Kasaki stretched his limbs, a routine habit after reverting from animal form to human. He and Mikono were engaged in a race to reach the master's house first, arriving simultaneously. Having spent the past three days with Nagai, they had absorbed a wealth of knowledge about magical techniques. Kasaki had mastered the art of transforming into an owl for enhanced vision at night, while Mikono had honed his skills to morph into a formidable talking lion. Although these abilities might not prove advantageous in battle, they were valuable practice.
Upon returning home, their fellow inhabitants witnessed their transformation from eagles back to humans. Tinoue stood facing the master, who acknowledged their return with approval. "It seems you've acquired some new techniques," he remarked, to which Kasaki respectfully bowed in agreement, praising Nagai's teaching prowess. Meanwhile, Mikono remained silent, opting to pluck two apples from a nearby tree, stowing one away and munching on the other.
The master diverted his attention back to Tinoue, informing Kasaki that there was still much more to learn before addressing the ongoing combat with their friend. Tinoue, determined and focused, abandoned his sword in favor of attempting to touch the master with his bare hands or feet.
"Come on, now," the master chided as Tinoue advanced. He threw punches, but the master easily outmaneuvered him. "Tinoue, you're too weak," the master remarked. "Fighting like this, you'll never be able to do anything for Amane. It's a shame to have such a weakling of a brother."
Kasaki's brow furrowed at the master's harsh words, finding them unnecessarily cruel. Tinoue, visibly struggling to hold back tears, pressed on, but his efforts seemed futile. The mention of his little sister only fueled his frustration, turning his demeanor more aggressive. Kasaki observed the master's smile with dismay.
"She'll be killed by Misuki, Tinoue. What are you doing about it?" the master taunted, landing a forceful punch to Tinoue's stomach. Surprisingly, Tinoue didn't falter, his resolve unshaken as he continued to push forward.
"She won't. I won't let that happen!" Tinoue's voice echoed through the training grounds as he forced the master's arm down and landed a powerful punch to his chin. Silence fell over the onlookers as they witnessed Tinoue's unexpected display of strength. Even Tinoue himself seemed surprised by the accuracy of his strike, his breath heavy with adrenaline.
But as the moment passed, Tinoue's expression softened, returning to its familiar kind and reserved demeanor. The master wiped his lip, blood staining his fingers from the cut caused by Tinoue's blow.
"Very good, Tinoue. Congratulations. You have just passed your test. Now, join the others," the master stated calmly.
In that moment, Kasaki realized the master's strategy. He had intentionally provoked Tinoue to elicit a surge of anger, allowing him to tap into his full potential in combat.
"He's a skilled leader," Kasaki reflected. "He pushes us to give our best, even if it means being a bit tough."
"Master," Kinsu stepped forward, his gaze determined. "I believe it's my turn now, isn't it?"
The master's smile was cryptic, a glimmer of anticipation in his eyes. "Yes, Kinsu. I saved you for last for a reason. Patience is a virtue you must cultivate."
"Understood, sir. I've been waiting patiently," Kinsu replied with a nod.
"Good." The master unsheathed his sword, the gleam of its blade catching the sunlight. "Now, come and face me. Do not falter in front of your comrades. They have all passed the test."
With resolve, Kinsu advanced, exuding strength and speed. Kasaki marveled at how much Kinsu had improved in just a few days. As Kinsu launched his first attack, the master blocked his sword, but the force behind Kinsu's strike was evident, causing the master's arms to tremble as he quickly retreated.
In response, the master countered with lightning speed, but Kinsu matched him, displaying agility that surprised even Kasaki. With graceful movements, Kinsu leaped and twirled through the air, effortlessly evading the master's blade as if it were a game.
The master's expression shifted, a hint of pride evident in his eyes as he watched Kinsu's progress. After several exchanges, Kinsu changed tactics, executing a flawless 360-degree turn and delivering a precise strike that sliced through the master's pants. Despite the master's attempt to evade, Kinsu's blade caught the fabric, leaving a clean cut in its wake.
"Congratulations, Kinsu," the master's voice rang out, echoing with approval. Kinsu dropped to his knees, overwhelmed with joy as tears streamed down his cheeks. After a moment to collect himself, the master extended a hand to help him up.
"Now, listen up, everyone," the master addressed the group. "Those of you who have passed the physical combat test will begin training immediately under the guidance of Mikamoto, Nagai, and Sisuke. They will impart upon you the knowledge of magic that you need."
Turning to Kasaki and Mikono, the master's gaze sharpened. "As for you two," he continued, "if you pass the final test I have in store, you will be promoted to the rank of captains, alongside Mikamoto, Nagai, and Sisuke. The rest of you," he gestured to the assembled samurais, including Kinsu, "will fall under their command as subordinates. Is that clear?"
A chorus of "Yes, sir" echoed through the training grounds as the samurais acknowledged the master's instructions. Kasaki exchanged a knowing glance with Mikono, recognizing the daunting challenge ahead.
"Very well. That's enough for today," the master concluded. "Now, go hunt something substantial for our evening meal. We have preparations to make and important discussions ahead."
"Should we join them?" Mikamoto inquired of the master.
"No, my three captains remain with me," the master replied firmly, casting a pointed glance at Kasaki and Mikamoto as he spoke.
Kasaki rose to his feet, followed by Mikono. They assumed the lead and exited the house, with the rest of the group trailing behind. As they ventured forward, Mikono observed that Kasaki was without his sword.
"You're not armed. How do you plan to hunt?" Mikono inquired.
Kasaki shrugged. "I left my sword in the house, but I believe I can conjure one."
"Conjure? How?"
"Magic," Kasaki explained nonchalantly. "Nagai mentioned that I only need to focus on what I desire to manifest. So, I suppose I can summon a sword out of thin air if needed. I'll give it a try once we're in the woods."
"Bold move. I like your confidence," Mikono remarked.
Kasaki blushed slightly. Mikono's rare display of approval felt like high praise, considering his typically irritable demeanor.
"Thanks, Mikono. It's a rare treat to hear something nice from you... though I can't help but wonder why you're always in such a foul mood."
"Oh, spare me the flattery, Kasaki. You know, I've always had a soft spot for you too,” Mikono retorted with a smirk, his tone dripping with sarcasm.
"Typical. I try to be nice and you shush me like a cranky librarian," Kasaki grumbled, his irritation evident. "You're such a pain. Every time I try to say something nice about you, you shut me down."
"Quiet, Kasaki. I sense we're being watched," Mikono interrupted abruptly, his demeanor shifting to one of alertness.
"What?" Kasaki halted, mirroring Mikono's sudden seriousness.
"I've been hearing footsteps, rustling branches, whispers," Mikono explained, his voice low.
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Kasaki furrowed his brow, attempting to focus. Amidst the ambient noises, he discerned a faint whisper from thirty feet northwest: "I think they know we're here." Moments later, the unmistakable sound of a blade being unsheathed followed. Kasaki blocked out the surrounding sounds and concentrated on summoning his sword—a gleaming, majestic katana. With a burst of blue light, the katana materialized in his hands, and he turned to face the unseen observer.
"Hey, I hear you lurking there. But who are you?" Kasaki's voice echoed into the surrounding woods.
"They're Misuki's guards. It's an ambush! Remember Mikamoto? Hurt them, and you'll be trading your life bar and #BG coin," Tinoue's voice trembled with urgency, sending shivers down everyone's spine. Without warning, Kinsu lunged forward, his fist connecting with Tinoue's stomach in a desperate attempt to silence him.
"Quiet, kid. We don't know for sure. Keep it together," he ordered.
Kasaki realized Tinoue's warning held merit. Despite the tension, he remained composed.
"We're armed and ready. Whoever you are, reveal yourselves. Or we'll be forced to flush you out," Kasaki called out, signaling to the others to remain quiet so they could listen intently.
"What's the plan?" a voice whispered nervously.
"We don't have a choice. They outnumber us. Let's step out," came the resolute reply.
The bushes rustled ominously, heralding the arrival of unseen figures. Gradually, the new samurai graduates found themselves face to face with two striking young women. One, a blonde with azure eyes gleaming with joy, seemed carefree. The other, lean and muscular with tightly bound hair and clad in shorts, bore a sword on her back and exuded an aura of seriousness and wrath.
"Are you heading off to war already?" the serious one questioned Kasaki sharply.
"Why do you ask that? And who are you?" Kasaki retorted, puzzled.
"I'm just like you, a samurai," she replied matter-of-factly, prompting Kasaki's brows to furrow in confusion.
"A samurai? How's that possible? And why aren't you with the master?" he inquired, skepticism coloring his tone.
"We have our own master, one who has trained us since childhood," she explained calmly, beckoning them to lower their guard. Around them, the undergrowth stirred once more, revealing more young men who silently joined their ranks. They stood united, forming a formidable force behind the black-haired girl.
"I believe you are students of Master Yojiro, am I correct?" she asked, her voice tinged with authority.
Kasaki's brow furrowed in bewilderment. The master's name was a mystery to him; he had always been referred to simply as "the master."
"He never told us his name," Kasaki admitted, feeling a pang of curiosity.
"He never does," Kishira replied cryptically, her eyes glinting with a hint of intrigue. "But that's his name, as my master knows him personally."
Kasaki's confusion deepened. "Then why were you following us?"
"Firstly, my name is Kishira. I'm the captain of the Dragon Ronin Samurai army. We're a few dozen warriors strong," she revealed, her tone brimming with authority. "And I was shadowing your steps because I thought you were marching off to war. But it seems I've misjudged the situation, as I don't see Master Yojiro or his three captains with you."
"We were actually on our way to hunt. But you still haven't answered my question. Why does it concern you whether we go to war or not?" Kasaki pressed, his curiosity piqued.
"You seem to be quite unaware of the samurai world," Kishira remarked, her tone tinged with amusement. "We're also engaged in battle against Misuki, and we intend to join forces with you."
"But are you truly prepared? And why isn't your master leading you if you're truly committed to this fight?" Kasaki inquired, a hint of skepticism creeping into his voice.
"We are ronin. That means we are samurai, highly skilled and well-trained. However, we are no longer bound by loyalty to any master. We fight for the causes we choose, independently, unlike you, who are bound by the word and honor of your master," Kishira explained, her gaze unwavering.
"Why do you seek to confront Misuki?" Kasaki inquired, his voice tinged with curiosity. "I've heard tales of ronin, often thriving through private contracts and other means of sustenance. They are mercenaries, driven by profit rather than justice. So, what motivates you in this endeavor?"
Kishira's eyes flashed with a hint of indignation before she responded, her voice carrying a weight of bitterness. "Yes, it's true that many ronin live comfortably, thriving on private contracts and lucrative deals. They fight for coin, not justice. But we are different. What's your name?"
"Kasaki," he replied, realizing he hadn't introduced himself earlier.
"Well, Kasaki," Kishira's voice carried a simmering intensity, as though she begrudged having to explain herself. "Since you're so curious about our motivations for confronting Misuki, let me be blunt. I won't wax poetic about freedom or justice. The truth is, it's about revenge. Misuki murdered our master and countless others, including my own father, Kapeke. He was once loyal to Misuki until the day Misuki deemed him expendable and snuffed out his life. My uncle suffered the same fate. Is that reason enough for you?" Kishira's fury radiated from her, her gaze sharp enough to cleave through stone.
"And you lead your warriors?" Kasaki questioned.
"Yes, I do. Why do you ask?" Kishira replied, her tone challenging. “
"No reason, just curious. It's not often I see a woman in such a role among samurai," Kasaki explained. "But if your skills match your fiery spirit, I'd say you're more than capable."
"That's common," Kishira retorted. "Women often choose different paths. But don't underestimate me. I've trained since childhood, raised by a father who dreamed of waging war against Misuki until his dying breath. If you doubt my abilities, feel free to test them. Or send one of your men to face me in single combat."
Kasaki grinned. Kishira was certainly not one to be trifled with.
"Listen, Kishira," Kasaki's voice carried a weight of urgency. "We're not marching off to war just yet. We've been sent to the woods to hunt, to prepare for what lies ahead. I appreciate your offer of assistance, and I believe joining forces to confront Misuki is our best chance at victory. But that's all I can share for now. Rest assured, when the time comes, you'll know."
"Thank you, Kasaki," Kishira's tone softened slightly, acknowledging his wisdom. "You're perceptive beyond your years. We'll keep a watchful eye. If it's more magical training you're undergoing, my bet is we'll set out in a few weeks."
"I can't wait any longer," Kasaki admitted, frustration evident in his voice. "And I'm sorry about your father. Mine are both enslaved, you know? Sometimes I just want to charge in alone and liberate them from those cursed oil wells."
Kishira chuckled sympathetically. "I wish it were that simple. Farewell, Kasaki." She reached out, grasping his hand firmly between hers.
Kasaki felt a surge of surprise at the touch, the warmth of her hands a stark contrast to the life of a samurai. "Goodbye, Kishira. Until we meet again. Oh, one more thing."
Kishira halted, turning back to face him. "What's on your mind?" she inquired.
"Do you want me to inform the master about you?" Kasaki asked, genuine concern in his voice.
She shrugged nonchalantly. "I suspect he already knows. Farewell!" With a wave and a smile, Kishira turned and strode away into the forest.