Volume 1: Old
Chapter 1: Genesis
"Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.'' Matthew 25:46
[TEN YEARS EARLIER: a green, spectral light briefly flashed against a blood red sky. A chill so cold and so unnatural swept throughout all the nine rings of the realm of the damned. Even he couldn't stop the twitch of his crimson eyes…and the quiver of his yellow stained smile.]
"Hello?"
"Who's there?"
"Who are you?"
"And…why are you crying?''
"KIAP!" yelled Master Lawrusso.
"KIAP!'' I along with the rest of the class repeated as we all punched mid-air in perfect unison.
Again the instructor yelled that traditional cry and once again we repeated, this time punching with our right hand. We've done this about twenty times now, the students' knees bent in deep horse stances. I felt the burning stretch that was accumulating in my legs, but fought through it. My eyes were fixated on the man situated in the front of the class, Sensei Terry Lawrusso. A man of Asian descent in his late 30s, Sensei Lawrusso was lean, yet held a healthy, muscular build. Not surprising due to the sport he taught. A mustache and goatee was styled upon his pleasant face. He had short black hair with a short bang over his face while he was clad in a jet black gi that was lined with golden yellow at the seams, a black belt tied around his waist. After one more yell and a punch, he shouted another command in Japanese and we all gave a cry, coming to attention.
"Alright class, well done,'' Sensei Lawrusso began, placing his hands behind his back. "Mr. Brown remember to keep that stance low and mind your knees.''
"Yes Sensei!'' a white skinned student known as Robby Brown called.
"Ms. Robinson more sharpness in your punches. Firm, hard fists!''
"Yes Sensei!'' answered a mixed skinned student just to my left.
Our instructor, nodded before continuing on. "But nonetheless, great job all of you. Before we break for the day, how about we warm up for the upcoming tournament with a little competition…Wolf-Kan style!''
"Wolf-Khan forever live on!'' we called in unison, each student wearing a white gi with a large, stylized, black wolf head in the center of the back of the jacket.
"Forever live on! Alright ladies and gentleman let's get to it then. Let's make this one a bit more interesting. King! Gold! Shreese! Front and center…KIYAP!'' said Sensei Lawrusso.
"Yes Sensei!'' the boys named Daniel Gold, Johnny Shreese, and I shouted in unison.
The three of us quickly made our way to the center of the blue mat while the rest of the students rushed and took kneeling positions around us, giving us ample room. Sensei Lawrusso then came forward to me, taking off a red short sash that was hanging between his belt and gi. He then tied it, positioned on my waist.
"Mr. King you'll be the Aka keeper in this match. Mr. Gold and Mr. Shreese you'll try to take it from him. If King gets four points on both of you he wins, but if you manage to take the sash first you two win. Understood?''
"Yes Sensei!'' the three of us shouted in unison.
Our instructor gave each of us brief glances before bring his hands to his sides. "Bow to your instructor. REI!''
As we were told, we bowed to our instructor who returned the gesture. "Now bow to your opponent. REI!''
Daniel, Johnny, I turned to each other and bowed, not taking our eyes of each other.
"Ready positions. Joon-bee!''
Upon coming the three of us went into our fighting stances. I stepping my right foot back with my knees bent slightly, my right hand was balled in a fist while my left hand was opened with my fingers bent as if it was a claw. A simple stance, but one I knew was more than adequate. Daniel's stance was similar to mine, save that both of his hands were balled into fists while Johnny took on a stance akin more to a boxer's stance, bouncing a bit on the balls of his feet.
"Get ready King,'' I heard Daniel muttered, an intense stare piercing into my eyes. "That sash is ours.''
"You know it man. Let's take Sensei's perfect pet down a few pegs,'' added the dirty blonde haired Shreese, punching the air a few times.
At this I my eyebrows furrowed as a confident smirk curled on my lips. "You're welcome to try.''
"Si-jak!'' Sensei Lawrusso called.
"It's party time!'' my two opponents said together, giving each other a fist bump.
I started to bounce lightly on the balls of my feet as I circled my two aggressors before me, never stopping to lock eyes while still keeping in mind their whole bodies. Daniel was the first to act and he rushed in, trying to deliver a combo of punches. I was ready and blocked each of them easily before striking his stomach with a quick, counter kick. Daniel wheezed as he staggered back. "Point, King!'' called Sensei Lawruuso, raising a white flag in his left hand.
Johnny gave a cry as he rushed towards me before performing a spinning reverse roundhouse kick. Again I was prepared and countered in one singular motion: catching the kick with my left arm, wrapping my right arm around his torso to lift him up and slamming him down onto the mat and finishing with a speedy punch to his chest.
"Point, King! Two points against Gold and Shreese!'' announced our master. The spectators around us applauded briefly before silencing again.
"C'mon fellas. What this your first day in the dojo or somethin'?'' I teased, still in my karate stance.
"Damn it! I thought you had my back Johnny!'' seethed Daniel as she staggered back on his feet.
"I did before he knocked you down. Were you even tryin'?!'' responded Johnny, rising to his feet, rubbing his chest.
"Are you on my team?''
"Dude I'm just sayin' represent Golden Boy!"
"Boys, boys you're boring me. Mind if we get back to the match?'' I asked.
Daniel shook his head, probably to shake out the last bit of daze I gave him. "That was just a warm up, King. Johnny, follow my lead.''
"Teh, whatever man.''
As promised, Daniel gave a cry as he rushed towards me, followed by Johnny. They both tried striking me with a flurry of precise, but out of sync, punches and kicks, but I effortlessly dipped, dodged, and blocked all of them. Johnny tried to distract me with a punch in an effort to grab my sash, but I swatted his punch away, followed by a succession of an uppercut and punches to his face. I then performed a reverse low sweep, causing him to fall backwards on his back and leaving him open for a chop to the stomach.
"Point, King!'' Master Lawrusso declared again and again the other students applauded.
At this Johnny pounded the mat in frustration, cursing under his breath.
"Nice try Johnny,'' I began, cracking my neck. "Nice form, but you're telegraphing your moves too much man.''
This earned me a sharp glare from the fallen student. The sound of padded mat reached my ears and I quickly blocked an attempted chop to the side of my head from Jerry with my left hand. Not even looking back at the attacking Johnny. I then pulled him forward, forcing Jerry in front of me. He tried to hit me with a reverse back chop to which I ducked. He hesitated a bit, before attempting a low round kick to which I merely parried with a reverse low round kick. Keeping in mind his whole body, I predicted that he was about to come at me with a forward side kick. Just as I was about to counter, a foul stench suddenly came to my nostrils as I distinctly heard a hushed, but frustrated sounding, "Fuck!''
"The hell?'' I wondered under my breath, glancing behind me to the front windows only to see the cars of a parking lot.
I quickly regretted losing my focus for a second I looked away, I was struck by a kick to my side. I staggered and fell to the ground only to quickly react with a pop up and I was again on my feet. "Point Shreese!'' announced Sensei Lawrusso.
"Forget the point, why didn't you grabbed the sash? We would've won!'' said Daniel with an irritated tone.
Johnny just smirked at his partner. "What? Don't you want to see the Alpha knocked down a few pegs? Next time we got this.''
Daniel grinned back and the two fist bumped, but I hardly payed attention and kept glancing back at the windows. I could've sworn I heard somebody outside. And that smell…what was it? It was like rotten eggs mixed with sulfur. My thoughts were interrupted by the sound of my teacher's voice. "Is there a problem Mr. King?''
"N-No Sensei! Just got a bit distracted there. Nice kick there Johnny boy. Kinda woke me up. Shall we continue?'' I responded, starting to bounce lightly on my feet in my fighting stance.
With a nod, Sensei Lawrusso ordered us to ready positions before giving a loud, ''Si-jak!''
With a cry, both of my opponents rushed at me, each attempting to strike me with a series of punches and kicks. This time they were in better sync, but it hardly mattered. I easily blocked and dodged each attack. Daniel and Johnny both then attempted a punch simultaneously to which I evaded by arching backwards, their fists crossing each other over my face. Without hesitation, I grabbed their fists and with all of my strength I flipped the two onto their backs and finished them off with a double punch to their mid sections.
"Point! Winner of the match, King!'' called Sensei Lawrusso.
The other students clapped and applauded. I responded by bowing to my spectators and then finally to the groaning and defeated Daniel and Johnny. "Great match guys. You even landed a point on me,'' I said, reaching my hands down in an effort to help my fellow students.
However instead, the two ignored my gesture and climbed to their feet, muttering bitterly under their breaths.
"Hey guys c'mon great job really. Just don't telegraph your strikes and work more in sync, then you two could definitely…''
"Piss off Quest,'' snapped Daniel, cutting me off.
"Yeah, as if we want a lesson from you,'' added Johnny with the same contempt in his voice. "If it wasn't for Gold, I'd totally would've kicked your ass.''
I merely frowned at the statement. "C'mon guys don't be like that. We're all students here. We can all still improve, even me. Like I said if you two just-''
"Blow it out your ass, King,'' Daniel snarled.
"Gold! Shreesh!'' Sensei Lawrusso called, a noticeable disapproving frown upon his face. "You know the rule in my dojo: respect your fellow students. We do not disgrace ourselves in the face of defeat! And you'd do well to listen to Mr. King's advice. Everyone can improve on their skills. Is that right class?''
"Yes Sensei!'' the other students called.
"Good. Now Gold. Shreesh. Bow to King.''
I saw the two defeated bows give each other sour looks before finally heeding our master's command and bowed to me. I returned the bow, my eyes locking on theirs …their glances furrowed and angry.
"Excellent. Everyone at attention!'' commanded our sensei.
As we were told, I along with all the other students quickly got into attention, our hands behind our backs. Sensei Lawrusso started pacing as he spoke. "Great work today class. I feel confident that all of you will do well in the upcoming Fuquay Tournament next month. But this time will be a bit different. This year we'll also be visited by the committee that represents the Ken no Senso. Now that's the world karate tournament; the Olympics of karate if you will. The best of the best will compete there, but only specially selected dojos can enter, hence why the committee will be at the tournament this year.''
Low but excited murmurs sounded at the news.
"The Ken no Senso?! Even the name sounds badass!''
"That's what I'm talkin' about baby!''
"Yo we could totally be famous!''
I remained silent but hung on every word that Master Lawrusso had said. The Ken no Senso…the top tournament of the world where only the selected the best of the best can compete. If I…if we can get selected and maybe even win the tournament, then that would be one step closer to my dream. Thinking of this, a rush of excitement swept through my whole body.
"Sensei Lawrusso that sounds like, the endgame of karate tournaments. Do you really think we're good enough? I mean...we're a rather small dojo.'' a female brown belt student by the name of Katie Barnes asked.
"I do. I believe that each and every one of you have the skills to impress the judges. But even if we don't make it, I'd still be proud of all of you. That will be all for today class. Great job and let us keep honing our skills so we can build ourselves and each other up. Kiotuke!''
At the command, me along with everyone else brought our hands sharply to our sides to attention position, and called in unison, "Wolf-Khan forever live on!''
Our teacher nodded. "Rei"
At once we all bowed to Sensei Lawrusso and the Korean flags. With the action done, everyone broke out of their lines and were dismissed to gather our belongings to leave. I made my way to my black duffle bag, unstrapping my sparring gloves as I did so. My hands now bare, I wriggled my scarred fingers and cracked my battered, somewhat misshapen knuckles, sighing in relief as I did so. I heard my classmates talked excitedly about the coming tournament and the Ken no Senso.
"Can you imagine if we actually got chosen to be in the Senso?'' a caramel skinned, blue belted student asked eagerly. "We'd be like, one of the best dojos in the world!''
"Fuck yeah we would!'' another student answered. "We'd be totally famous. We'd could actually get rich if we won the whole thing!''
"Yeah, I'm pretty sure we're not getting paid for this.''
"Shit, fuck we'd better! I mean if we win and become the front running karate school in the world we'd better get SOMETHING out of it. Money. Scholarships. Paid vacation…anything!''
"We get it, Chris. You're poor. You can stop advertising yourself already.''
"Hey fuck you man!''
The group of students laughed. I myself couldn't help but chuckle at the display as I took off my gloves and foot wear. I then sat down on a bench and pulled an orange liquid Gatorade from my bad and began to drink its contents, enjoying the cool taste of citrus. As I watched everyone else packing their things, my eyes again went to the two boys I had just beaten in the exercise. The two were whispering to themselves across from where I was sitting, though it hardly mattered. Over the years I've learned one of many things about myself: I had impeccable hearing.
"This is bullshit man! There's no doubt about it!'' Johnny whispered to Daniel.
"Yeah, dude. King may have these other chumps fooled, but we know…and we're gonna bust him!''
I frowned at what I heard while a small sense of dread crept on me like spider as my gaze fell to the tiled floor. "Crap! Did they find out about me?'' I thought to myself. "But how? I made sure that…I've been careful to… if they really did find out, then I'm royally…''
"Oh –hey Quest,'' a female voice spoke out, interrupting my thoughts.
I looked up to see a girl had approached me. Fair skinned with her forehead glistening lightly from her sweat while her dark, brunette hear was tied in ponytail. Her petite body was clad in the same gi as I was with the only difference was a brown belt tied around her waist.
"Great work out there today, though you're always amazing,'' the girl I knew as Katie said, a pleasant smile on her face.
I returned the smile with a thankful nod. "Ah thanks Katie, you as well. You've really came far since you started here.''
"Don't even start!' I'm nowhere as good as you. Your speed, your technique, your instincts…I bet you'd give Sensei Lawrusso a run for his money! I'm not even close to that skill level.''
I chuckled. "I don't know about that. But don't sell yourself short. You have great technique too. I enjoy watching you spar. Just keep at it and I know you'll only get better.''
"Oh! Well that's actually why I wanted to talk to you,'' Katie began, crossing foot behind her other. Her body started to shift awkwardly as he faint redness came upon her face. "You see I wondering if…if you would like to help me train sometime? Back at my house…just the two of us…? Tomorrow maybe?''
A wave of uneasiness swept over me like a tidal wave upon hearing her suggestion. The way she was standing, the way she was nervously fiddling with her hands, the way her face became rosy red…I can only guess one thing and I stood up.
"Katie…'' I began, thinking deeply of the words to use. "I-I don't think…''
"J-Just for a training session! And…maybe we can just hang out afterwards?''
I breathed deeply. "Tomorrow won't be a good time for me. I'll be busy pretty much all day tomorrow.''
"O-Oh…ok, Quest. I understand.'' said Katie in a dejected tone, her face falling with noticeable disappointment.
"I'm sorry Katie.''
"No, no I totally get it. Maybe next time then. Well I better get going before my ride leaves me. I see you later Quest. And great job again today.''
She gave me a smile, though I could see she forced herself to make the gesture as she waved before turning around and leaving. I watched as she gathered her things and followed the other students out of the dojo, but not before giving me one last brief but saddened look, though that wasn't the only look I received. Most if not all the students eyed me while whispering behind their hands.
"I don't know why, but Quest always gives me weird vibes.''
"Why is he always by himself?''
"Do you think we should ask him to hang out with us sometime?''
"Nah man. He may be Alpha Wolf, but I'm keeping my distance. He always act like he's better than us.''
"I mean...he is kinda the reason our dojo won so many competitions and trophies.''
"But he's pretty famous! Isn't he,like, the youngest to become a 13x World Champion?"
"He's also does a lot of vids on Karate on Instagram. I'm pretty sure he's an influencer with a branding deal or two!''
"Yeah! We'd definitely win the tournament with him! Plus he's a total hottie!''
"Still...I'm keeping my distance.''
Though I frowned in annoyance, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't used to such comments. Friendship was never something I've excelled at. Not that it was intentional, mind you, but throughout my life people tended to avoid me whenever they could. Maybe it was the fact for some odd reason my pupils held a slight scarlet tint to them. While it would be fun to pretend that I would have the Sharingan, for others it caused them to back step and avoid me like I was some cursed being. Point was, I was used to being alone. That, however, didn't stop me from feeling shame as I plopped back down in my seat, raking a hand across my face and through my dreadlocks as I gave a heavy sigh. Thinking of Katie's disappointed face and final glance at me caused a heaviness in my chest as if I had swallowed a large rock.
"I'm sorry, Katie. But…it's really for the best. I just can't…'' I spoke to myself.
"As always great work out there today, Quest-san,'' a familiar male voice spoke.
I looked up to see Sensei Lawrusso standing before me, his hands grasping both sides of his belt, a smile on his pleasant face.
I jumped up out of my seat and greeting him with a bow. "Sensei Lawrusso. Thank you, Sensei.''
"So, are you excited about the Ken no Senso?'', asked my karate teacher in a tone as congenial as his face. Despite his Asian appearance, my Sensei had a slight New Zealand accent, something I've always found rather cool and unique.
"I am sir. Though do you really think that we have what it takes to make it in the Senso?''
Sensei Lawrusso nodded. "I do. We may be a small dojo, but it's filled with determined and skilled students. Especially you…my prized top student.''
"Thank you for saying, Sensei, but I'm hardly a top student,'' I answered humbly.
"Well your skills say differently,'' began Sensei. ''Quest you're eighteen years old and yet you've already demonstrated great mastery of the karate I taught you. You're speed, your technique, and your intuition are nearly flawless. Not to mention earning the rank of 3rd Dan in our style of karate. I'm sure the committee will be impressed by your skills, especially given your impressive tournament accomplishes for all these past years.''
I felt my face warm up a bit as I averted my gaze sheepishly, scratching the back of my head awkwardly. "You're praising me too much sir. If it weren't for your lessons I wouldn't be where I'm at today.''
"Quest tell me…that dream of yours…do you still want it? Wanting to be a martial artist on the pedestal of Bruce Lee?''
At this I gazed at Sensei Lawrusso while replaying the question in my head. The image of that famed, and unsurpassed martial artist came to my mind and a rush of excitement swept through my body as if I drank a whole litter bottle of soda. I finally answered, excitement in my voice.
"Yes…yes sir. To be a martial artist as great as him-even surpass him. To be the best fighter who ever lived. That's what I'm aiming to be!''
Sensei Lawrusso smiled. "That's what I'd like to hear. With how diligently you've been training all these years, I believe you'll be among the greatest martial artist of all time. I bet even Master Kim Pei-Sun would be impressed.''
My eyes widened a bit at the mention of the name. "Grandmaster Kim Pei-Sun?"
"That's right Quest-san,'' answered Sensei, motioning me to follow him towards across the mat and to the center of the mirrored walls. We gazed up and situated above the mirrors what a framed, very old black and white photograph of a young, Asian man. His black hair was tied in a top knot and he was dressed in at black gi. He was mustachioed in a thin, horseshoe styled way, with two long strands hanging down along with a long thing beard hanging down from his chin. He looked at the camera furrowed browed and stoned face as if he had just eating the world's most sour lemon drop. Nonetheless I balled my left fist and covered it with my right hand and gave the photograph a respective bow.
My Sensei continued. "Grandmaster Kim Pei-Sun…the creator of the Okami-Khan style of Karate. You're the only one of my students that know this style: the Way of the Wolf, Quest-san. From a certain point of view, you're my one and only student."
I stared at my master in a mixture of flattery and awe. This actually wasn't the first time he told me, but it was still all the more humbling to me. After a few moments of silence, I finally spoke.
"In all honesty, Sir…I still can't believe you choose me to carry on Master Kim's style.''
"Not hard to believe for me, Quest-san. I chose you because I knew you would have the wisdom of when to use the full might of this style correctly. And I'm honored to know that my teachings will help you achieve your dream. And you can as long as you remember this: let your skills guide you to your fate, but let your mind set free the path to your destiny.''
I gazed upon my sensei as his words echoed in my head until a small, but a grateful smile crept to my face. "Yes Sensei Lawrusso. I won't let you down.''
Sensei Lawrusso smiled giving me a pat on the back. "Don't let yourself down, Quest-san. Besides, when you become the greatest, that's a lifetime of bragging rights for me as your master.''
We both shared a hearty laughter. My master stretched, his body cracking before finally speaking again. "I don't know about you but I could definitely go for a good bowl of ramen right about now. How about it, Quest-san? My treat.''
"Thank you, Sir, but I'm just going to do a some follow up exercises before showering up for the night,'' I answered. "Maybe tomorrow?"
"I should've guessed from my star pupil,'' Sensei Lawrusso grinned. "Always wanting to do a little extra training. Well I'll be off then. I'll come back just before you lock up the dojo. Sound good?''
"Sounds great sir. Enjoy your ramen.''
Sensei Lawrusso and I bowed to each other before he walked off the mat, put his shoes on, collected his things and was out the glass door and into the Twilight bathed outside. I gave Master Kim's photo one last bow. "Grandmaster...I hope you find me worthy to continue your style.''
An hour into my extended training, consisting of katas, (that's kinda like shadowboxing, for those that don't know), had finally brought me to one of the few punching bags that was standing off to the side. I got into a front stance; bringing both my fists up with my left fist at eye level and my right fist just below my chin. After I took a quick deep breath, minding my posture and foot placement, I delivered two hard punches with my front fist and back fist.
"One!'' I spoke loudly.
I then repeated the same action: punching the bag with my front fist then back. "Two!'' I said again.
I did the two punches yet again. "Three!''
Punch. Punch. ''Four!''
I repeated this drill continuously. "Five…seven….ten…eighteen!''
With each punch, I let out a breath. I focused on hitting the same spot over and over again on the leather, worn out black bag. "Twenty…twenty-five…thirty…!''
As I continued my exercise, my sensei's words echoed in my head. "Not hard to believe for me, Quest-san. I chose you because I knew you would have the wisdom of when to use the full might of this style correctly without corruption or perversion…''
At those words, a sudden shame dropped to my stomach like I had swallowed a bag of lead balls. However, soon an image of a man came to my mind…HE came to my mind. That pale, five o' clock shadowed face. That crooked nose. Those icy blue eyes and short, messy dirty blonde hair. As soon as his image came to mind that shame suddenly turned into a boiling, seething hatred.
"Sorry, Sensei,'' I began darkly. "I'm going to have to pervert your style once…just this once. I have to keep my promise. I have to kill that heartless son of a bitch!''
As I continued to punch the bag images starting to flash through my mind like rapid photographs. Images of a crimson splattered room. Images of scarlet liquid dripping from a knife. An image of a woman laying lifelessly on the floor; butchered and lacerated with a pool of blood underneath her. Seeing all of these, my breathing became louder and harsher, one could even say animalistic as I began to punch the bag even harder. I then seethed, punching the bag hard with full power and force in tandem with each of my words.
"I'm! Gonna! Kill! That! Mother! Fucking! Bastard!''
On the last word I struck the bag with all my strength and frustration, sending the bag flying back and crashing into the back wall and falling on the ground with a loud, hollowed thud
"O-Oh shit!'' I said.
I quickly looked around, praying that no one had saw me. My prayers were answered as I saw the dojo still empty on the inside and no one passing by on the outside. I let of a relieved sigh but then quickly going over to the fallen punching bag only to see sand and grain quickly spilling out from a fist sized hole. I quickly ran to the back office, opened the desk drawer, and grabbed a big roll of black duck tap. I then ran back to the bag and as quickly as I could wrapped some of the tape around the bag until the hole was covered. With the grains not pouring out any more I racked my face with my hand and let out groan.
"Damn it! I can't lose control like that!''
I let out a frustrated cry before proceeding to lift the bag back onto its stand. I then squatted down and wrapped my arms around the base and using my legs, I lifted the punching back and walked back to its regular position next to the other bags and dropped it with a loud thud on the matt. I took a step back, looking at the newly patched up punching bag before looking down somberly at my two hands. A sort of disturbed heaviness then filled my chest as I thought of what had just happened. It wasn't right. What I did to the bag…all of it wasn't right.
"That bag weighs two hundred pounds but I picked it up like I was picking up an empty box. What the hell is wrong with me?''
I had just finished cleaning up the pile of sand that had poured from the bag and onto the floor. Thankfully the bag did no visible damages to the wall it hit, but this did nothing to brighten my spirits. "That's it, I'm calling it a day.'' I finally spoke.
I made my way to the backroom at the back of the dojo, through a door, and up the stairs to the loft above the dojo. I passed the small kitchen and made my way into the living room and up another set of stairs that led to the upper level that was my bedroom. I quickly changed into some dark blue jeans, sneakers, a white T-shirt, with a dark blue fleece hoodie. The final touch was a wool scarf decorated with red and black diamond patterns. I then made my way back down and entered the main training area, the smell of sweat and feet still hung in the air. I went over to the front desk and left my sensei a note before leaving:
"Will be back shortly- Quest-san.''
The world around me was bathed in fading gold as I trekked down the sidewalk. The air was cool as the light continued to fade with a nice, occasional breeze blowing through. The dojo was located on the end corner smack in the middle of the downtown area of the city I lived. Old apartment buildings and office buildings towered over the people and stood their ground like watching sentinels. No matter where you walked it was a guarantee you would walk down lines of interconnected shops, cafes, boutiques, restaurants, barbershops, and bookstores. You might even come to areas where the cracked, cemented streets changed to reddish cobblestones. While over the years the city tried to add more modern buildings here and there, downtown still had the rundown, colonial atmosphere that I've come to appreciate.
I continued way walk, with really no destination in mind. I just silently went on my way, my hoody up and scarf wrapped once over my neck. Being midweek, downtown was unsurprisingly rather dead of activity. Most shops closed early leaving only the eateries still open. Small scatterings of people sat on the outside tables of restaurants and cafes enjoying their dinner, coffee, and teas or whatnot. One might even hear the uproarious laughter of a group of friends from time to time, though I hardly paid them or the few people that would walk passed me. My gaze was almost always glued somberly on the grimy sidewalk. My mind was still on when I nearly falcon punched the punching bag through the wall. I was still freaky even to me. In my eighteen years of living, a good as hell hearing wasn't the only thing I had learned about myself. I was also strong. VERY strong. This first discovered when I was about ten years old when I punched a small crater in a brick wall out of anger. And it wasn't just my strength, my speed, sense of smell, and my hearing were also perplexingly better than most. I had been able to smell the faintest of aromas. Hell I bet I could tell what a person ate a week ago from their breath, though I have absolutely no interest of testing this theory. Growing up, I'd easily outrun dogs, thugs, and bullies that had dared tried to chase me.
And again my hearing…I could hear a pin drop, the quietest of whispers, or even an outside cry of frustration. Like at the dojo.
"What was that? Who was that?'' I thought to myself.
However, I quickly dismissed it as someone who probably had the misfortune of losing some money or something. That fact that I had these oddities was what was leaving me feel so melancholy. While to other people this 'gifts' would be like something out of a comic, for me I've never felt more like an outcast. Like a freak. It was times like this I would hear the comforting voice of my mother.
"No matter what changes you may have, you are you. You are special. And you'll go great things in this world.''
A small smile came to my lips as I heard her voice in my head. She would definitely understand how I would feel right now. I wish she was here with me right now. At this though a heavy weariness started biting me at my bones and stabbing my heart, but I had finally decided where to go.
I had finally came to the face a large, red brick building. FAYETTEVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENTwere positioned in large, metallic silver letters above the main entrance. I lowered my hoodie before walking through the double glass doors. I traveled through the plain, unexceptionally designed foyer towards the front desk. The ringing of telephones echoed throughout the halls among the low chatter of the building occupants. I finally passed through another set of glass doors and found myself in what was the waiting room. Chairs were settle against the windows to my right, two occupied by a distressed looking woman and wearily beaten down man. Two police in uniform stood near an entrance that led down to a far hall, chatting idly. I moved out the way of an officer escorting a rowdy brotha in handcuffs and led him to take a seat in one of the empty chairs.
"Bullshit man! I'm up in here cuz I'm black! Racist mothafuckas up in here!''
Contrary to his words, I sniffed and slightly recoiled from the foul odor of what was probably marijuana. I merely shook my head before going over to the front desk where a hefty male officer with a small moustache was typing on the computer.
"Can I help you?'' the officer spoke in an uninterested tone, not looking at me.
"Yes sir, good afternoon. My name is Quest King-"
"Ok. And?''
I frowned slightly at the rather rude retort but continued politely. "Well about ten years ago my mom was murdered. Since then her killer wasn't found or identified. I've been coming here for the last few years for any updates. I was wondering if there's been any kind of leads yet?''
At this officer the officer turned his gaze at me, his beady eyes still looking unfazed, or rather uncaring. "Oh right….'' He began. "King…you're that black kid that keeps botherin' us constantly almost every week.''
I tempered my irritation at use of words, fighting to keep myself from making any sort of an offended face. "I'm sorry for wanting to keep up with the case of my mother's killer, but it's been ten years. Hasn't there been any new updates? Leads? Witnesses? Anything?''
"Look kid, we're up to our eyeballs in homicide cases. Just because you're mommy got butchered doesn't mean your case is any more special than the others. We have our best detectives on the case but they haven't found so much of a shit stain that could lead to the killer. Bottom line…we're doing all we can.''
After his statement, a brief but depressing sounding music played before an electronic male voice spoke from his computer. "Game Over.''
An incensed anger then sharply rose within the pits of my stomach as I also noticed an opened, half eaten box of Krispy Kreme donuts on his desk. Disgusting. I spoke in an increasingly seething tone. "Well…maybe if you do less pigging out and actually doing your damn job, that murdering bastard could've been caught ages ago!''
"That's it, kid. Get the hell out of this department! And don't let me catch your black ass here ever again!''
"As if I'd want to see your fat self ever again. Do yourself a favor and use a stair master…and eat a salad.''
At this the officer's pudgy face turned red as a vein became noticeable on his neck. Oh he did not like my comment. "You smartass little shit.''
Not wanting anymore do to with the officer and the police department, I turned and briskly made my way towards the exit before the voice of the officer reached my ears. "Better not steal anything. We've got enough of your kind here as it is!''
I came to sharp halt as the insult echoed in my head, causing rage I've never felt before. I glanced over my shoulder, seeing the two talking officers snickering to each other while glancing at me. I breathed out my nose heavily before turning back around and out the department, a last voice calling out. "See! Racists mothafuckas!''
I made my way down the sidewalk, my head lowered and hooded with my hands in my pockets as I fumed silently at what had just happened. All this time, all these years and the police have proven themselves useless! My mother's killer was still out there without a so much of a small lead.
"Useless wastes of tax dollar pigs!'' I seethed under my breathed.
I decided to head back to the dojo. I needed something to punch and I didn't care if I punched that bag right through the wall. As I approached a crosswalk two people caught my eye. It was a woman and child, a girl to be exact. Asian by the look of them. Both wore tattered clothing as they sat on a dirty blanket. I noticed a buggy full of sleeping bags, clothes, and pillows as well as some tied up plastic bags stuffed on the bottom. The woman and child had grime and dirt on themselves and were both barefooted. Clearly they hadn't had a good bath in a while. The two sat on their knees and their hands were together, as if they were praying. In front of them was a sign written in Chinese so I had no clue what it said. In all it was a truly heartbreaking sight. The two looked up at me with pleading eyes. Almost in an instant all of my rage was replaced by pity and a deep sadness, taking note of people just walking past as if they couldn't see them.
As if my body was moving on its own, I took out my wallet and took of a fifty dollar bill, the only money I had and placed it in an empty cup containing that was near the sigh. They two looked at me but didn't smile. However I noticed the mother's eyes getting misty before bowing her head and speaking something in Chinese. I merely gave a small smile and nodded before crossing the street and being on my way but not before taking a last glance at the two before continuing across the street. It wasn't much longer before I decided to take a moment a take a seat at an empty table outside of an establishment called 'Downtown Deli'. I took a heavy breath as I reflected on the moments within the past hour. Remembering the homeless mother and her child, I smiled hoping that maybe they could at least get a warm meal tonight. But my smiled turned into a grimace as I recalled the events at the police department, specifically my behavior.
In all honestly, I fully believe I was well within my justification on how I reacted to the officer's insensitive and uncaring dismissal. I mean how can an officer of the law, someone who vowed to protect and serve, be so casually dismissive and uncaring of someone else's pain? The more I thought of this, the stronger my rage swelled, but then a sort of guilt started to seep into my heart as my mother's voice spoke in my head. "Remember what the Lord said, baby: love thy neighbor as thyself. Always show kindness and pity to those that have wronged you''
I buried my face in a hand as I took some deep breathes to calm myself when the voice of Sensei Lawrusso came to mind. "Always remember, Quest-san. Anger clouds the mind. Only with a tranquil mind can you achieve the secrets of harmony and focus.''
"Dear Lord please forgive me for my shortcomings. I know I'm better than this. I have to be. For my mom…''
The sound of an object being placed on the table I was out broke me from my thoughts. Someone placed a wrapped object in front of me. I looked up and saw a girl who had done the gesture. She was young, maybe around my age maybe a tad older. She had fair skin as white as snow with neck length hair that was jet black as a raven save for the edge stands being a scarlet red. She wore a purple plain tank top that revealed a rather toned stomach with black jeans with matching black boots. On her hands were black, fingerless gloves and around her eyes was black eyeliner that was perfectly applied matching her pitch black lipstick. A horse pendant hung down over her chest, silver and glistening in the fading sunset. In all honesty…she was probably one of the most strikingly beautiful woman I've seen in my life as she looked at me with an outgoing smile.
"I-I'm sorry, what's this?'' I finally asked, pulling down my hoodie.
"Just a little reward,'' the girl answered with a voice as sweet as honey, yet with maturity.
"Reward?''
"That's right. A reward. For, ya know, what you did for that woman and her child.''
"O-Oh…that. I honestly didn't know anyone saw,'' I answered, a sort of embarrassment coming to me.
The girl smiled. "Well I did. And a good deed like that deserves a bit of recompense. Just call it good karma. It's a sandwich. They said it's their most popular menu item.''
I was about to object to the answer, but hearing my stomach gargle, I nodded with a small, but thankful smile. "Thanks, miss. I really appreciate it.''
"Not at all! Mind if I join you for a bit?''
"Um sure…not at all if you want.''
Casting me another smile, she pulled out the chair and sat across from me. We shared a brief but rather awkward stare, on my part at least, before I attended the wrapped 'reward' before me. I bowed my head and closed my eyes.
"Dear, Heavenly Father. I want to thank you for this day you have given us. Lord I want to thank you for this meal for the nourishment of my body and pray that you will bless this girl who was kind enough to give this meal to me. In Jesus name I do say, Amen.'' I murmured briefly.
I unwrapped the object to revealed six inched sandwich. I inhaled the enticing aroma of various meats from the sandwich, fighting not to drool. I then took a bit from the meal. My taste buds were overpowered by the taste of pepperoni, provolone, prosciuttini, cappacuolo, salami, ham, and lettuce all blending together harmoniously like a cuisine symphony.
"That's a good, freakin' sandwich,'' I finally spoke after swallowing.
The Goth girl chuckled. "I'm glad you liked it. It usually comes with tomatoes, but I asked them to remove them. I had a feeling that you're not a fan of them.''
"Right call on that one. Never cared for them. So extra thanks for that one.''
"Ha! I knew I had a feeling about that one. Needed your reward to be flawless!''
We both shared a hearty chuckle. I took a few more bites of the delicious, Italian meal. A few rather awkward moments of silence fell between us with only the occasional passing cars and the footsteps of people walking by being the source of noise. The darkly dressed, but rather outgoing girl just sat there…flashing a calm smile at me while I ate. After what felt like eternity, the girl spoke again, her smile falling a bit. "Also…you seemed to have been having a shitty day.''
I swallowed before letting out a sigh. "Well I wasn't ENTIRELY shitty. Things were going well until…like twenty minutes ago.''
"No foolin?'' asked the girl, bringing her elbows on top of the table and resting her chin on her hands. "Wanna talk about it? I'm pretty good at listening to others.''
I considered her proposal for a brief moment, before finally deciding against it. "Nah, I'm good. It's nothing you don't want to hear.''
"No seriously. I'd love to hear about it. Talking about my problems helps me out.''
"Thanks, but honestly I'm not really up for the discussion. It's kinda personal for me anyway.''
I had hoped my rebuttal wasn't rude or too blunt but to my relief and appreciation, the girl merely smiled with what looked like sympathy and nodded. "Gotcha. Totally understand. So, done with karate training for the day, Quest?''
"Thanks. And yeah I just got out of practice and- wait- how'd you know my name?''
"Well we have met before, my dude,'' the girl smiled.
I scrunched up my face a bit in bewilderment. "We…we have?''
"Sure did. I always loved hearing you talked about your dream of being the greatest martial artist that ever was.''
Ok, now I was starting to get a little nervous. She says we've met before but what had to have been a million faces flashed through my mind from memory's past and I could not remember a thing about her. Oh god…was she a stalker? Jesus Christ I've never had a stalker before! Is she secretly one of those crazy ones? She observed my confused face and a sly smirk crept to her lips.
"Don't worry, Quest…I know what you're thinking.''
Crap she is a stalker!
"You have absolutely no idea who I am, do you?''
"I'm sorry but, well duh,'' I answered truthfully, relieved that she didn't confirmed herself a stalker…yet.
She giggled lightly. "No it's totally fine. Most people usually don't remember me. Guess I'm not that memorable to look at.''
"I wouldn't say that,'' I said. "I mean, you got a real Raven/Lydia thing going on. Definitely memorable.''
"And yet, you don't remember me.''
"Touché.''
We laughed. I was glad that my not remembering her wasn't a letdown to her. After a brief silence, I decided to ask the question. "So…who are you, if I may ask?''
"Rachel. Does that help ring any bells, Quest?''
I scrunched my face as I pondered. I've only met a small handful of 'Rachel's' in my life but none matched the pale face of the girl sitting in front of me. I shook my head, "Sorry…still nothing.''
At this Rachel let out a deep breath, rolling her eyes rather playfully. "Damn, I thought that would work. Oh well. Can't blame a girl for trying.''
Despite her smile and lighthearted joke, I found myself rather mesmerized by her, as if her very gaze was casting a sort of spell on me. Though her smile was ever present, there was something nagging me at the back of my head. Something about her that seem…not so genuine. "If I may ask…are you having a shitty day? Are you ok?''
"Me?'' Rachel asked. "Yeah, totally. Why do you ask?''
"I don't know. It's just…there's something about you. Something rather sad and yet…strangely beautiful.''
There was a pause of silence between us for a moment before Rachel flashed me a smile of what seemed like…flirtation? "Beautiful huh?'' the Goth girl began, leaning forward on the table. "Is that you're way of getting my number?''
"No, no!'' I said. "Nothing like that at all! I was just making an observational comment. I'm sorry if that came off the wrong way.''
"I didn't say that. Besides, I may have been inclined to give it to you. What would you say if I said I lived alone near here? I'd be happy to invite you there. Maybe we can talk and…just let whatever happens, happen.''
A cold sweat suddenly hit me like a speeding truck and my heart began to race. Did that just happened? Did a girl really just invited me back to her place to do…whatever? Especially a girl as strikingly beautiful as her? However, flashed of red and a lifeless body rushed through my mind, causing the nervous feeling to be gone as quickly as it came to be replaced by a feeling of utmost shame "I'm sorry but, I would have to turn that down. No disrespect to you it's just….I…''
I trailed off as if I was too pained to finish. I turned my gaze away for a second. Did I offend her? Would other guys pounced on her in a millisecond at the offer while I refused? What's she thinking? I returned my attention back at Rachel who to my surprise was wearing a rather saddened smile. "Don't worry about it, Quest. I think I understand. I'm sorry if I came of as rather…slutty.''
"Oh no, you're fine. I don't think that at all. If that's your lifestyle, I'm not going to judge you.''
Rachel seemed shocked by this answer at first but then returned to that pleasant smile of hers. "That's very…tolerant of you, Quest. Not too many people would accept something like that. If I can be honest…most people don't really like me.''
I gave a few perplexed blinks. "Really? Why?''
"Can't say. I guess I just rub people the wrong way. But it's no big deal. I'm used to the cold shoulder.''
I looked at her while repeating what she had said in my mind. Was she really so disliked? Why? Was it because of her Gothic lifestyle? Was she really that promiscuous? Does she have some sort of bad reputation? No…don't start that Quest. Whatever people why gossip about her, I won't be a part of it. "Well I don't know why. You've made a good first impression on me. You've even made me feel a bit better.''
"Was it the sandwich?'' Rachel smirked.
"Hey only a fool turns down free food.''
We shared another friendly laugh. As quiet again fell upon us, I returned to my sandwich. After swallowing a piece, I heard Rachel's voice. "Kinda warm to be wearing a scarf don't you think?''
I gazed up at her to see that her face had fallen into what seemed to me to be of slight somberness. "Yeah. But honestly, I can't bear to be without this scarf.''
"I see. So I'm guessing it holds sentimental value to you?''
"That and then some. I'd give up my Nintendo Switch before I give this up. I don't care the season or if it clashes with my clothes, I'll never be without it. I…I can't''
I clutched my scarf as I ended my words, trying to keep down sting of hurtful memories associated with this wooly, red and black, diamond patterned scarf. I hope with all my heart that Rachel wouldn't pry further about my scarf only for them to come true. Rachel smiled understandingly. "Right. Question answered. No further inquiries necessary.''
"Yeah. I..."
As I continued to stare at my scarf as strange feeling swept over me. Like a sudden burst of exhaustion and lightheadedness as if I had been running for a week straight. It was like I had suddenly stopped thinking with the world around me had disappeared for a moment...
"Quest? Quest? You still with me?''
I blinked blankly a few times before I lifted my eyes from my scarf to my pale acquaintance, he head tilted slightly. "You ok, Karate Boy?''
"Uh...yeah I think,'' I answered. "What were we talking about?''
"Your scarf. You said it held sentimental value to you. Then you sort of just stared at it...for quite a bit.''
"Really? How long?''
"I'd say for at least eight minutes and... Quest are you ok?''
I sort of winced at her question.
"Your eyes. Why are you crying?''
I felt my face and sure enough I felt streaks of wetness down my cheeks while also now noticing that my eyes were misty. "I...I don't know. Last thing I recall was looking at me scarf. I don't know. Maybe I just got a bit emotional for a bit. Kind of embarrassing.''
"Don't feel embarrassed, Quest,'' Rachel answered with a chuckle. Sometimes I can get teary eyed while reminiscing the past. It's only natural.''
I whipped my eyes ang gave Rachel a small, but thankful grin. My face then fell in thought. "Yeah...reminiscing...''
I proceeded to finish the rest of my food. As I swallowed the last bit of my edible reward something came to my ears.
"Should I take the shot, Sir?''
"And risk a panic?! Do you have a tiny brain to go along with that tiny dick, Moxxie?''
"Sir…for the last…fucking…time!''
"Aw calm down, hun. Blitz is just havin' some fun!''
I sharply looked over my shoulder as I heard the series of rather hushed voices. "The heck…?'' I spoke.
"Something wrong?'' Rachel inquired.
"Huh? O-Oh…no. I thought I-you didn't hear anything just now by any chance did you?''
"Nope. Not a thing. Maybe it was the wind?''
I could tell a sense of teasing in Rachel's voice from that last retort and I chuckled. Rachel continued. "Well, it's time for me to go. Thanks for the company, Quest. You were an absolute delight.''
"Yeah, 'bout time for me to bounce myself. Thank you again for the food. That was kind of you to do that.''
"It was kind of you to give money to the poor and downtrodden. Deeds like that deserves to be rewarded.''
"I really wasn't expecting anything, honestly,'' I said, scratching the back of my head awkwardly. "After all, a good deed shouldn't come with a condition.''
At this, Rachel gave me a truly sweet smile. "Well it was great seeing you again Quest-even if you don't remember me,'' said Rachel, quickly adding most likely after seeing me open my mouth. "But I'm sure something will jog your memory. Take care. Oh and by the way, curiosity killed the cat…but I think you'll be just fine.''
"Okay?'' I started in bewilderment. "But what is that supposed to—''
But Rachel merely smiled and after flashing me a wink, she turned and walked away, disappearing around the corner.
The sky was a reddish orange as I made my way back to the dojo. Again my hood was over my short, side dreadlocks with my hands in the pockets of my hoodie. One by one the streetlights blinked to life as the activity of the downtown was beginning to wind down for the night. The last of the open shops started to lock their doors. People who sat outside eating their dinners were now gone and leaving the outside tables empty and vacant. The audible chattering of people had died down to low murmurs as the dark of night drew nearer. I walked down the street, head bowed as I thought about the rather strange departure of the Goth girl Rachel who, apparently, I've met before.
"Curiosity killed the cat…but I think you'll be just fine.''
Those words replayed in my head at least ten times. What did she meant by that? Was it her own dark sense of humor? It couldn't be. She seemed rather perky despite her appearance. I didn't know what to make of it, but what I did know was that she bought me a small meal, well snack more like, and she lifted my spirits. "She seemed cool to me,'' I muttered to myself.
I continued my journey back. Sensei Lawrusso was surely waiting for me to share a cup of sake before heading home and I didn't want to keep him waiting. However moments later into the trek, a voice came to my ears.
"Just tell me when sir.''
"Not yet Moxx! Let's wait till this walking dead weight is clear out of peoples' view. Don't want to be seen by any of these fuckers or our A-holes are screwed!''
"Understood, sir.''
I nearly skidded to a halt. Those whispered voices, there WERE the same ones from the deli. Not just that, they were the same voices from outside the dojo earlier. I knew I wasn't going crazy. I was being followed. Not only that, by the sound of the voices, they were out to do some sort of harm to me. I took a few deep breaths to calm my nerves but I continued to walk. I shifted course and kept to well-lit spots of areas and clusters of peoples wherever I could find them. Judging by one of the voices, crowded areas will deter them for a bit. My mind was swarming with a hurricane of ideas on how to go about this situation. Think Quest! What to do? Go back to the dojo? No. I don't want to put Sensei at risk. Walk to the police station? Teh after my experience an hour or two ago, I'm not giving those useless pigs my faith again. Then an idea popped in my head and I hastened my walk.
"I got something for you stalking creeps.''
I silently but hastily made my way down the sidewalk, completely ignoring what few people that were still out and about. After what felt like an hour of making right turns and left turns, I finally found myself at a lone, trash littered alleyway. I came upon and stopped at a red brick walk. Dead end. I turned around, cracked my neck, and got into a readied fighting stance.
"All right. I'm ready for you,'' I growled.
I focused on my sharp hearing, hoping that something would catch my ears and after only what felt like five minutes the distant but unmistakable sound of footsteps came to me. I tensed up a bit as the footsteps became louder and louder. I knew whoever it was going to come around that corner any second. "Bring it on…''
I honestly didn't know who I was expecting, but I sure as heck wasn't expecting to pick up the whiff of a set of familiar smells. Smells I knew all too well.
"Wait…it couldn't be…'' I muttered.
Sure enough, Johnny Shreese and Daniel Gold were the ones to come into view from around the corner…both wearing the most distained expressions I've ever seen on a person.
"Johnny? Daniel?'' I inquired, relaxing a bit and taking off my hood. "What are you guys doing here?''
"Sup Quest,'' said Daniel.
"Man, you two have no idea how glad I am to see you.''
"Aw look Danny Boy,'' said Johnny. "Quest still remembers us. Nice to know he hasn't forgotten us little people.''
"Yeah man. Aren't we just so damn flattered,'' answered Daniel.
Both had a sarcastic tone to their voices, but in honestly I was actually relived to have seen them. "Listen I just-wait—how long have you been following me?''
"Noticed did you?'' answered Daniel, starting to circle me with a truly passive glance. "Hope you didn't mind? I'm sure famous people get followed all the time''
"All the damn time. We just wanted your autograph. It could be worth big one day.''
I frowned, now both of my fellow students circling me like vultures. ''What are you guys talking about? And you didn't happen to see anyone el-''
"We know you're bullshit King,'' Johnny cut in.
"Excuse me?''
"You heard me, you fucking cheat.''
I frowned. "What…what are you talking about?''
"Don't give us that shit!'' Daniel said curtly. "We've seen it throughout the years at the dojo. The way you move. The way you can bulldoze through all those drills constantly without breaking a sweat. The way you train…''
I kept a vigilant, stern frown, but I could not stop the cold, nervous sweat that was beginning on the back of my neck. Johnny spoke as he two continued their circling. "Oh yeah, 'Alpha Wolf" we've seen what you would do after training hours. Punching brick walls. Kicking trees. Palm striking hot sand. All that and no bruises or marks to show for it.''
It felt like I an iron ball had dropped to my stomach. Crap! Do they really know about me? About my…irregularities? I thought I've been careful these years to hide what I can do, but I guess the Lord had other ideas. Maybe deep down, I knew this secret would come out eventually.
Swallowing a lump in my throat, I opened my mouth to speak. "Daniel. Johnny. Just…just hear me out.''
The two fellow karate practitioners suddenly stopped in their tracks, expressions on their faces as if they have just solved the secret of the universe. "So you admit it, then?'' snarled Johnny. "I knew it. I knew you've been doping yourself with steroids!''
I blinked blankly. "Wait…what?''
"You've been using steroids all this time!''
"Dude, I have NOT been shooting myself up! I've never done drugs in my life!''
"Bullshit! Daniel shouted, spitting a bit. "All the time we've met you, no one has ever landed a hit on you. NO ONE! No fighter is that good!''
"What are you talking about? You landed a hit on me during the flag exercise.''
"Yeah after you got distracted! Looking out the window! What were you too good for us? Were we boring you?''
"No! That wasn't it-''
"Don't even!'' yelled Johnny, coming up to me while accusingly pointing a finger at my chest. "But after all this is Quest we're taking about! The perfect Alpha Wolf! Sensei's star little pet!''
"Seriously…you guys are freaking mental. And you need to back off,'' I said darkly.
"Oh yeah? Well what if we don't,'' sneered Johnny. "Tell Sensei on us? What are you going to do, huh? What? What?''
Johnny then shoved me…or at the very least tried to shove me but instead he was pushed back a step or two while I remained still and grounded like some sort of steel wall. Johnny seemed to have noticed to judging by the confused look upon his pinkish face.
"Finished? Cause you two need to get some help with a little bit of Jesus in your life. I'm done here. You two continue being idiots.''
I forced passed Johnny with my shoulder and started down the alley. But a few steps in I heard the sound of Jerry's voice as it echoed in the area. "You black pussy!''
I stopped stopping the flash of anger within me by letting out a single, deep breath. I glared over my shoulder. "You two shame Sensei Lawrusso.''
I began again down the filthy alleyway when sudden quick sounds of running came to me. I turned around to see Johnny sprinting at full speed towards me and with a yell attempted to strike me with a jump reverse side. I was ready. Before the kick could land I caught it with my left arm and forcibly slammed the blonde haired student onto the hard ground. Johnny groaned, completely stunned by the counter attack. That's when Jerry ran at me with a yell, delivering a flurry of punches and kicks. I evaded each attack easily and when Jerry tried to strike me with a high punch, I countered with a reverse knee strike right to his chest. Jerry wheezed as he landed on the ground on his back with a loud thud.
"Give it up guys. Just stop this nonsense already,'' I said, cracking my neck.
I went over and extended a hand to each of them to help me up, but Johnny merely smacked a hand away as the two quickly scrambled to their feet, their faces red. "Screw that shit! Fumed Johnny, spitting to the ground. "This ain't class. This is a bare knuckle street fight. No holding back! You ready Jerry?''
Daniel put a thumb to a nostril and blew hard from the other. "Let's fuck him up, man.''
The two faced and bowed to each other and said in unison, "Party time.''
They faced me, getting into their fighting stances. I let out an irritated growl, but too went into my fighting stance; my right hand fisted while my left hand opened with fingers bent like claws. "Look guys, you're good. But you can't beat me. Now walk away.''
"After we kick your ass!'' replied Daniel.
The two yelled and both set upon me. The two attacked fiercely; front punches, back punches, knee strikes, round house kicks, double kicks…everything that our sensei had taught them. It didn't mattered. As much as they ferociously went about their assault, I blocked, dipped, side stepped, and parried all of their attacks. I mentally shook my head in pity as they made the same mistakes as in class earlier today.
"Still no coordination. Still no teamwork. Well that's on them…I'm ending this now!''
Daniel tried to throw another punch at me, but I blocked it and with effortlessly flipped him over and threw him on the ground. He wheezed in pain and before he could even react, I finished giving a hard stomp across his chin, hearing a small but sickening crack. Daniel was out. Motionless, but not dead. "Nighty night, asshole.'' I muttered.
Now it was Johnny's turn, who bore a face as if he was trying to comprehend what had just happened. "Fuck, Danny! You've always been a pussy! Gotta do everything my God damn self!''
A feeling of disgust suddenly stabbed me like a knife as Johnny rushed at me screaming. I blocked a reverse punched then ducked under an attempted reverse spinning elbow strike. Taking advantage of the opening, I delivered hard and precise punches to his abdomen and his face. He staggered back but I performed a reverse low sweep to his front foot, causing him to be swept up in the air as I delivered a double vertical fist strike to his stomach and his hit the ground hard on his back. Johnny coughed and groaned, holding his stomach which no doubt was pretty sore right now.
I whipped my side dreadlocks out of my face, frowning at the two pitiful karate students before and behind me. I glared at Johnny, still reeling from my last attack. "Don't use the Lord's name and vain. Now scrape up Daniel and go. And I'd suggest not coming back to the dojo. You disgraced our Sensei's teachings.''
Despite my anger and disgust, I nonetheless bowed to Johnny, not taking me hardened eyes off him. I then turned and made my way towards out the alley. I didn't make five steps, however, when I heard the sound of cursing, followed by the breaking of what sounded like glass. I stopped and turned to see Johnny hunched over, holding to broken glass bottles in each hand-breathing hard with a truly abhorrent snarl on his now grimed face.
"Go to fucking Hell, you arrogant bitch!'' seethed Johnny.
He ran towards me in a somewhat drunken like state. I merely stared at him, eyebrows furrowed and fists tightly clenched. He thrusted forward, trying to stab me with the sharp, point on one of the bottles, but I merely kicked it out of his grasp, the shard breaking on the ground. With frustrated grunts and growls Johnny tried to swing the other broken bottle across my neck, but I caught his wrists and with a simple twist Johnny cried out an immediately abandoned the glass. I grabbed him by the collar of his shit and spun him I front of me, looking into his unfocused eyes.
"Attempted murder? Seriously?! Don't try to ruin your life over this!''
BANG
Warm, thick liquid had suddenly sprayed on my face. I staggered back in shock, some of the liquid had landed on my mouth and I caught the taste of iron. I gazed back up at Johnny only give out a cry of shock at what I was now seeing. A large gaping hole was where his left eye should've been; scarlet was flowing endlessly from the wound as the other eye rolled back lifelessly to the back of his head. I dropped Johnny as if he was hot to the touch and his body fell lifelessly to the ground as a crimson pool quickly formed around his head. Johnny was dead.
"What the hell…" I uttered in shock and fear. "What the hell-I-I didn't do that-I-''
A voice suddenly cut me off. "Christ on a fucking stick! You had one, fucking job Moxxie!''
Progress: Level up
Accessories: Diamond patterned scarf
Stamina: +10%
Strength: +10%
Endurance: +10%
AUTHOR'S NOTE: Hello all! A few things. I want to apologize for the long hiatus of Zootopia: When World's Collide. Because of life I haven't been able to work on the story little or none at all. But the next chapter of Zootopia will be out sometime next month and I will try to keep the chapters rolling. I've decided to that end I will be making chapters shorter to help me push chapters out faster. This will not affect the size of the story, for I have a big story to tell for Zootopia, and I'll make lengthy chapters if it calls for them, but from now on expect shorter chapters. However, I will still strike to make them as well written as possible. Zootopia and Hazbin Hotel/Helluva Boss will be my top to priorities right now. Thanks again!