Chapter 51
Trouble Begins
After receiving their medals and certificates of graduation, Atari, Ren, and Kie all exited to their respective houses, except Atari, whom resided with Ren. They plopped on their bed and remained silent for a moment before Ren spoke a word and read Atari's mind.
"So when are you leaving?"
"Soon Ren, soon," replied Atari looking up at him.
"I just wanted to know, so I can plan my schedule accordingly," said Ren trying to sound smart.
"You are very responsible Ren, and as always, I will warn you the day before. I will not leave without you," replied Atari.
"Is Kie going to accompany us?"
"If I can help it," answered Atari.
"If you don't mind me asking Atari, why are you pursuing Yuchi with so much determination?"
"To be honest Ren, I don't have a clear answer. I guess it is because I feel he is the only family I have that I have not met, and maybe he has more information about me. I felt that finding him and talking with him will open up to me who I truly am. I want to know so much, and I think Yuchi will know the answers. What happened to my father, who he was, what was he like, who is my mother, how did they meet, how did they die, and why did they abandon me those many years ago. All these questions and more, I need answers to."
"But Yuchi wasn't alive when Reggie was around."
"But according to Garu, he knew his history well, so he knows most of the information the others here keep hiding from me. I need to know, because if I don't, I have no purpose in walking this earth any more."
"Oh, I get it now."
"Good, because I don't want to talk about it anymore. Good night Ren," said Atari putting out the candle.
The next morning was a surprise to Honamochi. On each doorstep was a scroll from the Hokage. The next thing Atari remembered most was Garu cursing at the Hokage under his breath. Haro soon rushed to his aid.
"What is wrong Garu," asked Haro.
"Blasted Hokage, does he think we don't have enough problems already," grumbled Garu clutched the unraveled scroll. Atari and Ren proceeded to the table with that morning's breakfast. As they ate, they listened closely.
"What is it," asked Haro again.
"Due to unforeseen circumstances, the emperor has asked me to pass a tax to this village. This is being done throughout Japan. In place of our own village Chunin on patrol of the village will be the shogun's samurai soldiers. They will be patrolling the streets and stationed on every corner. At night, they will beg along the doors for food and shelter. Please follow their orders. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you." Garu slammed the scroll down.
"It is not the Hokage you should blame Garu, it is the emperor," sighed Haro.
"Yeah, well I'm tempted to go up to his majesty's palace and give him a piece of it," growled Garu.
"At least it does not affect us that much, and the emperor could be going through something right now," soothed Haro, placing her warm hands on Garu's cold shoulders. He grumbled as he muttered before sipping his tea:
"Our social class system is screwed up that's what is affected. Next the shogun will probably attempt to overthrow the emperor."
"And that is where the villages will step in. We will send assassination squads to murder the shogun and all local farmers like us will be remembered for protecting our king."
"Yeah, yeah sure Haro," sighed Garu sarcastically.
Atari went over their social classes in his mind. To him it was indeed confusing and unfair, but he had no say in the matter, even if he wanted to change it, he didn't know what he would change it to. He then mentally listed the ranks from largest to smallest. The ranks were named obviously emperor first, shogun second, military/navy third, Congress fourth, Hokage fifth, Sensei sixth, traders and artisans seventh, merchants eighth, farmer ninth, and slaves and maids tenth. Atari had been raised well, and they had never owned a house in need of slaves or maids. However, he was in the bottom, ninth rank, concluding that he had no say in what the emperor issued to the villages. This upset him greatly many times.
At first, the tax did not seem to bother anyone, until summer arrived. Atari and Ren proceeded home from their afternoon studies with Tashi Sensei as usual, but were stopped by a soldier on duty. He clutched Atari's shinobi shozoku and scuffed at him brushing him back.
"Dirty Menjin, filthy blood," he muttered growling under each word.
Atari grew angry and pushed his thumb up the bridge of his sword, clicking it so that just a small section of the blade glittered in the light. The soldier suddenly quieted.
"You wait until I'm out of here," he growled in response and Ren nudged him to continue down the road before anything nasty could get started. At home, both Atari and Ren were busy sparing until they heard a slight rustle in the bushes. Unsure of what they were hearing, Ren whipped a shurikan into the bush and almost immediately a soldier popped up clutching his wrist as blood dripped off his fingers.
"You bloody maggots!"
"Stalkers," shouted Ren in response angrily.
"The emperor will hear of your treason," swore the soldier as he dashed away, leaving a trail of faint blood stains. Events similar carried on until about two weeks later.
Garu clutched his cup so hard that the delicate china shattered into many particles.
"What are they trying to do? Is it not like the soldiers drain enough from us? We have been starving for the past three days due to their feasting. Now look. They are going to make us pay an extra tax on all processed goods imported in from China."
"Oh Garu that means…" shrieked Haro.
"Yeah you bet Haro, all products of silk, sugar, molasses, jewels, and paper are going to not only be paid the normal selling price, but an extra few yen for a tax imported directly to the emperor himself," answered Garu mumbling as he read the new scroll delivered that morning. Atari made sure to grab a few extra yen before departing with Ren to morning practice.
Once there, Tashi Sensei had them warm up by performing multiple jutsus against straw dummies. After all three of them had proven their mastery of the technique, Tashi instructed them to follow him.
"Although you are Jonin, you are not fully prepared to be bestowed the full privileges of that rank. We are going to a meeting with Honamochi's Senate, or council, responsible for sending remarks and letters to the emperor. We are going to send him a petition stating that we will not care for the soldiers any more and we will boycott the taxed goods. This will surely repair the damage from all the taxation. Personally, I do not care if we are his majesty's subjects, for we have our own rights as citizens of Japan," stated Tashi Sensei boldly as if he was giving a speech to the Senate as they walked.
Finally, after a long silent walk, they reach the Hokage's temple where they were to meet. A butler met them and after bowing politely directed them into a great dining room. They were seated in a row in a long wooden table, with elaborate carvings throughout it. Along the walls were holders with torches, lit to illuminate the room. Also bordering the walls in between each pair of torches was a portrait of important ninja dated with the date they were born and the date they died. Atari quickly scanned and located a portrait of his father. He did have Atari's eyes and hair, and almost the same facial expression in the picture as Atari wore everyday. He noticed the Sakabato firmly strapped to his back, his prized possession. He also noticed a slight dot of black, resembling the dreaded curse mark bestowed upon each Amachi. Atari sat in front of it and waited as other ninja, both familiar and unfamiliar, filed in and took their seats. The Hokage placed himself at the end so he had a clear view of everyone stationed in his presence. He cleared his throat before beginning:
"Welcome my ninja. As you are well aware of, seemingly unfair taxes are being placed on all the villages under the emperor's wing. We are here to discuss this matter and write up a petition to the emperor, hopefully repealing these unthinkable taxes. Any thoughts on the matter may be spoken out loud at this time." A long scroll was laid out down the table as everyone was handed a quill and ink stick in witch to write their name.
"The soldiers are being rude the villagers and calling us bloody maggots," said Ren immediately.
"True, and they pig out on our crops," remarked a fellow farmer.
All these dilemmas were written down the scroll as they were listed. Atari stayed silent and preferred to listen as the ninja rambled on about the soldier's behavior and the extra yen placed on the shipped goods.
"I suggest we boycott," exclaimed Tashi Sensei as the rest of the group grumbled in agreement.
"Very well then, no one in Honamochi will purchase their taxed goods," announced the Hokage so that the whole group understood the message. "For now, we will just have to deal with the soldiers."
"It depends how much longer we can handle this," explained Nejeka. "As for my family, the soldiers are throwing disruptions threw most of the night. I will not stand for it one more minute."
"Nejeka, you have to understand our position, we have no say in the matter of what the emperor bestows upon us," protested the Hokage gently.
"I agree with Nejeka, if one more soldier calls me a maggot there is going to be blood," declared Ren boldly. Tashi Sensei took fast note of this and before long the scroll was filled with writing. The Hokage rolled it up and tied it tightly before handing it o a nearby scout.
"Deliver this to the emperor as soon as you can," he ordered politely. The scout snatched the scroll and tucked it within his robes before disappearing from the room, concealed in darkness. Atari took a fast glance at Ren. He had become tense and irritated by his statement, sweating uncontrollably.
"Are you ok Ren," Atari whispered concerned.
"Yes, I'm just shocked at my bold statement," Ren snapped smiling gleefully.
Atari shook his head sadly as everyone stood up and departed from the meeting. I pray that this petition does its job.
Chapter 52
There Is Going To Be Blood
The next morning was spent training hard for their next mission, even if none of the Jonin knew what it was going to be. I hope it has something significant that will help me locate that stronghold, thought Atari punching a straw dummy. Ren skillfully flipped over him and located a target in witch he easily whipped a silver shurikan into the direct center.
"How was that sensei," he asked walking over and retrieving his weapon.
"Well done, but it could be better," Tashi Sensei sighed as he turned the page of his book.
Atari had just begun practicing with the staff when a scout appeared before Tashi Sensei with a puff of purple smoke. He bowed and delivered a scroll before departing in a puff of green smoke. Tashi unrolled the scroll and glanced over it before handing it to Atari, whom read it aloud:
Ranking: A
Tomorrow night, the now Jonin Kie Nappa, Ren Washinta, and Atari Lachapta are to receive a map from the Hokage marking the location of a certain stronghold very close to this village. We do not know how many ninja they have guarding it and it is the headquarters for the soldiers that patrol Honamochi. You are to successfully enter the stronghold, and locate a treasure chest. The last ninja has the key around his neck. Slaughter him, if necessary. Grab the key and unlock the chest, retrieving the contents. If rumors are true, there is a map to a hidden city called Corasant. After escaping the stronghold, report back to me so I may give you supplies. Rumor tells us that Orchi Sahuna, along with a mysterious apprentice are residing there building a large army to destroy our village. Journey up there using the map and capture Orchi. KEEP HIM ALIVE. I would like you to then bring Orchi back here for further questioning. If the apprentice interferes, attempt to capture him as well, for he probably knows some information we want. If you cannot capture both of them, make sure to get Orchi and slaughter the apprentice. May the Buddha guide and watch over you. Good luck!
Tashi nodded for them to continue their practice as he vanished for the night to prepare their provisions. The sun finally set with the mission tight on everyone's mind.
As Atari settled down into his bed, he heard a lot of sudden screaming go on outside their house, he also noticed Ren was no where to be found. Finally, driven by curiosity, Atari stumbled out of bed and redressed himself, strapping on the Sakabato. As he left the house he witnessed soldiers on one side shouting insults at the crowd of villagers gathered on the other side. Atari quickly spotted Ren and rushed to join him. Ren and the villagers shouted angrily at the soldiers.
"You bloody maggots," they shouted raising fists of anger and hatred.
"You filthy girls," shouted Ren.
"Stalkers," shouted Nejeka calmly.
"Peasants," exchanged the soldiers.
"King's pets," shouted Raouni angrily.
After a few more insults a shurikan was thrown at a soldier in the front row. Whoever threw it had true aim, for it pierced his heart and he fell backward, never to rise again. The soldiers were silent before they drew their own weapons, a weapon composed of two silver tubes placed together, and that fired something that sounded that of a firecracker. It exploded with sparks and a villager quickly fell dead. The villagers returned fire and a bloody street fight raged on. Atari and Ren charged in together, killing 2 soldiers and wounding a third. A large black seed pierced Atari's kimono but missed his skin. Throughout this fight, up to three of these seeds, witch the soldiers referred to as "bullets," pierced Atari's kimono and coat, but miraculously, none managed to hit him. Ren remained perfectly fine throughout.
The fight raged on until midnight when the soldiers finally left, abandoning the wounded and dead bodies. The villagers stood and cheered for their moral victory. Atari stood over the two soldiers he had killed and smiled. I wonder if this is all an avenger does. Is this what it means? To live to kill, and to kill to live? Ren met up with him and they grabbed a drink at Ren's house together, in celebration. After Garu and Haro reentered the house and told of their killings, they revealed the total amount of people killed.
"3 soldiers died, 5 wounded, 5 villagers died, 8 wounded," listed Garu disappointed.
"Raouni and Nejeka's fathers died, Kie's mother died, and both of Zeak's parents died," sighed Haro forlornly.
"Zeak is now living with his grandfather, so no worries," assured Garu optimistically.
"I warned them their was going to be blood if I heard one more of them call me a maggot," warned Ren boldly.
"And I take it they didn't take you seriously," guessed Atari.
"They better think twice before messing with the villagers of Honamochi," cheered Ren and both him and Atari sloped off to bed for the night, confident of their victory.
Chapter 53
Animal Assistance
The next morning Atari did not feel as rested as Ren and the rest of them, but all the same, he acted as cheerful as his body would permit. Practice was irritating, but he continued to throw the same old punches and weapons at the dummy despite his perfection at the art. After about an hour, Tashi Sensei summoned them to gather at their special meeting place hidden in the woods where Atari and Kie had dated so long ago. He assembled them on benches before explaining.
"You ninja are departing tonight, as I have been informed by the Hokage. Try and leave before seven and don't worry about your families. Leave a note and leave quickly, have everything packed in advance. We don't have time for delays. You guys will be alone, because the Hokage has orders for the rest of us to follow. I have a new technique in witch to teach you three before that time, so let's make haste. I will now teach you about your animal powers. I will first explain the importance of these. Your animals are your allies, and you are forever connected to them. You are responsible for them as they are for you. I will teach you how to call upon these animals for help. Ren, step forward now, and I will demonstrate."
Ren immediately stepped forward and bowed gracefully.
"My animal power is the bull, master," Ren reported.
"Very well then, Ren, your animal runs wild in Africa and runs with strength to bulldoze a village in succession. In this way, you must focus your chakra on an image of pure strength, and feel the bull charging within you. After this is completed, you must call out the bull. Do this by shouting 'come to me my partner' and a bull with surely hear your call and report soon enough. This can come in handy in many situations, for while you are focusing, you can share chakra between you and the bull. In this way, you two become one. He can serve as a partner in battle as well as a loyal friend. Learn it and report back to me with your summoned bull," instructed Tashi Sensei pointing off to a small area where Ren could train in private. He then called Kie up to him. Kie bowed and Tashi instructed her in the same manner and directed her off to an area where she could train. Finally, Atari was summoned. He bowed and waited for his instructions. Tashi Sensei seemed troubled as he searched for the right words to portray to Atari.
"Is a wolf a dark animal," asked Atari finally, letting his curiosity get the better of him.
"In the animal kingdom it is both a protector and a predator, but in turn to the ninja society yes, it is considered an animal of vengeance and darkness. You summon this animal by focusing on an image of dark vengeance, like a hungry monster running after its victim with a bloody thirst for revenge. If you are lucky enough, you will call a pup, because if you do not maintain control over an adult wolf, it can cause major destruction and disaster to Honamochi, if it makes it into the town that is. Go train in peace and be careful," answered Tashi Sensei instructing Atari to a small area farthest away from the village and everyone else. Atari did as he was told and strutted off.
The area was dead silent, only the whistle of the wind in the tops of the trees could be heard. Atari quietly moved some dirt around with his foot before focusing. He let his mind run free, free of thought and emotion, free from his body. As he began to call the wolf, darkness corrupted his mind and heart. Hatred consumed his heart and he felt no sympathy for any living thing, and felt joy at seeing the dead, motionless bodies. He felt as if all predators large and small were under his wing, as if he ruled over them as their king. He felt proud as a father would to his son as he witnessed a fox carry away a small shrew. But once the fox laid eyes on Atari, he bolted away with fear. This fear guided Atari's darkened soul. His mind wandered around, watching as animals even larger than the average wolf ran in terror at the very presence of him. This fueled his hatred for the people he despised such as Orchi, and how he longed to have revenge on him for what he had done to his family, and his burning desire to see his brother, Yuchi, before he settled down and grew to be an old ninja. With all these feelings and outbursts of emotion mixed and blended within the very center of his heart, Atari called the wolf.
"Come to me my partner," came a bold and cold sounding voice as Atari outstretched his hand in calling. A few moments passed without answer. The darkness growled in impatience, but as he had when he was focusing, Atari controlled it as he did during fights. A crackling of sticks and branches erupted quietly from in front of him. Immediately following this sound, a burst of pain from the curse mark exhibited itself. Atari fell to his knees in pain and clutched the mark, feeling the burning onto his palm. It glowed slightly and he flinched as the crackling continued. The pain grew as the darkness continued to growl impatiently. Atari was on the brink of explosion before his efforts were finally congratulated.
A small gray wolf pup emerged from the woods and stared innocently at Atari. Atari struggled against the pain and beckoned the pup forward. Willingly, the pup obeyed. Atari rubbed his hand gently across the pup's silver gray fur. The pup looked up at him with glittering sapphire eyes and wagged its tail. As Atari forced a smile at the young one, a giant bear emerged from the woods, snarling and growling hungrily. Atari drew upon his chakra and shoved the pup under his arm as he made sloppy hand signs. "Water Clone Jutsu," signed Atari as a clone of him emerged from the ground. The bear was confused and Atari commanded the clone to attack briskly. The bear was fought off as a deafening howl was heard throughout the forest. The pain became too great and Atari collapsed, allowing the pup to scramble out from under his arm. The bear scrambled away whimpering as the adult wolf emerged. She stared down at him coldly, showing her glistening teeth and snarling in defense of her baby. A voice appeared in Atari's mind. Human, you saved my child. Atari stared at the wolf, stunned. She snarled again. Um, yes, I did. Thought Atari waiting to hear if the wolf would respond. I have a litter of twelve pups, so getting rid of this one is a favor. Keep him, if you will, smirked the wolf before she turned around abruptly and strutted away, abandoning the pup. The pup turned around. Atari thought fast. Your mine now and you need a name. The pup's ears perked up and Atari thought. Are you Yang? The pup sniffed an abrupt no. Are you Uni? The pup sniffed again. Are you Sami? The pup sniffed again. Then Atari began to realize that the names he was suggesting were girl names, and this wolf was a boy. A sudden name crossed his mind. Are you Duke? There was no physical reply from the wolf, but instead, a calm, gentle voice connected inside Atari's consciousness. Yes.
Chapter 54
Wave of Sorrows
Atari quickly signaled for the pup to come to his side. Aware of this sudden change of parenting, the pup obeyed, sitting politely at its new master's side. Atari smiled at his newfound friend as he began to walk back to Tashi Sensei. Duke strode proudly beside him, without him ever having to call him back and without a leash. Tashi Sensei was pleased to see this as he stood with Kie and her eagle chick on her shoulder.
"Her name is Kit," smiled Kie blushing.
"His name is Duke," acknowledged Atari patting the dog. He growled at Kie as she stepped forward. Atari swiftly connected consciences again. It is alright boy; she is friend, not foe. A reluctant reply came from the dog; Alright then master, but I do not trust her. Atari nodded and Kie proceeded. Not to his surprise, but rather to his annoyance, she wrapped her arms around him like a tightly wrapped package, hoping never to let go.
"Your puppy is so cute, I only hope Ren's bull doesn't skewer either of ours," Kie blushed again as Atari finally wriggled free.
"That would be unfortunate," Atari answered minding his distance from another possible uncomfortable hug. Soon enough, Ren came bursting through the woods on the back of his baby bull.
"His name is Isaac, and he makes good transport," cheered Ren at his accomplishment. Kie and Atari shared their pet's names and Ren demonstrated foolish tricks he could now perform on the back of Isaac. Tashi Sensei finally stepped in;
"Ren, you may continue to ride on your bull, however, Atari and Kie can purchase horses from the Hokage tonight, to make things easier on Isaac, seeing as he will be carrying both you and the group's provisions," Tashi instructed smiling confidently. "Be off and be safe."
Atari, Ren and Kie all bowed politely before hitching rides on the back of Isaac. Ren made a quick note to make saddles and a reign before they departed, for his legs became unnaturally sore. Isaac snorted and continued. The group quickly attracted stares from the townsfolk, but seeing as they were leaving, they saw no need to reassure them of anything. Ren dropped off Kie before darting home to pack with Atari. Duke remained tucked away in Atari's backpack. He occasionally stuck out his nose to have the tangent of smells tickle his nose, but would soon become bored and recoil back into the pack. Ren pulled to an abrupt stop and dismounted. Both he and Atari dashed inside. A candle was lit and they both began packing vigorously.
Atari decided to pack obvious necessities, including his shinobi shozoku with the required accessories, the Sakabato, freeze-dried food packets, water skins and jugs, disguise clothes, and a tent, but also included a few other items such as his wooden flute, soap, paper, ink sticks, candles, brushes, and a large pot of dog feed Haro had bought from the marketplace that morning. Ren packed similar materials. As Atari finally pulled his backpack shut, after lifting Duke reluctantly out of it, he felt a sudden chill of forlornness. He felt sorrow consume him as he realized he was leaving his whole life behind him, all to pursue an idea that had been burning in his mind. He acknowledged the fact that the result might not be what he really wanted, but was willing to take that risk. But even at the thought of finally ending his avenging business with Yuchi, a gaping hole of emptiness filled his heart, but he ignored it for the time being. Atari left the note on the table as instructed and departed. The letter read:
Dear Haro and Garu,
You two were like parents to me, and I thank you greatly. I do not know if I will ever return, so let this explain my eternal thanks for your care over the past 12 years. I am departing for my mission tonight. Goodbye Mother Haro and Father Garu. May the Buddha always guide you and protect you from misfortune.
Your Practical Son,
Atari Lachapta
Atari left with two teardrops dotting the rice paper. The emptiness returned to him as he closed the door silently. Even Duke seemed to realize that his master was upset. Duke pawed Atari's leg and whimpered.
"It is nothing dog, be still," Atari assured him as another tear dripped down from his chin. A cool night breeze seemed to chill his face where the water had been. Atari retrieved a kunine from his pocket and carved a majestic capital M on the front of the door before finally gulping and departing.
The empty, forlorn feeling did not leave him. It followed Atari, as stiffly as Duke followed in his footsteps, as a child follows his mother by the hand. It haunted him, tormented him. Atari continually fought it back with thoughts of achieving that long thought out goal, but even that could not satisfy the hunger in witch the emptiness craved. It craved fear, loneliness, hatred, suffering, the very things that lead to a twisted heart of darkness, as Tashi Sensei had taught them. Fear is a resemblance of darkness, witch then in time turns to hatred, and witch then converts to suffering and death. It was a lesson Atari learned to respect, for as Tashi Sensei predicted and was precise, there was much fear in him about this mission. Atari however, was not so sure about what he was fearing, whether it was the thought of betrayal from Yuchi, a sudden surprise he may learn about his brother, or was it the very fear of confronting Orchi face to face in a fight to the death, with the future of Japan and its future generations hanging in the balance. Witch ever one it was, Atari was not sure, and seemed anxious to discover witch one it truly was.
It was not long before Tashi Sensei came into view with Kie already their. Tashi Sensei held a well lit torch and held it high above his face, illuminating one side of it and sending mysterious shadows dancing into the night. The empty and forlorn feelings were cast aside for the moment as Tashi Sensei passed them each a smaller torch well lit and told them final instructions.
"Good luck, and may the Buddha guide and protect all of you," said Tashi Sensei, with a small lump in his throat. It took a few minutes for everyone to realize that indeed the glitter on Tashi Sensei's face was tears, real tears. True Jonin are never to show emotion under any circumstances, as all three of them were taught, but this was truly remarkable. After Tashi Sensei wiped his eyes and hugged them all goodbye, they were off. Tashi Sensei waved and just before Atari turned his back on him, Tashi called proudly: "I am honored to be known as the past master of the new Menjin." Atari smiled and waved in return. However, the warm, welcoming light of Honamochi finally gave way to the engulfing darkness of the path ahead. A path of mystery, as was their mission.
Chapter 55
In The Right Direction
As it always has, since man first walked on earth, whether it was in Japan or not, night has always given way to the morning of a new day, and this was a very welcome morning for Atari and his squad. After all Atari refused to stop and rest, but felt and urge to always go that one more step, and before he realized it, they had walked another fifty feet. However, Atari had never forgotten the faithful rising of the run every morning. Although they were weary, they pressed on. No sign of the stronghold was in sight. Atari retrieved the map and reported that the stronghold should lie just over the hill that lay in front of them.
However, as they approached the peak, they realized that beyond was no stronghold, but a small village. Although they remained confused, Kie eased the boys down the hill into the village to search for answers. Familiar guards patrolled this village as well. It seems Orchi is conquering one village at a time. If we don't stop him soon, all of Japan will be under his control! As Atari thought this, he pulled on his zukin to disguise his face. The village was silent, and it had a suspicious eeriness about it. The only sound that could be heard was the silent heartbeat of nature. Atari listened closely, passing abandoned shop after shop. It seemed that the whole town seemed peaceful, except for the fact that all doors were locked and every window barred. Windows remained dark, even as noon rolled around. Shops remained closed, and no one ever entered the streets. At the point of almost being driven mad by this phenomenon, Atari finally drew a kunine for protection and bursts through a door to a small cottage.
It was black, pitch black. No one stirred in the home, even as the ninja intruded. Ren finally decided it appropriate to light a torch and struck fire. With the fire illuminating the way, both him and Kie worked on the hinges of the windows. Atari however, poked around, unable to see. Finally, the wood cracked and sunlit shone into the room, revealing a horrible, terrifying sight.
It made every ninja flabbergasted at the sight of it, without ever the need to guess what had happened. Dishes were broken, with fragments scattered throughout the room, the tablecloth wrinkled and twisted sideways on a table, with crumbs of a meal long gone to mice and rats. Cuts and slits were engraved in the wood. The table was overturned, rice paper torn and scattered aimlessly, and ink sticks broken and the produced ink spilled on the soot filled carpet. The pictures that were hung on the wall had kunine through their hearts, and were lying on the floor, frames forever destroyed. The stove had slits, kunine stuck out of the table, but the most heart throbbing of them all, was the bodies. Dead bodies of course, lay scattered thoughtlessly around the room, like abandoned marionettes. Their blood was splattered across the wall, painting the walls after the wallpaper was ripped in half. Blood was everywhere, across their clothes from where they were stabbed or slashed, staining the carpet and tablecloth, droplets on the desks and stove. This was obviously a wealthy family. What lay before them were a father, a mother, and two daughters. The father lie slouched against the overturned table, with his arm dropping over the other side. His eyes were bloodshot, his chest soggy with blood. His face revealed pure petrifaction. His face was frozen and cold, forever preserved. The mother lay with her eyes closed, her head rested comfortable on his lap. In her hands dangled a necklace with a Buddha on it, and her dress was dirty and bloody, and as the father, she too, had been stabbed in the heart. He however, appeared more relaxed and prepared for the end than the father. The one daughter however, who appeared to be of age sixteen or seventeen, was slouched over the sink, her head dipped into it. A kunine jutted out of her soaked bloody back. Her knees remained elevated above the floor, blood dripping to form a reflecting pool at her feet. The other daughter appeared to be ten or eleven, and had died in her dinner chair, witch was tipped over backwards, with two or three kunine pinned into her heart, abdomen, and chest cavity. She, as her father, was petrified with her eyes bloodshot and open, whereas the eldest daughter and mother were relaxed and appeared as if sleeping in awkward positions. One thing was certain…this was no accident. The slits and cuts both on the objects and on the people were not only by kunine…but also by sword. This worried Atari tremendously until he saw that painted in the blood of these citizens was the message:
The Emperor will pay…may allies of the Amachi suffer a most painful death ay the hands of me.
Atari realized then that below the message was not splattered blood, but another map. He traced and compared the lines of blood to the lines on the map they had, and soon found where the true stronghold was. With a sense of renewed ambition and restlessness, Atari clenched the map tightly and declared:
"We're heading in the right direction…and I smell blood."
Chapter 56
Retrieve the Key At All Costs
After the conclusion of the town's dreariness, the ninja squad traveled around for a few extra moments entered shops and stealing goods they may need. Atari for one refilled his canisters. They then felt the need to leave. Ren decided to leave the money on the counter, even if it would never be taken and used for the shopkeepers' uses, for he lay cut up on the floor. They finally left the town with a heavy heart. Atari looked at the newly revised map to locate the stronghold. He pointed over another hill and they started off, with Duke trotting playfully behind next to him.
It was not long before their suspicion of being at the wrong stronghold was cleared out of their heads. Just before they reached the peak of the hill, an arrow wisped by Ren's cheek, missing by just an inch or two. The ninja immediately ducked behind some boulders as the arrow was followed by footsteps.
"What was dat for? You nearly gave away our position. And it looks like you are gettin' scared for nuttin'," whispered someone.
"My apologies captain, I did not mean to ignore the conversation we was havin'," answered another.
"You is lucky I don't go telling the General what you almost done," warned the other voice.
"My apologies sir," replied the other voice.
"Come now soldier, let us go back," commanded the second voice now much bolder. As Ren was about to peer around the rock, another arrow wisped by. Ren had managed to catch the eye of the scared soldier.
"Captain, I don't like this," whispered the soldier trembling. "I'm sure I saw a ghost or something. May be it was…a ninja, a real ninja!"
"What did I tell you about raving on 'bout ninjas? They are fiction and only 'xist in legends about Japan. Now come along or General will have yer head," gestured the second voice.
"No, really, I think I saw one. They are native to Japan and all, so it must be one," protested the first voice.
"Nonsense, that just makes things even more complicated," replied the second voice.
"I don't like it here. Why can't we have been summoned to a civilized country, like Russia or something'," complained the first voice.
"We were summoned here by the emperor of Japan, which is an honor, now quit whining and hurry up. If you don't I'll feed you to a pit filled with yer ninjas," threatened the second voice and their voices faded off into the distance.
The ninja stayed hidden for another half an hour before they confirmed it was safe.
"What were they saying," asked Ren scratching his head.
"I don't know, I couldn't tell from their accent," replied Kie blushing as she turned to face Atari.
"I don't speak English, so don't ask me," replied Atari.
"There are too many languages in this world," complained Ren.
The ninja hushed their conversation as they reached the peak. It was the stronghold. A chill sent Atari's heart beating faster. The squad witnessed a grid of 4 rows of 4 soldiers each march simultaneously and in order to the entrance of the black stronghold. After a moment of stoppage, the giant arch with its pointed black fangs rolled up with a growl and allowed the soldiers underneath and concealed inside before the servants then dropped the iron gate again. Ren peered to the side again and saw three soldiers concealed and far enough away from the stronghold that they could not be seen by the archers marching repetitively up on the top crenelations.
Kie reached into her pack and pulled out a canister with an explosive powder contained inside. Ren nodded and they slipped away from the boulders as another group of grid soldiers passed. Using them as a shield, the ninja crept ever so close to the soldiers. Atari could smell the faint scent of the sham pain they had been drinking, and the overwhelming sense of warmth the smell of fresh game brought him. One soldier turned the game over on his fire and the other two continued their game of a foreign game called checkers. It appeared similar to a game Atari and Ren used to play before Atari became genin called Go. Ren ignored the engulfing sensations and whispered the plan into his ear.
"Alright, Kie will chuck the smoke canister, and then we charge in and slit these soldiers' throats. Make it quick and painless. Then we will change into their clothes and take their places in the next grid of soldiers. That will sneak us into the stronghold."
Atari nodded in agreement and they waited patiently. After the cooking soldier turned his back on the game, one soldier whispered:
"'Hey Fredrick, what if Captain Herman finds us 'ere, stuffin' ourselves with 'his deer?" The reply was foreign chatter to the ninja and finally Kie released the canister. It rolled to the soldiers' feet and one picked it up. "What do you 'pose this is?" One playing checkers with a pipe in his mouth choked roughly:
"Ay Fredrick, ye may 'ave found a tool used by 'hem ninja," he had a pirate-like tone to his voice and said the word ninja with a unique bitterness.
"Nonsense Patrick, ninja don't 'xist, only in 'hem Japanese legends," laughed the one taken to be Fredrick.
"Ay, but legends are inspired by people-," began Patrick dusting his pipe.
"Aren't ninja aspired to be…demons?"
"Ay Fredrick, right ye be 'bout that one," sighed Patrick fiddling his pipe, pondering.
"You guys worry 'bout everything. Ain't nothin' gonna happen here," laughed the third soldier.
"Still…" pondered Patrick. Kie finally yanked on the thin silk string that held the cork shut. It was a special canister Kie had prepared just for this type of attack. Smoke exploded from the tiny object and quickly spreads everywhere like a virus. The soldiers began to choke when Ren and Atari charged in blindly.
No Longer relying on his sight, Atari allowed his ears to reach out, hearing the muffled footsteps of the soldiers. A blurry dark shadow came into view ahead and the foul stench of smoke choke Atari's trachea; however, he resisted the ever-present tickle in his throat. He drew a kunine and jabbed it through a soldier's thigh. He realized after a minute it was indeed Patrick, the man with the smoking stick, whom he jabbed. Patrick stared into Atari's eyes with pure horror. A chill was sent ringing down his spine. "No…nonsense…they can't be…real," were the last words he muttered before his eyes shut and his body collapsed limp on the ground. Ren soon was found dressed as a soldier already when the smoke cleared. Atari finally coughed.
Atari dressed and packed his shinobi shozoku underneath the soldier's suit and they dragged the three bodies into the woods and stamped out their fire. Atari established an order to Duke; witch was to stay hidden with the dead bodies until called. Breathing deeply, Atari gave one final instruction to the squad after they discussed their next step once inside the stronghold.
They were to split up and search for the chest. Whoever found it would use a Spark Jutsu to send red sparks to the other members. They would then meet at the chest to steal the map as a group. In the meantime, the fortunate ninja would slaughter the last ninja and retrieve the necessary key.
"Retrieve the key…at all costs."
Chapter 57
One Step Closer
Another grid of soldiers appeared soon enough and Atari, Ren, and Kie added onto the tail end of the grid. After the iron gate lifted and they were inside however, they parted from the grid and marched into a dark corridor.
From there, they split. Ren climbed up the wall and marched along with the archers, searching the towers, Kie followed another grid of soldiers off elsewhere, and Atari slipped from obstacle to obstacle attempting to enter the main chamber in the center. Guards stood watched intently and soldiers marched around it. Atari witnessed one of them use a foreign device in witch one talked into and the device answered. Atari became curious, but not enough to abandon the mission. They must have a ton of those advanced devices, Atari thought as he slipped up to the wall. Using sticky tar that he placed against his shoes, he swiftly climbed up the wall and was hidden from view. Atari saw the soldiers pass by and as he made his way to the first window on the cone roof, a lieutenant saw him and shouted:
"Watch yer doing up there." Unable to understand the language, Atari just nodded and gave a signal for patrolling the archers. The lieutenant was fooled by this bluff and saluted him before walking away. Atari breathed a sigh of relief.
He again began making his way to the window. Atari drew a kunine in one hand and a smoke canister in the other. Once he was certain the soldiers were no where to be seen, he chucked the canister into the window, shattering it. The shards of glass glittered beautifully as they fell to the ground. Atari jumped over the sill as the smoke exploded from the canister, frightening three maidens inside sewing. Atari ran through blindly swiping at everything that moved. Before long, three maidens were dead on the floor, including one that still held her sewing project, never to be finished. Atari began searching the sewing room frantically, but to no avail. The chest was not to be found.
Atari, feeling disappointed departed the sewing room and made his way down a spiraling staircase and into the kitchen. Drawing a few shurikan, Atari leaned back as the chefs came within range of his deadly blades. Swiftly, the metal stars flew through the air, piercing the two chefs' hearts and destroying a few bowls that thankfully had nothing in them. He began searching only to find flour, sugar, fruits from their foreign country, and other supplies that would make perfect sense to a chef, but not to a trained ninja. With another disappointment, Atari left the room.
It was not long before a red spark tickled his arm. Atari sensed it came from Ren and bounded out the window from witch he entered and climbed to the peak of the roof. He saw another spark fly from a lookout tower and leaped onto another stone hut. Thankfully, it could hold his weight. He never stayed in one place for long and bounded off onto another rooftop and in that manner made his way to the place from where the sparks originated. It was indeed Ren, who had sent them. He stood smiling with the golden key twirling in his hand and a dead man in front of him, a shurikan piercing his heart.
"Shall we open it," asked Ren excitedly. Atari nodded and just as Kie arrived, late as usual, the lock clicked reluctantly. Ren lifted the ornate lid to reveal an old rolled up scroll labeled Map to Corasant. With a sense of pride, Ren reached inside slowly; however, the ceremony was cut short as three soldiers trampled inside.
"Blast it," muttered one.
"Are they for real," said the second.
"We'd better kill it," announced the third drawing a knife. Kie reacted quickly and flipped through the air gracefully, twirling shurikan left and right. The metal stars danced around the soldiers' heads and at one point sliced through their skulls. Kie blushed daintily and smiled at Atari, whom rolled his eyes in return. He was impressed, she thought as her heart leapt into a concert of success. Snatching the chest and tucking it into his sack, Ren signaled the rest of the squad:
"Better get out of here before more show up."
"I agree," Atari responded abruptly and they turned around to exit. As they made a dash for the Iron Gate, it closed just before they reached it. They whipped around to meet a man who stared at them with cold, stern eyes, but a devilish smile. His skin was pure white, and we wore a purple army cap with a corresponding vest and pants decorated with badges and colorful ribbons. He chuckled at them with his arms tucked away behind his back as he approached with two soldiers behind him.
"Is this Honamochi's finest? I bet even Spain could come up with something more…well…more. You are nothing but mere children. Why should I, Herman Smith, captain of the French Guard have to deal with you three? Dispose of them quickly," he ordered pointing forward. The soldiers stepped forward and drew weapons that were completely new to the ninja. All they could do was stare in wonder and amazement.
This weapon has no blade at all, but two black tubes connected together with a wooden fat piece at the end. It was nudged tightly into their shoulders as they raised it up tot heir eyeballs. Atari quickly drew a smoke cloak, something Kie had invented, and wrapped it around all three of them just as the weapons shot. It was not difficult as a bow and arrow, but simple. The soldier had to simply press a sort of trigger and the weapon fired a million tiny sparks and a small amount of powder as a speeding object flew through their cloak. The action had produced a loud booming sound. Luckily however, they had escaped beforehand. They watched from a distant rooftop as the object whizzed through the cloak, leaving but a charred marking around where it passed. Kie summoned chakra and summoned the cloak back to them. She tucked it away into her backpack and they all agreed to tell the Hokage of this new, firecracker firing weapon the soldiers were developing. After the soldiers departed, Atari and the squad maneuvered into a grid as they had done before and crept out of the stronghold. Atari called Duke as they left. He stared at Ren's bulging pack with interest thinking; I'm closer now, I can feel it.
Chapter 58
A Joyous Reunion
The trip back to Honamochi was quick and senseless, for sleepless nights they had dashed across the trial where they had previously walked and trod. As they returned to Honamochi, the Hokage stood at the entrance waiting for them. When they approached him he announced:
"I have analyzed our position with great care and have decided to confront this menace head-on. I am going to send two squads of Chunin to alert our ally cities Zex and Jimby. Fortunately for us, one village teaches Hefari and the other teaches Token, witch keeps us even."
He stared down at Atari with a sudden fear in his eyes. "We only have one Amachi…only one that knows Vito." The Hokage allowed them to pass and meet Tashi Sensei at the entrance a few feet behind. Tashi Sensei had welled up eyes of joy and he embraced each one of them.
"I knew you three could do it. I love you guys like you were my kids." After each one was released, Ren opened the lid and handed Tashi Sensei the map.
"I think we need a few hours to pack again," Ren suggested. Tashi Sensei nodded proudly and dismissed them to their homes. Haro and Garu thankfully hugged Atari tightly. Garu exclaimed:
"I am thrilled to have you back boy. I knew all the training would pay off someday. I only wish…Yuchi…were here to see you." Atari was almost so thrilled that he almost let out the secret of Yuchi's location and the fact that he was indeed going to see him. But he faithfully kept his mouth shut. Haro dropped her bowl of sushi and lunged into his arms.
"The Buddha has kept you safe Atari. May he bless you in your future journeys." Atari smiled. Shaking as she did so, Haro reached into her kimono pocket and retrieved a golden necklace with a charm of the Buddha attached onto a beautifully made golden chain. "May he protect you always." Atari embraced them both another time before he received the needed supplies. After the packing was done, Atari departed with a newly polished Sakabato. He waved and announced:
"Don't worry Lachaptas; this Menjin will make you proud." He then mounted his horse that Tashi Sensei had given him for the mission and rode off into the night, Ren and Kie close on his heels.
Chapter 59
Heartbreak
Orchi angrily slammed down his mug of tea. The ninja bowed, asking for forgiveness.
"How could you do this? I trusted you with this mission and you failed me for the last time," growled Orchi as darkness crept into his vicious glare.
"Forgive me sir, it won't happen again," pleaded the ninja.
"'Forgive me it won't happen again.' That is all bloody nonsense. If I let every ninja that let me down another chance, they would call me soft and overthrow me. And you wouldn't want some ogre commanding this campaign now would you," asked Orchi brushing his long black cloak back.
"No sir, never…master," answered the ninja, bowing his head in repentance.
"Good…" hissed Orchi as he drew a dagger from his belt, now red as if painted, with blood. Unwilling to accept the ninja's request for forgiveness he plunged the dagger down into his neck. A rolling, raspy howl was heard from the ninja as his eyes shot open with terror and his last breath was drawn. Before he died he reported.
"At least tell Celia…about Tai."
Orchi smiled an evil grin as the ninja finally collapsed. Orchi drew a cloth and wiped the dagger as clean as it would get and dripped it back into the respective case. He then turned abruptly and smiled darkly at the woman crumpled up in the corner, with chains around her ankles and rags covering her. Scratches and scabs from constant beating and whippings littered her body. She trembled constantly, whimpering with fear of another whip. Her bloodied hands covered her face. As Orchi approached and his shadow covered her image, she trembled more.
"I wouldn't hurt me if I were you. You'll pay…for this…Tai will…kill you," she whimpered, trying to sound confident.
"Oh, I'm so frightened," replied Orchi sarcastically.
"You better be," muttered Celia quietly.
"WHAT?!" Orchi growled clutching her neck and raising her above the ground suddenly. "WHAT DID YOU SAY?!"
"Nothing sir," muttered Celia, her eyes wide with fear.
"That's better," sighed Orchi lowering her into her corner slowly.
"Tai will rescue me," Celia confirmed.
"You poor woman," Orchi cooed, sounding sarcastically sympathetic. "Isn't it sad? You are waiting for your hero to return…when he never will."
"Yes he will, he promised, and then we will run away from here and be married," snapped Celia being mindful of what she said this time, trying not to provoke Orchi far enough to kill her.
"Tsk, tsk, tsk Celia. Were you not listening to anything I just said? Tai is not coming back. He is dead. Atari, the very boy he was sent to perform a mission on, failed miserably and Atari killed him. He was killed with a sword known as the Sakabato."
Celia's eyes turned wide with shock, sorrow, mourning, and a sense of disbelief all rolled into a mix of a slate face with her mouth open wide.
"No…that can't be…he couldn't be…no…I can't believe it…I won't believe it…It just can't be true…it just can't," she muttered to herself.
"Believe what you will, but I'm telling you honestly. Search your heart Celia, and you know it to be true," Orchi said.
It took about a few moments, but Celia finally let it out. She wept loud and long. Tears flowed like raging rivers down her cheeks, and she cried so much her throat became sore and her voice raspy. Orchi showed no signs of comforting her in her time of loss and grieving. He just stared and chuckled with pleasure at this forlorn sight. His chuckle was evil, pure evil with a filling of darkness and cruelty. Celia wept for hours straight, resisting meals presented to her and only drank wine, blessing it with Tai's name.
"To our never-to-be-had children, and our never-to-be joyful life together," Celia wept offering the wine up to the Buddha. "My only wish…is that you are having a wonderful life in nirvana. May we meet up there to live our dreamed-of life." A sudden anger and thirst for revenge suddenly quenched her as she placed down the wine. Orchi approached closer now, a relentless grin plastered upon his face.
"What be wrong now," asked Orchi. Celia lifted her head with a look of pure black hatred and her eyes red wit the thirst for revenge. She trembled with this angry force as she growled:
"Release me master, I need to…I need revenge…I need to…kill Atari.
Chapter 60
A Warning
Night flew upon them fast, as the squad rode toward the Igna mountain range. To Atari, it was the final boundary between him and Yuchi. Duke followed his master faithfully, occasionally barking for the playful cheer of hearing his own voice. As the sun set behind the mountains, a shadow passed in front of them. Its face was hidden by a hooded cloak, but a familiar perfume smell let out who it was.
"Tamari," shouted Ren gleefully, immediately hopping off his horse to help her. Her knees buckled and she collapsed into his arms. Ren felt privileged to cradle her until Kie had hitched another saddle onto the back of her horse for Tamari to ride on. Ren lifted her hood back slowly, as her faint breathing became fainter and fainter. Her face was sliced by a kunine, blood trickling over her eyes, nose, and mouth. Over slashes were visible around her by healing scabs and still bleeding wounds. Atari asked her as she was secured onto Kie's horse:
"What happened and why are you here?"
"I was patrolling the foot of the Igna Mountains, when she attacked me. She said she had a score to settle with…Atari," she whispered, her voice faint. The speaking seemed to make her dizzy.
"Catch you breath Tamari, you need your strength," assured Ren blushing and sweating uncontrollably. Tamari acknowledged with a weak nod and fell into a light and dreamless sleep on the back of Kie's horse. They were no longer galloping away, for fear of sending Tamari flying to her doom. As the stars peeked through the black curtain of night sky, Atari asked one last question:
"Tamari…if you are well enough to speak, please tell me her name. The name of the woman who attacked you." Tamari opened her eyes slightly.
"Her name…was Celia."