Ep 9 A Place Among Fallen Leaves

Episode 9 - Prologue

The sun shifted slowly from its peak position, marking the turn of the afternoon to the afternoon. The temperature starts to decrease slowly, not piercing but enough to make the leaves tremble lightly. The wind now carries a distinctive aroma - a dry, damp soil, and clean air that can only be felt when the fall comes.

The leaves began to fall from the twigs, filling the ground around the large tree where they took shelter. Orange, yellow, and brown colors combined to form a natural carpet that covers the ground where they rest.

And in the middle of the atmosphere ... they were still asleep.

Shin hugged the boy gently. His face was calm, as if he had forgotten all the pain he had been through. Soutarou leaned on a tree trunk with one hand holding a makeshift wooden sword, just on guard ... in sleep.

Akuro, still sitting cross -legged, his head slightly tilted, his eyes tightly closed. Either he really slept or just closed the world.

The leaves fly slowly, such as not wanting to interfere.

Autumn comes ... not a threat.

But as a reminder - that even a chaotic world ... can still give room to calm down.

And in that peace ...

Something is waiting to wake up.

# 1

(The afternoon sun penetrated between the leaves of the tree that began to turn yellow. The leaves fall down slowly, one of which fell right on the child's face still sleeping in the arms of Shin.)

Child:

(frowning, then opening your eyes slowly)

"... Hngh ... someone disturbed my nose ..."

(He woke up slowly, then sat down-staring around with enlarged eyes. Golden colors everywhere, soft wind carrying leaves floating like dance.)

Child:

(Amazed voice)

"...Beautiful..."

(The boy stood up, still without clothes, his tiny body was shrouded in fine hair. He stepped toward Shin, then patted his cheek slowly.)

Child:

"Mama ... wake up ... hurry ..."

Shin:

(moaning softly)

"Hm ...? What's wrong ...?"

Child:

"T-can't say ... Mama looks for yourself!"

Shin:

(open his eyes slowly, then sit - and his eyes immediately stunned)

"... waaah ..."

Soutarou:

(Still leaning, opening their eyes because of their voices)

"What's wrong in the morning-eh ..."

(Shin and Soutarou are now sitting side by side, looking at the autumn view in front of them. The leaves fall slowly in the air, forming a beautiful random pattern in the golden rays of the afternoon.)

Akuro:

(open your eyes slowly, then stand lazily)

"... finally. Nature gave us a visual gift."

Child:

(small jump on a pile of leaves)

"The leaves dance ... beautiful ...!"

Soutarou:

(smiling softly)

"I never thought ... we could see this, in the midst of all that chaos."

Shin:

(leaning your shoulders slowly at Soungarou, unconsciously)

"... yes. It feels like ... the world tells us to take a short break."

Soutarou:

(glancing at Shin for a moment, then said softly)

"You look calmer now."

Shin:

(small smile, eyes can not be separated from the leaves)

"I think ... it's because of you guys. And ... he."

Child:

(jump to dry leaves)

"I like ... this wind!"

Akuro:

(staring at them, then say without ignorant tone)

"You two are suitable. Now, I say it's without sarcasm."

Soutarou:

(startled)

"Huh? From you?"

Shin:

(chuckle)

"That ... is the first time I heard you talk like that."

Akuro:

"Well, if the child is already united ... only the parents have to unite too."

Shin:

(reddened slightly, then looked at Soutarou for a moment)

"I don't refuse ... if that's the direction."

Soutarou:

(paused for a moment, then spoke softly)

"... I also ... don't mind. In fact ... I think that's natural."

Child:

(jumping, closer to them)

"Mama ... Papa ... sit together ~"

Shin:

(Warm smile, pulling the child into his arms)

"You become a bridge that ties us, huh?"

Soutarou:

(laugh)

"He ... the most powerful adhesive. Even stronger than magic."

Akuro:

(looking at the sky)

"The sky is bright. The leaves fall. The world doesn't chase us today. Just enjoy it."

Shin:

(whisper)

"I didn't expect ... we could sit like this ... and feel intact."

Soutarou:

(Slowly, almost like a murmur)

"... I also didn't expect ... this feeling came slowly ... but ... really warm."

Shin:

(Smiling, staring at his face)

"Warm ... that's the right word."

Child:

(hugging them both from the middle)

"Papa ... mama ... warm ~"

Soutarou:

(hugging back)

"... we are all warm ... now."

(The wind blows gently. The leaves drifted down, dancing softly around them. And in the middle of the silent and beautiful autumn, a strange family slowly ... began to blend. Not because of blood. But because of the choice. Because of the taste. Because of the time that brought them here-together.)

# 2

(The sun continues to decline slowly into the western horizon, leaving a soft golden color in the sky. They are still sitting under a large tree, with autumn leaves spreading around, and the evening wind that kept quiet.

Soutarou:

(Slowly, staring at the sky)

"I don't really understand ... feelings like this before."

Shin:

(Smiling small, soft voice)

"I'm not either ... but ... it feels familiar."

Soutarou:

"Usually when I'm close to people, only limited to friends, or friends playing ... never get like this."

Shin:

"Like ... there is something calm. But it's not empty."

Soutarou:

"Yes ... like sitting next to you ... it's enough."

Shin:

(looking at the child in his lap)

"And with him in our middle ... it feels more complete."

Soutarou:

(Smiles Lonely)

"I don't mind ... if we continue to be together like this."

Shin:

(looking at the ground, his cheeks are slightly red)

"... I don't mind either ..."

Soutarou:

(Still seeing the sky, his voice is slow)

"I don't know this ... love or anything. But clearly ... I'm comfortable."

Shin:

(Sound voice, almost like a whisper)

"Me too."

Soutarou:

(head slightly turned, smiling a little)

"We are funny. Both are confused ... but shut up."

Shin:

(laughing softly)

"Funny and ... maybe a bit stupid. But yes ... really comfortable."

Akuro:

(from behind the tree, soft voice)

"I shut up, so you can say this ..."

Soutarou:

(laugh)

"For this once, thank you, Akuro."

Shin:

(smile softly)

"Yes thank you."

(That afternoon did not need a complicated word. They spoke calmly, with pauses that were not awkward. Because in the end, romance did not have to explode-sometimes quite present ... slowly, warm, and real.)

# 3

Akuro:

(standing slowly, patting his pants from dried leaves)

"I'll just stay quiet, okay? This is ... when you two. With that child."

Soutarou:

(turning slowly)

"Akuro ... You don't have to—"

Akuro:

(Cut, smile a little)

"I understand. You need a moment. I'm just ... an introduction to the atmosphere, not a barrier to the story."

Shin:

(smile softly)

"... Thank you, Akuro."

Akuro:

(Step back, his body began to be covered with soft red light)

"Take care of the child. And ... take care of each other too."

FLASH!

(In a flash of calm light, Akuro's body returned to stage 1-a large red-brown-brown-haired with sharp lines on his wings. Side, he flashed his wings and flew high into the evening sky, slowly away from the tree area.)

(The wind blows more slowly ... and the world feels more quiet.

Shin:

(looking at the sky, following the shadow of Akuro)

"... he's kind, huh ..."

Soutarou:

(smile)

"Yes. He understands ... sometimes we need time alone."

# 4

Soutarou:

"... Come to think of it, I have never been this honest to anyone before."

Shin:

(slow)

"I too ... usually I just keep everything myself."

Soutarou:

"I always think ... if I'm open, people will think I'm weird, or too sensitive."

Shin:

(small smile)

"... but you're not strange. In fact ... that's what makes you feel close."

Soutarou:

(Shocked for a moment)

"Eh ... really?"

Shin:

(slow nod)

"You care, patient ... and never make me feel alone."

Soutarou:

(paused for a moment)

"I don't know since when ... but every time you were hurt, I ... Come sick."

Shin:

(seeing his eyes)

"... I'm also afraid of losing you. That's enough to show ... I care more than just a friend."

Soutarou:

(Smiles Slow, awkward)

"... if you say that like that ... I can be more sure."

Shin:

(a little red, but still staring at him)

"I want you to know, Soutarou ... my feelings are real."

Soutarou:

(slow)

"... then ... let me be the first person to guard that feeling."

Shin:

(Warm smile)

"Thank you ... it's already here."

Soutarou:

"... always. And I won't leave."

# 5

Soutarou:

(slow breathing)

"Shin ... I think ... now it's time for me to say honestly."

Shin:

(turning, serious eyes)

"I heard ... just slowly."

Soutarou:

"I ... I like you. Not just because we keep together, or because we help each other."

Shin:

(paused for a moment, his eyes softened)

"... but because of you ... really see me?"

Soutarou:

(nod)

"Yes. You make me calm. Makes me feel ... enough. And I don't want to lose it."

Shin:

(a smile slowly appears, cheeks flushed)

"... I like you too. From the beginning I was confused ... but now I know."

Soutarou:

(shocked a little, smile slowly grow)

"You ... really like me too?"

Shin:

"Really. You make me feel safe ... and I can't imagine life without you now."

Soutarou:

(soft voice)

"I promise ... I will take care of you. Not only because you are important, but because I love you."

Shin:

(soft tone)

"I love you too, Soutarou."

Soutarou:

(Smiles Lonely)

"So ... we now ...?"

Shin:

(laughing softly)

"Maybe it's not official ... but our hearts are already united first."

Soutarou:

"I don't need status. As long as you stay by my side, that's enough."

Shin:

(Warm smile, looking at him for a long time)

"... I'm still here. For you."

Soutarou:

"And I ... for you."

# 6

Soutarou:

(standing slowly, staring at the sky that began to turn orange)

"Shin ... have you ever thought ... about our future?"

Shin:

(standing up, standing beside him)

"The future? In the past, I didn't dare to think too far."

Soutarou:

(Inner voice, slow)

"I start thinking about that. And every time I imagine ... you're always there."

Shin:

(paused for a moment)

"... I too. But sometimes I'm afraid. Afraid this is all just temporarily."

Soutarou:

(staring at him)

"We've gone through many things. If it's just 'temporary', this feeling won't be strong like now."

Shin:

(slow)

"Soutarou ... I realized ... I don't just like you."

Soutarou:

(turning fast, shocked)

"... Shin?"

Shin:

(deep, calm)

"I love you."

Soutarou:

(beating heart, hoarseness)

"You ... love?"

Shin:

(nod, honest)

"It's not a sweet one ... I love your stubborn side, who is sometimes scared, who is silent thinking about everyone."

Soutarou:

(bowing, vibrating sound)

"I ... I didn't expect you to say that first."

Shin:

(smiling warm)

"Because I know you are too careful. So let me say first."

Soutarou:

"... I love you too, Shin."

Shin:

(slow breath)

"Listen ... like all the burdens on my chest disappear."

Soutarou:

"I have never been sure about love before. But since you came ... I understand the taste."

Shin:

(head bowed, soft smile)

"If one day the world will be broken again ... I'm not afraid, as long as you keep holding my hand."

Soutarou:

"As long as my heart beats, your hands will not be separated."

Shin:

"... don't say that if you're not sure."

Soutarou:

(standing tall, eyes staring at him deeply)

"I'm sure. I'm never more sure than now."

Shin:

(shiver)

"You make me feel ... like I deserve to be loved."

Soutarou:

"Because you really deserve. And more than that ... you deserve to be happy."

Shin:

"... I don't want a luxurious one. Enough you. And our child."

Soutarou:

(small smile)

"It's funny ... we don't even understand this relationship, but already have children."

Shin:

(laughing softly)

"And ... I didn't regret it.

Soutarou:

(stepping slowly closer)

"I also didn't regret choosing you, Shin."

Shin:

"... Hug me, can I?"

Soutarou:

(gently, hugging tight)

"It's okay. And don't have to ask permission for the second hug."

Shin:

(hidden in his chest)

"... here ... it feels really calm ..."

Soutarou:

"Because our hearts are connected. Don't need more words."

Shin:

"... If you fall in love with me again every day, I won't protest."

Soutarou:

"I've started from now on. Every second, fall again. Inside."

Shin:

(whisper)

"If this is a dream ... don't wake me up."

Soutarou:

"Not a dream. This is us. And we are real."

Shin:

"Don't go, huh ..."

Soutarou:

"I'll stay here ... until you told me to leave."

Shin:

"Then ... never leave."

# 7

(The afternoon breeze wiped gently between the dead leaves. The golden light illuminated the faces of the two of them who were still staring at the silence, in a hug that did not want to be released. Shin took a slow breath ... then without saying anything - he moved closer.)

(A fraction of a second later, he kissed Soutarou's lips gently. Not in a hurry, no hesitation. Warm, calm ... and full of confidence.)

Soutarou:

(restrained, then replied slowly, without red, without surprise)

"... So ... you were the first, huh?"

Shin:

(soft voice, thin smile)

"I've been holding it for too long ..."

Soutarou:

(small smile)

"If it's like that ... I won't let you hold any more."

Shin:

"... good. Because from now on ... I don't want to be half measures."

Soutarou:

(hugged tighter)

"Me too. Fully. Forever."

# 8

Shin:

(slow)

"Soutarou ... I want to say something, which I've been buried for a long time."

Soutarou:

(calm)

"I listened to it. I won't cut."

Shin:

(a little smile, eyes dreamy)

"I still remember ... the first time I saw you. At that time ... I was still half-conscious. Cold, wounds ... and suddenly someone was working on me."

Soutarou:

(eye enlarge a little)

"When you were taken to my house and Akuro?"

Shin:

(slow nod)

"Yes. At that time ... I didn't know who you were. But ... there was a sense of security. Warm. Even though I just lost everything."

Soutarou:

(slow voice)

"I just ... feel you have to be helped. I can't leave it."

Shin:

(smiling softly)

"Do you remember? You brought me into the house, give a blanket ... and you sat on the floor, near me, until I fell asleep."

Soutarou:

(chuckle)

"I remember ... but I thought at that time you were too weak to know me there."

Shin:

"I know. And that ... when I first felt seen as someone. Not an object. Not the subject of experimentation."

Soutarou:

(silent, staring at him deeply)

"Shin ..."

Shin:

"Since then ... I started to love you. Slowly. Even before I knew who you really were."

Soutarou:

"... I didn't expect it. I thought you were just ... yes, needed help. And we became friends."

Shin:

(chuckle)

"I know you think that. That's why I don't say anything. I'm waiting."

Soutarou:

"Why didn't you say that time?"

Shin:

"I'm afraid. Fear of this taste makes everything become awkward. We are running, chased, living in the edge."

Soutarou:

(intense breathing)

"But now you say."

Shin:

(nod, soft)

"Because I can't take it anymore. I love you. And I know ... from the start, the feeling grew from the way you see me."

Soutarou:

(low voice, honest)

"I ... never thought I was quite valuable to someone ... my love."

Shin:

"Stop talking like that. You have the warmest heart I have ever known."

Soutarou:

(Smiles Lonely)

"I thought ... I helped you. But now I realized ... you also helped me, Shin."

Shin:

"... we saved each other, huh?"

Soutarou:

(nod)

"Not only from the world ... but from loneliness."

Shin:

"I don't want a day without you after this."

Soutarou:

"If you stay by my side ... I also don't need anything else."

Shin:

(slow)

"I'm happy to be honest now."

Soutarou:

"And I'm happy because you still choose me."

Shin:

(kidding slowly)

"I've chosen for a long time. You're the one who is late."

Soutarou:

(laugh)

"I'm really slow. But now I won't be separated."

Shin:

"...Thank you."

Soutarou:

"What for?"

Shin:

"To be my first house ... and my second heart."

Soutarou:

(soft voice)

"And you are my first reason ... to keep on."

# 9

Soutarou:

(standing slowly, turning towards the tent)

"Eh, by the way ... we haven't given a name for him, huh?"

Shin:

(Shock a little)

"Yes, right too. From earlier we only called 'you' or 'this child'."

Child:

(appearing from behind the tent, yawning)

"Papa ... Mama ... call me?"

Soutarou:

(smile, kneel)

"Yes, we want to give you a name."

Child:

(sparkling eyes)

"Name ...? I got a name?"

Shin:

(kneeling too, holding his hand)

"You want to have a beautiful name, right?"

Child:

(fast nod)

"MAUUU!"

Soutarou:

(think for a moment)

"What if ...‘ Nekomiel ’?"

Shin:

(Eyes enlarge slowly)

"That ... really sweet."

Soutarou:

"‘ Neko ’from the cat's side ... and‘ Miel ’... because she is as sweet as honey."

Child:

(very happy)

"Nekomiel ~ like! Like!"

Shin:

(smile softly)

"His last name ... What if 'Fuwarina'? Soft, Light ... Like him."

Soutarou:

"Sounds right. Nekomiel Fuwarina ..."

Child:

(small jump)

"I ... Nekomiel Fuwarina !!"

Shin:

(laugh)

"Welcome, Nekomiel."

Soutarou:

"Welcome, part of our family."

Nekomiel:

"Then ... what's the full name?"

Shin:

(smile proud)

"I ... Nekolune Shinaria."

Soutarou:

"And I ... Toriyama Soutarou."

Nekomiel:

(amazed)

"The name of Papa Mama ... So cool!"

Shin:

(stroke his head)

"You're cool too, Nekomiel."

Soutarou:

"From now on, you are Fuwarina's Nekomiel ... Our little daughter."

# 10

(When the three of them laughed together, Shin and Soutarou unconsciously held each other's hands above Nekomiel's heads.

Nekomiel:

(silent, his eyes enlarged)

"Eh ...? Warm again ..."

Shin:

(looking at his hand that touched Soutarou)

"Soarutou ... we ..."

Soutarou:

"Resonance again ...? But we don't intend ..."

(At the same time, the wind around them blew a little faster. The fall leaves fell faster, forming a small vortex around them. The air changed, such as thickening with natural energy.)

Shin:

(looking at the sky)

"The wind ... join in responding ..."

Soutarou:

"This is not an ordinary magic ... this is from within himself."

Nekomiel:

(his body shines brighter, but not painful)

"Papa ... Mama ... why is the light again?"

Shin:

(Slowly, staring at him gently)

"Because ... we are connected."

Soutarou:

"Because you are born from a strong bond. So when the bond is united again ... you react."

(Suddenly, from the sky, a small lights like a silvery blue fireball drifted down-diam, soft, then slowly entered the nekomiel body, united without sound.)

Nekomiel:

(eyes widened, then slowly closed)

"... something goes into me ..."

Shin:

(startled)

"Is that just now ...?"

Soutarou:

(Seriously, his eyes follow the light that has been integrated)

"Like ... the fragmented strength part."

Shin:

"And now ... he accepted it back?"

Nekomiel:

(holding his hands small)

"My heart ... feels full ..."

Soutarou:

(smiling softly)

"Welcome back, your strength ... Nekomiel."

Shin:

(small hug)

"Whatever you have ... we will help you control."

Nekomiel:

(smile softly)

"I'm not afraid ... because I have mama and daddy."

(The wind subsides. The light slowly disappears. The leaves fall back calm ... and that afternoon feels like a warm hug from nature for the three of them.)

# 11

(The atmosphere returned to calm after the resonance subsided. Nekomiel sat on Shin's lap, while playing a few leaves that fell in his hair. Shin and Soutarou looked at each other for a while, then smiled, as if they had the same idea.)

Soutarou:

(soft throat)

"Nekomiel, because now you already have a long name ... we think, you need a nickname too."

Shin:

(smiling warm)

"The shorter one, so it's nice to be called everyday."

Nekomiel:

(sparkling eyes)

"Nickname ...? Hehe ~ can I choose?"

Soutarou:

"Of course. There are three choices. First, 'Rina' ..."

Shin:

"Second, 'Fuwa' ..."

Soutarou:

"And finally, 'Neko'. From 'Nekomiel'."

Nekomiel:

(paused for a moment, then began to think hard, his little finger on the chin)

"Hmm ... Rina is funny ... Fuwa is cute ... but ..."

(His smile widened as he said—)

Nekomiel:

"Neko! I want to be called Neko!"

Shin:

(was astonished for a moment, then immediately cheered a small)

"Yes! I hope you choose that!"

Soutarou:

(laugh)

"I already know Shin will be happy."

Shin:

(hugging neko tight)

"Because 'Neko' sounds familiar ... and sweet. Very fitting for you!"

Neko:

(laughing happily)

"Neko ~ Neko! Now I have a name and call!"

Soutarou:

(Smiles Lonely)

"Congratulations, Neko. Filter name ... for a large family."

(Since then, the name is attached. And among the leaves of fall, the new call became the beginning of a deeper bond.

# 12

Soutarou:

"Neko ... do you really like that name?"

Neko:

"Hehe! Yes! Neko is funny, short, and ... like me!"

Shin:

(smile)

"I know you will like it. From the beginning I felt that it was suitable."

Neko:

"If you choose, it must be good!"

Soutarou:

"Eh, eh! Papa also chose, you know!"

Neko:

(Slowly Shakes)

"But Mama who said first. So Mama won!"

Shin:

(laughing softly)

"I consider it praise."

Soutarou:

(stroke Neko's head)

"Alright, from now on, you are officially called Neko."

Neko:

"I'm so happy! Thank you mama, daddy!"

Shin:

(Solemn staring at him)

"You deserve a sweet name. Because you ... are too valuable to us."

Neko:

(embracing Shin's neck slowly)

"I love mama too ..."

Soutarou:

"And daddy too, please?"

Neko:

(staring at Soutarou, then smiled broadly)

"Papa too I love!"

Shin:

(chuckle)

"Today ... it feels too perfect, huh?"

Soutarou:

"It's really rare we can get a day like this without interruption."

Neko:

"Means this ... Our special day?"

Soutarou:

"More than that. This is the day you get a name."

Shin:

"And that name ... that means you have a place."

Neko:

"The place in the hearts of mama and daddy?"

Shin:

"The deepest place."

Soutarou:

"A place that will not be shifted by anyone."

Neko:

"Then ... I promise I won't leave Mama and Papa."

Shin:

(moved)

"Neko ..."

Soutarou:

(smiling warm)

"You're an extraordinary child."

Neko:

"Because I have extraordinary mama and dad!"

Shin:

"Eh? I was ashamed ..."

Soutarou:

"You deserve that, Shin."

Shin:

"And you too ... the best dad I have ever seen."

Neko:

"I agree!"

Soutarou:

(startled)

"Wow, I won two on one voting?"

Shin:

"But don't big head, Toriyama-san."

Neko:

"Toriyama-san? Is that the long name Papa?"

Soutarou:

"Yes. My full name is Toriyama Soutarou."

Shin:

"And Mama ... Nekolune Shinaria."

Neko:

"Nekolune ... Toriyama ... I'm Fuwarina Neko!"

Shin:

"I'm happy you can be proud of your name."

Soutarou:

"That's proof you have your own identity."

Neko:

"That name ... that means I'm not alone anymore, right?"

Shin:

(smiling emotion)

"Yes, dear ... you're not alone anymore."

Soutarou:

"We are family, Neko. One step ... one breath."

Neko:

"I'm happy to have a family ... who loves me."

Shin:

"And we are happy ... owned you."

Soutarou:

"Thank you for being born, Neko."

# 13

Shin:

(smile, stroke Neko's head gently)

"Neko ... your hair is so smooth."

Neko:

(closed your eyes slowly)

"Nnnh ... mamaaa ~ really delicious ..."

Shin:

"Like ... stroked the kitten who was sleepy, huh?"

Neko:

"Hehe ... I'm a cat, really. Half."

Soutarou:

(chuckle)

"He was really docile when he was stroked like that."

Shin:

"He is comfortable. That's what's important."

Neko:

"I like to get stroked Mama the most ..."

Soutarou:

(head bowed slightly, smile sad)

"..."

Shin:

(look at Soutarou)

"Soutarou? Why are you silent?"

Soutarou:

(Quickly smile, look back)

"No, it's okay. I'm just ... thinking."

Neko:

(staring at him)

"Papa ... looks strange."

Soutarou:

(laughing softly)

"I'm fine, really."

Shin:

(slow)

"If there is something heavy in your head ... we are here, you know."

Soutarou:

(shaking his head slowly)

"No. Just ... sometimes I think, my life really changes."

Neko:

"Change to good?"

Soutarou:

(looking at them, smiling soft)

"... yes. So much better."

Shin:

"... if you don't want to tell you, it's okay. But I know ... you must have experienced a lot of things."

Soutarou:

(whisper barely audible)

"... And I don't want to damage this calm one."

Neko:

(Still on Shin's lap, smiling)

"Papa ... like a hero from another world ..."

Soutarou:

(stunned for a moment, then laugh softly)

"Huh ... another world, huh?"

Shin:

"Why? Do you like imagination?"

Soutarou:

(smiling in the heart)

"... because it feels like Isekai. But the version I chose myself."

Shin:

(Slightly bowed, soft voice)

"If this is your world world ... I'm grateful to be the heroine."

Soutarou:

(silent, then laugh softly)

"I'm more grateful ... the heroine is very strong."

Neko:

"And have a half cat child!"

Shin:

(laugh)

"Special heroine, huh?"

Soutarou:

"Special ... perfect ... and real."

Shin:

(slow voice)

"Soutarou ..."

Soutarou:

"... I don't know what his future will be like ... but I know, as long as you are there, I'm not afraid."

Shin:

"Me too. As long as we are together ... everything can be resisted."

Neko:

"I help the opponent too!"

Soutarou:

(smile)

"Our little team ... the most great in the world."

# 14

(In the afternoon began to lean towards the twilight. The orange color hung in the sky, sweeping the clouds slowly. The leaves fell from the trees around them, floating like light snow.

Shin:

(looking up)

"The sky is so beautiful ..."

Neko:

(small jumping chasing the leaves)

"The leaves are like snow ~!"

Soutarou:

(sitting leaning against the tree trunk, staring at them calmly)

"..."

Shin:

(glance at him)

"Soutarou ... you're so calm."

Soutarou:

(smiling thin)

"I'm just ... enjoying."

(When Shin and Neko continued to play, Soutarou slowly looked down, his gaze was empty, drowned in his own mind.)

-

This wind ... like the afternoon wind when I was a child. But in the past ... not this warm.

When father and mother were noisy ... the house felt very cold. Quiet. I can only sit in the corner, hoping their screams will stop.

After they divorced ... I was divided in two. But it feels, I was all missing.

There is no hug. There is no smile. Just ... empty space and sound that I never understand.

And now...

I sat here, see the little boy laughing, hearing Shin call my name ...

It feels like ... I met the 'house' again. But not the old one.

New house.

The house I chose myself.

-

Shin:

(approaching slowly, sitting beside him)

"You seem to think hard ..."

Soutarou:

(turning slowly, smiling a little)

"No, it's just thinking ... how far we've been walking."

Shin:

"And how warm is our place now?"

Soutarou:

"Yes ... that too."

Neko:

(running to them while laughing)

"Papa Mama! I caught the biggest leaves!"

Soutarou:

(laughing softly)

"You champion today."

(The wind blows again. This time, softer than he had felt before.)

And for the first time in his life ... the past did not feel scary anymore.

# 15

Shin:

"The wind is soft, huh?"

Soutarou:

"I rarely feel comfortable with the wind."

Shin:

"Do you like hot air?"

Soutarou:

"Not really. But in the past ... the afternoon breeze was just a background when my house was a mess."

Shin:

(slow)

"... Oh ..."

Soutarou:

(Had silence)

"No need to worry. Now it's different."

Shin:

"I'm glad you can say that."

Soutarou:

"I can say ... because of you."

Shin:

(thin smile)

"You know? I was also afraid of the wind. Because I don't know ... will it continue to survive the next day."

Soutarou:

"You're much stronger than you think."

Shin:

"Because now I have a place to come back."

Soutarou:

(soft view)

"And you are that place for me."

Shin:

(stop for a moment, then turn around)

"Are you sure we are strong enough to continue like this?"

Soutarou:

"Not sure. But I want to keep trying ... as long as you remain by my side."

Shin:

"Too honest, but ... it's beautiful."

Neko:

(Come with leaf on his head)

"I became a leaf fairy ~!"

Shin:

(laughing softly)

"You're so cute, Neko."

Soutarou:

"The most cheerful leaf fairy ever."

Neko:

"I take care of mama and dad wearing leaf magic ~!"

Shin:

(To Soutarou, Slow)

"He never stopped making me smile."

Soutarou:

"Me too. He ... a gift from the wound that we hold."

Shin:

"Sometimes I think, this world is evil ... but he comes like sorry from the universe."

Soutarou:

"... And you come like a forgiveness for my life."

Shin:

(Shocked, his face turned red)

"Why can you talk like that, suddenly ..."

Soutarou:

"I'm just ... I don't want to save feelings anymore."

Shin:

(silent, smile slowly)

"I'm grateful ... you are there."

Soutarou:

"And I ... thankful you choose to stay."

Neko:

(hugging to both of them)

"Mama ... Papa ... don't go far."

Shin:

(hug neko tight)

"We won't go anywhere, dear."

Soutarou:

"Not today. Not tomorrow. We are here."

# 16

(The afternoon slowly turned to dusk. The sunlight that was warm now began to fade, turning into a golden orange hue that spreads in the sky. The wind is still blowing slowly, carrying the leaves that rotate softly in the air-splashed under the evening light.)

Neko:

(jogging while chasing the leaves that float)

"Hehehe ~ the leaves are dancing, mama!"

Shin:

(laughing softly)

"Yes, Neko ... they danced for us."

Soutarou:

(looking up, staring at the sun that is almost drowned)

"The sky is like a soft fire ... warm but not hurting."

Shin:

(stand beside him)

"Dusk like this ... reminded me that a heavy day could end in peace."

Soutarou:

"And at the end ... always give us a reason to start again tomorrow."

Neko:

(running back to them, then hugging Shin's feet)

"Mama, Papa ... Neko is so happy today!"

Shin:

(Knelt down hugging him)

"Me too, dear. Today is very beautiful."

Soutarou:

"And you are part of all the beauty, Neko."

(When the sun really began to sink behind the lines of the trees, the three of them stood for a moment in silence-looking at the sky that slowly turned golden purple. The wind dancing between them, carrying the aroma of grass, soft soil, and life.)

Neko:

(whisper softly)

"... I like this world ..."

Shin:

(smile softly)

"I like it because we are in it ... together."

Soutarou:

"And now ... it's time to go home to the tent."

(They walked back towards the camp, with a calm step along the scattered leaves.)

(Arriving at the tent, the sky was dark. Soutarou squat near a pile of wood, sprinkled small fire and blowing slowly until the bonfire brought up gently, warm them.)

Soutarou:

(Smiling Little)

"The campfire is ready. Tonight ... we rest peacefully."

# 17

(The night really dropped. The dark sky was filled with stars, and the campfire in the middle of the tent was calm, giving a soft orange light that danced on the surface of their faces. The night wind was cool, but not biting. The atmosphere of silence and peace ... until the sound of the spats was heard in the distance.)

Fwoosh ... Fwoosh ...

(A large eagle with brownish red fur slid slowly from the sky, then landed not far from the campfire. His body shines softly ... and slowly changes shape.

FLASH.

(Akuro returned to stage 2-stinging upright in his human form. His red hair was messy in the wind, and he patted his shoulders slightly, removing the leaves that were attached.)

Akuro:

(walk casually towards the fire)

"I thought you were sleeping. But it was still sitting sweetly enjoying the night, yes."

Soutarou:

(small smile)

"We're waiting for you back too, bro."

Shin:

"You look ... more relaxed than usual."

Akuro:

(turning to stars)

"The night breeze over the forest ... enough to make the head cool."

Neko:

(jogged towards him)

"Big Fur Back ~!"

Akuro:

(thin smile)

"Yes, Neko. I returned. But this time I don't need to call me so all the time, huh?"

Neko:

"Why? Because you're fur and big!"

Akuro:

(sigh, then sit)

"I gave up."

Soutarou:

"Welcome back. Sit before the fire goes out."

Shin:

"I prepare the place next to here."

(Akuro sat quietly near them, staring at the fire that danced slowly. There was no long talk ... only the warmth was distributed through their shared existence.)

And the night continued, peaceful, calm ... like they were never pursued by the world.

# 18

(They sat in a circle near a campfire. Light chat filling the night - about falling leaves, about the color of the sky, about simple dreams. Until the sound of a small stomach sounds soft ... then clear.)

Neko:

(Stroking his stomach, innocent face)

"Uuh ... my stomach sounds again ..."

Shin:

(flinched, then looked at Soutarou)

"We ... still have food, right?"

Soutarou:

(Open a small bag and check its contents)

"... it's empty. Even the crumbs aren't there."

Neko:

(his face is immediately lethargic)

"Finished...?"

Soutarou:

(kneeling)

"Sorry, Neko. I thought the chicken was enough this afternoon."

Shin:

(Slowly Shakes)

"I didn't expect you to be hungry this fast ..."

Akuro:

(standing, removing something from behind the robe)

"... I just have this."

(He threw a red apple into Neko's hand.)

Neko:

(sparkling eyes)

"Apple!"

Shin:

(startled)

"Where do you keep apples from, Akuro?"

Akuro:

"Take from the tree when the afternoon patrol. I thought it was just in case."

Soutarou:

(withdraw breath)

"Honey, only one ..."

Neko:

(Seeing the apple, then looked at them)

"... I share three, huh?"

Soutarou:

(smile)

"You're so sweet ... but just eat everything. We're fine."

Shin:

"Yes, dear. You who need the most energy."

Neko:

(smile, then bite the apple softly)

"Nice..."

Akuro:

"Tomorrow we are looking for more decent food."

Soutarou:

(standing slowly)

"... or now."

Shin:

"Eh? Where are you going?"

Soutarou:

"To the river. Who knows, it can be fish. Night fishing, I think that's the only choice."

Akuro:

(lifting eyebrows)

"Are you sure? Dark you know."

Soutarou:

"Calm down. I brought small fire magic, enough for lighting."

Shin:

(smile softly)

"Be careful, ok."

Soutarou:

(turning while raising your hand)

"If I bring a big fish back ... prepare salt."

(Neko laughed softly, the apple was still in his hand. Meanwhile, the night continued to roll ... accompanied by the small hopes that swim in the dark river.

# 19

Soutarou walked slowly leaving the bonfire circle, along the dry leafy ground that hit slowly under his steps. The night air feels moist, but not piercing. He raised his right hand up - a small fireball floating right above the palm, blinking softly like a living lantern. The orange light from the fire danced on his face, creating a soft shadow around his calm eyes.

His steps passed the tall trees whose trunks were blackened by the night. Occasionally, the night breeze blows with the sound of water gurgling from a distance. The small light of the fire bounced off the wet trees and shiny leaves. The night insects occasionally crossed the light, then disappeared into the darkness.

A few meters later, the sound of running water came clearly. The small river flowing behind the bush was finally seen. The current is calm, with the surface of the water that reflects the moonlight and the light of the fire ball - sparkling gently.

Soutarou sat on a large rock that jutted toward the river. He put the fireball in the air to keep it floating as a torch. His hands began to prepare an emergency fishing line from a rope and twig pieces, his face focused but still calm.

The night around him, but he did not feel alone.

Because this time ... he was fishing not to survive - but for someone he loved.

# 20

When Soutarou fishing, suddenly ...

Soutarou:

"Eh - withdraw?"

(The emergency fishing rope suddenly stiffened, the water rippling softly.)

(Soutarou pulled slowly, keeping the stability so that the rope did not break. After a few seconds struggled, a small fish jumped out of the water and landed next to the stone.)

Soutarou:

(small smile)

"One ... not bad for opening."

.

Check!

Soutarou:

"Huh, again?"

(He pulled the second fish, a little bigger. He repeated once more ... and again. Until a total of four times, he got enough fish for one dinner.)

Soutarou:

(standing, lifting the catch)

"Four is enough. The rest ... to stay alive."

(With the fireball still floating above his head, he walked back down the leafy path to the camp. The campfire was still burning, Shin and Neko were sitting leaning, while Akuro was in a half -collapse.)

Shin:

(smile relieved)

"You're back ... and bring the results!"

Neko:

(small jump)

"Fish! Fish Night ~!"

Akuro:

(lifting eyebrows)

"I didn't expect you to go back with that kind of results."

Soutarou:

(proud smile)

"His father's instincts came out."

(He sat near the small river near the tent and began to clean the fish patiently. Blood was discarded, scales were slashed quickly.

The aroma of fish meat spread slowly, making the stomach rang again.

Shin:

"The aroma makes me calm ... and hungry again."

Neko:

(clap the hands)

"Eat ~ eat ~!"

(Akuro sitting near the fire, taking the ripe fish.)

Akuro:

"Hmm ... the meat is tender. Where do you learn from cooking like this?"

Soutarou:

"Trial and error. But for the sake of you, I'm serious."

They eat together under the night sky that starts with stars. The night wind was calm, and the bonfire that crushed was the perfect background for the warm meal.

Shin:

(smile, after the last bribe)

"I'm full ... and happy."

Neko:

(rubbing stomach)

"Neko is full too ... today is perfect!"

Soutarou:

(smile, looking at them)

"It's nice to see you guys like this."

Akuro:

(nodding slowly)

"Peace ... finally."

(One by one, they entered the tent. The space in the tent looked warmer than before. Akuro, which was exhausted, returned to stage 1 - became an eagle, then curled up in the corner as usual.)

Shin and Neko shared the side of the tent, with Soutarou on the other side. The tent feels enough, although a little narrow, but they don't mind. Because for them ... this warmth is irreplaceable.

And that night was closed in silence.

With a full stomach, a calm heart ... and a small family that slowly learns to survive together.

End Episode 9.