Chapter 1 - The coldness in their hearts

I've always liked to remember and cherish those old moments filled with happiness, when I was still with my "family". I can't say that my childhood was an empty and bad one - it definitely could have been worse. I didn't have to worry about getting food and education, things which are blessings in this world. The only thing that I never got to know is: love - a simple and almost preset feeling in a family. I was just fodder for them. Right now I'm still looking for my purpose in this reality. The first thing I remember was the cold look in their eyes. I was treated as a living body, which they could play with... and now I am back on this street... how did I even get here?

It all started when I was sitting at my usual place in the park seeing the same people and wondering what they are up to today. "Hey Mark, how are you today and where is your brother?" Jimmy, one of my old friends at that time, came over and wondered about me being alone. "Ah, hey Jimmy, I'm fine and he is training at the gym again." "Too bad, why don't you join us to play then? The boys and me want to chill and maybe train our skills in a few spars after that." He said a malicious smile appearing on his face.

I already new that they would try to use me as their punching bag, but since I was doing a lot of training, when I had freetime I was quite sure of myself and even if I said no, Jimmy wouldn't accept that answer since he is the most stubborn of us. "Sure, why not!" I answered with a smile on my face. Jimmy got confused and was curious from where that confidence came from.

After that we went to one of the many rings in the park, which were build for such occasions. Of course they wouldn't be able to withstand a fight between those inhuman beasts at the peak of hv2, but for a few 17 year old boys it was more than enough. Right before we randomized the matches, my phone rang and we had to stop for a second. "Sorry that is my brother. I have to answer him.", I said feeling a bit down already, since he might need me for something. "Ok, just make it quick. I can't wait any longer!", said Leon with an excited expression on his face. He really liked to spar and given his natural talent of having a fast regeneration, paired with a sturdy body and the control over it, he shouldn't be underestimated. "Hey John, are you still at the gym? Did something happen? Are you alright?" I asked him. "Hey Mark, yes I'm alright and still training at the gym. I was just worried since I heard Jimmy and the others are roaming in the park. They aren't picking on you right?" I could hear the concern in his voice and felt relieved since he was ok and nothing had happened. "No, they just asked me to spar with them and they didn't do anything to me. You should just focus on your training, aren't the regionals starting soon?"

To be honest I was glad that he was looking after me and that I could feel at least some brotherly and real emotions from him. Even though he was just 2 years older than me, his body and fighting abilities were over the top and he already received training since he was little. He was always seen as a real fighting prodigy. I couldn't even compare to him.

"If something happens, just call me. I'll be there for you." "Thanks John. Don't worry. It is gonna be alright!" I reassured him, so he could concentrate on training himself. After exchanging some last words, he ended the call and the boys had prepared the straws to choose the battles. "Ok, we can start now!" Leon said really enthusiastic.