Slowly did the doused in sweat party make its way through the desert, the intense heat forcing them to remove most of their heavy suits. Ryu already had his trench coat folded and hung on his shoulder, his tank top drenched with sweat. He slowly moved the canister of water near his mouth, pouring a small dose into his mouth, knowing he had to conserve some of it for the longer while.

Mai and Ichiro also removed a few parts, Ichiro mostly his upper body gi, simply to prevent himself from overheating. Mai though only got down to her bra, not embarrassed to be in it., but needing less heat forcing her to grow hotter with each passing second. Her legs though were still getting a breeze, as she had worn shorts that allowed the circulation of the desert to sway along her legs.

Nina though still was in less clothing, but already tired, the heat indeed was too much for her to stand, especially when walking through a desert during the day. It must have been their luck when they passed by the merchant, otherwise they would not have gone a few steps before falling victim to the suns intense heat.

Ryu continued to walk, wiping the sweat off his forehead, panting as he took a few steps forward, his shaky hand grasping his container, bringing it to his mouth, as he opened the top part, one drop slipping off and landing onto his tongue.

Ryu only groaned, at the rate the party was going, they were going to die of thirst with the already baking sun glaring down upon them. Ryu took a few steps, as he glanced over to Nina with a fatigue smile.

"Nina... mind letting me have a sip?" Ryu pleaded, still panting.

"No way, its not my fault you are so thirsty, maybe you should have conserved water better." She remarked hoarsely, a dry rasping voice was the only tone that came from her mouth.

"Three days in the desert... Ryu, we have to get to an inn, I cannot stand another night out here, we need to rest!" Mai mentioned, already the heat driving her to complain as bad as a spoiled brat.

"No... if we even do stay in one town, we'll only bring more trouble. I don't want to endanger the lives of the innocent, or give into the demands of a corporation such as Auron." Ryu replied still staggeringly walking along.

"Risk is as risk does, stay out here, innocents out of danger. Stay at night in a town, trouble arrives at morrow. Outcome at this point shall be our fatigue overpowering us to the ground, a perfect opportunity for the regents to make a move in and capture us." Ichiro noted, as he kept his ever so calm and high posture walk.

"I cannot bear the burden, what happened in that last town was too much, the regents are really growing desperate to got to this many great lengths to even capture us." Ryu said, panting once more.

"Ryu, please... can't we stop at a town?" Nina begged once more.

Ryu didn't answer, he stopped short, as Nina asked, remaining silent for a few seconds before falling to the ground, the heat now overcoming him, forcing him down into faint.

Nina moved over, kneeling over, noticing Ryu was now out cold. She took a deep sigh, concentrating on trying to gather the energy to create a water spell, but with her body already depleting of its strength, the sun weakening her already cooling body, she, like Ryu fell victim to the intense heat.

"Damn you two..." Mai grumbled, as she fell down to ground as well, Ichiro shortly after, the four finally had succumb to the fatigue of little sleep, exhausting heat, and their body now past their weakening limits.

Slowly his eyes opened, a clear ray of sun shining into the well made room, the room must have been a fortune. The walls unstained, shelves well organized and decorated, and decorated down to the last bit, easily the place was a well built and kept area, not a speck of dust could be found anywhere.

Wes groaned, glancing around, sitting slowly up, as he rubbed his head, glancing at his hand, noticing the bandages on his hands, and other area's. He yawned, stretching a bit, as a sharp spiking pain ran through his body, he growled, feeling the sting as he took a deep breath, glancing around the area.

"Finally decided to wake up you jerk!" A raspy feminine voice greeted, as Wes glanced over to the glaring eyes of Cherry.

"How long was I out?" Wes asked, not caring why she was so foolish.

"About three days, if you must know you cheating bastard." She said, taking a step closer, before slapping his face hard.

"What are you talking about?" Wes asked, rubbing his red cheek.

"Who is Kiki? I know she ain't a sibling of yours!" Cherry continued to demand, wanting answers.

"I thought we took a break, remember, your parents ain't too keen on the idea of you and me being married, much less together," Wes noted, staring deep into her eyes, "And yes, I did hook up with a girl, someone from my past." Wes told her of the events, the Regents, Kiki, the tragic end, and his way of dealing with it.

"I see... you really have had it rough since we parted." She said, sighing as she glanced down sadly.

"No need to apologize, i guess I did cheat, but if anything... I still have a regret of abandoning my friends... and in Delfina, they really are gonna kick my ass for this." Wes remarked shaking his head.

"If their alive, word has it that the outrage was caused by a Fae, but if I know anything, by what you told me, the regents are the reason this happened. The public though is not going against Auron though, that would be like challenging... well... a entire army." Cherry said shaking her head.

"You know of their power, don't you?" Wes asked very suspicious.

"My parents work for them, they own almost everything. Electricity, Farm Domes, Vehicles, they make all the things vital to us. You up against perhaps the one thing that has kept this world alive, and trust me... if they fall, this world would become the outlaw turf, anarchy zone if anything." Cherry said, shaking her head at the thought.

"As if it isn't, Auron still doesn't push its assault on them. That corporation is not looking out for people; it just uses them as its gain for cash." Wes remarked still not liking the company.

"That's not true, the corporation is not evil. Well... not everyone. My parents worked hard to help improve the medical treatments and to ensure that it was available to those who needed it. They did succeed; they helped save many lives, many of them defenders of peace. Auron may have its dark sides, but not everyone is part of it. There are those who do work to give people the items to help everyone out." She concluded, really trying to get Wes to change his view of Auron.

"They are innocent; the true culprit though is the head of that organization. I bet money is nothing to him, all he desires is power." Wes said with sheer arrogance.

"I feel you are right about that, the president isn't much of a big joy... I wonder what he really is after... New Wyndia may be an old relic of pure solitude, but what would he get from owning it?" Cherry asked, really curious.

Wes shook his head, for once, he really didn't know what to even say, there were so many reasons, but none that easily could perhaps mark the true words that the president would remark.

Ryu groaned, slowly sitting up, as he glanced around the place, finding himself inside a tent, cushioned by a few pillows placed under him, as he found a glass of water sitting next to him.

"Ah, you are finally awake I see." Came a more sincere voice, a more Middle Eastern accent.

"Where am I?" Ryu asked slowly waking up.

"In the Village of Oasis, we live near this town to help guard the water in the area." He mentioned, offering the drink to Ryu, "Drink up, you need some water." The man mentioned as Ryu grasped the cup, taking a few good gulps of the refreshing water, taking a deep purkish 'Ahh' as the water soothed his throat. "Your friends are in the other tents, you lucky Mune found you." He mentioned, as a young boy walked in, wearing a silky white robe, his arms bare, with a towel wrapped around his head.

"Any of them wake up yet?" Ryu asked concerned.

"The doggy and the foxgirl have, though the winged one has yet to open her eyes." The man said with a deep sigh.

"What tent is she in." Ryu asked as he stood to his feet.

"You sure it's a good idea for you to even walk?" The man asked concerned.

"Trust me, I am fine." Ryu stated as he started out.

"You may not be well for long, you were nearly dehydrated when I found you, chances are your gonna end up going out again." The man mentioned.

Ryu though ignored the man, compared to what always happened in town, the regents were only a few steps behind and gaining. The last battle still burned a heavy hole in Ryu's dread of the regents even venturing into this village. With the fact that the regents pulled out all stops, it was more obvious that they didn't care who was in the way, they were their to get them, alive and in full body.

Rushing outside, he looked into one tent to another, as he shook his head. Looking into each tent within the area, only staying a second before departing to search another for the one he already guarded this long. Finally, he found her, still out, but innocent as any sleeping beauty, he still knew it was time to wake her up. She was still in the same cloths, though she had sand coating her in certain areas.

"Still as cute as ever." Ryu mentioned, as he walked forward, glancing over Nina, he knelt down, placing his hand softly onto her shimmering with beauty face.

Slowly, a soft groan came from the innocuous Nina, her eyes opening slowly as her sea blue eyes came into view. Ryu only smiled, glancing down at her as he kept his hand on her cheek.

"Finally decided to wake up, or were you playing opossum until you knew I would show up?" Ryu asked only as a joke, Nina only laughing afterwards.

"So where are we now Ryu?" She asked, knowing just by his smile he was fine.

"Doesn't matter, we should get out of here before it's too late!" Ryu remarked, standing to his feet as he walked to the outside.

"No!"

Ryu stopped turning around, meeting with a not so welcoming eyes, Nina glaring at him with angry eyes, she wasn't in the mood to go anywhere obviously.

"We can't remain here, we might as well-"

"Run like cowards... we can't keep up that pace, well fall victim to weariness then avoid others. Ryu, I know you fear for others, but if there is a reason Auron is after me, it is to learn the location of that land, they want it for their own battleship, nothing else." Nina mentioned, as she kept her eyes locked onto Ryu's.

Ryu sighed, for once he knew she was right, he was being a coward. Even if it was for the sake of the people, it was still a cowards act to run and avoid conflict, especially one that he already had dueled the regents to a death over custody of the Fae. Just because of one damn incident he was going to throw all of it away, for one disaster of the town.

"You are right, Nina." He said, closing his eyes, "Though one thing troubles me... how can people even live with one damn business owning the entire market? They own perhaps the world, business wise and life wise, all of everyone lives in this world controlled by them." Ryu mentioned shaking his head.

"I... I can't even know... its like this desert pushes one to despair and succumb to the corporations desires. Maybe that's why so many thugs rule this land." Nina answered shaking her head.

"Glad to see your awake birdy." Mai said as she stood at the entrance of the tent. "Up for a bath?" Mai asked, as Nina stood nodding.

It had been three days since anyone got a bath, though Ryu wasn't to concern with getting himself washed and cleaned up, he was more concerned about the regents, already it seemed they were desperate enough to endanger an entire town just to get one girl. With already the might of a few flunky bots to help aid them, it was a wonder just what would come next.

"Better at least stay close to her." Ryu thought, standing to his feet, as he followed where the two girls were heading.

"Lord Hudson, thou allow'est the fiendish swine to dare assail his comrades in the midst's of battle and get away with it? Has thou lost their sense of chivalry and turned bitter to the world as well?" Artimis muttered scornfully as Hudson only remained silent, his eyes still the same cold glowing yellow eyes as usual.

He glared at her with neither a smile nor a frown, but a poker face as he sighed.

"Elliot Picard is not my responsibility. You forget, when he is easily disturbed, he goes off doing things on his own, not by our orders. His obsession will lead to his death, even as well planned as it is, his obsession for vengeance is what blinds him." Hudson remarked with a smile.

"Bah, thou has spouted nothing but mere facts. I demand a transfer to taking on the Fae. There I won't have to be cautious of an attack by a backstabber like that infidel Elliot!!" Artimis remarked, flattening her palms along the desk, as she glared temperamentally at Hudson.

Hudson only smiled as he looked up with softer eyes then usual.

"As you wish, I did give someone else a position, but seeing as one man who yields a blade for offense, I feel you are the one who will be able to capture the Fae and her friends. Be warned, next time I will not tolerate failure, best capture them or else you shall join those who have failed already." He remarked, his eyes returning to the chilling shine they always seemed to give off.

"Understood m'lord." She replied, bowing in respect, as she turned walking off to the door, as Thomas stood aside, giving a nod of respect as Artimis passed by and left the office.

He once more walked over to where Hudson was, hearing most of the conversation that had occurred, and about Elliot.

"Why are we not going after Picard? That maniac will stop at nothing to get his way, even endanger our own employee's just to kill one man. For someone who is vice president of this huge corporation, you really are making a poor decision to not deal with him." Thomas spouted, as he advanced towards the desk.

"Spare me the sermons, my first priority is to capture and interrogate the Fae, Draco is second priority, and not that important that it needs my attention." Hudson remarked, locking his glaring eyes to Thomas innocent green grass eyes, sending a cold chill down the clanswolfs spine.

Taking a deep breath, Thomas blinked once, shaking off the effect Hudson was using on him, as he got up the strength to object to Hudson's decision.

"If you won't deal with the problem, then I will." Thomas remarked walking to the door, as he slammed it shut.

Hudson only smiled, leaning back into his chair with a smile pursed upon his face.

"Always did have the heart to take things into his own hands when he didn't agree with my choices. At least he'll send the message to Elliot telling him to back of. I only wonder, will it get through to that obsessed fool or will it be only in vain that Thomas made such a move?" Hudson thought, really wondering what the outcome would be.

Thomas though was doing only what was good for the innocent people, being that his main priority was to always look out for the innocent civilians. Hudson had good reason to make him second in command of the Gunsmith Regents, for his greater concern for the public and the ability to take control of a situation whenever Hudson seemed to want no part. Hudson was at the point right now, where he didn't have one bit of care for what Elliot did, as long as he wasn't trying to kill the Fae or those dear to her, then Elliot was a mere fly waiting to be swatted.

"Do what you must Thomas, just don't disappoint me." Hudson remarked, returning once more to his work.

"Better not peek Ryu!" Nina teased, washing herself with a bit of water, the cool liquid running along her body, cooling it off slowly.

Ryu only remained silent, knowing it wasn't worth the trouble to reply. The already cooling shade from behind the rock was better then being out in the glaring sun, withering down. Ryu only laid back, for once maybe Nina was right, just forget about all the disasters that occurred in that one town. He took a deep breath, leaning back, dosing off as his eyes closed.

The soft and careless splashing still could be heard, somehow relaxing to Ryu's ears. Ichiro though remained in meditation stance, sitting on the ground, spacing out, his arms to his side, and his breathing calm as waves of the ocean. Ryu always did wonder how the guy could remain so calm, even when facing several shots from all sides. A mystery Ichiro was, the grassrunner who always presented a poker face, neither anger nor enjoyment seemed to ever be pursed upon his face.

"Tell me Ichiro, just why are you protecting Nina. I mean, Mai we know was a spy, but turned against them when Duane endangered a town. So what's your story?" Ryu asked, opening his eyes, as he waiting for Ichiro's reply.

Ichiro remained silent for a while, before lifting his head up, but remained facing away from Ryu.

"The same group your cousin works for, Neo Rogue." Ichiro replied calmly, still in sitting position.

"You must be joking... but it might explain why he has that girl with him." Ryu said, bringing his hand to his chin as he rubbed it, amused by what Ichiro just mentioned.

"Draco is not some demonic outlaw, truth be he was a child that feared adults. You should understand why." Ichiro mentioned, as he glanced to Ryu.

"My Uncle, but to Draco, it was his own father. I finally understood he was abused when my parents told me. They tried to help Draco's father cope with his great loss, but what made them back off is beyond me. I guess he knew the secret and he blackmailed them. Why else would my mother not risk it, or my father." He mentioned shaking his head.

"Every story has more then one set perception. Our eyes see, our brain thinks, our body reacts, and when its all finished, we either put it aside to never revisit or rethink of it. The other result it to think and find a meaning and lesson, that is what history seems to never reach." Ichiro said with a sigh.

"...Okay... now I am just braindead... I think I will just back off while I still can think." Ryu mentioned, really brainwarped by Ichiro's perhaps truest but mind-twisting tirade.

Nina and Mai still remained in the water, less splashing occurred around the place. Though nearby, between the bushes of desert grass, a short bot remained hidden, armed with a tiny pistol turret built in, as it slowly took aim, ready to fire one stun dart upon both the two girl that where still washing up, still bathing to get most of the sand and filth washed off from their bodies and their hair. It loaded up the first dart, the target being none other then the unsuspecting Fae. As it was about to fire, it was cleaved into two pieces, Ichiro standing directly where it was, blade drawn from its sheath, as he remained knelt even after the bot was finished.

"Wh- Ichiro, what are you doing here!?" Nina said, covering most of her body, Mai only standing, not much scared to be seen naked unlike Nina.

She looked at the now sliced open bot, wondering why it had not blown up like most of the robots Glitz created had done. It was odd though, for some reason, she had not been able to notice it, but Ichiro seemed to just know where it was, and destroy it. Though she noticed something out of place, a piece of paper tucked tightly into one open vent, perhaps planted in for the purpose of being delivered to them.

"What the, is it me, or does that bot have a piece of paper inside?" Mai asked, seeing as how most paper these days was recycled from old scraps, since tree's that grew fruits where the only tree's that so far existed.

Ichiro placed his blade back in his sheath, as he walked over to the sliced bot, examining the now destroyed bot, as he knelt down, glancing over it, picking out the folded up paper. He opened it up, remaining silent, reading over the letter, his muzzle twitching once, as it seemed his expression turned bitter, he released the paper, letting it fall slowly to the ground before he sliced it in half, using his katana to do the job.

He turned away from Nina and Mai, sheathing his katana once more, as he started to walk off.

"Ichiro, what did it say?" Nina asked, always curious.

"Trouble... an army of beasts is heading this way. You three must confront them, I have business to attend to." Ichiro mentioned as he walked off once more.

"Just where are you going? Your not abandoning us, are you?" Mai said, not really sure his business was honest at all.

"I must keep an oath I made to those I lost in the past. None of you follow, stay put and stop the tamer who pipes to control the savage beasts." Ichiro said walking onward, into the desert.

The three that remained only sat their puzzled; Ichiro now had left them, and ordered them to stay put. Ryu still remained behind the rock, having the utmost respect to girls and their privacy. Though he already knew by Ichiro's tone that something bothered the samurai, something in that letter must have stirred a lost memory up.

"Why is he so desperate to go off alone?" Nina asked, not aware of the emotion of fulfillment in Ichiro's voice, though she never did notice much, considering he always remained poker-faced.

"Perhaps one of the regents is someone he knows... I have a hunch who..." Mai replied, Nina gazing over to her to know.

Ichiro kept his pace up, walking through the desert with a calm heart, but in his beady eyes images of the past flickered, in the blink of an eye, his past played before him, but paused on one face that he remembered for so long, someone he searched for, someone that he hunted, a traitor that in the past had took those so dear to his heart. His right hand slowly moved up to his face, his index finger traced along the thin scar that had been cut deep enough to his skin. The mark that was left by a evil hearted man. Ichiro took a deep breath, closing his eyes once, as his hand covered the entire scar, before his eyes opened, gazing out ahead, and two words slipped out of his lips.

"Yu Lee..." He hissed out loud to himself.

Once more, like the rushing waters of a river did the past wash into his mind, a flashback once more occurring as he thought back to the past, the days of hardships, of joy, and of the tragic event in his lift.

A dojo well protected by a few walls, gates of marble and stone, built to keep out those who would dare try and attack the village and rob it of its wealth. The area was more of a feudal era, where swords were the basic weapon, the days when samurai were highly respected. The entire dojo was made from wood, crafted like any ancient dojo, from wooden floors right down to the candle lit areas. Scrolls hung along the walls, and a few antique statues and designs were placed in certain area's to decorate the room, a few windows open to allow the sun into the area.

The clashing of two wooden sticks could be heard, a young grassrunner wearing a sky blue robe and wooden sandals and an elderly bearded old canine, clad in a red master's attire, with the breastplate armor along his upper body, wooden sandals as well covered his feet. The two were remained locked in a fight, so far the young grassrunner was able to block every attack thrown at him, his face though already showing signs of fatigue while the elder seemed more in shape, still coming at the young one with all he had. The young one still tried, but in on steep slash, the old man forded the stick from the youths hands, the hit centered at the knuckles, as the youth fell to the ground, rear end first, taking a deep sigh, his eyes glancing to the ground in shame.

"Sensei... I... I just can't do it... I'm no good at this." The youth replied, shaking his head.

"Ichiro, doubting yourself leads only to failure... clear your mind and focus, tensing up is what will lead you to defeat. Remember this well my pupil." The old hound said, as he walked over picking up Ichiro's wooden stick and tossing it to him.

Ichiro immediately grasped the hilt area of the wooden sword, as he stood up graciously, taking defense stance once again, as the two began to once more train. Ichiro remember his sensei's words by heart, even as a youth, his hair didn't cover his entire face, and he still had some of the childish charm in him, the slim chubbiness in his arms, the short muzzle. Even as small as he was, he still was a determined young boy who since he was finally able to walk, he was trained to fight. Forced into discipline training, to control himself to even extent and deal with all signs of stress. He practiced day in and day out, to control himself to whatever extent possible.

Eight years old he was, and one of many students in the area, orphaned since he was abandoned there, taken under the arms of the elder, along with many others. Though this day was the day he made his first spark of progress. He kept his defensive stance, blocking each of the swings his sensei made, keeping his mind in calm, and remaining focused on his sensei's movements, waiting for the right time to disarm him.

Ichiro found the right point, seeing his sensei already loosening his grip, Ichiro gave an upward slash, forcing the stick from his sensei's hand, as Ichiro remained in his stance, keeping his eyes on his sensei.

His sensei only smiled, before taking a few steps closer, his warm eyes glancing down at Ichiro's, as he bowed in respect to Ichiro.

"Pupil Ichiro, you have proved yourself worthy to advance higher in the swordsmanship of Shin Du Kin, you shall enter the . I advise you start sharpening your skills, young one. The path you will enter is treacherous, one that requires great self-discipline and control; in addition, time and effort are essential if one wishes to sensei every one of the moves." The sensei said, Ichiro listening to every word.

"Understood sensei, I will not disappoint you." Ichiro said, bowing in respect, as he turned and started to walk off the platform, heading out of the dojo and into the main part of the area.

The area was with some vegetation, grass growing around a portion of the village with marble sidewalks placed around making a path to walk on,, a small stream flowed through the village, giving it its water that helped keep the place alive. A few houses were built just as the dojo, to mimic the ages the entire place represented. While Ichiro had no knowledge of the world, it was said to already be nothing but a society ravaged by violence, and only few were allowed out.

"So, your going to be joining the rest as well."

Ichiro turned to find a grassrunner almost like him, only his fur was more of a reddish brown color, and a his ears were a bit shorter and less oval on the ears then Ichiro's was, more pointed on the end. He also wore a yellow robe, mostly since he was also part of Ichiro's class, it was necessary.

"Yu Lee, always the big brother to keep the eye on me." Ichiro remarked as he turned, seeing his friend leaning against the dojo, a smile pursed on his lips.

"Brothers... I guess we are like them, by bond if not blood." He remarked walking forward, the two starting to talk while they took a stroll.

"Tell me Ichiro... do you believe all this nonsense that a sword is best used for a defense then offense?" Lee asked angrily.

"How can you say that? Sensei told us so, didn't you see him take out those arrows?" Ichiro mentioned, defending his own belief.

"Foolish disciple, why do you think our sensei tells us this world is nothing but violence. I feel our sensei is hiding the truth, that a sword is outdated, that the world outside those wall is one that will kill us all. Tell me Ichiro, since when can a sword protect you when a rock falls?" Lee asked, denouncing all that he believed in.

"For someone who has followed him for years, why now is it you turn your back on him?" Ichiro countered, really wondering what Lee was getting to.

"Shin Du Kin is too much of this 'defense' crap then it is about attacking. What good is defense when were up against an entire army huh?" Lee asked, more arrogant then before.

Ichiro didn't know what to say, he never did question the idea himself, and he didn't even consider such a scenario a problem.

"Humph, even you can't answer, 'cause you have no real answer to it." Lee remarked, as his face remained bitter.

Ichiro though held his anger in, venting it was against the teachings he was given and he would not be let off easy if he dare strike Lee.

"Speak what you may Lee, but you still follow the teachings, yet you spit at them in the shadows. You lack honor and respect to others." Ichiro mentioned, as his friend only laughed amused.

"I was kidding Ichiro, sheesh, just something I overheard from one of the advanced students. Though it does make you think, don't it?" Lee mentioned, as Ichiro nodded, though inside his heart was filled with confusion on what to even believe.

Dwure deh-do Deh-Do DEH-DO Dere din-da dere der-dwere.

Once more the Tamer Artimis set off, to the Oasis village, where it was said the Fae was, an mass army of her beast marched forth in a large parade, goblins, currs, bugs, and lizards, All following the airborne tamer who rode the owl. She placed her flute ever so flawlessly, not missing one note or beat as she piped. The herd of her own still followed, loyal to death they were, not one out of place or out of the single march.

"This battle tis mine for the taking." She thought, mentally cackling, as she continued to pipe away.

Ichiro continued his journey, knowing where to meet his opponent. Though he still reminisced upon his past, the times of joy.

"Yulia..." He softly spoke, his breath stolen from his lungs.

As Ichiro did attend the advanced class of Shin Du Kin, he found it both more of a challenge and more control demanding then ever. Though one thing that would remain deep in his heart was the day he first met the girl he was destined to fall in love with. Even if the village resembled the feudal era, it wasn't repeating the sexist nature a few of the eras represented. Yulia was one of the well trained students, as well as the sensei's own daughter.

"Ichiro, you and Yulia are to spa against one another, the one to disarm the other first shall be the winner." The sensei mentioned, as the two knelt to one another before drawing their katanas for battle.

Ichiro was first to make his move, swiping from under, keeping his sword at an angle meant to disarm, but only collided as his opponents hands grasped her swords hilt tightly, as she kept the two in check, eye to eye, locked to one another.

The two broke, as Yulia went onto the offense this time, the two metal swords clashing against one another, before each position switched. Ichiro and Yulia seemed evenly matched, each one remaining calm throughout the entire battle, striking at one another carefully and accurately, their eyes still meeting. Yulia was just like Ichiro, a female grassrunner with golden flocks of hair, ever so beautiful as any other gorgeous babe could ever be.

Even with her tender eyes and feminine charm of moves, Ichiro still kept his heart focused on his true goal, to become greater, to master all that was in the Shin Du Kin style of fighting. Even if the words that Yu Lee mentioned did bother him a few times, he shoved them aside, focusing himself onto becoming more in control, to defeat the those who were his rivals, to become the best and perhaps master all moves that were Shin Du Kin.

Finally, Ichiro was able to make his move, as he slashed upward before flipping Yulia's sword to the left, the hilt slipping from her hands, as the sword landed smack down into the wooden area. Ichiro took a sigh of relief, the two bowing as the battle was done.

"Well done Ichiro, you are improving with each passing week. Yulia, you also fought honorably, just try to keep your eyes on the opponents movements." The sensei mentioned, as Yulia bowed with a 'Yes Sensei' following.

She slowly pulled her sword implanted in the wood, as she walked out, Ichiro watching her as she left the dojo.

"Leaving yourself distracted is not a good thing Ichiro; it is a path often leading to death." His master mentioned, walking closer to him.

"Forgive me sensei, it's just-"

"No need for apologies Ichiro, just warning you. It is normal for ones eyes to become attracted to the opposite sex at this time. You're indeed growing, and with that growth comes change, mentally and physically. Even if Yulia is my granddaughter, she still has her own decisions to make. Be warned though, you are but one of several falling for her. It may be a battle, but you must choose what you want... I have faith you will find the right path."

Ichiro though already was lovesick, ever since that day, he either by luck or by sheer will was able to keep her from clouding his mind. He already was becoming better and better, soon joining the ranks of four students including him. Yet within his mind she stayed, for two years he tried to express his true feelings to her, yet his trembling heart and fear of rejection seemed to get the most of him, forcing him to flee. Yet he did gain the courage, to go over and speak to her.

He walked over, as she sat near the gorgeous lily flower pond, innocent and beautiful as ever. His stomach turned as he took a few steps closer, his heart beating ever so faster. She turned smiling to him, her eyes welcoming him as always.

"Hello Ichiro." She said, the voice melting Ichrio's own heart, but he stood tall, still keeping his emotions hidden.

"Y-Yulia... I... have something... to tell you." He said groggily, shaking with anxiety from his legs, already loosing it.

"Are you okay Ichiro?" She asked, seeing him shiver oddly.

"I... well, for... I..." Ichiro already was stuttering, he couldn't seem to even say what he meant, his heart beating ever so hard it could burst out from his chest at any second.

"You what?" She asked, a worried emotion pursed on her face.

Panting with embarrassment, he took a deep breath, summoning the iron will he always had, as he finally spoke with a normal and ever so genuine tone of voice

"... I love you... Yulia." He finally mentioned a bashful grin on his face, as he still kept his eyes latched to her face.

She smiled, giggling in a girlish tone as before. She stood to her feet, hands together at her waist, as she slowly walked over to him, with a welcoming smile on her face.

"Guess it really is hard for the grand Ichiro to admit his feelings to a girl such as me." She mockingly said, delicately running her right hand across his muzzle, leaning closer to him, kissing him on the left side of his muzzle.

Ichiro remained silent, keeping his beady eyes on her, a please grin spread upon his face.

"Feeling are mutual as well?" He asked, getting a nod from her.

"You one of the few men the girls in this area talk of. Though, mind sitting with me, its already near evening." She said, in a way asking him out on a date.

Ichiro was breathless, he still couldn't believe that what was once something he only dreamed of was now being lived. He nodded calmly, taking one of her hands, as the two walked over, taking a seat at the waterfall, both remaining silent, watching the sun slowly fall behind the mountains that surrounded the village landscape, a sky of exotic colors filling the sky, the clouds colored in such vivid colors, the two feeling ever so bonded, their hearts melting together. What seemed like only an hour was mere minutes. The sky slowly starting to darken as the sun once more left the area.

Ichiro was about to part, but the soft and sad whimper stopped him dead in his tracks.

"Please, stay with me a bit longer." She begged, both of her arms restraining his, a face so sad that you would have to be truly impure of heart to ever decline it.

Ichiro sighed, even if the next day was another day of practicing; he still took it serious, not wanting to let his sensei down. Though his sensei had asked if Ichiro had told the girl of his feelings numerous times and occasionally, but a moment like this was not very often. Ichiro only gave one nod, as he sat down, placing his free arm around her shoulders, as she leaned onto his shoulder, both quiet, enjoying the time together, being one together at heart, and by soul.

"Hungry Wes-chan?" Cherry asked, bringing in a tray of food, mostly a bit of meat and a few side dishes of vegetables, as she set a cup to the top right of the dish.

Wes only licked his lips, it was a while since he actually had something, and boy was his stomach growling for it. Cherry smiled, patting him on the head, as she stood by, watching as he picked up the meat, and ripped it apart piece by piece. She only giggled, seeing him eat like a wild carnivore, his face already covered by most of the grease and sauce put on the steak.

Wes ignored it, munching down every bit of the beef on the steak. He gave a pleasing sigh, taking the cup to his side and drinking it down until the cup had only a tiny drop of water left.

"You gonna eat your vegetables?" She asked, waiting for his response.

"Yuck, I hate vegetables." He spat, making a disgusted face.

"Don't be such a baby, you know you like them." She said, pushing the plate forward.

"I won't eat them, I don't care if they are good for you, I don't like'em." He replied, pushing it back.

Cherry sighed, shaking her head, she did tease him time to time, but at this point, she didn't decide to push Wes into making him eat them, since he did have a fed up tone with her relentlessness to make him eat the greens.

"Okay then, I ain't gonna push you." She replied, crossing her arms.

"Yeah right, I know what your gonna do, when I let my guard down, your gonna shove a spoonful into my mouth, and hold my nose, expecting me to swallow it." He mentioned, giving narrowed eyes to her.

"Rats, I thought I had the perfect plan ever." She sarcastically remarked friendly, with a playful grin on her face.

Wes laughed, as he smiled, looking to Cherry, who looked to him with joy. Perhaps she was the one he was destined to be with, and how could he not. While she was like Kiki in certain ways, she was very energetic, seemingly up to his level as usual.

"Hey Cherry, when I am done helping my friends out, maybe we both can get married. I know it may be long, but-"

Cherry put her index finger onto his mouth, shaking her head slowly.

"No need to explain, and I will wait for you Wes, even if it takes a decade." She said, leaning forward, as she kissed him passionately on his lips.

Wes only smiled, kissing back, the two remaining what appeared to be an eternity locked together lip to lip as they kissed on another. Wes though broke the kiss, as he stood up, groaning as there was some pain.

"Here, take one of these, it should heal the rest of you up in no time flat." She mentioned with a smile.

Wes took the odd tablet from her head glancing it over, a round clear oval liquid pill, he placed in inside his mouth swallowing it, feeling little effect.

"It does take time to actually start working." She mentioned, as Wes only nodded.

"Thanks Cherry, for everything. Now, I gotta get back to Ryu and the others, though I might not be welcomed back so warm-heartedly." Wes mentioned, already thinking of what they would do when he arrived, mainly beating him like crazy.

"Not a problem Wesy-chan." She added with a toothy smile.

Wes only smirked, before walking out, though stopped, noticing how long the hallway was and just how many door there were.

"Um, Cherry dear, where exactly is the exit and my car at?" Wes asked waiting for her replay.

"I thought you would have figured things out by now, since you were here last time." She replied, pointing the direction.

"I lack navigating small distances... usually I just drive only by the direction the town could be." Wes replied, scratching his head.

Cherry sighed, shaking her head with a bit of frustration.

"Oh Wes, what am I ever going to do with you." She said teasingly as she took his hand, leading him to where he needed to go.

Loud roars rang throughout the village, a hisses by the tongues of a lizard, as scavengers made their way into the village, leaping over one tent as they gazed over to Ryu and the other, who were well ready for a fight.

"Guess the party's getting started." Ryu remarked as he drew his sword out.

"Damn, looks like she brought the damn zoo!" Mai commented as she opened fire on one of the scavengers that leaped towards her.

"There's too many of them, they'll overrun this village at this rate!!" Nina mentioned, very concerned of using her magic.

Ryu ran forth, using his sword to cleave through most of the scavengers, before he was rammed hard by a yanbull. Being thrown a few feet back, he hit the ground with a nerve wracking impact, but staggeringly stood up, dusting the sand that was on him off, as he glanced to the yanbull already shoveling the ground, preparing for it's next move.

Ryu didn't say a word, as the bull started charging, Ryu pulled out his gun, taking one shot that was aimed directly for the head, making a perfect shot that killed the cow upon instant impact, the brain critically damaged to death by the shot.

"Who's next!?" Ryu shouted out, as a few more came charging at him.

"I had to ask. Well, lets see what is faster, my bullets, or the stampeding bulls." He remarked as he aimed sharp and fired fast, landing each shot perfectly in the head of the bulls.

One by one each of the charging yanbull's fell to the ground, dead by one shot, as they remained on the ground, Ryu smiling proudly at his kill.

Blowing the smoke from the nose, he smirked in his ever so egotistic way.

"Guess they can't beat the bullets, tough luck." He remarked.

Mai kept firing shots upon anyone who treaded near her and Nina. She though knew it was hopeless as for every one beast she killed several more took their place.

"Where not getting anywhere just mowing them down with attacks, the only way we're going to kill them is to knock out the source." Mai bitterly said, taking a shot a goblin down.

"How are you sure it will work, she uses a flute to give orders, right? So how is that going to help solve our problem?" Nina asked very unsure of what Mai was thinking of.

"I know how to play the flute, but the problem is I don't know what notes command what." Mai replied uneasy.

"Gee, some plan, might as well just stay here and fight." Nina stated in despair.

"YOU HAVE ANY BETTER IDEAS?" Mai asked irritatingly.

Nina didn't reply, she sighed, closing her eyes, focusing upon a path that seemed to have the least row of enemies, gathering the energy needed to plow through the advancing army of monsters. Opening her eyes, and using full emotion to power her magic, she cast a master ice attack.

"BLIZZARD!!" She shouted, a large fog surrounded, as a few flurries surrounded the enemies, freezing them down into ice incased beast, time seemingly stopped for them, but a eerie blue shell surrounded them.

"Hurry Mai, me and Ryu can't hold them off forever." Nina said, taking a deep breath.

Mai nodded, running through the open space, reloading her weapon. Nina didn't stand to watch, she went airborne, once more gathering her energy, getting ready to cast another spell, as she unleashed a Cyclone spell to throw most of the enemies below to several directions.

"CYCLONE!!" She shouted a large gust of wing taking several of the creatures into the air and throwing them in every direction, most of them landing near an underground shelter where the villagers stayed during a deadly sandstorm.

So far they had went to the shelter when Ryu told them of the danger approaching. Most were displeased and demanded they leave, though the chief mentioned they should head to the shelter, considering that even if they did force the three to leave, they would be more intolerant to their own teachings.

Ryu still cut down any beasts that charged toward him, taking down each one in just one cleaving slice. Currs, Scavengers, and large fleas being cut into half in a swift slice, decapitating each of the monster's with a clean cut to the mid area of them, leaving trails of slaughtered beasts behind him.

"I can't keep this up forever, especially with this heat." Ryu thought, as sweat dripped down his face, he panted slowly.

He noticed Mai running off, already getting the idea of what she was planning, a smile curling onto his lips as he turned and once more hacked away at what appeared to be a hundred oncoming beasts, running to their deaths by the broadsword Ryu held.

"Hmm, if I start to grow weary, I will use that power." Ryu stated mentally.

Once more he continued to attack, while Nina remained airborne.

The past still played within Ichiro's mind, the days when he entered the life or death class of Shin Du Kin.

"The trials ahead will test all your instincts, it will be treacherous and death will result to those who don't put forth their utmost effort." The Sensei remarked standing in front of the four who remained. "There are still more trials ahead, this one is reflex, and death will be a result if you are unable to keep up you guard."

Indeed was the Sensei right, as he showed just what kind of test it was, it was indeed a one of the toughest trials Ichiro ever could remember. Arrows where shot from one direction to another, automatic in the room, in a dim lit room, that grew darker. Ichiro though kept calm, his ears detecting where the arrows came from, his reflex of his sword helped deter all projectiles shot at him, each one sent away, even as rapid fire increased.

In the end, the two of the four died, only Ichiro and Yu Lee remained, the other death by several arrows, a mystery of whither they advanced further or were hit earlier would never be known.

"Two succeed, it is time I reveal a few other things to you, but in the end, only one of you shall become heir to the arts of Shin Du Kin." The Sensei replied, as he bowed in honor to the two, the two doing the same.

Ichiro and Yu Lee both were trained, trials from taking torment, balance, perfectly executed moves, and control. It seemed both were equal, but the last trial proved just how heartless Yu Lee truly was.

The clashing of metal rang throughout the area, as the red grassrunner continued his assault upon the dummy, before he finished with a sword to the heart, as Lee pulled it out with a snort. Ichiro stood stun, Lee though remained still emotionless, a wolfish smiled pursed on his lips. The Sensei though looked on with a grim frown.

"Yu Lee, the arts of Shin Du Kin are of control and the will not to kill anyone. You have not only defied that law, but have proved you are not worthy to be a heir a Shin Du Kin." The Sensei remarked, with a disgruntled glare on his face.

"Shin Du Kin is a mere child's skill, a faith that has long died. True survival is achieved only by the victor who lives, the strongest that survives." Lee shouted, clenching a fist up at him.

The Sensei shook his head, very displeased by Lee's words.

"I always knew deep down you had a dark heart, but I thought you would grow out of as you aged. Yet like a animal in nature, your vile intentions only grow worse in time and sink lower then ever before. Disgraced us you have, the teachings of Shin Du Kin shall never be used by you." The Sensei remarked bitter toned, as he stepped forth towards Yu Lee.

"I will not allow my hands to be crippled by a fool such as you, never!" Lee yelled, as he ran off, the old man following, before falling to his knees, coughing with a hoarsely tone as Lee continued running off still getting further away from the two. Ichiro knelt down, checking on his master.

"Sensei, are you okay?" He asked highly concerned.

The master gazed with struggling eyes, as he coughed again.

"I am truly getting old, before I could knock him out in just one dash, now I can't move three steps without losing my wind. Ichiro, I feel you are the true heir to the Shin Du Kin arts, but there is one art that only the true heir can know, it is passed on only through teachings. It is known as the 'Frail Statue Strike', the most secretive technique of Shin Du Kin. As you know, power-points easily can paralyze one area if touched right area. The Frail Statue Strike paralyzes the entire body, but makes their senses of the muscles weak enough that a mere feather would kill them. This technique is deadly, but it should only be used upon those who are relentless to slaughter innocents. I see in your eyes a pure intention, and I entrust you shall honor all that Shin Du Kin stands for. Ichiro, help me up." The Sensei asked, as Ichiro genly took grasp on the old dog, helping him up to his feet.

"Sensei, your dying, aren't you?" Ichiro said sadly.

"I will eventually, I still have a few good months, my body may be old, but my will to see my granddaughter get married is what keeps me still alive." He said, Ichiro going flush as he mentioned.

"I know you and her are the perfect couple. Lee though is outraged by such a thing. He loved her perhaps just as much as you, but he never grasped the chance when it was open. Ichiro, I know Lee will return, and if anything, he shall steal the scroll hidden in this dojo. His intentions are vile enough to slaughter everyone here, even the children." The Sensei replied worried greatly.

"He shall not harm anyone, not as long as I am alive." Ichiro said, clenching his sword tighter.

The Sensei smiled, seeing already a proud heir that reminded him of his youthful self, a tear forming in his eyes.

"Ichiro, watch me closely, remember every movement I make, this skill takes several years to practice, and when done right, you will paralyze the opponent fully from neck down to the toe. In addition, their muscles shall contract, making them weak enough to make one brush of the finger be enough to kill them no matter where you touch them. With such little force will send a shock through their body, before striking the brain like a knift to the heart, killing them by the brain, and the heart. This move is difficult, but I feel you shall master it quicker then me." The Sensei remarked, as he walked slowly over to the dummy, taking a deep breath. In a second did his hands move fast, striking the neck, abs and waist, in five places, using only his fingers to strike at each vital power-point.

"Now, show me how it is done." The Sensei said, taking a step to the side, as he folded his hands behind his back.

Ichiro took a step forward, as he closed his eyes, his eyes replaying what his master had done, the slow motion and every hand gesture that connected to the dummy, as he opened his eyes, and struck at each point, but only slower, imitating every move his master had made to each power-point on the dummy. He made each as accurate, but in slow motion, before he increased the pace, but not getting it done in under one second.

"Well done Ichiro, you indeed have made me proud, for someone who once had more trouble even keeping his sword grasped, you have indeed moved from a mere grasshopper to a mantis since you grew up. I expect you to do well in keeping those here working hard. Even with the little plant life here, the forest shall supply wood." The Sensai mentioned as Ichiro nodded.

As he grew, he was told of many thing, one being how a few bamboo sticks growing outside of the village, how it helped make up most of the houses around, how the blades were forged by a blacksmith worthy of talents, and of other jobs vital to the area. Though he also was told of why they never did contact the outside world, being the case of the wild world. Although the mountains did give a protection to the dangers of the real world, they still feared that it may be found. To prevent such events, the men of the skills kept guard upon the area and easily were given orders to knock those who invaded out if they even were to set foot near the passageways.

Ichiro though understood, even if they were isolated, they managed. His village was a place untouched and ravaged by society, illness was never given, nor was the land plowed and disturbed so often that it was a land of pitiful results. He was told of the endless sands that came after the mountains, of the lands that had remained throughout the area. The snow covered mountains and icy paths were only a few of the many obstacles that protected the village from such disasters.

"I will try to keep things in order, and I shall train others the same arts. All I have learned I shall uphold to the fullest extent, by the code of honor I have so long. I shall keep this village as it has always remained, in peace and pure harmony." Ichiro said, bowing to his master, who smiled.

"Told you I lack direction." Wes said, walking to the car in the garage.

"I noticed. Listen, if anything they are at the Village of Oasis, a mere village then a town, considering it is made up mostly of tents then anything else. It a long drive, but there is a shortcut that will get you there in half an hour at most. Just give this card to the main gate checkpoint and your on your way to the village by a underground passage, it is a few miles straight ahead." Cherry mentioned, handing him the card.

"Why the hell aint others notified of this?" Wes asked disgruntled.

"Only those in the cargo transports or those who are able to pay such things. Still, be careful Wes, you're a wanted man." She said, grasping his arm.

"I know, but I also have a score to settle with one of the regents. When I find him, I'll kill him brutally!" Wes remarked, getting into his Dune Buggy.

"By the way, what the hell is in that coffin, last time you had two guns, but it took four of the strongest men to even lift that thing." She asked, really surprised at how many men it took just to lift it up.

"A few mini missiles, the two dual chain-guns, that's about it besides the hardware. Though that's what it is, one heavy ass weapon, only I can wield. I'll see you when all this is over." He said, taking a seat on the drivers side, as Cherry opened the garage by remote, the sun slowly peering into the bulb lit garage.

A loud roar came, as Wes accelerated out, heading towards the horizon, his next stop a checkpoint before heading directly to the village he was told of by Cherry.

"I hope I can make it up to those guys, they really are not gonna be happy after what I did." Wes thought really knowing he wasn't going to be welcomed warmly.

The battle still raged on, as Nina cast several combined spells, staying airborne to keep herself free from the beast on the ground. Though it took a toll on her, she wasn't able to handle staying afloat and to keep casting spells every so often. She slowly was starting to break down, she couldn't remain afloat forever and slowly was drifting down to the ground.

Ryu continued cleaving through each of the many beasts around, but seeing Nina already floating to the ground was enough to make his heart throb forcefully in his chest, fear already consuming him.

"Nina... hang in there!" He shouted, as he threw off his jacket, once more closing his eyes, summoning the powers he knew were in him, the fierce flames surrounded him, as he roared, once more transforming into his half dragon self, the wyrm.

His claws ever so deadly slashed through the cluster of vicious beasts, each one slashed by the dagger sharp claws that swatted at them, dying by just one mere strike. As Nina fell to the ground, a curr leaped up, snapping at her legs, trying to grab her and pull her down. It was trained to bring people in alive, even in a situation such as this. Ryu though made sure he wouldn't take her, as he cleaved the wolf in half from its mid part, killing it in a fatal blow. He caught Nina, holding her closer to him, before turning to the other beast, as he sighed, setting Nina down, and took a few steps forward, taking a deep breath as he charged forth, dashing at a alarming pace, once more cleaving anything in his path. Goblins, Currs, Scavangers, Lizards, and anything else within the area became desert kill, all on the ground and cut open by three mere claws.

He roared with a loud screech, before glancing to Nina, seeing a few more trying to close in as he rushed forth and sliced away at them, repeating the process over and over, until it appeared none remained. Slowly Ryu changed back, as he glanced to Nina with a smile. Yet within her face was fright, her knees to her breasts, she hugged them tightly, her eyes streaming with tears as she shook in horror.

"Nina... what's-"

"Why... Why use such a power?" She sobbingly asked, shivering with fear.

"To protect you... I can't do it like this, not against so many as this." He remarked pointing to the dead beasts.

Nina shook her head, still sobbing.

"Look at them, you killed them with no regrets, like a heartless monster... how can you claim it was justified!?" She asked angrily.

"Nina, please, I did it for you... they would have-"

"Taken me... so what, that doesn't mean you should use your powers to slaughter them, just for me." She remarked still sobbing.

"I have control over it Nina, sure I used it to kill a few weak creatures, but I had no choice, you pushed yourself to much, and once they got you, they would retreat, and most would hold me off. I know how things go, and trust me... I know what I was doing. I'm still Ryu, the one you love, the one you have known since we met, remember?" He asked, as Nina stopped, thinking back to that day, of how he acted so tough, and of other times, already calming down, a warm smile pursed on her lips.

"Do you still like my wings?" She asked teasingly.

"It proves you're an angle, sent from the skies." He remarked with a smile, both bursting out into laughter.

"Oh Ryu, you have changed." She said, leaping up to him, as she hugged him tightly, nuzzling herself against his face.

"And your still as cute as ever, my dear Nina." He replied wrapping his arms around her back, right under her wings.

The two remained like that for a long time, for once having a moment to themselves for a very long time.

Dwure deh-do Deh-Do DEH-DO Dere din-da dere der-dwere

"Shows over Artimis." Mai cried as she fired forth, but her bullet missed as Artimis sidestepped it.

"Thou traitorous comrade Mai, show'est her face to me she dare?" Artimis hissed, before turning and cracking her whip at Mai.

Her whip cracked at Mai's own hand, throwing the gun out of her hands.

"What are ye going to do now foxgirl, ye obviously are no match when ye don't have a gun." Artimis stated, as Mai shot her a still determined glance.

In one bold move did Mai make a dash for her gun, Artimis lashing out, her whip snapping near Mai, the sand spurting out of the ground as the whip snap at the ground. Mai still kept her pace, even when she was struck by the whip; she stood up from being struck down and ran onward.

"Foolish girl, thou shall not be allowed to reclaim your mighty spear." Artimis remarked, still cracking her whip at Mai.

Mai waited, as the whip once more was swung at her, she reaches out, grasping it with a firm grip, tugging it to force Artimis into giving it up.

"Impossible, no mere spy can grasp it, especially a weakling as ye." Artimis spouted with disbelief.

"Your eyes don't deceive you Artimis, your through!" Mai remarked as she tugged against Artimis for control.

Artimis cracked a smile, using her free hand to move the pipe near her lips once more.

Du-de-deh Du-de-deh!

A loud how cried out in the sky, a huge owl swarmed down towards them with a dark shadow that covered the entire area. In that instant Artimis released the whip, Mai slipping from her feet and falling on to the ground, grumbling as she fell down on her rump.

"Til we meet again traitor." Artimis said, as the owl started to ascend to the sky once more.

Mai stood, glancing to her side, finding her gun nearby. With a fiendish smile, she swiped it off the ground, and aimed at the bird, a good shot presenting itself to her, she grasped it with the chance being rare as she pulled the trigger delivering a perfect shot to the bird above.

BANG!!

The bullet struck the bird dead in the head, as it started to fall down to the ground, Artimis bracing herself to fall. Mai cracked another wolfish smiled, firing away once more, this time her shot taking Artimis directly in the head, finishing her off, her body dead upon the impact of the bullet to the brain, her grip upon the owls feathers slipped as her lifeless body fell down to the ground.

Mai took a deep breath, walking over to the corpse, seeing the bullet hole through the now dead harens forehead, her blond hair stained by the crimson blood that leaked from her brain.

"That should put an end to the pipers orders. I just hope Ryu and Nina are still alive." Mai said to herself, turning away from the dead corpse before her, and walking off, her job complete.

A lone figure stood, dressed in his gray judo uniform, the sleeves cut off from the shoulders down, a few strips of dry clothing wrapped around his forearms. The red grassrunner stood in the field, waiting with his arms crossed, his sword within his sheath laying at his side. His feet covered with a long rubber boots, crafted to help him move as quick as he could in sandals.

He glanced up with his bitter blue eyes, a fiendish smile curled upon his lips. He stood, grasping his sheathed sword with his left hand, as he brought it up to his side.

Ichiro glanced onward, emotionless as always to conceal his weakness from his opponents. Deep down he already wanted to leap right at him and cut him down with his own blade, slaying the one evil from his past that had brought him such pain and misery. Though Ichiro knew deep down why for so long he searched for him.

The thunder crackled and roared among the area, the sky lighting up with streaks of bolts and giving a brief second of light. The rain poured upon the village, pounding upon the village with rapid thuds upon the roofs. Six months had past since Ichiro was proclaimed heir to the Shin Du Kin arts. The last months were rewarding, he and Yulia were married, and Ichiro took over as master of the arts, though the Sensei did at times take over.

Yet one man stirred, in the dojo, cloaked in a black clad uniform, keeping his identity a secret from those who would spot him. He moved closer, gaining much more closely to chest that nested the scroll, the treasure he seeked only for himself.

Slowly he opened it, carefully taking the scroll out and unraveling it, glancing it over, his eyes widen from sheer amazement, the secrets he sought now were written and shown right before him.

"A runaway fool always does return, to steal what it not his." The Sensei said, already near the only exit around.

"Pathetic old man, the years already have turned against you, your mind may remember everything you learned once" The figure remarked, rolling the scroll back up as he stood to his feet turning around, "but your body has already become frail, you are a mere pebble to me Kenshiro." Lee remarked removing his mask, placing the scroll in one of his inner pockets.

"I will not allow you to leave here... you shall never again know true freedom when I am done with you." Kenshiro remarked drawing his sword.

"I'll see you in hell old man." Lee remarked, as the two dashed forth, their metal swords colliding, Lee on the offense, Kenshiro on the defense.

Yet the old man already lost, as his wind already was leaving him, he fell to the ground coughing. Lee wasted no chance , with a clean slice did his sword cut right through the neck of the old man, as the head fell off of the old mans body, Ichiro only snickered, dashing off. Everything was quiet, the sound of the rain being the only noise that echoed inside, other then the rumbling thunder that came every damn moment.

"You won't escape this village Lee, I will see to it you are kept here in solitude until your old and ugly." Yulia remarked, as Lee walked out of the building, only to find a mass of several men accompanying Yulia.

"Ah, the goddess of beauty herself, Yulia. I once had the heart never to slay you, but since you choose Ichiro, my heart weeps in sadness. Though my thirst to kill you is stronger then my will to let you live." He remarked charging forth, a few men moving to the front to block him, but were cut down with one slash.

Even with over ten men to one, Lee was twice the fighter any of the grunts could be, his speed ever so superior to their mere dash, and his hands quicker then their eyes or reaction time. None stood one chance as he took them down by slitting their throats or decapitating certain area's of their body. All fell to the ground, corpses upon the ground, blood trickling from their wounds, staining the ground a blood red.

Yulia glanced in horror as he peered over to her with evil eyes, as he ran to her, stabbing her in the heart with his sword impaled through fully, before pulling it out, as he snickered, the now dead Yulia fell to the ground, eyes widened and shock.

"YOU MONSTER, YOU SHALL PAY FOR ALL THE LIVES YOU HAVE TAKEN!!" Ichiro shouted, drawing his sword out.

"The shall die Ichiro, fools only dream of a world of peace, but I have seen the True world, and it is vicious struggle of survival. Though with these moves, I shall be able to survive even more." Lee remarked, taking a step forth, before moving into attacking stance, Ichiro did the same.

The two lunged forth, blades clashing, a fierce and intense battle pacing through the calm village, two of the greatest swordsmen born and raised in such a place, now battling, one for vile intentions, another for what he believes in dearly. Yet, skilled as Ichiro was, he was not fully prepared for battle, with what he witnessed in shock had now clouded his mind, even as he tried to focus upon the battle, the memory still boggles and weakened his heart.

At that moment Lee made a swift upper slash, Ichiro barely was able to avoid such a move, as the sharp tip of the katana sliced right across his left eye area, while the eyes were not cut, the flesh though near the area was cut, blood dripping out, and onto his fur, a crimson stain already leaving a mark upon his skin.

"Your faith in the art of Shin Du Kin led you to this, a mere worm now realizing how pathetic he truly is. Either way Ichiro, killing you is not worth a ounce of my effort. Suffer you shall, the grief in you heart of how you couldn't even protect your own love." Lee mocked, as he turned walking to the exit, leaving Ichiro lying on the ground.

Ichiro already was battling his emotions, guilt flooded his heart, yet his mind reasoned that he must move on. The females who were alive already cried, feeling saddened by the loss of their husbands or sons. More guilt pushed upon Ichiro's heart, guilt that he had not taken Lee on first, rather letting his own wife confront Yu Lee, the men she insisted would be her guardsman, having more belief that Lee was no match for an entire army. Ichiro though finally broke through the aura of regretfulness, and even in the aftermath of Lee's attack, he was able to help the widows, children, and others in the village out in properly burying the fallen protectors who died trying to stop a traitor from taking what was sacred to it.

Days after all were complete, did he finally stand forth, reaching his conclusion of what he would do next. He knelt before the graves, keeping a steadfast glance, knowing he had mourned enough already with the others from his lost, and the time to move on was now.

"Sensei, Yulia... I may have failed to protect you both, but I swear upon you graves, I shall hunt Lee down to the ends of this planet, I will make sure his evil deeds shall not go unpunished, upon the art of Shin Du Kin, I shall carry out this oath. Sensei... I shall keep all you taught me close to my heart, as shall my love for you dear Yulia shall I always hold deep in my heart as well." He said, his hands clasped together, giving a pray to the two fallen ones spirits, as it was said once one dies, their spirits go to the afterlife.

Ichiro stood from the grave, calmly waking off, as a tear streamed down from his muzzle.

"So you plan to find Lee? After he almost killed you?" Ayeka asked, as she stood near Ichrio.

Ayeka, while she and Ichiro one time grew up together, she felt him more like a brother then a boyfriend, and their bonds grew strong as they had grown older, times like these did their friendship grow closer then ever.

"What happen cannot be undone, and for those who died by his own blade I shall avenge, not by blood, but the teaching of Shin Du Kin. Shin, representing the south; Du, meaning by our ancestors tongue, and Kin, a word meaning more then just skills by the sword, but also by hand. I shall not ever fall as low as Yu Lee has, it is that vow that has given me the strength to overcome this unbearable loss. I will make him pay, not by death, but by taking the one thing that is dearest to us all... his freedom to move." Ichiro mentioned walking out.

Ayeka said nothing more, she knew Ichiro was not going to be talked out. For the next two days did Ichiro pack up, preparing for a long and tough journey through the mountains, before entering the relentless cold of the high alps that long served to protect the village from outsiders, and served as a barrier to the village. If any hunch was accurate enough for Ichiro, Lee had made his way through the mountains after fleeing, and Ichiro was willing to do the same. When he was fully packed, he bid his farewells to the village, as part of the village teachings, 'They that venture beyond the mountains are forbidden to ever return to the village.' Ichiro knew this rule well, and sad as it was, he understood it well, for he was willing to give the entire are up, just so he could find and confront his nemesis, Yu Lee.

His journey was treacherous, but in three weeks he made his way to the desert, meeting the first of many scumbags and bandits that caused so much terror for the innocents in the desert. Yet, with all Ichiro knew, a few whisks and slashes, he easily cut the weapons of the crooks in half. Unarmed and unable to defend themselves, they ran, fleeing with their tails between their legs.

It was something Ichiro learned to do many times, whenever a few punks tried to threaten him, he easily disarmed them and at times used such techniques to paralyze them in their arms or hands. Bar fights were just the same way, only Ichiro used his hand-to-hand combat techniques to fend off brawlers who were looking for a fight. During one of those bar fights he attracted perhaps someone who gave him a offer he somehow didn't have a clue where it would take him, but accepting it, he became part of Neo Rogue, an underground movement that was against Auron, a corporation owning perhaps the entire market and the world.

Eight years he was with them, sharpening his skills, preparing himself for the day that he would finally find and face Yu Lee once more. It was repetitive work, but with the will to keep up the pressure did he finally feel his improvement, noticing how dramatically his skills had improved. Now the time had come to fulfill his vow he made on the graves of his dear master and his love Yulia.

"How's that scar on your face Ichiro? Can you still see from that eye?" Lee asked with a snicker.

Ichiro remained silent, slowly pulling his blade from his sheath, as he took a defensives stance, peeing to his opponent slowly.

"This scar reminds me why I left our village, it is the scar that you gave me that has served as a reminder of how pathetic you truly are. For those you killed on that day ten years ago you shall pay, for the sinful deeds you have caused, it is time you paid." Ichiro mentioned, in a serious tone.

"So whaddya gonna do, kill me? You don't have it in year heart, your too damn obsessed with that Shin Du Kin crap to even try to decapitate me. Your weak Ichiro, mentally and physically." Lee remarked as she lunged forth, giving a vertical slash directly near Ichiro's face.

Ichiro blocked it, holding it in place with little effort, before pushing Lee away, as the two jumped back, locked eye to eye, waiting for one to make the next move. The two took a deep breath, both leaping forth, clashing with fierce strength, blade to blade as the two exchanged blows and blocks, each one equal as they clashed forth once more. They both remained poker faced, concealing their expressions so not be weakened by their own actions.

"So, you have improved. Guess it was a good idea to bring my gunpower along with me." Lee remark with a wolfish smile.

"Gunpowder? You truly are a lowlife fool to sink to such materials to win." Ichiro remarked, still keeping his concealed emotional face.

"Sometimes you have to try things different, and in this case, I shall do it by using the gunpowder situated in my own arm wraps. And with the carvings on this sword, I can easily set off a blast in just one slash." Lee mentioned lifting his left arm up, revealing his gunpowder black hand.

"Defeat me you shall not, I will end your despicable deed by making sure you never will be able to move." Ichiro said, taking a attacking stance.

Lee only let out a cackling burst of laughter, bellowing his voice loud enough to be heard around the world.

"I beg to differ Ichiro, you are nothing to me!" Lee remarked as he charged forth, moving his left hand in front, as he brought his sword to his hand, pushing it across his palm, a loud blast ringing from his hand, smoke floating up from his hand.

Ichiro though moved out of the way, avoiding the shot as she stood still waiting. Lee turned with a fiendish smile, as she once more charged forth, his sword to his fist, as he moved closer, once more pressing the sword against the gunpowder dipped strips, he let out another blast that hit Ichiro in the leg.

"Looks like I finally got you Ichiro, there's no chance you are going to win now." Lee said, as he kicked Ichiro back, heavily onto the sand, as he smirked walking closer, this time his forearm being the area he chose to use his explosive hand on.

"Adieu Ichiro, may you rest in hell with failure always in your heart." Lee mocked, as he grasped his sword tightly.

Ichiro cracked a smile, and leaped forth, moving his hands in a motion naked to most eyes, his fingers striking each of the power-points that were essential to pull off the move so well. For years Ichiro spent most of his time perfecting the Frail Statue Strike for one thing, to end Yu Lee's ability to walk, and more importantly be able to swing a sword. His strikes were dead-on accurate, the right pressure applied to achieve the true potential, to make the senses of the skin so sensitive, one little gentle touch would send shockwaves to the heart and end with a heart attack.

"Wh-what the hells going on!?" Lee remarked, his hands opening up as his katana fell to the ground, shocked at the fact that he couldn't move.

"You may have stolen the scroll containing knowledge of the great moves... but only the heir to the Shin Du Kin arts are able to learn such a technique." Ichiro mentioned, now up on his feet.

"Impossible, how could I not know of such a move?" Lee whined, still unable to move.

"Because you never were given the opportunity, Sensei showed me it shortly after you fled. Since that day you killed so many of the people dear to me, I have practiced and perfected every move I was shown, the most time I put into any move was the Frail Statue Strike. I knew it was the only move you would never be able to expect, considering you were more eager to attack and slay then ever use feeble paralyzing skills." Ichiro mentioned, walking away from the frozen Lee.

"I will find a way out, I taught many others how to undo such spells." Lee remarked in full faith.

Ichiro only snorted, turning to him with a still solemn glance.

"Maybe you don't understand, not only are you paralyzed, but even the softest touch will kill you. Your skin is so sensitive to anything that it will die just by the touch of a feather." Ichiro remarked, remaining calm.

"What? That can't be, no strike could be that powerful!" Lee spat in disbelief.

"Suit yourself, if you're dead, it is nothing for me to ever regret, I only disabled your ability to move your body, nothing more. As for weather you die because of it will not mean a thing to me." Ichiro remarked strolling off to head back to the village.

As he left, a tiny little mosquito flew over, as it moved onto Yu Lee's nose, before poking its nose deep inside, shocks of pain shot through Lee's body, the pain striking at the brain as it did so. His body flinched as the pain allowed the last ounce of moment, before falling to the ground, lifeless and to rot in the desert.

"Yulia, Sensei, I have done what I must. Perhaps now I can live with the rest of my life. I may not return to the village that was my home, but I will find a successor when I'm done protecting Nina, I shall find the one worthy of carrying on the arts of Shin Du Kin." He said, glancing to the blue sky, seeing both of their faces there, he smiled feeling a sense of fulfillment spread in his heart.

"As long I can even stand, or even hold a blade, I will fight for the defenseless, and the innocent, for it is the true path of Shin Du Kin." He thought, still strolling back.

"Where's Ichiro?" Mai asked, glancing around.

"He hasn't returned, probably died in battle, shame it is, but life goes on." Ryu remarked bitterly, before being punched in the shoulder by Nina.

"C'mon Ryu, you do consider him a friend." Nina said with the adorable eyes he always smiled at.

"Well, he was a good guy, but-"

Ryu stopped short as a familiar vehicle entered the village, one Ryu knew all to well. It stopped nearby as the door slowly opened with Wes stepping out.

"Guess I wasn't needed. Listen, I know I abandoned you guys in the town, but I needed some time to think and-"

Nina unbelievably was able to get up and get to Wes faster then anyone could see, as she smacked him dead across the face before beating him over the head with her staff, evil snack eyes flaring in her pupils as Wes shielded himself against her raging assault.

"You have some nerve to return after abandoning us, and not even leave a notice, you know how sick were..." She shouted, still thrashing her staff at him, as Ryu and Mai watched in mere confusion.

"You think we should help him out?" Ryu asked, looking to Mai with a playful grin.

"I would say yes, but knowing how deadly that Fae is when she is mad, well... lets just say I ain't touching her with seven foot pool." She answered shaking her head.

"Point taken." Ryu replied, as the two sat watching Wes get himself beaten by the angry Fae.

Next Time:

(Draco's Voice) The heavy scores keep rising, and the fights get more deadlier. This occasion is no different; flames engulfing a town, an arsonist feeling no pity on those he may be putting in danger. Yet he never heard the saying, when you play with fire, your gonna get burnt. Guess he'll learn it the hard way.

Next Chapter: Pyro Gauntlet.

(Authors Notes)

I don't like FF.nets damn policy of enforcing the no chat crap rule, but I already lost one fic, so I ain't taking my chances, partially that is. Anyway, to answer Crow Magnum, I named the last chapter mostly on the fact that the two regents were fighting one another, since I couldn't think of anything else, and as for this one, well, mostly it represented Ichiro's mind wondering upon the past, by remembering past events if you must know. Anyhow, I feel this is better then chapters I did in the past, so I don't have much else to say.