Chapter 33 – Tacenda

''The strong prey on the weak. They take pleasure from the weak. Therefore, they make the weak.'' ~ Gin Freecs

Red for power, gold for knowledge and black for elegance. I stared at my reflection from my mirror and took a deep breath. Inside my elegant room, I fit right in like a queen. There stood a girl, who has crumbled, fell and born again. Her hair was like the ocean at night when the moon was full and the waves, calm. They undulated softly down her delicate shoulders. Indeed, she is such a young and beautiful girl. The high-chested, crimson flowing skirt, the gold sash and the dark inner garment of her dress made her eyes shone almost like liquid gold. So much beauty and so much sadness… as if all these power, all these knowledge and all these elegance has robbed her of something else that she loved.

Or maybe she's just nervous…

Yup. She definitely is. DAMN IT!

I closed my eyes and hit my heavy chest repeatedly, hopelessly hoping that it would do something to lighten up my mood. There was something wrong, my instincts keep on telling me. Netero's puckish face kept flashing in my mind. That old man's not telling me something! But what could it be?

He gave me such a pretty dress. I already entertained and accepted the idea that he'd have me fight someone tonight. This seemed like a plausible guess. Why? Because this is Netero. Fighting is like playing for him. Just like most strong hunters would think.

What are the chances of finding myself in a middle of a fighting pit?

65%

This is why I gladly wore my black training shorts and sports bra under my dress, sheathed all my throwing knives around my thighs and my arms. The wide-sleeves hid them well after all. If worst comes to worst, I could always remove my ankle and wrist weights and run like hell.

But Netero wouldn't let them kill me, right?

What if these are all a ploy and he's been planning this all along? What he's just waiting to gain your trust and then throw it back to your face? You told him…You told him…You shouldn't have told him…

Someone knocked on the door. When I didn't answer, the door clacked open, revealing Netero. He stayed behind the door for half a second just watching me like a creep-o. Then, with wider smile he stepped in; his shoes softly tapping the red-carpeted floor. He stopped just over my shoulder and twirled, facing the full body length mirror. The smile on his face turned gentle for a moment.

''You look very pretty, dear.''

My lips curled up a notch. ''Thanks.''

His eyes glinted, amused. ''Nervous?''

''It feels like the first day of school all over again.''

One white eyebrow rose, inquisitively. ''You went to school?''

I scowled at him. ''What kind of question is that?! Everyone goes to school!...Well, except for the home-schooled.''

''Hm…How did you find it?''

The first day of my school flashed in my head – how boring it was and how the kids distanced and hated me at some point. Learning the ABC and basic maths was terrible, especially when they make you do it again and again. And the kids were nice at first. But not joining their activities and refusing their invitations again and again created a rift between them and myself. The day came when they never asked me and then I experienced some mild bullying. You know…just the usual shoujo stuff.

Young kids love to act like adults until they become one. I was sorely tempted to accept the acceleration pass from the teachers but that meant being separated with Gon. So I resolutely said no, despite of Mito's encouragements.

''…Good enough.''

''How long did you do it for?''

''Just after grade-school. After that, Gon and I left for the exam.''

''Ah…''

I took a deep breath in an attempt to fill up the empty space in my chest. I swallowed to wet my dried throat. I didn't want to drink again lest I suddenly have the urge to pee whilst in the middle of facing the Zodiacs. Or worst, soil myself in front of them. God! That's awful! I might just kill myself afterwards!

He chuckled. My lips curled into a sneer and shot him a glare. He stopped laughing and tightened his lips as if stopping himself. His eyes twinkled impishly.

''Shut up, Netero. I'm in a bad mood. A very, very, very, bad mood.''

''Awh!'' he cooed. ''Sweety…That's only natu—''

He dodged my fist easily. We stared at each other for three breaths – me glaring whilst him smirking like a goblin. I pushed my back straight and fixed my face while he tilted his head down an inch – ceasefire.

I turned around and stared at my business-like face. Like the one a strong independent woman would wear when facing a potential ally or nemesis.

''Here, my dear.'' Netero handed a small black stick – a lipstick, I thought at first. I raised an eyebrow and twisted the cap, expecting a secret dagger or a pepper spray, or any kind of weapon, really.

But in the end, it was just a normal red lipstick.

''To add some colour in your face, dear. You look awfully pale.'' He said. Our eyes met in the mirror. I looked down again at it. I haven't held one for ages. In fact, ever since I was you know…sort of re-born.

Even hearing myself say it in my thoughts is weird… Someone there from above, if only this…only this fact would go down with me to my grave, I'll die a happy girl. That is isn't an invitation, by the way.

Netero smiled and took the lipstick from my grasp. ''Come on.'' He pushed my shoulder to have me face him. Tilting my chin up, I blinked as he applied the make up on my lips. ''Part your lips dear.'' I obeyed. He narrowed his eyes, focusing intently on his occupation. He scowled and clicked his tongue disapprovingly when I smiled. ''Dear. Stop it.''

''Sorry.''

He licked his thumb to erase the smudge. My lips curled in disgust. ''Ew! Ew! Get off! Ew!''

''Oh shut up, you little girl. You're ruining my work.''

I gasped and swatted his hands away. ''I can do it myself, old man! Gimme!'' I reached out but he held it away.

''Gin Freecs. Let me finish my masterpiece.''

I sighed in disbelief. The old man used this opportunity to 'finish his masterpiece'. ''Now, quit curling those lips. Dear Goddess!'' he muttered, vexed. ''Come on.''

I smirked. ''Well…if you put it like that, Shishou, fine.''

Netero looked baffled at first until understanding dawned upon him. He raised an eyebrow at me drily before shaking his head twice. ''Whatever…'' he muttered. His hand on my chin tightened when I can't help but laugh. He might not have noticed it, but I certainly have.

Old man's getting snazzy in the language department.

''Gin.''

''Yeah. Sorry.''

When he was done, I turned back to the mirror. My eyebrows raised, impressed. ''For an old geezer, you're okay.'' I praised while admiring my lips. My teacher drew a heart on my pale lips. It was pretty and it suited my attire very fine.

''And this… this is from Bean.'' I turned over my shoulder just as Netero handed me a red rose.

The smile overcame my face and stretched my cheeks. ''Awh! From Bean! Really?!''I gazed at the red flower momentarily, deeply touched.

''I think it suits your situation just fine, right?'' I nodded happily. That is, until I realised what he just said.

''You pervert!'' I growled and slapped his face. He casually dodged, of course.

''What? I'm just saying!'' I crossed my arms, sulking. ''Ahh… Come on now, dear. Fine. Fine. Bean says it will match your dress!'' He reached out and slipped it behind my ear. ''There…'' he clapped his hands. '' Looks good!'' he sighed and crossed his arms, smiling proudly of himself.

I turned and checked myself in the mirror. Not like I'm bragging or anything (hah! I'm too humble for that), but I looked like a very expensive china doll. But this little porcelain doll can kick ass, you fuckers!

I smirked. ''Thank you, Shishou.''

He placed his two hands over my shoulders firmly. ''You're welcome, dearie!'' My vain smile fell when I recognised the evil lilt of his tone in an instant. ''Now…'' he gave me an evil grin from the mirror. ''Make me a good show, eh?''

''…You're so bad.'' I sighed and fixed my face once again.

'' Bean's busy managing the Zodiacs right now.'' Netero said as we sauntered down his private floor. The wall sconces were glowing bright once again. The glasses were new. They've been replaced whilst we were gone. I wondered if someone had gone through my room. If yes…Then, they had gone through my letters, probably. I frowned, not liking this one bit. My grip unconsciously tightened on Netero's arm.

''Dear, something wrong?''

I gulped. ''I think someone might have entered my room.'' I confessed.

''Oh…Someone definitely did.''

I looked up to him, disbelievingly. He only smiled. ''Bean undoubtedly hired the best people he could get, my dear. But there is always one…always one that would allow someone who wants to enter, enter.''

''B-but…but they would have read all my letters! I left them under my under wears!''

''Under-wears? Could you be more obvious, dear?'' He shrugged. ''Did you write anything substantial? Like a way to kill you, perhaps?''

I rummaged my brain desperately. Mostly, I wrote how annoyed I was with Netero…Other than that…I just wrote what I did everyday – train, some fleeting thoughts, my aches and pains, my lunch, me fainting, how Netero's a pervert… I sighed in relief, although still very unsettled.

A hand fell on mine. ''Well…Did you write any secret there?''

I shook my head. ''None really… I don't think so. But…But…''

''If none comes to mind then there's probably nothing. Were they still there?''

''I haven't checked.''

''This changes some things…Pariston definitely knows you now, then.'' He smoothed down his beard as he gazed into his own space. I didn't like the fact that Netero sounded too enthusiastic about this. In fact, he looked incredibly joyous and uncaring whilst I was near a nervous break-down.

I'm alone here. He doesn't care about me here. I'm alone here. Don't trust anyone. Be on guard. You shouldn't have told him, you idiot. You idiot! IDIOT! Fix your face. Whatever happens, don't drop your persona. Nothing. Nothing. Nothing will disable it! Nothing! You understand!? You're unreachable. No feelings.

From across the hall, a grandfather clock sounded. It came from the library. It announced the time to be 8pm.

It's night time, dear. It's night-time. It is your time to rule and to hunt. At night, you are most powerful. Nothing. Nothing can hurt you at night. Nothing. You are unreachable, unconquerable, unbowed.

I lifted my hand and touched the red flower tucked behind my ear. I didn't know if I was imagining it, but I felt it hum faintly beneath my fingertips. If worst comes to worst, It would give its remaining life to me and help me escape. I took a deep breath and opened my eyes. I didn't know we stopped at the security door when we did.

''We are to meet with the Zodiacs first from the meeting room, my dear. Then, we'll join the others downstairs in the 50th floor where the ball is already happening.''

Netero placed his hand on the machine and did the retinal scan. The door relaxed and he let me in first. My sandals clacked as soon as I stepped into the white-tiled public hallway of the Chairman. It was empty but I can detect strange scents mixing in the air.

The Zodiacs are here.

At night, you are the master. At night, there's nothing to be scared of.

I don't know what I was expecting when Netero opened the door but it certainly wasn't a welcome party. And of course, it wasn't. When we entered, the room was dark and a large screen was roaring bright and loud. There were 12 zodiacs and doing a quick count, all of them were present in the room. Each were dressed strangely – there was a girl with orange hair with rabbit ears. I noticed her first because I think I am taller and bigger than her. But those doesn't really equate to power.

Then, there were two hulking men in the room – the one facing me had a large black afro and thick lips and the other had his back turned on me but I could tell his hair was white and he tied them into pigtails. How manly...

There were various foods strewn carelessly on the white table. I saw Bean standing by the screen. He looked at me apologetically before bowing. I tilted my head to the side, curious and concerned at his distressed expression.

I felt someone's eyes on me and when I shifted my gaze up, our eyes instantly met.

At first, I thought I was looking at my brother that I felt my carefully impassive face lift up for a bit. My heart skipped just like it always does when I see my sweet brother. He sat nearest to the TV. The glaring light coming from it made the fixed shine in his brown eyes more refined. But then, I noticed the facial hair and the difference in their bone structure.

Gon wouldn't be here. Gon wouldn't wear blue. He likes green. Gon wouldn't have facial hair. Gon would care about his appearance, too. I guess he got that from me. This isn't Gon.

Not Gon. This is Ging! My dad's a merchant, you? Ging! Oh, you don't have a dad? Dad! H-help me…Dad…Poor girl! Daddy's not here to help you! Ging! I want to know what job is amazing enough to make it seem worth it to leave his own son! Ging!

Ah…This is gonna be so awkward and full of shit.

My heart remained calm and I thanked Bean silently for reminding me to take my anti-depressants after our early dinner this afternoon. That is, until I realised why he did that in the first place. He knew…I felt as though something incredibly painful and heavy hit me on my back. It was cold and it pierced through my chest. I had to take in another deep breath to lessen the pain.

Ging's smiling face invaded my mind. I remembered the way he laughed, the way his eyes shone as he looked at me. The way he sang to me, the way he played with us, the way he danced me to sleep…the way he left. Now, he looked at me blankly. As if he didn't know me.

I didn't want to see him. I didn't. Why? Why…I'm not ready… I blinked to remove the burning in my eyes. My feet itched to run. I wanted to disappear so badly. From the corner of my eyes, the shadows danced, agitated.

Netero's smirk flashed in my head. This was his surprise. He planned this all along. And Bean knew…They…they plotted this against me. Why? To play with you.

I smiled as I felt something inside me break, releasing the bitter taste of betrayal in my tongue. My father stiffened in his seat and he looked a little disturbed. Not surprisingly, Ging turned away first.

Find one thing that you want in this life and find it. Don't look anywhere else. That's how you survive this world, dear.

My hand on my teacher's arm twitched before slackening. His hand covered it as if to comfort. The shadows below us rippled. I noticed him glancing down before he looked up once again, smiling amiably as if nothing was wrong.

''Are you not going to surrender too?'' I forced my eyes away from Ging towards the screen and saw a video of myself and Hanzo.

Hunters Exam – last phase. They had been watching me from the exam. 'Pariston definitely knows you now, then, Netero commented a while ago. It all makes sense now. I didn't really know the Zodiacs yet. It has been a long time since I used my X cards. 4 months is a long time. To be honest, I admit that I was a little scared of using them. They only bring about nightmares, after all. But now, I wished that I tried asking my cards about the Zodiacs.

But I was too nervous to remember that.

''Hmm…I don't know...you're hot.'' I heard my own voice drawling out my words seductively. At least, I think it seductive. It worked anyway.

A bespectacled woman with sea-foam green hair cut at medium length openly gaped at the screen. She wore a hat that has a pair of dog ears attached to them and her nose looked like those of a dog. I peered, a little curious, at the authenticity of her nose.

Sat beside her, there was blue-haired woman wearing a dark blue bra, a pair of white wings behind her and a cool feather head accessory. She had her elbow propped against the table as she held her chin up whilst watching. She too, was staring at the screen with her mouth parted. Though her eyes sparkled in a mixture of proud mischief and entertainment.

''Cat got your tongue?'' The dog-girl jerked up, covering her mouth, looking absolutely appalled at what she's seeing. I was only on top of Hanzo. Now, I admit that was sexy, especially with God Hanzo underneath me, but it's not X rated.

Sadly.

Maybe I should go hunt him down before finding Gon. One little date wouldn't hurt…but I would need to find the note with his email and number on it. It mysteriously disappeared from my bag.

Meanwhile, the chicken-woman smirked. She hummed and leaned closer to the screen, watching intently.

''I apologize but I do not like the company of 12 year old girls.'' The green-haired girl nodded, crossing her arms. She wore a white-green dress and white gloves.

My eyes shifted and met the eyes of a lanky man with a very short yellow hair, big ears and a monkey-like face. He was wearing a black fitted shirt with orange linings. His headband winked at me as he scrutinised me with a cold and calculating expression on his face. I forced myself to stay still as I let his eyes traverse up and down my body. This must be the monkey, I realised. And he was already sizing up my strength.

Dog, chicken, monkey…

Netero walked us forwards, our feet tapping the white-tiled floor together. The hulking man with a large afro, thick lips and a thick black moustache around his mouth suddenly stood up. ''CHAIRMAN!'' he cried out like a child, voice echoing and filling the room. I wonder what this guy is…

The Sheep, I thought, taking notice of the curled horns on each sides of his face.

Just like that, the others straightened in their seats, except for Ging who remained slouched in his seat.

''—Oh! There they are!'' Someone exclaimed. I closed my eyes when the white lights suddenly illuminated the whole room but the show didn't stop.

Because I can't withstand their stares anymore, I turned my eyes to the moving screen, curious. I saw myself – wearing a black tank top, leggings and my dirty combat boots. I felt my lips twitch, despite myself. The old me fluttered her eyelashes at a blushing Hanzo and pouted. She bit her lip and tilted her head to the side, showing him her pale neck.

''Ouch. But let me tell you a little secret.'' She drawled, sauntering towards him, swaying her hips slightly.

''Some men like curvy women. Some men like slim women. Some men like old women. Some like young women. Gentle women, rough women, pretty women, ugly women, pretty men…'' The dog-girl squeaked. Her poor conservative soul might not be able to take any more.

The Zodiacs shifted their attention back at the show, except for two perhaps. One, Ging had his eyes closed and his arms crossed. Two, the blond man who was standing at the other end of the table, wearing a yellow-striped suit, was beaming at me. His eyes were brown, cold and empty. His cruel smile widened when I met his eyes with my impassive ones.

The mad ones are always more interesting, I thought and let myself smile at him.

''Most men don't know what they like until they've tried it.''

''Oh man... Girl! You're good! You're good!'' The blue haired woman praised loudly, nodding at me briefly before looking back at the screen. My polite smile widened and I bowed slightly in thanks.

''Now…Will you surrender to me or do I need to kill someone again?''

The rabbit hummed and then the screen darkened as the show finished. I watched as the blonde – who I'm deducing to be Pariston Hill due to his self-important air and obnoxiously handsome and mad looks – clapped his hands, looking around as if goading the others to join him.

The chicken woman did, smirking and waggling her perfectly plucked eyebrows at me. Next, the rabbit girl clapped too. She had a fixed innocent look on her face. It made her look even more threatening to me.

But everyone is a threat in this room anyway.

Beside the huge man who I'm calling Sheep, was a man who resembled a horse. His eyes were shone black and calm as he met my eyes.

Then, on the other side of the table, there was another woman blessed in the chest department. I urged my eyes to not linger on her chest. Snake, I thought.

The large man with the pigtails, white fur and a red and black suit, sat beside her with his humongous arms crossed. He looks like the oldest of them all. And he was big, yes, but in a muscled way, while Ram was big in the fat way. Dragon.

The Rabbit was almost lying on the table next to him. In her hands, she held a pink phone. Manipulator, perhaps?

The tiger and the Ox were next, both wearing their corresponding zodiac costumes.

If I was to dress up as a mongoose, I'd like a bushy tail.

Netero coughed and then swiftly smoothed down his beard. ''Hoh! I see you've been busy, Pariston! Well!'' With two soft clacks of his geta, he moved behind me, hands falling on my shoulders. He leaned down so his face was next to mine. I let my face lift up into a kind and polite smile, softening my eyes and curling my lips just a touch to be natural.

'' Gin, my dear, these are the Zodiacs. Everyone, this is Gin, my little apprentice! Be nice to her, okay?'' he announced jovially.

I bowed. ''Good evening, Zodiacs. It's an honour to make your acquaintance.'' I said, polishing my voice to my smoothest and sweetest voice.

The Zodiacs just blinked and stared. Just then, my eyes fell down at the heap of white envelopes on the table. Surrounding them, food were scattered all over the table. I recognised the writings right away. They were opened and crumpled, obviously abused. They read my brother's letters.

They read it.

They took it.

They raped it.

His thoughts and his words…

My polite façade fell down in an instant. My chest hurt. The anti-depressants can't control rage and pain. It can't control my heart when it started thundering in anger.

''…Ah! Sorry, Gin-san! We found these on the table when we arrived. Curious as we are, we opened them!'' The blonde sang, putting his hands together as if praying for my forgiveness. ''We are hunters, after all. Naturally curious!''

Bastards. Motherfuckers. Shits. Assholes. Son of motherfucking bitches…Kill… Maim…Kill…Take their useless piece of lives…

Netero's hands tightened around my shoulders. The room has gone cold and tensed. Monkey shifted in his seat. The Chicken and the Snake were no longer amused. The rabbit looked as innocent as ever but her purple eyes glinted something malicious. Ging was useless. As always. I might as well pretend he's not here.

'Make me a good show, dear.' Netero wanted a good show. Poor old man was hungry for some fun to cure his loneliness. In another blink, I reigned in my blood lust and smiled, though this didn't really relax anyone.

I let my face crumple a little as if I was stopping myself from crying. The tears gathered in my eyes. ''I'm s-sorry…It's just…'' My breath hitched. ''You could've at least taken care of them…'' I shakily pointed at the stack with a trembling hand. ''They look…'' I broke out sobbing, grabbing my teacher's arm. I looked up to him, eyes blurring in tears. ''Shishou! My letters... My… baby...baby Gonny's letters… Shishou!'' I grabbed Netero's kimono and sobbed at his chest, complete with the heart-breaking sobs and overflowing tears.

It was easy. Because I really felt like crying.

''…Ah…Oh my! Oh dear…'' His hand brushed my hair. ''Zodiacs!''

It was silent until someone cleared his throat. I raised my head from Netero's chest to see the Ox standing up in front of us. He bowed deeply. ''I apologize on behalf of the Zodiacs, miss. We didn't mean any harm. Unfortunately, as Pariston said, we all became curious.'' He smiled softly. ''We didn't know Ging has a daughter.''

''Mizaistom Nana!'' said Netero, enthusiastically. The ox bowed once again, smiling gently down at me.

''Tche. What a crybaby,'' scoffed the tiger as he held his chin and turned away, looking bored out of his mind. ''We came here to see this?'' He scoffed once again. ''It's a brat!'' He was cute, I noticed. A slim young man with a black and yellow hair and outfit. He reminding me a little of Killua + Leorio. As a result, it was hard to get annoyed at him.

I turned my wide, innocent eyes back to the Ox and shamelessly checked him out. He really wore an ox-suit too, complete with the horned, black and white helmet. Out of everyone else, he looked most normal. The kind that would save a damsel in distress.

Smiling at him softly, I admired the broadness of his shoulder and that fact that…I gasped, my hands flying to my chest in complete and utter shock. The Ox zodiac blinked, baffled. ''Oh my goodness…'' I whispered.

He tilted his head to the side. ''Something wrong, miss?''

''…You're a MAN!''

''…''

''I'm sorry?''

I grabbed his hand before he could react and held it in my two hands. ''Oh…Oh my…Oh dear…'' I looked up at him, beaming. ''I haven't seen a man for ages!''

Without warning, I pasted my hands on his chest, hands falling down to his hardened stomach, smoothly before he can react. My inner fan girl squealed in happiness. God! He's sculpted like a God! I thought, jaw dropping. A blessing! God! I forgive him! He can invade my privacy anytime!

''O-o-oy! What are you doing!''

''Pfft!''

''What…W-what…''

''Ging! Stop your child!''

''HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!''

The Ox recovered and carefully released himself from my grasp by backing away, looking like he just developed an eye twitching disease. He thought me mad. I could see it in his eyes. Good.

I sobered up and stepped backwards to Netero's side. I smiled at him and then to our audience, biting my lips shyly. ''Sorry…'' I clutched at Netero's kimono and made a show of a little girl hiding behind her father.

''Haven't seen a man for ages, huh?''

I blinked up to him, frowning innocently. ''Shishou. You're always too busy to play. Gin-chan is always alone by her lonesome self.''

He smiled down at me. He was itching to punch me, I could tell. You'll pay for that little girl, his smile said.

Bring it on, old geezer! I smiled sweetly back.

Meanwhile, someone gasped. ''My goodness! All that time?'' In an instant, Pariston Hill appeared before us. He bent down at his waist to talk to me. I nodded. He's handsome too, in the mad way, just like Hisoka was...

Wait. Did I just thought of Hisoka as … I mentally shooed the thought.

His face crumpled into a faux-sad face. ''What a shame! I was all alone in the 250th floor too! We could've played then, Gin-chan!''

My eyes widened, sparkling before they dulled. ''Well…it's too late now.'' I sighed, looking down at the floor sadly.

''Maybe next time, Gin-chan?''

My sweet smile returned. ''Hm!'' I nodded, happily.

''Great! Ah! Ging! Come on! Don't be shy! Your daughter's here!'' The blonde turned his back to me to acknowledge my father who was still very silent in his seat. I smiled demurely at his motionless figure but nonetheless stayed at my place. He was busy looking away.

''Hohoho! Now, that you all know each other, perhaps we should go to the ball then?'' The sound of seats scratching the floor sounded as the Zodiacs rose from their chairs. I watched, fascinated at their costumes.

The green-haired girl was first to approach. She smiled at first, a little hesitant. But she felt warm and genuine to me, compared to the others in the room. She offered her hand. ''Cheadle Yorkshire. Nice to meet you, Gin-san.''

I blinked and smiled back. ''And you, Cheadle-sama.'' Her smile widened to a happy one and I shook her gloved hands twice before she left.

''Cluck.'' The blue-haired woman grabbed my hand and shook it numerous times. She smirked. ''You gotta tell me where you learnt all those moves, girl.''

''From the library, Cluck-sama.''

She raised an eyebrow at me. ''Really?''

''In the adults section.''

With another smirk, she strutted away.

The Monkey only stared at me as he walked past. I bowed. He had a very nice six-pack abs. And the cold attitude was almost sexy. Out of everyone in the room, he might be the first, or one of the first, to actually kill me should I make a wrong move.

''Hellooo!'' When I looked up, I found myself before a towering, giant man. ''Gintaa.'' His voice boomed and he offered his massive hand to me. I placed my hand in his and smiled, awed at his size. Does he have a girlfriend, I wonder. If I ask him, would he punch me? If he's this big...how big is his...

Oh God...I'm hideous!

''Ginta minus the ta.'' I said and the big man's smile developed into a friendly grin before he trudged away. I fought the disgusting thoughts slowly taking over my head.

The man with the horse face and protruding teeth was next. He wore a purple kimono with different shades and with three pink flowers designed on it. My eyes focused on the sword he carried, however. But then, something yellow and black flashed in front of me.

The guy reached out for my hand and shook it. His grip was strong that it almost hurt. ''Kanzai'' he growled. I smiled. He frowned and tilted his head, peering at me closer.

''Gin.'' I said and gave him my sweetest smile yet. His frown fell and I had these really bad urge to pull and steal his lips just for fun.

Hormones…Hormones…Hormones…

''You smell like blood.'' He said and my eyes widened, body freezing up.

''Gin flowered yesterday.''

My head snapped to the side, enraged. ''NETERO, YOU BASTARD!'' I pulled my hand back and leapt up to give him an upper cut. He dodged and shifted to punch me on the stomach. I saw this and danced away. I swallowed the growl threatening to come out of me. My hand twitched, wanting to grab my knives from their sheaths. There was a heavy pause until...

''What a wonderful event, Gin!'' clapped Pariston. ''Congratulations! Oh, what a joyful event! Isn't it, Ging!? Your little girl's a woman now!''

A woman –the snake, chuckled, followed by a girlish giggle from the Rabbit.

Taking deep breath, I focused my cold glare to the old smirking and stinking man for another second before fixing my face. I calmly re-instated myself beside him and ignored their eyes. I smiled at Kanzai once again. ''So sorry about that.''

''You're not quick enough, well... You're a kid, so whatever.'' He said, staring at my smiling face before turning to walk away. ''Flowered?'' he muttered to himself. A vein threatened to pop in my forehead when someone laughed once again. The Rabbit whispered something in his ear. I watched when the Tiger stiffened and rushed out of the room, with something red decorating his face.

This isn't getting good. This isn't how I imagined it to be. I'm supposed to be calm, cool and collected.

''Saccho Kobayakawa.'' A calm, deep voice broke me out of my angered reverie. I met the horse's serene eyes.

''Nice to meet you, Saccho-san.'' I accepted his hand. I couldn't the sigh the left my nostrils as my lungs relaxed. I feel oddly calmed just by looking at him. Illusion? Nen?!

''I'm a trouble hunter. Come to me, anytime Gin-san.'' He said and without waiting for my reply, he walked away.

''I'm Geru,'' said the Snake woman.

''Pleased to meet you.''

''Gigante,'' growled the Dragon.

''Pleased to meet you, sir.'' He examined me up and down before grunting and walking away.

''Piyon!'' squeaked the orange-haired Rabbit.

''Pleased to meet you.''

''And you!''

Then, it was my father's turn. I doubled my efforts at maintaining my polite expression. Straightening up, I gave him a respectful bow even though all I wanted was to bash his ugly face to the floor and tell him to fuck off. ''Father, pleased to meet you.''

''…Ah.'' He paused in front of me for a moment, scratching his face. I blinked and waited patiently at him. He was acting like a teenage boy facing his crush. Looking away, he said; ''Find me later if you want, Gin.'' Then, he strolled away with his hands deep in his pockets.

''Awh. How cold, Ging!'' Pariston shouted. ''I'm sorry about him.'' He sighed. ''Do you want me to drag him back here, Gin-chan? Give you both some privacy?''

I smiled falsely at the vice-president who, I reckon, might not be completely sane. I shook my head. ''No, its fine, Pariston-san.'' He raised an eyebrow.

''So, you know me already.'' He commented brightly and dumbly.

I let out a giggle. ''Yes.'' I said, while slipping my hand around Netero's arm. I saw Pariston follow the move, eyes darkening. He didn't like that, I observed. Interesting.

''Shishou mentioned you quite a lot of times.'' I gripped his arm tighter to my chest, smiling up at the chairman.

''Eh?!'' the blonde gave the Chairman a bright smile which turned a little bitter when he glanced down at me. ''What did he say?!''

Ah.

I chuckled again. ''Nothing much. But he failed to tell me something though…''

''…Pray tell, what is it?''

''He didn't tell me the Rat is so handsome.''

His smile faltered at first before he beamed, bristling and eyes glinting darkly. I know those eyes…those are the eyes of someone who just saw potential. Those eyes knew what I'm doing. Those eyes knew I was acting. Those eyes were the eyes of the bastard who went into my room to steal my brother's letters. Those eyes…I want to gouge them out and force-feed it to him!

He chuckled, touching his face as if very flattered.''My…My…Thank you, Gin-chan.'' He purred and bent down so our face were parallel to each other. ''Unlike your boring father, you and I…you and I might just become the best of friends.''

''Meow.''

The middle-aged man grinned, showing all his pearly-whites before leaving. Is he a paedophile!? He's not even bothered about the fact that we're like half his age apart.

Cradle-robber! Demon-spawn!

Soon, they were all gone, leaving only the strong mixture of their scents in the room. The meeting room had white tiles on its floors and walls. Five square windows overlooked the dark skies outside. The ceiling was partitioned into squares which in itself, produced white light. I thought briefly of how energy consuming that was.

I let my mask drop as I walked closer to the table. I leaned my weak body against it and gathered all my letters.

Dear Gin,

How are you? ...

Dear Gon,

I'm glad that you think you're improving. Meanwhile, I fucking hate Netero's guts!

Dear Gin,

I hope you're doing okay…

Dear Gon,

Oh! I miss you so much!

I wiped off the tears that fell on my face before anyone can see. I swallowed the growing lump in my throat. I felt so alone. More alone than ever before. Most of the letters were stained with some food and all of them were tainted with their disgusting scents.

''…The ball hasn't started, dear.''

''Fuck you, bastard.'' I growled, face twisting to a hateful sneer. I felt the flower tucked behind my ear wilt, giving me a cool rush of energy to soothe my burning core. I told him everything I'm feeling with my eyes. My hand unconsciously crumpled the paper in my hand.

''Where are the new ones?''

''…They are in my office, Miss Gin,'' supplied Bean who was looking down at the floor.

In my pain, I can't help but laugh. But I know I had to go through the night. Netero's apprentice need to stay and look strong, and Netero needs more fun. I needed to uphold my end of the bargain.

''…If something happens to my brother, Netero.'' The lights flickered on and off from the strength of my Ren. The shadows came out from their corners. I let some of them materialise to monsters. Eyes blinking owlishly from the dark, faceless men grabbing and reaching their arms as if desperately trying to get free, Cheshire grins surfacing from an absent face, dead children with their dead eyes, still clutching their bloodied dolls...

''If they harm, even a single hair from him…'' The lights had completely shut off and dark shadows whispered angrily around us. My vision sharpened, focusing on his serious face. ''I'll kill you myself.''

And they will pay, the shadows swore, slithering around my form. The faceless monster screeched when it freed itself. It crawled on the floor and stopped by side.

''Calm yourself, dear. They wouldn't do anything like that.'' Netero smiled. Bean was stiff and cold in his place, trembling and sweating in fear.

''You don't know that.'' I retorted angrily.

Netero caressed his white beard down. ''They like you.'' He said thoughtful.

I smiled. ''Really?!'' Then, I sneered at him. ''Well, I don't care! They touch him, they die.''

We stared at each other for a few seconds more before he smiled again. ''I understand your anger, my dear.'' He said. ''However...'' His solemn gaze sharpened like hot knives. ''Remember your place. I, and these zodiacs, can easily step on you, my dear. Ging Freecs' daughter, my apprentice, or not.'' He turned away and left without me.

''…Miss Gin.'' I looked down, realising that Bean was still there. With wide and apologetic eyes, he unpinned the red rose from his suit and bravely walked closer to me, his steps faltering. How Brave...

From his eyes, I could see my reflection - eyes completely devoid of any colour while slivers of shadows circled around me like sea snakes.

''Please…Miss Gin. I'm sorry…I'm sure the Chairman meant nothing bad from it.''

I stared down at him for longer until his shoulders slumped in defeat and I can't stand the ache in my chest anymore. I willed the shadows to go away. I offered him the wilted flower from my ear and offered him my other palm. He paused and smilingly placed the flower in mine, taking the dead one with his other. I tucked in the new flower behind my ear.

Taking a deep breath, I closed my eyes. When I opened them, I smiled.

''Looks good?'' I sang and flipped my dark hair over my shoulder.

The secretary looked lost for a moment but nodded. I gave him a sorry smile. ''They would never hurt you, Bean. They're just shadows.''

'Just shadows' they repeated.

The secretary's eyes scanned our surroundings with fearful eyes. ''I promise, Bean. They will never hurt you.'' I said, hoping that will comfort him. I walked away, my wooden shoes echoing as I walked. The shadows followed, hidden but ever so present behind me.

''Be sure that the rest of those are burnt to ash, Bean.''

''…Yes, Miss Gin.''

I need to get stronger. Stronger so they can never threaten me. So they can never step on me. So they can never hurt me.

AN: I'm really worried about Gin. This chapter was really hard to write. Super hard. It drained me of my energy. There's no bombs or punches thrown. What do you think of Gin's reaction on seeing her father? If you were on her shoes, what would you have done? Bear in mind, Gin hates him. Gin absolutely doesn't want to see his face. Gin knows she's outnumbered and out strength by them all. So...can I ask you which chapter is your favourite guys? I'm so sorry for any mistakes here. Got to 200 reviews here! Yey!