DxD - The Last Amagiri

by HolyKnightX

Kensei Amagiri, the surviving heir to the Amagiri Clan, after losing his mother now lives on an island, where he fights for survival with his new friends. Left for dead by the Old Devils and Taro, is found by two legends who'll assist him in taking his fate back into his own hands.

59. Summer Training II

Welcome to the next chapter of DxD – The Last Amagiri, but before starting the story. Let's answer some reviews:

altair95: Thanks. Each of them has been undergoing rigorous training over the summer break, said training included not using their Sacred Gears, Dragon King training, and preparing inventions. But, Zane did receive a surprising kiss from Lena, who gave an adorable reaction. More was revealed about the creatures inhabiting Shiamano, some impossible to defeat right now. Koneko managed to overcome her fears, having received encouraging words and laughter from Kensei and Hisui. And in the end, both of them shared a lemon too.

---

Summer Training II

After another week of training, Lingqi found herself dressed, not in her usual training outfit, but instead in a white yukata most appropriate for this location. She was in the process of meditating underneath a waterfall, feeling the sheer pressure from the descending water. But, it wasn't a normal waterfall, the Amakudari Fall meant to cleanse one's mind, body, and spirit. A common training method found in the real world, but this waterfall wasn't something average Special power users couldn't withstand training underneath it for more than a couple of minutes.

It was located in one of the forests near the main capital of Shiamano, the Shiten Capital, being a location, which she'd been guided to three days prior.

"…."

For the first time, Lingqi trained underneath the waterfall for almost five minutes before falling off of where she was sitting.

[Amakudari Falls is one of the places which has become influenced by the spiritual power saturated throughout the world because it's often most focused here. In Shiamano, locations and items can turn into something unique compared to the real world. If you think about it, then it can be the same as locations and items often being called Kami in Shintoism. Well, training here is important for people attempting to hone their ki and spiritual power. It, however, isn't the easiest place to train for long. So, please be careful, Lingqi-sama.]

"…!"

At that moment, Lingqi leaped from underneath the Amakudari Falls, landing in the water underneath without falling. Standing there, she found herself breathing as a silver aura produced from spiritual power had manifested around her. For the Shikigami, it was surprising to find that Lingqi could manifest it in a short period, and learn control. More than that, the presence released from it, was enough to make the nearby animals around her feel almost docile.

As she heard, as spiritual energy originates from the soul, and hers houses Tiger Qi, its presence is more bestial than a normal person's. Amid Lingqi's waterfall training, she practiced the cultivation method taught among their Byakko Kenpo, Byakko Renki. Her breathing patterns mimicked the White Tiger, lauded as the King of Beasts; during which, she absorbed and refined natural Ki, causing her body and meridians to become stimulated. It was something Jie invented during his training to ascend into a Xian, preparing Masters to learn stronger techniques and withstand harsher conditions.

All in all, Byakko Kenpo was also a technique that could rival that of Senjutsu, in the sense that it could let them accomplish similar feats related to the body. She hasn't practiced it that much since learning about it from Jie, but Shiamano was the perfect location to start it.

"…hah," Lingqi breathed outward, as the aura produced from spiritual energy faded. "Well, it was a good start for the first time using Byakko Renki. But, training here does have a great effect too. I can train here for almost ten minutes without pausing, any longer would feel too much for me. At this point, it feels as if my body and soul are being crushed by intense pressure. But, I managed to access my spiritual power after a couple of days here. And I feel as if I'm at the breaking point of touching Tiger Qi."

At the thought of that, Lingqi thought back to the sensation that she felt the first time she awakened Tiger Qi, and that was in a dire situation when Kensei was in trouble. Running a hand through her soaked hair, the clothing she wore right then clung to her body. A breath escaped from Lingqi's mouth, before turning around and staring right at the waterfall once again.

"Alright, let's have another round."

From her current position, Lingqi leaped straight toward the waterfall once again and took her seat as the rushing water proceeded to crash on her.

---

Meanwhile, on the beach, several sounds could be heard from a clash between two people, which were revealed to be Koneko and Ravel. Instead of being their usual sparring session, the two young women were fighting using their actual powers. In Ravel's hands, the flames of her clan surrounded her, shaping as fireballs with a far more solid shape compared to usual. Using her flaming wings, Ravel maneuvered above the ground, releasing each of the fireballs at her opponent.

"Hah!"

Her opponent, let out a strong tone, as she avoided the fireballs released at her, using the movements taught to her by Kensei. But, there was a major difference, differing from before, Koneko had her cat ears and tail out, one that caused her agile movements to feel more natural. In releasing her Nekomata form, more of her innate power was released, causing her senses to become sharper.

"…."

Koneko avoided the fireballs fired at her, exploding against the sand, resulting in a dust could that would deter an average opponent. However, in releasing her Nekomata powers and Senjutsu, she could maneuver around just fine even if blinded. She kept moving forward, straight through the dust cloud, reeling her fist back not that far of a distance. A pale white aura could be seen covering her fist, before launching it forward straight at Ravel, which would dangerous to take, immortal or not.

Using what she learned from Kensei, Ravel released a burst of wind that blew her background, just as Koneko's fist seem to shake the air a bit. A breath could be heard escaping from their mouth, as the two kept on with this match for almost fifteen minutes straight. Neither could recall a time where the two fought on the frontlines as long as this, more so against a single opponent. But, that just showed that their stamina has just been increasing from Kensei's training.

"Alright, this time I'm going to win this match!"

Ravel declared with a strong and competitive tone.

"…think again, Yakitori-hime."

"…damn, Nekomata."

Ravel held her hand forward as flames manifested in her hands, but then the wind started spiraling around it, feeding the flames in her hands. To counter it, Koneko focused on shrouding herself in the same white aura, focusing on the Rook trait to defend the flames. She was learning the basics of Senjutsu, but there wasn't one technique she could use without mastering the basics.

""Bring it, Hetare Yakitori-hime/Wareme Nekomata!""

Koneko and Ravel shouted at each other, almost with spite behind their tones.

But, in that instance….

Smack!

""Iyaah!""

Ravel and Koneko immediately stopped fighting against each other, and their techniques vanished, while the two held onto their butts. At almost the same time, the two felt a hand smack both their butts, with deep flushes, realizing the person who did it. Kensei appeared in the middle of them holding his hand in the air, as he appeared to have either finished training or was interrupted.

"Alright, what's the first thing that you did wrong?"

Kensei asked, acting like a stern instructor right then and there.

Holding their butts using their hands, feeling the stinging sensation that originated from there. Both of them did look as if the two just had been sternly lectured.

"We agreed on no big moves that would cause no harm for now."

"…we got heated over an argument and almost hurt one another while insulting each other."

Ravel and Koneko replied, almost shyly.

"Correct," Kensei replied, returning to a casual look. "I know that you two are like literal cats and birds. But, don't forget that during training your Senjutsu could hurt her and your Phenex flames can cause harm to even a Dragon. So, not getting extra serious against one another during training, until both of you reach a manageable enough level."

""Yes, Ken-sama/Ken-sensei.""

Ravel and Koneko replied, bowing their head down a bit, feeling a bit flushed from being lectured and even being spanked by Kensei.

"Well, you two can take a break."

""…hah/Hah!""

Both Koneko and Ravel breathed out a bit, falling to the ground on their butts, from the built-up exhaustion. But, it caused them to feel the faint stinging sensation from where the two got spanked, causing them to flinch a bit.

"So, Koneko would you like to start another lesson about Senjutsu basics?"

"…yes."

Koneko replied, finding the lessons she learned from Kensei regarding Senjutsu and martial arts as being interesting things for her.

"Alright, I think that I covered the basics behind meditating and learning to become one with nature without ever attracting the malicious Ki. So, I'll talk about the meridians and chakras," Kensei stated, sitting with legs crossed right in front of Koneko, who sat close to Ravel. "Well, meridians are a complex series of pathways spreading through the body, responsible for transmitting Ki throughout them. They're responsible for the typical bodily functions and others as well. If you strike or influence a point, then it could either enhance or inhibit the flow of Ki. So, you're able to strengthen or heal yourself and damage someone, even making it harder for them to gather their power."

"…I see."

"It'd be better with an example, right? Alright, Koneko comes closer and holds out both your hands."

"Okay."

Koneko replied in an assured tone.

Not hesitating, she sat down much closer to Kensei and held out her hands straight as instructed. Once that was done, Kensei extended his hand, then touched hers and caused Koneko to flinch a bit from the contact. But, her hands remained in the same position without moving an inch.

"Alright, now focus on feeling out the threads of Ki that I'll be sending straight into you as it travels throughout the meridians in your body."

"…alright."

Koneko agreed as she kept concentrating on that.

He then proceeded from there, sending slivers of Ki straight right into Koneko through her hands, which began to travel throughout her meridians. She tried focusing, but she felt herself beginning to become warmer from the Ki being sent into her. Koneko, however, could sense the meridians within herself as the Ki traveled throughout her, feeling as if their nodes could be felt. From her arms, head, chest, abdomen, waist, and legs, she started feeling the faintest hint of nodes.

"…hah."

Koneko removed her hand from Kensei's hands, recalling the location of the meridians that she sensed.

"So, did you get a feel of the meridians?"

"…y-yes. It was an interesting experience."

"Yeah, it took me a while to get it down. So, you're lucky to have someone experienced in that area here," Kensei said, extending his hand to pet the top of her head. As he did that, he brushed one of her ears, causing a mew to escape from Koneko's mouth. "Let's move on to chakras next then."

"Right, Ken-sama, didn't you mention that you planned on it," Ravel started, but paused as she stared right at a casual-looking Koneko. "What, you aren't going to interrupt me? Or, tell me to mind my own business?"

"…no, why?"

Koneko asked back, almost sounding amused and sarcastic.

"…! Damn, Nekomata."

Ravel looked on irritated as Koneko was playing with her because the Nekomata interrupted her the other times that she tried being informative.

"Come on, don't argue. What Ravel was about to say is that I planned on attempting to succeed in turning each of my chakras at some point," Kensei pointed out, then stood up from off the ground, holding a stick in his hands, and proceeded to draw a human body diagram in the sand. "You see, chakras are the center points, which are similar to pools of life force that flow into your body. One of the fundamentals of Senjutsu is turning those pools into a continuous flow that'd cause life force to continue pouring into your body. So, it's one of the reasons that it is considered magic related to the body, which let the people who mastered it ascend into Sennin, beings who can live as long as supernatural beings."

"…so, turning them into a constant current causes Ki to continue flowing into your body."

"Yeah, but it's an advanced thing, leagues above finding your meridians. And turning those seven centers into a constant is easier said than done, most people spend their entire lives attempting to do this. But, I don't plan on spending decades attempting this," Kensei stated, finishing the basic idea of the seven chakras, which start right at the spine leading up to the top of the head. "Same as the meridians, turning a chakra could improve functions of the body. At the base of the spine, below the navel, above the navel, the heart, the throat, the forehead, and at the crown of the head. Aside from the body, it can improve someone on a mental and spiritual level."

As Kensei explained that to them, Koneko and Ravel started feeling as if the two could understand the reason he was into the idea of mastering Senjutsu. His clan's main focus is learning to master Ki and Spiritual power, which makes Senjutsu an essential aid in reaching another level.

"So, did you get a new idea of the potential things you could explore with Senjutsu in the future?"

"…yes," Koneko replied, nodding her head. "For the longest time, I never considered the things that it could be used for and just thought about the bad things that could happen. But, in learning more about it, I'm realizing that I could do some good using it. For Buchou and the others, as well as for myself too. And that's all because of you."

Having finished that last part, Koneko gave Kensei both a genuine and beautiful smile that showed the first real expression of happiness thus far.

"That's a good mindset to have. I'll be there to support your growth as much as possible. In terms of martial arts and Senjutsu, since teaching Youjutsu is a bit outside of my specialty."

"…yeah, there's that too. I don't know whether or not I would be skilled at Youjutsu."

"Well, lucky for you, we know a bunch of Youkai that are skilled at it," Kensei pointed out, then slapped his hands on top of his knee. "Alright, both of you can take a break and have some fun. Seeing as it's summer break and we are at a beach, I'm sure that you two can come up with some ideas for fun."

"Alright, I'd like to beat Koneko-sama at building a sand castle."

"…I doubt it."

"Alright, then let's go!"

At that moment, a bright light surrounded, Ravel and Koneko, where the former was seen dressed in a two-piece, while the latter was dressed in a one-piece. Kensei couldn't help admitting that the two looked cute dressed in a swimsuit like that.

"Oh, look at this?"

Kensei turned around to find Hisui standing there, returning from training. But, she wasn't alone as the others too gathered alongside her, almost seeming to have taken a break out of training.

"Hey, it seems as if everyone took a break. Well, Ravel and Koneko are preparing to make sand castles."

"You know, being here on the beach right now makes me remember that it's supposed to be our summer break," a calm breath could be heard from Hisui as she raised her hand into the air. "It's still early in the morning to let's have some real fun at the beach as we're supposed to be! So, let's have some fun at the beach!"

At Hisui's energetic comment, Kensei and the others looked straight at the green-haired Nekomata, having ideas entering their minds about having some beach fun.

[Right, let's do it!]

Everyone announced without hesitation, resulting at the beginning of them truly enjoying their summer break for real while resting.

---

Some time passed, with the entire group dressing in their swimsuits, on the beach, there were the things that one would expect from a beach party. There were towels on the ground, seats, beach umbrellas, watermelons, and a barbecue grill. Working on the grill was one of the Shikigami responsible for cooking meals, a female dressed in a swimsuit to match the occasion. Surprisingly enough, the people in Shiamano were adept at creating things as long as they knew the basic things behind them.

Amid that, Kensei and the others were enjoying themselves to the fullest, and Naoto and Akari were further out in the water, playing around. As planned, Koneko and Ravel were competing with one another in a sandcastle-building contest. Hisui stood behind a blindfolded Kunou, who was holding a wooden sword, giving a mischievous smile as she was directing her in the direction of a watermelon. Minako was dressed in an extravagant two-piece, with sunglasses and holding a magazine while resting underneath an umbrella. Right beside her, Nariko, who was in a cute two-piece played in the sand beside her.

Out into the sea, Lingqi was riding on the waves on a surfboard, dressed in something that resembled more of a sports swimsuit. Despite it being her first time doing such a thing, the white-haired young woman was getting the hang of it faster than one would've expected. Kensei, who seemed to have planned on heading out himself onto the ocean himself held a surfboard too. He, himself was dressed in simple black swim trunks with the Amagiri Clan symbol on them.

"Well, let's see if Lingqi wouldn't mind racing me."

"Kensei."

"What," Kensei turned to find Alice casually laying on her stomach, while on top of a towel. Right beside her was a sunblock bottle, something that caused him to get a clear idea of her request. "Alright, I got it."

"Thank you. Can you unloosen my top strap too and get my back? I don't want tan lines."

"Alright. I swear if I didn't know you, then I'd say that you were doing all this on purpose."

Kensei jokingly said, unloosing her swimsuit's top so that he could get unrestricted access to Alice's back. As that was done, he poured some sunblock into his hands, which he rubbed together. After that, Kensei started rubbing down Alice's back, causing her to feel the cold sensation from the lotion.

"Hmm."

Alice moaned as she felt Kensei rubbing and spreading the sunblock across her body, from the top and down. Since Alice said that she didn't want tan lines, his hands went underneath the swimsuit bottoms and spread the lotion across her waist and ass. From there, Kensei coated Alice's thighs and legs, down down to her feet, not leaving a single part of her that wasn't covered in sunblock from behind.

"Alright, so we're doing the front next, right?"

"Y-Yeah."

Alice replied, feeling the pleasant sensation from being rubbed down by Kensei, who'd become an expert when it came to giving massages. It was increased the most because he added Ki on top of that. She turned her body around covering her breasts using her hands, in a manner that Kensei thought that adorable for her. As soon as the two noticed that Naoto wasn't watching, more so, for his sake; Alice removed her hands, showing off her abundant chest, which could rival Rias' and Akeno's breasts.

After that, he covered his hands in more sunblock, then proceeded to cover Alice's front in the lotion, causing her to feel the same cold sensation. She began moaning more as soon as Kensei began covering her breasts in the lotion too.

"Nnn," Alice mewled softly, while she felt her breasts being covered in the lotion. However, she then breathed out more calmly once Kensei finished applying the sunblock to Alice. "Thank you, Kensei."

"No problem. I'll always be there to give a hand to my fiancèes."

At that, Kensei leaned down and kissed Alice on the lips, causing them to have some moment of contact before he left to have some fun of his own. Once he left, Alice put back on her top, as the arms of a monster seeped out from her shadow to tie the back. After retreating into her shadow, she laid back on her back, then found herself sunbathing under Shiamano's sun.

---

Heading out into the deeper waters, Kensei pushed himself forward toward Lingqi using his water control, while maintaining balance. From where he stood, he could see that she was sitting down on her board, relishing in the peace around her. Arriving near Lingqi, who'd looked on surprised to find Kensei right there, instead sent a real kind smile towards him.

"Hey, Kensei, what's the rush?"

"I wanted to know if you wanted to have a little bit of a contest to see who's the best surfer."

"Oh, a contest. It's kinda unfair to fight against someone who can control water."

"Come on, do you think that I'm the kind of person to cheat in a fair contest? I'm just going to create some waves and not be a cheat about it."

"Alright, and what does the winner get?"

Lingqi playfully asked.

"How about the loser buys the winner a meal at that barbecue spot?"

Kensei replied, wearing a confident smirk.

"Oh, you are so on."

Lingqi immediately replied, both of them loving the same restaurant and viewing that as a win-win situation.

"Alright, let's go!"

Kensei raised his hand into the air, gathering spiritual power around himself, before thrusting it into the water, as a sudden pulse was released into the water. At that, both of them started swimming forward on their boards with thoughts of the succulent barbecue entering their minds. As if sensing the coming waves, Kensei and Lingqi had stood up on their surfboards. Despite making complaints about it, Lingqi didn't believe that he would cheat, instead saying such to be a tease.

From there, the two surfed through the manufactured waves, both of them performed stunts throughout their race and seemed to attempt to one-up each other. For the people watching the entire time, it seemed to be more of a genuine performance. At some point, the two looked to notice the biggest wave started rolling together, with the potential to produce a green room.

""….""

Having the same idea in their mind, the two rushed forward in the direction of the producing rolling wave, with the two martial artists entering it. Inside, Kensei and Lingqi began riding around inside the waves' green room, and smile as the two passed one another. Amid that, there was a sudden reaction from them, as if there was the faintest hint of something's presence. Lingqi suddenly felt something wrapping around her leg, and then pulled her under the water.

"Iyah!"

"Lingqi!"

Kensei called out surprised, turning to find Lingqi just as she was pulled underneath the water.

It surprised Kensei enough to stop swimming forward and then dove deeper into the water in an attempt to free Lingqi from whatever caught her. Going deeper into the water, he looked to find that Lingqi was being dragged by some tentacle wrapped around her ankle. Further down, Kensei looked to see multiple eyes peering at them, and a giant obscured figure, the same as the tentacles wrapped around Lingqi's leg, each of them gleaming with a mystifying blue light.

"What the hell is that?"

Kensei asked in his head.

He could see that multiple tentacles were wrapping themselves around Lingqi's limbs and body, making it close to impossible to escape. It would be impossible for a martial artist to escape, let alone fight, while underwater and against an unknown creature. Pointing his hand out at the unknown sea creature, releasing several water blades right at it. It received several attacks trained on it, one of them releasing Lingqi's ankle and that allowed her to get some distance from it.

Same as him, Lingqi was fast at swimming underwater and can handle the pressure that came with the negative effects common to Humans. She stared at Kensei with an appreciative look but found that he was turning from her with what looked to be a flushed look.

"…," Lingqi looked confused, then looked to find Kensei pointing downward, then her face started turning bright red. "…!"

The mucus or secretion from the creature's tentacles, which had been wrapped around her, had melted off her swimsuit. As such, Lingqi's tight and mature body, and her figure was neither too small nor too big, instead being perfect for a female martial artist.

"…!"

Same as usual, Lingqi's face started turning bright red from the embarrassment felt as the sea creature started to extend its tentacles toward her. Several emotions started welling up within her chest and head at the same time, unknowingly producing a brilliant white aura. As if reacting to it, Kensei's dragon power started welling up from in his body, producing a black aura.

"Huh?"

Kensei seemed confused about this but recognized the power as being the same thing that Lingqi manifested for the first time against Jun.

"…!"

It seemed as if Lingqi released a scream underwater from embarrassment, but that seemed to have produced an underwater shockwave. It pushed Kensei backward and sparked a sense of fear within the creature that tried to pull Lingqi downward.

---

"Huh, something is happening."

Minako said, looking forward and removing her sunglasses while sitting up.

Everyone looked up to find waves were being produced underwater, catching their attention as a new presence was being sensed underwater. It could be sensed by Naoto and Akari, both of whom have found their perceptive abilities being honed in Shiamano. Soon enough, Kensei found himself exiting from the water and landed on top of the surface using Shinsoku.

"Hah, that was surprising."

Kensei said, breathing out a bit.

"What happened, Ani…huh?"

Before Naoto could comprehend what was happening, Kensei appeared right in front of Naoto, then turned him around without hesitation.

"Yeah, it'd be best if you don't turn around in a couple of moments."

Kensei pointed out, with Naoto not going against his older brother's comment.

"So, what happened?"

Akari asked, standing beside Naoto.

"Well…."

Don! Don! Don! Don!

Before Kensei could finish, the group could see waves and hear explosions underwater, as if a battle happened there. Surprisingly enough, there was a bright light that could be seen underwater, and then Kensei thought that it felt familiar.

"Huh, I think that Lingqi just…."

Doooooooon!

"…activated Balance Breaker."

There was an explosion underwater, causing water to be pushed upwards and fell as if it were raining right then and there. Amid that, the deceased monster could be seen sent flying out of the water, with a massive hole right through its chest. Now, it could be seen more as resembling an enormous seashell with numerous tentacles protruding from it.

"Oh, I think that's an Umigari."

"A what?"

Ravel asked, tilting her head to the side.

"It's an underwater predator that hides underneath the water surface, often hiding their presence and blending with the environment, to the point that it's hard to sense them until it attacks. Its tentacles can secrete a neurotoxin to paralyze prey, but before that, it secretes mucus that melts clothing."

The female Shikigami replied.

"…what?"

Ravel asked again.

"You see, it has a sensitive digestive system and clothing seems to upset their stomach."

The Shikigami replied.

"…a monster version of Ise-senpai."

"Yes."

Ravel added, recalling her first experience with Issei during the Rating Game.

"Lin Lin go rawr rawr."

"Aw, why are you so cute?"

Minako couldn't help herself as Nariko was clapping her hands.

As the Umigari was landing on the ground, its body vanished, because the spiritual matter that it was composed of returned to Shiamano's atmosphere. Just then, Lingqi landed on the ground still in Balance Breaker, holding the Umigari's core in her hands.

"Wow, Lingqi defeated that thing underwater. I can tell that the power of her Balance Breaker has risen compared to what it was before. I could also sense that the other power within Lingqi has awakened more compared to the last time she tried."

Hisui said, wearing a surprised look, feeling the power wafting off him.

"I killed that giant seashell."

Lingqi uttered in an irritated tone, feeling flushed from the fact that she was stripped and lost the contest.

"Uh, Lingqi-sama, if you don't mind. I could fix your clothing using demonic power."

"Please, and thank you."

Lingqi thanked Ravel, who approached her, then held out her hand in the opening that was made, which granted her access to her skin. Using demonic power, Ravel, reproduced Lingqi's swimsuit, which once completed made it possible to remove the armor.

"So, Lingqi."

"I know, I know, I technically lose, because of that monster."

Lingqi said, feeling as if she lose because of the attack of the Umigari.

"No, I was going to say, how about I pay for your meal, and you pay for mine."

"Alright, that sounds fair," Lingqi said, feeling reinvigorated about the fact that she'll still get to eat at their favorite barbecue restaurant. "So, now what am I going to do with this? I heard that I was aligned with the Metal Element instead of the other elements."

"No, I believe that you should still keep it," in the first moment of assertiveness, the female Shikigami stepped up and placed a finger on the core. "If you think about the concept built around Shiamano and what you and Kensei-sama have read about the Five Elements, then you'll realize something."

"I see," Lingqi said, then found herself storing it in another dimension and then stared at her hand too. She felt it herself in the heat of the moment, but she sensed her Tiger Qi awakening once again. "It happened again, but it didn't happen during my training despite my attempts."

"Well, I'm sure that we can figure that out later. So, let's focus on having fun first."

Kensei stated, instinctively putting a hand on Lingqi's shoulder. But, the act itself caused everyone around them to flinch, knowing that Lingqi has trouble with people (men in general) touching her without reacting. However, much to their surprise that didn't happen and she instead nodded her head. Of course, that all meant that Lingqi was getting used to Kensei.

After that, their group did, continue playing at the beach throughout the entire time without interruption from anything. There wouldn't be a single thing that would interrupt their group's enjoyment of their summer, and were sure that the others were taking breaks too.

---

Later that night, Lingqi found herself dressed in normal clothing as Nariko sat on her lap, staring at the sparkling stars on the beach. It was something that she'd often find herself doing since training, while the young infant was around her.

"Sparkly, sparkly."

Nariko said, smiling as she looked into the sky.

"Yes, the stars of Shiamano sure are beautiful. I was surprised to see how alike this world is to the real world, but there are, of course, major differences from the real world. I didn't think that I could fight against creatures such as this. But, this has been a worthwhile experience and I'm learning more about what it means to fight more like a White Tiger," Lingqi said, as she felt Nariko's small hands wrapping around her fingers. "And there are others I learned while traveling across China too."

Amid training in Shiamano, Lingqi thought about what she learned from traveling across China and encountering Masters over those 5 years. During that time, she learned ones such as Jeet Kune Do, Weng Chun, Huaquan, and Sanda, to list a few. Lingqi felt that continuing to hone all that could lead her to create more original techniques while improving the ones she learned now.

"So, Lin Lin can be super strong?"

Nariko questioned, looking straight up at Lingqi from right below, a gesture that the young woman couldn't help, but find adorable.

"Yeah, I think that I could become super strong too," Lingqi replied, petting the giggling infant on top of her head and feeling a deep sense of nostalgia. "You know, I have four younger siblings too, same as your big brother. I was so happy that I got to be a big sister. I loved and adored each of them from the moment they were born. Each of them is more or less different from one another. Jing is the coolest and calmest of the three, I can tell that he's going to be the ideal technique type. Jingyi is the smartest and most excitable one, I heard that he started taking an interest as an alchemist and medicine with the Byakko Kenpo as an aid. Cheng is in all rights the youngest and roughest one, but there's no denying his potential. And my youngest sister, Chao, she's the kindest and sweetest one with an interest in books. I heard that she has been working on writing one. I can't wait to see them all again."

As Lingqi kept holding onto Nariko, a feeling of nostalgia began building up within her chest, while thinking about her siblings. Noticing this, Nariko seemed to stand up, while on Lingqi's lap, then turned around and wrapped her arms around the young martial artist in a hug.

"It's gonna kay' Lin Lin."

"…."

At that moment, Lingqi felt herself tearing up from the amount of adorableness and kindness Nariko showed right at that instance.

"Yeah, I know."

Lingqi stated.

"Oh, I thought that I'd find you two here."

Kensei said, appearing from down the road and could see Lingqi and Nariko watching the stars.

"Oh, Kensei."

"Hi, Nii nii."

Both of them greeted Kensei wearing a smile on their face.

"Well, there was something that I wanted to talk about. You don't mind, right?"

"Sure thing."

Lingqi replied.

At that, Kensei sat down next to Lingqi and Nariko, with the infant crawling over in between them, wanting to be beside them both.

"So, what did you want to talk about?"

"It was about the incident that happened with the Umigari."

"Oh," Lingqi said, as the recollection of the incident entered her mind and her face turned bright red thinking right at the moment she was stripped. "Uh, exactly what part of the incident?"

"I meant the part where your Tiger Qi woke up."

"Yeah, that part," Lingqi said, feeling some gratitude for that. "Well, it was kinda a weird experience that my Tiger Qi awakened at that moment again. But, I felt that I'd pulled out more power in Balance Breaker than I could before. It got me thinking about what caused it to awaken it."

"Well, it kinda reminded me of the first time that I awakened Dragon Ki. I heard that the power of Dragons, responds most to emotions and often from straightforward people. In an emotional state, I brought out much more dragon aura than what I should've been capable of. It made me think of the first time you'd awakened Tiger Qi, which was more in the heat of the moment and on instinct."

"You're right," Lingqi stated, think about the first time that she tried protecting Kensei and then embarrassed in front of him, it was an instinctive response. "I was thinking so much about it that I didn't consider that beast power would be focused on instincts and other things related to them. I guess that's the thing that I missed out on when I was meditating. Hah, it was so simple that I overlooked it."

"Well, you often think to realize the answer from talking to someone. It kinda got me thinking about the fact that your Tiger Qi, reacting to my Dragon Ki. It reminded me of the fact that the power of Devils and Angels would react to one another when in close contact, either one suppressing the other," Kensei stated, making her think about that too. "I guess that's what happens since Dragons and Tigers are described as opposing, but in the end also equal forces."

"There are several things in the world that are like that too," Lingqi said, leaning backward in thought as looked at the stars. "It's kinda like the Five Elements, in China and most, it's a conceptual scheme describing how each of the five elements interacts with one another and is used to describe multiple kinds of phenomena. There are overcoming and generative interactions between them. Earth absorbs Water. Water extinguishes Fire. Fire melts Metal. Metal cuts down Wood. And Wood degrades Earth. It's interesting how much the Five Elements' concept is involved in several…."

At that moment, Lingqi thought about the words coming from her mouth, thinking about the entire concept behind the Five Elements' overcoming and generative cycles. It caused her to think about the words that she heard from the Shikigami who told her to keep the Water-type Spiritual Beast's core.

"Did something else cross your mind?"

"I talked about the overcoming interaction, but here's the generative one," Lingqi said, causing Kensei to continue listening to them. "Wood feeds Fire. Fire produces Earth. Earth bears Metal. Metal collects Water. And Water nourishes Wood. So, what if I'd ended up absorbing the Five Elements in that same direction beginning or ending with the Metal Element?"

Lingqi ended up bringing up something that was an amazing concept, reminding him of the entire foundation for Shiamano itself. It was built around the same concept of the Five Elements too, being an entire generator, the same as the mystical city of Kyoto.

"If you did that, then it would mean that the cores would have to be absorbed in the same order to work. As well as the fact that the Spiritual Beasts' cores would need to be of the same strength to maintain the balance," a smile could be seen on Kensei's face as he heard the overall concept from Lingqi, who seemed to be invested in the idea. "It's an awesome idea Lingqi. If you did that, then I wouldn't be able to guess what kind of results would happen in the future."

"Yeah, I guess that's what happens when you talk to people about your training. I haven't had much conversation about that in the Hero Faction. I do think that I would need to wait a bit and stop absorbing cores for some time," Lingqi paused as she looked down and almost squealed, noticing that Nariko fell asleep while the two talked with each other and rested on her lap. "Even asleep, she's the definition of adorable."

"Well, that's Nari-chan for you. I think that hearing her brother and friend talk about complicated things made her a little tired. I always get the feeling that she's trying to learn about whatever she's hearing," Kensei stated, slowly lifting Nariko and cradling the infant in his arms. "I think that it's about time that we return to the castle."

"Yeah, I think so too."

As the two stood up, Kensei and Lingqi began making their way in the direction of the Amagiri Clan's castle down the long road forward. Amid that, the two remained as quiet as possible, so as not to awaken Nariko, something that wasn't difficult at all. It didn't stop them from conversing with one another along the way.

"So, since Tigers and Dragons are stated to be opposing, but equal forces."

"Are you thinking what I'm thinking?"

Lingqi and Kensei were beginning to speak with one another on a more casual level, wearing the same kind of smirk on their face.

""Combo moves.""

Both of them said at the same time, but in a hushed tone; the thought of having combination techniques between them sparked a great interest in them. It was true that Lingqi was beginning to become more comfortable around Kensei since the incident with the Ordinals, as she could see him as a close friend and comrade.

---

The next day, Kensei found himself fighting against one of the Dragon-type Spiritual Beasts, which were among the strongest ones. He was in a clearing where the Dragon was rushing straight at him in the air, moving around in a manner most suitable for its serpentine body. At most, he could sense that it was strong enough to be called a King but still weaker than the Sea King.

"Alright, let's keep playing tag."

Instead of fighting against the Dragon, Kensei was playing around with it as it continued attacking him, all without attacking him. Amid all this, same as Lingqi, he was practicing and fighting more akin to that of an actual Eastern Dragon utilizing his movements and techniques. And the perfect sparring partner to achieve that would need to be an actual Eastern Dragon. He continued with this game of tag with the Eastern Dragon for almost over an hour without stopping.

Kensei felt himself learning more and more about using the footwork that he'd developed as a means of copying an Eastern Dragon's serpentine maneuvers. If people were to watch this, then it would look as if Kensei, instead of making erratic movements, instead it looked as if he was dancing with it. From this, he started learning more about how Spiritual Beasts absorbed spiritual power from the atmosphere while moving around.

"Alright, let's see if I can pull it off this time."

At that, Kensei stopped moving around as he seemed to focus on his arms position beside him, seeming to be meditating. Amid that, the Dragon seemed to pause a moment from the sudden inactivity from Kensei, being a bit suspicious about the suddenness of it. Same as most Dragons, the Shiamano's Dragons are intelligent and didn't act on instincts like most.

But, sensing that Kensei was preparing something, it pressed forward in an attempt to stop him from doing what he planned on doing. As it seemed to crash into Kensei, it instead hit empty air and looked confused about where he went. it didn't take long for it to realize that he was behind him, but it wasn't as if Kensei moved to avoid him, it was as if he….

"Hahaha, I pulled it off!"

Kensei said, laughing as his voice could be heard above the Dragon's head.

It turned around to find that Kensei was floating in the air without aid, though he didn't have much control over it, causing him to spin around.

"Whoa, whoa, I can't control it much though."

Since learning about Senjutsu, Kensei thought about the same abilities that were known among the Sennin, one of them being flight. Of course, he hasn't mastered it to their level, however, the thing that granted him an edge is the fact that he'd inherited dragon blood. Of course, it didn't belong to the winged Western Dragons, it originated from an Eastern Dragon who can fly without them. Since finding out about the fact he inherited dragon blood, he has tried to achieve this.

Noticing this, it turned around and soared straight for Kensei, who began moving around in midair, not as skilled as on the ground. He kept practicing maneuvering around in midair for several minutes, finding doing this taxing, because of his inexperience.

---

Almost an hour passed, and the Dragon seemed to have found himself finished this game of tag, then flew to where it resided. Amid that, Kensei jokingly waved his hand as the Dragon flew away, but sensed a sudden hint of ire that was situated at his hip. He looked down to see that the one thing at his side was Kurogane, but he didn't need to guess what the reason for it was.

"Come on, I didn't plan on taking its core in the first place. If you want a core, then I'll fight a Spiritual Beast later."

Kensei stated as if holding a conversation with Kurogane. It was among the unique swords that Amakuni forged, which has some sentience. Same as the others, he started absorbing Spiritual Beasts' cores to stimulate his elemental powers. However, he ended up "feeding" one to Kurogane, the first time being an accident, but it looks as if the sword loved them.

"I can see that you and your sword are getting along well enough."

He turned to find the Shikigami bearing a striking resemblance to Kiyoko Amagiri, the wife of Itsuki Amagiri, there in front of him. It was surprising seeing her outside of the castle, considering that she managed all the numerous Shikigami the Amagiri Clan and other people created.

"Yeah, I mean, I at least got it to not absorb my spiritual power as if I'm a walking buffet."

"It does remind me of your forefather, Itsuki-sama," the Kiyoko Shikigami said, seeming almost amused. "During one of his travels alone, he encountered a man in need and aided him for almost an entire week. It was revealed it was Amakuni-sama, who offered to forge a katana for him. From that moment, the sword became his partner til the end. But, there is a difference."

"What would that be?"

"You're is a black blade. His was a white blade," at the mention of that, Kensei was surprised about that reveal, not hearing about the kind of sword that his forefather wielded. "I believe that Amakuni-sama looked at you, and was reminded of Itsuki-sama, which is the reason that he forged your Kurogane."

"Is that so? I wouldn't mind seeing it for myself."

"Well, that is one of the reasons that I decided to come here."

"Huh?"

Kensei was surprised by the sudden answer. But, from there, he seemed to have been urged to follow her to a particular location. Having no issue with that, he followed behind the Kiyoko Shikigami as she was leading him to some location without explanation, building up his interest more.

After a long walk, Kensei found himself in front of a torii gate, positioned in front of a vast forest, which seemed to be covered in mist. Once there, he could feel the dense spiritual presence originating from the forest, being one of the densest presences here.

"This is the Kirimori, the Mist Forest. It's one of the most important locations in Shiamano, one that your ancestor took much pride in creating. For the longest time, the Kirimori has been a location that the Amagiri Clan's Heirs or members, in general, have walked through. But, aside from being a training location, the answer you're looking for is located in the exact center."

The Kiyoko Shikigami said, directing her attention forward into the forest.

"I can tell from standing here that is a definite step up compared to the places that I have trained at thus far."

"You're mother entered the forest the first time that she was here," the Kiyoko Shikigami stated, wearing a gentle smile. "I believe that this is meant to prepare the people planning on becoming Grand Masters in the future. And to prepare for the potential fight against Itsuki-sama's enemy."

"Amatsu-Mikaboshi. I guess that I should thank my ancestor for creating this world," Kensei said, taking a strong step forward. "Well, I didn't plan on missing this change in the first place."

"I shall await your return here. I have been assigned with this duty since my creation and informed the others to inform your friends and lovers too," the Kiyoko Shikigami said, kneeling on the ground in a seiza, showing no discomfort at all. "But, I must inform you that the mist situated around the Kirimori isn't normal mist. It is instead, the concept of 'mist'."

"…is that so?"

Kensei couldn't understand what those words meant, but he turned around and faced the entrance leading into the forest. Not hesitating, he proceeded to walk through the torii in front of him and started heading into the forest. Entering the forest, Kensei found himself beginning to walk into the mist-filled forest, but it wasn't that dense. So, Kensei continued walking forward, as he couldn't feel Kiyoko Shikigami's gaze trained on him anymore.

Inside Kirimori, there were vast trees as far as he could see, however, despite being walked through, there wasn't a single path leading to the forest's center. Even if he sensed around the forest, he could barely sense the plants' Ki, despite them being close to him. As expected, the closer he got, the deeper the mist seemed to become, with it being much harder to sense things around him.

"…huh?"

Kensei started feeling an odd sensation, the more he walked deeper into the forest, the more he started to feel a sudden change. It was almost as if the mist was starting to inhibit his senses the deeper he went, something that became noticeable. Having recalled the warning from Kiyoko's Shikigami, Kensei continued walking forward, not intending on stopping.

"…!"

After a minute, Kensei discovered that his spiritual power was being drained from him too, without him intending on doing so, an aura manifested. From all sides, the mist around him began absorbing his spiritual power without showing signs of ceasing.

"Well, this is starting to make me realize the reason this was intended for future Clan Heads and Grand Masters," Kensei stated, feeling that the spiritual power being trained wasn't that much, but that meant that it would begin to become deeper the further he traveled the Kirimori. "If spiritual power is going to be drained at a much faster rate and my senses are going to become inhibited too, then I can see the reason my mom developed so much. I have much higher spiritual power than an average Master. So, I think that I can last for a bit."

His spiritual power was much higher than an average Master, but it'd started increasing more and more since he was freed from Amatsu-Mikaboshi's influence. It meant that aside from his dragon power, the amount and output of spiritual power were restricted from what he could truly achieve.

"Alright, I guess that training in this forest here will be the thing that makes it possible for me to catch up to what I was meant to achieve. If Amatsu-Mikaboshi was that afraid of the kind of person that I'd become, then I'll show him the mistake he made in coming back for round two with the Amagiri Clan."

At that declaration, Kensei found himself continuing to walk forward deeper into the Kirimori without being at all deterred about the repercussions.

---

Elsewhere, Hisui and Lingqi found themselves meditating underneath the Amakudari Fall, both of them taking on the pressure that came with it. Same as usual, the pressure seemed to reach down to their soul, with Hisui being the one to feel it the most. The two maintained a steady enough pace meditating there, no loss due to the wave of pressure falling on top of them. There was something that the two sought from their respective loss against an Ordinal, who proved their superior strength.

Despite being told not to do so, the two were having a personal test of endurance in preparation for their rematch against the person who humiliated them.

"…!"

"…!"

A respective scrunched expression could be seen on their faces, showcasing that the two were beginning to hit a limit. But, the two continued with enduring as much as possible, not breaking their position and concentration a bit as a personal trail.

"Hah!"

The first person to break their position was Hisui, who leaped from the edge she'd been a meditation on, and landed on the water's surface.

"Huff, huff, that waterfall training is no joke."

Hisui breathed as she stretched her limbs in an attempt to limber herself up.

"Yeah, it isn't as simple as it first sounded."

Lingqi stated, landing right beside her.

"It's leagues above training under a normal waterfall and training in most of the places that we had been inside of Shiamano," Hisui said, stretching her arms forward. "It does purify the body, mind, and spirit, at the same time. If it wasn't for the fact that the pressure that'd come from training underneath it, then I would've felt calm. But, I'm sure that it'll get easier the more we get used to it."

"No doubt. Each time after training, I feel as if the impurities that'd formed within me be washed away."

"Impurities, huh," Hisui said, getting in thought about those words. "I don't know the reason, but Kurohime fell into the dark path of Senjutsu and allowed malice to corrupt her Ki and soul. On direct contact, it felt as if mine was all becoming corrupted too. My mom purified my body and soul from corruption, but if I was more experienced, then I wouldn't have been infected like that."

"I don't think that anyone could be prepared to fight off corruption like that."

"No, but I think that's the idea of this world," Hisui said, looking around and feeling the pure energy that was released in the air itself. "If your father's foe was someone who could corrupt even the purest of people. And you're born with such amazing power, then what would you do to prepare your children and descendants?"

"You make a world perfect for them to prepare for a fight against someone who could corrupt pure people. And in doing that, aside from learning more about using Ki and Spiritual power, you'd learn to purify it too."

"As kids, we learn that people and things change every day. A kind person in one minute could turn into one full of spite in another minute. As Ki is a part of your spirit, then it can change depending on your personality too, which can mean it could become full of impurities," Hisui added. "So, what if you can corrupt your Ki from such things to create Evil Ki. What if you instead refined your Ki and removed their impurities?"

"That would mean that your Ki would be more resistant to outside corruption and at the same time, become much stronger than normal."

Both Lingqi and Hisui seemed to have come up with a sudden and amazing revelation about the new potential of their Ki in the future. At that, the two high-fived after the green-haired Nekoshou first initiated it, causing a notable sound to reverberate across the area. From a distance, the two Shikigami acting as their guide looked on at the training duo with surprised looks.

"Wow, Kensei-sama sure has some intuitive companions."

"You're right, I didn't take them long to figure that out. Itsuki-sama and the others came to see that refining one's Ki would be more beneficial than increasing their reserves alone. And the end result would be called True Ki."

Both of them said, impressed by the fact that Lingqi and Hisui figured that out.

"I guess that this is something else that we can work on in terms of future training. First, Kensei gives me an idea about future training and now you."

Lingqi said, smiling and brushing a hand through her soaked hair.

"Hehe, I guess that's what happens when you're around someone who trains more often than most. He, Zane, Maria, and Abigail focuses on improving themselves and their skill set compared to others. I'm a Number too, so I shouldn't be lacking compared to them," Hisui said, looking forward at Lingqi with a gentle smile. "But, I wanted to ask a favor of you."

"Sure. If it's anything that I can help with, I don't mind."

Lingqi replied, having no issue in aiding the group.

"Can you teach me something more about Chinese Kenpo that matches me and spar with me too," Hisui asked, surprising Lingqi, who continued listening in. "I learned the ones that Ken Ken taught me a long time ago, and I added that to my Nekoashi Style. But, I felt as if I wasn't able to use it as much as I should be able to since that fight with Kurohime. So, I wanted to see if there are some things that I can improve on before our rematch while thinking about what I could've done."

Hearing the straightforward and passionate words from Hisui, caused Lingqi to wear a warm smile on her face, at hearing the determination from Hisui.

"My grandpa told me that martial arts aren't perfect at the moment of their creation and would need to be honed to completion. His Byakko Kenpo wasn't completed and instead spent his entire life honing it into completion, it'd become the martial art it is now because of his dedication," Lingqi stated, as she continued looking at Hisui with a gentle smile. "I'll help you take the first step forward in completing it."

Feeling the wave of determination from Hisui caused the fighting spirit to burst out from Lingqi, who looked on passionately. Seeing that caused a smile to appear on her face hearing that she'll receive aid in this endeavor. Hisui didn't consider herself much of a martial artist at all; but witnessing the kind of people Kensei and Lingqi were, made her want to strive for that too.

From that, both the green and blonde-haired young women stood in front of one another, while standing on top of the water's surface. A moment later, the two rushed at one another, then started their sparring session without a single one falling into the water. Throughout this sparring session, Lingqi paid attention to the various actions and moves made by Hisui to see what would fit her the best. But, the two were experiencing the resolve and skill that the other held within themselves.

---

Inside Kirimori, Kensei was having serious trouble traveling through the mist forest, with his worries coming all but coming true. The closer that he traveled, the greater the spiritual power and ki absorption was becoming, with the atmosphere becoming deeper. Even Kensei's five senses were becoming duller, to the point where neither of them was reliable.

"I guess that Shikigami Kiyoko was correct, about this being the concept of a mist. Aside from absorbing spiritual power, and even ki, my senses are becoming duller the deeper I travel. It's almost driving me insane since I'm not all that sure if I'm talking or thinking. But, I won't be able to travel much longer with my energy being drained from me at this rate."

Kensei paused from traveling deeper, taking a break as the literal life force was also being drained from him, thus causing his stamina to wane. His mind racked around thinking about a solution to resolve this situation, knowing that he would collapse at this point.

"Come on, I thought that controlling the flow of both would let me survive for a bit longer than this. But, doing that isn't working much to resolve this situation right here. I need to figure out something before I pass out inside this forest, but I doubt that I'll be left to die here. But, that'd be embarrassing for me."

As Kensei fell to his knees wrecking his mind around what he'll do next about the situation, there was something crossed his mind.

"I'll need much finer control over my spiritual power and ki, at the same time, more so than what I'm doing right at this moment. If that's the case, then the new technique that I have been working on would be the perfect fit this moment," Kensei thought, standing back up to his feet without considering a backup plan and believing that this is the right solution. "Alright, let's attempt this right here and now!"

At that, Kensei clenched both his fists right beside him, while beginning to concentrate right then and there with a calm disposition. There, he decided to recall the sensation that both his spiritual power and ki were drained from him because of the mist. At that, he first began having Ki contained within him without even a small amount of it leaking out. Next, with his spiritual power, instead of having it so that it would flow within him, it was instead kept enshrouded around him as if it were a think shell.

The mist around him still tried tugging at the spiritual power around him, but the tight-knit shell around him made that difficult. With this, one of Kensei's issues was solved since he didn't have to be worried about spiritual power or ki being absorbed by the same rat, and it was easier to breathe too.

"Alright, I passed this trial," Kensei thought, but there was the issue about how to navigate through the densest mist around him. "But, now what do I do about the fact that I can't seem to my way through here? I can't see. I can't hear. I can't smell. I can't feel the mist. Huh, I wonder what mist would taste like, but it's pretty much vapor."

As Kensei continued walking forward, in an attempt to keep his body and mind in motion, he wondered about the particular direction that he was headed.

"Wait, a second, I have even been walking straight?"

At the thought of that, Kensei wondered whether or not he was walking forward in the first place. He heard about charms in Shintoism that made it appear as if one was proceeding forward, when in fact, they were walking back. He heard about a similar thing being used by Akeno's mother from Suzaku whenever she visited their home and wanted to remain hidden.

"But, if I'm unable to use my five normal senses, then that would mean that I'm supposed to use my sixth sense?"

At the thought of that, Kensei thought that would be the correct decision if he couldn't rely on his sense of sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch. A breath escaped from his mouth, choosing not to be reliant on any of the 5 natural senses that he'd been born with. Instead, he'd chosen to rely on his sixth sense. Not a single thought about his action, but then he started walking forward nonetheless.

Kensei walked forward, being reliant on his intuition while controlling his spiritual power and ki as he continued to walk deeper into the mist. At first, he couldn't control his powers, but now it was becoming much easier as he kept walking forward. He didn't know the direction he was heading in but felt that his intuition would lead him in the right direction.

---

"…?"

At some point, Kensei felt as if things returned to normal and looked forward. In front of him, he could see there was a staircase leading upward.

In front of him, he walked through another torii gate outside of Kirimori, and then a smile appeared on his face as a laugh escaped from his mouth.

"Hahahaha, I did it!"

Kensei announced, seeing that he managed to travel through the mist forest without passing out inside of it, and the control was still apparent.

Not stopping, Kensei decided to continue forward and see what was at the top of the staircase. But, even those steps weren't normal as an immediate pressure could be felt falling on top of him.

"Damn, my ancestor didn't hold back in making this world. I even need to keep my focus on walking upstairs."

At that, he maintained the same control and kept heading up the steps without faltering at all, which continued as he proceeded. But, each step seemed to have him increase the Ki within him, without letting it leak from outside his body. He was being strengthened by Ki and protected with spiritual power from whatever spell was placed on these steps, which was making him heavier.

Not much time passed until he arrived at the top, where a beautiful and aesthetic shrine. But, that wasn't the first thing that caught his attention. There was 'something' kneeling in front of the shrine while holding a sword in its lap. Feeling suspicious, he walked forward in the direction of the 'person' sitting in front of the shrine and he could see it was sitting in the middle of a drawn ring.

"What the…?"

Kensei was confused as he stood close enough to the 'thing' and couldn't find himself making anything short of a stunned look. It was a wooden doll made in the likeness of his forefather, Itsuki Amagiri, to the point where it can pass as the real thing. Even though it looked to be made of wood, it felt as if there was an actual soul in it, making him doubt that.

"Huh, and there's this sword too. It doesn't feel…."

Slash!

Kensei moved backward, just as a sword was slashed at him, avoiding it enough to get away with just having a strand of hair removed. At least, that was what Kensei believed, as he felt a faint trace of blood seeping down his forehead. He healed the wound using Senjutsu, then smiled at the doll that seemed to have stood up holding the now unsheathed sword in its hand. It was a sword as black as night itself, with red markings traced across it, then it'd positioned the sheath at its side.

"Well, I guess that it's a training doll instead of a normal one. I guess that sword isn't a normal one too, but there is an almost unusual presence in it. And I guess I can't leave unless I beat it."

Kensei said, holding Kurogane's hilt in his hand, noticing that a barrier was formed around the ring and it wouldn't let him leave without winning.

In front of him, the training doll, who he called Itsuki Doll, entered a stance known among the Amagiri-ryuu, one that surprised him. But, Kensei couldn't guess the reason that the training doll could make such movements with no one manipulating it. It, however, moved forward in a quick step, crossing the distance between both itself and Kensei in seconds. Both proceeded to enter a clash against each other as their blades met, sparks flying in the air. Kensei and the Itsuki Doll moved across the entire arena, where he noticed that the training doll wasn't at all weak despite the feeling.

"It's stronger than a Master in terms of power and combat prowess, the presence that it's releasing alone would be enough to deter High-Class Devils," Kensei said, fixing his natural stance and holding Kurogane in his hands. "Despite it being a training doll, I can sense a soul inside of it. Since it can operate alone without being controlled, and moved in response to me getting closer. I think that it's a Tsukumogami."

A Tsukumogami was an inanimate object that attained a soul and even self-awareness are turning one-hundred years old, thus becoming animate. He met several Youkai, which were in the form of objects, such as umbrellas and lanterns, most of whom came from Urakyoto. Because the Itsuki Doll was built in the likeness of Itsuki Amagiri and remained in Shiamano, it meant that it was more than a hundred years ago.

"I doubt that this training doll is as strong as the original, but it's replicating the Amagiri-ryuu without making even the slightest mistake. But, that style that I use isn't the same as the original one."

Kensei said, standing in front of the Itsuki Doll in a calm stance, differing from the one found among the Amagiri-ryuu. A breath escaped from the swordsman's mouth, before rushing forward straight at the Itsuki Doll, who did it too. From there, the two proceeded on with the same clash as before, sparks flew across the battlefield that both were limited to. Differing from usual, Kensei was using the same serpentine movements, avoiding the attack it aimed at him. It seemed as if the Itsuki Doll's Amagiri-ryuu couldn't compete or adapt to the Tougen Amagiri-ryuu that Kensei uses.

"Before, it felt as if I was stepping back into the Amagiri-ryuu whenever I used the Tougen Amagiri-ryuu. But, me doing that was a clear sign that I haven't adapted to my style," Kensei noted, recalling that he still had all the old habits that he still had, but he continued pressing forward against the Itsuki Doll. Once again, their blades had collided with one another, producing sparks and a shockwave. "However, because of my training here, this time it's different!"

Kensei managed to knock the Itsuki Doll off balance, but then it tried recovering from the sudden force behind the counter-attack. In that instance, lightning wreathed around Kurogane, while wind wreathed around the katana in the doll's hands. From there, both of them started using actual techniques against one another, each one meant to counter the other's particular element.

"I can sense that the power isn't coming from the doll's spiritual power, instead it feels as if those elements are all imbued into the katana already. I can tell that it isn't a normal sword since it could collide with Kurogane all without being damaged at all. And it's releasing an odd presence."

Both continued with the same clash against one another, Kensei gaining the edge against the Itsuki Doll, who seemed to be losing footing against him. Amid their clash across the arena, he could see that the training doll is at the point of losing against him. Witnessing that, Kensei found himself wanting to test out the technique that he managed to come close to completing.

"Here is comes! I bet that it's the first time you saw something like this."

"…!"

For the first time, the Itsuki Doll seemed to react, showcasing that it had some self-awareness.

During that, it witnessed Kensei, focusing what seemed to be Ki, on top of Spiritual power into Kurogane; then in a single instant, it did witness something it hadn't witnessed before. A sudden black flash generated instantaneous power, breaking the doll's stance and knocking the sword out of its hand.

"Whoa, it worked out more than I ever could've guessed."

Kensei said, surprised about what happened. He could see that the Itsuki Doll had no intention of fighting back, a fact that caused him to sheath Kurogane.

"…."

At that, it knelt in front of Kensei and showed obedience to him. Such a thing caused him to call back the sword it lost using telekinesis, then returned it to the Itsuki Doll.

"So, you're a Tsukumogami made in the likeness of Itsuki Amagiri, right?"

"…."

In response to his question, the doll nodded its head in agreement.

"And I'm guessing that you're meant to act as a tester to see who can enter that shrine. If someone doesn't meet the standards as at least a Master or much higher, then they're not allowed to enter," again the Itsuki Doll nodded its head. "So, that must mean that whatever is kept inside of that shrine mustn't be seen by anyone lower than the rank of Master. I could tell that you haven't had much practice and action since no one passed around here in the last couple of years. I wouldn't mind having another spar."

At that, the Itsuki Doll bowed its head and Kensei returned the same gesture, then started walking forward in the direction of the shrine.

---

He could see that as a shrine, it must mean whatever was enshrined here must be among the most important in Shiamano. He had an idea of what that was based on the conversation that he had with Kiyoko's Shikigami. But, as Kensei got closer to the shrine, Kurogane had an immediate reaction as if it were shaking in the presence of a superior being. Stepping into the shrine, he witnessed a surprising sight as his answer was correct and there was an important item there.

Resting on a stand, there was a beautiful white katana with a golden guard kept in a sheathe similar to what he used for Kurogane. All in all, the sword in front of him looked like a replica of Kurogane, or the opposite was the most appropriate answer. In front of him, the name of the katana was inscribed with more information.

"The precious partner of the founder of the Amagiri Clan and Amagiri-ryuu. More than a sword, it has been with him through countless battles and is the one blade he could depend on. Shirogane, the Spirit Sword," Kensei said in a surprised tone, then retrieved Kurogane from beside his head and held it in front of Shirogane. He sensed the reaction from Kurogane the closer it got to Shirogane. "So, I'm guessing that Amakuni-san made Kurogane based on Shirogane, then. I guess that means this is your older sibling."

At that, Kensei couldn't help but sense a foreboding presence from Kurogane, almost as if the younger sibling was being under pressure from their older sibling.

"Well, I wonder if I could touch this?"

He asked himself, as he held Shirogane in his hand, then pressed his hand on the hilt. Kensei then proceeded to attempt to pull it out of its sheath, but no matter how much strength he put into it, Shirogane wouldn't come out.

"Ugh, I can't pull out the blade no matter how much strength I put into it," Kensei said, but then began channeling spiritual power into the blade to see if that gets a reaction from it. At that, he could somewhat pull the blade out of its sheath, but then it snapped back inside. "Hah, I'm guessing that if Amakuni-san made this, I'm guessing that it is a Houtou too. I can sense a reaction from it, almost as if it has a soul too. But, I guess that it doesn't recognize me, because I'm not my forefather."

Realizing that, Kensei returned Shirogane to its stand, something that he could sense that Kurogane felt almost a bit relieved. Just as he did that, he looked to find that there were two books positioned in front of the sword stand and found interest in the titles.

"Itsuki Amagiri's Memoir. I'm guessing that this is a kind of compilation about the past of Itsuki Amagiri from start to finish. So, that would mean that this has some details about the fight that he had with Amatsu-Mikaboshi, then I could find out about what happened then. But, this one is surprising to read too," Kensei turned his attention to the second book besides the one about Itsuki on the left. "Shinmetsu Principal, huh?"

Kensei was interested in reading more about that book, considering what he knew about the techniques among their Amagiri-ryuu. But, considering the number of Longinus users born among the Amagiri Clan, this must be more of an actual compilation of research on them. It made him think about the words that he heard from Azazel: "It's almost as if it was the fate of the Amagiri Clan to birth someone who could even kill a God."

"I guess that each of the Longinus users born into the clan researches their Longinus, then compiles that information on here. I guess that the first generation's Longinus would be on here too," Kensei said, wearing a surprised look on his face. "I'm sure that this is going to be interesting to read."

Witnessing such a thing right in front of him, Kensei wondered which one of them he could read first. However, it was something that became obvious enough, considering that there was one thing that interested him most of all. Picking up Itsuki Amagiri's Memoir, Kensei found a good place inside the shrine, then sat down in a comfortable position and opened it.

[This is a memoir detailing my journey for my grandchildren and descendants that would be born into the Amagiri Clan. I didn't want to do something like this, because it's embarrassing to think that I'm writing about myself. But, Kiyoko, Akiharu, Tsukiko, Asuma, and Mirai urged that this would be important for the proceeding generation. Me, I don't believe that I have been through something amazing enough for this. However, if this helps those who come after us, then I'll gladly write it.]

From there, Kensei continued reading about the beginning of the life of Itsuki Amagiri, the creator of the Amagiri-ryuu and the Amagiri Clan.

---

During the Edo Period, in a normal house not near that much of a populated area, there was a beautiful woman, Akemi dressed in common clothing and working on planting flowers. She smiled as she worked on those flowers, humming to herself, but this was accompanied by the sound of hard wooden swords clashing with each other. She looked up to see her husband, Naomi, a handsome man as described by most women and sons sparring with one another.

For Akemi, her ten-year-old son, Ituski embodied gentleness and kindness, often aiding in planting flowers, the task most male children his age would want to do.

His adorable and soft face, without a single blemish; his black hair that had red, almost scarlet highlights, and his beautiful red eyes, close to precious gems. But, despite all that, the thing that surprised her most was the fact he held an undeniable talent for martial arts. She sat there working on the flowers, as her husband and son sparred against one another.

"Hahaha, I never would've guessed that my son would be this talented with a sword. If people looked at how soft and frail you look," Naomi said happily and proudly as he and his son continued sparring. "I don't doubt that you'd have the potential to become a powerful Samurai."

"I don't want to become a Samurai, though."

Itsuki stated, avoiding the strike and leaping upward aiming a high-angle strike at his father, who had managed to avoid it with difficulties.

"Why not, you have such potential?"

"It doesn't sound fun. Wouldn't it be better to have fun with Otou-san and Okaa-san?"

Itsuki replied, almost not seeing the idea of being a Samurai and fighting against other people as something that would be fun for him. Planting flowers with his mother, talking to his mother, and having fun with children the same age as himself were much more fun for him.

"Well, being a Samurai isn't fun depending on the person striving to become one. But, there's nothing wrong with using your talents and potential to protect the people around you. I doubt there's anyone in our family, your mom or mine who you could've inherited your potential from. Your talents and potential must have been a gift from the Gods themselves. So, you should find the reason that you were born with such a gift."

"The reason that I was born with such a talent?"

Itsuki thought about the words from his father, holding the wood-carved sword in his hands. He never needed to think about how he needed to hold a sword, simply picking it up and holding it was enough for him to know what he needed to do. After that, Naomi kept instructing his son in sword fighting before sending Itsuki off to assist his mother in planting flowers.

Itsuki knew that his father wasn't a Samurai, former or not, let alone a swordsman, he was simply a man who had a great admiration for them. A farmer's son, Naomi witness a Samurai guarding a passing merchant and came to admire the man's dignified appearance. He, however, couldn't become a Samurai himself, but he instead wanted to develop a new kind of martial art that could become stronger as time passed. It was a simple kid's dream, but it was one that he held onto until adulthood.

Itsuki would often see him writing in the journal kept in his room from time to time, with his father telling him that it wasn't finished yet. He could see that his father felt embarrassed doing such a thing without experience, but he did respect that decision. Itsuki kept on aiding his mother in the fields, while his father seemed to have left to do some business of his own.

---

Once the sun started setting, Itsuki found himself holding two large barrels in his hands, while his father stood in front of him. With the amount of time that was left before nightfall, he was approached by Naomi with an issue he needed Itsuki to aid him in.

"Itsuki, could you head out and get some water from the river?"

"Alright."

As usual, Itsuki replied to such requests with an immediate yes, but his mother, Akemi stood beside Naomi with a concerned expression.

"I still don't think that it's safe for Itsuki to head out this late to get some water," Akemi said, as the concern could be heard in her voice. "I mean, the closest river is located closer to the mountains and dangerous animals are often there too. Why can't you do it dear?"

"I would go out and do it. But, there are still some things that I need to finish for tomorrow, which would determine whether or not we can earn some money for us. Besides, Itsuki always returns home safely whenever he goes out alone and faster than I could ever manage. And animals seem to like him more than me for some reason."

"It's fine. Okaa-san, I'll return home safe."

"Fine, just be careful."

Akemi agreed, kneeling in front of her son and brushing his cheeks. After that, Naomi placed a hand on top of his son's head in a comforting manner.

"Have fun, alright."

"Okay."

At that, Itsuki turned around and started heading down the road holding the two barrels in his hands without the slightest reaction.

"Dear, are you sure that it's going to be safe for him?"

"Of course, I mean, he hasn't gotten serious against me once during our sparring sessions. It truly does seem as if the Gods, the Warrior Gods have blessed that child of ours."

"Yes, but I'll be happy as long as he grows up healthy and strong."

"I feel the same way."

Both the parents leaned up against one another while watching their son's departure towards the mountains to fill up the barrel with water.

Amid Itsuki's travels through the mountains, he seemed to have taken the easiest path that led there, however, it was the hardest path to travel. But, the reason that he was taking this path wasn't so that he could return home quicker. Instead, there was a special place that Itsuki would often go to from time to time as a promise made to the new friends he made there.

It wasn't difficult for him to travel through the difficult path, because, for the longest time, Itsuki found himself able to see things that his parents and others couldn't. He knew that it wasn't something that a normal person couldn't see and didn't mention it to even his parents. There was also the fact that Itsuki could make himself stronger with some energy that flowed through him.

It was an odd experience, but his friend told him that this energy was what people called 'Ki' and then there was another power that he could use too. Not much time passed until Itsuki arrived in front of a small shrine that didn't seem to be tended to much. It wasn't the same kind of shrine he'd seen before and instead seemed to be more of an offering place. He knelt in front of the shrine and went into a position meant for prayer, then clapped his hands together.

From that, Itsuki could sense the presence around the shrine, as if something connected to it was responding to the prayers. He first discovered this location after sensing some malicious presence inside the shrines, which left him to check on himself. Arriving there, Itsuki found out that the shrine wasn't tended to for a long time and that the God there wasn't happy.

Not wanting to see someone upset, Itsuki repaired the shrine himself using whatever he could find and did what he could to appease God. Having witnessed the pure intentions behind his actions, the shrine's God found itself grateful for the young child's pure actions. Because of that, it seemed as if it was now protecting the people around the area.

[It's good seeing that there's a child such as yourself around here.]

"It's no issue, Kami-sama. I believe that speaking with you has been so much fun."

Itsuki stated, wearing an innocent smile.

[I do wonder what fate has in store for you. I haven't met a human such as yourself in a long time with access to their Ki and Spiritual power without being aware of it. Even among the Five Principal Clans, there hasn't been an individual born before in a long time.]

"My father said something similar, but I don't know whether or not being that kind of person would be right. If I'm out there, then wouldn't that mean I have to change who I am now?"

[Ah, I see. You love your current life, so much that you're scared of something changing that. But, change is one of the things that you Humans appear to do so often that it's surprising for us Gods. Us, we can surpass the lifespan that normal beings live, most of us are older than other gods. But, for you Humans, whether it's because of your low lifespan, it seems as if you relish that life and actions that seem pointless for us. I guess that's why a Chief God, such as Amaterasu-sama loves watching you so much.]

"It's funny hearing that God does love talking to people like us. But, I do love speaking to you like this."

Itsuki said, without their being any kind of falsehood.

[You're truly a kind child, more than most who're born into nobler households. If you decide to walk the path that leads to dwelling on your potential, then I believe there's something I could do to aid you.]

"Okay," Itsuki said, before standing up and holding the water barrels in his hands. "I'll be back to talk again, I was asked to grab some water from the river around here."

After one final bow, Itsuki started heading in the direction of the river that was around the area, at a fast pace. An excitable smile could be seen on his face as he continued moving much faster than an adult.

[Hah, I wonder what kind of person this child would grow into? Even if he does change and grow up, I'm sure that the future would be bright with him.]

At that, the God there found itself happier after conversing with Itsuki.

---

"I think that I'll return home if I did end up taking the long path."

Itsuki said as he continued running straight in the direction of his home.

Amid his traveling there, there was a sudden foreboding sensation that spread throughout him, causing him to almost stop in his tracks. But, then he picked up the pace and went faster than he ever did before not caring if he ended up being caught by it. Not much time passed until he arrived back home, then dropped the water barrels in his hand onto the ground and caused the water to spill.

"…."

Itsuki's expression fell into one full of shock and emotion.

In front of him, an Oni was holding his father up by the neck, who was bullied and motionless, almost holding onto a thread of life. He could see that his mother was on the ground too injured from the looks of it, but he didn't know if she could survive. Noting Itsuki's presence, the Oni turned around to find him standing there with a blank expression on his face. Despite being an Oni, he looked a bit more the size of a human instead of it being that much of a hulking monster.

[Oh, I see a child is there. Based on the smell, it looks as if you're their brat.] the Oni said, holding Naomi within his thick hands almost as if he were a child to him. [I'm sorry about the mess. But, you can blame the moronic kid here. I doubt that a kid your age could understand this, but even an Oni has their needs and your mother looked to be the most beautiful Human woman that I'd met thus far. I wanted to have some fun and didn't plan on giving him this much of a beating. And then the woman started getting loud and spoiled the mood. So, I have to give her some punishment. It's surprising seeing such a strong-willed woman. I almost feel cheated.]

As if bored now, the Oni tossed Naomi's motionless body in the air, not minding if he fell and died. But, just before that, Itsuki appeared on the spot and landed on the ground holding his father in his arms. He just did some of the footwork he learned from his father, then added Ki on top of it.

[Oh?]

"…urgh. …ah…sorry…It's…uki. …kinda…ashamed as a father…I didn't…."

"Save your strength, Otou-san. There's nothing that you have to apologize for."

"…it's…kinda embarrassed. …I…should be the one…hold you…."

Naomi tried joking, but then started coughing up blood from the amount of pain and injuries that he'd sustained.

"…Naomi…? …Itsuki…?"

Akemi seemed to be moving her hand around aimlessly, then Itsuki looked to find that her eyes were closed and bleeding. He didn't know it, but it looked as if her eyes were severely damaged, meaning she was blinded.

"I'm here. And the father is too."

Itsuki placed Naomi beside Akemi, then grabbed onto her hand and linked it with his father's, and clasped them together.

"Ah, I can feel your hands shaking. I can't see, but you're…."

"Otou-san, Okaa-san, I'll be back in a moment."

Itsuki said, standing up and looking to find that there looked to be an old katana that his father appeared to have found. It was an abandoned katana his father had down some time ago and decided to restore the sword as much as possible. Holding the katana, Itsuki began walking in a direction that wouldn't endanger either Naomi or Akemi from the onslaught.

[I never thought that a brat would have the guts to stand in front of Oni without wetting themselves. I must say, I didn't think that you could be so adamant in protecting your parents while looking calm.]

As the Oni said, Itsuki's expression hasn't changed at all despite the emotions welling up within his chest, almost threatening to burst. But, it was the first time that he experienced these kinds of emotions: sadness, despair, and anger. Despite the thoughts of his parents' death cursing his mind, Itsuki remained as calm as a stream, without losing focus. Holding the katana in his hand, the weight wasn't that difficult for Itsuki as he adjusted into a stance for someone his stature.

[Oh, I see some wannabe Samurai here. No, do you think that believe that those humans among those clans? Or a….]

Slash!

At that moment, the Oni received a slash on its cheek, causing blood to spill from it. He turned around surprised to find Itsuki passing him in an instant, then landed on the ground. The Oni's face scrunched up into anger, and he turned around as veins popped on his forehead and limbs.

[You damned brat!]

He raised his arms as an aura, produced from his Youki manifested and released an aura of malice. Befitting his small height, Itsuki ducked underneath it, then went straight for the Oni's chest and swung. More blood spilled as the Oni received another wound across his chest.

[Damn, brat!]

Itsuki avoided the punch aimed at him with great precision, sensing it based on the aura and killing intent that he was releasing right there. Since learning about Ki, he began becoming more perceptive about such things, which made it easier for him to avoid attacks from Naomi. From there, Itsuki kept avoiding the attacks released at him without suffering a single injury.

[Curses! Curses! Curses! Curses! Curses! Curses!]

The Oni kept cursing Itsuki as he continued avoiding the attacks aimed at him.

[…Itsuki…. Can you hear me?]

From there, Itsuki could hear his friend, the God of the old shrine calling out to him.

"Oh, is there something you need?"

Itsuki knew that God could communicate with him using such methods.

[…no. I'm sorry about what happened. But, as I told you, there's a limit to what I could do for the people around this area. I'm not that high up there among Gods I'm a low-class one granted a shrine here. I can't leave from here to assist you.]

"That's fine. There's nothing that you have to apologize for. You're not the one who murdered my parents. It was this Oni here. And I'll be handling it."

Itsuki replied, as he avoided another punch and landed a strike on the Oni.

[Yes, I know. But, there is at least one thing that I can do that's within my power as a God. I might seem much, but I am a Fire God. So, I can bless someone with that same power. I wanted to bestow that power onto you as thanks, but it might not be much.]

"No, there's no such thing as a bad gift from a friend. No matter what it is, I'll accept anything."

Itsuki replied, not losing the kindness that he'd shown to God since the first time the two met.

[I see, then here's my present.]

From that moment, Itsuki felt that there was a change within him even from the distance where God's shrine was the location. After the Oni aimed one final attack that dug into the ground, Itsuki leaped off of its fist, and right into the air. At that, the Oni seemed to mock the decision made, then started transforming into his actual size, being a five-meter Oni with bulkier muscles.

[Hahaha, I didn't plan on this, but it'll sure be fun torturing you, with your mother doing nothing other than….]

From that, the Oni looked to find sparks manifesting around Itsuki's blade, which channeled spiritual power inside the katana. At that, flames manifested around the blade as Itsuki spun himself around and slashed at the Oni's neck using the flaming sword. And finally, the Oni was beheaded and fell onto the ground as the flames covering the katana vanished.

Itsuki dropped the katana, then proceeded to head in the direction of his downed parents. Reaching them, Itsuki knelt and held onto their hands, causing them to recognize their child's hand.

"Itsuki, is it…."

"It's gone, Okaa-san."

Itsuki said, grasping his mom's hand with reassuring tightness.

"That's good…. Hahaha, I guess you surpassed my expectations, Itsu…cough."

"Darling."

Akemi called out sadly, as Naomi coughed up blood and struggled to breathe.

"I'm sorry, if I'd gotten home faster, then I…."

"Don't blame yourself…. No one could have predicted such a creature would have come here…," Naomi stated, recovering his breath. "…Itsuki, there's some money we saved in our room…and my journal is in there too. I can tell that I won't make it…. So, if you feel alone…go to our relatives and live with them until you're prepared."

"Otou-san."

Itsuki said as tears streamed down his face.

"…you can be…whatever you want…. But, I…still want you to protect yourself…and also use your talents for the right reasons. …I wanted to complete the martial art so much…. But, I feel as a father…I wanted to complete it so that you could be safe using it…. I'm not talented at a sword and couldn't make it as a Samurai. But, I wanted to accomplish something that makes that effort worth it. So…do, whatever you want with it…. I never doubted…you would be someone great…. You're…our pride…and joy…."

At that, Itsuki could tell that his father passed, with those being his final words to his son, not being forceful, and instead supportive of his son's decisions in life.

"…Darling, you're gone," a sadness could be heard in her tone, as she clenched Naomi's hand, and felt Itsuki's shaking hands. "My child, I know that this much be harder for you. I know that the tears won't wash away for some time. But, don't let our deaths hang over you for the rest of your life. I want you to live your life as free as possible without being chained down by this. Make as many friends as you want and experience everything that the world has to offer. Meet a girl that makes you feel as if she's the most special person in the world and grows up to be an old man. …I…I…we wanted to be here and watch over you as you grew up."

Akemi began crying as she realized that she wouldn't be able to see her child grow up right beside the person she'd promised herself to.

"Okaa-san, can I lay beside you for a while?"

Itsuki asked.

"Of course, please be beside me for a little bit longer."

Akemi immediately agreed as Itsuki laid himself down on his mother's chest, wrapping her free arm around Itsuki and bringing him into a hug. It was going to be the last time that Itsuki felt his mother's warmth again and decided to relish this moment for as long as possible. He didn't know how long he remained there, but his mother followed his father in the afterlife.

---

After that, Itsuki buried his parents in a grave beside their home, leaving the katana behind with his father too. He prayed for them for several hours, almost not wanting to leave the home. But, Itsuki took their final words to heart and knew that doing so would dishonor their memories. So, he packed the things that his father told him to and even said a temporary goodbye to the Fire God there. But, Itsuki promised to return there once again to pay respects to his parents and the shrine's God.

Instead of running, Itsuki instead began walking down the road leading outside of the village, not wanting to rush this new journey that he'll be disembarking on. He wouldn't be aware of this now but would begin the road to him becoming known as Itsuki Amagiri, the founder of the Amagiri-ryuu and Amagiri Clan, the First Amagiri. And at the last moment of his life, Itsuki Amagiri became known as the Sword God, while being a Human.

---

A/N: And there goes the next chapter of DxD – The Last Amagiri, this is the conclusion of their summer training, whether in or out of Shiamano. Next, is their underworld meeting and Koneko sure has one big surprise for the Gremory Group. It focused most on Kensei, Lingqi, and Hisui; with some funny moments between Koneko and Ravel, who received a light punishment. In Shiamano, there was also a beach party, with Lingqi having an unwanted encounter with a Sea Monster, but she received a hint. On the same day, each of them found a major hint to future growth. In the end, Kensei found another location in Shiamano for the Amagiri Clan, most intense than the ones thus far.

He had some difficulties, but he passed through the mist forest, to find a training doll, then even located Kurogane's elder sibling, Shirogane enshrined there. There were also two important books located there, one of them being Itsuki Amagiri's autobiography and another being about the Amagiri-ryuu. And in the end, we got one of those flashbacks, but this isn't going to be the last one.

I hope that you liked the chapter, until next time.

Kensei's Harem: Alice, Claire, Hisui, Kunou, Yasaka, Lu Lingqi, Sarah, Minako, Koneko, Kuroka, Ravel, Amaterasu, Brynhildr, Rossweisse, Ophis.