Summary: Shenya was the first Queen Mother in Maki legend. It was said she died for them. This, is her story. Part of a series I will do on the Maki.

Author: Yavanna Greenleaf

A/N: I was inspired to write this story by the song Concrete Angel by Martina McBride. This has child abuse and character deaths in it. I hope you like it.

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Chapter 1 'At First'

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Shenya had a horrible Christmas the year she turned twelve. The day had started out horrible because she didn't get any gifts from her parents. They had been too busy arguing and shouting to get her anything.

That was also the day her dad said enough and walked out of her life forever. She thought she would be glad to see him go. She was at first. Then her mom started beating her.

At first, Shenya thought all single mothers beat their childrens. She thought she deserved it, for being bad. At first, it was just her mom beating her with her fists. Then her mom started in with a belt.

It soon became more than that. And more frequent. Where it had started at just once or twice a week, it became once a day, or more.

Her friends used to come over. She distanced herself so much, she no longer had friends. Her most loyal friends left her by spring.

She cried so much, she thought this was part of growing up. She struggled to keep up in classes, for if she got below an A, she would be beaten. If she asked for money for lunch, she was beaten. If she didn't work hard enough, she was beaten. Almost everyday, she was beaten for something.

She started having daydreams, for they were a refuge for her broken body and soul. She made up people, and talked to them. Nobody knew who Jake was, nor did they care. They all thought she would have a mental breakdown, anyway.

Then, one day she met somebody. Somebody that cared.

***** A/N: Hey, everybody. I'm just guessing that this will be read. There are sooooooo many other great stories out there, I don't know how you could possibly find mine. Well, if you did, and you're reading this, I just wanted to tell you all thank you for being so kind.

I find that I am addicted to reviews. So please review so that I can continue with this story. Thanks!

~Yavanna Greenleaf~