Notes:
Shuriken - Ninja stars
Kunai - Dagger
Episode 2: A Traitor in the Mist
The weather was finally starting to change. There was a new crisp smell in the air as the temperature dropped much lower and the constant rain turned into white specks of snow. The snow was coming down ever so much harder as the morning hours passed. Skies were still overcast by large gray clouds and a fog was present at the ground level. In the forest there were hoof marks imprinted in the snow and beside the hoof marks you could clearly make out three sets of human foot steps. The footsteps belonged to three men that set out on a voyage. San, Renshaku, and Otake were all walking their horses to find a good spot to become spectators for an intense battle that was on the horizon. The woods that they were traveling through sat atop a large hill that overlooked the battlefield. It was so cold now that none of the three men could feel their feet or hands as they were shuffling through the snow. The horses' breath was visible to all of the men and they were just being very cautious not to get noticed.
***
The snow was starting to pile up on the battlefield and Kagetsu's men were becoming antsy. They drank liquor from their canteens to try and keep warm. Kagetsu was sting on his horse, with a cigarette in his mouth and an icy stare in his eyes. Kagetsu was a very dark man, with a dark past and a shrouded future. He always wore a trench coat that was very heavy. In the presence of anyone, the coat always stayed on. Kagetsu's face was very rugged and worn through the many years of battle. He had two scars on his right cheek and another two scars over his left eye. His left eye was blank, for he had lost sight in it a long time ago. It was said that if any man were to stare or get a glimpse into his eye, then their fate would be sealed. There was a reason why Omin had trusted Kagetsu so much and why he had appointed Kagetsu to such a high ranking position. Omin was impressed with Kagetsu's calmness and prowess in battle. There weren't too many men that could even put a scratch on Kagetsu. But what impressed Omin the most was Kagetsu's amazing ability. Takeshi sat on a horse next to Kagetsu's and tried to see what it was that Kagetsu had that made him so special. Takeshi was freezing, but wasn't the type to show or complain about it. Snow was heavy and wet and a person couldn't help but feel weighed down and soaked at all times. Many would have preferred the rain better, but it was up to a higher being to decide what the weather should be. The men were just waiting for a signal to charge into battle because they wanted to get this over with. Takeshi was starting to become a bit anxious and was waiting for Kagetsu's sign. He had served with Kagetsu for close to five years now, but he never heard the man utter a word. Kagetsu's signal was always his sword raised into the air. After the signal, Takeshi would see a demon awaken from within in Kagetsu. He never understood this sudden change, but he always accepted it as the main reason that Kagetsu was number one in Omin's ranks.
***
General Oni stood tall with his men. Their ranks were a bit low and this cold was doing quite a number on them. All dressed in black with a white vest and the anti-monarchial insignia shining through the white mist of snow. He had served for the White Phantoms for many a year now. So many in fact, that he didn't know what life would be like had he left them. He had great respect for their leader and for his only other superior, General San. San wasn't going to participate in this battle, which saddened Oni quite a bit, but he knew that the Leader had something in mind. A strong gust of wind blew by and sent chills down his spine as he remembered the past. In all of his years of service with the Phantoms, he never once saw the face of their leader. He didn't even know his leader's name. All he knew was that the Leader was magnificent in battle and in his following of the Phantom Code. As far as Oni knew, their leader had been with the Phantoms for his entire life and was sometimes known to the men simply as The White Phantom. The fact remained that the Leader was very mysterious and fought very rarely. It was enough to make the rest of the clan serve at the price of their lives. This was no time for reminiscing though. A battle was about to commence and General Oni had to get everyone mentally prepared.
Oni: Alright men, we have been preparing arduously for this battle. Let's keep in mind that these are the Leader's orders.
Soldier: What The White Phantom says, we follow! This battle shall be victorious for us!
Oni: Good! Now let's get ready. We strike at the first sign from the heavens!
***
Atop a hill sat the ruthless leader, King Omin. His head was covered in snow as if he'd been sitting in that same position for quite some time now. His horse was standing anxiously, carrying Omin. Next to Omin stood another man, or ghost to be more precise. This other man's name was Mentka
Mentka: Very good my young apprentice. Your troops look quite formidable. That Kagetsu though. I don't like him!
Omin: Shut up, you old fool! That man is my eyes, ears, arms, and legs in battle. What would you know about him?
Mentka: Nothing! And that's what worries me. You have committed an error in the Way of War!
Omin: Yes, yes, I know. 'Don't trust anybody! Everybody is your enemy!' I know that stupid rule, but so far Kagetsu has been the most reliable. Just watch him in battle and you'll be impressed.
Mentka: Very well then. I will trust your judgment. But, my young apprentice, what is wrong with this picture painted before us?
Omin: What do you speak of old man? I hate riddles! That's what got you killed in the first place, isn't it? You mean to tell me you still haven't learned your lesson?
Mentka: There you go again. I'm already dead! What can you do to me now? But, enough of this foolishness! I'm trying to teach you the ways!
Omin: I don't want to follow your ways! My heart isn't as twisted and evil as yours.
Mentka: What!? (Laughs) You call me and my heart twisted and evil? You've paved your own road to damnation, my young apprentice. You think killing your parents.
Omin: Shut your mouth you damned bastard! I will not hear anymore of this blaspheme!
Mentka: Well then. What, may I ask, is wrong with this situation?
Omin: After giving it some deliberation I have narrowed it down to the fact that their troops are surprisingly low. What's your point?
Mentka: Well, what do you think?
Omin: It's a setup? A diversion of some sort?
Mentka: Precisely! So who's playing who in this battle?
Omin: Sutachi! Come out here immediately!
Sutachi: Yes my lord?!
Omin: Relay a message to Kagetsu and Kashyu! Tell Kagetsu that there is a plan against us and inform Kashyu that there is a betrayal and to get the Royal Knights ready! And make haste!
Sutachi: Yes my lord!
With the last words Sutachi disappeared into the mist. But, it was in vain. A lightning bolt struck a tree nearby and the White Phantoms were on the move.
***
The army was still waiting for a signal to start their attack. The snow started coming down so heavily that even liquor couldn't keep the men warm anymore, as they were impatiently trouncing in the snow, waiting for their leader to give the sign. A few minutes later their prayers were answered. In the nearby distance a lightning bolt struck and finally signs of battle were starting to show. A rumbling noise could now be heard as they saw in the mist an army start to charge. Kagetsu noticed it immediately and held his hand out with his palm faced to the charging army. Takeshi was going to have to interpret this signal to all the men as a signal to hold off their charge for a little longer. Suddenly, a blaze of shurikens penetrated the mist and Kagetsu's men started falling to the ground. Kagetsu's sign still stood as before and no man was about to disobey his order. Kagetsu was waiting. Waiting until he could see the whites of the enemy's eyes or the glowing of their swords. He took his cigarette from his mouth and dropped it to the ground. Finally, after more men lay bleeding in the snow, Kagetsu lowered his hand and took it to his waist, unsheathed his sword, and raised it into the air. This was still the signal to hold it. Kagetsu finally saw the anti-monarchial symbol on the vests of the enemy and pointed his sword straight ahead. The battle was on the brink of starting. His men knew this sign well. They all screamed at the top of their lungs, chanting Omin's name and charged full speed ahead with Kagetsu and Takeshi leading the way on horseback.
***
He saw the horse in not too far a distance and immediately unsheathed his sword. The others around him followed suit. Their fingers were already on their shurikens. They were ready to take on the enemy. One of the soldiers jumped high and straight towards the horse. The man perched atop the horse caught that soldier in one hand, by the throat. The warriors heard a plea for help and then the crunch of breaking bones sent chills down their spines. Shurikens blazed by at them and many men fell. Their white vests were now soaked in blood. Clinks of swords could be heard all around. Screams of death and the spray of the scarlet substance penetrated the air. The warriors were all in gridlock. General Oni spotted one of Omin's lieutenants and charged right at him. His sword was positioned ahead of him in a jousting stance. The lieutenant was prepared and deflected the sword with a blaze of shurikens. He then followed with three kunai. One kunai missed Oni, but hit one of his men right in the forehead. The second kunai, Oni deflected with his sword and the last kunai hit Oni's right shoulder, causing him to drop his sword to the ground. Oni stuttered back in pain, but continued his pursuit. He landed a kick in the lieutenant's gut and then kneed him in the face. Blood trickled down the face of the opponent. He only smiled and punched Oni in the face. One of Oni's men threw a sword in his direction. Oni caught it and with one swift motion he cut off the other man's head. Oni put the sword in his teeth and with his left hand he pulled out the kunai from his shoulder. In war, time is of the essence and General Oni found that out as soon as he started nursing his wound. His eyes widened as he felt the sudden pain in his chest and as he flew backwards three meters. Lieutenant Takeshi stood tall over Oni's badly beaten body.
Takeshi: Get up you old fool! This is no time to be taking a nap!
Oni stuttered back to his feet and launched an array of kunai. One after the other they flew straight at Takeshi. Takeshi's speed with the sword was amazing and each kunai flew to the side as he deflected them. Oni found that he had one remaining kunai. Without any hesitation he used a smoke bomb to conceal himself and waited for his opportunity to strike at Takeshi again. One of the White Phantoms came at Takeshi from behind and Oni found that it was the perfect opportunity to capitalize upon. He leapt into the air and threw the kunai as hard and accurate as he could, right at his target. Takeshi smiled and with one swift motion he caught the kunai and jammed it right into his other assailant's throat. Takeshi's face and clothes were covered in blood as the other man held on to his neck and couldn't even utter a sound. Oni hated to use his own men to his advantage, but this momentary delay had created an opening for Oni to strike! Still in the air, he started falling towards the enemy and he unsheathed his blade. He used the blade's reflection of the snow to momentarily blind Takeshi as he brought the sword down right at his head. He had expected a spray of blood and a nice cut right through his opponent, but his blade stopped at a loud clink. Takeshi's sword deflected Oni's as he finally landed on the ground. An intense battle still surrounded the two warriors as they both tried to hold their ground. To Oni's amazement, Takeshi was only using one arm for deflecting his blade. The other arm was already at his side for a grip on the shurikens that Takeshi stored. A shuriken was finally launched at Oni, so he decided to use it to his advantage. Instead of parrying it, he somersaulted over Takeshi, using the other man's sword as a balance. Oni landed behind Takeshi, with his back turned to him. In a swift motion, he swung his sword horizontally, turning to face Takeshi. But, the lieutenant was a very good fighter himself and almost imitated Oni's motion exactly. The two were at a deadlock again, as the swords scraped at one another creating sparks of energy. Without any further delay, the two warriors clashed their blades back and forth, each trying to find a spot of weakness. The opening was just not available to either of them at this time.
***
Deep in the woods, atop a hill, three men sat patiently, watching the battle. One of the three men, San, was stringing up his bow. The battle below was intense and had been going on for about forty five minutes now. Although the Phantoms were outnumbered, their fighting spirit was still alive, as they tried to survive this battle, to live another day. San knew that they were supposed to stay hidden and that their leader would not approve of what they were doing. There he was, Kagetsu! San saw the only one still perched atop a horse. San's previous encounters with Kagetsu hadn't been very pleasing, but, he knew, that the only one to defeat Kagetsu would have to be him. This was why he was now getting ready to strike from the forest.
Otake: Please, General, don't do it! We don't want to be located! If the leader finds out that we haven't gotten ourselves out of this area, he will punish us! Plus, we don't want to attract any more attention to you.
San: Look at those men below. They are fighting nobly for our cause. How can I abandon them? It is my duty and my wish to help those men out! I must defeat that devil at any cost. If you feel that you can't stake out your life with me, then you and Renshaku can go now. I will not hold this against you or count it as a cowardly move on your part. You will still remain my good friends.
Renshaku: Don't speak that way. You know that I got myself into this knowing fully well what the result could be. I will stay by your side through the thick and the thin. You can count on me!
Otake: Then I have no option. Peer pressure will be the death of me (chuckles). Count me in!
San: Thank you my friends. If it does get too dangerous, then I will ask you to leave me. Understood?
With those words, San picked up his bow and looked at it carefully, then picked out a couple of arrows. He fastened the first arrow, aimed and shot it, hitting one of the men below. He shot a couple more arrows in a similar fashion and killed more men on the field below. Looking closely at Kagetsu he realized that his enemy had not sensed their presence yet. With his last arrow he aimed for Kagetsu's head, steadied himself, and shot the arrow that would seal fate.
***
Takeshi was still deeply engaged in the battle with General Oni. The two were fiercely swinging their swords, still looking for an opening. Takeshi was becoming agitated with this and decided to unsheathe his second sword to shift the odds a little more. With two swords out, Takeshi's speed increased and General Oni was totally dominated now. He could only defend now and didn't even have an opportunity to go on the offensive. Oni was totally outclassed and every time Takeshi's blade came down, a vibration was sent down Oni's spine. Finally, with a blow on to his hand, Oni lost his sword. Takeshi used a kick to knock the sword out and then to lay him out on the ground. He kicked Oni in the face and was now standing over his body. Takeshi was about to end this general's illustrious career.
Takeshi: Well, is that it, old man? You put up quite a good fight for an aging dog. Do you have any last words before I finish you off?
Oni: I die for my beliefs and for the liberation of our people. Omin will die at the hands of The White Phantom!
Takeshi: Enough of this rubbish. Before you speak, make sure your words are palatable!
Takeshi brought both of his swords down, but before he could strike Oni down, he heard an arrow whiz by his head, on a course straight for Kagetsu. Kagetsu's eyes narrowed as he saw the arrow out of the distance. Without much reaction he stuck his hand out and let the arrow hit him in the palm, piercing his hand, but stopping just short of his head. With his other hand, Kagetsu ripped the arrow out of his palm and snapped it in two. Takeshi then witnessed Kagetsu's frightening power, as his wound healed itself in a matter of seconds. Not even a scar was left. Kagetsu calmly took out a cigarette, lit it up, and put it between his teeth, starting to smoke it. He then looked at Takeshi and pointed his sword towards the forest that the arrow came out of. Takeshi nodded at Kagetsu and called together some of his men.
Takeshi: You lucked out today old man! I'll have your head the next time we meet! Get some more practice before then, so that I can have some fun with you!
Takeshi gathered his men and briefed them on the situation. They were out to hunt a sniper. With a group of fifteen men, Takeshi moved out and made his way into the forest very meticulously.
***
On top of a hill you could see the breath of a man in the cold wintry day. Omin still sat atop his horse and next to him Mentka was still standing. The two were observing the situation below very carefully.
Omin: Well, it looks like this battle is pretty much over. Wouldn't you say so?
Mentka: Is it now? How many times in your life do you see a forest walk?
Omin turned and looked at the forest. To his surprise he saw the forest moving, advancing towards his troops. After a more careful observation, he noticed that they were men in camouflage. Omin then thought to himself about the fact that the White Phantoms don't have the resources to get camouflage, so this had to be a different set of troops.
Mentka: Good thinking my young apprentice. These are not the White Phantoms. They are the revolutionaries.
Omin: That god damned Yamata! He would dare go against me?
Mentka: So what are we going to do about this?
Omin: Sutachi, I need you to summon Kenshi's troops. Tell them to attack the forest to the northwest.
Sutachi: Yes sire!
Sutachi took one look at the forest and realized the importance of his message. Without further delay he disappeared into the forest to give Kenshi the message.
***
Lord Kenshi sat on his horse and had a canteen of liquor in his hand. He was sitting very nervously, looking onto the battle. After taking another drink from his canister, he got of the horse and went over to one of his men.
Kenshi: What's taking that bastard so long? He was supposed to have his troops here thirty minutes ago! We were supposed to be out of here already. Instead I'm sitting in this cold weather, freezing my nuts off.
Lieutenant: Sir, I'm not sure what the problem is, but it would seem like Yamata's troops have double-crossed us.
Kenshi: Those sons of bitches! I'll have a little talk with that bastard Yamata!
Out of the mist, a shadow of a man appeared. He seemed to be running at a very fast speed. Sutachi had finally arrived at the cavalry's camp out and was about ready to relay the message. Meanwhile, Kenshi motioned for the lieutenant to give him his bow.
Sutachi: Lord Kenshi! We need your help. King Omin's orders are to attack the northwest forest. There are troops there. Seems like they are the revolutionaries!
Kenshi: Is that so. Very interesting (gathering his bow and arrow). Let me get right on it.
With those words, Kenshi pointed the bow straight at Sutachi and fired the arrow. Sutachi's chest was pierced at the impact of the arrow and he fell to the ground without making a single sound. He was dead.
Kenshi: Prepare your arrows men. Line up now, now, NOW!
All of Kenshi's troops lined up and pointed their arrows into the sky, but instead of firing at the northwest direction, they fired at the southeast direction, where King Omin's troops were stationed. Kenshi had a smile on his face for a moment, but then decided it was time to get out of there.
Kenshi: Alright men, gather your things. We're getting out of here before Omin notices any of this!
***
Omin stared in the direction of his cavalry and was waiting for any kind of movement from them. Sutachi should have been there by now to relay the message. A few moments later, the first sign of arrows appeared. To Omin's surprise, the arrows headed not for the revolutionaries, but for his own men. He saw as his troops started falling. In one swift stroke, one hundred men fell to the ground.
Omin: (wide eyed) A knife in my back.
Shuriken - Ninja stars
Kunai - Dagger
Episode 2: A Traitor in the Mist
The weather was finally starting to change. There was a new crisp smell in the air as the temperature dropped much lower and the constant rain turned into white specks of snow. The snow was coming down ever so much harder as the morning hours passed. Skies were still overcast by large gray clouds and a fog was present at the ground level. In the forest there were hoof marks imprinted in the snow and beside the hoof marks you could clearly make out three sets of human foot steps. The footsteps belonged to three men that set out on a voyage. San, Renshaku, and Otake were all walking their horses to find a good spot to become spectators for an intense battle that was on the horizon. The woods that they were traveling through sat atop a large hill that overlooked the battlefield. It was so cold now that none of the three men could feel their feet or hands as they were shuffling through the snow. The horses' breath was visible to all of the men and they were just being very cautious not to get noticed.
***
The snow was starting to pile up on the battlefield and Kagetsu's men were becoming antsy. They drank liquor from their canteens to try and keep warm. Kagetsu was sting on his horse, with a cigarette in his mouth and an icy stare in his eyes. Kagetsu was a very dark man, with a dark past and a shrouded future. He always wore a trench coat that was very heavy. In the presence of anyone, the coat always stayed on. Kagetsu's face was very rugged and worn through the many years of battle. He had two scars on his right cheek and another two scars over his left eye. His left eye was blank, for he had lost sight in it a long time ago. It was said that if any man were to stare or get a glimpse into his eye, then their fate would be sealed. There was a reason why Omin had trusted Kagetsu so much and why he had appointed Kagetsu to such a high ranking position. Omin was impressed with Kagetsu's calmness and prowess in battle. There weren't too many men that could even put a scratch on Kagetsu. But what impressed Omin the most was Kagetsu's amazing ability. Takeshi sat on a horse next to Kagetsu's and tried to see what it was that Kagetsu had that made him so special. Takeshi was freezing, but wasn't the type to show or complain about it. Snow was heavy and wet and a person couldn't help but feel weighed down and soaked at all times. Many would have preferred the rain better, but it was up to a higher being to decide what the weather should be. The men were just waiting for a signal to charge into battle because they wanted to get this over with. Takeshi was starting to become a bit anxious and was waiting for Kagetsu's sign. He had served with Kagetsu for close to five years now, but he never heard the man utter a word. Kagetsu's signal was always his sword raised into the air. After the signal, Takeshi would see a demon awaken from within in Kagetsu. He never understood this sudden change, but he always accepted it as the main reason that Kagetsu was number one in Omin's ranks.
***
General Oni stood tall with his men. Their ranks were a bit low and this cold was doing quite a number on them. All dressed in black with a white vest and the anti-monarchial insignia shining through the white mist of snow. He had served for the White Phantoms for many a year now. So many in fact, that he didn't know what life would be like had he left them. He had great respect for their leader and for his only other superior, General San. San wasn't going to participate in this battle, which saddened Oni quite a bit, but he knew that the Leader had something in mind. A strong gust of wind blew by and sent chills down his spine as he remembered the past. In all of his years of service with the Phantoms, he never once saw the face of their leader. He didn't even know his leader's name. All he knew was that the Leader was magnificent in battle and in his following of the Phantom Code. As far as Oni knew, their leader had been with the Phantoms for his entire life and was sometimes known to the men simply as The White Phantom. The fact remained that the Leader was very mysterious and fought very rarely. It was enough to make the rest of the clan serve at the price of their lives. This was no time for reminiscing though. A battle was about to commence and General Oni had to get everyone mentally prepared.
Oni: Alright men, we have been preparing arduously for this battle. Let's keep in mind that these are the Leader's orders.
Soldier: What The White Phantom says, we follow! This battle shall be victorious for us!
Oni: Good! Now let's get ready. We strike at the first sign from the heavens!
***
Atop a hill sat the ruthless leader, King Omin. His head was covered in snow as if he'd been sitting in that same position for quite some time now. His horse was standing anxiously, carrying Omin. Next to Omin stood another man, or ghost to be more precise. This other man's name was Mentka
Mentka: Very good my young apprentice. Your troops look quite formidable. That Kagetsu though. I don't like him!
Omin: Shut up, you old fool! That man is my eyes, ears, arms, and legs in battle. What would you know about him?
Mentka: Nothing! And that's what worries me. You have committed an error in the Way of War!
Omin: Yes, yes, I know. 'Don't trust anybody! Everybody is your enemy!' I know that stupid rule, but so far Kagetsu has been the most reliable. Just watch him in battle and you'll be impressed.
Mentka: Very well then. I will trust your judgment. But, my young apprentice, what is wrong with this picture painted before us?
Omin: What do you speak of old man? I hate riddles! That's what got you killed in the first place, isn't it? You mean to tell me you still haven't learned your lesson?
Mentka: There you go again. I'm already dead! What can you do to me now? But, enough of this foolishness! I'm trying to teach you the ways!
Omin: I don't want to follow your ways! My heart isn't as twisted and evil as yours.
Mentka: What!? (Laughs) You call me and my heart twisted and evil? You've paved your own road to damnation, my young apprentice. You think killing your parents.
Omin: Shut your mouth you damned bastard! I will not hear anymore of this blaspheme!
Mentka: Well then. What, may I ask, is wrong with this situation?
Omin: After giving it some deliberation I have narrowed it down to the fact that their troops are surprisingly low. What's your point?
Mentka: Well, what do you think?
Omin: It's a setup? A diversion of some sort?
Mentka: Precisely! So who's playing who in this battle?
Omin: Sutachi! Come out here immediately!
Sutachi: Yes my lord?!
Omin: Relay a message to Kagetsu and Kashyu! Tell Kagetsu that there is a plan against us and inform Kashyu that there is a betrayal and to get the Royal Knights ready! And make haste!
Sutachi: Yes my lord!
With the last words Sutachi disappeared into the mist. But, it was in vain. A lightning bolt struck a tree nearby and the White Phantoms were on the move.
***
The army was still waiting for a signal to start their attack. The snow started coming down so heavily that even liquor couldn't keep the men warm anymore, as they were impatiently trouncing in the snow, waiting for their leader to give the sign. A few minutes later their prayers were answered. In the nearby distance a lightning bolt struck and finally signs of battle were starting to show. A rumbling noise could now be heard as they saw in the mist an army start to charge. Kagetsu noticed it immediately and held his hand out with his palm faced to the charging army. Takeshi was going to have to interpret this signal to all the men as a signal to hold off their charge for a little longer. Suddenly, a blaze of shurikens penetrated the mist and Kagetsu's men started falling to the ground. Kagetsu's sign still stood as before and no man was about to disobey his order. Kagetsu was waiting. Waiting until he could see the whites of the enemy's eyes or the glowing of their swords. He took his cigarette from his mouth and dropped it to the ground. Finally, after more men lay bleeding in the snow, Kagetsu lowered his hand and took it to his waist, unsheathed his sword, and raised it into the air. This was still the signal to hold it. Kagetsu finally saw the anti-monarchial symbol on the vests of the enemy and pointed his sword straight ahead. The battle was on the brink of starting. His men knew this sign well. They all screamed at the top of their lungs, chanting Omin's name and charged full speed ahead with Kagetsu and Takeshi leading the way on horseback.
***
He saw the horse in not too far a distance and immediately unsheathed his sword. The others around him followed suit. Their fingers were already on their shurikens. They were ready to take on the enemy. One of the soldiers jumped high and straight towards the horse. The man perched atop the horse caught that soldier in one hand, by the throat. The warriors heard a plea for help and then the crunch of breaking bones sent chills down their spines. Shurikens blazed by at them and many men fell. Their white vests were now soaked in blood. Clinks of swords could be heard all around. Screams of death and the spray of the scarlet substance penetrated the air. The warriors were all in gridlock. General Oni spotted one of Omin's lieutenants and charged right at him. His sword was positioned ahead of him in a jousting stance. The lieutenant was prepared and deflected the sword with a blaze of shurikens. He then followed with three kunai. One kunai missed Oni, but hit one of his men right in the forehead. The second kunai, Oni deflected with his sword and the last kunai hit Oni's right shoulder, causing him to drop his sword to the ground. Oni stuttered back in pain, but continued his pursuit. He landed a kick in the lieutenant's gut and then kneed him in the face. Blood trickled down the face of the opponent. He only smiled and punched Oni in the face. One of Oni's men threw a sword in his direction. Oni caught it and with one swift motion he cut off the other man's head. Oni put the sword in his teeth and with his left hand he pulled out the kunai from his shoulder. In war, time is of the essence and General Oni found that out as soon as he started nursing his wound. His eyes widened as he felt the sudden pain in his chest and as he flew backwards three meters. Lieutenant Takeshi stood tall over Oni's badly beaten body.
Takeshi: Get up you old fool! This is no time to be taking a nap!
Oni stuttered back to his feet and launched an array of kunai. One after the other they flew straight at Takeshi. Takeshi's speed with the sword was amazing and each kunai flew to the side as he deflected them. Oni found that he had one remaining kunai. Without any hesitation he used a smoke bomb to conceal himself and waited for his opportunity to strike at Takeshi again. One of the White Phantoms came at Takeshi from behind and Oni found that it was the perfect opportunity to capitalize upon. He leapt into the air and threw the kunai as hard and accurate as he could, right at his target. Takeshi smiled and with one swift motion he caught the kunai and jammed it right into his other assailant's throat. Takeshi's face and clothes were covered in blood as the other man held on to his neck and couldn't even utter a sound. Oni hated to use his own men to his advantage, but this momentary delay had created an opening for Oni to strike! Still in the air, he started falling towards the enemy and he unsheathed his blade. He used the blade's reflection of the snow to momentarily blind Takeshi as he brought the sword down right at his head. He had expected a spray of blood and a nice cut right through his opponent, but his blade stopped at a loud clink. Takeshi's sword deflected Oni's as he finally landed on the ground. An intense battle still surrounded the two warriors as they both tried to hold their ground. To Oni's amazement, Takeshi was only using one arm for deflecting his blade. The other arm was already at his side for a grip on the shurikens that Takeshi stored. A shuriken was finally launched at Oni, so he decided to use it to his advantage. Instead of parrying it, he somersaulted over Takeshi, using the other man's sword as a balance. Oni landed behind Takeshi, with his back turned to him. In a swift motion, he swung his sword horizontally, turning to face Takeshi. But, the lieutenant was a very good fighter himself and almost imitated Oni's motion exactly. The two were at a deadlock again, as the swords scraped at one another creating sparks of energy. Without any further delay, the two warriors clashed their blades back and forth, each trying to find a spot of weakness. The opening was just not available to either of them at this time.
***
Deep in the woods, atop a hill, three men sat patiently, watching the battle. One of the three men, San, was stringing up his bow. The battle below was intense and had been going on for about forty five minutes now. Although the Phantoms were outnumbered, their fighting spirit was still alive, as they tried to survive this battle, to live another day. San knew that they were supposed to stay hidden and that their leader would not approve of what they were doing. There he was, Kagetsu! San saw the only one still perched atop a horse. San's previous encounters with Kagetsu hadn't been very pleasing, but, he knew, that the only one to defeat Kagetsu would have to be him. This was why he was now getting ready to strike from the forest.
Otake: Please, General, don't do it! We don't want to be located! If the leader finds out that we haven't gotten ourselves out of this area, he will punish us! Plus, we don't want to attract any more attention to you.
San: Look at those men below. They are fighting nobly for our cause. How can I abandon them? It is my duty and my wish to help those men out! I must defeat that devil at any cost. If you feel that you can't stake out your life with me, then you and Renshaku can go now. I will not hold this against you or count it as a cowardly move on your part. You will still remain my good friends.
Renshaku: Don't speak that way. You know that I got myself into this knowing fully well what the result could be. I will stay by your side through the thick and the thin. You can count on me!
Otake: Then I have no option. Peer pressure will be the death of me (chuckles). Count me in!
San: Thank you my friends. If it does get too dangerous, then I will ask you to leave me. Understood?
With those words, San picked up his bow and looked at it carefully, then picked out a couple of arrows. He fastened the first arrow, aimed and shot it, hitting one of the men below. He shot a couple more arrows in a similar fashion and killed more men on the field below. Looking closely at Kagetsu he realized that his enemy had not sensed their presence yet. With his last arrow he aimed for Kagetsu's head, steadied himself, and shot the arrow that would seal fate.
***
Takeshi was still deeply engaged in the battle with General Oni. The two were fiercely swinging their swords, still looking for an opening. Takeshi was becoming agitated with this and decided to unsheathe his second sword to shift the odds a little more. With two swords out, Takeshi's speed increased and General Oni was totally dominated now. He could only defend now and didn't even have an opportunity to go on the offensive. Oni was totally outclassed and every time Takeshi's blade came down, a vibration was sent down Oni's spine. Finally, with a blow on to his hand, Oni lost his sword. Takeshi used a kick to knock the sword out and then to lay him out on the ground. He kicked Oni in the face and was now standing over his body. Takeshi was about to end this general's illustrious career.
Takeshi: Well, is that it, old man? You put up quite a good fight for an aging dog. Do you have any last words before I finish you off?
Oni: I die for my beliefs and for the liberation of our people. Omin will die at the hands of The White Phantom!
Takeshi: Enough of this rubbish. Before you speak, make sure your words are palatable!
Takeshi brought both of his swords down, but before he could strike Oni down, he heard an arrow whiz by his head, on a course straight for Kagetsu. Kagetsu's eyes narrowed as he saw the arrow out of the distance. Without much reaction he stuck his hand out and let the arrow hit him in the palm, piercing his hand, but stopping just short of his head. With his other hand, Kagetsu ripped the arrow out of his palm and snapped it in two. Takeshi then witnessed Kagetsu's frightening power, as his wound healed itself in a matter of seconds. Not even a scar was left. Kagetsu calmly took out a cigarette, lit it up, and put it between his teeth, starting to smoke it. He then looked at Takeshi and pointed his sword towards the forest that the arrow came out of. Takeshi nodded at Kagetsu and called together some of his men.
Takeshi: You lucked out today old man! I'll have your head the next time we meet! Get some more practice before then, so that I can have some fun with you!
Takeshi gathered his men and briefed them on the situation. They were out to hunt a sniper. With a group of fifteen men, Takeshi moved out and made his way into the forest very meticulously.
***
On top of a hill you could see the breath of a man in the cold wintry day. Omin still sat atop his horse and next to him Mentka was still standing. The two were observing the situation below very carefully.
Omin: Well, it looks like this battle is pretty much over. Wouldn't you say so?
Mentka: Is it now? How many times in your life do you see a forest walk?
Omin turned and looked at the forest. To his surprise he saw the forest moving, advancing towards his troops. After a more careful observation, he noticed that they were men in camouflage. Omin then thought to himself about the fact that the White Phantoms don't have the resources to get camouflage, so this had to be a different set of troops.
Mentka: Good thinking my young apprentice. These are not the White Phantoms. They are the revolutionaries.
Omin: That god damned Yamata! He would dare go against me?
Mentka: So what are we going to do about this?
Omin: Sutachi, I need you to summon Kenshi's troops. Tell them to attack the forest to the northwest.
Sutachi: Yes sire!
Sutachi took one look at the forest and realized the importance of his message. Without further delay he disappeared into the forest to give Kenshi the message.
***
Lord Kenshi sat on his horse and had a canteen of liquor in his hand. He was sitting very nervously, looking onto the battle. After taking another drink from his canister, he got of the horse and went over to one of his men.
Kenshi: What's taking that bastard so long? He was supposed to have his troops here thirty minutes ago! We were supposed to be out of here already. Instead I'm sitting in this cold weather, freezing my nuts off.
Lieutenant: Sir, I'm not sure what the problem is, but it would seem like Yamata's troops have double-crossed us.
Kenshi: Those sons of bitches! I'll have a little talk with that bastard Yamata!
Out of the mist, a shadow of a man appeared. He seemed to be running at a very fast speed. Sutachi had finally arrived at the cavalry's camp out and was about ready to relay the message. Meanwhile, Kenshi motioned for the lieutenant to give him his bow.
Sutachi: Lord Kenshi! We need your help. King Omin's orders are to attack the northwest forest. There are troops there. Seems like they are the revolutionaries!
Kenshi: Is that so. Very interesting (gathering his bow and arrow). Let me get right on it.
With those words, Kenshi pointed the bow straight at Sutachi and fired the arrow. Sutachi's chest was pierced at the impact of the arrow and he fell to the ground without making a single sound. He was dead.
Kenshi: Prepare your arrows men. Line up now, now, NOW!
All of Kenshi's troops lined up and pointed their arrows into the sky, but instead of firing at the northwest direction, they fired at the southeast direction, where King Omin's troops were stationed. Kenshi had a smile on his face for a moment, but then decided it was time to get out of there.
Kenshi: Alright men, gather your things. We're getting out of here before Omin notices any of this!
***
Omin stared in the direction of his cavalry and was waiting for any kind of movement from them. Sutachi should have been there by now to relay the message. A few moments later, the first sign of arrows appeared. To Omin's surprise, the arrows headed not for the revolutionaries, but for his own men. He saw as his troops started falling. In one swift stroke, one hundred men fell to the ground.
Omin: (wide eyed) A knife in my back.