Author's Note: (I don't own the characters. They are from the Light novel/Anime/Manga called "Juuni Taisen" story made by NisioIsin) This story is not original and, it takes place after the Anime where the Winner got his One wish where the other 99 wishes got rejected. An AU Story Start. Let's not forget some War Criminal characters from the "Juuni Taisen vs Juuni Taisen" stories are there. So, I hope you learn them.
[Hey, I know there may be bad grammars, not clear details or something but, my mind is flooded with this! So please don't be harsh on me.. thank you..]
Chapter 12: "The Egoistic Warrior who creates More Shelter"
=NO POV=
Somewhere Else,
The Goat warrior, Gotou Valkyrie took her medicine and got active, ready to go outside for another fresh air. Doctor Finnish is there to keep her company.
They were planning to go to the same green park again. While waiting for the green light to cross the street, the Doctor finds a familiar child who keeps breathing like she took a break from running around.
Little Inoka was holding a pepper spray as she stared at the traffic light patiently. Gotou was curious about the child's presence when Doctor Finnish had her eyes on her.
"What brings you in a hurry, Little girl? Or should I say, Inoka?" Inoka was shocked to see the Doctor starting the conversation, her eyes pleading desperately to get away from something.
Once the pedestrian light goes green, Inoka answers as she crosses the street "Nothing, I'm sort of, alright."
"Shouldn't you be at school today? You look pale, as if you encounter some troubles." Gotou said. They crossed the park and the Doctor noticed the little girl's troubled face as she tried to look away.
"Naughty child shouldn't ignore those who worried about you. Wasn't your Father taught you that?" Doctor Finnish recalled that, Inoka widened her eyes as she looked at the Doctor back, wondering why she knows that. It's not like Inoka wanted to keep this a secret but now that she has company, her troubles would fade away sooner.
There's no point of hiding it as she finds a wooden table and a place to let them sit. Inoka decided to share it since those two are W2's friends, maybe it won't be bad to tell them. "I lied. I shouldn't say I was fine. Those guys are back."
"Who?" Gotou asked
"Ever since Dad left town, those strangers would come and take me away from my Uncle. I managed to get away for this whole year. I thought going with Nezu-nii will keep them away but..." Inoka clenched her fist, getting frustrated her problems will always come back.
"They're still going to take you away, right?" The Doctor finished her lines and questioned. "If so, why didn't you tell your Uncle and call Police?"
"We tried. But they think we were joking. My Uncle bets they're working with them so he left me in charge with the trusted teacher until he picked me up." Inoka admitted. She smiled back and continued, "When Nezu-nii came back, I was happy he was there for me, taking me outside and meet new friends."
"You really trust that guy a lot, huh?" The Doctor said in a sarcastic way.
"Of course! He is my bestest big brother in the World!" Inoka answered cheerfully. Doctor Finnish grinned as she came up a bomb truth.
"What If I tell you that your bestest brother could be the one who lost someone dear for you? Like your Father, I'd say?" The Doctor let out a sly smirk as she witness the little girl's shocking reaction. "Even if he's the one by your side, you gotta believe those people have secrets that costs your loved ones life. And yet, a naive child like you wishes to be with your brother. How funny it is, young girl."
"Hey Doctor, I think that's en-"
"Let me finish this Gotou. It's time we teach our little sister what it means to lose a family."
"Sister?"
"That's right. We were once his disciples and we respect your Father a lot. But thanks to that brat, we lost him from that war and seeing you hang out with the killer is our disgrace!" "You should stay away from him if I were you."
"You were disciples?" "Then, why haven't you killed him yet?"
"Our Leader's orders. As much as we want revenge, we have our reasons to stay loyal to our companions." "Then what about you, little lady? Once you know the truth, do you want to follow the path of taking revenge against your best brother?"
"..."
"It's true my father is gone. He went to somewhere and never came back. He promised to win, he promised to come back for me and yet, he didn't." Inoka looked down, stepping away and wondering why she told them this useless sad truth. She clenched her fist. "But sorry to say Big sisters, I don't need that kind of thing."
"I'm too young to take that role and I'm not holding a grudge to Nezu-nii. After all, he already told me that before he left us last ten months."
"How did you maintain that, you know, the answer?" Gotou asked.
"At first, I was mad, like really Mad! But then, I remember one time he saved me from those kidnappers and gave me weapons that will keep them away. Nezu-nii gave me gifts and warn me not to think of him as a Father to replace with. It was weird to hear them but I remember he always compare my Dad to me like how he appreciates the Me right now."
"After hearing the truth and telling Nezu-nii to leave us, I never wanted to forgive him but for some reason, I was crying a lot. I kept thinking what would happen if he confessed everything before leaving, me and Uncle would probably be upset for welcoming him. We tried to forget him and held our grudge but after our loneliness reached three months, we realised we missed him a lot. We don't know whether he's gone or not"
"That's when my Uncle taught me that he'll try to forgive Nezu-nii back if he comes back. I couldn't accept that at first, but the more I think about our good stuff, the more I realised that Nezu-nii's actions has been protecting me all this time"
Inoka gave them an uncomfortable look and yet, she tried to put up a brave face.
"I still forgive him... but not forget the sins he made in the past." Inoka's eyes begun to sparkle as wet liquid marks flows through her cheeks.
"I see.." The Doctor looked down. She patted her head and said, "Young Inoka, we're sorry to hear that. We know you're suffering already for the lost of our Father. But, thank you for being strong. We were glad to hear your honesty very well. I'm sure your Father would be so proud of you right now."
"Are you going to kill Nezu-nii now that you know I forgive him?" Inoka asked in a worried tone. She was ready to beg not to kill Nezumi but the Doctor reassures her with a smile and another headpat.
"No way. It's just as you said, revenge is not our thing. What your Father wanted was for us to live in a normal and happy life. I'm sure he's blessed to see you like this."
"Really?" Inoka wiped her tears and Gotou and Doctor Finnish nods back with a small smile. She charged and hugged them back. "Thank you Big Sisters!"
"Hey! Stop hugging, you're embarassed me!" Gotou's tried to hide her red face and pulled the little girl out of her space gently.
"Now now, little Inoka, can you keep this between us? Never let your brother know that we met up like this. Can you do that for us?" Doctor Finnish declared a promise with her.
"Sure! As long as I call you Big Sisters, I'm fine with that." Inoka let out a big smile and offered a handshake.
"Very well." The Doctor accepted her offer and then, she turned to her companion and said. "Gotou and I will take you home but for now, why don't we have a fresh air while we're here?"
Inoka accepts with her enthusiastic mood as she led her big sisters in a best quiet place to relax. They spend their time, watching blowing trees, bright blue skies and listening to insect noises in a quiet pond. It took around an hour and thirty minutes to feel at ease while watching the lake and feed the nearby animals in the lake.
After that walk, the three went their separate ways. Gotou and Doctor Finnish watched Inoka walk inside her house to make sure she's safe and sound.
On the other hand, the War Criminals came to learn that the Rat warrior did spend his three months to protect that little girl and confront them nine months later. The Doctor remembered a bit where she got spared by him but she wasn't sure what his reasons for doing. Maybe it's the fact he owes a lot to their master. It's possible but they want to find more.
Gotou also respected Inoka more. She was the last ability user being saved by their master before he got lost in the zodiac war. How tragic for the little girl to hang out with a killer but to think she already knows and still, prefers to treat the Killer respectively well. Inoka sure has guts to deal with the Rat warrior. Gotou wonders if she could be like that in the future, being brave and able to forgive sinners who took their loved ones away. She hopes she could learn that ability for the sake of destroying her emotional thoughts.
=RAT/NEZUMI POV=
Nowadays, the wind is getting cold and class is making me dizzy again. As soon as the Teacher reminds us about the upcoming test and their time to leave, we can finally leave this gloomy class.
Before I left, Aiko came to give her contact details to my phone and remind me about meeting up. Does she think I changed my phone? Now that I think about it, I do enjoy destroying phones because of how beautiful their cracking textures are. Seems she's pretty clever to remember my previous mistake.
On the way to the train station, Meland nee-san follows me behind as usual. It's like I'm getting used to her presence after those two weeks. Kind of scary but, I think I can deal with her.
Speaking of her, I should've told Meland about her friend from yesterday. That Doctor really helped Inoka and cure her. The time we left the clinic, Inoka was quite energetic as if her headaches were already gone for two hours. I never expected one medicine from the underrated, mysterious but professional doctor would save her.
Knowing that, I should thank her friend but when I looked at Meland again, I decided not to, seeing her gloomy and focused expression as if telling me not to bother. I sighed and marched forward.
Around the town, we saw an Old Lady struggling to carry a trolley of fruit baskets and rabbit cages. The moment the old lady crossed the street, a rock suddenly broke the wheel and lost the wagon's balance.
The Old lady slipped as most of the fruit baskets and cages were falling, causing to release the rabbits. The little rodents were coming towards us until Meland stood in front, raising her hand as she was calling something.
My instinct suddenly made my hands move to cover my ears without thinking. The same time, Meland made the rabbits sleep as if she cast her magic spell on them. She managed to stop them from running around but a white rabbit noticed their comrades falling as they turned right.
"Nezumi, get the last rabbit!" Meland ordered him. I hesitated, wondering why I should do that until she glared at me and considered, "If you do that, I'll stop following you this week."
"A kind offer." I replied back as I chased the last rabbit who was heading to the Back Alley.
The rabbit was getting cornered and I spread my arms, hoping that I'll catch them this time. However, that white rabbit was cunning as they hopped through the walls and escaped from me.
For some reason, this mouse and rabbit chase reminds me of the time when the strongest Rabbit warrior tried to kill me in my ninety nine paths a lot. It's like a switch role but luckily, I managed to get away on time.
The chase goes on and the White rabbit is getting faster than before. They always turn to mock me, showing how fast they are and better than me. Things went differently when they jumped on the road, the rabbit didn't notice a car was crossing through.
The rabbit was terrified of this inevitable happening. They were going to get crashed. Until I jumped on the road and caught the White Rabbit on time. I held the little rodent in my arms as we rolled on the street and avoided getting crashed.
"Nezumi, are you okay?" Meland checked as I sat up, still holding the rabbit tightly.
"Fine. I got the rabbit." I took a long breath of relief as he stood up.
"Thank you, young ones." The Old Lady thanked us. I gave her the Rabbit as she gently took it and placed them to the last cage. She shook my hands and made a gentle smile. "If you weren't there, I wouldn't be able to get my families on time. As thanks, I should give this wonderful gift. It's my treat."
The Old Lady gave us a small package. Meland took a peak and asked, "What's this?"
"Cheese. We sell dairy products. If you're free, you can visit our farm. We'll be happy to have some good guests around. I'm sure my family will love to welcome you, younglings." She handed a leaflet to us by each and we took it. The leaflet was an advertised farming place where they gave us details about their products, hospitality, animals and their environment.
"We appreciate the offer." Meland bowed down and thanked the Old Lady back. "And thank you for the gifts."
As soon as the Old Lady got her things back, she went back to carry the wagon. Meland helped her arrange while I carried the heavy stuff. We watched her in case things go wrong until we met their family and helped them carry their things in their truck. The work was a piece of cake, it wasn't wasting my energy.
At Home,
Many hours later, my Dinner is the same as usual, normal food alone at home. When I opened the Old Lady's gift and tasted their well-made product, their Dairy Cheese was so delicious that I didn't hesitate to eat more. The taste, the raw flavour and the scent, it's one of the perfect cheese I had in a while! I wish I could get more of them.
After that, I went to sleep and hoped that tomorrow's day will be good. I felt relaxed when I ate those gifted cheese and remember the next day had no class, which means I had more time to oversleep without interference. I was hoping that stupid letter won't come to my door as well.
At Midnight, my throat ran dry and I felt like I needed fresh water to drink. So I stood up and headed out to the kitchen. It was so tiring to switch on the lights as I walked on the way to the dark. However, the moment I glanced at the living room with an open door, I noticed a pair of red eyes, glowing at the front, giving me a heart attack as I stepped back.
"Wwhooah!" I screamed, losing my balance and falling down the floor as I glanced at those red eyes. Those damn eyes of a predator coming from a shadow.
I immediately picked up my phone and turned on the flashlight, wondering who those red eyes belong to. I was planning to use my secret ability again until I realised that figure wasn't a random menacing trespasser or a bloodthirsty warrior, it was actually one of the rodents I encountered today.
The white rabbit.
It's that long ear rodent that I saved from the car crash. What are they doing here? And first of all, how did they get here? I stood up and turned the lights on, looking to see some clues to the rabbit's presence. It was only learned that my school bag is beside them.
So, this rabbit got snuck out from the cage and hid in my bag while I focused on Meland on the way home. Not only was this mister fluffy, a trickster but they were so fast that they immediately jumped into my chest and leaned on my shoulder, touching my cheek for affection. Looks like this rabbit is fond of me after saving them.
What a bother…
How should I get this rabbit out of my house? I can feed them with my leftover vegetables in the fridge but the Landlord would get mad if they knew I had a pet inside. So, I have to take this little guy back to their parents before things could get worse.
But how should I do that? I recently got a leaflet from the Old Lady and maybe, going to her farm will take the rabbit back.
Good idea.
There's plenty of time and I'm sure he can solve it easier since tomorrow has no class. All he needs now is a company. Or, maybe an adult would take him there.
"Oh, so you want to go there?" I nodded as I watched the young man point to the Farm advertising poster. "Sure, I heard the Manager and Rounder used to go there for their business collaborations but I do wish to find what's so special about there?"
"Sorry if it's too much trouble for you, Broker-niisan." I apologised again but the man leaned his hand on my shoulder and shook his head.
"No worries. After all, you're trying to get the little guy back to their elders, right?" The guy named Broker smiled back as he followed me outside. "Besides, I also want to go to the countryside. I heard those veggies are fresh and more delightful than those plastic carbon stuff from the supermarket."
With his cheerful answer, I felt relieved to see him going with me. We've come to terms this trip will only take one day to explore the countryside and return what is right where it belongs.
I'm sure everything will be alright. No problem with Broker on my side. What could possibly go wrong?
The Next Day,
As soon as the next morning arrived, I slapped my face after hearing bad news from the guy who thinks he prepared everything. Broker, who nervously smiles and looks away, explains that his car has lost its engine and broke their tires. It seems he hasn't used his vehicle for many months.
I shouldn't expect things from this guy. After all, Broker is the youngest War Veteran in their group who always fails his employment job a lot. I wouldn't blame his failures. In combat, Broker is good at weaponizing and fighting opponents. Most of his skills were developed from his grandfather a lot. Broker would've killed me back then in that last war but after seeing those bastards taking his life, I had no choice but to let them taste their own medicine.
Broker wanted to help me while I had no plans to earn his trust. But the War Veteran teams welcomed him, which gave him a chance to see me whenever I stopped at their basement.
"I have an idea!" Broker declared as my mind startled back. "Why don't we take a bus ride? I'll pay."
"That doesn't sound bad." I said. Going in public vehicles doesn't look dangerous.
As we're headed straight to the town, a person leaned on my left shoulder and her right pointy finger touched my cheek when I turned,
"Gotcha friend." Aiko teased me. I wasn't suprised since she was a long time classmate who often tease me a lot. "Hehe.. pleasure to be meeting you here, Nezumi. How are you going with your studies?"
"I.. uh.." This is awkward. I forgot that Class Pres remind me that Upcoming test next week and she expect I studied well.
"I was gonna go to the Library to study in free time but, seeing you here makes me wonder." Aiko's curious gaze went closer as she observed me. "Wonder if you're energetic nowadays. I didn't see you going outside that often but it's nice your laziness could give your time off.. hehe.."
"Hey Nezumi, looks like the bus will take three hours to-" Broker stopped as he spot a lady next to him. "I'm sorry, did I interrupt?"
"No no. good man. It seems I heard everything. You two were gonna ride a bus, right? What for? I can help you with that." Aiko smiled back, making Broker confused as he leaned on my ears.
"Your friend wants to help us. Should we keep her out of this?"
"Absolutely. I don't think she will help us." I whispered back. I don't want to cause more troubles for her. It's better if she doesn't know I'm slacking with my studies. Despite that, Aiko overheard everything and attempt to stop us.
"I can and I will be!" She pointed at Broker and continued, "You said about a Bus taking three hours, right?" Broker nods back and I clicked my tongue to see him being honest to her. "Then it's settled! I'll go with you and help you ride something as quicker than a Bus! It'll be a piece of cake for me!"
"You don't need to go so far, young lady."
"No, I insist. And besides, we don't want the Rabbit to wait in line too long, do we?" She replied back, gazing at the Rabbit in cage that I was holding. I didn't told her that and she already knew what we're doing. As expected of Class Pres.
"Fine." I sighed back in defeat. "So, what is your plan?"
"Leave it to me" The enthusiastic girl said as she guide us.
=NO POV=
As morning rises and people get up to work, the former War Criminal, disguised as a formal business man, was nervous on his way to his destination.
Mupple Bottle or he disguised his name as Thomas Bottle, has an interview to take a Firefighter job. It was a secret meeting that he couldn't tell his leader and his team about. Once he was at their company and met up with their boss, he explained his motives, roles and reasons for taking this job. He tried to stay cool, be modest and confident enough to help them believe his actions can help their job. The interviewer glanced at each other and whispered, making discussions before they decided their result.
In the end, Thomas Bottle sighed back as he walked out of their company in miserable state. So far, the Boss of the Firefighters will consider it and Thomas wasn't sure if he's happy or not. He couldn't tell if he could pass this job but it's not like he's nervous and broken to test failed. Taking a firefighter job was just his spare time and if he does get accepted, he'll get busy from now on and the others would notice.
On his way back to the hotel, the War Criminal Aquarius saw the Rat warrior Nezumi taking a farm truck along with the girl in the same age and a stoic man with the black cloak.
What's surprising is the farm truck driver is one of his team, the long range weaponiser and War Criminal of Sagitarrius, Unsun Sashitari.
What is he doing here?
=RAT/NEZUMI POV=
You're kidding me?
When I said something quicker than a Bus, I didn't expect we would ride a Farm Truck, fitted with four people. And what's worse, that Driver is someone Broker despised. It was obvious by looking at his reaction. I only know him from that Private pool meet up.
I remember he was there. An acquaintance to Meland-neesan, his eyes were deadly serious and his scar face can tell he's likely the same characteristics as that Boar War Veteran, Eleventh. Meeting him with Broker looks like they have an intense staring match. To think I meet up so close and becoming his ride for the day was unexpected.
I should have told Broker to fix his car that one night but it seems it's already too late. We told Aiko about our countryside destination and our purpose to go there, she was touched and familiar with that area. So she finds an available vehicle with the same location and to think, she found it easily and convinced him to ride with us.
Of course, the Scar face guy rejected that offer when he kept his eyes on us but after Aiko convinced him for more than ten minutes, he got frustrated and gave up, ended up reluctantly agreed their request.
As soon as we took our seats, wearing seatbelts and starting the engine, the Scar guy sighed back as he rides them towards the Countryside, where the farmers live. The rabbit cage is safely in my hands and that rodent was sleeping. Even if we're talking or getting loud, this rabbit slept peacefully as if they trust me to keep them safe.
The moment we're out of town, only fields and small houses can be seen. Aiko was impressed of the scenery as she took pictures of them. Broker kept his dagger eyes on the Driver while I kept quiet and slowly dozed off.
"So, Mister Sashitari, what brings you there to the Farm? Are you here to buy their fresh products? Or you went for the scenery? Maybe you have a job there."
"Lady, you ask a lot of question and to make it short. No." The Driver kept his eyes on the road as he followed their conversation. "The Owner of that Rabbit you bought, he was too old enough to carry those heavy supplies. In my free time, I gave them a lift and borrow their truck to help them."
"Basically, a Delivery guy" Broker added. It sounds like sarcastic mockery but Sashitari paid no mind. "Someone who volunteers out of their good deeds to prioritize an elder instead of an innocent bystander"
"I supposed that makes us equal, right?" Sashitari replied with another mockery. "I've seen you doing different jobs lately. Perhaps it is where they failed you and switch over to charity jobs. I wonder if you get enough salary for your elders. Come to think of it, you don't have grandparents to get your salary, right?"
"We'll see about that when you're done with this job" Broker's unpleased voice made both of them twitch their eyes. They wanted to fight each other right here and now. The room was getting intense and the girl shook as she noticed their auras getting bigger.
"Now now, guys. Let's not fight. I think we should all get along with this lovely weather in our road trip, right?" Aiko tried to calm them down, She hoped they would settle down but their serious face never stops as electric shocks gaze each other. Sashitari can ride normally but with his mirror, he can glare at the War Veteran.
Aiko sighed back, knowing this road trip will be intense with those two insulting each other.
=NO POV=
It took an hour and a half to reach their destination and the Countryside looks peaceful and beautiful in their view. Aiko was glad they made it on the farm on time, otherwise she would suffocate to feel their intense staring breakdown inside that Farm truck. Those guys will never get along.
Nezumi woke up and stretched his arms. He gently carries the Rabbit cage and hop down the truck as the last person to get off. He was lucky not to get drag by those two grown up argument. Aiko sighed back as she grabbed the map and lead them to the farm.
The Farm truck can't move to small roads with a wooden face, so they have to walk all the way to the top. Sashitari didn't expect their paths will take longer to get there but he didn't protest as he carry those heavy supplies and follow them. It was his first time to go to the Owner's home.
"I remember, Rounder used to complain Manager about his errands of the store's supplies in that farm. I can see the answer now." Broker mentioned in Nezumi's ears, who sighed back as he understood that meaning.
Once they arrived, an old woman came outside the farm and greeted them.
"Welcome, everyone. We've been expecting you. You must be tired on your journey. You may come in." The old lady turns to Nezumi and finds what he's holding, "Oh my, thank you for taking care of Shiro. They must have caused you a lot of trouble. I apologize once again, young boy."
"No need. That cheese you gave us was delicious. It's important to repay someone's debt"
"Clever young man." The Old lady nods back. "Well then, why don't I make another Cheese cake and show you around. You can join us, Mister Sashitari. After all, we're the ones who wanted some guests in the first place."
Meanwhile,
Meland pushed her finger and rang a bell. She was waiting outside her target's house, tapping her foot, expecting Nezumi would open that door. The white haired girl was planning to investigate his house by pretending to have a study session with him for their class test. She thought it would give new infos for his War Veteran guardians.
However, he didn't come out. In fact, she screams his name to call him, he won't go out. It's like he overslept and ignored her.
She rang the bell again and again until she lost her patience. Maybe breaking that door will wake that moron. Her foot was ready and her mind was boiled with rage.
"It's useless. The Rat Warrior won't come out. He's not inside." Someone approached her and Friendsheep doesn't need to turn back. She knows who that voice comes from.
"And how do you know that, Mupple Bottle?"
"I saw him going out with a girl." Friendsheep was surprised as her mind paused. He added with a sigh. "Sashitari was there as a driver. I wonder what he's up to but, Warriors shouldn't pry into their business."
Friendsheep remained quiet but a sense of hatred to her target increased more. She can't take away the fact Nezumi hanging out with another girl is far more important than his house. Mupple Bottle sensed her wild aura spreading around him like storm clouds trying to scare him.
"Say, since we're here, might I give you a suggestion?" He can see Friendsheep staring into his eyes. "What if we check his house? Maybe we could find his secrets while the Rat Warrior's away"
"I thought the same way" Friendsheep admitted as she immediately approached the door. Mupple Bottle summoned the waters from his water bucket and controlled them to flow inside the door hole. It made the door open as the two War Criminals trespassed inside.
=NO POV=
Back at the Countryside,
Broker was supposed to do his job of protecting the Rat Warrior. To think he met one of the War Criminals, Sashitari, who literally stands two steps closer with them in the quiet place along with two innocent bystanders. He must not attack him in front of Nezumi's classmate and that nice old lady.
He embraced his bloodlust and maintain his pressure. For them. He must not choose violence unless the War Criminal got cornered.
The old lady provided some snacks and cheese cakes to them. Nezumi was excited as he was the first to eat the deserts and thanked her many times. Next, she gave them a relaxing place to sit where the scenery view outside can be seen. Aiko enjoyed the view as she took a picture and a selfie, she also forced Nezumi to take a picture with her while Broker watch them in the corner.
He wanted to join their company but his eyes remained cautious to the War Criminal, who was talking with the Old Lady. Seeing how Sashitari lifted those heavy deliveries and carries the Old Lady's personal things seems like he's taking her commisions.
There were times Sashitari worked something while the others were relaxing. When the Old Lady almost tripped, he grabbed her body and helped her balance, making sure she can stand up well. Other times is when he took the Last rabbit, Shiro back to their rabbit friends without breaking a sweat.
Aiko sees Sashitari as someone who cares for the Old Lady. The Scar Man might be scary on his looks but with his actions, he can helped others for free. Even the Old Lady tried to give him money for the help, Sashitari refused her offer as he answered,
"Don't get the wrong idea, I just have a free time, that's all." Sashitari folded his arms as Broker twitched his eyes, not accepting his kind service.
Despite his willingness to help the Old Lady, Broker hasn't convinced yet. He still keep his eyes on him. After all, he knows Sashitari is a War Criminal who can eliminate with his physical strength and his archery skills. One wrong move and this place will be in trouble. He wonders what's his planning right now.
On the other hand, Nezumi thinks that Sashitari might have gone too far. He believes the Scar Man pities the Elders as he volunteered to help them and stop their reckless struggled jobs. He thought it was righteous for him but seeing him now looks different. Nezumi thought Sashitari might be an Egoistic guy who thinks he wants to be important for them.
Perhaps Sashitari wants to find a right job like that Skull Pyon's actions in their theatre. Nezumi never know. After all, he can't read their minds. He only learns their actions hundred times in the future.
"Say Old Lady, I'm just wondering why you don't hire more workers? Or family to maintain this place?" Nezumi asked the Old Farmer, who gave him a bittersweet smile.
"Back then, we used to have those. My family and workers used to own this place as our pride and joy until, a War broke out and they force our sons and grandsons to participate in battle." Nezumi and Aiko's eyes were stunned while the adults looked away. Still, this didn't stop to tell her answer as she looked at her farm. "In the end, they never came back and my husband and I were the last ones to tend this place. Even if the War is over, it doesn't mean our families will be the same as before."
The moment the truth reveals, the room suddenly brought silence. It becomes even more awkward when Nezumi apologized for hearing that, which Aiko slaps his back.
"Now look what you've done. You make this place heavy." She lectured Nezumi and then, she turns to the Old Lady, "Sorry Grandma, we didn't know what you've been through. If there's anything we can do to help, just say it. We also want to repay you for the snacks"
"Thank you, young lady. I don't have any commissions for you. Like I said, you are all welcome as guests" The Old Lady said but Aiko insisted on helping her.
She suddenly gave up and decided to accept Aiko's suggestion. So the Old Lady came up an idea as she leads them to the Barn. She opens the door and let everyone saw cows, chickens and horses inside. There were plenty of broken fences and messy Hays surrounded by Malnourished Cows. It seems this Barn has been messy since this farm only has two workers. Now that they saw what's coming, Nezumi doesn't like it but Aiko, Broker and Sashitari insists to help them.
"Very well then, if you want to help me that much, how about you clean this place and one of you could tame this horse and give them exercise?" Everyone except Nezumi agreed.
The Old Lady smiled as she gave them a wave and walked away. She was expected to get it done before sunset while preparing another warm foods for them. Sashitari kept his eyes on her until she made it safely back to her home. Broker and Aiko found the tools needed.
They think that cleaning this place would be a piece of cake but, what bothers them next is the person in charge of taking care with the horse. Sashitari is in charge of rebuilding the fence with his hammers and wood. That leaves to the one who doesn't want to work.
"Nezumi, we're counting on you to tame this horse" Aiko points at the Horse and Nezumi broke his sweat and shook his head.
"No thanks, I'm not good with horses."
"Come on boss,we really need you to do this. You just gotta take her outside and brush her hair. That's all." Broker said.
"But I can't. It's too tiring." Nezumi yawned back as Aiko let out a sigh.
"It doesn't matter anyways. That brat can't even help the person who gave him cheese cake snacks and now, he's scared to ride a weak horse." Sashitari muttered with sarcasm. Not only did it hurt the Rat Warrior's pride but it also made Broker mad. "If you don't take this job, I suggest you leave the Barn and go back to the Truck. You don't deserve to be here in the first place."
"Hey! You don't have the right to say that to a Kid, Mister. Just who do you think you are trying to Boss around like some Egoistic Farmer in charge?!" Broker snapped out as he clenched his fist and ready to fight him.
"Now now gentlemen, this is no time to fight! Remember we're here to volunteer, not causing a commotion." Aiko said in a gentle voice as she hopes they solve their conflict in no time. The two warriors glared as they were ready to battle again.
Sashitari was holding his hammer while Broker clenched his rake and ready to swing. They were about to engage until a Horse interrupts with a loud noises as they break free from the rope and tackles them both, forcing the warriors to back away. Nezumi was able to grab the rope and held the Horse on time before they make their way outside. He also pat the Horse and calm them down.
"Exactly Aiko. We only have until sunset. So I say we clean this place and complete this mission. For the Old Lady's sake." Nezumi answered.
"Nezumi.." Aiko admires him as her eyes sparkles to see him taming the horse. Her panic suddenly vanished the moment her classmate do something.
"Now you're taking your job seriously." Sashitari folded his arms with another sarcasm voice.
"Why you.." Broker twitched his eyes on him.
"Sashitari niisan, while I'm charge of the horse-" Nezumi points behind him and questioned, "Shouldn't you supposed to take care of the Cows?"
"Wha.. Just when did they broke free?!" Sashitari saw three cows were getting wild as they passed through Nezumi and head outside the Barn. The wooden fence is entirely broken and the other animals roamed around.
"Wow, so much for that egoistic guy who wants to fix their fence. Good job with that." Broker chuckled as Sashitari was pissed to get treated like this.
"You little.. start working with your broom and clean up this place!" Sashitari ordered him.
"And why should I listen to you?! You're not the boss of me!" Broker muttered as the two faced another class in the middle of their messy job. It was then, someone stopped them as she slapped their backs on time.
"And you two should shut up and get to work! We don't have much time!" Aiko shouted as she was able to force them to focus on their task. Nezumi remained quiet as he led the Horse outside and give them privacy.
He wonders if this is necessary. He wasn't keen to taking this serious job and yet, he doesn't mind as he has free time. Might as well enjoy the fresh air and tame this Horse before they get noisy again.
=Broker POV=
The War Veterans Journal Part 3,
The youngest warrior in the Goat clan is a skilled warrior and good with weapons. As the grandson of the ninth zodiac champion, he is a deceptive and mercenary fighter who is capable of using bombs to complete missions.
The news of his grandfather's voluntary to take the twelfth zodiac war broke him as he tried to persuade him to partake in the fight instead of him. But the old man was too stubborn to listen and everyone thinks he has no chance to win. The grandson doesn't admit that possibility but he prayed for his grandfather's survival. He still wants to see him again, play video games with him, help him train new bomb and firework techniques.
However,
His grandfather never made it.
And what's worse is that the winner of the Zodiac War is a weak teenage warrior who didn't fight against them. It's like the Goat clan felt disgrace for losing their former champion to an amateur child and the Grandson was upset they didn't honour his grandfather very well.
Now that their champion was out of their world, the Goat clan started to despise him for not taking his steps. If his grandfather didn't volunteer and replace him, he would've been sitting there and being an honourable to their clan. Now that he's gone, they have no history and it was all the grandson's fault.
Time goes on and After the Rite of Passing has concluded, it seems like the whole Zodiac Clans have been requested to eliminate one enemy of all and it was none other than the current Twelfth Champion of the Zodiac War, the Youngest Warrior of the Rat, Nezumi.
There was opposition and the clans split into two categories, preservation and loyalty. Of course, the Goat clan sticks to the Loyalty side of the Juuni Taisen Organisation and they wanted the Twelfth Champion dead.
The young man teamed up with the clan members to hunt the Rat Warrior down as they scout around and lure him away. As time went on, their plan for hunting went into downfall as they lost their chances multiple times.
One time, the Rat Warrior Nezumi, meets him as if he was treated like an innocent bystander who cannot harm the school. Thanks to that, the Goat clan treats him as bait and lure him and the Rat warrior into their trap to kill themselves.
The Goat warrior is aware his family doesn't get along with him because of the loss of his grandfather. If it wasn't for him, his Grandfather wouldn't volunteer to this Zodiac War. They held a deepest grudge on the grandson for being alive and now, they want him dead.
Despite that plan of disposing him, the grandson wasn't opposed, knowing his sacrifice would restore their honour. The Goat clan would restore their reputation if they kill the traitorous champion of the twelfth. Plus, he'll get revenge for his grandfather.
However, Nezumi avoids that fate as he grabs the Goat Warrior's hand and leads him out of their trap, surviving along with him in the end.
The Warrior was speechless. How could this target be able to save him despite being his enemy? The Goat warrior wanted to ask but Nezumi told him not to say a word and follow him.
He didn't ignore as he went along with the silver haired teen, taking him to the Cheese Store and then, being brought to the Manager, who was waiting for them.
The Manager was a mysterious guy who treated Nezumi like a little brother. The Warrior was confused, wondering why the twelfth champion brought him here.
And after that, the Manager claimed to know his abilities otherwise, he'll take the warrior back to his family in shame. The Goat warrior wanted to run away but someone talked him out.
"Run away and you'll regret it. If that's your choice, I won't stop you." The Rat Warrior responded. He didn't look at him but he clenched his hands and trembled.
Something tells him that leaving this mysterious guy sounds like a bad idea. For some reason, it reminds him of his deal with the Juuni Taisen Organisation. He had a bad feeling that if he doesn't cooperate, he'll share the same fate as his grandfather.
"Alright, I'll tell you everything." The Goat Warrior agreed as he sat down and explained his personal details.
The Goat warrior is the grandson of the eight champion and he was good at handling explosive bombs and mines. When he was a child, his grandfather taught him some strong weapons to protect himself.
He thinks some battles are a game where most of his strategies were working thanks to his grandfather's advice.
But nowadays, the current champion's existence makes a big deal to everyone. Unlike those previous champions, they don't respect him as a winner of the twelfth zodiac war. It's like the champion deserves to suffer and kill in the battlefield because the warriors who participate were big shots who got killed in a humiliating way.
Something like that questions more with the Champions. The Rat Warrior, Nezumi felt so different from his grandfather. He doesn't want wishes, he tries to survive from those who hunt him down and everyone in the world hates the result of his zodiac war battle.
Once his stories are done, the Manager held his left shoulder, giving him a thumbs up and said,
"You passed. I hereby recruit you to be his Bodyguard." The Goat warrior was confused again. Seeing this Manager's smirk felt like he's going to have more troubles to stick with him. For some reason, he also got a feeling he'll get killed in a second.
In the first place, this is Nezumi's fault for leading him to this stranger. That teen doesn't mind of his well-being as he got involved in his mess. Now, the Goat clan will think he's another traitor with this brat. But, thinking about it reminds that his family tried to kill him, so it makes sense that he'll stick on the surviving side.
The Goat warrior was not sure if he cooperated with them or not but, being saved by Nezumi and giving them shelter gave him an answer. Even the young teen knows his problems and he encourages him to survive and have faith in the Manager. It's not like he can trust them but then, he has no choice to begin with.
So, he accepted his offer and got recruited to be part of the Preservation side. Mainly, to protect the Target or the Twelfth Champion.
One time, the Manager observed the Goat Warrior has no ability and his experience still lacks from his team. He can't sense trap boms and he has no skills to overcome supernatural abilities. But still, this warrior has a good sense of danger, disastrous field and bloodlusts from other people. One time, Rounder attempt a lie and this warrior can easily sense their deception but he tries to get along with, hoping to find leads to counter them.
With his skills, the Manager made him pass his secret trial and gave him a note that says,
"Broker"
That is his Codename. The name that will turn a new leaf and change himself.
*Character Details 12:
Name: Unsun Sashitari/Sashitari Usuki
Occupation: Voluntary Worker
Title: Former War Criminal of Sagittarius
Power: Archery Skills, Weaponizer and Good Eyesight
Warrior Quote: Takes Aim and Kills
Wishing Quote: I want Shelter
(My Creative Non-Cannon) Personality:
Tough, Egoistic and Cautious warrior who can sense dangers more than his team. He prefers fighting out of the frontlines and volunteers to be reliable and supportive of all. Despite his past of destroying everyone's home and making sacrifices, Sashitari still dreams to have a genuine peaceful home that will no longer makes unnecessary sacrifice. Other times, he hates messy rooms and broken buildings that he has obsession of repairing and cleaning everything to ease his mind.