Wanderer by Day, Warrior by Night

[Animaniac]

((OOC:....its called an accident or mistake rsc390 and i fixed it...wow I found the perfect title...yay!...))
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Under Pressure

That noise...the noise of peace All is still and calm, that is the way it always was and will be in this place. Tetsu felt as if he was underwater, well thats what he thought he felt, then again he could barley feel anything now since he had cast his Nereku numbing spell. His body was covered with sweat as he scrambled to his feet with the support of his sturdy Kenzenten.

At last Tetsu had gotten through the first phase of his training. Tetsu needed to get stronger. Now the real training would commense...time for another spell. He stood legs a little more than sholder width apart with arms outstretched, palms facing opposite directions. After the usual chanting before each spell, which he refered to as ginshou, Tetsu screamed "Genkou". His body began to become "holographic" or edgey and separated to become 2 Tetsus. This form of training known as "kyoshuu" was dangerous to anyone who tried it because when the user morphed or fused back together the user would immediately go unconsious because of the stress it puts on the mind and body. It was used as a last resort; and with 50 times normal gravity who knew what could happen, the end result could be death.

Each Tetsu took a difference stance, not only did the brain have to do double work and thinking, but the body did too. Finally after a random drop of sweat fell to the gound they both charged at eachother, each one countering the other one's moves at the same time. Spell after spell and attack after attack, the battle raged on, and after a long battle of extended mental and physical stress both Tetsus held themselves up on all fours. There was no more energy to fight. There was only one thing left to do.

The Tetsus approched eachother and unsheathed their Kenzentens. Raising their sword to the sky in the same fashion, they both shouted "Heigou" and joined as one.

Tetsu sheathed Kenzenten. He survived, he survived the kyoshuu training even in 50 times normal gravity. Yes he was tired but he had achieved a new level.

Just then, starting at Tetsus lower back sparked a tremendous amount of pain that traveled up his spinal cord as fast as lightning to his brain. Tetsu gracefully fell back into an unconsious state, and with a faceless expression on his face, his eyes rolled back to reveal an empty pale look.

[RSC_390]

The Legend of Moonblade

Time had frozen almost still, everything moving slowly. It seemed that the critical moment was none other than a time to fully look things over. Katsu knelt down on the bended knee, his katanas outstretched, preparing to spring up and attack. His great baggy pants fluttered in the wind that came in through the open door behind him; meanwhile the door behind Kieto prevented him from going anywhere.

Luckily, the passageway was not to narrow, and he had the chance of getting by his brother should he be careless, and then make it out to safety. Of course, Katsu was known to always be careful and precise, not taking chances, with the exception of the rare occasion in which he decides to let a potential victim live.

There, back towards the entrance like the true coward he was, the painter watched and laughed at the sight of Kieto’s fear. It was very apparent that he never stood a chance. Kieto was angered by the painter, for he knew that he could take him on any time.

The young warrior’s kimono blew softly in the wind as well, but it was torn in several places that leaked blood as well after Katsu’s vicious attacks. The wind rushed in, and slowly Kieto began to absorb it, when suddenly he realized something peculiar, and stopped the technique altogether…

Why is it that he glows ever so brightly whenever I use the Mushin? Perhaps some sort of barrier protects him? Or perhaps, it is but an aura that shows off his true power, the truth to his strength.

“I think its time I told the two of you the Legend of Moonblade…” the painter interrupted, scarring his concentration for a noted period of time. Kieto would have to begin the Mushin again in order to locate the aura, and find the source of its power.

Why does he not attack? What is he waiting for? Kieto thought, aching to find out why, but at the same time wishing he never would.

“Long ago, a sword was forged by the sons of the moons themselves, in hopes of putting an end to the darkness that had swept the land…”

The aura was of pearly white, and it flowed through the air like water. As Kieto powered up the Wind Void once more, the aura flowed through it perfectly, and he was intrigued by its mystery. However, when the aura followed its own path, and flowed around Katsu himself, Kieto knew that the attack was brewing.

“This darkness was a menace to all, and the only the payers of the many innocent and those closest to the gods could end the horror…”

The next thing happened in a flash, and Katsu’s eyes were wide open, his eyes as red as fire. Kieto could only begin to retaliate, and he knew that.

“But to everyone’s misfortunate, this darkness was invincible, and they were forced to lock up the darkness within the ancient writings of the blade itself.”

In a fraction of a second, Katsu made his mood, and spun around like the wind as he flew upwards, like a saw against the stone door. Kieto was lucky enough to have predicted his motions, and was on the other side of him, releasing the Mushin!

Kieto struck nothing but stone as well, but the power of his strike tore open the door, which crumbled into nothing but dust and rubble. In this room, where the only light came from a large broken hole in the ceiling, stood a sword upon a pedestal, which glowed like the essence of the moon itself!

“Behold, Moonblade!!!” the painter exclaimed.

Both warriors were astonished at the sight, for it was indeed beautiful. Fiery dragons curved around the hilt of the blade, and everything was a passive marble green. Camouflaged inscriptions were carved along the two sides of the sword’s blade, but where the edge of the light touched it, the carvings lit up in sparkles, showing off its marvelous beauty.

Steps of dull worn gray led to the pearly white pedestal that held the sword. It was at a slant, but neither of them noticed, since the beauty still overwhelmed them. Of course the only thing that stood in their way was each other, and in a desperate attempt for power, both warriors lunged for the sword, totally oblivious to what the painter had said before, and the fact that the darkness would be freed should Moonblade be drawn from its pedestal.

Katsu had transformed into his smoke form, so naturally he was faster, but the two knocked into a barrier, and when they realized it acted as an unbreakable dome around the steps, they turned towards the painter in shock!

He simply showed them to one of the other three doors, where she walked in…

Even Katsu was infuriated by the sight, and the two forgot about each other, and simply stared.

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Tenmakaki, the painter who had followed the progress of Kieto and his friends all along, walked into the great dome from the otherside, behind him a girl with undying beauty. It showed from the depths of her heart, beaming like the sun, but her sorrow hung a rope, and she was submerged in a pool of despair. Then their eyes met.

The moment Kieto layed eyes on her, there was a wide sense of relief. He had been searching for her for the past few years, and was devastated to see her in chains. However his rage could not overcome his happiness, for he was delighted that she was once again within his sight.

What kind of evil could possibly want to hold such an innocent young soul, so familiar with love for the earth?

Ai was wearing a dull grey kimono, worn from the tolls of time itself. It matched the pool of despair in which she was submerged, and Kieto couldn't bare to see her like this.

Meanwhile, Katsu was shocked. All this time he was totally unaware of the truth, and was devastated at the sight. Who had been responsible all this time for her capture? And most shocking of all... WHY?!

Simply enough, he was disgusted. At one point there was a longing for power, but now there was a terrible hate for the soul who had tortured his sister so. He could not bare it, when Kieto attacked!

"Don't even try it, fool! If you step any closer, she dies!" Tenmakaki ordered. His was excited. The demon had waited long for this moment, the moment in which his master would arise and finally begin his invasion on the mortal world, wreaking havoc on the already withering peace.

"Begin girl!" he ordered. Kietoi became instantly furious, and screamed back in anger. "If you so much as TOUCH her again, i'm going to slice you into pieces!!"

The painter laughed at this threat, for he knew that there was no way the warrior would come near him as long as his dear sister's life was in danger.

Katsu growled at him. "Disgusting... Even evil should not use the shield of love for protection. It is just a sign of weakness. It is hard for a demon like yourself to admit weakness, especially after superiority to mortals. As for myself... I care not for your stupidity, nor the girl. I want the sword!!"

Kieto couldn't believe his ears. This was not the brother he had known years ago. Ever since that faithful day, since his father had been brutally murdered, everything was blurry, until the day at the sushi resturant. Everything changed over the long period of time! What could have possibly happened over those six dreary years?!

Ai raised her arms, and with this motion, Moonblade glowed brightly. Then aura that had been protecting it rose away, and she fainted.

"The sword is free from the spells that had bound it to the pedestal! Draw the sword Katsu, and let free the darkness which is Akumu!!!

Katsu lunged forward for the sword, but Kieto jumped into the way.

"Get out of my sight, brother! You are but a weakling! And now with the legendary Moonblade, I shall be more powerful than anything of this earth!!!" he yelled at him. Meanwhile, he drew his katanas again, and the jumped into battle again.

[Mistress Sheena]

As Kana was walking through the forest path, slicing down shrub after shrub, to make it easier for his allies to walk through, someone unexpectedly ran into them. When they all took a look at this person, they were shocked in dismay that he was still living. Kana was most angered of all, because he was the one who supposedly killed the person months ago. Yet there he was, standing in front of them, surfacing that annoying grin. No one knew his name, but they called him the Painter, mainly because he carries around a brush that he uses to fight with.
Without warning he opened up a bottle that released a wave of smoke that sucked in everyone but Kieto. Falling down in what seemed a bottomless abyss, they all thought the same thing. Where they would end up once they landed…if they were going to be separated, or in a group.
Hours later, Kana woke up in a familiar field. He shook his head to remove the cobwebs from his brain. As he looked around and got a clearer look, he noticed that he was in the same field of battle as ten years ago, during the war. But to the east, was a shadowy figure. He walked toward the figure, and the figure charged straight toward him. As he got closer, Kana recognized him right away. It was the person he least suspected. Sol. The only friend he had when he was just perfecting his fighting technique.

[Animaniac]

The Moment Of Truth

Tetsu was floating. He did not know where he was. Around him were his memories of his past.

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Tetsu was born and grew up on the holy grounds in which he was laying upon. He was born into the life of being a peace protector. He was tought the secret arts of peace and harmony that the world doesn't know of and never knew before. By age 19, he had completed the studies of sorcery, and began to learn the art of fighting with his handed down sword the Kenzenten. By age 24, he had completed his combat arts training, and began his intense meditation. Finally Tetsu became a full fledged "Tetsu Hogasha" {meaning-peace protector}.

Ever since Tetsu was a boy he had worn "the holy markings". They served the important purpose of protecting the peace. Yet the markings gave him advanced senses and abilities. For example, "The Hogashas" age slower with the markings; for every two years that passed, they would only age as if one had passed. Tetsu lives for twice as long as the average person, because their bodies must be in peak physical condition to keep the peace.

Tetsu wasn't responsible for keeping everyday peace in the towns and cities, but for the overall protection of the people...

His purpose in life was to keep the "evil of hell" contained in the sword....

The Hogashas have lived for many centuries. Tetsu's anceestors were the ones who sealed Akuma in the ancient Moonblade of gods.

His memories were engulfed in flames. A skull impaled by a sword appeared in front of him.

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He awoke with a sudden in pain all over his body. But this was no ordinary pain, nor was it the pain of his training, it was the pain of his glowing holy markings. Out of nowhere he had a sudden rush of power, and he jumped to his feet and thought moonblade. In a split second he was already changed into his white kimono, he was flying to the temple in which it was held. As he landed, the worn statues, covered in moss and other plants, once created to protected the sacred moonblade, were now overcome by Akuma's evil, which was already beginning to leak from the weakening seal. I HAVE NOT TIME FOR YOU!!! he screamed as he slashed away through the statues with ease.

Entering the structure temple, he read the scene intantaneously. The curse to break the moonblade's spell had been removed. Yet there was still hope, there was only one way to prevent Akuma's hell to be unleashed on Earth...the girl.

Tetsu's body shined a bright blue aura in the darkened room, this was his true power. Katsu was approching the sword to finish his fight with his brother, when he reconized that Tetsu had taken his trusting stance with the Kenzenten. He figured out that it was not him that Tetsu was aiming at, yet to his surprise it was his sister.

Tetsu lunged with such a force that the tiles under him flew up to leave a crater in the earth. There was a clash of swords. Both Katsu's and Kieto's swords holding his sword back with some trouble. They would not allow Tetsu to hurt Ai, but it had to be done to seal Akuma away forever, and without the oracle Akuma's magic would go along to the grave with her.

You don't understand, it has to be done to seal the evil!

If Tetsu had to fight them, so be it. Even with Tetsu's godlike speed and strength, he had some trouble dealing with the two skilled warriors.

Tetsu screamed out Watuzuki and the warriors' shoes were cemented to the floor as the gravity of their feet increased to 30x normal. Tetsu started to walk across the room to where Ai was laying. Just then, the painter came out and said, "I cannot allow you to interfer with the master's plans." Tetsu flung his arm across the air with such speed that the painter flew into the wall.

Tetsu raised Kenzenten above Ai. He suddenly had the same paining sensation he had when he had awakened earlier. Tetsu's eyes widened. He turned around to see Katsu a few inches from the pedestal struggling with the gravity spell and reaching for the moonblade.

Then Katsu said I may not be able to beat you now, but with the help of the moonblade I shall KILL YOU!!, and with that, he griped the hilt of the moonblade and slowly drew it from its place...

[RSC_390]

Akumu

Kieto was on the bended knee, holding the katana's flat surface agianst the cold stone floor. The overgrown temple was practically in rubble, for it was made centuries ago, and those who sealed him away already knew that only the seal itself of the legendary sword could hold him.

Tetsu was the only one who truly knew this, and when he saw Katsu slowly walk towards the sword, he quickly leaped over Kieto to interfere.

Yet Katsu made this devastating action quick and elaborate, the explosion setting off a light so bright, that not even the gods themselves could bear it. Even Tetsu stumbled at this, only Katsu standing, since he was the one who wielded the blade. However, a another explosion of force knocked them ALL back, and a dark mist began to leak from the blade.

Kana, Mayumi, and Makoto were just walking in as the sword fell to the earth, and the mist rose to their waists. It was a strange experience indeed, but none of them understood, except for Tetsu himself. "Oh no... it is too late..." Tetsu realized, his eyes wide open in horror.

"What is it? asked Kieto, panting and standing so that he wouldn't be under the mist. "Run!" the warrior warned like an order, "Run now!"

"Why?!" Kieto asked.

When Tetsu turned around so that Kieto could see his face, he knew that there was no need for an answer. The warrior from before, who was obviously no weakling, was terrified, his sould struck with a terror so devastating, that things began to seem hopeless. Tetsu did eventually answer though, after swallowing his breath and calming himself.

"Akumu has been released!!"

They only then noticed that Katsu and the sword were both missing, so that he must have run off with it, yet the mist began to gather in to a single point that floated above the pedestal, and everything was blown away in a flash, in a setting of darkness followed. Kieto couldn't stop rubbing his eyes, which irked him, since he could feel immense pain all around his body. Then... he opened his eyes, saw the truth of this darkness, the horror of this hatred, the death of all morality...

It was worse than he had imagined, a darkness so terrible that hades itself could not match it! Dark roaring clouds trembled above at tremendous speed, a thick black coating covering the light from the sun. The forest that was once around them had been blown away to nothing but dirt and rubble. Here and there, in very spaced apart areas, debris could be found, along with splinters of wood from the trees. Dust cyclones skimmed the barren terrain, stripping it of whatever was left. Even the mountains among the horizon were nothing but mounds of dirt. It was a nightmare indeed, yet none of it seemed real, especially what stood in the center of it all... the darkness itself... Akumu...





"I have failed my ancestors already, and so lies the death of the world..." Tetsu recited from the poem within his head. Only now did Kieto understand, understand the ways of the ancient Moonblade. Tetsu was born into the task of protecting the legendary blade, and after failing, he was one of the only people who actually knew the darkness in which was released.

Suddenly, the wind took a fowl turn, and a sponaneous bolt of lightning struck the ground where the pedestal once was, its energy drawing in the dark winds! Slowly, these winds began to take shape, and beneath the wind that trailed off of it, a single figure stood in the darkness, its white eyes portruding from the black. Kieto was astonished, for he had never seen such a sight, nor did he think he would again. The dark winds flew in from the storm clouds above only to form the figure of this dark soul, and then trailed off to the side, settling into nothinginess...

Its voice hissed over the harsh land, ringing in the ears of the innocent nearby. It was hard to hear over the intense wind, however the hiss fell like a whisper upon them.

"After being locked for ccccenturies on end, I am finally free..."

"Akumu, the darkness that has lurked beneath the depths of the sword, now stands before me... Its as if we're listening to the devil itself." Kieto noted, looking onward in disgust and drawing his sword.

Even with out a mouth, Kieto could feel Akumu's smirk. This time when Akumu spoke, a tone was slowly ariving, and the true magnificence of his voice was apparent.

"I am no devil, but the DISEASE that shall spread across this wretched land..."

Kana and Mayumi looked on, as did Makoto, who decided to speak up for himself. A wave of dust and rubble emerged from his body in a pulse, which followed the slow creation of a whirlwind of darkness!! It was harder to see Akumu himself now, but he was still visible period, especially his bright white eyes.

"I am nothing but the shadow of the wind, a force created by the intense hate of every mortal on this planet, all combined to create me, the dark presence Akumu... Can you not beat just a little bit of wind...? The smirk widened upon his face, and from that moment on, Kieto felt an undying hate for this presence, the presence of Akumu.

The whirlwind of shadow grew in darkness, and in an act of stupidity, Kieto ran towards the demon like a wild animal, without order or any common sense. Not that it mattered, he didn't stand much of a chance anyway. At this point though, completely blinded by rage and the inability to accept the truth, he was pretty much useless.

With the flick of his hand, Akumu created a whirlwind that slowly carried Kieto into the air, and tore away at his body like nothing! His clothing ripped, hundreds of scratches bore all over him, blood staining the white of his kimono. Then, with another sudden burst of force, he was shot back away from the presence, skidding to a stop on the barren dirt terrain! He was bruised and battered, but he refused to give up after so much time.

"I might have told you how useless it would be for any of you to attack, but I enjoy watching the pride of a warrior fall into pieces!!"


Ai lay on the ground seemlingly lifeless to the other end, and, with nothing esle better to do, Makoto went over to her to give her protection. Akumu smiled.

"What amazes me is the great amount of potential within you all. I shall look forward to fighting you in the future... although my first task shall be to eliminate the one thing that can do me harm, Moonblade!!!

With that, the wind rocketed into the sky, and disappeared, leaving them to the barren wasteland...

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A few days had passed, when they arrived at a port town, happy for the oppurtunity to rest. It took hours to get out of the wasteland itself! Which was surprising of course. Ai was completely unconcious, so Kieto carried her to the nearest tavern where they decided to stay, and dropped her off at her bed so she could rest. Meanwhile, Kieto would have to go to a tailor to get his clothing fixed. It was stil midday, so they all had their seperate ways to go. It was funny, for they still didnt' have a definite direction to go, and Kieto had already found his beloved sister. So the question rang through all of their minds. What were they doing? Why were they continuing this "journey", when there was nothing left to quest for? None of them talked at all since the entire incident, with the exception of Kieto making room arrangements at the tavern. They were all in different places, thinking of nothing but Akumu, the "disease" that was indeed spreading the land...

Did they even stand a chance against him? How would they find him? What was he capable of? Now that they had the time to do their thinking and relax their wounds and minds, nothing but thinking went into place. Of course there was the daily distractions, but none of them even talked during meals! Their minds were just to preoccupied.

It irked Kieto that while Akumu was now free and spreading his wrath, Katsu was off somewhere fooling with the Moonblade. But was the Moonblade really so powerful? It WAS what their ancestors used to lock away Akumu in the past, but was it really anything besides cowering behind the tolls of time, and leaving the horror to the people of the future? Then there was the most important question. If Kieto could get a hold of the legendary Moonblade and spend time learning how to use it, would he be able to strike down the evil that is Akumu? For some reason he held much doubt. Besides, Akumu himself even said that he would eliminate the Moonblade, although it was possible that he still didn't know how to destroy its sacred edges.

When Akumu left the scene only days ago, Tetsu departed from the group, for he had "business" to take care of. It was quite obvious that he was still devastated and unwilling to accept the fact that he had failed his task, his task which it was his LIFE to follow. Who wouldn't be shocked? Still Kieto wondered what the man would do in this time, and whether they would meet again.

Kieto stood by the docks and ignored the many ships and people, watching the sea roar in its magnificence. Mayumi then caught him from behind. "Something troubling you?" she asked. It was the first attempt at conversation for any of them, and Kieto was hesitant to answer. "I'd suppose so, I mean, you have been through a lot lately." she added. She was right, from the harsh insanity of his brother who wielded the key to the end of darkness, the destined battle with his childhood-rival still approaching, the abuse of his sister, whom he hadn't seen in years, and still hasn't really spoken to, and Akumu, the darkness that may mean the end of the world. She was definitely right. Kieto tried to veer off topic, but was directed back into it.

"I grew up on this sea..." Kieto explained, watching the waves crash upon the shore and then roll out again. They were beautiful, even if they were partially disturbed by the many ships in the area.

"You mean in this town?" she asked for clarification.

"Well... yeah..." he mumbled.

There was a moment of silence, as they both watched a ship sail out into the distance and disappear over the horizon.

"I grew up here, learning the art of Mushin from my father himself. Things were going great, and as part of the training, the student must go off high into the mountains to meditate as a coming of age ritual. So I left, taking a boat across the sea, but things changed drastically when I met them, where from then on things took a turn for the worse."

"What do you mean?" she asked.

"Pirates attacked the ship, and I was taken hostage upon their ship and taken to their wretched island. This island was already full of hundreds of prisoners, and daily they would force us to fight each other just for their entertainment. I remember they held me for years. I couldn't help but wonder how things would be different if I was older, stronger, and more intelligent... or even if my father had been in my place..." he explained.

Mayumi had never known, and was surprised to see Kieto open up to her. Of course, in core he was thinking about his father, but he didn't want to admit it directly. She knew, and he knew that she knew. Walking away from the his friend and the sea, he didn't even look back. "Where's he going?" Kana then asked, walking onto the scene. She smiled again. "I think he needs some time alone..."

The town was certainly bustling, everyone in full content, enjoying the grand opening of the market. It was just like when he was but a child. The market would open in early fall, and then last through the month into October, only ending once the first tree changed color. It was a wonderful festival, and during these times people feasted on LOTS of fancy foods and snacks, little delights that could hopefully keep them occupied in between the many forms of entertainment. Entertainers were hired to show off their fancy tricks, as were show cooks that proudly showed off their skill with the knives and brilliant taste in food.

But Kieto didn't want to be a part of any of it. He simply walked past it all, and slowly walked up the trail that led up the mountain, which was, luckily, still green from plants and such. The road went on and on, when he came upon a rusted gate, where although the road continued, he refused to follow it. Welcome to the School of Mushin it read along the hatch for the gate, which removed so he could push it aside and let it creak. There he stepped into the courtyard, which was the same as it had always been. A few fountains set up, a large sparring ring towards the end of the yard, beautiful potted plants that were strategically placed among the yard for perfection. A polygonal dome stood to the opposite side of the rectangular yard, holding inside the mirror room, in which Kieto held clear memories of. You would go into this room and practice technique, watching hundreds of images of yourself and analyzing your mistakes. It was a simple training method, which were meant for some and not meant for others.

Funny looking sculptures lay all around the courtyard, adding an ominious feeling to the experience. Still in fascination of the flood of familiar memories, Kieto made his way to the sparring ring, where after thinking for a few moments, he drew his sword. A rush of nostalgia came to him when he started practice his technique, and he couldn't help himself from reeling akward. It was strange, revisiting these childhood memories as an adult, with different motives and a totally different perspective.

Of course he still admired his younger mind, ambitious and naive in a cute sort of way, always wanting to travel the world and see the sights. Of course, he didn't start maturing until he was in the pirate jail cell, in which he had nothing to do but think. Sitting down on one of the spectator benches, he decided to recollect his thoughts, and make a firm decision in which he would follow...

[Mistress Sheena]

Kana's Secret Technique

After Kana had defeated the demons within him, he was released from the prison and walked into the tavern, he saw Kieto walk by him, with a familiar look in his eye. The look of an avenger was deep within his eyes. Kana knew that look all too well.
"Where'd he go?" Kana asked Mayumi as he sat down across from her.
"I think he needs to spend some time alone." She said as she looked into her man's eyes.
As Sol walked into the tavern, he saw Kana and Mayumi together, and he decided to join them. Kana noticed Sol and nodded at him, then turned to face her. His sharp eyes signaled to her that he was finally ready to tell her everything about his past with Sol. Sol too, agreed to talk about their past. Kana began to tell her that it was indeed true that he was not half, but just a quarter demon. Even though it was only a small amount of blood traveling through his veins, it belonged to a very powerful family.
He didn't want to talk about his wretched grandfather, because way back in the forest with the Moon blade, while that presence known as Akuma was there, he sensed his grandfather's presence there as well. Then he knew… he knew that inside Akuma, was the spirit of his grandfather. Kana described the war with the vile horde of demons that he defeated along with Sol. His lineage was from a very powerful demon race that Mayumi might have seen before. He got into depth that with the fighting style that he created while training would be able to match the power of that Akuma character, and maybe even go beyond it.
Sol began talking about the parts that Kana had left out, that Kana's grandfather was a very powerful demon. So powerful infact, that not even a hundred demons could stand up with his power. Kana flinched at the name 'grandfather', because of the fact that he once again sensed the evil spirit.
When Sol was in the middle of explaining the hatred between their grandfather's, Kana pounded his fist on the table, and said that it was finally time to train his demon form. Sol saw a flare in Kana's eye that he saw before when he was fighting along side him in the war. Mayumi had been a bit startled with his actions, but she nodded her head in agreement, and the three of them set off into a forest nearby. Kana withdrew his Batatsu then dug deep into his mind and unsealed the raging demon blood within him, but his aura changed from a light blue, to a crimson red. His eyes changed from an innocent grayish-blue, to an evil crimson, and the pupils transformed from human-like, to wolf-like. The animal in him was slowly awakening.
Sol noticed this new form, unlike his other demon form, which still had a blue aura, had a slight intent to kill. Sol enjoyed this very much so; perhaps this version of Kana would be a nice match to test out his abilities as well. Sol signaled at this Kana to come at him, and he did just that. Kana came at Sol with such speed, that it seemed like he moved through time itself. Kana swung his sword swiftly at the torso, but Sol managed to dodge it. But only barely, because his cloak had a small cut on it.
"Hmm, very well done there, Kana, you managed to almost cut my flesh." He thought to himself. "Could this be the full power of your demon blood, or just a small piece, eh?" he continued to think. But just then, as he began to go deeper in thought, Kana had struck him hard in the back of the head with the handle of the Batatsu!
"Geez, I don't even have anytime to think hard. I'll have to end this training for now." He thought as he dodged Kana's recurring attacks.
"Okay Kana, I think that's enough fighting for now. I recommend you train your mind to control that form better, because I noticed that you had a slight intent to kill in that form; although while it's good to have, it's a dangerous thing because if it heightens, you might not be able to control this form for much longer, and then won't be able to tell the difference between ally nor foe."
"Alright, thanks for the advice Sol. I knew I could count on you being here."
"Mayumi, I'm going to ask that you head back to the Inn, so Kana here can focus on mediation."
"No Sol, it's okay. I need her with me. She's my inspiration to fight. She's my precious person to fight for, so her being here helps me."
"Alright, whatever you say Kana." The three head back to town, and to the Inn to recuperate from the training. "I just hope that Kieto is okay…" Kana thought to himself.

[RSC_390]

Old Master Shen

"You look just the same as you did 15 years ago, only taller." spoke a familiar voice from the door of the house. Kieto looked up in excitement, and was surprised to see his master. Master Shen looked quite the same as well, a short funny man with long gray robes and a ridiculous looking white beard that only barely left his chin.

Master Shen walked over to Kieto with his hands behind his back, just as Kieto had remembered. Definitely an admirable man. Shen was famous for creating the art of the Mushin.

"Master Shen..." Kieto began, then remembering how his master had always been an expert at knowing the problem to the extent.

"So after all these years you finally understand." he chuckled. He was always content, which always struck Kieto's heart with happiness. It was inevitable, one look at the man despite the mood would always mean another laugh.

"I have felt presence of Akumu, and the growing power of your wind void as well..." he started, looking straight into Kieto with heavy eyes. The young warrior was about to ask how the master had known, but quickly realize it was a stupid and pointless question.

They stared at each other for a while, when Master Shen presented a surprising request.

"Attack me, strike with all of your strength." he ordered. Kieto was simply baffled. Shen gave him an angry eye showing annoyance, and the student obeyed. He quickly drew his sword and struck as his master had told him.

At first, he would never do this for fear of injuring or even killing his master, and even held back after listening, but over time he learned to trust the man.

It was a devastating attack, Kieto added momentum with his spin, and using the Mushin to redirect all of his strength to his arm for a moment's time, he drew the sword and struck at Master Shen's back. However, Shen easily blocked the batujitsu strike, and retaliated with a strong kick to the face, sending Kieto back several feet and onto the ground! It was obvious with every attack the Kieto was no match for his master. The man far exceeded his skills as a fighter, but what about the Mushin? Was there more to it than Kieto had known?

Suddenly the training stopped. "We must train for a bit, it seems you have moved on to complexities blindly, and in doing so you have forgotten the basics in which you must build upon. Perhaps a few days?"

Kieto smiled, he was delighted to once again be in touch with his master.

[OceanEyes28]

"Where are you off to, Mayumi?"

"No where. I just need to be alone."

"Mayumi," her mother sighed. "You're not still in pain from that human, are you?"

"That human had a name."

"Satoru, was it? Well, he's gone now. Killed, you know."

"I know, Hideko, I was there." Her heart was heavy and her mother was only pulling it further inside of her.

"Yes, of course you were there, but I don't think you really understand. Satoru is dead. You can't dwell on him. It's unbecoming of a demon. Especially a demon in this family."

"There's nothing special about us. We're only demons."

"Powerful demons. Famous demons. Our name strikes fear into the hearts of-"

"Demon and human alike. I hate finishing your sentences, but you've become predictable."

Her mother stood and took her by the arm. Mayumi twitched. Her mother's fingernails were boring holes in her skin like burning needles. "Mayumi," her voice was dark, "We're in the midst of a war. Death is inevitable. And this is not the last, no matter how many optimists say it is. The war to end all wars- ha! Humans will always fight humans, demons will always fight demons, and we will all fight each other."

"We're not so different."

"True. We fight because we are the same. Every soul is threatened by another. Our faces may be different, but our nature is the same. Don't be naive, Mayumi, the fighting will not end once we realize we are the same. We are all far too complex to let it end at something so simple."

"You've stopped making sense."

"Someday you'll understand. And someday another war will come. You will fight because you are no different from those that oppose you. You will fight because you want to survive. That's not so wrong, Mayumi. You will not be at fault for wanting to live on."

"I will place myself at fault. What should I be fighting for? I have no one to protect but myself. And I don't care about that anymore."

"Grow up. You will eventually. And when you do, you will find someone worth fighting for, and you will shed blood to keep that body where you can touch it and that soul where it can touch you. You are no different."

"Shut up."

"Don't hide it from yourself. It's no use. Because you certainly can't hide it from me." Her mother let go of her arm and pushed her away. Mayumi stumbled outside and looked furiously up at her mother. "Take your time alone. But don't come back until you have matured and are ready to face your fate as a demon." Her mother slammed the door in her face.

That was the day that she had left home. She had been alone ever since.
______

"Where are you off to, Mayumi?"

She jumped a bit, startled. Had she been walking? She looked down at her feet and saw them moving beneath her. She had been too lost in her thoughts to pay attention. She turned to see Kana gazing at her with his kind gray eyes. She began to explain, or tried to. She opened her mouth to speak, but the words remained trapped. Someone worth fighting for.....

"I... I need some time alone." She was disturbed by the return of that memory. Why? Why had that conversation come to her? Her bitter mother that had been alive far too long, so jaded by the thousands of wars she had been made to witness.... was she still breathing? Perhaps she was watching Mayumi from hell now, laughing at her.

Those words were haunting. I'm the same... she thought as she made her way from the tavern into the solitude of the woods. She could feel autumn in the air. The air was cool on her exposed shoulders and she could smell the crisp, dry scent that came when leaves were about to fall. But there was something else.... something equally familiar.

"You're following me. Why?"

The handsome white-haired demon from, what seemed like, ages ago landed in front of her, leaping down from a tree branch above her. He stood and came to be about a head taller than she was.

"You were familiar. I had to make sure."

"Familiar? How? I don't remember you from anywhere other than when I first saw you. And that was perhaps a few weeks ago. You told me I was dying."

"And you haven't. The demon that placed that curse on you is gone. I'm glad to see that." He touched her face lightly.

Mayumi frowned and stepped back. "You're too familiar," she protested.

"I'm sorry," he said, "I just had to make sure you were real. Of course you wouldn't remember me."

"What are you talking about? You knew me?"

"I recognize your smell. And your eyes are the same. You were very small when I left, but you haven't changed much."

Mayumi stared hard at this demon. "What's your name?"

"My apologies. My name is Minoru," he smiled.

"I know that name... and that smile." She gasped as memories flooded her eyes. Blue sky. Tall green grass and wild flowers. The human world. She was small and running, chasing someone. The fog lifted from her eyes and she saw long white hair in front of her, the owner robed in black. He turned to laugh at her struggle to keep up with him. She felt tears press against her face. She stumbled and began to cry. He stopped and ran to her, taking her in his arms. I'm sorry, Mayumi. I was only kidding. I wouldn't leave you behind. She wiped her eyes and looked up at his cheerful face. Promise? He tucked her hair behind her ears and helped her to stand up. He took her hand and they ran together. I promise.

She clapped her hands to her mouth and a tear escaped her eyes. "Minoru?" She touched his chest. Solid. "I thought you were dead."

He shook his head sadly. "I was banished from the demon world. I had a child with a human girl when I was seventeen. You were five then. Hideko wouldn't stand for it. The dishonor was unbearable for her. She sent me away and told me to stay away from you." But then a laugh came to his eyes and he smirked. "But I hear you also fell for some human."

"He died."

"That I also heard. I almost felt sorry for Hideko. Both of her children... spoiled by humans... We ruined the family name, Mayumi." He should have felt bad, but he didn't. He only grinned. So did Mayumi.

But then he became serious. "Though... she commited suicide. Her children were gone, and her name was disgraced. I thought her heartless and without emotion, but at least I thought her strong. In the end, she was none of these. Still... I do not regret my actions."

Mayumi nodded silently. So Hideko was dead. Killed by her pride.

They both shook their heads, releasing themselves from those morbid thoughts.

Minoru was the first to speak. "So tell me, little sister, how strong have you become?"

"Want me to show you?"

He smiled and drew his sword. "Let's see it."