From Sarah to Baby Lucky

Updates hopefully every Friday.

Warning: Poverty and Language.

Disclaimer: Fanfiction for a reason.


I felt warm and irritated. More so irritated than warm. I'm currently stuck in some kind of contraption confining my already small reach. The brown blur invaded my personal space again. Something soft brushed against my face and out of curiosity I reached out and yanked.

"Oh, for someone so small and adorable, you've got quite the grip."

I immediately recognized the voice as a woman's.

Another blur, a tad bit darker than the first brown blur, invaded my personal space next. It hummed thoughtfully. "So what are you going to do?" The blur got closer. It is a male blur from the voice. "She seems healthy."

The lighter brown blur moved and I heard a smack of skin against skin. More specifically somebody getting slapped.

"What do you mean what are you going to do? We are going to keep her of course!"

"What!"

Obviously, they're not just blurred spots, but people I can't see because of my eyesight. Well, more so the lack of it.

They decided to name me Keiko that day because I'm a lucky child to not have been placed outside of the neighbor's door.

I didn't find anything lucky about it. I'm most likely dead and my body feels strange.


Remember the brown blurs I'd mentioned?

Yeah, it turned out to be a browned haired, chocolate eyed, bright smiled woman assuming the role as my parental figure.

She isn't actually my mother and I don't think I'll ever be able to call her my mother with actually meaning it to her face. Anybody with functional eyes could tell just from appearances that we weren't related by blood.

My thin head of black curly hair contrasted her straight, light brown strands. Our eyes pretty much matched but her pale skin to my caramel color took the cake.

Don't misunderstand me.

Kumimi Momozono, the woman that is raising me and taking over the role as my mother, is a very nice woman and smart too. She never treats me wrong and is quite persistent that I know how to do many things by myself. Often talking and pointing to objects to explain what it is and its purpose. Sometimes I'd purposely block her out when she'd point to items I already knew, content to chew on a teether ring.

For the record I'm apparently a baby, only being one year of age. I don't remember the first one years of this life. Unfortunately, being only a one-year-old meant I still wear diapers.

By the age of three, I'm determined to start using the potty by myself. Having to be cleaned by others because I can't control my bladder is so embarrassing.

Kill me now kind of embarrassing.

The odd thing is after six months of being raised in this house with care and love from both my parent figures, I had begun to get used to living like this. Six months of being in one new place can turn it boring quickly though. No matter how nice the people are.

When I discovered that my last name given graciously to me was Momozono I didn't freak out or anything like that.

No, I didn't start wailing and crying my little baby eyes out. I didn't make a big fuss over things either. After all, once you live life all the way up to fifteen then suddenly you're a baby being raised by two parents that aren't your original parents, you tend to just accept the facts of the things that come your way.

Like the two satanist bitches that caused all this. Stupid whores.

Which leads me to my current position. Lying on my stomach in my small but baby-proofed square.

Yes I mean square, my caretaker lives in a single room apartment, so I basically only get a small square. I sleep with her in her futon because she can't afford another for me.

Anyways, I lay staring at a toy she honestly expects me to play with; it's a colorful blurry thingy that made noises when she dropped it in front of me. Of course, I don't plan on actually planning with the damned thing. Instead, I'm using it has a finish line.

Being a one-year-old means I basically have no muscle strength. Meaning I can't walk or crawl, but I have an advantage most babies don't. I know the motions and what to do. It's the building the muscles part.

Furrowing my brows I tried once more to push myself up and move forward. I pushed upwards and with the assistance, I was able to crawl once. Unfortunately, it only lasted a few seconds before I was falling onto my stomach again.

Stupid weak damn nonexistent muscles.

Sarah Takahashi, daughter of Arima and Aoi Takahashi, younger sibling to Mila Takahashi. Residential local asshole turned Keiko Momozono. A scrawny child with a huge ego and a grudge against whoever left me on Kumimi's doorstep and three stupid whores.

The very first chance I got, I'd practice crawling around the house. Kumimi always made 'awning' and 'cooing' sounds at me. Mainly when I'd ask for something from her.

I get that it's cute when a baby is advanced and adorable at the same time but I don't like how she keeps showing me off to her co-workers at her job whenever she takes me to work with her.

I really don't like (hate) how I can only leave the house when she's with me or when she's going shopping to stock up on food.

I'm not a baby in my mind yet physically I'm a baby that has to be taken care of unless I might hurt myself. I can't feed myself either or walk to where I want to go.

Heck, I can barely crawl for more than a second!

I've also learned that I'm somehow been brought back in time to the year 1990 instead of 2016. The actual year I was last in before I somehow blurred away into some ragtag fantasy world.

Anyways.

During the grocery shopping trips, I'm actually pretty helpful. After the twelfth time going to the store I had memorized where each product is located. The prices on my fifteenth time and which were the best values to get on my twentieth time.

Though I did get assistance from Kumimi, learning the power of coupons and special sales. Even detecting false sales meant to trick the customers.

I'm still learning on when to expect the sales to appear. Though I did know when the items are close to expiring is one time for sure.

I didn't do it so I could be of help for Kumimi. No, I did it because I get bored easily on shopping trips that I take with her so I just did something to occupy my time.

Challenges me to excel even.

Also during those shopping trips, I realized Kumimi barely even took me anywhere else but to the store. She normally only took me with her when Kaito was unable to watch me; which is really most of the time. When she'd have days off she took me to the park in her arms or just opted to rest.

In my first life my parents had the money to take Mila and me to lots of fun places that I'd always complain about going to but now that I can't go to them I just feel trapped now.

In this small apartment, no internet, barely any furniture and no freedom to go outside and explore the world on my own without having to worry about falling flat on my face because I can't stand up on my own without assistance.

Is it really this hard to just crawl! Agh!

Brought out of my thoughts because of clapping sounds I turned my head to stare at my current caretaking standing in front of my square.

I could see the pride gleaming in her eyes and I wondered why until I looked down at my legs to see that I was pushed up; holding all my weight against the rough floor. Kumimi stood with her hands clasped together; stars gleaming in her eyes.

Oh, great I made her happy again.

Kumimi takes a few measured steps before stopping in front of me. In fact, If I'm being painfully honest this square is meant to fit a futon and a small dresser in the corner. There isn't much space to do anything else really. After I'd persuaded Kumimi to get me something to enjoy. And by persuaded I really mean I yanked on her hair and tore at her clothes until she got me toys. I would have liked something electronic but I settled for using the toys to annoy her. Of course, the woman is hard to break, she's very tolerant with me.

Agh!

Kumimi scooped me up in her arms and practically squished me against her chest and I struggled in vain to push her off of me. After a while of getting nowhere and tiring myself out, I just decided to dangle in her hold (grip) like a doll while she gushed over me. A highly annoyed squished doll.

Six months of taking care of me don't mean you get to hug me.

"Such a dedicated girl you are! Making Momma so proud! You talented caramel drop!" Kumimi gushed rubbing her cheek against mine.

"Um, darling I know you're happy but I think she's going to bite you..."

Hearing Kaito's voice I stopped glaring at her neck, ignoring the pride I felt at being praised, in favor of turning my head to the man. Staring at the man with black hair leaning against the doorframe looking highly amused at the scene in front of him.

Kaito Momozono, husband to Kumimi, father of Nanami, and my (unfortunately) male caretaker. Known gambler and awkward father figure.

I hissed at him and went back to just dangling in Kumimi's hold and letting her swing me around squealing and exclaiming.

"Such a strong-willed child! Beautiful brained you!" I couldn't stop the bubble of pride around my heart when she continued to praise me for the simplest of things. I allowed a small smirk to show.

"I think she got a gift," Kaito said pushing off his feet, walking over to Kumimi holding me and ruffled my hair. Kumimi sat me down on my legs but I promptly plopped down after a second. Kaito squatted down in front of me grinning amusedly. "A brain like that can sniff out the winning lottery numbers!" He said with dollar signs in his eyes. I snorted as much as a baby could.

Not your biological daughter and it doesn't work like that, you big idiot.

Kumimi hauled him up by his collar. "You wouldn't happen to have bought another ticket, darling?" She asked glaring with a tick mark on her forehead.

He quickly waved his arms and shook his head no. "Of course not honey! You told me not to after all and threatened not to feed me!"

Kumimi blinked, surprise written across her face. I yawned already bored with their presence once again.

"Oh-Really?"

"Of course! But you won't believe my luck! This old man literally walked out of the store and gave me one himsel-"

Kumimi hit him over the head with her fist. "You no-good lying man!"

"I'm telling the truth!"

She picked me up and I felt like whining. "Keko, promise Mommy you'll never be like your pathetic father." She brushed some of my curls out of my face.

"I'll jump from a bridge. Head first." I deadpanned completely serious.

Kaito cried in a dark and gloomy corner of my room. "You're both so mean to me!" He cried.

Kumimi threw one of my toys at his head. "Get out! You're growing mushrooms in the house! Go wash the dishes or something!"

He scrambled out to avoid having more objects thrown at his head.

Turning back to me, Kumimi took my small little hands into her larger ones. "Keiko," I looked up in a silent question at her tone.

What is she fishing for?

"what would you think of a little sister?" Kumimi asked. She bit her lip nervously when I just remained silent and just stared at her.

I was so out of it I didn't notice when Kumimi had put me down on the floor and sat in front of me, taking me into her arms trying to comfort me. Which I didn't need, I'm not sad or angry. I'm not in denial or can't accept the truth. I am not going to make a huge fuss over something that brings happiness to parents.

Something I don't care about.

She's talking about Nanami right?

She has to be talking about Nanami, she's their only child by birth. That question Kumimi just asked me must be a thoughtful way of easing me into the situation. I don't need to be eased into anything, I'm a damn sixteen-year-old.

Kaito and Kumimi will likely still have the baby if I don't want it or if I do.

Probably already pregnant if I really think about it. Typical move, ask after you're already pregnant.

It's not my choice either way. Besides, could I really deny these two people a healthy child that will eventually end up going on wild adventures? Does my opinion really matter that much in the big picture?

Most likely not.

I absentmindedly nodded my head and my lips moved on their own. "I would love a little sister. It does get pretty lonely around here with nobody my in my age group I could possibly play with.." I mumbled and hugged Kumimi.

Hugs are only okay if I initiate them first.

Kumimi pressed a kiss to my cheek. "Oh Keiko, after the baby is born we'll take so many pictures and go to many places. Mommy will definitely have gotten that job promotion by then," she said stroking my head. I think she mainly said the last part more for confidence to herself.

Money...

"You're taking this surprisingly well. How about we make a deal? Do you want to know what it is?" Kumimi asked and I couldn't help the curiosity and excitement bubbling inside my stomach. I nodded my head.

This is Kumimi we're talking about, her deal will challenge me just like our shopping trips did.

"Okay, this won't be easy. Are you really ready?" Kumimi asked staring deep into my eyes.

I nodded my head once more this time with more hesitation. What could it be? Something possible I hope.

"Alright, If you can raise twenty dollars by the time the baby comes...I'll buy you a bike of your very own when you're old enough to ride one." Kumimi finished and my eyes widened.

A one-year-old earning twenty dollars. Possible but hard, especially for the child of a poverty-stricken household. Now, how dat supposed to work.

I beamed up at Kumimi. I could finally have a mode of transportation when I get older instead of having to depend on her to get me somewhere. A way to get away from this place and explore, see what's all different in the world! That twenty dollars shouldn't be hard to raise at all!

"Deal! Deal! Deal! Bless you, Caretaker!" I exclaimed shaking her hand rapidly and Kumimi giggled. Not fazed by my obvious reluctance to calling her mother or she honestly didn't notice. I think its the first most likely.

Just then Kaito ran back into the apartment. "You won't believe this year's lottery prize! Honey, we'll be rich! It only cost twenty dollars for four number to enter!"

"Where do you plan to get the money to pay for those numbers?" Kumimi asked dangerously sweet, smiling at Kaito.

He laughed nervously and scratched the back of his head. "Well about the money...Honey, how about a loan?"

I blushed in embarrassment that I'd even allowed that creature to touch me, let alone ruffle my hair.

In my defense, I was being detained through most of it.

Kumimi brought her balled fist up and punched him on the back of the head. "You'll get no money from me!" She exclaimed huffing. Stomping over to where I still sat on the floor she sat on her legs. Her eyes seemed to look straight into my soul.

I sweat dropped at her look of absolute concentration.

"Keiko, I don't want you to ever tell Mr. Useless where the money is okay?" She placed a hand on my barely there shoulder. "Promise me."

"Promise.." I said. I'd forgotten wherever the hell you'd said where it's located at anyways.

Kaito slumped back into his own little corner of my room and started to cry comical tears, picking at old mushrooms from last time. "You're both so mean to me! I was only trying to help..."

Kumimi hushed him when I yawned tiredly rubbing my eyes.

Agh, stupid baby body for getting tired so easily.

She stroked my hair and rocked me back and forth, humming a calming song that succeeded in putting me to sleep in her arms.


"Keiko, what do you think we should name the baby girl?" Kumimi asked leaning back in her chair resting her back.

Her stomach is huge now.

It's been a few months now since Kumimi had somewhat indirectly informed me of her pregnancy.

It was what I had already suspected. Kumimi was already at least two weeks into pregnancy with Nanami when she had asked me. How I didn't see the symptoms of pregnancy before is beyond me. Maybe it was because I used to just sit around my room reading folktales.

Mainly about the Bake-Kujira. Which by the way are interesting creatures that deserve more recognition. The Bake-kujira is a mythical Japanese yōkai from western Japan. It is supposedly a large ghostly skeleton whale and is said to be accompanied by strange birds and fish.

During those months, Kaito has been coming and going more than he'd normally. I suspect it is because Kumimi and he got into more arguments now that there's a baby coming. Kumimi wants Kaito to stay more and actually get a job that has a steady income. Not gambling then not even winning the big bucks.

Of course, two children to raise takes money, which they don't currently have. Kaito doesn't really think that its necessary for him to get a job because he's gonna win big next time. He thinks the baby can just share a futon with him and Kumimi. Kumimi has been fighting him on that idea tooth and nail and sometimes I even think they're fighting so much that they might actually get a divorce but somehow they always make up.

Maybe they're just faking it for my sake and there's really still tension in the air between them. They don't need to do that either though, I've seen fighting couples a lot and my parents could be a prime example.

"I don't really know," I lied, "It has to be a pretty name..." I said tapping my chin with a pencil.

"Well the baby is going to come in just two weeks, on your birthday, and we have no idea what to call her," Kumimi said tiredly.

I could see it in her eyes too. She's tired and overworked. Having to take care of me and Kaito is a very stressing job for one woman to handle.

I'd yet to find a way to raise twenty dollars and I only have two weeks left.

Kaito's either working double shifts at his job or out gambling. Sometimes meaning more food for me.

When I turn four or five I'll at least be able to start help cooking or cleaning. "Oh, Keiko! What is your mother going to do?" Kumimi said sighing dramatically.

I smirked behind my hand. "Well, we could start brainstorming names that start with an 'N'?" I offered to try to help push her along so it'll be quicker.

I really just wanted to get the baby named already so I could go back to reading my tale. I'd saw a coloring page at the end of the book and I'm really wanting to try out some of the new crayons I recently got.

Surprisingly actually trying to color inside the lines of art books is hard. At first, I thought it would be easy since I have been able to do it in my past life. This body just doesn't want to cooperate with me.

"That's a wonderful idea! Hm, how about Nana?" Kumimi asked and I shook my head reading a few more lines.

"Naki?" Kumimi asked tapping her chin.

I let out a disgusted noise, flipping the page.

"Well, maybe not Naki. I want to name the baby something that'll sound lovely with your name," she said and I ignored the happy feeling threatening to show on my face at the discovery.

I coughed to cover stop my smile from showing.

"I'm sure the name will come to you sooner or later. The right side of your brain should be working quite fine." I said hopefully encouragingly.

For some odd reason, Kumimi continued to stare at me strangely. It's like she's looking at me but seeing somebody else at the same time. Kumimi sometimes gets like that whenever I do something that is too smart for my age or offers advice once in a while to calm her down after she has an argument with Kaito.

I wanted her to stop looking at me like that. Just do something to get her to stop looking at me like that.

"You're so smart for your age, Keiko" Kumimi said and she had an adoring tone. She may not have been staring at me weirdly anymore but I have a weird feeling about today.

I just nodded my head, I already knew that. Though unexplainable fear seeped into my bones. What if she's somehow found out I'm not who she thinks I am?

I flipped back two pages starting to read again.

"Keiko, will you come here?" Kumimi asked and I noticed how she avoided uses 'can'. Of course, I can come to her. I started walking, though a bit wobbly three months ago.

Closing my book deciding I'd just start over from the top later, I stood up. Now only having to barely use the table for assistance from the table, I made my way towards Kumimi slow but steadily.

Sitting down in front of Kumimi on the floor she patted her lap. Having understood the message, I climbing onto her lap. Consciously avoiding her baby bump.

She brushed my shoulder length curls to one side. "Tell me what's wrong? You can tell your mother anything."

I had to think of a lie really quickly. How am supposed to tell her I'm actually a seventeen-year-old girl, stuck in a baby's body that she is raising? That's right, I don't tell her.

"I'm sorry.." I mumbled.

"What for?" She encouraged me to continue speaking.

I grabbed her hand she was using to run through and detangle my curls. Setting it down on my lap, I bit my lip.

"I don't see you as my mother or Kaito as my father," I said finally and Kumimi turned silent.

Deciding I needed to explain, that she desired an explanation I continued. "I remember...I remember my real parents clear as day. I love them and they're far away from me now." I wiped away my tears in a rush. "I don't think I'll ever see them again but.."

Kumimi opened her mouth to comfort me but I stopped her.

"I feel immensely grateful towards both of you, may even care 'bout you both, but never as my parents," I said clenching my fist feeling as if I've cheated Kaito and Kumimi.

I gasped and looked up when I felt a hand rest gently on my head. Kumimi had a gentle yet hurt smile on her face and I flinched. Looking back down because I couldn't stare any longer in her eyes.

I'm a horrible guest to have over. Not to mention an asshole.

She used the tips of her fingers to tilt my chin upwards to face me. "Keiko, I've known quite some time now that you don't regard us as your real parents." My eyes widened in shock.

She leaned back in her chair then. She looked at the ceiling. "You were always so much smarter than the other children. Knowing things you shouldn't, couldn't have even discovered yet. " I flinched again. "Those determined eyes to accomplishing a task sooner than others. Yet so uninterested eyes to objects that a normal child would find fascinating. When I'd dangled my work keys in front of your face you looked ready to burn them more than anything." She said giggling and I flushed in embarrassment.

The sound of keys jingling together for long periods of time gets annoying, borderline maddening even…..Is she going to kick me out, give me up and lay me on somebody else's doorstep now?

As if she somehow sensed my fears she pulled me into an awkward hug. "Though you know…. I really don't mind. I'm actually glad you shared that with me. Even more so happy that you don't resent or hate us." Kumimi said.

"Never." My mouth had moved and formed the words without my permission.

Kumimi sighed and a tension I hadn't noticed before went away. "I'm so glad…"

I looked up after a moment when Kumimi remained silent far too long to see that she had fallen asleep.

More tired than I'd initially suspected.

I sighed, shaking my head smiling. I may not hate it here but they've both made my stay here comfortable. Never have I felt I needed to be more than I already am.

It'll never truly be 'home' though.

It's just like Kumimi to not show how really tired she is to her supposed little daughter. I mean what parent would truly tell their babies how tired they really are? What would be the point? Kumimi is being independent and annoyingly stubborn.

I need some way to make money.

I walked to the closet and pulled out a blanket and spread it out over her.

I then went to my room, grabbed my journal, and began to write some more in code which is actually just English slang words from 2016.

I needed to plan for what I'm going to do and hopefully, Kaito and Kumimi don't think to go looking around my room for anything.

Even though Kamisama Kiss isn't even near as a dangerous of manga like Naruto or Bleach I still needed to prepare. My baby sister, nonblood related, is going to grow up and become a Land God and I'll have to be able to protect her and myself until then and after. I don't plan on doing much, just a few touches here and there.

I know she had the protection of Tomoe, but Tomoe isn't going to be there to protect Nanami twenty-four seven.

I made sure to underline twice Nanami learning self-defense.

Honestly, the manga had said something about Kumimi teaching Namami to be independent and rely on no man. Those teachings must have gone in one ear and flow out the other.

All through the manga, Namami depended on others. From keeping up the shrine, protection, money, food, and company. It had also grabbed my attention that she'd neglected to go to school once she became a Land God and the fact that I've never seen her leave to work. Maybe my memory is fuzzed.

I never did get to finish the manga.

I'll have to start practicing some karate or something to protect myself also. I don't have magical powers like Nanami will or Tomoe. I refuse to be weak and need protection.

Just like before...

Plus even though this manga isn't all that dangerous in my eyes I still have a likelihood of being killed. Dying once is already enough for me and I really don't want to waste this life the same way I wasted my first one.

So when Nanami is born Kumimi and Kaito will be focusing their attention onto Nanami so I'll have time to myself to put those plans into action. Cross my fingers and pray everything goes right.


I was indeed correct when Nanami was born they were focusing more on her. I do understand why though, Nanami doesn't have the knowledge I'd already had from my first life. She's more curious, more unaware, more needy, whinier. So that means Nanami needs to be supervised more than I needed.

Which means way more time to myself and practice.

I am now three years old and I'm pretty sure I'm a little bit too developed for my age. I'm a little bit taller than the average three-year-old child. Plus I also believe I'm more adorable than a normal two-year-old if I do say so myself.

I stood looking at myself in the mirror.

February had only just ended three days ago beginning the month of March. February twentieth was the date Nanami was born on and now that's she's here I have to get to work.

Plain blue shorts and a normal t-shirt with a jacket and some gloves to keep my hands warm. Even though February is considered the last month of winter it is still a bit chilly outside and I really don't want to get sick. Getting sick is out of the question, I didn't put getting sick in my plans and to-do list.

Getting sick means going to the doctor or buying medicines which means spending money Kumimi and Kaito don't have.

Okay, taking a deep breath I straightened out my back and smoothed out my clothing.

Okay, Sarah, this is it, no turning back now. You're not allowed to turn back now and go to sleep.

I crept out of my room slowly.

I looked both ways, nothing. The hall is quiet just like every other part of the house except for the living room where I heard the TV on. I sneaked around the corner and saw Kaito sitting down, drinking a cup of pink liquid, probably juice. He is watching some commercial advertising a tasty looking bowl of soup and different new drinks I've never seen before in my life.

I was very tempted to just join him and stay for the rest of the commercial out of curiosity, but if I wanted step number one of my plans to work I needed to get out of the house and start searching for a person and or place that teaches karate.

I took a recount of all my possible ways of sneaking out without Kaito noticing me if I wanted to leave out through the front door. Figuring that it's physically impossible unless I am a ninja specializing in stealth.

Agh, why does being reborn and sneaking out of your own house have to be so hard? Yeah, that was a rhetorical question, sorry.

Looking back at Kaito I saw that he is still sitting in front of the TV watching the screen, focusing on something hard. I shrugged my shoulders and headed for the back door.

It doesn't take too long to get to the back door. Opening the door softly not wanting to make any noise I shut it back, checking down the hall to see if Kaito had moved any and….no he was still seated in front of the TV.

Good.

Moving across the distance to get over the fence separating our house from the neighbors I quickly got out of their yard before I was seen as fast as I could.

Once I'd done that I walked down the street enjoying the smell of the outdoors.

I'm free at last to move about the way I please without having to depend on Kumimi to take me somewhere!

It feels nostalgic, ya know. Here I am again after three years of not being able to do anything on my own and now I'm free. Well sort of, I still have to get back before an hour passes so I'll beat Kumimi and Nanami back from the doctor visit they went on.

Nanami had started to get a fever so Kumimi had to get her checked out and left me and Kaito alone at the house. Which I believe is a stupid idea and I'll gladly voice it if she ever asks my opinion on the matter of leaving a child with a gambling addict that tends to vanish a lot and doesn't return for months. Kaito normally comes back with large amounts of new depts, I think by now he even has some loan sharks on his tail now. Though as long as they don't mess with Nanami, Kumimi, or me I'm cool.

After about fifty minutes of searching, I decided to return home going through the front door this time and using the excuse that I was just playing out in the yard by myself and he didn't notice because I didn't want to disturb him while he was watching the TV. He just shrugged his shoulders and went back to watching the TV and I decided after changing my clothes to join him also.

It didn't take very long for Kumimi and Nanami to get back and even then Nanami was sleeping peacefully in Kumimi arms and she had decided to take Nanami up to our shared room to get a good rest while she cooked dinner.

I offered to help like the good little daughter I am. Besides this can be a very wonderful learning experience for me since I don't know how to cook anything but really American and some Spanish style dishes and not any Japanese dishes to cook.


It's been two years since I had first gone out to search for a place to teach me karate. Yes, I did find a place that teaches karate but the place is so obvious and closes it shocks me to this very day.

The place I go to is Mr. Hayako's house/dojo, which is only a block away from our house. I've been studying under him to learn to defend myself and it turns out that he has a daughter the same age as me though she is a month younger than I am according to Kumimi. Her name is Ein, which I thought was weird because Ein is a German name but she told me that her mother is German.

Surprisingly, I and Ein immediately took a liking to each other and we got along great which lead sensei to put me against Ein every time we had a spar to see for each of us was coming along in our wiped the floor with me every single time we spared against each-other and to make it worse she brags about it.

Sensei is a very generous but strict, kind old man. He's very easy to talk to and get along with once I actually made the effort to get to know him.

During those training sessions, I haven't been allowed to actually do the attacks, just practicing the stances until I've built up more body strength because most of all of the attack depended on your strength and speed. Speed is one of the things I can say I am more advanced at than Ein, sure she has more strength than me but I am way faster than her.

Sensei suggested that I take home two of his dumbbells so I could work on my physical strength while Ein has to run the block daily till she surpasses me in a race. I think sensei just doesn't like the fact that I'm faster than his daughter very much.

Kumimi is a very tough woman to convince. I had to clean the house for two months. Help set the table and cook the meals for three whole months, plus I had to get all A's in my classes or else I'd have to stop training and focus more on my studies.

However, I am only in the third grade. Third-grade studies are beyond easy for my mind. I would have skipped a few grades but that would mean more work for me. Honestly, I didn't factor in school on my plan's list. Having to be at school for seven hours a day, except on weekends, really does put a dent in my progress in training, another reason why Ein is better than me. Ein doesn't have to go to school until she's old enough to go to high school.

"Nanami, darling you can't eat that yet! Keiko get in here and help me!" I heard Kumimi shout from the kitchen frantically. I set down my magazine I was reading and wandered into the kitchen to see Kumimi trying to pull a piece of rotten meat from Nanami's mouth but Nanami is holding onto like her life depends on it with her teeth. She looks like a hungry crazy dog that hasn't eaten in weeks, maybe years.

Disgusting. But promising, definitely blackmail material.

My eyes widened in amusement, my right hand reached for the camera laid out on the stand beside the kitchen door. I quickly took a picture and set the camera back down and proceeded to laugh until I was rolling around on the floor holding my sides.

Kumimi growled at me with her face flushed in embarrassment. Heck, I would be proud of Nanami if she wasn't trying to give herself food poisoning by eating raw meat. "Nanami let go right now! Keiko Momozono get over here now and get your sister!" Kumimi exclaimed and I'm pretty sure some of the neighbors could hear her.

I tried to get up but fall back down laughing. Nanami than let go of the meat. Kumimi sighed in relief and slumped over exhausted against the counter. She turned her gaze to me and glared.

Oh boy.

"Sorry Kumimi-san, I couldn't help myself." I sang out smiling widely and I couldn't stop the giggles from escaping my mouth again.

Kumimi scoffed. "You think this is funny huh? Well, you're little sister just went rapid and tried to eat raw meat! She could get sick!" Kumimi said exasperatedly waving around the piece of steak in her hand through the air.

I giggled again.

"This is not a funny matter young lady! Wha-wait, stop Nanami you can't eat that, it's what Mommy uses to wash dishes with!" Kumimi rushed over to Nanami who was about to squeeze dish liquid into her mouth.

I burst out laughing finally deciding that Kumimi needs the help and scooped Nanami up into my arms grinning. "Well sister of mine, you really did do an awesome job at pestering Kumimi-san today! How about you come hang out with me while she finishes the food?" I suggested.

Nanami threw her hands up into the air. "Yay, big sis is going to play with Nanami!" Nanami exclaimed and I smiled placing her onto my shoulders and held her legs so she wouldn't fall.

Kumimi perked up. "Yes! Take her with you! Matter of fact, take this pot that I borrowed from Mr. Hayako back to him, please." she picked up a big pot from the counter. "Tell him I said thank you too!" Kumimi said shoving a pot into my hands and practically pushing me out of the house. I just sighed shaking my head at her tactics.

Poor Kumimi, it's very stressful taking care of two kids and having to basically care for her husband also. I wonder if Kaito even helps to pay the bills around the house any? I wonder when he's going to come back from his stupid gambling trip and just stay for a while to play with Nanami some more.

"Sis.." I heard a sad voice say. I wonder what's the matter with Nanami, oh I hope she isn't hurt anywhere. I hummed as a gesture to continue speaking adjusting the pot in my hand and placing Nanami back onto the ground. Suddenly Nanami gripped my hand tightly, stopping me from continuing walking. Nanami stared up at me with a fierce emotion in her eyes. I stared at her confused.

"What's the matter sister of mine?" I asked truly concerned.

"Nanami wants to be around so more but sis doesn't want to be around Nanami no more," Nanami said sadly and tears started to form in the corners of her eyes.

I started to panic a little and quickly set the pot down on a bench I sat down too and pulled Nanami into my lap and hugged her tightly. How could I have been so stupid? Of course, Nanami would feel like I don't like her if I don't give her the attention she, deserves.

Nanami is still just a child and at a very young age to be influenced. With training, school, planning I almost forgot about the fact that I have to give Nanami attention and love as an older sister. I should have already been doing that, I shouldn't have to be reminded by my younger sibling.

I felt tears of prickle my eyes but not for that reason. "I'm so sorry my young minion in the making." Nanami pulled back a little and placed her small chubby hands onto my cheeks stained with tears. Looking up at me with her large round confused brain eyes I felt like crying even harder. Those innocent eyes should never have to feel sad because of me.

"Nanami didn't mean to make sis cry!" Nanami said apologizing. "Please stop crying sis! Nanami doesn't want sis to cry anymore!" Nanami exclaimed and started to squish my cheeks together, or well tried to but she is still a child with no much strength.

I wiped away my tears and nodded my head.

Using fake tears against a child, what a pathetic person I've become.

I grabbed Nanami's hands in mine and pressed them against my heart. "Nanami, as long as my heart is beating I'll always love you. If there is blood running through my veins I'll cherish and protect you. So if you're ever feeling sad or something happens to you; your big sister Keiko will always be there, Okay?" I said firmly staring Nanami down. Nanami nodded her head and hugged me tightly and I hugged her back.

Should I feel worse knowing I really only said those things to water the seeds I've been planting in her head?

Yes, yes I should.

Suddenly the bushes behind us began to ruffle and I jumped up pushing Nanami behind me. I got into a fighting stance ready to defend my sister and myself.

If it's actually something serious I'm most confident that'll I will have no way to protect either of us. Learning stances to attacks and building strength doesn't really teach me the defense moves.

"Come out whoever or whatever you are!" I shouted and felt embarrassed. If it turns out to be just a squirrel or a rabbit I'll officially die right here and now of shame.

I was about to throw the pot and make a run for it with Nanami when a blond headed boy appeared. Hair slicked back that spiked at the ends, wearing shorts, and a plain red t-shirt came stumbling out of bushes waving his hands around frantically panicked.

He looked oddly familiar for some reason and by the looks of it he seems a little bit older than me. "Wait! Wait don't hurt me, I was just going to the park when I overheard your conversation! I'm sorry! I won't ever do it again!" he shouted kneeling on the ground.

I suddenly had an instinct feeling to be sadistic. I held the pot like a weapon above my head nodding my head sagely at him. "You're right, this won't ever happen again." I crept closer to him slowly.

He began to shake his head rapidly. "No! I promise it won't happen again!"

I nodded my head. "I promise it won't happen again either, friend." I heard Nanami begin to giggle from behind me. She knows I'm only kidding right now because this is exactly the same type of situation we saw on TV a few days ago when Kumimi had to clean up her room and wanted me and Nanami to stay in one spot. So we chose in front of the TV, obviously.

"Nanami wants to quiet him down some too!" Nanami exclaimed happily picking up a stick and ran over to him. He screamed and scrambled backward until he hit the bench. I gave a fake menacing giggle just like off of the TV shows.

"Please do not kill me!" He shouted and the people walking by began to stop and stare suspiciously at us three. I could image this looks pretty bad. Two kids surrounding another child carrying dangerous objects. I quickly closed the distance between us, kneeling down grabbing him by the front of the shirt I yanked him forward so his face was close to mine and I held the put under his chin lifting his head up.

"Believe me, boy, if you tell anybody about that gushy moment I will find you…and destroy whatever social life you have. Got it, buddy?" I asked snaking my arm around his shoulder and laughed so the people will go ahead and pass around.

Dang people are just so nosy nowadays.

He nodded his head wildly and Nanami pouted holding her stick in the air. "Aw, Nanami wants to play with...with...weak boy?" Nanami asked raising her eyebrow confused. I also turned my head to stare at the boy.

"What is your name anyway?" I asked and I grabbed Nanami and placed her onto my lap and she started to play with strands of my curly hair. I looked and saw that he stilled looked scared but also annoyed, probably at Nanami's comment. "Stop looking like that. Besides we weren't actually going to do anything to you. We saw it off of a TV show and decided you seemed like the perfect victim-I mean person to try it on." I said recovering from my slip-up. He still didn't look that convinced.

Nanami and I didn't see it coming when he jumped up and raised his fist into the air. "I'm the great Isobe!" the boy now named Isobe exclaimed proudly.

My hands stilled on Nanami and I froze. My eyes seemed to zero in on him and I began thinking.

If Isobe became friends with Nanami early on in life then he wouldn't bully her in high school. Which also means she'd have a friend at school most likely in some of her classes. Even though Isobe seemed my age or older, I'm sure his intelligence happened to be piss poor, so he'd definitely have some classes with Nanami.

I patted the spot beside me on the bench. "Sit minion."

He flushed red. "I'm not your minion and you can't tell me what to do!" Isobe said crossing his arms.

When I held up the pot menacingly he sat down quickly.

Nearly spineless….I made a mental note to work on that.


-Redone and hopefully better-

Never let it not be said that in anime the laws of the real world don't apply. Especially in Kamisama Hajimeshita. Let me know your thoughts on this new version of 'Rukaru' now turned 'Keiko'.