Yo, N from Unova, the truth-seeker, the sage,
In a world of Black and White, I’m breakin’ out the cage.
Raised by Ghetsis, but I question his path,
Seekin’ liberation, yeah, I’m doin’ the math.

In the heart of Unova, where the truth’s concealed,
I speak for the voiceless, the pain they’ve revealed.
Reshiram or Zekrom, the dragon’s breath of fire,
Chasin’ after ideals, a world to inspire.

Battle in the castle, where destinies collide,
Truth and ideals, on this journey, I ride.
Plasma’s dream, to free all Pokemon kind,
But shadows in the light, keep twistin’ my mind.

I roam the wild forests, where the legendaries sleep,
Tryin’ to understand the bond that’s so deep.
From Accumula Town to the streets of Nimbasa,
Challengin’ the norms, every step’s a new saga.

Meetin’ the hero, with the courage to fight,
Our battles shape the future, leadin’ to the light.
In the end, it’s love and trust that we find,
The bond with Pokemon, the peace in our mind.

So here’s to Unova, where my story unfolds,
N, the idealist, with a heart that holds.
Challengin’ the system, with the truth in sight,
In the world of Black and White, I’m searchin’ for the right.

A young boy, no earlier than sixteen, sat at the edge of a cave opening in a cliffside, his feet kicking down the steep rocky wall, peering out past the jungle that he had escaped to shortly ago. A large fruit in hand that he had stolen from one of the nearby trees before scaling the mountain to retreat into the cave. A wide smile rest on his face as young Peter of Loxley watches as the people he once called master finally gave up on their search for him, finally feeling a sense of pride and accomplishment that he had only known once before, when he learned how to ignite a fire on the tip of his finger.

“Hahaha! I’m free!” Peter called, jumping to his feet, holding his hands up into the air, “I am my own! I can go anywhere, do anything, and it doesn’t matter who tries to stop me.” Peter lets out another cheer, his voice echoing through the nearby jungle, sending the local birds flying away, and causing his masters to jeer and peer but unable to find the source. The sound of his voice echoing down the cave behind him, causing him to turn and look further inside.

Taking another bite from his fruit, Peter begins to sing a small tune, a slave-tune he had come to know well from the fields, his voice bouncing off the walls, filling the entire cavern.

In the fields we toil, beneath the burning sun,

Our backs bowed low, our spirits nearly done,

Bound by chains of sorrow, our voices cry in vain,

Yearning for the day when we'll break free from the train.

But oh, in our hearts, a hope remains,

To break the bonds, to shatter the chains,

No more the shackles, no more the pains!

Finally we’re able to leave their reigns!

From dawn 'til dusk, our labor never ends,

Our dreams of freedom, are our only friends,

Yet in the darkness, a whisper stirs,

A call to arms, our hearts it spurs.

But oh, in our hearts, a hope remains,

To break the bonds, to shatter the chains,

No more the shackles, no more the pain!

Finally we’re able to leave their reign!

So let our voices rise, like thunder in the sky,

For we'll never surrender, we'll never say goodbye,

To the dreams of freedom, that burn within our soul,

For in the end, it's freedom that makes us whole.

Walking deeper into the darkness, “I will be a great man, with all I have within, and they can never hold me again.” He reaches out his hand, placing it on the wall, using the slight glow that was now emitting from his other handto light the path before him.

“I’ll see the world, and then, the stars, the planets, and the moon! And then I’ll find a wife and have a son.” He smiles to himself, feeling a sense of freedom that he had not felt before, the thought of a family. A true family. No masters, no overseers, just him and his child, and a woman who loved him. The future overjoyed him. “My boy will grow strong, and wise, and free. I’ll teach him to stand, and live, and love.” His smile was contagious, as his heart soared higher and higher with every line of his future song. “And my wife will teach him to be a good man. And they will never, never, never, never, never have a master again!”

The cavern had opened up into a large space, a cavern so deep that the glow that had begun to form around him was barely enough to allow him to see the ground under him, and the ceiling above him. As his thoughts ended, his voice echoing throughout the chamber, “Ouah”, the cavern called back, in the same melody, and pitch as the voice that had been sung, adding to Peter’s glee, as he began playing with the echoes. A back and forth began, on and on this went, until Peter heard another noise, not his own call back. A low guttural growl followed quickly by a hiss as the floor beneath him began to tremble, and he stepped back with a jump, pressing against the wall, asking quietly and abruptly, “I-is someone there?”.

Peter always wondered why the masters of Sherwood never entered or excavated the caves on the island, the resources in them were reason enough, he thought, plus once finished, they’d make a good place to keep the slaves or already gathered resources rather than having to build new lodgings when the sailors came through; a natural shelter. But all that was explained to him was that he should never-ever look into the caves, for they already have masters. “Dingle berries.” Peter would respond, he never saw no masters go in or out of caves, as a matter of fact, he never saw anything go in or out of the caves, not even grass or weed.

It was at the return of another deep growl that vibrated his bones that he began to fear the cavern did have an owner already, his heart began racing, and his breathing growing short. He was not ready to die. Not after escaping the shackles and the whip. Not after seeing freedom for the first time. Suddenly, out of the dark black of the cave, he spotted a pair of orbs, amber in color as they appeared, and began moving towards him in a zigzag motion. Slowly. “H-hello?” Petter stuttered, taking a few steps back, his hand brushing against the cold, rough rock. He could hear the sound of the creature breathing, a hissing breath as it closed the distance, revealing the orbs to be eyes, but that was all he could make out, his light not strong enough, and he quickly took a few more steps back. Learning why his masters wouldn’t dare near the cave.

His eyes widened as he saw the eyes rise up, the dim light from his hand finally revealing to him the master of the cave as the dark face of a great lion entered its aura. A forked tongue flicked towards him from the head, which alone was the side of Peter’s chest, and gave another hiss. Slowly, the monster lowered itself, its nose brushing against him, sniffing. But! The young boy stood his ground, knowing that running would only cause it to give chase, and besides, all that was behind him was a fate he’d rather not return.

“Easy.” Peter whispered, lifting his hand up and resting it on the side of the lion’s face. He could feel the heat from its skin radiating through the palm of his hand, and a strange sense of calm washed over him, despite the situation. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly, the lion doing the same, causing the small flame on his finger which had given him light until now to abruptly go out, leaving them in complete darkness. Peter, however, didn’t mind. For a moment, the two seemed to be connected. It felt like he had found a kindred spirit.

“What are you?” he whispered, feeling the soft mane against his fingers, “What are you hiding here, in this dark, damp, palace?” the lion remained silent, its only reply was a soft mew, and then a nudge against the young man, knocking him off balance and onto the hard floor. His head landed on something soft, and he could feel his fingers dig into it, as if it was some sort of pillow. Whatever it was, the young boy was thankful, and quickly brought himself to a sitting position, his hand raising back to feel the lion’s mane again, only to feel something else, something much smaller. “Who are you?” Peter asked again, this time a little louder.

He could feel the soft, wet nose brush against him, followed by the lion’s rough, coarse tongue, and a deep rumble. He could smell the scent of the sea, of fish and water, and he knew the lion’s hunting grounds. On the other side of the island, where only a few slaves were allowed and most of the masters lived. Peter was curious, he was amazed, and his curiosity was getting the best of him. What did the lion have hidden, and what was it trying to tell him?

“If you don’t tell me who you are, then I guess I’m just going to have to find out for myself.” He could feel the lion move, as if it were shaking its head, and he felt his hand slip past its neck, down its shoulder, and would have kept going to its ribs had the lion’s body not diverted, surprising him. While he had never seen a lion before, he had heard tales and seen paintings of them from the sailors that stopped on the island during their voyage. “What is this?” Peter asked as he followed this bone up, up, and up, until he decided to light his finger once more, giving him sight, albeit not very much, but enough to see the lion’s body was more than any of the sailors explained, for it wasn’t just a bipedal creature, but held wings! Massive, expanding wings that were similar to that of a bat, Peter’s most hated critters, aside from the terrible biting centipedes.

“You’re… You’re… beautiful…” the young man’s words escaped his lips, and the lion turned its head, looking back at him, its eyes glowing the same amber color that they had when he first saw them, and the monster nodded its head, a smile secretly forming across its mouth as it says “Thank you.”

Peter could have sworn he had just heard the creature speak, but he shrugged it off, thinking that maybe his mind was playing tricks on him, “Are you the guardian of the cavern?” Peter asked, looking around, but only seeing the same old rocks and dirt he had seen before.

“In a way, yes. You could say I am the king of these caves. The others have tried to take what is mine, but none have ever succeeded.” The voice spoke again, and Peter turned his attention back to the winged beast, “What’s yours?”

“This island. All the land that you and your people have taken to destroying for your comfort.”

“My people?” Peter raised a brow, his fingers now feeling the soft, furry wings, “The masters? If you truly are king, why do you let them?”

The beast turns around, facing him fully, the wings folding around his body, the tip of its nose pressing against his chest, “They feed me, naughty among them, which appease me. I allow them land to call home as long as they do not enter the caves.”

Peter’s eyes widened, his mouth agape as he realized, the weekly rituals and the offering to the gods, this lion was no ordinary kat of folk-legend, but was who his masters worshiped. “Jarl Jeron.” Peter unconsciously let out as the lion winked and chuckled, a deep, bellowing laugh that vibrated the cavern, sending small rocks and dust falling from the ceiling.

“My name is known to you.” The voice said, its tone becoming more feminine, but retaining the deep, thundering nature that had caused the ground to shake. Peter had never felt so frightened, yet so fascinated. He was in the presence of the lion’s true form, the being that the masters had spent their whole lives protecting, and he was about to run away, scream, and call for help, but the moment he moved, the wings opened, and the face of the monster was replaced by that of a human, a young girl, no older than him, and a naked beauty.

“W-what?” was all Peter could let out, as the young woman crawled closer to him, her face now inches from his, a sultry smile crossing her lips.

“You’ve discovered my secret.” Her voice was low, and soft, yet carried a commanding presence. She lifted a single finger, placing it on his lips, her amber eyes watching his intently.

“Y-you’re beautiful.” He whispered, and she smiled, a chuckle escaping her lips, which quickly turned into a laugh, and Peter couldn’t help but smile, and join her in laughing.

“Thank you. I do try.” The young woman said, and her wings folded around them both, hiding him away from the outside world. “You’ve shown bravery, Peter, and courage. Most would have fled by now, or called for their masters. But not you.”

“Masters. They’re nothing. Barely humans themselves. Why should I call for them?” Peter said, his courage rising, but he couldn’t take his eyes off the young woman’s eyes. There was something about her, something he couldn’t put his finger on, something he couldn’t describe, but his heart told him that she was someone he wanted to know. Someone he wanted to be with. “Are you really a god?”

The young woman smiles and nods her head, “That is one name that I’m known by. But you can call me Jeron.” Her wings retracting from the boy and obscuring his vision just for a moment as Jarl Jeron escapes further into her home, and he follows, his eyes never leaving her body, now seeing that beyond wings she also holds a tail, similar to the scorpions that would occasionally pester the livestock or get in the slave quarters.

“Is it true, that you can grant any wish?” Peter asked, and Jarl Jeron paused, her tail hovering over her shoulder. She turns to him, and her expression is soft.

“There are some things even I cannot do.”

“Even if a man wished for more land, or wealth, or…” Peter was cut off as Jarl Jeron presses her finger against his lips again, shushing him.

“If a man truly desired land, and was willing to work and sacrifice for it, then he wouldn’t need a god.” She said as Peter locked eyes with her once again, this time realizing what had grasped him of hers the first time. Stars. He could see the night sky in her eyes. But this was broken when she looked away, causing him to look further into the cave with her, not able to see much before she placed a hand against the wall, and gave a whisper. The entire cave began to glow a bright orange, and Peter was forced to shield his eyes from the brightness. When he opened them, he could see the cavern had opened up, a massive room filled with gold, treasures, and weapons that were unlike anything he had seen before.

“W-what is all of this?” Peter asked, looking at the hoard, “Is this all yours?”

“Yes. These are my trophies, my rewards. Every piece, every treasure, every gold coin has been given to me.” Jeron would say, laying herself across one of the piles, looking back to Peter, seductively, “Or that I have taken.”

“You took all of this?” Peter’s eyes widened, looking back at her, a small smile crossing his lips.

“I’ve been alive for centuries, and this is what I’ve collected.” She said, her own smile growing.

“What is it you want, Peter of Loxley. I have granted men and women, kings and queens, anything their hearts desired, and they have all fallen in my grasp. So, what do you desire?”

Peter looked back at the treasures, the weapons, and the gold. It would have been any young boy’s dream to be in this room, but his gaze fell back on Jarl Jeron, her eyes still shining like the stars in the sky, the wings and tail resting on either side of her, her skin shimmering, her curves perfectly curved. Her beauty was undeniable, and as Peter stood there, he could feel his body begin to tremble, his legs grow weak, and his chest tighten, his thoughts returning to his mother, and his father, and the stories his father would tell him. How he met his mother, and the two fell in love, and their adventures. A life that Peter always dreamed about, and he could feel a single tear fall down his cheek, “I want a family.”

“A family.” Jarl Jeron repeats, her head tilting, curiously, “What is it you mean by a family?”

“A-a wife, and a child. Like my mother and father. My parents were sailors, you see. But they were taken advantage once they landed here on Sherwood. All I’ve wanted since they died, and I was taken by the masters of this island, was freedom. So I could go and hold adventures. Go and have a family, to love and to hold.” Peter took a deep breath, wiping the years from his eyes and clenching his jaw, “I’ve worked the fields and the docks. I’ve journeyed the long house, and befriended the horses.” His gaze never leaving Jeron, he could see her expression changing, “I’ve fought in the pits, and been whipped for disobedience. I’ve seen the worst and the best of what this world has to offer, and the only thing I’ve truly wanted, the only thing I’ve ever prayed for was a family. To find someone, a woman who loved me as much as my father loved my mother.”

Peter couldn’t believe the words that had left his mouth. He had never told anyone his dreams before. Never had anyone to talk to. But here, with Jeron, he could open his heart and tell her everything, and the smile that was growing on her face gave him comfort, “Is there a woman out there who would love a man like me? Wouldn’t the woman of my dreams think I was too scrawny, or ugly?”

“There are men, and there are women, and then there are Gods.” Jeron says as she approaches him, her hand brushing his hair back and bringing his head onto her chest. “The only woman I know who is worthy of you is one I have yet to meet.” Peter’s arms raise and slowly wrap around her waist, tears streaming down his face and tickling her body. He was overcome with emotion, and he couldn’t fight the urge to smile, his face pressing into her soft bosom.

“T-thank you.” Peter whispered, and he could feel a warm breeze, followed by a bright light, and when he opened his eyes, he was no longer in the cave, but laying on a field of grass, looking up at a beautiful clear sky. A shadow covered him, and he looked over, seeing Jarl Jeron, the sun behind her, the wind blowing her hair and giving her an almost ethereal appearance, “Is this real?”

“Of course. I’ve brought you to the edge of Sherwood.” Jarl Jeron smiled, holding out her hand to him, helping him up, “A ship of sailors, like your parents, will be arriving here soon. They’ll take you on your adventure, Peter of Loxley. And we shall see how you change the world.”

Peter couldn’t believe what he was hearing, his jaw dropped, and his eyes wide, “W-why are you doing this for me?”

“A child with so much heart, and so much love to give. Your soul is pure, and it deserves more than to be a slave.”

“Thank you. Thank you so much.” Peter couldn’t contain himself as he rushed to her, wrapping his arms around her and squeezing her tightly.

“You will come to see, in time, that your destiny is not as a simple slave, but something greater.” Jeron whispers to him, “I’ve watched over the people on this island for generations, and for the first time, I have found a man worthy of my gift.” She gently pushes him back, holding his shoulders and looking him in the eyes, “And that man is you.”

Peter could only nod, the tears returning as Jarl Jeron held his face, and kissed him on the forehead, a warm sensation passing through him, and then it was gone, as was she.

What is this?

This is the original drafted content for Orsensakino. It has the notes and extra scenes.

Wake, Repose, Sovereignty

Wake

Preface

In the aftermath of a world-shattering war that ravaged the 21st century, the remnants of sapient life sought refuge in a series of bunkers scattered throughout West Jörban. These bunkers became the last bastions of humanity. A few were even located in Shimafuki, thanks to a special arrangement with the organization that built them. For nearly five hundred years, the survivors and their descendants lived underground, shielded from the hostile surface above.

Over the centuries, the planet began to heal. The once-toxic atmosphere and radiation levels receded, allowing the surface to gradually become habitable again. As the environment improved, brave souls ventured out, establishing settlements in the lands surrounding the ancient bunkers. Among these settlements was Lanai, a thriving community that emerged as a beacon of hope and resilience.

Lanai, located on one of the Shimafukian islands, is a testament to human ingenuity and survival. The village is a blend of old-world architecture and innovative engineering, designed to withstand the harsh elements and potential threats of this new world. The people of Lanai are resourceful and self-sufficient, having built a society that values strength, discipline, and communal effort.

However, just beyond the borders of Lanai lies Mori-Seitoshi, a frozen wilderness that stretches into the unknown. This icy expanse is a place of danger and mystery, where few dare to venture. The harsh climate and treacherous terrain of Mori-Seitoshi are stark reminders of the planet’s tumultuous past and the challenges that still lie ahead.

In Lanai, survival is paramount. The children are trained from birth to be stone-cold warriors, equipped with the skills and mindset necessary to protect their home and explore the perilous world beyond. This rigorous training instills in them a fierce loyalty to their community and an unyielding determination to thrive in an unforgiving environment. As they grow, these young warriors are prepared to face the myriad of threats that lurk both within and outside their borders, ensuring that Lanai remains a stronghold of humanity in this brave new world. However that isn’t the goal of a select few. Twenty of the latest generation are about to be sent to Caipat, the subterranean capital city of their country, where they’re to secure absolute relations, and place Lanai on the map as the capital of the surface.

Foundance-Day Festival

4.2

C-sharp minor, followed by a D minor, then an E minor rang out from a scratched, beaten-up light gray electric guitar, the notes resonating through the air as their player called into the microphone from a hoisted stage. The musician’s strums officially marked the beginning of the 60th anniversary celebration, as night began to fall on the ever-lively minor-city of Lanai.

Stalls lined the main street of the large community, vendors selling foods and trinkets, offering entertainment and quick games, drawing in people—both residents and those passing through—who packed the small city streets. Colorful lights in shades of red, blue, green, orange, yellow, and purple illuminated the scene as the sun set. Children ran around with their families, couples held hands while their pictures were taken. Everyone was dressed in their nicest ceremonial attire, except for those just passing through, who instead opted for one of the ceremonial masks sold throughout the festival. The music from the stage echoed through the city streets, even reaching the prisoners, locked in the walls that surround the city, who occasionally danced and were offered food from the stalls by whoever felt polite enough to share.

A loud, abrupt sneeze broke the silence that had developed between Urasadi and Hotonashi. Hotonashi, a young woman dressed in a light-colored tsukesage kimono adorned with motifs of a red forest and along its front-left shoulder and front-left sleeve, symmetrically along it’s hem is a rather pretty depiction of a dark smoke-like therianthrope which represents the kami of mystery; sometimes also believed to be the kami of romance, gave her friend a prayer, to which he thanked her. Urasadi, a young man with notably dark skin for the region—often questioned if he was actually from the S.S.F., a country of mixed cultures and people—raised his hand, causing his formalwear’s sleeve to slide back, revealing a series of tribal-esque tattoos unique to him in the region, hinting at his punk-like history. He held a large stick of food, reminiscent of a cob of corn, covered in a brown, honey-like condiment.

Stepping away from the food stand they had stopped at, Urasadi wrapped an arm around Hotonashi’s shoulders and took a big bite from his food before questioning with a mouth full, “This guy is pretty good, but from what my brother said, Rib-ter and—” pausing for a moment to swallow, he continued, “and Vos-Taurtul are supposed to play tonight.”

“Taurtul? Really?” Hotonashi questioned as a child split them apart, running between them.

“Yep, though I think I heard Incubation left a few months ago, so we’ll see how the new bassist is. Still can’t wait to see them in person!”

As they resumed their conversation about music, they passed another, much smaller stage where a group of interpretative dancers performed in line with the music, forming a type of silent play. This caught the attention of Chikai Bunkara, one of Hotonashi and Urasadi’s peers who had mostly kept to himself over the years. Watching the dancers intently, a smile crept across his face as he brushed his longer hair out of his eyes. A small scar marked the bottom half of his chin. His formal attire, an oddly chosen mix of maroon and gray with no specific designs, somehow suited him.

Further down the street was a water gun festival game where the contestant who hit the target the longest won. Among the twelve contestants for this round were Naruhatsu, wearing a short-skirted, long-sleeved white kimono with a red cloud crest, a red waist sash, and a red and yellow stole that contrasted with her unmistakably natural long blue hair and pale skin. Beside her was Richaku, who had been dragged there by Naruhatsu and wore shin-high gray pants with a faded green vest over a light gray t-shirt with a large collar, not taking part of the festive attire.

Richaku’s facial expression showed his boredom. He’d have been perfectly content lying on his bed, eating a bag of crunchion-sticks, and reading. As the game vendor gave the signal to start, Richaku looked over to see Naruhatsu smirking, her orange eyeliner highlighting her unusually pale face. She was about to cheat, controlling the heat and pressure of the gas in her gun to maintain a perfect balance that allowed her to stay on target. A small child, jostled by the normal power of the water gun, fell from the stool holding him and crashed to the ground, crying more from shock than pain. Naruhatsu, distracted by the child, missed the target just long enough for another contestant to win.

“Uh-oh,” Dobutsumé said, hearing the child’s whines from the next street over. Her acute hearing faintly picked up the parents dismissing a passerby, claiming the child was simply overreacting.

“What?” Kanako Yoshisawa, Dobutsumé’s mother and a beast of a woman with broad, muscular shoulders and toned arms, questioned. She was interrupted as a customer stopped by their stall, asking for one of their specially made biscuits for their pet—a small, four-armed lemur-like creature with a pronounced snout and eyes on antennae, a Kiarui.

Just a bit away from the Yoshisawa stall, Sabani stood with his hands clasped in front of him, bowing and whispering a prayer for his ancestors to rest but guide him if he veered off his destined path. After a moment, he straightened himself and blew out the candle, finishing the prayer. As its smoke slithered through the air, a masked man stood just a few meters behind the shrine, watching Sabani, who stared back for a moment, annoyed at the stranger’s lack of respect. Scoffing, he walked away, shouldering a few passing tourists and raising a stick of meat he’d picked from one of the stands. As the music shifted to a more hard rock/grunge band, Sabani bobbed to the beat, chuckling as a familiar voice shouted for participants in the Yuwa-Kenka—a style of sparring similar to Sumo Wrestling but meant for lighter participants.

Maneuvering through the growing crowd, Sabani watched as Nomi, now wearing a mask covering the top half of their face with an afro wig and a white cloak with sharp black patterns, called out to their fans in a borderline offensive accent, imitating a Timitian historical figure they had watched just a few nights prior.

“Don’t worry, Lanai! I’ll stop these… these villains from harming our reputation and our beautiful home, for I am… Mi-gea Abund-ance-Oh!” The crowd clapped, while Sabani laughed harder than the rest. Nomi’s opponent stepped into the ring, wearing more typical Yuwa-Kenka attire of tight shirts and shorts. The referee smacked his hands, signaling the start as Nomi ran for their opponent, jumping at the last second, sending their knees into the tourist’s chest, bouncing back into a handspring, and landing back on their feet. The opponent fell from the lifted ring onto the surrounding cushions.

“Mi-gea Abund-ance-Oh!” the crowd exclaimed, cheering the short but fun spectacle as Nomi bowed.

“Whoa, that was fast!” the referee said. “I hope the rest of the matches tonight don’t go by that fast, otherwise I spent more time setting up than actually showing.” His joke fell flat as the crowd deadpanned him.

Sabani took another bite from his stick as the next opponent climbed into the ring, raising a flag to show he was from another settlement, causing the crowd to boo. Nomi expressed intense disdain.

“I’ll snatch that flag and cover it with dirt before I really start giving you trouble!” Nomi barked in the questionable accent.

“Do you really think you could defeat me, Mi-gea!?” The opponent sneered, putting on a more believable accent that caused Nomi to rear and gasp, before ripping off his mask to reveal himself as Okatara-Mun, a Mumistian with canine-like features and a fur mix of black and white. His clothing was orange, gray, and red.

“O-Okatara…Mun!?” Nomi stuttered, shaking.

“You did well against that no-name, but could a neophyte like you give me a real fight?” Okatara-Mun challenged. His false accent forcing ‘real’ to sound like ‘rio’.

“W-wh-well-why, y-yes… Yes, yes, I can… A-and I will! As a matter of a fact, it’s I that should be questioning you, Okatara, should I go all out, or hold back, as I did with the last one I cast from my territory?”

Missing the referee’s clap to start the match, Nomi was shocked by Okatara-Mun’s speed. He flew across the ring, bit onto Nomi’s cloak, twisted around, and slammed Nomi into the center of the ring. “You forgot the Mun,” he whispered in a broken accent. Nomi let out a wheeze as he was tossed from the ring, past the cushions, and into the crowd. Flailing in slow motion, Nomi questioned the series of events before looking down to see Okatara-Mun standing on all fours, pushing off the ground to become bipedal again.

“Ah-hahaha! Okatara-Mun, the Great and Powerfuru, wins another match! Is there no one else who can challenge me-uh?” Sabani laughed loudly at the quick failure of the Hero of Lanai, joined by a higher-pitched laugh. Curious as to who else held his humor, he looked for the source and saw Airakase, another peer, dressed eerily similar to him, in a red kimono with a pink floral pattern and gray highlights. Her bright blonde hair hung past her waist as she bellowed a deep hearty laugh that was rare from her.

The sight of her caused Sabani to grow red, lowering his head and clearing his throat before taking another bite from his stick, however Kaorai, offended by her laughs, rushed to Nomi’s side, clutching their hands in his, as Nomi looked to him.

“Go.. And avenge.. Mi-gea, Kubo.” Letting go, Nomi dramatically acted out a death scene, causing Kaorai to look to the sky and give out a cry.

Climbing onto the ring, Kaorai donned Nomi’s mask and assumed their pose before declaring in an exaggerated accent, “Mi-gea Abund-ance-Oh! Will fight you… Okatara Mun!”

“Oi,” Okatara-Mun barked, snarling. “Another one? Haven’t you learned? No matter how much you try, you’ll never beat me. Now go home before I take you out too!”

“Something you obviously haven’t figured out during your short stay here, Okatara-Mun… Is that we are all Mi-gea! Because we all hold the Abund-ance inside of us, OH!” Kaorai says, attempting to copy the awful accent that Nomi had put on.

The referee clapped his hands to start, and the two ran for each other, taking fighting poses as they neared. Okatara-Mun attempted the same tackle but missed. Kaorai ducked, dodged, rolled, and slid past the dog-like opponent, only for Okatara-Mun to spring off the rope, shoulder-checking Kaorai and sending him sliding back to the center. Standing, Kaorai returned to his fighting pose as the crowd cheered.

Kaorai steadied himself, his heart pounding with anticipation. The crowd roared with excitement, their cheers echoing through the night. Okatara-Mun’s canine features twisted into a sneer, showing his disdain for yet another challenger.

“You think you can beat me?” Okatara-Mun growled, his voice dripping with contempt.

Kaorai adjusted Nomi’s mask. He adopted a pose, mimicking the dramatic stance Nomi had used. “Mi-gea Abund-ance-Oh! will defeat you, Okatara Mun!” he declared, his voice booming over the noise of the crowd.

The referee clapped his hands to signal the start of the second round, and the two combatants charged for each other. Okatara-Mun attempted the same tackle, but Kaorai was ready. He ducked, rolled, and slid past Okatara-Mun with surprising agility. The crowd’s cheers grew louder, their excitement palpable.

Okatara-Mun quickly recovered, springing off the ropes and aiming another shoulder check at Kaorai. But this time, Kaorai was prepared. He dodged to the side, narrowly avoiding the attack, and countered with a swift kick to Okatara-Mun’s midsection. The canine-like opponent staggered back, momentarily winded.

Seizing the opportunity, Kaorai launched a series of quick, precise strikes, each one landing with a satisfying thud. Okatara-Mun growled in frustration, attempting to land a hit of his own, but Kaorai was too quick, evading each attack with practiced ease.

The crowd was on the edge of their seats, their eyes glued to the ring. Sabani, still munching on his food, watched intently, his earlier laughter replaced with genuine interest. Airakase, who had been laughing heartily at Nomi’s earlier defeat, now cheered for Kaorai, her bright blonde hair catching the colorful festival lights.

However it wasn’t enough, as Okatara-Mun’s signature, the ‘Dogu-Kicku’, was finally used. Okatara-Mun raised his paw and gave our a bark, quickly turning and lowering his body, sweeping Kaorai’s feet and sending him tumbling into the ring, where Okatara-Mun pounced and gave a final kick which sent Kaorai off the ring and into the cushions below.

As Kaorai held onto his chest from the kick, Okatara-Mun looked amongst the crowd who cheered. Realizing that Kaorai’s point wasn’t to beat him, but was to show that Mi-gea, and by extension, Lanai, could take on, maybe not yet defeat, but at least stand up to what the outside world has to offer. 

Before the next challenger entered, Okatara-Mun, as well as Sabani and Airakase, looked to Kaorai and gave him a nod of respect, with Nomi, now recovered from their terrifying defeat, rushing to their friend’s side, congratulating and thanking him for not letting Mi-gea go down so easily.

As the evening wore on, Urasadi and Hotonashi found themselves in a stall selling traditional festival masks. Urasadi picked up a mask decorated with intricate patterns and held it up to his face. “What do you think?” he asked, his voice slightly muffled.

Hotonashi giggled, adjusting the mask slightly. “It suits you. Very mysterious.”

Urasadi grinned behind the mask, slipping it into his bag before they continued their stroll through the festival. The lights twinkled overhead, casting a warm glow over the streets. They passed by stalls selling everything from handmade jewelry to delicious street food, the scents of various dishes wafting through the air.

Almost three hours into the festival, just after Vos-Taurtul finished their performance, the announced dance commenced. Kanane and Kotaru, two more students, set the mood with their singing and bass playing respectively, Kotaru occasionally offering soft, deeper backing vocals.

Among the crowd was Hayashi, Kanane’s cousin, who smiled at his kin’s performance. Though he had no one to dance with and hadn’t tried to find anyone, he didn’t mind as dancing wasn’t his thing. He preferred his meditations, which he had been doing by the nearby lake before the dance was announced. He had been interrupted by Kowasuki, Kakkonosu, and Tenaskami, who floated past him in a decorated boat leading a group of tourists and out-of-towners, drawn to the clean, fresh lake that was so rare in the world now. The interruption didn’t bother him as he had expected something of the like, especially during the festival. What he didn’t expect was for his cousin to bring out a pair of small drums that oddly complemented her singing and Kotaru’s bass, which was almost solid black with red cracks forming a pattern.

As usual, Hayashi said nothing and didn’t particularly look at the passing people, simply leaning against a light pole and watching the stage.

Nearby, Gaidoshu, dressed in a white hazmat jumpsuit adorned with hand-drawn colorful cartoon characters, let out a rattling noise through his half-face respirator. “This isn’t so bad,” said Kuremu, another student standing beside the hunched Gaidoshu. He smiled as he watched Kowasuki, dressed in a red and black kimono with purple and navy blue firefly patterns matching her dark blue hair, dance with Kakkonosu, whose attire matched hers with dark blue and black colors and a light blue and white grasshopper pattern.

“Should… have asked her,” Gaidoshu stated after a few seconds, prompting an awkward laugh from Kuremu.

“No, I… You think?” Kuremu questioned for a second before shaking his head and continuing, his thoughts bringing him down. “No, I… They look much better. I mean, I didn’t even dress for the occasion. Plus, I don’t really know how to… dance, just kind of… waddle back and forth.”

Gaidoshu stared at his friend, knowing more was about to come. His short wavy hair was split and wet as always.

“And you know, they’re a lot closer. I get along with ‘Suki, but her and ‘Konosu are always together. It would have been strange to walk up and have him just kind of watching while I got rejected, you know? No, this… this isn’t so bad.”

“You already… said that.”

“Did I? Well… just reiterating it, I guess. It isn’t. Nice food, fun games. Music’s been pretty good, really cool seeing a bunch of bands live. We’ve never seen that in person. And look, I won this little thing.” Raising a transparent plastic-lidded cup, Kuremu showed a small idiosyncratic creature with an elongated, worm-like torso, a strong, thick tail, an elevated head on a thick neck, and a set of round eyes that stared ahead. It coiled around a stick, its ape-like arms holding onto it, taking a defensive posture with a flick of its forked tongue. “Huh, guess it doesn’t care for you?”

“It’s… like a… reptile?” Gaidoshu questioned, his respirator letting out more rattles as he took heavy breaths between words. He recognized its neon-blue striped pattern on a black and red background of keeled dorsal scales, a sign of toxicity.

“No idea, I’ll have to ask Yoshisawa later. For now, all I know is it’s really cool, and I’ve never seen anything like it. The guy I won it from said it eats most living things, from insects to mammals. He called it a curious little bastard that can be fairly destructive if left unattended and said it’s as easy as it is difficult to befriend.” Looking at the creature through the cup, Kuremu smiled. “I don’t know, I think it’s kind of cute.”

As Kanane and Kotaru finished up their act, they introduced onto stage, Getsueikiritel, the head of the city’s military, with each of our named characters having been directly under his tutelage the past five years of their lives. His voice through the speakers struck Sabani with depression as he had finally worked up the courage to ask Airakase to dance, only to be too late.

“First of all, on behalf of myself and my brother, thank you all for participating in Lanai’s sixtieth foundance-day.” Getsueikiritel’s rough, hoarse voice croaked through the pause. “For the guests and migrants, I am Getsueikiritel Entenryu, the brother of the settlement’s leader. Normally, he handles these events, but… he’s busy.” Emphasizing ‘busy’, Getsueikiritel explained he would name the students who held the top scores, and were therefore chosen to be the twenty sent to the capital of the country, Caipat.

 Most festivities halted out of respect for one of the settlement’s twin leaders and the first generation of Lanai Initiates, who had trained hard to be prepared for the outside world.

“Bunkara, Chikai,” Getsueikiritel started, causing Chikai to pause his conversation with one of the dancers he had been watching earlier and smile, proud of passing when he had been certain he wouldn’t. “Histori, Urasadi,” led to abrupt laughter from Sabani and Airakase, ignored by Urasadi, who hoisted Hotonashi into the air and spun around, yelling in victory. “Hosoda, Kotaru,” caused a loud and piercing scream just off the stage, which the mic was able to pick up.

Hayashi lowered his head and turned to walk home, smiling when he heard his cousin Kanane Ishihara’s name called. Sabani, with a face of pride and fake humility, let out a few “Calm down, yes, I’m Sabani Jaidai, but calm down now,” leading to applause, joined by Airakase, as his name was called next.

“Kaminaga, Kakkonosu,” came as no surprise as he had held top scores through the academy. Wrapping his arm around Kowasuki, he gave the crowd a forced smile, however holds no pleasure in passing, as he knows his parents aren’t there to hear it with him. Hearing his name, “Kichirou, Kuremu” clapped with everyone else as Gaidoshu placed a congratulatory hand on his shoulder, with only Kowasuki to look over to him from the crowd, offering a soft smile, causing his face to redden.

When Getsueikiritel called “Makita, Richaku,” Naruhatsu screamed in excitement, having been worried his lack of interest and laziness would have too lowly affected his scores for him to pass, before she jumped into a hug with him. “Mashimo, Kowasuki,” received the loudest applause, the younger sister of Goushida Karakai-Hōdan, a war hero of Lanai, as well as its most famous resident. Letting out a breath of relief that she had been holding for weeks, a wide, colorful smile ran across her face as Kakkonosu embraced her in a hug, her eyes becoming misty from joy. “Royama, Gaidoshu,” was called, but overshadowed by applause for Kowasuki, with only Kuremu offering him a high-five, reciprocated with a hidden smile. 

Applause and whistles calmed, only for a moment before rising again as “Sakatani, Tensakami,” is heard over the speakers. While the applause is loud, it comes to surprise no one as Tensakami was considered by most in the settlement that knew him to be the best of his peers, surpassing everyone generally and only being rivaled by few in their specific fields. Naruhatsu Sakurai’s name was overshadowed by the respect for Tensakami, similar to Gaidoshu’s previously, even Richaku looking away at the crowd around, ignorant to her name being called. “Sanjo, Hotonashi” was once again lifted in the air by Urasadi who celebrated her reveal more than she did, however both stop and become slightly depressed as they hear,  “Sanjou, Airakase”, which causes Sabani to fist pump before freezing as he noticed her laughing at his expression.

As “Seiki, Kaorai,” was called, Sabani was hit with pie, unaware of Kaorai’s preparation, having known that his name was coming up. Shaking and wiping the pastry from his face and giving a hard blow from his nose to get the bits that flew in, stares intently at Kaorai who celebrates with a small dance before pointing at Sabani and calling out loudly,

“If you were a betting man, eh, Sab?! Well, looks like you would have lost!”

Gritting his teeth, Sabani expressed “Whatever” before walking away, done with Kaorai’s taunting.

While still getting an applause, the name “Yoe, Ara,” is called but is mostly met with questions, as Ara kept to herself at all times. Only Richaku had even noticed her standing on the balcony of her apartment earlier. He was the only one in the whole settlement that bothered trying to get to know her, as she made it clear several years ago that she wanted nothing to do with anyone.

The Yoshisawa stall explodes in cheers as Dobutsumé’s name is called, her parents squeezing her in a hug as her mother takes a moment to say in a warm, heartfelt embrace, “I’m so proud of you, Sumé!”With only the name “Yujinko,” leaving Getsueikirite’s lips before Kaorai pointed and laughed at Sabanai again, as the announcer finished “Nomi,” 

“That’s two for two, if I was a casino, I’d kneecap you right now for losing and being in so much debt!” Gritting his teeth by Kaorai’s joyful taunt, Sabani rolls his eyes.

A lot of the other students in their academy gave expressions of disappointment and sadness, however they were met by Getsueikirite stating “I see a lot of sad students in the crowd, as you realize I’ve finished off the list of passed students. To you who failed… Classes resume in two months. Do. Better.” 

Stopping himself, he lets the crowd finish their celebration for those who passed before explaining “While his scores weren’t good enough to pass… I personally am going to pass just one more student.” The crowd grew silent, several of the failed students lifting their heads, hoping for it to be them. “Gakizuka, Shisei.” is a name that no one, especially the trainers of the academy expected as not only gasps escape the crowd but a few of the failed students cry as they run home. An applause does not accompany this name, but instead questioning, not just of the decision but of the military leader himself, Shisei, the crowd is astonished. Even Urasadi and Hotonashi who spend almost everyday with Shisei pause out of surprise.

“Next up is Missing-Trees,” Getsueikiritel stated, leaving the stage to a silent crowd, broken by Kuremu’s hesitant claps, not wanting to bring attention to himself, but swallowed his anxiety and gave a few more harder claps, before Kowasuki began to clap with him, quickly leading to Kakkonosu to join as well, with more and more of the crowd slowly growing to give a couple of soft claps, but not nearly as much as they had for everyone else. A few last minute cries as some of the failed students couldn’t believe they had been out shined by Shisei.

“Hey… where is Shisei anyways?” Hotonashi questioned as Urasadi shrugged. 

“Probably at the gym.”

The night continued to buzz with excitement, the festival in full swing despite most students having failed. Music by the Missing-Trees, laughter, and the clinking of glasses filled the air, creating a vibrant atmosphere of celebration. The residents of Lanai and visitors from beyond mingled, enjoying the festivities and the sense of community that permeated the event. The vibrant lights, the joyful faces, and the rich sounds of the festival created an enchanting scene, one where the hardships of the day were momentarily forgotten, replaced by a shared joy that bound everyone together. As the night deepened, the sense of unity grew stronger, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were present.

Journey Preparations

4.7

The next day, Kuremu awoke with a yawn, lifting himself from his table-turned-bed. He stretched a bit before shutting and locking the bed against the wall, where it hung. Peering over towards his desk on the left side of his room, just past where the foot of his bed had been, he grabbed a couple of items and stuffed them into a satchel lazily left on the floor.

“Kuremu, Kuremu!” A soft, high-pitched voice called from downstairs, followed by the sound of rapid footsteps ascending. Kuremu, who hadn’t even dressed yet, let out an irritated sigh.

“What do you want, Suzu?” he questioned, just in time for his little brother, Suzuki, who bore a striking resemblance to him but with wilder, longer hair, to burst through the door.

“You made it!?”

“Yeah, I passed,” Kuremu responded, not ready nor wanting to deal with this conversation.

“That’s great, I’m glad for you!”

“Thanks,” he dismissed, not noticing his brother fighting off tears as he asked, “When are you leaving?”

“When everyone’s ready. I have to meet up with them later, around midday.”

“Oh… alright.” Suzuki wiped his face to clear his emotions, continuing to stand in the doorway as Kuremu dressed. Eventually, Kuremu, growing uneasy, asked, “What is it?”

“Can I maybe come with you? Not like when you leave, but just hang out before then?”

“No, I have to get back to training,” Kuremu responded, tying his red sash that held together a dark tabard covering most of his body. A dark blue loose shirt with sleeves cut at the biceps clothed his torso.

“But… you’re always training!” Suzuki barks angrily, making Kuremu snap back at him. Kuremu notices his brother’s fists clenching and his heavy breathing. “Don’t take that tone with me,” Kuremu says sternly. “I passed the academy because I’m always working my ass off. And what do you do? Run around and play with your friends! Well, go back to doing that while I actually do something for us!”

“Like you’d know what I do. You never hang out with me. You never even talk to me unless I start the conversation. Even then, you’re always short and mean!”

“You don’t understand, you’re too young.”

“No… you’re the one who doesn’t understand!” With that, Suzuki slammed the door and rushed downstairs, leaving Kuremu to grow in irritation at his brother’s lack of emotional maturity.

Hayashi walked along the dirt paths of the Yoshisawa farmland, gently rubbing the back of a stick-bug that crawled along the arch entrance. He eventually entered the main building, where even more creatures resided. As he walked past them, he made sure to take a good look, eventually reaching the main counter, where a stranger to the settlement was purchasing one of the caged creatures.

After the customer finished their business, Hayashi approached the counter, where Dobutsumé sat, twirling a pen in her hand.

“What’s up, Ichihara?” She greeted warmly.

Hayashi nodded awkwardly, as he often did when standing in place. “Just wanted to check on my fish.”

“Fish?” Dobutsumé questioned with a curious expression, causing Hayashi to pause and stare at her through his round, green goggles, his similarly colored poncho hiding his arm positions.

“M-my… my fish.”

With a light chuckle, Dobutsumé tossed the blazer that barely covered her shoulders back onto the chair and got up. “Don’t worry, I’m just messing with you.” Hayashi’s heart skipped a beat, but he sighed in relief and followed her through the house. They eventually reached some back rooms, where another boy was grabbing small fish to feed into a large tank with eel-shark-esque creatures that quickly gobbled them up.

“Here you are,” Dobutsumé said as they walked up to a tank labeled [Ichihara, H. – Nawaki & Katsumi]. Hayashi pressed his hand against the glass, smiling as the two large fish swam up to greet him. Whispering a few words to them, he turned back to Dobutsumé and gave her a bow, thanking her for her time.

“Don’t worry. My mother said she’d personally check on them every other day,” Dobutsumé reassured as they returned to the front desk. There, they found Kuremu waiting, a plastic cup with his prize resting on the counter.

“It’s not even noon, and we’ve had eight people pass through. Busy day,” Dobutsumé noted.

Hayashi nodded to Kuremu, but they exchanged no words. Instead, he engaged Dobutsumé in conversation, replying, “Oh? Well, hopefully I won’t take up too much more of your time.”

Dobutsumé scooted back in her seat, warming her wrists from the cold counter as she rested her hands beside the keyboard. “What’s that?” she asked, nodding toward the cup.

“That is what I’m here to ask you. I won it in a bet last night and figured I’d come by and ask you what it is.”

“What happened to ‘only people like Sabani gamble’?”

“It’s not a gamble when you know you’re going to win.”

With a smirk, Dobutsumé picked up the cup and examined it closely. “Hmm… Well, it’s not something I immediately recognize, so it’s nothing common to our area. Who did you get it from?”

Shrugging and scratching his nose, Kuremu explained, “Some stranger. He wanted to be all mysterious, so I went along with it. He looked like he was Nahokan, spoke in a weird accent, and gave the name ‘Hansha.’ But I think it was fake, like his dyed blonde hair. He looked our age but was really tall, like six foot.”

“Kuro?”

“Hmm?” Kuremu stopped and looked at the clerk.

“Just want to know about this little guy,” Dobutsumé said, tapping the pinky of the hand holding the cup.

“Oh, right… He said it was a rare specimen but didn’t tell me anything about it besides it’ll eat any living thing, mammal or insect.”

Pendulating the cup back and forth in her hand, Dobutsumé stared at Kuremu through its plastic. “Aposematism, but it doesn’t appear overly aggressive in nature.” The creature rested softly on its stick, watching Dobutsumé as she brought her face closer, sniffing the cup. “Nor does it have a foul taste or smell. The dorsal scales are likely sharp but probably not enough to cause its coloring, so it’s likely toxic or venomous, which may go in line with the notion that it’ll eat anything, though mammals are usually too big for something of this size. Did he say if its water needed to be clean or wild?”

“Uh…” Raising his hands with a shrug, Kuremu shook his head.

“Have you attempted to feed it?”

Shaking his head again, Dobutsumé placed the cup on the counter and walked past a door behind her, leaving Kuremu standing in place. She returned moments later with a thumb-sized insectoid creature typically used for small animal feeding and fishing, held within a hand-sized plastic container.

“Think it’s a reptile?”

“At first glance, you might think it’s a reptile, but I can’t think of many with arms like the ones it’s using to hold onto that stick.”

“Huh…” As Dobutsumé placed the cup inside the box, Kuremu warned, “Be careful. He said it was a curious creature and could be really destructive when it grew bored.”

“Oh, I am. While it’s never good to be bitten by something toxic or venomous, it’s especially not good when you don’t know what it is.” Covering the box with a lid to prevent the insect from escaping, she typed a few things on her computer before looking at Kuremu and saying, “And now, we wait.”

“Wait for what?”

“My mom. She shouldn’t be long.”

“She’s going to open the cup?”

“Oh no, she’ll probably have me do that. She gets really freaked out with reptiles, or in this case, reptile-like creatures, so I handle them. I just want a second opinion.”

With a nod, the two waited for several minutes as the creature’s head lifted from its perch, looking first at Kuremu and then at the insect.

“Hungry little guy?” Kuremu asked. The creature flicked its tongue at him, and he responded as if it had spoken, “Don’t worry, you can eat in just a few more minutes.” With another flick of its tongue, it rested its head back on the stick.

Kanako eventually arrived, questioning, “What are you doing here? Shouldn’t you be spending your last day with your brother and Kouta?”

“Oh, I… I’ve already said my goodbyes. I’m just waiting for everyone else, Mrs. Kanako.”

“Alright, if you say so… I can’t complain much. I have Dobutsumé working until she leaves.” Kanako listened to her daughter explain the mystery creature and agreed to give it a look over before they attempted to open the cup. “Well… On first glance, it looks kind of reptilian, so more your area, Sumé.”

“You don’t have any idea either?”

“No, it’s definitely not something that passes through here often.”

“Huh…” Unsure of what to make of it, Kuremu crossed his arms and looked at the creature.

“How much do you want for it?” Kanako asked, taking out a bag from her satchel.

“W-what?”

“I can’t offer any price, but I’m sure we can find a mutually happy medium.”

“No, I’m not going to sell it… At least, I don’t plan to.”

“Can you say that with an offer like… five Os?”

“Five Os?… Five Os?!” Kuremu jumped, not expecting such a high starting price.

“Five.”

“Well, that’s… a lot…” Clearing his throat for a moment, he looked at the small, hand-sized creature resting on its stick. “That’s a lot…”

“Is a lot enough?”

Thinking for a minute, Kuremu shook his head. “I… I don’t know…”

“Tell you what. We’ll open its lid and let it eat. Depending on how it acts, I might lower… or raise my price. And you can get a better idea if you want it.” With a nod from Kuremu, Dobutsumé went to open the lid but was stopped by her mother, who waved toward Kuremu. “Normally, I insist we deal with new animals. But since we’re negotiating whether or not you really want it, why don’t you? You can’t be scared of it if you want to keep it, right?”

Another nod from Kuremu, and Dobutsumé began to argue but was stopped by her mother. Steadily grabbing hold of the cup, he gently untightened the lid, causing the creature to raise its head and take a defensive posture. Retracting his hand from the box, he held the lid to the cup, opening it to let the creature escape. After a few seconds of watching the three humans, it did.

On either side of it, a pair of long tendrils separate from the main body that stretch nearly its full length, enough to raise past the edge of the cup. Atop of each opens a single eye with vertical pupils. With another flick of its tongue, the two tendril eyes lock onto the insectoid as its body begins to be lifted from the stick, its arms, revealing to hold three digits on either hand, lift it to the edge of the cup which begins to tilt under its weight. Before it does, the creature lowers the tendrils and uses the rough, scaled back of them to propel itself off the edge of the cup and onto the insect, where two pairs of small arms open from the lower half of its face, revealing its mouth to allow it to bite into and grab hold of the insect, which it coils itself around and begins to squeeze.

“Fascinating little guy,” Dobutsumé exclaimed as Kuremu jumped when the creature did, not expecting its swiftness. “Did you see the two pairs of appendages, just outside its mouth? They were similar to the pedipalp of chelicerates, but they were used to cover its mouth… And the way it’s… constricting, it’s likely holding onto the bottom of the insect with those arms. And the way it used those… tentacles? To jump from the lid.” Dobutsumé began mumbling about her interest in the creature, giving a play-by-play of what she just saw. 

“Six Os.” Kanako says, unable to take her eyes off the creature as Kuremu glances at her for a moment before looking back to his prize.

Hesitating to respond, Kuremu states after a moment of watching it, “I think I’m going to keep it.”

“Unfortunate. There’s a new exhibit at the museum we’re expecting soon, and this little guy could be one of its main attractions. Shame you’ll kill it, one of a kind.” Kanako says turning, an obvious disappointment in her expression as she walks away. “Should have a proper, stationary home.”

As Kanako walked away, Kuremu felt a twinge of doubt, but the creature’s unique presence solidified his decision. He looked down at the creature, now contentedly gnawing on its insect meal, and felt a strange sense of responsibility for it.

“You’ve got your hands full with that one,” Dobutsumé said, her eyes still sparkling with curiosity. “If you need any help, Luckily I won’t be far away.”

“Thanks, Sumé,” Kuremu replied, trying to sound confident. “I think I can handle it.”

Dobutsumé gave a small smile and turned to leave, but then paused. “Remember, if it’s a reptile, make sure it stays warm. They’re usually cold-blooded, so it won’t be able to regulate its temperature. It’ll need to bask, but besides that… you’ll just have to watch its habits and learn to read what means when and when means what.”

Kuremu nodded, absorbing her advice. He looked back at the creature, which had now finished its meal and was curling up on the stick, having returned to its cup, looking almost serene. He carefully placed the lid back on the cup, leaving it slightly ajar for air, and secured it in his satchel.

In a secluded clearing just outside of Lanai, Kotaru’s grunts filled the air as he sparred with a local fighter. Sweat glistened on his forehead, his dark, spiky hair sticking to his skin. Each strike was precise, every movement calculated.

“Good, Kotaru. Keep your form tight,” his mentor, an older, muscular man, instructed from the sidelines.

Kotaru nodded, focusing intently. “I will, Sensei. I need to be ready for anything out there.”

“You’ve always been determined, Kotaru. Just remember, strength isn’t everything. Keep your mind sharp, too.”

“Yes, Sensei,” Kotaru replied, landing a final blow that sent his opponent sprawling. He helped the man up, then turned to his mentor, a fire burning in his eyes. “I’ll make the Hosoda name proud. Caipat will remember us, Sir. I swear.”

The mentor, Master Tanaka, regarded Kotaru with a mixture of pride and concern. “Your dedication is commendable, Kotaru. But don’t let your aggression blind you. The path to greatness isn’t just through force. Remember why you fight.”

Kotaru clenched his fists, his gaze unwavering. “I understand, Sensei. But the Hosoda have always thrived through strength and will. I won’t let anything stand in our way.”

Master Tanaka sighed, patting Kotaru on the shoulder. “Just remember, balance is key. Now, take a break. You’ll need your energy for the journey ahead.”

Kotaru nodded, reluctantly stepping back and taking a seat on a nearby rock. He wiped the sweat from his brow, his thoughts racing. His mind wandered to his family, the Hosoda clan, one of the four original families that built Lanai. Their legacy was his driving force.

A younger clan member, Ryota, approached him, carrying a water flask. “Kotaru, you were incredible out there! I hope to be as strong as you one day.”

Kotaru took the flask, nodding. “You will be, Ryota. But remember, it’s not just about physical strength. It’s about dedication, loyalty, and the willingness to do whatever it takes for our clan.”

Ryota’s eyes widened with admiration. “I won’t forget that, Kotaru. I’ll train harder.”

“Good,” Kotaru said, a rare smile touching his lips. “The Hosoda need warriors like you. We’ll ensure our clan’s prosperity together.”

After a brief rest, Kotaru stood up, stretching his muscles. “Alright, back to training. We don’t have much time left before we depart.”

As the sparring resumed, Kotaru’s determination only grew stronger. Every punch, every kick was a step closer to securing his clan’s future. The image of his family’s crest, a fierce dragon intertwined with an oak tree, flashed in his mind. He would honor that symbol, no matter the cost.

Kotaru nodded, his expression resolute. “For the Hosoda clan. For our legacy.”

“Exactly,” his mentor replied, clapping him on the shoulder. “Now go, you’ve trained enough for today. You need to rest and prepare for the journey ahead.”

Kotaru bowed deeply before leaving the clearing. As he walked back towards Lanai, he couldn’t help but think about his clan. The Hosoda were one of the four original families that built Lanai, and their legacy was something he took very seriously. He wanted nothing more than to see his people prosper and to ensure their place in history.

In a quiet corner of the town, Kaorai sat on a wooden bench, surrounded by tools and small gadgets. His nimble fingers worked meticulously, adjusting the mechanisms of a tiny clockwork bird.

“Kaorai, always tinkering,” an elder townsman chuckled as he passed by.

Kaorai looked up, smiling shyly. “I find it relaxing. Helps me think.”

The elder sat beside him, watching the delicate work. “You’re a bright one, Kaorai. Just remember, there’s a world out there beyond these gears and springs.”

“I know,” Kaorai replied softly. “I just… want to be prepared. For whatever comes.”

“You’ll do fine, lad. Just be yourself.”

Sabani was in his element, weaving through the bustling market with a grin. He haggled with vendors, his charisma winning over even the toughest sellers.

“Come on, old man, you can give me a better price than that!” he teased a fishmonger.

The man laughed, shaking his head. “Alright, alright, you rascal. For you, a special deal.”

As he walked away with his purchase, a local girl approached, her eyes twinkling. “Always the charmer, Sabani.”

He winked at her. “Only for you, my dear.”

She giggled, swatting his arm playfully. “You better watch yourself out there.”

“Don’t worry about me,” Sabani said with a mock bow. “I’ve got luck on my side.”

In the peaceful confines of a temple, Chikai knelt before a statue, his massive sword laid carefully beside him as the early morning light filtered through the temple windows, casting a serene glow on the stone floor. Deep in meditation, the silence only broken by the rustling of leaves outside.

“Still seeking peace, Bunkara?” a monk questioned, approaching him quietly.

Chikai opened his eyes, a shadow crossing his face. “I have much to atone for.”

“The path to redemption is long, but you are not alone,” the monk said gently.

Bunkara nodded slowly. “I know. I just hope I can find my way.”

“You will. Trust in yourself.”

After a moment, Bunkara finished his meditation, and rose slowly, gathering his sword. Giving a bow respectfully to the statue before stepping outside into the crisp morning air.

Making his way to the temple’s garden, a peaceful haven where he often sought solace. He drew his sword, its weight familiar and comforting. With a deep breath, he began a series of slow, deliberate movements, practicing his forms. Each swing was precise, each step measured, as if he was fighting an invisible enemy.

As he trained, another monk, who Chikai held as a type of father figure approached, watching quietly. Chikai finished his routine and sheathed his sword, turning to face the monk.

“You seem troubled today,” the monk observed.

Chikai nodded, wiping sweat from his brow. “The journey ahead weighs heavily on my mind. I fear what we have to do once we arrive in Caipat. What we have to face after the journey is over.”

“You have strength, Bunkara, both in body and spirit. Trust in that.”

“It’s not my strength I’m worried about,” Chikai admitted, looking down at his hands. “It’s my past. The things I’ve done… The things I have to continue to do… They haunt me.”

The monk placed a reassuring hand on Chikai’s shoulder. “Redemption is a journey, not a destination. Each step you take is one away from the shadows of your past.”

Chikai gave a small, grateful smile. “Thank you. Your words mean a lot, Sire.”

Kotaru made his way back to the Hosoda estate. The grand structure stood proudly, its walls adorned with ancient tapestries depicting the clan’s storied history. He entered the main hall, where his father, Hachiro Hosoda, the current clan leader, awaited.

“Father,” Kotaru greeted, bowing respectfully.

Hachiro, a stern man with a commanding presence, looked at his son with a mixture of pride and expectation. “Kotaru, are you ready for the journey?”

“Yes, Father. I’ve trained tirelessly. I won’t fail the Hosoda.”

“Good,” Hachiro nodded, studying his son for a moment.  “The journey you’re about to undertake is not just for you, but for our entire clan. Remember that. Show them what it means to be a Hosoda.”

Kotaru straightened, determination etched into his features. “I will, Father. The Hosoda will rise, and Caipat will never forget our name.”

As he left the estate, the weight of his family’s legacy pressed heavily on his shoulders. But Kotaru embraced it, using it to fuel his resolve. With his gear packed and his mind focused, he made his way to the meeting point, ready to lead his comrades into the unknown.

Kakkonosu woke before dawn, the early morning stillness providing the perfect backdrop for his meticulous planning. His room was filled with maps, scrolls, and various supplies neatly arranged and categorized. He reviewed the plans for their journey once more, ensuring every detail was accounted for.

After a quick breakfast, he set out to gather the remaining supplies. The market was just beginning to wake, vendors setting up their stalls and preparing for the day. He moved efficiently, his presence commanding respect from the merchants.

“Morning, Kakkonosu,” a vendor greeted. “What can I get for you today?”

“Good morning. I need provisions for a journey. Dried meats, fruits, and some hardtack.”

The vendor nodded, quickly gathering the requested items. “Big trip ahead?”

“Yes, we’ll be traveling through Mori-Seitoshi. Need to be well-prepared.”

“Stay safe out there,” the vendor said, handing over the supplies.

“Thank you,” Kakkonosu replied, paying for the goods and moving on.

Next, he visited the town’s apothecary, a small shop filled with the scents of various herbs and potions. The apothecary, an elderly woman with sharp eyes, greeted him warmly.

“Kakkonosu, it’s been a while. What brings you here today?”

“We’re heading into the forest. I need some medicinal supplies, just in case.”

She nodded, quickly preparing a bundle of herbs and tinctures. “This should cover most common ailments and injuries. Be careful out there.”

“I will. Thank you.”

With his supplies gathered, Kakkonosu returned home to pack everything carefully. As he worked, an elder town official arrived, carrying a small wooden box.

“Kakkonosu, a moment?” the official asked.

“Of course,” he replied, setting aside his packing.

The official opened the box, revealing a beautifully crafted compass and a set of finely made maps. “These are for your journey. They should help guide you through the forest.”

Kakkonosu took the compass and maps, a look of appreciation on his face. “Thank you. These will be invaluable.”

“You’re a good leader, Kakkonosu. I have faith in you and your team. Be sure to keep our mission in mind.”

“I’ll do my best,” Kakkonosu said, his voice filled with determination.

As the official left, Kakkonosu finished his preparations. He took a moment to review the maps, memorizing key landmarks and potential hazards. Satisfied, he packed the maps and compass carefully, ready for the journey.

Before heading to the meeting point, Kakkonosu took a final walk through the village, where he greeted familiar faces, offering reassuring words and accepting their well-wishes. The responsibility of leadership weighed heavily on him.

With everything in order, he made his way to the designated meeting spot, ready to lead his team into the unknown.

After spending some more time in the garden, Chikai decided to visit the village blacksmith, a burly man with a kind face, who greeted him warmly.

“Bunkara! Haven’t seen you in a while. What can I do for you?”

“Harpia,” Chikai replied, handing over the weapon. “A few adjustments, if you don’t mind.”

The blacksmith inspected the heavy blade, nodding approvingly. “You’ve kept it in good shape. Just a little fine-tuning, then. Give me a moment.”

As the blacksmith worked, Chikai took the opportunity to stroll through the village, reflecting on his past and the path ahead. The villagers greeted him with respectful nods, acknowledging his presence without intrusion. He appreciated their quiet acceptance, a stark contrast to the turmoil within him.

Walking through the bustling market, Chikai felt a tug on his sleeve. He turned to see Suzuki, Kuremu’s younger brother, looking up at him with wide, curious eyes.

“Chikai! What are you doing here?” Suzuki asked, his excitement barely contained.

Chikai smiled faintly, crouching to Suzuki’s level. “Just getting my sword looked at. What about you, Suzu? Shouldn’t you be with Kuremu?”

Suzuki shook his head vigorously. “He’s busy. He’s always busy. Can I hang out with you instead?”

Chikai hesitated for a moment, then nodded. “S-sure, why not? Come on, let’s take a walk.”

As they strolled through the village, Suzuki chatted animatedly about everything that came to his mind. Chikai listened patiently, his usual stoic demeanor softening slightly in the boy’s presence.

“Did you know there’s a festival coming up?” Suzuki asked, eyes sparkling. “Kouta said I couldn’t attend last night’s because it was for adults, but the next one is going to be for everyone! There will be games, food, and lots of fun!”

Chikai nodded. “I’ve heard. Maybe we’ll go together.”

“Really? That would be awesome!” Suzuki beamed, then his expression grew more serious. “Chikai, why do you always seem so… serious?”

Chikai looked down at Suzuki, surprised by the question. “I guess I have a lot on my mind.”

“Like what?”

Chikai paused, thinking about how to answer. “I want to protect the people I care about. Sometimes that means I have to focus and work hard, even if it makes me seem serious.”

Suzuki nodded thoughtfully. “Like Kuremu? He’s always training too. But he still makes time to play with me sometimes.”

Chikai smiled at the mention of Kuremu. “Yes, like Kuremu. He cares about you a lot, you know.”

“I know,” Suzuki said, then grinned. “But I still think he should play more!”

They laughed together, the sound lifting Chikai’s spirits. As they continued their walk, Suzuki spotted a small stall selling sweet treats and tugged on Chikai’s arm.

“Can we get some? Please?”

Chikai chuckled and nodded. “Alright, let’s get some.”

They approached the stall, and Chikai bought a couple of sweets for Suzuki, who accepted them with a delighted grin. They sat on a nearby bench, enjoying the treats and watching the villagers go about their day.

“You’re really nice, Chikai,” Suzuki said between bites. “I’m glad you’re my friend.”

Chikai felt a warmth in his chest at the boy’s words. “I’m glad too, Suzu.”

As the afternoon wore on, Chikai realized it was almost time to meet up with the others. He stood up, holding out his hand to Suzuki.

“Come on, we need to go. It’s almost time to leave.”

Suzuki took his hand, and they made their way back to the blacksmith who handed Chikai his sword, now finely tuned and ready for action.

“Take care of yourself, Bunkara,” the blacksmith said with a nod, understanding the dangers of not just Mori-Seitoshi, but the complete difference between Lanai and Caipat.

“I will. Thank you,” Chikai replied, sheathing Harpia along his back.

With Suzuki at his side, Chikai headed towards the meeting point, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. The bond he shared with the boy reminded him of the importance of protecting those he cared about, and it steeled his resolve for the journey ahead. As they approached the gathering spot, he saw Kuremu, Dobutsumé, Hayashi, and the rest of the group waiting.

On the Road

4.2

Finally, noon had settled, the sun high in the beige sky, its beams occasionally piercing through the clouds that dotted the heavens. The group stood restlessly at the edge of Lanai, their packs and gear ready for the journey ahead. Lanai’s gates, a sturdy structure of reinforced wood and metal, attached to the ten meter wall that surrounds the village, loomed behind them, a reminder of the safety they were about to leave behind.

Kuremu leaned against a sturdy oak, his arms crossed behind his head. He wore a dark cloak that billowed slightly in the breeze, his hood pulled back to reveal a thoughtful expression. His eyes scanned the horizon, searching for any sign of Chikai, the weight of the upcoming journey heavy on his mind. A pair of tonfas dangled from either side of his waist, tied to his belt and backpack.

Kaorai sat cross-legged on a large rock, fiddling with a small gadget he’d taken from his pack. His bright blue cloak was draped over his shoulders, contrasting sharply with his dark tunic and trousers. He glanced up occasionally, his curious eyes darting around, taking in the surroundings and his companions’ activities.

Kakkonosu stood a little apart from the group, his attention focused on a map spread out on the ground before him. He was dressed in practical, weather-worn gear, with a heavy coat and sturdy boots. His brow furrowed in concentration as he traced their intended route with a gloved finger, occasionally glancing up to make sure everyone was still accounted for.

Dobutsumé paced back and forth, her cloak swirling around her ankles with each turn. She was clad in light, flexible dark armor that allowed for ease of movement, her orange hair tied back in a practical braid. Her sharp eyes darted around restlessly, betraying her impatience. Occasionally, she would mutter under her breath, her fingers tapping a quick rhythm against her stomach.

Kotaru sat on the ground, his back against the village gate, his muscular arms crossed over his chest. His hair was ruffled by the wind, and his sleeveless tunic exposed the intricate tattoos that wound up his arms. He appeared relaxed, but his eyes were alert, watching the interactions of his companions with mild amusement.

Sabani leaned against a weathered stone wall, one leg propped up behind him. His casual stance belied the tension in his shoulders. He wore a dark green cloak over his travel-stained clothes, his bow slung across his back. He idly twirled an arrow between his fingers, with his opposite hand holding the hilt of his custom tsurugi, his eyes occasionally drifting to the path they would soon take.

Hayashi was perched on a low branch of a nearby tree, his lithe form blending almost seamlessly with the foliage. His light armor was designed for stealth and speed, and his movements were as silent as the breeze. He watched the group with a serene expression, occasionally pulling out his knife to carve small shapes into the bark.

Ara stood near Kakkonosu, her posture straight and vigilant. She wore a long, dark coat over her combat attire, the hem brushing against her boots. Her hair was tied back in a severe ponytail, and her expression was one of quiet determination. She occasionally exchanged quiet words with Kakkonosu, her eyes never straying far from the path ahead.

Shisei was seated on a low stone, a book open in his lap. His elegant robes were a deep shade of purple, contrasting with the more practical gear of his companions. He read with a calm demeanor, though his eyes would occasionally lift from the pages to observe the group. His staff rested against his shoulder, and a slight smile appeared on his lips as he listened to the others’ conversations.

“Thought the caravans only came on Fridays?” Kaorai, ever the curious one, questioned, glancing around the group as they waited for their final member to show up.

“They do,” Kakkonosu replied dryly, not looking up from the map he was studying. He traced their route with a finger, mentally preparing for the journey ahead.

“Then… Why are we leaving today?” Kaorai pressed, his curiosity getting the better of him.

“Because,” Dobutsumé interjected, her voice firm, “This is our first task as Shishibuki. We’re supposed to make it there on foot.”

“Wh-… what?!” Kaorai hollered, surprise and fear evident in his voice. “We’re not prepared for something that dangerous!”

“Will you pipe down before I pipe you down!” Kotaru shouted back, clearly irritated by Kaorai’s outburst. Kotaru’s muscles flexed as he clenched his fists, his dedication to their cause palpable.

Kaorai paused for a moment, then glanced sideways at Kotaru, a sly grin forming. “I don’t think that came out how you meant it.”

“The point was made,” Kotaru responded through gritted teeth, his patience wearing thin. “We have to be ready for anything, and whining isn’t going to help.”

Sabani, leaning casually against the gate, chimed in, “Who the hell are we waiting on anyway?”

“Bunkara,” Kakkonosu stated, ignoring the ongoing squabble between Kotaru and Kaorai. His focus remained on the map, but his eyes flicked up to check the horizon.

“Bunkara? You mean that guy with the big-ass sword?” Sabani’s eyes widened in disbelief.

“Yeah,” Kakkonosu confirmed, his tone leaving no room for further discussion.

“Ah, damn it… he’s always so fuckin’ gloomy,” Sabani grumbled, crossing his arms. 

“And you’re usually annoying, but we’re managing to deal with it,” Dobutsumé quipped, not missing a beat.

“Alright, d-don’t go starting with me. I’m just wondering why we had to get stuck with him and not someone else,” Sabani retorted, clearly irritated.

“Like Airakase?” Dobutsumé suggested with a knowing smile, enjoying Sabani’s discomfort.

“What?! N-no!” Sabani quickly retaliated, his face flushing. He paused, realizing his panicked response had given away his thoughts. “I just mean that we could have gotten someone a little more pleasant.”

“We have Kaorai,” Kuremu chimed in, causing Sabani to bellow with laughter.

“Hey, I’m cheerful,” Kaorai whispered, a bit hurt by Sabani’s laughter.

“I meant pleasant for us to be around, someone a little more… nice looking,” Sabani explained, still chuckling.

“I… can be nice looking… just prefer to do so on occasions,” Kaorai said defensively.

“A little more…” Sabani motioned with his hands below his chest, and Kotaru, catching on, called out, “He means a girl.”

“But… we have Dobutsumé?” Kaorai questioned, genuinely puzzled as to why this even mattered.

“Sumé? Shisei is more feminine than her. Hell, you’re more girlish than her,” Kotaru mocked, his tone sharp.

“Ah, well, that is just… Physiologically inaccurate, and you know it,” Kaorai countered, crossing his arms.

As the three locked into a playful banter, time seemed to pass slowly for the rest of the group until Sabani broke the conversation by raising his arms and calling out, “Finally! Now can we get on the road?” he shouted, drawing everyone’s attention to Chikai, who was approaching with Suzuki at his side.

“Suzu?” Kuremu questioned as Chikai, a sword larger than him resting on his back at an angle, turned towards the child and rested his hand on his shoulder, whispering something to him before the two embraced in a hug. Suzuki then ran off, his small figure disappearing into the distance.

“Haven’t done anything but stand here, and my feet are already hurting,” Sabani continued his small rant as Chikai entered the circle of the group.

“Sorry I’m late, I had some last-minute things to do,” Chikai said, slightly out of breath.

“What’d my brother want?” Kuremu asked, unsure why Chikai had been with Suzuki.

“Suzuki? He’s a good kid. He was just saying goodbye,” Chikai replied with a shrug.

“To you?” Kuremu’s confusion was evident.

“Does it matter?” Kakkonosu interrupted, clearly eager to get moving. “We’re already an hour late. We need to get going. Talk if you wish, but remember that three miles is our border. Past that, until we arrive at the walls of the city, we’re in Mori-Seitoshi. Keep your senses open, and if anything feels off, signal me.”

The group of Kuremu, Kaorai, Kakkonosu, Dobutsumé, Kotaru, Sabani, and the ever quiet trio of Hayashi, Ara, and Shisei finally set off, the path ahead daunting, long and fraught with uncertainties. Stepping into the wilderness, leaving the comfort of their homes behind for the first time in their fifteen years, each felt a sense of excitement for the new adventure unfolding.

As they walked, the tension began to dissipate, replaced by a sense of camaraderie. Despite their differences, they were united in their mission. The forest around them was dense, the trees towering above, their branches intertwining to form a natural canopy. The air was thick with the scent of pine and earth, a reminder of the untamed beauty of their world.

“Hey Kuremu,” Kaorai began, falling into step beside him, “what do you think is out here. In Mori-Seitoshi?”

“Probably a lot of things we’ve never seen before,” Kuremu replied, glancing at one of the few beams of light that managed to enter through the leaves and branches “But that’s what makes it exciting, right?”

“Exciting? More like terrifying,” Kaorai muttered, though a hint of a smile played on his lips.

“That’s the spirit,” Kotaru said, clapping Kaorai on the back. “Stick with us, and you’ll be fine.”

“Yeah, just don’t slow us down,” Dobutsumé added with a wink, her playful jab easing the tension.

The group fell into a comfortable rhythm, their conversation ebbing and flowing as they walked. They talked about their training, their hopes for the future, and shared jokes to lighten the mood, until they finally approached the three-mile mark, Kakkonosu’s earlier warning echoing in their minds. The air seemed to grow thicker, the forest denser, as they entered Mori-Seitoshi proper.

“Stay sharp,” Kakkonosu reminded them, his voice low but firm, his breath becoming visible with the temperature dropping rapidly.

The chatter died down, replaced by the sounds of nature. Birds called out from the treetops, and the rustling of leaves created a symphony of whispers. The group moved cautiously, every step deliberate. The fallen leaves were quickly mixed with snow. At first just a few inches, but before long the group’s pace slowed considerably.

“This is ridiculous!” Sabani called out as Kaorai shivered, his arms wrapped around himself.

“We were all aware of the temperatures outside of Lanai.” Kotaru mumbled, not fully wanting to talk, but also not wanting to show his weakness. His breath came in frosty puffs as he scanned the forest, eyes sharp for any sign of danger.

“We need to keep moving,” Dobutsumé said, her tone brooking no argument. “If we stop, we freeze.”

“Easy for you to say,” Kaorai muttered through chattering teeth. “You’re used to this.”

Dobutsumé gave him a hard look but didn’t respond. Instead, she increased her pace, forcing the others to follow.

As they trudged through the snow, the landscape became increasingly treacherous. The trees were twisted and gnarled, their branches clawing at the sky like skeletal hands. The ground beneath their feet was uneven, hidden roots and rocks threatening to trip them at every step.

Kuremu peered over to Shisei, noticing his breathing was off, and so gave a warning. “Stay close, Shisei. Don’t let the cold get to you.”

Shisei nodded, his determination evident despite his discomfort. “I’m fine, Kuremu. Just cold.”

“Focus on your breathing,” Kuremu advised. “It’ll help you keep warm.”

Behind them, Kotaru and Sabani continued their bickering, the tension between them a constant undercurrent. “You think you can handle this, Kotaru? Or are those muscles just for show?” Sabani taunted.

“Why don’t you step up and find out?” Kotaru shot back, his eyes narrowing.

“Cut the crap, both of you,” Kakkonosu snapped, his patience wearing thin. “We need to work together if we’re going to get through this.”

The group pressed on, the landscape becoming more treacherous with each passing hour. The snow was now knee-deep, making every step a struggle. The cold bit into their flesh, sapping their strength and resolve.

After what felt like an eternity, they emerged from the forest onto a rocky outcrop. Below them, the land dropped away sharply, revealing a vast, churning sea. The water was dark and foreboding, its surface roiling with waves. A toxic miasma hung over it, the air shimmering with a sickly brown glow.

“This is it,” Kakkonosu said, his voice grim. “The sea between us and the next island.”

“The Bunker is on the other side,” Ara stated, peering into the distance. “But how the hell are we supposed to get across?”

“Swimming is out of the question,” Sabani said, his tone matter-of-fact. “The water’s too toxic. We’d be dead before we reached the shore.”

The group surveyed the area, eyes widening as they noticed a narrow, raised rocky isthmus jutting out from the cliff’s edge, spanning the treacherous waters to the next island. The pathway was precarious, its surface littered with sharp edges and jagged rocks, appearing barely able to hold together.

“That’s our only way across,” Kakkonosu observed, his tone somber. “It’s dangerous, but we have no other choice.”

The group stood in silence, staring at the narrow, jagged isthmus stretching across the toxic sea. Waves crashed against the sharp rocks, sending up sprays of toxic mist. The path seemed to tremble with each impact, as if it might collapse at any moment.

“How did you get across?” Kaorai questioned Sabani who was originally from the city, having only gotten to Lanai a handful of years ago.

“The caravan. It just sort of flies over.” Sabani states without much of a joke, out of his usual character as he peers down the edge at the spiked shore below.

“We need to move fast,” Kuremu said, his eyes scanning the treacherous path ahead. “One misstep and we’re done for.”

“I’ll take the lead,” Kotaru volunteered, stepping forward. His face was set with determination, his need to prove himself, and his clan pushing him to the front. “Everyone, follow my steps exactly.”

Kaorai hesitated, glancing nervously at the path. “Are we sure about this? What if it doesn’t hold?”

“Do you have a better idea?” Dobutsumé snapped, her patience thin. “This is our only option. We stick together, we move quickly, and we make it across.”

The group made a small detoured trek back to get around to where the island broke off. It added another half hour to the schedule, much to Kakkonosu’s dismay. He checked the compass given to him by the village official, which he only then realized didn’t work, causing his heart to skip a beat. Luckily he had spent the past week studying the maps of the path and therefore didn’t need it, but still couldn’t help but wonder why they would give them a broken compass.

With a deep breath, Kotaru stepped onto the isthmus. The rocks creaked under his weight, but they held. He moved slowly, carefully placing each foot as he tested the stability of the path. The others followed, forming a single file line behind him.

Kakkonosu moved right behind Kotaru, his eyes fixed on the path ahead. “Keep a steady pace,” he instructed. “Don’t look down, and don’t stop.”

The group inched forward, the wind howling around them, carrying the toxic fumes from the sea below. Kaorai shivered as he walked, the cold biting into his flesh. Kuremu, just behind him, positioning himself between Kaorai and Shisei, kept a watchful eye, ready to catch either if they stumbled.

They were halfway across when a deep rumble echoed from the sea below. The group froze, eyes wide with fear. The water churned violently, and suddenly, a massive shape emerged from the depths.

A giant serpent, unlike any creature they had ever seen, rose from the toxic waters. Its body was covered in sleek, dark fur, and long whiskers trailed from its snout. It had piercing, intelligent eyes that glowed with a strange light.

“Well, well,” the creature rumbled, its voice deep and resonant. “What do we have here? Little mortals daring to cross my domain?”

The group stared in stunned silence. The creature’s eyes swept over them, its expression one of amused curiosity. “Do you not know who I am?” it asked, its tone almost playful. “I am Mizukira, the guardian of these waters.”

“Guardian?” Kotaru managed to speak, his voice steady despite the fear coursing through him. 

“We mean no harm, Mizukira.” Ara added. “We’re just trying to reach the other side.”

Mizukira’s whiskers twitched as it considered Ara’s words. “Other side, you say? Interesting. Many have tried to cross these waters, but few have succeeded.”

“Please,” Kakkonosu spoke up, his tone respectful but firm. “We have no quarrel with you. Let us pass, and we will be on our way.”

The creature’s eyes narrowed, and it lowered its massive head closer to the isthmus, inspecting the group more closely. “You are brave, I’ll give you that,” Mizukira said. “But bravery alone will not save you. These waters are dangerous, and I cannot simply let anyone cross.”

Shisei stepped forward, his voice shaking but determined. “We have no choice. We have to reach the city. Our lives depend on it.”

Mizukira’s eyes softened slightly, and it seemed to consider their plight. “Very well,” it said after a long pause. “I will allow you to pass, but there is a condition.”

“What condition?” Dobutsumé asked warily, almost in shock at finally meeting the legendary Mizukira that her parents had told her about when she was a girl.

The serpent’s eyes gleamed with a mischievous light. “You must entertain me. Tell me stories of your journey, of your world above. If I find them worthy, I will let you continue.”

The group exchanged uncertain glances. They had no choice but to comply. Kakkonosu nodded slowly. “We agree. We will share our stories.”

Mizukira settled down, its massive body coiling around the base of the isthmus, creating a formidable barrier between them and the sea. The serpent’s scales shimmered with an eerie luminescence, and its eyes were fixed intently on the group. The air seemed to thicken with a palpable tension as they prepared to speak.

“Good. Begin,” Mizukira commanded, its voice rumbling like distant thunder.

Kotaru took a deep breath and started to speak. He told Mizukira about their village, about the training they had undergone since childhood, and the brutal tests they had to endure to have the chance to become Shishibuki. As he spoke, the serpent’s eyes bore into him, unblinking and intense. Kotaru could feel the weight of Mizukira’s gaze, a constant reminder of the creature’s power and ancient wisdom.

He spoke of their bonds, their dreams, and their fears, his voice steady despite the pressure. The dragon listened intently, its eyes never leaving Kotaru’s face. When Kotaru described the day he had saved Kuremu from a landslide during their training, Mizukira’s whiskers twitched slightly, a subtle indication of interest.

Next, Kuremu shared a tale from their training days, recounting a particularly grueling exercise where they had to survive in the wilderness for a week with nothing but their wits and each other. He described how they had banded together, using their unique abilities to overcome the challenges. The memories were fresh in his mind, each detail vivid as he spoke.

Mizukira’s gaze remained fixed, and its massive form radiated an almost palpable energy. The serpent’s presence was both awe-inspiring and terrifying. Kuremu could feel his heart pounding in his chest, but he pushed on, knowing their lives depended on it.

Kaorai, despite his initial fear, found himself speaking up as well. He told a more lighthearted story about a prank he and Sabani had played on their instructor, which had almost gotten them expelled. The dragon chuckled at this, its whiskers twitching with amusement. The sound of Mizukira’s laughter was like the crashing of waves, deep and resonant.

As each member of the group shared their stories, the atmosphere gradually became less tense. Mizukira seemed genuinely interested, occasionally asking questions or making comments. The dragon’s massive presence was still intimidating, but it no longer felt threatening. Yet, there was an underlying current of danger, a reminder of the power the creature held.

Ara spoke next, recounting a harrowing encounter with a pack of wild beasts during one of their missions. Her voice trembled slightly as she described how they had fought off the creatures, relying on their training. Mizukira’s eyes narrowed as it listened, its interest piqued by the tale of battle and survival.

Finally, Shisei spoke, his voice calm and measured. He recounted their recent journey through the forest, the trials they had faced, and their resolve to reach the Bunker. “We are not just doing this for ourselves,” he concluded. “We are doing it for our village, for our families, and for the future of our people.”

Mizukira was silent for a long moment, its eyes contemplative. The tension in the air was almost unbearable, and the group held their breath, waiting for the serpent’s verdict. “You have impressed me,” it said finally. “Your stories are filled with courage, determination, and camaraderie. Very well, I will allow you to pass.”

The dragon’s body uncoiled, creating a clear path for them to continue. “But remember,” Mizukira added, its tone serious, “Stay true to your bond, and you may yet succeed. Not all of you are as you say.”

“Thank you, Mizukira,” Kakkonosu said, bowing deeply. “We will not forget your kindness.”

With that, the group resumed their journey across the isthmus. The rocks were still sharp and unsteady, but their spirits were bolstered by the encounter with Mizukira. They moved quickly, their steps more sure and confident.

As they reached the other side, Kuremu glanced back at the sea-dragon. Mizukira was watching them, its eyes gleaming with a strange, inscrutable light. Kuremu gave a nod of thanks, and the dragon inclined its head in response.

Once they were safely on solid ground, the group paused to catch their breath. The ordeal had taken its toll, but they were closer to their goal. Caipat was within reach.

“We did it,” Kaorai said, his voice filled with awe and relief. “We actually did it.”

“Thanks to Mizukira,” Sabani added, looking back at the isthmus. “Who would have thought a dragon would help us?”

“We still have a long way to go,” Dobutsumé reminded them, her tone cautious, shaken. Still in a bit of shock from her interaction, she pushed the event far into her mind.

“This is a good start,” Shisei stated with a smile, raising his goggles to wipe his eyes and forehead from the sweat that had accumulated.

But as they began to move forward, the ground beneath them trembled. A low growl echoed through the air, sending a shiver down their spines. They turned to see Mizukira, its eyes now filled with a predatory gleam.

“I almost forgot,” the dragon said, its voice dripping with menace. “There’s one more thing you must do.”

The group’s hearts sank. “What more do you want?” Kakkonosu asked, trying to keep his voice steady.

“You must prove your worth,” Mizukira replied, its massive form coiling once more. “There is a creature that has been a thorn in my side for years. A rival of sorts. You will eliminate it for me.”

“What kind of creature?” Kotaru asked, his hand instinctively going to his weapon.

“A sea serpent, much like myself but smaller and far more vicious,” Mizukira explained. “It lurks in the waters just beyond this cliff. Bring me proof of its demise, and I will ensure your safe passage to Caipat.”

The group’s faces paled. They had barely made it across the isthmus, and now they were being asked to hunt down a deadly creature. But they had no choice. To refuse Mizukira was to seal their fate.

“We will do it,” Kuremu said, his voice firm. “Tell us where to find this serpent.”

Mizukira’s eyes gleamed with satisfaction. “Follow the path down the cliff. You will find a cave at the water’s edge. The serpent resides there. Be quick, and do not fail.”

The group exchanged grim looks and set off down the narrow path. The rocks were slick and treacherous, but they moved with determination, their minds focused on the task ahead. As they descended, the sound of crashing waves grew louder, and the air became thick with the scent of salt and decay.

At the base of the cliff, they found the cave Mizukira had described. It was a dark, foreboding place, the entrance barely visible among the jagged rocks. They took a moment to prepare themselves, checking their weapons and gathering their courage.

“We go in together,” Kakkonosu said, his voice low. “Stay close, watch each other’s backs, and remember what we’ve learned.”

They entered the cave, the darkness swallowing them whole. The air was damp and cold, and the walls seemed to close in around them. They moved cautiously, their footsteps echoing through the cavern.

Suddenly, a hissing sound filled the air, and a pair of glowing eyes appeared in the darkness. The sea serpent emerged, its scales glistening in the dim light. It was smaller than Mizukira but no less terrifying, its fangs bared and ready to strike.

---

On the Road

We’ll need to manipulate the elements to stabilize it,” Kuremu suggested. “If we can control the temperature and pressure, we can solidify the path enough to cross.”

Kotaru stepped forward, determination etched on his face. “I can start the deposition process, create a solid layer on the surface.”

“I’ll help,” Dobutsumé added. “Together, we can make it strong enough.”

The group nodded in agreement, each member preparing to use their unique abilities. Kaorai, Kotaru, Ara, and Dobutsumé focused their energy on the isthmus, initiating the deposition process. The air around them grew colder as they manipulated the temperature, causing the moisture to solidify into a firm layer of ice.

“We need to be quick,” Kakkonosu urged, his eyes scanning the horizon. “The longer we take, the more unstable it becomes.”

As the deposition process continued, Kuremu and Sabani worked on condensation, adding an extra layer of stability to the structure. Hayashi used sublimation to remove any excess moisture, ensuring the surface remained solid and less slippery.

Shisei focused on vaporization, carefully directing the toxic fumes away from the group, creating a safer path for them to cross. The combined effort of their abilities resulted in a stable, albeit narrow, pathway stretching across the toxic sea.

“Alright, it’s done,” Kotaru announced, his voice strained but triumphant. “But we need to move fast. It won’t hold forever.”

Kuremu led the way, stepping onto the newly formed path. The ice creaked and groaned under his weight, but held firm. One by one, the others followed, moving as quickly and carefully as they could.

The wind howled around them, the toxic fumes from the sea stinging their eyes and throats. They pressed on, each step bringing them closer to their goal. The icy path beneath their feet was slick and treacherous, but they moved with determination, their training guiding them.

Halfway across, the ice began to crack, hairline fractures snaking out from beneath their feet. “Keep going!” Kotaru shouted, his voice urgent. “Don’t stop!”

Panic surged through the group, but they maintained their discipline, quickening their pace. The shore was tantalizingly close, but the ice was breaking faster than they could move.

Just as the cracks began to widen, threatening to plunge them into the toxic water, they reached the other side. They scrambled onto solid ground, breathless and shaking, but alive.

“We made it,” Kaorai gasped, collapsing onto the ground. “I can’t believe we made it.”

“We’re not done yet,” Kakkonosu reminded them, his voice steady despite the ordeal. “The Bunker is still ahead. We need to keep moving.”

The group gathered themselves, casting one last look at the icy bridge that had saved them. It was already beginning to melt, the toxic sea reclaiming its territory.

“Let’s go,” Kuremu said, helping Kaorai to his feet. “We’re not out of the woods yet.”

With renewed determination, the group set off towards the distant Bunker, their resolve hardened by the challenges they had overcome. The journey was far from over, but they were ready for whatever lay ahead. Together, they would face the dangers of Mori-Seitoshi and emerge victorious.

////////////////////////////////////

“Not far off,” Kakkonosu said, a thoughtful look on his face. “We need to manipulate the elements. If we can create a pathway, we can cross safely, but we’ll have to deal with the water crashing in from all sides.”

Kotaru stepped forward, eyes gleaming with determination. “We can freeze parts of the water, but we need barriers to keep the waves at bay.”

“And we need to move quickly,” Dobutsumé added, her eyes scanning the toxic sea. “This place is more dangerous than we imagined.”

Kakkonosu nodded, formulating a plan. “Alright, Kotaru and Shisei, you focus on freezing the water to create a path. Ara, Kaorai, and I will work on creating barriers to block the waves. Dobutsumé, you and the rest keep an eye out for any other threats. We need to be ready for anything.”

The group took their positions, each member focused and determined. Kotaru and Shisei extended their hands, drawing upon their power to manipulate the elements. The water before them began to freeze, forming a pathway that stretched out towards the distant shore.

Meanwhile, Kakkonosu, Ara Yoe, and Kaorai concentrated on raising barriers of ice and earth along the sides of the path. The barriers rose slowly, forming a protective corridor to shield them from the crashing waves. The effort was immense, the strain evident on their faces.

The wind howled, carrying the toxic fumes from the sea, and the ground beneath them trembled with the force of the waves. The frozen path creaked and groaned under the pressure, but it held firm. The barriers, though not perfect, provided some protection from the relentless assault of the sea.

“This isn’t going to hold for long,” Kotaru shouted over the roar of the waves. “We need to move, now!”

The group began to cross the makeshift bridge, moving as quickly and carefully as they could. The ice beneath their feet was slick and treacherous, and the barriers trembled with each wave that crashed against them.

Halfway across, a particularly massive wave slammed into the barrier, sending a spray of toxic water over the edge. The group ducked, narrowly avoiding the deadly splash. “We can’t slow down!” Kakkonosu urged. “Keep moving!”

The group pressed on, hearts pounding, every step a battle against the elements. The air was thick with tension, the sound of the crashing waves deafening. Just as they neared the other side, the ice began to crack, hairline fractures spreading out beneath their feet.

“Go, go, go!” Kotaru shouted, his voice filled with urgency. The group quickened their pace, the shore tantalizingly close.

As they reached the final stretch, another wave breached the barrier, sending a torrent of water rushing towards them. “Brace yourselves!” Ara yelled, raising her hands to create a temporary shield.

The water crashed against the shield, the force nearly knocking her off her feet. The shield held, but barely. The group surged forward, driven by sheer willpower. They reached the shore just as the ice bridge collapsed behind them, the toxic sea reclaiming its territory.

Breathless and shaking, they collapsed onto solid ground, their bodies and minds pushed to the limit. “We made it,” Kaorai gasped, his face pale with exhaustion. “I can’t believe we made it.”

“We’re not done yet,” Kakkonosu reminded them, his voice steady despite the ordeal. “The Bunker is still ahead. We need to keep moving.”

Dobutsumé helped Kaorai to his feet, her grip firm and reassuring. “We faced the sea and survived. We can handle whatever comes next.”

The group gathered themselves, casting one last look at the treacherous sea behind them. The journey ahead was fraught with danger, but they were ready for it. Together, they had faced their first major challenge and emerged victorious. Now, they had to press on, their resolve hardened by the ordeal.

“Let’s go,” Kuremu said, his voice filled with determination. “We have a mission to complete.”

With renewed focus, the group set off towards the distant Bunker, their spirits unbroken despite the trials they had faced. The frozen wilderness of Mori-Seitoshi still lay ahead, filled with unknown perils. But they were ready for whatever came next, united in their purpose and driven by the need to survive.

///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

The group gathered at the edge of the toxic sea, the air heavy with a noxious blend of chemicals and the stench of decay. The sight of the churning, dark waters sent a shiver down their spines, but they were determined to cross.

“We need to think creatively,” Kuremu said, looking at the toxic sea before them. “An ice bridge alone won’t hold against the waves, but if we combine our powers, we can create a safe passage.”

Kakkonosu nodded, already formulating a plan. “Kotaru, Dobutsumé, Ara, start by using deposition to form large ice blocks. Make them as big and stable as you can.”

Kotaru stepped forward, his eyes focused. “Understood. Let’s get to work.” He raised his hands, channeling his power. The air around them chilled rapidly as he, Dobutsumé, and Ara began to create massive blocks of ice from the water vapor in the air. The blocks formed with a crackling sound, growing larger and larger.

“Good. Now, Bunkara, Kuremu, use condensation to bind these blocks together and form a stable floating platform,” Kakkonosu instructed.

Bunkara and Kuremu concentrated, using their abilities to condense the water vapor around the ice blocks, fusing them into a solid, interconnected platform. The ice blocks floated steadily on the surface of the sea, creating a pathway.

“Sabani, you’ll work on melting and condensation to manage the structural integrity of the platform. Keep it from breaking apart,” Kakkonosu continued.

Sabani nodded, stepping forward to reinforce the platform with a combination of melting and condensation. The ice blocks solidified further, becoming a stable, buoyant structure.

“Hayashi, we need you to use sublimation to create gaps in the ice to let toxic gases escape without weakening the structure,” Kakkonosu added.

Hayashi focused on the ice platform, using sublimation to carefully create small vents. The vents allowed the toxic gases to escape without compromising the stability of the floating bridge.

“Shisei, use vaporization to create barriers of steam. These will help deflect the waves and reduce their impact on the platform,” Kakkonosu said.

Shisei raised his hands, and clouds of steam rose from the sea, forming thick barriers on either side of the platform. The steam hissed and swirled, acting as a buffer against the crashing waves.

“We need to move quickly and stay together,” Kakkonosu urged. “This platform won’t hold forever, and we can’t afford to be caught by the waves.”

The group carefully stepped onto the ice platform, the surface slick but stable. They moved in unison, their eyes focused on the path ahead and their senses alert to any changes in the environment. The vapor barriers held back the worst of the waves, but the sea was relentless, sending spray and foam over the edges of the platform.

Halfway across, a massive wave surged towards them, crashing against the steam barrier with a deafening roar. The barrier held, but the force of the impact sent tremors through the platform.

“Hold on!” Kotaru shouted, using his power to reinforce the deposition process and solidify the platform further.

The group pressed on, their steps quick and deliberate. The toxic fumes stung their eyes and throats, but they were determined to reach the other side. As they neared the shore, the waves grew more violent, the sea seemingly aware of their attempt to cross.

“Almost there!” Kuremu called out, his voice strained but hopeful.

With one final push, the group reached the far shore, the ice platform collapsing into the sea behind them. They stumbled onto solid ground, exhausted but triumphant.

“We did it,” Kaorai panted, his face pale with fatigue. “We actually did it.”

Kakkonosu looked back at the treacherous sea, the toxic waters reclaiming the space where their platform had been. “This was just the beginning,” he said, his voice resolute. “We have a long journey ahead, but we’ve proven we can face any challenge together.”

Dobutsumé nodded, her eyes reflecting the same determination. “Let’s keep moving. The Bunker is still ahead, and we can’t afford to rest yet.”

The group gathered themselves, their spirits lifted by their success. They set off towards the distant Bunker, their resolve stronger than ever. The frozen wilderness of Mori-Seitoshi still lay ahead, filled with unknown perils, but they were ready to face whatever came next. United by their shared purpose and driven by their need to survive, they marched onward, prepared for the trials that awaited them.

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Kotaru stepped forward, his eyes gleaming with determination. “Leave it to me. I’ll freeze the water, create a bridge.”

“Are you sure you can manage that?” Kaorai asked, doubt creeping into his voice.

“Watch and learn,” Kotaru replied, his confidence unwavering. He closed his eyes, focusing his energy. Slowly, he extended his hands, palms down, towards the turbulent sea.

A thin layer of ice began to form on the surface of the water, spreading outwards from the shore. Kotaru’s brow furrowed with concentration as he poured his energy into the task, the ice growing thicker and more stable with each passing second.

The group watched in awe as the icy pathway stretched further and further, eventually reaching the opposite shore. “It’s done,” Kotaru said, his voice strained but triumphant. “But it won’t hold forever. We need to move now.”

Without hesitation, Kuremu led the way, stepping onto the ice. It creaked and groaned under his weight, but held firm. One by one, the others followed, moving as quickly and carefully as they could.

The wind howled around them, the toxic fumes from the sea stinging their eyes and throats. They pressed on, each step bringing them closer to their goal. The ice beneath their feet was slick and treacherous, but they moved with determination, their training guiding them.

Halfway across, the ice began to crack, hairline fractures snaking out from beneath their feet. “Keep going!” Kotaru shouted, his voice urgent. “Don’t stop!”

Panic surged through the group, but they maintained their discipline, quickening their pace. The shore was tantalizingly close, but the ice was breaking faster than they could move.

Just as the cracks began to widen, threatening to plunge them into the toxic water, they reached the other side. They scrambled onto solid ground, breathless and shaking, but alive.

“We made it,” Kaorai gasped, collapsing onto the ground. “I can’t believe we made it.”

“We’re not done yet,” Kakkonosu reminded them, his voice steady despite the ordeal. “The Bunker is still ahead. We need to keep moving.”

The group gathered themselves, casting one last look at the icy bridge that had saved them. It was already beginning to melt, the toxic sea reclaiming its territory.

“Let’s go,” Kuremu said, helping Kaorai to his feet. “We’re not out of the woods yet.”

With renewed determination, the group set off towards the distant Bunker, their resolve hardened by the challenges they had overcome. The journey was far from over, but they were ready for whatever lay ahead. Together, they would face the dangers of Mori-Seitoshi and emerge victorious.

Kuremu, Kaorai, Kakkonosu, Dobutsumé, Kotaru, Sabani, Hayashi, Ara, and Shisei 

Kuremu found himself frequently glancing at his satchel, where the mysterious creature lay hidden. He wondered if it sensed the change in environment, if it too was on edge.

“How’s the little guy holding up?” Dobutsumé asked quietly, noticing his concern.

“So far, so good,” Kuremu replied. “But I think it’s starting to get restless.”

“Just keep an eye on it. We’ll figure it out together,” she reassured him.

As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, casting long shadows across their path, the group pressed on. The road was challenging, but their resolve was unwavering. They had a mission, and they were determined to see it through.

As they continued their trek, the sun began to dip lower in the sky, casting long shadows across their path. The temperature dropped, and the air grew crisp. They knew the dangers of Mori-Seitoshi awaited them, but they were ready to face whatever came their way.

Kakkonosu led the way, his confidence unwavering. He had faith in each member of the team, knowing that their combined strengths would see them through. “Remember, we move as one. No one falls behind. If you see something, say something. We’re a team, and we have each other’s backs.”

The group murmured their agreement, the seriousness of their mission settling in. They were no longer just individuals; they were Shishibuki, a unit bound by their shared purpose and determination.

As night began to fall, they made camp, setting up a perimeter and preparing for the long journey ahead. Sitting around the fire, the group shared stories and strategies, their bond growing stronger with each passing hour.

Kuremu, gazing into the flickering flames, felt a sense of pride swell within him. They were ready for this. They were ready to face Mori-Seitoshi and whatever lay beyond. This was their time to prove themselves, to show the world what they were made of.

“Let’s set up camp here for the night,” Kakkonosu finally announced, pointing to a small clearing. “We need to rest and gather our strength.”

The group nodded in agreement, and they began to set up their tents and prepare a simple meal. The camaraderie they shared during the day persisted into the evening, their bond growing stronger with each passing hour.

Sitting around the campfire, they recounted tales of past adventures and speculated about what awaited them in Caipat. Laughter echoed through the clearing, mingling with the crackling of the fire.

As the stars emerged, Kuremu lay back, staring up at the sky. The journey ahead was uncertain, but with friends like these by his side, he felt ready to face whatever challenges came their way.

“Get some sleep, everyone,” Kakkonosu instructed. “Tomorrow’s another big day.”

With that, the group settled down for the night, the firelight casting a warm glow over them. The road ahead was long, and dangerous.

Campfire Stories

This sees the group finally see Caipat.

They took a trophy from the serpent, a fang as long as a man’s arm, and made their way back to Mizukira.

Kakkonosu nodded in agreement. “Let’s keep moving. Caipat is waiting.”

Caipat Introductions

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Shishibuki Consecution

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1st Mission

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2nd Mission

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3rd Mission

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4th Mission

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5th Mission

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6th Mission

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7th Mission

One of the jobs has them enter a jungled area, where someone claims there is a warlord that has enslaved various entities. While there, they run into “Shark Sage”, who explains that there is constant warring of the feral people in the wastes, explaining this is why places like Caipat are necessary.

8th MIssion

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Anken Part 1

The first part ends with the Anken. A massive gladiator-like event where any Shishibuki can join in. During the event, Caipat gets attacked by Jitasashis, massive monsters. 

Anken Part 2

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Anken Part 3

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What is this?

I grew bored a few months ago, decided to create an Egypt-based spell/sword setting that is loosly similar to my Orsensakino setting/story. This was the result. I think it’s pretty neat, though I probably won’t do much with it. Still wanted to share it.

Overview:

Kemet, a sprawling kingdom surrounded by vast deserts and nourished by the life-giving River Iteru (Nile), is a land of ancient magic, powerful deities, and grand temples. The kingdom is divided into several regions, each governed by a noble house, with the Pharaoh ruling from the capital, Waset (Thebes).

Capital – Waset:

Waset is the heart of Kemet, a city of towering pyramids, massive obelisks, and bustling markets. The palace of the Pharaoh is a magnificent structure adorned with golden statues and intricate hieroglyphs. The city is also home to the Great Temple of Amun-Ra, where priests conduct rituals to honor the sun god.

Regions:

• Abydos: Known for its necropolises and the Temple of Osiris, Abydos is a place of deep spiritual significance. It is said that the souls of the deceased pass through here on their way to the afterlife.
• Memphis: A hub of commerce and craftsmanship, Memphis boasts impressive workshops and is renowned for its artisans who create everything from fine jewelry to powerful magical artifacts.
• Elephantine: Located near the southern border, Elephantine is a critical military outpost and trade center. It’s also home to the Nilometers, structures that measure the river’s inundation.

Magic and Martial Arts:

In Kemet, magic is as integral to life as the flow of Iteru. Magic users, known as hekau, draw their power from ancient incantations, the blessings of gods, and the manipulation of sacred symbols (hieroglyphs). Martial arts in Kemet combine physical prowess with these magical abilities, creating warriors who can summon divine energies, control the elements, and perform extraordinary feats.

Houses and Clans:

• House of Ra: Specializing in solar magic and fire-based techniques, members of this house are known for their intense power and leadership qualities.
• House of Osiris: Masters of necromancy and life-force manipulation, they serve as healers and guardians of the dead.
• House of Set: Skilled in combat and desert survival, they utilize storm and shadow magic, embodying both the destructive and protective aspects of their patron god.
• House of Thoth: Scholars and strategists, they excel in knowledge-based magic, using spells and symbols to gain wisdom and foresee the future.

Deities and Divine Beasts:

• Amun-Ra: The king of the gods, symbolizing creation and the sun. His chosen warriors can summon the power of the sun to vanquish their foes.
• Sekhmet: The lioness goddess of war and healing. Her followers can invoke her fierce strength and regenerative abilities.
• Anubis: The guardian of the afterlife. Anubis’s devotees can commune with spirits and guide souls to the afterlife.
• Sobek: The crocodile god of the Nile. Warriors blessed by Sobek can control water and exhibit immense physical strength.

Main Characters:

• Horus: A young warrior from the House of Ra, gifted with unparalleled solar magic. He dreams of becoming the next Pharaoh.
• Isis: A powerful hekau from the House of Osiris, skilled in healing and resurrection. She is deeply connected to the spiritual world.
• Seti: A rogue from the House of Set, using storm magic and shadow manipulation. He struggles with his dark heritage and seeks redemption.
• Thothmes: A brilliant strategist and magician from the House of Thoth, using his intellect and foresight to protect Kemet.

Plot Outline:

The story follows Horus, Isis, Seti, and Thothmes as they navigate their training and missions. A powerful dark force, led by a rogue hekau from the House of Set, threatens to plunge Kemet into chaos. The young warriors must harness their unique abilities, uncover ancient secrets, and unite their strengths to protect their kingdom from destruction.

12/12/1972

Corruption on high, homelessness, crimes peaking, cults sparking, and levels of vigilantism only seen in comic books. People think the great war ended when the Greater Reich won back in ‘43, but in reality, a new war had just started.

Rebellions across the globe have been the latest symptom of our diseased world, with the Indochina war being the latest, though it’s now on a decline thanks to the efforts of Unitary and Confederate American troops running through the war torn country, high on various substances. Though that’s not to discredit the Southern Tribe’s allies; Türkiye, Australia, and Japan all gave them considerate aid. The Americans just happened to have been in the right place, at the right time.

They were the ones who discovered the new threat. During their tour through the war torn country, they stumbled upon evidence of the New World Concordat, a secret Communistic Muslim alliance between India, New Korea, what’s left of the Soviets, Iran, Argentina, and Mongolia, which have come together to fell Germany and the Japanese Empire.

Soon after this discovery, many German cities were sieged, causing Germany to call for its own allies, Japan, the Americas, and the Russian Federation to step against this new threat of muslim communists that have spread around the world.

World War 3 is on the horizon, for now it is simply a fight against zealots, but soon enough the German allies will gain a name; The Candella Chandelle – the Turning Candle.

I fear it is because of this that I have been promoted to Oberführer and transferred, however while I wait for the war to come to us, I plan to shape up my new home, rid the lawlessness and bring back the pride of our land and people, along with a squad of selected characters I’ve had the opportunity to work with in the past.

“One who dwells in the shelter of the Most High, will lodge in the shadow of the Almighty.”

Psalms 91:1

Volker Lukas Winter

Background info

This was a piece of flash-ficture I wrote back in 2015 as a personal challenge. It was never meant to go anywhere. I post it here now as a way to show how far I’ve come as a writer.

A woman, shorter than average with dark hair, offers a smile as she glances at one of the waiters in the restaurant, her last shift of the week. She’s tired and is simply waiting for the next shift to get there so she can go. Walking over to do a quick clean of one of the tables by the entrance, she stops. Something has caught her peripheral. A large daunting shadow of muscles, a dim yellow glow illuminates from behind its figure. Slowly and cautiously, she goes to open the door, however just as her hand touches the handle, the door is yanked away into a shadowy abyss as the city that was before her just a moment ago quickly descends into a black void. She stares into it, lost and feeling as though she is floating.

Peering over her shoulder, she sees that the diner she was working at is now far away, and the boy who she had just glanced at was now gone, replaced by another, a wider man with curled hair and dark skin. She looks back to infront of herself, uncertain what is going on before, from the void, a set of eyes appears. After a moment of these floating eyes dancing around her, they begin to back away, quickly. Underneath the eyes, a smile widens. As the smile is revealed, the disconnected face speeds back towards her, growing and growing in size as it does.

The woman turns and tries to kick her way back towards the dinner, however finds it to be too far away in this void. She turns back to see how close the face has gotten to find that it’s grown so large that just one of its teeth is now the size of her whole body. She tries to let out a scream but finds that no sound can escape. She struggles, fighting and kicking. Screaming and calling for help, reaching out towards the boy in the diner, but finds no use.

After a moment of fighting, she opens her eyes and looks around. The eyes and mouth are no longer around, forcing her to wonder what happened. She looks back to the boy in the diner and watches as his head expands. Growing bigger and bigger before his face becomes a replica of the missing void’s. She can only watch as he looms over her, tilting towards her and opening his mouth. She tries to once again scream however nothing escapes as she is swallowed whole by the face.

Suddenly Daisuke shoots up from his bed and lets out a blood curdling scream. Sweat falling from his arms as he looks around, trying to get his bearings, gripping his covers tightly as he propped himself up,

“Kunos..” he cursed as his brother banged against the wall, yelling at him for all the comotion. Ignoring his brother’s irritation, Daisuke simply looked down and said with a sigh, “… Sleep terrors.”

Much later that day, Daisuke and Pascal walked side by side, laughing about some silly little inside joke they had shared. The atmosphere seemed vibrant, yet there was an undercurrent of unease in Daisuke’s demeanor that Pascal couldn’t ignore. Though he chuckled at their shared joke, Daisuke’s laughter lacked its usual vigor, his eyes occasionally darting to the ground or scanning the crowd, as if searching for threats unseen.

“You alright, Daisuke?” Pascal finally asked, his voice tinged with concern. “You seem a bit off today.”

Daisuke hesitated, his fingers tapping nervously against his thigh. “Yeah, I’m fine,” he replied, his tone unconvincing even to himself. The events of last night had left him shaken, but he wasn’t sure how to articulate the gnawing anxiety that had taken root in his mind.

Pascal slowed his pace, turning to face his close friend directly. “Come on, man. We’ve been friends for a long time. Something’s obviously bothering you.”

Daisuke sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “I had this… Sleep terror last night. It felt so real. The whole thing with Absolute Throttle and that monster. I can’t shake the feeling that something bad is going to happen. Like we’re being watched, or worse… Hunted.”

Pascal’s eyes shift with concern. “T’was pretty intense… What happened in the terror?”

“It was like this… Void, swallowing everything. And then there was this giant face, laughing and taunting me. She couldn’t escape. She was being consumed by it,” Daisuke explained, his voice trembling slightly. “All I did was stand in the window of that diner and watch as she was tortured by that thing… And at the end of the terror, I became the face in the void and eat her.”

Pascal frowned, placing a reassuring hand on Daisuke’s shoulder. “We’ll figure it out together. You’re strong, Daisuke, stronger than you know. And remember, you’re not alone in this. Michelle and Enkai got your back too.

Daisuke managed a weak smile, grateful for Pascal’s support. “Yeah, you’re right. It’s just… hard to shake off that feeling. Like there’s something more to it.”

Pascal nodded, understanding the weight of his friend’s fears. “We’ll figure it out, okay? Let’s focus on what we can control—getting ready for the preliminaries and staying out of trouble. And if those terrors keep coming, we’ll deal with them too.”

Daisuke took a deep breath, nodding. “Thanks, Pas… One step at a time.” As they continued walking, the camaraderie between them offered a semblance of comfort to Daisuke, even as the shadow of his terror lingered at the edge of his thoughts.

Finally arriving at the auditorium in which the first evaluation was to take place, the duo looked around at the other people entering the large building; normally used for daily lectures for those interested in various topics, today it was being borrowed by the school.

Taking their seat, the two peered around, seeing the various different bodies that lined the seats, characters of all backgrounds, shapes and sizes. A couple hundred students, at least, caused Daiske to whisper to himself as they took their seat, “Lots of people.”, which Pascal nodded in agreement with next to him.

After a few minutes of looking around, the doors to the room are closed and an instructor steps up on the podium grabbing everyone’s attention.

“On the right side of each of your chairs is a small computer. Just like in your grade schools, that is what you’ll be taking this evaluation on. Once you start it, it’ll ask you a series of questions. Once you finish, simply place the computer back in its pocket on the chair and walk out. Wait in the hallway for your name to be called and you’ll be seen by a doctor to ensure you’ll be able to continue for the next evaluation which takes place tomorrow.”

Following the directions, Daisuke and Pascal turned on their computers, entering their personal information, including names and social numbers before starting up the evaluation proper. A series of questions, ranging from history to science, from personal life goals, to moral opinions, as well as how they’d change the actions of characters in recent events, among other topics. By the end of the personality evaluation, the students were forced to answer nearly four hundred questions within a five hour allotted time.

Daisuke would eventually finish the questionnaire, while before Pascal, still far from the first to stand and leave the massive room, where he, along with others, waited. As he awaited his friend, he began peering over at the other students, pacing back and forth before a set of seats where only a few students sat, the rest walking around or talking, beginning their relationships with their new classmates early. His mind racing, his nerves still high from the test as well as the events of the night prior, where the face of the woman who got her head bashed in by the door flashed in his mind.

It was weird, in the moment that it happened, she was just another casualty. Something he’s seen many times before, either through the various cameras around the city as they played videos of Waruioshi or witnessing various fights growing up. But there was something different about her. He couldn’t seem to take his mind off her. She was the girl in his dream. The one he swallowed.

“Aurh!” Daisuke suddenly let out, his mind stirring as he started to become annoyed at its constant rushing. He decided a good way to leave his mind would be to look around, examine his new classmates, like he saw others doing earlier, perhaps he can make a new friend while he waits on Pascal.

The first of which to catch his attention is a massive beast of a man, with rough, leathery brick-red skin, and patches of dark, wire-like hair. His stature was tall enough that his mohawk was only a few inches from the eight foot ceiling, and two large tusks that exited his jowls. “A brute.” Daisuke joked to himself, as another man, standing considerably closer to the average height, talked among the group that surrounded him. Expressing with an air of arrogance how he was one of the top cadets in the military before deciding to come to Chikara-Koko, his body slim but toned, and his hair well kept and swept. Among the many faces, some of which Daisuke recognized from the online forum, ‘/ChikokoReady.chat’, finally he stopped on the individual that piqued his interest the most. A mysterious young man that was keeping to himself, engrossed in his tablet, which caused Daisuke to step over to him, wanting to figure out how he was able to finish the exam so quickly.

As he stepped up, he called out, “Yo.” causing the young man to adjust his glasses and set his tablet in his lap, replying cheerfully,

“Hello there, my good sir! Fine day today, is it not?”

“Not really,” Daisuke scoffed lightly. “Most people around here are stressing over the tests. But you don’t seem to be.”

“I was well prepared for the test, so I have nothing to stress about.” the man replied with a stale smile.

“I was just curious, I saw you finish so early, what are your reasons for joining the Chikara?”

“Well, there are a couple of reasons, really.” the man explained. “Being able to use my power whenever and wherever I want is nice. It’s also quite prestigious, and there are lots of connections to be made here, both working and learning. Why do you ask, what are your reasons?”

“I mean… You kind of covered all the reasons right there,” Daisuke admitted, assuming ‘wanting to help heal, protect, and build society’ being a given. “Like I said, you finished so early, so I just figured you knew exactly what you wanted.”

“Oh, I do.” He swiftly and coldly replied.

“I’m Daisuke, by the way.” Daisuke clarified as two girls passed between them, chatting incessantly.

“Oscar King Kingston!” The man said with narrowed eyes, “Nice to make your acquaintance, Daisuke. I’ll make a mental note to remember you when we get into the school proper.”

“Y-yeah.” Daisuke said, getting an uneasy feeling from Oscar before the intercom came on again, calling for Kingston to enter room 41-N.

“Looks like I’m up.” Oscar said, getting to his feet and securing his tablet into his pack before leaving Daisuke with a wink.

After climbing a few flights of stairs, he found the room with little trouble. Inside, a long line of students awaited their turn. The room was impeccably clean, with shades of cream dominating the decor. At the end of the line stood a man with messy, spiked purple hair, appearing both exhausted and nonchalant, with whom, Oscar exchanged pleasantries,

“Hello there, my good sir! Fine day today, is it not?”

“Mah,” The purple headed stranger replied with a shrug. “That exam took a lot out of me.”

“Ah, no need to stress about things, I’m sure you passed.” Oscar said with a cold smile accompanying his words of false friendliness.

“I’m not stressed, just tired.”

“Ah, so you came in prepared too?… Or you simply don’t care?”

“Nah, I care, just don’t see the point in getting all worked up, ya know?” the man shrugged.

“I suppose that makes sense. Can’t change what’s already happened and all that,” Oscar agreed.

“Yeah, just let what happens, happen,” the man nodded. “Name’s Wataru.”

“Oscar King Kingston! Nice to make your acquaintance, Wataru,” Oscar says, his eyes locking with Wataru for a moment as the stranger nods and offers a fist bump which Oscar instead grabs and shakes, with the two ignoring the awkwardness and instead just going back to silence.

Eventually, the line moved forward, and Oscar found himself walking past a curtain where he was instructed to undress down to his underwear, to which he complied without hesitation. Just as he finished, a man with white and black blotched hair stepped behind the curtain with him, holding a tablet he scrolled through.

“Kingston… Oscar,” the man said, looking up. “How are you feeling today?”

“Very well, thank you for asking,” Oscar replied.

“That’s good. So tell me a bit about your history, Mr. Kingston. Had any surgeries? Ever been in a major sickened state?” the doctor inquired.

“I’ve had no surgeries. The only time I’ve been seriously ill was when I had the Prymore virus for two months as a child,” Oscar explained with little emotion.

“The Prymore, huh? A real survivor you are. Good, you’ll need to be tough for this school. I’ve heard it can get pretty bad. I see you got some glasses there. What’s your vision like?” the doctor asked.

“I’m farsighted and have 11/11 vision,” Oscar responded.

“11/11? Hmm… alright. Well, no broken bones or anything like that? Not now, but ever?” the doctor continued.

“No, never broken any bones or had any fractures,” Oscar confirmed.

“That’s good. That’s good. Alright, how about your Eaftousia? What exactly can you do?” the doctor asked, his tone growing more curious.

“Nothing too spectacular. I can control a puppet of my own making,” Oscar stated, causing the doctor to let out a heavy laugh.

“Alright, bit of a joker, that’s nice. But seriously, what do you do?”

Oscar’s eyes narrowed, and a small, almost unnoticeable scowl crept onto his face. “I. Control. A. Puppet.”

The doctor smiled, realizing Oscar was serious. “Really? A puppet? Hmm, alright. Just making sure, you don’t mean you can control a person like a puppet, you mean you got a… like a… a wooden puppet?”

“Yes, a puppet. It doesn’t matter what it’s made of, as long as I’ve done a type of blessing on it.” Oscar clarified.

The doctor snickered before writing a few notes on his tablet. “Alright, let’s… ha… okay, well I think that’ll be about it. My assistant will come and give you a quick scan then. Wish you luck, puppet-boy.”

With that, the doctor left, and Oscar received a couple of scans and answered a few more questions before being told to redress and move on to the next room. There, he found Wataru chilling next to a door, where he felt compelled to ask,

“Hey Wataru, how’d your medical check-up go?”

Wataru shrugged. “Bit of an odd guy. Went fine enough.”

“That’s good to hear! Hey, quick question, did you notice he couldn’t pronounce ‘hmm’ right?” Oscar inquired.

Wataru looked over at some passersby. “Yeah, he said it a bit weirdly. Like a pigaruu.”

“Yeah, exactly! I thought he was asking me if I wanted ham at first, but then I thought, ‘Wow, this guy must really like ham and he’s just repeating it like a mantra.’ That man must have had an extremely underdeveloped broca’s area. Makes me wonder how he became a doctor. He was quite unprofessional and had an air of dullness around him,” Oscar speculated.

“Yeah, it’s whatever. Probably the only time we’ll ever see the dude anyway,” Wataru responded.

“Maybe. Or maybe not, you never know. If he ends up being a head doctor or something, I’ll make sure he isn’t for long,” Oscar remarked.

Wataru peered over at Oscar. “Didn’t much care for him, huh?”

“No, not at all. He was rather uncouth and a man I believe does not deserve the title of doctor,” Oscar stated firmly.

The sun hung high in the beige sky, its rays occasionally piercing through the dark clouds that covered the heavens, forming an eternal dreary look to the days. A few early arrivals stood in small groups, discussing their plans and preparations, their breaths visible in the crisp air. The atmosphere was a mix of excitement and anxiety, the reality of the journey finally sinking in. Lanai’s gates, a sturdy structure of reinforced wood and metal attached to the ten-meter wall surrounding the city, loomed behind them, a reminder of the safety they were about to leave behind. The distant rustle of leaves and chirping of unseen birds added to the tension, making the forest feel alive and watchful.

Kotaru arrived first, carrying a heavy pack on his back and a determined expression on his face. He scanned the clearing, nodding to those already present with a sense of purpose. Finding a spot, he set down his belongings with a thud, checking over his gear one final time. His tattooed arms flexed as he tightened straps and secured buckles, his hair ruffling in the wind. Each movement quick and forceful, reflecting his nature and readiness for the journey ahead. 

Kuremu was next to arrive, a dark cloak billowing slightly in the breeze, his hood pulled back to reveal a thoughtful expression, his satchel carefully balanced and secured by a pair of tonfas. Spotting Kaorai sitting on a wooden bench surrounded by tools and small gadgets, Kuremu walked over, his eyes softening as he watched the nimble fingers adjust the mechanisms of a tiny clockwork bird.

“Always tinkering, huh?” Kuremu said, his attempt at a light tone barely masking his own tension.

Kaorai looked up, smiling shyly. “I find it relaxing. Helps me think.”

Sitting beside him, Kuremu picked up one of the trinkets, marveling at the delicate work. “You’re a bright one, Kaorai. Just remember, there’s a world out there beyond these gears and springs.”

Kaorai’s smile widened a bit. “I know. But sometimes it’s easier to focus on the small things.”

Dobutsumé paced back and forth, her cloak swirling around her ankles. Clad in light, flexible dark armor, her orange hair tied back in a practical braid, she muttered under her breath, her fingers tapping a quick rhythm against her stomach.

Naruhatsu and Richaku arrived together, the latter still looking slightly disinterested but more alert than usual. Naruhatsu, on the other hand, was brimming with excitement, her eyes darting around the clearing, taking in the scene.

Hotonashi and Urasadi strolled in, hand in hand, their demeanor calm but focused. They exchanged a few words with Kotaru before finding a place to sit and wait.

Chikai arrived, Suzuki in tow, nodding to his peers before finding a spot to wait.

Kakkonosu was one of the last to arrive, his pack meticulously organized and a serious expression on his face. He quickly assessed the group, noting who was present and who was still missing.

As the final students trickled in, Getsueikiritel and a few other elders approached, ready to see them off. The air grew tense as the moment of departure drew near.

Getsueikiritel stepped forward, his voice carrying over the clearing. “Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for Lanai. You twenty have been chosen to represent our village, to forge a path for our future. Remember your training, support each other, and stay true to our values. You carry the hopes of all of us with you.”

The students nodded in unison, their expressions serious.

“One final thing,” Getsueikiritel continued. “Though your journey will be arduous, it is also an opportunity. Embrace it, learn from it, and come back stronger.”

With those words, the elders stepped back, and the students began to gather their belongings.

Kuremu looked back at Suzuki, who had come to see them off. “Be safe, big brother. Come back soon,” Suzuki called out, his voice tinged with concern, knowing this was going to be the last time he saw his brother for years.

Kuremu forced a smile, ruffling Suzuki’s hair. “I’ll try. Take care of everyone while I’m gone.”

Suzuki’s eyes welled up, but he blinked back the tears, his voice cracking as he said, “I will. Come back soon” He looked at Kuremu with a mixture of hope and fear, his face twisted with emotion.

“This isn’t the time for that, Suzu. Just…” Kuremu started but paused, his voice faltering as he struggled to find the right words. The frustration of his inability to comfort his brother grew, hardening his expression. “I’ve got responsibilities. I can’t always be around to babysit you.”

Kuremu’s words hit Suzuki hard, making him flinch. He quickly turned to walk away, but Chikai stopped him, leaning down to place a reassuring hand on his shoulder. “Before you know it, Suzu, you’ll be with us in Caipat,” he said with a wide smile, his tone gentle and encouraging. Kuremu watched with a pang of jealousy, his jaw tightening as he saw the connection between his brother and Chikai.

As the students formed a line, ready to embark on their journey, a sense of unity and purpose filled the air. They were ready to face the unknown, to carve their place in the world beyond Lanai. With a final look back at their city, they stepped forward, their future unfolding with each step they took.

The path ahead led them into the dense and mysterious Mori-Seitoshi forest, a place both feared and revered for its wild beauty and hidden dangers. The trees towered above them, their branches forming a natural canopy that filtered the sunlight into a greenish glow.

Kakkonosu took the lead, his map clutched in one hand, his eyes scanning the dense foliage ahead. “Remember, keep your senses sharp,” he reminded the group, his voice steady but serious. “We’re in Mori-Seitoshi now. Anything can happen.”

Kotaru, carrying his heavy pack with ease, moved beside the guide, wanting to take charge as leader. “Just stay close, everyone. We’ve trained for this.”

Kaorai, ever the curious one, walked with his eyes darting around, taking in the unfamiliar surroundings. “You think we’ll see any of those legendary beasts out here?” he asked, his voice filled with both excitement and apprehension.

“Hardly,” Urasadi said, twirling a knife in one hand, his other occasionally brushing against Hotonashi’s as they walked.

“I hope so!” Dobutsumé replied, her pace brisk and eyes sharp, “If we do, let’s hope they’re more interested in talking rather than eating.”

“Talking?” Tensakami questioned, peering over to Dobutsumé, a light-hearted grin on his face. “You don’t actually believe those tales of talking gods and monsters are true, do you?”

Dobutsumé shot him a sideways glance. “Why not? We live in a world where we can’t even walk under the stars because of our ancestors being too simple to find a peaceful resolution to their problems. We can’t explore much of our world because of the giants and beasts that lurk. Is it so hard to believe some of them might have an intelligence akin to ours? Maybe even more so?”

Tensakami chuckled, the sound warm and genuine. “Belief is a wonderful thing, Dobutsumé. It brings color to our lives. But we must balance it with reason. Focus on what you know and what you can control. Leave the fairy tales for the storytellers.”

Kaorai interjected, his voice tinged with curiosity. “So you don’t believe in any of it, Tensakami? Not even a little?”

Tensakami’s eyes sparkled with amusement as he regarded the tinkerer. “It’s not that I don’t believe, Kaorai. It’s just that I prefer to keep my feet on the ground while my mind wanders the skies. The moment you start chasing legends, you lose sight of reality. And in our world, losing sight of reality can be quite the adventure, but also risky.”

Urasadi, still twirling his knife, added with a smirk, “Tensakami’s right. We’ve got enough real dangers to worry about without adding imaginary ones to the mix.”

Hotonashi, who had been silent until now, nodded in agreement. “Keep your mind sharp and your eyes open. That’s what’ll keep you alive out here.”

Dobutsumé sighed but nodded, her enthusiasm dampened but not extinguished. “Alright, alright. But if we do see something out of the ordinary, I’m going to say ‘I told you so.’”

Tensakami laughed, a sound that lifted the group’s spirits. “Deal. Just make sure you’re ready for anything, Dobutsumé. The world is full of surprises, after all.”

The atmosphere lightened with Tensakami’s cheerful demeanor and wise words. His presence, calm and optimistic, acted as a steadying influence, guiding them through the unknown with a clear mind, a warm heart, and a steadfast resolve. The tension in the group visibly eased as they responded to his positivity. Naruhatsu’s anxious fidgeting stilled, and even the ever-skeptical Kaorai seemed to relax, his usual wariness softening around the edges. In contrast, the stern faces of Lanai’s designated leaders, Kakkonosu and Kotaru, remained vigilant and focused, highlighting the difference in their leadership styles.

Amidst this lightened mood, Shisei stood apart, his presence a stark contrast to the others. His wiry frame and disheveled hair spoke of countless hours of grueling training. A blindfold covered his eyes, a testament to his unique approach to life. Despite his apparent isolation, there was a quiet strength in the way he carried himself, a determination that burned bright even when hope seemed scarce.

Shisei’s thoughts were a whirlwind of strategies and self-improvement, his mind always on the next challenge. To him, every moment was an opportunity to sharpen his skills, to prove his worth in a world that had already written him off. His clawed weapons, strapped securely to his hands at all times, were an extension of his will, ready to strike at a moment’s notice.

He glanced over at Kuremu, a rare flicker of warmth crossing his usually brooding features. Kuremu, one of the few who understood his drive and shared his dedication, was deep in conversation with Gaidoshu. Their bond was forged through countless hours of grueling training and shared struggles, a silent but powerful connection that gave Shisei a sense of belonging he rarely felt elsewhere. Memories of late-night strategy sessions and early morning sparring flashed through his mind, reinforcing the unspoken trust between them.

Gaidoshu adjusted his goggles, his spiky hair catching the light as he spoke with fervor. “Kuremu… Have you ever… Thought about how different…. The world would be…. If people weren’t so…. Afraid of what they don’t… Understand?” His voice was low, almost a whisper, as his respirator let out a low hiss with every pause.

Kuremu nodded thoughtfully, his calm demeanor a stark contrast to Gaidoshu’s natural intensity. “Fear often drives people to make irrational choices. It’s easier to condemn than to try and understand. But that’s why we’re different, Gaidoshu. We don’t let fear dictate our actions.” Suddenly, Kuremu noticed Gaidoshu drop to a knee, jumping off the path, causing him to stop too, asking, “What’s wrong?”

“Mushrooms.” His masked friend said, letting out a small cough through his respirator as he carefully plucked a cluster from the forest floor. “Perfect… For my next batch.”

Raising a brow, Kuremu looked to the others who kept walking, slowly passing them. “What makes these ones special?”

Gaidoshu held up a brown cap, glistening in the light. “They… Release spores that… Cause hallucinations.” Taking a moment to gather more, Kuremu’s intrigue grew as he stepped off the path and got closer to the batch. “Very potent… Mix them with… Right chems… Powerful weapon.”

Crouching beside him, Kuremu examined the mushrooms closely. “You’ve really got an eye for this. How do you even know where to look?”

Gaidoshu shrugged, a faint smile hidden behind his mask. “Experience, mostly… A bit of intuition… The forest speaks… To those who listen.” As Gaidoshu says this, he quickly swats at something in the air, however, Kuremu wasn’t able to see anything.

Kuremu nodded thoughtfully. “And what about the effects? Have you tested them before?”

Gaidoshu’s eyes flickered with a mix of pride and caution. “Only on small animals… So far… The results were… Interesting.. But I’m confident it’ll… Work on larger targets.”

Kuremu picked up a mushroom, turning it over in his hand. “You always find a way to use the environment to our advantage… It’s impressive.”

Gaidoshu chuckled softly. “Necessity is the… Mother of invention, they say… Besides, the Royama have…. Relied on our wits rather.. Than brute strength.”

Kuremu placed the mushroom back on the ground gently. “It’s a good philosophy. One that’s kept us alive more times than I can count.” Patting Gaidoshu on the back as he stood up, shortly followed by Gaidoshu himself, tucking the mushrooms into a pouch.

“Preparedness is key.” Chikai said, standing at the edge of the path, watching them intently, causing both to suddenly jolt towards him.

“You never know what’s lurking… Around the next corner.” Gaidoshu said, an air of intensity building. This was the first time Chikai had attempted to speak to anybody within the current group in years, having shut himself out from those at the academy after he killed one of the other students during a sparring match.

“C’mon,” Chikai said, nodding towards the group who had now left the three behind. “It’s looking like it’s getting colder up ahead, we don’t need to be too far behind.” Pausing, he recognized an uneasiness had grown, their trust in him faulty, especially now that they were alone, and so he attempted to make a joke as playful banter. “I can’t really read a map, so we’ll be lost without the others.”

Kuremu and Gaidoshu exchanged glances before following Chikai back to the group. The air was growing noticeably colder, their breaths forming small clouds in front of them. As they caught up, the conversation amongst the group had shifted to the challenges ahead.

“Is it just me, or is it getting colder faster than we expected?” Naruhatsu asked, hugging herself for warmth.

“Definitely colder,” Urasadi agreed, glancing at the snow accumulating on the ground. “We need to keep moving. Stopping now could be dangerous.”

Kakkonosu, leading the group, checked his map again, his brow furrowed. “We’re getting close to the cliffs. We’ll have to make camp soon, but we need to find a suitable spot.”

Kotaru nodded, his eyes scanning the surroundings. “Let’s find some shelter. The wind’s picking up, and we’ll need protection.”

As they trudged through the increasing snow, Hotonashi shivered, her teeth chattering. “I didn’t think it would be this cold so soon.”

Dobutsumé, always practical, spoke up. “We’ll have to double up on the watches tonight. I haven’t ever been this far from home, there might be critters out here.”

Tensakami, walking alongside her, added, “We need to be prepared for anything. Keep your weapons close and your senses sharp.”

Kuremu, walking with Gaidoshu, noticed how the snow was now knee-deep, making their progress slower and more laborious. “This is turning into a real slog,” he muttered.

Gaidoshu adjusted his goggles, his breath fogging up the lenses momentarily. “At this rate… we’ll be buried… if we stop for too long.” His respirator hissed as he spoke, a reminder of his unique condition as he scanned the increasingly white landscape.

Ahead, the path began to slope downward, and the trees thinned, revealing a breathtaking yet ominous sight. The cliffs of the island loomed ahead, their sheer drops disappearing into a churning, toxic sea below. Waves crashed violently against the jagged rocks that lined the shore, sending up sprays of noxious mist that shimmered with an eerie brown glow. The air grew thick with the acrid scent of the sea, making each breath feel heavy and labored. The group paused, taking in the scene with a mix of awe and trepidation, the foreboding beauty of the landscape a stark reminder of the dangers they were on the verge of facing.

Kakkonosu halted, motioning for the group to stop as Chikai, looking over the edge, whistled softly. “That’s a long way down. We’ll need to be careful.”

“Careful doesn’t even begin to cover it,” Sabani muttered, adjusting his bow. “One slip, and we’re done for.”

“This is it.” Kakkonosu stated abruptly. “We’ll need to find a safer way down, but first, we make camp,” his eyes scanning the waters.

The group spread out slightly, searching for a suitable spot to set up their camp. They found a small, sheltered area nestled between two large rocks, offering some protection from the wind and elements.

“Alright, this will have to do,” Kakkonosu said, setting his pack down. “Let’s get a fire going and set up the tents. We need to stay warm.”

Working together to set up camp, the temperature continued to drop, the snow, now nearly five feet deep in some areas, making their task even more challenging. Despite the cold and the growing fatigue, they managed to get a fire started, its warm glow a welcome relief against the encroaching night.

Kuremu and Gaidoshu sat near the fire, the warmth seeping into their bones. “You know,” Kuremu began, his voice low, “I’ve been thinking about what you said earlier, about people fearing what they don’t understand.”

Gaidoshu nodded, his goggles reflecting the flickering flames. “Fear… is a powerful force… It drives people… to do things… they wouldn’t normally do.”

Kuremu stared into the fire, his mind racing. “It’s true. But maybe, just maybe, we can change that. Show people there’s more to the world than their fears.”

Gaidoshu’s respirator hissed softly as he took a deep breath. “It’s a nice thought… But the world… isn’t that simple.”

Kuremu and Gaidoshu fell silent for a moment, their thoughts lost in the flickering flames. Around them, the rest of the group was busy setting up tents and laying out sleeping bags. The cold wind whipped through the camp, but the fire provided a small, comforting oasis of warmth.

Urasadi and Hotonashi worked together to secure a tent, their movements synchronized and efficient. Urasadi’s dark skin glistened with a light sheen of sweat despite the cold, and Hotonashi’s kimono fluttered in the breeze. They exchanged a few words, their bond evident in their seamless teamwork.

“Do you think we’ll find anything out here?” Hotonashi asked, her voice barely audible over the wind.

Urasadi paused, looking thoughtful. “It’s hard to say. This place is full of mysteries. But whatever we find, we’ll face it together.”

Hotonashi smiled, her eyes filled with trust. “I know we will.”

Nearby, Tensakami was helping Naruhatsu and Richaku with their tent. His cheerful demeanor was a stark contrast to Richaku’s usual disinterest. Naruhatsu’s excitement was infectious, and even Richaku seemed to be more engaged than usual.

“Tensakami, do you really believe there’s nothing to the legends? Not even of the gods?” Naruhatsu asked, struggling with a rope and looking up with dewy-eyed curiosity.

Tensakami chuckled, shaking his head. “It’s not that I don’t believe, Naru. It’s just that I think we need to focus on the here and now. The legends are fascinating, but we can’t let them distract us from our mission.”

Richaku nodded, his usual apathy replaced with a moment of engagement. “It’s easy to get lost in stories.”

Naruhatsu sighed, a dreamy look in her eyes. “I guess you’re right. But sometimes, it’s nice to imagine.”

Tensakami smiled warmly, patting her shoulder. “Imagination is good, Naru. It keeps hope alive. Just don’t let it cloud your judgment.”

Not far from them, Kaorai, Nomi, and Shisei were deep in conversation. Shisei, ever the loner, seemed surprisingly open with the village idiots, finding common ground in their shared sense of isolation and determination.

“Nomi is just scared.’ Kaorai replied to a previous question about his friend who had been uncharacteristically quiet during the trip thus far, his fingers having returned to his small gadgets.

“Nu-uh.” Nomi jokes, their features hidden behind a mask as they look at the hole they just finished digging, where they would be sleeping tonight, reminding them of the bed they’re leaving behind.

“I don’t blame you.’ Shisei responded, examining Nomi’s mask from afar. “This place is scary. Even though nothing has happened. All the noises. The lack of people. The lack of walls. It’s just us and whatever is behind that tree there. Or under this rock here,” Shisei continued, patting his hand against the rock he leaned against.

“Let’s not be downers.” Kaorai interjected, pointing to Tensakami as he continued, “Tensakami is right over there. He alone can take out half the masters in Lanai, and that’s not counting Naruhatsu and Kakkonosu, who are on par with him.”

Kaorai’s reminders of the best of Lanai being with them gave them a bit of hope, as Nomi nodded, asking after a moment of thought. “Why did Getsueikiritel pass you, anyways?” His question obviously directed to Shisei, and one that had been on everyone’s minds since the announcement, as they all paused and looked over, giving Shisei a sense of nervousness as he had to ponder on how to respond.

“I… I wish I could tell you,” he finally replied after a long pressed minute, causing a bit of an argument between Urasadi and Hotonashi who had been cold to him since the night prior when his name was called.

Sabani and Ara were gathering firewood a little way off from the main group. Sabani’s usual bravado was tempered by the seriousness of their situation, while Ara’s quiet determination provided a steadying influence.

“Do you think we’ll make it through this? Get to Caipat?” Sabani asked, his voice uncharacteristically subdued.

Ara paused, looking up at the darkening sky. “We have to. There’s no other option.”

Sabani sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I know. It’s just… this place gives me the creeps.”

“Just stay focused and keep your wits about you.” Ara responded coldly, not interested in dealing with Sabani’s typical antics.

Meanwhile, Kotaru and Kakkonosu were standing at the edge of the cliff, discussing their strategy for the days ahead. Kakkonosu’s meticulous nature was a perfect counterbalance to Kotaru’s brute strength, and their partnership was one of mutual respect and forced interaction by the Lanai’s officials over the years, grooming each to be leaders.

“We need to keep a steady pace,” Kakkonosu said, his eyes on the map. “If we push too hard, we’ll exhaust ourselves. But if we move too slowly, we risk getting caught in worse weather.”

Kotaru nodded, his gaze fixed on the islands across the sea in the horizon. “Agreed. We’ll need to find a balance.” After a moment, he added, “Dobutsume was right, we should set up a double rotation for the night watch. Being this close to the water could be too dangerous to leave ourselves vulnerable.”

As the group huddled around the fire, the conversations turned to lighter topics, a welcome respite from the constant tension. Gaidoshu shared some of his more humorous experiments, eliciting laughter from the group. Kuremu, usually reserved, found himself relaxing in the camaraderie of his peers.

“You know,” Kuremu said, leaning back and staring up at the ever cloudy sky, “I used to think that being strong meant doing everything on your own. But out here, I’m starting to realize that strength comes from the people around you.”

Tensakami, ever the optimist, raised his canteen in a mock toast. “To us. The future of Lanai. May we face every challenge with courage and come back stronger.”

The group raised their own canteens, their spirits lifted by the simple act of unity. The night grew colder, but the warmth of their bond kept them going.

Hours passed, and the snow continued to fall, piling up around the tents and making the air even colder. The wind howled, carrying with it a sense of foreboding. The group huddled together for warmth.

During the second watch, Kotaru and Dobutsumé kept a vigilant eye on the surroundings. The fire crackled softly, casting long shadows on the snow-covered ground.

“Do you ever wonder what life would be like if things were different?” Kotaru asked, his voice low.

Dobutsumé shrugged, her eyes never leaving the darkness, listening to the sounds of the forest, both familiar and alien. “Every day. But thinking about it too much can drive you crazy. We just have to focus on the next step, and then the next.”

Kotaru nodded, his grip tightening on his weapon. “Yeah. One step at a time.”

“Why?” Dobutsumé questioned after a short silence. “What difference were you thinking about wanting?”

Giving her a quick look up and down, Kotaru shook his head, dismissing his thoughts. “It’s nothing.”

Dobutsumé raised an eyebrow but let it slide. She glanced over at Tensakami, who was sleeping soundly a few feet away, his peaceful expression a stark contrast to the harsh environment. A soft smile touched her lips, a rare moment of tenderness breaking through her usually stoic composure.

Kotaru followed her gaze, his chest tightening with a mix of jealousy and resignation. He admired Dobutsumé’s strength and determination, qualities that had always drawn him to her. Yet, the subtle way her eyes softened when she looked at Tensakami didn’t escape his notice. It was in those fleeting moments that Kotaru felt a pang of longing, wishing she could look at him with the same tenderness. Dobutsumé, sensing his gaze, glanced back at Kotaru, her expression unreadable. She appreciated Kotaru’s loyalty and courage, but her heart seemed to drift towards Tensakami’s warmth and wisdom. The silent triangle of emotions hung heavy in the cold night air, each of them grappling with unspoken feelings.

“Dobutsumé,” Kotaru began hesitantly, “have you ever thought about what might happen after all this? When the journey is over and we’re old and gray?”

She tore her gaze away from Tensakami and looked back at Kotaru, her expression guarded. “I try not to think too far ahead. It’s better to stay focused on the present.”

Kotaru nodded slowly. “I guess you’re right. Still, it’s hard not to wonder sometimes.”

Dobutsumé gave him a small, encouraging smile. “Wondering is fine, as long as it doesn’t distract you from what’s important now. We all have our roles to play.”

Kotaru returned her smile, though it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Yeah. We do.”

The time for their watch ended, and Kotaru stood up, stretching his tired muscles. “It’s time to wake Hayashi and Kowasuki,” he said, nudging Dobutsumé. She nodded, her movements slow and deliberate as she moved over to the sleeping forms of the two, gently shaking them awake. “Your turn,” she whispered, her breath visible in the cold air.

Hayashi woke up with a start, his eyes narrowing as he saw Kotaru, believing him to have been the one to wake him. “Don’t touch me, Hosoda,” he muttered under his breath as Kowasuki rubbed her eyes and stretched, oblivious to the tension.

Kotaru stepped back, his posture tense. “You have a problem with me, Hayashi?”

Hayashi’s eyes blazed with anger as he shot up to his feet in a single swift action, getting within inches of Kotaru’s face. “You know I do.”

Kotaru’s hands clenched into fists, the cold air amplifying the heat of his rising temper. “We’re on the same side, Hayashi. The past is the past.”

Before the situation could escalate further, Dobutsumé stepped between them, her voice firm. “Enough. We’re all in this together. We don’t have time for petty arguments.”

Kowasuki placed a hand on Hayashi’s shoulder, trying to calm him down. “Listen to her, Hayashi. This isn’t the time or place.”

Hayashi took a deep breath, his eyes still locked onto Kotaru. “Fine.”

Kotaru exhaled slowly, his own anger simmering down as the icy wind bit at his skin. “Just do your job, Hayashi. We all need to stay sharp.”

Dobutsumé gave both of them a stern look. “We’re all tired and on edge. Let’s not make things harder than they already are. Stay focused.”

With that, Kotaru and Dobutsumé moved to their tents to get some rest, leaving Hayashi and Kowasuki to take over the watch. The fire crackled softly as the snow continued to fall, the camp settling into an uneasy calm as the night wore on.