1.1: An End to a Beginning

  Peace, strife, revolution, chaos, hate, vengeance. That’s the natural order of the universe and retribution, a word that can describe the creation of everything. Silence. It is a beautiful thing, isn’t it? Sometimes you feel as if you want nothing else. Nothing else, but silence. That sure is something to behold. But it’s nothing but a fake peace of mind that we say to make us feel better after a stressful situation or fight. Truth is that silence and peace are nothing but lies. Lies to keep us further and further from reality. Reality is cruel. Reality is merciless. Reality is pain. However it doesn’t mean that is all there is to it, there is always light at the end of the tunnel, right? Not necessarily. For all we know it could be a fake peace of mind as well, so, we can hope that everything happens for a reason. Truth is everyone describe that reason as “fate” and that is simply wrong. If a reason is fate, then nothing happens because you want it to, it undermines all the demanding work you may put into something, so that demanding work turns into what was already written by “fate.” So, what about what happens after the tunnel. What is it? Well. It is simple. That is just your ambitions manifested into reality, whatever those ambitions may be whether you’re conscious about it or not. That light could be peace, could be silence, could be joy, could be happiness and as anti-climactic as it is it could be sadness and sorrow. Light was always represented as “the good” as something amazing, there is no such thing as “good” or “bad” for that matter. It is just consequences. Everything that happens, everything you do, everything other people do. Will always have consequences and those consequences will always have a purpose. It’s not about what’s good or bad, it’s about what is the purpose of it.

  Reality is like a comet turning the great dark night into illuminating day. A great metaphor to symbolize the good beating the bad. However, while a comet does bring light, it causes destruction and destruction symbolizes “the bad.” That is why the phrase “wherever there is light there will always be shadows to be found as well” exist. So, if one comet symbolizes “the good” and “the bad” if another one follows the first does it symbolizes a balance? A new era? The answer is: no one will know until it happens.

  1. 2: Dreams and birthdays

  In between forests and mountains is found a land of prestige and well-known bounty hunters called the Namifuko, a modest village with wooden and concrete structures, well taken care of paths, people that brighten up your morning and one of our protagonists who lived with his parents in the outskirts of the land his name is Namihi Itara, belonging to the clan the land was named after, woke up breathing heavily with a blank expression on his face, fearing of what he just saw. Itara’s mother called him for breakfast and taking a moment to reflect the nightmare sitting upright on his futon he began thinking and reliving it “what just happened? Why was everyone screaming and running away from me?! Were they afraid of me?! Was I a hindrance, a burden? —mom, dad why, why did you kill yourselves?!! filled with confusion and anguish he desperately got out of his room finding them on the dinner table waiting for him, he got relieved that it was just a nightmare. He calmed down and his father asked him “is there something wrong Itara?” he took a moment to think if he should tell them the truth or not responding “huh? Oh, yeah kind of” he gave a nervous warm smile. As parents they knew something was wrong, but not wanting to pressure him they left him alone. His mother told him “Join us while the food is still warm” as he sat down his face lit up with joy being relieved it was all a nightmare. 5 minutes away from Itara’s house his best friend since birth Naminari Mikashi was finishing up his meal and before getting up from the table and thanking God for the meal his father asked him “you’re going again to train with Itara or are you going to the town library this time?” he responded getting up and putting the chair towards the table “I’m going with Itara, I’ll probably go next week to the library” “don’t hurt yourselves too much” he replied giving a fearful, yet caring laughter, “no worries we’re strong, but I’ll make sure he doesn’t get hurt” he said with a confident smile heading towards the door. His parents saddened at the thought “when will he start worrying about himself instead of others". Mikashi then proceeded to Itara’s house. On the way to his house Mikashi thought “I know my parents care for me and don’t want to get hurt or die, but I really wish they understood that I— no we will never stop training, even when we die our souls will remain training. Day after day after week after month, never once have we missed a day of training. That’s what our whole lives will be.”

  Before Mikashi arrived Itara asked his father to give them some advice and show them some techniques to practice and that they wanted a proper training routine. His father on the other hand hesitated to do it for fear of putting them in danger, yet was obliged to, he didn’t know why either, his training is as if training with the devil himself. When Mikashi arrived Itara’s father Goru agreed to train them and they headed towards the lake where they trained.

Under the cold, gentle breeze while navigating through nature and birds singing welcoming a new day and small animals saying goodbye to the covers of the night sky Itara, his father, and Mikashi head towards the lake where they would train and unlock new boundaries of their bodies. As they walk closer to the lakeside field passing through an acre of trees on a path surrounded by large shrubs, birds singing to the dawn of a new day and amphibians and insects singing parting from the night. While MIkashi was being engulfed by all of it Itara was in his own world, imagining himself achieving his dream. On the other hand Goru was keeping an eye on them and preventing them from hitting something and straying from the path. The whole way until arriving at the lake they stayed living in their fantasy. When they arrived they immediately went to warm up before Goru began the training.

This training is going to be amazing and I’m going to come out on top. There’s no better feeling than this. Than the cold breeze hitting your body as you do pushups and struggle to do the last one. Nothing better than running with the animals singing their songs. Nothing better than moments like these. Than training to become the best. Today I will beat Mikashi!

Man, what a beautiful morning today. I would love to one day just give in to nature completely and let it surround and overwhelm me not letting me enjoy nothing else but herself. Today’s training is going to be a good one. I will beat Itara once again and let mother nature overwhelm me with potential. So I can then make sure they’re all safe.

Hm, looks like they’re all pumped up to train and show their worth. Though I’m worried they’ll get hurt training themselves like this. However, I’m also glad that whatever the reason they’re training this hard, just the action that they’re pushing towards that reason is enough to make me proud to have guided them. I really hope to become a catalyst for their dreams to come true because I couldn’t dream of a time where they would give up on their hopes and dreams.

Mikashi doesnt seem to be looking at me he’s probably too focused on his exercises and making sure he executes them perfectly, but even so I’ll make sure that he sees me, so I’m going to shine brighter than him and force him to look to his side and see the the extreme force and speed of my execution.

Heh, Itara is really going all out and all for the sake of a rivalry. Thats good keep that fire because you’re going to need it in a few minutes.

Huh?! Whats that screaming?! To my right?! “Catch up now stuuupiddd” Itara?! Hey! What… OH, haha I see now, you really are something else. Well you ain’t getting too far now you dumb kid.

And just like that Mikashi joined the battle of screaming… and determination.

Good, you’re watching—ah, why you, who are you calling a dumb kid, the only dumb kid is you, so take that you’re not going to get ahead now that I’m ahead.

Wow Itara, you’re so damn funny (and unoriginal) I’m laughing my ass off. Kidding, as if. You’re jokes as a bad as you’re compulsivity! Now, watch my precise and agil executions as you taste the dust the wind takes to you.

No, no, no, nooo, damn it! I can still surpass you again, I just—

Ok warm up over Itara, Mikashi over here we’re going to start the training.

Damn it!! Why dad!? Just let me beat him I was close to doing it!

Hahah you’re going to have another chance of doing so now and besides warm ups aren’t a good way to surpass someone, so if you want to surpass gather all that energy and motivation to this training.

Ok Dad!

I hope both of you are ready for this dont dissapoint me now. Ok, so in this exercise you’ll have to run 30 laps around the lake in less than a minute and whoever loses has to run double the laps with 10 kilograms on your feet and the winner on your back. You ready for that?!

Now that’s a challenge heh, Itara get ready to eat dust.

Ha! As if, you’re the one who’s going to eat it.

Good you’re both hyped, now begin.

 No way I’m gonna let Mikashi beat me once again, I will beat him through and through and I will shout as loud as I can and keep beating from here on out. Now, come on Itara, run as fast as you can and finish these 30 laps, we can do this, explode with determination. Yes, that’s it! Come on 29 laps left, you completed it 2 seconds now surpass that, complete two in one second… close, but not quite there, go even faster! Come on 27 left! Do 5 in two seconds! Yes! Lets go! Even faster!

…

Itara’s fired up and had already done 1/3 of the laps in 6 seconds, I need to step up my game, I cant destroy my winning streak here because of some arrogance, I need to surpass my previous limits. I. Am. Going. To. Beat. Him. Once. Again! Come on legs dont fail me now. Come on knees fold. Come on calf, clench and extend into maximum speed! Hahaha yesss look at that crater I left, take that Itara! Now keep going legs. Carry me until the rest of the laps are completed!

Damn it! Mikashi suddenly got incredibly fast—huh?! Did his foot just sparked?! Anyhow, I cant think, I need to beat him! I decided that I wasnt going to lose anymore damn it! Come on legs! Come on heart! Surpass your limits! Damn it! All I can complete is 5 laps in 3 seconds. Why cant I go faster!? Am I just weake—NO ITARA! STOP IT!? Dont you there finish that sentence!? Dont look at Itara and just focus on surpassing yourself! Your goddamn limits must be surpassed! Or else whats the point of living?!

…

Heh, of course he’s still trying to surpass me—or is it himself? Anyways I’m going to make the best of this exercise! I’m already 2/3 of completing it in less than 30 seconds! There’s no way he can surpass me now, and look at the path I left. Each time the force I exhort is even stronger! That’s exactly what I want! Now lets finish this! Come on legs. 5 more laps and this time we’ll finish them in 1 quarter of a second! 1 completed. Now even faster. Let the trees and animals feel my greatness, let them feel the wind of my speed! Let the ground experience the terror of my steps! Let the people fear the sound of my soul! 5 completed in 2.5 nanoseconds! Yess! No I need to stop! This is gonna be epic. Gut. Listen to my voice. And stop my legs. Slide downwards and create the biggest trench we’ve ever made! Do it, now! …YEESS! LET EVERYONE HEAR MY CRY! MOTHER NATURE CARRY MY VOICE ACROSS THE LAND!

Damn it he beat me once again! And it wasnt even by a little, he beat me by a landslide, I need to surpass my goddamn limits, but my body wont listen to me goddamn it—huh?! Is it raining?! Why am I looking at the ground?! And why are droplets of water soaking it—oh. Am I crying? Why though? I’m not sad or anything, so why are tears soaking the ground… WAKE UP ITARA! ARE YOU SERIOUSLY GOING TO LET SOMETHING LIKE THAT STOP YOU! YOU LOST GET OVER IT AND FINISH THE DAMN LAPS! YOU’RE 6 LAPS AWAY FROM LOSING EVEN MORE BADLY! GET UP! Damn it I almost lost it there for a second?! The voice inside my head is right though I cant think about that or else I’m always going to find excuses!? I need to focus on finishing right here and now! Now come on body of mine lets finish these 6 laps in 4 seconds! …yes! I did it! And not at bad time. Only 10 seconds before I completely lost. But still I cant lose anymore, its beginning to get embarrassing. And each time Mikashi gets further away. I wont lose the next time, I swear!

He let out a huge sigh and fell to the ground upwards. Itara’s father’s face since he released such immense speeds was filled of shock, astonishment, and a little bit of fear. Goru then proceeded to tell them to take a 5-minute break because the hard part isn’t over yet and that made them even more excited, Mikashi’s glare suddenly turned from tired to determined, Itara on the other hand gave off a smirk knowing he had another chance of getting back at his friend. As the time passed till five minutes Itara was warming up doing one hundred one-handed handstand pushups meanwhile Mikashi was doing one hundred one handed pushups. Goru called them to the edge of a dock reaching in up to almost half the lake.

That was amazing! Both of you did great you made me proud. Now this next exercise will consists of holding your breath underwater for 10 minutes and whoever loses, goes back to the surface before 10 minutes have passed, has to swim as many laps as they could in 30 minutes in the bottom of the lake as fast as they could without resurfacing. Oh and dont worry about counting the minutes because I’ll be counting them and warn you when the time’s up.

Now that’s what I’m talking about that’s a training exercise, I’m so going to beat Mikashi.

I agree with you there Itara, that is an exciting training, but keep dreaming you’ll never beat me!

No way I’m going to lose, I’m finally going to beat you here!

Heh, we’ll see.

Now, now, going on and begin, underwater now. The timer starts once you hit the bottom, so when you get down there blow exactly one air bubble.

OK! They both submerged down the surface of the lake to the bottom.

It hasnt even been a minute and my lungs already feel like they’re contracting and it feels as if someone was on top of me. Damn I need to get passed this feeling and moment to beat Itara, I cant lose after I gave that speech I just can’t.

Why is my heart beating so fast I feel its going to explode. What’s this feeling as well? It’s as if I’m being shaken by two people while they’re trying to push me of a cliff. On the other hand I feel so light and without stress, like my body doesn’t mind this and can survive a whole day here. My lungs are expanding and slowly contracting as if reusing the little oxygen left. I can definitely do this and beat Mikashi too.

No additional air bubbles or signs of struggle. Looks like they’re getting the hang of it, excellent. I wonder how much they’ll last and who’ll win, though I think Mikashi is going to win this he’s shown a lot of promise in other training sessions, while Itara has shown the determination and resilience, but not something like Mikashi, it still impressive nevertheless, thats for sure. But still this exercise will tell me a lot of things and if Itara wins its going to make it very interesting.

3 minutes have passed and still no sign of struggle, an average person would’ve already either given up or passed out, if they last more than 5 then its safe to say they’re lung capacity is superior to that of an athletic person, however if somehow they make it to 8 or 10 they’ll on par with a bounty hunter’s lung capacity. If so then I would need to increase their training regime by tenfold, although they are only 8, so perhaps, it would take too much out of them. Either way I still need to increase the difficulty of the training. Huh! It seems like Mikashi is beginning to struggle a bit I feel his muscles starting to contract and tense, on the other hand it seems Itara is—huh?! What is this?! The water warmed up a little!? And the bubbles that rosed dont seem to be stress bubbles, they’re controlled?! Did he do it on purpose? Or was it luck?! Its been 6 minutes already and Mikashi is struggling and Itara… awakened it?! I never would’ve expected this?! I would’ve thought it happened around 8 minutes or 9, this is some very interesting turn of events.

Damn it my body feels cramped and my muscles hurt like hell. How can this be?! I thought this happened a bit more after, but not now. Damn it I’m probably going to l—No! I’ll make it and win! I cant let these thoughts make me surrender! But, it looks like Itara is getting the hang of it and without stress—No, uh uh, I will resist and make it out on top!

Its quiet. So quiet I can hear my own thoughts. My heartbeat. Its going slow, but at the same time with more force each beat. So much so that it hurts when it beats. I can feel it in every part of my body. My hands. My legs. Both sides of my chest. My abdomen. The lower right and left of my chest. It hurts. I want to take a deep breath, but I know I’ll lose if I do that, but I cant take it anymore. I need. To. Breath.

As he takes one breath the water around his mouth brings to warm sensation that resets his body and limits and it wakes his mind bringing into thought the feelings.

Huh?! What just happened?! My body feels light again. My heart is beating at the rhythm of the water around me. I dont feel aches anymore. And. For a moment. The water felt warm. Why? Did my breath did that? What exactly happened and why?! I wonder how much time is left? I think I’ll be able to see this to the end?—huh! It looks like Mikashi is struggling a bit, its subtle, but his body is shaking, heh it seems I finally found something I’m better at than him.

Its been 8 minutes and neither of them has resurfaced voluntarily or by passing out. Their resilience is amazing. And their lung capacity as well, wow! This truly tells me their limits and how to improve it. This turn out to be very intriguing. It makes me wonder who will come on top, Mikashi who has won several times against Itara, or Itara who has never won, but has always followed in seconds behind and now it seems he’s gonna win. I truly wonder eh.

Itara then resurfaced following Mikashi. Even though it was only a few seconds Goru still counted Mikashi’s resurface a loss, he told him to take a small break and proceed to swim for thirty minutes underwater.

He began to catch his breath for one minute while the other four were to do as many one-handed pushups standing at the edge of the dock and then stretching his whole body in four minutes. Goru then tied a rope with 5kgs to his feet.

Damn it! I can’t believe I lost today I feel like my pride was shattered in half. Well, anyways if I accomplish this punishment exercise my pride should be restored and Itara will tense up in fear in front of my greatness! Now, let’s do this! I’m ready! Going down here for the second time in such little time feels so overwhelming, yet, so exhilarating I can’t stop my body from shaking, there’s a lot at stake then if I’m feeling like this. No matter though because I will overcome this and wont come up until the time is over not even I feel like I’m going to die. I will never go back on my word! Damn this is quite difficult. The water current and pressure is slowing me down a lot and I can barely swim. I dont know how much time has passed, but it feels like an eternity down here and I’ve barely done one lap. I need to come up with something and fast—wait that’s it, “fast” I need to go fast, and when it comes to speed and durability I always beat Itara, so let’s go to the ground and impulse from there and maybe I can get some traction and begin to speed up and swim fast. The ground is pretty hard and stable so I wont sink and get a good impulse if do this just like if I was on the surface. Ok, I’m set and if I launch myself in this direction I should have enough force to make two laps in two seconds. Yes. Perfect launch, acceleration and speed, now there’s a curve approaching soon I would need to turn my feet over to the wall and get more impulse, since in water I dont have the same freedom of movement than in the surface and after the initial impulse there’s a constant and decrease in speed. I need to time this perfectly. Ok, and… now! Ahh, damn it! The water puts too much resistance on my body and doesn’t let me turn as fast as I want to, so it would mean I need to launch myself even more and turn a bit before that way I have enough time from the moment I turn to the moment I’m fully turned and further launch myself in the direction I need.

Heh, looks like he’s struggling a bit, but getting the hang of it at the same time. Interesting. His meticulous and logical approach to things is coming in handy right now. Contrary to Itara which relies on his gut feeling which wouldn’t do him much here depending purely on circumstance and trial and error. It’s been 9 minutes and he’s only done 5 laps, seeing how fast he’s progressing and his previous feat in the race it’s clear he’ll make in time, but just how long will he take to get the hang of it and begin to swim at full throttle?

This is it. I’m gonna turn right now and increase my speed. Come on legs faster. Come brain react faster. In 3. 2. And… 1! Now body turn. Legs clench and launch! Yes! Now go even faster legs, core, body! Brain react even faster! Heart pump faster! Give me the momentum I want! Give me. The… Emotion of the Gods!!

ADRENALINE! That’s it! Go faster! Let’s do as much laps as we can! Let’s leave the lake a mess! I feel so alive and light the faster I go! As if I’m making my own oxygen with speed!

Woah! Where did this speed and force came from!? How did Mikashi suddenly get so fast!? And here I thought I finally beat him! Damn it! Why do I keep falling behind!? There’s no way he can keep beating me like this?! I need to train even harder then! Every single hour of every single day of every single week of every single month and year. I’m tired of him getting further away! I need to keep catching up and surpass him damn it!!

No way! The trees. The water. Even the ground itself doesn’t withstand the intensity of Mikashi’s brute speed force. It’s even ripping apart some trees from the ground! He’s a monster—No, he’s worse than a monster. It’s been 15 minutes and even though he got the hang of it I didn’t expect him to get this fast! At this point he’ll clearly make it to the end! I swear these kids just don’t know the definition of giving up. And that gets me excited. Now I can go all out on their training—Huh?! Itara seems to be getting fired up. I mean beating his rival and now Mikashi throws this at him I would be pretty frustrated, but I dont think he’s frustrated because his rival keeps getting away. I think it’s something a lot more deeper than that. Very interesting.

Yess. Go even faste—ah! What!? Why wont my body listen to me anymore!? My eyes?! They’re closing! No! I cant! Open damn it! Just a little longer if you cant go faster!? “A little faster you say?” huh? Who said that—my body?! My brain?! My heart?! “You dont recognize me?! The one who’s always made you so passionate?” are you… my heart… “heh, you recognized me then, I’m glad!?” why are you talking?! And why is the rest of my body not responding?! “It’s because of me. I’m getting pretty tired. But… I know if I stop you won’t follow me no more and I dont want that. I want you to always listen to me. So please never go deaf to my voice, no matter how lost you may seem, ok?” what… are… yo—OH, I see now. Heh. Ok, I understand. I promise I will never stop listening to you. Because it is you who has given me a reason to live and to keep living. I can never forget you nor ignore you no matter how clouded my mind is you always seem to find a way to reach me, so I will never stop listening to you. “That makes me happy. And excited. So I’ll give you just 5 more minutes, it’s all I can give you right now, I’m sorry. And after those I will take a rest. You ok with that?” 5 more huh? That’s enough thank you. After this take as much time as you need you deserve it. “Thank you. Now let’s overcome this! Go Mikashi! Finish this!” of course Heart, after all I always listen to you.

—His speed… it’s… decreasing?! No! It’s stabilizing! Amazing. That’s why he’s my rival! He’s controlling his speed that’s amazing! That makes me even more excited! “I know right!? He truly knows how to get us excited!” —huh?! My Heart?! “Yes it is my dear fire. I am your reason for living the live that you’ve been living! You’re motivation and ambitions! I’ve given you all that.” That’s amazing. I can’t believe you were the one I was listening to! Thank you for everything then. “No need to thank me. In fact I actually need to thank you.” No, but I do, you’ve given me everything I needed and wanted—oh, but why do you need to be thanking me? “It’s difficult to explain, so when you’re older and have more knowledge I’ll explain.” Alright then. Now, let’s get motivate for what’s to come next after this shall we? “Well of course. I’m ready!” heh.

His speed and the force behind is stabilizing. Interesting. And there’s only 3 minutes left, amazing his sense of time, he’s truly something else. Huh?! Now it’s decreasing and it doesn’t seem to be on purpose I think he’s losing energy and consciousness. Even so he’ll last the remaining time I can feel it. Heh, he finally heard his Heart speak. Things will only get better from here on out. Hm, the environment and wind, not surprisingly, is getting calmer. I cant’t believe a kid made such a mess of this place. He’s going to be a force to reckon with when he’s older, so I need to teach hi—actually both, him and Itara, I need to teach them everything I know as harsh as I can be, so they can become the versions of themselves. From here on everything will get even more difficult so get ready guys.

“Time’s up Mikashi I’m going to sleep. Until the next time” it’s over huh… thank you Heart, for giving me a bit more excitement. Have a good rest, you de… ser… ve… it…

Huh?! He stopped completely?! Mikashi! Ah, damn it. I was so engulfed in my head I didn’t realize Mikashi was stopping. I’ll get him right now, I wont let him drown! No, no, it’s not your time you dumbass. I got you no need to worry now!

Hm, guess I didn’t need to go myself. After all Itara will never leave him to die and neither will Mikashi leave Itara. They’re too loyal to each other for that. Anyhow, I need to get a doctor quick in case he’s in bad shape.

Mikashi lying upside up on the dock was having difficulty breathing while Itara trying everything he could, from the things he read in the town library, to things he watched from people doing to other people in public. He was frantic thinking his friend since childhood was going to die, he was trying to hold back tears and biting his tongue from preventing screaming. Goru on the other hand left to find a doctor since he did not want to risk anything happen to Mikashi if he moved him. After some time Itara could not hold it back anymore, tears started soaking the ground and he didn’t even have the strength to scream his name, instead he mumbled his name over and over again, rocking his body back and forth while shaking Mikashi’s body.

Goru arrived thirty minutes later with a doctor and at first the doctor did not want to treat him and preferred if he died. But aside from that he remembered Mikashi’s face a little from back then and decided to treat him anyways. The doctor after examining him for ten minutes told them there wasn’t too much internal damage and he was going to live, but he needs to rest for at least a week before he can do any extracurricular activities again. Of course, both Itara and Goru knew he wasn’t going to rest for a day much less a week, so they decided to let him rest for one day or until he regained consciousness.

This kid… he’s a Naminari isn’t he?! I shouldn’t treat him, I mean he’s part of the problem, so why should—if that’s how I feel why am I wasting my time with him?! Do I feel some remorse for him? No. Impossible. No way. They did so much damage to this village, so why do I feel obligated to help him? Either way tho… as a doctor I can’t abandon anyone in need…

…He’s in pretty rough shape and I’m going to have to take him to the hospital for better treater, but he’ll make, his body seems to have a natural rest and recuperative state, so you shouldn’t worry. However, he won’t be able to practice for at least a week, so make sure he gets a week and a half of rest after I treat him.

Mikashi… you’ll be ok, right? I mean you’re stronger than me, right? So, you have to be, right?! Damn it! Why do I feel like it’s somehow my fault?! Why do I feel burdened by this?! Heart can you tell me? Heart? Hey? You can hear me right? Mhm guess he doesn’t know either. Can I even do something to help him? How can I help him though. It’s not if I can heal him instantaneously. I’m such a failure!

Itara. Hey.

—huh? Dad? What?

It’s not your fault. So if you’re thinking that stop it in this instant. There’s nothing you could’ve done. Mikashi knew his limits and still decided to go through with it, so you have no reason to be thinking about being burdened or that you didn’t help him. He accepted the consequences of his actions, so you shouldn’t be worried for something that he decided to do. You’re just going to be putting him down.

Dad… but… I’m so weak… I couldn’t even save him from the consequences! If only I was truly his ri—

ITARA! DONT YOU DARE FINISH THAT SENTENCE! YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO SAY THAT! YOU’RE VERY STRONG AND MAYBE YOU’RE NOT AS FAST AS HIM, BUT YOU ARE MORE ENDURANT AND STRONGER THAN HIM, I’VE SEEN IT! SO STOP THIS WAY OF THINKING IT WILL JUST POISON YOUR HEART AND WEAKEN YOUR MIND!

Look, if you want to get stronger and catch up to him you can, but not like this, only by trial and error, and learning from your mistakes can you become stronger. So, before we go to pick him up I’m going to give you a special training.

Dad… thank you… alright! Let’s do it then!

Heading east towards the whispering forest for a special training session his dad had planned for him Itara suddenly starts to wonder about what pushes his father to train them fiercely.

Hey dad.

Yeah, what’s the matter?

I was wondering, do you have any dreams or something that pushes you forward?

That’s a strange question coming from a kid. Why do you want to know?

Oh, I’m just curious because you train us so hard that it made me wonder, hahah.

I see then. Well, to be completely honest I don’t know, I guess I just want both of you to be strong enough to achieve your dreams. But now I think that it’s because I could never accomplish mine, so I took upon a new dream which to help you achieve your whether that be directly or indirectly.

Woah, seriously you never achieved your dream!? Why!?

Yeah it’s pretty sad, but I was able to live with it and enjoy the rest of my life. I can tell you why, but let’s leave that for later, for now why don’t you tell me what’s your dream and what pushes you?

What!? Why?! Come on tell me! I want to know!

You really want to know huh?

Yes!

Ok, then. Here’s a deal, if you understand and master the beginnings of this training I’ll tell you when we go pick up Mikashi. How does that sound?

Yes, deal!

Now, tell me what’s your dream?

My dream? Heh, one day I’m going to conquer the universe and rule over everyone!

Is that so? Well, that’s a hell of a dream you got, haha. I’m sure you’ll accomplish it one day, train hard and study and learn even harder.

Do I really need to study? That’s so boring!

I know it is, but once understand how everything works you can control everything.

Woah, really!? That’s amazing, now I’m even more excited!

Of course you are haha.

You always get so motivated by such simple things.

Hey dad, I see a forest over there. Is that where you’re going train me?!

Yes it is. That forest is called the Forest of Whispers. Do you know why?

Because people have heard whispers?

Well yes, but that’s not what I meant, what I meant was the backstory of why people hear whispers. Long story short in that Forest the natives of this land lived there and when we first settled here we coexisted with them, but by the first attack on the village they were all killed and from that day whispers could be heard throughout all the forest and some people speculate that the whispers are cries of agony and screaming for help, but they’re so faint you can’t understand them.

That’s so sad, who would do such a thing?!

We don’t know. Everything about the mass killings is gone and we don’t know why it happened.

Woah, that’s crazy!

Yeah it is. Well I think we should start the training now.

Alright then, let’s do this I’m ready!

We’re here. Can you hear them Itara?

Hear what? All I hear are whispers and rustling.

Exactly. Those sounds you hear are them. The creatures you’re here to defeat.

Wait what?! I’m going to fight them?! Really?! The natives?!

Don’t be ridiculous those are just rumors. The ones making those sounds aren’t the dead native’s voices. They are the chiaroscuros. Creatures of light and dark. Born from Order and Chaos.

No way! Seriously?! Then why did you tell me it’s the natives?

Because, that’s how it got its name, but since no one has ever spotted the creatures no one could verify it was actually the natives.

Ohh, I get it now. So how did you kno—

Itara! On your six!

Huh?! Woah! This is one of them?! They’re huge! They’re like tiger wolves!

This is it Itara. The training begins now! Now close your eyes and try to dodge all it’s attacks by using your other 4 senses!

Huh!? But if I cant dodge it?!

Game over. You die…

Damn it. So it’s do or die!

Yes, now close them and clearly focus on your surroundings and visualize the creature in your head and predict where it’s going to attack and how.

Ok!

Damn. This is a lot harder than I would’ve thought! I can hear everything a lot clearer, but I can’t fully and clearly sense everything, just what’s touching my body and little more further than that. How should I approach this? Dad did tell me to just dodge, so he only expects me to predict his attacks and visualize the space that’s around me. Knowing that I can get accustomed to this pretty quickly, the trick is visualizing the space and with that I can see when and where it is and and by expanding my sense of touch and hearing even more to even the smallest of things like the sound of a foot crunching sediments on the ground, or the warmth of a body approaching near, or in this case a hair of fur grazing a part of my body. I need to relax and broaden my awareness to not only what’s near, but by also remembering what the surroundings looked like and moving my legs in a circular motion to sense obstacles and connect the dots with my memory.

Looks like he’s struggling a bit visualizing the space. Ok, I’ll help him a bit. Let’s see, oh there’s one, come here you you’re going on a quick trip.

Huh?! Something’s coming through the air towards me?! But where?! Come on Itara sense it! Where do you feel the wind, the air… ah! Dad! So that’s where it’s coming from! Since he’s behind me then that means the creature is coming from behind. Good, now my next move should be lowering my upper body at the same level as my lower body and then when it’s on top of me I grab its front paw and punch it in the stomach, but it has to be exactly when I sense it millimeters from the back of my head that I lower myself and approximatively .5 seconds after I lower myself I counterattack. Ok let’s do this. It’s getting closer, but not yet. I can start feeling its warmth near, not yet though. Just a little more. And… now! Woah! I did it! Oh shit, now counterattack! Grab the front paw, yes. Now punch the stomach, yes that’s it! Now throw him over you… yes! That was excellent! This is quite fun hahah—huh!? Two more?! From both sides!? Damn it! It was too sudden, what should I do now!? If I dodge one of them the other one will get me, so how can I dodge both of them simultaneously?! Oh! What was the thing that Mikashi did while running when he saw a big boulder on his way?! It was like a stride, but wider and higher! That’s it! Now I need to time it! Where are they right now?! They’re close now! Just a little more though! A bit more come on get closer!

What is he going to do?! He’s just standing there… waiting?! For them?! If so why?! It’s not like he can do what he did for the previous one. So what does he have plann—oh! Could it be that he plans to kick or dodge them simultaneously?! That seems like the most obvious choice he has, interesting.

Yes that’s it, a bit more! And… now! Jump! Point your legs towards them with full force! Yes! Now that should have left a mark! Good, they’re do—they’re all up again!? They’re incredibly strong then, those simultaneous kicks took a lot out of me, but they recuperated fast, damn! I don’t think I can counterattack anymore, all I can do is—dodge! Woah, that was close! And keep—dodging! Until they’re tired! Huh!? An opening to attack!? I can sense it. And it’s good too, I can leave one of them at least paralyzed for a while if I land it, should I?! Don’t think just do it! Take the opportunity! Ok then… now—ah! Damn it I slipped!

Shit, he’s still not coordinated. I’m going to have to intervene now. Itara, get out of there and come here. Let me take them out now! It’s getting too late now and we need to pick up Mikashi.

Damn it! I really wanted to finish this myself, I guess I still have a long way to go. Well, at least I’m going to be able to see my father fighting for the first time. This is exciting!

Now then Itara I hope you learn something from me. I haven’t fought in a long time, so I hope I’m not too rusty. Mhm. There’s eight in total. Two behind those bushes back there, four in my cardinal directions, and two in front of me and opposite of each other. Knowing where they and where I am is crucial to beat them. Especially with such little light entering the forest. Ok, now that I have the space envisioned all I need to figure out now is the timing. Once space and time are aligned I can execute my attacks flawlessly. For fights like these patience is the most essential, waiting for the right moment in the right place, that is the goal. Perfect. Strategy has been analyzed. Four, two, and two. Excellent locations and positions, I’ll call this strategy… ‘Cardinal continuum’. The cardinal four are attacking! Good! Slid right foot to the left, and lift it approximately one meter aligned with its solar plexus… now! Solid hit. Three— oh! What’s this? The other four are approaching from the corners. Nonetheless it I should have enough time to stick to my plan without them arriving first. Ok now for the one opposite of that one! He should jump in 3.2.1. Heh, exactly as envisioned. Best option here is going underneath and landing a kick on his back. Run underneath… ah, he turned in midai—heh, got you. Jump! Flip ninety degrees towards the back of his head, and… now! That’s it screech for help. Now, the other 6 will be easy. Wow. I can’t believe just fun is this. Haven’t been this excited fighting in a while.

Woah. Dad… you’re amazing! I’m mesmerized! Your techniques are flawless, so awesome! Huh!? He’s smiling!? I haven’t seen him like that since… actually I don’t remember when was the last he smiled. Well, anyways he’s amazing! Heart, you’re seeing this right!? “Of course I am. He really is something” I know right! “Indeed”.

He’s definitely watching me. He must be getting excited. I’ll finish this right now then, so you’ll get even more pumped. It’s been a while, so I might mess it up a bit, but I still remember the basics. Dance of the skies: storm art: heavenly descent!

Goru suddenly summoned a beautiful yet ferocious wind accompanied by torrential rain and 6 simultaneous lighting strikes in unison with his voice.

WOAH! THAT WAS SO AWESOME! SO AMAZING! “That was… beautiful! No way! Hey Itara!? I fell in love!” RIGHT?! I KNOW! IT’S SO AMAZING HOW HE CALLED THIS STORM BY JUST WORDS!! “Yeah. Truly a sight to behold”.

Itara, let’s go. We need to pick up Mikashi and it’s also getting late.

Ok! So, are you going to tell me your dream and why you couldn’t accomplish it?!

Well, you did master the beginnings and you did a hell of a job, so of course I will.

Yes! Tell me then come on!

Ok then. First off, you know our home lies in the Hitochi area, right?

Yeah, you told me a year ago, but why—

Well, I’m not actually from the Namifuko. I came from a land where there’s constant turmoil and disaster also known as ‘The Storm that never settles’. It’s one of the 6 realms that borders the land of the Namifuko and I lived and raised very close to the border of the Hitochi region. Another thing you should know is that us and the Namifuko never got along and we always fought, I dont really know why though, but one day during one of the most intense civil wars we’ve ever had every parent sent their children away and some ran away with them to foreign lands and in that moment I was about your age and they sent me with tons of provisions to this region where I was then met by some really generous Namihi, and one of them was your mother, they gave me a home and took care of me since I came across them 2 months after I crossed the border. Before I was sent here I had big aspirations, I wanted to unite my homeland and free ourselves from all the chaos, retribution, hatred, and sorrow. Once my parents left me I realized just how ignorant I was being and I gave up on the dream I then settled to just live a life I can be proud of with no regrets. When I was 27 years old I married your mom and 2 years later we had you. When we had you all these feelings surge back and a new dream popped up, from then I wanted to make all your dreams come true, so I began working hard to achieve that and encouraging and guiding you in every way I could. That was basically it. Sad, huh?

Wooahh, so you never saw your parents again?! That’s so sad! And why was there a war!?

Yeah, I never really saw again. Frankly, I dont even know if they’re still alive. I’d like to believe they are, but I don’t want to get my hopes up. Why? I dont know, hahah. I never understand why we had wars in the first place, then again, I never had a reason to understand.

Aww! That sucks, I wanted to know why! Well no matter, when I grow up I’ll unite The storm that never settles and meet my grandparents and then I’ll tell you that they’re alive. That way you won’t have any regrets, heh!

Hahah, that’s reassuring. Oh, look at that we’re already in the town and we didn’t realize.

The buildings here look so cool! They look so imposing, yet, so majestic, its magnificent!

You’re right about that. They are amazing. It’s one of the things I love about this land. The architecture.

Where’s Mikashi at?!

We’re still a bit from the hospital, but it shouldn’t be more than 5 minutes away.

What’s the hospital like?!

It’s similar to the houses, but way beautiful and impressive.

Ahh, it sounds amazing, I want to see it now!

Just a bit more haha.

…

Woah! It is much more impressive! Look at the columns and roof! Wow, I love it!

I knew you would. It really is a sight to behold isn’t it!?

It really is!

Let’s enter because the inside is beautiful.

As they were received by one of the female nurses, who opened the sliding door next to her and told them to go through the hallway that led to the courtyard where they would wait for Mikashi. Sitting down in a bench facing the pond Goru started telling him a little bit more of himself and his village.

...

I can’t believe I passed out from such a training. I’m pathetic. I can’t let Itara get ahead of me for one second… huh?! Are they arriving just now—that bastard! He trained without me! He definitely got ahead of me now, damn it! Well, no matter he shouldn’t have gotten too ahead of me, but still…

Hey dad?

Yeah, what’s up?

Do you have any extraordinary memories of anyone special or a group of friends you were close to?

Hm, I think I—

Itara! You bastard!

Huh?! Oh! Mikashi, heyy!

Don’t hey me, you trained without me didn’t you!

Heh, well I wasn’t going to let you get ahead of me while you rested.

That’s certainly not the point dumbass!

Huh?! It’s not?

Of course not! I mean if it were that then I wouldn’t be like this because there’s no way you can ever surpass me! The point was that—

Huuh!? “There’s no way” well now I want to train without you and prove you wrong!

You didn’t even let me finish!

Why would I let you after you said that?!

Well if you let me finish you would’ve known that I’m pissed because we promised each other that we would always train together no matter what and surpassed each other side by side watching each other’s progress and motivate ourselves, but I guess we aren’t true friends since you broke that promise!

Oh, so that was the reason?

Yes! I mean we’ve been friends since we were little and always trained together so we made that promise to never abandon each other no matter what happens.

Yeah, I remember that now. I’m sorry.

It’s fine, but ever forget again! Ok!?

Yeah, of course, I will never forget again?!

You’re alive as always haha, always looking for a fight with Itara. But we should head back already. Are you good now Mikashi?!

Well of course I always pick fights with him, I have to put him in his place. Oh, yeah right, the doctor said I was going to be fine, but said I should rest for at least one day, but I already feel 10 times better, so no way I’m missing a day of training! After all that’s a lot!

No surprise there haha.

Well, let’s go back before your parents start to worry.

…

How did you find the today’s training Itara?

It was exciting! I loved it! Everything about it was blood rushing excitement! It would’ve been wayyy cooler if I had a sword though that way I can practice just like the two kids on the other side of the lake!

Oh is that so? Well maybe you should ask it for your birthday. I mean it is only one month away.

Oh right!? I totally forgot! Then, can you guys please get me a katana for my birthday?!

Of course we can hahah.

Yesss

Wait? Two kids on the other side of the lake? You remembered what they looked like?

Ehh, not really, sorry mom.

It’s fine, I just remembered something that’s all.

You’re thinking the same thing as I am aren’t you?

Hm, perhaps, but it’s weird isn’t it?

Yeah it really is. Especially when you consider that the closest home there is on the other side is pretty far away to walk every day.

Yeah that and maybe there’s something el—

So what should where should go to get Itara his katana?

Take the hint Aiko. We shouln’t talk about this now.

…

Welcome home kashi, how was your training?

It was pretty good, thanks for asking mom. Is there food prepared?

This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it

Yes. I just finished preparing it, it’s your favorite by the way.

You made tonkatsu! It’s been a while since I’ve eaten it I can’t wait!

I’m sure you’ll love it.

Thank you for the meal!

Thank you for the meal.

Hey mom, where’s dad?

Oh right I forgot to tell you, he went to Magnet City for an investigation he’s working on.

Awww, I wanted to show him my new techniques—do you want to see!

Later, you can show me tomorrow.

Ok. This is delicious mom, thank you.

You’re welcome.

…

Well, thanks for the food. I’m going to my room.

Wait, um before you go, your birthday is coming up soon. What would you like for us to get you?

My birthday? Oh, right it’s in one month. Well, I think the thing I would love the most is a map of a land. I don’t want anything flashy that’s all.

I see, ok.

Goodnight mom.

…

One month later.

Mom? Dad? Where did you go? Why is the room so dark?! Mom!? Dad?! You didn’t leave me did you?! Where are you guys?! Huh?! What did I touch— no! Please tell me… it’s not… I need a light! But where?! There’s not even a shed a light, its pitch black! Wait?! I feel fur, is it an animal then?! But why would there be an animal in here?

It… ta… ra…

It talked?! Wait?! Did it said my name?! And why does the voice sound so familiar?!

Ita…ra… come closer…

It is talking to me. Go closer it said?

Yes… I need… to tell you something…

I have a bad feeling about this, and yet why am I approaching it?

You… can’t resist it that’s why… your innermost desires and instincts… and it’s totally normal… so why dont you embrace them?

I dont know who this is, but what it’s speaking I dont like that.

Would you prefer if… THIS instead of me!

What— hey— what’s— happe—

You know exactly what’s happening. They hate you and wish you never existed. You’re a burden to them. You’re a failor who’s always one step behind Mikashi. So, why do you even keep trying if all you ever come across is failor? All tell you why. It’s because you can’t stand to be useless!

SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! WHO ARE YOU ANYWAYS!? STOP IT NOW! STOP IT!

YOU CAN’T STOP ME! I AM ETERNAL! Now, give me your weaknesses and grant you any pleasure you seek…

STOP IT! GO AWAY! MOM! DAD! HELP ME! HELP MEEEE!

You are stuck here until I say so, there’s no one to help you. They’re all dead! You have no one! Accept it!

NO I DO HAVE THEM. THEY’RE ALIVE I KNOW IT. THEY’LL FIND A WAY TO GET ME OUT OF HERE!

Just give up. Give yourself to me.

NO! GET AWAY FROM ME!

…

Huh?! Itara!? Goru Itara is screaming!

My dear God what’s happening to him!?

MOMMY! DADDY! HELP ME PLEAWSEEE! I DON’T WANT TO BE HERE ANYMORE!

We’re coming sweety!

We’ll be right there!

STOP RESISTING! JUST GIVE IN ALREADY!

MOMMY! DADDY! HEEELLLPP!

We’re here!

Huh?! He’s sleeping?!

That’s impossible we heard him scream and he’s sleeping soundly!?— Goru could it be?!

No it couldn’t and if it was then it wouldn’t make sense why would it do this!?

It’s strange for sure, but we need to wake him up now, he’s still having a nightmare!

Yeah you’re right!

ITARA HEY ITARA COME ON WE’RE HERE LISTEN TO US!

ITARA COME ON LISTEN TO OUR VOICES I KNOW YOU CAN HEAR US EVEN IF OUR VOICES SOUND FAINT JUST IGNORE WHOEVER ELSE IS THERE WITH YOU!

Itara… Itara… Itara…

Mom!? Dad!? You’re here! YOU’RE HERE! YOU CAME! MOOOOMMMM, DAAAAADDDD! CAN YOU HEAR ME!?

He’s replying back! Thank God!

OPEN YOUR EYES ITARA! THIS IS JUST LIKE THE TRAINING! ALL YOU NEED TO DO IS OPEN THEM! THE TRAINING IS DONE!

Dad… ALL RIGHT! THANKS! Focus. Focus. Focus. Focus. Focus. OPEN THEM!

ITARA YOU’RE ALRIGHT! YOU DONT KNOW HOW RELIEVED WE ARE!

MOM, DAD! I LOVE YOU GUYS! PLEASE DON’T YOU DARE LEAVE ME LIKE AGAIN! PLEEEAASSEEE I BEG OF YOU!

We wouldn’t dream of it. Now, it’s ok now, the nightmare ended. You’re safe with us. Shhh.

I was so scared! I thought I lost you guys! I don’t ever want to go through again!

And you won’t. We will never leave you. We will protect you until you can protect us. Does that sound good to you?

Yes. It sounds amazing. Thank you!

So, are you excited for your birthday today?!

MY BIRTHDAY RIGHT! YESSS! NOW I’M 100 TIMES BETTER! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU! WHERE’S MY SWORD!?

HAHAH I KNEW THAT WOULD LIFT YOUR SPIRITS! Though we’ll give you your sword in the afternoon when we celebrate your birthday with Mikashi’s.

Alright! I’m excited now!

Mhm. What did Itara witnessed that got him to be like that screaming internally, but we could hear him and he wasn’t moving an inch too? Well, no matter. I’ll think about it tomorrow, today is his birthday. No need to occupy myself right now.

…

It was soo delicious! Thank you for the food!

We’re glad you enjoy it.

I think it’s about time we begin to head towards the park, we should get there pretty early before it gets full Goru.

Yeah your right, we wouldn’t want to arrive late and have nowhere to celebrate it.

Itara go get ready.

On it!

…

I can’t believe you guys made all this for me! This looks amazing! Thank you for the meal!

We spent a lot time trying to decide what dish to make you and making sure it was delicious hope you like it!

Mhm your mother’s right, all our emotions are poured into that single dish, so enjoy!

Mmmm, delicious! Wow! So good! I love it!

Well let’s eat ourselves. Thank you for the meal.

By the way kashi…

Hm?

…today we’re going to the park right after we’re done eating and celebrate your and Itara’s birthday.

Ok. I want to show him what I’ve learned in the past month anyways.

You never get tired of training do you? Hahah

No I don’t, that’s the one thing I will never get tired off.

Well I’m just your ok, afterall Goru told us what happened to you the past month.

Yeah I was kind of worried as well.

No worries, because nothing will ever happened to me. I’m strong. And I’ll protect you both as well.

Hahah that’s reassuring. We’re glad to hear that.

Let’s finish eating so we can go to the park.

I want to take my time, because this is delicious!

See I told you he’d love it hahah.

Yeah I kind of expected it.

…

Itara and his parents began to walk to walk towards the entrance of town where they meet up with Mikashi and his parents. It was early in the morning, the sun was approximating their vision as they walked west from their home. As sunlight hit the earth and sky nighttime creatures began hidding and heading towards crevices and caves where the light couldn’t reach them, and as a bat flew in front Itara almost colliding with him Itara sunk into the depths of his mind and started to hear a voice.

Hey. Can you hear me? Anyone?! Well, it’s not as if you can talk me, but if someone is listening then pay attention. Your desires aren’t important! Ignore them! Don’t listen to them! I listened to them and now I’m a slave to them. Please, if you want to live dont listen to them!

—huh!? What was that?! Rather who was that?!

Itara gasped eyes dilated as the voice finished speaking and dissipated from his mind. His parents noticed he stopped and saw the expression on his face and assumed something was going to happen. To him and to others around him. They rushed in a panic worried for what he may have saw (or heard).

Itara!

Itara!

Are you ok!? What happened?!

Both exclaimed simultaneously

I… um… I think… so… who was that?

As he stuttered to speak he slowly looked upwards at them with tears spilling down his face. His parents didn’t know what to say, but instinct told them to comfort him by hugging him. As they were detained halfway there to meet up Mikashi and his parents were very close by and when they did arrived 10 minutes after they left their home Mikashi felt a sharp pain in his left chest cavity, then feeling dizzy and short of breath, the sudden urge to vomit hit him almost instantaneous covering his mouth and dropping to his knees. As this happened outside in his mind he saw a gruesome scene, there was no body. He felt as if he knew the person. But it was too indistinguishable and whoever it was he was covered with blood all over him, the floor, and even himself. All he could think about was…

Is this what happens when I’m not strong enough?!

His parents on the other knew exactly what to say to comfort him. Perhaps as a natural response of a parent seeing there child in a position like that. Or maybe that they know him too well, even if he doesn’t talk to them much. All it took for Mikashi to get back on his feet were the words…

You protected us, kashi. It’s over now.

Mikashi stayed on the ground looking towards it as he faintly heard whispers near him simultaneously repeating the scene, until his parents hugged him and repeated those words. His expression changed, his eyes suddenly widened in awe and got up without saying a word, yet, his parents knew he was ok now. Meanwhile Itara was still processing while walking close to his parents as they headed to meet up with Mikashi.

Do desires really kill their own host? But why? And how? What exactly is it that desires do that kills us?

…

How can I get stronger? Just how hard do I need to be on myself to protect others? Why can’t I get any stronger? Why am I so weak? Is something wrong with me?

…

As Mikashi monologued while waiting for Itara to arrive Itara was reflecting over what had happened while their parents were already theorizing the meaning behind the situation. 5 minutes later they met up with Mikashi and his parents and began heading towards the park which was still a long way. 20 minutes to be more precise. Mikashi and Itara launch into a conversation talking about what had happened simply just to talk about it, on the other hand their parents added their hypothesis on the matter and began to speculate what (or who) it could be. They landed on the conclusion that they should include their two of old friends who knew a lot about the world and the history. When they arrived the park was mostly empty except for those who go there frequently to relax or those spend time with their loved ones early in the morning. They found a great spot near a pond under a lush tree producing a fresh and wide shadow to enjoy. Itara and Mikashi set up the blanket on the floor while their parents set up everything else for the picnic and birthday.

Hey mikashi, what did you ask as a present?

I ask for something I’ve always wanted of course! A map! What about you?

Me too, I asked for a katana!

That’s so cool, maybe we can spar and see who’s superior, you with a sword or me without one?

Oh come on that’s easy of course it’ll be me, I mean a sword is a huge game changer!

If you don’t how to use it then it’s worthless.

Then I’ll train hard and become the best, so I can finally beat you!

Huh!? That’s some ambitious goal you came up with. I love it! It’s getting me excited!

Then it’s settled we’ll train everyday and see once and for all who’s truly superior. A sword or martial arts.

Heh. Works for me.

Hey kashi, Itara. Come on it’s time to eat and then presents.

Coming.

Thank you for the meal!

Both said simultaneously

…

That was delicious. I loved it.

Yeah, it was really really good, amazing.

Thank you for the meal! Now, presents!

You guys sure are excited, haha.

Itara’s mother said with a smile

Here you go Itara, I hope you love it.

Aiko and Goru gave Itara his present while smiling

Itara grabbed the wooden box as long his arm with both hands and gently put it on the ground to open it.

The box is so beautiful and cool I love the designs it has. Woah! The katana is even more cool, the black blade and red hilt with orange flames it looks so cool. Ohh! The guard is awesome as well, it’s like a bird while flying in the air so cool! I love it! Thank you thank you! I love you guys!

Well here’s yours kashi. We hope you love it.

Thank you.

It’s pretty small. I wonder of what land this could be of.

Mikashi opens up the small box lid finding a paper folded 2 times.

Woah! What’s this map of!? The layour looks so cool!

That’s the land where I was raised in. Maybe someday we can go together.

Mom. I- don’t know what to say…

You don’t have to say anything silly it’s a gift.

Mom. Dad. Thank you so much! I love you guys!

As Mikashi received the mapped of his mother’s homeland he thought to himself

The first land I’ll explore and visit. Is going to be my mother’s. There’s so much emotions surging up right now, I’m so happy, yet, why do I feel the need to cry? What is this feeling?

As Mikashi thought to himself he didn’t realize he had tears in his eyes already and in that moment when he realized he felt an emotion he hadn’t felt before. He felt true joy.

Mikashi.

As his parents realized he was crying out of joy they didn’t hesitate into giving him one big hug that would last for 5 minutes.

  1. 3: Cave training with a new friend

Today I’m going to arrive at his house and he’ll have to wait for me! He ain’t gonna be ahead for much longer now!

Wow, Itara you woked up a lot earlier today. What’s making this change?

Heh. I’m glad you ask because from today on I will be getting ahead of Mikashi!

You seem rather spirited, hahah. Well, you have a long journey ahead of you then, so make sure eat your fill.

Wow! This looks even more delicious! Thanks for the food! WoooW! It’s soooo good!

Now now, don’t talk while you eat you might choke, so eat carefully.

Sorry, it’s just so good

He says as he swallows the food.

I’m glad you like it. By the way Goru do you have to work today?

Oh, I forgot to tell you I got the day off today, so no. Why?

Well about the thing we were worried about, we should find out about it, right?

Oh right of course maybe we can go to their house today and see what they can tell us.

What are you guys talking about?

Something important about an investigation I’m doing on the village.

That’s cool, what is it?!

Unfortunately I can’t tell you, but I can agree that it is very cool.

Can you tell me when I’m older?!

Hm, I think that may be fine, so yeah, when you’re 18 I’ll tell you.

Yess! Well I gotta go, bye!

Bye, have a nice day!

See you, be careful!

I will thank you!

Today’s gonna be amazing! I got my sword and I can’t wait to start training with it I’m excited! Now, if I’m not mistaken Mikashi’s house is after the entrance to the town, but where do I go next after that? Oh well, I’ll figure it out when I get there. Ah, I can’t stop my excitement. I can’t stop thinking about training and fighting with the sword. I wonder what exercises should I do for warm up or the training, I mean it should be very different from a normal training in martial arts.

He got so hooked on his thoughts he missed the entrance he was supposed to take and is now in the Kasikama neighborhood in the land of the elements.

Damn I should’ve thought this more through. What training should I do for—

Hey! ‘Scuse me!

Huh?! Who’s?— a girl? Woah, she’s pretty? Is she talking to me?

Uh, hey are you listening?!

Um, me?

Yeah you!? There’s no one else around?!

Oh, hahah. You wanted something?!

Are you aware you’re standing on the porch of my house?! Jeez you must be either really dumb or unknowing!

Wait, what!? What am I doing here!? Where am I?!

Oh, you’re just dumb then. Well no matter, you’re in the Kasikama neighborhood and I’m Yamada Kira. Are you lost?

Ka. Si. Ka. Ma. Neighborhood? Umm, I think I am lost. I’m supposed to be at my friends house that I think it’s in the Naminari land.

Huh?! Naminari?! How brainless do you have to be?! You’re pretty far away from there! Huh? That’s a cool sword he’s got, I wonder if he’s going to train right now?

I think I can give you directions if you at least know part of the way, but that aside are you by any chance going to train?

Thank you I appreciate it. Um, but yeah I’m going to my friend’s house because we always train together by the lake, why?

Don’t mention it. I was just interested by your sword and wondered if I could come with you?

You like swords?! I actually got this yesterday for my birthday, so I don’t know to train with one, so if you know you think you can teach me?

Ohh, I’m pretty good with swords, I’ve read and trained with bamboo swords for two years, so I can give you rough training.

Really? Thank you!

Don’t mention it, but you think I can come and train with you guys wherever is your training ground?

Of course yeah, I didn’t expect a girl would be interested in fighting, but the more sparring partners the better.

Yeah I get you it’s pretty rare to find a girl who’s into fighting, but in swords it’s a lot more common.

Oh, really, that’s pretty cool.

Yeah it is, but um where’s your friends house?

Oh right, we have to go right from the entrance of the town.

Oh, that’s pretty far away, but if it’s in that direction I think I can get you there faster on another route follow me.

Alright, lead the way.

So, do you like to train often?

Hm? Oh, kind of yeah, I prefer to read the theorical stuff and history, but training has helped me proved what I read.

Ohh, that’s cool! I’m not really interested in history, but my friend loves it, I find it a little boring though.

Really?! I can’t wait to meet him then.

—you really find history boring?! I mean it’s all so interesting, like all the actions, the tragedy, wars, it’s all so entangling!

I guess I never really got into it all that much, but I prefer to simply train, so I can accomplish my dream!

What is your dream?

I’m glad you asked because I’m going to conquer this world and make sure everyone accomplishes their dreams!

Seems a little ambitious, but that’s even better, and I think a few historical figures might give you even more inspiration for that dream.

Really!? Are there really people who managed to do that!?

Well not that, but similar to that, like there was one guy who conquered almost an entire continent a long time ago, I still don’t know his name, but it’s true.

Woah! Was he from here?!

No, he was from a continent known as Superiore. If I’m not mistaken it’s a continent north from this one.

That’s really amazing!

It really is. I can teach you more about it if you want?

I would love that!

Great, it’s settled I’ll begin teaching you next week in my house.

Awesome. Oh! It’s Mikashi.

Mikashi? Is that your friend?

Yeah, I guess he was already heading towards my house.

Huh?! Itara, he woke up earlier than me today? Hm, he really doesn’t want to be behind anymore— huh?! Who’s the girl besides hi—no! Did he get a girlfriends before me?! That bastard! I won’t forgive him! He’ll pay for that. I’m going to make him regret it!

Mikashi! Hey!

Oh, hey Itara you’re up early today.

Heh. Well I need to be better than you of course, I can’t wake up after you.

That’s fair, hey is that your girlfriend?

Wait what!? Huh?! Who she?!

Yeah dumbass who else.

Well, she’s just a—

I’m his new friend. He was lost in front of my house and he seemed to be going training, so I offered to help him and come along to train with you guys. Is that alright?

Oh, (hm seems he ain’t a traitor then) um sure it’s fine I never expected a girl to train, but the more the merrier. But, what’s your name?

Oh, sorry my name is Yamada Kira and you are, Mikashi…

Right, Naminari Mikashi nice to meet you.

Itara told me you’re interested in history.

Yeah a bit, but I’m more interested maps and lands.

Oh, that’s very interesting. I actually love history.

So, where do you guys train?

Heh. You know the lake in Mizutochi?

Yeah of course I pass by there often.

You do, we’ve never seen you before?

That’s because I take in different route.

Ahh ok I see.

Alright then, shall get going you two?

You itching to go huh Itara?!

Hell yeah like I said I can’t lose no more to you!

Yeah same here!

Itara and Mikashi heading towards the lake for their daily training now made a new friend and sparring partner. Kira on the other isn’t use to this since she usually trains alone far from other people, but she mostly studies history and geography. As they head towards the lake walking through a lush well-watered path Kira thinks to herself wondering about how strong are they.

It seems we’re heading towards le eden. If so that’s a pretty basic training spot, so are they really strong? Well, at least they look strong built. So their training at least should be pretty harsh. Interesting.

…

Mhm? Oh, we’re here— huh?! The whole lake, it’s destroyed! No way! Just how much rough is their training!? So, does this mean they know it? Now this just go a lot more interesting.

Hey, did you guys do all this damage?!

Heh, are you impressed?!

Well of course I am I mean look at this, it’s completely destroyed and deformed!

Yeah, Mikashi can really overdo some things.

Wait!? This damage was Mikashi?! Not both of you?!

Unfortunately yes, I can’t really take credit for it, it’s not in me.

Ah I see, so that’s why your were desperate to get here, you want to beat him. And you can’t take credit for it because you’re pride won’t let you.

Exactly! See, you get me. But whenever I say that to Mikashi he just calls me a loser.

Because you are! I mean why else would be still losing to me.

Shut up dumbass!

That’s exactly what a loser would say.

I’ll prove it to you then, let’s spar!

Alright then. Oh by the way Kira do you like the training ground?

Well, it’s not bad, but not really my style, it’s cute. What I’m impressed by is the all the damage there is.

That seems reasonable, but cute?! I mean in the end it’s the training that counts, so you don’t really need a fancy training ground.

Well yeah that’s true, but if you’re training is as harsh as the training ground then it’s all the more worth it.

You think you can do better then?!

Sure I can, if you guys want I’ll even take you to my spot and I can show you guys my training routine.

Alright then, deal! Itara let’s pause our fight and see how much better her spot is compared to ours.

Mhm, that seems exhilarating let’s do it.

Ok, let’s go then. We’ll keep going this way then.

Kira begins to walk in front of them leading the way, while Mikashi walks annoyed at that back.

I remember this way. We’re going to the forest of silence aren’t we? Hm, so does she train there with the chiaroscuros?

Hey, Kira?

Yeah?

Are we going to the forest of silence?

We are going to pass through it, but that’s not our final destination. My spot is way further than that.

Oh.

What? I’m getting chills already?

Can it really be better than ours?! I mean what’s even further than the forest of silence? Aren’t there only mountains that are practically inhospitable? That’s pretty stupid… but kind of cool too. Even so even if she is strong a weather like what’s on those mountains is not possible. At least to common sense. Maybe, she’s actually lying and will take us some place slightly better than ours, but still not as amazing as she made it sound.

Mhm, what are we even doing? Are you taking us to the inhospitable mountains or is this place not as good as you made it out to be?

You’re pretty knowledgeable about geography, huh? But it’s neither, so try to be patient it’s worth it.

I hope so, or I’ll beat the shit out of you for wasting our time.

You can try hahah, but I doubt you can beat me.

Oh, that a challenge?

More like a statement.

As she finishes the sentence she fixes her hair while tilting her head slightly looking down at him.

You’re pretty confident, you sure you can hold those words?

Of course, I wouldn’t say unless I couldn’t.

Alright then, we’ll spar once we get to the spot.

Sure, and Itara you join in as well, I want to see how strong both of you are.

Now, you’re just arrogant, I mean Itara is pretty strong (not as strong as me though).

How can you compliment and diss me in the same sentence?! I really need to beat you already.

Still waiting for those words to come true hahah.

It’ll be soon. And Kira ok, I’ll join too and we’ll beat you.

It’s challenge then.

Kira challenges Mikashi into a sparring and persuades Itara into the fight as well.

They exit the perimeter of the forest of silence and approach the realm where the the tallest mountain rises from. Immediately after entering the realm of the foot of the mountain they experience a cold dense air and a sudden pressure on their mass being more prone to fatigue. However, because of all their trainings they didn’t feel such drastic effects, but they certainly felt the change in environment. As they were entering the perimeter beginning to transition from a dense forest to an arid humid and desolate rocky plains and when they looked to the sky they saw a small snowstorm approaching them blowing seriously strong winds. Itara and Mikashi were not struggling as much, but were struggling compared to Kira who was not fazing a millimeter with a prideful smile on her.

Mikashi look at Kira, it’s like she’s not even trying. And we’re here struggling a bit, how can we spar her when we can’t even get past this storm?!

You really think that matters?! All that matters in the end is speed and strength and combined we have both, so don’t give up and keep pushing—actually let’s even walk from here to the spot on our hands and prove we’re better than her alright?!

Damn, you’re right. Let’s do it then. We ain’t gonna lose to her!

And so Mikashi and Itara began to walk all the way to the spot on their hands through the storm that challenged them.

After 15 minutes under the harsh snowstorm they walked determined on their hands their core holding up the rest of the body upwards as the wind tried to knock them to the ground. Kira leading the way walking normally began to slow her pace as they approached a small narrow path surrounded by leave-less trees covered in snow. Kira then pointed forward and told them “you see that opening in the end almost on the floor?” Itara then replied trying to make something out of it upside down “huh?! I think so, is that the spot?” Mikashi then replied to Kira “huh, guess you really do know how to pick training spots”, Kira straightened her back and flipped her hair pridefully as she took them to her spot.

Be careful with your heads here the entrance is a bit tight.

Woah almost hit it thank you. Is there more space up ahead or do you train in such a cramped space? Said Itara

It gets spacious more ahead though it’s still small, so it’s very hard to train here, but once you get used to it it gets exciting.

I must admit this is already getting much more exciting than in the lake, my heart is pumping like crazy!

I know right!? I can’t for what her training is going to be like! Hey Kira how much till we’re there?

…

Huh?! Kira? Where did she go?!

What do you mean?! She’s not in front of you?!

Did she leave us?!

I don’t think so like why would she?

I didn’t even hear her running or getting away, so she must be close isn’t she?!

You think the training already began?

It’s possible, but didn’t she say it began there?

No, at least I didn’t hear it, so it might definitely be a possibility. We should start planning a strategy then especially since we can’t see a thing here—oh right! The training with your dad that day what did he teach you!?

Right! Yeah, he did teach me how to move around and dodge creatures known as chiaroscuros with my eyes closed.

Really?! Oh that’s awesome, that’ll definitely work here, tell me what he taught you!

What I remember was that you should clear your mind from all your thoughts and focus on 3 of your senses: your hearing, touch, and smell. Once you do that try to visualize and recreate the environment in your head and completed with what you receive from your senses.

That’s it? Sounds pretty easy. How long did it take you to get the hang of it?

Yeah that’s pretty much it, but it’s not as easy as it sounds it took me 10 minutes to finally understand it and 5 minutes to get the hang of it.

Oh, alright then, though 15 minutes. Really?! That seems like a pretty reasonable amount to me.

If you’re training by yourself that is, but while you’re facing someone it’s hell.

Oh, I see now. Yeah that’s does make sense.

Ok, so all I need to do is focus on my senses and clear my mind and then visualize the environment around me, so I can then coordinate by next move?

Yeah that’s it.

…

Everything is according to plan. I got away from them at a logical time and place leaving me enough time to warm up and strategize. From the looks of their training ground they seem very strong with a lot of potential, but I didn’t notice any residue of them using that, so assuming they haven’t learned it I can make a simple plan that’s not too complex and enough to beat them. All I need now is to gain speed.

Oh, I think I’m getting the hang of it. This is pretty exciting! I don’t even have to use my arms to touch, it’s like when I lose one sense the others amplify.

So wait, does that mean if I block another one will the others amplify even more?! If that is the case then I can just focus only on my sense of touch. But how can I block my other senses right now?! I don’t have anything to plug my nose and ears, so how can I block them?

I know right it’s so fun! When I tried for the first time I didn’t know what to do, yet I was so excited I couldn’t contain it!

Hey Itara?

Yeah?

Did your father teach you about blocking your other senses?

Blocking the other senses? Hm, I think so, I do remember him telling about something called atomic force which he explained that it was what the chiaroscuro were made from which they also harnessed it constantly from their surroundings to survive because the atomic force seeps out as they live each day. He also told me we can absorb that atomic force and there are many ways, but all of them are treacherous, but there is one that is easy and not so harmful which is basically by inhaling fully with a great awareness of your body and mind almost as if you can see yourself and then trying to “feel” the energy around you and once you absorbed it it will manifest itself into your personality and you’ll be able to create anything you’d like.

Woah, that’s quite a lot. It doesn’t seem like it’s easy, but it also doesn’t seem too difficult, so while Kira appears let’s try it.

I tried to back then, but I couldn’t focus at all.

Well now you’re with me, so we’ll make sure we focus!

Alright then let’s do it.

I have enough speed now and I’m very warmed up. They should be still in that spot maybe a little bit further, but not too much, so I’ll attack them at high speeds from the front then knock them down and get in close for close combat.

…

Trying to be aware of my body and mind is not as easy as it sounds I can’t seem to focus on it. What am I supposed to do? I wonder if Itara has gotten the hang of it? Although he did say he couldn’t focus before, so maybe he’s in the same spot as me.

Damn it! Why can’t I focus?! No matter how hard I try my thoughts keep disrupting me! What am I supposed to do— “what am I supposed to do?” is that my voice?! No! That’s Mikashi! But why am I hearing him!? It’s not like it came from outside, so what just happened?!

I’m not progressing much! What is it exactly that I need to do?! “That’s Mikashi!” huh?! Itara?! Is he talking to me?! No, it can’t be I’m not hearing him, so what is this?!

…

Mikash— ah! What was that?!

Itar— ah, damn it!? Just what in the hell was that it was strong and out of nowhere?!

What were they doing?! They were just sitting there. Were they waiting?! No, they couldn’t be they seemed focused on something, but what?! Well no matter let’s see how they react after I attacked them.

Hey Mikashi you ok?!

Yeah I’m fine, but what was that?! Was it Kira?!

I don’t know, but whatever it was fast and strong and if it was Kira then we seriously underestimated her, I mean we haven’t even gotten the hang of moving around this place much less dodge and attack!

Yeah you’re right, but we definitely got somewhere before we got attacked. You noticed right?

Yeah I did. I heard you talking, but not through my ears. Is that a effect of atomic force?

Probably I mean your dad did say it can used for many things, so I think we actually absorbed some into our bodies and somehow focused so much on our minds and each other than we were able to connect through each other.

So doesn’t that mean that if we focus on amplifying our senses or blocking 4/5 of them to amplify one we can use atomic force to dodge and attack in this cave!?

It’s definitely worth a shot I mean we’re currently siting ducks with someone who we underestimated and now she’s in it to destroy us.

Then let’s try it!

Alright then!

…

Mhm now they’re standing still—no! They’re trying to absorb atomic force! So, they finally figured it out then?! Or maybe they hadn’t known about that’s why they’re not absorbing it on the move?! Either way this turned out to be a lot more exciting than anticipated, they’re smarter than they seem. I’ll give them a bit of time then, so they can at least put up a fight. In the meantime I’ll give them an even more glimpse without disturbing them of how far apart we are.

…

Don’t think about anything. Let our thoughts and worries pass. Just focus on your surroundings. Focus. Focus. Focus. Focus. Focus…

Every second he thought about something his mind reverted back immediately to his surroundings. As he repeated over and over the word “focus” his mind began drifting away to a calm island watching over the sea that stood before it. He wasn’t aware of it, but his mind had achieved self awareness while he stood there repeating the words “focus” until he could visualize the space around him. But a mind that cannot see what’s around him will forever remain trap by itself. Itara remained apart from his mind and body, he could not see anything but darkness. He was inhibiting himself without even knowing it, why? Perhaps his fear of being a burden is so strong that it blocks his vision. Or maybe he’s just weak.

On the other hand you have his best friend who still hasn’t separated from his body, but hasn’t quite figured out the rest. Unlike Itara he’s remaining quiet. Listening to everything around him including his heart beat. Visualizing the space. Feeling the cold humid breeze that sweeps through the cave. Each second that passes for him he sees the environment around him much clearer than if he were in in broad daylight. After a few seconds pass he can now see everything, hear everything, feel everything and almost smell a few things. He begins to order his body to move around, so he can see where Kira is, but he doesn’t find her she finds him and attacks thinking herself

He’s finally aware of everything huh. Took him long enough. Well, I can finally have a some fun now.

Damn it, how is she so fast and nimble in this cramped cave!? What can I do to improve my speed and agility? Not only that, but the bigger question is how can I do that before I run out of stamina. I cant see anything. Kira is forcing me to be on the defensive and unless I can get accustomed to this space and find a way to counterattack I’ll never be able to attack. Where’s Itara when you need him? Is he down for the count? No, cant be. He never gives up. He cant down already…

What are you doing body!? Move! Dont just stay lying here damn it! What’s wrong with me?! Why cant I ever get to his level?!

…

A few meters away from the fight Itara laid motionless on the floor reliving every moment of weakness he experienced and each time he relived one tear of shame began to slide off his face soaking the ground beneath him. Blaming himself for not being strong enough to surpass his rival. Reflecting if he was truly worthy of being called that, of calling himself that. He wasn’t sure if he had any worth as a rival. It was until he heard Mikashi’s voice that all those negative emotions dissipated.

…

Mikashi? Why do you keep relying on me? Even when I prove again and again that I’m weak!? Why!!? Why do you have so much faith in me?! I keep failing and getting further away from you! I can’t be your rival! I can never help you either, so I can’t even be your friend! So why!?

Hearing his voice in agony Mikashi responded almost in tears.

Why, you ask?! What kind of stupid question is that dumbass?! Because I’m your friend and a friend will always support the other even if they cant do anything! As long you’re there is all that matters! And you’ll still be my rival because that’s the thing about rivals that it doesn’t matter if one is stronger than the other all that matters is that both strive to surpass each other in an endless range of battles. So, don’t ever say again why do I have so much faith in you! Don’t ever question our friendship nor rival-ship. It’s an unbreakable bond that no one not even death can break!

The tears in Itara’s face were slowly drying off, but his emotions inside him were still pumping like adrenaline through the body, and his heart aching as his friend proved their friendship could never be broken and not even death can break their rivalship. In a faint whisper he said.

Thank you, Mikashi. I’m glad to have you as a friend, but most importantly a rival.

While still having doubts if they could still be considered rivals he got up slowly trying to cypher out where Kira was and how could he avoid her attacks. It wasn’t long until Kira’s fatigue catched up to her, he movements began being more noticeable and her flaws more exposed, she grew frantic when she noticed that, her movements became more aggressive, but not necessarily in a good way. Itara started to notice how her speed decreased after each three kicks, but became harder to recuperate from. Mikashi on the other hand stayed by the sidelines trying to avoid her and just wait out the attacks, Kira didn’t like that, so she began strategizing a plan to beat them before she ran out of stamina.

Damn it! I’m getting tired, I really underestimated them. I can’t let them beat me though. If I can just land 2 more kicks on them it’s over… huh? Why do I feel so heavy? My speed. What’s happening to it? At this pace they’ll notice me! I can’t let that happen! I can’t let them see me like this! I need to end this now! I’ll just launch myself from a wall with as much precision as possible, first towards Itara then Mikashi, I can’t miss more than once!

Itara caught a glimpse of a big opening whenever he heard she landed on the cave walls. A split moment of hesitation that he could use to prepare a counterattack. He went over to Mikashi while simultaneously trying to dodge her attacks, but when after she launched herself from a wall a three-sixty spin kick followed when he couldn’t dodge and could only block her kick almost broke his forearm if he didn’t use his hand to absorb most of the shock. After she kicked him he used the force from the kick to launch himself towards where Mikashi was and told him about the weakness in her attack patterns.

I hit him, but it seems he tried to block, so I guess that means he’s not down. I need to attack Mikashi then, Itara must have taken some damage, so he should be somewhat down. I’ll put them both in the same conditions and then finish them.

As Kira began her second barrage of attacks Itara and Mikashi got ready to start their counterattack. They decided that Itara should be the decoy while Mikashi attacked her and if that didn’t work it would reverse and Itara would finish it. When Kira located them she launched herself from a wall and in that moment Itara yelled “now Mikashi!” signaling the plan and Itara got in her way getting purposely kicked in the gut and getting flown 4 feet away. Kira rebounded off a wall and began trying to hear Mikashi’s footsteps and breathing or trying to make out a glimpse of his shadow from the very little light that entered the cave. She never found him, but Mikashi did find her and attacked her in the moment she finally noticed him and positioned herself to launch herself, however, in that moment he attacked to early and Kira grabbed his arm pulling him closer to her while turning to the opposite side and Mikashi was on her back. In a split moment Mikashi flew above Kira and landed in front of her on the floor staring at eyes that could kill a person, Mikashi felt a fear he never felt before, but he didn’t know what it was, all he knew was that he was frozen in terror.

Kira looked at him and when she flipped her hair in pride her eyes changed to a more prideful glance, but still nowhere near what he felt earlier. As Kira looked down on Mikashi Itara came in with tremendous speed from her 5 a’clock and before she could even have time to react Itara managed to at least graze her with a flying punch, but it was still no match for her. As soon as she felt the slightest change in temperature from his hand she slid her left foot under his torso and with swung her right hand hitting his head from the side knocking him to the ground. When he landed and opened his eyes he saw the same thing Mikashi did. Her eyes had no warmth. No humanity. They were empty. Kira looked at him slowly blinking and said:

You really thought that punch was gonna do something? I admit your speed and timing were impeccable, but still a punch like that wouldn’t have been enough, you need more training.

Her soulless glance dissipated into thin air as those words came out. Itara then replied getting up from the ground.

I didn’t expect you were this strong, I’m very shocked yet impressed.

Well, I was kinda disappointed in both of you. I thought I would get a better fight, I was entertained though it was nice.

That’s because we weren’t in our home turf!

Mikashi interrupted Kira after her sentence and replied to Itara.

Itara, don’t give her credit just because she knows how to fight!

That’s funny coming from someone who beaten from a girl.

Shut up! I let you beat me!

Oh yeah? Wanna make a bet?

Alright then, what’s the bet?

If you beat me before the week ends then I have to do whatever you say, but if you lose you have to do whatever I say.

Are you sure about this Kira, I mean doing whatever he wants?

Yeah I’m sure! In fact you can join as well.

What!? I mean… it’d be ni—

Come on Itara! What, you scared?!

Alright then, but don’t come to me when you lose!

Huh?! When have I ever lost to you!?

Soon you will!

Yeah yeah

Hey, so are you two done bickering? How are we on the bet?

We’ll accept it!

Alright then, I hope you two do better next time then. Oh, by the way it’s getting dark, we should head down.

Huh? You can tell the time in here? (Itara)

Not really it’s more that I’ve gotten so used to it that I kinda keep a mental time.

Ok, that’s actually pretty cool (Mikashi)

I kinda wish I had that, it be cool to know the time even in desperate situations. (Itara)

Yeah it’s pretty convinient (Kira)

1.4: Cave training with the voices

Early in the morning when the sun was peeking through the mountains shinning down on the lands in between, the fresh morning breeze circulating throughout most of the lands, you could see Itara and Mikashi crossing what they called “the lands of the miserable before the lands of the free”. The young boys crossed through two lands; the land of the elements where the town is, and the land of water where they trained and the forest of silence is, their goal was simple, whoever reaches the foot of the Yin mountain gets too fight Kira first. However, there was a slight problem with this, they were going at the same pace. When they arrived at the foot they bickered and argued over who actually got there first while not having noticed Kira was already there and was already annoyed at them for disturbing her peace that early in the morning. Kira cleared her throat raised her voice to speak.

“Guys! How can you be so noisy and pumped up at this hour!? Didn’t you guys noticed you both tied!?

The guys were startled a bit and surprised seeing Kira standing beside them. Itara then spoke. Mikashi followed with a remark.

“When did you? How did you? What!? You were here already?!”

“There’s no way you’re that fast!”

Kira replied to both by answering pridefully and changing the subject.

“Yeah I know I’m better than you guys. So, are you guys ready for the training?”

Mikashi not liking her attitude left ahead towards the summit, while Itara answered laughing pridefully.

“I can still beat you in an endurance race though.”

“No way you’d really think that! You couldn’t beat me yesterday in the cave.” Kira stated with a humorous tone.

“Yeah well, how do you think I tied with Mikashi? Because while he is fast I have more endurance. Aww what’s the matter you’re so scared that you don’t even want to admit you’d lose,” Itara said mocking her.

“Me, scared? Impossible. I will beat you and that’s the truth. But if you want to see how bad you’ll lose let’s do it then. A race from here to the summit.

“Alright then I accept the challenge, but let’s make it 5 laps”

“Works for me!”

After winning three laps Kira was beginning to tire out, but Itara was still giving her space to stay ahead for the time being. As he noticed her pace slowing down he matched her pace staying exactly at the same distance behind her for one and a half laps. When Kira eventually slowed down to the point where their pace was that of water in a lake Itara with all his energy conserved blasted right past her in a nanosecond beating her as he said he’d do. Arriving at the entrance to the cave Kira admitted defeated and proceeded to tell them to stay as close to her as possible when inside the cave until she signals them to stop.

As they were walking inside the narrow shadowy cave Itara is explaining to Mikashi how he was able to fight inside the cave without using his eyes and as he explained Mikashi tried it hearing his instructions and walking behind him. It wasn’t long till Itara couldn’t sense Kira in front of him and made a sudden stop making Mikashi bumped into him crying out to him:

“Dude! That hurt. Why did you stop?!”

“Something’s not right” he whispered in an uneased voice.

“Why, what happened?” he said cluelessly

“Kira’s no longer in front of me, she dissapeared.”

“Did we get lost? I mean, it’s not possible, right? This mostly a straightforward cave.”

“I dont know, but whatever happened something’s definitely not right.”

“Maybe she’s just playing with us, or maybe she wants to test us or something”

“You think the training has already begun?”

“If it did we should definitely warm up then and be prepared for her attack.”

“You’re right!”

On the far ends of the cave Kira is getting prepared to launch an attack towards their direction getting in her stance. The air got thinner leaving Itara and Mikashi feeling a shortness of breath while having difficulty staying upwards. Itara began internalizing the pain he felt, as he struggled on his knees.

What is this!? Everything was fine just a moment ago. Damn it I can’t even move! Come on body dammit stand up! Move! MOVE!

But his body didn’t move despite his efforts. While Mikashi was so frustrated and filled with internalized anger it fueled his willpower being able to barely stand.

I swear if I find this is Kira’s doing I’ll destroy her! Taking us by surprise like this who does she think she is! Can’t she fight us head on!? I’ll destroy her!

His body slowly began to move forward fueled by anger.

Meanwhile Kira was done warming up and blasted to their positions and in a second they felt a gust of air that pushed them back a few meters away. They cried out in pain and frustration. In a split moment where Itara couldn’t move and when the gust of wind blew him his body was free from shock and his mind took over leading to a mindless state of adrenaline, he couldn’t see, think, or feel anything. Mikashi landed closer to Kira and when he opened his eyes in struggle the view of Kira standing like goddess got imprinted into his head. His eyes widened and vision narrowed. His mind clear of all distractions and thoughts, but still conscious. As Kira stood there waiting for them to stand up, they slowly got on one knee simultaneously. Both transmitted an aura that could kill a chiaroscuro, a blood lusted aura. Their eyes could not see their peripherals. All they could see was Kira standing in front of them standing like a goddess looking down on her subjects. They stood up completely feeling an emotion beyond adrenaline, an emotion completely new to them. They cried out:

“This feeling, a feeling only worthy of the Gods. The emotion of the Gods!”

Kira rushed them with a barrage of attacks that left them on the defensive. Even as they were they were still struggling against Kira, though Itara wasn’t defending or anything he was just tanking all the hits Kira threw at him like it was nothing. He lost all consciousness, yet standing tall. Mikashi on the other hand was stuck defending blocking kicks with his forearms and dodging punches, he could do nothing else. Mikashi entered into deep thought as he struggled.

So that was her! Damn! I never would’ve expected she was even stronger than yesterday. I can’t do anything as I am and Itara looks like he’s not even here. I can’t lose here without landing at least one solid hit! Just one that’s all I need. I just need an opening. But where? It doesn’t look like she has any weaknesses now. Wait! Itara found one yesterday. But how? Was it because she was distracted? Seems simple, but how I can even create a distracti—

In that moment if a God existed he listened to Mikashi and Kira heard a faint fusillade near Itara, Mikashi there pushed himself away from the corner and pulled off a flying spin kick in trajectory of Kira’s waist, but a nanosecond before he landed the hit Itara screamed and fell to his knees as his lower body began to emit black flames. In that nanosecond Mikashi changed direction mid air and his feet sparked a faint blue light, when Kira noticed Mikashi going towards her she noticed the spark going into thought.

A spark, and flames? Can they use flairs? No! Doesn’t look like they’re doing it on purpose. It looks like they awakened it, but haven’t even noticed it, or maybe they just don’t know it exists in the first place? That’s the most likely scenario. Still, Itara burning up like that? Doesn’t make sense? I’ve never read anything about that. Anyways, I’ll tell them later.

“Is he ok?! Mikashi!”

“I dont know! I just saw him suddenly gathering flames! He’s not even aware of it! Damn it! I should’ve stayed close to him!”

“Huh?! Even if you were close to him you couldn’t have done anything.”

“I could’ve tried something!”

“Look you want to help him? Let’s get him to the hospital. I know a shortcut we can take, let’s take that.”

“Alright, I’ll carry him you lead the way.”

“Follow me then”