"Revenge….
Lying on his back, a young man with dreaded black hair gazed upon the raining sky with defeat on his blood covered face. Coming back into consciousness, the brown eyed teenager felt his sight focusing… unfortunately, that sky was the most decent thing he'd see that fateful night.
… the agent of hatred, and mirror of forgiveness…
Turning his head to the right, the young man saw nothing but the inside of a crater, and to his left he saw the same. Trying to sit up, the black haired boy felt a sharp pain in his abdomen.
"Ngh!..."
Looking as far as he could toward his gut, the young man noticed a black sword sticking out from it. The black blade glistened with blood and rain water, causing the young man to feel nauseous.
However, as that feeling set in, another deeper feeling crashed into his soul… one that forced the young, bloodied man to try and stand.
"Saya..!!!"
… the strength of revenge matches compassion just as hate matches love…
As the brown skinned man made his way out of the shallow pit he laid in, he turned his gaze from left to right as if he was searching for someone.
"Saya…! Saya..!!!"
Calling out that name, the young man hobbled around with that blade in his stomach. His eyes landed upon a home, an estate large enough for a lord. However, now it lay in ruin, destroyed beyond recognition. Making his way through the gates of the now destroyed estate, the young man held onto the katana's blade that was buried within him. Said blade felt like it was burning him, but it was a pain he would dismiss as he called that same name again.
"Sayaa!! Where are y-
The man's eyes widened upon seeing a gruesome scene. A young woman with fair skin and dirty blonde hair laid on her side motionless. Blood smeared across her kimono as her back faced him, causing the young man to quickly approach her. Fear ridden and desperate, the young man hobbled quickly towards the woman.
"Saya! Saya!!"
Eventually falling to his hands and knees, the man felt the weight of the rain press down upon his weak and sore body. In desperation, he crawled to the woman known as Saya, using his right hand to make contact with her arm. Using his hand to support himself to get closer, the youth eventually got to his knees and turned Saya onto her back.
"S-Saya..!"
The young woman coughed weakly, the beautiful woman's gentle light blue eyes gazed weakly into his brown ones. The burn scar over her right eye gave off a serene sense of beauty that made her seem unparalleled.
Saya: *cough cough*.... Jin?
Jin: I'm here! I'm here…
Saya smiled, despite her weak voice, the bleeding woman tilted her head and felt the sadness in Jin's.
Saya: Jinny…. It's okay… it's okay..
Jin: No..! No, I couldn't protect you! I'm sorry!
Saya: Shh.. shhh shh.. hey now… Jin…
Placing her hand on his cheek, Saya spoke gently to reassure Jin. They both knew she didn't have much time.
Saya: It's going to be alright…
Placing his hand on the one she used to caress his cheek, Jin began to feel her hand get colder and colder.
Saya: … I'm glad… I got to meet you… that… I fell in love with you…
Closing her eyes, the smiling woman spoke gently.
Saya: You made me…. The happiest woman in the world… I…love you… Jin…. I always…… will… Please, be a good…man…
In that moment, her hand slipped from his grasp, causing the young man to stare longingly at Saya. Her breathing had stopped, and her body had gone limp. The only thing that remained was her smile, one that used to bring the sun now caused him immeasurable pain.
Jin:..... Saya…..
..This is the story about a man who seeks revenge on the one who stole away his love….
Jin felt himself grab onto the hilt of the katana buried within him and began to pull it out causing a black energy to wrap around and begin to pierce his left hand, starting from the fingers and reaching up his sleeve to his entire arm. At the same time, the umber skinned man screamed to the sky in agony, both from the physical pain and the pain of loss.
…And his journey to find peace from the curse he would be afflicted by.
Jin: Rrrrhhh… RRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!!!
… This is the tale of the Bachijin.."
______________________
Two years later….
On an early autumn day, a small town was bustling with life. Men and women walked to and fro, while children played outside and merchants sold their merchandise.
Exiting a small home, an old woman inhaled, enjoying the sunlight. As she did, she was greeted by a middle aged villager.
"Ah, great morning Yushina!"
Yushina: Mako, how was your night??
Mako: Hot, and lonely as usual. Gods, I need a man.
Yushina: Hehe now now, don't force yourself. Men don't fall for desperate women.
Mako: Aaaah! You say that but I'm 37! I'm not getting any younger!
Yushina giggled loudly, tilting her head slightly.
Yushina: 37? You say that as if you're old, hehehe. Enjoy your youth while you can deary.
"Huh?? Whaddya mean no???!"
Turning their heads, the two women glance upon two people. One being a tall and athletic young man who held his hands out in questioning. The other being a young woman with short blonde hair and light blue eyes. She was smaller, around 5'1, and wore some rather eccentric white robes with piercings in her ears
The girl giggled nervously.
Yuri: Hehe I'm sorry, but like I said before Habisuke, I'm not looking to get married.
Growling from humiliation, Habisuke yelled out to the girl that just rejected his proposal.
Habisuke: Not looking for marriage?! You're a woman, that's what you're supposed to have time for! Not playing shaman!
Yuri giggled warmly yet again.
Yuri: Hehe, I'm not playing shaman silly. I just make sure to train myself spiritually, that's all.
Habisuke growled before yelling out at her.
Habisuke:I'm the son of a great samurai! How dare you?!
Yuri shook her head as her smile softened sympathetically.
Yuri: See, if you really liked me, you'd know that your status or title doesn't really matter to me. Honestly, I understand your position but I'm not someone who cares about all of that. I'm sure anyone else in the village would love that about you. Maybe you should ask one of them to marry you instead of a girl who plays shaman, right?
Habisuke went even redder.
Habisuke: Grrrrr...You little…
Yuri then placed her slender hand on his shoulder.
Yuri: I'm sorry if I disappointed you. But don't worry, there are plenty of fish in the sea. I'm sure you'll find someone.
With that, the young lady began to walk away.
As Yuri walked away with her hands clasped behind her back, the young man yelled out in anger.
Habisuke: Hey! You get back here dammit!
Mako and Yushina witness the scene, both reacting differently. Mako was shocked, while Yushina simply giggled.
Mako: Did she just… reject his marriage proposal?!
Yushina: Fufu sure seems that way.
Mako: At this rate, Yuri will never find a good man.
Yushina's eyes open slightly, gazing upon the back of Yuri.
Yushina: Fufu, well then, she's definitely her father's daughter.
_______________________
Later on, training in an open area within an eastern shrine-like temple…
Yuri meditated, releasing a white aura, and dripping sweat as she remained focused. The young lady's face was serious, her eyes closed and unflinching as sweat ran down her cheek.
Yuri:....
Holding out her hand, a few plants began to sprout out of the ground, creating beautiful lilies from between the tile cracks of the shrine. As the flowers grew, the young lady's aura fades.
Yuri: *huff huff huff*
Panting, Yuri stayed in her sitting position as droplets of sweat fell from her chin. The fair skinned girl slowly stood up straight, catching her breath as she relaxed.
Yuri: That should be enough training for today..
Bowing before the flower she had just bloomed, Yuri made her way deeper into the shrine, walking along the pathways as if she knew where she was going. The sunlight of that mid day shown through the cracks and crevices, peering from behind the monuments and structures.
Eventually, the young woman reached yet another clearing, this time, in front of her was a cemetery. Many many gravestones lined up in rows, organized and spaced perfectly for the deceased. Yuri herself didn't seem the slightest bothered by this. The young woman walked onward, entering the gravesite. Walking further inward, passing by gravestone after gravestone, Yuri would eventually reach one that rested under a cherry blossom tree. The flowers had yet to bloom, and the tree was tall and shady, basking Yuri in its cool shadow.
As the young woman knelt in front of the headstone. Gazing upon it gently, Yuri read the name of the deceased and smiled gently.
"Otaba Ichihana"
Yuri: Hi dad….
The young lady's voice softened.
Yuri: It's almost time, tomorrow I'll be on my way out to find Amahara… So I won't be back for a while.
Smiling nervously, the girl continued to speak to the gravestone.
Yuri: To be honest, I'm really nervous. Going out on my own like that, it's kind of nerve-wracking haha..
The girl stopped smiling as much, gazing at the headstone with a lack of sureness in her eyes.
Yuri: But… I can't bring myself to stay here. There's so much more in the world than this village…
The girl giggled once again, scratching the back of her head.
Yuri: I guess I'm just second guessing myself. You did always get on me for that! Tee-hee!
Upon saying that, Yuri stared at the ground for a few minutes before closing her eyes and clasping her hands together. The young woman prayed in front of her father's grave, remaining silent. However, as if by fate, the breeze blew in her face, causing the girl to peek.
As she did, Yuri's senses took control of her, causing her to look past her father's grave and further back into the cemetery. There she spotted something peculiar. Something odd enough that clearly didn't belong in a graveyard.
Yuri: What the…?
Someone was sitting against a gravestone, slumped back as if they were unconscious. Curious to investigate, Yuri stood up slowly. The well endowed diviner approached the individual, entering the path where she saw the slumped figure, the young woman came across the person who was leaning against the granite gravestone.
Yuri: It's a…
Sitting against one of the many rectangular gravestones was a man with dreaded hair and umber skin. His hair was half black and the other half was stark white. He wore a dark colored kimono, one that was navy blue, along with a black waist coat and hakama. His feet were covered in black tabi while he wore sandals as footwear. The young man was slim, yet rather fit by appearance, but his face wasn't visible to her. However, as the wind blew the young man's loose hair, Yuri noticed a jet black sword propped up against his left shoulder, cradled by the same arm that upon further inspection was bandaged up.
Yuri: It's a swordsman..!
"Mm…hhh…"
Yuri: Eek..!! (He heard me!)
The young man shifted slightly, waking from his slumber. With a deep yawn, the young man leaned his head back against the headstone, intaking enough air to fill his lungs. As he exhaled said air, the young man's eyes opened to reveal their different colored irises. One was a darker brown, while the other was a deep red. As if it were a final touch on his face, a single beauty mark rested on the right side of his chin. Eventually, his and Yuri's eyes meet for the first time, resulting in a moment of silence, as if fate cemented this moment within history.
Yuri felt her face tense up into an unsure smile, giggling a bit as she started off their conversation. The young lady waved her hands in response.
Yuri: O-Oh hi there! Sorry about that, I didn't mean to wake you!
The young man took in his surroundings before shaking his head calmly.
Young Swordsman: No, it's alright. I shouldn't have fallen asleep here.
Using his sheathed sword to help himself up, the dual haired man spoke calmly.
Young Swordsman: My apologies…
The young man turned to face the gravestone and bowed, then turned heel and started to walk away from his resting place. Yuri however was curious, following after him by jogging to catch up.
Yuri: W-Wait!
When the girl caught up, she walked beside the groggy young man.
Yuri: That sword… are you a Swordsman??? Like… a REAL Swordsman?
Young Swordsman: Hm? Yes, I am.
Yuri's eyes widened, enthralled with the man in front of her. Her big blue orbs sparkled with adoration and romanticism.
Yuri: Really????!
The young man looked confused, as a drop of sweat comically slid down his cheek.
Young Swordsman: Er, yeah. Really… (What's with her??? 💧)
Yuri smiles wholeheartedly.
Yuri: T-That means you're currently on your warrior's journey! You're able to see the world and everything in it right??
The young man hesitated, but answered honestly.
Young Swordsman: …. Yes.
Yuri pumped her arms, smiling as she fantasized about what his journey must've been like.
Yuri: Ahhhh, that sounds soooo cool! Being a ronin must be so exciting!
The young man paused, thinking it over before speaking to the young woman candidly.
Young Swordsman: It's a pain in the ass.
Yuri: Huh???
The young man simply gazes to the distance, speaking loud enough for her to hear.
Young Swordsman: Traveling the world with people coming from every corner just to try n kill you?... Trust me, it's not all that glamorous.
As the man continued forward, Yuri stood and processed his words. But as soon as the dual haired swordsman reached a far enough distance, Yuri exclaimed as she jogged to catch up with him.
Yuri: A-Ah! Wait up!
Now side by side with the Swordsman, Yuri exhaled and renewed the conversation.
Yuri: Look, I think I approached rather impolitely. My name is Yuri Ichihana! It's nice to meet you Mr-
Jin: Jin…
Yuri: Jin???
The man nods at the blonde haired girl.
Jin: Yes. Hiryu Jin.
Yuri: Hmm, Hiryu Jin.. Hehe!
Jin: (Why'd she just repeat my name like that?...... And why'd she giggle???..)
The girl began to smile wholesomely, causing Jin to change the subject.
Jin: Are you a diviner of some sort???
Surprised, the young lady felt her eyes widen.
Yuri: Wooooah, how could you tell????
Jin: Your clothes. They're much more extravagant than most.
Looking down at her robes, the young lady giggled.
Yuri: Tee-hee! Well, my grandma handed them down to me! She was a diviner, so I can totally see why you'd think that!
Jin raised an eyebrow.
Jin: Sooo, you're not one???
Yuri: Hehe, well not yet really. I'm still practicing.💧
Jin: I see. Well keep at it.
Yuri: Hm???
Jin: People like you give others hope. So keep at it, Ms. Yuri.
Yuri blinked for a moment before smiling wholesomely at Jin.
Yuri: Tee-hee! Will do, Mr. Jin Hiryu!
Jin:!!!
Seeing her smile caused Jin to remember something from his past, a person who's warmth matched this girl's. This warmth was painful, but it brought a tinge of joy to his heart. One that he felt that he had long forgotten. However, before it could linger-
"There you arrre!"
Ceasing his thoughts, and stopping her smile, both Jin and Yuri look in the direction of the oncoming voice. Standing at the entrance of the cemetery, Habisuke and a group of other young men with a few women faced the young duo. Habisuke had a young woman under his arm, using the same arm's hand to grope the girl from under her kimono. While Jin seemed more confused than anything, Yuri let out a sigh.
Jin: Hm? The hell is-
Yuri: Habisuke…. I thought I told you no earlier.
Habisuke grinned maliciously, grabbing hold of the sword at his waist.
Habisuke: Actually, I was thinkin' about punishing you for embarrassing me back there…!
Yuri: W-What?!
The young man grins, removing his hand from the village girl's breast walking towards her as his goons follow. The scorned son of a samurai glares at Yuri with harmful intent.
Habisuke: To refuse me like that… is something I won't take lightly. You'll pay for my humiliation you tramp!
Jin: (Tch, he's one of those kinds of guys…)
Yuri felt her eyes close as her eyebrows furrowed. Her voice grew firm.
Yuri: I won't be paying for anything. What needs to happen is you getting your own ego in check!
Habisuke: Ehhh?!
Snapping her eyes open, Yuri laid into the young man.
Yuri: You're spoiled, rude, unkind and childish. I could never fall in love with a boy like you.
Gritting his teeth in front of the brave faced gal, Habisuke walked right for the girl while beginning to draw his sword.
Habisuke: I'll cut out your tongue, you little-
Sft..!
Habisuke: Hm???
Yuri: Huh?
Taking both Yuri and Habisuke off guard, Jin stepped in the way of Habisuke's path, placing his right hand on the samurai-to-be's shoulder. As Yuri's face relaxed, Habisuke's grew more angry.
Yuri: J-Jin?
Jin: Stay behind me….
Yuri blinked a few times, confused before accepting him and nodded.
Yuri: O-Okay.
Habisuke however, grew hostile.
Habisuke: Oi, just who in the hell do you think you are??!
Jin:....
In a wrathful movement, Habisuke reached out and grabbed the dark skinned man by his kimono, tightening his grip.
Habisuke: Hey! I'm talking to you-
sssp! cltch!!
FWMM!!!!
In a fluid motion, Jin slid his hand from Habisuke's shoulder down to the young man's wrist. And then, with a quick twist and shift of his own weight, Jin flipped Habisuke off of his feet. In shock, the bully of a man watched his feet reach the sky as he was completely flipped upside down. But that was only for half of a second. Eventually, that airtime came to an end, as the jiu jitsu flip Jin performed resulted in Habisuke's back being slammed onto the ground with a loud and sickening thud.
BAM!!!
Habisuke: Gaaughh!!!
Delinquent A: H-Habisuke!!
Yuri: He flipped Habisuke onto his back..! And in one move!
As Habisuke laid on his back in pain, he slowly sat up, holding onto his spine. Looking up at Jin, the samurai-to-be felt sweat roll down his cheek as the monochromatic Swordsman simply looked down at him with annoyance.
Jin: Back off. There's nothing more dishonorable than a man with a sword attacking an unarmed woman.
Habisuke: Heh, I can actually think of a hundred other worse things.
Jin simply narrowed his eyes, causing Habisuke to jump slightly back. Out of fear and desperation, the young man pointed at the dark skinned teenager and called out to his goons.
Habisuke: K-Kill this fucker!!!
Delinquent B: R-Right!
Delinquent A: On it!
Jin let out a sigh.
Jin: Good grief….
On command, Habisuke's goons drew their swords and charged at Jin. The heterochromic swordsman simply stood there ready for them, holding his sheathed sword at his hip. The moment one reached swinging range, Jin narrowed his gaze at his incoming attacker.
Delinquent A: Haaa!!!
SHK! SWK! SWK!
Swinging his katana three times, the delinquent aimed for Jin's chest, neck and head. Each attack was avoided, all weaved with quick backwards leans on Jin's part. After the delinquent threw a thrust with his blade's tip, Jin simply sidestepped, allowing himself to get into the delinquent's guard. Much to his surprise.
Delinquent A: Ngh!!!
Jin:...
SHHH BAM!!!
Raising his left arm up with speed and strength, Jin slams the pommel of his katana into the jaw of the delinquent attacker. The blow was strong enough to send the young man flying through the air before hitting the ground with a loud thud.
Yuri: So fast!
Upon seeing their downed comrade, the group of delinquent swordsmen glared at Jin. The dual haired Swordsman simply held his sword up in the position he struck their friend, speaking in a low tone.
Jin: You punks aren't worth a sword fight….
Glaring in their direction, Jin released a pressure capable of shattering glass upon them.
Jin: But if you still want an ass whoopin', stick around. Just know I won't hold back.
The young men hesitated, two of them stepped backwards in fear. However, one young man got back up from the first attack.
Habisuke: You cowards…
Jin:??
Standing up fully, the young lord held onto his sword with a rage possessed grip. As his sword hand began to tremble, Habisuke's eyes shrunk with fury.
Habisuke: How dare you cowards step back from this piece of shit?!
Delinquent B: B-But Habisuke..! This guy took Taro out in one hi-
WHACK!!!
Habisuke: Shaddup!!!
Hitting his ally in the face with a backhanded strike, Habisuke growled with anger as the delinquent fell to the ground. This caused the lone swordsman to narrow his eyes at Habisuke in response.
Habisuke: I'll kill you… you piece of shit!!!
Yuri: Habisuke stop this!
Habisuke raced toward Jin, raging and ready to cut the young swordsman down. However, Jin didn't budge. Instead, he allowed Habisuke to get closer, preparing himself mentally. Once the young samurai-to-be entered range, Habisuke roared as he swung at Jin vertically.
Habisuke: DIE!!!
Jin:...
SHWK!!!
Slicing nothing but air, Habisuke seemed to be off balance as he followed through. Jin however evaded the attack, sidestepping with his hand still holding the sheathed sword.
Habisuke: (So fast!.. No! That was a fluke! He can't do it again!)
SHWK
SWK
SHK!!!
Jin had back stepped three other swings, avoiding them with his rather skilled agility. Habisuke began to grow frustrated, tightening his grip on his katana.
Habisuke: Grrr!!! Stop dodging, you coward!!!
Aiming for Jin's neck, Habisuke swung his sword horizontally. However, as if it were nothing-
CHNK!
Habisuke: What?!
Yuri: He…
… Jin had raised his left arm to block the incoming blade, stopping it on his forearm.
Yuri:... He stopped that sword with his arm!!
Jin simply gazed at Habisuke, speaking in a straightforward and firm tone.
Jin: Your sword won't reach me. So give it up, before I hurt you….
Grinding his teeth, Habisuke growled loudly as he grabbed hold of his sheath and swung it at Jin at full force.
Habisuke: Shut the hell up!!!
Seeing this from the corner of his eye, Jin used his right hand to stop Habisuke's swing. Grabbing his opponent's forearm, Jin paralyzed his opponent's attack before pivoting right. In this motion, Jin then brought up his knee. And then..
WHAM!!!
..Kneed Habisuke in the face. The blow sent the young delinquent tumbling, resulting in Yuri covering her mouth in surprise as she gasped.
Yuri: *gasp* Oh my..!
Delinquent C: H-Holy crap!
Delinquent D: This guy is crazy!
Placing his foot back onto the ground, Jin sighed as he looked down at the now bleeding Habisuke.
Jin: Honestly, this is just sad. Stop this and walk away.
But Habisuke wasn't done.
Habisuke: Y-You bastard…! I've had enough of this…!
As Habisuke raised his head, his gaze landed upon Yuri, who stood a few yards away from Jin. Her big blue eyes gazed upon him with surprise, while her mouth was being covered by her two slender hands. The look on her face struck something inside of him, something that made him irrationally angry.
Habisuke: Tch… that look… stop..
Yuri: Huh??...
Habisuke: Stop starin' at me… with those BIG ASS EYES!!!!
Yuri: !!
Habisuke quickly stood, running towards the girl with his sword raised. The intent to kill her stained his eyes, blinded by rage.
Habisuke: Those eyes… they've always pissed me off! So I'll cut em out! I'll cut em out so you'll never look at me like that again!!!!
Habisuke brought his sword over his head with one hand, and aimed to cut Yuri's face.
Habisuke: NOW YOU'LL PAY! YOU BITCH!!!
Yuri: Ngh!! Mm!!!
Flinching and looking away, the blonde diviner tried to prepare herself for the sudden attack from Habisuke. However, before his steel could even graze her flesh-
TCHNK!!!!
Habisuke: Ngh!!
Yuri: H-Huh??
Peeking from one of her eyes, Yuri noticed that Jin, the lone swordsman, intercepted Habisuke and his strike. In turn, he drew his sword, blocking the young cadet's blade with his own.
Delinquent D: When did he…?!
Village Girl: He got there just in time?!
Yuri simply gazed at the back of her protector and felt both of her eyes open in awe.
Yuri: Woah…
Habisuke, on the other hand, was terrified. Looking upon his opponent's sword, he realized something.
Habisuke: T-The b-b-blade…! It's b-b-black..!
Jin's eyes were hidden behind his hair, giving off an aura of silent anger.
Jin: You just raised your sword… to hurt someone who's unarmed… right?
Habisuke hesitated to answer, but eventually he responded nervously.
Habisuke: Tch! So what?!
Jin:........... That makes this so much easier then…
Habisuke: Huh?
CHK SHHHMM!!!
Using enough force, Jin pushed Habisuke's sword toward the air. And because of Habisuke's grip, his sword hand followed. Unfortunately for him, his arm being raised and his grip on his sword would be his biggest mistake yet.
Habisuke: H-Huh??
In that same swift motion, Jin spun, swinging his sword with a right handed backhand slash. And then-
SHWKKK!!!
Yuri:!!!
Jin had completely sliced through Habisuke's arm, cutting it off. As Jin ended in a follow through stance, Habisuke didn't seem to notice, at least, not until the sound of metal clattering against the ground snapped him out of his defensive daze. That metal belonged to his own sword hitting the ground, clutched in the hand of his now disembodied arm.
Habisuke: Hhh… Nnngh..! Hhaaahhh.. AAAAAAAGHHHHH!!!!!!! MY AAAARRRRRM!!!!
Looking upon his now bleeding stump, Habisuke screamed in terror as he fell to the ground and clutched what was left of his arm. Blood slid down his amputated limb and clutching hand, adding to the horror of such a wound.
Jin: Someone as cowardly as you doesn't deserve to swing a sword. So don't worry about tryin' to be a samurai or somethin'. Those dreams are over.
Habisuke: Y-You FUCKING bastard!!! You've ruined me! You ruined it all!!! Aaaghh!!!
Jin flicked the blood of of his blade before sheathing it. His cold dual eyed gaze remained on the wannabe samurai.
Jin: No, you ruined yourself. I'm simply the karma the universe put in the right place at the right time.
Habisuke growled before hurriedly running off. As soon as he did, the rest of the delinquents and goons followed.
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Habisuke: This isn't over, you son of a bitch!!!
As Habisuke and his group disappeared from sight, Jin sighed. The swordsman placed his blade at his hip as he looked to the horizon.
Jin: *sigh* Good grief… this loser really wasted my time. What a drag…
"Uhm.. excuse me…"
Jin: Hm?
Turning to look over his shoulder, Jin spots Yuri staring at him with awe on her face.
Yuri: That was… that was….. SO AMAZING!!!
Jin: Huh???!
Yuri: You handled those guys without breaking a sweat! You really are the real deal!!
Jin: The… the real deal???! (What's she goin on about?!..)
Yuri: Come with me! I'll make us some tea! I'd love to get to know you more!
Jin simply gazed at the girl hesitantly.
Yuri: Tee-hee, it's the least I can do after you rescued me~!
Slightly hesitant, Jin looked at the girl's smile once more. The image from before blended into his mind, causing him to respond to her, even if the last part was under his breath.
Jin: Alright. Let's go..
_____________________
Later on, Yuri and Jin arrive at a nice looking home on the edge of the village…
Standing outside of the front door, Yuri smiles at Jin and holds up a finger.
Yuri: By the way, one thing.
Jin: Hm???
Yuri: My grandma can be really eccentric! So don't mind her if she gets to be a bit… extra. Okay?
Jin: Yeah, got it. (An eccentric grandma huh?.. Can't be that bad, can she?..)
Opening the door, Yuri walked in first, calling out into the home. While Jin entered after her, he heard Yuri raise her voice warmly.
Yuri: GRANDMAAAAA! I'm hoommmme!!
Jin: (That's how she calls her grandma???)
"Oh, Yuri! Welcome home."
Jin: Hm? (Her voice… she sounds…)
Turning the corner, a woman with platinum blonde hair and red framed glasses stood to face Jin and Yuri. The woman didn't look a day over 25, and held onto a pipe in her left hand. Blowing out smoke, the woman gazed upon Yuri with her dark brown eyes.
Kuyagu Ichihana
Age: 62
Height: 5'3
Hair color: Platinum Blonde
Eye color: Dark Brown
Kuyagu: How'd your training go? You practice on your manifestation???
Yuri: Mhm! Yup! Still having trouble though hehe… 💧
Kuyagu took a puff from her pipe before blowing out smoke to the side of the room. The woman seemed rather calm and unsurprised.
Kuyagu: You're just like your mother was. Scatterbrained in all the right places. Including your diviner training.
Yuri: Hehe, thanks… grandma.
Just then, it hit Jin.
Jin: (Wait…..)
His eyes widened in surprise as he shouted in his mind.
Jin: (THAT'S HER GRANDMA?!!!!)
The usually stoic young man was shocked, having a hard time processing this.
Jin: (But she doesn't look a day over twenty! There ain't no way!)
Kuyagu felt Jin's gaze and turned to face him.
Kuyagu: Hm? Who's this young man?
Yuri jumped slightly, remembering that Jin was behind her. In that same vein, the blonde diviner motioned to Jin to introduce him.
Yuri: O-Oh! Grandma, this is Jin! He rescued me from Habisuke and his goons! He fought them off all by himself! You should have seen him, he was incredible!
Kuyagu: That samurai's kid??? Doesn't sound like it'll end well to me. Although, I don't really like the kid, so…
Yuri: Hehe, he didn't really have a choice grandma…
Kuyagu: No, he did. He could've minded his own business and kept it movin'.... But he didn't.
Jin: Hm?
Kuyagu looked Jin in the eye. Her own eyes were filled with wisdom and gratitude.
Kuyagu: If what Yuri just said was true, you protected my granddaughter…
Yuri comically puffs her cheeks and mumbles.
Yuri: It is true…!
Kuyagu: … and with that… you have my thanks, mister Jin.
Jin felt himself regain his composure, and bowed a bit.
Jin: It's no problem. They attacked me as well, so an ass kickin' was comin' to them.
Kuyagu: I just hope you're ready for what's most likely gonna come after. *She threw out as she turned around, looking at him from the corner of her eye*
Jin: I am…
Eyeing the sword at Jin's side, Kuyagu fixed her glasses before walking deeper into the house.
Kuyagu: Put some tea on the stove, Yuri. I'm gonna sage the house.
Yuri: Y-You don't have to do that granny…
The woman yelled from deeper within the house.
Kuyagu: The hell I don't! Gettin' rid of any spirits that came in when ya opened the door!
Yuri: 💧*sigh*
Immediately picking her mood back up, Yuri looked back at Jin and pumped her fist.
Yuri: So!... Tea?
_____________________
A bit later, Yuri and Jin sat at the living room table with a cup of tea in front of each of them. Jin sipped his tea, enjoying the warm beverage while Yuri simply smiled at him, watching the young man drink.
Jin: *gulp gulp* Ahh!... Thank you for the tea.
Yuri blinked before waving one of her hands in front of her face, somewhat embarrassed.
Yuri: O-Oh, it's nothing! It's the least I can do! After all, you protected me!
Jin softened his gaze as he gazed into the cup of tea.
Jin: Well, I am glad you're alright. Those punks had it comin'...
Yuri giggled gently before gazing at the sword he had set beside him. Her big blue eyes were enthralled, but the girl herself began to start up her sentence.
Yuri: Sooo uhh….
Jin: Hm?
Yuri: That sword. I've never seen one that was black before.
Jin: Ah, yeah…
The young man grabbed the weapon by its sheathe before lifting it up to be at eye level. The swordsman gazed at it calmly as he spoke about it.
Jin: This sword isn't your normal katana… it's something I just can't run away from…
Flashbacks crossed Jin's mind. Oh him waking up with said sword impaled within his stomach, along with the moment he tore it out of his body. Those memories brought pain into his heart, but did his best not to show it to the sprightly young woman in front of him. Yuri on the other hand tilted her head and deduced-
Yuri: Sooooo, it's like a family heirloom???
Jin blinked a few times before chuckling slightly, taking her deduction as a solid cover story.
Jin: Er, Y-yes! Hahahah! That's right, a family heirloom!
Yuri giggled as well, smiling at the man who had just chuckled.
Yuri: Oh my, you just smiled! Hehe!
Jin: H-Huh? I did?
Yuri: Mhm! While you were laughing!
Jin then covered his mouth with his bandaged hand on instinct, catching himself with surprised eyes.
Jin: I-I… didn't notice. It's been a while since I….
Yuri: Hehe, that's okay.
Jin looked back up at Yuri, his gaze meeting hers.
Yuri: It's a nice smile. You should definitely do it more often.
Jin paused, feeling his hand slip from his mouth. The young warrior places his left hand on the table, while he himself begins to relax.
Jin: I… appreciate that.
Upon looking, Yuri noticed Jin's left arm and tilted her head.
Yuri: Oh my, your hand! Did you get hurt???!
Jin: H-Huh??
Upon realizing she was talking about his bandaged arm, Jin moved it off of the table.
Jin: Er n-no, I just.. my arm has scars, and I-
Comically, Yuri instantly reached over and held onto his arm, inspecting it. The cute young lady looked at his bandaged arm while the monochromatic boy's eyes blinked widely in both confusion as to why she was holding his arm, and the fact that she actually grabbed his arm surprised him.
Jin: U-Uh…
Yuri: These bandages look really old. Maybe we should change them..
Jin: H-Huh? Nono it's fine, I wouldn't wanna-
Yuri began to try and unwrap his bandages.
Yuri: Tee-hee~ it's okay, really! Just leave it to me, I can-
Jin: Stop!
Freezing at the moment Jin's voice was raised, Yuri immediately took her hands off of Jin's arm. The moment she did, Jin pulled his arm away from her and clutched it close to himself.
Jin: I… I don't need them changed. Please understand.
Yuri seemed a bit worried, but the young woman nodded in understanding.
Yuri: I do….
After an awkward pause, Yuri struck up a conversation yet again, this time a bit more personal.
Yuri: Hey… Jin…..
Jin: Hm?
Yuri: You fell asleep in the cemetery up there… is there a reason why you chose to go there?
Jin was silent for a moment. The young man considered each possibility before giving her an answer.
Jin: Cemeteries tend to be unpopulated at night. So it's easier to get a better night's rest there, without being messed with or attacked.
Yuri: Oh…
Jin: Besides, ever since I started my journey, I found cemeteries oddly comforting…
Yuri: Huh?
Jin smiled solemnly, looking at the table's surface as he explained.
Jin: After spending so much time in them growing up, I guess I have some kind of attachment to those kinds of places. Pretty weird huh?
Yuri: Nono not at all!
Jin chuckles and closes his eyes.
Jin: Thanks for sparin' my feelings.
Yuri then chimes in curiously.
Yuri: You said something about a journey. Where are you headed??
Jin paused for a second before asking her-
Jin: Why do you wanna know?
Yuri: I-I'm just curious! A swordsman coming through town, and on top of that, he has no lord or master to serve! It makes me wonder, what exactly is more important than that status as a samurai. What kind of goal drives a person.
Jin felt his eyes open again, his gaze landing on Yuri's curious face. Her thick eyebrows were furrowed, as if she was trying to figure it out. Understanding that she was being genuine, Jin let out a sigh and prepared himself.
Jin: *sigh* Promise not to laugh?
Yuri's eyes widened as she showed a brave and serious face, that was honestly too cute to take seriously.
Yuri: Of course not! I would never!
Jin: 💧(At least she's honest.)
After a pause, Jin sighed yet again before speaking up loud enough for only her to hear. And firm enough to show how serious he is.b
Jin: I'm… looking for Amahara.
Yuri:!!!
The young woman's eyes widened significantly, hearing that made her heart beat quickly as time had slowed for her.
Yuri: Ama…hara…
Jin nods.
Jin: Yeah.. the Holy Garden. The Shrine of Enlightenment….
Yuri:.... Paradise…
Jin: Hm?
Yuri: Er, nothing! Nothing!
The young diviner exclaimed embarrassed as if she was caught up in a secret.
Yuri: A-Anyway, what makes you wanna find a place that most people call a fairy tale?
Jin: Well… because…
"Be a….. Good… Man.."
Jin:... I need to keep my word. To someone precious to me.
Yuri: Hm?
Jin fell silent yet again, only to stand up.
Jin: Excuse me… I need some fresh air.
Yuri: O-Oh, okay..!
As Jin bowed and headed out of the kitchen to get outside, Yuri sat and thought to herself.
Yuri: (Amahara…! He's going to Amahara too!)
"Oi, where'd your boyfriend go??"
Turning around with a blush on her face, Yuri saw her grandmother standing behind her with her pipe in her mouth and hand.
Yuri: Gah! He's not my boyfriend, grandma! And he went outside to get some fresh air, that's all!
Kuyagu: Heheheheh, you're so easy to mess with kiddo. It's okay to have a boyfriend at your age, it's normal.
Yuri exclaims comically flustered.
Yuri: I TOLD YOU HE'S NOT MY BOYFRIEND GRANDMAAAAA!!! 😣😣😣
Kuyagu chuckles a bit before blowing out smoke. After a few seconds, she continued.
Kuyagu: Jokes aside, I know this man speaks to you. You both share a dream… however…
The woman fixed her glasses, hiding her eyes behind the sheen.
Kuyagu: Just be sure to be attentive. You may like that you share such a goal, but it's always most important to know "why" someone is aiming for said goal.
Yuri calms down and places her hands in her lap as she looks at the floor.
Yuri: R-Right…..
Kuyagu narrowed her gaze and thought to herself.
Kuyagu: (I'm also sure she didn't even notice… but.. )
Kuyagu remembered seeing a white outline of Jin earlier, only to see a dark energy radiate off of the silhouette's left arm and sword.
Kuyagu: (That boy… there's a dark energy about him. Especially in that left arm…. )
The woman furrowed her brow, feeling a bead of sweat roll down her cheek.
Kuyagu: (Who is that young man… really..?)
______________
Meanwhile, back at the shrine at the cemetery entrance…
Jin sat before the statues of a Buddha and his many guardians, his eyes remained closed as he took a deep inhale. The man exhaled after a few moments, releasing any inhibitions that crawled up on him.
Jin: This is such a pain….
Reopening his gaze, Jin looked up at the Buddha.
Jin: Why did she have to smile… just like her?....
_ _ _ _ _
A flashback flooded his mind, one of a bright and sunny day where he had confronted a large bear. This ferocious beast roared at Jin, who's hair was all black at the time. His two brown eyes stared at the beast as he gripped onto a sword on his hip, one of two.
Bear: GRRAAAAAAWWWWWWRRR!!!
Jin: Tch!! Damn it! Didn't expect this crap!
As Jin got into a ready position, said beat charged at Jin with claws and fangs bared. The young swordsman dug his feet into the ground, and got ready to draw his sword to slice the creature. However, before Jin could draw, and before the bear could reach him-
"Nnn!"
CLH!
Jin: Ngh?!
In an instant, a figure jumped in between the best and the swordsman. A fair figure, with slender hands and long platinum blonde hair. This person was none other than-
Jin: Saya?!
Saya: Don't draw your sword Jin!
Jin: What?! Ngh!!!
Noticing that the bear continued to charge, Jin called out to Saya as she stood facing the bear with a brave face.
Jin: Saya look out!!!
But Saya didn't budge. Instead, her arms outstretched, as if she opened herself up for a big hug. Out of fear, Jin called her name, attempting to intercept the bear.
Jin: Saya! Sayaaaa!!!
Bear: Hhrh….
Shhhhfff…
Jin: H-Huh???
As if it were something out of a children's book, the beast had stopped charging and simply stood in front of Saya, sniffing her. Saya smiled warmly, beaming at the animal.
Saya: Hi there, my name's Saya, would you like a hug???
The bear continued to sniff Saya, and eventually used its snout to nudge the young woman. With this, the faded blonde woman exclaimed before hugging said bear.
Saya: Hehe, it's nice to meet you too~!
Jin on the other hand stood puzzled. His face was one mixed with shock and confusion.
Jin: Saya, how did you…?
Saya giggled, petting the animal while hugging its large mass.
Saya: Hehe, c'mon Jinny. You know I'm really fond of animals! Hehe~!
Jin: Er yeah.. but.. (💧More like they're really fond of you…)
Saya: Honestly Jin, you have to be more careful.
Jin: Huh???
The young woman looks back at him with a worried frown. Such a look left Jin defenseless to not only her beauty, but to her criticism.
Saya: This momma bear was terrified seeing your sword. Not only that, but you got reeeeally close to her cubs. They were terrified!
Jin: Cubs?!
Looking around comically, Jin eventually spotted them a small distance away. They were hidden behind a pine tree, their little brown heads poking out from behind it.
Jin: Ah… I see..
Understanding the situation, the young man pulled the sword from his belt and looked at it.
Mother Bear: Grrrrrrrrrrrhhhh…..
Saya looked at Jin with pleading eyes.
Saya: Put the sword down Jin.
Jin: B-But Saya..!
Saya: Jin, please…
Upon hearing her plea, the young swordsman gazed at his weapon. His only form of protection, and a limb he had never forgotten. After a moment, the young man sighed, placing it on the ground before putting his hands up to show the mother bear.
Jin: Alright. I put it down.
Saya smiled at him, giggling as she outstretched a hand to him, while petting the bear with the other.
Jin: C'mon over here Jinny~!
Jin froze for a moment, hesitating to do so.
Jin: W-What?? B-But Saya-
Saya: Ah ah ah~! No buts! You two need to make up, so come here.
Jin reluctantly hesitates to approach the massive creature. But with the help of Saya's radiant smile, Jin immediately felt drawn to her. As if she were a sun, and he was in her orbit. The swordsman walked toward the girl and the bear. Before long, Jin stood next to Saya, and wasn't even a foot away from the large brown bear. Saya beamed happily, before using her free hand to take Jin's left one. The warm, soft contact of her hand made the young man's heart jump, but Jin himself didn't fight it.
Jin: Wh-What're you doin'?
Saya giggled aloud, lifting his hand and moving it up.
Saya: Making sure you two understand each other.
Within seconds, the maiden placed his hand atop the head of the bear to pet it. Tensing up, the man and the bear were both surprised with the action. However, soon they relaxed, the boy petting the bear, and the bear allowing herself to be petted by the boy. In the end, both had accepted each other, causing the mediating maiden to smile big.
Saya: There! You guys are friends now~!
In response, Jin himself smiled, feeling his fear turn into joy.
Jin: Heh.. Heheh, I guess we are, haha!
Mother Bear: Gaaaooo~!
Jin chuckled a bit more, before gazing over at Saya who spoke gently.
Saya: Hehe, well I'm glad you both agree!....
Noticing her voice trail, Jin gazed at Saya gently.
Jin: Hey… you alright???
Saya nodded softly, speaking with the same warmth as before.
Saya: Yeah… I just…
Jin: Hm?...
Saya: I just wish all conflicts could be resolved like this, ya know???
Jin paused for a second before nodding in agreement.
Jin: Mm…. Yeah. I completely agree.
After a momentary pause, Jin then asks Saya:
Jin: By the way, how did you know that this was a momma bear???
Saya: Intuition, hehe~!
Jin: Wait what??!
_ _ _ _ _
Jin felt his smile fade after remembering such an afternoon. His current position caused the young man to come back to reality.
Jin:..... Saya….
Meanwhile, as the swordsman visited the temple, the footsteps of men could be heard approaching Yuri and Kuyagu's home. The sound of rattling metal signaling that they were armed…
___________________________
Sitting within her house, Yuri sipped her tea in worry.
Yuri: Hmmm…. I hope Jin is alright.
Kuyagu: The guy probably bounced. He is a wanderer after all.
Yuri: But he said he'd be back!..... *frown* He wouldn't really leave would he?
Kuyagu: Who knows. I mean, you just met the guy.
DMMMMM!!!!!
Kuyagu:!!!
Feeling a threatening presence, Kuyagu steps away from the wall she was leaning against and proceeds towards the front door. Yuri noticed the change in her demeanor and furrowed her brow in curiosity.
Yuri: Grandma???
Kuyagu: Stay here Yuri!
Walking out of her front door, Kuyagu bore witness to a terrifying sight.
"Oi, lady!"
Surrounding her home, a group of men, well within the numbers of about twenty of them, stood armed to the teeth. Standing at the forefront and at the center was a man with black hair and tired, dark gray eyes.
Kuyagu: Huh??!
Said man stepped forward, holding a pair of swords on his hip. He was tall and wore a white kimono with his hair in a topknot fashion.
"Is your daughter here??? We'd like to have a word with her."
Kuyagu: Sorry to say, but my daughter doesn't live here. She's off doin' Gods know what. Whaddya want? Who are you anyway???
The samurai stepped forward more, speaking firmly.
Udo: I am Udo Furomushi. A samurai for the Lord of this land. I'm here for justice involving my son and a young lady, said to be living on the edge of town.
Kuyagu: Yeah, sorry, but that doesn't ring a bell. I'm a hermit, so the only young lady is me-
"STOP LYING!!"
Kuyagu: Hm??
Stepping past the group of swordsmen and beside Udo, Habisuke grunted in anger. The stump that was once his arm was now bandaged up, and he was seething with anger.
Habisuke: You're her goddamn grandmother arentcha?! You know exactly where she is!
Kuyagu: Hm? I'm guessing you're the son that got his ass handed to him. Now why would you go picking another fight if you just lost one today? Go home, get some rest, nurse your boo boos.
Habisuke: Tch, not until that little bitch gets out here and pays for my wounded honor dammit!
Kuyagu tilts her head, narrowing her eyes.
Kuyagu: She's supposed to pay for your feelings? Awfully backwards isn't it?
Habisuke: Why you-
Udo then put a hand in front of his son, stopping Habisuke from continuing further.
Udo: We're not going to harm her. We just want her to apologize, and her help with finding someone.
Kuyagu: Who?
Habisuke: The bastard with the two toned hair! He's gotta pay for what he did to me!!!
Kuyagu falls silent, thinking to herself.
Kuyagu: (So that Jin boy cut this kid's arm off? I see, it's just as I thought. They want it in blood..)
The woman folded her arms under her well endowed chest.
Kuyagu: Well sorry to break it to you again, but Yuri isn't here. You best look elsewhere.
Udo: Then I suppose you wouldn't mind if we checked your house. To make sure you're being truthful, that is.
Kuyagu: Mmmm nah.
Udo and the many swordsmen were taken aback.
Kuyagu: This is my house, so I don't feel comfortable letting a buncha strangers in my place of residence.
Udo narrowed his eyes.
Udo: I'm not asking.
Kuyagu smirks as her glasses begin to gleam. As if being generated, water-like bubbles began to emerge from her like an aura
Udo: Is that…?
Kuyagu: Then you're gonna have to get past me, young man.
______________
Sitting inside, Yuri awaited her grandmother's return. However, something didn't feel right…
Yuri: Grandma's been out there for a while now… I hope everything is alright.
The young woman grabbed hold of her sleeves tightly, and began to think to herself as her eyes filled with concern.
Yuri: (She must've been confronted by someone about what happened earlier this afternoon… if that's the case… it's most likely not going to end well….)
BOOM!!!
A loud explosion could be heard from outside, causing Yuri's eyes to widen as her face perked up in surprise. The diviner in training stood up quickly as sweat began to form on her cheek.
Yuri: An explosion?!
Looking in the direction of the sound, Yuri froze when her eyes landed on the front door. The young lady hesitated, unsure whether to see if she could help or stay hidden. However, Yuri eventually let her own safety go and ran toward the door. Upon opening it, the girl called out.
Yuri: Grandma?! Grandma what's going o-
!!!
As her eyes landed on what was going on outside, she was shocked. Yuri's grandmother was laying on her side, underneath the heel of Udo.
Yuri: No…. Grandma…
Udo: This broad can use that kind of power…? What kind of training has she undergone?.... Huh?
Kuyagu: Ngh… none of your business… you little punk..!
WHAM!
Udo kicked the grandmother, narrowing his eyes at her.
Udo: Shut up.
Yuri: Grandma!!!
Looking up from Kuyagu, Udo's eyes land on Yuri, who stood fearfully for her grandma. The old woman rolled over to look upon Yuri, bloodied up.
Udo: Hm?
Kuyagu: Yuri you… idiot girl..! I told you to-
Yuri: I know Grandma I…..… I couldn't just leave you!
Stepping off of Kuyagu, Udo walked forward, towards Yuri.
Udo: So you're the girl my son was talking about.
Yuri: Your son??
Habisuke stepped forward and furrowed his brow.
Habisuke: Yeah! Me, ya little tramp!!
Yuri: Habisuke?! But why?!
Habisuke held out his remaining hand and spoke to her with nothing but malice in his voice.
Habisuke: Because you sullied my honor in front of the whole village!
Yuri: W-What?!
Habisuke: Denying my proposal like that… It was dishonorable! Treating me like a child, like I'm some nobody!!
Yuri: You did this because I rejected you?!
Habisuke: I DID THIS OUT OF PRINCIPAL!!!
Yuri:.....
Habisuke points at the girl, scolding and raving.
Habisuke: AN ARROGANT TRAMP LIKE YOU DOESN'T DESERVE TO LEAVE UNSCATHED AFTER WHAT YOU'VE DONE!!! IT'S HIGH TIME YOU APOLOGIZE FOR YOUR TRANSGRESSIONS!!!!!!!! DO IT OR MY FATHER WILL HAVE YOUR HEAD!!!!!!
Yuri paused for a moment, resulting in Udo stepping forward. Udo spoke to Habisuke from his position.
Udo: That won't happen.
Habisuke: Huh?!
Udo: I don't plan on harming this girl, so don't go using my name as a bargaining chip, boy.
Habisuke: Ngh!
Feeling a shiver go down his spine, Habisuke cowered upon the stare from his own father. After scolding his child, Udo continued, speaking to Yuri.
Udo: The only person I'm here to harm is that boy with the two colored hair.
The grip on his sword tightened as he sharpened his gaze.
Udo: That bastard tainted the future of the Furomushi house. I will not rest until I pay him in full.
Yuri:....
Udo: So all I need from you is your cooperation. Tell me where I can find that swordsman and I'll overlook your rejection of my foolish son.
Samurai A: You better do as he says little girl!
Samurai T: Otherwise it won't end well for ya!
Yuri:.... No….
Udo: Hm?
Immediately, Udo with all of his goons in tow falls silent at her response. When they do, Yuri continues to speak.
Yuri: You came to my home, hurt grandma… and now you're trying to hurt Jin….
A gentle white aura began to radiate off of her like mist. This aura however was dense, and lively. Udo stood shocked, his eyes widening in response to the most coming from the young woman.
Udo: Her too?!
Yuri: I…. I won't FORGIVE YOU!!
SLM!!! KRKK! KCHCH!!!
Slamming her hands on the ground in a crouching position, Yuri soon began to rend the earth beneath her and fire roots and branches out at Udo. These branches traveled like a wave, going directly for Udo and his men.
Udo: Ngh look out!!
Samurai A: Aah! W-What is that?!
Samurai G: Branches?!
Samurai F: A-A-AAAAAHHH!!!
As the wood collided with a group of the samurai, Udo jumped away and avoided her initial attack. Turning her focus onto the swordsman, Yuri fired more wooden branches at Udo. Recovering along with the other samurai, Habisuke watched in shock as he witnessed the skilled swordsman go up against the diviner.
Habisuke: Wh-What kinda magic??!...
As Udo raced out of reach of the incoming branches and roots, Yuri continued to spawn more and more in her anger against him. Udo jumped left to avoid a wave of incoming plantlife. However, as he did, a corkscrew of wood sped straight for Udo.
Yuri: HAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!!
Udo: Hmph!
In a quick diagonal roll, Udo avoids the attack, causing the corkscrew to drill into the ground. But as it did, the corkscrew morphed into a different shape and began to chase after Udo. This caught the samurai off guard, causing him to immediately turn around to be confronted by a giant fist.
Udo: What?!
SHH WHM!!!
Colliding with Udo, the massive wooden structure was stopped in its tracks, much to Yuri's surprise.
Yuri: H-Huh?!
Udo stood, using his sword to block the attack as he aided it with his shoulder and forearm.
Udo: Tch, such powerful Tao… and from some little girl!
Yuri furrowed her brow more as she called out to him.
Yuri: I'm not done yet!
However, after focusing more to punch through the samurai's defense, Yuri began to feel woozy. Lightheaded. Her balance began to waver as she stumbled onto her hands and knees. Soon after, her nose began to bleed.
Yuri: (W-What's going on??)
Udo: You overused your Tao. Now your body is feeling the side effects of overuse.
Yuri: W-What???
Udo released his guard and faced the girl. The massive fist had stopped moving entirely, still as a statue.
Udo: It seems you've been trained to practice Tao as well. But looks to me like this is your first time using it in combat, am I right?
Yuri but her tongue, keeping her mouth shut as she did her best to let her body recover. As she did, Udo placed his free hand on the index finger of the giant fist.
Udo: Tao is like a muscle, you must train it to grow alongside your body and mind. If anything is out of harmony or uneven to a staggering degree, overuse is inevitable.
Udo gazed over his shoulder to look at Yuri, his gray eyes showing experience and understanding.
Udo: Even then, you were able to use quite a bit of Tao before tiring out. I commend you for that. However…
FWSH!!!
The massive wooden structure had instantly been engulfed in flames, surprising both Yuri and Kuyagu.
Udo: In a battle of Tao, there was never a chance of you beating me.
Turning from the bonfire he had just lit, Udo began walking toward the young blonde. His sword was drawn, ready to cut anything he swung at. Kuyagu got onto her side, reaching out toward her granddaughter and the incoming swordsman, fighting her weakened body to save Yuri.
Kuyagu: N-No! Yuri!!!
However, a few samurai pinned her down, stopping her from moving.
Samurai F: Cool it granny!
Samurai R: One sudden move, n you're dead!
Udo soon stood in front of Yuri, who simply gazed up at the swordsman with blurry vision.
Udo: For attacking me…. I think your head at my feet will do.
Kuyagu: NOOOO!!!
Yuri: Ngh… Ghhh…
Udo raised his sword, preparing to decapitate the young lady by placing both hands on his sword. Yuri began to talk to herself, a sense of sadness persisting within her.
Yuri: I can't die…. I have to… see it.
Udo: Hm?
Yuri: I have to see… it. I need to make it to… Amahara… Mama's….. waiting.
Udo: Well…. Unfortunately for you, you won't be going to that place.
As Udo's blade reached its maximum height, Yuri closed her eyes tightly and dug her fingers into the dirt beneath her. Tears began to well up in her eyes as her thoughts raced. But one thought persisted, repeating every so often.
Yuri: (I…. I don't wanna die!)
SHHHKK!!!
CHNK!!!!!
Upon swinging, Udo found that his blade didn't make contact with flesh or bone. Instead, the swordsman felt that his weapon had just made contact with another metal. This metal was black, and was forged into the shape of a katana. The katana was held by none other than Jin, the man who had just appeared to defend Yuri yet again.
Kuyagu: I-It's him!!
Habisuke: Where did he come from?!
Udo: Hm?!
Yuri: J…Jin!
Jin had a calm expression on his face as usual, blocking Udo's attack with the blade slightly unsheathed.
Jin: Sorry for being late… I didn't think they'd come here of all places.
Yuri smiled gently before wiping the tears from her eyes.
Yuri: Tehe, it's okay. The fact that you're here matters way more to me.
Jin smiled a bit, before having his mood be stifled by the 6'4 samurai.
Udo: You….
Jin: Hm?...
Udo narrowed and focused his gaze upon Jin.
Udo: Black and white hair with a black blade. You're the one that dismembered my son?
Seeing Habisuke in the background, Jin responds to Udo crassly.
Jin: If you mean the spoiled punk whose arm I cut off this afternoon, yeah. That was me.
Udo:.....
Jin:....
CHK! TPTP!!
Jumping back from their clashed blades, Udo stood ready for the newcomer to the conflict.
Udo: Your actions cost my son his sword hand. And thus, you cost us the legacy of our house. For that, I shall have your head, bastard.
Jin simply stood with his sword still in its scabbard, his gaze never left Udo as the warm air from the burning wooden fist stung Jin's cheek.
Jin: If I'm not mistaken, it was your son that caused such an outcome. At least from what I remember, being there and all…
Udo: You defended a young woman who was to be punished. In the end, you were out of line.
Jin:... Then so be it. I'll be completely out of line if it means doing what's right in my eyes.
Udo: Tch, you arrogant bastard..!
Jin stepped forward, taking some steps away from Yuri to make sure that there was some space.
Jin: If I'm arrogant, then what does that make you, samurai?
Udo: Tch!
Jin: You say you serve your lord, but you're so caught up in your bogus family lineage that you forget who's in the wrong here.
Udo: Grrrrhhh..!
Jin: You use your lord as a shield for your status as samurai… I can see it all over you. The way you hold your sword is enough for me.
Jin looked the man in the eye before finishing his statement.
Jin: You're the arrogant one. Not me.
Udo growled with anger, gritting his teeth before pointing his sword at Jin and signaling to his men.
Udo: Slay this bastard!!! The one to do it will have anything he desires!!!
All Samurai: RRRRAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!!!!
Jin sighed in response.
Jin: You couldn't just make another kid???... Good grief…
As the many warriors ran straight for Jin, Yuri knelt helplessly in fear.
Yuri: Jin!
Jin: Don't worry…
Yuri: Hhuh??...
Jin stood with his back to the girl, ready to defend her.
Jin: Just stay behind me…
Yuri looked upon his back with wide blue eyes. Her defender walked forward and grabbed hold of his sword's hilt.
As one of the samurai came into range, Jin focused his eyes upon him. The moment the warrior raised his sword to swing-
SHK!!!
It was over. Jin drew his sword, slicing the man across the chest.
Samurai: AAHGH!!!
As blood rushed out of his wound, the samurai fell to the ground, clutching his wound. Jin however, did not fall. Instead, the swordsman raced into the mass of enemies with his sheath at his belt, his sword in his right hand, and his free hand at the ready.
The moment he reached some level of momentum, Jin came face to face with a spearman, who thrusted his naginata right at the young man. However, Jin's agility was far too great, dodging the thrust while simultaneously getting into the spearman's guard.
Spearman Samurai: Ngh!!!
Jin:....
SHWKKK!!!
In a split second, Jin sliced upwards, slicing both of the arms off of the spearman along with some of the stock. After said cut, Jin jumped upwards and kneed the samurai, knocking him unconscious.
After landing however, Jin was surrounded by blades. The young man darted his eyes from left to right to keep track of his oncoming opponents. Three of them attacked from the left, while only one or two attacked from every other direction. The moment the blades came within range, Jin began to dance with them, parrying and blocking each different attack with his sword and his free hand. The blades that landed upon his left arm simply deflected as if they hit stone or metal. Jin himself backhanded one man, while slicing two others. Jin attacked swiftly, yet lethally. After each exchange, a man's blood was spilled and he fell to the ground.
Soon, Jin was surrounded within a tighter circle. But instead of buckling…
Jin: Mugen Hiryuu:....
SHHHKK!!!!
"FANG OF THE FLYING DRAGON!!"
Samurai: GAAAUGHH!!!
The man swung his sword in a circular motion, sending the various armed men flying as a result.
His footwork was impeccable, causing Yuri, Habisuke and Kuyagu to stare in amazement.
Yuri: H-He's so fast!
Kuyagu: Mugen Hiryuu… I know that style..!
Habisuke: He took them all out in one blow!!
As Jin stood uncontested, the only one who was left standing was none other than Udo himself.
Jin: Sorry, but I think I broke your toy soldiers.
Udo narrowed his eyes at the swordsman, his sword hand began to shake with rage.
Udo: That style… Mugen Hiryuu…
The samurai grew even more angry upon recognizing the sword style.
Udo: I should have known… So you're him..!
Yuri:??
Kuyagu:....
Habisuke: "Him"??? Who is he, father????!
Udo: To think you would pick a fight with the Bachijin….
Habisuke's face immediately transformed into one of complete shock. The young man stepped back out of fear.
Habisuke: T-The Bachijin?! Th-There's no way in hell!!!
Yuri: The Bachijin???
Udo:... The Cursed Blade. Two years ago, it was said that there was a man who fought using the Mugen Hiryuu style… who wielded a black blade. A cursed blade. This man ruthlessly cut any swordsman down without a second thought. Crossing his path surely meant death… that is the Bachijin.
Yuri looked at Jin with this new perspective and spoke aloud in a concerned tone.
Yuri: Jin…. Is that true…??
Jin:........
Kuyagu slowly stood back up, fixing her glasses accordingly.
Kuyagu: That aura that I saw before… the energy coming from his left arm… that's his….
Udo: Yes. His Tao. His life force, his very existence and being, is cursed. All because of the sins he committed.
Jin silently stood, taking those words inward and allowing it to linger for a moment. As it did, Yuri grew more and more concerned for the boy.
Yuri: ….Jin-
Jin: For someone who talks so much….
The young man looked up from the ground and eyed Udo directly.
Jin:... You don't know shit..!
Udo:!!
Upon holding up his left arm, Jin could see that the bandages had begun to tear due to the fighting. The young man placed his weapon in his mouth by the guard, and began to unwrap the bandages. As he did, Udo, Yuri, Habisuke and Kuyagu watched, unable to act out of their own fear of the infamous man slayer.
Yuri: (The bandages… he's taking them off…)
Eventually, the last bit of the bandaged rags slipped off of his left arm, revealing it. The young man's left arm was pitch black, darker than dark, and denser than any shadow within the abyss.
Yuri: It's… pitch black..!
Udo: Just as I suspected… if I send your head to the emperor, then my house will become immortal within this land!
Jin chuckled a bit, catching Udo off guard.
Jin: That's true… but there's one problem with that plan.
Fmmmmmmm…..
A dark, shadowy aura began to dance off of his left arm as Jin got into a new fighting stance. One where he faced his shoulder to his opponent, a sideways stance that was rather unorthodox for a swordsman. However, Jin took the stance as if it were natural.
Jin: You've gotta kill me first..!
Udo gnashed his teeth, running his hand along his sword. After the motion was completed, Udo's katana was engulfed in flame.
Udo: Yajū Kasai: Blazing Fang!!!
Jin: Fire Tao… interesting.
Udo: These flames can melt even stone. Your cursed blade may survive a clash with me, but I doubt your body can handle it if you're struck.
Jin: Doesn't matter to me.
Udo: Hm?
Jin smirked at the man with confidence.
Jin: You won't hit me…
Udo growled, immediately charging at Jin with his flaming sword.
Udo: Let's see about that!
As Udo rushed Jin, the young man did the same. Soon, the two came within close range and Udo swung his sword at Jin's neck, aiming to cut off the Bachijin's head.
SHWK!!
Udo: Ngh!
Udo had missed the first strike due to Jin ducking low. In response, the young swordsman thrusted forward, landing a strong elbow to Udo's gut, causing the samurai to cough up spit.
Udo: Kaaugh!!!
In a fluid motion, Jin pivoted and spun, getting behind the stunned samurai. As he did, the dual haired man wound his hand back for a sword swing. However, as the swordsman swung at the samurai, Udo used his sword to block in a backwards guard. The young man felt himself focus as he pushed Udo away, jumping away from the man's retaliatory swing.
Right as Jin had jumped back, Udo chased him, resulting in the two warriors clashing blades four to five times. The clashing ended when Udo pulled back and thrusted his blade at Jin's chest. Upon noticing the type of strike, Jin parried Udo's attack with ease, before attacking right after with a powerful kick to the face.
WHAM!!!
Udo: Ggghngh!!!
Upon kicking the man, Jin jumped away from Udo for a moment. Now crouching a few yards away, Jin placed his left hand on the ground.
FWWWMMM!!!
As he did, Jin casted a massive shadow beneath him. Within those shadows were rippling waves of darkness of all shades of black.
Kuyagu: That… That's Tao! But, it's not like any kind I've seen before…!
Jin: Mugen Kage:....
Upon his casting of his ability, a large shadow began to rise out of the pool of darkness that surrounded him. Once it fully manifested, a massive white wolf materialized, sporting a magatama symbol on its forehead and back.
"... Shiro Inu!"
Yuri: Wooooah… he turned his shadow into a big white dog!!!
Kuyagu: Incredible..!
Udo regained himself and came face to face with Jin and his newly summoned familiar. Before he could react however, the Shiro Inu charged right for him. Holding out his sword to stop the creature, Udo readied himself to defend. However, the shadow dog had a trick up its sleeve.
Jin: Shiro Inu: Divine Fang!
Shiro Inu: ROUFF!!
Jumping forward, the large dog began to twist mid air before instantaneously becoming a fang-like vortex that sped straight for Udo.
Udo: (Shit! It's too fast!)
Unable to react, Udo was forced to take the attack as best as he could by blocking. However, the attack landed, crashing into his sword, but sent Udo flying.
Udo: Ngh! Shit!
Upon the hit, the dog stopped spinning, and immediately vanished into the shadows it came from. However, following behind the now disappeared wolf, Jin was rushing right for Udo who was still flying backwards.
After the samurai back flipped and landed on his feet, skidding to a stop, Udo looked around for his opponent. Soon, his eyes locked onto Jin, who was rushing forward ready to strike.
Jin:...
Udo: Tch, running head on huh?!
Udo cocked back his sword and arm, coating his entire sword on fire, including the hilt and guard.
Udo: I'll show you where that gets ya!
Noticing what was going on, Yuri called out to warn Jin.
Yuri: No!! Jin, look out!!!
Udo: DIE BACHIJIN!!!
With a backhanded swing, Udo increased his range by shooting a massive blade wave of fire right at the cursed swordsman.
FWMM!!!
Udo: YAJŪ KASAI: INFERNO BEAST CLAW!!!
The wave shot out with blinding speed, reaching Jin within seconds. As it made contact with him, the swordsman was sliced in half by the attack, separating his torso from his legs.
Jin:!!!
Yuri: JIN NOOOO!!!!!
THDD..
With a sickening thud, Jin's body hit the ground hard. Habisuke upon seeing this felt his face light up. His eyes filled with pride as he pumped his fist in victory.
Habisuke: HAHAAA! WAY TO GO OLD MAN!!!
Udo smirked upon seeing the downed swordsman, narrowing his gaze as he did.
Udo: I was right. Seems that I can hit you.
SHNK!!!
Yuri:!
Kuyagu:!!
Habisuke: W-What?!
Udo:!!!
From behind the samurai, within the shadow he casted, Jin had crawled out of said shadow, still partially inside of the ground Udo's shadow laid on. He had stabbed the man in the back, driving it deep into the older man's defenseless side. Udo looked over his shoulder to see the young man.
Udo: Gghnn, h-how?! I killed you!
Jin: Ya might wanna look again.
Upon turning to look where Jin's body should have been, the man saw what looked like Jin's upper and lower halves disappear into shadows just like the Shiro Inu.
Udo: Gghnn, a damn doppelganger..! How dishonorable..!
Jin: Who said I was fightin' you for honor?
Upon fully stepping out of Udo's shadow, Jin pulls the sword out from the samurai's back.
Udo: Gghnn…
plpplp
Grunting from the pain, Udo eventually turned around, still trying to fight.
Udo: I swear… I'll kill you… BACHIJIN!!!
Jin silently sheathed his sword as he faced Udo, the young swordmaster entered an Iaido stance, ready for his opponent to approach him. Out of desperation, Udo does, letting out a battle cry as he rushed Jin one last time.
Udo: RRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGGHHH!!!!
Jin: Mugen Kage:.....
Shadows began to radiate off of Jin's left arm, and in turn, the black sword he had just sheathed. The shade spilled out from the scabbard, as if it were overflowing with darkness and shadow. Once Udo came into the perfect range, Jin drew the sword, dashing past and through his enemy while drawing the weapon. All that was left was a visible black line upon the quick draw and a deep, distorted bass sound.
WWWWUUUMMMM…
"... Zero Slash…"
As shadows danced off of Jin's blade, his opponent dropped his sword. The moment it hit the ground, the flames around the weapon extinguished. What followed the death of the sword's blaze was the lifeless fall of the samurai's body. Udo laid on the ground, face first, dead.
Yuri knelt shocked, unable to process what had just happened that sunset.
Yuri: Is it…?
Kuyagu sighed in relief.
Kuyagu: It's over.
Standing up straight, Jin flicked the blood off of his sword, and in that smooth motion, sheathed his sword into the scabbard in his left hand.
Jin:.... Good grief…..
Gazing upon his back, Yuri could only watch in amazement.
Yuri: H-He's… amazing..!
Looking from the corner of his eye, Jin stared Habisuke down, causing the one armed man to step back in fear. After a moment of eye contact, Habisuke tucked tail and ran, screaming for his life.
Habisuke: HHH AAAAAHHH!!! AAAAAHHHH!!!!
Exhaling deeply, Jin relaxed himself after such a tense battle.
Jin: Coward ran away after all…
"Jin!!"
Jin: Huh???
Turning around, Jin saw Yuri, who was still somewhat dazed, run toward him. Sliding to a stop, Yuri stood in front of Jin with worry in her big blue eyes.
Jin: Y-Yuri.
Yuri: Jin, are you alright?! You're not hurt are you??!!!
Jin: Er, n-no. I'm fine.
The blonde exhaled in relief, wiping her brow with reassurance.
Yuri: Phew, thank the Gods..!
Realizing that she was there when Udo exposed him, Jin's eyes were hidden in shadow. Noticing his change in demeanor, Yuri tilted her head.
Yuri: What's wrong Jin???
Jin:..... You know who I am now. What I am….
Yuri: Oh… yeah…
Jin: Don't worry…
Yuri: Huh???
Jin began to walk past her, stopping only to contextualize his reason.
Jin: A kind woman like you shouldn't be near a devil like me.
The man then turned his head to smile at her. Even if it was forced, he couldn't bear himself to frown at Yuri.
Jin: Thank you. For the tea I mean.
As Jin started to walk off, Yuri began to understand the situation and made a decision.
Yuri: Hey, wait!
cltch*
Jin: H-Huh??
Grabbing the wandering swordsman by his left arm, Yuri effectively stopped the man. Jin looked rather puzzled, but Yuri was sure of her actions.
Yuri: W-We need to bandage your arm up! And granny can't just let you leave on an empty stomach! Besides, you need some rest after all of this! And I need to check you for any wounds!
Jin was taken aback by the young woman's many excuses to keep him there. However, eventually, her final reason surfaced.
Yuri: Also…. I… I wanna come with you! To find Amahara!
Jin:!!
Yuri: I want to find it. To fulfill my dad's dream! To find my mom!.... So please, don't take off just yet.
Jin looked to the distance in response, smiling a bit, with pain in that smile.
Jin: You…want to travel with someone like me? You heard that old man, I'm a dangerous, cold-blooded man slayer…
Yuri:... That's not true.
Jin: Huh?...
Yuri: The Jin that I know is kind and protective. And who has a funny scowl!
Jin: 💧 My scowl is funny???
Smiling warmly, Yuri continued.
Yuri: And he's… got a big heart. The Jin I know is a good man who protects people who need it. That's the Jin Hiryu I know! Tee-hee~!
Jin's eyes widened, the young lady's smile before him caused him to remember yet again, a ghost of his past. A ghost that haunted him, but kept him sane all the same.
Jin: I see….. Well, I don't see any harm in recovering before we leave.
Yuri: Tee-hee, great! I'm glad~!
Cracking a genuine smile, Jin relaxed as he thought to himself-
"Warmth… like the sun."
"..This is the story about a man who seeks revenge on the one who stole away his love…And his journey to find peace from the curse he would be afflicted by.
… This is the tale of the Bachijin.."
End of Chapter 1
To be Continued…