The Beautiful Skies || Chapter 1 - Distant Lives

One life, one destiny many would say to the boy who I was close to. Many of them foretold the end of the human world. That did not happen due to his choice in saving them instead of bloodshed. I did not wish for it to happen at all. Not the blood, not the darkness that would consume me. Still I had fallen for this boy who decided to keep the peace toward both worlds. The living and the dead… he was the one where my heart been taken by him. The one who kept our worlds together during this very day I still remember how we met. That memory will never fade away no matter I wish it to. He remains there forever inside my heart as I watch the skies change into darkness. The seasons had passed again, and, again with our love coming closer. One life, one destiny---he chose the peace.

The few clouds in the sky would show a pink color over the horizon where the sun would set. Two violet orbs would watch that sun fall down to be night once again. It had been a while since coming to this grave. The grave of a good friend I had lost due to me being too weak to protect her. She was the Mother to me that I never could replace. Even so; I still see my husband coming to visit her and tell her how much he misses her. He had promised to see her a lot when she visited but that day it was dark for us to watch her go. Reading the tombstone I kept my eyes on it for a few minutes.

H E R E L I E S

B R I H A K U

The kindest hearted shinigami in the Seireitei in protecting the ones she loved. We hope you rest in peace for a long time and forever will be remembered for what you have done. Never will we forget what you did to save us both. How I wish to keep you in my arms once again. Though now you may rest peacefully never to be hurt again.

Alice read the message over, and, over again with a few tears leaving from her eyes. Why did it have to take her? My dearest husband would tell me not to think of sadness over what she had to do. Her body started to get weak after a while from the sickness we could not figure out over the years. She lied in bed next to her baby where her Taichou had watched her. He promised her that the daughter she had would be in his squad when she was ready. Just like her Mother---he had promised he protect her. “Alice… are you ready to go?” The male’s voice distracted the petite woman who had a round stomach at the size of a watermelon or almost. Her hand touched on toop of her stomach feeling a small smile appear on her face. “Hai I am coming, my love.” 

The male I married was Toshiro’s son who was born to bring destruction foretold from his Father before him. Aizen was that Father that Haku lived through in hell trying to protect him from what she foreseen. Turning away from the grave; her eyes would let out a few tears before she slowly walked up to her husband. Toshiki arm would wrap around his wife’s waist gently. “You cried again didn’t you? I told you not to do that when you are pregnant.” He raised his lips up against her cheek to try and comfort her. “I-I can’t help it! It has been too long since I have heard her voice. Don’t you even have a heart? She was your best friend wasn’t she?!” She felt her heart began to pick up the pace with a bit of anger mixed inside. Toshiki let out a deep sigh from his lips. “She still is. You know that I care for her, Alice. It is just she rather see you move on instead of cry over blaming yourself. She is in a better place now away from the pain.” 

Alice knew he was right to not blame herself over what no one could do. Toshiki did not wish for her death---but it happened. Toshiro was in agony over it though he made a vow to keep his promise to her. Even Momo cried longer than all of us with their friendship being as long with her Taichou. They all loved her in the bottom of their hearts. She was someone who be remembered for a long time. Surely her Daughter would wonder where she has gone. We have yet to tell her that she has taken ill. We are sure she knows of it---she must know of it at least this once when she is older we can show her. 

A small child ran toward the two of us with her bright smile appearing upon her features. “Mommy, Father you came back!” She jumped up at Toshiki with her arms spread out wide. “Mei tackle!” She would call out just before causing him to fall back. Alice would laugh softly at the two lying on the ground. “H-Hey, Mei you should be careful. Did you do what I told you to?” Aika shook her head at her Father with her cheeks puffing out. Alice could see the resemblance with Mei  having her blonde hair and the eyes of teal. She could only imagine who the Father had been which she had talked to Momo about it. Momo did not get angry that things happened since she was in a coma and now that she had died. It be wrong for her to be angry that the child could be her husband’s. 

“Mommy, why do you look so sad?” She jumped off of Toshiki with her hand moving up to her stomach. “Does my bro-sis cause you pain?” The small child would look up at her Mother with sorrow in her teal eyes. Alice shook her head trying to avoid staring down at her. Deep down she knew that this child was not hers nor was it for her to have the title ‘Mommy’ still she wanted to give her a Mother. “Your Mother just is thinking about things a lot lately. That is all.” Mei head would tilt off to the right over her statement. “What would you be thinking about?” She asked, her voice filled with curiouscity over what it could be. Toshiki picked up Yuki in his left arm to bring a hand up to Alice back. “Come on, Alice. I have work to do and this little munchkin needs to do her homework.” Mei kicked her small feet out wanting to get away from him though his grip on her was pretty tight. With a nod, Alice would move with Toshiki to the tenth division where he now took over his Father’s job. He was captain of tenth squad where his Father was….

Back in the first division in the chair was Toshiro who was working on paperwork in a different place. He did not in his mind think he take this job. No one else would be taking it at this point so he allowed himself to take it while his son was in his place. “Taichou, why are you so serious all the time? Loosen up! Come on, let’s get a drink!” His white eyebrow would twitch to see she has not changed one bit. Sometimes he wished Bri Haku had not gone away. She wouldn’t complain about the work and just do it. “Rangiku, I am not to abandon my post and leave as you can see I am Head Captain. That means this work must be done seriously. If you want to drink I suppose I could send you to a different division that requires not much work.” He gave her a threat that he was not going to do as she pleased. “E-Eh?! Taichou, don’t do that! You know no one will replace me.” He grumbled softly, moving his eyes to meet hers he let out a huff. “Fine! Go drink but I am not responsible if you have a headache you big oaf.” 

The blonde would jump for joy at his approval over leaving though she did not approve of him calling her a big oaf. “Be nice or you won’t get a sneak peek.” She lifted her bottom half of her uniform at his eyes. “Not like I want to see that.” He would answer her with a grumpy expression. “Now, go!” With a soft laughter she left quickly to go outside in the Soul Society away from him. Alone in his office he felt now that he was alone there he appear on the porch where his division had the view of outside. It was a perfect view of the lights all around the division where he ruled over them all. No ice had been formed like before when he took over. “Haku…” He spoke in a soft voice. “You still think of her don’t you?” A voice was soft disrupting his thoughts of his third seat.

Turning around; his eyes would widen seeing Momo was standing in the room with a haori on her shoulders. “Hinamori…?! Are you even allowed to leave your division?” He could hear her soft giggle leaving from her lips. “Of course! I got my work finished in time to see my Husband.” Everyone was showing up when not expected though he did not mind seeing his wife. With a ring on his finger it reminded him of their love still growing stronger. Hinamori walked over to stand beside Toshiro. “I miss her as well. Even if she was alive I would not hate you for what you did. I know you were lonely during the time, but now that Alice and Toshiki take care of her. There is a job to be fulfilled when she reaches that age.” The white haired male closed his eyes tightly over the thought of telling her that all this time Alice was not her Mother. In fact, her Mother is dead buried under that dirt where her soul has left the lifeless body she use to linger inside. “I do know that we both do. All of us! I have heard Alice went to see her again today.” The brunette eyes would widen at that thought of her crying again. “She still blames herself for not being able to do anything. We all couldn’t… I even felt bad that nothing would work. Bri…she said it was alright and that she accepted her fate.” Her eyes shifted over to her husband to see he opened his two eyelids with his teal orbs showing sorrow inside of them. 

Four years ago~

On the bed laid Haku’s body with her skin very pale and fragile with her eyes shifting around the room where a few people have gathered. Underneath her eyes laid two black lines that looked her body did not get any rest. “B-Bri!” Momo yelled at her friend who laid on the bed inside of her room where she was lived. Next to her on the left side laid her baby who slept peacefully. “You can’t go! You just can’t…” The blonde haired girl would lift her lips up forward into a small smile. “Momo-chan… do not cry for me. Please smile like you always have even before knowing me. I feel this is my fate to die this way. I finally fulfilled my job to protect who I wished. Now, my body is saying it is time to go. I will watch over all of you in the heavens even if I am not here please continue to smile.” Toshiro looked down at Bri with his eyes filled with sorrow. “Haku…” Bri smiled warmly at her Taichou with a hand raised up to him. He grabbed it tightly feeling it was cold. “Promise me you will take care of her. Mei…please promise you will keep her happy.” His head would nod slowly knowing that she had not much time left. “Please be safe. I wish to be at your side always…no matter what. I accept my fate that I lived long enough to know all of you and I love you guys with all of my heart.” 

Alice felt her tears fall from her cheeks over the thought of taking care of the baby. She knew Toshiro would be too busy to do so which meant she would take the job. Bri watched all of them just before her eyes closed with a warm smile across her face. The words she spoke of over her fate still bothered Momo. She did not feel that her fate had to die like that as if she was some tool. The very scenery left Momo in her tears like a waterfall. “BRI!” She called out with her head on top of her chest. The very life of her disappeared suddenly feeling nothing was left of her. Everything she left was now gone with nothing to bring her back. Momo knew that but this was the second time she had to watch her die. It wasn’t fair! What had she meant by ‘fate’? She still wondered if someday she get the chance to ask her.

Present day~

“Hinamori…you must forget all sorrow and remember that she always be with us.” He said with his words sounding emotionless. Still she could feel he was putting up a mask in front of her. “Stop acting all cold! I know you wish to cry in front of me. She was your third seat wasn’t she?! You can just let her go?” His footsteps would stop in the middle of the room with his head hanging down. “I already did cry without you being here. Yes, she was my third seat, but get your mind back on what you are living for. She told us to smile and is this what you want? To be sad forever? You know she would be angry if you broke what she wanted us to keep.” His feet would move again out of the room wanting to avoid Momo. She always hit the spot that hurt him the most. Yes…he did care for his third seat that she went through hell to get to that spot. He did not want her to go… he had no choice. He can’t just keep begging the sky to bring her back---she was gone for good this time. He had to accept it.

“Shiro-chan, you baka…” She turned her back after watching him walk out of the room. A single tear would leave from her right eye. She hoped that Haku was alright in heaven wherever she was at. “Haku, I hope you are happy in the heavens. We still grieve over your death. Forgive me, I could not return what you promised. I can’t smile…not without you here being with us. I just…wish it didn’t end this way.” She closed her eyes tightly before leaving the room back to her division. 

In a dark cave within the rukongai there was a child inside plotting. He had a book in his hand with brunette hair and brown eyes. His eyes looked devious with great power seeking out of him. He hid down there researching to bring something back that he had lost. With a smirk appearing; his eyes would watch the sky for a brief moment. “Celebrate all you can, you fools! I will come back with someone who dying to meet you.” His voice would sound sinister with a laughter echoing. He had promised his Mother to free her. She was being held within the Soul Society where he had a plan to bring back his Father. “Father…you will get revenge on these foolish idiots. Mark my words you will! I promised you I will have our family reunite.” He turned the page to write down his name. On the paper it had said ‘Yuu Sosuke’. He left the cave to put on a bright smile not revealing to the villagers who he really was. Under that smile there laid a dark sinister that no one knew that he was to break the peaceful times---once again…

Sands Of Destiny || Chapter 2 - A Kind Heart

 The rest of the night went on smoothly with Toshiro having Hyorinmaru look outside for any interruption. The young Prince had told me to stay here until I was ready to work. He could not keep me here forever while his Father would suspect someone had gone missing in his slaves he bought recently. Many times I had told him it was fine---though he refused to even let me out of the room. It would be sad to not talk with my other friend I have met before knowing the Prince has a soft heart. His heart was indeed kind to save me, but very risky in this action he has no power to refuse his Father. That I know he is well aware.

“Princ--- I mean, Toshiro-kun?” He turned toward me with his hands touching my ribs to notice the look of pain on my face. “Yes, Bri what is it?” He would have something on his fingers of some kind liquid that was mixed together with other things I have not seen in my entire life. “Why, don’t you just take me back? I be disposed of then I can’t worry what will happen next.” The words I spoke were true and the Prince knew that his Father would have me be killed for being the weak link. His eyes would close for a moment before he answered. “That is out of the question. I told you that things would be going my way. I do not care to disagree with Father his methods are disgusting.” 

Closing my eyes I understood that Toshiro would not let me leave no matter what. He is a brave soul to fight against someone he loves. Doesn’t he know that things can go wrong? I surely had no doubts he could keep me protected, but this will not last long. He will find me and when he does I will be punished for hiding for so long. 

Hyorinmaru told Toshiro the coast was clear for him to take me toward the waters where they bathe in clean water. “Come this way, Bri.” He had a cloak place on top of my head with decent clothing that I changed into so we fool them I am one of them. It was smart idea though I know this won’t last long. “Y-Yes!” I quickly walked after Toshiro who had a hand out toward my own. Taking it; my whole body reacted with shivers running through my whole being. We were only kids yet he was acting mature for his age. Way like an adult already in a small body. “Toshi---“ The young Prince covered my lips with one hand to notice guards had approached him. 

“Prince, where are you going?” The guards would hold their spears in hand in case of attack. Typical that they come right when he did not want any attention. “I need to take a bath so I require to do so.” He lowered his eyes toward the female which the guards eyed her to notice his arm was wrapped around. “Prince, you may hurry it is quite late. Also this girl would she happen to be your personal slave? We have not heard of yours coming just yet, do you want us to search if that is not her?” Toshiro had not heard that he have his own slave. What was Father thinking?! He does not want one! He may have to say this is her however, the time he needs to heal this girl be taken away. “I have not heard of this ‘slave’ though I assure you this woman means no harm. I am merely taking her to bathe with me as well. She is quite filthy and you know my Father hates dirty things.” 

Two guards nod their head knowing the King does not take things to be dirty. “Understood.. we will inform your Father of the slave right away.” They marched off with their spears in each hand with footsteps fading away as they leave the three alone. The white haired male continued to walk hoping no more will interrupt him. Father…what have you need for me to have a personal slave? Do you realize what that could lead me to? I do not need one. Therefore whoever it is I will refuse. 

When we reached the bath area; I saw the rectangle shape with water inside where steam would leave from within the room. All I know is this was huge enough for a family to bathe in. Such amazing things here that I could have no known if I still was not hurt by that guard. “Can you get in the water? I may have to take off your clothing.” He spoke into my ear to inform me that I need to take them off. My cheeks were blushing a bit; with my hands I lowered them to my bow in the back. It had been tied since I had it put on for me to fool the guards. “I-I will take it off myself. Though what if someone comes in and you are not in the tub with me?” Toshiro smiled at me with his hand touching my head. “Do not worry so much. I know my Father will not suspect a thing. Though that personal slave… I do hope they do not come at all. I do not require one. I can do things my own way no matter how much he explains they are needed.” 

His speech toward the slaves made my heart warm up toward how kind he be if become King. That would not happen till he was older, much older. “I am happy you see us differently. Still at this age you are mature though very young as well.” The white haired male would smile warmly at me with his hand underneath his chin. “You are young as well, Bri.” He looked at the door seeing Hyorinmaru stood to keep on watch in case someone came in. 

My clothes would strip down to be naked with nothing much on me. It was cold a bit, but the water did feel nice against my pale skin. The small wounds I had on my arms, chest, and, legs had scars from being whipped a bit at this young age. The Prince stared in sorrow watching the young girl sit in the water. How could his Father enjoy this? He did not understand why he would buy them. Continue to torture their lives like it was some game. If he was tortured the same---would he enjoy it as well? Not likely…if only he could show him that. The stubborn fool will never see eye to eye. 

My bath did feel good after a while before my fingers turned very strange. Even Toshiro kept watch with no interest in what most men find in young girls. He wasn’t that type from the looks of it---he wasn’t even embarrassed. The wounds that appeared on my body seemed to be healed by a simple bath. I wondered if it was black magic or some witchcraft that they cooked up. “You are wondering about your wounds, aren’t you?” He noticed my head nod up and down with a confused expression. “We have herbs in the water mixed in for when we get harmed; there is a way to stop that without losing many deaths. Truthfully I find it quite useful to have for slaves as well. They are people like us and we are not higher than they are. My Father is such a pitiful man that I hope he gets what he deserves. I love him, but things like this can’t continue on!”

Listening to the Prince made me wonder if he rather be a slave like us. He knew his Father find him strange to not follow the path set for him. Just like me; my path was already decided by the way I was born into this world. Standing up, my body would move over to the towel slowly to reach for it when I noticed the Prince had already grabbed it. “A-Ah, Prince wait! Yo---“ He ignored my pleading with his hand moving the towel against my skin softly. “Let me for once do this. You may be a slave, but to me I will treat you like a human being.” He continued to move the towel so my body be dried off for the clothing I would wear.

Shaking my head, water would lightly hit his cheek which he laughed softly hearing a guard came in to check but noticed he was smiling. It had been a long time which the guard found whoever this female was, he hoped she remained for a long time. He knew she was not royalty, but in a way, she could be if perhaps he asked to help along with Hyorinmaru. Instead the male just nod his head and left the room. He would keep quiet on this matter unless it got heavy he just hopes nothing bad would force upon him to harm this girl. 

Wearing a white dress, around my waist be a golden material that seemed to tie in the back. The dress was short due to my size being small. “I did try to get the best size. Your Mother seemed curious who it was for.” Toshiro smiled at his guard who did quite well to lie. “I do hope you said it be a lie or something that wouldn’t lead her on.” Hyorinmaru smirked at the child with his hands on top of each of the male’s side. “You think I be that foolish? I had lied to her about it saying it was for you to study the woman body.” My whole face turned red by his words spoken out toward the two of us. “Y-You said that?! What if she comes to check on me now? I have no time to look at woman!” He let out a sigh from his lips and lead me out of the room with the cloak on top of my head.

Such a foolish guard…he at least could have said I use the material for some project or perhaps new clothing the slaves could wear. Now his Mother think he want to be married at an early age. What nonsense…he never want such a thing.

We both went down the corridor to go back to his room. I had thought he send me back to where I should be---instead I was taken in his room where he said I sleep. I-I could not sleep here in case others would see me on his bed, sleeping with the Prince would be leading to my death. The look on my face said it all which Toshiro pulled me over to the bed. “I told you it be fine. Even if you are caught, I will not stop until my Father will see that slaves are not needed for our dirty work we could do ourselves.”

My head would nod slowly up and down at his choice of words. I decided to trust him he knew what to do even solo this could not end well. I knew the guards were easy to fool. Would this be easy to fool his Father? I did not think so. He sees a slave from a Princess any day. I could not pull that off if his Father was indeed listening to his son pleading. I have known what his Father could be like. A ruthless male who only cares for greed and nothing else over his own people that could help him in time of need. Such a foolish male indeed. 

I lay on the bed that was large enough for two people. Toshiro still would not wear a shirt either to the hot sun or perhaps he did not need it. With arms wrapped around; his body would lean against mine in case something did happen. Wouldn’t this confuse others or draw to conclusion that he is holding a slave in his room? Perhaps I worry too much… I knew I could trust Toshiro with what he had planned. I had to for the sake of my own life! Or was it because I could trust him? What gave me that mind to do so? He seemed so smart at such a young age. 

“Good night, Bri.” He would whisper right into my ear a secret message. I could remember his words were true which he closed his eyes after mine. We both were holding onto each other in hopes nothing would separate us. Nothing at all to bring us apart. I did not want to lose him, however I knew if someone did find us it would be the end of my life as I know it. That scared me, but in his arms I felt safe even if I knew this would not last. “Good night, my Prince.” I would whisper those words right back into his ear which he had already fallen asleep with a cute display on his face. 

Where would this life lead us? Would it take us to Heaven where I could meet my parents once again? I wanted to, I longed to meet them and tell them a Prince had taken care of me. Or could they see from in the skies? I perhaps knew that from the feeling of being guarded by a safe light. Oh, how I wish they could see me now. My parents…I miss you so. I wish to see you again. How I miss them so much! 

The next morning I could hear the birds chirping with voices right outside the Prince’s room. He still slept with me in his arms which Hyorinmaru did sleep at the door to keep guard on both of us. In case of warning he would come in to hide me quickly so no one would know. That was his job which I never heard him complain about a thing. How I loved how close he was to a guard. It was as if they had a past together or perhaps Hyorinmaru was young when Toshiro was born and always protect him with open arms. I did not know the past they shared, but it seemed like family was becoming of them. A woman ran inside to be the size of an adult. Quickly I felt my head would go underneath the blanket with it pressed against the Prince chest. He would keep me still with his words whispering to me. “Stay quiet…” 

“My child you still rest?” The Mother would whisper softly noticing he looked up at his Mother with eyes still heavy from his dream. “I was until hearing voices right outside my door. Why is it you always are so loud?” He began to question when he felt something hit his head. A letter wrapped tightly with ribbon around the object. “My child, you have much to learn about respecting your elders.” The funny thing was she isn’t his elder so why should he? Besides he loved his Mother and knew that he only teased her. Still he wishes they learn to keep quiet when others slept. “A message from the North which I am sure you find this quite interesting.” She looked at Hyorinmaru with a nod to leave them in peace with her warm smiles on her face. 

He looked under the blanket seeing my whole face was red. He did not understand the way I was blushing unless she found him attractive at this age. “Are you alright? You may have a fever due to this heat. I do apologize for not seeing it before. Would you like some wa---“ My head would snap up watching the young child in front of me. “N-No! I do not require water, Prince. You are a male and I a female. I am surprised you are not embarrassed by such a thing!” Toshiro head would shift off toward the right at my yelling. “I find you silly, Bri. Yet you are interesting at your logic and this is nothing compared to what I have to go through.” My turn to be confused by his words yet again. “What do you mean by this?” I would ask with that same confused look. Toshiro let out a sigh from his thin lips. “Marriage is what I meant by this. Now my Mother probably got some woman wanting to marry me so young.” 

He would untie the ribbon at a slow pace which I felt my heart cringe. Why should I feel painful? It isn’t lie I am getting married to someone which I never would. Slaves don’t get to love and if the female gets pregnant then they would be killed for sure. I never have happiness so long this slave rule is in order. Toshiro opened the letter to read it upon himself with eyes opening in a wide state. Both Hyorinmaru and I looked at each other in confusion what that letter could have said. He looked somewhat happy by the letters upon the nice sleet of paper.

Hitsugaya Toshiro, Prince of the south that knows this handwriting or I hope you do. I am coming along the way to see you. It has been quite some time since we have seen each other possibly only a year. I felt it been too long. I do hope you are alright and not causing mischief as you always have. Well, be ready by noon I am coming whether you like me to be there or not.

                                                                                                                                                                 Your friend, Hinamori Momo.

Standing up on his feet, his eyes would shift toward Bri and Hyorinmaru. “Get ready the both of you! I need to be perfect for my friend is coming over to see me.” My eyes would open up wide toward his words at what he meant. A friend…? SO it wasn’t a marriage proposal? I was happy which I did not know why I would be. If he was to be married then it would lead to a perfect life for him. A life I could never have knowing I wouldn’t want it either. Though this friend would be like his Father? Perhaps I should hide. Though Toshiro noticed I was searching for a box to hide in or somewhere that isn’t here. With his head shaking; he grabbed my hand softly to whisper in my ear.

“Do not be afraid. She is not like my Father I am sure she understand that you are a new friend of mine. I require you to meet her though we need to make sure you are ready with proper stuff so we can fool others if you are to come with me.” He told me this all in my ear softly so he would not cause other guards to come in. “Now, let us be off!” He had a few hours to get ready with me going along the ride. I was happy he let me come along with to see his friend. However I wondered about Azumi. How was she? I probably should learn how to sneak so this Prince could get a break. He sacrificed everything to keep me safe and not harmed. I thank him…but it soon time I should return to reality. I can’t keep playing this game much longer. Sooner or later they will find me.

Toshiro my Prince,  I do not want you to be harmed… I want you to be safe where you can rest when you can and not worry about me. I do not want that. I do not….forgive me if I leave suddenly due to the fact you are a new friend. I only wish to keep you happy. What should I do, Mother and Father….? I do not know what is right or wrong. I want to stay, but that require him getting in trouble. I need help. Oh, what should I do?!

Sands Of Destiny || Chapter 1 - Morning of Time

Many wounds would be found on the slave bodies that endure the pain over each beating from their Master. The fear of being killed over one simple accident brought many in tears. The eyes of a child saw most of the deaths where friends had been made---but quickly to be ended in a blink of an eye. Those blue eyes were mine to witness my friend cry out for me only to be stained with their blood. It was then that I wanted to be stronger, to be able to help them. I was weak, filthy, worthless, and, pathetic. 

A deep voice would come right in the cell where my family was being held with me. They required only two more slaves for the trip to Eygpt. I felt scared that they pick me to send away from my parents where I be alone and not sheltered by their love. That what kept me alive all this time. Holding onto my Mother and Father; I heard the guard walk by the cells where our friends had stayed alive. I was five years old at a young age to be surviving through slavery. “This one.” The guard weapon would smack the bars ordering it to be open. Ayame held onto her daughter tightly hoping he choose someone else. Not their daughter! Their sweet daughter. The male wore his uniform without a shirt on but had pants with round shoes. He came from Egypt which his eyes narrowed in search for the perfect slave to go along with. My whole body was trembling in my Mother’s arms. 

He bars would be opened with the guard orders to take two. One was chosen which she had long brunette hair to her waist with the same color of eyes as me. Her hands were tied by rope behind her back so none of us could try anything. Only thing was; her parents were killed with no family to have. The female did not speak or argue with their choice in picking her. It was obvious that her soul held nothing inside but emptiness. That emptiness that made it hard for me to swallow, without feeling sympathy for the loss that she never can gain back. The guard eyes would gaze toward my Mother with a smirk on his face. My hands held tightly onto her arms. No, do not take her! Do not take my Mother! I would pray to realize it was not her who they wanted… It was me.

“Give me the child.” He ordered the female who would not let me go at this instant. 

“No, you can’t have her! She is not for sale. Go, find another child to take. I will not leave my girl to some filthy pigs!”  Ayame would spat at the male with hatred in her eyes. The male felt her spit hit his right eye with a bit of anger building up. “You filthy whore!” He snapped his fingers to call his men. “Get me the child!” The guards moved over in groups which the male stood up about ready to fight. No, please… no more bloodshed! “I will not give her to you! I will not.” Ayame yelled in a warning tone toward the guards. One blade would be pulled from the guard which he slashed across my Dad. His body splilt in half which his last words were ‘I love you, darling.’ Ayame whole body would shake in fear while she held onto me in her chest. A guard grabbed her hair pulling her back, with another hitting her in the stomach. She let out a painful cry so I would be let go. Quickly a guard grabbed me so we would be separated. “NO! Give me back, my baby! Give her back!” Without any regrets the guards would slash the female head off having tears fall down her cheeks. My whole family been murdered right before my very eyes. I was shocked to even speak or say a word to those guards that pulled me out of my Mother’s loving hands. 

It was then I realized that one girl’s pain over losing something that never will be brought back again. My parents, my loving parents were now gone. They be in a better place now away from all this pain. Would I join them? I had no strength to even move or disobey their orders. Once put in the carriage; I was next to the girl who spoke and said nothing. But something changed that.

Her head would fall right on my lap gently with her blue eyes staring up into mine. “Do not give in. I know you lost your parents… but, you can’t lose them as they always will be in your heart.” Her words were kind toward what I just experienced. The loss of two loving parents was not something I could never forget nor could I erase. A small smile would appear on my face over what she said. “Thank you…” I would thank her with that smile still remaining on my lips. 

Our ride to Egypt was long with many of us talking about our families. Half of the people were children at my age going to be slaves for Egyptian Princes. We were being bought by a powerful King who requires more working people. At our age we be too young to be working. They did not care what the age, but perhaps they also require woman to be there for the Prince’s to have useful for. I felt sick that they even consider making us have sex at this age. I did not know much though when we arrived I could see the guard pull us out one, by, one to be tested.

My friend was first with a few guards keeping an eye on her. I was next which the guard threw me on the ground without much care I get hurt along the way. We all traveled into the city of Egypt where the great palace was built in the city where we would live to be slaves for the rest of our lives. “Whatever happens I will protect you.” The girl would whisper to me with her smile still on her pale face. “My name is Azumi Hanashia. What is your name?” She would tilt her head off to the right in wait for my answer. “M-My name…” I felt my throat was dry without much of any liquid in the last few days. “My name is Bri Haku. It is nice to meet you, Azumi-chan.” A small smile would show up on my small features. Azumi smiled back toward my effort to smile after everything. “Bri-chan, I love your name very, very much.” Her tone was sweet with a warm tone behind it. 

Our happiness did not last long as Azumi was pulled away from me to meet her Master. I wanted to reach out toward her, but it was already too late. She was gone… What would happen to me? Would I be with some slob guy who would whip me every night or be into little children with their sick games. I did not like that! I did not want this. I don’t! 

The male guard would pull on my chain that happens to be on a collar around the neck placed on me. “Come on!” He pulled on the chain to take me to wherever I needed to go. Inside the city there be many people staring with their eyes in fear. The guards had that look you did not want to mess with. Being in slavery frightened me but I would not show fear. If I did, they would win with their little games to play with emotions. Right inside the palace there would be two tall dog like shapes in having writing in Egyptian. My eyes widen at the very sight of the artitect that was glowing right in front of me. “Come on, move faster!” He pulled on my chain a bit harder to hear a thump behind him. “Stupid slave, get up!” His foot would kick right into my left side which a crack was heard. My voice would echo down the hall in agony toward the male’s feet hitting my small ribs. With small effort I tried to get up but only fell down. Get up…! You have to get up. I can’t die here! I can’t! 

“Such a useless girl!” He was about to raise his foot again when a hand would lower down to the female. He stopped his leg from hitting me once more. “P-Prince! I did not see you there.” The young Prince hand would wrap around the female slave. Teal orbs would fill with sorrow toward the girl. “Do not harm her any further. I will take her to my Father myself after I take care of her.”  In appearance he had on tan pants that would reach to his ankles with a small obi at the middle of his top of those pants. It was blue. He had on golden earrings shaped out of dragons would be on his ears. Golden bracelets would be on his wrists with a necklace around his neck given by his Mother. The guard would bit his bottom lip to the Prince words. “Listen, Prince she is not to be taken care of. She will work for your King when the time is right. Now please let me do m---“ The Prince grabbed the chain away from his hand quickly to grab the blade that was in his holster around his waist. “What was that?” His arm would hold onto my body as if I was his very own child. He was a bit taller than me with his hand being soft. “P-Prince, I am only following orders.” The guard would raise his hands up in defense. “Please let her go and move along. Your Father will be displeased with your orders to me.”

The white haired male would walk away with me in his arms to go down the hall. “I do not care what that fat oaf has to say. This girl will not be seeing him until then. Do I make myself clear?” The guard would bow his head toward the Prince. “U-Understood.” 

A gentle care was given to me by this boy I did not know his name only that the guard said ‘Prince’. Why did he come to my rescue? I had thought they all only cared for greed and nothing else. Why did this one boy come to save me? Why…? Many things I did not know what to explain what could of happened if he continued to beat me down. I would have died at that time and cut into pieces to be buried without no one would know. Not even Azumi… my new best friend. Oh, how I wish to ask why he saved me. If only I could wake up…. 

It felt cool with the soft breeze coming into the room where I rested. My small body would lay underneath the covers that was inside the Prince room. On top of my head I felt a cool rag that been placed by whoever helped me. Quickly I sat up with my eyes widen in shock. I am alive? How did this happen…? Why would anyone save a slave? It was confusing! “Oh, you have woke up. I apologize for that guard rude behavior. I sometimes think my Father has wild animals running around to harm people even slaves like that. I do not like it…” He would come inside with his back against the wall beside his huge bed. It had to be King size fit for a Prince no doubt. He was lucky to have no fear over who would kill you in your sleep. My hand would raise up toward my throat. “W-Wa…” The Prince would see the actions I took which he quickly snapped his fingers for his personal butler. 

“Hyorinmaru, fetch me a cup of water and fast!” The male was taller with his hair a light green color with a strange mark on his forehead. He nod his head without saying much a word over who was inside the room. “Yes, Master.” He bowed his head in respect and left soon to do what he was told.

What was happening? I first got here with a friend and now the Prince is taking care of me like some doctor. I could not speak well with a dry throat. It was lucky he found me when he did. “T-Tha….” His finger would touch my lips softly. “Do not speak. I will ask more after you had some liquid.” His chest would lift up slowly. “Just what are they doing to you poor people?” He raised a hand. “Wait, do not answer that! I will wait for more. I am so interested in you! Your hair color, your eyes, everything about you is so beautiful!” He took a seat on his bed feeling my whole body jumped slightly. “My Father would be upset I took care of you. I do not care what he says or does! To me he is ruling this place into Hell. Treating you guys like tools is not something I want. To me you people will not be tools…” 

My whole body sat still trying to take in what he is telling me. He loved us? What kind of Prince was he? I could not believe what was being foretold. This Prince is not like all the others I worked under. I only began at this age for pulling weeds. They would not force a child at such a young age to work. They knew so much stress would kill them quickly which meant a replacement. What would happen if his Father found out? I could not fake being like him. Or even a Princess… This Prince is taking risks in helping me. Only question I knew that was left is why he thought of us interesting. Perhaps life around here was dull and me coming was something he needed. Some excitement. 

Hyorinmaru came quickly with the glass of water to hand it out to me. “Here you go.” My hands would reach up, shaking heavily I knew that with grabbing this would take time. Instead the young Prince grabbed the cup to move his hand behind my head and he raised the mug up toward my lips. “I will give you the liquid just swallow, alright?” My head would nod slowly with my head leaned back a little. The cold liquid fell down my throat giving me some coolness for my throat that was tasting like sand been shoved down my throat. It felt nice! “Ah, that fee---“ My throat would try to swallow some water but backfired and I began to cough. The Prince raised his right eyebrow at my attempt to speak. Such a strange girl… he found her quite adorable the way she tried to do things. “Careful.” He pat my back gently with the cup being placed on the small table next to him. 

My whole journey was beginning out of Hell to be Heaven with some Egyptian Prince taking care of me. I was not special nor was I important. Yet, he treated me like I was some Princess who got harmed by some bandits or some rats. He never treated me like some disease. I felt calm around him as if he calmed my soul. 

“May I ask something of you? I like to know what your name is…I do not wish to call you slave because you should have the right to speak your own name.” He would speak with his voice sounding very calm. “Can you answer me this?” My eyes would shift up toward his teal orbs filled with warmth. I could feel my whole body start to heal with this boy love and care being gentle like I was his doll. How should I answer him? With the title Prince be nice and respectful as he gave me that reason to not treat him like dirt.

“Prince I can answer you this. After all, you gave me hope to be able to make it here. I do not want to put that to waste…m-my name is…” I would pause hearing a few guards past down the hall. The Prince would hear the guards run by with a bit of panic on their face. “Ignore them as you can see they run around like idiots.” He would hear my voice giggle like a soft angel from the heavens. His cheeks would blush a little at her giggles. He was right…she is adorable! “Thank you, Prince. My name is Bri Haku, I do hope we can be good friends!” My lips would shift upward into a warm smile toward the young prince. “Enough with that, Bri. Call me Toshiro. Not ‘Prince’ I know you can refer to me like that when I am alone. However to save your life call me Prince outside with others to show we are not close. That I can assure you will live if you follow their orders.” He would raise a finger to fix the bangs that would cover part of my face. Moving the strand of hair behind my ear, his eyes would be lighting up in th dark room where we both sat.

“Yes, Prin--- I mean, Toshiro-kun. I will follow your orders.” I could not believe myself in finding such nice people around here even if I was afraid at first.

 Meeting Toshiro brighten up my life since this point on we had started a bond. A secret bond that made me smile with happiness to not think Hell would be every day. I wanted to stay this way for a long time. A very, very long time with Azumi and Toshiro. Would my dream come true? Would happiness come in my hands like a gift from the Gods? I pray it would, I pray that somehow this wish would be granted…