Chapter 02
Next morning…
The sun shining brightly, and the birds was singing joyfully above the trees. The clouds were forming shapes that compliments the deep blue sky.
A gentle breeze started blowing by, into the windows of the simple house.
It blew into the cheeks of Sharyu. Who was still sleeping peacefully under the comfort of her sleeping bag. Nezumi was sleeping peacefully too, it felt like he was in total unison with his bed.
The warming heat of the sun shines through their room just like a warm glow. It was comfortable and they were at peace. But then again, are they?
…..
Sharyu: Huh? Where am I?
Sharyu started walking on a mysterious dark plain. Nothing was to be seen nor to be heard. She was at a place of pure emptiness. But she had a bad feeling, it's like there's something waiting for her upfront. But she did not know why.
Determined to continue. She placed both her hands to her chest and proceeded with caution.
Sharyu: I don't know what that feeling is…but I'm ready to face it!
She thought to herself. As she continued on the dark path. She could see something upfront, it was an object. But it was still too far and fuzzy, so she walked even closer for a clear view. It was a brown door made out of rigged wood, its scars carved out from of the hell fires of war. Reminiscing for the past, she began to touch the ridges of the wood and felt for it.
Sharyu: Poor thing, you must have been through a lot…a lot of pain.
Sharyu: Don't worry, I will definitely save you!
Filled with even more confidence, she turned the doorknob and headed on to what's beyond.
But little does she know, it was something so horrifying, that even after all the times she's been through, she still wouldn't be able to cope with it.
She turned the door knob and went inside…
Sharyu:*stares*
Beyond her sight lies the dead bodies of those that she couldn't save nor help, the people, the citizens, the animals, and the children, from all countries. Her body was paralyzed, and shackled up with fear. It was eating her inside out. And nothing could save her.
She immediately dropped to her knees and begged it to stop, but the scene just grew darker and darker. She saw people cutting each other's throats, and children getting chopped off, as they dine on their blood with a happy grin. Families getting slaughtered like bulls and sold off to other countries for money. And all the peace treaties she had made, be broken off into a huge chaotic war.
She heard the sound of black guns and smelled the scent of silver gunpowder. She couldn't handle it, she wanted it to end, so she ran quickly to what's upfront. And found a quiet place to rest.
Sharyu: Why are you letting me see all this…WHY!
At the peak of her cry, she saw something. Someone she knew was standing in front of her.
Boyfriend: Sharyu…
Sharyu: Darling, is that you?
Boyfriend: *hugs her* Yes…
Sharyu: I missed you a lot!...
Boyfriend: Me too, and it's okay…it's all over. I'm here for you…
Sharyu: *started to smile*
But suddenly, she heard a loud gunshot…
She looked everywhere from left to right, but the source was nowhere to be found. She felt that it pierced something, but what?
Only to find out, that it was her boyfriend's heart. And he dropped dead on her lap.
Sharyu: *stares in shock*…No…No…this cannot be happening!
Sharyu: *shakes his boyfriend* YOU'RE SLEEPING RIGHT? PLEASE TELL ME YOU'RE SLEEPING! I DON'T WANT YOU TO DIE! WE'RE GOING TO GET MARRIED, REMEMBER?!
She continued to shake his body. But he was just gone, blood was slowly flowing out from her hands, and scattered everywhere on the floor.
She also saw the other warriors, dead before her eyes, and her family and her friends as well. She couldn't save anyone, and she broke down mentally and physically.
Streams of the blood began to form into hands of the fallen, they started dragging her down with them. And they were screaming with agony and pain, "save me" "save me" they continued to beg.
And Sharyu was pushed beyond her limit of what she could handle. She struggled to break free, but they kept on dragging her down and down. Into nothingness.
Until the point, they began to rip off her flesh and dine on it.
Sharyu: PLEASE END ALL OF THIS! I CAN'T HANDLE IT ANYMORE! I CAN'T TAKE ANY MORE OF THIS! SOMEONE, SAVE ME!
Nezumi: SHARYU!
Snapped. As Nezumi's voice echoed through her ears.
It completely shattered the bad illusion that she was having. Just like glass.
Nezumi was placing his hands firmly beside her shoulders. It felt warm, and relieving. Because she really needed someone to be by her side right now. The weight of her dream was too much, that she couldn't bear alone.
Sharyu: Nezumi-kun?
Nezumi: It's fine, you just had a bad dream.
Sharyu: Yes…*rests at his chest*
Nezumi: H-hey, what are you doing? You have a boyfriend!
Sharyu: I know…but please let me rest here for awhile…
Her voice was weak and faint. Thus, he allowed her to rest.
Nezumi didn't know what dream she had, but it was something not worth talking about. He could see her T-shirt covered up with sweat and her whole body felt just like ice.
They stood there silent for a while…under the gentle warmth of the morning sky.
Later on…
Sharyu: Nezumi-kun, are you done with the books?
Nezumi: Yes Ma'am, and since when did I sign up for this. ==
Sharyu: Well, you have to take the responsibility for yourself once in a while~
Nezumi: What a drag…
They both were cleaning up the room. Nezumi was assigned to pick up all the scattered magazines and placed them back to the shelf while Sharyu was vacuuming the leftover dust from the floor.
After cleaning it for a while, the room was nice and sparkly again. And Nezumi now know how bad of a mess he can made from his own laziness, as he was sapped from all the work.
Nezumi: It's a nightmare. *lays on bed*
Sharyu: Hehe, have you learned your lesson?
Nezumi: Absolutely…==
Sharyu: Anyways, today I'll be heading off to continue on my journey~
Nezumi: Oh I see, so what do plan to do now?
Sharyu: Hmm, I'm not quite sure. But I heard that the government got themselves a new pacifist now. And I must say, she's really doing an even better job than me. And I don't see any wars at the moment, so I guess I'll go back to my boyfriend's place for now.
Nezumi: But don't you want a job?
Sharyu: *scratches head* Ehehehe, that may be the only thing that's bugging me right now. Maybe I'll get to do pastries at a bakery shop.
Nezumi: No way, you make pastries! Can I try some!
Sharyu: Haha don't worry, I'll make some for you another day.
Nezumi: it's a promise though~
Nezumi: And why don't we grab breakfast? I need to go to school soon, or my class prez is going to kill me again.
Sharyu: Okay, Nezumi-kun ^^
And so, they went out to the door and grabbed some breakfast from a nearby store. After that, they waved goodbye to each other…as they went on their separate ways…
Ring-ring-ring-ring!
Rang the small alarm clock. It has the form of a red rooster covered with a tint of green. Which reminded of…
*Thump* a hand suddenly stopped the continuous screaming of the sound, and lets out a huge yawn.
Niwatori: *yawns* what day is it...
Niwatori no senshi (the warrior of the chicken). She woke up just like a new born baby. Her green hair was scattered along with strands of bunches, and her mouth was covered with drool.
She stretched her arms above her head as she slowly moved her body side to side. A morning stretch routine for the rooster.
Niwatori: Mmn, what a nice weather~
Niwatori: but ouch…my head hurts…
She gently massaged her forehead. The spot where it was stabbed by the Ox warrior. She still remembered it so clearly, like it was just yesterday.
She had the "One man army" to her advantage. And yet it was powerless, before the might of the genius slaughterer.
She slowly got off her bed, and went to the bathroom.
She brushed her teeth with some peachy toothpaste and started to do a cooling mask for her facial treatment. Beauty is a must for the chicken warrior. Just like how she clothed herself during the juuni taisen.
She opened up the shower and began to soak herself with the warming waters of the tub. She laid there silent, visualizing all the things that had happened…
Niwatori: I'm back again…but how? I remember I was having a fight with Ushii no senshi and I was killed. But, why am I back here…
Niwatori: Is this a dream…no…I think it's real…I can feel the warm waters soaking up my skin, and I could feel the coolness of the facial mask too. And I could even smell the scent of the soap.
Niwatori: But…there's just one thing I want to confirm…
Decided to do a small test of pinching herself.
Niwatori: OUCH! THAT HURTS!
Niwatori: Okay, I'm really back…=w=
Finishing the bath. She wrapped herself up with a dry towel, and went outside to her mirror.
She gently blow dried her hair with a medium heat, and arranged her hair bunches back to normal. She later on tied a braid to the right side of her bangs, which compliments her hairstyle just perfectly.
After all that has happened, she decided to head outside to take a breather. But as she opened up her clothing closet…she found that her worse enemy has just returned.
And that is, the choice to make good decisions.
Within the closet hangs a wide selection of clothing. And she was having a rough time picking out the right ones. She might wear a casual red dress, but is it too bright? A white top and pair of shorts, but is it too normal? Her original battle costume…
It's just too revealing!
But after struggling for a while, she finally chose the outfit that she wore last time. A red casual business woman uniform. And she went outside to take a breather.
There was a huge traffic outside. And she could hear the annoying sound of cars honking each other and battling for road cuts.
There was even police in front of the traffic, and they seemed to be struggling to calm down the crowd.
Everyone was rushing on their way back home. Because it's a Sunday~
Niwatori: AH! I CAN'T CALM MYSELF HERE!
She looked around for somewhere quiet and found a grocery store, just up ahead. She decided to head there for her rest.
She went in to the store and bought some snacks, along with a bottle of coke. And she sat there scrolling her phone by the resting area.
Niwatori: *thinks* It's been quite a while ever since the war ended…and I never got to know who the winner was. But I sure hope it's me though…
Niwatori: *Signs* Maybe I should take part in the next juuni taisen? Or maybe not?
Niwatori: Ah! It's so hard to choose!
She continued to sip her coke as she scrolled down the internet for new updates.
Niwatori: Wow, I didn't know they released the new Iphone already! I must buy it! *checks purse*
Niwatori: Heh! This is all I had left?!
Niwatori: *Sobs* This is bad, now I need to find a job too…But, I'm not good at doing anything besides killing and deceiving people!
Niwatori: *rams her head at the table* GOD, PLEASE SAVE ME!
A clerk at the counter heard her cry and continuous nagging. She decided to help her and went to her seat.
Clerk: Erm…Pardon me Miss, but are you interested in working at a maid café?
Niwatori:*Slowly lifts up her head* Heh? Maid café?
Clerk: Yes!*hands her the poster*
Niwatori: "Maid Wonderland"?
Clerk: Yes, it's a new café that opened up just a few days ago. It's still in the process of hiring more people. The owner of this café was a rich man that lived in England, he had already opened up 42 maid cafes across the globe and all of them are super famous! The café has a very high pay too~
Niwatori: That's so amazing, I'll take it!
Clerk: I know right! I'll help you call them right away!
Niwatori: *blush* But…I'm not good at something…
Clerk: Heh? You can't back out on this now!
Niwatori: I-I know, but I'm really not good at…making suggestions…I'm afraid the customers won't like it and I'll get fired!
Clerk: *firmly pressed her shoulder* I KNOW YOU CAN DO IT!
Niwatori: You're so positive!
In the end, she decided to take the job. She walks out the store and followed up the address.
She called up a cab to fetch her. And within few minutes, she had reached the café.
It was a huge café, and there were even seats on the outside. Niwatori started to panic a little. She wasn't sure she was up to the job. Because for a huge place like this, the requirements are normally high.
But despite that, she's still determined to take up the challenge. She clenched her fists and went in…
*Ring-Ring*
She pushed the golden handlebars as she went inside the luxurious room.
The ceiling was dimmed with romantic lights, and the tables were all aligned perfectly across the room. There were some art pieces and photos of the café, hanging up on the reddish brown walls. And it has a vintage feel to it.
There's also a section where you could take pictures with your favored maid girl. And a section for the children as well.
Niwatori stared with amazement. It was such a complete café. Everything was just there. And it followed up to the name perfectly. "Maid Wonderland".
Seconds after she went in, a young girl with cute cat ears started walking up to her…
Maid: Welcome back, master~
Niwatori: O-Oh hello!
Maid: What would you want for today? Or do you just want…me?
Niwatori: *blush* Erm…I'm here to apply for the job.
Maid: Oh, so you're going to be one of us now? Yay!
Niwatori: Yes, and can you show me where the manager is?
Maid: Of course, she's just right over there *points upstairs*
Niwatori: Thank you ^^…
Niwatori walked upstairs.
She was surprised that this café even have a second floor. And it looked exactly like the first. Expectations were getting higher and higher, and Niwatori started to doubt if she's able to handle such pressure.
And finally, she found the manager.
She was drinking on some red wine by the wine section. She was a beautiful woman at her 20's, and she was wearing a black business suit. Her hair was black, with a tied ponytail hanging until her chest area. She had a pair of deep blue eyes, like the ocean. But her eyes showed nothing more, but sorrow for his boyfriend.
Her face was red from all of the drinking. Nonetheless, she was drunk. Her drink addiction was similar to the tiger warrior, but she was even worse. And she laid there drowsing off with a happy face.
Slowly, Niwatori tried to approach her. But she showed nothing more except the face of a drunkard. She was slowly losing confidence.
Boss: Shit, why did he dumped me? Am I not good enough for him? That stupid bastard!
Niwatori interrupted…
Niwatori: Erm, manager? Can I get a job here?
Boss: Yea, yea…do whatever you want…
Niwatori: *shocked* B-but…do I need to fill in an application form or something? An interview?
Boss: Nha fuck those things, you get hired when I said you're hired hehe…
The boss slowly got off her chair and walked up to Niwatori…
She tipped her index finger under her chin and gave a sly grin. Like she wants her. She was quite close to her, so she could feel her hot breath pulsating through all her pores.
And it stinks…
Niwatori: *blush* M-manager!
Boss: You can call me Kyouko, and starting from today…you're all mine!
Kyouko started to harass her cheeks as she seductively stroked her hair. She started to trace her finger from neck to bottom.
But before reaching the **** Niwatori immediately interrupted her…
Niwatori: K-k-kyouko-san, I think you're drunk…why don't we take a rest at the couch. H-here's my phone number. You can call me if anything-
Kyouko: *touched her lips* Shhh…you're being too loud.
Kyouko: But you're quite cute aren't ya, why don't I give you a little kiss? *whispers to her ear*
Niwatori: W-WHAT, A KISS?
Kyouko locked her cheeks into a kiss position as she slowly moved her glossy lips close to hers. It was getting closer and closer, she could feel her hot breath arching in.
She tried to move without rejecting her too much, but Kyouko got her cheeks locked up in a helpless position. And when their lips almost touched…
Niwatori: PLEASE STOP THIS! KYOUKO-SAN!
Without even flinching, she pushed her towards a table.
Her head hit the table hard and she immediately fainted. Luckily, there was no blood. For stars and twinkles were the only things she could see.
Niwatori frozed, as she watched her on the ground. Her pupils widened up with fear and she couldn't even talk. She'd never expect such events to happen for just a mere job application.
She just came here to apply for the job.
She looked around, but luckily there was no one. But there was a constant fear inside of her, like she's going have a severe life sentence in jail.
She slowly moved towards the fainted manager like a robot. And placed her shivering hands to her shoulder, and started to confirm if she's alive.
Niwatori: *pokes* Uhm, Kyouko-san…I know I shouldn't be asking this but…are you okay?
Kyouko: *muttering random language and giggling*
Niwatori: *sobs* I'M DEEPLY SORRY! I DIDN'T MEAN TO DO THAT…IT'S JUST MY SELF-DEFENSE MECHANISM WHEN PEOPLE TRY TO SEXUALLY HARASS ME!
?: There you are, manager. Geez, I was looking for you the entire time! You shouldn't be drinking at an hour like this!
A coarse voice spoke from behind. And Niwatori's whole body immediately shrinked up like a hermit crab. She was so scared, she didn't even want to glance at that person.
She could hear the footsteps coming closer and closer. As well as her life sentence in jail. She thought to herself…
The unknown person finally arrived at the scene, it was not clear, but he was carrying a plastic bag filled with food stocks. And he was now standing beside the shivering chicken warrior.
?: *Tch* damn it manager, could you at least act like a manager for just one day!
?: And this must be the new employee, hey you…
Niwatori: *took a big gulp*….m-m-m-m-me?
?: Yea you, who else am I talking too?
"I'm going to get in trouble", "I'm going to get into trouble", "I'm going to get into trouble" was all her head has to mutter. She wouldn't even dare move a muscle.
?: Hey, I'm talking to you…and why do look sick…there's a nearby hospital just around the corner of this café .
Niwatori: (*I hear nothing, I see nothing, I feel nothing, I'm at peace with myself, this is all an illusion. I'm a Zen Niwatori.)
?: Hey, can you hear me? *touched her shoulder*
Niwatori immediately exploded out of her meditation state…She looked up at the mysterious person and begged for mercy.
Niwatori: I'M DEEPLY SORRY! IT'S NOT MY FAULT! SHE DRANK TOO MUCH AND TRIED TO TAKE MY FIRST KISS AWAY! I SWEAR I WAS INNOCENT! I DON'T WANNA GO TO JAIL!
Niwatori: *paused* Oh…..
?: *paused* you are…..
?: N-N-NIWATORI NO SENSHI!
Niwatori: D-D-DOTSUKU-SAN!
Dotsuku: WHAT! WHY THE HELL ARE YOU HERE!
Niwatori: SAME QUESTION! WHY ARE YOU HERE!
Dotsuku: DON'T DIFFUSE MY QUESTION WITH YOUR QUESTION!
Niwatori: SAME HERE! I THOUGHT YOU WERE DEAD!
Dotsuka: OH, BUT I'M STILL ALIVE. WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO ABOUT IT!
Kyouko: Nannynanny-bubu…teehehehehehehe…
They both looked at the drunkard manager and paused…
Dotsuku: Hmph, if you're looking for a fight I'd say you better participate in the next juuni taisen tournament. Cuz I'm outta that business already.
Niwatori: Heh?
Dotsuku: I work here as a full time chef now, to earn a living for my daughter. I started working here since yesterday, cuz it got a high pay. I ain't got time for your silly fights anymore.
Dotsuku placed the stocks on the table and started to pull up the drunken manager. He took caution, not to wake her up as he gently placed her on a resting couch.
She was sleeping peacefully like a baby and was drooling a lot, so Dotsuku wiped it out with a table cloth.
Seconds later, her face began to swell and became purple. And she instantly bursted out vomit everywhere!
Dotsuku: DAMN IT! MANAGER!
Dotsuku: Oh my god, this is what happened every time she drinks beyond her quota…EVERY TIME! ==
Dotsuku: Hey you, don't just stand there. Come help me out!
Niwatori: M-me?
Dotsuku: Of course! You work here now right? Now come help me!
Niwatori: Yes…
They both tended the sick manager at the couch.
Dotsuku held up a blue bucket for her continuous vomit as Niwatori gently pats her on the back. Dotsuku didn't expect to see her again. Nor will he ever want to, because he had quite a grudge on Niwatori for breaking his face during the war. He even gave her the "One Man Army" and she still betrayed him!
But nonetheless, they both have something to tend to for now…and that is…
Kyouko: *BLAAARK*
Dotsuku: Manager, how long are you going to keep vomiting!
Kyouko: I-I'm fine…I just need some love- *BLAAARK*
Dotsuku: If it weren't for my daughter, I wouldn't even sign up for this!
Kyouko: *pats the annoyed dotsuku* It's okay Dotsuku-kun…I know you love me, and I love you too…*BLAARRK*
Dotsuku: I DON'T LOVE YOU AND I DON'T EVEN INTEND TO!
Niwatori: Uhm…Kyouko-san, I don't think you should talk too much…you really need some rest.
Kyouko: *looks at niwatori* Oh, you're the cutie…what's your name by the way?
Niwatori: It's Niwatori, you can also call me Ryoka. Ryoka Niwa ^^
Kyouko: Oh I see…I guess I'll call you…Tori-chan~ hehehehehe
Niwatori: Y-yes Kyouko-san…I'll work hard from now on *agreed forcefully*
Kyouko: *pats her head and messed up her hair* Hehehe, work hard from now on okay? Tori-chan~ *BLAARRK*
Niwatori: Ah Kyouko-san *continues to pat her back*
Dotsuku: This is not stopping anytime soon. ==
After tending the sick manager for the whole afternoon, it was finally time for closing and night time arrived sooner that they expected.
They managed to get a grab car to send Kyouko back to her home safely. She was still a bit drowsy, so she tried to flirt with the driver a little, ignoring the fact that the driver was already married. She popped out the window and waved them goodbye as she left.
Niwatori and Dotsuku was standing there confused by the fact of how she had gotten to be the manager of this huge café. Regardless of why, it was time to go home.
They decided to head back together…
Dotsuku: *Signs* my arms are falling apart, and I still need to cook for my daughter! ==
Niwatori: Mine too, I was only applying for the job and I never expected it to be this hard. I can't even imagine what would happen when I work here tomorrow.
Dotsuku: Nhaa, you can put that aside. The job's quite easy…she's the one that's hard! ==
Niwatori: *giggles* It's true!
Dotsuku: H-hey why are you laughing, is it so funny?
Niwatori: No it's not that, I'm just laughing about the two of us…
Dotsuku: Huh? What the hell do you mean? You're creeping me out!
Niwatori: *giggles* I mean…we're both warriors right? And we never knew why we're still alive. True. I've did a lot of bad things to you in the past and I've even betrayed you.
Dotsuku: Hmph, so I guess you still remember huh…
Dotsuku: In the end, I really trusted you and I even gave you the "One-man-army" for your advantage. *slaps face with palm* I should'hv ripped you into shreds back then.
Niwatori: But you didn't ^^ and you were eventually going to kill me right? When I don't have any further use for you?
Dotsuku: *Signs* well, that's true…
Niwatori: *smiles at the scenery* you know when you died. I was killed by the Ox warrior as well~
Dotsuku: Huh! Ushii no senshi?! But I gave you the one man army? Isn't that enough!
Niwatori: Nope, I was completely slaughtered…it took no more than a few seconds.
Dotsuku: IT'S BECAUSE YOU DON'T KNOW HOW TO USE IT, BAKA! *hardly slaps her head*
Niwatori: Ouch it hurts, Dotsuku-san!
Dotsuku: Of course it hurts! *Tch* even my adopted daughter is smarter than you!
Niwatori: Huh? Adopted?
Dotsuku: It's a long story...don't bother…
Niwatori: *giggles* But, were still the same…right?
Dotsuku: Sort of the same. And don't even begin to compare me to you! We're different!
Niwatori: Yes, yes. Dotsuku-san~
Dotsuku: Anyways, aren't you going home? It's getting late and I won't care if something bad happens to you. ==
Niwatori: Later on, I need to touch up some things that Kyouko-san listed me to buy.
Dotsuku: Oh okay, then…goodbye.
Niwatori: WAIT!
Dotsuku: Huh? What do you want again?
Niwatori: Erm…I very sorry, about that time…when I pulled off your face. But, I've got no choice…It was for the win and-
Dotsuku: Stop blabbering about it, it's not a big deal anymore. *walks away*
Niwatori: B-But don't you want to have your revenge? Don't you want to kill me?
Dotsuku: *Signs* BAKA! As I said, I'm done with killing. I've got a job to do now, and I must do it for the sake of her. I won't forgive you for what you did back then, but I won't hold a grudge against you…
Niwatori: Dotsuku-san, I think you've become rather complex recently. =w=
Dotsuku: *growls* you're so annoying. Anyways, I'm already done with all those stuff. The Juuni Taisen, the kills, and the business. All of them are meaningless…
Dotsuku: I've finally gotten a nice job now, and I've got more free time to take care of her. We're living peacefully and no one could bother us.
Dotsuku continued to walk away…
Niwatori: *thinks about what he said* Oh…
Dotsuku: NIWATORI!
Niwatori: *snaps* Y-yes, Dotsuku-san!
Dotsuku: *Glanced back at her* work starts at 7 in the morning, and don't be late! Or else I'll really kill you!
Dotsuku: Bye. *waved and go on*
Niwatori: YES, DOTSUKU-SAN!
Niwatori: THANK YOU, DOTSUKU-SAN! *Bows*
The moment she raised up her head, Dotsuku left without a trace. But before he left, he flashed a subtle smile.
Niwatori: I guess he left…
Niwatori: Okay~…time to buy the things for work tomorrow. *checks list*
Niwatori: Let's see, maid uniform, cute ribbon, gloves, cat ears, beer, beer, beer, beer…HEH!
Scrolls down the rest of the list. She found nothing but beer.
Niwatori: Erm…I wonder why Kyouko-san loves alcohol this much.
Niwatori: But nevermind, I should just buy them~
Niwatori skipped her way into the mall as she whispered a happy hymn. She was very happy to meet a fellow warrior today. Even though their relationship isn't near the word friendly, she was just as happy to see him.
Meanwhile, At Dotsuku's house…
Dotsuku: I'm back my little princess~
A young girl with two braids tied to the back of her hair rushed towards the door when she heard the ring of the doorbell. She immediately knew who it was without guessing.
And she hopped into his arms like a bunny.
Dotsuku's Daughter: WELCOME BACK DADDY ^^
Dotsuku: How's my Hime-chan doing at home~
Dotsuku's Daughter: I've been a good today, I've even drawn this for you~
Shows a drawing of her and Dotsuku. Even though it's a children's drawing, its simplicity is enough to make Dotsuku smile.
Dotsuku: Oh, this is so beautiful!
Dotsuku's Daughter: Really Daddy? *eyes sparkle*
Dotsuku: Of course, my Hime-chan is the best artist in the world!
Dotsuku's Daughter: Aww, I love you so much Daddy! *pecks his cheek*
Dotsuku: That's my Hime-chan~ *winks*
Dotsuku: Oh, and you must be starving already. Daddy will cook right away!
Dotsuku's Daughter: Yay! I can't wait to eat Daddy's super delicious food!
Dotsuku: I'm terribly sorry I took so long today, something came up at work.
Dotsuku's Daughter: *thinks* Hmm, did you get a raise?
Dotsuku: Erm, something like that, but it's no big deal. The most important thing is to satisfy my Hime-chan!
Dotsuku hugged her up and spinned her across the room. She was having a lot of fun and smiling, even though she got a broken tooth. She did not know Dotsuku participated in the juuni taisen nor will she ever.
Dotsuku played with his Hime-chan a little to stop her from getting too hungry. He was making a lot of funny faces and noise to get her attention. It was Dotsuku's fun side and he wouldn't show it to anyone except his daughter.
Dotsuku: I'll cook right away. But at the moment, please be a good girl and wait for Daddy okay? *pats her head*
Dotsuku's Daughter: *nods happily* Yes Daddy!
As she settled down, Dotsuku went into the kitchen.
He took a slight glance before going in. He always had a sense of deep peace each time when he saw his daughter. The smile from his daughter really brightens up his day and that became the only motivation for his living.
To keep that smile forever, to cherish it and protect it, is his only goal. For he will bite off and kill all those that come to harm her without hesitation. There's nothing more important to him in this world than his Hime-chan.
Meanwhile, at the kitchen.
He was preparing the food like a master chef at work. Her daughter normally sneaks up to the kitchen to take a peek of what he's cooking. Since the aroma will eventually drag her in anyway.
Dotsuku was pan-frying some chicken breasts under a medium heat. He also prepared a delicious sauce made from black pepper and chilli.
At the side, he was chopping up some onions, garlic, lettuce, tomato, corn and some broccoli for the salad. He finished it up with a drizzle of golden olive oil. It was the perfect meal for her.
Dotsuku's daughter watched in awe as her stomach began to grumble. She was continuously drooling with joy as the scent draws her hunger more and more. She touched her tummy to make it wait a little longer, but failed, due to the emotion of lingering hunger.
She licked her tongue across her lips and decided to go inside. For her secret plan to mug a treat.
Dotsuku immediately sensed her presence due to his sharp senses, He saw her picking up some of the tempura prawns that he had fried just a few seconds ago. It was meant to be an appetizer, but I guess it's not now~
Dotsuku: *stopped at what his doing* Hey now, don't finish it.
Dotsuku's Daughter: It's okay, I'll definitely leave some for Daddy~ *nom nom*
Dotsuku: *smiles* You're becoming a food addict already huh~
Dotsuku's Daughter: *giggles*
Dotsuku: Be patient, dinner's almost ready. Just a few more minutes.
Dotsuku's Daughter: YES DADDY!
She went back outside. And Dotsuku was able to focus on his task again.
He continued to fry up the chicken until its golden brown and added on the sauce to enhance the flavor. Just like a drug. He also fried some crispy wedged potatoes and placed them to the side of the chicken. Finally he added the salad, and the dish was perfect. In taste and in overall design as well.
And finally, it's time for their long awaited dinner.
Dotsuku: Hey, dinner's ready!
Dotsuku's Daughter: YAY!
She rushed towards the table to grab a seat.
Dotsuku carefully placed the meals on her side, and his side as well. She could smell the addicting scent of the food pulling her nearer and nearer. Making her crave for more.
Dotsuku also gave her a light chicken soup made from carrots, tofu and leak to compliment the dish.
They gave thanks, and they started to dig in…
Dotsuku: How's the food, Hime-chan?
Dotsuku's Daughter: It's the best! Daddy is the best cook in the world! *nom nom*
Dotsuku: *delighted* you've really got a sweet mouth there~
Dotsuku's Daughter: But it's really true! *nom nom*
Dotsuku: Yes, yes, but don't eat too fast though, you'll choke yourself.
Dotsuku's Daughter: Yes ^^!
Dotsuku started to think back about the past while seeing her chow down her food. She was eating very happily so he wouldn't want to interrupt her.
Dotsuku: *Hmhmhm* that's my little Baka Hime-chan. While she was very young, her parents sold her to an orphanage and she got into my business. It was a dark business. We searched for children that possess certain kinds of abilities and sell them off to the organization or to the government. But one day, I made a mistake of thinking that she was another one of those children. And I sold her off to the client. She was getting farther and farther away from me, but her eyes kept telling me to save her. And I don't know why, but it really bothered me a little.
Dotsuku: And so they took her away. Later I learned that the client is actually a wanted criminal that buys young kids just to rape them. I made a mistake…a huge mistake. And so I decided to save her…all alone. It was a life and death situation for me, but calling the police will only make things worse since we're an underground business cult. Luckily, I was able to save her and I got her out from the nightmare…as well as the other hostages.
Dotsuku: *smile* But I'm done with all that now. My main job now is to raise her just like my own daughter. I want her to grow up peacefully, into an honest and noble person. And not like a bad example like me.
Dotsuku: I swear I will protect you…even if it costs me my life…
Dotsuku's Daughter: Daddy, do you have some water?
Dotsuku: Huh?
Dotsuku's Daughter: *face became purple*
Dotsuku: HEY, I TOLD YOU NOT TO EAT SO FAST!
Dotsuku immediately poured a glass of warm water and gave it to her. She was coughing a little, but was fine after gulping down huge amounts of the warm liquid.
She lets out a huge burp, and she started to plow down her food again.
Dotsuku: *Signs* Well…
Dotsuku: That's my Hime-chan! ^w^
The next morning…
Ring-ring-ring-ring!
*Thump* Niwatori slammed the alarm with an annoyed expression.
Niwatori: GEEZ, WHY CAN'T YOU JUST SHUT UP FOR JUST- *it's 6:45*
Niwatori: *shocked* S***, I'M GONNA BE LATE!
Remembering Dotsuku's words. She was supposed to arrive at 7. But due to the distance of work and the house she's staying. It seems she might not make it after all. Even after 7.
She rocketed into the bathroom and washed herself quickly. She couldn't even bother doing up her messy hair. Nor even her facial treatment.
She quickly puts on her work clothes and called her agent to take her to the café. And she skipped breakfast as well.
Along the way, she met her worse nightmare…traffic jam.
Niwatori: This is not good, Dotsuku-san is going to murder me for sure.
Niwatori: I can't believe I'm late on the first day!
Niwatori: Erm…can you please drive faster?
Agent: I'm sorry Miss, but this is as fast as I can go.
Niwatori: *sobs* Dotsuku-san, I'm sorry
It's 7:30, and the café was already filled with hungry guests. They were interested in the breakfast menu and they often come here with their kids.
Dotsuku was at the kitchen, cooking with the other chefs. Breakfast orders were coming in like crazy, they did not have any time to rest.
Maid: One morning kiss omelette rice for table 126 please, Dotsuku-san~
Dotsuku: Got it.
Dotsuku: *Sign* Oh man, She's really late on the first day…what the hell is she thinking! Did she betrayed me again?
Chef: Dotsuku-san, hurry it up. We've got more orders coming!
Dotsuku: Oh yes, I'll work on it right now!
Dotsuku: Well if that's the case maybe I shouldn't trust anybody from the Niwa clan…or anybody from the chicken zodiac. What a drag…I'm really going to murder-
Ring-Ring
Before finishing his sentence. The doorbells rang, and a mysterious figure came rushing in. It was none other than Niwatori herself. And she was really sweating a lot.
Kyouko: Oh, here you are…
Niwatori: *pant pant* I-I'm deeply sorry, I got caught up in the traffic. It was very long and I—
Kyouko: Calm down Tori-chan, take a deep breath.
Niwatori: *takes a deep breath* Kyouko-san, I'm really sorry I'm late on the first day, I promise I won't do it again!
Kyouko: It's fine, it's not a big deal. Heh, everyone gets late with this tight schedule. Even me.
Kyouko: *pushed her to the counter* Now hurry up and get to work!
Niwatori: Yes Kyouko-san, I'll give it my all!
Dotsuku: *Psst* hey you!
Niwatori: Ah Dotsuku-san, I'm truly sorry I ignored your instructions *bows*
Dotsuku: Nevermind that, serve this to the customer right there. He's been complaining for a while.
Niwatori: *Shocked* M-me?
Dotsuku: Of course, It's your first day, now come on!
Not having any time to redeem herself. Niwatori took the omelette rice to the customer's table.
The customer was a grumpy businessman who had gotten the wrong order twice and the maids were afraid of him due to his yakuza look. He sat down complaining to his wife and some of the customers were intimidated by his loud and coarse voice.
Niwatori took a big gulp as she saw her customer. She was shell shocked her first customer was a grumpy one. Nonetheless, she took it as a form of warrior's training and went towards his table.
Niwatori: Sorry for the wait master, here you go~
Fierce Man: Huh? Took you long enough. I was starving! *eats*
Fierce Man: Yup, that's the correct order. And why did it took so long, I thought the service here was one of the best? *death stare*
Niwatori: I-I'm truly sorry about your dissatisfaction, but we will work on it more from now on. And thank you for your honesty, Master~. *bows*
Fierce Man: *blush* Ahem, okay I got it…I come here often, so I expect good service next time. You may go now.
Despite being dismissed, Niwatori still felt something more could be done. It was the perfect chance to show to the boss what she's really capable of and to redeem herself. She took a deep breath and went in again.
Niwatori: *takes menu* and may I interest you in our new breakfast set? It's called "morning sunrise"
Fierce Man: Oh, Is it good?
Niwatori: Oh of course, it's a dish with butter flavored scrambled eggs and two sandwiches. One with vanilla cream filling and one with sweet milk filling. Toppled it up, with some baked beans and sausages. And mind if I tell you, our sausage here is made from freshly pasteurized chicken and imported from other countries. And if you're a chicken lover just like me? You'll love it~
Fierce Man: *blushes* Oh Nice, I think I'll order one please!
Fierce Man's Wife: Darling!
Fierce Man: What? I can't reject this young girl's offer…she's a VIP here!
Fierce Man: Thank you for your good service Miss, it was the best that I had since I came here. The other maids doesn't seem eager to talk to me that much.
Fierce Man's Wife: That's because you scared all of them!
Fierce Man: What, don't blame me, I was not born with this look you know!
Fierce Man: But you're truly the best maid that I've ever seen today, are you new here? What's your name Miss?
Niwatori: Oh, you can just call me Tori-chan~
Fierce Man: *blush* O-okay, Tori-chan…
Dotsuku: Man look at her, just the first few minutes she's was scared frozen but now, she's adapting to the customers, and to the environment as well.
Dotsuku: Hmph, just like proud chicken, adapting to the vibrant colors of its feathers~ As I might say.
Kyouko: You're strange when you act smart like that.
Dotsuku: Huh? Manager? Why the hell are you here!
Kyouko: I came here to see how the new girl is doing. And I must say, she's pretty experienced in this job.
Dotsuku: I highly doubt it. ==
Kyouko: Heh, you're just salty because she's better than you.
Dotsuku: Hmph, why are we even having this conversation.
Kyouko: You're such a nasty boy sometimes, Dotsuku-san~
Dotsuku: The way you said it makes me feel even worse…
Kyouko: Aww come on, don't be grumpy dog!
They continued to quarrel through the conversation.
Niwatori was busy making sure that the customers were comfortable with the environment. She started to blend in and adapt to the job.
Lots of people were asking to take photos with her, due to her good service and socializing with the customers. It was truly a magnificent day for the warrior of the chicken.
And for Dotsuku-san, he had finally got to settled down and have gotten a job at this luxurious café. And he was able to meet his daughter every day. It's a blessing for him and he will always cherish it forever…until the day he dies.
On the next episode: What will the Tiger do, when it was given another chance to meet the Ox?
Emotions will flare, tears will be shed, and the pain between the two warriors…..will finally come to an end…..
