Chapter Four

Chapter 4: Fuseishutsu Civil War

4-2: Amane Joins the War

Roughly eight hours had passed since Amane left the cave and started heading in the direction of his father’s last known location. A huge encampment with tents and people watching from towers. Archers placed higher up on the towers, for protection. These encampments were the current homes for the soldiers and were in constant need of protection. As Amane walked closer he was spotted at the gate trying to enter secretly. 

“Back off, what do you want?” One of the guards asked. 

“I’m looking for Fujimoto. This is where he was last.” Amane spoke as he reached for the letter in his chest piece.

“How would you know that unless you’ve been spying on us.” Another guard added.

He pushed the letter back into his chest piece before pulling it out all the way to prove it. There was no point in dealing with them rationally at this point.“If I tell you that, will you take me to him?” Amane replied sarcastically.

“I don’t like your attitude, son.” A third guard stated.

“I’m not here to please you and don’t call me: son. I’m here to see Fujimoto.” Amane retorted back to him.

The first guard responded quickly,"  I think we should just kill him as a spy and be on with it.”

“I like that plan.” The second agreed.

The third guard nodded. “Let’s do that.”

“You don’t want to do that.” Amane stated.

“We’ll see. SURROUND HIM.” The first guard shouted.

“Okay then.” Amane shrugged.

The three guards surrounded him, drew their swords and began attacking almost immediately. The first guard lunged at him while the second went for a quick kill and third a low on his legs. Quickly Amane maneuvered out of the way enough to block the lunge with his own sword and ducks the decapitation while kicking the low blade away.

“Telling you, this is a bad idea guys.” Amane said. “I could do this all day without breaking a sweat. Also, who trained you so badly?” He laughed under his hooded cloak.

“YOU BRAT!” The first guard said.

“Yeah yeah, insult my age because you were trained poorly.” Amane shrugged uncaringly.

A soldier ran off into the encampment and took the news of what was going on to Fujimoto’s tent. “Sir, there is a man out here looking for you who is making a mockery of our forces.”

“Did you see who it was? Did they give a name?” Fujimoto asked, worried and hastily.

“No sir. To both. Our guards also didn’t ask. Just went on the attack.” He replied.

“I’ll check it out myself.” Fujimoto stated as he stood up from the table he was sitting at.

“Is that safe sir?” The guard asked in concern for his leader’s life.

“No, but I have a feeling I might know who it is.” Fujimoto came out from behind the desk and stepped out of the Commander’s Tent..

Amane was still toying around with the guards, as if he was just enjoying it. Dodging all their attacks but not attacking in return. The heavy armor he was wearing made it more fun for him by slowing his speed down but their skills still weren’t able to match his. It felt as if they signed up for the war with no experience, at all. It was great that they were training them here at the same time the war waged on.

Amane stepped on a guard's foot and pushed him back while sidestepping another’s blade. “Sorry, I’m not a good dancer.” He said jokingly with a chuckle. He grabbed the guy’s hand holding the blade he just dodged and pulled the sword out of it with ease. “If you can’t use it properly, you don’t deserve it.” He tossed it to the side. The first guy attacked him again and he caught his right arm, then kicked him in the stomach with a powerful kick sending him back a foot, on his back, as he gripped his stomach. “You’re the worst here.”

Fujimoto watched for a few moments,"  Guards, stand down.”

“Yes sir.” 

The two guards said while the original trouble starter didn’t listen. He attacked again,holding his stomach, and  this time managed  to hit the armor Amane was wearing. “A free shot and you still suck.” With a sigh, he lifted the man off his feet then tossed him to the side like a rag doll.

“I said: STAND DOWN. It was for your protection, not his.” Fujimoto yelled.

“General.” Amane smirked at his father. “Dad.”

“Son.” Fujimoto chuckled with a smile. “You’ve grown so much in the last three years.” He walked over to him and put his arms around him. “It’s great to see you again.” He feels the armor and shakes his head. “Still wearing it.”

Whispers from the soldiers around him could be heard:

“Son?”
“Is that Amane?”
“When did he get so strong?”
“When did he get so tall?”
“No way.”

Amane removed his hood,"  I am. It’s nice to see you again, dad. It has been a long three years and mom wants you to visit more.” He said laughing.

Fujimoto deeply sighed and shook his head,"  Hard to do that during a war. I see you’ve kept your training up.”

“I know. I also enhanced the training. I don’t know what happened so long ago after that guy came to our door but since then I just feel stronger than ever. Limitless.” Amane said confidently.

“I see… You still don’t remember anything but don’t let it get you down. In time, all will reveal itself.” Fujimoto smiled,"  Seriously though, when did you get so damn powerful? You could have ended that at any time.”

Amane laughed,"  You’re right, but then I’d have more to deal with. I don’t want to incapacitate all of your soldiers.” He said jokingly.

Fujimoto laughed with him,"  I can’t have that now can I?”

“Not at all.” Amane replied.

“What brings you here, son?” Fujimoto asks, questioningly while worried about the answer.

“I came to join you. The sooner we end this war, the sooner you can come home.” Amane stated sternly.

“I just can’t drop everything and come back. We have to remove their hierarchy from the field and leave no one in charge.” Fujimoto replied tactfully. “Come on son, we’ll discuss this in my tent.” He glanced at the three guards with narrowed eyes,"  You three come with me as well.”

“Yes sir.” The three guards said in unison. 

Amane laughed as he walked behind his father to the big tent. His first day there and he’s made some ‘friends’. This wasn’t going to end badly for anyone at all…

The five of them walked into the big tent in a single file line. Fujimoto sat behind a wooden desk in a small chair. He had some alcohol on the table and a small map of the quadrant. Pieces were set up strategically for their next move. Amane stood on the left side of the room while the guards were on the right.

“Firstly let’s discuss what happened from a guard’s perspective.” Fujimoto asked.

“Well, he came up looking for you and offered no other information. Just that he was looking for you. Seeing as we were in a war; it didn’t seem like a very good idea to just let him in. Since he wouldn’t give more information I elected to end him right there to prevent someone from breaking in and getting to you.” The first guard said smugly with the confidence of someone who was used to lying.

“While you’re right about it not being a good idea to just let anyone in; did you at least ask his name?” Fujimoto replied.

“Yes sir. He wouldn’t give it.” The man answered.

“Wow.” Amane shook his head from side to side.

“Hold on, Amane. Let’s finish this first.” Fujimoto said calmly, while trying to keep everyone else calm, as well.

“Yes sir.” Amane replied.

“Continuing on, you asked for his name and he wouldn’t give it, so you attacked him?” Fujimoto asked.

“That is exactly what happened. Then he beat us up and that’s when you showed up. We were just defending ourselves.” He replied.

“Talk about a load of shit.” Amane said softly to himself.

“Exactly, what I was thinking.” Fujimoto replied, agreeing with his son.

“That’s the truth, sir!” The guard said flustered and red.

Amane shook his head and sighed. He kept thinking to himself, Bad quality of men here. These guys were only here for themselves under the guise of fighting for Fujimoto. There was no doubt in his mind that this guy was demoted several times to guard. 

Fujimoto looked over to Amane,"  What happened first?”

“They told me to back off and asked what I wanted. Replied, I was looking for you. Never asked me for a name. Then accused me of being a spy because I knew where you were.” Amane stated precisely.

“That one is on me. My bad.” Fujimoto said with remorse. “What happened next?”

“He said that he didn’t like my attitude because I was sarcastic, in my responses. I even have the letter you sent.” He reaches into his chest piece and removes the letter. “Then told his guys to surround me. I made fools of them all and you showed up after that.” Amane spoke quickly and precisely.

“Seems what you’re telling me is more accurate than what he told me.” Fujimoto said calmly.

“Sir?” The second guard said respectfully before interrupting. “Amane is telling the truth. That is exactly what happened.” He walked over to Amane,"  I’m sorry, Amane. We couldn’t tell it was you and since we were in a war we didn’t think it through.”

“Don’t worry about it. You were just doing your job.” He replied. “Glad there is someone who can look after him for me.” Amane pointed to his father and laughed.

“Two of them were.” Fujimoto added before he processed what Amane said. “I can take care of myself.” He laughed slightly while looking at Amane.

The first guard tried to slink away while they were talking but the third guard stopped him. “If we’re going to be punished you’re getting the worst of it.”

“You two are free to go.” Fujimoto said sternly. “I want you to stay here.” He pointed at the first guard.

“Don’t punish him too hard. I think you should just double their training. It was way too easy to beat them all together.” Amane said, putting his arms behind his head.

“Probably for the best.” Fujimoto added. “You’ll be punished as such. Double training for the three of you. Tell them when you see them. Dismissed.”

“Yes sir.” He started slinking out of the tent.

Fujimoto returned his attention to Amane. “Now about you joining me.” 

“I already made up my mind. I’m helping you out so you can get home sooner.” Amane said sternly.

Fujimoto rolled his eyes,"  I understand that. I want you to know that; I can’t just give you a title and rank because you’re my son. You’ll have to work your way up the same as everyone else. I can fast track you; if you’re put in a special group where there are only a handful of people. Their duty is recon mostly but they also get suicide missions and assassinations. What do you say about that?”

“Sign me up, I can handle myself. In a group, I think,  we should be pretty well off.” Amane said proudly and somewhat arrogantly. “I do have a request.”

He sighed while shaking his head,"  What is it?”

“Toshiro wants to come help out in a few months. I’m asking when the time comes to place him with me.” Amane asked, getting to the point.

“Fine, but he doesn’t need to be here. He needs to be there with his father. Toshin isn’t going to like this.” Fujimoto said, shaking his head.

“He’s waiting until he comes of age. He can’t really be stopped then, right?” Amane questioned.

“Technically, no.You’ll find out that Toshin can be very persuasive.” He sighed again before answering the request. “Request granted, he’s with you.” Fujimoto stated.

“Thank you. When do I begin?” Amane replied.

“Immediately, Amane.” He said sternly. “I need you to fill in tonight for someone we lost recently. You’ll be heading behind enemy lines to remove a captain and a general. You will take the captain and your squad leader will take the general.” Fujimoto stood up and walked towards the entrance of the tent,"  Come with me.”

Fujimoto led Amane to a section of small tents that took them approximately five minutes to get to from where they were at camp. The area was dimly lit and in the shade of trees. The personnel here slept during the day and waged their war at night, under cover of darkness. The special operation force was a team of assassins. 

“These are our best operatives, son. The man in charge of them helped train me to where I am and I passed his teachings to you. In a way, he’s your grandfather in swordsmanship.” Fujimoto stated. “Toru, come on out. I know you’re awake.”

“Yeah, hold on. I’m coming.”  The man yelled back as he exited his tent backwards. He was a slightly older man with messed up hair that looked as if it was greasy. It seemed like he hadn’t had a decent night's sleep or bath in three years. “What’s up, Fuji?”

“This is Amane.” Fujimoto replied.

“I know who he is, I can feel his energy. He’s grown up since I last saw him..which was like eight years ago.” He smiled at him,"  You sure did grow up a lot, kid. Stronger too, it would seem.”

“I remember you. I once saw you watching over the house at one point.” Amane replied, surprised to see him.

“I used to do that for your father.” Toru responded quietly with a head nod. “He has always been a trouble maker.”

Fujimoto smirked and was slightly embarrassed by Toru’s words. ”This is your new recruit. Keep training him and teach him more.”

Shaking his head, Toru sighed,"  You’re sending your son out on assassinations?” He questioned Fujimoto with his left eyebrow raised. “You’re sure about this?”

“I am positive,Toru. Don’t worry about him, he’s good, just took on three of our guards with no issue.” Fujimoto added.

“Alright, kid. You’re with me. We leave at five.” Toru stated.

“Yes sir.” Amane said. “See you later, General.”

“See you later, son.” Fujimoto said, walking off back to his tent. His mind wandered around the idea if he had made the right decisions. The decision to let Amane but as his father he still worried. The other decision; letting Toshiro join against Toshin’s wishes. Time would tell if he made the right call.

Amane’s first few missions went off with no problems. They were quick, clean, and efficient in their tasks. He picked up speed and precision while traveling with Toru on these missions. Long range and short range skills were sure to be of use in his future. The team carried out several assassinations including several high ranking enemies while the numbers were dwindling on both sides. With his assistance on the team, they were dwindling faster on the other side. Fujimoto’s army was winning this war quicker now, they were on a hot streak. 

Several months have passed since Amane joined up with his father at the encampment. Having more experience in battle, leadership, and his own skills; it was time to set out for another purpose. That purpose was to retrieve Toshiro and return back to the camp with him. Amane left his tent quietly and received a nod of approval from Toru to leave the camp. However, being the son of Fujimoto, Amane knew he had to see his father before he left.

When he arrived at the Command Tent, he realized his father wasn’t inside of it. Confused, he shrugged and sat down in his father’s chair behind his table. Grabbing a paper and pencil he wrote a quick note that read: Leaving the camp to recruit, Toshiro. We’ll return before the next mission.  He slid the note under a bottle of alcohol to make sure his father would see it with the pencil next to it.

Amane left on his own, leaving most of his possessions behind and took only one sword with him. He was aiming for a speedy collection and return but he couldn’t hide his excitement to see his best friend. He had missed him quite a bit during their time apart but  it was finally time for them to fight side by side, for the first time in years. Times had gotten increasingly tough for him lately during the last few months. He knew that having a reliable friend to lean on, who he could talk to more, was beneficial to his mental health. 

Toshiro kept up his training, while he learned some basic home skills such as sewing and cooking, from Toshin. His drawing skills had improved quite a bit, as well. He also spent several days a week talking with Kitanni. Their relationship had grown to more than a friend level. The romantic side of their relationship wasn’t something he thought he could focus on but he knew, now, he had another friend who would be there for him. 

Toshiro and Kitanni spent his birthday together in a small party held for him by his father. During that part, Toshiro revealed to him that it felt weird not having Amane and his family with them. Toshiro agreed with him wholly since they had always made time for birthdays. They weren’t going to let that deter them from enjoying it as a break from the hectic world around. Toshiro received a small charm from Kitanni that he kept around his neck. She told him it was supposed to bring luck to him and he wore it with pride. His father prepared a new heavy belt for his gear including;  holsters for certain pieces of equipment, pouches for his thread and sewing needles, and also modified his jacket for just one blade on his back and one on his side.  Toshin’s gifts were very helpful and he appreciated them deeply. The relationship between Toshiro and Toshin had closed the gap to bring them closer again which was something they were both glad for.

Now was the time for Toshiro to join Amane on the war front but secretly, since Toshin didn’t know about it. Toshiro quickly made his way to the cave, avoiding any possible battles with the creatures in the fields.. The only belongings he brought with him were; a bag with clothes and his swords. The daytime sky shined brightly; with the sun at its highest as if to offer Toshiro a clear view of his surroundings. There were no creatures in sight as he ran as fast as his legs could carry him, to make decent time to the cave.

I must have made it here first today. Toshiro thought as he looked around the cave. Might as well get changed up.

Toshiro emptied his bag and changed his clothes into what he was going to consider his battle attire. Specifically sewn clothes, by his own hand, that were more enhanced for training and defense to match his jacket’s style. Finally, dressed and he began putting his boots on.

Amane had run for hours to get to the cave to see it empty still. He sighed and looked around the entrance; seeing a bag and sword. “Toshiro, are you here?” He questions with his hand on the hilt of the sword.

“Just finishing up my boots since these things are difficult sometimes.” He said laughing. “Nice to see you Amane.” Toshiro stated while standing up from his crouched position.

“It’s nice to see you too.” He added with a smile on his face. It was the first time in months since they had met up and he was excited to see his friend once more and what he had learned. Are you ready?” Amane asked.

“Sure am.” Toshiro nodded his head. Amane handed him his bag and sword from the entrance way. “Thanks.”

“You’re welcome. We should move out since we’ve got a distance to cover.”  Amane stated. “I’ll fill you in on the way.”

“Sounds good to me, lead on.” Toshiro replied in agreement to the plan.

During the time they walked back to the encampment, Amane filled Toshiro in on what had been happening during the last few months. How he fought off the guards the first day and was immediately placed into the fast track assassination team that Toshiro was going to be placed in with him. Their job was to remove several key players from the enemy side during the night and keep fighting. That their squad was the special ops of the encampment and as such; were awarded special privileges upon completing tasks to keep them focused. 

After several hours, they arrived and went straight to Fujimoto’s tent, but not before the guard from before gave Amane the evil eye. This was a normal occurrence now, since Amane outranked him. Being outranked by someone who came three years late to the war was an insult to him  and he was growing to resent both Amane and Fujimoto.

Amane and Toshiro didn’t stop to talk to anyone along the way. The soldiers all thought that Amane was still in his tent after the mission they went on. Yet, here he was with another person and he was wide awake. The only thought most of them were thinking was; he needs rest.

Fujimoto was waiting for them to arrive after finding the message. “Toshiro, welcome to the encampment. Amane, you could have waited for me before you left.” He watches Amane stare at him with his eyebrow raised, looking like Jade, and sighed. “Good point.”

“Thanks for having me.” Toshiro replied with a worrisome tone. “I hope this doesn’t upset your friendship with my father.”

“Leave Toshin to me, this was your choice.” Fujimoto said. “I appreciate your help.” He cleared his throat,"  I placed you with Amane to keep you both safe so watch each other’s backs. It also happened to be good timing after the last mission; since we lost one of our guys.”

Amane interrupted,"   He died from that scratch?”

Fujimoto laughed,"  No, he just decided that was his last mission. He’s been doing it for three years so he has definitely earned a break. Promoted him to captain in the infantry. He wanted a change of pace for a while.”

“I was gonna say; that was a tiny wound...from a fence.” Amane sighed in relief after speaking. “Do we have a mission tonight?”

“We do. There are two general traveling on the road, right now, looking for reinforcements. They have an entourage with them who are skilled. They travel by carriage. I don’t know if you’ve mastered our technique yet but it would be helpful, if you did.” Fujimoto stated with commanding authority.

“For the most part, I’d say about eighty percent mastered.” Amane shrugged his shoulders. “I’ll do what I can.”

“Will I be going on this mission?” Toshiro asked.

“Yes.” Fujimoto responded.

“I’ve got your back and I’ll show you the ropes.” Amane added while putting his hand on Toshiro’s shoulder.

“Go see Toru. He should be  waiting for you both.” Fujimoto responded.

“Yes sir.”  Toshiro replied.

“General?” Amane asked.

“What’s on your mind?” Fujimoto looked at Amane.

“When are you visiting home?” Amane questioned.

“Probably in two weeks.” Fujimoto answered.

“Alright, I’m coming with you. I need to ask Mom a few questions.” Amane responded calmly before returning back to soldier mode. “We better get to Toru, General.”

“Permission granted, Lieutenant.” Fujimoto responded to him. 

“Let’s go, Toshiro.” Amane led the two of them out of the tent.

“Lieutenant?” Toshiro asked, confused by the rank Amane had.

“I told you; I was fast tracked. My skills are higher than most of the people here. I’m not infantry material, I'm a specialized asset. Now you’ll be the same in this group. You’re going to learn some things that are advanced and quickly.” Amane replied.

The two of them walked to where Amane’s group was located and waited for them. Toru stood out in front, waiting for them to arrive and the rest of the  members were lined up on the side. Toru pointed at where he wanted them to stand.

“Line up.” Toru stated. “We have another new recruit. His name is Toshiro and his last name doesn't matter. I’ve been informed that Amane and Toshiro have been given our mission already. I’ll fill the rest of you in.” He cleared his throat and began speaking again,"  We’re going after two generals who are riding in a carriage. They’re heading north right now looking for reinforcements and a possible strategic point behind us. Pincer attacks will be more likely if they can get behind us. The two generals aren’t far from where we are right now. The generals are escorted by a group of twenty skilled swordsmen and we…have seven.This will not be easy, if you can’t attack from a distance; stay hidden. Amane, if you can remove a singular wheel with your technique; it would help greatly.”

“As I mentioned to the general, the skill is mostly usable but I still need practice with it. I’ll do whatever I can though.” Amane responded.

“That’s good enough for me.” Toru stated before redirecting his speech back to everyone else. “Those  who can’t attack long distances or use a bow, will be waiting further up for the carriage to stop. We will take out who we can before you join in the fight.” He nodded his head with a serious look on his face. “That’s all and since we’ve all been briefed; let’s go.” He commanded.

Amane grabbed his bow and quiver then put them around his body. Toshiro only had what he came with and left his bag behind in Amane’s tent while keeping only his sword. Toru and one other soldier had a bow while everyone had a sword. Their trek north began towards the mountains. The road was long, bathed in blood, and filled with deceased enemies and allies alike. Battles had taken place all over the quadrant and they ,now, were after retaking some areas. These generals were going to get more of a battle than they bargained for. 

The trek led them through mud, water, and blood. Bodies littered the area and the swords that drank the blood of their victims still remained in the bodies. This path they were on was a hellscape of corpses and pain. A sight no one should have to see or go through in their life. The war was killing everything and it had to be ended. These types of actions; disgraced all involved and all who saw it. This made the entire quadrant look awful and disgusting to outsiders and insiders alike. After trekking through the Underworld to get to their destination, the small group of soldiers finally reached their destination, being just slightly ahead of the generals. 

“Amane, you’re up.” Toru instructed him quietly.

Amane nodded his head and ran back behind the carriage. He removed his sword and began charging energy into it. If you could just work this one time. He thought to himself. The sword turned red with energy as he lowered it to a forty to fifty degree angle and held it with both hands. He focused intently on it and as it charged, he felt it resonate in his mind alerting him to it reaching full capacity. He swung his sword upward, sending a red crescent of energy flying fast at the carriage wheel. Yes, Yes, Yes. He thought to himself.

The crescent of energy connected with the legs of the enemy soldiers, removing the legs it passed through. Then hitting the carriage wheel and taking a huge chunk from it before fizzling out. Amane darted back into the darkness and drew his bow to be ready for the next attacks. He looked over to where Toru was and saw him giving him a thumbs up. Toshiro was in awe at the technique, as he’d never seen something like that before.

“What is going on?” The first general yelled out.

The second general climbed out of the carriage to see the wheel,"  We were attacked, it seems. Our wheel is messed up and a few of our guys are injured. The assassination squad is here. TO ARMS.” He shouted to his uninjured men.

Amane stuck his head up from the bush he was hiding in and shot an arrow from his bow at one of the guards. A second arrow flew in from across the way. A third and final arrow from above. Each of the arrows were blocked by one sword.

Shit. Toru thought to himself. This isn’t good.  He looked behind himself to the others, shook his head and pointed back, which was their signal for retreat.

During the time he was doing Toru was signaling his men, Amane couldn’t see him from the angle he was at. If the arrows weren’t going to do it he was going to do it by force himself. He set his bow down in the woods and walked out onto the road. 

The first general laughed as Amane came out of the bushes. “You’re a little young to be on the assassination squad for Fujimoto.”

“I’m being fast tracked.” Amane replied sarcastically. “I may be young but I’m strong enough to take out three of your soldiers along with your wheel; strategically stranding you here.”

Toshiro thought to himself, What are you doing? Get back over here.

“Why did you step out here to face us?” The second general questioned.

Amane shrugged,"  You could say hard headed and stubborn runs in my family.”

Toru pulled his bow back out and fired another arrow at the soldiers who were watching Amane and hit one in the chest. He moved lower and fired another arrow, hitting the next in the throat. That was two down.  Another arrow fired into the knee of a soldier followed by a second arrow in the neck. 

Six men down and sixteen to go including the generals.

Amane held his sword at the ready,"  You generals should be a lot better than your ground soldiers right? That’s a challenge I’ll take on.”

“You don’t deserve to fight with us, boy. We are beyond YOUR skill level.” The first general stated.

“Not even a chance to fight us, kid.” The second retorted with a smirk on his face. “Give it a few decades.”

Another two arrows were fired at the generals who didn’t even blink. The arrows came flying at them and they gently moved out of the way. Both generals had speed and confidence along with power. This was something Amane could feel now that they had been forced to move faster than he expected from them.

Definitely stronger than I anticipated. Amane thought to himself. Still...it has to be done.

“ATTACK!” The first general yelled out as he commanded his men to attack Amane, the only one visible.

The first wave was just a few soldiers and Amane was blocking attacks left and right. The power gap between the soldiers and generals was large enough for Amane to tell with ease. Amane dodged and swung his blade, cutting one soldier’s hand off before impaling him in the chest. Attacked from behind and kicked in the back, he caught his balance by stabbing his blade into the dirt. Amane leaned back just in time to avoid their quick attacks and forced them into a confrontation where they stabbed each other as he dodged their swings.He removed his sword from the ground and started walking towards the rest.

Thirteen enemies left.

Toru yelled out,"  INFANTRY ATTACK!”

Toshiro and two other guys ran out into the battle. The clanging of swords could be heard as Amane, Toshiro along with two others were fighting with the enemy soldiers. It was an uphill battle for the assassination squad. 

“TOSHIRO, DUCK!” Amane yelled as he punched the guy in the face who was beside Toshiro while still gripping onto his hilt.

“Nice.” Toshiro said calmly as he focused on stabbing a guy behind Amane. “Looks like we’re saving each other today.”

“JUST LIKE OLD TIMES, RIGHT?!” Amane shouted, recalling the event from three years ago, their first real battle.

Eleven remain.

The two soldiers accompanying them went down quickly as they were surrounded and taken out. Amane and Toshiro were the two left on the battleground as the other members stayed hidden right now. Amane took his blade and filled it up with energy to strengthen his sword as he swung through an enemy blade and into his skull. Blood spewing from it everywhere and on him. 

Ten.

Toru jumped out of his hiding spot and sped over to the generals, catching one off guard by jumping into his face as distraction while stabbing him in the chest. A little diversion to remove a figurehead was a mark of his skill. He pulled his dagger out of the general’s chest and jumped back.

Nine and a general down.

Toshiro continuously stared at one soldier until his enemy began turning his blade on himself. The murderous intent brought out during a chilling stare, is known to make the person it’s used on forced to kill themselves. The special skill of the Shigekazu Clan...minus making wine, of course.

Amane,"  Was that the Cold Stare?” He said grunting while blocking an incoming attack and pushing the soldier back.

“I think so.” Toshiro replied in confusion. “I didn’t know, I could do that yet.”

“Glad you said that, I was about to ask you how long you’ve been able to do that.” Amane shook his head,"  Poor guy though.” He kicked his opponent in the chest and blocked an attack coming for Toshiro. “Back in the battle, please.”

“Right.” Toshiro got his mind back into the battle and out of his abilities. He stabbed the man in the stomach that Amane blocked for him.

Seven remain. One General left.

“Bowman, get back to the encampment just in case.” Toru ordered.

Without saying a word the remaining bowman disappeared from the battlefield. Seven on three. The squad was doing quite well against their stronger enemies but now they were surrounded. The tide could be turning.

The remaining general took full command and led the charge against them. His first attack went for Amane, who was ready for him. He blocked several oncoming attacks but could feel they were very powerful and full of force. Amane filled the blade with energy and began defending easier while putting more force behind his defense. Toru joined him, blocking the attack and pushing him back out of the engagement.

“Amane, you’re stronger than that.” He grunted as he blocked more attacks. “Refocus your energy, get that armor moving with you and not against you.” Toru stated.

Amane jumped back further and began refocusing his spiritual energy to its peak again. Immediately, he started moving more fluidly than he was before. His speed was increased from his focus, and he made quick work of two of the soldiers before they noticed their hands were missing.

Toshiro caught another soldier in a Cold Stare but it was broken and the soldier barely pierced his skin. Toshiro’s lack of use with the ability meant that it wasn’t fully developed currently. Toshiro forcefully finished him off instead by piercing him with his own sword.

Five enemies remain.

The remaining five enemies were the strongest as they forced the three back against the carriage. Amane was in the middle, Toshiro on his right, and Toru on his left. This was to be their final stand.

“This is going to call for drastic measures guys. Any tricks left?” Toru asked while holding his sword before him. He was ready to defend himself.

“Not from me.” Toshiro stated as he gripped his hilt tightly in his hands, electing to use both hands instead of just one for better defense.

Amane thought for a moment, his blades lowered,"  I could test my speed.” He said with a wide smirk.

“What do you need?” Toru asked bluntly.

“A minute to remove my armor.” Amane stated confidently. “It’s weighing my movement down.”

Toshiro nodded. “Since we’ve seen him move at peak energy, let's see how he moves without a hindrance.”

“We’ll get you your minute.” Toru added, forcing them back with a single swing of his blade.

Amane quickly began unlatching his armor pieces. The general closed in on them while Toru and Toshiro were ready to defend. This was going to either be a quick minute or a long minute, depending all on Amane.

“Removing your armor is just going to make you an easier kill.” The general thought he’d get in one more lecture before he killed the old man and two kids with him..

Amane nodded,"  Sure but you still have to catch me first.” He undid the last latch on the armor causing it to fall on to the ground with a thud. Amane picked up a second sword and was now dual wielding them, a style that he would develop as time went on. Without a word, he disappeared from sight only to reappear a few moments later. “The end.”

“What did you do?” Toshiro asked, highly confused by what he didn’t witness. Nothing seemed to change from his perspective.

“Same question.” Toru replied with equal confusion.

“Nothing it seems.” Amane retorted as they all stood there with the same amount of confusion.

“It did nothing. All of that posturing was just a waste of…” The general’s last words as his head slid down at an angle off his skull. His body fell over limp and you could see inside of him from above. His tongue was still flapping from the nerves twitching in pain.

The remaining soldiers began falling to pieces, as well. Screams could be heard as they did so. Horrifying blood curdling screams. That echoed for miles.

Zero enemies remain.

“Let’s go back.” Toru stated as he patted Amane on the back. “Good work.”

“Thanks.” Amane replied.

“That was really gross to watch but you’re so fast.” Toshiro retorted with a deep confusion and surprise in his voice.

“It’s the training I’ve been doing with this armor.” Amane began putting his armor back on piece by piece. “It’s doing more than even I realized, Toshiro.”

Toru began walking towards their encampment while Amane was getting ready. He knew that they would catch up without an issue after seeing that. He was surprised, himself, at how fast he was, how much faster he was in comparison to his father currently and when he was eighteen. The progression was astonishing and incomparable. Toru knew there was something special about Amane but he didn’t know what it was, yet.

“Toru!” Amane shouted to him. “What about the carriage?”

“Loot it. Burn it with the bodies.” He replied while waving goodbye, still walking away. His mind set on figuring out what made Amane so different from his father. Toru didn’t say it but he was proud of him. Someone would carry on his teachings after he passed on, whenever that was to be.

“On it.” Amane shouted back. “See you soon.”

Toshiro sighed and stayed back with Amane to see what he was going to do. “What are you going to do?”

Amane was shuffling through their clothes for currency and non flammable objects. “ I’m gonna take their stuff and do what I’m told. In this situation, they definitely don’t need the money any more and fighting a war is costly, take all the money we can get. I know it’s weird, but we have to survive by doing this for the time being.”

They began tossing swords and daggers into a pile to one side of them and looted bodies into another pile. It wasn’t the best of times but it was a good way to collect some money for the war and remove weapons from the enemy before they could retrieve them. The steel of the blades was durable and high quality. It was a  waste to just let them decay in the elements.

“Here, let me help.” Toshiro said as he kicked half a skull over to the pile. The general was now among his men and the rest of his body. “That was gross by the way.”

“What was gross?” Amane replied quickly.

“Watching that guy’s head slide apart.” Toshiro said, holding back his disgust while pointing at the skull.

Amane sighed,"  Yeah it was. The tongue flapping wasn’t exactly pretty either.”

While they talked, a strange sensation filled them both with a surge of power. Amane began sweating and burning up uncontrollably. Toshiro’s temperature began dropping and his breath was visible as his skin turned a pale blue color. A similar reaction they had three years ago was happening once again. Amane hit the ground on his left knee and fell over into the pile of bodies.

“Amane!” Toshiro shouted as his body became stiff as if it was frozen.  He gritted his teeth and hit the ground hard next to the bodies. The blood from the bodies was freezing around him.

It wasn’t long before they had both passed out from the exhaustion. Frozen blood and bodies near Toshiro and bodies that had been burnt to mostly ash under Amane. The night felt as if it was dragging on for them both even though they were passed out the entire time. Their bodies were undergoing internal physical changes. Toshiro’s internal temperature had become extremely low while Amane’s had skyrocketed upward. Their bodies had accepted these new temperatures during the night as well as new abilities.

Amane pushed off the ground with one hand while straining to remove his other from under him. His arm was numb from laying on it all night. “TOSHIRO, WHERE ARE YOU?” He shouted.

“Beside you, Amane.” He said slowly getting up from the ground as well. “How are you feeling?”

“Hot.” Amane replied. “What about you?”

“Freezing.” Toshiro looked at his skin. The color was a light pale blue with small amounts of cool frost steaming off his body. “This is weird.”

“It is.” Amane looked around,"  Where are the bodies?”

“I think you burned them, like you were told.” Toshiro replied jokingly.

Amane chuckled lightly,"  I think you're right.” He held his right hand up and a small flame burst forth from his palm. “Stop it. Stop.” He began shaking his hand trying to put it out. Amane sighed in relief as it finally went out.

Toshiro was laughing while Amane was panicked about the fireball and followed suit creating a small ball of ice in his hand. “This is really...cool.”

“That’s enough of that.” Amane said with a smile. “We should get back.”

“They’re probably worried about us but you just need to chill out.” Toshiro replied while laughing.

“That’s not gonna get old at all.” Amane jokes.

Amane and Toshiro collected the swords and money that was available. Afterwards, they began walking back towards camp mostly in silence as they were focusing on what had happened and what happened next. Both of them had received elemental abilities that hadn’t existed for centuries.

The two of them finally returned to base over a day later. After what had happened with the battle and being weakened from exhaustion but they did make it back. Their new powers coursing within their bodies with the abilities of those who came before them.

Fujimoto,"  I’m going to lead a search party to find my son and Toshiro. We’ll head back to where they last were and start a search from there. Any questions?”

“No, just a statement: turn around.” Toru stated as he pointed.

Fujimoto turned around fully to see them coming up to the gate carrying weapons. He rushed down to his son and Toshiro and went to hug them both at the same time.

“Step back, Dad.” Amane said calmly.

“What’s wrong, Amane?” Fujimoto questioned him.

“I don’t want you to get burned.” He replied.

“Burned by what?” Fujimoto asked, confused.

“By him.” Toshiro responded. “Or frostbitten by me.”

“What are you two talking about?” Fujimoto said cautiously.

“We don’t know how to explain what happened and we’re not exactly controlling it.” Amane stated as he dropped the swords on the ground,"  Be careful, those are hot.”

“Watch out these are freezing.” He set them on top of the others in the pile.

“Show me.” Fujimoto demanded.

Amane and Toshiro both held out their hands. Amane’s right hand and Toshiro’s left hand, so they were side by side. Amane has a small fireball hovering above his palm while Toshiro’s a small ball of ice above his.

“It’s time.” Fujimoto declared. “We’re going home tomorrow. Toshiro, you should visit your father when we visit Yama Zengo. He may have something to help you.”

“He may, also, want to beat my ass.” Toshiro stated.

Amane made an oops face,"  Oh yeah...you weren’t supposed to be here.” He sighed,"  At least it has only been a couple of days.”

“So…he’ll beat my ass less?” Toshiro rolled his eyes,"  My father is a bit stricter than that, the length of time wouldn’t matter.”

“I’ll go talk to him. Amane, you go home and visit your mother. I’ll go with Toshiro to see Toshin and try to cool the flames.” Fujimoto declared with a slight chuckle. “Sorry, it just kind of slipped out.”

“Thank you, sir.” Toshiro said, bowing his head in respect.

Fujimoto smiled at him,"  Don’t worry about it, Toshiro. We’ll see how it goes with me there. I can’t guarantee it will be much better but I’ll try.” He took a breath,"  For now: go rest.”

Amane and Toshiro walked back to their tents that were side by side, now that there was time to put one up for Toshiro. Amane removed his armor which was surprisingly undamaged. He changed into a black gi with a white octagon on the back and exited his tent. He began walking towards one of the waterfalls in their camp to meditate. He decided he wasn’t going to bother Toshiro and let him decide what he wanted to do on his own. He heard rustling from behind him and Toshiro, who was also in a black gi with a triple sword logo on the back, came running out.

“Going to the waterfall?” Toshiro asked.

“Going to meditate on this and try to understand what’s going on.” Amane replied bluntly.

“Mind if I join you?” Toshiro said smiling.

“As long as you don’t mind sitting in silence. It’s a time of peace and thinking. Tranquility. Used to focus your mind. Can also be used to focus your energy.” Amane replied in detail even though he knew that Toshiro meditated as part of his own training.

“It’s what I was wanting to do.” Toshiro answered.

“Come on.” Amane smirked.

Together they both walked to the waterfall. Questions they had they were going to try to answer. Why did these powers awaken? Why did elemental powers return all of a sudden? Would they continue to awaken in other people? Could they harness these skills and use them effectively?

They arrived at the waterfall after several minutes of walking both removing their jackets from their bodies and hanging them in trees. They sat next to each other under the waterfall. Amane sat with his legs crossed, his hands resting upside down on his thighs and knees. Toshiro sat with his legs crossed with his hands together as if he was focusing his energy. The water from the waterfall crashing down upon them. Small chunks of ice broke off from around Toshiro while steam formed as water hit Amane.

Their new abilities were the start of something old being given life in a new world.

Hours of meditation had passed in what felt like a blink of an eye. The two boys were feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Focused, ready, and feeling at one with their powers. Still confused about why they were given them and who gave them to them to begin with. Amane slid down into the pond below the waterfall that fed into a small creek. He walked out using the shore and grabbed his sword from the tree.

He walked over to an open area and focused his power into his blade. As he did so, his normally slate gray eyes changed to a vibrant orange as his sword filled with spiritual energy and heat that ignited the blade in fire. He held it down at an angle and slashed upward. The fire energy mixes with his spiritual energy causing the crescent shaped wave to be sent flying through the air as an inferno burns through it and streaks through the sky. His eyes returned to normal gray as the energy dissipated.

Toshiro felt the surge in heat as he approached Amane and watched the fire energy fly through the air,"  How did you do that?” He questioned.

“I just focused my spiritual energy into my sword and focused the new abilities on it. I think I’m going to call it Fire blade.” Amane replied with a shrug.

“I don’t think I can do that, Amane.” Toshiro stated.

“You just gotta practice. Well, with ice, I think that’s your skill. You can do this, Toshiro. Just practice.” Amane said confidently.

Toshiro nodded his head,"  I’ll do that.”

Amane and Toshiro grab their upper gi’s from the tree and put them back on as they head back to the tents in camp. Feeling exhausted and refreshed from training together and meditation they crashed out on their beds relatively quickly. They had a long eventful couple of days and were in dire need of real sleep.

As they slept, Fujimoto planned and packed their belongings for the trip. They were going to finally visit home, Amane after almost half a year, Fujimoto after almost three and a half years, and Toshiro after a few days of disobeying his father. Fujimoto looked closely at Amane’s sword and saw the black burn lines on it. He was learning very fast the amount of damage his son could do if not trained to use his skills properly.

While Fujimoto planned and packed, an unfamiliar face but a familiar cloaked figure watched from his tower surrounded by souls. Majz Ical, The Sorcerer kept a close eye on the encampment because of Amane. The powers awakened within him and Toshiro and the Sorcerer knew it. The surge of energy was felt all the way from where he was at.

“They’re moving forward quickly. By the time they get here they might actually pose a minimal challenge.” He snickered to himself. “Only time will tell. My only objective is Amane but if other’s get in the way of his destiny and my plans, I’ll remove them myself.” A green aura poured over his body and filled his eyes with power.

Another person was watching from a distance as well. Deep within the heart of the forest in Quadrant Two, a cathedral was built by master chronomancers centuries ago. A woman with black hair and vibrant fuchsia colored eyes wearing a ceremonial garb of her predecessors and mentors. Her focus was also on Amane, mainly, but she also had some focus on Toshiro as he was integral to her plan, as well.

Your powers are manifesting sooner and you’re getting stronger than you were before. Neither of you had unlocked your powers at this stage before. The slight changes in this timeline have proven beneficial to them. Amane has grown strong just by being around his father and mother longer. Toshiro has learned to harness his ice as a response to fear. Fear within himself and of his family abilities. She thought to herself as she watched them rest. She smiled at them, You’ll need to get even stronger than this if you are to defeat your own demons as well as those from the Underworld when the time comes. After watching the group fail and the Underworld succeed, twice, this has to be the final time. I believe in you, Amane.

The boys continued to rest, as it felt like the world was watching them from above and molding them into the warriors it needed them to be.