A WAY BACK HOME

Chapter 2 - 21 Years Backwards -

DISCLAIMER : Following the word itself "fanfiction", I do not own anything in this fiction and credits belong to the rightful creators of the manga: TOGASHI YOSHIHIRO, the publisher, the broadcasting companies of the anime both 1999 original version and 2011 remake - Nippon Animation and Madhouse, respectively and etc.

CHAPTER 2
- 21 YEARS BACKWARDS -

"This way please." The man guided me in.

"My name is Zeburo. Apparently as you have seen, I work here as the gatekeeper... rather, Mike's caretaker... I think you noticed that gigantic dog some kilometers away from us. If we passed through the door behind my post, you'll be Mike's next chewtoy."

I didn't know this guy talks a lot. Hah, should I listen to his intro? I already knew who he was even before he could tell me. I don't need to hear his explanations as well... however, I wordlessly followed him anyways. I had to hold my strength back a couple of notches lower so not to intimidate him when he had to test me on the gates.

"You just came at the perfect timing! Madame Kikyo is actually looking for a butler she would assign solely for her firstborn..."

"F-firstborn?" I stuttered.

"Yeah. Unfortunately when I called the Butler's Office to refer you to them as a new applicant, I was informed that the said vacancy should preferably be for females... you know? Babysitting and stuff..."

Once again, a lot of thoughts rushed through my head. Babysitting, Firstborn... Butler... Could it be?!

"You said your name is Kill,.. right?" He stood on his tracks. "You're pretty strong for someone your age... being able to open up to the 3rd gate at first try..."

"Haha.. well?" I shrugged. Matter of fact, I was holding back to my minimum strength. That wasnt even worth a copliment, 'tch...

"I'm sure Master Silluva and Master Zeno will be impressed." He turned his back to face me and gave me a smile. "Good luck!" And then he proceeded to walk until he passed by me, heading back to where we started.

"W-wait! Where are you going?!"

"I'm so sorry but I had to go back to my post. My obligations are just up to here." He gave me a bow of courtesy. "Just continue walking and you'll find a butler who would escort you to the Butler's Office for your screening. He was already given the instructions..."

I watched him until he started to fade into the horizon. That's when I proceeded to this boring, straight path surrounded by a dense forest.

All of a sudden, I felt a presence around. I felt like I'm being watched by something... or someone! Must act like I noticed nothing... I continued walking. I don't sense any murderous intent and that being doesn't seem to be anything strong.

"Hey..."

I was awakened from my thoughts to see a checkpoint in front of me guarded by a man in his early twenties. I was too busy feeling that presence who seemed to be following me while I walk that I didn't even pay attention to where I was heading to. Oh wait. No. That wasn't a checkpoint.

"Hah! Go-...!" I screamed in excitement. I felt like laughing after recognizing who that person who called me out was. However, I realized I should pretend I did'nt know anything, or anyone.