No…he probably wouldn’t come anyway. I was a Princess which at age of eight I feared that he would just push me out of his life. Should I trust he come as he promised? 

When I left my room; there Ryo was with my two parents speaking about the future of little Sosuke babies running around with me as the Mother. Truly made me want to barf over the fact that my whole life was not my own. The only thought I had was seeing Toshiki tonight. I just hope I make it back in time.

“Have fun, Alice! Make it back home safely.” Hana would wave her arm toward Ryo and I walking to the carriage that would take me away. Little did I know that the plan was Ryo to have me stay all day and know about his kingdom from the east. It was a perfect plan to make me his. Only problem I did not want him. Not in the least to want someone who Father is evil. What were my parents thinking? They do not realize how dark and evil he was. Mother should know of all people! 

During the road journey there be talk about his past with his parents teaching him the ways of keeping slaves working. The sounds of whips would excite him. The only thought I had was how disgusting his family were. “I-I see… So, you like watching them being whipped?” My expression would be shocked with fear a bit in those violet eyes. Ryo laughed out loud at my question that I have asked. “Of course! It is fun; you will see what I mean by this. After all, you at a later age will be my wife.” He would keep his distance not wanting to upset me. His wife…?! No, I do not want to be that. I promised Toshiki that. Even if Toshiki returns home I do not want to lose him. He is my new best friend. I wonder what he is up to now.

Back in her village there Toshiki be searching for anything useful. He had a talent that was hidden to him and unknown. When he saw jewelry he thought of giving it to Alice. “Beautiful…” His teal eyes would light up with the necklace have a blue pearl inside of the round object. He had no money at the moment to buy such a large amount. Instead he has to use his skill to get what he wanted. Gomen…Alice-chan. I am glad you did not see this. 

He would swipe each jewelry with his hand quickly having a knack for grabbing items. Twenty items would be in his hands and a few around his neck. He found one for himself a dragon that was a necklace as well. His special gift was being a thief. It would disappoint her if he told her what this gift was---he found out this morning. By the time he arrived at his new home there he thought of Alice with his new gifts. “I do hope she will like it. Tonight I will go see her as promised. I promise you, Alice-chan. I will give you anything you ever wanted.” 

The sun had set in the middle of the sky being noon from our trip; we had taken three hours or four to reach to the kingdom which had a few bumps along the way. The forest would frighten me the most though luckily I had a guard along with me that was most trusted. Hyorinmaru was the name my Father gave him that was quite strong. He has been at my side since I was a child. “She will be in no danger I have told your Father that. So, why did he bring a knight?” My lips would form a smile at Ryo suspicion over the knight. It made it more curious what he planned to do without me bringing someone along. “For protection so I would be safe even he has trust in you. The reason is simple really; it is more out of love.” 

Hyorinmaru let out a deep laughter from his lips. “I mean you no harm, however if you attack our Princess. I will not hold back even slaying you.” His words were serious with a smirk on his face to let Ryo know he was serious. Ryo swallowed slowly, his hands would fold on his lap. “I do understand. You do not have much to worry! I-I would not attack my future wife.” My eyes shifted over to the mountains that were from far away. The only thing I am worried about is being alone with his Father. Toshiki, my new friend. I do hope you are alright out there… 

Reaching his kingdom was quite a long journey even for me to reach. I was beginning to feel it never end those roads that could be faster if I could only fly. Oh, how I miss talking with Toshiki. He always was interesting with his ideas and thoughts over what could be. Ryo was more into the serious over how he rule over the kingdom with me. He said slaves would help me at my command. I do not wish to order people around. I hate to make their lives as if it wasn’t their own. It disgusts me… 

“Here we are! Our kingdom is quite full of riches even the pirates would wish to come here.” The pirates? Does that mean he has a few come here. “Pirates…?” My expression changed finding that word interesting. “Why, yes sometimes we deal with them, but our policy is to cut off their heads. They only steal from us Princess. You have no worries if I must, I will slay one if I happen to find one.” Cut off their head? What are you the Queen from Alice in Wonderland? An old folktale, but seriously why does men have to deal with violence? Hyorinmaru shook his head in feeling sorry for the pirates for dealing with such a spoiled brat. “My Princess, I will protect you instead. I do not wish for your eyes to see such ugliness.” The words Hyorinmaru spoke made me laugh at how much he tried to make Ryo jealous. It was quite obvious that Ryo did not like Hyorinmaru being here. 

Our carriage would stop right in front of the town which slaves worked on buildings that got destroyed by thunderstorms. My only fear was seeing their backs with red marks. “See? Our kingdom will be like this, a place where they do everything for us.” Tears would show up in my eyes over the very sight. Hyorinmaru grabbed my hand gently with care. “We will be out of this soon.” Ryo blinked his eyes at Alice tears for the slaves. “Why do you cry for such rats? We are higher tha---“ My eyes shut tightly over his words. “SHUT UP! They are not just rats. People with feelings you pig. Have you ever thought of that?!” Stepping out the carriage, my eyes would scan the area seeing slaves all around his market. It was so different here with everyone working for such a slob. I did not like him one bit. He was not someone I love to marry, not at all!

Hyorinmaru got out of the carriage; his hands would grab my shoulders gently to comfort me. “This will be over soon.” He whispered right into my ear. “I promise. We will return to our land where it is peaceful and safe.” Many of the slaves watched my actions toward hearing about them being whipped. Their eyes would shift back to their work knowing they be punished. Ryo got out of the carriage as well with a sorrow look. “I should apologize Princess, to my actions. It was wrong of me, I can make it not full of slaves for when we rule if that makes you happy.” 

My eyes would move over to Ryo with cleaning up my tears. Of course he suck up to me so I would love him and marry this stupid fool. I did not have that option to choose, but when I rule things will change. I do not care if I do not love anyone. Not this pig of all people. “It is alright…” My only words were these as we walk in the place known as the soon to be market when it was finished. The slaves looked worn out with a few people yelling at them with anger. “Get back to work!” One slave dropped their bottle of water. A whipping sound would be heard as I looked away in fear. Why…? Why do these people love watching others suffer? Ryo was laughing at the slave stupidity for being so weak that my eyes would look at Hyorinmaru. This was the worst kingdom I seen. In fact, Ryo you can go marry someone like yourself, the most ugliest girl I hope will have a black heart like your soul reflects.

Most of the day spent us exploring around alone from Ryo who understood I needed time alone. The breeze around the kingdom was calming. “Princess, I do not blame you if you reject his feelings. What he has here is truly disgusting.” He would embrace me gently in two of his arms. Being taller he was like a brother to me more than a knight. I could not believe how foul this place was. It was not anything I would ever want to have here. Toshiki if only you could see this. Would you also find this amusing to your tastes? 

By 5’ o clock I had asked to be return home when Ryo said his Father had just arrived. We should have dinner which my plans over to greet Toshiki should not be ruined I hope. With a nod, I accepted his invite to greet his Father. Inside the castle there were a few slaves that would serve each noble human. My eyes shifted to the ground with tears falling down my cheeks. Mother…Father… if only you can see this. We walked down the corridor that was filled with gold mainly by the slaves digging it up I thought. “Here my Father has slaves bring us food. If their cooking is bad I am sure we cut off their head. If you push them into fear they would not betray you.” Closing my eyes, hands would grip my kimono slightly over his words. No, Ryo you are doing it wrong! This isn’t what a kingdom should be. Slaves should live with you in peace and harmony over helping each other. Not this…

We took a right, down the room there I see Mika talking with her husband who sat at the big chair that would be horizontal with his hair pulled back in a mullet of some kind. When I arrived in the room; Mika got up from her seat with her arms wrapped around my small body. “Welcome, welcome! Did you like the castle? I am sure you saw those rats down there. Truly they need to be worked on.” Her eyes filled with no emotion over the humans who worked for them. Inside my whole body I wanted to shake and yell ‘take me home!’ That would be rude to show such weakness in front of them. “I-I loved it. I am sure things will work out.” I lied, a fake smile would appear on my face to show I was not weak. 

“You are quite a eye there, Alice.” The male would speak with his voice sounding deep with humor behind it. “I did question who you be like. Quite small though for your age at this time and a bit too early for marriage. However, I love for our heirs to come together and fix up what your parents made.” He breathed in slowly before continuing, “Friendship with the people? Have they gone insane?” The word he used made it seem like my parents peace was completely absurd. It wasn’t. I knew my parents loved to make peace and have it so the people could trust them. I wanted to live in that life style as well, even if I have to find another man who respected my love for serenity and calmness. “We all live different ways in our own chosing Mister Sosuke.” I would speak up to defend my parents. “You live this way and I live the way my parents live no matter what you say, I will not choose to torture them to the point they break. They are living humans like us---they are no different. Rats…? I consider them people not animals so; please fix your words before you accuse us.” 

Aizen would stand up with his legs moving over toward me. Hyorinmaru moved in front of me to guard in case he attacked Alice. “Lower your sword. I do not wish to harm the Princess. She has some knowledge over her people.” He said with a cold tone toward Hyorinmaru. “I will not follow your orders.” My lips would press together hearing their words out of  fear I did not want us to fight. “H-Hyorinmaru, please lower your sword.” My Mother wanted peace between the two of us in which meant we have to respect their way of life. Hyorinmaru nod his head, his sword would be placed back into it hilt. “Yes, my Princess.” 

Mika would clap her hands to clear up the silence in the air. We all took our seats once again feeling the tension was in the air. I did not approve of his ways, nor did I for his wife that agreed they were rats. They did not approve of my parents which I did not care what they think. Their way of life was sickening and I will not consider myself to be low lives like them. We had mashed potatoes, corn, and turkey on our plate. The food tasted great from the chef who had made it. The food for the slaves was what was left. Probably the turkey which was in smaller size for them to have only little being ‘rats’ they so called them. 

We had left to the carriage seeing the time was eight o’ clock now almost very late for me to return. “I do hope you come again.” Ryo would touch my hand gently as he raised it to his lips. Leaving a kiss, he would shut the door telling the knights of his kingdom to arrive safely. When we left it was very late which my parents were happy I had such a fun time, but by my expression they notice something was wrong. I ran upstairs not wanting to talk to them or anyone at that given moment. It was upstairs I found something was odd. The room had been a mess with a chair thrown on the ground.

“T-Toshiki!” I would yell running to the balcony from my room which brought tears down my cheeks. Had he come? I did not think he would. The room was a given sign I had broken the promise to him. He must have wanted to see me after a long day. Ryo had invited me to come again to see him. I refused telling my Mother I do not wish to see him again. She was shocked to see the expression on my face was scared. 

The only person I wanted to meet had now disappeared. Ryo had kept inviting me over the weeks. It took me little energy to get out of bed. I stayed in my room waiting for him to show up, but to my eyes he had gone. Was he just part of my illusion that never existed? Oh, Toshiki…I am sorry for breaking the promise we made. It was my fault and now---I have lost you forever. 

Those days made me feel like hell was going to break in hopes consuming my soul would be enough or what I have done. I could not even eat over fear that I have failed him. When my birthday was arriving; my parents planned a party with all the Kingdoms which fear came. Perhaps Toshiki returned home where he belonged. He never wanted to be here in the first place. Never would he want to see someone who broke a promise. Never…! 

At my party there were other Princesses and Prince which my year near ten was coming. I was now nine years old the coming age over one more year. I had so little time to choose. My parents did not even know what their kingdom was like. Many times they would try to ask, but I avoided it not wanting them to know. That was my little mistake when I saw Ryo arrive with the finest robes on his body. He wore the perfect kind made by the finest silk. His color had been golden with brown little birds as the design. He wore a hat to protect his head from the sun while the party was being held at night. 

“Care to dance?” Ryo would hold his hand out toward me. “I-I do not feel well.” Ryo would grab my hand pulling me away from the balcony which caused me to hate him more. We danced with the song being slow by our best orchestra. He kept his hand away from my butt though at times he touched it lightly. I flinched just feeling him grab me there in hopes he notice the change and stop. After our dance was over I left to the food area which was served with cake, jell-o, a few other sweets for us to enjoy. Usually I be over joyed with this, but instead I didn’t want anything. 

Toshiki…have you only been a dream that I made up due to the loneliness I felt? It did feel like a dream with you being a pirate which I really am happy knowing you. I loved to greet you once more before parting ways into my Hell. The hell that would soon consume me after tonight I wish to just stay in that tree house and die. That is where I should be…where I will always be.

The rest of the party was nothing but a bore with little to do. Ryo kept asking for me to dance which I refused him, but he still would take my hand and make me dance. It made me regret ever knowing this vile beast! I wish to be rid of him which I will ask my parents to go visit them when something appeared on the balcony. Someone with hair that was white as snow with his clothing a bit different from everyone else. He had teal eyes green as the forest from where I had met him. 

It could not be! The very being across the way was here! He came to greet me even after I left him---which I did not mean to do! Oh, Toshiki! I left Ryo’s arms in rush over to the balcony where Toshiki had grown at least two inches from the last I seen of him. Even his skin looked clean from our two weeks that has passed. The robes he wore was a dark blue color with his obi being a bit lighter with the silk being new. Around his neck was a scarf of a sky blue which seemed to be hand made. His shoes were round of a blue color which he messed with the scarf pulling it down from his mouth. When I approached him; his eyes did not leave mine with a small smile appearing on his lips. 

“Alice-chan, have you been well?” His knees would come into contact with the ground while he bowed to the Princess. He was ever the same with that little smirk on his face. I wish to ask him what has happened though that will wait till we are in private. “T-Toshiki…I-I, I—“ He would raise on his two feet; walking up to me his right arm would wrap around my back with the other touching my left cheek. “Do not cry. I have come now with something a gift and truly sorry for making you wait. I am the one to apologize for letting that brute touch you.”  His words would softly echo in my ear with a calm tone leaving from his body. My arms would wrap around his tightly embracing him right outside the balcony. The scent he had on was a mint like flavor which smelled very nice. My head would place against his chest gently feeling a bit shorter than he was.

The only thing I wanted was to embrace him in which to take him with me and never let go. I did not want that to happen no matter what Ryo wanted. He surely would ask who this boy is. I would not even answer nor give him the chance to ask. He was nothing but a pig. My home was with Toshiki as he had been gone for quite some time and required a few clothing. He looked like a prince from another land. Little did I know he was close by me the whole time.

Toshiki…I wish to ask you everything that has happened. I want to know what has happened and why you have forgave me for leaving you. Tell me everything, Toshiki-kun. I wish to fix what I can so we may become close once again.

 

Riches 'N Heaven || Chapter 2 - A Runaway Home

Footsteps would run around the area where the guards searched where Alice would go. “No sign of her.” One guard would tell the other with their weapons ready for whoever took her away. The search went on for the remaining of the night from the Queen orders to find her. “We should give up and try again tomorrow.” Their legs were tired from just the run around the forest. 

Hana let out a few tears from what Alice had said. ‘NO! I do not want this…I don’t!’ Her hand would cover on her lips over how far she pushed her. Perhaps she was afraid of meeting that man from what she wanted---to be free from marriage. This life wasn’t easy and now---she lost her daughter. The guards returned with their feet muddy from the rain lately that would still remain on the dirt. “No sign of her, my Queen.” Nodding her head, hands would cover her face afraid of the worst. She had either ran away or didn’t want to be found at this moment. “We will search early in the morning. We will find her!” The female kept a hold of a small blanket she made for her daughter Alice. Mika was wrong! She was so wrong…this force was not something her daughter needed. No… she needed to have fun at the age of nineteen or twenty be enough for her to start marriage. Not at this age. Such a idiot she was to believe it was time. She had said ten and then---she pushes the meeting tomorrow. Now he come and she won’t be here unless she told Mika to never show up again. She hated the fact her Mothering skills wasn’t’ so perfect. 

Alice my daughter, please forgive me, if you can ever do. I want you to come back, come back to where you belong in my arms. I do not wish for you to be married. Your Father will continue to search for you even so, I told him to not force you into marriage till I say so. You deserve at least happiness for a bit longer…please be alive, be well. Come back home to me. Please… 

In the forest there would be trees everywhere I went with this boy who dragged me along. His teal orbs would search the area for anyone of those guards. He could not hear the calling from the castle. It seems whoever that ‘Alice’ was could be this girl who dressed nicely. He stopped just beyond the bushes to notice a tree house that sit nicely on the trees away from the ground. It be perfect for his hiding spot and this girl? He just grabbed her without thinking to just push her away be not bad right? “Who are you?” The boy would ask releasing his hold on the girl with his distance being close. “Are you the girl they searching for?” My thoughts of this boy was mysterious, but he was so curious of who I was when he grabbed me without thinking. What were his motives? “I am…but I do not wish to go back. I do not want to…” 

Raising his eyebrow, he grabbed her wrist once again pulling her toward the tree house. That was enough excuse to not leave her alone in the woods. Obviously something happened that he did not care mostly about. She seemed to be kind if she were to save him. “If that is your answer then I will not force you…” He looked up the ladder to point up to the tree house. “This will be our hide out. Since both of us are homeless, we should camp out here only problem is we have no supplies.” Alice had thought of changing her outfit only problem she had no money. Though being a Princess the guards be all over the market trying to find her. “I could get us something, but I am being searched for right now.” The young boy let out a chuckle from his lips. “You still help me? A stranger who you just found in a boat? You are quite strange…” My body would lean against at oak tree feeling that word did hurt a bit, but I was used to hearing such things. “I know…but you need the help. I can’t stay behind and just run away knowing you needed out.” The truth was Alice did not understand her logic in helping him either. Inside her heart she found that he was lost and confused. The necklace he had was some clue his parents didn’t want him. That made her want to cry over the fact he was tossed aside. 

“Come on! We should get some rest and plan some more. Um…what is your name?” The boy would nod his head for her to climb up the ladder first. Alice grabbed the area above her to climb when she felt her shoe fell down almost hitting the boy. “S-Sorry!” The boy grabbed her shoe seeing the other slip off and he grabbed that one. “It is no problem.” He waited to hear her name knowing she was busy with the ladder afraid she fall off. When Alice reached the top; she noticed this place was familiar with few of her toys. How could she forget about it? Perhaps somehow sneaking in the palace would not be hard at all. The boy climbed up the ladder in no time arriving with his hands inside of the two pockets he had. “Do you know your name? Or are you too shocked to speak?” Alice puffed out her cheeks at his smart attitude. Of course this boy had to have an attitude and the first boy she met in a while. “I have a name! It is Alice Kazuki which you probably know I am a Princess to those searching.” She spoke out loud not afraid if he found that strange a Princess with some random boy.

“I see…well, I figured by the way you dress it is quite new and you don’t look like living in the forest.” The boy would reach down to grab the ladder which neatly would wrap up to the top so no one could reach inside. “Actually, most of my time was spent outside instead of doing what other Princesses would do. Drink tea, play with the dolls. I didn’t find that very fun. It was truly boring, but today I heard that I have to marry some guy I don’t know. He was coming to visit tomorrow….” The young boy continued to listen to her words not wishing to interrupt. Clearly she was under stress over what being forced into. “So, you ran away wanting to find a way to escape?” Alice nod her head at his question, “I did… but sometimes I wonder if it was best. I do not want to be married. I want to have a choice to who I marry and it be someone I love.” Her hands covered her face afraid to look at anyone. “You don’t have to hide your tears in front of me. I do not remember where I came from…but they won’t stop searching. If your parents loved you then they will continue. They won’t stop until you are found.” His voice sounded sad almost like he was in pain over it. “You are lucky, Alice.”  Shaking her head, hands would grasp around her kimono on her chest. “I think…having family is great, but I do not wish to have this life. I haven’t got the chance to ask you something.” She turned her body to face the young boy. “What would that be?” He would pull out a knife that was inside of his right pocket. “What is your name? I like to know so I don’t call you ‘boy’ or ‘child’.”

A soft growl would leave from his lips over her saying ‘child’ and including ‘boy’. “The only name I can remember is my first. I do not remember the last, but I will tell you only if you do something for me.” He would look right outside the window finding a tree with a round object close to it. Her heart began to pound over what he wanted her to do. Grabbing her robes, her eyes would shift to the floor thinking about it. Would he wish her to go back home? She couldn’t do that over a name! This boy needed her help and she would die to protect him. “What is it?” A small smirk would appear on the boy features over her asking. He dropped the knife to move on top of the girl slowly with his hands wrapped around her wrists. “Be my friend forever, Alice. If you promise that, then I will tell you my name. If not, then perhaps I should search your body to see if you are indeed a Princess.” My whole face turned bright red over how fast he moved with me on the ground in a perfect position for him to either kill me or make his move. He was only eight and he already was trying to attack a girl. Are all pirates this perverted? “I promise! I am your friend just…don’t even think of trying anything funny.” 

The young boy laughed softly at how red she got over his little actions. “Oh, did you want me to try? I don’t know if the Princess means it.” He moved his hand away from her left wrist, his finger would trace over her chest slowly hearing little gasp echo from her thin lips. She indeed was beautiful with a small body that remind him of a doll. He had fun just teasing the girl with his finger or words that could be learned from somewhere. “What will you do…?” Alice pushed the boy off of her so he wouldn’t find that necklace. It would bring back painful memories she was sure. “I will show you I mean it mister whitey. I promise and I do not go back on my word. The nerve of you to question me…” She would bit her bottom lip over what this little act she would show him. He was cute, no he was more than cute. The little act he did make her fear he would rip off her clothes and act like the animal he was. Or pirates do act that way with woman don’t they? “Close your eyes.” She would order him with a serious look across her face.

The white haired boy would find this amusing whatever she wanted to show him. He closed his eyes slowly following her orders. “Go on, show me.” He sat still waiting for her to do what she must to prove that friendship was loyal. This made him laugh that she would show it. Indeed she was interesting than most Princesses who just care about their clothing and the way they look. She was different and fun! Alice moved closer to the boy who name she did not know. He was so stubborn to ask her of this when they just met. Small hands would grab his face, her lips would move closer to his lips seeing his eyes opened just when she was about to lean in. Quickly her lips would press against his forehead afraid he grab the knife and kill her now. The boy sat still with his eyes widen by her actions. A kiss? She wanted to prove by a simple kiss? No, it was a kiss on the lips! This Princess was quite sneaky to sneak that in. “Well, I did not think you go to that…am I that cute you already fallen for me?” He was making fun of me! The nerve of him to make me show him how to prove. That wasn’t something, but only way I could show him affection toward what kindness he has shown so far. He has not been cruel or evil even though his teasing was a bit hard to handle. “Shut up! I did what I could…not like I can give a lot in my situation.” 

A soft chuckle would echo in the small space the two of us had. She was interesting…very interesting. He started to feel that she wouldn’t’ let him down. Even if a Princess he had to be careful. She was quite important and if he brings her in, maybe then he be rewarded like most stories of the hero saving the Princess. Only problem is that if he comes they may think he did it. “I am sorry to put you through that. It was for my own entertainment. After all, I needed it after what I gone through to wake up to some unknown home.” Violet orbs would shift down toward the ground thinking what he meant. He must have been scared when he woke up in a small place wondering, waiting to see where he end up. No where but here a strange place he never been to. “You can be my friend…I only trust a little, but if you trick me then I will not hesitate to….” His words were interrupted with her tears falling down on both sides. 

“It is…so sad, so sad, that you have lost such a wonderful home you were born in! I-I can’t imagine how much pain you are going through. So…much!” With my hands near my eyes; I tried to stop the tears but they wouldn’t stop no matter how much I wish for it. Crying wouldn’t bring his parents to him would they? “S-Stop crying for me. Why do you cry? WHY?!” He couldn’t take it if some girl was crying. IT made his heart ache thinking about his Mother. The only image he had of her smiling at him in her rocking chair her husband had made for him. Her long brunette hair that went to her waist. The brown eyes that reminded him of the sweet chocolate. “Just…please stop crying.” He begged the girl who still cried for him. His hand would move toward her eyes in wiping a few tears. “My name is….” He stopped feeling his heart was racing fast with his hand touching her skin. “Toshiki. That is my name, it is Toshiki.” 

The gentle touch from his hand made it feel like our destiny was opening toward us---even if we are alone; he has given me a reason to fight against my family heir. I did not wish to fight against it, but I never wanted to be married to whoever Mika had. She disgusted me to the point I wish to point my blade at her. 

The two sat in silence deciding how to get the food for tomorrow like they were siblings for their whole life. “I have a plan.” Toshiki would whisper softly, his hands would slowly rise up to his chest. “At least better than us going in the city and you getting caught.” Alice would look at Toshiki with a glare on her face. “I would not! Besides what is this plan?” He would stand up seeing that there were a few papers over some drawing of a boat. The writing at the bottom said ‘Alice’ He would smile finding someone quite interesting. If his family did come for him which he doubt it, he at least have to keep her alive and away from whatever or whoever want her dead. Being a Princess he knew of these things. “Now listen to my plan. Do not question or refuse because I find this the best over all, you be safe and that what I care about.” 

His last sentence made my heart warm up by his little words. My whole body would slowly sit up to meet his eyes where he looked serious. “I will listen, Toshiki. It sounds like you are serious. Though you do not have to worry about me.” Toshiki walked over to Alice with his bottom placing on the ground. “I do! You are my best friend and I know being a Princess many would want you dead.” The word he spoke of was harsh, but true from hearing over his family tell the tale of a few fairy tales. “Alice, can you promise that whatever happens we won’t stop being friends?” He would shift his eyes away from hers for a moment. “I really like you. I-I mean as a friend. I feel you are like me in a way trying to find out about the world.” He felt his cheeks turn pink being embarrassed. 

Alice cheeks would turn bright red his little comment. “I-I promise, Toshiki. This plan of yours I will listen and decide for myself what to do.” I would swallow slowly, her lips would press together curious what he thought of. If it meant making sure I was safe and him. I would have to do it. “Alright…please listen and think about it before you get upset. I know it isn’t going to be easy, but it is the best way we can do this.” 

Toshiki would lean closer to me with his lips just inches away from my ear. “I want you to return home when morning comes. This will give me the chance to go into town and find a job, if I can. I at least would have money to get food and even at young age I am sure they allow it.” Alice was about to say something, but his hand would cover over her lips gently. “Let me finish…” He would remove his hand after Alice nod the small head slowly. “I want us to meet at night very late for us to come here. It be risky, but then we still can be safe and you can have your guards. I do not want us to stop our little friendship. This would be the only way I feel safe with you somewhere I know you be.” He removed his lips away to feel his heart was feeling pain. This felt like it was goodbye though he knew it was not. “Princess…I am a stranger here and if they found me with you. Even if I come to say I found you. I do not know they will accept that…thus I must do this.” He would whisper more quietly feeling his whole body was shaking. What was he afraid of? He knew that this was the only way. It had to be!

Slender arms would wrap around Toshiki for being brave. He was only eight yet, he wishes to help me live while he is out there working to survive himself. My Mother would likely accept him in the house if I told the story---well besides the pirate part. He was nothing to be afraid of. I somehow trust his plan to put into action. Even just meeting I felt he was like me just a boy who somehow came to this island. “Toshiki…you are very brave. No need to be scared, I am sure everything be fine as you said, if I go back home then no one would accuse you of being a kidnapper.” I knew he had chosen this knowing the danger that would happen if we had to let go. This would only be the beginning over what would happen. My heart ached just as much his would be right now. Being gone for over a day would worry my Mother. Perhaps she see that I do not wish to be married at least till I am sixteen. If I can request it, then I can see how this male is. For some reason I find Toshiki more like a friend I was happy that things went as they did.

Toshiki remained still while he listened to Alice speak. The marriage she spoke of earlier did bother him a bit. She was forced into things that are bound her control. “That male you are supposed to marry. Do not let him have you.” His words sounded angry almost like he was jealous. “I don’t want to be talking to someone already married.” Alice eyes would blink at his words. “What do you mean, Toshiki? Are you jealous already over me being taken from you?” He bit his bottom lip at her words. She did have a point that he sounded like that. He met her to not be able to trust yet; he did not want her to belong to anyone else. “N-No…! I-I just, I want to not lose you, that is all.” 

I held Toshiki inside of my arms gently with feeling he was afraid. He wanted to have someone at his side and not betray him. I never would think of hurting him or leaving him at all. “You be alright, Toshiki. I will do this because I only wish for our happiness. I-I know it be risky, but if we try together it may work.” Toshiki nod his head leaning into Alice while he felt a bit tired. He laid his head down on my lap feeling tired. “Alice…just don’t leave me before the morning comes. I want to at least send you back in one piece.” He would whisper softly just before passing out where he rested. The very thought over him being alone bothered her---even if he planned this out. She would have to bare through it when morning came, that would mean her journey would end shortly.

A morning light would shine right into Alice eyes when I opened them. Next to me there would be nothing but a few crackers that Toshiki was eating. I heard something rubbing against the ground from him pulling his boat over to the tree house. It was deep in the woods where they wouldn’t search, but they would find us if I continue to be missing. Standing up, I would climb down the ladder to go help him drag it behind a bush. “Thank you, Alice.” He would have a few dirt on his skin. My eyes would scan the sky for anything dangerous to attack from above. That would be childish to play these kind of games especially now that we have to put this plan into motion. “Toshiki…before you go, I want to ask you if tonight you can sneak into my home? I thought maybe to give you a bath.” Toshiki would open his eyes widely to be shocked about this question. “I-I can try. That castle be armed once you come back. Perhaps you should wait a few days before asking me to come. Though how will I know it is your room?” Alice would laugh softly knowing her house by heart knowing she drew a little map. “Up in the tree house I drew a map and circled my room. I am sure you figure it out.” 

The two stared at each other straight in their eyes filled with worries. Worries over if they see each other after this plan. Toshiki moved his arms around Alice tightly. “Just make it back safely. I will come see you tonight. Just promise me you be safe.” He would keep her in his arms for a bit longer. “I promise, Toshiki-kun. Just promise me you will be safe as well. I will be thinking of you even after coming home.” My arms would wrap around him tightly in keeping him close to me. 

Our hearts were connected by a close embrace we hope to keep together. My only fear was to lose him when my Family find out who he really is. I can’t let them. I will not lose my friend. Neither to them, nor to whoever will get in our way. Together we will soar to the future. Whatever holds us, we will continue to find a way so our hands will find each other in hands once again.

We said our goodbyes for now as my legs would walk out of the forest to meet my fate. I am sure my Father and Mother worried I be dead which their heir would be destroyed. I did not wish to be married, but neither did Toshiki who seemed to be over protective of me. Was it because his family is gone? He never will have to worry. I will be his sister for now as our friendship grows even more. When I approached the castle; there guards ran up to me happy to see I was fine. “PRINCESS!” Two guards ran over toward me with smiles on their faces. My lips would form a smile to greet the two guards that came to embrace me tightly. They were happy I was not dead or announced to be dead due to my disappearance. My two feet would walk inside the castle. My home has come back again where I didn’t think I come back to the place that would cause my stress to rise. My Father and Mother be upset how much I made them worry. 

“Alice!” My Mother arms would wrap around my petite body with her tears falling out of her eyes. “Thank GOD! You are safe. I am thankful you are here!” Her arms squeezed me tightly causing my breath to be blocked by her stomach. “M-Mommy…I can’t breathe.” My hand would pat her back which her stomach would press against my cheek. Hana let me go to see her husband ran over to embrace the two of them. “Alice, my sweetie! Where have you been?! We have been searching at least a day.” He shook his head toward his daughter actions. “I do not want you to go out for a few days! I fear we have a kidnapper.” Hana would turn toward her husband. “Be easy on her, she also had us force marriage upon her also, Mika had invited her son to come over after you left. We all were shocked when you did not come back as usual when you are upset.” Alice had forgotten about her son coming over. The words Toshiki were echoing in her head like a repeated record. “I-I am sorry for worrying you both. I just was not ready for marriage yet.” My finger would raise up to my lips over meeting this male whoever it would be. It may take me a while to even love someone. My heart has already been stolen by one person---I hope to see him and hope he is alright. 

I had left my parents to their daily routine which they said a few new servants were coming in to do the weeds. I did not wish to greet them only to find out if Toshiki made it out there alright. Walking through the house, my hand would brush through my hair needing a bath. It was then that I heard a knock on my door. I had a feeling who this be which would make me feel uneasy over meeting him now being a mess. The door would slide open by my hand to see a tall male with brunette hair on top of his head. 

“Greetings Princess, I have come to see you. I do hope now isn’t the wrong time to visit.” The male voice was soft with a goofy smile. His eyes had a brown color that reminded me of chocolate. The first thought I saw was his eyes reminded me of evil inside though he gave that smile and it was hard to not smile back. If this was Mika’s child then I am not worried one bit over Toshiki’s words. He was in fear that I fallen for this boy. It would not happen, not in Heaven would I fall for him. 

I do fear that plans for this male and me are something I have to be careful of…

Riches 'N Heaven || Chapter 1 - The New World

The calm waters would hit the shore from moving back and forth in a repeated cycle. The same ocean would hit my feet where I stood watching out in the horizon with my two violet eyes. The world was not open to me as I had not many privilege to go outside of my castle where I lived. My eyes searched beyond the sea to think of many fantasies that could come true. Only to know that not many things are real or so my Father says. A child at my age would wish to search for more---something to bring happiness to them. It was this day I found out that many things are worth searching for.

“Mommy, I am going out to play!” My voice called out from my room throughout the castle in Japan where I had lived with my two parents. “Be careful dear!” My Mother would call out with her blanket she was sewing for my baby brother. She was 8 weeks pregnant from having a new child. The blanket she been working on was a light green color with a colored blocks on it. The design had two different colors, a blue and green which had a dark blue patch in the middle where the blocks will fit. She had done it double for warmth when winter would come. My Father had a meeting once again over many of our people having a disease that could kill. It was how my sisters and brothers lost their lives so early. It really was tragic that we had no cure for such a thing. Only cure was rest with doctor’s visiting in telling them that they will not make it or they must have the will to survive. I on the other hand never got attacked with this. It was sad to see my siblings die one, after the other. I only hoped my baby brother will last longer. 

“Do not stay out too late, okay?” The woman with long black hair would speak with her violet eyes watching mine closely. Her violet yukata would have pink butterflies as the design. They were made by the finest silk due to our royalty being quite known around Tokyo in Japan. Many loved my Mother for her kindness toward the people she ruled over. Not many had a kind heart like she did. I was told that we look alike in sense that I too, will become a great Queen over my land. It was too soon for me to have such thoughts. Only five all I thought about was playing near the ocean and day dreaming of sailing the seas. Most people called me weird or strange to think sailing would be a great idea. I did not understand what they were telling me. It was just not in my taste to understand at this age---as of now I only wish to explore.

“Your Daughter is so young and yet so naïve.” One lady from the East her name was Mika Higurashi who only loved to make pots for our land. “I do not think she is naïve. She loves to explore at this age you can’t expect her to want to just be Queen. It isn’t like her to be mature yet.” Hana would rub her stomach where the small child was resting. “Still Hana-chan, you should teach her more about being a Princess.” Hana laughed with Mika who was serious all the time to only care about royalty with their heir. It is true that Alice was the only one to fulfill their heir with a chosen male from around them. She knew that this wasn’t what she planned for her children. Love can happen anytime which she did not hope that her family would have to be forced. Her Husband wished their heir to continue on even after he has passed. “I know… it saddens me to force this upon her when she is young. To be married early would break my heart if she didn’t love this male.” Mika lightly would grab Hana’s hands gently. “Please do not feel sad for her. This is great! She will love my son. They both can continue our heir to the throne. He wants to meet her!” Hana raised her eyebrow to Mika introducing they had a son. It was also that she heard many things that they are strict with their children. Hana did not like to keep her child on a leash. She was not some dog to keep track of though she feared someone could take her daughter. Perhaps a knight to follow just in case things happened. “You do? Well, we could call a meeting when they are a lot younger around ten?” Mika laughed softly patting her friend’s hand. “Why, that would be a great idea!” She smiled at her friend with happiness that she saw it her way. However, something would stop her plan that wasn’t under her control. 

The weeks passed as Alice grew up at the age eight she found a few seashells which Hana told her to not get lost. “Momma, do not worry! I am careful… everything so peaceful here.” Hana knew that her worrying was quite annoying, but her daughter must know that she is the only heir that can keep their family strong. “You do not realize that you are important. Alice… you are the only heir which I wish to not put this importance but you are the next heir who will be engaged to a male from the East.” Two violent orbs would widen at her Mother’s words. “M-Marriage…? Why do I have to get married so soon?” She stood at her Mother’s side with a look of worry. “I rather marry someone I love! Not some guy I never met and never will know.” Hana let out a sigh from her lips. “Alice… you must understand that I do not wish this to happen, but we can’t have this unspoken. You have to do this for our family.” A frown would appear on her face over her Mother’s words. “At least meet him. I do not want this forced upon you, but your Father needs a heir and the male from the East be good. You can have the time till you are twenty to know him.” 

I had no control over my life since I was born or so I thought I could… It wasn’t that I hate males it just wasn’t fair. To be forced; forced into someone you do not know. I hate this! I do not wish to be married to some weirdo. Not in the least. My Mother knew how painful, yet someone probably told her it be best. Probably that lady who she always sees every weekend and it is the weekend now. She has to tell her off. Mika arrived without her son once again wearing that elegant dress a gift from the England. It made her sick to get married; however she wasn’t going to let her win this fight. Alice sat on her chair in the dining room with her Father and Mother. Mika was invited with them having plates placed in front of each person. “It is good to see you joined us, Alice.” Mika would calmly greet the female with her warm smiles. Behind that smile Alice knew she was just sucking up to her. With a nod, my eyes would shift down toward the food not wanting to even give her eye contact. “Alice, say hello to Mika!” She would raise her tone toward how rude she was acting. Alice head would shift up just a bit, her eyes moved off to the right to see Mika was having a bit too much of make-up. “H-Hello…” Alice would whisper softly acting like she was very shy. She did not like Mika one bit so, perhaps she can show that she act shy in reality she wished the lady just leave. “Why do I have to marry your Son? I mean, what does he feel? Is he happy?” Alice couldn’t take it no more---so with questions she would ask.

“Alice!” Mika waved her hand in front of her finding her curiosity a cute mature thing to know. “He wants to meet you. We are planning a party when you reach ten years old. Alice Kazuki this is an important life for you to help your heir and also my own. I am sure you know that is quite responsibility. The violet eyes would fill with sorrow with her life being cut in half to marry some guy she doesn’t know. “I see…well, I will meet him.” Hana would smile at her daughter behaving so well. She had thought of her putting up a attitude that would scare Mika away. “Thank goodness your daughter knows what she has to do. I was afraid she refuses him. Yosuke is quite happy in meeting her, in fact he is hoping tomorrow. Would that be fine for him to visit?” Her fists would be clenching at her side without them talking to her about this at all. Didn’t her life have a free choice? Why did she have to be forced? Why, why, why?! This wasn’t fair. “NO! I do not want this. I don’t! It isn’t fair for me…I hope he finds a suitable wife because I don’t like him!” Alice threw her napkin on the food she finished. “Alice! Get back here. ALICE!” It was too late for Alice left the room with her feet stomping. Her yukata was quite hard to travel in, but she just wanted to leave this place. Only problem she had no choice but to stay. If only she had some transport to go. Somewhere…she had wished to free herself. Why did this have to happen? Why?!

Her Mother called out for her from the house though Alice already left outside to avoid her Mother. Why is she agreeing to this woman? It isn’t like her Mother to push this onward. “Momma…why?” Tears would leak out from her violet eyes with fear of meeting him. What if he just tried to force himself onto her. She was only eight for god sakes! Her feet would gently press into the sand where she found her favorite spot. It was her spot she always loved---the ocean. It was peaceful with the waves colliding with the ground. “I wish ocean you could take me far away…how I wish you could.” Her hands would press against her chest feeling more tears leak out. “My Mother doesn’t understand…my Father doesn’t either! I am all alone with this, how I wish to find something else. A boat, a carriage! Anything away from here. I run away if I could get away from this life. This hopeless life I do not want.” Alice continued to pray for the guards would be searching for her even more so. It was then she noticed something coming from the horizon. A brown boat with someone inside of it. 

Wait…is that a boy?! Alice saw the boat hit the sand which had a boy inside with some cover on top that was hammered with a few holes so he could breathe. I would be afraid to be sealed up inside where I could not even move. I had no tools to open this so I found a seesaw that could at least open so the boy unless he had died. That sank my heart in the least not knowing if boy or girl---at least some adventure for a bit away from my life. Grabbing the object, I began to move it sideways on the wood hearing a strange sound from the people near the castle. Guards would call out my name---with hopes I come running to them scared over what I was about to find out. Little did they know I wish to never be found. Never again!

A few more cuts there it open to a small boy about my age that had his hands folded on top of his chest. His hair was silver a bit wet from the water or rain at least. Inside the boat I noticed a few crackers were taken for him to eat during his journey. It was this one necklace that looked to shape as a skull with the word ‘pirate’ on it. On the back it had said ‘Hitsugaya’ The rest I could not figure out from it being scratched out. Why would they scratch it out? I had no idea who this boy was or what his name was. Inside my shirt I place the necklace which was inside of my bra afraid they kill him. Not many take his kind likely. He must of came from some island that was north. But from where? I had to help this boy and return to my disgusting home. “I will save you.” My words would whisper when the boy grabbed my wrist to stop me from even touching him. His eyelids would open showing a teal color. His skin was white as snow from lack of food or his color was like that. The boy kept his grip on my wrist while he sat up slowly with his clothes being dressed from a different era. He had a long sleeve shirt; a brown vest would be on top of his shirt with buttons on the bottom of the vest. Pants were tanish with white socks. He had no shoes from the looks of it. He looked very young around seven or eight from what I could tell. 

The boy did not speak only moved so he could get a closer look on how I dressed. He noticed the castle was tall from the back view. Water would hit the boat which he found quite nice to enjoy the view. “Alice! Alice, where are you?” The voices would seem to be coming closer. He had thought of asking this girl questions where he was and why he ended up here. He did not remember much which was quite a problem. He knew his name, but the last name wasn’t known to him. The boy would pull on the girl’s hand to go deeper into the forest. Why had he held onto this girl? She seemed to want to save him which her last words were ‘I will save you’ Why did she want to…? A stranger? He have to get away from the voices to ask her in private who she was. The two were on a new journey to escape who was after her. All he knew was her name was Alice… in his eyes he found that she was some idiot girl who didn’t need to stick her nose in his business. He needed her to tell her where to go from here or take her with him. Only problem his boat probably not fit two people. So perhaps he should remain here if only he hope they wouldn’t kill him.

This boy was mysterious pulling me into the forest where I often play in to avoid finding my parents I did not think I could survive without a home. Neither did this boy with his crackers and now the boat arriving they may think he stealing the Princess. The journey was beginning which made my heart beat faster with each step we took into the forest. I did not know where this take me. The only thing I had on my mind was would we escape this place together?