Destiny
*Disclaimer*
I DON'T OWN DIGIMON.
Important Note:
Firstly, I would like to thank all that had reviewed this fic. If it weren't for all of your kind words, I wouldn't have continued this fic. I deeply expressed my gratitude. I put this down because I realized I didn't put down my thanks in previous chapter, I humbly ask for your forgiveness. Anyway, to those who are still reading, keep those reviews coming. And once again, THANK YOU!!
Important Note 2:
Sorry for taking this so long. I went for a one-week holiday. That is why I couldn't get it up earlier. I sincerely apologise for my action.
Author's Note:
There will be around four to five digimon characters. See if you can guess it. And also, to avoid confusion, I wanted to tell my reader that, some parts of Gaea are primitive like the villages and some are very modern like the center capital. So don't be confuse if I bring in telephones and such. Of course, it wouldn't be too modern since this IS a medieval fic.
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Destiny – Prologue Five : Burning Hearts
The city of Chambard, lies to the southeastern corner of the Gaea map. It is one of the seven Castle Cities in Gaea, excluding the capital castle, Ovelia. That is why Chambard is an advance city, with sky-high technologies. This city is situated in the continent of Flamberge, the 'Fire Continent'. Despite its name, Flamberge isn't a desert-covered land. Instead, it was vegetation filled and a mountainous region. It was named 'Fire Continent' because of the volcanoes that are scattered in that continent.
There are other reasons. The most popular ones are the worshipping of the fire Holy Guardian, Suzaku. A temple or shrine is built in every city and villages of that continent, to honor the Guardian that had aided the hero in the Age of Darkness, King Seferius. The people there believed that the Guardian resides in one of the volcano. Of course, no one had ever been able to trace the Godlike being.
There are around seventeen volcanoes in Flamberge. Some are still active, some are dead, and some are asleep. The largest and tallest volcano is called Sky Peak, which is a sleeping volcano. As its name stated, this volcano's peak is above the cloud. No one had been recorded to reach there yet. It was about 12 675 meters above ground level. This shocking height is considered the 'Place Closest to Heaven'.
A village called Olive Village lies at the base of Sky Peak. Though with all the popularity of Sky Peak, shockingly, this village is still lack in the technologies section. But the villagers here lived in stone houses and have whatever that is needed in a day life, such as school, infirmary, and even two specially built dojos for training purposes, and an institute to train philosophers.
The villagers, rounding up about a thousand, all lived as farmers or scholars. The farmers would spend their time working in the orchard and farms. And the scholars will launder around in the library or the institute, searching for new stuffs that can be introduce to the world. There are some that preferred studying the volcano and its mineral. They were the ones who had come up with Sky Peak research.
Being at a base of a volcano, Olive Village has fertile lands and it is a very suitable place for vegetables and fruits plantation. Therefore, the village has an orchard and a few farms of its own. Also, majority of the exports came from this village. Not only the fruits and farm resources, but others as well.
The two dojos, are called Tenga School and Koga School. These two schools have always been an opposition. They always try to be better than the other. A tournament is held every year to see whom has the best disciples. So far, the Koga School has the upper hand, since they have more students.
Other than that, the village is just a normal place. Adults working, and children playing. But a sudden change of destiny changed everything. From here, a new legend, a new story will be unfolded. The tale of a boy will be marked in the latest chapter of the Gaea Chronicles.
Fate had once again plays with the future…
And this leads to a new King Seferius…
******
1008 years and four months A.D. …
Two boys, one a short blue haired one, the other an unruly maroon, stood stock-still, three meters apart, and stared at each other. Their master, an old man about the age of seventy, stood in between them with his right hand raised. A tension moment passed during that time. Both boys have sweats rolling down their visage. Their eyes, not blinking even as the fluid rolled down them. They are to deep in concentration.
Then, after a few more creeping minutes went by, the master lowers his hand in a flash. Taking that as a sign, both boys launched into action. The blue hair boy punches at his opponent with lightning fast jab. The other boy took the hit without much care, though he was push back a little. He quickly righted himself and made a roundhouse kick at the blue hair boy's stomach.
His move was anticipated and the blue hair boy caught the leg with both of his arm, trapping the other boy. But the maroon hair boy merely snickers. With his leg still caught, he jumps a little and uses his other foot to kick at the blue hair boy's head.
The other boy, fearing the pain, quickly released the leg he's holding, and quickly ducked backward. The leg was millimeter from his nose. He knew it, because he could feel the air shifted in front of his face. He was lucky to escape the head-aimed kick, but he was off balance. Quickly, he placed both his hands to the floor and shifted his weight, somersaulting backward.
The maroon hair boy gave chase. He was quick. Within seconds, the other boy is within his attack range again. His voice echoed around the dojo as he shouted, "HIEN REN KYAKU!"
A move of the Tenga School that his master had thought him. This move consists of three attacks. A forward straight punch followed quickly by two repeating midair kicks. The maroon hair boy kept his master advice in mind when he launches this technique, which is never use it when an enemy is alert. It would be a fatal mistake; one would be exposed after this move.
The other boy just got away when he feel a strong fist connects with his chest and immediately, two kicks followed. One struck across savagely at his face, and the other his shoulder. The boy knew what technique the maroon hair boy had used, even before he fell completely to the ground. And through the same master with the maroon hair boy, he had been taught that; one will not be able to move for a few seconds after the use of it.
So, the blue hair boy took the precious moment to recover his balance and wiped at his face with the back of his hand. The other boy, whose leg is still stiff, stood where he is. Noticing it, the recovered boy, launched a technique of his own, "TSUMUJIKAZE!"
The blue hair boy lands a spinning roundhouse kick at the other's stomach and followed by a trip kick, knocking the other boy off his foot. With the boy down, he clenches his fist and punches downward. But the fist meets the hard dojo's floor instead of a human flesh; since the maroon hair boy had rolled away right at the moment he was about to be punch.
The master nodded his head in satisfactory as he watches the duel. Apparently, his two apprentices had taken his the training, teachings, and advise seriously. Both maintained the utmost cautious and concentration. This proves that his effort of training the best martial art master and the victory for this year competition isn't in vain. Though he had other students, but these two boys were his secret weapons in the tournament this year. The past few years, he hasn't sent them to a single competition yet. But all this is about to change.
The other boy, when he is a distance away, leaps back onto his feet from the lying position. He manages to taunt even in his condition, "Ha! You miss me!"
The blue hair boy smiled and said, "Don't worry, this is just the beginning of the real thing."
Without another word, the blue hair boy rushed forward with shocking speed. When he's halfway to the maroon hair boy, he leaps up into the air. With perfect accuracy, he landed a single kick to the other boy's head. At the same time, he caught the boy's shoulder. He gathers his strength and with a twist in midair, the maroon hair boy was thrown to the other side of the dojo.
However, before the maroon hair boy slam on the wall, he positions his legs accordingly. When the wall is half a meter away, he uses it as a platform. With a powerful push of his leg, he was soon sailing back to the blue hair boy, with both his arms crossed in front of him. The blue hair boy, who is surprised at this, receives the full force of the slam. The maroon hair boy, back flip in midair and connected a chopping kick at the back of the other boy's skull.
The maroon hair boy landed cleanly behind the blue hair boy. Without given a chance to recover, the blue hair boy was struck at the back with what could only be the other boy's elbow. Though painful, he manages to turn around and backhanded the maroon hair boy.
Both, temporary stun, has no choice but to retreat a little.
Time is precious; there would be no time to rest in a battle. So, the blue hair boy ran forward and tried to punch the other boy. But it was intercepted. Now, face-to-face, it was supposed to be a battle of swiftness and defense. One would be the offensive, and the other would just block, and counterattack. In their case however, both didn't even think of blocking. Blows were exchange brutally. The blue hair boy punch at the other's face. He didn't even get to throws in another attack when he was kick at his stomach. Likewise, the maroon hair boy only manages to attack once before he was struck back again.
Then, an unexpected move came. The blue hair boy caught the other's training uniform. With a heave, the other boy was thrown to the ground with a loud bang. He tried to lay several punches at the downed boy, but he was struck at his head again, with a stiff kick. He had no choice but to release his grips on the other boy's clothing and staggers backward.
Now freed, the maroon hair boy stood up hurriedly and once again faces his opponent, who is rubbing the top of his head, thanks to the maroon hair boy's handiwork. Feeling his rage building up, the blue hair boy unleashes one of the sacred skills that were thought to him. But because of his unstable emotion, he had forgotten that his master had forbid them to use their sacred skills in this battle for safety reason, because the sacred skills all end with a succession move that can destroy a one-meter wide tree.
"HIEN REN TEN KYAKU!
This new move is actually a higher version of 'Hien Ren Kyaku', a level three Sacred Skill. The difference is, instead of launching a three consecutive hit; it has changed to seven hit moves that consisted of three punches and three kicks, and finally, the succession move. The blue hair boy's fists seem to glow when he started this skill. The other boy has his eyes wide when he was caught off guard. Three punches were thrown at him from three different angles.
But before the kicks attack could come in, the blue hair boy was send sliding on the dojo's floor…
*******
The two boys sat on the floor with bandages, wrapped around their arms and legs, and plastered on their face. Their bruises were dress by their master. Though the old man didn't say anything when he did it, the blue hair boy knew the old man was angry.
The blue hair boy sat up slowly and winches in pain as he does so. His left side felt like it's on fire. But he had no time to complain because when he looks up, his master is glaring down at him. The old man's voice booms around the place as he scolded, the boy knew this would come, "Lee Jenrya! I thought I had made it clear that not one of you could use the Sacred Skill in this friendly duel. I thought you should have known better." The master rant on, "Had I not stop you in time, Daisuke might be in the infirmary already!"
Jenrya shielded himself from his master gaze in shame. He apologizes for his act, "I'm sorry Master Jann Li. I wasn't myself when I performed that act of stupidity."
Master Jann Li however, didn't continue to scold since he is the type of person who forgives easily. Instead, he knelt down and examined the part where he had struck the boy with his palm, concernly since he treated both his disciples as if they were his own sons. The part he had attacked, was now wrapped by a thin cloth.
The maroon hair boy, Daisuke Motomiya, stood up and walks over to his friend. He asked in a worry voice, "How are you Jen?"
The blue hair boy, Lee Jenrya, looks up and met his best friend's worry look. To ease his friend worries off, he said with a smile, "Don't worry Dai. It's nothing serious compare to the time we were nearly crushed by those big falling boulders."
Daisuke chuckled. He couldn't quite believe that his best friend still remembers the incident that had happened seven years ago. Daisuke had got lost in the forest while he is searching for his soccer ball that was kicked in by some bullies. He met Jenrya who is also lost in the forest for some unknown reason. They had searched for the way back to the village back then, but they reached the Sky Peak volcano instead.
A sudden earthquake has caused some loose rocks to fall from above them. Scared, the two didn't move when the rocks spiral towards them. It was all thanks to Master Jann Li, who had saved them when he is passing that place, on the way back home from a meditation. Thanks to that incident, the two had been best friend ever since.
Daisuke is a fifteen years old boy, who is kind of short for his age. He's a very friendly person and a brave one too. But he is sort of clumsy and always gets into troubles for his lack of judging a situation first. Jenrya, who is also fifteen, is a good-looking boy with a fair complexion and a kind soul. Unlike Daisuke, he always thought of the consequences first, before barging headlong into something. In accord, he's the one who always stops Daisuke from doing anything foolish. But, being a human, he sometime makes mistakes himself and acted according to emotion, like the mistake he made earlier.
Being there to support each other, it is very hard to see the two not together. Everywhere Daisuke or Jenrya goes, the other would just be nearby. It was as if an invisible thread joined them. Everytime a trouble sprang; the other would be there in a jiffy.
Master Jann Li helped Jenrya to steady with his footing, since the blow had made him momentary unbalance. Then, when Jenrya is able to walk by himself again, the master urges the two to go home and have some snack, since they probably have lost a lot of energies already, which is very true.
At the entrance, the two boys turn and bow to their master and then towards the dojo. It was what they were taught, to show respect to the older or those who had helped. Everytime before they turn to leave, the two would just survey the dojo.
Though it is unnecessary since the mental picture of it had been etched deeply into their minds. They have been training here ever since Master Jann Li had saved them. Every part of the dojo was like the back of their hand. Two oak armchairs would be place at the front end of the dojo. Weapons racks, that hold various kind of weapons, were placed on both sided of the chairs. And in between the two chairs, there is a stand for praying. Old sayings, which are written in long white scrolls, are hung along the brick wall. At the rear end, there is a door that leads to their master's house.
When the two are done, they turn around and walks out the dojo. The pains on their body are already vanishing. The duel just now, they only use their minimal strength, another of their master's rules. As they walk along, people passes around them in hurry to finish their daily chores, as they walked through the village to their home. Only some mothers would sit in their garden lawn and hum a tune to cradle the babies in their arms to sleep. Young children would run around playing tag or whatsoever games they like.
Jenrya closes his eyes as he passed a humming mother. He had remembers that he was once that way too. In his mother's arms, safe and secure. He would just look up at his mother and continues to watch as his mother pours her endless love to him.
But time passes so fast. He is already fifteen, a young adult. He is able to take care of himself now. No longer crying for his mom's attention. He has a younger sister now, Lee Shiuchon, who needs more cares from his mother. He couldn't believe how time flies. It was like yesterday that he's still an infant. Just like his relation with Daisuke. It has already been seven years.
He looks toward his friend who is giggling at a bunch of kids, who tried to climb up a tree to get their kites that are stuck among the branches. Daisuke walks over and climbs the tree, fetching the two kites and throws them down for the kids. The kids cheered, and Daisuke, being Daisuke made a 'I'm the best' look. But the branch he is on, snapped and he fell tumbling. The children laugh as he sat up and made an attempt to still look cool.
Jenrya shook his head in defeat. He knew Daisuke to well. The maroon hair boy is always trying to prove himself and brag about it afterwards. But something always turns up right after that. Still, the boy being a carefree person, doesn't mind. Jenrya knew the boy would be happy as long as he can helps other.
He walks to his friend, who is still sitting on the ground after the kids are gone, "I see you're off to your stunts again. Don't you ever grow tire?"
Daisuke laughs, "Me? Give up? The chance of it happening, are less than the chances of me dropping dead right now. And if I do, I would rather tolerate Jun's sarcasm first before that happen."
Jenrya knew of his friend's twenty-one years old sister, Jun Motomiya. Like Daisuke, she has unruly maroon hair. She's always running after a good-looking, smart man that study in the institute. Jenrya also knew that Daisuke and Jun are not in the best of terms. Though the two care for each other as brother and sister. But they rarely show it. Instead, the two would be often seen, throwing insults and sarcasm at each other. If by any chance the two agrees on any agreements; that are the time when hell freezes over.
Daisuke stood up and rub his sore back. After a few wordless moments, the two continue to walk back to their respective houses. Jenrya's house is on the other side of the village, so the two friends parted on their way. Daisuke continues to walk home, whistling some song and fumbling with his bandages.
Slowly, his house came into view. It was a normal one level house, made of bricks, with a beautiful garden in front. He could see his mother drying clothes at the front porch. But the first person that greets him is his sister, shouting from her room, "Hey blockhead! Back already?"
"That's none of your business Jun! As if you care!" Daisuke shouted back.
Jun counters, "Even if I don't care, doesn't means I can't tease!"
Jun's laughter could be heard. As usual, the older sibling is the one that always has the victory when it comes to an argument. Daisuke grumbled and storms into the house. His mom shook her head as he went pass her. Before going into his own room, Daisuke grab a snack from the pantry. He slams the door behind him and crashes on his bed, with the biscuits in his mouth and hands folded behind his head.
The boy stares at the ceiling while chewing, thinking about the duel he had with Jenrya today. It was really a fierce battle, something he enjoyed. Their master had teaches them the basic and advance moves and also the rules of martial arts. Their opponents are their master, trees, moving practice targets, large boulder and the list goes on. Master Jann Li had said before that any duels between them were only to test their progress so far. Daisuke doubts that another duel would happen soon. For the past seven years, there are only twelve such matches. And in those matches, the rules are always the same; use minimal power and no high level techniques to lower any chances of injury.
The boy continues to think about his strengths and weaknesses. He also thought about the competition that is coming up. Just the other day, he had had a talk with Jenrya, about it. But it never last longs as his mind drifted off. He then fell into a deep sleep for being so exhausted.
*******
Two days later, Daisuke was removing his bandages in front of his mirror stand when his sister bangs on his room's door. "Hey sleepyhead! You better wake up now, cause your friend is here in the living room!"
"I'm not sleeping you nitwit! And tell whoever is it to wait!"
The boy takes his own sweet time and removed it one by one. When he is done, he turns around and looked at his room. It was in mess, and it really means messy. He decided to tidy it before meeting whomever that is outside. This is very rare, considering that he's not the neat and tidy type. He only cleans it when his mood suits.
As he did so, the door to his room open and Jenrya walks in. The boy said, "Hi Dai, sorry for barging in. But I got tired of waiting and wanted to see what's keeping you so occupy. Though I never expected to see you doing whatever you're doing now. This is something that really must be spread around in school."
"What's that suppose to mean?"
Jenrya just shrugs, "It depends." He then offers, "Anyway, you don't mind if I help do you?"
Daisuke took his school's book and arrange it in his study table's shelves. He said when he is doing so, "Be my guess. I'm not stopping you."
Jenrya started with Daisuke's magazines. Slowly, the two clear the chaotic mess. The two boys took more time than they had presumed. When they are done, Jenrya sat on Daisuke's bed with a sigh; "It was a mistake coming in. Who would have thought, cleaning your room would be that hard? I'm never going to help you again."
The other boy also sat down and said defensively, "You were the one that wanted to help. I didn't force you. But anyway, what gives?"
Jenrya looks at his best friend and said; "I just thought whether we should do something today. This school's holiday is getting boring. If only something were to happen."
Daisuke put one hand on his chin and thought carefully before he said, "Well, we could always go into the volcano through the cavern that my dad had discovered the last time he went there. That's the only place we can explore around our village."
Daisuke father is a researcher of the institute. He studies the structure of volcanoes and everything related to them ever since he took up that job. That is why; most theories about the volcano were come up by him. That is why he is the head researcher of the volcano. Recently, he had taken a liking to the Sky Peak volcano. That is because he found a cavern entrance to it. His partner, Lee Janyuu who is Jenrya's father, and himself, had studied the inside ever since.
Jenrya shook his head, "No, my mom wouldn't allows it. She would say it was too dangerous or something like that. And besides, we could get lost. My father said it was a maze in there. Route winding here and there… very complicated."
"Okay, then where you want to go?"
Jenrya thought about the question. He then said, "Let's go and have some fun by playing soccer at the flower meadow then."
"I never knew you like to play soccer?"
Jenrya held both his hands up and said, "Hey, at least it is better than sit around and have nothing to do. And that way, I can see your excellent soccer skill again." Lee added, "Beside, the scenery there at the meadow can take my mind off some things."
*******
The flower meadow requires a short walk from the Motomiya resident. It was a beautiful place surrounded by flowers and a lake. And it is also near the forest. Thus, the air there is as clean as high atop the mountain. That is why this is an excellent place to relax one mind and the place to leave any uncomfortable feeling behind.
As Daisuke and Jenrya walk into the meadow, they could see some other kids from the village, are there playing soccer already. Two manmade goals, was at each side. With his soccer ball in his hand, Daisuke ran to the kids and joins them. Most of them were his schoolmates. Others were unknown to him. Jenrya sat under a tree and watches Daisuke.
The maroon hair boy ran across the meadow, bringing along the ball expertly. He passes those who block his path to the goal. Some tried to tackles him, but he jumps over them. Daisuke passes the ball to one of his teammate and continues to run forward. When he is close to the goal, his teammate that has the ball, kick it to him. Daisuke uses his chest to intercept it. As the ball rolls down, Daisuke aimed, and delivers a kick. The spinning ball passes the keeper and scores the goal.
Daisuke's team cheered. Some patted him on the back.
Jenrya continues to watch his best friend plays. Each time the ball reaches Daisuke; that boy scored it. And in the end, as expected; Daisuke's team won the match. Daisuke's teammate is throwing him up into the air. And the boy is laughing like crazy.
When Daisuke is back on his feet, he walks over to Lee, and the others continue to play. He slumps down on the ground heavily. "Whew, what a game! I felt so good! If only you would play it sometime, Jen."
Jenrya said in a casual tone with his eyes close, "Dream on Dai. I wouldn't go into a soccer match even if you stuff rocks into my mouth. I would rather enjoy the art of fighting. Moreover, your type of game doesn't suit me in any way."
Daisuke slowly lie on the grassy ground with his arms spread apart, staring at the blue sky through the spaces between those leaves. He said in a regretful tone, "Well, that's too bad. I was hoping you would come and play with me sometime. Both of us would make a good team." He looks to his best friend, "Anyway, aren't you bore by just sitting here? At least have some fun."
Then a voice said, "What could that weakling possibly do?"
Daisuke sat up abruptly and said in an annoyed voice to the two persons standing a few meters from them, "Damn it, Taasuki! Why must you always disturb us when we're having a friend-to-friend private time? Don't you know it's rude?"
"Cause we like to," said another boy.
Kanemaru Taasuki. A boy who had spiky orange hair and a bad attitude. He was known as the big bully of the town. Always picking on someone and got the lousiest grades in school. His favourite victims are obviously Daisuke and Jenrya. Every year, the two are constantly being disturbed. It was him who had kicked Daisuke's soccer ball into the forest and causes the boy to get lost in it seven years ago. He is also renowned to be tag along by his sidekick, Ichisawa Seta.
Seta is a fifteen years old boy, same as Taasuki, with brown hair and a bad mouth, which only seems to be use for taunting a person. He is also as bad attitude as Taasuki. And his performance in school isn't any better than Taasuki either. That is why they are the perfect pair of bully there ever was.
The two of them are also from Daisuke and Lee's opposition school, the Koga School. Apparently, the two were that school's best student. It only seems that the two are only good in brute force but not the mind. Though they are still hard to be defeated when it comes to a battle.
Daisuke growled and said, "Why don't you two buzz off to wherever you came from. In my opinion, from your attitudes, you should be sent to a psychiatrist or a mental hospital."
Taasuki sneered, "Oooh, I'm so scared." He laughed and said, "Why don't you make us go away?"
The maroon hair boy shouted, "You ask for it!" Daisuke got on his feet and started advancing to the two. But he was hold back by Jenrya, who had got up. Daisuke lashed at the empty air viciously, "Let me go Jen! I'm gonna teach them a lesson this time! No more Mister Nice Guy!"
Jenrya said worriedly, "Calm down Dai! Have you forgotten the rules? 'Do not attack another unless if you're being attack'. Master Jann Li isn't going to be happy when he hear you started a fight!"
"I don't care!" Daisuke shouted.
Seta decided to keep on teasing the boy, "Yeah! Why don't you two sissy show us what you're made off? What's with all this rules and rubbish? Or are you guys too afraid, too chicken? I bet that old geezer who hides in the dojo doesn't teach you anything?"
Seta and Taasuki laughed loudly. The other kids stop their game and look at them. The two continue to laugh, but then, Seta fell to the ground. He got up and to his surprise, saw Jenrya, who had released Daisuke standing there, with his fists clenched tightly. The blue hair boy said in menacing tone, "Don't you dare mock my master. I won't give any face if you dare to taunt him in front of me again."
Suddenly, Taasuki, who had been near the boy, kicked Jenrya at the back of his head. Daisuke cursed and lunges at the boy. He punches at Taasuki, hard on the face. The other boy backs away, holding his face. He wanted to counter back, but then, he saw Daisuke's master coming towards them. He said to the maroon hair boy, "Just you wait Daisuke! I'm going to get you back in the tournament! Just you wait!"
Then, the two bullies are up and running away. Master Jann Li reached them and said, "I knew the two of you would be here. And I thought I just saw the two of you fighting with Taasuki and Seta. The students from the Koga School."
Daisuke said as he help Jenrya, who is soothing off the pain on his back skull, to his feet, "But master, it wasn't our fault. They started it first."
Master Jann Li shook his head and said, "How many time I have to say it; do not engage with the Koga's students. Not for now at least. I can't possibly have the two of you hurt before the tournament. Both you and Jenrya are my trump cards."
The two boys lower their head. They apologized, "We're sorry master."
Master Jann Li waved his hand casually. "That's okay. But don't you two do it again, cause the next time," he continued in a serious tone, "I wouldn't be so forgiving." But then, his expression changes into an excited one, "Now, let's go to the dojo. I have something important to teach you two."
*******
"I'm worn out!" Daisuke complained as he walks along the soon-to-be dark road to his home. Their master had taken the entire afternoon to teach them some secret skill. At this time, the villagers are all in their houses, enjoying dinners. Daisuke continues, "I don't wanna take that lesson again. It really takes all my patience, my endurance, everything!"
Jenrya said truthfully, "At least we get to learn a new technique today. I just can't wait to try it out."
Daisuke snorted, "Speak for yourself. All I could think of now is going home, have my dinner, and get some sleep after a nice long hot bath. That way, I can be ready for whatever is it that's going to pop up tomorrow. Especially if the two clowns, Taasuki and Seta show up again."
"Just relax, Dai," the blue hair boy said. "I don't think they'll be bothering us for some time. At least, until the tournament come that is. But I'm looking forward to that day. I wonder how good are they in a fight. I mean, for being the Koga School's best students, I think they would be a formidable opponents."
Daisuke sighs, "As I said just now; I don't want to care about anything else for now, other than my own well-being. In any case, the tournament is not up till next week."
Jenrya didn't take the turning to his house as the two boys walk. Curious, Daisuke asks, "Your home is that way, why aren't you taking that route?"
The blue hair boy explains his reasons, "Well, it's been a long time since I talk with your parent, might as well stop by and say hello. Also, I told my mom I'll be over at your house today."
Daisuke asks, "Why didn't you tell me sooner?"
"Blame it on yourself. Didn't you notice my backpack in your room?" The boy continues, "And why else would I help clean your room today? If it were in mess, I wouldn't be able to sleep in your room."
Daisuke grumbled and chases the already fleeing blue hair boy. Having the head-on, Jenrya had the better advantage. Therefore, he reaches the Motomiya's residence first. But what he saw shocked him. There are a few people surrounding the house's entrance and Mrs. Motomiya frantic voice could be heard. The people were dress in white robe; it shows they are researchers from the institute. There are also a few clad in black, the officers who is responsible for the village's safety.
Daisuke bumps on the blue hair boy back roughly. Jenrya stumbled and crashed down on the ground. Daisuke was laughing when he saw Jenrya's muddy face. But when he saw the situation, he quickly ran into the group of people gathered, and searches for his mom. Daisuke asked anxiously when he saw his mother crying her heart out, "Mom, what happened here?"
Mrs. Motomiya tries to fumble the word out, but she is in no condition to do so. Jun, who is there, told Daisuke, "Dad and Mr. Lee had disappear in the volcano while they're doing research there this morning. The researchers here said that they couldn't keep in contact with them. The volcano's inside had cut their only source of communication."
Daisuke turns to an officer and asks, "Shouldn't you all send someone to look for them or something. The depth of the volcano could be dangerous. And who knows if there are wild creatures in there? They might be in trouble."
The officer replies, "We have sent in some peoples. All you have to do now and wait patiently."
*******
Daisuke is in his father's research room, ransacking all his father's notes and plans. It wasn't a very big room. There were books left all over the place even though there are shelves; that explains where Daisuke's untidy habit came from. Jenrya stood there staring at his friend as if Daisuke is mad, "What in heaven's name are you doing, Dai?"
Daisuke replies as he threw a notebook behind him, hitting Jenrya on the chest. "Those gutless officer are all cowards. I'm going in to look for my dad and yours myself."
Jenrya was shocked. But he said slowly, "I think you must be mad? That is one daring move." The boy continues, "Even if you are really going in, how are you gonna find your way in there? As I said this morning, it's a maze in there. Is that too hard to get into your skull?"
Daisuke said to Jenrya calmly, "That is why I'm searching for that thing now."
"What thing?"
Daisuke sigh and threw another book away, as he explains, "Dad show me a small map in his notebook once. He told me that it was the map of the cavern. I still remember how he brags about how good and specific his map is. That's why I'm looking for it." Daisuke said in an annoyed tone, "And instead of standing there, why don't you help me look for it?"
"Wait a minute, don't tell me you want me to go along with you?" asked Jenrya worriedly.
"Of course. You don't expect me to go alone is it? I need your help if there is something dangerous in there. That way; you can also try that new move you learned."
Jenrya sighed and says, "I've seen this coming ever since you come storming into your father's research room the minute those officers and researcher left." Jenrya sighed again and continues, "All right, I'll go with you. But I really have the feeling that this idea of yours gets us into serious trouble."
"Oh, stop worrying and look at the bright sight for once. Maybe this sear- Aha!" Daisuke held up a blue colour notebook. Written on the face is 'Sky Peak'. He quickly flipped through the pages and stopped when he reached the designated page. He shows it to Jenrya, "There, with this map, we won't get lost."
The blue hair boy peers at the book clearly. Indeed, on that page, there is a map of the structures of the volcano. There are specific labels all around the worn white pages. Routes and hidden paths are all clearly drawn on it. According to the note on the next page, the map already covers three fourth of the volcano. Only the deepest part is missing. And at a closer examination, the map isn't big at all. The inner part of the volcano only cover about one fifth of its diameter. Jenrya spoke up when he finishes examining, "Okay, now that we found the map, when are we going to look for my father and yours?
Daisuke grinned widely and said, "Right now…"
*******
The two boys stood at the base of Sky Peak. There seem to be eerie shadows lurking in the crevices of the forest that surrounds the volcano. Even the tall volcano itself seems to look down upon them. In the evening sun, the shadow of it looks as if it is taunting them, daring them to step foot into its maze of roads. But Daisuke felt no fear; he's practically burning with anticipation. His heart is set to rescue his father; no obstacles will be able to stand in his way.
Jenrya however, felt the exact opposite. Somehow, the bad feeling he had earlier, had grows. It isn't just a simple 'bad feeling' anymore. Now it was as if a dark aura is shrouding them. Something bad, something evil is in the place they're going. He just knew that his instinct was right. It was always right. He said to Daisuke nervously, "Dai, I really think we should rethink this over."
Daisuke sighed and turned to his friend. "Jen, you don't have to follow me if you don't want to. I was just joking when I said you have to follow me."
"But-" Jenrya continued silently, 'I won't let you go in and face whatever that is in there alone'. Jenrya shifted a small backpack behind him and said out loud, "No, I'll go with you, my father is in there as well. It's just that… never mind. Let's just get this over with, so that we can all go home and have some satisfying dinner."
Slowly, the two boys climb up the landscape. Climbing was very hard. Not only it is steep, they didn't bring any equipment to help make it easier. So the two struggle to keep their footing. One drop is sure to injure one badly. A few times the boys nearly fell, but thanks to the other, they manage to go on.
Finally, they reach the cave entrance, at the middle part of the volcano. They stop to catch their breath. But Daisuke also took the time to peer into the cave. It was dark, the boys couldn't make out anything except a faint glimmer in the deep part. It was a lucky thing he brought along some torchlights that are powered by some crystals that kept energy in them. Those are one of the newest inventions of their village.
Jenrya took out a bottle of water, which he had brought along, and took a huge gulp. He wipes of trails of water as he passes the bottle to Daisuke. Jenrya said as Daisuke took a drink, "You know, how stupid of us that we didn't bring any ropes or anything that can help us up here."
"We are up here already, so why worries?"
Jenrya sighed, "How I wish I had your spirit Dai. Instead, I have this worrying self." He shook his head, "Anyway, let's go in already."
The other boy nodded. He took out the two torchlights and handed one to Jenrya. He switches it on and started to advance into the pitch-dark area. He said as they walk along the rocky path, "Okay, if my dad is lost here, I'm sure he's in the part where he hadn't explore."
Jenrya chuckled and said, "That is the brightest comment I've ever heard from you since the day we met. Sometimes you really amaze me."
Daisuke frowned. "Do you mean that in a bad way or a good way?"
Jenrya didn't give an answer to Daisuke question. Instead, he laughed and continues walking in. He then took out the notebook Daisuke had found and examines it. Under the poor light of the torch, Jenrya wasn't able to read the writings, but the map is still visible. He led Daisuke to the part where the drawing of the map stop halfway, and also towards the faint light in the distance.
Not long later, they reach into a cavernous opening with a huge hole on the ground. The light that Daisuke had seen when he rests at the entrance, came from here. This room is practically lit in vermilion colour. The two boys peer down the hole on the ground. Below, they could see the lava flowing. And at its rate, it seems as if the volcano is about to erupt.
The two back away, fearing they might fall down. Jenrya look again at the notebook, this times it is easier with the lighted cavern. In the map, it shows that they are in the cavern just before the unexplored part. To the left of him, there is a route. He called Daisuke, who is still looking at the lava below, and pointed toward the route.
Daisuke nodded and the two continue on their way. Jenrya kept away the notebook, knowing that it is no longer in any use. From here onwards, it's all on their own. Jenrya thanks the God silently that it is good thing there aren't any wild creatures that lived in here. But he guesses wrong when he heard a roar in the distance. Daisuke heard the roar too. Fearing his dad and Mr. Lee is in danger, he ran to the end of the route. Surprisingly, he didn't trip on anything even in the dark path.
Jenrya tried to call Daisuke to wait up, but the boy had already disappeared around a corner. Letting a defeated sigh, he ran after the maroon hair boy. The route is longer than he thought. And if he is not mistaken, the route seems to be winding down towards the lower part of the volcano. Every minute, the temperature seems to rise. Now the boy is already sweating and trying hard to breath.
Jenrya reach into another opening, much larger than the previous one. There is only one straight route, which leads to an altar at the end of it. Other than that, he realizes lava surrounds the area. Thus, this place is boiling hot. His skin felt like it was burning. But he ignored it and joined Daisuke, who is standing still, surprise of the cavern condition as well.
But then, the two boys could see a figure in the distance. And then the roar came again. The two of them dashes forward to the altar and the figure. But they stop halfway to find their own father lying on the ground. They knelt down and Daisuke called his father. Jenrya examined his father only to find that the older man is unconscious, attacked savagely by someone on the head.
The figure took notice of them and started advancing towards them. When the figure came close, the two boys could make out his feature. He had the face of an ox, with two sharp, curved horns on each side of his head. His upper body was that of a human, only very muscular. His lower part was that of an ox as well; four hoof legs. He wore a red armor, and two swords were sheaths at each side of his waist. His eyes are red, like the colour of blood.
The figure said, "More humans. What a troublesome race you humans are. If you hadn't been foolish and come down here, you would still be able to live on. But now that you see me, I have no choice but to kill you all to hide my master and my existence."
Jenrya and Daisuke gaze at the figure with hatred and fear. Hate; for hurting their father. Scared; for fearing they might loose to him if it come to a battle to escape. So, Jenrya asked, "Who are you? What business do you have here?"
The ox figure turned toward Jenrya and said, "I'm am called, Vajira. One of the twelve warriors of the Master of Pit. You'll remember my name well human. For that may be the last thing you'll ever hear."
Daisuke snorted and said, "Hah! What I could see here is a bullhead with a weird accent!"
Vajira doesn't seem to like the boy's tone. His sword blade was at Daisuke's throat in an instance. "Silence human. You will be quiet until I ask you to speak." He turns back to Jenrya and asked, "Do you know of a stone that was kept down here?" Lee shook his head. The ox warrior sighed, "What a pity. I thought you would know of the Holy Stone down here."
That intrigues Jenrya. "Holy Stones? The same as in the legend?"
Vajira was reluctant to answer the question, but then, he said, "I guess you have the right to know what is going on before you die." He pauses and continues, "Yes, the very one as in the legend. My master told me that it would be here. Of course, the Guardian of Fire is here as well. But as you can see, there is nothing here."
Jenrya tried to ask another question, but then Daisuke had already acted. He punches at the ox's hand and his grip on the weapon looses. Daisuke kick away the sword and pushes his father out of harm. Jenrya, realizing that it is not a time to seek for answer, pushes his father away as well. Win or loose, he's going to try and escape from this warrior.
Vajira cursed loudly at his own clumsiness. He unsheathe the other sword and slashes at the maroon hair boy. Daisuke manages to back away just in time. But his cloth was rip in the process. Jenrya delivered a hard kick at the ox's chest. But the armor plate protected him, and Jenrya fell backward. He rolled away as Vajira slashes at the place he is lying at.
The ox warrior ignored the two for the moment and galloped past them, picking his dropped sword. He crossed the swords in front of him when he got hold of it. He concentrated and a weird aura surrounds the blades. He then releases the gather energy and launches it towards the two boys. Jenrya was able to evade it, but Daisuke got a deep cut on his right arm. Blood seeps out the wound.
Daisuke, working quickly, tore away his sleeve and tied it tightly on his shoulder. Thanks to it and the hot temperature, the blood stop within seconds. Vajira didn't give the two the chance to recover. He rushes at them, sword raise, ready to cut the two boys in half. Children or not, he decided to throw away his moral. His master had given him specific orders; find the Holy Stone and kill whoever who saw him.
Daisuke saw it coming and readied himself to pounce on the ox's back any minute. Jenrya steadied his foot. When the ox warrior comes near to attack Jenrya, Daisuke jumped and landed on the creature's back. Vajira thrash around fiercely, trying to throw the boy off. Jenrya took the opportunity and remove his waistcloth. He threw it at the creature's feet expertly. Moving his arm and using the creature's thrashing, he was able to tie his front legs.
Vajira collapsed to the ground.
Daisuke steps on the creature's back and leap high into the air. Spinning, he then shouted, "YOUSOU SHUUGEKI!"
Daisuke plunge to the ground with his foot forward. His foot connected with the creature's back and the ground below cracked a little. Before leaping away, he delivered a few more stiff kicks on the back of the creature's upper part. Jenrya who is in front of the screaming warrior, shouted, "GARIUUKUUHA!"
Gariuukuuha is a technique, which required quick movement and perfect accuracy. The blue hair boy launches a barrage of punches on the creature's chest. At the ninth hit, Jenrya launches an uppercut, which connected to Vajira's lower jaw. Jenrya backflips away after successfully execute his attack.
Vajira cuts away the cloth that binds him and stood up. His pride as a warrior was insulted. He was hit to the ground by two children. What's more, they are just human, weak, useless, lower beings. His other teammates are sure to laugh at him. He rose from the ground with rage and roared. As he did so, his body started to change. A pair of extra arms grew just below his original ones. His nails became sharp. Spike like things grew out behind him; his armor breaks away in the process. Another horn jousted out the center of his forehead.
When the transformation is finished, Vajira said, "You should be honored children. You two are the first to see me in this form, other than my companions."
Daisuke taunted, "Honored? As if!"
Vajira roared and threw a ball of gathered energy at Daisuke. It exploded just before reaching the boy, causing Daisuke to be thrown onto the ground. Some shrapnel had cut the boy badly. Still, he manages to stand up. Jenrya ran forward and tried to attack the exposed back. But the spikes like things elongated and stab out. Jenrya manages to stop just in time.
Vajira turns around and clawed at the boy. Thin red claw marks appeared on the boy's chest. Using another hand, Vajira strike at the blue hair boy. The blow is so hard that the boy was send rolling on the ground. The boy only stops when he is a distance away from the ox warrior. Jenrya coughed a few times as he tried to steady himself. Vajira laughed gleefully.
He gathers energy at his palm again and aimed the energy ball at Jenrya. Daisuke notices it from where he is standing. Seeing Jenrya is in no condition to avoid the hit, Daisuke ran to him. He is already halfway to his best friend when Vajira threw the energy ball. The speed is incredibly. But Daisuke still manages to push Jenrya away. But in doing so, he receives the blast of the explosion.
It sends the boy high into the air, over the ground, to the lava. Time seems to stop as Daisuke continues to fall towards the boiling lava with wide eyes. Jenrya saw it and tried to save his friend, though he knew he couldn't reach him. Still, he stood up quickly and ran. At the edge, he leaps and tries to catch his friend's hand. In his mind, this is suicide. But he didn't care; all that matter is Daisuke.
Jenrya caught Daisuke's arm. But the maroon hair boy somehow had the strength to throw his friend back to the ground. Daisuke wouldn't want the two of them to die together. At least, if Jenrya is still alive, he might be able to save his father and Mr. Lee. That way, there is still hope.
Jenrya watches as Daisuke continues to fall. He screamed his best friend's name out loud as the boy plunge into the lava. But Daisuke still smiles even till the end…
*******
What a foolish and arrogant child you are.
Daisuke awaken to the sound that speaks to him without a single bruise in his previous fight. He found himself in a dark space, completely void of anything. There was nothing at all, but then, a thin outline of a figure traces the air. A huge bird appears from it. It has a pair of fiery red eyes and a flaming body. Flames flick as he spreads his four wings. His seven tails swish fiercely. Most of his feathers are orange in colour. But those at his wings and tails were that of a rainbow.
The sight of the bird made Daisuke fell on his knees immediately. Though the boy is not very knowledgeable, unlike Jenrya, he still knows the being in front of him. The huge bird matches everything he knew. From head to claws, it fits every description. Pictures in the storybook, painting on the walls and also the statue in the shrine. This is none other than the Legendary Holy Bird that saved the world and helped King Seferius. The Guardian of Fire, Suzaku.
Rise, child. You need not bow before me. For you are possibly more superior than me.
Daisuke looks up and blinks curiously. The fiery phoenix gaze back at him with penetrating eyes. Their eyes lock, and Daisuke could feel as is his mind is being read. He doesn't know what to do right now. The boy is clueless and hesitant whether to ask Suzaku a question or not.
But the phoenix said, I'm sure you want to know what I meant with my phrase earlier. Daisuke nodded vigorously. Suzaku laughed and continues, You, my child, are being chosen by me to become one of the seven Holy Warriors. I'm sure you know what is it.
Daisuke recited, "'King Seferius; the Holy Warrior who rid the world of the evil.' That sentence is written in all the scriptures in the shrine. But Lord Suzaku, you just mention there are seven. And what do you mean by I'm chosen?"
Suzaku explained, "In this generation, due to some certain reason, there are going to be seven Holy Warriors. Each with their own Holy Guardians. The Water Warrior will be Seiryu, Light Warrior is Tenshi, the Wind Warrior with Taihu, Byakko is the guardian of the Thunder Warrior, and the Nature Warrior was teamed with Yousei. The two locks eye again. And you, Daisuke Motomiya, the Fire Warrior, I, Suzaku, will be your Holy Guardian.
Daisuke pointed to himself and asked, "Me?"
Yes. You have the traits that I like. You're daring, arrogant but courageous. You also have a straightforward attitude, and always risk yourself for others. Suzaku pauses. You've showed it to me when you pushed your friend to safety back in the cavern when you are about to fall into the lava. Somehow that action had made me able to contact with you.
"Contact?"
Suzaku nodded. In the humans' books and scriptures, I'm certain that it mention about us guardians disappear after the 'Age of Darkness', am I correct? Daisuke confirmed it. But the truth is, we are seal in seven different locations to create a powerful magical prison to lock away the evil a thousand years ago. But sadly, the seal was broken not long ago. We seven guardians assumed that the evil had gain tremendous power or someone with the power of darkness had released him. Either way, the world is in danger. The phoenix took a moment before he said it, That is why, we guardians who no longer can exists in your world, not without a vessel, the Holy Warrior, had decided to call upon seven warriors to stop the evil. This was decided since the day we were sealed. We knew something like this would happen.
Daisuke, who had been silence, spoke up when Suzaku finishes, "So what my lord is saying is that I am about to save the world or something major like that?"
You can put it that way.
Daisuke had his mouth opened wide. He knew this is going to be a huge adventure. He always likes an adventure. He felt like screaming and dancing around. But then, he seems to remember, "Wait, I died didn't I? The ox warrior killed me right?"
Suzaku laughed and said, I'm surprised that you haven't notice it. Anyway, I'll tell you… you are not dead. I've brought you here, to a plane that is created by my conscious. That is why, you are very much alive. And you should know that, the ox warrior is a minion of the evil's minion. Daisuke's looks clearly shows that he is clueless. Suzaku explained, The ox warrior, is one of the ten Dark Warriors soldier. The evil released, have ten loyal commanders; each have an Evil Stone, the opposition of Holy Stone. However, they are different from a Holy Warrior. They are without the power of a Holy Guardian.
Daisuke mind suddenly race, "If that ox warrior is from a dangerous origin, then wouldn't my best friend be in danger right now?"
Don't worry. It will all change if you agree to be a Holy Warrior.
Daisuke speaks his mind, "Of course I will agree. Not only that I can have a huge adventure; I'm also going to save the world. This is one thing I won't miss. Besides, if I agree, you said that I would be able to save my best friend."
Then it settles, Suzaku said, satisfied. He continues, When you become the Holy Warrior, the first thing that you must do is; search the other warriors. They are in other continents, usually at the place where the guardians were sealed. I'll guide you on the way, so you need not worry. Suzaku stopped for a moment. When you find them, the next step is all up to you all. Now, be prepare for what's coming…
He then closes its eyes. The flame surrounding him seems to die down. But it still licks the air. Daisuke could feel the powerful aura that surrounds this whole place. He fell when a small explosion formed in front of him. When the dust was gone, Daisuke could see two gauntlets floating in midair. It was red in colour, with a beautiful design. There is an orb on one of them. In it, Daisuke recognizes the word 'Hi'. He had seen before that word in the ancient scripture of the village's shrine, the word meant 'Fire' in ancient rune letters.
Suzaku opened his eyes again and said, That is the twin knuckle that are forge by the Gods. Since ancient time, it's called 'Fire Blaze'. It originally has two Holy Stone. You must have noticed the one with the word 'Fire'. The other is the Holy Stone 'Blaze'. But it was separated for some reason.
Daisuke reaches for it slowly. The weapon resonates as the boy's hand comes close. As his fingertip grazes the smooth weapon, a bright light blinded him. Before he even knew it, the weapon has already, fasten itself on the boy's. Daisuke flexes his fingers, feeling the gauntlet. The weapon doesn't hinder his fingers' movement as if it was another skin of his.
Suzaku told the boy, That weapon is of great power. You can call upon the power of fire and its every properties. Use it well. If not needed, you can make it disappear.
"It can?"
Without waiting for an answer, Daisuke tried it out with a simple command in his mind. True enough, the weapon disappears without a trace. Daisuke tried again, making it appear this time. Satisfied, he asks Suzaku, "So, when can I go back?"
Suzaku only smiled…
*******
Jenrya is grieving over the loss of his best friend. He knelt near the edge, and slams his fists down on the hard ground for a few times. He started to cry even before the blood flow from the cut on his fists. All the time he's shouting at how foolish Daisuke is. He never even notices it when a hoof leg, kick at his midsection. He crumpled to the ground immediately.
Vajira stood towering the boy, sneering. He places two front legs on the boy's back. Then, he started an attempt to crush the boy beneath him. Jenrya screamed in pain as the force on the ground and on his back met. He tried desperately to shake the legs away, but failed. Vajira didn't apply too much strength since he intended to torture the boy slowly.
Vajira is enjoying himself, grinding the blue hair boy. But then, he was knock away by a tremendous force. He turns his head to his attacker. His eyes grew wide. He even wondered if it was only the trick of the eyes. It was the boy who had fallen into the lava. He tried to stand up, but the part he was struck at, the midsection of his lower body, turned reddish and fire came to live from it.
Daisuke didn't care as the creature started to scream. He helped his friend up. The blue hair boy is wondering whether he is dead. But he knew he's very much alive, and so is his best friend. He reaches out and touches Daisuke's cheek to confirm it. "Dai? Is that you?"
Daisuke laughed and asked, "Hey! Is there another person as charming as me?"
Jenrya's hand, which is still on Daisuke's cheek, pinched the maroon hair boy's face. Daisuke yelped as Jenrya said, "In your dream, Dai."
Daisuke giggled. And suddenly, the two started to laugh out loud. Jenrya, for the most part, has tears flowing down his face. He had thought he had loss Daisuke. But a miracle happened. He made a mental note to ask Daisuke what had happened IF they get out of here alive.
When the two stopped, Daisuke turn his sight to the ox warrior who has just recovered. Jenrya, feeling he had the strength, hopped to his father after Daisuke told him to do so. The blue hair boy is curious of what Daisuke is about to do since he knew that they wouldn't be able to beat this warrior. He wasn't able to think much because Daisuke had rushed to the warrior in a very inhuman speed. He never knew Daisuke was THAT fast.
Daisuke throws three punches even before Vajira knew the boy is in front of him. Like the first one, the places where Daisuke had struck, was burned as fire ignites from them. Daisuke jumped and landed a kick at the side of the warrior's head. The huge creature stumbled a little. But Daisuke didn't stop. He grabs Vajira's arm when he landed. With his new power, he was able to lift that creature and threw him at least ten meters away.
Jenrya stared unbelievably at the fight. He knew Daisuke's strength through the matches he had had with him before. Something must have happened to make the maroon hair boy turned so powerful. But then, he notices the gauntlet Daisuke is wearing. He didn't notice it earlier, but it was there. He watches as Daisuke wrote something in midair. He was surprised to see orange colour letters traces the air. The words however, were unfamiliar to him.
When Daisuke finished, he shouted, "FURAME WARURU!"
The Fire Holy Stone in Daisuke's gauntlet glowed. Then, an orange colour line circled the ox warrior. Vajira stared at it curiously. Before he could react and moves away, burning flame ignited from within. It didn't passes out the line that has circled Vajira. The warrior roared in pain as the flame burn him.
Vajira stood up quickly and galloped away. He was met by Daisuke, who is waiting for him with a smirk on his face. Vajira didn't have time to move away as the maroon hair boy gathers in chi at his palm and shouted "SHISHISENKOU!"
Daisuke then strike at Vajira's chest with tremendous force. When the palm connected, a burst of energy throws the ox warrior away. Vajira rolled on the ground as the image of a lion appeared, surrounding the boy's frame. It disappears only after a moment.
Daisuke had used one of them Sacred skill his master had thought him. This skill was one that needs a lot of focuses. The user must gathers in energy from the surrounding and concentrates it in one spot, preferably at the palm. When enough energy is achieved, the user will release the gathered energy at his or her target. For sure, this skill will blow the target away because of the collision of energy and the target's body. Because of its tremendous strength, the energy will take form of an organism as the target was hit. In Daisuke's case, it was the lion. In actual, this skill will not hurt the target much, but it is different for Daisuke who had the Holy Guardian's power.
Vajira knew he was completely defeated. The bones in his upper body are nearly all broken. He couldn't even move three of his arms. He staggers to his footing and stared at the boy who is still assuming the post when he attached. He asked Daisuke venomously, "How is it that you have such strength human?" Then, Suzaku's image flashed behind the boy. Vajira's eyes widen and he understands immediately. He said, "I see why now. Even if you have defeated me, you will never defeat the others in the Dark Army!"
Vajira laughed as he steps backward. Daisuke has no idea what the creature is plotting. But he assumed his attack stance, just in case. Then, Daisuke finally realize it when the ox warrior moved closer to the edge. He knew the ox warrior is attempting a suicide.
Vajira is suffering not only from the pain, but the disgrace of being defeated as well. He knew he might as well end that suffering himself. However, Daisuke have no intention to stop the creature from killing himself. He understands Vajira's feeling perfectly as a warrior. He watches as the creature fell backward into the lava. There was no scream of pain, only a taunting laugh that echoed around the hot cavern.
When he calmed down, Daisuke ran towards Jenrya who has his mouth wide opened. When he saw his best friend's expression, Daisuke scratch the back of his head and asked, "What did I do now?"
Jenrya said sarcastically, "You've just defeated the undefeated, that's what." The blue hair boy then stood up and hugs his best friend. "I'm really glad that you're alive, Dai. I wouldn't want to lose you." He released Daisuke and faced him. Jenrya said questioningly, "Now, I want to know what had happened. I'm sure you fell into the lava. So, don't hide anything and spill it out."
Daisuke's sweat dropped and said, "I'll explain as soon as we get our father out of here."
Jenrya, feeling it is fair, lifted his father onto his back. The older man was heavier, but Jenrya who went through a lot of martial art practices, carried him with only little effort. Daisuke also carried his father. Together, the two walked to the opening they came from.
None of the two notices a shadowy figure appeared and lifted Vajira with his psychic power. The ox warrior floated in midair as the figure examined the wounds on the defeated warrior's body. He whispered silently, "So, the Holy Guardians have begin their plans. I must inform Shi-ou - sama at once."
With that said, the figure disappeared along with the ox warrior…
*******
Days have passed…
Mr. Motomiya and Lee Janyuu had recovered from their injuries sustained during their little confrontation, all thanks to their son. Daisuke and Jenrya didn't tell them about the ox warrior. They only told them that they found them unconscious in the cavern. Jenrya feared that if they know the truth, they would have gone berserk to know Daisuke have an encounter with a Holy Guardian and the Evil's minion.
Daisuke had explained everything to Jenrya. The blue hair boy said nothing when Daisuke finishes. All he asked was, "When are you going to leave?"
Daisuke told the boy, "After the coming tournaments…."
"I see."
Jenrya didn't say anything to the day of the tournament. Daisuke began to worry that his best friend is angry with him. But he didn't say it out. He had other things to worry. Right now, the maroon hair boy is sitting on a bench in the rest room of the Koga School's dojo, trying to calm himself before the semifinal. But his effort is useless. He doesn't know whether it was because of his nervousness or Jenrya's case. In any case, he had won the early part of the tournament.
The tournament is a set of fight between the two schools. Each school will send sixteen participants and the turns in the fight will be determined by the number the participants draw from a box. This means that the students from the same school might compete against each other. The rules are quite simple, do not kill your opponent, those unconscious and out of the ring will be considered the loser. The first set of fight will determine the eight best fighters. And that in turn will lead to the four fighters for the semifinal. So far, it was Daisuke against Seta and Jenrya against Taasuki.
Master Jann Li, notices Daisuke's nervousness, came over and sat beside the boy. He asked in his comforting voice, "My, my. Daisuke, the fearless, is nervous before the coming fight. That is very unlike you, my student."
Daisuke was surprise to hear his master. He turns toward the old man, who smiled soothingly at him. Daisuke confided to him, "Master… I don't know what I'm scared of right now. Was it because of the coming fight with Seta and possibly, Taasuki?"
"No," the old man said. He had notices Daisuke and Jenrya's attitudes toward each other for the past few days. Something had happened between the two that he couldn't put his fingers on. "All I can tell you is, you're afraid of losing your friend. Go and talk with him."
Master Jann Li left the boy alone. But Daisuke didn't make a move to talk with Jenrya about his nervousness. Instead, he just sat there and said to himself in his mind, 'Daisuke, you're really an idiot. How can you be afraid to confront Jenrya when you even dare to fall into the lava?'
Surprisingly, even to the boy, Suzaku answered. The phoenix's voice sounded in Daisuke's mind. That's because you're a living being. We all have our own fears. Give yourself and that boy called Jenrya some time. When the time comes, you or maybe he himself will confront each other.
Daisuke smiled hearing Suzaku's. He said mentally, 'Thanks Suzaku, my friend.'
*******
Students from the two martial art schools sat around the ring of the fight. They are about to witness the outcome of the battle. The Kaga School's master sat on the oak chair in front of the dojo. Master Jann Li had disappeared into the back room to tend to Jenrya.
Now, Daisuke stood facing Taasuki. He had won the previous fight with Seta. It was an easy win for him. Seta is not as powerful as he had expected, but he was surprised that Taasuki had defeated Jenrya. He heard from his teammates that Jenrya is injured badly. Daisuke was more than mad when he found out that Jenrya might have a few broken bones. He cursed because he couldn't use his new power in the tournament. Suzaku had forbid it.
His teeth are gritted as Taasuki taunted, "Well, well. After the sissy, it's the crybaby turns. It's payback time for that punch back in the flower meadow."
"Just. Shut. Up." Daisuke said threateningly.
The referee, one of the students from the Koga School, raises his hand to signal the two fighters to get ready. Daisuke and Taasuki, both assumed their fighting stance. Daisuke stood sideways with his knees bend and one semi clenched hand in front of his face and the other at the same height of his waist. Taasuki stood with one leg and had both hands held in front of his chest.
The moment the referee dropped his raised hand, Daisuke launched into action. He uses his palm to strike at Taasuki. But the boy with orange hair, blocks every of his strikes. Daisuke tried to sweep his opponent off his footing. But Taasuki who had anticipated it, jumps behind the boy.
Taasuki landed neatly and immediately delivered a kick at the maroon hair boy's back. Daisuke rolled on the ground but got up immediately. Again, he assumed his attack stance and makes a mental note not to underestimate Taasuki. Stupid or not, the orange hair boy is really good when it comes to a fight. The exchanged blow just now had proved it. Taasuki had block away all his attacks by using only his fingers.
This time, Taasuki makes the move. He ran forward with amazing speed and clawed at Daisuke with the Koga School's Sacred Skill, 'The Dragon's Fang'. Daisuke was strike at his shoulders, chest and then only his legs. Each hit, Dasuke could feel like he was clawed by the dragon's nail, hence the name of the Sacred Skill.
Before Taasuki could launch 'The Dragon's Fang' succession move, Daisuke countered with his own Sacred Skill. "HACHI YOURENGA!"
Daisuke struck Taasuki with his fist, the base of his palm, his elbow, and also with his knuckles. The maroon hair boy throws in a series of consecutive attacks at his opponent's vital parts. Taasuki didn't have the chance to block it even when Daisuke finishes it with his succession move. Daisuke's fist seems to glow as he struck the side of Taasuki's head with the back of his hand.
The orange hair boy staggers backward, clutching the side of his head. His body aches in various parts, where Daisuke had struck. He didn't fell down however, much to Daisuke's surprise. That move was supposed to leave Taasuki unconscious with a few broken bones. But it didn't. Daisuke knew now why Jenrya couldn't defeat him.
Taasuki laughed and asked, "You're wondering why I'm not defeated by that move, am I right?" Without waiting for the maroon hair boy to reply, Taasuki explains, "We of the Kanemaru family, were known to have a resistance to any kind of attacks that are cause by fists and kicks. So, this means that you don't stand a chance against me."
Taasuki dashes forward again and jump in halfway. He locks Daisuke's head with his legs and throws him to the floor. Immediately he stomps on Daisuke's stomach, which the boy screamed, and sat down heavily on him. Taasuki sneered and punches Daisuke's face continuously. The Koga School's student all cheered for Taasuki to hit Daisuke more.
Daisuke tried to block with his arms, but Taasuki had his bare foots on them. The maroon hair boy can only braces for each punch that felt like hammer hitting him. Daisuke was about to drown into unconsciousness when he hears a voice. He tried to see where it comes from but he wasn't able to due to Taasuki's savage strike. But, he knew who it was perfectly; the voice that had always supported him and points him to the right path. It was his best friend, Lee Jenrya.
Jenrya is shouting words of encouragement to Daisuke. His voice somehow rises above the cheering Koga School's student. "Don't give up Dai! Beat that stupid orange hair idiot to an ugly pulp he is!"
Daisuke could feel his nervousness he felt earlier lifting. With renew strength, he kick at Taasuki's head. Taasuki fell forward as Daisuke heaved the boy into the air. Daisuke smiled and stand with his hand. When the time is right, he delivered kicks after kicks at Taasuki. With a burst of strength, Daisuke gave a harder kick at Taasuki's side. The orange hair boy was send flying to the floor.
Jenrya cheered, "That's the way!"
Quickly, the maroon hair boy stood on his foot again and waited for Taasuki to stand up. The orange hair boy spit out blood as he also stood up. It was Daisuke's turn to taunt, "Not so tough anymore, Taasuki? I thought you said the Kanemaru had resistance or something like that."
Taasuki, feeling humiliated, dashes at Daisuke again and tried to punch him. With the orange hair boy injured, his attacks are a bit slower and less dangerous. Daisuke evaded it with ease and elbowed his opponent's back. However, Taasuki hand manages to backhand Daisuke across the face.
Both fell to the floor, but Daisuke manages to recover first. Daisuke shout as he launches his next move, "MAJIN HIEN KYAKU!"
'Majin Hien Kyaku' is yet another evolution of the 'Hien Ren Kyaku'. This time, Daisuke sweeps his opponents off his feet and throws in four punches while Taasuki is still in midair. The punches connected with Taasuki's shoulder, chest, and the stomach twice. He then delivered a sideways kick, which causes the other boy to fall out the ring into the weapon rack.
The referee moves forward and declared Daisuke as the winner of the tournaments. Students from the Tenga School cheered and applauded loudly. Master Jann Li clapped the loudest in the dojo. Some students of the Koga School booed. And the Koga School's master slams on the handle of the oak chair and cursed. This is history in making; the Tenga School who had been the loser for years had finally won.
Jenrya tried to step up into the ring and hugs Daisuke. But out of the corner of his eyes, he saw Taasuki who is at the weapon rack, holding a spear. Daisuke, who is too busy laughing, didn't saw the spear that is aimed at him fly. Jenrya manages to shout, "Dai! Look out!"
Master Jann Li also saw the weapon flying, but he was too far from Daisuke. Nevertheless, he still dashes towards the Daisuke to try and block away the weapon. Jenrya, who is closer, did the same as well, but he was tackled down by Seta, who had appeared mysteriously.
Daisuke could only turns in time to see the spear inches from him. But when it come close, the weapon doesn't even get to scratch him because it was burned into crisp. Suzaku's image appeared behind Daisuke and a wall of flame surrounded the maroon hair boy.
Everyone in the dojo stared wide eye at the image of the legendary phoenix. None dared to move even when the image disappears. They only stared at Daisuke as if he is a god or something close that are related to it. Only Jenrya is not surprised by it. He ran forward and hugs his best friend.
*******
After the small incident in the dojo, the whole village knew of Daisuke's relation with the Holy Guardian. But still, it didn't stop Jun from taunting her brother, as expected. However, now Daisuke's parent knew of his quest and destiny that is laid before the young teenager. Though reluctant, his parent has no choice but to allow Daisuke to set out on his fate.
Daisuke and his family stood at the village's gate. Daisuke had his backpack behind him as he embraces his parent and said goodbye. Mrs. Motomiya was crying ever since last night, the day before Daisuke go. Daisuke felt bad to make his mother sad, but this is something he had promised when he agreed with Suzaku's condition. He can only say sorry to her. But Mrs. Motomiya smiled and kissed her son. Jenrya, who is there, laughed and Daisuke's face grew red.
Jenrya also had a backpack behind him. His parent had allowed him to go with Daisuke on this journey. Of course, it was hard pleading his mom to agree. But after a few persuasions from Daisuke, Jenrya and Janyuu, she finally agreed. This way, Daisuke wouldn't be bore in his journey.
Then, Jun came out of the house with puffy red eyes. Daisuke notices it and sneered. He asked mischievously, "Is my dear sister crying for me?"
Jun retorted, "Ha! Never in a million years you no good brother. Thank god Jenrya is following you to keep you from doing anything stupid." However, Jun's action speaks differently. She hugs her brother and said, "You just be careful."
Daisuke is more than surprise at this. He was shocked. But he did return the hug. Jenrya raises an eyebrow at the sight. He wouldn't want to interrupt or say something sarcastic at this rare occasion. In his mind he only thought, 'Hell is really freezing already.'
Even if Daisuke hate to separate with his family, he knew it was already time to go. He said one final farewell to his family. Jenrya also did the same to his family as well. They are all there to say farewell to him and Daisuke. Janyuu, Jenrya's mother, his older sister and brother, and also Shiuchon, all are present. The youngest of the Lee family, waved as his brother and Daisuke set out.
Slowly, the sounds of their family disappear behind them. Only the sound of the wind could be heard. Then, and only then, Jenrya asks, "So, Dai, where are we going next? Even with this map my father had provided, we must still have a destination."
Suzaku answered for the boy, We should head west from here to the Mescaria region, which is the nearest. Yousei, the Nature Holy Guardian is there. You can stop by at one of the Castle City, Barole, on the way there. It is a great place to gather supply.
Since Suzaku can only communicate with the Holy Warriors, Daisuke relates everything Suzaku had mentioned, word by word to Lee. Of course, being the guardian's advice, Lee agrees on going to Barole as their first stop since it was the one nearest to them anyway.
"Okay then. To the Mescaria region it is," Daisuke said enthusiastically. He took out something that glitters under the sunlight, from his backpack. Lee stare at the object curiously as Daisuke straps it on his head. Then Daisuke, now with an awesome pair of goggle, ran forward and shouted, "Barole! Hear we come!"
Akogareteta mono wa yume no mama
da ne
Furikaereba itsumo boku wo yobu koe
The things I longed for are still
just dreams
When I turn around there's always a voice calling me
Mune no naka de hageshiku yureru
mada ma ni au ka mo shirenai
Kao wo agete jibun wo shinjite miru yo mou ichido
Wavering intensely in my heart, I
might still make it after all
I lift up my face and try believing in myself once more
Ayumu beki mirai wo
Terashidasu hikari ni michibikarete
Yuuki ga umareta yo kono te no naka
Ayumu beki mirai wo atarashii mirai wo
Yubi sashita sono saki ni sugu ni iku yo
Kagayaki afureru ayumu beki mirai e
The future I must walk
Is illuminated by the light that guides me
Courage is born, in my hands
The future I must walk, a new future
Ahead of where I pointed, I'll go there soon
To the future I must walk, overflowing with light
Nagashite kita namida kawakasu
kaze ga
Tsumetaku shimita kara me wo tojite ita
All the tears I've cried, the wind
that dried them
Was so cold, I closed my eyes
Shiranai basho mayoikondemo nuke
daseru michi ga aru hazu
Iki wo sutte kokoro wo hiraite miyou mou ichido
Even if I get lost in an unknown
place, there must be a way out
I take a breath and try opening my heart once more
Susumu beki mirai wo
Umarete hajimete ki ga tsuita no sa
Hito wa kawarerun da itsu kara demo
Susumu beki mirai wo atarashii mirai wo
Mitsumeteru sono saki ni sugu ni iku yo
Chikara ga afureru susumu beki mirai e
The future I must travel
For the first time in my life, I realized
People can change, at any time
The future I must travel, a new future
Ahead of where I was looking, I'll go there soon
To the future I must travel, overflowing with strength
Ayumu beki mirai wo
Terashidasu hikari ni michibikarete
Yuuki ga umareta yo kono te no naka
Ayumu beki mirai wo atarashii mirai wo
Yubi sashita sono saki ni sugu ni iku yo
Kagayaki afureru ayumu beki mirai e
The future I must walk
Is illuminated by the light that guides me
Courage is born, in my hands
The future I must walk, a new future
Ahead of where I pointed, I'll go there soon
To the future I must walk, overflowing with light
***********************************************************************************************
Translations:
Magic:
Furame Waruru – Flame Wall
Miscellaneous:
Tenga – Sky Fang
Koga – Howling Fang
Hi – Fire
Author's Note:
Well, what do you think? Is it good or bad? I beg of you, kindly please leave your comment in your review. I would really love to hear from you. Or if there is something you don't understand, just asked. And once again, I would like to thank all those who had reviewed.
By the way, the song above is Lee Jenrya's image song, 'Mirai'. It means 'Future'.
With that, wait for the next chapter, 'Desire as Strong as Thunder'.
