Chapter 5: Red the Hero
“IT IS YOU!”
Anko had screamed the moment she saw Akaro's face which was partly confused by the purple headed girl.
“Don't you recognize me!”
“Anko-san.”
“How about in black hair?”
“The woman at the funeral.”
“When we were kids?”
“We did not meet when we were kids. I never met any girls growing up.”
“Yeah you did! Remember. Spar with me!”
“You were once a boy?!”
Akaro was literally surprised. That line was spoken by a young boy he met when he was younger.
***Flashback***
“Spar with me!”
“Did you say something?”
Kiyomi flushed red with anger as she was being ignored again. It upsets her whenever she was disregarded when she wanted to be taken seriously.
“You know you heard me! Don't underestimate me this time. I've figured you out!”
Akaro was getting annoyed by his fellow peer. Ever since their first fight when he first met this boy, the Kusunagi kept asking him to spar with him.
“Fine.”
They got into a stance. This time it was a barehanded contest. The other boy threw a punch at Akaro, but that was the moment the young ninja took advantage of. He threw the boy across the training dojo after grabbing the punch and when the boy didn't get back up he sighed. For some reason the boy seem to pass out after every fight.
'Too light... he's not eating enough.'
The young Kiyomi who was pretending to be a boy and was getting pummelled every time they sparred. Waking up after a couple of minutes she started to look for the young boy.
'Where did he go? That makes it my ninety-ninth straight loss.'
Kiyomi started looking for Akaro who seemed to always disappear after every duel. She never understood that she was actually knocked out for a couple of minutes each time they had fought. To her it felt that the boy would be like a ghost after beating her. She couldn't stand the thought of losing and dishonouring her father who was the first disciple to a master swordsman. She needed to win at least once.
Hanzou was with the young half-japanese.
“You were challenged once more by the Kusanagi child?”
“He lost again.”
Akaro stated a fact. As this was the ninety-ninth time he won and he was starting to get tired of all the challenges. At first he thought it was amusing as he never really spent time with anyone his age before. Then it started to annoy him so he would usually try to ignore the boy whenever he was challenged. That way at least the duels would end faster as the young Kusanagi would always try to strike first in which he could counter and knock him out. Also it made him laugh at how red in the face the boy got.
Hanzou already knew the special situation with Kiyomi as his first disciple did not have any sons. He found it quite funny as Akaro wouldn't hold back even if he knew the boy was a girl.
“How do you feel about the young boy?”
“Nothing really. Maybe a bit annoying.”
“How about making him a tomodachi?”
'To make that troublesome guy as a friend.'
Miyamoto Akaro was seriously debating whether or not to do so.
“If you want me to jii-chan. I don't think I really need one.”
“Well it is always nice to have friends your age. Actually you only talk to me so I'm a little scared that you won't be able to open up to people when I'm gone.”
Miyamoto Hanzou always worried about the boys social awkwardness. Since he home schooled the child he never had any interactions with peers of his own age. He had been greeted by disciples every once in a while but never really got to know anyone. He was happy that this young girl had taken an interest to his enigmatic grandson.
Death was a concept that Akaro had learned quite early as his grandfather wanted to make sure to know that people do die and because of his grandfather's advanced age he knew that Hanzou can kick the bucket at any given time and with no warning.
“I'll consider it when you die. So about fifty years from now.”
“You have such high expectations of your ageing grandfather. That will make me over a century in age.”
Hanzou smiled at his grandson.
'He may know about death but he is still just a boy.'
“FOUND YOU! Spar with me!”
The huffing young child pointed a finger at Akaro.
“I'll go back to training now then jii-chan.”
“Don't ignore me again!”
“I have no interest in another duel.”
“But I need another one. I'm leaving tonight! You have yet to acknowledge me as someone worthy to fight with!”
“It will be one hundred times if we duel again. So how about you get stronger and have other people call you strong. Then I'll fight you again.”
“Then it's a promise. I'll fight you again when I prove to other people I'm strong. Don't forget!”
The young cross-dresser left to find her father who was getting their things ready as they had to hike down the mountain to reach their limo.
“I cannot forget.”
***End Flashback***
“I've always been a girl. I just pretended to be a boy so you will fight me seriously!”
“I wouldn't have held back even if you were a girl. A duel is a duel.”
“Well I didn't know that... but stop changing the subject. Our one-hundredth duel. Let's do it now!”
“Did you say something?”
“Stop ignoring me. Are you running away?”
“Nope. Just don't want to do it now.”
“Fine after the quest then?”
“If I have time.”
“If you are going to argue like a married couple please do it somewhere else.”
Melchior was getting a headache at the two young folk.
“Mar...Married?! No way. We are rivals nothing more.”
“Yeah yeah. You don't have to explain things to me. Talk about this later. Can't you see he already left you.”
Akaro had already went into the forge to work on the weapon for Anko. Even though he just learned that the most annoying boy he had ever met was actually a girl he just shrugged it off and smiled while he thought.
'Might have explained why she never went and took a bath with me when we were young. That was the only time I could relax...now she's asking for that duel again... well at least I kept my promise with jii-chan and became friends with her.'
Anko was miffed at being ignored but she had to calm herself. He just bought her training gear and is now making her a weapon in the game. She may have disliked his attitude when they were kids but she now knew he was a lot more mature then he let on.
'People change after all. Of course he wouldn't recognize me if I show up as a girl in front of him. What am I an idiot?... I got so excited I lost my composure. I have to show him that I'm a lot stronger now.'
She was about to interrupt him but she noticed the concentrated look on his face. He was now folding some steel to make the blade of her weapon. She decided to grab a stool and watch him.
Melchior smirked as he was somewhat proud at the popularity of his apprentice. The women around the area would always come by and ask about his apprentice but still would use the services of the Iron Turtle. Just because of the red head's first few weeks at the forge and the demon blacksmith reputation the location was actually quite popular for the foreigners and citizens alike. The story of the Iron Turtle also helped advertise the location.
Akaro was working with quality 'f' steel. He needed a low level steel in order to make the weapon usable for the purple haired young lady. Beginner weapons obviously were poorer in quality as most players who started out wouldn't be able to afford such weapons. He was technically increasing her power exponentially due to his blade smith skills. Even if it was poor quality weapon the damage would be even higher than an iron knife or sword.
He finished the blade and started a simple sharpen. He still properly hardened the steel afterwords as well as it was a weapon made by him. The flame like hamon was found on this blade as well but you can tell it wasn't the same quality as the katana he made. After he cooled the blade down he grabbed one of the longer pieces of lumber. He needed to make it so it had it's own handle and could be attached to a pole to be a proper naginata. Thankfully his wood carving skill was a lot better. He made a simple ornamental look at where the hilt of the blade and pole met. He made sure that the pole was well rounded and smooth. He still had to wait for the glue to set on the handle, saya, and the connecting part for the pole.
Anko who was watching the entire process had been mesmerized by his focused look and when he finished the form and shape of the naginata she finally got out of her stupor.
“Anko-san. It will take a while for the wood glue to set. It may be better for you to log out and eat something before we meet.”
The red head spoke with the purple haired beauty normally.
“Alright. I will be right back after I eat. Don't run away again because I'll find you.”
Akaro looked Anko with a questioning look.
'Run away?'
Before he could ask the question she logged off like he said.
***
Getting up from the capsule Kiyomi couldn't help but smile on her face. She had been quite unhappy not able to locate her rival who she promised when they were children to have one more duel when she was acknowledged as strong.
Because of that said smile when she walked out of the room her mother, Saaya, put her hand on her mouth.
“Ara ara. Looks like you are in a better mood now.”
“Hahaue! I found him! He's also playing the game!”
Kiyomi felt relieved that she can duel her rival once more.
“It's as if you are bound by the red string of fate.”
“Hahaue it is nothing of that sort. I can duel him. Our hundredth duel that he promised me once I got stronger. I can finally show him my strength.”
Kusanagi Saaya smiled as she knew how obsessed her daughter was to get stronger. She also knew what she really wanted was for Miyamoto Akaro to acknowledge her as a martial artist.
“Let's say you do duel again and you win. What will you do?”
The dark haired young woman didn't think that far ahead.
“Well he will know that I'm strong and um...”
“Ara ara. You only wanted to be noticed by a boy. My daughter is growing up.”
“Hahaue! I told you it's not like that.”
“Saa. Let's go eat some dinner as your father has come home.”
The two walked towards the dining room.
“Good evening, Chichiue. I have news for you.”
Kusanagi Tatsumi was sitting at the head seat on the dining room table. He caught sight of his wife and now smiling daughter.
“Oh? You seem to be in a better mood. Our men will be happy to not get beaten up by you anymore.”
“They are just weak.”
Kiyomi was always disappointed with the students that her father trained. There was probably only one who can contend with her skill and that was the his first disciple but he was in charge of their operations in Korea.
“No my dear. You are just too strong. But what has perked up your behavior.”
This time it was Saaya who interjected.
“She met a boy in a game and is now infatuated.”
“HAHAUE!”
“Who and where can I find him? Who dares try to take my daughter away?!”
Tatsumi had a very intimidating glare on his face as he was looking for information.
“Chichiue! Calm down. Hahaue is joking. I've found my rival!”
Calming down the Kusanagi yakuza head look at his daughter.
'So he's playing a game also? Wait what game...? Isn't he in Korea?'
“Anata, I was indeed poking fun at our daughter's expense but it is true that a man has been filling her stubborn head.”
“What game are you playing?”
“Royal Road. Hahaue set it up in my room today. I need to hurry up and eat so I can go back in and make sure he's still there.”
“Ara ara. She cannot leave him even for a second. He must be quite a handsome young man. Worried he will be taken from you?”
“Mou... Hahaue. Stop these jokes.”
“Well lets hurry and eat then.”
'What a stroke of luck. My men will definitely be able to heal now that she is preoccupied with a game. Still I need to search for that boy in Korea. I'll call Takahashi later today to start investigating.'
Tatsumi and his family were served food by their personal chef. The two parents watched as their daughter who usually ate with grace was now trying to scarf down the food.
“Kiyomi-chan. A lady shall always eat with grace. No matter how much of a rush you are in, you should not act like this. Anata speak to your daughter.”
“Saaya it's okay. This is the first time she has an interest in something other than beating up our men. Must be a fun game.”
Once they were finish eating they were surprised once more when their daughter gathered the dishes and brought them to the kitchen. She was going to wash it but was stopped by the servants.
“I need to learn! Teach me how to wash dishes.”
She protested against her servants. The servants were so confused with her actions they looked at the lady of the house.
“Ara ara. Kiyomi-chan. Why are you so stubborn? I thought you were in a rush to play the game?”
“Hahaue. I have a job in the game and I am burdening the ones who were kind to me. As a Kusanagi we cannot let such kindness be taken without giving something back.”
“You have a job? My goodness what kind of game is this?”
Saaya had a hand on her cheek. In just a couple of hours she saw her daughter not only became happy, she wanted to also do some manual labour.
“It is alright hahaue. I'm actually quite happy. For the first time there are those not treating me like I'm from a famous household. It is quite refreshing.”
“There is got to be something other than that. Don't lie to your mother. I know you better than you think.”
“I... was given anko filled pastries.”
Kiyomi confessed that she only started working for her one and only kryptonite.
“The truth comes out finally. I knew it had to be something more selfish then just returning kindness. So you can eat your favourite food in the game without gaining the weight. That is fine with me. Let her do what she wants.”
The Kusanagi house wife directed the last sentence to the servants who had now begun teaching their ojou-sama the basics of washing properly.
***
Akaro also logged off to have a meal with his family.
“Myung-Ki did you treat our newest worker well?”
“She was actually an old acquaintance when I lived in Japan.”
Myung-Dae perked his ears at hearing that.
“Grandson is she pretty?”
“She's about the same as eomma just younger.”
“How did you not recognize her with your amazing memory?”
“I thought she was a boy when we were younger.”
“My goodness. First my son dresses like a girl and now my dishwasher use to dress like a boy. What is wrong with your generation?”
“Eomma I told you that was for a quest. I'm going to head back to the game now. Thank you for the food.”
Myung-Ki finished his food and made sure to put the dishes in the sink before heading back to the game.
“That boy is getting too interested in the game. Maybe we should ask him to attend university.”
His worried mother spouted an idea out to her father.
“Don't be so rash. He's at least interacting with real people now. Which reminds me... I've ordered two more capsules but they will arrive in a couple of days. Teach me about this game.”
***
It was now evening and the stealth team was now eyeing a level ten deer. Thanks to the evening boost both their prey and them get a boosted amount of attack.
“Kagerou. Dig a pit and we will lure the deer here.”
“Yes Kuro-nee, I'll make a pit big enough to trap it.”
The black and red fox started digging using his shovel paws skill.
“Yasu-nim. Can you get on the other side of it and lure it here?”
The absentminded owl nodded his head.
“Of course I can do that. Why did you want me to do that?”
Both the fox and cat sighed. Although he was technically stronger than both of them he was a lot more whimsical whenever he was asked to do anything.
“So we can get some deer meat and work on our teamwork.”
“Of course I can do that. What did you want me to do again?”
'Hopeless... Why did master assign this guy to me?'
Kuroneko was getting frustrated with the owl. So she decided on a more direct approach.
“You guide the deer here or I will make sure you won't fly if you fail.”
“Roger that madame.”
The owl flew silently behind the deer to immediately guide it to their trap. The deer that was startled by the owl ran straight for the pit.
The moment it fell in Kuroneko decided to finish it off with her Silent Killer skill. She jumped into the pit and flipped forward. She made no sound as she jumped and when she struck it square on the head with all four of her claws. As it made no noise when she landed and due to actually activating the instant kill the deer disappeared in a flash. It dropped some deer meat which the three of them split.
“That was cool Kuro-nee. How did you learn that?”
“My younger brother kept asking me to make a special move. It's the only one that I use if I manage to sneak or trap my opponent. I usually just make him fight for me.”
The young fox then asked the smaller animal.
“Can I learn something like that?”
“You have other skills that are useful. Create a technique that is unique to you. You like to play pranks by making pits people and animals fall into. Do something with your digging skill.”
“Hmm... I think I have an idea but can you watch me?”
Kuroneko put a paw on his head and rubbed it.
“Why can't my brother be as smart as you?”
Meanwhile in another field that said brother was getting berated by a falcon.
“Young Byakko. Stop shouting out your attacks before attacking. I'm sure Sir Akaro has told you this many times. It is utterly ridiculous to declare your intentions to the enemy.”
“A hero cannot just attack an enemy without screaming out the name!”
Both Genbu and Rai watched the exchange between the two.
“A gentleman does not need to raise his voice when having a conversation. Young lad please refrain from screaming like a spoiled brat.”
“You want to fight you stuffy bird?!”
That was the last straw for Suzaku who picked up the bratty cat with his two talons.
“Waaah!”
“Do you want to disobey me again?”
“You're worse than nunaaaaaa!”
An obsidian coloured cat sneezed.
'I'm pretty sure that my brother just compared me to someone. I'll make sure to punish him later.'
The support team which consisted of just Kogane and Hikaru could only sigh at the nonsense they were spectating. They were told to support but Byakko kept jumping in and either scared the prey or screwed up all the work they put into planning their method of attack.
“Young feline, you need to learn how to follow instructions. When we say to wait, don't run ahead of us.”
Suzaku was lecturing while just gliding with the surrounding air currents.
“It's so boring to just stay still and wait.”
“Did you know, Sir Akaro bested me by planning ahead. When he used his techniques he didn't even say it aloud, let alone shout it like you. He defeated me by outwitting me and also in physical ability. As you are strong physically already we need to work at your tactics. I'm trying to teach you how our benefactor fights and put some manners in your untrained brain.”
Byakko was literally tense with the fear of being dropped. But while he was being held there he had an idea while the air moved his fur around.
“Suzaku-hyung. What if we create a combined technique with Rai, Genbu, you and I?”
“A combination technique before you even learn how to work as a team. Well it is not a common method but if we can coordinate an attack as a unit I'm sure Sir Akaro will be quite happy. Let's try making one before meeting him in the morning.”
The red falcon came back closer to the earth and dropped the cat off and started to discuss what they plan to do and started attacking various creatures in the field. They even attacked packs of wolves as Suzaku could literally slice them in half with an aerial assault but his focus on was getting the dynasty brothers to work and coordinate with each other.
Kogane and Hikaru were buffing their team and even attacking when they had a chance. With the shovel paws ability they caught the wolves in various holes in the ground.
The wolves began to tell stories of the red headed demons dark minions. All you can hear were wolves screaming bloody murder throughout the night.
***
Akaro logged back in to find a waiting Anko who was tapping her foot.
“Making a lady wait is bad manners you know.”
Akaro gave her a blank look before going straight to the pole he was working on.
“Hey don't ignore me?”
“Hmm did you say something?”
“Hey! Listen to me!”
Akaro after finding out that she was the boy he tend to ignore he went with what he was most comfortable with. Even though he did think they were friends he always thought it was kind of funny how the boy reacted when they were kids.
“Mou... don't ignore me like when we were kids!”
Akaro smirked before shaking his head.
“That's the Kusunagi I remember.”
“What do you mean that's the Kusanagi you remember?!”
“Let's work on your weapon.”
“You did it again! Stop ignoring my questions!!”
Akaro couldn't help but laugh inwardly while taking out the pole weapon. He hammered the wooden peg that would hold the blade in the naginata. He then started slimming the pole before sanding so that it was smooth and cylindrical. The saya he made for it was also form to fit with the pole so it can be used a staff weapon when not using the blade.
“Anko-san what do you want to call your beginning weapon.”
“Wakaranai... I'm not really good at naming... how about Kemushi?”
Akaro understood what she called it. As it was just a beginning weapon it was as if it was a caterpillar. He drew a caterpillar on the saya and took it off so he can engrave the blade and named it Kemushi.
Ding
[box border=1 cellpadding=0 cellspacing=3 width=80% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5][col colspan=4 valign=top width=100% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5]You have created a pole weapon. Do you want to name it?[/col][/box]
“Kemushi.”
[box border=1 cellpadding=0 cellspacing=3 width=80% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5][col colspan=4 valign=top width=100% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5]Kemushi
Damage: 20 – 60
Durability: 250/250
A low quality weapon made by an intermediate bladesmith. Although it was made of poor material the discipline of the blacksmith has given it a bonus attributes.
Equip:
STR +20
AGI +20
VIT +20
Requirements:
No requirements[/col][/box]
He then handed the newly crafted weapon to Anko.
She inspected and she frowned a bit that she had to accept a weapon from her rival. Anko then started moving it around to check the balance. It was not as good as her actual naginata but she knew she couldn't ask for anything better at her current level.
“It'll be fine. Best way to test is to spar with someone...”
Hearing her implications Akaro chose to ignore her again.
“You should go to the training grounds and get use to it. I have more items I need to prepare for this quest.”
'Drat... he didn't fall for the bait.'
“I'll meet you at the library later tonight then. I'll go train for now then head to the restaurant to continue to work until it's time. I'll make sure to pay my debt to you.”
They talked to each other as if they returned to when they first met. It was a more familiar speech then the politeness like before.
After the purple haired beauty left, Akaro started replenishing his supplies of throwing weapons. With the projectiles he only need them to be formed, hardened and sharpened. This allow him to produce more of them with less time. A majority of them can be resharpened later as they would lose durability each time it struck an object, be it alive or inanimate.
The one skill he wanted to try out was the weapon modification skill. Taking Serenity's bow he memorized how it looked and compared it to the memory of bows he actually used as a child. The main difference was the length. Traditional Japanese bows, known as yumi, were quite long while the bow he was looking at was much shorter. The difference would also determine use. Serenity had a basic bow any archer can use but the distance the arrow can fly is limited to the strength of the bow. The more she can pull back will allow a lot more tension and cause a stronger shot. He needed to balance the strength of the bow and how strong Serenity was. She was a higher level then him at level 25 but she didn't look too strong.
He decided to make a shorter version of yumi known as a hankyu. This was still longer than Serenity's bow but it would increase her range and accuracy at the cost that she may have to exert herself a bit more.
Akaro grabbed various type of wood and compared the elasticity by cutting it to about the same length and width of the bow and bending the wood. Once he heard a crack he knew it wasn't good to use. He then settled on a bamboo like wood about five feet in length half the normal size. After shaping the width of the bow he started to boil some water over the forge in a large troth looking like container.
The reason for needing boiling water is to start tillering the bow. This allowed the wood to soften enough for him to start forming the proper curves in it to look like a bow. He needed to boil the wood for about thirty minutes before taking out and shaping it by hand and holding it in place so it keeps the shape. This continued past midnight before the bow's shape was completed.
Akaro then took the tailor's bow and deconstructed it.
Ding
[box border=1 cellpadding=0 cellspacing=3 width=80% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5][col colspan=4 valign=top width=100% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5]Acquired quality F Yew wood.
Level up: Deconstruction (Beginner Lv. 2 10%)
5% chance to succeed[/col][/box]
Surprised he succeeded the first time, Akaro took the material and decided to use the weapon modification skill. This allowed him to modify a weapon using raw materials. He wanted to increase durability and adding a different raw material will also modify how the end result the bow would be.
As it was still a game he had skills that would improve weapons regardless of his actual expertise in the weapon making. He was not a bow expert so he can only do what he can from memory. He had learned a bit from the other craftsman his grandfather had visited during his childhood.
He failed miserably at the first through fifth attempt which drained his mana reserves. The succession rate of 2.5% is no laughing matter but after the fifth attempt he did receive a message window.
[box border=1 cellpadding=0 cellspacing=3 width=80% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5][col colspan=4 valign=top width=100% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5]Level up: Weapon Modification (Beginner Lv. 2 14%)
5% chance to succeed.[/col][/box]
Although still a low success rate it was better than 2.5%. He drank some of his mana potions and started again. After the seventh attempt he finally succeeded.
What occurred was a silver flash and the bow itself seem to have changed. On the outer was the yew wood and the bamboo became the backing as it would retain its tinsel strength. The shape still stayed the same where the top of the bow was thinner and more flexible while the grip was slightly lower than centre of the bow as the bottom half was thicker and a bit heavier. This balanced the bow as the bottom weight will help in keeping it straight when the archer uses it.
In ancient times these bows were made for shooting while riding a horse so this allowed the archer a bit more control when shooting while moving. The downside of this made the bow unbalanced when shooting while holding the bow horizontally unless the user was proficient enough in using bows. He hoped that Serenity will like the change as he got the bow string attached.
The young woman in question showed up just as he was finishing.
“Akaro-ssi! Is that my new bow! It's beautiful!”
“It's not done yet. I need you to name it.”
“Cheonsa. As it kind of reminds me of angel wings.”
Akaro then inscribed the name on the bottom half of the bow.
Ding
[box border=1 cellpadding=0 cellspacing=3 width=80% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5][col colspan=4 valign=top width=100% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5]Cheonsa
Damage: 70 – 75
Durability: 150/150
A mid quality white bow that was strengthen by low quality material. The durability is decreased due to the quality. Inscribed on it is the word angel in an eastern language. Bonus attributes were given due to the discipline of the blacksmith.
Equip:
DEX +20
AGI +20
STR +20
Requirements:
Level 20
Strength 40[/col][/box]
“You may need a bit more strength in order to use it. I'm not too sure if you have enough stats in that.”
“Don't worry. For tailoring I had to put at least forty strength so I can puncture some of the leather and carry some of the fabrics. I should be able to use this just fine. Thank you so much.”
“Did you finish with the pelt?”
Serenity took out what looked like a spool of wrapped up leather.
“It was a really good quality pelt. I managed to process a good amount after processing it to leather.”
Akaro looked at the spool of thin leather. He had more than enough to make collars for his animal companions.
“Can you help me make the collars for when they get back?”
Serenity nodded gleefully as she didn't see Anko around and technically they were the only ones at the forge. Being a tailor she always brought basic tools for patching equipment or general sewing so she was prepared for any situation regarding emergency repairs. She watched as Akaro was working with a long piece of steel and flattening it into a long, flat, and rectangular bar.
Akaro was taking the steel and steadily hammered away to get it quite thin as he was going to attach it to the collars. He needed enough length he can inscribe their names on it.
The tailor who was sitting was already prepared to take measurements for when the animals returned. She dreamily stared at Akaro who was now working on arrows for her to use. He was making the bladed ends before attaching them to sturdy bamboo.
Time rolled by and soon the two players could hear the animals arriving just outside of the forge. Finishing the last arrow he and Serenity walked outside the forge.
“Hyung! We're back.”
“Sensei we are so much stronger now.”
“Master! I missed you. Raw meat not as good as your cooked meat.”
“Sir Akaro the attack team has returned to you as new.”
The dynasty brothers and their new trainer were the first to respond. They seemed to be the most beat up looking out of all the animals but they all seemed happy. Akaro felt as if they were smiling but as they were animals it was hard to see it.
“Huhuhu. We have returned to the human city. Who is that?”
“Nii-san. When I get stronger can you teach me that poof technique?”
“Master please don't leave me with that bird anymore. And why is she here?”
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Kuroneko felt stressed for the first time as the owl was too intelligent to dominate. Also it had the tendency to sleep whenever it felt like it to the chagrin of their leader. Kagerou she like and primarily worked with him. She was also upset due to the female who was standing beside him.
“Akaro-sama I missed you!”
“Aniki we supported them but Byakko is a baka.”
Kogane had already sprinted to sit beside her crush while glaring at Serenity. Hikaru was complaining about the white cat.
“You want to fight firefly eater!”
“Anytime you screaming baka-nii!”
The dynamics of his team was starting to form. Some animals had good relationship but others didn't. Akaro kept note of that as that will help him when he sets them off on individual training again.
Seeing that the two white quadrupeds were about to fight he picked them both up at the scruff of their necks.
“Don't waste energy fighting each other. If you disobey me I'll have Yasu and Suzaku give you a little ride.”
They both shut their mouths immediately. Byakko already experienced the air punishment and did not want ever go through that again. As they were animals that liked having their feet on the ground it was only natural for them to be afraid of heights they couldn't jump from.
“After all of this over I'll organize some way for all of you to spar with each other.”
Serenity could only watch as she didn't understand why he was having a conversation with them. She can only hear the sounds the animals would normally make.
“Sir Akaro that is a splendid idea. We can have an animal tournament between everyone here. We can see how much stronger we are compared to each other.”
The cardinal falcon loved the idea of a tournament between all of them.
“We'll talk about it more later. We have a mission to accomplish. I have a gift for all of you but I need all of you to be properly measured by Serenity.”
The female tailor started working from the first one that walked up to her which was Kuroneko. The cat followed her masters command but as soon as the measurement around her neck were taken she walked away not even giving the girl a chance to pet her. Same thing happen with Kogane who was prepared to nip Serenity if she tried to pet her.
The boys however were much more obedient and allowed Serenity to pat them or scratch under their chins. After all the measurements were taken she cut the collars from the leather long enough to safely go around each of their necks and still be relatively loose so it wouldn't choke them whenever they moved.
She then added the metal buckle so the collar can fasten correctly before giving them to Akaro who would finish it by adding a piece of the flat steel piece.
Akaro wrote in the name of who the collar belonged too and an open book as the symbol to represent him.
Ding
[box border=1 cellpadding=0 cellspacing=3 width=80% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5][col colspan=4 valign=top width=100% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5]Level up: Inscribe (Intermediate Lv. 1 20%)[/col][/box]
[box border=1 cellpadding=0 cellspacing=3 width=80% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5][col colspan=4 valign=top width=100% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5]Learned new Myth Weaver skill
Spell Link (Beginner Lv. 1 0%): Enables the ability to grant symbols, that are inscribed by the user, affects of spells that qualify. The symbol is forever linked to that spell and cannot be linked to any other symbol.
Consumes 1000 Mana to link inscription
Consumes 200 mana to activate linked spell
30 minute duration of activated spell
Current qualified spells that can be linked:
None[/col][/box]
'Hmm a new skill I can't use yet. It doesn't seem to be attack type spells as I have weapon break and that's not a qualified skill. Shukuchi is already based on inscription so that doesn't count either. Skills like identify and decipher also don't meet the requirements. I guess I'll have to just learn spells until I get a required one before actually using the skill.'
Disregarding the fact he just learned a new skill he turned his attention to his companions and started putting on the collars around their necks.
“Akaro-sama gave me a pretty necklace. I love it.”
“This makes us look like a proper gang aniki.”
“Yay. It goes swish swish around my neck.”
“I wear this with honour. Thank you for your gift Sir Akaro.”
“Thank you hyung.”
“This makes me want fight for you some more sensei!”
“I'm happy I have such a nice master.”
“Thank you nii-san.”
“The bonds between master and servant have now been manifested into the physical. We are now all united under the banner of the crimson one. Let us all rejoice that he has blessed us with his benevolence.... What was his name again? Oh well I'm going to sleep.”
Again the ambiance Yasu painted with his articulate words were ruined by the fact he had a bird brain. Yasu's other companions all had sweat drops as they are starting to understand he somewhat retains his memories but when he speaks he'll just spout what thought came out first. He flew onto Akaro's right shoulder and fell asleep.
As it was made for nocturnal times Akaro just let it sleep on his shoulder. To balance him out, Suzaku flew to the other shoulder.
“Serenity thank you for your help. I have the two extra collars for Seiryuu and Tsukino. I would suggest to practice a bit with the bow as it's a completely different style. Anko should also be practising there.”
She didn't really want go but she didn't want to be a burden for Akaro who seemed to be really serious about the situation with the library. She did not like mice nor spiders but Serenity knew she wanted to be of use to Akaro.
“I'll do just that. We all have to get ready so I'll go there to train with Anko. Thank you for the bow again.”
“Thank you for the collars. Everyone please thank her.”
Serenity heard all the animals each voice out a thank you she assumed except again the two females who just glared at her. She then parted ways with Akaro and entered the training grounds after greeting the instructor.
The group went past the training grounds where Anko and Serenity were currently training and headed towards the Alchemist Haven.
Upon arrival on their locations Suzaku flew off his shoulder while Yasu stayed on his shoulder. Suzaku then perched itself on top of Genbu who was on Rai.
Akaro saw that his dog was a lot stronger as the added weight seemed to not bother him at all.
'They all seem stronger. I'll make sure to check on their stats before we go in.'
Walking into the building he heard a commotion.
“Ssstay away from me! I have no more poissson to give you persssissstant women!”
“Muahahaha. Come here Seiryuu! We need more!”
“You ssstupid rabbit! Go back to chewing herbsss!”
Akaro decided to take a look at the situation. He saw Seiryuu being chased by both Tsukino and Poison-sensei.
“Massster! You're back! I misssed you!”
Seiryuu slithered towards the red head and wrapped himself around his leg.
“Ssstop thossse two monsssterssss!”
“Akaro... more venom... extract...”
“He cannot poison me so I was helping.”
The red head watched and he had a general idea on what was happening. As both of them seem to have a menacing glint in their eyes. The rabbit especially as she wasn't her usually cowardly self. He had a feeling there were other reasons why she was actually getting attacked by the other rabbits but just left it as a thought.
“Don't worry Seiryuu. I'm here now. Posion-sensei, he says he doesn't have anymore venom to give.”
The snake looked at it's master as if he was the messiah with how relieved he felt.
'What did they do to him?'
Ding
[box border=1 cellpadding=0 cellspacing=3 width=80% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5][col colspan=4 valign=top width=100% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5]Seiryuu loyalty increased to 80%[/col][/box]
“Tsk... it was just about to get fun.”
Tsukino mumbled under her breath.
“Too bad... Well I've finished the poison for you...”
Poison took out purple pellets that actually smelled quite good.
“Put cinnamon... to mask smell...mice will eat...”
“Thank you sensei.”
“Master. I also made a lot of healing salves too. See!”
Tsukino was treated well in the shop and she made a large jar's worth of mushed up medicine. It smelled of mint.
“Also made... mana potions for you... Finish quest quickly... can't wait... train you...”
“I will finish as quickly as I can Poison-sensei.”
He then bowed to his alchemist instructor as he was quite happy with the supplies he obtained. Now survivability has increased due to the medicine and poison he had obtained.
'Just you wait you rodents. I'm going to make you pay for ruining my books.'
Seiryuu and Tsukino shuddered as they instinctively could feel the killing intent from their master.
Looking at his two pets that he hasn't seen for a day he took out the two collars he asked Serenity to make out of measurements from his memory. The only difference between the two was that Seiryuu wasn't really a collar but more like a sock. It had a sleeve portion made out of flexible material that the tailor provided which fit snugly on the tail and a leather strap which held it in place. The metal was made to follow the contours of the tail so it had the same point and actually gave Seiryuu an added weapon. This way when the snake shed it will always fit on him.
“Thisss isss... it feelsss cool. It has our namesss on it. Thank you massster. I can ussse thisss end to ssstrike at ratsss.”
Seiryuu had already resigned itself that it will not win against the man in any fight so might as well accept his protection.
“Those dumb rabbits can't touch me now... maybe I should poison them again... hufufu.”
'Oi... when did you have this personality!'
'You're the real bully!'
Both Seiryuu and Akaro tsukkomi the rabbit with their thoughts. She was showing more of her real personality which resembled a mad scientist.
“Sensei we are going to head out now. Please try to sleep. You seem like you've been up all night.”
Poison yawned in response to the red head.
“You're right... going to sleep... here key... lock up...”
She handed him a key and she just lay down on the table and fell asleep.
'Well she's really strange but she's a nice sensei.'
Akaro left the building and made sure to lock up behind him. In fact all the animals seemed more sleepy than hungry. Still he wanted them to eat before they go to bed so they went over to the restaurant.
“Younger brother. Are you and your pets hungry?”
Gasper was outside sweeping and setting up the outside tables.
Akaro nodded to the question.
“Alright have a seat here. I'll bring out some food. Your mother is busy prepping but I'll tell her you're here. We can all have breakfast together.”
Akaro sat at the table and waited for the head chef to come back. Gasper and his mother actually returned with many dishes for his animals and him.
“Akaro are you a beast tamer now? You have so many animals we may actually have to charge you for food.”
Cooking queen was actually looking at the sleeping owl on his shoulder. She couldn't help but feel amazed that he had so many pets at his current level.
“No I declined the class. I want a ninja class. These are just my companions. I can tell them what to do but I want to make sure they can think for themselves too.”
Akaro then looked at his mother and Gasper.
“I am really thankful for feeding me and my companions. If you need me I'll work here to pay off all the food you fed me and them.”
“Hahaha. You can be our main attraction. But I heard you have a quest so finish that first. The lovely younger sister came by and told us you made her a weapon for it and bought her clothing. You did well. Hufufu.”
Cooking Queen smacked the head chef on the head and glared. If she let him continue to influence her son he'll become some sort of womanizer. She rather not raise a child like that. She wanted him to learn how to devote his attention to one person although with his current looks that may be harder to do.
'This boy will always worry me.'
“Thanks?”
Akaro didn't know how to respond to the praise. If he was going to have her join him, she needed proper gear to be able to survive and buying her armour and making a weapon is a good way to do so.
“I'll make sure she brings supplies of food so don't worry about it. We can't have you dying on empty stomachs after all.”
Gasper was truly a friendly civilian. He really cared for his younger brother and new employee. He enjoyed watching foreigners enjoy his food after all. He was also happy that he obtained a very talented chef like Cooking Queen. So he wanted to make sure she stayed happy and make sure he looked out for her son.
After their meal he and the animals gathered in front of the library.
“Master... sleepy.”
Rai yawned once they got to the library.
“Alright so that everyone is rested we will sleep here.”
All the other animals all tried to get comfortable as only Yasu was already asleep for a while. Suzaku flew and roosted on the roof of the building. Kogane and Kuroneko has taken his lap. Seiryuu wrapped himself loosely around Akaro's neck. Dynasty brothers were on his right and the twin foxes on his left. Lastly Tsukino nuzzled her self behind his back as if making sure she was in the most protected spot.
It was a spectacle to watch a player being literally covered in animals. The ones who noticed the most was of course the NPC children.
The little girl that he had met when he was selling knives to the mother was the bravest and soon sat near him. She then shyly spoke to him.
“Oppa what is your name?”
“Akaro. What is your name?”
Akaro asked back as he couldn't move even if he wanted to.
“My name is Crystal. Mama always said I shine like one. Akarooppa...”
The little girl got tongue tied as it was hard to say together.
“You can just call me Aka-oppa.”
“Aka-oppa can I pet the kitties?”
All the animals were completely pooped so none of them were conscious enough to react. Akaro did not want to disturb them as he needed them to rest.
“Hmm not right now. They have not slept yet.”
“Aww... that's too bad... we wanted to come here and pet them.”
“We?”
Akaro then saw a group of children hiding around the corner of a building. He nodded as if telling them they can come closer.
“We can't pet them... we have to be quiet. They are sleeping.”
The other kids had dejected looks on their faces.
'I don't like it when kids don't smile.'
“Do you all want to sit here and hear a story?”
They all looked up, smiled and plopped themselves in front of the red head. As it was a game based in older times, stories would be the equivalent of television in the game.
“Hmm... what story does everyone like?”
“I like one with heroes.”
“Has to have a princess!”
“I like dragons.”
“Can you have a cat like that one?!”
“Has to have a lot fighting.”
“Can the princess get a kiss? That will be romantic.”
The children all gave out what they wanted to hear.
“Alright give me a second and I'll think of one.”
Akaro wanted to tell them a story with a lot of their suggestions but he needed to at least work out some plot for it to follow. He hummed as he thought of he would start the story. Once he was ready he looked at the children and smiled before he opened his mouth start
“Long ago there was a boy with red hair.”
“Like your's oppa?”
“Yes like mine. This boy did not have any friends or any family. He only lived by fishing and gathering food in the forest. One day he met a pretty young girl crying in the forest.”
“The princess?”
“Ssh. Let him tell the story.”
Crystal was the one who told the kids to be quiet. She seemed to be the leader of the group.
“Yes she was a princess of the kingdom who went out to play but got lost. She was so scared as she has never went too far from the castle. The young boy went up to the crying little girl and asked her why she was crying. She told him she was lost.”
The children all gasped. They all thought of times they were lost and how scary it was.
“The young boy then told the young princess not to cry. He told her his name.”
***Story***
“Don't cry. My name is Red. I will bring you back home. Where do you live?”
“My name is Hime. I live in the castle... can you really help me?”
“Of course. I'll bring you home no problem. Just follow me.”
The red headed boy started heading towards the castle. As they were about to exit the forest a wolf came out of the bushes.
“Haha. I will eat you.”
The princess screamed. She was really scared of the wolf and it's sharp teeth. The boy however picked up a stick.
“I'll protect you Hime. Stay behind me.” Courageously said the young child.
“But you only have a stick.” Sniffled the princess.
“With a stick. What foolish brat. I will eat you first.”
The wolf then went in for a bite.
**Royal Road**
“Oh no! Red is going to be eaten!”
“Wolves are scary.”
Akaro then continued his story.
**Story**
The wolf lunged at the red head but met with a stick hitting him in the nose.
“You got lucky brat. But not this time.”
The wolf bit at the stick and took it away from the boy. Now the boy had no weapon but his fist. He was really scared but because there was someone behind him he needed to protect he kept fighting back. He jumped at the wolf and started punching it in the face.
**Royal Road**
“Go Red. Beat that wolf up!”
“How can he fight when he's scared?”
“He's a man. He has to protect the girl. Daddy told me that.”
**Story**
The wolf was taken by surprise and started to fight back. It managed to bite the boy in the hand but the boy kept hitting harder and harder.
“Red! Please don't die!”
The princess was yelling. She was really scared but then she remembered they were close to the castle. She started to run towards it to get help.
The wolf was going to chase after her but he was being pulled back by his tail. He looked and found the red headed boy grasping the tail with all his strength. He kept holding on until she was a good distance away. Completely running out of strength he let go which caused the wolf to tumble.
The wolf got up and glared at the boy. He was so angry that he planned to eat the boy head first. The wolf then jumped onto the boy again.
**Royal Road**
“Noo... don't tell me he gets eaten!”
**Story**
Red did not have much strength in him but he still grabbed a stick and manage to hold the wolf back if only for a second. But that second was all he needed.
The princess had reached the castle gate and called for help quickly.
A horse carrying a red armoured night came out of the castle with a lance in his hand. He sped towards where the boy and the wolf was. The horse flew by and he struck the wolf by throwing his lance at it the same time the boy blocked the bite with a stick. The wolf died and the boy laid down after he knew the wolf had perished.
The red knight then walked to the boy and picked him up and put him on his horse.
“I am the red knight Gabriel. You who have protected the princess will now be my squire. I will train you to be a great knight.”
Red just smiled at the knight before he completely shut his eyes and slept.
**Royal Road**
Ding
[box border=1 cellpadding=0 cellspacing=3 width=80% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5][col colspan=4 valign=top width=100% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5]You have created a new story. What do you want to call it?[/col][/box]
“That is the story of Red the Hero.”
[box border=1 cellpadding=0 cellspacing=3 width=80% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5][col colspan=4 valign=top width=100% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5]You have created a children story called Red the Hero. This story had inspired the children who had listened to it. The children will be sharing the story with their friends and family. The story contained the genre's fantasy, action, and adventure.
Library of Rosenheim Fame increased by 100
Local Fame increased by 200
Fame increased by 50
Level up: Story Telling (Beginner Lv. 7 23%)
Speech up by 100
Art up by 30
INT up by 2
WIS up by 2[/col][/box]
“Wow. He was saved in the end.”
“What's a squire?”
“Oppa is there more to the story?”
“I want to hear more!”
Akaro looked at the excited children and smiled. He then looked at the time of day and was surprised it was already after lunch. As he was too engrossed on telling the story he had missed lunch.
“Well there may be more but you all should go home and get something to eat. When I open the library again I'll continue where I left off.”
Crystal and the children all got up where they sat. The animals were still sleeping throughout the story and Akaro still couldn't move.
“We'll wait for the library to open again to hear more of the story.”
“I'm going to be like Red. I'll protect you.”
“I'm your sister! You better!”
The children laughed as they walked away and starting to reenact the story. Akaro watched before closing his eyes and joining his animals for a nap. He hadn't moved so he didn't lose much stamina.
***
Serenity had met up with Anko at the restaurant and gave her the new equipment that Madame Orchid had completed earlier that day.
“Serenity-san. Thank you for delivering this to me.”
Anko was wearing leather made out of wolf skin. The armour was a light lavender in colour and it would fade to a very pale lavender at the end of her long sleeves. To contrast the white various lavender flowers were sown around the wrist portion of the sleeves. It of course had accentuated her body like most of the clothing made by the master tailor. She wore leather pants that also hugged her legs and was a darker purple then her chest armour. She also had leather boots that matched the colour of her armour and also faded to a brighter lavender at the base of the boots. As it was beginner leather armour it only had basic function of extra defence. Anko was also holding her naginata which rested on her right shoulder on a slight angle as she walked. She had a lunch bento for the party and a supply of food that Gasper gave them.
Serenity also dressed in battle gear prepared to her by her master. Orchid didn't want her young apprentice to lose in appearance and had prepared leather armour for her as well. She was wearing a dark rose coloured top that had a very similar style to Anko's but instead did not fade to a lighter colour. It went to a deeper crimson colour with bright white coloured rose floral arrangement around the wrists. She also wore her beige leather pants even though her master tried to force her to wear a skirt. It was a quest after all and she would hate to have a mouse touch her bare legs. She also wore leather boots that had strips of the same dark rose on them as well. She had her bow and arrows equipped on her back.
A lot of male players were whistling at the pair as they looked as if they complimented each other quite well. Anko ignored it while Serenity tried but couldn't stop the blush that appeared on her face. As they were walking towards the library they couldn't help but be surprised with what they were seeing.
Akaro was completely still and looked as if he was meditating while his animal companions slept either on or around him. It was quite a serene image and it was not just noticed by them. Many players had stop to watch the situation and many females who knew of the red head were all looking at him with love filled gazes.
“Akaro-san. Wake up.”
Anko was the first to speak up as she wanted to get started with the quest.
The animals all started to yawn, while the red head opened his eyes surprisingly fast while looking at the two girls.
“Who are those ladies?”
“It's the hussies from yesterday who was beside him and walking for a stroll.”
“Lucky guy.”
“He should die and let us have those two beauties.”
“They wouldn't even look at you so just give it up.”
'They are here now. Time to get up.'
He stroked Kuroneko's ear for a bit, while Kogane licked her master on the lips before they both got off his lap.
The Dynasty brothers had drool escaping their mouths and looked quite funny as Genbu wiped his spit on Byakko, Byakko wiped his on Rai, and Rai just let the drool fall.
The fox twins were still lying down trying to ignore the situation. They were the youngest so Kuroneko smacked both of them on the head to wake them up. Kogane would have protested but she was glaring at the other females.
Tsukino was forced to wake up and she sat beside the dynasty brothers. Seiryuu remained on Akaro's neck but he looked directly at the people who interrupted his sleep.
The two girls looked at him as if waiting for something.
'What are they looking at me for? Maybe they are looking at Seiryuu. They are not saying anything. They are just staring at me... what are they waiting for?'
Noticing his benefactors folly, Suzaku flew down and perched on the other shoulder.
“Sir Akaro. The two have dressed in new attire and it is only proper manners for a gentleman to compliment them.”
“Okay.”
Akaro then looked at the two girls and decided to make sure he inspected them to think of a good compliment.
“You two look like pretty wild flowers that I have seen in the mountains.”
“Thank you for purchasing this for me Akaro-san.”
Anko replied with a slight brush. She was still female and she still liked the compliment and the clothing she wore.
“Thank you Akaro-ssi.”
It wasn't the most appropriate compliment but it was probably the best they will get from the straightforward ninja. Serenity held the rosy blush on her face.
He then took out a bundle of arrows that numbered about a hundred and handed them over to Serenity.
“I made some arrows for you to use. As arrows do not have a level restriction they are probably a higher quality then the ones you are using. They should be durable enough for you to pick up after use.”
What he said was true as the ones he made had a durability of ten, which compared to regular arrows with durability of one or two would make it easier for an archer to save on replacing arrows.
She inspected them and agreed with Akaro.
“I'll make sure to pick up these ones. I'll only use them if I have too. I have a lot of the regular arrows with me right now so I'll try to save them since they are a lot better.”
Akaro nodded before turning his attention to his animal companions.
“Contract Companion window.”
Contracted CompanionsCompanion #NameLevelLoyalty1Rai17100%2Genbu19100%3Kuroneko20100%4Byakko18100%5Kogane19100%6Hikaru15100%7Kagerou15100%8Tsukino12100%9Suzaku22100%10Seiryuu1480%11Yasu2070%
Akaro was little surprised that Tsukino and Seiryuu leveled up but it must have been quests given by Poison to them. It was the only explanation he can think of as quests did give experience.
“Alright the plan is to get Anko to level up first. So make sure to take down any enemy about to die.”
“Isn't that a bit too cowardly. I don't think I could do anything dishonourable like picking off an enemy that is about be beaten by someone else.”
Anko did have a samurai like sense of honour after all.
“The teams for the pets this time round will be...”
“Don't ignore me! You have to listen.”
“Do you want to duel after this or not?”
“Of course!”
“Do you want me to actually try?”
“Yeah!”
“Then listen to me.”
The argument was won and decided by logic and Anko resigned to the decision made by their leader for the party.
“As I was saying. Seiryuu you will join Kuroneko and Kogane. You three will be in charge of causing mayhem in their ranks. You all have skills that cause problems for low intelligence and I'm sure the mice are not as smart as you three. If they don't listen you have permission to dispose as many as you want until they understand.”
“Yesss massster. I'll make those mice fight amongssst each other.”
“Don't worry Akaro-sama. We'll entice them all.”
“Do we get a group name like the three idiots?”
“Hey!”
Akaro then thought a bit before replying to his black cat.
“Mastermind Trio.”
The three got together and started working on ways to use their ability together so they can maximize the amount of mice they can manipulate.
“Next team will consist of the dynasty brothers and the two birds.”
“Sir Akaro please provide a name that befits Yasu and I.”
“Sky Knights.”
Akaro was running out of ideas and just made a quick one for the two flying creatures.
“That name befits us quite well.”
Last but not least was the twin foxes and Tsukino.
“You three will be the support team. You will be providing healing and joining other teams under my direction.”
What the women were watching was Akaro speaking to animals while they all replied in their natural speech which just a mix of meows, barks, squawks, and hisses.
'It's as if they are an animal army the way they are responding.'
'It's kind of cute how they all react when he talks.'
Akaro had split the teams depending on level and skill. His main attackers either had flight or got along quite well. His three mind manipulators were going to be key in this battle and the support team are going to be his reserves. Although Tsukino has no combat prowess that he knew of but she is going to stay as a healer regardless of the situation.
With a set plan in place Akaro unlocked the door and prepared for the worse. He and his party walked through the door.
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