Hello everyone this is sort of a rewrite for "An Even Trade," because I didn't like how I started that one. So I am taking another crack at it. Leave a review or message me to let me know your thoughts on my decision. There will be bits and pieces from the old story in here. DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN ANY SOUL CALIBUR CHARACTERS. Okay let's get started shall we?

Chapter 1: Restraints

It is the start of a new day. The sky is a refreshing coral color as the sun rises. At Seong Dojang, sounds of contact and battle cries emit throughout the whole place. Nothing but hard work and dedication was seen from all of the divisions. Seong Han Myeong, the head the dojo was pleased with the effort displayed today. Han Myeong was a tall and strong man full of wisdom. He had a long hair that was half brown and gray. Just like every day in the dojo, he wore his dobok and sparred with his students. Today however, he decided to stand back and assess them instead. Han Myeong called over Hwang, his daughter's suitor and next in line to head the dojo. Hwang was a strong fighter and gained much honor from his battles. He wore his usual blue uniform and head band to match. With his Blue Storm in hand, he finished the sparring session he was in and focused his attention to Han Myeong. He rushed over and bowed to him with sincerity.

"Hwang, isn't this just wonderful? I enjoy seeing such perseverance."

"Yes, it certainly is." Hwang said as they walked together down a path. As they walked he happened to notice Seong Mina, who was off to the side looking at the exit of the dojo. "However, I see that your daughter is more uninterested than usual." Hwang added gesturing to Mina.

"Ah yes. It would have been a fully productive day if she would just participate. Would you like to try to get her to practice again? Heaven knows she will not listen to me. Maybe it will work this time. "

Hwang laughed a little. "Yes sir. I will try my best." He gave a quick bow and turned towards Mina's direction. He took a deep breath before turning to Han Myeong.

Han Myeong looked at him and gave him a good luck fist. "Fighting!" he yelled out.

In response, Hwang smiled and nodded. He then took another breath, and proceeded to approach Mina. The rebellious woman had her back turned and was drawing a pattern in the dirt with her finger. She was a natural beauty with her rosy pale skin and long brown hair. The top of the hanbok she wore stopped right under her breasts and the bottom piece had a split down one side. She also had delicate pink flowers going throughout her braid. Truly the picture of beauty. In fact she was the most popular in the village. Feeling Hwang's presence she said, "Yes Hwang?"

"How'd you know it was me?" Hwang said a bit startled.

"I knew because I've turned every man here down but, you keep coming back. Oh and I heard you and my father talking." Mina retorted still drawing her pattern in the dirt.

"Do we always have to start a conversation out like this? I'm beginning to think that you hate me." Hwang said sitting down next to her. He didn't bother to look at her either.

"Hate is not the word Hwang, we've been friends for too long. I can't hate you. I just wish that you would remember that we are only friends."

Hwang was hurt by her wish. He always had feelings for Mina. Hwang had hoped that the arranged marriage would work in his favor, but it only pushed her away. There is no chance that she will ever like him now. "What am I supposed to do Mina? It is your father's order. Everyone else thinks it is a good idea for us to be married. You are the only one against it." Hwang said sternly.

Mina turned and glared at him. "Why can't you say no to this? We are too young and you know that."

"Even if we are, it will be alright. You will get to do plenty of things." Hwang reassured her.

"Really? Like stay inside and tend to your every need? I think not." Mina said before standing up to march away.

Following behind her Hwang tried to slow her down by blocking her. "I will try my hardest to make that the exact opposite. I promise." he said making eye contact with her. Mina still held her glare.

"Leave Hwang. I'm done talking to you." Mina said as she side stepped him. Hwang still continued to block her way. Mina gave him an annoyed look. "Move." Mina ordered.

"Alright, but you have to at least spar with someone okay? That is what your father asked me to get you to do anyway. So, at least do that for him." Hwang pleaded with her. Mina in response just cocked her head to the side and grinned.

"You want me to spar? Okay I'll spar." And with that she gave Hwang a jab to the stomach before walking off to where she wanted to go. Hwang winced in pain.

"Thank you!" Hwang called out to Mina.

"You're welcome!" Mina yelled back in anger.

Seong Mina is something isn't she? If you want, tell me what you think about this story so far with a review. Till' next time :)

~soulspark