A/N: Hello Hello! I welcome you to the First Chapter of the Akagai's Rising Sun! This story will involve a heavy rewrite of the samurai! There is some demon slayer inspiration regarding sword breath skills, but I hope I've managed to put in enough work to make it a bit more original, rather than just a blatant rip off. Will be a slight slow burn for the first few chapters, but eventually, our protagonist will meet up with the main characters in time! Without further adieu, please enjoy!
-Akagai Castle, Tsuya Province, Land of Iron-
The sun's rays peaked over the horizon, overseeing the region as the citizens of the Tsuya province, based in the Land of Iron, slowly woke from their slumber. Overlooking the settlement below, a large hilltop fortress stood as a testament to the power of the governing clan, the Akagai. Inside the sacred garden of the fortress, sat a lone figure. A boy stared at the sunrise; his maroon eyes highlighted against the rising sun showcased a calm, serene expression. His golden kimono flapped in the slight breeze. His shoulder-length hair, a deep burgundy, was held tightly in a short ponytail. The soft sound of repetitive breathing resounded throughout the garden. Each inhalation he drew was deep and measured; each exhalation slow and deliberate. His focus was near unbreakable, with one exception.
"Taiyo!" He slowly shifted his gaze to the sound of two pairs of feet padding against the soft grass and smiled before preparing himself.
"Oompf!" Taiyo grunts as the two small bodies collide against him, yet his smile never leaves his face. "Easy, Reika, just because I'm older than you doesn't mean I'm invincible."
Reika's lips curled into a wide smile. She looked up as her eyes, the same color as her brother's, shifted. The familiar, calming scent of cinnamon crept into her nose. The scent always clung to Taiyo. It was odd, but she couldn't deny it fit him. "Maybe, but I'm willing to bet you're able to take mine and Moni's assault." Their 'assault' is the two sisters tackling their brother every chance they see him.
A chuckle is heard as he embraces the two of them. Moni's soft squeal is heard as she feels his arms surround her. His composed eyes stare into her matching vibrant ones, filled with nothing but adoration and warmth as he stares at his youngest sister. She had barely turned six and only just passed his waist, her small fingers curled tightly against his sleeve.
Reika's footsteps were loud as she jumped back and bounced on her heel, "Come on! You said you would let us watch while you practiced today." He stared at her momentarily before lowering himself and picking up his sister. Taiyo shifted a bit as Moni sat on his shoulders. "Patience Reika. You know I always come here to look at the sunrise. Where is mother? And has father sent a letter advising whether or not he arrived at the capital?"
"Yup! Papa sent a letter saying he'll be meeting with Shogun Yamada by today! And mama is tending to the hearth, making sure it stays lit!"
"I see." Tai may have been able to convince others with his smile, but Reika saw the edges of Taiyo's smile become tight. She understood why, she also had an uneasy feeling. A meeting with the Shogun was rare, usually only at the end of the month when the clan heads gave their report on the province they govern. To be called upon before then was unprecedented. Maybe the Shogun needed papa for something important, she thought. Taiyo saw Reika's expression. Sighing fondly, he ran his fingers over her smooth hair. Her eyes snapped up to his, surprised by the motion.
"Reika, you still enjoy reading our family's history, correct?"
Her eyes held a curious glimmer in them as she nodded. Where was he going with this?
He smiled at her and her nervousness wilted. That smile of his always calmed her down, she didn't know why, maybe it was just an older brother thing.
"Good, then why don't you read the tales of our Mandates to Moni while you wait for me to finish my breathing exercises."
Her eyes widened as she stared at the small figure on his shoulders. Small yet wide eyes stared back with excitement. Many had fallen to Moni's gaze, including Taiyo and Reika, and this time it would be no different.
All right," Reika agreed, smiling up at Taiyo, before turning her attention to Moni who was now clapping her hands in excitement. They settled down on the soft grass, with Moni snuggling closely against Reika.
"Okay Moni, listen closely! The beginning of our clan starts with Oku Akagai! He's the one who invented the breath techniques that most samurai use today! He's our great, great, great..."
As the Reika began recounting the tale of the Akagai's founding, Taiyo settled back into his breathing, attempting to calm the thundering thoughts in his mind.
Of all times, why would the Shogun call father now? From what I've heard, the rest of the clans have reported no issues.
Inhale
"...nd created the Sword Stance our family uses, the Eternal Sun Stance. It relies on keepi..."
Exhale
Then again, the Senkuro Clan has been restless lately, but that's nothing new...
Inhale
"...rnal hearth, which is why its important that we keep the flame alive! That's why mama left early during breakfast, she wanted to make sur..."
Exhale
Maybe something is happening in the shinobi world? The Tsuya Province borders the Land of Fire and Land of Rice, maybe he wishes to speak about our defenses?
Inhale
"...elve Clans formed the Land of Iron, and each clan put forward their most skilled samurai! These samurai were given the title of the Twelve Heavenly Mandates! From our cla...
Exhale
No, then he would have called the entirety of the Six Border Clans, so it couldn't be that.
"...ura Akagai, the Second Sun Mandate! She was one of the first female Mandates, alongside Fuya Tokahara of the Tokahara clan. She helped refi..."
Inhale
No, I'm distracting myself. For my breathing to be effective I must calm myself. Father can handle himself, he always has.
Taiyo exhaled as he stopped worrying. Even if something bad were to happen, he can't prevent it while he is home. Perhaps if he was by his father's side, but he wasn't. All he can do is focus on where he is now. With a deep inhale, he cleared his thoughts and continued. The only sound heard in the garden was the sound of Reika's vibrant storytelling and Taiyo's breathing.
The time seemed to stretch as the sun rose, but soon enough, it was time. Reika's sight shifted to Taiyo as he rose with one final inhale, his shoulders tensing and relaxing. Moni had fallen asleep, her face buried in her sister's lap. Her face remained relaxed for a few moments, but her brows suddenly scrunched in confusion as her arm rose to the cloth of her red kimono . She pulled it away and looked at it. Reika's hands quickly covered her mouth, barely stifling the laugh ready to emerge. It seemed that Moni, in her deep sleep, had drooled on her lap. Taiyo shook his head before wiping it away and taking a sleeping Moni in his arms. He shot an amused glance at Reika before motioning for her to follow. She strode up to him, head tilted in confusion.
"Sorry, Reika, but I can't delay my training session with Mora." She felt a weight shift onto her back as he carefully set Moni onto her.
"AWW!"
Taiyo smiles slightly at her complaints and walks towards the exit gate of the garden.. As he walked to the grounds to prepare for Mora's assessment, his mind began to wander. It had been 6 years since he had begun to train under his cousin, Mora, at his father's instruction. Mora was no ordinary samurai. She was considered to be the most skilled samurai of the Akagai clan, a title earned through years of relentless training and numerous battles. Her reputation was renowned throughout the Twelve Clans, for she was not only a member of the Akagai family but one of the Twelve Heavenly Mandates. bestowed upon by the clan head and his father, Rin Akagai himself. Mora had devoted her life to upholding the honor and legacy of their clan, a pursuit driven by an inner fire that never seemed to wane.
Her demeanor, however, was unlike any stereotypical samurai. Where others were stoic and serious, Mora Akagai was playful and eccentric. She moved with a dancer's grace, each step precise yet fluid, as if every movement was part of some grand performance. Taiyo shook his head and moved at a slightly faster pace.
The Akagai estate was nestled within a lush, mountainous region. The main residence stood majestic, overlooking the vast rice fields that glimmered under the morning sun. There were several other buildings scattered across the property, each serving a specific purpose - training grounds, granaries, barracks for the samurai and ashigaru, as well as the servants' quarters. To the west of the estate lay a dense forest from where one could hear the whispers of a serene brook. To the east spread out vast plantations of tea and Sakura trees, their blossoms painting the landscape in hues of pink during spring. The sight was breathtakingly beautiful, a perfect amalgamation of man-made structures and nature's elegance. Every time he looks over it, a sense of calm and serenity flows through him. It was his clan that caused the Tsuya Province to flourish.
As the sun rose over the walls of the grounds, it cast a warm glow. The polished stones and meticulously arranged garden, bursting with vibrant flowers and fluttering hummingbirds, never failed to soothe his troubled mind. He moved gracefully through the Akagai's northern training grounds, reaching the rack that contained bokken, their wooden practice swords. He looked to his left and saw Mora there, kneeling in front of the statue of their clan's patron god, the Sun Goddess. She was dressed in her usual crimson kimono, her sword laying in front of her.
Ah, she's blessing it, he thought with realization. It wasn't uncommon for the samurai clans to bless their weapons, especially by their patron deities. While he mused, Mora stood and turned towards him, her hair gently fluttering with her movement, it's dark crimson hue that the Akagai were known for spread in the gentle breeze like tendrils.
Her smile widened as her black eyes gleamed with amusement. Taiyo smiled at her casual nature, it was a nice breath of fresh air.
"Well, well, you showed up! Here I thought you would've run away by now. Good, I didn't want to hunt you down! Not that it'd be difficult, mind you."
"I would never. You spent too much time teaching me, I couldn't disrespect you like that, Mora. Besides, I'd been wanting to face you in a duel. Not many can say they've fought a Mandate, even if it was a spar."
Her gentle chuckling echoed throughout the garden, "Hmm, well you aren't wrong there. Everyone does want to have a go at me. But not many can handle me," she winked playfully at him. Taiyo sighed, the corners of his mouth twitching slightly.
"True, but most warriors don't know you like I do, Mora. I believe I may have a chance."
Her smile widened even further, "That's the spirit, my adorable little cousin! Now come, we have a fun day ahead of us."
He held back a shiver. Much as he loved and admired his cousin, she was incredibly harsh when it came to bushido training. Koshi, students of the samurai, had to impress and then duel their instructor.
He hummed in agreement as he grabbed one of the bokken. Mora's eyes stole glances at his movements before the edges of her lips curled downwards. There's still some doubt, she thought.
"Good! Now, onto the trial!" Taiyo couldn't help but softly laugh at his mentor/cousin, she was always so energetic. I suppose she mimics the sun in such a way, he mused.
The gentle footfalls of both warriors echoed as they moved to opposite sides. Mora stood with a wooden sword in her hand, a gentle smile on her face. Two pairs of matching maroon eyes watched with rapt attention as they stared at the scene below. The two warriors dipped their heads in respect to each other as their matching kimonos, one blazing red and the other a pale orange, swayed in the slight breeze. Taiyo shifted his dominant foot forward while holding his sword out directly in front of him and lowered his center.
Mora stood, appraising her cousin's form. It's near perfect, seems he really did take my advice about mastering the basics, her eyes scanned his form for any inconsistencies, before settling onto his face. She tensed her forward leg and drew in a deep breath before bolting at Taiyo. His eyes widened slightly as she closed the gap in an instant. She swung her blade with deadly precision.
Clack!
Wood met wood as Taiyo blocked her first strike before twisting in a fluid motion and striking down at her shoulder. With no delay, she side-stepped the downward strike and shot a sharp thrust at his torso.
Clack!
Her eyes were filled with pride as Taiyo had successfully stopped her strike. Her smile grew with every strike he blocked, every counter-attack he threw. He was adapting, good.
The garden echoed with the sound of rapid footsteps and wood striking against wood as the battle phase ended, Taiyo and Mora quickly separated from each other. Taiyo was left panting, while Mora seemed barely winded. Her eyes danced with pride as she stared at her cousin . He's getting more and more proficient with the First Form. she thought to herself. The First Form of the Eternal Sun Stance, a sword technique passed down through generations within the Akagai family, was a well-rounded style focused on balance and fluidity rather than specialization. It could seamlessly switch between aggressive attacks and solid defense, serving as the foundation for all other forms; its footwork allows for quick transitions at a moment's notice.
She decided to push her charge even further. Her footwork shifted, from the balance of the First Form to a more aggressive stance. She moved her right foot forward and held her katana at her side, pointed to the ground in a two handed grip. She widened the space between her legs and started bouncing on the balls of her feet, ready to move at any point. Taiyo's eyes widened slightly as he blocked a lightning quick thrust aimed at his neck. I didn't even see her move, he thought while realization struck him like thunder. That's the Third Form! Taiyo jumped far back as Mora stood in front of him. Of course she'd switch to that, she's favored it ever since she learned to wield a sword. He began thinking of a counter-strategy, bringing up all he knew about the Third Form.
I need to be wary when I strike, otherwise I'll open myself to counterstrikes. He kept blocking the relentless strikes as she kept pushing him back.
. He kept blocking the relentless strikes as she kept pushing him back.
At this rate, the defense of the First Form isn't going to hold up, he thought as he kept losing ground. Taiyo exhaled before coating his lungs with chakra and inhaling. He felt the air fill his lungs and a warmth spread throughout his body. With every inhale, his blocks and parries became sharper, actually stalling Mora's endless assault for a moment. She smiled knowingly before forcing Taiyo back with a flourish. He darted away, but she pushed harshly, her speed increasing to match his reactions. He blocked a thrust aimed at his abdomen before twisting his body and gracefully switching his block into a counter aimed at her shoulder.
Swish!
He sighed as he hit nothing but air. Mora sat on the other side of the training ground, a toothy grin on her face.
"Not bad Tai, bet you thought you almost had me!"
He shook his head with a small, fond smile.
So dramatic.
"Well, if you won't come to me, I'll gladly come to you!" She moved in with a burst of speed, unleashing a flurry of thrusts and jabs, yet every was successfully blocked by Taiyo. Her eyes darted, sweeping over Taiyo's form, looking for any crack in his defense. Taiyo maintained his lock on blocking and counter attacking between blocks.
He's getting too comfortable, I need to ramp myself up slightly, Mora thought with a predatory grin. She wouldn't be a good mentor if she didn't push her precious student.
Clack!
Clack
Clack!
"Come on Tai!" Mora's voice was still upbeat, forcing him out of his thoughts.
Clack!
"You can't hide behind the First Form forever!"
Clack!
Patience, Taiyo thought with a grunt as he blocked another volley of light jabs. Just wait, even a master makes mistakes.
As the practice duel continued, Taiyo's blocks became more accurate, his breaths becoming more synchronous with his movement. Mora grinned, she was feeling a sudden resistance in his defense. Where before the blocks led to parries and counters, now the blocks were entirely defensive and stopping her attacks entirely. She saw it, the subtle transition in his footwork from the adaptable First to the unyielding defense of the Second Form.
Taiyo's preference and proficiency in the First Form was unmistakable. Though it didn't possess the lightning swiftness of the Third Form nor the aggressive onslaught of the Fourth, the First Form was a testament to his character. It was a physical manifestation of patience and calm, two virtues that Taiyo held in great reverence. He would wait and probe around the edges, understanding how his enemy reacts and behaves. Once he pins their behaviors, he uses the adaptability of the First to seamlessly switch to a form that perfectly counters his enemies.
Mora's eyes held a glimmer of approval. Taiyo was slowly figuring out her strike pattern and adjusting accordingly. However, since this was a training session, he needed to learn that not all opponents are predictable. She launched a feint attack before swiftly redirecting her sword; a classic maneuver of the Third Form. Taiyo almost fell for it, but his deep understanding of her fighting style made him second guess. He swiftly sidestepped the true attack and seized the moment to counter-attack. A quick flick of his wrist had his wooden sword aimed at her exposed side. She smirked.
Clack!
Her bokken blocked the strike before twisting on her heel, delivering a blindingly fast strike aimed at his head. He ducked under the slash and tried to recover his footing, but Mora blurred into view in front of him, already poised for a slash at his throat. Taiyo grunted as he barely blocked her strike. He redirected the blow to the side as Mora jumped back.
Taiyo took a deep breath before moving his left foot forward and moved to hold the bokken back in a two-handed grip, angled forwards towards Mora. He prepared to block the next barrage of strikes, but they never came.
Mora was just standing there with a grin, twirling her training sword in her hand. The words of the Second Sun Mandate, Kura Akagai, echoed in her mind.
Patience, serenity, and opportunity. These are the traits that make Second Form masters dangerous. An impenetrable shield amidst the chaos of the battlefield that could swiftly turn into a vicious spear.
Well, it seems like she wasn't exaggerating when she said that, Mora's grin was widening. However, there's no such thing as an absolute defense. Even fortresses have weak points somewhere. So, let's find out exactly where yours is, Tai.
Her legs widened and bent, lowering her center. They were tense, as if preparing to jump. Taiyo saw the shift, and his eyes widened.
That's the Fift—
Crack!
Wood splintered as Taiyo's eyes widened. His sword was now chipped. Taiyo leapt back, only to find that Mora was already behind him, her bokken swinging downwards in an overhand strike. He twisted his body back and blocked, but she already moved on to the next strike zone, aiming to take out his legs. He leapt back, avoiding the slash.
She's striking from every angle, this isn't good. Though Taiyo could say he was decent with the Second Form, he was by no means a master. Eventually, Mora would find a gap in his defense, so he needed to draw her into an opening first.
It might be time to try that out.
The synchronous sounds of clashing wood reverberated throughout the training area as Taiyo blunted Mora's relentless onslaught. However, Mora saw through his bladework and met an opening. She dove in with a dash, and quickly switched back to the Third Form. Taiyo snapped his head to her as she aimed a thrust straight at his exposed side.
Sorry, but it's over Tai! She thought assuredly.
"Second Form, Esoteric Art:" Her eyes looked up to him in disbelief. She must have heard wrong!
An Esoteric Art? There's no way!
"Weaving Dragon Dance!" Taiyo moved his wooden sword in fluid, wave-like patterns in front of him, blocking her flurry of strikes and attacks from getting through.
He already developed an Esoteric Art? Her eyebrows shot up with astonishment before breaking into a wide and proud smile. Usually an Esoteric Art wasn't developed until after the samurai mastered a stance or specific form . It seems like Tai didn't want to wait that long. He must've spent countless hours completely dedicated to creating it, she mused before turning her smile into a grin.
You may have stopped my first attempt, she thought as she gazed at him, but you still don't have a way of counterattacking, Tai!
As she rushed to press her advantage, she saw him enter a lower stance, the footwork still reminiscent of the Second Form. He moved his sword to his side, as if sheathing it.
Iaido? She thought with curiosity as she continued her advance. His muscles tensed and drew his wooden sword out in a fast arc towards her. A counter, she thought. He left an opening on purpose to draw her in!
As the bokken swung with speed, it was suddenly halted as Taiyo felt a pressure on his arm. A feeling of weightlessness overcame him.
Thud!
Taiyo grunted as he hit the floor harshly. The sound of his wooden sword clattering away filled his ears and felt a firm grip on his right arm, which was being twisted behind his back.
She grappled me? Tai thought with a haze. His head had hit the solid ground first. He should have expected her to do that. H
"You lose." Taiyo could hear the smirk in her voice before stiffening as he felt wood press against his neck.
He felt the grip on his arms loosen before being hoisted up by Mora. He flexed his arm, wincing as his joint pulsed in pain. "Did you have to twist my arm?"
She shrugged with a laugh, "Maybe get better at grappling, then I won't have to do it myself."
Taiyo sighed as he hoisted himself off the ground. He rubbed the back of his head, softly touching the nascent bruise that he was definitely getting tomorrow. He patted down his hakama and moved to where his practice sword lay. Gripping it, he stared at it as his face shifted to one of contemplation. That counter still needs to be faster, otherwise what happened with Mora will happen again, only the enemy won't be as forgiving, he thought.
"Heh, already developing an Esoteric Art, huh?" Mora's teasing voice broke through, causing him to pay attention. "Aren't you the ambitious one?"
Taiyo shrugged, "I suppose I just don't like losing," his voice remained calm, but Mora could hear an undertone of embarrassment.
She stared at him for a full minute before breaking into a soft chuckle, then a rumbling laugh. "Oh my, you're definitely an Akagai, Tai!" She declared between her laughs. "Our family hasn't ever really been good at accepting defeat. In fact, aside from the Touka Clan, we're most likely to die on the battlefield due to our sheer stubbornness." She sighed as she finally calmed down, her laughs long gone as she turned towards the garden steps, gesturing for him to follow. Taiyo nodded and strode to the steps before sitting down.
"First, we'll go over your positives: your breathing has gotten better, although you employed it too late, Taiyo. The end goal is to constantly be using our clan's breathing skills to not only enhance our sword style, but to maintain peak performance even when we're not on the battlefield," She smiled gently at Taiyo's posture, as calm as ever, "Utilizing that, our bodies adjust to the constant state, lessening the strain we put on our lungs. This further allows us to fight for longer durations which pairs nicely with our sword stance."
"Your next positive was your decisive thinking, you knew I transitioned into the Third Form and attempted a proper counter by switching to the Second Form. The only reason your counter failed was simply because I outclassed you. Should you have faced anyone near your skill range, both below and above, you would have beaten them soundly. Then, we have your Esoteric Art. Your Weaving Dragon Fluctuation is definitely an interesting technique. You add the defensive bladework of the Second Form and weave it into a defense based on the strike pattern of your enemy." She paused, " Then we have your counter, you drew me in with an intentional opening, correct?" She stared at him, waiting for his answer. Taiyo nodded.
"That's what I figured, and I love that you drew inspiration from Iaido. A quick drawing technique to quickly take advantage of an opponent's lapse in defense, very good. I'm proud, Tai. You know, you're not the first person to think of an offensive technique for the Second Form. Yori Akagai actually developed the Esoteric Art: Glimmering Thrust. Like your counter, it was meant to be a swift strike to take down an enemy, only it involved more of a committed strike. I would suggest you look at his skill set, you might get some good ideas. Your decisive thoughts and creation of your own Esoteric Arts shows you have a better understanding of our Inner Light." Pride tinged her voice as she highlighted her cousin's strengths. He was growing and becoming a fine warrior of the Akagai.
"Now, for your negatives," his eyes snapped up, paying close attention, "You had wasted movement in your stance. The fluidity of our forms is essential, but so is the conservation of energy. Your footwork, your sword movement, even your breath, they all carry a slight excess. You are spending more energy than you need to," she noted, watching his eyes closely as he absorbed her words. "Think of our forms as the sun, and our transitions as its movements through the sky. It doesn't jerk from one spot to the other, it glides smoothly and efficiently. Your movements need to be the same, Taiyo. Smooth, punctuated, and direct—no excess."
"Secondly," Mora continued, "Your timing with your breathing and attacks needs improvement. You can't anticipate the rhythm of the fight if your own rhythm is off." She tapped her chest lightly for emphasis. "Our clan's breathing technique enhances our skills but it must be synced with our movements for maximum efficiency."
That's true. It looks like even after all those breath exercises, I still need to get more in sync with my body. Taiyo looked slightly disappointed but took it in stride as Mora continued.
"In the heat of combat," Mora held Taiyo's gaze, "you must feel each breath fuel the swing of your blade. But remember, Taiyo, in our art, breath does not only give energy to attack but also to dodge or parry. Your rhythm lacked this understanding today."
"Lastly," Mora said, her tone sharpening like she was shaping a blade on a whetstone, "we need to discuss your grappling." She looked at him with a severity in her gaze. "It is true that the Samurai are masters of the blade. Our sword techniques are passed from generation to generation, leading us to victories aplenty. But the battlefield doesn't always allow for such elegant duels. Samurai must be masters of all martial skills! From archery to spear work, samurai must be able to engage an opponent on any front!"
Taiyo looked at his hands. If Mora had been an actual enemy, he would have died today. His hands tensed. Reika and Moni would have lost a brother, his parents would have lost a son, and the clan would have lost their heir.
I have to be better. The words echoed in his mind; he needed to remember them, lest he forget them.
Mora's gaze softened, and she patted Taiyo's shoulder. His eyes drew up towards her, and like sunlight breaking out of a cloud, she smiled warmly at him.
"Your effort isn't in vain. One day, you will master the Outer Light. Movement is the very basis of life, and once you master it, you will be untouchable, Taiyo." Her soft voice rang in Taiyo's head. He smiled as he took her advice to heart. She stood up and held out her hand. Taiyo took it as he was pulled from his seated position.
"Taiyo, you are far from a master swordsman, but you have learned at an incredible pace, even for us. I have no doubt that if you keep progressing at the same rate you are now, you'll pass your evaluation and become a fully-fledged samurai."
Evaluation, he thought. It was an honored tradition. The evaluation wasn't a test or a trial; it was more ceremonial than practical. All the prominent figures of the clan would meet together, and the young samurai, having finished their training under their mentors, would show off their skills in front of them. They would not be judged on their performance but on their commitment, honor, and love for their clan. Tai knew he had a long way to go before he could even dream of passing the evaluation. But Mora's words of praise and encouragement echoed in his ears, filling him with fresh determination to push forward.
"Next time we spar," he said slowly, "I won't let you pin me down that easily."
Mora chuckled. "That's more like it. Keep that spirit alive, and there is nothing you can't achieve."
Mora stood up and stretched, moaning as her muscles protested. "Training is over for the day, Tai." His eyes snapped to the horizon. It was dusk already. How long had we sparred?
"Rest well because tomorrow will be dedicated solely to grappling." Taiyo groaned lightly. He knew Mora was going to enjoy his training more than he was. Mora's laugh echoed as she left the training grounds. With a sigh, he moved to sit on the steps of the training grounds. Slowly, fatigue overcame him, and his eyelids became heavy. His breath evened out as he succumbed to his body's need for rest.
—Shogun's Palace, Yari Province, Land of Iron—
Sandals met tatami padding as a figure headed towards the Council Chambers. As he walked past the light from the lanterns, his burgundy hair swayed while the light passed it. His shoulders were square, a firm line of confidence in his walk. He wore the traditional Golden Kimono of the Akagai, the family crest emblazoned on the back. As he approached the Council Chambers, the doors flailed open. The sandal's clacking echoed against the mats as a figure hurriedly left. Maroon eyes caught the family crest on the back of their kimono. Shitsuhura Clan, he thought. The governing clan of the western Suikei Province is one of the more influential clans. His brow furrowed as he contemplated the Shitsuhura Clan Member's untimely exit. Shaking his head, he continued down the hallway. The great doors to the chambers lay closed. He took a deep breath, feeling himself calm down. He pushed forward.
The doors creaked as they opened, allowing him entrance. The chamber lay empty, with the Twelve Seats vacant except for one. At the far end of the room, a single figure sat. His grey hair shone under the candlelight.
"Lord Akagai," the figure greeted, echoing through the vast hall. His eyes barely left the scroll unrolled before him as he spoke.
"Lord Yamada" Rin Akagai, Head of the Akagai and father to Taiyo, Reika, and Moni, knelt to the shogun. The elder looked up from his scroll, finally acknowledging Akagai's presence. His eyes were a stormy grey, mirroring the gravity of the years and the wisdom he carried. Rin noted the weight of the regard, feeling he was being assessed. He did not falter under the shogun's gaze, meeting it with a steady calmness.
"You requested my presence, Lord Yamada?"
The shogun sighed, placing his scroll down and adjusting his robes to sit upright. "Rin," he said, using his first name to convey the significance of what was to come. "It has come to my attention that your son, Taiyo, has been advancing well in his training."
A swell of pride rose in Rin, but he maintained his composure. This was not a celebration but rather an acknowledgment of the military strength of his kin. "He shows much promise," Rin said modestly.
Yamada nodded as if agreeing with his statement. He picked up a small golden bell from the table and rung it once – a clear, resonating sound that echoed throughout the chamber. The doors swung as a servant walked in, a scroll bearing a curious mark, a leaf. Rin's eyes darkened, thoughts thundering throughout his mind.
Konoha, huh? What could they want now? At least the summons made sense. Konoha was the military backbone of the Land of Fire, and the Tsuya Province would have been the first line of defense against it. The shogun's voice cut through.
"Rin," Lord Yamada began again, keeping his grey eyes fixated on the man before him. A silence lingered in the air, filled with an intensity that made the atmosphere heavy. His gaze never wavered as he continued, "The Third Hokage has requested a samurai transfer to Konoha as a cultural exchange; it is meant to foster good relations between Konoha and the Land of Iron."
A samurai transfer? To Konoha? The message was as unexpected as it was unusual. For years, the samurai clans of The Land of Iron had kept their distance from the shinobi world, maintaining a quiet, respectful neutrality. The politics of the Five Great Nations were complicated and often bloody; they only needed to involve themselves if necessary.
But now this came from the Third Hokage himself—an official request to lend one of their own to Konoha as an act of peace. The implication was clear: Konoha sought an ally in the Samurai Clans, extending their hand after years of cold silence.
Rin's heart pounded in his chest. He was right that it was no ordinary meeting, but he did not expect such a proposal. This decision's consequences would affect their clan and the entire Land of Iron. He swallowed, his throat suddenly dry as he offered a short nod in acknowledgment. He knew better than to dismiss the idea, not when Lord Yamada watched him so closely. Yamada was a man who chose his words carefully and never wasted them on frivolous matters.
"I see," Rin managed to say. His mind was spinning with thoughts and questions. Why now? Why Konoha? And most importantly, who?
"Did the Hokage specify whom he wishes to receive?" Rin asked, hoping to glean some more information.
Yamada shook his head slowly. "No, the choice is ours," he replied. "The only condition is that they must be worthy of representing us."
So they had free rein in this matter. It felt like navigating through a minefield. Wait, if the choice is ours, then why did he only summon Rin?
No, don't tell me... realization tore through him like thunder as his eyes darted up to the shogun's.
"The current graduating class of Konoha will graduate in six months. Taiyo will finish his training in five."
"I don't suppose there is any way to change your mind, Lord Yamada."
"Circumstances such as these, Rin, do not allow for the luxury of preference," Lord Yamada replied, calm and detached. "The decision has been made."
Akagai felt his heart tighten. His eldest son, Taiyo, was to be sent to the shinobi village of Konoha. Yet, was there any other choice? A refusal could cause incalculable damage to their relations with Konoha. But to send his son...
His gaze drifted from the shogun's unreadable face towards the scroll bearing Konoha's mark on the table.
"Taiyo is my eldest son," Rin said at last. His voice remained steady despite the storm raging within him. "He is strong, wise beyond his years, and skilled in ways many cannot fathom. I have no doubt that he will represent the Land of Iron and our clan well in Konoha."
Lord Yamada nodded, pleased by Rin's acceptance. "Very well," he declared, offering a slight nod in return. "This conversation was not an easy one, Rin, but it is necessary. Go and prepare Taiyo for his journey." He turned to the servant in the room. "Send a courier to Konoha, and let them know we will send a transfer in time for their genin graduation." The servant nodded before scurrying into the long hall. As the shogun prepared to leave, Rin's voice gave him pause.
"Lord Yamada, if Taiyo is to be sent, I would like to discuss a few more things regarding his arrangements in Konoha ."
The shogun looked back as the Akagai stood. Lord Yamada nodded slowly as the tension grew.
"Very well, let's begin then."
—
Databook Entry #1
Eternal Sun Stance
The Eternal Sun Stance is a Sword Stance completely unique to the Akagai. It allows the user to extend their stamina through its precise and ergonomic movements as well as structured breathing methods, the lack of wasted movements allowing the user to conserve far more energy while still maintaining peak efficiency.
Current Known Forms:
First Form: First Light: The user maintains maintains a passive stance, his dominant foot forward with his blade held out directly in front of him. This form is balanced and fluid with no specialization, it is meant to adapt and shift to both an aggressive offense and flexible defense.
Notes:
-Taiyo uses the First Form as an opening stance, then immediately shifts towards the other forms, whose specializations may prove more effective.
Current Esoteric Arts for the First Form: Unknown
Second Form: Standing Sun: The user moves their dominant foot forward and holds the blade back in a two-handed grip, angled forwards the enemy. The Second Form is the Defensive stance of the Eternal Sun Style Sword Arts and has limited offensive capabilities. This form relies on the speed of the user and their spatial awareness to ascertain all surrounding threats, while maintaining patience to outlast their enemy.
Notes:
-Masters of the Second Form are considered to be near untouchable on the battlefield
Current Esoteric Arts:
Second Form, Esoteric Art: Weaving Dragon Dance
Taiyo moves his blade in a fluid, wave like pattern in front of him, reminiscent of a coiling dragon. The technique is meant to be adaptable, able to block most attacks based of the pattern of the enemy's strikes.
Third Form: Blazing Hue: The user moves their dominant foot forward and hold their katana at their side, pointed to the ground in a two handed grip. Their legs widen with the user staying on the balls of their, ready to move at any point. This form relies on precise footwork and bladework, with encouraged precision and efficiency over power, using jabs, parries and cuts rather than slashes, blocks, and chops. Most often used by Akagai members when in duels against fellow samurai.
Notes:
-Mora Akagai is considered a master of the Third Form, her aggressive and eccentric personality playing well into the Third Form's qualities.
Current Esoteric Arts: Unknown
Fifth Form: Sunlit Dance: The User holds their blade vertically with a balanced two handed grip on the dominant side of their body. Their legs are bent and tensed, as if preparing to jump. The opening of this form relies on sheer speed and agility, meant to take out the enemy in a flurry of fast paced thrusts and slashes. Instead of simply viewing the sword as the weapon, the whole body is the weapon. This includes jumping, flipping, sliding, using every movement their body is capable of to win the fight.
Notes: None
Current Esoteric Arts: Unknown
—
Databook Entry #2
Esoteric Arts
Esoteric Arts are sword techniques completely unique to the user. Though some may be reminiscent to others, no two Esoteric Arts are the same.
The ability to create an Esoteric Art is one of the many skills one attributes to a master swordsman.
Note: Just because one is able to create an Esoteric Art, it does not mean one is automatically considered a master. It takes far more skills and attributes to do so.
—
Databook Entry #3
The Twelve Heavenly Mandates
The most skilled practitioners of each of the Twelve Clans. Each clan puts forward their most skilled swordsman to become the Mandate of their clan. Being a clan head and a Mandate are not mutually exclusive. The Mandates are the highest ranking in the Land of Iron's military with only the Shogun out-ranking them.
Notes: Despite each Mandate being the most powerful of their clan, they are not equal to one another. One Mandate may be able to annihilate a fortress, while another may be able to take on an entire army with ease.
Current Known Mandates of the Present Era
The Sun Mandate: Mora Akagai
I hope you enjoyed Chapter I, Chapter II coming soon!
