LES MUSICIENS DU MONDE
2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016
A CROSSOVER STORY
Chapter Seventeen
October 2013, Week Two
Mediterranean Sea
In the middle of the night as the crew slept, and Shinji just finishing his watch, the three mystics aboard prayed and meditated. The three were in differing positions to safeguard the crew and their power was felt by those close by. Anan was in steerage, where the crew kept their goods and supplies such as spare cannons and masts. The ship was armed with cannons, cutlasses and gunpowder flintlocks. The ship's cannons were behind the gunports. Anan held a wooden bowl in her right hand, and a lotus flower in her left. Her eyes were closed, her breathing steady, her legs crossed and her back straight. She represented the lotus. Her third eye, located in the center of her mind was looking below. Below the ship's keel.
She astro projected herself into the sea's depths and can now see the ship above. Illuminated solely by the moon, stars, and the ship's lanterns. The sea's depth below mirrored the darkness of night. She felt one with the deity in her mother's faith, she who is named Kali. The second form of the goddess Mahadevi. Her astro projected self then opened her arms to the darkness. Allowing her form to float in stasis. Then her form hovered in a projected form of the world below and above. Where the night sky met the sea's depths. The cosmic womb and tomb for all of creation.
At the stern, Koji sat in the lotus position as well. At first, his hands were together in the dhyana gesture. Then it slowly turned into the abhayamudra gesture as he meditated. Instead of astro projecting himself as did Anan, he was as still as stone. Letting his energy form around him. The circulating dharma that encapsulates the cosmos. In addition, he prayed to the kami that govern the world and the universe. To provide safe passage west for himself and those around him; as well as the strength to face the challenges ahead.
Finally at the bow of the ship knelt Hakeem, in prayer. His iron staff laid beside him. The wind blew around him as the ship rocked gently in the waves. The starry night lit by the moon provided a calm moment for him to pray to the Lord. As he prayed silently, not uttering a word, his hands tightened. Then in an instance, power surged from within, and his head turned upward. His hands held firm as his gaze was directed toward the starry sky. The sounds of waves and the sea breeze was heard around him. Then for him alone, he heard fluttering wings around him.
Unknown to the three mystics, they were silently observed by Ren, Hideo, and Mizuki. Ren observed the British Indian woman, Mizuki observed Koji, and Hideo observed Hakeem. The three Japanese learned the ins and outs of the ship to observe and catch information that may benefit them. This quiet observation was just part of their nightly routine. After a few moments, they moved on.
The next day, Shinji was atop one of the masts. The crystal blue sea as far as his eye could see and seagulls flying overhead. He surveyed the sea with his naked eye, and through a telescope loaned to him by the captain. He noticed a ship in the distance that's trailed them since docking in Oman for last minute supplies and trade goods. The ship trailed them in the Red Sea and using the Door to Anywhere to deduce their location.
The day was warm but not hot, as it was in the Arabian Sea. Shinji wore simple clothes: a white t-shirt, brown trousers, no shoes, and Misato's cross pendant around his neck. Due to traveling at sea he gained a tan. Koji remarked how he looked more Okinawan. He heard someone whistling from the deck below and looking down, he could see Ryo. Wearing only a white tunic with hakama trousers, also barefooted. Shinji folded his telescope and climbed down the mast and landed on the deck. The two proceeded to speak in Japanese.
"Ryo. I figured you'd be below with the rest, sparring with the crew again."
"Nah, I'm saving my energy for you."
Shinji chuckled, "I told you, we will. When we arrive in America."
"But with dulled sparring swords? That's no fun!"
"You wanna mess up your blade?"
Ryo laughed, "Trust me, you ain't seen nothing yet," and he then placed his hands on his hips, "My sword is as strong as yours."
Shinji was mildly amused by the guy's gumption, "I'll keep that in mind."
"Good. Now—what do you think? The ship following us is hostile?"
Shinji sighed, "No. Otherwise the captain would've ordered the crew to beat to quarters earlier in the day."
"But—"
Shinji relaxed with his hands behind his head, "Prepare regardless. Which—the others should know this."
"Why do you think we spar with the crew since we left India? Like you and your friends, we've been through some shit. And from those times, we've learned to better prepare for anything."
"Good."
"Which is why you need to train as well. What's up with only doing surveillance?"
"Because that ship is freaking me out! So, I told the three to go check for me after spotting the ship following us through the Door after leaving the Red Sea. And after spotting it as we sailed past Cyprus, enough was enough."
Ryo nodded but put his arms across his chest, thinking. He and his friends were cordial but distant from Shinji's mystic allies. For one thing, they were too powerful. Their moments of training so far were prayer and meditation, and simple non-aggressive katas. However, the energy he saw displayed in Bellwood was terrifying. Almost on par with past enemies he and his friends have fought back home. He wondered about something Koji once referenced while in Oman.
"They're shepherds. Aren't they?"
"Huh?"
"I got a question, were your friends ever pissed off?"
Shinji blinked before responding, "Well—to be honest, I've only seen them mildly annoyed. Remember when we were in Bellwood?"
Ryo nodded. The mystics who were there, mainly from Shinji's main group of friends were powerful. Fighting and protecting everyone who were not esoterically gifted. The magi who were there, were also powerful. But the magi were by comparison, fencers to the mystic contained berserker level of combat. Then the Void Lock activated and sucked up all the demons into it and sent them back to the pit. That demonstration alone proved enough that Shinji and his friends can handle dangerous situations. As for the mystics—
Then Shinji looked towards the stern, "They're back," he said.
Ryo looked towards the stern and noticed them as well. Koji and Hakeem flying back from their observations. The two flew in at speed, holding their staffs while their mana propelled them with an orb of energy beneath their feet. The three then separated and landed on the port, starboard, and stern. Koji landed in front of Shinji and Ryo on the port side.
Meanwhile, underwater, Anan propelled her astro projected self in the dark depths and once under the ship, propelled upward. Passing through the wood, she then found herself back in her body. She stood up from the floor and walked up the steps to the top deck. There she greeted the men in English, "I'm done. And you two. How did it go?"
"We're done with our surveillance. Looks like your phantom ship is not a warship. Just a trading vessel."
"Did you see who was aboard?" Shinji asked to which Hakeem responded.
"An old man and woman. Observing us as we flew by."
Koji confirmed, "Yeah. Their gazes were focused and piercing. Quite unnerving to be honest."
Shinji translated to Ryo as best he could and when the subject of the elders came up, Ryo's attention perked up. "Did you say an old man and woman?"
Below deck, Takuya and Touma were ready to spar each other. The crew encouraged them and placed bets on who would win today. Betting between three to five gold pieces on each one of them. Their friends were looking on. Relaxed and enjoying the moment. But even as the two sparred, Shinji's new team were wondering when they would arrive at their destination. They didn't like being on the ship. Vulnerable, and open to attack from the sea. Soon enough, Ryo was heading down the steps and can see them.
He moved through the crowed and approached his friends, "Hey, the three just came back," he whispered to them, "Looks like Shinji was right. That ship was tailing us since Oman."
"And?" Hideo asked with his arms crossed and his sister Mizuki sitting next to him.
"An old man and woman on the ship. And according to Shinji, the ship will arrive in six hours."
Ren commented, "Just in time for sunset. Very well," he gets up, "Let's notify our new friend."
Takuya and Touma noticed their friends leaving and decided to finish their spar so they can join them. A couple of minutes passed before they rejoined them in the deck above, where light from outside peered in. Both got clued in on what Ryo learned. Meanwhile, George was examining his iron staff, decorated with Tibetan and highland Chinese iconography. As he examined the images, he looked up to see Touma and Ren, "Yeah?"
"Shinji's phantom ship is coming. And—we're about to meet our teachers." Ren explained.
"Teachers huh?"
Takuya groaned, "I don't know how the old bat found us this far! But if I know her, she's gonna chew us out for going to war, blah blah blah."
"Can you blame her, or the old man," Ryo interjected, "We were their students. They taught us everything we know. It's Shinji and the mystics who don't know."
Takuya nodded, agreeing with his old friend. Hideo, Mizuki, and Ren then took turns to voice their opinions on this Even their concerns. Hideo was first, "They have to learn about them."
"Huh?" Takuya and Ryo asked in unison.
"Don't do that. Makes you both look like idiots."
"Just tell us why we gotta tell them? Wouldn't they know who and what they are just by coming on board?" Ryo asked.
Hideo sighed and rubbed his temples, "No. They won't. Three of us have observed them last night, you must be within a room's distance to see the intensity of their power."
He commented while remembering the Indian woman meditating.
Mizuki nodded, "Their level of focus on channeling energy from around them into a steady core within is—intimidating. I can't imagine what training the three have gone through to achieve that."
She recalled when observing Koji as he prayed. Chanting the Buddha's sutras and hearing him calling out to the kami. When the latter were called upon, she swore she heard voices ringing from the sea. As if they were summoned to protect everyone on board. It frightened her.
George knew what they were saying. But he was also intrigued about these teachers the teenagers were referring to. He sets down his staff and looked at them, "The mystics are not a problem—for now anyway."
"What do ya' mean?" Ryo asked, which George looked at him with a look of seriousness, "They're fierce."
"Well, duh."
"He means when it comes to combat and defending the weak, they are powerhouses."
"Ren's right," George replied, "you can train for years, but you won't be able to catch up to them in terms of power. But with techniques, the gap can be closed."
Ren nodded, "The three on board may not be the same as the villains we've faced in the past—their power needs to be observed closely."
"Agreed," George interjected and stood up, "Shinji does seem to have a clear idea on what these people can do. Hell, he's more relaxed with private conversations with them. And we're his team."
"I gotta agree with you," Touma spoke up as he stretched his arms and torso, "He's unsure if he can lead us since we're not the same people he's perhaps used to."
The shinobi twins were surprised by his observation. Ren smiled, knowing Touma has learned a lot while away from Japan, "Indeed," Ren added, "And it's only fair for us to give him time to truly trust us as we can trust him to lead us into war."
He looked to Takuya and Ryo, "Do you two agree? You two are the first ones to work alongside Shinji and Koji."
The two nodded silently. Confirming almost everything. Except, "But what about the power we've sensed? Should we talk with them on what that was?"
George raised his hand, "I know what that's all about. Let me tell you something."
He proceeded to discuss with them what the three mystics were doing last night. And what that meant for the future.
[6:13 PM]
The day came and went and when the sun was setting, the mysterious ship finally caught up with them. The ship's captain, Yukiko from across the Door was not present, but one of the crewmembers was there to escort them to their sleeping arrangements below deck. An old man and an old woman. The man was dressed in a simple long-sleeved black shirt with white trousers, and martial arts slippers. The old woman's outfit was more distinct. She dressed in Northern Chinese/Mongolian clothing depicting her status. That of a village elder whose reputation, like the man beside her, shows her level of experience across East Asia. With regards to esoteric matters and alliances.
The two paid the captain from their ship then leapt aboard the other, effortlessly. With their hands behind them. They observed the crew, a mixture of mercenaries and pirates. The last sort of people they would associate with. But not unfamiliar with them. They walked aboard and were led below to their sleeping hammocks. There, they meet familiar faces, and new ones.
Takuya and Ryo stood there, hands to their sides and stood upright. The old woman approached them and banged their heads with her right fist. Then began to berate them for going to war without notifying her. The old man approached their friends; Touma, Ren, but he focused his attention to the twins, Hideo and Mizuki. He crossed his arms and the twins bowed in respect to their family retainer. The crew looked on before dispersing. They were left alone on deck so they would talk.
Meanwhile, Shinji was with the three mystics below deck, having dinner and drinks. Enjoying his time and allowing his team to meet with their old mentors. George decided to remain and have dinner with the four in question. With their dinner of salted meat, beans, pickled vegetables, and ale, the four were enjoying themselves. Anan opted out of consuming meat and instead ate the pickled vegetables with beans and cheese. She still had some ale. George took a bite of bread and continued the conversation with the four. They were speaking English.
"I'm wondering about something Shinji. If you were so against in allowing us to follow you and Koji to America, why allowed us to come at all?"
Shinji chewed his food before responding, "Simple, you guys would've followed us anyway. I know what type of people you are—extroverted, seeking new adventures, testing your limits, and—"
"But you don't—"
"Let me finish."
George blinked and he let Shinji finish his point, "Like I was saying. Testing your limits and see if what you've learned in one place is applicable elsewhere."
Koji drank some of his ale, "That's true. You got to admit that at least."
George brushed it off, "Yeah, yeah! But I don't like it when you psychoanalyze all of us like that!"
Shinji arched an eyebrow, "I didn't have to do anything. You guys are an open book."
"And what about you? What's your story?"
"What you need to know is this—I'm a guy with issues. A lot of issues. But with some fresh air, therapy, the orchestra, and—friends," he eyed Koji, "I'm getting better."
George was less than satisfied, but accepted the answer nevertheless, "I guess that's better than nothing."
"Thank you."
Anan and Hakeem listened on and can see the Japanese coming down the stairs with two elderly people. He stood up which caught Anan's attention, "What?"
"Guests." To which she stood up with him.
Shinji, Koji, and George saw him and to what he was looking towards. They stood up as well. The three mystics bowed to the two elders. Shinji as well, and George, though he maintained eye contact. What he knew for sure, was to never let appearances deceive. The elderly man was stern enough with his discerning gaze. But the woman next to him made him alert.
The elderly woman looked over Shinji and spoke in Japanese with a slight Chinese accent, "According to my former students, you're the de facto leader."
Shinji nodded, "Yes, ma'am."
She walked around him, and he made note of her short stature. Just over 157 centimeters, or just 5'2". Her hair short, tied in a bun, and once she finished, she asked him to lower himself to meet her gaze. So, he did.
The woman gripped his face with both hands and gazed deeply. Unknown to him, his team were behind the woman with nervous looks, wondering what she may probably do to Shinji. Takuya wanted to chime in and defend Shinji but all he received was a quick statement.
"Say something and you'll be training nonstop 'til we get to America." To which Takuya just remained quiet.
Shinji's gaze met the woman's and after a few moments, she released her grip from his face. He stood upright again, and the woman smiled. She motioned the man beside her to examine Shinji as well. The old man repeated what the woman did; walk around him and size him up. Unlike with the woman, he didn't need to lower himself to meet the man's gaze. The man was near to Shinji's height of 180 centimeters, or roughly 5'11". The man finished and like the woman, grabbed his face with his right hand. Again, Shinji gazed into the man's gaze—feeling very uncomfortable.
The old man finished and let go of Shinji's face. He like the old woman smiled, "It's a pleasure to meet a sensible young man such as yourself," he said.
"Oh—uh—thank you, sir! And ma'am!"
"Kaito. Kamiya Kaito is my name. No need for formalities."
The old woman similarly introduced herself, "And my name is Xiuying Li. No need for formalities when it comes to introductions. However, when it comes to training, that is a different matter."
"Totally understandable. I'm just making the best of a peculiar situation."
Xiuying gave a coy smile, already thinking of a quick way to test Shinji as leader. Kamiya was also curious on how to quickly test Shinji's skill. However, Shinji's shoulder was tapped by Koji.
"We should finish dinner. There is something we need to discuss—in private."
Shinji nodded silently before returning to bow to the elders, "Mr. Kaito and Ms. Li, there is dinner prepared. You may help yourselves. Now, we won't port until the captain uses the Door to get us to the Caribbean."
Kamiya reminisced, "Ah yes! The lovely turquoise waters there, the fruits, coffee, rum and—" he chuckled, "The lovely ladies across the islands."
"And you won't get the chance to see them," Xiuying retorted, "And you're too old to behave like a hormonal boy."
Kamiya snorted at her statement, "There's snow up top," he pointed to his white hair and flexed his biceps, "But there's fire in the furnace."
Shinji smiled at the scene and like the crew who humored those in his team for fun spars below deck, the levity was welcomed. Especially as he saw the old woman retorting the old man for his perverted ways. The others trying to console her while in turn getting retorted by her. Mostly by their collective stupidity of joining a way without notifying her or Kamiya. Ren and the shinobi twins were spared from her wrath though. However, he also knew his upcoming conversation with Koji, Anan, and Hakeem was important. But especially with Koji. It was a long overdue one.
Unknown to him, he was quietly observed by Ren, Hideo, and Mizuki. They have been on their toes on when the four will have their private conversation. Hoping to eavesdrop on them and pick up perhaps, vital pieces of information. And sift through who the three mystics are and Shinji's true nature.
[9:15 PM]
On the deck of the ship with the sea breeze around them, Shinji was the last to climb up the steps. He sees the three mystics in their robes. Hakeem nodded to Anan and Koji. With the crew already asleep after dinner, or having last minute games below deck, this was an opportune moment to have a private conversation. The four sat down. Hakeem and Koji tapped their staffs to then form a seal around them. Anan then formed a ball of light between her hands where it formed the shape of a lotus. The casted energy enveloped them then dissipated. This would mute their conversation from any eavesdropper.
However, this didn't deter the three Japanese who hid themselves on deck. Ren, Hideo, and Mizuki saw what the mystics did, and the twins nodded at each other. Hideo did hand signs in order to form a seal on his right palm. Mizuki followed suit for her left hand. Ren then held a portion of a yak's horn to aid in hearing. Prior experimentation with similar situations in the Chinese highlands when he and Touma needed to listen in on monks should news from Japan or Korea reached them. Hideo and Mizuki transferred their seals to Ren's horn, hoping this would enhance their skills just enough to pierce the mystic barrier.
Ren looked to the twins who nodded to him. He returned the gesture and put the horn to his ear, in the direction of the four. Meanwhile, the four in question, Shinji, Hakeem, Anan, and Koji began to talk in English.
"Tomorrow, we will be within sight of Tunisia. Right on schedule. And in the following days, we should arrive at the Strait of Gibraltar. Captain Yukiko will summon the Door for us to arrive in the Caribbean. Now, where to go?"
Shinji looked to Koji, "Isn't it obvious? Either the Bahamas, or Cuba. Due to their proximity to the US."
"I'd pick Cuba," Anan explained, "Why? It's because it's a literal straight line to Texas. The Bahamas would make the trip longer than necessary."
Hakeem relaxed in his seat and placed his hands on his knees, "It's the best option we have. The only new development is the appearance of the elderly mentors for the young Japanese. Their role here would be interesting."
"Interesting? That's all you can say about this?" Shinji now confused, "At best it would have been just the four of us traveling. Now, a team of young fighters and two mentors of theirs. I didn't plan for this."
"In a way—this was to be expected. Remember what you said to George earlier," Koji pointed out Shinji's weak position, "They would have followed us. At least here, they're safer with us than to fight along the way just to be by our side."
Shinji ran his hand through his hair, "It's just—I don't know. I don't know."
The three mystics looked at one another and knew what needs to be said before they arrive in the Caribbean. And with Shinji here, alone, but open to discussion on important matters, this was their opportune moment to bring up an elephant in the room; the orchestra itself.
"Shinji," Koji was first to speak, which Shinji looked at him, and then at the other two, "We know what you and the rest of the orchestra have in order to accomplish this ambitious endeavor. To amass an army of human volunteers and esoterics under a banner of liberation. That is your strength."
"What do you mean?"
"He means your best qualities are what helped you thus far across the world." Anan brought up the obvious traits regarding him and the rest of LMM.
"Look—There is a reason why all of you as a group are formidable. Enough to keep Two American heroes who can exercise unilateral action and force governments to bend to them. Seven qualities."
Then Hakeem spoke, "Even with our short time knowing all of you since Europe. This is what the Royal Prince Mahbeer of the Wind Kingdom had deduced. Your ambition and determination to be a force of good will and carrying out your aspirations for opening creative venues online for your audience. Your inquisitive nature as well, to call attention the many injustices in the world. Thus, fueling your resilience, adaptability, and courage to face the world."
"But that doesn't mean all of you are great," Anan interjected, "Sometimes you're a bunch of assholes. Either without meaning to, or purposely push others to agree with your way of thinking."
Shinji wanted to interrupt but Anan continued, "Let me finish. You're all self-righteous. Cruel enough to leave a path of wreckage across Europe, Israel, and New York City. Arrogant enough to take on an esoteric terrorist group, but thoughtless on whether to ask for help or report all of it to the proper authorities. And—you're all kind of high on yourselves, including a deep, unbridled rage that can lash out for the slightest inconvenience."
Koji then chipped in, "And stubborn like mules."
"Okay! I get it! But can you blame who we were?"
"Were," Anan was not convinced, "You still are. Your justifications for following your own instinct to right wrongs are—rubbish."
Shinji wanted to lash out, but he stayed his hand. He shifted in his seat and then got up. He faced the railing of the ship but knew he couldn't simply walk out of the barrier. But felt the wind coming through, nonetheless. He turned around again and sat back down. "What do you want to know?"
Koji was the first to speak, "Who are you? Really? You're Japanese, clearly. However, there are things you imply between words which suggest—you're a man out of time and place."
"That's putting it mildly."
"Then share."
"What can I share? Share in the fact my biological father wished to end the world so he can meet my biological mother again? That I was a witness to her disappearance? Lied to about the nature of the three mecha units in orbit? Used by the organization led by the same father who abandoned me, like a coward? That—that Asuka, Dante, and I still live while the one person who wished to help us died—having this second chance that feels undeserved? How sometimes I feel like I'm living inside of a dream where—power like yours exist and all those old folktales were in fact real here?"
All Koji did was look at him deeply into his eyes. As did Hakeem and Anan. This confession to them made him feel small, vulnerable, like a child. He put his head down, his chin nearly touching his chest. The mystics were patient and wanted to guide Shinji on doing the right thing. Him and the rest of his team. But while they guided them, with Shinji they were showing one other thing. Mercy.
"We do not wish to hurt you. Only to allow you to free yourself from grief." Hakeem pointed out, "From this pit of pain you and your friends have been in for a long time. And only now, you're all crawling your way out. Lashing out at threats as one would lash out at bats."
Shinji nodded and then raised his head, "I am out of time and place. My reality, my old home, was post-apocalyptic. To be here—really does feel like a dream. Blue seas, life, people. Living lives that do not have to recall two billion lost in a flash. But when I turn on the news here, read the paper, searching the Internet—it's no different. Just more of the same."
"The same? Like what," Anan's previous hard tone was replaced by a softer tone. Of which Shinji replied with, "The lead up to the end of the world. When people, are so sure the good times would never end, and the increasing conveniences of advancing technology improving everyone's lives—I'm worried."
The three were silent and allowed Shinji to speak, "Worried about the world ending and there's not a damn thing—we can do to stop it. And no one cares."
The three looked at one another and when they saw Shinji was done, they relaxed. Koji scooted closer to his friend, "Shinji, listen to me—we more than understand. More than you think."
Anan's voice was soft when she spoke, "There will be days where guiding the people feels hopeless. Even fruitless. But we do it anyway. Why? Because as I am learning myself—people yearn for guidance. They're silent about it. Even denying it. But at the end of the day, all of them yearn for guidance on the right path."
Hakeem then added, "The right path, sure. But in the end, it's the path to the Lord, that matters. To God," he looked to Anan, "To Brahma," then to Koji, "To the kami who are a part of the Dharma."
The priest returned his focus to Shinji, "I will not ask of you on what you believe in. The life you left behind did sound like a hell for you and your two closest friends. I cannot promise you this new life would be easy. You are here heading for war—that is proof enough. But—"
Shinji looked up and looked to Hakeem. The African priest gave him a smile, "You are decisive enough to make the right decisions when the moment comes. Take comfort in that."
Shinji sat up straight and looked to the three. The three gave him encouraging looks and this relaxed him, "Thank you. All of you. Without you here—I don't think I could do this."
Koji playfully nudged his friend, "You would have. But lost your mind with the boys back in India in the process."
Shinji laughed. The mystics took down the barrier. Koji and Hakeem stood up to take their staffs. Anan readjusted her sari. As Shinji stood up, he noticed something from behind one of the masts. It was a person. He motioned Koji to look. He did and was bemused. He waved to Hakeem and Anan to check what he and Shinji noticed. The other two were bemused as well. Anan lowered into her shadow and disappeared.
This fascinated Shinji and wondered where she went. Hearing a startled gasp and rushing of footsteps, the three in question came out of hiding. Ren, Hideo, and Mizuki. Anan appearing behind them, with a mischievous smile. Shinji crossed his arms looking at them, reverting to Japanese, "How much did you listen?"
Ren looked at him and then at the horn in his hands and tried to explain himself, "Oh—uh—hehehe—Just merely curious on what you were up to when everyone else is sleeping."
"Oh? And you just so happen to be here alone?"
Ren chuckled before Hideo and Mizuki showed themselves, "I thought as much," he dryly remarked.
"It's not our fault. It's yours for not disclosing what you're planning or willing to share, as team leader." Hideo looked at Shinji straight in the eye.
Shinji returned his gaze, "You truly didn't hear what the four of us have talked about, huh?"
Hideo and Mizuki didn't respond. Nor did Ren. Shinji looked to the mystics and gave a nod before returning his focus to the three Japanese in question, "I thought so. It wasn't about whether I can lead all of you to America to assist in the war effort. It was a private conversation that simply didn't involve you. And eavesdropping is quite rude."
Mizuki then spoke up, "It's also rude to not disclose any details that may be important for us. Before we arrive to America."
Shinji nodded, "I understand. But this was truly, private. Me finally, sharing some details about my past. My true past."
"Which is?"
"All of you will find out—once this is over. I can promise you that."
With that said, he began to walk past the three in order to descend the stairs. Heading below deck and hopefully get some sleep. The three mystics were left with the three Japanese. The mystics smiled and bowed before they too headed below deck. Ren however, stopped Koji. The mystic looked surprised as he looked at Ren.
"Just remember this. All of us have faced your kind in the past. And they weren't good encounters. You three may possess power, but these past four years, my friends and I have trained to deal with your kind. Should things change—well, I only wanted to disclose my friends and I will be able to handle what may come."
Koji nodded, "Duly noted." He responded before walked past him and the two shinobi. Heading below deck to get some sleep.
The three Japanese looked at the departing mystics. Their faces expressed seriousness. But silently agreeing to trust them, but for now, keeping a personal distance from them. If they can accomplish their goal, then all of them can head home.
The next few days were uneventful. Except for the approach of ships sailing from Sicily. The ship's captain, Yukiko, hoisted her colors in order to showcase their business without drama. They were left alone and sailed past the armada. When they passed the ships, Shinji noticed the men on the ships were European knights and others looked suspiciously Roman. He hoped to catch a glimpse of Wilfredo or Dante as the ships passed. But to no avail.
Unknown to him however, on one of the passing ships, Wilfredo appeared from below deck to check the scene. He greeted one of his new friends as they saw the two trading vessels heading west. When the ships left the ports of Tarragona, Spain and Mazara del Vallo, Sicily, he hoped to maybe catch a glimpse of his friends if they happened to cross the Mediterranean. However, he did sense mystical energy from one of the trading vessels through the aura field. He may not see them, but he can deduce Koji, Hakeem, and Anan were aboard the vessel ahead of the other. Perhaps Shinji was there.
Yukiko's vessel headed west for the next week. Passing Tunisia, Algeria and once they were within Moroccan waters, they were gunning for the Strait of Gibraltar. Shinji's team was becoming restless and in order to pass the time, sparring with the crew or each other was becoming inadequate. So, when there was time, they would train with Kamiya and Xiuying. The three mystics took note of the instruction the two elders were providing. They listened to their instruction, even when they didn't take part in their training. When they did, they didn't show off their power. So, they held back enough to see what the elders could teach. All in all, an interesting experience.
The day came when they sailed past the Strait of Gibraltar. Within a day they headed southwest. Shinji used a sextant in order to orient their position in line with the coordinates where the captain will activate the Door. To his continuing surprise, the crew were experts in geo-positioning in line with the compass. As the sun set on the day they headed southwest, Yukiko summoned the Door to Anywhere.
From the ocean, a circular portal of water and stone formed to accommodate the ship to pass through. It was a surreal sight for him and his team to witness. The mystics were more observant. Each stone had a carved image of a sea creature. The one stone at the top of the portal, amidst the carved images of fish, mollusks, sea mammals, was the great sea serpent of legend. The leviathan. This filled them with a sense of dread and awe. They knew the mighty creature still existed somewhere—beneath the waves.
The cry of seagulls caught their attention when the stone doors opened. The shift in time zones was seen. The Caribbean just laid on the other side and the sun was still in the sky while it was setting at their current location. They then sailed through the portal.
October, Week Three
Havana, Cuba
[Old Havana, Tuesday, 11:34 AM]
The ship sailed through the Door and once they were within distance of the old harbor, the portal's light behind them dimmed. The portal then slowly diminished, stone and water, into the sea. Shinji's team noticed the same carved images of sea life on the Cuban side of the archway. To see it disappear beneath the waves between locations on opposite sides of the Atlantic, was a curious sight.
They were within sight of the Castillo de San Salvador de la Punta and docked to the west of it. However, where there is the Tunel de la Habana in modern times, there is a thriving port for other ships like theirs. Shinji and the three mystics realized they entered another esoteric bubble. A period in history existing alongside the present day.
"What year are we in? Looks like there could be pirates around," Touma looked around the old port. Noticing the people wearing clothing of what could be the mid 17th century.
"Yes, that could be a problem," a feminine voice was heard behind him, startling the young Japanese man.
The Japanese turned to see the captain, Yukiko. The way she spoke their language was old fashioned. With minimal to no influences from the West.
"But you're in good company," she continued to speak with a smile, "Just remember to return here before sunrise tomorrow boys."
"What? No rules?" Takuya asked with Yukiko giving him a look, "Whatever you all do at port, is your business. Not mine. Just be back here tomorrow before dawn."
Her reply had a bit of a bite. But she maintained her smile. Shinji then interjected, "Thank you captain," he then turned to his team, "Finally, we can stretch our legs a bit!"
They docked and this gave Koji and Shinji time to stretch their horses' legs as well. They carefully had them walk down the port, with their team behind them. Koji and Shinji mounted their steeds. They looked at each other and smiled as they got their horses into a gait. Warming them up before they go for a gallop. Behind them, Ryo and Takuya looked at each other. Followed by Touma, Ren, Hideo, Mizuki, and George. As Shinji and Koji took off, five members of the team took off to follow them. Running at speed on the ground, or on rooftops. Surprising the locals for a moment.
Anan and Hakeem headed for a tavern and brothel near port to find rooms for themselves and for the rest of the group when they returned. Inside, the smell of tobacco and rum filled the air. They found the tavern's owner and asked for rooms. If any were available. Luckily for them, they did. But of course, some had to share rooms with the brothel workers.
Xiuying and Kamiya covertly followed the young ones in order to flank them outside of the city. This was to also see how far the esoteric boundary extended. Outside of the city, now the old district in modern times, was farmland. Koji and Shinji looked at each other and seeing the rest of the team, following them at speed. With a shared look, they smirked and got the horses, who now regained some of their strength, into a full gallop. The team saw this and got excited. George at the back then switched from a sprint to them move the earth below him to ride it like waves to get to the team leaders. He jumped and landed in front of Koji and Shinji.
The horses were startled and stopped. But Koji and Shinji leapt off to face him and then the rest. They were finally about to let off some steam. Koji sparred with George to test him. Shinji however, faced the rest of the team. Knowing this was what they wanted. To test their leader. He didn't draw his sword, so he resorted to hand-to-hand combat. Between strikes and grappling in order to subdue them first. He subdued Touma first due to his direct approach. But it was through his use of judo that helped him overcome Touma's height and weight. The others proved to be a much tougher challenge. The shinobi, Hideo and Mizuki proved to be excellent in misdirection. More so than when they first sparred in India. Shinji moved around them to strike at their vulnerable points. Then the twins moved apart so Ren came in with a Jian. Forcing Shinji's hand to draw his sword in defense. Ren's elegant movements were like a dance. Shinji adjusted his style in order to parry, dodge, and block. Then he moved out of the way, so Takuya and Ryo came in. Shinji cursed when he realized what this was. Wearing him down so the de facto leaders from the group's past would finish him off.
Shinji's sheathed his sword but got into his final stance. Takuya flexed his limbs while Ryo got into a stance mirroring Shinji's. Takuya was the first to speak, "Sorry, dude. But we've been itching to have this fight since India. You can understand, right?"
Takuya cockily said in his relaxed stance. Ryo meanwhile was ready for Shinji. Seeing him fight months ago in America lit a fire for him to test him. He smiled, "Hope you're ready."
Shinji nodded and was prepared. When it began, he recollected how his past skirmishes alongside LMM, and training with them, replayed in his mind. When Takuya charged in, he ducked and charged for Ryo. He unsheathed his sword, as did Ryo and both blades made contact. Immediately, both of their swords made an arching sound which resulted in opposing energy quotients. Causing them to repel from one another. Shinji was shocked while Ryo was curious on Shinji's sword. Before the two could continue, Takuya made a sweeping kick. Shinji dodged and sheathed his sword.
Shinji and Takuya fought a bit in a mixture of strikes and grappling. Takuya was surprised by his opponent's adaptability. He knew he was physically stronger and faster. But Shinji had field experience. When he was about to lose, Takuya then jumped out of the way when Hideo and Mizuki re-entered the fray. They may in fact wanted to test him as a leader, but he also wanted to test them. To see if they can handle a fight that was less than honorable.
He rolled out of the way when the twins threw shuriken at him. He drew his sword to swipe at their feet, making them dodge. He stood up then clash with Hideo's ninjatō. Shinji then used his sword's hilt to strike the shinobi's left right shoulder, causing Hideo to loosen his grip. Shinji grabbed his sword and now was ready to fight with two blades. Hideo fled from him while Mizuki was ready with her blade, ready to fight Shinji. Touma saw this and attempted to stand in front of her. But Ren stopped him.
"What are you doing? She needs help!"
"No she doesn't. Look."
Touma looked to see his former crush getting into a stance to confront Shinji. He attacked first, pushing Mizuki on the defensive. She was agile, but he quickly adapted his stance should she resort to acrobatic movements. When she did, he relied on footwork to keep up despite her agility. When he did, he got her in several instances to showcase if this had been real, she'd be dead.
"Well done," Koji shouted as he defeated George with the head of his staff aimed at the American's throat. The latter cursing about not being able to keep up with the priest in training.
When Shinji was done, he sheathed his sword and handed the ninjatō back to Hideo. As she sheathed her sword, Mizuki can see Shinji's sword more closely and can see the scabbard and hilt's designs. Hideo was lasering in on the sword as well. Something about it was eerily familiar. But their attention was cut short when they heard clapping from a distance. It was Xiuying and Kamiya who looked pleased with the display approached them.
Shinji grinned, "Wanted to see if I got my ass kicked by your proteges?"
"You did quite well. A bit clumsy in your movements, but you did show field experience," Xiuying replied, again in Japanese.
"Indeed. When you're ready to head back into town, Hakeem and Anan have arranged accommodations for us." Kamiya chimed in, like the old woman, looking happy.
"Where?" Takuya asked, "We can't exactly stay in a hotel."
"Don't worry. A brothel will suffice," Xiuying nonchalantly mentioned, "And before you all say anything, it's only for the night. It's not like any of you have money for a good time."
"No, but I have enough for food and drinks," Koji said as he helped George up from the ground. Grumbling from his defeat and picked up his staff.
"Sounds perfect to me," Shinji remarked, "Then it's settled," Xiuying said, "I can get some rum in the meantime."
"And a chance for me to relive a bit of my youth," Kamiya happily skipped a bit which caused Xiuying to groan a bit.
Shinji smiled as he looked to the guys who were happy to be around attractive women. Even Mizuki was curious as to what a stay in a brothel/tavern would be like. For himself however, it was just another experience to live through.
Later that night
Everyone was asleep when tavern activity died down. Save for the occasional moaning from various rooms where some of the ship's crew stayed in. The rest were in other places. But once the rooster's crow called out in the early morning, it was their signal to return to the ship. Otherwise, they would be left behind and wait for another ship. Kamiya was lying next to a woman with his hands behind his head as he looked up to the ceiling. He remembered the twins telling him about the peculiar appearance of Shinji's sword when they sparred with him, occasional looks on board, and when they were getting to know one another in India. Their description was nearly on par with the missing family sword. From the night when their clan was decimated by the Takashiro family. He had to see for himself.
He quietly got up, puts on his trousers, shirt, and walked out of the room and towards the hall. Passing eight doors, he approached a room where Shinji stayed in. Shinji was bunking with Koji in separate beds. Their belongings were near the window, and he can see the sword dimly lit by moonlight. He made a hand sign and whispered, "Hakuchō! (Swan!)"
Immediately, the sutras glowed along the sword's hilt. He took a few steps closer to now be within reach of it. He slowly gripped the hilt and slowly withdrew the blade. He uttered the word for swan one more time and the sutras glowed along the blade. He sheathed it and slowly crept backward toward the doorway. A mixture of emotions seethed inside. From rage, to grief, confusion, and curiosity. What was a young man, with seemingly no connection to the massacre of the Kuragari clan, doing with the family sword? How did the sword, now a prize of the Takashiro family, doing in his possession? Why was Koji, a priest in training, a staunch ally of his? If he was knowledgeable of the massacre.
As he walked out and headed down the hallway, he approached his room's door. Once he was inside and shutting the door behind him, he sees the woman he paid for stirring, "Va todo bien, señor? (Is everything all right, sir?)"
"Algo. Discúlpame por despertarte. (Somewhat. I apologize if I had awoken you.)"
"No es necesario pedir disculpas. Ya que me tienes hasta que te vayas, ¿te gustaría otro retozo? (No apologies necessary. Since you have me until you leave, would you like another romp?)"
Kamiya looked at her and took off his shirt, lowered his trousers. His manhood on display for her, "Vamos, chica. Es tuyo. (Go on, girl. It's yours.)"
As she took him orally to stimulate him again, his thoughts now turned to Shinji and confirming the twins' suspicions. As well as to confront Shinji and Koji about the sword and who his allegiance lied with. Once his manhood was ready for the woman, both returned to bed and for now, he lost himself to passion.
To be continued.
Read, review, critique, and I'll see you all soon.